RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obvert (J)

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RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 3:30:41 AM

PaxMondo

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quote:

ORIGINAL: mind_messing

I think there's special code around the VR squadrons.

Yes.

I'm not expert on their use, so I'll defer to you.

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Pax

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Post #: 121

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 2:45:10 PM

Macclan5

Posts: 1065
Joined: 3/24/2016
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quote:

ORIGINAL: mind_messing

quote:

I need to understand replenishment groups on CVE's. I really don't know how they work. Looking over a number of them I was confused as to how they had been set up. For example, most of the CVE's have a capacity for 28 aircraft, but I'm finding a large number that have 56 aircraft aboard. The composition is usually 28 fighters and 28 dive or torpedo bombers, with the fighters set to CAP. Wouldn't the 56 aircraft, double the capacity, prevent or severely penalize the fighter CAP?

IIRC, for CVE's to act as normal carriers you need to pull those extra planes off.

If you want them to act as replenishment platforms for your CV's you can keep the extra planes on. If your CV/CVLs are in range they will automatically fly aircraft off to replace losses (provided they're the same airframe of course).

I'll see if I can dig up the thread on how to use them. I think there's special code around the VR squadrons.

Doesn't this depend on CVE class type ?

At least in my limited experience it does.

There are 4 (?) Sangamon Class CVE that come loaded with 28 / 28 IIRC about this date. They ARE capable of launching 56 (??or less ?? is it 24/12?) plane sortie's i.e. Dive Bomb and CAP. They show up in late 42 as I recall from Panama Canal. In my opinion these baby's are very capable fleet carrier supplements while you upgrade Lex / Enterprise / Sara / Hornet / Wasp / York. That relieves any need to bring the British Carrier(s) into the Pacific in early 43.

The other 4 (?) CVEs early in the game are the Long Island Class IIRC. They also show up with as you mention 28/28 over capacity out of Portland IIRC. I ferry'ed their dive bombers to Guadalcanal, Port Moesby, and Tarawa. I use them strictly as Landing CAP support. Their Marine corps fighters were a significant boon for operations in the Gilberts and Solomans ; they almost acted like a CAP trap with the fleet carriers behind them and their success ratio was incredibly strong.

So sort them as you should have 6 - 8 or thereabouts at this date.

Anyway my 2 cents from a relative rookies.

Edit : Not Long Island class.. Bogue Class i.e. Copahee

< Message edited by Macclan5 -- 5/6/2016 2:55:38 PM >

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Post #: 122

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 5:03:30 PM

HansBolter

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It isn't the CVE class that determines if it can operate as a replenishment CVE, it's the air groups aboard that determine it.

In fact, those air groups can perform the carrier replenishment function from land bases.

I don't believe the Sangammomn class can launch a 56 plane strike. They have a capacity somewhere in the 30s IIRC, which means that anything more than a 15% overage will prevent offensive flight ops.

The CVEs that enter with replenishment air groups are carrying double their maximum load once the squadrons are completely filled, which means no offensive ops unless you remove one of the squads.

< Message edited by HansBolter -- 5/6/2016 5:05:11 PM >

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Post #: 123

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 5:37:59 PM

Macclan5

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I think Hans has it correctly. More specifically correct

Sorry I was not commenting on the replenishment capability. Agreed.

Not sure I will ever use them in that capacity though. There are enough aircraft tender ships that work the same way if I am not mistaken.

--

The Sangammonmn class has capacity in or at 30 (low 30's) which is currently constituted as something like 20 and 12 (F4Fs and Douglas's) based on squadrons embedded onto ship at arrival.

This compared to the Bogues which have a much lower capability at only 27 (28 F4Fs being the squadron).

Hence I stand by my rookie opinion (and usage) that the Sangs are perfect "stand in carriers" for a task force. Yes they are slower and more fragile but I appreciate the defense and offense capability as I rotate (rotated) my main carriers through upgrades.

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A People that values its privileges above it's principles will soon loose both. Dwight D Eisenhower.

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Post #: 124

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 7:29:26 PM

Bullwinkle58

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Macclan5

I think Hans has it correctly. More specifically correct

Sorry I was not commenting on the replenishment capability. Agreed.

Not sure I will ever use them in that capacity though. There are enough aircraft tender ships that work the same way if I am not mistaken.

Not sure what you mean by tender class? AKVs?

The CVEs with replenishment-coded replacement groups can fly replacements off and onto CVs and CVLs at sea. No other platform, except a CV or CVL, can do that so far as I'm aware. As Hans says, the replenishment groups can also operate from land onto CV/CVL. I use them that way most often. They can also act as regular squadrons, although their pilots often are terrible unless you swap.

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The Moose

(in reply to Macclan5)

Post #: 125

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 8:02:02 PM

Macclan5

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Thanks Mr Moose.

Yes I suspected that the CVE class is the only capable fly on fly off.

Again from my rookie perspective:

AKVs (i.e.say within a task force of Oilers, AE ammunition ships) should be capable of replenishment as well if loaded with the correct squadron - are they not ? The planes may not be operational instantly - that is understood.

(I was recently able to convert a couple of ships as I recall in Frisco into AKVs in Jan 43 - moving them too theater now)

Therefore the use of CVE vs AKV is measured in Opportunity cost.

I would rather those squadrons on CVE flying Cap supporting a mission, or even LBA flying missions and earning experience than merely transporting planes.

Albeit this is dictated by need - but SQZ has all ships withdrawn to Pearl Harbor for refit and fuel.

It is my contention (or question) that the CVEs - especially the Sangamon Class - are especially valuable as a bridge for the high fleet carriers (again dictated by need). Their CAP and offensive capability gives you something to counter punch with.... even if just dealing with a commerce raiding sortee...

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A People that values its privileges above it's principles will soon loose both. Dwight D Eisenhower.

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Post #: 126

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 8:32:45 PM

SqzMyLemon

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Bullwinkle58

The CVEs with replenishment-coded replacement groups can fly replacements off and onto CVs and CVLs at sea. No other platform, except a CV or CVL, can do that so far as I'm aware.

Can these replenishment CVE's still fly off replacements to CV's and CVL's if over capacity? I picture the CVE's I currently have with 56 aircraft unable to fly anything off (in a purely replenishment role, understanding they can't conduct offensive missions if 15% over capacity) if their normal capacity is 28. Would I be wrong in that thinking? I'm trying to figure out whether it is counterproductive to have these CVE's committed in support of CV operations if they are overstacked? I understand the practice of basing them out of airbases for replenishment purposes, but want to make sure I'm not committing them improperly at sea to perform the same function.

Thanks for the discussion regarding the CVE's. With the fleet currently recuperating at Pearl Harbor, I have the time to figure this out before I commit the CVE's again.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/6/2016 8:38:17 PM >

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Post #: 127

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 8:41:58 PM

IdahoNYer

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quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bullwinkle58

The CVEs with replenishment-coded replacement groups can fly replacements off and onto CVs and CVLs at sea. No other platform, except a CV or CVL, can do that so far as I'm aware.

Can these replenishment CVE's still fly off replacements to CV's and CVL's if over capacity? I picture the CVE's I currently have with 56 aircraft unable to fly anything off (in a purely replenishment role, understanding they can't conduct offensive missions if 15% over capacity) if their normal capacity is 28. Would I be wrong in that thinking? I'm trying to figure out whether it is counterproductive to have these CVE's committed in support of CV operations if they are overstacked? I understand the practice of basing them out of airbases for replenishment purposes, but want to make sure I'm not committing them improperly at sea to perform the same function.

Thanks for the discussion regarding the CVE's. With the fleet currently recuperating at Pearl Harbor, I have the time to figure this out before I commit the CVE's again.

If you have replacement squadrons, no problem in exceeding the capacity of the CVEs. If in a replenishment TF, within air range of CVs needing replacement a/c of the right type avail on the CVEs, they will provide those planes. They WILL NOT provide any flight operations such as CAP or ASW patrol however.

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 128

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 8:48:29 PM

SqzMyLemon

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quote:

ORIGINAL: IdahoNYer

If you have replacement squadrons, no problem in exceeding the capacity of the CVEs. If in a replenishment TF, within air range of CVs needing replacement a/c of the right type avail on the CVEs, they will provide those planes. They WILL NOT provide any flight operations such as CAP or ASW patrol however.

Perfect! Thanks for the clarification. I understand now and can see how my predecessor's setup had me confused. I couldn't understand why a 28 capacity CVE was over-stacked with 56 aircraft, yet all the fighters were set to provide CAP which wouldn't have flown.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/6/2016 8:50:06 PM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to IdahoNYer)

Post #: 129

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 8:50:13 PM

Bullwinkle58

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Macclan5

Thanks Mr Moose.

Yes I suspected that the CVE class is the only capable fly on fly off.

Again from my rookie perspective:

AKVs (i.e.say within a task force of Oilers, AE ammunition ships) should be capable of replenishment as well if loaded with the correct squadron - are they not ? The planes may not be operational instantly - that is understood.

(I was recently able to convert a couple of ships as I recall in Frisco into AKVs in Jan 43 - moving them too theater now)

Therefore the use of CVE vs AKV is measured in Opportunity cost.

I would rather those squadrons on CVE flying Cap supporting a mission, or even LBA flying missions and earning experience than merely transporting planes.

Albeit this is dictated by need - but SQZ has all ships withdrawn to Pearl Harbor for refit and fuel.

It is my contention (or question) that the CVEs - especially the Sangamon Class - are especially valuable as a bridge for the high fleet carriers (again dictated by need). Their CAP and offensive capability gives you something to counter punch with.... even if just dealing with a commerce raiding sortee...

AKVs are haulers, not carriers. They transport assembled aircraft from base to base. They can't fly off planes to carriers. The advantage of an AKV (I hope I have my designation correct) is the planes unload assembled and ready to fly. An Air Transport TF with xAKs, for example, moves them crated and they must be re-assembled at destination.

A CVE CAN act as a fly off air transporter. One-way. So you can fly US Army fighters, for example, off a CVE to a land AF. They can't come back. This can be useful.

But what we're talking about are the special replenishment air units with an 'R' in their name. VRF-123. They replenish CVs and CVLs one plane at a time, as demanded, to replace combat losses. If the CVE has one of those loaded, is in a Replenishment TF type, and is in range, they will replenish combat losses in the CV/CVL air wings one, two, three planes at a time. So far as I know Japan does not have this capability.

And to your point, CVEs can ALSO be used as mini-combat-carriers. I use them that way too. You get circa 100 of them over the course of the war. They don't have much punch alone, but ten of them do. They are extremely fragile, however. One torpedo will sometimes sink them. And the VP loss is pretty stiff.

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The Moose

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Post #: 130

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 8:52:00 PM

Bullwinkle58

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quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

quote:

ORIGINAL: IdahoNYer

If you have replacement squadrons, no problem in exceeding the capacity of the CVEs. If in a replenishment TF, within air range of CVs needing replacement a/c of the right type avail on the CVEs, they will provide those planes. They WILL NOT provide any flight operations such as CAP or ASW patrol however.

Perfect! Thanks for the clarification. I understand now and can see how my predecessor's setup had me confused. I couldn't understand why a 28 capacity CVE was over-stacked with 56 aircraft, yet all the fighters were set to provide CAP which wouldn't have flown.

Often a fatal assumption. When I'm going to use a CVE as a Replenishment asset I just leave the air wing it comes with as is. Don't mess with it. Has always worked as advertised.

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The Moose

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 131

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 8:59:46 PM

SqzMyLemon

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Bullwinkle58

But what we're talking about are the special replenishment air units with an 'R' in their name. VRF-123. They replenish CVs and CVLs one plane at a time, as demanded, to replace combat losses. If the CVE has one of those loaded, is in a Replenishment TF type, and is in range, they will replenish combat losses in the CV/CVL air wings one, two, three planes at a time. So far as I know Japan does not have this capability.

One last question regarding this statement. You mentioned the pilots were generally pretty bad when assigned to the replenishment squadrons. When they transfer over to replace losses on a CV or CVL, will the reserve pilots on the carrier which may be better experienced take over, or does the pilot from the replenishment squadron now become a member of the carrier air wing? I'd have to go in and manually set him to squadron reserve to keep him out of ops?

If I recall, it looked like Historiker had already replaced the replenishment squadrons with more experienced pilots. I might be good on this point if so.

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

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Post #: 132

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/6/2016 10:22:37 PM

bomccarthy

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quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bullwinkle58

But what we're talking about are the special replenishment air units with an 'R' in their name. VRF-123. They replenish CVs and CVLs one plane at a time, as demanded, to replace combat losses. If the CVE has one of those loaded, is in a Replenishment TF type, and is in range, they will replenish combat losses in the CV/CVL air wings one, two, three planes at a time. So far as I know Japan does not have this capability.

One last question regarding this statement. You mentioned the pilots were generally pretty bad when assigned to the replenishment squadrons. When they transfer over to replace losses on a CV or CVL, will the reserve pilots on the carrier which may be better experienced take over, or does the pilot from the replenishment squadron now become a member of the carrier air wing? I'd have to go in and manually set him to squadron reserve to keep him out of ops?

If I recall, it looked like Historiker had already replaced the replenishment squadrons with more experienced pilots. I might be good on this point if so.

If a squadron is short of its full complement of active pilots, the VR squadron will send pilots with the replacement planes, which is why I always try to keep the combat squadrons maxed out with reserve pilots. I also include one or two CVEs with a normal aircraft complement in a replenishment TF, flying CAP for the TF.

As noted above, you can draw replacements from VR squadrons wherever they are based: CVE, CVL, CV, or land base. Historically, some 10-20 CVEs were constantly serving in a replacement/ferry capacity, following TF 38/58 and shuttling replacement aircraft from the West Coast. As Bill Olson noted a few years ago, there were actually no such thing as VR units - they were created in the game as a method of replicating the active replacement role played by the CVEs. With AOs, AEs, and CVEs following them, your fast carrier task forces can remain at sea for incredible periods of time in 1945, until they need to repair the inevitable damage.

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 133

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/8/2016 1:03:09 AM

SqzMyLemon

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Nov. 10/43:

The Allies continue to decline accepting battle in the air over Burma or New Guinea.

Japanese bombers turn their attention to Lae. Heavy enemy fighter sweeps followed by the bombers target 30th Australian Bde.

A Japanese counterattack at Kirakira fails to wipe out the token Allied forces present. These are fragments and I've resigned myself to their loss. I will conduct a proper amphibious assault soon enough. I learned a valuable lesson form this little setback and my future offensive plans will be the better for it.

Allied intentions remain passive until I am ready to move. There are 131 ships repairing at Pearl Harbor. As ships complete repairs, they are then fueled and assigned new Captains if warranted. Christmas Island is backed up with shipping waiting to unload, the base's port is currently only level 2. I've begun sending troops and supply directly to Pago Pago and Fiji. I've decided to use Suva as another staging area for operations against New Guinea and the Solomons. I'm not comfortable with Luganville being my only base with any sort of logisitics. It's too close to the Japanese positions and vulnerable as there are no supporting bases built up. It's ripe for a Japanese naval raid.

I am loving the logistic side of the Allies. I have to, as there isn't much else I can do right now.

What a difference from playing Japan when you have to scrimp and save. Here, I just load up and go knowing I'll never run out.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/8/2016 1:07:26 AM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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Post #: 134

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/8/2016 1:12:53 AM

dave sindel

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Sqz - are you affected at all by the wildfires in Alberta ?

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 135

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/8/2016 1:32:16 AM

PaxMondo

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quote:

ORIGINAL: SqzMyLemon

I am loving the logistic side of the Allies. ... I just load up and go knowing I'll never run out.

It really does simplify the game, doesn't it?

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Pax

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Post #: 136

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/8/2016 5:14:28 AM

SqzMyLemon

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quote:

ORIGINAL: dave sindel

Sqz - are you affected at all by the wildfires in Alberta ?

No, I'm in Edmonton which is more central and not affected. It's a big deal here obviously, not only for the residents, but the Province as a whole economy wise. With the price of oil in the tank, this hits even harder. Cities and communities all over the Province are taking in people. I think even West Edmonton Mall here is providing temporary shelter. Last I heard over a 1000 buildings have been lost, and that was days ago so could be even worse now.

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

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Post #: 137

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/9/2016 4:45:49 AM

SqzMyLemon

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I happened to catch this comment by Erik in Mr. Kane's AAR regarding China.

quote:

ORIGINAL: obvert

I have a similar no strat bombing into China HR in my current game, and again that was asked for by the first opponent in that game. I see how it can help the Allies a bit earlier, but once the Japanese take it all, it's a good supplement to the economy assuming the industry survives through the conquest.

I rechecked an e-mail Erik had sent regarding the HR's that he and Historiker had previously agreed to, and there it is, no strategic bombing in China the entire war.

Considering this particular HR, I have to question why Historker committed so heavily to a ground campaign in Burma. Other than knocking out Magwe's and Rangoon's fuel/oil facilities from India, there is no reason to fight a land campaign in Burma in light of this HR, in my opinion. Unfortunately, Allied forces are so heavily committed that I can't walk away from this one. It would take 4-6 months to withdraw and set up another campaign somewhere else, time that I don't have.

I do have something in mind and my planned offensive down the Irrawaddy Valley takes on a new importance now.

My logistic preparations are progressing nicely. The majority of the fleet at Pearl Harbor has been refueled and only 87 ships are still repairing.

I've learned to dislike how my ground forces have been committed in New Guinea and how vulnerable the entire position is to a Japanese counterattack. There are no reserves handy and I can't safely redeploy combat LCU's from Rossel Island and Milne Bay. Frankly, I think the Allied position is quite bad and it's going to take a major effort to get this campaign back on track.

This is the last time I will mention my predecessors handiwork. From here on out I just have to deal with it, but I need to hurry, because there are potential disasters pending if Erik counterattacks aggressively.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/9/2016 4:50:47 AM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

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Post #: 138

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/9/2016 2:58:43 PM

SqzMyLemon

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I've ordered my first large bomber raid this turn. Six squadrons of B-17 and B-24 bombers escorted by P-40N's are to hit Tsuyung's airbase. I'm sweeping with two squadrons of P-47's. I hope to catch Japanese bombers on the ground, but have a feeling they'll be absent flying a mission against Paoshan. If nothing else, I want to keep Erik honest by having to defend his airbases.

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 139

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/9/2016 9:24:19 PM

SqzMyLemon

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I've started to send some naval reinforcements from Pearl Harbor to Fiji. Three CVL's and four CVE's have started the journey to Suva. I plan on using these ships to provide support for operations in the Solomons.

I've started a number of CV upgrades at Pearl Harbor that will take 14-17 days to complete. I figure now is the time to perform these upgrades. Fuel at Pearl Harbor currently sits at 56k with more unloading and additional tanker TF's set to arrive over the next week. How bad was the fuel situation for the fleet at Pearl? I've consumed 160k fuel in less than a week replenishing bunkers, and there are still a number of ships that are awaiting their chance to refuel. Once the tankers start arriving at Pearl on a regular basis, I'll set up taskforces to get fuel to Fiji. From Fiji, fuel will be distributed to Australia and forward bases.

It's truly impressive how Allied bases can be expanded so quickly, and all my idle construction units are going to be put to good use.

Complaints from Karachi are starting to roll in as more and more Chinese units arrive. Despite 60k supply, there's a yellow exclamation warning already. I've created some additional taskforces to provide continual re-supply runs from Aden and Cape Town. Fuel isn't an issue in India, so Cape Town will continue to send fuel directly to Australia. Small, short legged, transports make the fuel run from Abadan to Karachi.

I've sent a large supply taskforce from Sydney to Wellington to top up New Zealand. I've redeployed almost all the un-restricted NZ LCU's to Noumea and Luganville, so the lack of supply in NZ should be a thing of the past.

I am on track to end 1943 with a restored logistic base and redeploy enough air, land and naval units to allow for offensives in January.

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 140

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/10/2016 5:07:44 AM

SqzMyLemon

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Nov. 13/43:

Air attacks against Tsuyung go well and catch the Japanese unprepared. The initial sweeps encounter a CAP of only four Tojo's over the base and shoot down three. Strangely, the P-47 sweep didn't engage the CAP at all, the Corsair's set to LRCAP did. AAR follows:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Tsuyung , at 68,46

Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 29 NM, estimated altitude 36,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 4

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 19
F4U-1 Corsair x 12

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 2 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
19 x P-47D2 Thunderbolt sweeping at 31000 feet

CAP engaged:
54th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(14 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 7000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 2 minutes

The first bomber raid was the largest and clear skies provided great results. AAR follows:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Tsuyung , at 68,46

Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 15,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
no flights

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 15
B-17F Fortress x 11
B-24D Liberator x 18
P-40N5 Warhawk x 20
F4U-1 Corsair x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 4 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Airbase hits 40
Airbase supply hits 6
Runway hits 97

All told, 81 heavy bombers hit the airbase at Tsuyung. Mouse over after the turn shows 98% damage. The intelligence report indicates seven Tojo fighters destroyed on the ground. Two Corsairs are lost on the day, because the LRCAP bled to heavy Japanese air raids over Paoshan. I must remember to set the range to 0 when assigning LRCAP to stop the bleed. If not for the bleeding LRCAP it's possible I wouldn't have lost any Corsairs at all. A trashed Japanese airbase and ten destroyed fighters is a good day in my books. No air attacks are scheduled for tomorrow.

More of the same elsewhere, as I continue to move stuff around. Pearl Harbor and San Francisco are jammed full. Dock space is at a premium and slowing down the redeployment efforts. Once this initial rush sorts itself out there will be a chance to stagger the taskforces. So much is moving all at once to address the fuel and supply shortfalls. The priority will soon shift to redeployment of LCU's. I must get the engineer and construction units moving to facilitate the expansion of forward bases. There is a massive amount of aircraft and combat LCU's to get into the war.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/10/2016 5:11:46 AM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to PaxMondo)

Post #: 141

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/10/2016 3:09:44 PM

SqzMyLemon

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

I spent most of my time issuing orders in Burma yesterday. There's been a large amount of Japanese rail movement out of Taung Gyi. There are now 31 Japanese LCU's at Toungoo and I suspect a large number have also been redeployed to Rangoon. It makes sense to use Rangoon as a reserve and rail reinforcements to block whatever route I choose to take. Cutting the rail line will be key to dividing up the Japanese into more manageable bites.

I'm trying to be patient in this theatre. I'd like a few more bases to expand and draw more supply before I move. Having the AA units on hand is critical in my opinion. I have to remain patient and not move before I'm ready. The ground forces have to be self-sustainable as they advance, because the air force will be busy targeting Japanese airbases. Erik loves to sweep before any bombing raids and I hope to use that against him. I should be facing reduced CAP over his airbases. I plan on reducing the Japanese bomber threat by suppressing their airbases, not by direct confrontation. I'll see how things go and how Erik reacts, but I'm counting on him aggressively bombing my ground forces.

Another four CVE's have left Pearl Harbor for redeployment to Suva. That will give me three CVL's and eight CVE's to support operations in the Solomons. The lack of forward engineer and aviation support base forces is the limiting factor right now. I will be conducting amphibious operations that include every unit I need for a base to be self-sustaining. I will resist the urge to rush things in this theatre too. I've begun withdrawing elements of U.S. 2nd Marine and 2nd Aus. Division from Rossel Island and Milne Bay respectively. They will be replaced with NZ Infantry Bde.'s. I've decided on a major amphibious operation to blow this theatre wide open.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/10/2016 3:12:08 PM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 142

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/11/2016 3:39:07 AM

SqzMyLemon

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

I've adopted SS Flounder, which just arrived, as my personal submarine this game. With SS Grenadier already sunk, I had to adopt another one, and flounder seems appropriate at this stage of things.

Her Skipper:

Attachment (1)

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/11/2016 4:39:57 AM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to PaxMondo)

Post #: 143

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/11/2016 12:34:27 PM

HansBolter

Posts: 7704
Joined: 7/6/2006
From: United States
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Another interesting point about the replenishment air groups is that CVs will preferentially pull replacements from them instead of the pool.

What I mean by this is if both the combat carrier and the replenishment carrier are at the same port, the CV air groups will pull necessary replacements from the replenishment squadron, even if the pool is full, and then the replenishment squadron will pull replacements from the pool.

As long as there is a replenishment air group in range a carrier air group will always pull from it, not the pool.

< Message edited by HansBolter -- 5/11/2016 12:36:42 PM >

_____________________________

Hans

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Post #: 144

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/11/2016 2:44:58 PM

SqzMyLemon

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

quote:

ORIGINAL: HansBolter

Another interesting point about the replenishment air groups is that CVs will preferentially pull replacements from them instead of the pool.

What I mean by this is if both the combat carrier and the replenishment carrier are at the same port, the CV air groups will pull necessary replacements from the replenishment squadron, even if the pool is full, and then the replenishment squadron will pull replacements from the pool.

As long as there is a replenishment air group in range a carrier air group will always pull from it, not the pool.

Thanks Hans,

Considering I'll be using a large number of CVE's in upcoming operations, all the information you, and others, have provided on how to use them is invaluable.

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to HansBolter)

Post #: 145

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/11/2016 3:09:34 PM

SqzMyLemon

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

Nov. 14/43:

A quiet turn with nothing to report.

I did some house cleaning while completing the turn last night.

I'm redeploying all shipping currently in Australia to Sydney. I need to see what I have available for amphibious operations and having so many ships spread out over 6-8 bases was too confusing to organize.

I also need to reorganize the air defence. All my best fighters are currently at Port Moresby and I'm thinking of pulling a lot of them back to Australia for a number of reasons. I've mentioned numerous times now, I don't like my position and feel vulnerable to aggressive counters by Japan in New Guinea and the Solomons. A quick reorganization is in order.

Pearl Harbor ended the day with over 100k of fuel. I've turned the corner here and with the amount of fuel still en route I decided to start sending fuel to Fiji immediately. I'm going to need a lot stockpiled at Suva to sustain upcoming operations. More aviation and construction support units have been dispatched to Fiji. The APA and AKA ships will follow, but they will first be used for the Tabiteuea amphibious operation.

In Burma, all Allied air units remain defensive while the ground forces continue the slow march to reach their new positions. Still weeks away, but the pieces are slowing coming together. Despite the progress, the delay is killing me. At least when I move, it will be difficult for Erik to use the same small delaying tactics, because he won't be facing a weak Allied position anymore.

On a reinforcement note...Holy Crap! I just received 18 LST's, a CVL and a ton of DD's, DE's and around 8 submarines last turn. Wow!

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/11/2016 3:12:59 PM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 146

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/11/2016 6:57:24 PM

SqzMyLemon

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

Roughly 90% of Chinese forces have reached Karachi, and supply required at the base is now over 100k! I've already assigned more transport capacity for supply runs to India, but I may have to increase the number even further. I believe adding another 200k of regular shipments of supply from Aden to Karachi will be enough. No wonder Burma was in dire straits with lack of supply. I'm offsetting the migration of supply to Karachi, by moving the restricted Army HQ's to Calcutta and bases along the Burma/India border.

In CentPac, Midway's AS has arrived to support submarine operations. Thirsty submarines, originally set to patrolling the Marcus Island area, are arriving to replenish. I'll set up a regular fuel and supply run to keep the base operating efficiently. Allied submarines are being assigned new patrol zones, so the Japanese should start seeing previously quiet areas now patrolled regularly.

Bases across the Pacific are being assigned new roles and a plan on how to utilize currently held enemy bases is being prepared.

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 147

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/12/2016 3:33:49 PM

SqzMyLemon

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

March 15/43:

The Japanese are busy these days!

After my bombing of Tsuyung's airbase the Japanese fighter strength was deployed in strength over Paoshan and Wazarup. Japanese bombers hit the Chinese at Paoshan prior to a deliberate assault which captured the base. IJA 3rd Tank Division support by two more IJA divisions were involved in the attack. Allied air continues to avoid combat against superior Japanese fighter forces. I won't throw away aircraft and pilots on a ground battle that was already lost, especially one consisting of just base force and construction units.

The loss of Paoshan is worrisome as my flank is exposed. Not leaving a stronger force of Chinese units to garrison Paoshan, or at least along the border blocking the path to Lashio was a mistake. It wasn't on my watch...again.

So the location of two of three Japanese tank divisions are known, Paoshan and east of Ramree Island. I'm guessing the third is either at Taung Gyi or Toungoo.

In light of this recent development, I came up with a plan of attack for Burma. It's going to require Erik to counter aggressively to be most effective, but even if the Japanese don't do what I hope they will I'll be prepared to move forward regardless. The plan remains to march down the Irrawaddy Valley to Prome and Toungoo, but a couple of the finer points of the plan became clear to me last night. Losing Paoshan may complicate matters somewhat, but then again, maybe not. More detail provided soon.

In the Solomons, the weakness of Historiker's forward positions is now being exploited by Erik. Rekata Bay was captured by Japanese paratroops, defeating the Raratonga Det. and elements of an American construction unit. Again, why these small units were sent as the tip of the spear makes no sense as they are easily defeated by just the type of small operations Erik likes to conduct. It's starting to rile me up just having to sit back and take it at the moment. I'm having to pay the piper for a poorly planned advance that had no chance of being sustained. I now have to worry about losing Lunga because it's too far from support, especially with Ndeni hardly built up and Luganville too far away. The construction units can't reach SoPac fast enough.

Right now, I'm in damage control mode. I fear I'll lose more ground before I can shore up my position. It will get better, but again, more time lost doing what should have been done already over the last year. I know I said I wouldn't point fingers anymore, but right now I just have to vent as I watch units that never should have been deployed forward get wiped out.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/12/2016 3:41:18 PM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 148

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/13/2016 6:30:01 PM

SqzMyLemon

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

I've been busy the last couple of evenings and have had no time to play, but plenty of time to dwell on things. I'm finding this pick up game to be more of a time vampire than I'd first anticipated. The need to devote so much effort to behind the scenes activities has drained my enthusiasm somewhat. Add to that the recent setbacks and losses and it's hard not to be frustrated right now. That being said, tonight I'll have a chance to sit down and continue to reorganize my forces. A few ideas are beginning to crystalize on how to move forward.

Burma is the one theatre I'm going to be able to move in sooner than later. At first I thought New Guinea and the Solomons were better off, but as I dug more into the details and after recent developments I'm finding the situation more unstable than before. I think I've come up with a sound plan for Burma. I'm going to try a different approach that will allow me to advance, or at least continue to draw large numbers of Japanese forces in response, while I quietly redeploy a number of American divisions for operations in other theatres. There are currently six American divisions committed to Burma which I think are too many.

I find myself just rehashing the same old crap though

. It's going to takes weeks before anything really interesting materializes worth posting.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/13/2016 8:39:26 PM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to PaxMondo)

Post #: 149

RE: A pick up game and it's not Lowpe! Sqz (A) vs. obve... - 5/15/2016 7:50:46 PM

SqzMyLemon

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

Nov. 17/43:

I sweep Madang in New Guinea and it doesn't go well. One sweep of P-38's at 28k and one of Kittyhawk's at 10k. Four squadrons of P-38's were set to LRCAP at 31k.

The first sweep looks impressive, but appearances are deceiving. Looking at the squadron screens at the end of the day it was clear that almost 75% of the aircraft assigned to LRCAP never engaged. The first sweep lingered so long it took the brunt of the losses.

The second sweep of Kittyhawk's faired just as badly. The plan here was to have a low sweep to keep the CAP down so the P-38's could bounce. It didn't happen as intended. The action started with four lingering P-38's on LRCAP and no Kittyhawk's. When the P-38's were gone, the Kittyhawk's arrived with no LRCAP coverage The combat report indicates 36 Lightning's present, but 32 of those never engaged. On the day I lose 20 P-38's and 6 Kittyhawk's which is a 1:1 trade with the Japanese, which is unacceptable. AAR's follow:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Madang , at 97,123

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid detected at 37 NM, estimated altitude 33,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5b Zero x 53
J2M2 Jack x 27

Allied aircraft
P-38H Lightning x 66

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5b Zero: 7 destroyed
J2M2 Jack: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-38H Lightning: 6 destroyed

CAP engaged:
263 Ku S-1 with A6M5b Zero (0 airborne, 11 on standby, 11 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 9000 and 33000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes
381 Ku S-1 with J2M2 Jack (0 airborne, 11 on standby, 11 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 9000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
Hiryu-1 with A6M5b Zero (0 airborne, 11 on standby, 10 scrambling)
5 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 7000 and 31000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Madang , at 97,123

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid detected at 13 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5b Zero x 34
J2M2 Jack x 18

Allied aircraft
Kittyhawk III x 12
P-38H Lightning x 36

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5b Zero: 2 destroyed
J2M2 Jack: 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Kittyhawk III: 2 destroyed

CAP engaged:
263 Ku S-1 with A6M5b Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 14 scrambling)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 17000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
381 Ku S-1 with J2M2 Jack (0 airborne, 1 on standby, 9 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
8 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000 , scrambling fighters between 8000 and 14000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 30 minutes
Hiryu-1 with A6M5b Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 12 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters between 7000 and 11000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes

I will reassess assigning LRCAP to sweeps. I'll try different settings and tactics, but I may be better off going with straight sweeps, no LRCAP and follow up heavy bomber raids on the airbases. I know that I can't trade 1:1 at this stage of the war and expect to go far.

Other than that a quiet turn. I still have weeks of monotonous logistics and troop movements ahead me.

< Message edited by SqzMyLemon -- 5/15/2016 7:54:00 PM >

_____________________________

Luck is the residue of design - John Milton

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

(in reply to SqzMyLemon)

Post #: 150

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