RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War in the Pacific: Admirals Edition

Matrix Games Forums

Forums Register Login Photo Gallery Member List Search Calendars FAQ

My Profile Inbox Address Book My Subscription My Forums Log Out

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War in the Pacific: Admirals Edition

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

Logged in as: Guest

Users viewing this topic: none

Printable Version

All Forums >> [New Releases from Matrix Games] >> War in the Pacific: Admiral's Edition >> After Action Reports >> RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War in the Pacific: Admirals Edition

Page: << < prev 3 4 [5] 6 7 next > >>

Message

<< Older Topic Newer Topic >>

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 10/28/2015 12:58:17 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

3 TFs likely means three different islands in the group leading to Milne Bay.

Just as an indication of how much FOW there is in your naval search, the Japanese have ONE LSD in their entire fleet for the first year.

Surprisingly, all 3 TF's headed to Rossel. In all there were 38 Ships...8 TB's/PC's, 1 AP, 1 LSD, and the rest were AK's (you were right, the ship reporting was way off, both in quantity and composition). My carrier aircraft got a good portion of them, but the Japanese still managed to land 4K troops on Rossel Island before I sunk enough of the ships to force the rest to retreat. I even detached a few surface units from my CV TF, but they ran out of ammo before they could sink all their targets. It was like the naval equivalent of a Russian human wave. The Japanese have about 95 AV on the island (I have 65), I think I am safe for now...as long as there isn't another ammphib TF on its way.

< Message edited by Schlussel -- 10/28/2015 1:59:08 PM >

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to BBfanboy)

Post #: 121

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 10/28/2015 1:44:39 PM

BBfanboy

Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline

Well done on the interception - chewing up his amphib forces will put a real crimp in his future operations. Did you get the LSD? Very valuable ship - allows a lot of troops to land in the first wave.

Unless there were several xAKs loaded with supplies only, the Japanese likely did not get much ashore. The unloading sequence from each ship is:
- fighting troops
- support troops
- light equipment ( like MGs and light AA)
- heavy equipment ( artillery and tanks)
- supply

Try bombarding with your artillery to see if he has enough supply to respond. If the results are favourable and you have enough supply yourself, keep plastering them.

Since you are playing against the AI, it will make more attempts to reinforce or supply those troops so you should get what you can here to interdict - mines, subs, DDs, whatever you got.

_____________________________

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

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 122

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 10/29/2015 1:12:12 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

Well done on the interception - chewing up his amphib forces will put a real crimp in his future operations. Did you get the LSD? Very valuable ship - allows a lot of troops to land in the first wave.

Unless there were several xAKs loaded with supplies only, the Japanese likely did not get much ashore. The unloading sequence from each ship is:
- fighting troops
- support troops
- light equipment ( like MGs and light AA)
- heavy equipment ( artillery and tanks)
- supply

Try bombarding with your artillery to see if he has enough supply to respond. If the results are favourable and you have enough supply yourself, keep plastering them.

Since you are playing against the AI, it will make more attempts to reinforce or supply those troops so you should get what you can here to interdict - mines, subs, DDs, whatever you got.

Yeah man, I got the LSD (the ship that is

).

I got about 23 confirmed ships sunk, and I'm thinking I'll see more pop up on the ops report in the coming weeks.

Speaking of reinforcements, I have an Australian brigade (the 14th I think) unloading now. Hopefully the KB will stay away long enough for them to unload all their supplies as well.

As far as supplies, I think the Japanese did get some through, they responded to my initial bombardment attacks. But I will keep pressuring to see if I can make them run through their reserves faster.

I have a few small surface forces in the area, but my carriers are low on sorties. I have a replenishment TF on its way, and should arrive in 4 days.

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to BBfanboy)

Post #: 123

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/3/2015 5:57:10 AM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Week 18: April 6th – April 12th 1942

North Pacific:
Adak is coming along nicely. Now that Sub and Ammunition tenders are stationed at the port, I reassign the home base of some subs patrolling off Japan. The distance to from Japan to Adak is 30 hexes shorter than Japan to Pearl Harbor, which will allow my subs in the area more time on patrol.
Also, I’ve identified Amchitka as my next base/early warning outpost in the Aleutians. It will be occupied once Adak is near full development.

Central Pacific:
At the end of the week, a small Japanese raiding party lands at Baker Island. Early reports estimate the attackers number around 200, while I have 2,500 troops defending (800 front line). I set my combat troops to bombard, just in case the Japanese get reinforcements.

Southern Pacific:
No Japanese activity.

New Guinea/Solomons:
A large (38 Ship) amphibious Task Force assaults Rossel Island. My carrier assets took out a few, including an LSD, but the surviving IJN ships were unfazed, and proceeded to unload 4,000+ troops on Rossel Island. The next day I continued with the air attacks, and also detached the PoW and a few cruisers from carrier guard duty to engage the IJN amphib fleet. They also had good luck hitting ships, but ran out of shells before they could sink them all. Watching the replays, I estimate I got about 30 of the 38 ships.
Once I cleared the Japanese ships from the area, I was able to land some much needed reinforcements on Rossel Island (14th Australian brigade) that were already in route. Our two opposing ground forces traded artillery bombardments for the rest of the week.

DEI/Philippines:
In the past few weeks, the Philippines have seen a rash of bad news for the Allies, and this week is no different. Without supplies for over three weeks, the 22,000 defenders of Bataan, have finally succumbed to the Japanese. The pixelated soldiers fought well, but the outcome was really never in doubt. They tied up nearly 80,000 Japanese troops for almost four months, and bought me crucial time to fortify my defense line in the Pacific. Their sacrifice will not be forgotten.
In the DEI, my hold on Java is now reduced to just Batavia and Soerbaja. The defenders of Batavia have rebuffed two IJA shock attacks, inflicting 4,500 casualties while only losing 900 of their own. Unfortunately, their fate is sealed just like those brave fighters at Bataan.

SE Asia/China:
In Burma, the IJA overwhelms my small rearguard at Schwebo, but it allows the rest of my forces time to strategic move to Myitkyina in preparation for their run through the jungle.
In China, I am focusing on conserving as much supply as possible by staying on the defensive.

KB Watch:
-1-CVL sighted South of Bandjermasin (4-6)
-1-CV & 1-CVL sighted near Balikpapan (4-7)
-Intel reports Combined Fleet is at Hiroshima/Kure (4/7)
- 1-CV & 1-CVL sighted East of Soerabja (4/8)
- 1-CV & 1-CVL sighted South of Denpasar (4/9)
-1-CV & 4-CVL sighted West of Tjilatjap (4-11)
-2-CV & 2-CVL NW of Batavia (4-12)

Notable Base Captures:
-Bataan [Phillippines] captured by Japan (4/7)
-Schwebo [Burma] captured by Japan (4/11)

Campaign Overview:
Aircraft Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 1,043 [+46] Biggest Losses (#): Buffalo (131), 139WH3 (79), P-40E (74)
Japanese: 1,506 [+80] Biggest Losses (#): Betty (365), Sally (142), Zero (140)

Ship Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 203 [+3] Notables: CA Portland, CA Adelaide, CL Durban, CL Sumatra
Japanese: 175 [+22] Notables: CVL Zuiho, CVE Taiyo, CVE Hosho, CA Mogami, CA Mikuma, CA Suzya.

Army Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 5,868 [+981]
Japanese: 1,428 [+68]

VP Totals [change]:
Allies: 12,829 [+330]
Japanese: 13,543 [+1,181]

Other Notes:
-The Japanese have finally surpassed the Allies in VP’s. The imminent fall of Batavia and Soerabja will add a bit to this, but after that, theres no more freebies. To get high VP bases, the Japanese will now have to assault prepared positions, manned with troops that are better able to resist.
-The combined fleet was reported to be at Hiroshima/Kure. Not sure how reliable this is, but it does jive with what I’m seeing on the map. A KB Jr. has been operating in the DEI all week, but the rest of the Japanese carriers are nowhere to be seen.
-The first B-17E air groups show up on the west coast. They are in need of training and more airframes to fill out their squadrons, and I'm working on rectifying that now.

< Message edited by Schlussel -- 11/3/2015 6:58:03 AM >

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 124

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/3/2015 2:02:13 PM

BBfanboy

Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline

Interesting that the AI has split the KB into several groups. They are in the same area at the moment but eventually they may split up and that will give an opportunity for you to pit two or more of your carriers against a CV/CVL TF. Once Japan loses two or three of its CVs, the game gets much less dangerous for the Allies.

quote:

Schlussel: it allows the rest of my forces time to strategic move to Myitkyina in preparation for their run through the jungle.

They are going to need some music for that trek....

CCR- Run Through The Jungle

_____________________________

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

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 125

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/4/2015 5:52:28 AM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

They are going to need some music for that trek....

CCR- Run Through The Jungle

I was wondering if someone would get my CCR reference.

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to BBfanboy)

Post #: 126

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/8/2015 3:23:33 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Week 19: April 13th – April 19th 1942

North Pacific:
Adak is coming along nicely. No IJN activity in the region.

Central Pacific:
The small IJN raiding party at Baker Island disappears before I get a chance to counterattack. No other activity.

Southern Pacific:
No Japanese activity.

New Guinea/Solomons: The surface war heated up this week. It all started when two Japanese CA/DD surface forces were spotted halfway between Rossel Island and Noumea. As my supply line was being threatened, I diverted my only carriers in the region (Enterprise/Hermes) from their patrol station off Rossel, to intercept. I scored a few bomb hits on a cruiser, but nothing else... Heavy rain and thunderstorms throughout the area limited my planes’ effectiveness (that’s my excuse anyway).
At the same time, a small (relatively) 8 ship IJN amphibious task force assaults Milne Bay. Unlike the Rossel Island operation a week prior, I did not see this one coming...as the task force got lost amongst the ship traffic between Rabaul and Lae. All I had within range a CA/DD surface TF guarding my troop unloading @ Rossel Island. I split the force and headed to Milne Bay to crash the IJN party. Before my force could cause any damage, the Japanese landed approx.. 2,300 troops on Milne Bay. Once my surface force arrived it quickly sunk 2 AK’s, an AP, a torpedo boat, and caused the rest of the IJN ships to flee. Damage to my ships was light, until the next morning, when a Betty raid sunk one of my cruisers (CL Java). In the face of Japanese airpower, my surface force quickly withdrew south. As for the land battle on Milne Bay, the AV’s of both sides are equal, looks like this one will come down to who can keep their forces supplied.
On Rossel island, my reinforcements (14th Aus. Brigade) finished unloading and now my AV is at about 150 (the Japanese force is around 95). Still bombarding the Japanese to drain their supply.
The air war in the area has intensified as well. Daily Betty/Sally Raids target Rossel and Milne Bay, scoring hits on a few ships offloading supply. Rossel has a squadron of Airacobras that has kept the Japanese bombers at bay, but Milne doesn’t have the ground crew to support fighters, and thus my re-supply attempts there have been largely unsuccessful. My next re-supply convoy is currently loading @ Noumea and will have proper carrier escort. To halt the Japanese @ Milne Bay, the defenders need supply, as they are down to just over a weeks’ worth.

DEI/Philippines:
In the Philippines, the Allies are down to about 4 or 5 bases, and all of them are isolated. Resupply efforts would be futile.
In the DEI, Batavia falls to the Japanese, and now Soerabaja is all that’s left on Java. I still control the upper half of Sumatra, but not for long. Late in the week the Japanese land on the north coast @ Sabang.

SE Asia/China:
In central Burma, my forces are in full retreat mode, trying to reach the safety of the Indian border. Along the coast, I have a defensive line at Akyab that uses the natural defense terrain behind the river there. Japanese forces are approaching, and look to be redeploying to attempt a flanking maneuver, but I am extending my left flank to block this. Meanwhile, I have 4 squadrons of Bleinheims in Chittagong that have begun bombing the flanking IJA forces.
In China, I am focusing on conserving as much supply as possible by staying on the defensive.

KB Watch:
-4-CV sighted SW of Truk (4-13)
-1-CV & 2-CVL sighted north of Soerabaja (4-15)

Notable Base Captures:
-Batavia [Java] Taung Gui [Burma] and Komodo [DEI] captured by Japan (4/15)
-Puerto Princesca [Philippines] and Tacloban [Philippines] captured by Japan (4/16)
-Babo [New Guinea] captured by Japan (4-17)

Campaign Overview:

Aircraft Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 1,061 [+18] Biggest Losses (#): Buffalo (131), 139WH3 (82), P-40E (74)
Japanese: 1,553 [+47] Biggest Losses (#): Betty (284), Zero (155), Nate (147)

Ship Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 208 [+5] Notables: CA Portland, CA Adelaide, CL Durban, CL Sumatra, CL Java
Japanese: 187 [+12] Notables: CVL Zuiho, CVE Taiyo, CVE Hosho, CA Mogami, CA Mikuma, CA Suzya, CA Adoba.

Army Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 6,213 [+345]
Japanese: 1,478 [+50]
A/J Ratio: 4.20 to 1

VP Totals [change]:
Allies: 12,808 [-21]
Japanese: 14,097 [+554]
A/J Ratio: 0.91 to 1

Other Notes:
-No KB sightings for the second half of the week. Java and Sumatra are pretty much secured, so they could be headed anywhere. My money is on the SW Pacific or Midway, with the possibility of a KB Jr. supporting actions in the Aleutians or North Burma. Like my War Minster stated, if the KB splits up, I may have an opportunity.
-Lexington and Hornet finished minor repairs in Pearl Harbor Immediately load them to the brim with carrier capable squadrons to ferry them to the SW Pacific.

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 127

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/13/2015 1:19:23 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Week 20: April 20th – April 26th 1942

North Pacific:
An AA unit has arrived in Seattle and is on its way to Adak to beef up the garrison there. No IJN activity in the region.

Central Pacific:
Base building on Baker & Canton. No IJN activity.

Southern Pacific:
I shipped a small base force to Tahiti to build up the base and get some VP’s for the Allied cause. Pago-Pago coming along as well. Late in the week, a Japanese amphibious TF appeared west of the Ellice islands, landed on Nukufetau, and captured the base. As my luck would have it, the Lexington & Hornet are in the area transporting marine air squadrons to Noumea. I’ve altered their courses to intercept the IJN amphib ships. They should be in range next turn (April 27th).

New Guinea/Solomons:
This area saw action all week, with no clear winner. My carrier based air sunk a supply TF (along with 3 escorting DD’s) @ Milne Bay, while Japanese Bettys wiped out a small supply TF (along with CL Danae) @ Rossel Island. Later in the week an IJN TF comprised of 2 DD/2 CA approached Noumea. The port was filled with transports offloading supplies/troops and planes, but I really didn’t have any capital ships to defend them. I hastily converted a 4 DD’s from ASW Duty to a surface combat TF and positioned them between Noumea and the approaching Japanese force. That evening the two forces clashed, with lots of guns blazing, but no actual hits. The next day the two TF’s found each other again this time shells found their mark. All four of my DD’s suffered moderate/heavy damage, and in return, I only scored a few shell hits on both of their CA’s. The sacrifice was worth it however, because the IJN force immediately retreated north.
In the air, the Japanese raid Rossel, Milne Bay and Port Moresby daily. My fighter CAP at Port Moresby and Rossel Island scores some kills, but the bombers still get through and cause moderate damage.

DEI/Philippines:
In the Philippines, the Allied bases are isolated and low on supplies.
In the DEI, Soerabaja is the only well garrisoned Allied base in the region, and thus it is receiving plenty of attention from the Japanese level bombers.

SE Asia/China:
In central Burma, my forces are in full retreat mode, trying to reach the safety of the Indian border. Along the coast, my Bleinheim bombers are harassing an IJA force attempting to flank my defensive line south of Akyab. Not sure what effect they are having, but it’s nice to see the Japanese getting carpet bombed for a change.
In China, I am focusing on conserving as much supply as possible by staying on the defensive.

KB Watch:
-1-CV sighted north of Rabaul. (4/22)
-2-CV sighted near Batavia (4/22)
-2-CV sighted East of Palembang (4/23)
-2-CV sighted anchored in Palembang (4/24)
-4-CV sighted North of Rabaul heading South East. (4/26)

Notable Base Captures:
-Pamekasan [Java] captured by Japan (4/22)
-Sabang [Sumatra] captured by Japan (4/23)
-Pakanbaroe [Sumatra] captured by Japan (4/24)
-Bandoeng [Java] and Nukufeatu [Ellice Islands] captured by Japan (4/26)

Campaign Overview:
Aircraft Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 1,091 [+30] Biggest Losses (#): Buffalo (131), 139WH3 (83), P-40E (74)
Japanese: 1,664 [+111] Biggest Losses (#): Betty (427), Sally (134), Zero (134)

Ship Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 214 [+6] Notables: CA Portland, CA Adelaide, CL Durban, CL Sumatra, CL Java
Japanese: 211 [+24] Notables: CVL Zuiho, CVE Taiyo, CVE Hosho, CA Mogami, CA Mikuma, CA Suzya, CA Adoba.

Army Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 6,521 [+308]
Japanese: 1,553 [+75]
A/J Ratio: 4.20 to 1

VP Totals [change]:
Allies: 13,419 [+611]
Japanese: 14,653 [+556]
A/J Ratio: 0.92 to 1

Other Notes:
-With the appearance of the KB near Rabaul, my operations in the area will be mostly defensive, as I still want to avoid a CV-on-CV battle just yet. Maybe once Hornet and Lex arrive, that might even the playing field.
-Enterprise has switched out one of its Dauntless squadrons for a Wildcat squadron on Lunga, in anticipation for its upcoming mission to provide air cover for a supply TF heading to Milne Bay. The garrison there is down to only a few days supplies, the success of the resupply mission is critical.

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 128

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/13/2015 2:06:25 PM

BBfanboy

Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline

Until you can replace your Devastators with Avengers and get F4F-4s on all your carriers, you will not be able to take on equal numbers of Japanese CVs even if they have fewer planes. Their pilots still have the skill advantage.

AA upgrades on your carriers and escorts will help too. I think the most important ones are in October-November 42.

_____________________________

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

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 129

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/14/2015 1:52:13 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

Until you can replace your Devastators with Avengers and get F4F-4s on all your carriers, you will not be able to take on equal numbers of Japanese CVs even if they have fewer planes. Their pilots still have the skill advantage.

AA upgrades on your carriers and escorts will help too. I think the most important ones are in October-November 42.

Good points as always BBF.

What if I were able to lure the KB into range of my land based air? Are P-40's and Dauntlesses effective, or should I wait for them to upgrade as well?

< Message edited by Schlussel -- 11/14/2015 3:01:19 PM >

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to BBfanboy)

Post #: 130

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/14/2015 5:19:41 PM

BBfanboy

Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Schlussel

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

Until you can replace your Devastators with Avengers and get F4F-4s on all your carriers, you will not be able to take on equal numbers of Japanese CVs even if they have fewer planes. Their pilots still have the skill advantage.

AA upgrades on your carriers and escorts will help too. I think the most important ones are in October-November 42.

Good points as always BBF.

What if I were able to lure the KB into range of my land based air? Are P-40's and Dauntlesses effective, or should I wait for them to upgrade as well?

P-40s cannot match the Zero in altitude, climb or turn rate but it can dive at higher speed and is more rugged. The deciding factor is that the Zero pilots come with great experience from China while allied fighter pilots are mostly green, even if highly trained in air skill. The overall experience number is the one that you should look at. Use the P-40s on defensive CAP where they can land when damaged or bail out over friendly territory when shot down.

Allied LBA is not great at hitting Japanese carriers because of the lack of good escorts and lack of skills or experience in NavB (the same is NOT true for Japanese LBA). However, what DOES often work is to have KB splitting its attention between attacking a land target or invasion fleet and get surprised by arrival of allied CVs. See John B's AAR for a recent example. This kind of situation mostly happens by accident, as it is difficult to keep the presence of CVs from your opponent because of subs in the area. If a sub spots a carrier plane patrolling on search or ASW, the jig is up.

_____________________________

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

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 131

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/16/2015 4:25:38 AM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

However, what DOES often work is to have KB splitting its attention between attacking a land target or invasion fleet and get surprised by arrival of allied CVs.

Ahh yes the ol' Allied strategy @ Midway. But like you said, a lot of things have to go right for that to work (as it did in real life)

< Message edited by Schlussel -- 11/16/2015 5:54:57 AM >

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to BBfanboy)

Post #: 132

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/16/2015 4:39:42 AM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Situation Report – May 1st 1942

Central Pacific:
Surface Forces: 10-BB, 11-CA, 33-DD (@Pearl Harbor)
Fuel Reserves: 368K @ Pearl Harbor

New Guinea/Solomons:
Surface Forces: 5-CV , 1-CVL, 1-BB, 11-CA, 16-DD (@Noumea)
Fuel Reserves: 233K @ Noumea
18K @ Port Moresby
13K @ Sydney

Attachment (1)

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 133

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/16/2015 4:40:41 AM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Situation Report – May 1st 1942

SE Asia/China:
Surface Forces: 2-CV , 2-BB, 9-CA, 4-DD (@Colombo)
Fuel Reserves: 237K @ Colombo

Attachment (1)

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 134

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/16/2015 4:53:18 AM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Situation Report – May 1st 1942

Base Status:

Adak:
Port Size: 4.84 (+2.85)
Airfield Size: 4.25 (+2.93)
Supplies: 20K (27 Weeks of normal operations)

Akyab:
Port Size: 1.82 (+0.60)
Airfield Size: 4.16 (+0.69)
Supplies: 7K (3 Weeks of normal operations)

Baker Island:
Port Size: 2.31 (+0.30)
Airfield Size: 1.17 (+0.04)
Supplies: 17K (37 Weeks of normal operations)

Johnston Is.:
Port Size: 1.70 (+0.17)
Airfield Size: 2.05 (+0.02)
Supplies: 15K (26 Weeks of normal operations)

Luganville:
Port Size: 4.03 (+0.50)
Airfield Size: 4.65 (+0.99)
Supplies: 17K (16 Weeks of normal operations)

Lunga:
Port Size: 2.40 (+0.44)
Airfield Size: 4.32 (+1.25)
Supplies: 25K (14 Weeks of normal operations)

Midway:
Port Size: 2.23 (+0.15)
Airfield Size: 4.00 (+0.00)
Supplies: 16K (11 Weeks of normal operations)

Pago-Pago:
Port Size: 2.00 (+0.00)
Airfield Size: 4.30 (+0.54)
Supplies: 8K (4 Weeks of normal operations)

Port Moresby:
Port Size: 3.10 (+0.27)
Airfield Size: 5.30 (+0.52)
Supplies: 65K (27 Weeks of normal operations)

Attachment (1)

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 135

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/20/2015 5:49:51 AM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

**SPECIAL REPORT: May 3rd 1942**

Japanese carriers spotted near Green Island headed southwest toward the Solomon Sea. Reports indicate 2-CVL's and 2-CV's, but airframe counts suggest the task force has a maximum of two flat-tops. Reinforcing this is the fact I have spotted 5 CV's (1 East of Batavia, 4 near Palembang) in the DEI this turn.
I've got 4 CV's and 1-CVL with approx. 150 Fighters and 180 Bombers (+ 30 more Dauntlesses on Rossel) up against 2-CVs with approx. 35 Fighters and 45 Bombers. Even with the Japanese pilot and aircraft quality advantage, I think this may be a great opportunity. I have a large numerical advantage in aircraft and better search plane coverage.

Taking all the data before them, HQ makes their decision. The bulk of the allied carrier strength in the pacific is ordered to head to point luck (approx. 120 miles South-West of Rossel Island) and wait...

Attachment (1)

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 136

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/20/2015 6:04:25 AM

BBfanboy

Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline

Good Luck at Point Luck!

_____________________________

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

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 137

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/22/2015 5:29:25 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Week 21: April 27th – May 4th 1942

North Pacific:
An Base Force and small infantry force has arrived in Seattle, already assigned to the North Pacific. As soon as transports are available, they will head to Amchitka. No IJN activity in the region.

Central Pacific:
Base building on Baker & Canton. No IJN activity.

South Pacific:
Lexington& Hornet reached the Japanese amphib TF at Nukufeatu and wiped it out. 9 AK’s, 1-CM, and 500 casualties, not too shabby. No Japanese troops on Nukufeatu anymore, not sure if they escaped. After that stroke of luck, the Lex and Hornet continue on their journey to the Coral Sea where more action ensues.

New Guinea/Solomons:
Here comes trouble! Late in the week, 2 IJN CV’s + a strong surface component (4 BB’s/13 CA’s) enter the Solomon Sea. 2-BB’s + escorts break off from the main force and bombard Port Moresby (Damage: 13 Port/29 Service/33 Runway) and damage over 15 of my Kittyhawk fighters based there. In addition, a small IJN amphibious force performs a daring “channel dash”-like maneuver…speeding from the DEI through the Torres Strait and landing on Terapo on the SW coast of New Guinea. My PBY’s on Horn Island spotted them, but I didn’t have any strike aircraft nearby to respond. I plan to rectify this, as a squadron of old Vindicators are on their way to Horn...they’ll do for now. Terapo is taken quickly, as my only garrison there was a hodge-podge of NG rifle troops that were evicted from Lae and Wau last month.
Back in the Solomon Sea, the main IJN force approaches Milne Bay and lets loose a few airstirkes that damage or destroy all remaining Allied fighters at the base. I have a CV Force (Lex, Enterprise, Hornet, Yorktown, & Hermes) lying in wait SW of Rossel Island. The next morning, both forces locate one another and immediately launch airstrikes. The intense battle that followed see-sawed back and forth. The Japanese struck first with 10 Zeroes/18 Kates/18 Vals. About half of the bombers make it through the Allied CAP, consisting of a mixed bag of 50 Wildcats. The battle hardened IJN attackers focused on the carriers and put two torps into Lexington (34 SYS/30 FLT) and dropped 2 bombs on Enterprise (20 SYS). Then it was the Allies’ turn….Dauntless’, Devastators, and Wildcats press home their attack with 1000k bombs (torps are too unreliable). CVL Shoho takes 8 bomb hits, CL Soryu takes 3, and an escorting cruiser, Oi, takes 8. In the afternoon, another Allied strikes puts 8 more bombs into Soryu + a few onto 4 escorting destroyers. Japanese CAP was MIA during the afternoon strike on the carriers, so all the Allied bombers got through. A separate PM strike from DB’s based on Rossel Island targeted an IJN surface force, and hit BB Ise 7 times with bombs. Unfortunately all were armor belt hits, so I’m assuming they caused limited damage.

Battle report:
Allies: 2 CV’s with moderate/heavy damage. 48 aircraft lost (30 of them Dauntlesses)
Japanese: 1-CV & 1 CVL & 1-CA heavily damaged. 54 aircraft lost (36 of them were Vals & Kates)

The Battle of the Solomon Sea was a tactical draw, but since the Japanese were forced to retire…I’ll claim a strategic victory for the Allies on this one. Both of my damaged carriers are headed to Sydney for immediate repairs, with multiple ASW TF’s patrolling the route to scare off any lurking IJN subs. As long as there are no other IJN CV’s are sighted, my remaining 3 CV’s in the area will stay to protect the Milne Bay re-supply convoy. In addition to supply, the convoy also carries a base force that will allow Milne Bay to support a few more fighter squadrons, essential for survival now that the Japanese focus is shifting to the immediate area.

DEI/Philippines:
In the Philippines, the Allied bases are isolated and low on supplies.
In the DEI, IJA land forces have reached Soerabaja and are preparing for an assault. Allied forces on Sumatra are being methodically overrun.

SE Asia/China:
In central Burma, my forces are in full retreat mode, trying to reach the safety of the Indian border. Along the coast, my Bleinheim bombers are harassing an IJA force attempting to flank my defensive line south of Akyab. Not sure what effect they are having, but it’s nice to see the Japanese getting carpet bombed for a change.
In China, I am focusing on conserving as much supply as possible by staying on the defensive.

KB Watch:
-3-CV sighted north of Kavieng headed NE. (4/28)
-1-CV anchored in Palembang (4/28)
-1-CV sighted South of Java (4/29)
-2-CV sighted north of Batavia (4/30)
-2-CV sighted north of Batavia (5/1)
-2-CV & 2-CVL sighted near Buka heading South West. (5/3)
-1-CV North of Batavia (5/3)
-4-CV anchored in Palembang (5/3)
-1CV & 1-CVL in Solomon Sea (5/4)

Notable Base Captures:
-Langsa [Sumatra] and Alor [DEI] captured by Japan (4/29)
-Tjiltajap [Java] and Bassein [Burma] captured by Japan (4/30)
-Medan [Sumatra] captured by Japan (5/1)
-Terapo [New Guineaa] captured by Japan (5/4)

Campaign Overview:
Aircraft Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 1,174 [+83] Biggest Losses (#): Buffalo (131), Dauntless (85), 139WH3 (83)
Japanese: 1,796 [+132] Biggest Losses (#): Betty (416), Nate (161), Sally (159)

Ship Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 219 [+5] Notables: CA Portland, CA Adelaide, CL Durban, CL Sumatra, CL Java
Japanese: 222 [+11] Notables: CVL Zuiho, CVE Taiyo, CVE Hosho, CA Mogami, CA Mikuma, CA Suzya, CA Adoba.

Army Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 6,820 [+299]
Japanese: 1,607 [+54]
A/J Ratio: 4.24 to 1

VP Totals [change]:
Allies: 14,165 [+746]
Japanese: 15,198 [+545]
A/J Ratio: 0.93 to 1

Other Notes:
-P-40's and Airacobras from the US West Coast are finally arriving in the New Guinea/ Solomon Island area. Priority is being given to the effort to distribute these new squadrons to the front line bases in the region. Hopefully creating these island CV’s will be an acceptable stopgap until my actual CV’s get repaired.

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 138

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/22/2015 9:31:39 PM

BBfanboy

Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline

Note that Lexington is too big to fit in Sydney's drydock. It is a good idea to get her to a port to pump out the minor floatation damage and repair the system damage down to 20 or less before moving her to PH for repairs.

A human opponent would deduce that you sent your damaged CVs to Brisbane or Sydney, and would bring the full remaining KB to get them in port, but since you are playing the AI, I doubt it has logic built in to make a decision that is not tied to invasion strategies.

_____________________________

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

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 139

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/24/2015 1:11:35 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

Note that Lexington is too big to fit in Sydney's drydock. It is a good idea to get her to a port to pump out the minor floatation damage and repair the system damage down to 20 or less before moving her to PH for repairs.

A human opponent would deduce that you sent your damaged CVs to Brisbane or Sydney, and would bring the full remaining KB to get them in port, but since you are playing the AI, I doubt it has logic built in to make a decision that is not tied to invasion strategies.

Me thinks the AI was channeling it's inner-BBFanboy. The night following my glorious draw in the Solomon Sea, an IJN CA/DD surface force closed in on my Carriers before they could retreat and scored some shell hits. While each of my carriers (except Hermes) were hit, Enterprise took the brunt of it, she still only has 30 FLT damage, but now has 66 SYS and 79 FIRE. Ermagherd!

The next morning, my aircraft was able to seriously damage the aggressors, but the damage was done.
On a good note, I deployed a group of PT boats @ Lunga and they were able to return the favor, putting two torpedoes into CVL Junyo in a night engagement. I'll provide more details in my next update.

EDIT: I mis-typed. Enterprise (not Lexington) was the carrier that took all the damage during the night engagement.

< Message edited by Schlussel -- 11/26/2015 5:14:32 AM >

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to BBfanboy)

Post #: 140

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/24/2015 2:18:06 PM

BBfanboy

Posts: 18046
Joined: 8/4/2010
From: Winnipeg, MB
Status: offline

Doesn't look good for Lexington, but you should give her a couple of cruisers plus DDs in her escort TF to help fight the fires and keep the sharks at bay.

_____________________________

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

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 141

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/24/2015 5:13:53 PM

HansBolter

Posts: 7704
Joined: 7/6/2006
From: United States
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

Interesting that the AI has split the KB into several groups. They are in the same area at the moment but eventually they may split up and that will give an opportunity for you to pit two or more of your carriers against a CV/CVL TF. Once Japan loses two or three of its CVs, the game gets much less dangerous for the Allies.

quote:

Schlussel: it allows the rest of my forces time to strategic move to Myitkyina in preparation for their run through the jungle.

They are going to need some music for that trek....

CCR- Run Through The Jungle

Actually its pretty standard for the AI to split the KB and use it in penny packets that the Allies can easily defeat.

In literally dozens upon dozens of games against the AI I have NEVER seen it keep its carriers concentrated.

After the novelty and glee of the first few victories wears off you will begin to dread the approach of yet another single CV with a CVL to your LBA bastions.

I have been known to stand down my LBA and move my carriers away to avoid sinking yet more enemy carriers.

You really have to coddle the AI.

_____________________________

Hans

(in reply to BBfanboy)

Post #: 142

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/26/2015 4:15:57 AM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

Doesn't look good for Lexington, but you should give her a couple of cruisers plus DDs in her escort TF to help fight the fires and keep the sharks at bay.

Done, let's hope for the best.

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to BBfanboy)

Post #: 143

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/26/2015 5:04:02 AM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: HansBolter

quote:

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

Interesting that the AI has split the KB into several groups. They are in the same area at the moment but eventually they may split up and that will give an opportunity for you to pit two or more of your carriers against a CV/CVL TF. Once Japan loses two or three of its CVs, the game gets much less dangerous for the Allies.

quote:

Schlussel: it allows the rest of my forces time to strategic move to Myitkyina in preparation for their run through the jungle.

They are going to need some music for that trek....

CCR- Run Through The Jungle

Actually its pretty standard for the AI to split the KB and use it in penny packets that the Allies can easily defeat.

In literally dozens upon dozens of games against the AI I have NEVER seen it keep its carriers concentrated.

After the novelty and glee of the first few victories wears off you will begin to dread the approach of yet another single CV with a CVL to your LBA bastions.

I have been known to stand down my LBA and move my carriers away to avoid sinking yet more enemy carriers.

You really have to coddle the AI.

Hmmm, yeah so far the AI has kept most of the KB in the DEI, but they are always in small groups operating in the same general area.
The first Japanese CV group to attack in the Solomons was a CV and CVL, but the second group that attacked a few days later near Lunga looks to be 2 CV's & a CVL(Zuikaku, Hiryu, & Junyo). I guess that's a good sign.
If the AI does start doing what you mentioned, I'll definitely take the same approach as you. A little coddling isn't so bad if it means it results in a good challenge.

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to HansBolter)

Post #: 144

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 11/29/2015 3:11:02 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Week 22: May 5th – May 11th 1942

North Pacific:
Base building continues at Adak. No IJN activity in the region.

Central Pacific:
Sector is quiet.

Southern Pacific:
IJN looks to have abandoned Nukufeatu in the Ellice Island chain. I am continuing to build up neighboring Viatupu, slowly but surely.

New Guinea/Solomons:
I obviously got ahead of myself here. Last week I assumed I had forced the Japanese to retire, but I turns out it was just part of the Carrier force the Japanese committed to the area. The night after my glorious tactical draw in the Solomon Sea, an IJN surface force (2-CA/2-DD) attacked my carrier TF west of Rossel Island. My CA’s and DD’s weren’t able to effectively screen my carriers, and the Japanese force was able to close into gun range and hit 3 of my carriers.
Hornet took 3 shell hits and suffered 7-ENG/11-SYS/8-FLT
Yorktown took 2 shell hits and suffered 5-ENG/12-SYS/6-FLT
Enterprise took only 2 shell hits, but one caused an ammo explosion and resulted in 66-SYS/26-FLT/79-FIRE. I attempted to limp the Enterprise to port, but she sank two days later. Adding a little more salt (water) in the wound, the fire prevented the air groups from transferring off the Enterprise, so they went down with the ship.

I did get a little bit of revenge mid-week, when a reported 3 Japanese CV’s (in multiple TF’s) appeared east of Lunga. One TF got within reaction range of my PT boats @ Lunga. In the night battle that followed, it was my PT boats that slipped by the Japanese escorts and put two torps into the Junyo and sank her. One PT boat sank during the attack, but I’d say that was a good trade. One interesting note: the combat report & replay said the Junyo was sunk, but then the Kaga was listed on the sunk ship report the next day, hmmmm…FoW strikes again.
Unfazed by my PT boat attack, the IJN carrier force (now estimated @ 4-CV’s) re-appeared and launched a large raid on Lunga (15 fighters/60 bombers). I had 40 planes on CAP (an equal amount of Wildcats, Warhawks, and Airacobras) and the air battle that followed was encouraging, while I lost more fighters (9 vs. 2), I was able to take out 24 Vals/Kates. The remaining bombers hit Lunga pretty good (4 Supply/12 Port/3 Port Supply) and also destroyed 7 fighters on the ground.
Elsewhere in the region, the ground battle @ Milne Bay continues. AV is 85/60 in favor of the Allies, but they are low on supply. Noumea is building up nicely, and a large amount of troops are now stationed there. In anticipation of my plan to advance up the Solomon Island chain, I have begun prepping a few infantry and support units for Munda, my first target. Recon doesn’t show a garrison there, but I’m sure that will change once I am able to launch my assault.
My CV’s damaged in the Solomon Sea battle are headed to Brisbane & Sydney for minor repairs. Following that they will head to Pearl Harbor for some well-deserved dry-dock time.

DEI/Philippines:
In the Philippines, the Allied bases are isolated and low on supplies. The Cebu/Iioilo area is all that remains in Allied hands.
In the DEI, IJA land forces capture Soerabaja, effectively ending Allied resistance on Java. There are a few rogue Allied forces in the countryside, but they are out of supply and being bombed into oblivion.

SE Asia/China:
In central Burma, my forces are in full retreat mode, trying to reach the safety of the Indian border. Along the coast, my defensive line follows the river south of Akyab. Bombers from Calcutta target the IJN troops that approach.
In China, I took the opportunity to recapture Wuchow. My force outside the city outnumbered the Japanese AV 10:1. The city also has some supply generation…every little bit counts. The rest of China is still in defensive/supply conservation mode

KB Watch:
-2-CV sighted north east of Shortlands. (5/5)
-3-CV sighted east of Lunga (5/6)
-4-CV sighted east of Lunga (5/7)
-4-CV sighted east of Lunga (5/8)
-1-CV sighted north of Batavia (5/8)

Notable Base Captures:
-Wuchow [China] captured by the Allies (5/5)
-Soerabaja [Java] captured by Japan (5/8)
-San Jose [Philippines] captured by Japan (5/10)

Campaign Overview:
Aircraft Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 1,363 [+189] Biggest Losses (#): Dauntless (128), Buffalo (124), 139WH3 (83)
Japanese: 2,006 [+210] Biggest Losses (#): Betty (419), Zero (300), Val (184)

Ship Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 232 [+13] Notables: CV Enterprise, CA Portland, CA Adelaide, CL Durban, CL Sumatra, CL Java
Japanese: 230 [+8] Notables: CV Kaga (or Junyo?), CVL Zuiho, CVE Taiyo, CVE Hosho, CA Mogami, CA Mikuma, CA Suzya, CA Adoba.

Army Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 7,288 [+460]
Japanese: 1,647 [+40]
A/J Ratio: 4.43 to 1

VP Totals [change]:
Allies: 14,892 [+727]
Japanese: 16,468 [+1,270]
A/J Ratio: 0.90 to 1

Other Notes:
-I am setting a little trap for the IJN @ Cox’s Bazaar. It seems every time I send a supply convoy there, the IJN sorties a small CC/DD force that attacks/sinks it while it is unloading. This time, I am sending a small convoy to Cox’s Bazaar, but I will also sortie my 2 British CVs, and lurk a few hexes to the north-west. A hunting we will go, a hunting we will go…

< Message edited by Schlussel -- 12/5/2015 11:24:22 PM >

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 145

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 12/5/2015 10:22:40 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Week 23: May 12th – May 18th 1942

North Pacific:
Base building continues at Adak. No IJN activity in the region.

Central Pacific:
Region is quiet.

Southern Pacific:
Region is quiet.

New Guinea/Solomons:
The battle for Milne Bay continues, with each side content to lob artillery shells at one another. Neither side is in a position to assault the opposing positions. The Allies outnumber the Japanese AV 85 to 60, but with the KB in the area, and daily air raids from Rabaul, the Allies cannot sneak a supply convoy through. Allied supplies have stabilized due to Operation Sustainment (sounds menacing doesn’t it?), in which all available transport and bomber airframes (37) in Australia have been conscripted to fly transport missions from the mainland to Milne Bay.
Speaking of the KB, it returns to the area this week near Lunga, and launches two large (80 bombers each) air raids that damage the airfield, damage 10 fighters on the ground, and sink a lone xAK unloading supplies. However the allies CAP and AA guns make them pay, as a total of 40 carrier bombers (along with their irreplaceable pilots) are lost during the two raids. At the end of the week, the KB is seen heading back towards Truk, and I take this opportunity to send a re-supply convoy (that was pacing back and forth in the Coral Sea) to Milne Bay.
Elsewhere, Koumac (on the north end of New Caledonia) is occupied and is turned into a PBY base, extending patrol coverage further into the Coral Sea.

DEI/Philippines:
In the Philippines, the Allied bases are isolated and low on supplies. The Cebu/Iioilo area is all that remains in Allied hands.
In the DEI, Java is firmly in Japanese hands and Sumatra will be very soon.

SE Asia/China:
My forces in Central Burma are still “advancing” back towards the safety of India, while the coastal city of Akyab readies for the approach of the Japanese.
At Cox’s Bazaar, my well-laid plan is foiled by weather. The IJN surface fleet was spotted by my carrier aircraft, but the hex had thunderstorms, and only one IJN ship (CS Chitose) was hit by a torpedo. On the bright side, the IJN force turned back before hitting my supply ship unloading @ Cox’a Bazaar. I’ll try to spring this trap again in the near future.
In China, I am still in defensive/supply conservation mode.

KB Watch:
-6-CV sighted north east of Lunga. (5/15)
-6-CV sighted South of Lunga (5/16)
-6-CV sighted east of Solomons near Otong Java (5/17)
-5-CV sighted North East of Shortlands heading towards Truk. (5/18)

Notable Base Captures:
-Loemadjamg [Java] captured by Japan (5/12)
-Myitkynia [Burma] captured by Japan (5/16)

Campaign Overview:
Aircraft Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 1,437 [+74] Biggest Losses (#): Dauntless (146), Buffalo (129), 139WH3 (83)
Japanese: 2,190 [+184] Biggest Losses (#): Betty (480), Zero (291), Kate (195)

Ship Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 247 [+15] Notables: CV Enterprise, CA Portland, CA Adelaide, CL Durban, CL Sumatra, CL Java
Japanese: 237 [+7] Notables: CV Kaga (or Junyo?), CVL Zuiho, CVE Taiyo, CVE Hosho, CA Mogami, CA Mikuma, CA Suzya, CA Adoba.

Army Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 7,457 [+169]
Japanese: 1,657 [+10]
A/J Ratio: 4.5 to 1

VP Totals [change]:
Allies: 15,164 [+272]
Japanese: 16,891 [+423]
A/J Ratio: 0.90 to 1

Other Notes:
-The Prince of Wales becomes the latest victim of the IJN submarine fleet, as she is hit by two torpedoes while returning to Noumea. Damage crews saved her, but some extended shipyard time will be needed.

< Message edited by Schlussel -- 12/5/2015 11:25:49 PM >

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 146

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 12/13/2015 6:28:41 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Week 24: May 19th – May 25th 1942

North Pacific:
A base force, a small garrison (58th Sep), and an AA unit are finally loaded and on their way to Amchitka. No IJN activity in the region.

Central Pacific:
Region is quiet.

Southern Pacific:
Region is quiet.

New Guinea/Solomons:
The Japanese look like they are going all in here in the SW Pacific. The entire KB plus other surface TF’s (that includes approx. 4 BB’s) patrolled the area and sank a few unlucky transports hauling supplies. The KB mostly stayed in the east, launching a few strikes on Lunga and supporting the amphibious invasions of Tulagi and Tassafronga. The other surface combatants focused on the Milne Bay and Rossel Island, foiling my attempts to resupply both islands by sea. In addition, they brought in land forces to Milne Bay and now there is AV parity there.
The air war is fierce, with Japan bombing Milne Bay, Rossel Island, and Port Moresby daily. My fighter CAP has done some damage, but escorting Zeroes have made an impact. I’ve already had to start cycling fighter squadrons off the front lines to refill their ranks. This is especially true for the Airacobra squadrons, who always get torn to pieces when confronting enemy fighter escorts. Their disappointing maneuverability ratings seem to be the culprit, but the good news is they only fly CAP, so I recover a large amount of the downed pilots.
My CV’s are huddled in Sydney trying to repair and re-arm. I have a modest surface presence (4 CA’s/12 DD’s) in the area, and they have been forced to move south due to lack of air cover. Milne Bay and Rossel Island are on their own for now.
Late in the week, BB’s escorting two large (12 ships each) surface TF’s are spotted west of Luganville headed SE towards New Caledonia. I recall a few half-strength Dauntless squadrons from Lunga and reposition my surface forces in preparation to defend Noumea. I have over 400 AV and about 100 fighters @ the base, so Noumea is relatively safe. However, I can’t say the same for Koumac or the numerous dot bases in the area. This could be a feint, but I must be ready nonetheless.

DEI/Philippines:
In the Philippines, the Allied bases are isolated and low on supplies. The Cebu/Iioilo area is all that remains in Allied hands, and each base in the area is on the receiving end of daily air raids.
In the DEI, Allied control in Sumatra is limited to the West coast. All remaining forces are withdrawing to Benkoelen to make one final stand.

SE Asia/China:
The withdrawal from central Burma continues. The immediate danger has passed, but units have not quite reached the bases in India yet.
Early in the week, Japan invades Port Blair and quickly captures the base. My british carrier forces near Cox’s Bazaar make a quick run to intervene. They don’t prevent the Japanese ground forces from unloading, but they do manage to sink 3 AK’s, damage 4 AK’s, and put a torpedo into BB Hyuga. The British carriers might have a small amount of aircraft, but they have teeth. Those Brit. torpedoes don’t have the high dud rate and they pack a punch. A single torp hit can cripple an AK, even if it doesn’t sink it outright.
On the other side of the Indian Ocean, the Japanese assault Diego Garcia. Luckily the base force there has a small combat element and has been able to hold off the invaders. I have an Indian regiment on its way to bolster my defenses. I can’t lose DG, as it guards my supply line from Cape Town, and the patrol aircraft stationed there have allowed my convoys to detour around IJN subs in the area.

In China, I am still in defensive/supply conservation mode.

KB Watch:
-2-CV sighted Near Tulagi. (5/20)
-2-CV sighted Near Tulagi. (5/21)
-1-CVL sighted near Milne Bay (5/21)
-3-CV sighted near Lunga (5/22)
-2-CV sighted south of New Britain. (5/22)
-6-CV sighted Near Lunga. (5/23)
-10-CV sighted Near Lunga. (5/24)
-8-CV sighted Near Lunga. (5/25)

Notable Base Captures:
-Sibloga [Sumatra] captured by Japan (5/19)
-Port Blair [SE Asia] captured by Japan (5/20)
-Tassafronga [Solomon Islands] captured by Japan (5/22)
-Tulagi [Solomon Islands] and Endeh [DEI] captured by Japan (5/25)

Campaign Overview:
Aircraft Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 1,518 [+81] Biggest Losses (#): Dauntless (158), Buffalo (129), Wildcat (87)
Japanese: 2,388 [+198] Biggest Losses (#): Betty (532), Zero (363), Val (317)

Ship Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 260 [+13] Notables: CV Enterprise, CA Astoria, CA Portland, CA Adelaide, CL Durban, CL Sumatra, CL Java
Japanese: 250 [+13] Notables: CV Kaga (or Junyo?), CVL Zuiho, CVE Taiyo, CVE Hosho, CA Mogami, CA Mikuma, CA Suzya, CA Adoba.

Army Losses to date [change]:
Allies: 7,548 [+91]
Japanese: 1,680 [+23]
A/J Ratio: 4.5 to 1

VP Totals [change]:
Allies: 15,525 [+361]
Japanese: 17,174 [+283]
A/J Ratio: 0.90 to 1

Other Notes:
-IJN subs are still a thorn in my side in the South Pacific. This week CA Astoria was hit halfway between Noumea and Milne Bay. The first hit only damaged the Astoria, but her engines were slowed enough to allow the IJN sub to continue to stalk its prey, and the following day it put two more torps into Astoria. Amazingly, the cruiser stayed afloat, but the valiant effort was all for naught, as another attack by the same sub the following day finished her.

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 147

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 12/17/2015 9:24:59 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Situation Report - June 1st, 1942

Base Status:

Adak:
Port Size: 5.97 (+1.13)
Airfield Size: 5.20 (+0.95)
Supplies: 35K (37 Weeks of normal operations)

Akyab:
Port Size: 2.27 (+0.45)
Airfield Size: 5.06 (+0.90)
Supplies: 7K (2 Weeks of normal operations)

Baker Island: Port Size: 2.62 (+0.31)
Airfield Size: 1.21 (+0.04)
Supplies: 21K (47 Weeks of normal operations)

Johnston Is.:
Port Size: 1.88 (+0.18)
Airfield Size: 2.06 (+0.01)
Supplies: 14K (25 Weeks of normal operations)

Luganville:
Port Size: 4.29 (+0.26)
Airfield Size: 5.29 (+0.64)
Supplies: 23K (45 Weeks of normal operations)

Lunga:
Port Size: 2.91 (+0.51)
Airfield Size: 5.30 (+0.98)
Supplies: 25K (11 Weeks of normal operations)

Midway:
Port Size: 2.38 (+0.15)
Airfield Size: 4.00 (+0.00)
Supplies: 16K (10 Weeks of normal operations)

Pago-Pago:
Port Size: 2.00 (+0.00)
Airfield Size: 4.71 (+0.41)
Supplies: 6K (11 Weeks of normal operations)

Port Moresby:
Port Size: 3.29 (+0.19)
Airfield Size: 5.82 (+0.52)
Supplies: 58K (20 Weeks of normal operations)

Attachment (1)

_____________________________

You say we're surrounded?
Excellent!
That means we can attack in any direction.

(in reply to Schlussel)

Post #: 148

RE: Back for the First Time – Allied AAR vs. AI - War i... - 12/17/2015 9:38:26 PM

Schlussel

Posts: 384
Joined: 5/21/2007
From: Sacramento, California
Status: offline

Situation Report [Continued] - June 1st, 1942

Central Pacific:
Surface Forces: 10-BB, 11-CA, 30+-DD (@Pearl Harbor)
Fuel Reserves: 216K @ Pearl Harbor

New Guinea/Solomons:
Surface Forces: 5-CV , 1-CVL, 1-BB, 11-CA, 16-DD (@Noumea)
Fuel Reserves: 209K @ Noumea
15K @ Port Moresby
14K @ Sydney