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RE: Jan. 18-19/43 - 2/12/2012 8:37:51 PM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline 		Hi Crackaces,

I figured you meant the bombing threat more so than any thought of invading Tabiteuea . The plan, if anything, will be to isolate the base and chip away at the efforts to resupply. The more B-17's the Allies commit to the Gilbert's, means few are available for bombing the DEI. My main focus will remain the Solomons.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 2/12/2012 8:54:59 PM >

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Post #: 811
Musings - 2/12/2012 8:53:41 PM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline 		Now that the war has resumed, I'll be updating with more of my defensive dispositions and production figures. The supply of oil in the Home Islands has dropped below 1 million and it seems to be in freefall. I'm going to concentrate on shipping more oil than fuel over the next few months.

Ok, the real reason for this post. The Combined Fleet is ordered to move SE from Truk. Three CV TF's and one SCTF are to take up position halfway between the Solomons and the Gilbert Islands, where they will remain out of enemy naval search patrols. All ASW TF's are ordered to aggressively patrol in front of and around the Combined Fleet. Fleet oilers will follow to allow forces to remain on station and react to any sign of the enemy.

I'm not saying I'll commit the fleet, but as mentioned earlier, I want to be in a position to strike if given an opportunity to catch the Allies off guard if they do appear.

On a side note, if I'm completely wrong, and the Allies are not moving then I'll have wasted a lot of fuel and reacted to shadows. However, I've been trying to interpret what the intelligence reports, and what my own units are providing during the search and movement phases. I strongly believe I'm right and the signs indicate the Allied Fleet is probably up to something.

Let's see what happens over the next few days.

Another question. Does anyone see any problem with having DB's and TBD's set to 14k altitude?

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 2/12/2012 9:03:05 PM >

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Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

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Post #: 812
RE: Musings - 2/12/2012 9:30:33 PM   
PaxMondo


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quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

Another question. Does anyone see any problem with having DB's and TBD's set to 14k altitude?

Should be ok. DB's should still use dive attack profile, TB's will use the TB attack profile.

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Post #: 813
RE: Musings - 2/12/2012 11:51:06 PM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
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From: Alberta, Canada
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quote:

ORIGINAL: PaxMondo

quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

Another question. Does anyone see any problem with having DB's and TB's set to 14k altitude?

Should be ok. DB's should still use dive attack profile, TB's will use the TB attack profile.


That's my thinking too Pax. The reason I'm trying 14k is because of Bart's initial invasion of Tabiteuea. All DB's were set to 10-12k. If I run into Allied CV's, I'm banking on his altitude settings being the same. This may give my CAP/escorts the all important altitude advantage in both offense and defence. I'm looking for any edge I can.


_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

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Post #: 814
RE: Musings - 2/13/2012 3:57:38 AM   
PaxMondo


Posts: 9750
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Status: offline 		Like chicken soup ... can't hurt, might help. 

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Post #: 815
RE: Musings - 2/13/2012 2:38:30 PM   
ny59giants


Posts: 9869
Joined: 1/10/2005
Status: offline 		My first Sunday in almost two months in which I didn't see my NY Giants win a football game. That was tough, but they have one of the best pass rushing DL in football when healthy.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hm94ew9mxGU&%20%20feature=related

The Gilberts are important for both sides due to the stacking limits and AF potential. Glad to see your taking measures in this area.

< Message edited by ny59giants -- 2/13/2012 2:57:08 PM >

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RE: Musings - 2/13/2012 4:22:19 PM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline 		I so didn't need any reminder of the Giants! I'm getting over the loss though, if slowly.

As to the Gilbert's. I've learned something about playing Japan. Even if you don't plan on defending everywhere, I think you are well served by preparing some basic defensive functions in most theatres. The best thing I could have done was hit the Allies hard at Tabiteuea once the initial supporting fleet retired, however, I wasn't in a position to do anything, with inadequate fuel stocks and reactionary forces available.

You just never know what will happen and there will always be a chance for a counterstrike, but you must be prepared and have forces/logistics in place. It only gets harder the longer you wait. I am moving reinforcements forward to the Marshall's to slow down an Allied advance there. An aggressive Allied player could have walked in and taken the Gilbert's and Marshall's months ago for next to nothing, but now I may be able to exact a higher price.

A counter invasion of Tabiteuea is off the cards, but I do plan on contesting any future Allied moves in this theatre. I've put myself into a position to be able to strike back at any move in the S.E. Pacific at least. Now I just need my naval search and submarines to come through with some much needed intelligence. Where are those CV's heading?

Just waiting on the turn to hopefully learn more!

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 2/13/2012 4:49:29 PM >

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Post #: 817
RE: Musings - 2/13/2012 4:43:20 PM   
ny59giants


Posts: 9869
Joined: 1/10/2005
Status: offline 		Can we get a screenshot of the Marshalls/Gilberts area after your next turn?? Its easier to discuss things with a picture in front of me.

OT - The Patriots need to use their draft picks on deep threat WR and the rest on defense, IMO.

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RE: Musings - 2/13/2012 5:23:59 PM   
SqzMyLemon


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From: Alberta, Canada
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quote:

ORIGINAL: ny59giants

Can we get a screenshot of the Marshalls/Gilberts area after your next turn?? Its easier to discuss things with a picture in front of me.


Will do. I'll provide one tonight after running the turn. I'll detail the fort/airbase/port levels and troop deployments, and what I have coming into the theatre.

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Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

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Post #: 819
Jan. 21/43 - 2/14/2012 5:55:45 AM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline 		I'll post screenshots of the Central and Southeast Pacific tomorrow. On Wednesday's, Bart isn't able to do a turn, so I don't have to worry about finishing a turn tuesday evening. Plus I want to finish a book tonight.

Jan. 21/43:

Sub Ops:

SS Shad duds on xAK Nichibi Maru near Ponape.

I swear Bart is either incredibly lucky with his subs, or I'm incredibly unlucky when moving KB. Despite ASW air search not picking up anything in this area for days, all of a sudden there's an Allied sub right in the path of KB. As far as I know, I've not been spotted. Only Floatplanes were indicated in the operations report and that is nothing new, as Ponape has Jake's that regularly perform ASW patrols. Fingers are crossed that I don't run any across any tomorrow.

China:

Tuyun's airbase bombed for 4 AB, 5 ABS and 15 Runway hits. Enemy troops S.W. of the base were also targeted suffering 0(5) infantry, 0(2) non-combat and 0(2) engineer squads lost for 97 casualties.

West of Ankang, the 32nd Division and 12th Army HQ attacked the 13th Chinese Corps in rough terrain. 46 guns were destroyed and the unit forced to retreat towards Kienko. There were no squad losses for the Chinese, while Japanese troops suffered one infantry squad disabled. The 32nd Division is ordered S.W. while the HQ will feint a move to the N.W. threatening to block the secondary road behind the 51 unit horde. I want to see if the Chinese react before I actually commit a division for this purpose. It may cause the withdrawl of the horde without me risking anything.

Next turn, I've ordered an all out bombing raid on Chungking's airbase with every medium bomber within range. I'll also provide a sweep and escort of Oscar's. Recon indicates 13 enemy fighters based there.

Troops continue to re-deploy to Liuchow for the coming offensive against Tuyun. I'm on the move everywhere in China. I'll post screenshots to bring everything up to date there tomorrow as well.

Southeast Pacific:

No sign of Allied CV's, no air ASW attacks on any Japanese submarines. There were four SBD-3 Dauntless' shown as Ops losses however. This indicates the CV's are still out there and actively patrolling. That's six SBD's lost in two days for the Allies due to Ops losses. Any attrition of these airframes is most welcome!

Maybe I'll spot something tomorrow.

Miscellaneous:

Japan:

Wakkanai expands port to size 5
Long Island expands fortifications to size 1

7th Air Division arrives at Tokyo
68th JAAF AF Bn arrives at Tokyo
70th JAAF AF Bn arrives at Tokyo
72nd JAAF AF Bn arrives at Tokyo
108th JAAF AF Bn arrives at Tokyo
109th JAAF AF Bn arrives at Tokyo
112th JAAF AF Bn arrives at Tokyo
113th JAAF AF Bn arrives at Tokyo
115th JAAF AF Bn arrives at Tokyo

Allied:

Nothing

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RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/14/2012 2:12:39 PM   
ny59giants


Posts: 9869
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Status: offline 		ASW Patrols - I did some, but enough re-sizing of FP from my larger warships and some independent groups using my CS to 20 planes before they went in for conversions to CVLs. I would take any small FP groups and at least place them on an AV to get them re-sized to 9 plane FP. Then, upgrade to Jakes. One issue playing Japan is not enough naval search assets. You may have done so, but just a suggestion if you haven't done so completely. I use some of my Irving Recon groups that are not used for Recon on Naval Search to help out.

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RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/14/2012 3:55:37 PM   
SqzMyLemon


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From: Alberta, Canada
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quote:

ORIGINAL: ny59giants

ASW Patrols - I did some, but enough re-sizing of FP from my larger warships and some independent groups using my CS to 20 planes before they went in for conversions to CVLs. I would take any small FP groups and at least place them on an AV to get them re-sized to 9 plane FP. Then, upgrade to Jakes. One issue playing Japan is not enough naval search assets.


Yes, I've resized all FP groups that I can. Unfortunately, I'm shackled with most of them remaining as Pete's with PDU off, so the range isn't great and the Allies rarely snoop within 2 hexes of a base.

The new Ki-46-III Dinah is a nice bird with an 18 hex range, they are being deployed to the Pacific as soon as groups switch over. These should enhance my search capabilities.

I also get a bunch of DD's and E's next turn that have completed their refits. They will quickly redeploy to Truk. I'm thin on DD's to protect the Combined Fleet, but the addition of these 11 DD's and a few E's couldn't be more welcome. Another batch is available in six days.

I also transferred a crack Betty unit to Ponape set to an eight hex range for ASW. I hope to flush out any submarines that could threaten KB. These guys are highly experienced in ASW skills. When they report hits, I tend to believe them.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 2/14/2012 3:56:36 PM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

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Post #: 822
Jan. 22/43 - 2/15/2012 3:59:00 AM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline 		Gentlemen, the enemy is upon us, and I'm in trouble. More screenshots will follow the turn update.

Jan. 22/43:

Sub Ops:

SS I-19 spots an Allied ASW TF near Kirakira and elects not to fire upon the enemy. The Allied SC-520 has no such qualms and plants a direct mousetrap hit on the submarine.

A large number of Allied SCTF's sailed directly through my submarine screen around Guadacanal. I can't explain it, but the performance of my submarines remains absolutely dismal.

SS Haddock misses the E Otori near Kavieng. No ASW attack.

Solomon Islands:

This is it, the next Allied amphibious operation. It appears the Allies are moving on Stewart Island and the adjacent dot hex. I'm not sure if they also intend on landing on an unoccupied Tulagi or assaulting Lunga. The following screenshot shows the current situation.

Japanese response was limited to a small naval air attack from Shortlands. Despite the odds, the escort did a fantastic job against the CAP and only one Betty was downed during the attack. However, six Zero's were downed against only two Wildcat's. The combat report:

Morning Air attack on TF, near Kirakira at 115,142

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 90 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 31 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 12
G4M1 Betty x 8

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 43

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 4 destroyed
G4M1 Betty: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
F4F-4 Wildcat: 1 destroyed

Allied Ships
AP Crescent City
DD Hammann

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x G4M1 Betty launching torpedoes at 200 feet
Naval Attack: 1 x 18in Type 91 Torpedo (Does this mean only one Betty launched a fish?)

CAP engaged:
VRF-2F with F4F-4 Wildcat (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 8 scrambling)
(20 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
7 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 5 being recalled, 8 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 16000 and 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 41 minutes
17 planes vectored on to bombers
VRF-5F with F4F-4 Wildcat (2 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(4 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
2 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters to 19000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 34 minutes
8 planes vectored on to bombers
VMF-111 with F4F-4 Wildcat (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(3 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters to 14000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 40 minutes
3 planes vectored on to bombers

I have no idea on Allied naval air units so I don't know if these fighters are based on CV's or CVE's.

China:

The first air attack against Chungking is well coordinated, however severe storms limited the damage against the Chinese capital. Damage to the base was 8 AB, 6 ABS and 27 Runway hits. Follow up raids contributed a further 1 AB and 8 Runway hits. Some Chinese aircraft were destroyed on the ground as well.

Kienko's airbase suffered 5 AB, 3 ABS and 15 Runway hits.

Tuyun's airbase damaged with 15 Runway hits.

Miscellaneous:

Japan:

Loemadjang expands fortifications to size 3

Repairs completed on E W-6 at Truk, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on E W-21 at Manila, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on E W-22 at Manila, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on E W-13 at Manila, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD Uzuki at Singapore, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD Fumizuki at Singapore, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD Nagatsuki at Singapore, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD Mochizuki at Singapore, ship returned to service
(All completed refits)

Allied:

Voroshilov expands airfield to size 8

Screenshot showing the Solomon Islands:





Attachment (1)

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

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Post #: 823
RE: Jan. 22/43 - 2/15/2012 4:26:17 AM   
ny59giants


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quote:

I have no idea on Allied naval air units so I don't know if these fighters are based on CV's or CVE's.


You may have 2 CVE fighter groups and Marine group. If he gets a toe hold around G'canal, it may be difficult to dislodge him. However, you will need to bleed him here.

OT - You have some nice screenshots. What program do you use to produce them??

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RE: Jan. 22/43 - 2/15/2012 5:20:21 AM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline 		So it begins. Air losses Jan. 22/43:





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Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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RE: Jan. 22/43 - 2/15/2012 5:23:58 AM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline 		Here are the Marshall's and the current location of some combat units that could be redeployed if needed.




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Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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Post #: 826
RE: Jan. 22/43 - 2/15/2012 6:00:51 AM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline 		Last screenshot for tonight. I'll finish up Burma and China tomorrow. Here's Rabaul and area.





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Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

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RE: Jan. 22/43 - 2/15/2012 6:09:20 AM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
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From: Alberta, Canada
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quote:

ORIGINAL: ny59giants

OT - You have some nice screenshots. What program do you use to produce them??


I just take a screenshot, save as a jpeg in paint, convert to adobe pdf and add text and such then convert back to jpeg in paint again. Convoluted I know, and they blur on me after converting a few times. I've downloaded PAINT.net, but haven't played around with it at all. I may invest more time when I get a chance or look into some software. I'm a drafter, and I'd like to present some really sharp, clean images rather than these blurry things, but it's what I'm used to. Just not enough hours in the day to accomplish everything I'd like to do it seems.

I'm glad you find them helpful though.

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Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

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Post #: 828
RE: Jan. 22/43 - 2/15/2012 10:11:28 AM   
Mike Solli


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quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x G4M1 Betty launching torpedoes at 200 feet
Naval Attack: 1 x 18in Type 91 Torpedo (Does this mean only one Betty launched a fish?)



That means 7 Bettys got into launch position and all that survived flak (I'd say all did given the numbers) launched 1 torpedo apiece.

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RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/15/2012 12:25:36 PM   
Chickenboy


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quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

The new Ki-46-III Dinah is a nice bird with an 18 hex range, they are being deployed to the Pacific as soon as groups switch over. These should enhance my search capabilities.


Is this for naval search or recon? I've taken to training a number of my IJAAF recon units to NavS to complement my FB NavS capabilities. Without the training (and time to do so), these more capable airframes will be of lesser value.

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RE: Jan. 22/43 - 2/15/2012 12:34:41 PM   
Chickenboy


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quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon


You can bet that there are Allied CVs in his invasion TFs, whether or not you see them. You've consistently described your opponent as very cautious by nature, right? Would a very cautious opponent change his stripes and invade the Southern Solomons without carriers?

As far as your combined fleet directional vector to the Solomons: don't backtrack towards Truk because of a detected submarine in your path.

Consider a due South vector? This will allow you to skirt the Allied submarines invariably arrayed between Truk and Rabaul and position you in open sea between the Solomons and Gilberts in a couple of turns. You would be in a better position to strike undetected from the E or SE of Guadalcanal OR react to something in the Marshalls if that's where he's headed.

I like your force distribution in the upper Solomons and P/NG. One question: Milne Bay appears open. This will be an obvious Allied opening if undefended-you sure you want to bait him so?

Other than the division unloading at Kusaie, did you have other theatre reserves at either Truk or Rabaul?



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RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/15/2012 12:53:29 PM   
PaxMondo


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Status: offline 		Strategic comment: If you did not plan to defend the Solomon's, what has changed to make you think you should now?  Your plan had to have encompassed the fact that they would be invaded .... waffling plans lead to more defeats than any other factor.

Not commenting here about whether defending the Solomons is a good idea or not, but rather about the decision making process.  

Looking at your maps, it is clear that your decision not to not defend the Solomon's has been well implemented.   Your forces are not in a position to defend them and it will take quite a bit of time to get forces in place to do so.  The best time to "bleed" your opponent is when they are having to support building up operations on a newly taken base.  During this time, he has to keep high value units tethered to a specific location.  This allows you to focus your forces and get consequntial hits in (7 hex KB attacks supported with LBA) that he cannot as easily retaliate against.  This "bleed" time though is going to be over the next 2 - 6 days.  After that, those high value forces withdraw ... 

I'll defer to better and more experienced players now.  I know from looking at your maps that I would at best only be able to make even trades.  There is no opportunity for me to hurt the allies in this exchange .... but that's me and I know I'm not that good of a player.  The two Mikes may be able to suggest other ideas.

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RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/15/2012 5:30:33 PM   
SqzMyLemon


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quote:

ORIGINAL: PaxMondo

Strategic comment: If you did not plan to defend the Solomon's, what has changed to make you think you should now?  Your plan had to have encompassed the fact that they would be invaded .... waffling plans lead to more defeats than any other factor.

Not commenting here about whether defending the Solomons is a good idea or not, but rather about the decision making process.  

Looking at your maps, it is clear that your decision not to not defend the Solomon's has been well implemented.   Your forces are not in a position to defend them and it will take quite a bit of time to get forces in place to do so.  The best time to "bleed" your opponent is when they are having to support building up operations on a newly taken base.  During this time, he has to keep high value units tethered to a specific location.  This allows you to focus your forces and get consequntial hits in (7 hex KB attacks supported with LBA) that he cannot as easily retaliate against.  This "bleed" time though is going to be over the next 2 - 6 days.  After that, those high value forces withdraw ... 

I'll defer to better and more experienced players now.  I know from looking at your maps that I would at best only be able to make even trades.  There is no opportunity for me to hurt the allies in this exchange .... but that's me and I know I'm not that good of a player.  The two Mikes may be able to suggest other ideas.


All valid points Pax. You are being very diplomatic in your censure. I can imagine the tone of Nemo's or Alfred's posts if they were to see the sorry state of my preparations.

What's changed? At some point I have to play my opponent, and I think that's what I'm about to do. I'm looking at this like a poker game right now. I don't have a good hand in the Solomons and the Allies have the better position. However, I think if I play my opponent and not my hand, I may actually come out alright. Does that make sense? Bart hates taking losses and hasn't been pushed all game. I'm about to test his pain threshold.

He's very capable and has a plan. He's very patient and methodical when it comes to moving his forces. However, I mentioned a long time ago that I think he could be rattled and make mistakes if he begins to take losses. I'm going to see if there's any merit in that.

I've actually been attempting to get this theatre in better shape, that was a big reason for my reorganization while Bart was away. I think I've made the mistake of trying to build up too many areas at once with insufficient forces. I don't know how others do it, but I always seem critically short of every type of unit, and the pace of construction is too slow. Perhaps I over commited to China and Burma resulting in the shortage in the Pacific. I may have been better served massing my support units in only a few areas and building them up first, rather than such a widespread construction program.

My recent questions about whether it's better to defend the Solomon's or Marshall's has led me to believe I need to do something in the Solomons to slow the Allies down. I'm not going to get much stronger in terms of naval assets and I realize the advantages of a "fleet in being" strategy, but I also realize the perils awaiting me if I choose to do nothing. I think I must oppose this initial lodgement into the Solomon's.

I know I've left myself behind the 8 Ball. I was planning on defending further back than this, and preparations are farther along in the DEI and Mariannas. I realize I'm running out of time though, so this is my attempt to buy time by taking the Allies head on. The longer I delay in confronting the Allied advance, the harder it's going to be for me.

I think the best way for me to go forward is not look at what should have been done, but rather what do I need to do now. No more excuses, it's time to see what I'm capable of and the pressure is on. I'll continue to try and improve my overall situation defensively with better play and preparation, but right now I'm not looking at the map and what it shows. I'm looking at getting into my opponent's head to mess him up. Will he rise to the occasion or make mistakes as he takes losses?

I've played a poor strategic game, it's obvious. I think my tactical game will be better and now is the time to prove it. I will play as smart as I can and look to capitalize on any weakness on the Allied side. I'm going to lose units, but at some point that's inevitable. I choose to do so now fully aware of the difficult task ahead. What could go wrong?

It's right to question my decision making process, it's certainly all over the place. I put it down to the steep learning curve of trying to defend the entire Pacific!

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

(in reply to PaxMondo)
Post #: 833
RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/15/2012 5:43:44 PM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Chickenboy

quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

The new Ki-46-III Dinah is a nice bird with an 18 hex range, they are being deployed to the Pacific as soon as groups switch over. These should enhance my search capabilities.


Is this for naval search or recon? I've taken to training a number of my IJAAF recon units to NavS to complement my FB NavS capabilities. Without the training (and time to do so), these more capable airframes will be of lesser value.


I have a unit in Manchuria dedicated to training army patrol plane pilots in naval search, so I'm good to go.

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

(in reply to Chickenboy)
Post #: 834
RE: Jan. 22/43 - 2/15/2012 6:15:59 PM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Chickenboy

You can bet that there are Allied CVs in his invasion TFs, whether or not you see them. You've consistently described your opponent as very cautious by nature, right? Would a very cautious opponent change his stripes and invade the Southern Solomons without carriers?

As far as your combined fleet directional vector to the Solomons: don't backtrack towards Truk because of a detected submarine in your path.

Consider a due South vector? This will allow you to skirt the Allied submarines invariably arrayed between Truk and Rabaul and position you in open sea between the Solomons and Gilberts in a couple of turns. You would be in a better position to strike undetected from the E or SE of Guadalcanal OR react to something in the Marshalls if that's where he's headed.

I like your force distribution in the upper Solomons and P/NG. One question: Milne Bay appears open. This will be an obvious Allied opening if undefended-you sure you want to bait him so?

Other than the division unloading at Kusaie, did you have other theatre reserves at either Truk or Rabaul?


Thanks for the post Chickenboy!

You're probably right about Allied CV's being present and I'll operate on that assumption.

I like your idea about Combined Fleet's movement, but I'm concerned about putting myself further out of position to interdict the Solomon's. An attempt to come in from the east or southeast of Guadalcanal can easily be spotted by enemy air patrols from Ndeni. I've been periodically positioning TF's nine hexes away from Ndeni and they are always spotted.

I do like the idea of being in position in case there is a similiar operation against the Marshall's or further landings in the Gilbert's, but what if there isn't now? Then I've definitely missed out on interdicting the current Allied operation. Screening submarines and naval air search has not spotted anything larger than ASW TF's around Tabiteuea and points south.

I think the Allied operation is to grab Kirakira and Stewart Islands, dump off the invasion and support troops and withdraw the naval assets quickly. Then hunker down under cover of LBA from Ndeni while the facilities are built up. The other option is landing on an undefended Tulagi to quickly establish local CAP. I'm counting on the fact I've built up no ports on any of these bases to slow the initial Allied landings and supporting supply TF's. I'm not concerned with stopping them from landing, but I do want to get to the follow up TF's.

I think I was banking on a landing at Milne Bay, but that was faulty logic as Bart always invades the weakest point. Something I ignored despite realizing it long ago. He will take anything he can for free and who can blame him? Milne Bay is within range of a large numbers of Japanese airbases and air assets. It was wrong to think the initial landing would take place there. I was actually just sending a construction unit there to start building up forts in preparation for an actual garrison.

I'll decide on the Combined Fleet's movement tonight. If I can get within my own LBA that will add some security for the CV's, but as you suggest that might be the obvious choice too. I may swing through Kusaie Island and skirt east of the subs then head due west. Next turn should provide me much better intel on enemy dispositions and may determine the best route to take. It may be Bart is expecting me coming from Truk and not aware KB is already near Kusaie Island.

I know that I can launch a substantial naval LBA strike against Allied shipping next turn from Shortlands. The fact only 20 planes launched last turn may give the Allies a false sense of security. Let's see if 90 Zero's and 50 Betty's can achieve anything, providing they all fly! I have substantial submarine forces in the area too, and I'm bound to catch a break at some point here.

I think my CL and 3 DD force at Munda will be committed. It will stir the pot and it may generate some unwarranted reactions by enemy TF's that give my LBA or submarines a shot at something. Early days yet, but we'll see how things develop.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 2/16/2012 3:52:12 AM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

(in reply to Chickenboy)
Post #: 835
RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/15/2012 6:23:34 PM   
PaxMondo


Posts: 9750
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quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

All valid points Pax. You are being very diplomatic in your censure. I can imagine the tone of Nemo's or Alfred's posts if they were to see the sorry state of my preparations.


Hey, no "censure" intended. Just wanted to be sure that you're thinking this through. Several times you've castigated yourself because you have changed plans mid-stream to your detriment. Just want to be sure that this doesn't turn into that. This isn't about the outcome, you only have so much control on that (about 50% ), but rather your perception of yourself and your strategy.

Now, I don't think your preparations are poor. Rather, they are setup per your strategy of the Gilberts/Marshall's. Not the Solomons. You intentionally do NOT have defense set up in the Solomon's. You propose to change that strategy. That's ok, you do have to be fluid. Just make sure that you can accomplish what you intend in the timeframe you want.

As I stated, with your current setup I know I couldn't. Knowing I couldn't, I wouldn't change my strategy. Mike&Mike (or others) might be able to chirp in and offer ideas.

_____________________________

Pax

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)
Post #: 836
RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/15/2012 6:54:45 PM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: PaxMondo

quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

All valid points Pax. You are being very diplomatic in your censure. I can imagine the tone of Nemo's or Alfred's posts if they were to see the sorry state of my preparations.


Hey, no "censure" intended. Just wanted to be sure that you're thinking this through. Several times you've castigated yourself because you have changed plans mid-stream to your detriment. Just want to be sure that this doesn't turn into that. This isn't about the outcome, you only have so much control on that (about 50% ), but rather your perception of yourself and your strategy.

Now, I don't think your preparations are poor. Rather, they are setup per your strategy of the Gilberts/Marshall's. Not the Solomons. You intentionally do NOT have defense set up in the Solomon's. You propose to change that strategy. That's ok, you do have to be fluid. Just make sure that you can accomplish what you intend in the timeframe you want.

As I stated, with your current setup I know I couldn't. Knowing I couldn't, I wouldn't change my strategy. Mike&Mike (or others) might be able to chirp in and offer ideas.


Pax, totally understand. I got a "WTF" is he doing intrepretation from your post, but in a good way! My defensive strategy still stands as stated previously, Burma and the DEI to protect my supply of oil is still the priority. I just need to do something to slow the Allies down from here on out. To be honest, the prospect of some sustained naval and air combat has it's appeal too. It's been a long time coming and I just need to do something.

Here's the plan. I'm going to contest this lodgement to the best of my ability with the forces at hand, and attempt to do so without major risk. I just want to push back on the Allies enough to show this is the start of my line in the sand. The time gained will hopefully allow me to get a few more airbases built up around Rabaul and Shortlands. This isn't going to be a full blown counterinvasion or anything unless the situation warrants it. I'm not actually seeking a CV battle either. I just want to be able to chip away at the fringes, create some openings that I can exploit and spank the Allies a little if I can. I'll use LBA from Shortlands to disrupt and inflict what damage they can, if any, then sail KB in if things look good. I'll cycle LBA to keep the numbers up and allow units to recover. At least I do have substantial LBA around Rabaul, if not more airbases. That's what I need to address quickly, so I'm attacking around Guadalcanal to buy me that time.

It's time to throw a little fun into the mix and ruffle Bart's feathers. I can't pass it up. I just have to make sure I don't lose my fleet doing so!

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

(in reply to PaxMondo)
Post #: 837
RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/15/2012 10:17:17 PM   
Mike Solli


Posts: 15792
Joined: 10/18/2000
From: the flight deck of the Zuikaku
Status: offline
quote:

ORIGINAL: Chickenboy


quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

The new Ki-46-III Dinah is a nice bird with an 18 hex range, they are being deployed to the Pacific as soon as groups switch over. These should enhance my search capabilities.


Is this for naval search or recon? I've taken to training a number of my IJAAF recon units to NavS to complement my FB NavS capabilities. Without the training (and time to do so), these more capable airframes will be of lesser value.


Training IJA pilots in naval search is a must. I started on 7 Dec 41.

_____________________________


Created by the amazing Dixie

(in reply to Chickenboy)
Post #: 838
RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/15/2012 10:22:57 PM   
Mike Solli


Posts: 15792
Joined: 10/18/2000
From: the flight deck of the Zuikaku
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quote:

ORIGINAL: PaxMondo

Strategic comment: If you did not plan to defend the Solomon's, what has changed to make you think you should now?  Your plan had to have encompassed the fact that they would be invaded .... waffling plans lead to more defeats than any other factor.

Not commenting here about whether defending the Solomons is a good idea or not, but rather about the decision making process.  

Looking at your maps, it is clear that your decision not to not defend the Solomon's has been well implemented.   Your forces are not in a position to defend them and it will take quite a bit of time to get forces in place to do so.  The best time to "bleed" your opponent is when they are having to support building up operations on a newly taken base.  During this time, he has to keep high value units tethered to a specific location.  This allows you to focus your forces and get consequntial hits in (7 hex KB attacks supported with LBA) that he cannot as easily retaliate against.  This "bleed" time though is going to be over the next 2 - 6 days.  After that, those high value forces withdraw ... 

I'll defer to better and more experienced players now.  I know from looking at your maps that I would at best only be able to make even trades.  There is no opportunity for me to hurt the allies in this exchange .... but that's me and I know I'm not that good of a player.  The two Mikes may be able to suggest other ideas.


I agree with Pax here. The decision to defend an area is made long before the enemy invasion force arrives. I believe it's too late now. You'll only lose lots of forces for no good reason. You need to bloody his nose here. Sink a few transports with his troops aboard. He most likely doesn't know what ground troops (number and quality) you have there so he's most likely loaded for bear. Damaging some of what is most likely some of his best ground forces available will certainly slow him down.

_____________________________


Created by the amazing Dixie

(in reply to PaxMondo)
Post #: 839
RE: Jan. 21/43 - 2/16/2012 3:50:03 AM   
SqzMyLemon


Posts: 4239
Joined: 10/30/2009
From: Alberta, Canada
Status: offline 		The next turn is sent. There will be another Betty attack against Allied shipping escorted by 70 Zero's if all goes well. I'll try and attrition enemy naval fighter strength somewhat with heavily escorted raids. The SCTF at Munda is ordered on a suicide run against Kirakira. I may have goofed here ordering mission speed which means I'll arrive in daylight instead of the night...oops. The Combined Fleet is ordered to proceed on a heading of...I'll leave that unanswered for now.

Stay tuned!

Here are screenshots of the China theatre.

Northern China:



Attachment (1)

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 2/16/2012 3:51:21 AM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)

(in reply to Mike Solli)
Post #: 840
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