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All Forums >> [New Releases from Matrix Games] >> War in the Pacific: Admiral's Edition >> After Action Reports >> RE: 30-31 Jul 42

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RE: 30-31 Jul 42 - 8/7/2015 10:04:59 PM

BBfanboy

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quote:

ORIGINAL: jwolf

Yeah I can see that strategy -- hit and run with the big force, then leave a smaller garrison -- but it would leave the main force vulnerable to just about any sort of attack while they are aboard ship. It would sure be nice to land a couple of fish into their transports, for example.

Unfortunately, the Allies are working with mostly dead fish here!

_____________________________

No matter how bad a situation is, you can always make it worse. - Chris Hadfield : An Astronaut's Guide To Life On Earth

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Post #: 361

RE: 30-31 Jul 42 - 8/7/2015 10:14:58 PM

jwolf

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Heh, perfect time for the fish whack graphic!

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Post #: 362

RE: 30-31 Jul 42 - 8/8/2015 3:00:59 AM

IdahoNYer

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

30K troops is way too much for an isolated place like Port Headland... I won't be surprised if he just overwhelm and destroy your Aussie brigade, grabs Corunna Downs, then he packs and leave to somewhere else.. maybe Carnarvon

You're pretty much on the money here - L_S_T has proven to be pretty thorough in his invasions - very little risk taken, usually overwhelming force. Repeat.

Just not sure he's going to try and repeat at this point.

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Post #: 363

31 Jul 42 Summary - 8/9/2015 7:23:52 PM

IdahoNYer

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Jul 42 Summary

Jul was definitely a mixed month. On the positive side, the Santa Cruz Islands were secured, a number of IJA units destroyed west of Normanton, and the IJA�s 18th Div pushed back to Akyab with heavy losses. On the debit side, the US Navy was decisively defeated off Attu, losing BBs at a 4-1 ratio, and the hammer fell on the last day of the month at Port Hedland. Still, I think this is still a month of transition - I think the time of Japanese offense has indeed ended. Port Hedland could be the last successful offensive -other than China of course. Not that I expect a full transition to the defensive, but any other serious attack I think I can credibly contest (fingers crossed as I say that). Time will tell of course. As for Allied ambitions, the only major offensive is going to be Attu for the next 30 days, likely longer. I don�t have the resources for an offensive - not to mention the KB is still intact. With luck, L_S_T will try something ambitious that will cost him - but for the most part, it�s time for the Allied cause to gather resources - begin to gain airframes to start challenging the Japanese in the air more aggressively as 1942 progresses toward 1943. Not there yet, but gaining strength every day - and the primary goal will be to preserve that strength, not risking capital ships or excessive air loss. With luck, L_S_T will give me the breathing space to keep things relatively quiet for a while. Naval losses for the month were rough, IJN reported losses for the month were a BB, CA, 4DD and 2SS as compared to the Allies losing a 4BB, CL, 4DD and 11 PTs. Not a good month for the Navy. Air losses stay in the Allies favor, 364 for Jpn to 309 Allied.

Screenshot shows Allied Forces disposition - Notes: 1)Ships are in service, not under refit or stood down. 2) a/c shown are combat available, not trainers or deployed on CVs. 3) CENPAC subs are those against IJN shipping, other Theater subs shown are �in close� for defense of that Theater. 4) En are Construction or Port Maint Bns. I decided to add AR as armor or recce units, and BF as baseforces or basegroups.

INTEL: I truthfully think other than the ongoing Port Hedland operation, I won�t see another major amphib assault. I could be wrong - Carnarvon or Exmouth come to mind, but if he was landing on NE OZ, Ceylon, or India, I think he would have done so by now. I do think he�ll try and seize Tennant Creek over land, and of course continued pressure on China from all sides. The KB has been quiet - I�m surprised he hasn�t done more raiding, I still think having the KB hit Noumea or Luganville or some other busy port area is a good possibility.

SUBWAR: With the exception of putting a fish that actually exploded into CV Zuikaku, subs continue to disappoint. Will continue to keep them at sea and focus more on shipping lanes. Have diverted a number of subs to the west of Attu, and will continue those boats there until Attu is taken. Will also maintain a number of boats in support of CVs off Carnarvon and in the New Hebrides/Solomon areas at the expense of hitting shipping routes. Japanese subs continue to be a nuisance, despite increased air ASW capabilities. While I continue to aggressively hunt down IJN subs that are spotted, surface escorts remain at a premium, and I�m reluctant to devote DDs to convoy escort work. Lastly, with L_S_T effectively using AMCs as raiders, major convoys (read troop and tanker) will require not only ASW protection, but at a minimum of surface protection - either an old CL or AMC.

West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: Pretty much up to date on ship refits across the board - catching some odd merchants and tankers that were on convoy, but for the most part - upgrades are current. Of capital ships, only Lexington did not get her scheduled upgrade, she�ll wait for the 10/42 upgrades - which will sideline pretty much the entire fleet over a period of a month or so. Pilot pools look good across the board, although with the bomber squadrons going from 8 to 12 planes in August, I�ll be short bomber pilots again. I�m still short planes in any case, and will be for the next few months.

NOPAC. Losing 4 BBs at Attu has put the breaks on wrapping up the Aleutians early with minimal forces. Now, NOPAC will be the focus of Pacific Operations in August, including committing two carriers to support the invasion of Attu - which looks to have at least an SNLF defending it. It�s a good place to attack (assuming the KB isn�t committed) as it�s an isolated Japanese outpost, difficult for L_S_T to maintain an effective presence. Just can�t afford another battleship quaqmire�.

CENPAC. Once Attu is secured, will likely focus on Baker Is, but that is more likely in Sep at the earliest. Don�t expect any enemy activity in CENPAC either.

SOPAC. Goal in SOPAC in the next 30-60 days is to hold and expand bases at current gains. Bring Luganville on line to support B-17 raids on Tulagi and establish Ndeni as a forward air base. Last goal here is to establish enough LBA to provide deterrent against a raid by the KB - that is still a big concern.

SWPAC. With the IJA force at Normanton destroyed, I�m now pretty confident there will be no invasion of NE Australia. Not that it couldn�t be done, but now, the costs I think would outweigh the gains by far. NE OZ still needs more airfield capability as well as aircraft, and that will be the priority over the coming weeks. Depending on the situation in WAUS, will attempt to start raids on Moresby and Horn Is by month�s end.

WAUS. With the landing finally taking place at Port Hedland, I expect WAUS to be the main effort for the next few weeks - with L_S_T clearly maintaining the initiative. I�ve been resigned to losing Port Hedland for a while now, so it�s not unexpected. Wish it was delayed a bit longer to get Exmouth up and running, but I�m glad to have Carnarvon functioning. That�s the goal - get Exmouth up. Will keep the the CVs well of Carnarvon in hopes that Carnarvon is targeting by a bombardment TF, which has been the norm for the IJN. Of course, the KB is the wildcard here. The other area of interest to the IJA is Tennant Creek - will make every attempt to maintain control here, although supply will be a challenge.

Burma/India. Pushing back the IJA�s 18th Div to Akyab was most unexpected and welcome this past month, but Akyab is beyond reach for now - if I want to maintain my LOCs. As more Indian Divisions become available (both training and equipment fill wise) I can begin to probe the Burma frontier all along the Indian border, and threaten his LOCs for a change. That�s the goal - probe and threaten. Until more a/c are available, that�s probably all I can hope to accomplish. I�m concerned he�s pushing into China through Paoshon, and will focus efforts, both directly and indirectly from the Indian border, to prevent that from happening.

China. Although lines have somewhat stabilized in China, it still doesn�t look promising. Overall supply levels have stabilized at about 54k, but supplies are not getting to the perimeter I�m trying to hold in the south - cities are bone dry of supply. The only choice I�m facing I�m afraid is to continue to pull back to more interior lines - that perimeter is getting VERY small IMO. Will continue to preserve the force. In the air, more fighters are needed as more and more IJA planes are being used in ground attack - likely pilot training, but 80+ Sonias on a strike still do damage (and make an inviting target if I can get past the preceding sweeps). To that, the Chinese AF will slowly return from India to China, re-equipped with better planes and better trained. This of course will be a slow process.

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 8/9/2015 8:36:13 PM >

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Post #: 364

1-2 Aug 42 - 8/10/2015 6:37:39 PM

IdahoNYer

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1-2 Aug 42

Highlights - Port Hedland falls in the first assault; IJN subs get feisty

Jpn ships sunk: None

Allied ships sunk:
AM: 1
xAK: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 15
Allied: 15

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 3 ships hit (AM, xAK sunk, PC dam)

Jpn Amph Inv:
Green Is (SOPAC)

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Port Hedland (WAUS)
Green Is (SOPAC)

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. PC Onondaga is torpedoed off Southern California while on ASW patrol - she �might� make port. Will focus some avail ASW, both sea and air to hunt the sub.

In NOPAC, B-17s out of Adak hit Attu and P-38s sweep, but find no air opposition. AM moves off Attu to sweep mines.

CENPAC. NSTR

In SOPAC, Allied CA TF (3CA,2CL,CLAA,8DD) arrives on station at Luganville which has become the transpoint for shipping heading to Ndeni.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In WAUS, Allied response to the landing at Port Hedland is rather anemic - SS KXVI misses BB Haruna with 4 torps and is damaged enough by escorts to head back for repairs and 8 of 12 Hudsons sent to probe air defenses are shot down by the debut of the A6M3 Zero. That�s it. On the ground, the Japanese attack consisted of the 21st and 4th ID as well as three SNLFs - which forced the defending Aus Bde to surrender. Corruna Downs is held by an engineer regiment and I�ll pull that out into the desert as the IJA approach. Transport subs Nautilus and Narwhal drop off supplies at Exmouth instead of the usual run to Port Hedland. On the Tennant Creek front, IJA air hits the Aus Bde fwd of Tennant Creek for the first time - will have to get some LRCAP cover - this is the first sign of a possible move on Tennant Creek, currently defended by two Bdes - one at the base, and the other fwd, plus support. The US 41st Div is held back 80m north of Alice Springs due to supply constraints, but will move north if the IJA does start to move on Tennant Creek.

In China, NSTR.

In India/Burma, CL TFs manage to cross paths enroute to bombard Cox�s Bazaar and Akyab, but don�t engage. Wellingtons hit Rangoon port at night, and put 3 bombs on the already damaged CL Kuma. B-25s out of Ledo hit the advancing IJA troops near Paoshan as the first Chinese P-66s fighters arrive at Paoshan to bolster the US P-36s based there. Yes - P-36s�..its what�s avail in the pools right now�

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Post #: 365

3-4 Aug 42 - 8/12/2015 3:19:41 AM

IdahoNYer

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3-4 Aug 42

Highlights - Air Assault takes Corruna Downs; escort coordination problems add to losses

Jpn ships sunk:
CL: 1 (Kuma)
xAP: 1 (old sinking confirmed)

Allied ships sunk:
xAKL: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 15
Allied: 25

Subwar:
Jpn: 3 Attacks, 1 ship hit (xAKL sunk off Cox�s Bazaar)
Allies: 5 Attacks, 1 ship hit (CL Kuma sunk by Trusty)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Corruna Down (WAUS)
Vangunu (SOPAC)

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. PC Onondaga makes it to port!

In NOPAC, AM continues to sweep (30) mines at Attu, but will vacate the area as the minesweeping is attracting subs. While mines remain, no air or coastal guns attempted to interfere with the minesweeping. Will send two AMs with some DDs for sub protection.

CENPAC. Hornet and Wasp TF arrives at PH. Numerous ships, including Hornet, need some quick repairs, and the TF will wait for BB South Dakota, enroute from Panama, to arrive in the next few days.

In SOPAC, Ndeni port gets to level 1, and transports arrive with additional engineers. Will sortie the Allied CA TF to provide cover. Enterprise finishes refit and will head to sea, east of the New Hebrides and then it will demonstrate by hitting the Japanese bases in the Ellice Islands.

In SWPAC, one last attack on retreating IJA forces west of Normanton forces a retreat, which will allow the Allied forces to pull back. Will leave a screen of two recce units, and the rest of the force will pull back to Normanton, avail for mission elsewhere.

In WAUS, I�m caught flat-footed when paras land at Coruna Downs and take the base after two attacks - with the defending engineer regiment surrendering. The question is whether this ends the campaign, or whether L_S_T continues offensive operations toward Exmouth and Carnarvon. Figure it�s 50/50 as those bases are not well supported by LBA. CV Saratoga arrives at Perth, will refuel and do some minor repairs and head to sea to join the two US and Brit CV already at sea. On the Tennant Creek front, B-17s launch the largest single attack to date (a whole 33 planes in a single strike!) hitting Daly Waters with good effect - not enough to close the AF though. No enemy fighters intercept - assume they were covering the paradrop?

In China, although I send both P-40s and Hurris on LRCAP west of Sian, only the Hurris fly, and get overwhelmed by Oscars - the P-40s could have tipped the balance and gotten into the Sonias.

In India/Burma, B-25s out of Ledo attempt to hit the IJA concentration moving on Paoshan, but escorts don�t fly and Oscars shoot down 10 of 20 scarce B-25s. Not good. At sea, the damaged CL Kuma is found off Rangoon and put to the bottom by SS Trusty (pretty sure it was a good sinking) while a lone Allied unescorted xAKL was sunk by a sub attempting to get into Cox�s Bazaar. Lastly, the third portion of the US 27th ID is released out of Cape Town and boards transports for Ceylon. Once arrived at Ceylon, the entire 27th ID will be shipped over for missions on the India-Burma frontier.

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Post #: 366

5-6 Aug 42 - 8/14/2015 7:42:51 PM

IdahoNYer

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5-6 Aug 42

Highlights - Naval Battle at Ndeni is a marginal Allied victory; AMC raider problems again

Jpn ships sunk:
CL: 1 (Nagara)
DD: 1 (Murakamo)
SS: 2 (I-8, I-165)

Allied ships sunk:
AM: 1
AMc: 1
xAK: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 26
Allied: 13

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attacks, 1 ship hit (AMc sunk)
Both I-8 and I-165 reported sunk from action with escorts off Carnarvon)
Allies: 3 Attacks, 0 ships hit
SS Seal crippled by a mine at Port Hedland

Jpn Amph Inv:
Stewart Is (SOPAC)

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Stewart Is (SOPAC)

Bases Liberated:
Bhamo (Burma)

SIGINT/Intel: Imperial Gds Div planning to attack Carnarvon - first indication that this may be a target.

SIGINT/Intel: Imperial Gds Div planning to attack Carnarvon - first indication that this may be a target.

West Coast/Admin. BB Tennessee w/4DDs depart Bremerton for Dutch Harbor. Fast convoy departs LA for Auck. IJN sub sighted off San Francisco.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

CENPAC, another AMC raider finds prey - this time AMC Kiyosumi finds a small 4 ship convoy 500m west of Palmyra, heading back from Canton. One of two escorts, an AM is sunk, along with a medium sized xAK. This of course could have been worse, and will increase air at Canton, Palmyra and Christmas temporarily to find the AMC - figure its heading back toward safer waters now that it�s been found, but perhaps not. At PH, the CVs finish up repairs as South Dakota closes on the port.

In SOPAC, good timing by sending the CA TF (3CA, 2CL, CLAA, 7DD) to Ndeni as the IJN comes calling with a CA TF (2CA, CL, 4DD) of its own. A DE on ASW patrol finds the IJN force first, but avoids any damage, and the TR TF withdrew before the IJN TF arrived. The combat between the two CA TFs was not pressed by either commander, and despite its numerical superiority, the Allied TF concentrates fire on the CL Nagara, and only hits the CAs with one 8� shell. On the bright side, the IJN�s Long Lances fail to score. CA San Francisco is the primary target of IJN gunnery, getting hit by at least three 8� shells - she limps out with 36 sys. CL Nagara and DD Murakumo are reported as sunk, but this is a 50/50 shot. Subs sight what I figure is the IJN force off Munda heading NW. Although an opportunity was perhaps missed to inflict severe damage on CAs, operationally, the battle was a success - reinforcements were landed on Ndeni without loss to the transports. With CV Enterprise coming up from Auckland, the CA TF will rendezvous with the CV east of the New Hebrides and raid the Ellice Is. CA San Francisco will head to Noumea, then Sydney for repairs. CL Nashville (8 sys) will remain at Luganville to do some immediate repairs. For the next couple of days, PTs will provide the close escort for shipping to Ndeni until the Ellice Is operation is concluded.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In WAUS, I manage to forget to stand down the Alice Springs B-17s, and they hit Daly Waters again - fortunately, only Oscar IIas come up to great them, and lose 5 for 2 B-17s. They�ll definitely be stood down now! At Carnarvon, DD Anderson forces an IJN sub to the surface and sinks her (synch bug again - I never saw it!) while DE Rathburne reportedly sinks another sub just to the SW. CV Saratoga awaits F4F replacements at Perth, and will sail on the next turn to join the CVs loitering off Carnarvon. If L_S_T is in fact interested in Carnarvon, I expect BB bombardment runs as the first indication.

In China, P-40s do well over Kienko, catching Sonias before sweeps/escorted raids overwhelm the CAP by numbers - 16 Sonias are lost for 3 P-40 - of course, this isn�t the combat replay I saw due to the synch bug, but in this case, that�s a good thing! IJA pressure increasing on the southern front - from west of Nanning to Kanhsien, and supplies are critically short here, hampering defenders.

In India/Burma, NSTR.

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 8/14/2015 8:43:33 PM >

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Post #: 367

RE: 5-6 Aug 42 - 8/17/2015 6:18:57 PM

Jorge_Stanbury

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From: Toronto and Lima
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Fun to see a naval battle, I really miss them in my game.

Why did you include CLAA in your TF? were you expecting air rather than surface opposition? I tend to keep my (few) CLAAs with the carriers.

Also, something I have heard many times is that in game perspectives it is always better to match surface combatants' gun sizes... which means CAs+DDs/ CL+DDs/ BBs+DDs

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Post #: 368

RE: 5-6 Aug 42 - 8/17/2015 9:38:09 PM

IdahoNYer

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From: NYer living in Boise, ID
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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

Fun to see a naval battle, I really miss them in my game.

Why did you include CLAA in your TF? were you expecting air rather than surface opposition? I tend to keep my (few) CLAAs with the carriers.

Also, something I have heard many times is that in game perspectives it is always better to match surface combatants' gun sizes... which means CAs+DDs/ CL+DDs/ BBs+DDs

Naval battles ARE fun to watch - although the synch bug has made watching them painful recently - only to find out the results are fantasy!

As for the CLAA - I generally agree, and keep them in CV or Amph TFs for AA protection. In this case, two reasons - I'm short CAs and CLs right now - have a few banged up from action recently, so I'm plugging holes with anything that floats. Atlanta was available at Noumea following supporting Amph TFs, and still needed some experience, so she went in. Her night experience went from 39 to 56 from the action, so she'll go back to supporting CVs shortly.

I've seen folks do smaller, BB or CA TFs only with DDs. I lean more toward a core force, usually cruisers at this point, but that includes all types for the Allies. That hasn't gone badly yet - and I've seen better results from the 6" cruisers than the 8" boys. BB TFs will have a couple of BBs, escorted by DDs and a CL if I have one avail. Not sure any of this works well in the game, but to me, it would be what makes sense historically. Think my TF in this fight was a tad too big, but I figured what the heck..

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Post #: 369

RE: 5-6 Aug 42 - 8/17/2015 11:49:24 PM

Jorge_Stanbury

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I fully agree on big TFs, at least for the Allies in 42 as they are so handicapped

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Post #: 370

7-8 Aug 42 - 8/18/2015 1:43:26 AM

IdahoNYer

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7-8 Aug 42

Highlights - IJN DDs put a stop to Attu mine clearing

Jpn ships sunk: None

Allied ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Conyngham)
AM: 2
CM: 1
YO: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 17
Allied: 21

Subwar:
Jpn: 3 Attacks, 2 ship hit (CM, YO sunk)
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. ASW assets, both air and sea, continue to hunt an elusive IJN sub off San Francisco.

In NOPAC, just as minesweeping operations were about to conclude at Attu, with another 21 mines cleared, IJN DDs avoided the sub screen to the west, and intercepted the operation, sinking one of two DDs and both Canadian AMs. Another case of the synch bug here -my version had three IJN DDs crippled by a combination of LBA, subs and gunfire - the reality�.the IJN DDs apparently went unscathed! That said, the minesweeping accomplished its mission, clearing the mines at Attu - at least for now. Final convoy with troops for Attu approaching Dutch Harbor (Marine Paras). Once arrived and unloaded, will begin final prep for invasion of Attu. Will continue bombing of Attu as well as focused ASW efforts - between 4-6 subs identified in Aleutian waters.

CENPAC, the AMC raider is sighted heading west near Baker Island, but no planes launch strikes, although the B-25s at Canton were in range. CVs Wasp and Hornet will depart PH for Aleutians next turn.

In SOPAC, CV Enterprise TF rendezvous with CA TF out of Luganville SW of Suva. After reconfiguring, the Enterprise TF (CV, 2CA, CLAA, 6DD) and North Carolina TF (BB, CA, CL, 5DD) will head to the Ellice Islands to hit both Vaitupu and Fanfuti with both naval and air bombardments - this is a demonstration attack - Big E has both VB-6 and VB-8 aboard, and perhaps, just perhaps, it will signal to L_S_T that both Enterprise and Hornet are in SOPAC. This mission is also to determine what exactly is defending these SE most outposts of the Japanese Empire. Lastly, if that AMC raider continues due west, perhaps the CV air can catch it.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In WAUS, B-26s sent to hit Corruna Downs get smacked by Zeros and 6 are lost. Mines are again found at Carnarvon, and sweeping will begin shortly. CV Sara will depart Perth next turn as large supply convoy out of Cape Town docks.

In China, NSTR.

In India/Burma, the Dutch CM Willem v d Zaan is sunk by a sub while attempting to mine the approaches to Cox�s Bazaar, after avoiding the IJN CL TF (2CL, 4DD) that bombarded with little effect. In the air, Wellingtons hit the AF at Lashio at night with good effect, destroying 4 Oscars and 3 Sonias on the ground. Lastly, the Chinese AF debuts its P-66 Vanguards over Paoshan along with US P-36s as CAP - the P-66s do well, downing 4 Oscars for one P-66 lost. The P-36s lose 4, and will be withdrawn to less active areas and replaced by P-40s. Good to see the Chinese AF back in action!

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)

Post #: 371

9-10 Aug 42 - 8/19/2015 8:44:09 PM

IdahoNYer

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9-10 Aug 42

Highlights - Freshly laid mines claim an IJN CL and DD; fighters do well over Paoshan

Jpn ships sunk:
CL: 1 (Tama)
DD: 2 (Hagikaze (mines), Makigumo (old sinking reported))
SS: 1 (RO-62)
PB: 1
ACM: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 36
Allied: 14

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 2 ships hit (PB, ACM sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. The damaged CA Minneapolis and CL Honolulu arrive safely at San Francisco from SOPAC - they will be in the yards for a couple of weeks each. Fast convoy departs LA bound for Auck without interference - no sign of IJN subs off the coast.

In NOPAC, IJN DDs at Attu have apparently withdrawn west. Once convoy finishes offloading at DH (should be next turn), will start loading Attu Amph TF. Still a number of IJN subs prowling the Aleutians, despite increased ASW efforts. Will route the invasion convoy and BB bombardment TF north into the Bering Sea to avoid the subs.

CENPAC, CV Wasp/Hornet TF (2CV, BB, 2CA, 6DD) departed PH without problems, and begins its journey toward the Aleutians to loiter well south of Amchitka to provide distant support to the invasion of Attu - will only commit if the enemy surface TFs come back out to play.

In SOPAC, the Enterprise TF (CV, 2CA, CLAA, 6DD) hit Funafuti port with SBDs, as BB North Carolina TF moves to bombard Vaitupu next turn. Both TFs will depart the area next turn. While the fleet is to the east, focus in the New Hebrides remains shipping reinforcements slowly to Ndeni.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In WAUS, mines are swept again at Carnarvon and CV Saratoga departed Perth without issue. Large, slow supply convoy arrived at Perth from Cape Town without issue. Once the convoy clears Perth, will load another Aus In Bde and Engineers for convoy to Carnarvon - and begin moving combat troops from Carnarvon to Exmouth.

In China, NSTR.

In India/Burma, Dutch sub O-20 lays a minefield at Akyab, and its run into by the IJN�s CL TF; mines claim CL Tama and DD Hagikaze as sunk. Nice! Will follow this up with the Brit CL TF bombardment run to Akyab - perhaps catching either ship there in port if they are crippled and not sunk. On the Lashio front, an IJA Oscar Ic sweep is bloodied over Paoshan, with 20 Oscars lost in exchange for 5 ea P-40s and P-66 Vanguards. Not bad. On the ground, the IJA attacks Myitkyina which holds, but the IJA troops are bloodied, and the forts are reduced from 3 to 1. (Didn�t see any of that, my version, thanks to the synch bug, the base fell, so I was pleasantly surprised to see it still in Allied hands!) Reinforcements are enroute, and will focus airpower in ground support next turn, but chances are that Myitkyina will fall.

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Post #: 372

RE: 9-10 Aug 42 - 8/19/2015 10:17:17 PM

jwolf

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Seems like you're getting the "synch bug" very frequently. I hope your game isn't corrupted.

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Post #: 373

RE: 9-10 Aug 42 - 9/1/2015 3:43:26 PM

IdahoNYer

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quote:

ORIGINAL: jwolf

Seems like you're getting the "synch bug" very frequently. I hope your game isn't corrupted.

Been getting the synch bug off and on since we pretty much started. Will just have to play through it...can get annoying though!

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Post #: 374

11-12 Aug 42 - 9/1/2015 3:49:10 PM

IdahoNYer

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11-12 Aug 42

Highlights - IJN fleet found the hard way - Surface and Naval Air action in the Aleutians! Tojo debuts over Paoshon.

Jpn ships sunk:
CA: 1 (Chokai)
DD: 1 (Harusame)
SS: 1 (I-164)

Allied ships sunk:
CA: 1 (Quincy)
CL: 2 (Raleigh, Phoenix)
CLAA: 1 (San Juan)
DD: 2 (Drayton, Dale)
PG: 1 (Tulsa)
AM: 2
xAKL: 2

Air loss:
Jpn: 42
Allied: 58

Subwar:
Jpn: 3 Attacks, 1 ships hit (CL Ceres dam)
I-164 reported sunk by escorts after torpedoing CL Ceres)
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: Found the KB (4CV) the hard way - by it launching airstrikes in the Aleutians.

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC, got a big surprise. Had no idea IJN capital ships were out and about, only thought some IJN DDs were up north to eliminate minesweeping efforts. So I was totally unprepared for what transpired - not only a bombardment force, but the KB (Akagi, Kaga, Hiryu, Soryu) and TWO bombardment TFs!! PBYs and the dozen or so subs I�ve got patrolling from Attu to the Kuriles totally missed the IJN! So, imagine my surprise when I get sightings off Adak! The US CA TF (CA, 2CL, CLAA, 6DD) at Adak is totally outclassed - and most of the fighters were not on CAP. In any case, the US CA TF engages the IJN BB TF (2BB, 3CA, 6DD) at night at Adak and does better than expected, but loses the CA Quincy. This action doesn�t prevent the bombardment either, which closes the AF. During the daylight turn, the US TF is again engaged just off Adak, and again, doesn�t do badly considering the odds - Atago and Chokai are wrecked, with the Chokai sinking later. Only the CL Raleigh is sunk in the engagement, but daylight also brings KB airstrikes which finish off both the crippled Phoenix and the slightly damaged San Juan. Off Amchitka, another IJN Bombardment TF (3CA, 4DD) sinks a small convoy off the base, and bombards - but does minor damage. To add insult to injury, I managed to take my Vindicators off Naval Attack, so only a few PBYs and B-26s make attacks against the IJN - which of course don�t score. On the bright side, it could of course have been worse (and still may if the KB doesn�t pull off) - Dutch Harbor was pretty open and busy - with 3BBs and half dozen APs in port, and plenty of shipping in and around the port. Also, the P-40s and P-38s on CAP do fairly well against the KB�s Zeros - 21 Zeros are shot down. With a lot of luck, the IJN still has a long way to return to safer waters - through many subs, and maybe surviving LBA can get lucky. US CVs heading north out of PH were still well south of the Aleutians, and they�ll divert east to stay out of the KB�s path should it go south toward Midway/Truk. If the IJN does indeed withdraw, will likely commit to invading Attu as quickly as possible - less the screening CA TF!

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, the Enterprise TF and BB North Carolina TF move toward Pago after BB NC TF bombards Vaitupu, finding no troops, and will move south of Suva to link up and refuel - at that time ships due for a refit in Sep (including NC) will head toward Australia for refit. Shipping efforts continue to Ndeni and Luganville. PTs and PBYs begin operations out of Ndeni.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In WAUS, CV Saratoga and BC Repulse both link up with Allied CV TFs west of Carnarvon. They�ll provide distant support to a major convoy forming in Perth heading to Carnarvon carrying another Aus IN Bde and support troops. Focus remains expanding Carnarvon and establishing Exmouth. The big question is whether or not L_S_T will move on Carnarvon.

In China, NSTR.

In India/Burma, Brit CL TF (2CL, 5DD) bombards Akyab with minimal effect, and the CL Ceres (21 float dam) is hit by a torpedo hit just off Diamond Harbor, but the offending sub is reported sunk. In the air, Tojos are encountered for the first time over Paoshan, and the 30 Tojos sweeping handle the outnumbered P-40s fairly well, losing 3 Tojos to about 7 P-40s. Elsewhere, the expected final assault on Myitkyina didn�t happen, and Allied LBA did hit troops there, with little effect.

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by IdahoNYer -- 9/1/2015 4:49:42 PM >

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Post #: 375

RE: 11-12 Aug 42 - 9/1/2015 4:49:01 PM

Jorge_Stanbury

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As you said: "it could of course have been worse "

good to see you are back

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Post #: 376

RE: 11-12 Aug 42 - 9/3/2015 4:18:22 PM

IdahoNYer

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From: NYer living in Boise, ID
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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

As you said: "it could of course have been worse "

good to see you are back

Thanks Jorge - both L_S_T and I have had some real world "distractions" from the game recently. One week mine, next week his. We should be getting back to a more normal rhythm now.

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Post #: 377

13-14 Aug 42 - 9/3/2015 9:44:21 PM

IdahoNYer

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13-14 Aug 42

Highlights - Four IJN subs hit mines at Ndeni; in Burma, Brit DDs sink a PB off Akyab and Myitkina falls

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 2 (reported as I-19 and I-20, by mines)
PB:1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 19
Allied: 10

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit
I-15, I-19, I-175, I-26 all reportedly hit mines at Ndeni
Allies: 1 Attack, 1 ships hit (xAP crippled)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Myitkyina (Burma)

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: KB and the rest of the IJN fleet vanishes from the Aleutians.

West Coast/Admin. Slow convoy departs LA for Auckland. To cope with the bomber pilot shortage, five restricted stateside P-39 squadrons become bomber pilot training squadrons. I�ve got about 120 bomber pilots with good bombing stats, but lack experience - putting the pilots into the fighter squadrons will allow them to continue to train in bombing skills, plus do LRCAP to gain experience. Fresh replacements fill out the restricted stateside bomber squadrons. This should fix my shortage in a month or two - which is when I need the pilots to fill out the 307th Bomb Group, currently in transit to India via Cape Town.

In NOPAC, the IJN vanishes as if it turned on a Cloaking Device. One sighting is of a CA just NW of Attu heading SW - possibly the damaged Atago? Subs will attempt an intercept. Plenty of IJN subs remain and will try some focused ASW near DH to clear the area before any attempt at loading amphibs.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, the Enterprise TF and BB North Carolina TF link up, and BB NC with 4 DDs will detach and proceed to Melbourne for refit (will be short DDs for a while). Enterprise will remain vicinity of Suva to provide ASW while a troop convoy comes in to land NZ and Army infantry regiments to replace the USMC there. The Surface TF will head to Luganville and will escort a troop convoy to Ndeni with a Marine Def Bn. The mines placed at Ndeni did well, and may also discourage any surface forces - over 350 mines at Ndeni. Focus remains to build up Ndeni/Luganville bases. Lastly, with the Ellice Islands reportedly undefended, will move to amph two Army Bns as quickly as possible - as well as engineers to build an airfield on Vaitupu.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In WAUS, troop convoy finishes loading at Perth and will depart for Carnarvon with heavy ASW support. This convoy will have to remain at Carnarvon for a few days to unload - and it just might draw some IJN surface force response - Allied CVs will continue to loiter well to the west, out of prying eyes for their chance.

In China, NSTR.

In India/Burma, two Brit DDs make a run to disrupt coastal shipping off Akyab and engage an apparent ASW TF off Ramree Island, sinking one PB and crippling two more. DD Thracian takes a hit, and will require a short repair time in Calcutta. On land, renewed IJA attack takes Myitkyina, which wasn�t unexpected. What is more worrisome is the IJA attempt at Paoshan - which looks like more of an attempt to move around the flanks (in mountainous terrain no less). Will attempt to hold Paoshan, which is fairly well defended, as well as supported by units on the flanks.

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Post #: 378

15-16 Aug 42 - 9/6/2015 4:48:05 PM

IdahoNYer

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15-16 Aug 42

Highlights - PBEM has been going on for 1 year already!!! Wow, it�s gone by fast! Fairly quiet, although the KB is reportedly still in Aleutian waters

Jpn ships sunk (all old sinkings being reported):
CL: 1 (Yubari)
DD:1 (Shikinami)
PB: 1

Jpn ships unsunk:
DD: 1 (Akigumo)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 11
Allied: 9

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 1 ships hit ( big TK dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Kanhsien (China)

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: L_S_T tells me in his email that the KB wasn�t able to launch its strike against DH due to weather - I have no sightings despite 24 PBYs looking.

West Coast/Admin. First of 4 USMC squadrons (2 F and 2 DB) begins journey from USA to India via Cape Town. With F4F and SBD replacements finally catching up on requirements, I can afford to send a MAG to Southeast Asia - will take about 2-3 months for the entire MAG to complete the journey, fully equip and begin operations along the India-Burma coast.

In NOPAC, air searches and subs find no sign of the IJN, but L_S_T reports in his email that the KB at least is still looking for targets - disinformation perhaps, but perhaps not. Will keep searching and see what develops. Need to confirm where the KB is before I launch on Attu - I�m in no rush, although with winter approaching, would like to get this invasion done before the end of the month.

CENPAC, subs patrolling the East China Sea gain contact with both tanker and cargo TFs, but dud torpedoes are still the norm - only one of three torps finding targets explode.

In SOPAC, I continue to sort shipping as a number of operations are underway. Ndeni reinforcement operation still waiting for warships to close on Luganville to provide escort. Troops embarking at Norfolk Island on transports for Ellice Is landings, will link up with troopships out of Auckland carrying engineers in the hastily put together amphibious operation. Lastly, the troop convoy will arrive at Suva next turn. Meanwhile, PBYs pick up DDs at Tulagi - which could be escorts for a Ndeni bombardment run. LBA is as prepared as possible at Luganville, as are PTs/mines at Ndeni.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In WAUS, troop convoy 80m off Carnarvon with no sub interference so far. Australian Cdo Co is airlifted into Exmouth as the majority of ground forces slog there overland from Carnavon.

In China, Kanhsien is abandoned by the Chinese due to lack of supply, and is taken by the IJA. Lack of supply is still the primary problem - many bases have 0-20 and troops aren�t getting anywhere near enough, despite all the C-47s I can muster flying over the hump. Replacements and entrenching are off, so there isn�t much more I can do to conserve. Still maintaining about 53k across China, but its just not nearly enough to stem the tide as the IJA continues pressure from all sides.

In India/Burma, I�ll try and run an xAKL with AM escort supply run into Cox�s Bazaar supported by some LRCAP. Troops are getting supply along the India-Burma frontier, but not enough is being built up in Cox�s Bazaar to expand the base. Will continue to pressure Akyab and nearby IJA positions.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 379

17-18 Aug 42 - 9/8/2015 5:09:35 PM

IdahoNYer

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17-18 Aug 42

Highlights - KB is sighted by subs NW of Attu; many Jpn LBA over Akyab area

Jpn ships sunk:
xAP: 1 (old)
xAKL: 1

Jpn ships unsunk:
SS: 1 (RO-34)

Air loss:
Jpn: 14
Allied: 22

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 1 ships hit (xAKL sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: KB found; Looks like Tennant Creek may indeed be a target for ground assault as troops are massing at Daly Waters.

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC, SS Grenadier sights, but fails to penetrate KB screen just off Medny Is, NW of Attu. Course is reported as NW - perhaps the KB is making another go at raiding the Aleutian bases? Just in case, I fly off the Hornet and Wasp�s air to Unmak and Adak respectively - should the KB raid, it might get a nasty surprise. US CVs will continue to loiter well south of the Aleutians. As long as the KB stays up north, Attu invasion is of course on hold - let him burn fuel and accrue damage cruising the north Pacific�I�ll wait.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, CA TF (CA, 2CL, 5DD) links up with the TR TF at Luganville in preparation for heading to Ndeni. IJN DDs continue to be reported at Tulagi, so IJN may intervene at Ndeni. CV Enterprise TF will depart from position off Suva to provide distant support from the east of the New Hebrides - then move to support the invasion of the Ellice Is - the TF of which is just departing Norfolk Is. Auckland again busy handling incoming convoys.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In WAUS, recon picks up 16k troops with 250 AFVs at Daly Waters, beginning to move south - Tennant Creek. This could prove interesting. I have 2 Bdes plus support at in and around Tennant Creek, plus the US 41st Div just north of Alice Springs. Supplies have slowly accrued at Tennant Creek, but are not sufficient to support a Corps sized force for an extended period. Will rail additional armor into Alice Springs and have sufficient air capability to make this a painful expedition for the IJA - his supplies should also be stretched, and of course, I�m still short airframes - especially fighters. Convoy landed another Aus Bde and engineers at Carnarvon without any incident or observed response - I�m surprised at the no response. I really figured, I�d have a IJN surface force coming around Exmouth to disrupt my buildup - hence the CV TFs well off the coast. So far, that has been a bust - but I�ll maintain station until I can get Exmouth up and running. Will have to detach the CVs within 30 days due to upcoming refits.

In China, Chinese troops hold off attacks in the mountains SW of Sian, but he�s pushing 3 divisions plus support through the mountains, and my troops are just being worn down. Situation normal. Figure he could be threatening Chungking directly within a year�

In India/Burma, Jpn LBA focuses on hitting British troops near Akyab, and his fighters also find some Blenheim victims which were providing ground support nearby. British Vengence makes its debut without loss though! Just don�t have the airframes to sustain a prolonged air-to-air fight just yet. Give me a month�need the P-40K. Will continue to build up ground combat power and bases along the Burma-India frontier, and maintain a direct threat to Akyab.

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Post #: 380

19-20 Aug 42 - 9/17/2015 8:34:09 PM

IdahoNYer

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19-20 Aug 42

Running a bit behind with updates...

Highlights - Quiet in the Aleutians; IJN capital ships massed in the Indian Ocean for the first time

Jpn ships sunk: None

Allied ships sunk:
AM: 1
xAKL: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 26
Allied: 23

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 2 ships hit (BB Mutsu and xAP dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: KB vanishes

West Coast/Admin. 3rd USMC Div ships out of SF to PH on convoy.

In NOPAC, quiet returns. No sign of IJN, except subs. Will wait and see for a bit to see if the IJN is just lurking out of air range.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, USMC Defense Bn landed on Ndeni without issue - unloading will take another day or two. Surprised the IJN hasn�t visited. Ndeni AF reaches level 1, USMC fighters arrive. This releases CV Enterprise TF, which will sortie north to raid reported shipping at Nauru-Ocean Island area. TF will then head SE to provide coverage for the invasion Vaitapu in the Ellice Is. Two large convoys are finishing offloading at Auckland, and another troops convoy begins loading at Auckland, bound for Noumea with support troops. Focus continues to build up bases.

In SWPAC, Portland Roads port reaches level 1, and this will allow some limited coastal shipping to �test the waters� and LBA responses out of Moresby, as the B-17 fleet continues to build strength with the arrival of the first B-17Fs. Intend to begin bombing of New Guinea bases (and Horn Island) by the end of the month.

In WAUS, Carnarvon convoy completes offloading without interference, and will begin to head back to Perth. Troops, both combat and support, continue to march from Carnarvon to Exmouth. On the Tennant Creek front, the IJA force at Daly Waters has indeed begun a march south. I�ve started to shift some air assets to be available, including a 36 plane USMC F4F squadron. Supply limits should hinder both sides in this upcoming fight at Tenant Creek, but no shortage of supply at Alice Springs or Cloncurry both of which are fully developed AFs.

In China, no change - continued heavy pressure on all sides. Lack of supplies continue to bedevil any defense.

In India/Burma, the big surprise for the turn is the appearance for the first time of capital ships in the Indian Ocean - and as L_S_T usually does things on a big scale, this is no exception. And as usual, Allied Intel provided absolutely ZERO warning that something different was afoot! The first indication I get is a CA TF (4CA, 4DD) bombarding Cox�s Bazaar with little effect. Then, not one, but TWO BB TFs (2BB, CL, 4DD / 2BB, 2CL, 4DD) hit Chittagong with good effect. BBs have truly been the decisive weapon so far this war, with those two bombardments effectively closing down a Level 7 AF protected by Fort Level 5. CD guns do nothing but bounce off BB Nagato. 11 a/c destroyed on the field. Field should be back up next turn, or shortly thereafter with the number of engineers there. The real question is whether or not these bombardment runs were a stand alone venture, or the beginning of an amphibious invasion? Chittagong and Cox�s Bazaar both have a couple of IN BDEs for defense, with additional troops moving up. On a positive note, on the run out, near Ramree Is, BB Mutsu was holed by a single torpedo from the Dutch sub KVII. Will route additional subs to intercept a likely run back to Rangoon.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 381

RE: 19-20 Aug 42 - 9/18/2015 12:00:06 AM

Jorge_Stanbury

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You should hope he decides to invade eastern Bengal (Bangladesh)... this is one place at which you will hold all the advantages: rail, lots of restricted troops now available, multiple big airbases, clear terrain, etc.

I think Chittagong as airbase was a mistake, too close, too vulnerable. Better to keep the big bases inland, Comilla for example.

You don't have USN PT boats there to counter the bombarding TFs. This is the best asset against bombardment, specially if combined with mines, torpedo/ dive bombers and CD guns to somehow make life miserable for bombarding TFs

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Post #: 382

RE: 19-20 Aug 42 - 9/18/2015 3:20:13 PM

IdahoNYer

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

I think Chittagong as airbase was a mistake, too close, too vulnerable. Better to keep the big bases inland, Comilla for example.

At this point, I fully agree - and I'm building up the inland bases. This surprised me though - I figured with a Level 7 AF and a Level 5 Fort it could take the punch - BB bombardment (with IJN crew quality) has been just devastating across the entire Pacific!

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)

Post #: 383

21-22 Aug 42 - 9/24/2015 6:18:20 PM

IdahoNYer

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21-22 Aug 42

Highlights - Dutch subs score again off Akyab; China�s troops actually win a big fight

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-27 reportedly sunk off Geraldton)

Air loss:
Jpn: 17
Allied: 19

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
I-27 claimed sunk by ASW escort off Geraldton
Allies: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (CA Maya dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. NSTR

In NOPAC, remains quiet as ships re-assemble at DH for Attu. Pulling one of three P-38E squadrons out to send to SE Asia. Will resume bombing of Attu.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Enterprise TF SE of Nauru and will strike port/industry if no TF is sighted. Small bombardment TF (CLAA, 3DD) detatched to bombard Nauru as well. Both TFs will head SE toward Ellice Islands to provide cover for invasion. Quiet at Ndeni as US shipping begins return leg to Luganville.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In WAUS, convoy returning from Carnarvon to Perth claims an IJN sub without it penetrating screen. No major enemy LBA activity anywhere over Aus. Surprising�.

In China, there is good news for a change - In the SW, three Chinese Corps attack and throw back a division sized equivalent with heavy IJA loss. Nice to see a victory is a sea of defeat in China, but this small victory of course does nothing to stop the main push toward Chungking from the NE.

In India/Burma, heavy fighters sweeps over Chittagong and only get about 1-1 loss ratio over heavily outnumbered British CAP (7 lost ea). Chittagong AF is back in operation, and will commit additional fighters for CAP. Allies will remain defensive in the air until the 307th Bomb Group (currently arriving at Cape Town) is operational at Dacca. This will take another 30 days or so, and will coincide with getting the P-40K operational as well. Trying to conserve and build fighter strength is the challenge! Lastly, Dutch sub KXIV puts a fish into CA Maya off Akyab - at least the IJN bombardment sortie cost the IJN some yard time!

Attachment (1)

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Post #: 384

RE: 21-22 Aug 42 - 9/24/2015 6:39:43 PM

jwolf

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The Japanese unit near Liuchow apparently was out of supply? How did that happen? Great victory in any case!

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Post #: 385

RE: 21-22 Aug 42 - 9/27/2015 3:23:48 AM

IdahoNYer

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quote:

ORIGINAL: jwolf

The Japanese unit near Liuchow apparently was out of supply? How did that happen? Great victory in any case!

I don't think they were OUT of supply, just low supply. They crossed the river to the west to flank the Chinese position blocking the route north. They IJA just underestimated the size of the Chinese force and paid a price for a change.

(in reply to jwolf)

Post #: 386

23-24 Aug 42 - 9/27/2015 3:34:31 AM

IdahoNYer

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23-24 Aug 42

Highlights - Nauru Island raided; Allied CAP roughly handles Jpn sweeps over Chittagong

Jpn ships sunk:
DMS: 1

Jpn ships unsunk:
DD: 1 (Fubuki)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 47
Allied: 30

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin. Another slow convoy departs LA for Auck.

In NOPAC, still quiet as ASW efforts continue - one sub reportedly hit by LBA off Unmak.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Enterprise TF a/c hits resource targets at Nauru, damaging 11,and finds a small convoy off Ocean, crippling an xAK. Small bombardment TF (CLAA, 3DD) bombards Nauru with minimal effect. CL TF heads SE toward Ellice Islands to provide cover for invasion, while Enterprise will loiter one day and search for additional targets before heading toward the Ellice Islands. Vaitupu Amph TF will land troops the next turn, covered by Adm Scott�s CA TF (CA, 2CL, 5DD). Quiet in the Ndeni area.

In SWPAC, P-39s based at Portland Roads to cover xAKL w/AM heading to base along the coast - will be interesting to see what is launched out of Port Moresby.

In WAUS, quiet around Exmouth, except for Bettys doing night bombing at Carnavon - these had to be the elite, as 13 Bettys destroy 3 planes on the ground. Relatively minor overall, but will have to put some planes back up at night. Does look like a division sized IJA force is marching south toward Tennant Creek. Will begin air attacks next turn with B-17s out of Cloncurry, then mediums out of Alice Springs. Tennant Creek will continue to base fighters, but supply status is a concern. One regiment of the 41st ID, currently 80m north of Alice Springs, will begin moving north to support Tennant Creek - I�d move the entire division, but supply - or lack of it - will limit my capabilities. But it�s going to be worse for the IJA as they close on Tennant Creek.

In China, Chinese forces continue to pressure IJA in the SW - previously defeated IJA troops look to be pulling out, and two fresh Chinese Corps have just arrive - will attack!

In India/Burma, more large fighter sweeps over Chittagong and Cox�s Bazaar, are met by a fairly robust CAP over Chitagong (with bleed over to Cox). The initial CAP of 17 Hurri IIb, 8 Kittyhawks and 8 P-40s, stacked from 20-15k altitude does very well against successive waves of Tojos at 20k and Oscar IIa at 15k. Total tally is an impressive 12 Tojos and 10 Oscars in exchange for 9 Kittyhawks, 8 Hurris and no P-40s! Will move some squadrons around to keep the CAP fresh, and based on the Carnarvon raid, will keep fighters on night CAP as well - One AA Bn just isn�t enough.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 387

RE: 23-24 Aug 42 - 9/27/2015 4:08:39 PM

Jorge_Stanbury

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From: Toronto and Lima
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For me the big question is what is he trying to achieve at Chittagong?

If you decide to reinforce Bangladesh. I suggest you keep strong bases in all rail junctions as the last thing you want is to be trapped there

Does he wants to bleed you in an attrition low intensity campaign? Or is this the beginning of something bigger.

Do you have any USA ID in India? 4E bombers?

< Message edited by Jorge_Stanbury -- 9/27/2015 5:14:58 PM >

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Post #: 388

RE: 23-24 Aug 42 - 9/29/2015 1:10:45 AM

IdahoNYer

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury

For me the big question is what is he trying to achieve at Chittagong?

If you decide to reinforce Bangladesh. I suggest you keep strong bases in all rail junctions as the last thing you want is to be trapped there

Does he wants to bleed you in an attrition low intensity campaign? Or is this the beginning of something bigger.

Do you have any USA ID in India? 4E bombers?

I'm pretty sure L_S_T is focused on holding Akyab and not planning an invasion behind the Allied lines - I could be wrong of course, so I've got 2 Bdes in Cox's Bazaar and a Div(+) at Chittagong. US 27th ID is bound for Chittagong and I've got two more combat regiments inbound from Eastern US, plus engineers and AA. Big air reinforcement (including a heavy bomber group and P-39 squadron) also being brought in.
Goal is to start air campaign in Sep when I get some P-40Ks in squadrons.

(in reply to Jorge_Stanbury)

Post #: 389

25-26 Aug 42 - 10/2/2015 6:31:23 PM

IdahoNYer

Posts: 2616
Joined: 9/6/2009
From: NYer living in Boise, ID
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25-26 Aug 42

Highlights - Mini KB hits Ndeni, two IJN CVs missed by torps; Sonia shoot down over Paoshan

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-154)

Allied ships sunk:
xAKL:1

Air loss:
Jpn: 59
Allied: 22

Subwar:
Jpn: 4 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Vaitupu (SOPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Vaitupu

SIGINT/Intel: 21st ID moving to Rangoon

West Coast/Admin. NSTR.

In NOPAC, SS Swordfish misses CV Akagi w/4 torps off Etorofu as the KB apparently is heading back to Japan - this was confirmed by another sub sighting off Ominato, but SS Grenadier was unable to engage. With the KB confirmed out of the area, transports begin loading at DH for the much delayed Attu invasion.

CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Busy two days in SOPAC. Vaitupu Amph TF lands an infantry battalion unopposed and takes the base, the only opposition is a lone sub that fails to penetrate the screen. While that operation is underway, SS S-37 misses CVL Zuiho w/ 4 torps NE of Tulagi - apparently the �mini� KB is coming out to play! And its more of a KB than a �mini� KB - Zuiho, Junyo and Hiyo, and it wouldn�t surprise me if Shokako or Zuikaku were out and about. This TF proceeds SE and launches a strike (47Z, 17K, 18V) on shipping off Ndeni. 11 Buffalos on CAP fail to penetrate the escort, but the strike only sinks a fast AKL, cripples a small fast xAP, and damages an APD - leaving a number of ships un damaged. Enterprise TF is well to the east, and will continue toward the safety of Pago-Pago, but the marjority of its planes fly off to operate from land bases should the IJN continue south. I�m assuming this is a raid on Ndeni, and I swap out the Marine Buffalo squadron for a Marine F4F squadron should the planes return. A robust welcome committee awaits at Luganville, should the IJN CVs venture south - at the expense of fighter strength at Noumea - taking a little risk here. Shipping is flushed south - with ships making for Noumea or Luganville or out of the New Hebrides entirely. Subs of course are sent to hunt the CV TF as well, so this could be an interesting turn coming up.

In SWPAC, very surpisingly, the xAKL docked at Portland Roads with absolutely no response from Moresby. Portland Roads AF now at level 2. Once the xAKL departs, LBA will begin hitting Horn Island.

In WAUS, B-17s hit the force heading south toward Tennant Creek with poor results, but meet no fighters. The Aus Bde 80m north of Tennant Creek will begin to pull back - no reason not to stretch the IJA south. Additional medium bombers arrive at Alice Springs which will begin ground attacks shortly. Quiet in the Exmouth area other than night raiding Bettys targeting Allied bases - raids are met by conventional fighters which take down a couple of Bettys - the first true night fighters, the P-70 Havoc, just arriving at Sydney.

In China, the two fresh Chinese Corps attacked SE of Nanning and were held with moderate casualties - IJA still look to be moving back across the river, so I�ll try one more attack to help that process.

In India/Burma, the big event is a raid on Paoshan by unescorted Sonias - which are mauled by the 15 P-40s on CAP, with 38 failing to return for no Allied loss. Quiet over Chittagong in daylight, and night time raiders find CAP and AA waiting over Calcutta as well, claiming a couple of Nells. The Brit 18th Div gets bombarded by sea at Akyab (3CA, 3CL, 6DD) with little effect. The 18th Div is to hold its position, with the Brit 70th and then the 2nd Div to move into the jungle to flank the position. This move will take some time, and until I get some additional airpower avail, I�m in no position for an offensive anyway. Lastly, the US 27th ID lands at on mainland India at Cochin, and will rail to Calcutta prior to commitment to the Burma frontier.

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 390