LST vs. IdahoNYer (DBB-C, A AAR) 6 yrs and done! VJ Day!

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: Bif1961

The KB taught you to respect it, lesson learned.

Ain't that the truth!

I figured I had better planes and better AA and that would make a big difference. I've learned the hard way not to underestimate the strike synchronization capabilities of the IJN is still top notch!

AND although Allied AA is effective, with two day turns, ammo supplies are good for only one or two strikes max. Best defense remains fighter CAP, and I can't count on AA.

Looking forward to the "next time" now in a couple of months after the ships are repaired and refitted.....till then, L_S_T has regained the initiative!

[IdahoNYer]

30-31 Aug 43

Highlights – Pretty uneventful after the last turn! IJN CA TF raids Trinkat; KB location unknown while Victorious founders.

Jpn ships sunk:
CL: 1 (Jintsu - old)
PB: 1
AK: 1
xAK: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-106)

Allied ships sunk:
CV: 1 (Victorious)
AMC: 1 (Hector)
AVD: 1
LSI (L): 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 78
Allied: 29

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Likiep (CENPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: Reasonably sure the KB has withdrawn back up the Malacca Straits.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, three Allied Bdes are held at Kokoda with minimal loss to both sides. Troops are fairly exhausted so there is little chance to continue the attack for a while - nor prevent the IJA’s 38th Div from pulling back to Salamaua. BB Wash TF still heading toward Salamaua, and should bombard next turn. The airlift continues into Wau as some transports shift to supplies.

In SWPAC, main body of Allied troops from Broome arrive at Derby and will launch their first attack next turn, heavily supported by LBA. Transports begin loading troops at Wyndham for Terapo.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, heavies continue to hit the escaping “Akayb force”. Still hesitating to attack on the ground…maybe next turn. Estimated 3-5 IJA divisions remain in the hex…which I need to take to effectively link up with Ramree.

In the IO, the two transports (actually LSI(L) and AMC) are duly sunk by the IJN off Trinkat, but not before disembarking most of a US BF which will allow full air operations at the base. An expensive, but worthwhile trade off. While I expected the ships to be sunk, I expected it to be the work of the KB, which instead has vanished - Most likely pulled back up the Straits of Malacca to re-equip a/c. Spruance’s banged up fleet continues to move away from Sumatra at speed, and the only casualty from the high speed run was the CV Victorious. Guess that saves me from trying to figure out how to repair her enough to withdraw her in the next 40 or so days! Other CVs, barring an unfortunate sub encounter, should make port. Still heading toward Diego Garcia where I hope to reorganize ships a bit - some will head to Aden and Cape Town for repair, while others back to Colombo. I also need to organize the naval air squadrons which are all over the IO; squadrons from the crippled CVs landing in multiple locations. Will take a bit to sort out. Lastly, Jpn Nettys, likely hunting for cripples, made a rare daylight appearance over Port Blair and were mauled by effective CAP.

[IdahoNYer]

Aug 43 Summary

Well, it was a very good month until the last two days. The Battle of Sabang changed all that. With that one battle, the IJN once again has taken the initiative in the IO. Still, gains were made across the Pacific: Broome in SOPAC, Magwe in Burma, and Eniwetok in CENPAC. The setback in the IO will limit any gains there until the carriers can be patched up, but offensive operations will continue in other Theaters. The primary goal for Sep will shift to clearing out the last Jpn position in OZ at Derby and then starting the campaign into the islands in the Timor Sea while maintaining heavy pressure in Burma. Naval losses for the month were heavily in the IJN’s favor with the IJN only losing 6SS compared to the Allies losing 1CV, 2CA, 2DD, 2 SS and a PT - as well as all but CVs Yorktown and Hornet requiring some yard time to repair damages from either subs (Essex, Lex and Sara) or naval air (Wasp, Enterprise, Long Island II, Independence). In the air, the Battle of Sabang was expensive in airframes for both sides; yet it was a fairly good month for the Allied Cause, 1471 for Jpn to 902 Allied. I just have my fingers crossed that Jpn cost in pilots was severe.

INTEL: Well, at least I know where the KB is, right?? The question is, will it remain in the IO now that the Allied CV threat is diminished for a couple of weeks or months and if it remains, will it remain in a defensive posture to counter Allied moves or will it now be embolden to raid?? Elsewhere, the BB Musashi group with CVEs in support is likely still operating to counter the Timor Sea area, but other than that TF, no IJN warship is believed to be in other Theaters. Airpower is similarly based with the preponderance of both IJA and IJN air focused in Burma/IO Theaters and then a much smaller contingent against SWPAC and SOPAC - enough to be a threat, but not in anywhere near the numbers deployed in the Burma/IO Theaters. I expect this air deployment to continue, but I’m not sure L_S_T will keep the KB in the vicinity of the Malacca Straits without the Allied CVs to counter.

SUBWAR: Continued lack of success for Allied boats while the IJN subs have had good results despite heavy Allied ASW counter in the IO. The cost has been stiff, but IJN subs remain a significant threat when they appear. Hopefully Allied subs can catch a target or two if the IJN comes back out to sea.

West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: Fighter production rises to 502 in Sep with some minor additions such as the Brit Spitfire, the US P-51A and Canadian Kittyhawk IV. Nothing that will tilt the scales. The big gain will be with bombers as the B-24J goes into production, which is needed to keep the HB Groups up to strength - and finally perhaps replace the aging B-17s. The US A-20G also comes into service which will help out the overtaxed B-25 production. Allied Pilot pools are in fair shape, although the US Navy pools are minimal - not necessarily from the Sabang fight, but more so from the continued influx of US CV/CVL/CVE air groups as reinforcements with pilots only moderately trained - most stateside “training squadrons” are maxed out with pilots with experience in the high 50s to 60s, so the shortage will be fixed in a few months…baring another Sabang like debacle.

NOPAC. NSTR.

CENPAC. Steady progress in the Marshalls with Eniwetok and Wotje taken without any problems. Kwajelein and Kusaie Island are next on the list, and perhaps mop up landings on remaining outposts that have been abandoned. Nothing strategic being gained here, but the amphib operations do provide experience, and the Theater as a whole has become a great place for naval pilots to gain experience with minimal threat.

SOPAC. Continued advancement here, but it does appear that I’ve reached L_S_T’s defense line (vs delay line) in both New Guinea and Kavieng on New Ireland. Heavy troop concentrations have been encountered, but they are supported by minimal air commitment and no naval force. Sep will see Kavieng envested and a slow grind continued on New Guinea. Will likely not see a major landing in this Theater until October when will look to Manus and Umboi Island areas. Will use Sep to better define the IJA defensive belt and continue to grind in New Guinea, unless of course an opportunity presents itself.

SWPAC/WAUS. A good month with Broome being taken and the main enemy sea and air base at Koepang being neutralized from the air. This has forced the IJN back to an unknown location - perhaps Ambon or Kendari perhaps? The IJN threat remains with the BB Musashi TF still active, and is likely she will sortie when the Allies land in the Timor Sea, which is on target for Sep. Will need to build up LBA a bit, and gather Amphib assault shipping, but should be able to conduct a landing at Saumlaki to gain a foothold and springboard LBA forward. That first landing will be the challenge.

China. Continued IJA progress. Chungking is now surrounded, but is holding so far. Major Allied focus now is to pull troops not encircled in Chungking out of harm’s way while the IJA focuses on Chungking. So far, so good in that effort with a good dozen Chinese Corps being pulled from positions SE of Chungking to the SW, while still holding a line in and around Changsa. Goal is to keep a force in the field in the hopes of opening up a supply route to Burma.

Burma. The Ramree landings were probably a week too late - the IJA’s “Akyab Force”, estimated to be two infantry and two tank divisions plus a healthy amount of supporting artillery, looks to have slipped the noose. That said, Central Burma has been cleared, and a drive started to Lashio and on to Paoshan in China, opening up the supply route. That will be the focus for Sep, including dislodging the IJA force near Ramree. Air forces will focus assisting the land campaign until that linkup is completed, then begin reducing Rangoon and other IJA air bastions.

IO. Finally had the chance to grapple with the KB, and muffed it. Fortunately….it could have been worse. US CVs now need repair, and unfortunately it is the month PRIOR to a scheduled major refit in Oct, so that will likely be tacked on to the CVs down time. Focus will be to sustain the current gains, and reposition troops after the Trinkat landings. Sabang is on hold unless the KB is confirmed out of Theater, which I don’t think is likely. CVs airgroups need to be sorted out as well. At least half the CVs need to go off map for repairs, which again, will take time. Will leave a “fleet in being” of a few CVs and the surface force in the IO which can take advantage should the KB depart, and also support any troop movements.

[IdahoNYer]

1-2 Sep 43

Highlights – IJA repulsed with staggering losses at Chungking.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-156)
xAK: 1
PB: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 1 (I-21)

Allied ships sunk:
SS: 1 (Flying Fish - succumbs from previous air attack off Japan)

Air loss:
Jpn: 33
Allied: 19

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attacks, 1 ship hit (PB dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: Air Search sites warships and CVEs at Ambon - likely BB Musashi group.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, BB Wash TF bombards Salamaua with reasonable effect while Corsairs sweep downing 12 Oscars for no loss. The Oscars however were trolling over Wau hunting transports, and despite LRCAP out of Moresby, downed a pair of C-47s. 37th ID picked up by transports at Buna, and will head to Lunga to rest and prepare for their next landing. Will increase LRCAP and execute some sweeps over Wau next turn as supplies need to be built up. Ground troops will attack again at Kokoda next turn as well, although I don’t expect much success.

In SWPAC, ground attacks begin at Derby, with the attacks grinding down the fortifications from level 4 to 2 while suffering about 500 casualties vs about 1200 IJA. Will continue to attack next turn. Whats left of the IJA force from Port Hedland has finally reached the Broome-Derby road, just as a reinforcing Aussie Bde does which will attack it next turn. Meanwhile, bombers continue to “recon by bombing” the islands in the Timor Sea - most seem to be occupied by about a 2-3000 man force - with the BB Musashi TF and accompanying CVE TF apparently at Ambon, within easy striking distance of an Allied landing. Bombers will mine Ambon and see if the IJN TFs remain there. With most available assault shipping moving a Bde from Wyndham to Terapo, there is still time to develop the situation to deal with Musashi - one possibility is to bring BB Washington TF from SOPAC, but I’m not looking forward to a surface engagement; I’d rather neutralize the threat with LBA if possible.

In China, the IJA launches an all-out deliberate attack on Chungking, and as he described in the “This game is BORKED thread”, L_S_T lost heavily with 57k men lost including 1100+ squads and 490 engineers destroyed. Chinese losses were under 3k. That should buy the Chungking defenders some more time.

In Burma, no changes as heavies continue to hit the escaping “Akayb force”. Allied troops are poised to attack this force, but after what happened at Chungking to the IJA I’m holding off a turn (at least).

In the IO, it was quiet. No sign of the KB as the US carriers return to cruising speed as they head toward Diego Garcia. After crossleveling fuel, CV Enterprise with escorts is detached to move at best speed to Cape Town. CV Long Island II is likewise detached, and will also head to Cape Town albeit at a slower speed than the Big E. Remaining ships will continue towards Diego and will refuel enroute from AOs. IJN subs meanwhile look to be assembling near Ceylon looking for wounded prey. Allied ASW a/c hit three, and four ASW TFs will put to sea to remove the threat.

[jwolf]

I would imagine you don't want any remotely fair fight between Washington and Musashi. Need to tip the scales somehow. Although -- true confessions -- in my AI game my first encounter with either of the two big Jap BBs was a CA force against the Yamato and friends. When the combat animation started, I thought "say, that Jap ship in the center is really big" and then when the shelling started, "Oh Sh** it's the Yamato!" Incredibly, my ships got the jump on the enemy with an 8" shell knocking out one of the big guns, and eventually the Yamato eating 2 fish. But I must have been amazingly lucky.

As you know, L_S_T was very unhappy about that result at Chungking. Do you have any idea why the battle came out so absurdly one-sided? I mean, was this the result of a super lucky die roll, or is something else going on?

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: jwolf


As you know, L_S_T was very unhappy about that result at Chungking. Do you have any idea why the battle came out so absurdly one-sided? I mean, was this the result of a super lucky die roll, or is something else going on?

Absolutely no idea jwolf - nothing I can take credit for, that's for sure!!! Haven't touched the troops in Chungking, not even swapped out leadership in a long, long while.

My guess....either IJA overstacking and/or just a bad die roll.

Either way, I'm just thankful for the outcome...will prolong the agony. But the end will likely be the same....

[IdahoNYer]

3-4 Sep 43

Game keeps chugging along, although a tad slower pace recently due to life getting in the way....

Highlights – Derby taken; P-38s take the worst from CAP in western NG

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-179)
xAKL: 1
PB: 1
AMc: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
CS: 1 (Chitose)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 28
Allied: 40

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 5 Attacks, 2 ship hit (AMc sunk, PB dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Derby (SWPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: IJN Warships still concentrated at Ambon

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, the US 24th (Sep) IN Reg continues to push the IJA forces on New Ireland towards Kavieng, inflicting 1600 casualties for 50 received. While the intent was to push to take Kavieng, L_S_T looks to have really pushed reinforcements into Kavieng - recon reporting upwards of 30k men and B-24s are getting plenty of Flak on bombing runs. Not sure if I want to get two divisions bogged down in laying siege here for months. So, I’m reconsidering. May bypass instead. Meanwhile, the 37th ID begins offloading at Lunga to prep for their next landing. Manus also looks to have been reinforced as well, and is still the primary airbase with plenty of fighters reported. So, will look to feel out L_S_T’s defenses a bit before I make the next major landing.

In SWPAC, Derby falls in the first attack, with minimal (couple hundred) casualties to both sides. Allied troops need some rest, so will wait until two Aussie Bdes arrive from advancing from Broome, having just wiped out the last 1100 troops that had pulled back overland from Port Hedland. P-38s swept Kaimana, on the western end of Dutch New Guinea, and get a warm welcome from the 30+ Zeros on CAP, losing 13 to 11, likely due to the 12hex range. With the IJN concentrated at Ambon, I’m in no rush to venture out into the Timor Sea, especially with the BB Musashi around. Will counter the IJN threat when the time comes with subs, LBA and plenty of DDs and PTs. I thought about bringing BB Washington TF in from SOPAC, but I’m not willing to trade BBs. In any surface engagement, I figure to get the worst of it with the IJN experience making the difference.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, Heavies continue to pound the “Akyab Force”, but they are starting to get worn. So I’ve decided its time to launch the ground attack - which I’m worried could be an Allied version of L_S_T’s Chungking venture last turn. I figure it will be bloody, but the Allied troops are as fresh as they are going to get, and well supplied, so conditions aren’t going to get much better.

In the IO, the focus was on sub hunting. At least 3, maybe 4 subs were hit by either ASW TFs or ASW devoted a/c. Still a number of IJN subs need to be dealt with around Ceylon before I can think of moving the Essex to Columbo. Will continue to hung subs, and start to look to resupply and shift troops around the Andamans. At sea, the CVs continue to head toward Diego Garcia and/or Cape Town and Spruance takes on fuel from three AOs. So far the patchwork repairs are holding.

[Dirtnap86]

Correct me if I'm wrong but doesn't Washington come on map with Ching Lee at the helm? He's one of the better commanders for the USN.

[IdahoNYer]

Dirtnap - Adm Willis "Ching" Lee is a TF commander - he's got one of my CA TFs off Australia right now.

[IdahoNYer]

5-6 Sep 43

Highlights – “Akyab Force” has successfully pulled south

Jpn ships sunk:
CV: 1 (Hiyo - back on the list!)
CM: 1 (Tsugaru)
PB: 2
SS: 2 ((I-21, RO-36)

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 1 (I-166)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 52
Allied: 41

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 2 ship hit (CM (Tsugaru) hit by two subs and sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, US CA TF (2CA, CL, DDs) sink two PBs off Kusaie Island then bombards with minimal effects. LBA continues to hit both Kusaie and Kwaj as transports continue to gather at Tabit for the upcoming landings.

In SOPAC, fairly quiet. I have decided to abandon the upcoming “siege” of Kavieng. 1st MAR Div and support will hold just short as a threat, but the 36th ID will turn about and move to other taskings - likely Umboi Island will be the next focus, as I need that to continue along the north coast of New Guinea. In the meantime, its time to sort out the invasion shipping, and concentrate it at Tulagi. Between the Buna operation and Buka/Nam, amphib ships are all over the Theater. 3xAPAs will also detach to CENPAC to support Kusaie landings. In the air, will focus on resting the bombers for a bit.

In SWPAC, B-25s wonder over Koepang and get smacked by Zeros, presumably from the CVEs. 8 B-25s lost. But it does look like there is shipping at Koepang, so will sweep with P-47s out of Truscott and see if LBA can hit some ships. On the ground, IJA troops at Derby are bombarded as additional Aussie Bdes move in. Bombers largely rest.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, ground troops attack the “Akyab Force” and get 1-2 odds with each side taking about 1500 casualties. At the end of the two days though, the “Akyab Force” has moved south, only two small units remain. I’m not surprised, and only a bit disappointed the catch got away. I need the corridor to Ramree more, and now it looks like it won’t be a bitter fight to open the corridor up. Now will spend time resting the bombers and reorganizing the ground force a bit. The bottom line is that the Ramree landings were about a week or two late. It was close, but not close enough. L_S_T still has a very powerful ground force in Burma - although that is now focused on holding Rangoon and not Magwe.

In the IO, apparently the sub hunting has done well as no subs were identified near Ceylon for the first time in a while. Will continue to concentrate on the subs as I want to move Essex from Madras to Columbo. With no sign of the KB (fingers crossed), the support convoy will move to Trinkat to drop off engineers and hopefully pull off some excess combat troops. A CA TF will provide cover. Further out to sea, the CV Enterprise TF exits the map for Cape Town, with the CV Long Island II limping along the same path. Remaining CVs with Spruance take on fuel and are still enroute to Diego Garcia.

[IdahoNYer]

7-8 Sep 43

Highlights – CL Kenya sunk by sub enroute to Bombay from Ceylon

Jpn ships sunk:
AKV: 1
AK: 1
AM: 1

Allied ships sunk:
CL: 1 (Kenya)

Air loss:
Jpn: 50
Allied: 15

Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (CL Kenya sunk)
Allies: 7 Attacks, 5 ships hit (AKV, AK sunk; AK, TK dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Kokoda (SOPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: IJN TFs that were at Ambon look to be moving toward Kendari - perhaps basing further to the rear?

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, still fairly quiet. Kokoda falls as the main IJA forces pull toward Salamaua while the Allied troops successfully attack the rear guard taking the base and one Bde “pursuing”. Will continue to follow up the IJA withdrawal with a mixed US-NZ division sized force to keep pressure on. Air forces rest and naval forces regroup and consolidate amphib assets at Tulagi.

In SWPAC, a Bde from 40th ID begins loading at Gove for the Babar Amphib, which, even if the IJN has pulled back to Kendari, may be a dicey affair. Intel shows about 2500 men on Babar, a little less than the other surrounding islands at the juncture of the Banda and Timor Seas. Air forces largely rest in preparation to support the landings.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, with the “Akyab Force” moved south, the Allied force that had been “pursuing” starts to re-configure. The two US divisions, plus some support will follow the IJA NW of Prome, with the bulk of the British troops will move east into the Burma Plains area where the majority will swing toward Rangoon once across the Irrawaddy River. This will take some reorganizations and I hope to establish actual corps attacking along parallel routes. Will see how that goes…Also, 1-2 divisions will head east through Mandalay to open the route to Paoshan, to be assisted by the Chinese attacking west - which is slowly getting underway with an increased supply airlift to the Chinese forces around Paoshan. In the air, bombers rest and fighters begin redeploying to Ramree in preparation for concentrated sweeps over Rangoon. Bomber squadrons have also started to slowly receive the B-24j model - priority to receive the B-24j is Burma, releasing the B-24D1s to other theaters. Even with 65 B-24js a month, it will take a while to outfit the newly arrived 308th Bomb Group and re-equip the remaining Heavies in Theater.

In the IO, while the sub hunting effort around Ceylon managed to kill some subs, apparently a few others moved astride the shipping route to Bombay where the I-5 put two torps into the CL Kenya off Mangalore sending the slightly damaged (was enroute to Bombay for repairs) to the bottom, and the offending sub wasn’t scratched by the escorting DDs. Not good. Will refocus some ASW a/c to cover the Indian coast and widen the DDs patrol areas. At Trinkat, transports land engineers and begin loading elements of the 7th ID - so far without interference. Further out at sea, CV Long Island II TF exits the map to Cape Town. Spruance’s remaining ships take on fuel, and the CV Wasp, Saratoga and CVL Independence head off map after flying off some SBDs and F4Fs - flight ops now manageable after successful damage repair efforts, so no need to deposit a/c at Diego Garcia. This will leave CVs Hornet and Yorktown (along with CV Lexington after a few more weeks of repair) operational in the IO and they will head to Colombo, hopefully avoiding any lurking subs. Near turn focus is to continue to pull excess troops off the Andamans (including Trinkat), keep those bases expanding and well supplied, and begin to move the CV Essex to continue repairs. That last one will likely be the toughest challenge - assuming the KB doesn’t come out to disrupt things further.

[jwolf]

Arrgh, hate those Jap subs.

[IdahoNYer]

9-10 Sep 43

Highlights – CAP does well over Ramree; IJN w/KB strike at Trinkat

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1
AK: 1

Jpn ships unsunk:
SS: 1 (I-179)

Allied ships sunk:
CL: 1 (Achilles)
DE: 1 (Starling)
AK: 2
YMS: 1
PT: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 165
Allied: 74

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 6 Attacks, 1 ship hit (AK dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: Well, the IJN is still focused in the IO, as is the KB.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, final preparations continue for the Kusaie Amphib - two more APAs enroute to Tabit should arrive next turn to complete assault shipping requirements. CA TF (2CA, CL) bombards Kwaj while airpower continues to soften up both Kwaj and Kusaie. CA TF will head to bombard Kusaie next turn and airpower will begin focusing on Kusaie after a brief rest. With the KB identified (the hard way) in the IO, I don’t expect any IJN surprises with the Kusaie landings.

In SOPAC, lots of reorganization still underway as preparations continue for Umboi Island. Prior to that landing, an attempt will be made to take New Hannover, just off of Kavieng with a small force of two USMC Raider Bns. It is reportedly lightly defended. If successful, that will allow single engine fighters to range Manus - and also hopefully focus L_S_T’s attention away from the major landing at Umboi in the coming days. Airpower largely rests in preparation to providing LRCAP and ground support for the New Hannover landings, with the exception of a couple of B-25 squadrons on barge busting - which do well, sinking 12 barges off both Kavieng and Rabaul.

In SWPAC, the 40th ID Bde completes loading at Gove, but still needs to wait for support and supply to load on other ships. This Amphib TF will take a route to Babar along the same lines as current shipping to Darwin, then break off for the run to Babar. This will hopefully allow troops to offload and ships to clear the landing site before the IJN reacts - which I’m assuming will be a heavy response as the BB Musashi TF with CVE TF is back at Ambon. This is going to be a risky landing, but I don’t see the situation improving any time soon.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, it was quite hectic over Ramree. While I was slowly preparing to launch sweeps over Rangoon in the coming days, L_S_T got the jump on my by launching sweeps of his own over Ramree. Tojo IIcs conduct 10 sweeps over two days were met by the four squadrons (P-47, F6F, F4U and Hurri) all set at about 30% CAP. The CAP did surprisingly well considering this was a surprise - 88 Tojos downed in exchange for 9 Hurri, 15 F6F, 10 F4U and 6 P-47 with few pilot loses all things considered. The Tojos came out of Rangoon, so I’m counting on Rangoon’s available CAP will now be a tad weaker, and I’m advancing my planned sweeps to next turn. Fresh P-38, P-47, F6F squadrons and available F4U squadrons will sweep in support of a B-24 Bomber Group. Will some luck, we can catch some damaged planes on the ground and do well in the air. I was planning to wait until the 308th BG is transitioned to the B-24J before launching against Rangoon, but with 80+ Tojos not available, there is opportunity here. Elsewhere, one of the “Akyab Force” Tank Divisions has made it past Rangoon to appear near Taung Gyi - much quicker than the Indian Divisions I have moving in that direction - so once again, L_S_T has the ability to gain the initiative and conduct at least a solid spoiling attack before my lumbering ground forces can reposition. This could be bloody before it gets better.

In the IO, the IJN Battle Line and the KB come out to interfere with the transport operation going on at Trinkat. Well….once again I find the KB the hard way. And once again….it could have been worse, much worse. As it was, Allied transport operations were at least somewhat completed before the blow hit. Action started with Jpn LBA - Lilys escorted by Oscars and Zeros out of Victoria Point attacking shipping off Trinkat. The two CAP fighter squadrons, Spit and P-39N1 do fairly well all things considered, but there weren’t enough to get through the 80+ escorts. Lilys hit two CAs, an APA and an AKA causing some damage, but nothing critical with their 100kg bombs. Then the KB air comes in with two strikes - again the CAP does OK, but not enough to effectively get through the 80+ Zero escort. In the first attack, only the CL Achilles is hit by two bombs and a torp from the 25 Judys and 51 Jills. Thought I’d get lucky, but no joy! Afternoon Lily attacks hit nothing, but then the KB brings its “A” Game and sinks the CL Achilles with 4 more bomb hits, two small AKs, a DE and a YMS. I’m guessing the primary TFs with the APAs picking up the first element of the 7th ID had already departed to Colombo before these afternoon strikes, otherwise it would have been very messy. Tally in the air was 26 Zeros, 12 Lilys, 5 Oscar, 4 Jills and a Judy in exchange for 4 Spits and 9 P-39N1s. The second day starts with Allied LBA hitting Victoria Point at night with good effect, destroying 8 Lilys and 7 fighters on the AF. Then the IJN BB bombardment TF (2BB, 4CA, CL, 14DD) easily brushes aside the 6PTs that were there to cover the transports, but the IJN surface force doesn’t engage either the CA TF covering, or the transports. Apparently, the shipping cleared! In any case, the bombardment only destroyed a P-39N1 and a Spitfire and failed to close the AF. While not an inexpensive sortie, the Allied transports did pull out 1/3 of the 7th ID and bring in needed engineers and supplies at the cost of a CL, DE and 2 small AKs. I got lucky by having the shipping clear. Was also an expensive, but effective way to determine that the IJN is still heavily invested in the IO area - and not perhaps redeployed to other theaters.

[BBfanboy]

Despite your ship losses I'd say the day went badly for him in the IO. He lost a lot of planes over territory you control so his pilot losses will be up there too. KB takes an experience hit every time they lose a few high Exp. pilots.

If he has shown a pattern of using the same hexes for strikes on more than one occasion, it might be worthwhile to stake some subs on his favorite parking spots!

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

If he has shown a pattern of using the same hexes for strikes on more than one occasion, it might be worthwhile to stake some subs on his favorite parking spots!

Yup...have plenty of subs in his likely routes out of the Straits of Malacca into the Andaman Sea. Of course, L_S_T has excelled in training his a/c ASW capabilities! Still...the subs could get lucky!

[IdahoNYer]

11-12 Sep 43

Highlights – KB at Ambon! Busy day over Rangoon.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-179)
PB: 2
AK: 1
xAKL: 5

Allied ships sunk
SS: 1 (Bowfin - succumbs to damage from previous bomb hit)
PT: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 95
Allied: 84

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 6 Attacks, 3 ship hit (2 PB, xAKL dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: Mmmm…KB main body sighted at Ambon! Big IJN concentration at Ambon confirmed by multiple air search contacts. BB TF, CVE TF, CV TF and ASW TFs sighted. So, perhaps the IJN sortie against Trinkat was a “demonstration” to get me to thing the entire IJN was still focused in the IO so the real IJN concentration could destroy any Allied landing attempt in the Banda Sea??? If this was true, why put the fleet at Ambon, well within range of air search? Or could it be there to stage for a major raid on Darwin and other major Allied shipping hubs along the OZ coast? Either way, it effectively gives me pause to continue any offensive operations in the Banda Sea area - BUT - it may provide opportunities again in the IO.


West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Troops load for the Kusaie Amphib at Tabit. Entire 25th ID begins loading plus support troops, so a major Amphib operation against the estimated well dug in 10K troops on Kusaie. Naval support the usual suspects of a CA TF and CVE TF to provide cover from possible, but not likely, IJN intervention. With the KB confirmed not anywhere close, perhaps some nuisance air from Ponape, but little else is expected. TFs will take at least a turn to load, then next turn will move to stage vicinity of the southern Marshalls to link up with other TFs before heading to target. Air continues to soften up, and the CA TF (2CA, CL, DDs) just completed a fairly effective bombardment (228 casualties).

In SOPAC, Allied assault shipping and BB TF arrives at Vella La Vella and next turn will begin loading Raiders for the New Hannover landing. As with CENPAC, with the KB confirmed away, the major threat to offensive operations is much less, but unlike CENPAC, I do expect a major counter air effort out of Manus. And without CVEs in support, LBA will provide LRCAP. Manus is just beyond effective single engine fighter cover, and I don’t have the depth of P-38s to sweep only with them. Meanwhile, Allied LBA mediums continue to shoot up barges transiting the Bismarck Sea - about 20 are reported sunk near Rabaul/Kavieng areas. Near Wewak, on the north New Guinea coast, four xAKLs are also sunk by mediums out of SWPAC. So far L_S_T has been hesitant to provide fighter cover, but I figure the mediums will blunder into a CAP trap at some point.

In SWPAC, with the bulk of the IJN now reported at Ambon, all offensive operations are brought to a screeching halt. The fully prepped 40th ID Bde is loaded on transports at Gove, and will hold there for a while. Some shipping is cleared from Darwin, although this port is still packed and numerous coastal convoys are still in the area. 140 fighters are postured for CAP at Darwin, and another 60 or so at nearby Bathurst. A CA TF (2CA, 3CL, DDs) plus a couple of DD and PT TFs at Darwin to contest any IJN surface TF that ventures in - but also will provide a nice target if the KB comes in range. That of course is the big concern right now - will L_S_T conduct a major raid? Northwest OZ is a “target rich environment”, and the KB can provide overwhelming force anywhere L_S_T chooses - it could be expensive perhaps to the IJN air arm, but planes will get through to hit targets. I do not have enough fighters to effectively cover all potential targets, let alone try and provide effective fighter escort for any Allied strike aircraft. Subs are plentiful in the Banda Sea, but so far my luck on a sub penetrating the KB DD screen and putting a torp into a CV is pretty much nil. So, for now, will wait and see what L_S_T’s intentions are here.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, another big furball over the Burma skies - this time over Rangoon with Allied fighters sweeping, and one group of Heavies hitting the airfield. As expected, good fighter CAP was present - 52 Tojos and 36 George, were there at start as the sweeps came in - fortunately prior the bombers. Sweeps gradually wore down the CAP, and both sides took loses. Some CAP was still up to face the bombers, but was heavily worn down and fatigued. By the end of the two days, 24 separate air combats took place over Rangoon. The two day tallies: 38 Tojos, 22 George, 11 Nick (incl ground loss) against 16 F6F, 9 P-47, 17 P-38 and 7 B-24s. Was pretty much what I expected. Bombing results were fairly poor - only 5 a/c destroyed on the ground. Still, enemy fighter strength now estimated at less than 40, and Allied fighters and bombers will return next turn - standing down tired squadrons with fresh, although numbers will be less (no P-38s), the fresh crews should outmatch the hopefully well fatigued Jpn pilots. P-47s is proving to be the BEST fighter in the arsenal by a wide margin. While still good, the P-38 is still really limited by a lack of sufficient production and its service rating. Was expecting better from the F6F - while superior to the Zeros encountered, it just barely seems to hold its own against the IJA fighters.

In the IO, while the naval TFs withdraw, the Jpn LBA makes a strong appearance over Trinkat. Multiple sweeps with Oscar IVs and Zeros gradually overwhelm the Spit and P-39N1 squadrons on CAP. 3 Spits and 7 P-39s are lost in exchange for 10 Jpn fighters. One squadron of Zeros strafe the PTs at Trinkat, sinking one, but no other targets are present. Will swap out CAP, but I’m limiting fighters in the Andamans for the moment - focus is in Burma. At sea, CVs Yorktown and Hornet should arrive at Colombo next turn. With CV America in port, as well as two CVLs and some CVEs - plus CV Lexington finishing out repairs, I may venture back out to see before the months end if the KB stays split - that’s the key of course, confirming that the majority of the KB is still in the Banda Sea area. Enterprise TF will arrive at Cape Town next turn and begin repairs - although relatively lightly damaged (9/8(8)/0), repairing the flotation damage and transit time, will keep her out of any September action in the IO - and then in October, all the Yorktown class are due a major refit/upgrade. So, any action in the IO needs to be sooner rather than later - otherwise its going to be way later, after refits and repairs to the more damaged CVs (Long Island II, Wasp, Independence, Sara). Essex (12/59(59)/1(1)) is still at Madras working on system damage. She’ll move to Colombo when the Lexington (7/6(6)/0) completes repairs, or puts to sea out of Colombo. Essex needs major repair, and she’ll eventually head to the US East Coast as I don’t want to tie up Colombo’s facilities with her for an extended time, but I’d like to get her under 50 major float before she sails for Aden and the US East Coast. Repair yards will remain busy for a while after the drubbing in the IO last month!

[IdahoNYer]

13-14 Sep 43

Highlights – Another busy day over Rangoon

Jpn ships sunk:
xAK: 2
xAKL: 2
ACM: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 86
Allied: 47

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 7 Attacks, 3 ship hit (xAK, 2 xAKL dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Feni Is (SOPAC - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: KB still appears to be split, larger half at Ambon, other half in George Town in the Straits of Malacca.

West Coast/Admin: With the battered US CVs now entering ports, SBD-5s are in short supply. I had been trying to swap out all the SBD-3s for SBD-5s in all the CVs just before the battering off Sabang, and with the losses there, pools have been drained before all losses are made good. And I’m very, very reluctant to have “The Beast” enter widespread service.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Troops complete loading at Tabit, and the Amphib TF will head toward Kusaie next turn. Should arrive in 3 days. CVE TF will depart Namorik, link up with the CA TF out of Roi, and sortie NW of Kusaie to perhaps catch some reported shipping at Ponape before moving to Kusaie to provide CAP. LBA will continue to pound ground targets at Kusaie.

In SOPAC, New Hannover landing operations start with transports loading the USMC raiders at Vella, and will then move to Nam along with the BB Wash TF and enough assault shipping to lift the US 33rd Div at Nam back to Vella. This should provide a “BIG” signature for L_S_T to ponder where this force is going next. Meanwhile, both a DD TF (4DD) and PTs will sortie to disrupt any barge shipping SE of Manus - as bombers continue to disrupt any shipping in the Bismarck Sea. Heavies rest before beginning a softening up of New Hannover.

In SWPAC, there was little activity as the IJN stayed put at Ambon. US Heavies hit Ambon Port at night, putting 3 bombs on an AV. Local shipping off the coast of OZ continues without incident. Babar Amph continues to ride at anchor fully loaded at Gove. In New Guinea, IJA troops reach Wau, defended by 5 lightly armed infantry/para battalions, all airlifted in, supported by level 4 forts. Not sure what troops have entered the hex, but I’m sure we’ll find out shortly. Lastly, air search has spotted what appears to be a small convoy heading into Koepang - will sweep with fighters out of Truscott and hopefully strike a/c can hit some large transports next turn.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, a reduced Allied sweeping effort over Rangoon meets two Zero (b and c varieties) Sentais on CAP. P-47s, F4Us and F6Fs do well, all told air to air losses 59 Jpn a/c vs. 19 US. The one committed bomb group loses 3 planes to AA fire which is still pretty heavy, and only 6 planes are destroyed on the ground. Still a good effort, and a reported only 23 planes remain at Rangoon. Will sweep only next turn with P-47s and F6Fs as all others need rest. Bombers also need rest and need to stand down for rest and some repairs - and the 308th BG is still a couple of weeks away from employment with the B-24J. On the ground, troops continue to redeploy from the Ramree area to the Central Plain.

In the IO, the CVs begin to reach port. Yorktown and Hornet arrive at Colombo along with the bulk of the fleet as well as the fleet train to begin light repairs. I’m in no rush to put to sea until I can get Lexington ready - and the dock workers report another 20 days before she’s fully repaired. I may go with less, but with aircraft replacement challenges, a sortie is likely at least a week away. A small transport resupply TF will load up at Colombo and depart to Port Blair shortly as a test of the waters so to speak. Lastly, CV Enterprise TF arrives at Cape Town and will begin repairs - an estimated 11 days to fully repaired, and BB Indiana will begin its refit/upgrade. Saratoga and Long Island II are still enroute to Cape Town while CV Wasp and CVL Independence just arrived at Mombasa enroute to Aden.

[jwolf]

Glad to see your banged up fleet has (mostly) made it to safe ports for repairs. And the air progress vs. Rangoon looks encouraging, although there are 2 other really good airfields right next door at Pegu and Moulmein. It will be hard to shut them all down.

[IdahoNYer]

15-16 Sep 43

Highlights – No CAP over Rangoon; IJN convoy hit by LBA off Koepang-Roti

Jpn ships sunk:
xAP: 1
AK: 2

Allied ships sunk:
PT: 2

Air loss:
Jpn: 30
Allied: 25

Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: IJN CV TF (not the KB), observed by search planes at sea in the Straits of Malacca. IJN coming out in force for another Trinkat bombardment?

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, a lone IJN sub makes an appearance off Attu. Haven’t seen a sub up in these parts in a long wihile - DDs head out on ASW patrol and of course the IJN sub takes a shot, but misses. So do the DDs. The pursuit will continue, supported by ancient B-18s in the ASW role.

In CENPAC, CVE TF (BB, 3CVE, DDs) moves past Kusaie to launch a single strike at a small convoy at Ponape. One torp finds an xAK. Will send a DD TF next turn to see what they can find at Ponape - hopefully not a minefield. Remainder of CVE TF, will head to Kusaie to support landings, which will start next turn with the both the CA TF bombarding and Amph TFs arriving to land troops. LBA continue to hit ground targets.

In SOPAC, PTs fail to find any barges near Kavieng or Emirau Islands, but do bump into single PBs, without damage to either side. A DD TF (4DD) will sweep through Kavieng toward Manus next turn, looking for surface traffic. BB Wash TF arrives off Namatanai with Amph TF to load up the US 33rd Div for future operations at Umboi Is. New Hannover Amph shipping still enroute to stage at Nam after loading at Vella. Fingers crossed that L_S_T hasn’t heavily reinforced New Hannover Is, although recon still shows a small company sized garrison. LBA bombers rest while fighters provide CAP over Allied shipping.

In SWPAC, on the right flank of the Theater, IJA forces at Wau consist of the Guards Mixed Bde which bombards the mixed 5 Bn infantry force defending. With level 4 forts, the defenders should hold against a Bde sized force. Off Koepang, the Allied LBA finds the expected shipping nearby - off the adjacent island of Roti. SBDs and B-25s find 3 AKs and an xAP lightly escorted and no CAP. Two AKs and the xAP are confirmed sunk and the remaining AK left burning heavily. No escorts were hit. A good raid! Elsewhere, its quiet as the KB is still at Ambon.

In China, all the Chinese troops exposed SE of Chungking have been successfully pulled bag to interior lines without any IJA pressure. Looks like all the IJA effort is focused firmly at Chungking.

In Burma, US fighter sweeps over Rangoon go unchallenged. Good thing as all US fighters need a rest. On the ground front, now that the majority of IJA forces have successfully pulled back to interior lines, holding the jungle line from Prome - Tongoo - Tuang Gyi area, the IJA counter-attacks the Allied force in the jungle hex, and is held. But it will probably be successful - 2nd Tank Div and 4 In Bdes heavily supported by artillery are held the equivalent of less than a division. Although I have Brit/Indian divisions moving to reinforce, my bet is that these Allied troops will be pushed back before they arrive.

In the IO, the IJN CV TF looks to have put to sea in the Malacca Straits. Destination, unknown. IJN DD TF (3DD) sweep through Trinkat, sinking a PT without loss, but that’s all in the area. Trinkat was mined however, by sub. Will send a YMS from Port Blair out to clear next turn. Otherwise, the IO is fairly quiet.

[IdahoNYer]

17-18 Sep 43

Highlights – Troops ashore at Kusaie; DDs sweep off Kavieng

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 2
xAK: 2

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 66
Allied: 23

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit
Allies: 8 Attack, 4 ships hit (2xAK sunk, 2PB Dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph:
Kusaie Is (CENPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, no sign of the IJN sub; searches continue.

In CENPAC, 25th ID lands on Kusaie Is. Shore batteries put nice size holes in CA Indianapolis and an AKA which will require some repairs (15 sys dam ea). CVE CAP down 19 Emilys apparently trying to either pull troops off or reinforce. Nice. The DDs sent off Ponape find nothing and will return to Kusaie. Ground forces rest to reduce some disruption before launching their attack. Will pull out much of the now empty shipping while a few ships continue to offload supplies and a handful of support troops. LSTs enroute with FA battalion. BB Pennsy will add to the bombardment next turn as the CA/CLs are pretty well out of ammo; DDs will not bombard yet. LBA continues to hit ground targets.

In SOPAC, DD TF (4DD) sink a PB and 4 barges off Kavieng and will head out again next turn towards Manus as much small shipping still observed. 33rd Div pulled off Nam and now offloading at Vella. New Hannover reportedly has no garrison so as the Amph TF heads to the target next turn, BB Wash TF will provide cover, but not bombard. LBA with only provide LRCAP, and not hit the island. If the there are troops on New Hannover, this may work out poorly, but if there aren’t troops there, BB Wash TF will hit Manus instead the following turn - two B-24 squadrons effectively hit Manus at night destroying 5 planes on the ground and 4 Nicks in the air for no loss. Manus is a target rich environment, although likely well protected by shore batteries and mines.

In SWPAC, as expected the IJA Gds Bde bombards the defenders at Wau - should that Bde attack, they should hold. The problem is the IJA’s 38th ID force heading toward Wau along the coast - still a long ways away, but if it keeps moving will get there. I’ve decided to hold off on Babar landings a bit longer, so the troops will offload at Gove. To test the waters a bit more, and maybe stir things up, DDs will patrol out into the Banda Sea and towards Koepang looking for transports and local shipping. KB and Musashi TFs still at Ambon. Right now…stalemate in this Theater. I’m pretty sure L_S_T was looking to bushwack a US landing, but he’s probably satisfied with the stalemate too.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, its pretty quiet. Not sure where the IJA air has gone - will expand air recon to every possible Level 2 and above Airfield as they aren’t at the likely bases. The major IJA ground force near Tongoo only bombards Allied positions and Brit and a Ind Div are moving to support. Still going to take a while to reorganize the Allied armies in Burma into Corps sized forces - its slow moving across rivers and jungles. So far, supplies are holding in the Burma Plain area - coming out of Akyab which is being pumped supplies via transports as fast as they can offload from the Calcutta run. Allied air forces take a turn to rest with the exception of Mediums which continue to ineffectively hit ground targets at Lashio.

In the IO, IJA Oscar IVs sweep Trinkat and are met by F6Fs, which don’t do poorly, 19 Oscars for 9 Hellcats, but I expected better. I swap out the Hellcat squadron for a fresh one, and ready for the next turn’s sweep. Bettys hit Port Blair at night for no gains and lose 6 to night fighters/AA. IJN seems to have returned to George Town, and haven’t come out to intercept the small resupply convoy that was spotted by a sub NW of Port Blair. Allied fleet remains at Columbo. CV Long Island II arrived at Cape Town and engineers estimated 80 days to repair - which would also impact CV Enterprise and then Saratoga’s repair efforts, so Long Island will head to US East Coast for repairs - with its air group, currently stripped of pilots and most aircraft which are in the pools.