RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE

Matrix Games Forums

Forums Register Login Photo Gallery Member List Search Calendars FAQ

My Profile Inbox Address Book My Subscription My Forums Log Out

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE

View related threads: (in this forum | in all forums)

Logged in as: Guest

Users viewing this topic: none

Printable Version

All Forums >> [Current Games From Matrix.] >> [World War II] >> War In The Pacific - Struggle Against Japan 1941 - 1945 >> After Action Reports >> RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE

Page: << < prev 1 2 [3] 4 5 next > >>

Message

<< Older Topic Newer Topic >>

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 10/26/2007 5:47:44 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

15/3/42: Day 100.
The Unknown pilot
The hum of the twin Mitsubishi engines, gave a hypnotic, almost soothing massage to the pilot, at that moment he thought of his mother, back in Kyoto...

He had been stood down from the morning attack, and the pilots that had returned from that mission, had been in a 2 hour debrief, when his flight took off. But the vision of blood being washed out of one unlucky G4, was now imprinted in his mind.

Suddenly the lead flight broke radio silence, "CV TF below". That was all, the radio clicked with finality. We knew what we were here to do...

Above he could see, F3's and F4's engaging the escort. Diving to 200 ft, the world came to him faster and faster, the white caps contrasting the grey black ocean, whipped by. From this height the ships in the distance took on a silhouetted hue. "Not long now", he thought.

Suddenly the world became a vision of colour, and the quiet hum of the engines was suppressed by the sound of violence flying past. Every sinew in his body tensed, and the desire to duck and find cover, grew in ever fibre of his being. This was his first action.

Beside him flew his comrade, bobbing up and down like a marionette he had seen once, long ago. "FIRE THE DAMN TORPEDO", he thought, his finger lightly touching the release, "No, death would be better than that shame"...

An explosion of popping sounds rocked the plane, as a F4, raced past his window, Engine One, spluttered to a halt, at least there wasn't any fire.

Yellow tracer fire started to illuminate the cabin, passing shadows across the photo of his girlfriend. The shape of a behemoth started to emerge from the smoke of the AA guns and boilers, it was surrounded by smaller shark like structures which encircling it.

One last check, "Torpedo away", he yelled into his intercom...at that instant, the plane climbed, freed by the weight of its' deadly cargo, and exploded under the torrent of AA fire, which tore through its' green underbelly.

The silver fish, at last dived into the water, it was unconcerned about the loss of it's life-giver. Its' steam engine started by the rush of air and water, sped the fish onward, it's grey skin shimmering through the waves.

It passed by an escort, and then a carrier, and then like Pheidippides, the first Marathon runner, it coughed it's last cough and died. Sinking slowly to the murky fathoms below. In the distance a jarring explosion could be heard, one of his brothers or sisters had found a different peace.
---------------------------------------

Situation
My Carrier TF, was diverted too far south, now it is on course, but I fear that my opportunity has passed. I should have gambled more and just gone due West. I used a lot of fuel that turn and now I'm worried that I've put it slightly at risk to land based forces. I think that it will end up with my forces withdrawing to Kwajalein, for fuel and his to PH.

I brought in new G4M1's and 1 more grp of 27 zero's but honestly, the moral is pretty low.

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 10/26/2007 5:54:39 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 61

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 10/27/2007 6:16:10 AM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

16/3/42: Carrier forces Escape.

American forces, I think, retreated to Pearl... My land based reconnaissance aircraft could find no trace of them today. So I presume this is where they headed.

At Palmyra, 2 AK's were hit by mines, I thought I had cleared this area, but the Allies are coming back over and over again, to re-mine it, with subs.

Mining ports is a tactic, which the AI, never does very well, and it is very effective... so it's time for me to do the same. It's too dangerous at Pearl, but maybe there are other places which could be just as effective.

Want to remove the 20th Div from Palmyra, to reduce supply usage, and give it a chance to fill-out before another Island push.

My CV TF1, is heading for Canton Is. now, but is 3-4 days out. I need to send some of these ships back for repair, to be rotated with Akagi, Soryu, and Junyo.

More Later ...

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 10/27/2007 4:26:33 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 62

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 10/27/2007 6:48:04 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

18/3/42:

***Today Japanese forces CAPTURE Batavia base !!!

At first light, a barrage of 811 guns pounded the Dutch outpost of Batavia. By noon, Japanese troops had entered the city perimeter, faced with an onslaught of 91458 Japanese troops, the Dutch commander surrendered his 22486 Dutch troops, shortly thereafter.

The base was taken with little damage and 4 fortification emplacements were maintained.

Mine sweepers have been ordered to clear the port, and the troops will be ferried onto Kragen, to take the remaining base of Soerbaja. Morale is high, and the Island of Java is expected to be taken within the next 2 weeks...

Letter from PFC Ito to his mother:
Dear Mother,
yesterday we marched into Batavia, our combat fatigues were dirty from the long march. The fighting was short and we had very few casualties. I know you would be proud of us. Some of the lads are sick from Malaria, but I'm ok. I've lost a bit of weight, since we embarked from Singapore. I am trying not to stare at the Western POW's, but it's difficult, they are a strange looking people. Taller, with white skin, and some with red hair. I've never seen anything like it!
They seem not to have any shame in surrendering, I think they are cowardly and weak.
Say "hello" to Father, I know he is busy.
Long live the Emperor.
PFC Ito.

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 10/28/2007 12:32:36 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 63

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 10/28/2007 1:26:27 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Tokyo Dry Docks:
A small group of people had gathered on the massive Dock to welcome the arrival of CV Akagi, there were no tearful embraces or fanfare ... Since the beginning of the war, all operations had been kept "Top Secret". So it was under this veil that the Akagi, made landfall, not during the day, but at night, to avoid any American submarines that might be quietly waiting at the harbours entrance.

The sailors, who had been given 36 hours shore leave, disembarked without much ado into the balmy night ... A Naval engineering team meantime, went to work fixing the small damage to the superstructure.

Meanwhile back in the repair yards of Kyoto, Manubo, one of the Emperor's bean counters, looked worried.
Before him lay information, few people outside the War Dept, were privy to and very few within...

More than 150 ships were under-repair at various dry-docks across the Empire. This was troubling enough, but the other sheet was far more worrying, over 110 ships sunk in little more than 3 months of war.

"I will have to recommend an increase in Dry-dock capacity",he unhappily reflected, knowing the serious strain the economy was under and what his superiors would say.

The squabbling between the Army and Navy for resources and factories was intensifying, and this would do nothing to stem that smoldering fire.

He locked his papers into the night safe, and headed home through the narrow streets of old Kyoto, "I just hope Emperor, will come up with a plan to avert these continual losses", he thought.

Attachment (1)

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 64

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 10/28/2007 6:45:43 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Not much happening at the moment, so I improved the cluster files for WITPDecoder ... I know they are not perfect and maybe Philippines has to be broken up, and Noumea and Nauru Is. not given Australian designations ... but at least I can see the OIL/RES there ... and at Sumatra, Java, Celebes...

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 10/28/2007 6:46:45 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 65

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 10/29/2007 4:56:06 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Future Objectives:
In no particular order...
Overall, fighting a war on a number of fronts has never gone well for any expansionist power in history, just look at Nazi Germany, Napoleonic France, etc etc

Therefore I'd really like to be able to knock the British / Chinese out of the war, but seeing as this BB1.4, china is looking almost impossible to achieve. And to have two land wars, especially another in the the vast expanse of India, might be too costly.

So unable to do anything about 2 fronts, what is the most dangerous element to Japans survival? The Americans of course.

With this in mind ...

The rich resource area's have to be protected from a sweep up through Java so:
1. North Australia - After Java is wrapped up, I think that if I send 3-4 Div's with support to Broome, coming from a West-East angle, with Keopang captured a few days before, I might get a bit of surprise and halt this path for the Allies.

To stop a Northerly route for bombers to ruin the Japanese economy
2. Dutch harbor / Midway must be targeted and captured.

To stop troops and supplies having an easy route to Australia
3. Norfolk Is. & Fiji (and maybe New Zealand)need to be secured

Little expansion into Burma, it is a quagmire, I know the Burma road is important, but is it worth the resources. If I hold Rangoon and disrupt troop movement into the theatre by
4. Colombo - If I can gain, this Island, then all will be set to sweep for taskforces and slow the allies ability to wage war in Burma/ Malaya / Sumatra.

Any thoughts ?

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 66

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 10/29/2007 5:36:53 PM

Gen.Hoepner

Posts: 3645
Joined: 9/4/2001
From: italy
Status: offline

Well, assuming i do not know BB scenario, i can tell you that,in my own experience, March 42 is already a bit beyond the line. You're on the edge i'd say.
My opinion is that if in this scenario china is unconquerable,go for India, but go for it now!
Secure first the Timor-Ambonia line. Place there 3/4 level 4 AFs with Nells and Zeros.
Then pack up everything you have and go for India.
Divide your forces in 2 different groups. Go for Akyab first. Place there your LBzeros, then land at Chittaong (Bangladesh) and force him to committ in this area. Bring with you just half of your ground and naval forces. When you're sure he's committed deep enough unland, possibly unseen, near Madras. This will force him either to risk to lose his communication lines with Karachi or to get back to the Delhi security line. With your KB around the RN won't be able, at this stage of the war, to do much.Plus, you have your bases in Burma, filled with long range naval bombers and fighters.
It can be done, but do it now. Every day the brits gets planes and stuff.
And at this stage of the war the yanks aren't that strong to launch a serious counteroffensive in the pacific.

_____________________________

[image]http://yfrog.com/2m70331348022314716641664j [/image]

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 67

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 10/30/2007 5:14:43 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

The General, gives some good advice... I am thinking about taking this path, but, need a few days to secure Soerabaja ... then I'll really consider this. I have forces in the area, and could pull this off. As you say time is of the essence ...

Economy: I want to talk about this more extensively, my database has collated some interesting data.
But quickly things I'm looking into:
1. Repair of OIL/HI/RES -- there seems to be a threshold of about 9000+ supply, where repair doesn't occur if supply is less. Each point repaired = about 1000 supply points ? (engineers required)
2. Engineer numbers and repair. (more later on this) - including Naval construction / road / A/f construction Vs. base force eng.
3. Ship repair docked/disbanded. Crew repair is possible and seems to occur at Ports sized 3 and above- hence can be disbanded. Docked at Ports less than this are not affected. (more on repair later)
4. Data on filling out units ...

Anyway, just a teaser of things to be discussed later.

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 10/30/2007 5:15:51 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 68

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 10/31/2007 4:24:15 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

28/3/1942: Soerabaja Falls ... (20 Days after the historical surrender of Dutch troops on Java)

News Report: Tokyo Times
Soerabaja is captured today, by General Tanaka, and the combined forces of the Southern Army. Few casualties have been reported and the Base remains intact.

Today heralds the beginning of the new Japanese Empire. Sweeping all before them, the SRA, is now in the hands of our glorious troops.

Official sources claim that with this strategically important area under our control, there is little standing in the way of Japanese hegemony in the Asian region.
------------------

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 69

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/1/2007 6:47:22 AM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Monthly Roundup...
1. Resource Tab - looking at moving these resources, they have a positive aggregate over production/non-production in these area.
Overall a 392 + per day in resources.

2. Ship Building - Have some surplus of Naval and Merchant ship building capability, 2 AR's arrived this turn, so I will accelerate 2 more AR's.

3. Engines - Bit of a foul up with Mitsubishi engines vs Nakajima at the beginning, with me going crazy to upgrade Nells.
Will change another large Mitsub factory, so that if I need more Mit. in the future I can easily upgrade a smaller factory... Having thought about this, I decided to increase another smaller Nakajima Factory, and turn off a Mitsubishi.

Mitsub - 876 producing / 4 expanding
Nakajima - 683 producing / 134 expanding

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/3/2007 7:19:50 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 70

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/1/2007 6:52:06 AM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Aircraft Production
-------Stores/Upgrades/Yet to Arrive
A6M2-N 12/34/36
A6M2 195/0/441
G4M1 177/0/115
Helen 3/61/54
Oscar 44/443/120
Val 119/0/110
Kate 79/0/110

Obviously, some big changes are about to occur:
1.Level Bombers - G4M1 groups & Helen's -> A6M3's just incoming grps & some to Tojo/Tony
2.Naval fighters - A6m2 -> maintain and turn on factories not producing, although A6M3a's are coming, the next 1-2 months will be bloody.
3.Army fighters - Oscar 1c -> after 1 more Nate chutai upgrade, I'll check monthly average losses and build accordingly.
There are over 440 Nates to upgrade, I will wait to upgrade these to Tojo / Tony's. Hence need more research building in these area's for quick upgrade.
4.Naval attack - Val and Kates -> no changes

**All these changes are going to cost me 1000 supply pts / build pt, so I'm going to be conservative, halting and then build as I can.

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/1/2007 7:20:13 AM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 71

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/1/2007 5:51:07 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

End Of Month - Situation Report

Burma - Still waiting for my tank regiment to encircle Rangoon. Taken all month to go 55 km's. I could have just landed some Para's but I think this is a bit gamey. A few bombing runs by the G4M1's based at Bangkok, have had horrible results when not under LRcap umbrella. But I needed to recon the area's north of Akyab.

Celebes - After fighting off sub attacks earlier in the month, resource transport tf', are free to operate, except for Ambonia, which can be targeted from Darwin.

Java - The fall of Java was the highlight of the month, now I'm moving down the string of Islands, and I've just landed on Bali and Dili. Hoping to form a web of airfields and naval attack forces to rain hell.

China - Yenen fell a few days ago, the question is whether I push through to Sian, which has a mass of static troop ... hence beating the hornets nest.

SE Pacific - Noumea is expanding and I'm waiting for some more troops before going for Norfolk Is. and ultimately Fiji.

NE Pacific - hoping to draw out his CV's again, I have a troop transport going to Dutch Harbor, made sure he saw them ... the fish are just not biting !!! Least I have some cold one's to keep me company.

Central Pacific - After the capture of Palmyra, things have been quiet, except for my failed attempt to pounce on his CV's which had destroyed 5 valuable AO's.

TF1 - Is starting to look a bit ragged, CL Kitakami, is due for refit and will be replaced by CL Oi.
CV's are approaching 7-9 sys damage, so it's only a matter of time before they have to spend a week or two in port.

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 72

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/1/2007 6:15:53 PM

Grotius

Posts: 5798
Joined: 10/18/2002
From: The Imperial Palace.
Status: offline

So you're at the end of March, 1942? India certainly is one option. If you're going to do it, do it now! But I'm intrigued by the fact that you already have Noumea. That would make a great springboard for operations to further sever Australia from the US and A (as Borat calls it), and to rack of Victory Points if you're going for auto-victory. NZ has a fair bit, as I recall. Then again, John3d tried and then recalled an invasion of NZ from the same position in his PBEM against Cap Mandrake etc, so maybe it's not worth the risk.

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 73

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/1/2007 6:18:40 PM

Gen.Hoepner

Posts: 3645
Joined: 9/4/2001
From: italy
Status: offline

Go for India! Now! By may it will still be too late and the brits too strong!
If you must wait, well, i'd support Grotius' idea for Southern Pac

_____________________________

[image]http://yfrog.com/2m70331348022314716641664j [/image]

(in reply to Grotius)

Post #: 74

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/2/2007 4:45:39 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

4/4/1942: DEFEAT AT DUTCH HARBOR !

Having thought his CV's were elsewhere I had moved my small KB ACTF toward Truk, for a push on Norfolk Is. Under time pressure to do much before , the voodoo month of May, I left myself open to a loss of 5 Naval Guard units and 2 MSW's and 8 AP's. What really annoys me is that in my haste I gave away a great opportunity to strike a blow at his ACTF.

3 Days ago, I had my ACTF ready and on station in the area ... now they were in no-mans land, and I've had to retask them back into the area.

Ironically, having landed at Dutch Harbor I realised that he had many troops there that I hadn't seen from recon reports. The first day of battle told me enough that I would have to retreat, which I was doing as he struck.

Firstly he threw 5 PT's at my bombardment TF, consisting of CA Nachi CA Kako, DD Hatsukaze DD Murasame, and DD Mutsuki.

While they were focused on bombing the shoreline, the Pt's crept up on them, and got a distinct advantage ...

Murasame, was hit by a torpedo and then hit 7 times by gun fire, only one PT was sunk ... Murasame, was immediately sent back to Sapporo, I hope she makes it....

Within a few hours, planes from 3+ CV's struck, despite having H8k's searching, none had been seen until this moment. I guess he also uses LRCap from Kodiak to give him a nice umbrella to operate under.

The first wave of 17 F4F-4 Wildcat's , 51 SBD Dauntless and 33 TBD Devastator tore my transport tf to shreds, this tf had been loading forces from DH...

The second wave of 10 F4F-4 Wildcat, 67 SBD Dauntless & 14 TBD Devastator, almost finished me off, only to have insult added to injury by a surface combat TF, shelling the rest of my transports to the murky depths ... 2 CA's, 2 CL's and 8 DD's did the damage ...

Now I'm under real pressure to keep the Aleutians, if he attacks now, I'm sunk, not enough troops to keep Adak from a concerted attack.

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/3/2007 6:31:46 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 75

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/2/2007 5:50:50 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Memoirs of a Geisha:
Hiroko shuffled into the dojo, her feet hurt from the day of walking on the wooden clogs and her mind was spinning from what she had witnessed.
Her mind flew back to the previous couple of hours and what she had heard and witnessed. This is her account of that ...

General Hideki Tojo, sat proudly at the head of the table, his legs were crossed and he bent forward as he held out his glass. Hiroko felt flushed as she poured his glass. She remembered trembling a little, but she was not here, because she was a trainee...

Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto and General Yoshijiro Umezu sat on the other side of the small table, she reflected that they seemed to shift uncomfortably on their floor mats, they seemed anxious to begin the meeting. And what was more disconcerting was that they hardly even looked at her, this was unusual, she was reknown for her ability to hold the attention of any man.

Yamamoto, dismissed her and as She closed the paper thin door, she saw Tojo unfurl a large map. Disgreetly waiting in the wings, she overhead the conversation begin.

Tojo: Good Evening Gentlemen, our initial objectives are met.

Yamamoto: Not quite Hideki, we still haven't subdued the American Carrier forces. Today I got news that they are near Dutch Harbor, and won a large victory there, against our light opposition. My forces are stretched as they are ... during my time in America, I saw what these people are capable of ...

Tojo: This is not the time for more of your, awaking a sleeping giant pessimism ...

Yoshijiro: Ha! while your naval forces have failed, the army continues to be intact and ready for whatever the Emperor wishes! We are ready to fight to the last man if necessary!

Yamamoto: (sighs) ...

Tojo: (Ignoring Yamamoto) As you can see, we've established a large perimeter, our forces could maintain this, sit back and wait for our forces to be picked off one-by-one or we could continue and knock the Allies on their heels. This is surely our only course of action!

Yamamoto: (thinking about his time under military house arrest from the Army) As you know, I believe in naval-aviation power, your troops are strong and have been victorious so far, but without the continued support of the navy, they will whither and die.

Tojo: That's enough from you two! We have started on this path, we need to continue it to its divine conclusion ... Agreed ?

Yoshijiro: Agreed!

Yamamoto: (quieter) yes. What do you have in mind?

Tojo: (taking another map out of his briefcase and spreading it on the table) ... This ...

(to be continued)

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/3/2007 12:46:37 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 76

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/3/2007 12:45:09 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Hiroko used the opportunity to enter the room ... the leaders went quiet as she entered the room, and smiled as she poured their glasses and retired to the ante-room.

As she left she heard - Yoshijiro say: India?

Tojo: Yes, India...we can no longer fight this war on 4 fronts. Our challenge is to knock Britain out of the war. As you know we hoped that the Americans would sue for an early peace, if we knock their major ally out of this war, the Americans will fold.

Yamamoto: Is this a wise course of action ? Surely we should be fighting battles we are assured of winning, we are stretched as is.

Tojo: If we take India, it will give us unlimited resources and a wall at our back...it is bold, but we have taken on stronger opposition before, and prevailed.

Yamamoto: Do we have the troops available for this new campaign ?

Yoshijiro: (less confident) We have 3 Divisions in Rangoon, 2 in Soerabaja with 2 Mixed Bde and 1 Bde, 1 Div in Singapore and 1 understrength Div in Kwajalein.

Yamamoto: What is the estimate of British forces in India?

Tojo: 7 existing at the beginning of the war and possibly another 5 Divisions in theatre or enroute.

Yamamoto: On pure numbers we cannot win 7 to 12 is impossible.

Tojo: What about our forces in Manila?

Yoshijiro: There are 5 Divisions engaged, unfortunately Manila has become deadlocked. we could withdraw 2 Div's without too much problem, but they need rest and filling out...

Tojo: Hence we need to split the enemy here and here,(drawing on the map), outflank them, and cut their supplies off, a body without a head is useless!

Yamamoto: I disagree with this scheme, it will weaken our ability to conduct war anywhere else. Have you forgotten the cost of taking Palmyra?

Yoshijiro: Yes, but the difference here is that we can use airpower to support those invasions, (drawing on the map), if we take Akyab, our combined naval and army fighters can protect your precious fleet. And LR bombers will pound the British back to London!

Yamamoto: (ignoring the young pup & looking directly at Tojo) Before we go ahead with this will you hear another direction ?

Tojo: continue ... but as you know I speak for the Emperor.

(to be continued)

Attachment (1)

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 77

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/3/2007 1:23:31 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Yamamoto, looked grave as he faced his leader and spoke slowly and clearly, thinking carefully about his words and their intent.

Yamamoto: You speak of victory, and I will place all my forces at your disposal to achieve that aim. But this outside our original plans for expansion. Have we won great victories or has it all been a smoke screen? We have not won any great victories so far, insomuch as we haven't crushed our enemies ability to wage war. The American carriers are a potent force and they grow in strength everyday. The British are similarly being reinforced through Aden and they will not be fresh boys just off the boat. They are combat ready.

Yoshijiro tried to speak but Tojo brushed him aside with a glance: I see your point, continue ...

Yamamoto: If we do embark on this invasion, I cannot have my Pacific carrier fleet in place for another 15-20 days. They are near Noumea at present, and will assist in the invasion of Norfolk Is. Will this not be too late, our spies in Aden talk of troops flooding into the port day-by-day?

Takes a sip of sake, looks at some after action reports handed to him by his aide who has just knocked politely and entered the room ...

Yamamoto:Sorry Gentlemen, I've just been handed the damage report from TF1, we have 2 BB's, a CA and a CV close to their optimal operational damage ...

Tojo: It seems like there are barriers to us proceeding as quickly as I would like. We must overcome these difficulties, what do you suggest Admiral?

Yamamoto: If we cannot be in place for an invasion by the end of the month, I suggest we turn our attention to New Zealand, it is strategically important, and although far from supply lines, it could be the key to suppressing Australia, and making life difficult for the Americans. Also like bees to the honey pot, we can confront the Americans for once and for all, and deal them a deadly blow!

Tojo: And what of our Northern Area forces ?

Yamamoto:I believe the Americans are looking to take Attu and Adak, and bomb the homeland from there, over the last week we have seen continued build up... we have CV Soryu and Akagi, supported by all the CVL's & CVE's we can muster.

Tojo: Ok, so let's agree, that our primary objective is India, if we cannot be in place by the end of this month, 20 days from now, we should change direction.

Yoshijiro & Yamamoto: Agreed.

Tojo: And I expect that we should now fully reinforce the Northern area, and maintain vigilance in that area, until further notice.

Yamamoto: I shall draw up plans for the invasion of New Zealand and submit them post-haste, in that event.

Hiroko, heard the clink of glasses, and bowed deeply as the men left the room. Yoshijiro even smiled at her slyly, she would see him again someday.

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/3/2007 6:43:06 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 78

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/3/2007 9:12:12 PM

Grotius

Posts: 5798
Joined: 10/18/2002
From: The Imperial Palace.
Status: offline

Interesting.

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 79

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/4/2007 11:52:54 AM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

9/4/42: Not much happening lately ... but here's what is about to happen ... I just sighted 2 CV's at Colombo, so I think he knows I'm going for India...also makes me think I don't need CV's here at Norfolk, since he attacked my forces at Dutch Harbor recently...

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/4/2007 11:58:21 AM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 80

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/5/2007 6:25:38 AM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

12/4/42: Cagayan Captured
Cagayan on the Philippine Island of Mindanao finally fell ... it has been a war of attrition since day 2. Unwilling to put more troops onto the field, was probably a mistake, but now it frees up a Bde and some NLF/SNLF's for duty, after a bit of RnR.

Norfolk Is: Troops land to light opposition, the shepherds are arming their flocks in the forlorn hope of fighting off the invaders. Funny though some troops unloaded, then the TF, set itself to "DO NOT UNLOAD". I've corrected it, but is this a bug ? Hudsons attacked from Auckland much to my chagrin, as I had been trying to do the same thing when his forces were unloading, from airfields at Noumea-- none flew!

Preparation for India: Withdrew some forces out of Manila, had to withdraw all of them, half moved out, then stopped withdrawing those still at Manila. Would be nice if you could do this more efficiently. They will reinforce at Clark Field, before I send some of them back into Manila, and the rest to Singapore, for my Northerly foray!

CV's: Split ACTF 55 near Adak, with Akagi and Soryu to return to Tokyo before rendezvousing with ACTF 1 at Singapore. ACTF 1 is now being deployed to Singapore, it should take 10-12 days from Noumea, leaving the Central and S Pacific vulnerable, but I'm willing to take that risk.

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/5/2007 6:26:39 AM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 81

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/6/2007 1:45:16 AM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

16/4/42: Norfolk Is.
The Sydney Herald:
Australian's are shocked to hear the news, a whole Australian Bde, wiped out at Norfolk Is., not since the debacle on the beaches of Galipolli, has the nation mourned as deeply. Australian PM, John Curtin, has called for a day of national mourning, and to prepare for a direct assault on the mainland.
Hording of basic essentials, has led some government officials to call for stricter rationing. Shortages of Vegemite have been reported in some areas. The PM is calling for calm on this matter.
--------------

Another wasted use of my carriers, shadowing my troop transports, has put more miles on the clock ... no opposition surface TF's. But if I decide to switch my focus to New Zealand, this is a good stepping stone.

Preparations are going well for India, except the position of my CV's and the lack of AP's to load all my troops coming from Soerabaja, Lingayen and Singapore....

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/6/2007 1:49:00 AM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 82

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/6/2007 4:34:39 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Another DB update: this is a regional DB, showing production capacity, and production output. Eventually, it will give a 30 day total ... +/- OIL/RES to Import.
Will also link this form to a history form of regional production.

Attachment (1)

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 83

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/8/2007 11:40:21 AM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

19/3/42: Don't you hate traveling around Baatan, this was one of those stupid doh moments, when I sent 2 DD's from Lingayen on escort duty further south ...15 coastal shots from 60 miles off found their target....
Seeing as I've lost a hell of a lot of DD's this early, I'm less than happy about this. I knew about this problem before, but ...#%$^!!!

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/8/2007 11:41:46 AM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 84

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/8/2007 11:51:18 AM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

Also last night finished sorting the clusters. I decided to break up Korea and Manchuria and East China, so that I could get a better idea of regional supply-resource production and resource use.

Making clusters is really, much easier than I initially thought ...

I know they are connected by road, and maybe this will screw with the figures, but overall I hope this will enable me to make better calculations globally for my access DB.

The DB application is coming along well, and I hope that with a week or two, I can make a general post, and see if people have any opinion on it.

Also if you want the more accurate cluster definitions let me know...

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/11/2007 7:14:06 AM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 85

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/8/2007 12:16:45 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

The Colour of War:

quote:

Letter from PFC Ito to his mother:

Dear Mother,
by now you would have heard the news, about the fall of Soerabaja, My platoon arrived too late to see any real action, and for the last week we've been welcoming new recruits into our ranks. Tomorrow we head to Singapore for more outfitting. Some of the lads have been talking about a big push somewhere, but that is all to be taken with a grain of salt, in the boredom, some of the younger troops seem to have nothing better to do than spend hours playing cards and gossiping...
One of the guys came across some chickens the other night, he rescued them from their pens and we had a lovely chicken stew. We've kept one alive, and take turns having a fresh egg in the morning.
All for now, miss you all
Love Ito

Nagumo's War Diaries:
18/3: Position NW of Rabaul, TF1 divided CV Hiryu, 2 BB's and some escorts for repair.

Hiryu, has been lagging behind the fleet lately, I sent word about this while refueling at Rabaul. Adm. Yamamoto, has allowed us to divide and sent word to us that we shall be bolstered by CV Soryu and Akagi, & 2 fresh BB's when we reach Singapore harbour.

Scout planes had a fix on 2 CV's at Colombo, 5 days ago, but since, they have disappeared. Could the British have two CV's operating, or is this the American fleet that attacked Noumea on the 24/2 ?

Hopefully, we can inflict serious damage this time.

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/8/2007 12:46:48 PM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 86

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/10/2007 10:43:31 AM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

quote:

25/3/42
TOP SECRET:
Japanese Army High Command
to The War Office

Re: Operation preparation report
Movement of the 2nd,4th & 48th Infantry Divisions from the Philippines to Singapore is nearing completion. These Divisions are 90% combat ready.

Additionally the 19th, 21st Infantry Divisions, the 21st and 23rd Mixed Inf Bde and the 35th Bde are reinforcing at Singapore, they should be 100% in a few days.

Tank Bde's and SNLF's are waiting for AP's to be moved from Soerabaja to Singapore.

Naval and Army air force numbers: fighters 250+, Lvl Bombers 250+

Gen Yoshijiro.

quote:

25/3/42
TOP SECRET:
Japanese Navy High Command
to The War Office

Re: Operation preparation report

By the 30th of April, there will be approximately 5 CV's 2 CVL's, 6 BB's, 6 CA's, 3 CL's, 30 DD's, 20 MSW's & 10 SS's ready at Singapore. All are above 90% efficiency.

Are we to proceed with the operation?

Adm Yamamoto.

< Message edited by n01487477 -- 11/10/2007 10:44:58 AM >

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 87

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/11/2007 3:57:17 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

quote:

28/3/42
TOP SECRET:
The War Office to
Japanese Navy High Command
Japanese Army High Command

Re: Operation preparation report
When all preparations are complete, I expect a complete operational plan of the sea invasion, this must be approved before the end of the month.

I expect the operation to nullify the British in India to begin within the week. Make sure that I am not disappointed in this matter.

This operation will be given the code name: "Tigers breath".

In the name of the Emperor,

Tojo.

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 88

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/11/2007 5:05:53 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

To the War Office:
TOP SECRET: Tojo's eyes only

Here is an initial plan for the capture of India, I shall detail more as the TF's are assembled and sent.

Including a battle damage assessment and a full list of units involved.

The operation to take Akyab, will commence in 2-3 days, weather dependent.

Admiral Yamamoto

Attachment (1)

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 89

RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE - 11/12/2007 3:03:00 PM

n01487477

Posts: 4779
Joined: 2/21/2006
Status: offline

1/5/42 End Of Month - Situation Report (April has been a quiet month)

Burma - Just about to launch operation "Tigers Breath", no real air combat this month, just refreshing my airforce and waiting for the big push...

Celebes - 2 SS's just spotted, so after a month of hazard free shipping, they're back.

Java - The island chain down to Dili is still not secured, but the major bases are. Australia beckons, but not ready just yet.

China - No activity to report

SE Pacific - Sent some troops to Pago Pago, and am preparing for an attack on Fiji, supported with ACTF 2

NE Pacific - Major buildup of troops on both sides, unfortunately my airport building is going at a glacial pace.

Central Pacific - He caught 2 DD's and a TK, returning from Palmyra, I hate the pathing in this game sometimes.

ACTF 1 - Currently stationed at Singapore, about to escort my invasion force to India; Includes CV Akagi, Zuikaku, Shokuku, Soryu, CVL Shoho, Ryujo, 2 BB's, CL Oi (radar), and some DD's

ACTF 2 - About to arrive in the Kwajalein area, and then will go to Fiji, for support of the proposed invasion... 2 CV's, Hiyo, Junyo, CVE Hosho & Taiyo & CVL Zuiho, 1 BB, 2 CA's and a radar DD

Economy: With better cluster definitions, I got a better idea of what to ship, where and when, resources and oil are starting to flow into the Home Island, and I have increased these supplies by 10 days from last month = +90K Oil and +150K Res.

Aircraft numbers are rising steadily.
A6M2's - 220
Betty's - 200
Val and Kate - 120 + each
(will give a better breakdown later)

Ship Yard Repairs
1 CV - 12 sys
3 BB - 12 sys each
4 CA - average 15 sys
4 CL's - 10 sys
23 DD's - 10 sys
20 + AK's
20 + AP's
17 SS's

Attachment (1)

(in reply to n01487477)

Post #: 90

Page: << < prev 1 2 [3] 4 5 next > >>

All Forums >> [Current Games From Matrix.] >> [World War II] >> War In The Pacific - Struggle Against Japan 1941 - 1945 >> After Action Reports >> RE: BB1.4 THE BLUNT EDGE