It is good to have a rough idea of where you want to have your main approach to Japan, but you must be quite flexible on the particulars because where you will end up attacking depends on where you find weaknesses in his bloated perimeter. Bypassing strongpoints is a necessary strategy to prevent tying up your limited land forces with long and bloody battles. You must neutralize the strong points with air power, bombardments and naval blockade but you do not have to eliminate all the troops entrenched in forts.
The best strategies I have seen concentrate on securing logistics bases at several points along the Japanese perimeter and scouting for weak spots - with a few raids to keep him guessing. Once the Allies get the tools - like Essex class CVs, fast battleships, Cleveland CLs, Fletcher DDs, working torpedoes, Hellcats, Avengers, Corsairs, and Thunderbolts - they can start rolling against any weak spots along any vector they choose and move fast enough to prevent the Japanese from reinforcing heavily.
Good luck!
BBfanboy-
Based on your and Obvert's comments, my thinking has been based around establishing a rear perimeter, building those bases, and preparing all ships, aircraft, and troops with training, etc. Also, as you suggest, only making dashing raids here and there when I know the KB is elsewhere. In other words, slowly growing stronger and stronger and preparing best I can for battles once strong enough to win.
My thoughts are all down on sticky notes now. In the next few days, I hope to organize all my thoughts and put them together in an outline that will set forth Allied strategy for the first six or seven months of the war. Upon completion of this earl strategy, I will present it to The War College for comment and then hopefully we can tighten up that plan.
Thank you for your comments and help, BBfanboy.
Regards,
-Terry
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
Sounds like Boise gave the escorts in that transport group a solid fight. Where are Houston, Marblehead, and the old 4 stacker DDs? Can they take advantage of low ammo stocks on that escort and hit the transport TF again? Can the Dutch CLs and DDs? Nothing blows the IJ timetable like losing an entire TF of troops!
I like your idea of sending the Australian armoured units to India. It leaves Oz naked but India is more important, and offers the chance of land advances toward Burma/China later on, but before the Allies have command of the sea.
Good luck with the next few turns!
BBfanboy-
On December 8, 1941:
The POW, Repulse, Danae and two DDs are four hexes East of Djambi. The Marblehead and five DDs are Southeast of Tarakan. The Houston is one hex East of Dinagal. I think the Empire fleet that sunk the Boisie are broken up into two fleets (perhaps due to seven of that original fleet taking hits) and both fleets are one hex South of the Houston. The only IJA carriers I see are two carriers three hexes East of Manila.
Regards,
-Terry
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
I don't anticipate posting combat reports as the norm in this AAR. However, seems to me the December 7, 1941 Combat Report indicates the Allied losses were not too bad. Here is the December 7th Combat Report:
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR Dec 07, 41
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Midget Sub attack inside harbor of Pearl Harbor!!!
Japanese Ships
SSX Ha-22, hits 2
Allied Ships
BB Tennessee
PC Reliance
PC Taney
PC Reliance cannot reach attack position over SSX Ha-22
PC Taney cannot reach attack position over SSX Ha-22
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Midget Sub attack inside harbor of Pearl Harbor!!!
Japanese Ships
SSX Ha-14
Allied Ships
AVD Hulbert
BB Tennessee
SSX Ha-14 eludes ASW attack from AVD Hulbert
AVD Hulbert cannot establish contact with SSX Ha-14
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Pearl Harbor at 180,106
Japanese Ships
SS I-17
Allied Ships
AS Pelias
AS Pelias is sighted by SS I-17
SS I-17 launches 2 torpedoes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Pearl Harbor at 179,108
Japanese Ships
SS I-22
Allied Ships
xAK Florence D., Shell hits 1, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage
xAK Florence D. is sighted by SS I-22
SS I-22 attacking on the surface
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Submarine attack near Pearl Harbor at 178,109
Japanese Ships
SS I-24
Allied Ships
xAK Laida, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
xAK Laida is sighted by SS I-24
SS I-24 launches 2 torpedoes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Time Surface Combat, near Kwangchowan at 74,63, Range 22,000 Yards
Japanese Ships
CA Chokai, Shell hits 1
DD Fubuki
DD Usugumo
DD Shirayuki, Shell hits 1
DD Hatsuyuki, Shell hits 1, on fire
DD Sagiri
Allied Ships
DD Scout, Shell hits 9, heavy fires, heavy damage
DD Thanet, Shell hits 22, and is sunk
DD Thracian, Shell hits 19, and is sunk
Maximum visibility in Clear Conditions: 30,000 yards
CONTACT: Japanese lookouts spot Allied task force at 22,000 yards
CONTACT: Allied lookouts spot Japanese task force at 22,000 yards
DD Thracian engages DD Sagiri at 22,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thracian at 22,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thanet at 22,000 yards
Range closes to 15,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Thracian at 15,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thanet at 15,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Thanet at 15,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thanet at 15,000 yards
DD Thanet engages DD Usugumo at 15,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Thanet at 15,000 yards
Powers, A.L. orders Allied TF to disengage
Range closes to 13,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thracian at 13,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thanet at 13,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Thanet at 13,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Thanet at 13,000 yards
Range increases to 15,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Thracian at 15,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thracian at 15,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Thracian at 15,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Thracian at 15,000 yards
Range increases to 16,000 yards
DD Thracian engages DD Hatsuyuki at 16,000 yards
DD Thracian engages DD Sagiri at 16,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thanet at 16,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Thracian at 16,000 yards
DD Thracian engages DD Fubuki at 16,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thracian at 16,000 yards
DD Thanet engages DD Hatsuyuki at 16,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thracian at 16,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Thracian at 16,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Thracian at 16,000 yards
Range increases to 18,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Thracian at 18,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thanet at 18,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Thanet at 18,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Thracian at 18,000 yards
Range closes to 16,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Thracian at 16,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thanet at 16,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Thracian at 16,000 yards
DD Thracian engages DD Fubuki at 16,000 yards
Range closes to 14,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Thracian at 14,000 yards
DD Thracian engages DD Sagiri at 14,000 yards
DD Thanet engages DD Hatsuyuki at 14,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Thracian at 14,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Thracian at 14,000 yards
Range closes to 10,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Thracian at 10,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Scout at 10,000 yards
DD Thanet engages DD Shirayuki at 10,000 yards
DD Scout engages DD Usugumo at 10,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Scout at 10,000 yards
Range closes to 7,000 yards
DD Thracian sunk by CA Chokai at 7,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thanet at 7,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Scout at 7,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Scout at 7,000 yards
Range closes to 6,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Thanet at 6,000 yards
DD Scout engages DD Sagiri at 6,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Scout at 6,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Scout at 6,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Scout at 6,000 yards
Range increases to 8,000 yards
DD Thanet engages DD Fubuki at 8,000 yards
DD Scout engages DD Shirayuki at 8,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Scout at 8,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Scout at 8,000 yards
Powers, A.L. orders Allied TF to disengage
Range increases to 12,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Thanet at 12,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thanet at 12,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Thanet at 12,000 yards
DD Thanet engages DD Shirayuki at 12,000 yards
DD Scout engages DD Usugumo at 12,000 yards
Range increases to 16,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Thanet at 16,000 yards
DD Thanet engages DD Sagiri at 16,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thanet at 16,000 yards
Range increases to 17,000 yards
DD Thanet engages DD Hatsuyuki at 17,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thanet at 17,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Scout at 17,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thanet at 17,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Scout at 17,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Thanet at 17,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Scout at 17,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Thanet at 17,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thanet at 17,000 yards
Range closes to 16,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Thanet at 16,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Thanet at 16,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Scout at 16,000 yards
Range closes to 14,000 yards
DD Scout engages DD Sagiri at 14,000 yards
DD Scout engages DD Hatsuyuki at 14,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Thanet at 14,000 yards
Range closes to 12,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Thanet at 12,000 yards
DD Sagiri engages DD Thanet at 12,000 yards
DD Shirayuki engages DD Thanet at 12,000 yards
DD Usugumo engages DD Scout at 12,000 yards
Range increases to 15,000 yards
DD Thanet sunk by DD Sagiri at 15,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Scout at 15,000 yards
DD Fubuki engages DD Scout at 15,000 yards
Range increases to 19,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Scout at 19,000 yards
DD Hatsuyuki engages DD Scout at 19,000 yards
Range increases to 25,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Scout at 25,000 yards
Range increases to 29,000 yards
CA Chokai engages DD Scout at 29,000 yards
Task forces break off...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Time Surface Combat, near Siargao at 83,88, Range 20,000 Yards
Maximum visibility in Partly Cloudy Conditions: 28,000 yards
CONTACT: Japanese lookouts spot Allied task force at 20,000 yards
Japanese TF attempts to evade combat
Range increases to 20,000 yards...
Both Task Forces evade combat
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Time Surface Combat, near Jolo at 73,87, Range 26,000 Yards
Japanese Ships
CVL Ryujo
CA Myoko
CA Haguro
CA Nachi
Allied Ships
AVP Heron
Maximum visibility in Clear Conditions: 30,000 yards
CONTACT: Japanese lookouts spot Allied task force at 20,000 yards
CONTACT: Allied lookouts spot Japanese task force at 20,000 yards
Both TF attempt to withdraw!
Range increases to 26,000 yards...
Both Task Forces evade combat
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Iba at 78,74
Japanese Ships
DD Kagero
BB Kirishima
DD Urakaze
DD Shiranui
Allied Ships
SS Salmon
SS Salmon launches 2 torpedoes at DD Kagero
DD Urakaze attacking submerged sub ....
DD Shiranui fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Urakaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Urakaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Urakaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Urakaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Kota Bharu , at 51,75
Weather in hex: Moderate rain
Raid spotted at 16 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes
Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 18
No Japanese losses
Aircraft Attacking:
18 x A6M2 Zero sweeping at 11000 feet *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Kota Bharu , at 51,75
Weather in hex: Moderate rain
Raid spotted at 30 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes
Japanese aircraft
Ki-27b Nate x 34
No Japanese losses
Aircraft Attacking:
34 x Ki-27b Nate sweeping at 15000 feet
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on TF, near Lingga at 51,87
Weather in hex: Moderate rain
Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes
Aircraft Attacking:
6 x G4M1 Betty launching torpedoes at 200 feet
Naval Attack: 1 x 18in Type 91 Torpedo
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Manila , at 79,77
Weather in hex: Severe storms
Raid detected at 118 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 41 minutes
Japanese aircraft
G3M2 Nell x 9
G4M1 Betty x 33
Allied aircraft
P-26A x 4
No Japanese losses
No Allied losses
Port hits 2
Port fuel hits 1
Aircraft Attacking:
21 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb
9 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
6 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
3 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
3 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
CAP engaged:
6th PS PAAC with P-26A (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(4 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 31 minutes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Manila , at 79,77
Weather in hex: Severe storms
Raid detected at 106 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 37 minutes
Aircraft Attacking:
11 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
6 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
17 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
3 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
CAP engaged:
6th PS PAAC with P-26A (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 33 minutes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Manila , at 79,77
Weather in hex: Severe storms
Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes
Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 11
No Japanese losses
Aircraft Attacking:
11 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Manila , at 79,77
Weather in hex: Severe storms
Raid detected at 97 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 32 minutes
Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 36
B5N2 Kate x 54
D3A1 Val x 45
Aircraft Attacking:
9 x A6M2 Zero bombing from 10000 feet
City Attack: 2 x 60 kg GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Port Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
14 x B5N2 Kate bombing from 10000 feet
City Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
17 x A6M2 Zero bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 60 kg GP Bomb
13 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Port Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
27 x B5N2 Kate bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
9 x A6M2 Zero bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 60 kg GP Bomb
13 x B5N2 Kate bombing from 10000 feet
Port Attack: 1 x 800 kg AP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Port Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
6 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Port Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
10 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Port Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Port Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
CAP engaged:
35th PG/21st PS with P-40E Warhawk (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 5 minutes
Training flight from 35th PG/21st PS has been caught up in attack
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Singapore , at 50,84
Weather in hex: Partial cloud
Raid detected at 24 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes
Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 13
Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 2 damaged
A6M2 Zero: 2 destroyed by flak
Aircraft Attacking:
10 x A6M2 Zero bombing from 15000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 60 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Johore Bahru , at 50,83
Weather in hex: Heavy cloud
Raid spotted at 23 NM, estimated altitude 20,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes
Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 26
D3A1 Val x 15
Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 damaged
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed by flak
D3A1 Val: 5 damaged
D3A1 Val: 1 destroyed by flak
Port hits 3
Port supply hits 2
Aircraft Attacking:
12 x A6M2 Zero bombing from 15000 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 60 kg GP Bomb
7 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Port Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Port Attack: 1 x 250 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Kota Bharu , at 51,75
Weather in hex: Moderate rain
Raid spotted at 12 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes
Japanese aircraft
Ki-27b Nate x 41
Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-27b Nate: 14 damaged
Ki-27b Nate: 1 destroyed by flak
Port hits 12
Port supply hits 3
Aircraft Attacking:
40 x Ki-27b Nate bombing from 100 feet
Port Attack: 2 x 50 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Manila , at 79,77
Weather in hex: Severe storms
Raid detected at 23 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes
Japanese aircraft
Ki-21-IIa Sally x 10
No Japanese losses
Aircraft Attacking:
10 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 10000 feet *
Port Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 98th Chinese Corps, at 88,43 , near Kaifeng
Weather in hex: Clear sky
Raid spotted at 16 NM, estimated altitude 18,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes
Japanese aircraft
Ki-30 Ann x 9
No Japanese losses
Aircraft Attacking:
9 x Ki-30 Ann bombing from 15000 feet *
Ground Attack: 1 x 100 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hong Kong Fortress, at 77,61 (Hong Kong)
Weather in hex: Moderate rain
Raid spotted at 15 NM, estimated altitude 21,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes
Japanese aircraft
Ki-27b Nate x 7
Ki-51 Sonia x 13
Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-51 Sonia: 1 damaged
Aircraft Attacking:
13 x Ki-51 Sonia bombing from 15000 feet
Ground Attack: 4 x 50 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Hong Kong Fortress, at 77,61 (Hong Kong)
Weather in hex: Moderate rain
Raid spotted at 16 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes
Japanese aircraft
Ki-36 Ida x 21
Ki-44 Tojo x 6
No Japanese losses
Aircraft Attacking:
21 x Ki-36 Ida bombing from 15000 feet
Ground Attack: 4 x 30 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 16th Construction Regiment, at 88,56 (Chuhsien)
Weather in hex: Light cloud
Raid spotted at 6 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 1 minutes
Japanese aircraft
Ki-27b Nate x 7
Ki-51 Sonia x 9
No Japanese losses
Aircraft Attacking:
9 x Ki-51 Sonia bombing from 15000 feet
Ground Attack: 4 x 50 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Kota Bharu , at 51,75
Weather in hex: Heavy rain
Raid spotted at 35 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes
Aircraft Attacking:
22 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 15000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Hong Kong , at 77,61
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms
Raid spotted at 13 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes
Japanese aircraft
Ki-44 Tojo x 6
Ki-48-Ib Lily x 6
No Japanese losses
Aircraft Attacking:
2 x Ki-48-Ib Lily bombing from 15000 feet
City Attack: 4 x 100 kg GP Bomb
4 x Ki-48-Ib Lily bombing from 15000 feet
Port Attack: 4 x 100 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Guam at 107,98
Weather in hex: Severe storms
Raid spotted at 19 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes
Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 6
G4M1 Betty x 7
No Japanese losses
Allied Ships
AM Penguin
Aircraft Attacking:
7 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 10000 feet
Naval Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Lingga at 51,87
Weather in hex: Moderate rain
Raid detected at 37 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes
Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 26
B5N2 Kate x 18
D3A1 Val x 52
Japanese aircraft losses
D3A1 Val: 4 damaged
Allied Ships
xAK Tai Sang, Bomb hits 2, on fire
xAK Zannis Cambanis, Torpedo hits 3, and is sunk
xAKL Tatung, Bomb hits 3, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAP Hong Kheng, Bomb hits 6, and is sunk
xAK Wulin, Bomb hits 3, and is sunk
xAK Neleus, Torpedo hits 2, and is sunk
xAK Silverbeech, Torpedo hits 4, and is sunk
xAKL Bust, Bomb hits 4, and is sunk
xAK Demodocus, Bomb hits 4, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAKL Lyemun, Bomb hits 3, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAKL Marudu
Aircraft Attacking:
11 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
18 x B5N2 Kate launching torpedoes at 200 feet
Naval Attack: 1 x 18in Type 91 Torpedo
3 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
5 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
5 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
12 x D3A1 Val releasing from 10000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAK Tai Sang
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAKL Tatung
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAK Wulin
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAP Hong Kheng
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAKL Lyemun
Massive explosion on xAK Silverbeech
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Singkawang at 55,88
Weather in hex: Light rain
Raid spotted at 3 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 0 minutes
Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 22
No Japanese losses
Allied Ships
AVP Poolster, Bomb hits 4, and is sunk
Aircraft Attacking:
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
18 x D3A1 Val releasing from 10000'
Naval Attack: 1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naval bombardment of Kota Bharu at 51,75
Allied aircraft
no flights
Allied aircraft losses
Hudson I: 2 damaged
Japanese Ships
CA Kumano
CA Suzuya
CA Mikuma
CA Mogami
DD Hagikaze
DD Arashi
DD Nowaki
DD Maikaze
Airbase hits 27
Airbase supply hits 19
Runway hits 99
Port hits 35
Port supply hits 9
CA Kumano firing at Kota Bharu
CA Suzuya firing at Kota Bharu
CA Mikuma firing at Kota Bharu
CA Mogami firing at Kota Bharu
DD Hagikaze firing at Kota Bharu
DD Arashi firing at 8th Indian Brigade
DD Nowaki firing at 8th Indian Brigade
DD Maikaze firing at Kota Bharu
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off San Fernando (80,74)
DD Ikazuchi firing at 11th PA Infantry Division
DD Murasame firing at 11th PA Infantry Division
DD Ikazuchi fired at enemy troops
Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 4,000 yards
Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 1,000 yards
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at San Fernando (80,74)
TF 8 troops unloading over beach at San Fernando, 80,74
19 troops of a IJA Infantry Squad accidentally lost during unload of 1st Formosa Inf. Rgt
19 troops of a IJA Infantry Squad lost overboard during unload of 1st Formosa Inf. Rgt /2
19 troops of a IJA Infantry Squad lost overboard during unload of 1st Formosa Inf. Rgt /3
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off Cagayan (79,89)
Defensive Guns engage approaching landing force
8 Coastal gun shots fired in defense.
Japanese Ships
DD Umikaze
DD Kawakaze
xAP Haruna Maru, heavy fires
DD Tokitsukaze
CS Chitose
DD Umikaze firing at Cagayan USAAF Base Force
DD Kawakaze firing at Cagayan USAAF Base Force
DD Umikaze fired at enemy troops
Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 5,000 yards
Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 1,000 yards
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Cagayan (79,89)
TF 13 troops unloading over beach at Cagayan, 79,89
Japanese ground losses:
53 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 3 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 2 (2 destroyed, 0 disabled)
19 troops of a IJA Infantry Squad lost in surf during unload of Kimura Det
19 troops of a IJA Infantry Squad lost in surf during unload of Kimura Det
70mm T92 Howitzer lost overboard during unload of Kimura Det
10cm T91 Howitzer lost overboard during unload of Kimura Det
10 Support troops lost from landing craft during unload of Kimura Det
8 Engineers lost overboard during unload of 1st Naval Const Bn
10 Support troops accidentally lost during unload of Kimura Det /4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off Kota Bharu (51,75)
CL Sendai firing at 8th Indian Brigade
DD Uranami firing at 8th Indian Brigade
DD Isonami firing at 8th Indian Brigade
PB Tatsumiya Maru fired at enemy troops
DD Uranami fired at enemy troops
DD Isonami fired at enemy troops
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at Kota Bharu (51,75)
TF 85 troops unloading over beach at Kota Bharu, 51,75
Japanese ground losses:
161 casualties reported
Squads: 7 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)
18 troops of a IJA Engineer Squad lost from landing craft during unload of 12th Engr Rgt
19 troops of a IJA Infantry Squad lost from landing craft during unload of 114th Infantry Rgt
19 troops of a IJA Infantry Squad lost in surf during unload of 114th Infantry Rgt
70mm T92 Howitzer damaged beyond repair during unload of 114th Infantry Rgt
20 troops of a IJA HMG Squad accidentally lost during unload of 114th Infantry Rgt /2
19 troops of a IJA Infantry Squad accidentally lost during unload of 114th Infantry Rgt /2
19 troops of a IJA Infantry Squad lost overboard during unload of 114th Infantry Rgt /2
10 Support troops lost in surf during unload of 114th Infantry Rgt /2
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Invasion action off San Fernando (80,74)
APD Nadakaze fired at enemy troops
APD Shimakaze fired at enemy troops
Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 4,000 yards
Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 1,000 yards
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amphibious Assault at San Fernando (80,74)
TF 90 troops unloading over beach at San Fernando, 80,74
Japanese ground losses:
24 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Vehicles lost 4 (4 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Motorized Support lost overboard during unload of 5th Air Div
Motorized Support damaged beyond repair during unload of 5th Air Div
Motorized Support damaged beyond repair during unload of 5th Air Div
Motorized Support accidentally lost during unload of 5th Air Div
17 troops of a SNLF Squad lost from landing craft during unload of Sasebo 1st SNLF /1
10 Support troops lost overboard during unload of Sasebo 1st SNLF
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Pre-Invasion action off San Fernando (80,74)
PB Shonan Maru #17 fired at enemy troops
PB Shonan Maru #2 fired at enemy troops
PB Shonan Maru #1 fired at enemy troops
PB Kyo Maru #11 fired at enemy troops
PB Kyo Maru #2 fired at enemy troops
Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 6,000 yards
Defensive Guns fire at approaching troops in landing craft at 1,000 yards
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Amphibious Assault at San Fernando (80,74)
TF 96 troops unloading over beach at San Fernando, 80,74
Japanese ground losses:
Guns lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)
8 Naval Support troops lost overboard during unload of 2nd Base Force
13.2mm T93 AAMG lost from landing craft during unload of 2nd Base Force /2
10 Support troops lost from landing craft during unload of 2nd Base Force /2
10 Support troops lost in surf during unload of 2nd Base Force /2
8 Naval Support troops lost overboard during unload of 2nd Base Force /2
8 Naval Support troops accidentally lost during unload of 2nd Base Force /3
8 Naval Support troops lost in surf during unload of 2nd Base Force /3
10 Support troops lost overboard during unload of 2nd Base Force /3
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Pre-Invasion action off Kota Bharu (51,75)
Attacking force 81 troops, 2 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 7
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
Japanese adjusted assault: 8
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 8 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Laoag !!!
Combat modifiers
Attacker: shock(+), leaders(-)
Assaulting units:
Yokosuka 3rd SNLF /1
The Allied Intelligence Report indicates sixteen Allied ships were sunk on December 7th. I am very pleased to find out that the POW and Repulse are so far undamaged!
I fear December 7, 1941 is simply the calm before the IJA hurricane.
Regards,
-Terry
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
The poor level of Nav Search skill in most squadrons at game start makes accurate ID of specific ship types rather iffy. A high DL like 9/10 probably can be trusted but something like 3/6 would make me think that some kind of CV type was seen, but not necessarily the CV or CVL reported.
The Japanese CVLs and CVEs are usually assigned to interdict ships fleeing the Philippines/Malaya/ Hong Kong, sometimes with the addition of the slow Kaga (25knots). KB gets the first-turn mega-move where it can go from the middle of the Kuriles to PH in one turn and still launch strikes. Most players would want to make use of this capability to strike a distant target rather than in the South China Sea. The US West Coast or Palembang/Soerabaja could also be on the surprise list. Mersing just doesn't seem like a big surprise any more.
No matter how bad a situation is, you can always make it worse. - Chris Hadfield : An Astronaut's Guide To Life On Earth
The poor level of Nav Search skill in most squadrons at game start makes accurate ID of specific ship types rather iffy. A high DL like 9/10 probably can be trusted but something like 3/6 would make me think that some kind of CV type was seen, but not necessarily the CV or CVL reported.
The Japanese CVLs and CVEs are usually assigned to interdict ships fleeing the Philippines/Malaya/ Hong Kong, sometimes with the addition of the slow Kaga (25knots). KB gets the first-turn mega-move where it can go from the middle of the Kuriles to PH in one turn and still launch strikes. Most players would want to make use of this capability to strike a distant target rather than in the South China Sea. The US West Coast or Palembang/Soerabaja could also be on the surprise list. Mersing just doesn't seem like a big surprise any more.
I agree. Perhaps a couple more days will reveal what El Lobo has planned for the KB. I have heard that Intel Reports and Combat Reports can be somewhat deceiving.
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
[center](December 7, 1941 through June 6, 1942)[/center]
Opening Note
Pursuant to sound advice presented to me by Obvert, BBfanboy, and others, I have decided to engage a conservative approach during the first six months of the war against that Evil Empire.
Accordingly, Operation Foundation will primarily concentrate on the following:
Logistics
Training & Preparation
Building a rear perimeter of bases
Logistics
The primary supply routes will be as follows:
Seattle & Vancouver: Bases North of Seattle
San Francisco & Los Angeles: Hawaii, Tahiti, Sydney, Melbourne, & Adelaide
Cape Town: Perth & India
Abadan: India
Training & Preparation
Training and preparation will primarily consist of the following:
Pilot training will be a top priority
Ground Units will prepare for objectives
Ground Units will attempt to fill out and upgrade TOE
Replacement of some ship and troop leaders
Notes About Training and Preparation
1.) I highly suspect that I will need substantial help from The War College with “Training” and “TOE” matters, and perhaps with replacing leaders.
2.) Besides the Rear Perimeter Bases listed herein, other bases will expand too, including but limited too, already established bases in Canada, United States, New Caledonia, Fiji, New Zealand, Australia and India.
3.) The Allies will remain flexible, as the Evil Empire may conquer some of the Rear Perimeter Bases set forth. The Allies my not be in a position to re-take islands during the time frame set forth for Operation Foundation.
Rear Perimeter of Bases
The following bases will be built up (ports, airfields, and forts) and garrisoned to establish a rear perimeter:
India (Interior): Hyderabad(Sindh), Indore, Jalgaon, Bhopal, Cawnpore & Lucknow
Notes About Garrisons
1.) The tentative garrison for each Pacific Island base will consist of an Engineer (Base Force), Seabee, Coast AA, USMC Defense Battalion, FA Battalion, and USMC Battalion, PBY Catalina Squadron, and four submarines. Tahiti will be garrisoned with additional ground units.
2.) The garrison forces for the balance of the Rear Perimeter Bases listed will be stronger that the Pacific Island bases.
3.) India is tentatively scheduled to receive I Australia Corps and a minimum of five U.S. Army Infantry Divisions supplemented with tank and FA battalions, and more.
End Note
I invite all War College members to provide their comments, criticisms, and suggestions. Nothing is engraved in gold, including but limited too, garrison forces. Accordingly, Operation Foundation may be tweaked as reasonable and appropriate based on input from War College members.
Lastly, shortly after June 6, 1942, it is anticipated that the Allied perimeter will tighten it’s noose on the Evil Empire. For example, the Allies will attempt to secure a base on Baker Island, The Cook Islands, The Phoenix Islands, Ellice Islands, Samoan Islands, and Tonga Islands.
Regards,
-Terry
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
In my last game I found New Caledonia to not be tenable. I was able to put an obscene amount of AV on Fiji so that was never under threat. (And there wasn't any indication of pushes onto India or Aus.) With hindsight, I should have developed one of the dot bases next to Noumea, Isle of Pines, being a dot base, with a CD unit and some AV and mines, could be made too unpleasant to seize and a fantastic air base for when you are ready to recapture New Caledonia, should you lose it.
In my last game I found New Caledonia to not be tenable. I was able to put an obscene amount of AV on Fiji so that was never under threat. (And there wasn't any indication of pushes onto India or Aus.) With hindsight, I should have developed one of the dot bases next to Noumea, Isle of Pines, being a dot base, with a CD unit and some AV and mines, could be made too unpleasant to seize and a fantastic air base for when you are ready to recapture New Caledonia, should you lose it.
Welcome to The War College, BattleMoose-
It is difficult to predict with a fair amount of accuracy where Emperor El Lobo will strike and how far El Lobo will attempt to expand his empire. Accordingly, for now, at least the first 6 to 12 months, I plan to build from the outside inwards.
I do view New Caledonia as a tough place to attempt to build and hold during the first year or so. I will keep Isle of the Pines in mind. However, opportunity might present New Caledonia as an option. That will no doubt depend on how far El Lobo wishes to expand his empire.
Thank you for your comments. I appreciate your help.
Regards,
-Terry
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
Enemy task force catches troops trying to escape Hong Kong:
Night Time Surface Combat, near Hong Kong at 75,61, Range 8,000 Yards
Japanese Ships
CA Chokai
DD Fubuki
DD Usugumo
DD Sagiri
Allied Ships
xAKL Chengtu, Shell hits 9, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAKL Joan Moller, Shell hits 8, heavy fires, heavy damage
xAKL Kanchow, Shell hits 5, and is sunk
xAKL Soochow, Shell hits 5, heavy fires
xAKL Yat Shing, Shell hits 2
xAKL Halldor, Shell hits 10, and is sunk
Enemy ships catch MTBs trying to escape from Hong Kong:
Day Time Surface Combat, near Iba at 75,70, Range 20,000 Yards
Japanese Ships
DD Yugumo
DD Hokaze
Allied Ships
MTB 7
MTB 8, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
MTB 9
MTB 10
MTB 11
MTB 12
MTB 26
MTB 27, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
The Houston gets a little payback for the loss of the Boisie:
Night Time Surface Combat, near Dinagat at 82,87, Range 11,000 Yards
Japanese Ships
DD Suzukaze, Shell hits 1, on fire
xAKL Kakyu Maru, Shell hits 2, and is sunk
Allied Ships
CA Houston
Japanese ground losses:
289 casualties reported
Squads: 8 destroyed, 13 disabled
Non Combat: 3 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 4 (2 destroyed, 2 disabled)
Enemy air raid sinks HDMLs:
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Bengkalis at 48,82
Weather in hex: Overcast
Raid spotted at 17 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes
Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 22
D3A1 Val x 15
Japanese aircraft losses
D3A1 Val: 6 damaged
Allied Ships
HDML Panji, Bomb hits 1, and is sunk
HDML Panglima, Bomb hits 2, and is sunk
HDML Pennigat, Bomb hits 2, and is sunk
HDML Pahalwan, Bomb hits 1, and is sunk
Aircraft Attacking:
3 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000' *
Naval Attack: 2 x 60 kg GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000' *
Naval Attack: 2 x 60 kg GP Bomb
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 10000' *
Naval Attack: 2 x 60 kg GP Bomb
All in all a quiet day...What is El Lobo up too!?!?!?
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
Whereas, the Allies have sunk only two Japanese subs (1 SSX and 1 SS).
Remnants of the 1st Middlesex Bn. are on one xAKL and still fleeing from Hong Kong along with the Kowloon Bde.; 102nd RN BF; the Winnipeg Grenadiers Bn.; and the Rifles of Canada Bn. It is a long way to India for these troops!
Several U.S. West Coast supply and fuel convoys are out of harbors and heading for Sydney and Melbourne (approximately 200K each).
The good news is that the POW, Repulse, Danae, and 3 DDs appear to be escaping and are one hex West of Batavia. The Houston is 7 hexes directly West of Babeldaod.
The bad news is that I have no idea where the KB is lurking. This is a deep concern to the Allies considering so far the Evil Empire has only invaded Kota Bharu; Vigan; San Fernando; and Cayagan. Rest assured, El Lobo is up to something nasty!
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
There are so many poor TF compositions, bad destinations set, and weird air group placements and settings that it can take a few days to get things in order for Japan. It's actually not so important to start with a bang, but much better to be organized and know your priorities. Don't worry, he'll be coming for you soon. [:D]
"Success is the ability to go from one failure to another with no loss of enthusiasm." - Winston Churchill
Whereas, the Allies have sunk only two Japanese subs (1 SSX and 1 SS).
Remnants of the 1st Middlesex Bn. are on one xAKL and still fleeing from Hong Kong along with the Kowloon Bde.; 102nd RN BF; the Winnipeg Grenadiers Bn.; and the Rifles of Canada Bn. It is a long way to India for these troops!
Several U.S. West Coast supply and fuel convoys are out of harbors and heading for Sydney and Melbourne (approximately 200K each).
The good news is that the POW, Repulse, Danae, and 3 DDs appear to be escaping and are one hex West of Batavia. The Houston is 7 hexes directly West of Babeldaod.
The bad news is that I have no idea where the KB is lurking. This is a deep concern to the Allies considering so far the Evil Empire has only invaded Kota Bharu; Vigan; San Fernando; and Cayagan. Rest assured, El Lobo is up to something nasty!
I suck at sub warfare. It is September 1942 in my game and I have sunk less than 50 Japanese ships. No matter, I can catch up later ;]
I found that using two CVEs and a few DDs, specifically for ASW. The planes train for ASW and when a sub is spotted, send of a few DDs as a ASW TF. Worked an absolute treat, subs didn't last long where that small task force was at.
There are so many poor TF compositions, bad destinations set, and weird air group placements and settings that it can take a few days to get things in order for Japan. It's actually not so important to start with a bang, but much better to be organized and know your priorities. Don't worry, he'll be coming for you soon. [:D]
That is what I am hoping and using El Lobo's unorganized time to steam off to safer locals.
And yes, I suspect El Lobo has something big planned and that it will pop up pretty soon.
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
Whereas, the Allies have sunk only two Japanese subs (1 SSX and 1 SS).
Remnants of the 1st Middlesex Bn. are on one xAKL and still fleeing from Hong Kong along with the Kowloon Bde.; 102nd RN BF; the Winnipeg Grenadiers Bn.; and the Rifles of Canada Bn. It is a long way to India for these troops!
Several U.S. West Coast supply and fuel convoys are out of harbors and heading for Sydney and Melbourne (approximately 200K each).
The good news is that the POW, Repulse, Danae, and 3 DDs appear to be escaping and are one hex West of Batavia. The Houston is 7 hexes directly West of Babeldaod.
The bad news is that I have no idea where the KB is lurking. This is a deep concern to the Allies considering so far the Evil Empire has only invaded Kota Bharu; Vigan; San Fernando; and Cayagan. Rest assured, El Lobo is up to something nasty!
I suck at sub warfare. It is September 1942 in my game and I have sunk less than 50 Japanese ships. No matter, I can catch up later ;]
I don't expect to sink many of his ships for ages. And, I don't expect to take out many of his troops either. I hope I can at least shoot down some of his aircraft, even if he gets the better of that deal for a few months too.
"No one throws me my own guns and tells me to run. No one."
