Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
Moderators: wdolson, MOD_War-in-the-Pacific-Admirals-Edition
Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
Well, as I mentioned in my original post, my game with Gorilla ran into technical issues following the reinstallation of the game and some database errors. As such, we've decided to make a new game and start fresh. The same house rules apply, but tomorrow when I make my first AAR post I'll give an update and reminder as to what those are. I'll also be asking for more direct aid in this one to tackle issues like the economy as I am struggling to grasp those.
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
Once again, for those coming over, we'll briefly touch on the background, house rules, and broad strategy.
This is my first foray into the Japanese or the Grand Campaign, and as such I expect dozens of amateur mistakes, misunderstanding of strategy and rules, and a unique outcome to the match. My opponent, Gorilla, has also never played bar a brief skirmish we did in Guadalcanal, so we'll both be learning as we go. Our house rules are no strategic bombing in China until 44, no transiting the Strait of Malacca unless you hold Singapore, and no operating multiple PT boats in single vessel TFs. We're also broadly following an "if it feels gamey don't do it"
My overall plan as the Japanese Empire is to secure a defensible perimeter as quickly as possible, most likely being limited around Guadalcanal and the holdings in the central Pacific. I will try to run a foray into either NW Australia or deeper into India (Leaning towards Australia due to logistical burdens by the lack of a transcontinental railway for the defenders) and an early game-taking of Dutch Harbor and Adak. In the near term, I'm rushing to try and blitz Borneo, the Celebes, Rabaul, and hopefully Port Moresby as quickly as possible to prevent an easy withdrawal and to prevent my opponent from building up Port Moresby and other bases as a staging area to disrupt my moves on Java.
With that out of the way, I'll get to posting the actual daily updates shortly, going to get the first 3 days in one just for simplicity's sake.
This is my first foray into the Japanese or the Grand Campaign, and as such I expect dozens of amateur mistakes, misunderstanding of strategy and rules, and a unique outcome to the match. My opponent, Gorilla, has also never played bar a brief skirmish we did in Guadalcanal, so we'll both be learning as we go. Our house rules are no strategic bombing in China until 44, no transiting the Strait of Malacca unless you hold Singapore, and no operating multiple PT boats in single vessel TFs. We're also broadly following an "if it feels gamey don't do it"
My overall plan as the Japanese Empire is to secure a defensible perimeter as quickly as possible, most likely being limited around Guadalcanal and the holdings in the central Pacific. I will try to run a foray into either NW Australia or deeper into India (Leaning towards Australia due to logistical burdens by the lack of a transcontinental railway for the defenders) and an early game-taking of Dutch Harbor and Adak. In the near term, I'm rushing to try and blitz Borneo, the Celebes, Rabaul, and hopefully Port Moresby as quickly as possible to prevent an easy withdrawal and to prevent my opponent from building up Port Moresby and other bases as a staging area to disrupt my moves on Java.
With that out of the way, I'll get to posting the actual daily updates shortly, going to get the first 3 days in one just for simplicity's sake.
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
December 7 through 9, 1941
Hawaii
December 7th marked the darkest day in modern American history. At Pearl Harbor, crews milled about the base, and ships sat peacefully in the harbor, a radar operator looked at his terminal, confused by the massive blip appearing on his display. After contacting his immediate supervisor, who confirmed it was a training exercise or squadron transfer, he promptly discarded any concerns about the contact. Shortly thereafter, chaos would descend on the base as aviators of the Kido Butai struck. Wildcats, realizing the danger that was approaching, scrambled to get off the ground only to be mobbed by Zero fighters. Swathes of planes were destroyed in their hangars as Val dive bombers descended and dropped their bombs. 90 hits were scored on the runway, and over 50 landed on the base itself, killing dozens.
Elsewhere, in the harbor itself, Kates and Vals did their runs. The ACM Planter was the first ship to go, with a massive explosion below decks splitting her in two. Moments later, bombs landed on multiple destroyers and support ships, igniting them and causing mass panic. Crews scrambled to man their AAA mounts, but could only watch in horror as Kates and Vals made runs down Battleship Row. The BB California was the first victim, taking a dud torpedo before a second ignited her magazine, causing a turret to fly skyward before detonations spread throughout the ship. By the end of the day, California would be joined in death by Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Arizona, and nearly joined by the crippled Oklahoma and Nevada. Tennessee also took heavy damage but was the least wounded capital ship. For this ghastly cost, the Japanese paid 16 Zeroes, 5 Kates, and 4 Vals. The war began with this devastating blow, and news elsewhere would be grim.
Throughout the next 3 days, IJN submarines would harass ships operating around the base but score no hits.
DEI
In the Philippines, Japanese forces landed at Aparri and attempted to land at Vigan. The landings at Appari went uncontested, while a flotilla of 9 PT boats sallied out to scare off the landing force. A DD squadron was vectored to destroy them, and that action will occur on the 10th. Devastating IJN and IJAF attacks scarred Manila, Iba, and Clark Field, inflicting a heavy cost, and an invasion force is moving on Legaspi.
In Malaya, landings took place at Kota Bharu, Patani, and Singora. The defenders of Kota Bharu held for a day but were repulsed. In a brief moment of defiance, aircraft based out of Singapore and Kuantan launched against the Kota Bharu landings, and on December 7th despite catastrophic losses to CAP and AAA fire from Kongo and her TF, one brave Vildebeest pilot managed to land 2 500 LB pounds on the deck of xAP Naminoue Maru, fatally sinking her.
Off the coast, the ill-fated Force Z is attacked by hordes of Japanese torpedo bombers. Repulse is hit 5 times throughout the day, suffering grievous wounds, while Prince of Wales suffers a magazine detonation after 1 dud and 2 hits, and is sunk. Nearby, on the 8th, SS KXVII suffered 8 DC hits from a Japanese task force, 4 of which came from a particularly noteworthy ship, the IJN DD Hibiki.
Japanese forces set off for Miri, Kuching, and Singkawang on Borneo, intending to seize the northernmost bases immediately. One of the ships transporting men to Kuching was torpedoed on the 9th by SS 020 and turned back for Cam Ranh Bay.
Marshall Islands
Japanese troops take Tarawa and Makin without incident. After bombardment on the 9th, forces land on Wake Island but the defenders endure the shock attack. Another bombardment and a DA will go in tomorrow on the 10th.
Japanese troops at the Mavis base on Maloelap were in for a rude awakening on the 9th, as Buffalos and Dauntlesses descended on their positions. This has left the situation in a precarious standoff. Submarines from the north and south are vectoring in on the reported offender, an unknown US Carrier TF, and Kido Butai is almost directly east of their position as it returns to Truk. Submarines are also approaching from the east. The potential for a carrier action on the 10th or 11th seems high, and I am left stunned by the audacity of the raid.
China
Hong Kong has been reached by the IJA and an assault will occur tomorrow with additional air support. Elsewhere, there are a handful of skirmishes but it's unclear as of now what the Chinese plan is. Japanese forces are massing for assaults in the north and bracing for a potential movement to Ichang by the enemy.
All in all, a very eventful first 3 days, and I'm shocked by the potential for a carrier action within the first week of the war. We'll have to see what happens, but I'm confident in Kido Butai's ability to handle the engagement. One full squadron of Zeroes alongside a depleted squadron are staying for CAP, but the rest intend to escort the strike and strike a decisive blow to the enemy carriers. I'm unsure as to which carriers are present, or how many, as my search planes report a CVE and 3 CVs, which seems unlikely if not impossible.
Hawaii
December 7th marked the darkest day in modern American history. At Pearl Harbor, crews milled about the base, and ships sat peacefully in the harbor, a radar operator looked at his terminal, confused by the massive blip appearing on his display. After contacting his immediate supervisor, who confirmed it was a training exercise or squadron transfer, he promptly discarded any concerns about the contact. Shortly thereafter, chaos would descend on the base as aviators of the Kido Butai struck. Wildcats, realizing the danger that was approaching, scrambled to get off the ground only to be mobbed by Zero fighters. Swathes of planes were destroyed in their hangars as Val dive bombers descended and dropped their bombs. 90 hits were scored on the runway, and over 50 landed on the base itself, killing dozens.
Elsewhere, in the harbor itself, Kates and Vals did their runs. The ACM Planter was the first ship to go, with a massive explosion below decks splitting her in two. Moments later, bombs landed on multiple destroyers and support ships, igniting them and causing mass panic. Crews scrambled to man their AAA mounts, but could only watch in horror as Kates and Vals made runs down Battleship Row. The BB California was the first victim, taking a dud torpedo before a second ignited her magazine, causing a turret to fly skyward before detonations spread throughout the ship. By the end of the day, California would be joined in death by Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Arizona, and nearly joined by the crippled Oklahoma and Nevada. Tennessee also took heavy damage but was the least wounded capital ship. For this ghastly cost, the Japanese paid 16 Zeroes, 5 Kates, and 4 Vals. The war began with this devastating blow, and news elsewhere would be grim.
Throughout the next 3 days, IJN submarines would harass ships operating around the base but score no hits.
DEI
In the Philippines, Japanese forces landed at Aparri and attempted to land at Vigan. The landings at Appari went uncontested, while a flotilla of 9 PT boats sallied out to scare off the landing force. A DD squadron was vectored to destroy them, and that action will occur on the 10th. Devastating IJN and IJAF attacks scarred Manila, Iba, and Clark Field, inflicting a heavy cost, and an invasion force is moving on Legaspi.
In Malaya, landings took place at Kota Bharu, Patani, and Singora. The defenders of Kota Bharu held for a day but were repulsed. In a brief moment of defiance, aircraft based out of Singapore and Kuantan launched against the Kota Bharu landings, and on December 7th despite catastrophic losses to CAP and AAA fire from Kongo and her TF, one brave Vildebeest pilot managed to land 2 500 LB pounds on the deck of xAP Naminoue Maru, fatally sinking her.
Off the coast, the ill-fated Force Z is attacked by hordes of Japanese torpedo bombers. Repulse is hit 5 times throughout the day, suffering grievous wounds, while Prince of Wales suffers a magazine detonation after 1 dud and 2 hits, and is sunk. Nearby, on the 8th, SS KXVII suffered 8 DC hits from a Japanese task force, 4 of which came from a particularly noteworthy ship, the IJN DD Hibiki.
Japanese forces set off for Miri, Kuching, and Singkawang on Borneo, intending to seize the northernmost bases immediately. One of the ships transporting men to Kuching was torpedoed on the 9th by SS 020 and turned back for Cam Ranh Bay.
Marshall Islands
Japanese troops take Tarawa and Makin without incident. After bombardment on the 9th, forces land on Wake Island but the defenders endure the shock attack. Another bombardment and a DA will go in tomorrow on the 10th.
Japanese troops at the Mavis base on Maloelap were in for a rude awakening on the 9th, as Buffalos and Dauntlesses descended on their positions. This has left the situation in a precarious standoff. Submarines from the north and south are vectoring in on the reported offender, an unknown US Carrier TF, and Kido Butai is almost directly east of their position as it returns to Truk. Submarines are also approaching from the east. The potential for a carrier action on the 10th or 11th seems high, and I am left stunned by the audacity of the raid.
China
Hong Kong has been reached by the IJA and an assault will occur tomorrow with additional air support. Elsewhere, there are a handful of skirmishes but it's unclear as of now what the Chinese plan is. Japanese forces are massing for assaults in the north and bracing for a potential movement to Ichang by the enemy.
All in all, a very eventful first 3 days, and I'm shocked by the potential for a carrier action within the first week of the war. We'll have to see what happens, but I'm confident in Kido Butai's ability to handle the engagement. One full squadron of Zeroes alongside a depleted squadron are staying for CAP, but the rest intend to escort the strike and strike a decisive blow to the enemy carriers. I'm unsure as to which carriers are present, or how many, as my search planes report a CVE and 3 CVs, which seems unlikely if not impossible.
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
Good stuff.
But I always hankered to say this:
"How much would Icechuck chuck ice if icechucks could chuck ice?"
But I always hankered to say this:
"How much would Icechuck chuck ice if icechucks could chuck ice?"
"To meaningless French Idealism, Liberty, Fraternity and Equality...we answer with German Realism, Infantry, Cavalry and Artillery" -Prince von Bülov, 1870-
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
Since I extensively play Allies, getting PoW is good.
It is damn good "flak ship" until So/NoDakotas come, speedy enough to escort CVs etc.
Main advantage of IJA/IJN is range of their planes and torpedoes. It comes of course with being fragile.
But within first 6 months you should be able to run rampage with Kido Butai.
Just don't split it and remember "if place is worth attacking, it is worth attacking with a lot."
It is damn good "flak ship" until So/NoDakotas come, speedy enough to escort CVs etc.
Main advantage of IJA/IJN is range of their planes and torpedoes. It comes of course with being fragile.
But within first 6 months you should be able to run rampage with Kido Butai.
Just don't split it and remember "if place is worth attacking, it is worth attacking with a lot."
"To meaningless French Idealism, Liberty, Fraternity and Equality...we answer with German Realism, Infantry, Cavalry and Artillery" -Prince von Bülov, 1870-
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
Depending on if a carrier battle occurs in the next few turns, which appears likely, I may have some ability to split KB afterward, but I'd hate to count my chickens before they hatch. On December 7, the US Pacific Fleet only has the 3 Fleet Carriers right? Or do they have CVEs at this point?Sardaukar wrote: ↑Thu Mar 21, 2024 1:46 pm Since I extensively play Allies, getting PoW is good.
It is damn good "flak ship" until So/NoDakotas come, speedy enough to escort CVs etc.
Main advantage of IJA/IJN is range of their planes and torpedoes. It comes of course with being fragile.
But within first 6 months you should be able to run rampage with Kido Butai.
Just don't split it and remember "if place is worth attacking, it is worth attacking with a lot."
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
They should have Lex, Sara, Enterprise and maybe Wasp. And CVE Long Island, but that doesn't really count.Icechuck wrote: ↑Thu Mar 21, 2024 2:03 pm
Depending on if a carrier battle occurs in the next few turns, which appears likely, I may have some ability to split KB afterward, but I'd hate to count my chickens before they hatch. On December 7, the US Pacific Fleet only has the 3 Fleet Carriers right? Or do they have CVEs at this point?
I'd strongly advice against splitting KB, it's your main hammer that allies have no answer before 1943.
Main mistake in real Pacific War was indeed splitting KB and then suffering in Coral Sea battle.
"To meaningless French Idealism, Liberty, Fraternity and Equality...we answer with German Realism, Infantry, Cavalry and Artillery" -Prince von Bülov, 1870-
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
A fair point. Do you not think that the decision to split though is enhanced by the early destruction of American carriers? Not necessarily talking about this PBEM anymore, just in general.Sardaukar wrote: ↑Thu Mar 21, 2024 2:28 pmThey should have Lex, Sara, Enterprise and maybe Wasp. And CVE Long Island, but that doesn't really count.Icechuck wrote: ↑Thu Mar 21, 2024 2:03 pm
Depending on if a carrier battle occurs in the next few turns, which appears likely, I may have some ability to split KB afterward, but I'd hate to count my chickens before they hatch. On December 7, the US Pacific Fleet only has the 3 Fleet Carriers right? Or do they have CVEs at this point?
I'd strongly advice against splitting KB, it's your main hammer that allies have no answer before 1943.
Main mistake in real Pacific War was indeed splitting KB and then suffering in Coral Sea battle.
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
Which scenario is this?
Wasp comes in last. The carriers are the Big E with Wildcats while the Lexington has Buffaloes. The Lexington also carried Marine Wind Indicator dive bombers, they were heading to Wake Island. Saratoga is on the West Coast, Yorktown comes in shortly. If any carrier is out of torpedoes, still keep their Kates at 1000 feet. They will drop 2 250kg bombs quite accurately which can handle any hull except the Lexington's at this time and area.
Go west with the KB to Kwaj to refuel and rearm. You might want to split the KB and have 3 carriers head to Wake Island. Historically, Hiryu and Soryu did that. You know, to help out. Of course, if an enemy carrier shows up . . .
You might want to check the leader on Wake, give him a sword and tell him to banzai attack the Marines while everyone else watches . . .
Wasp comes in last. The carriers are the Big E with Wildcats while the Lexington has Buffaloes. The Lexington also carried Marine Wind Indicator dive bombers, they were heading to Wake Island. Saratoga is on the West Coast, Yorktown comes in shortly. If any carrier is out of torpedoes, still keep their Kates at 1000 feet. They will drop 2 250kg bombs quite accurately which can handle any hull except the Lexington's at this time and area.
Go west with the KB to Kwaj to refuel and rearm. You might want to split the KB and have 3 carriers head to Wake Island. Historically, Hiryu and Soryu did that. You know, to help out. Of course, if an enemy carrier shows up . . .
You might want to check the leader on Wake, give him a sword and tell him to banzai attack the Marines while everyone else watches . . .
Seek peace but keep your gun handy.
I'm not a complete idiot, some parts are missing!
“Illegitemus non carborundum est (“Don’t let the bastards grind you down”).”
― Julia Child
I'm not a complete idiot, some parts are missing!
“Illegitemus non carborundum est (“Don’t let the bastards grind you down”).”
― Julia Child
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
This is scenario 1, no mods using the 26b (I think that's the number) version. The airstrike near Kwaj was TBDs and Buffaloes. KB is headed there to both refuel and hopefully sink the enemy CV.RangerJoe wrote: ↑Thu Mar 21, 2024 3:34 pm Which scenario is this?
Wasp comes in last. The carriers are the Big E with Wildcats while the Lexington has Buffaloes. The Lexington also carried Marine Wind Indicator dive bombers, they were heading to Wake Island. Saratoga is on the West Coast, Yorktown comes in shortly. If any carrier is out of torpedoes, still keep their Kates at 1000 feet. They will drop 2 250kg bombs quite accurately which can handle any hull except the Lexington's at this time and area.
Go west with the KB to Kwaj to refuel and rearm. You might want to split the KB and have 3 carriers head to Wake Island. Historically, Hiryu and Soryu did that. You know, to help out. Of course, if an enemy carrier shows up . . .
You might want to check the leader on Wake, give him a sword and tell him to banzai attack the Marines while everyone else watches . . .
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
Keep an eye out to see if the Marine fighters on Wake disappear, if they do then they flew to a carrier which would probably be the Enterprise.Icechuck wrote: ↑Thu Mar 21, 2024 3:37 pmThis is scenario 1, no mods using the 26b (I think that's the number) version. The airstrike near Kwaj was TBDs and Buffaloes. KB is headed there to both refuel and hopefully sink the enemy CV.RangerJoe wrote: ↑Thu Mar 21, 2024 3:34 pm Which scenario is this?
Wasp comes in last. The carriers are the Big E with Wildcats while the Lexington has Buffaloes. The Lexington also carried Marine Wind Indicator dive bombers, they were heading to Wake Island. Saratoga is on the West Coast, Yorktown comes in shortly. If any carrier is out of torpedoes, still keep their Kates at 1000 feet. They will drop 2 250kg bombs quite accurately which can handle any hull except the Lexington's at this time and area.
Go west with the KB to Kwaj to refuel and rearm. You might want to split the KB and have 3 carriers head to Wake Island. Historically, Hiryu and Soryu did that. You know, to help out. Of course, if an enemy carrier shows up . . .
You might want to check the leader on Wake, give him a sword and tell him to banzai attack the Marines while everyone else watches . . .
Seek peace but keep your gun handy.
I'm not a complete idiot, some parts are missing!
“Illegitemus non carborundum est (“Don’t let the bastards grind you down”).”
― Julia Child
I'm not a complete idiot, some parts are missing!
“Illegitemus non carborundum est (“Don’t let the bastards grind you down”).”
― Julia Child
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
December 10th, 1941
Fate didn't smile on me today, but the potential for a carrier engagement still exists.
Marshalls
Rather than leave anyone in suspense, we'll get right into the CV situation. The enemy carrier TF defied my expectations of running south to Australia and rather ran north towards Wake Island. In the night, RO-66 snuck past the CA Chicago, and DDs Drayton, Porter, and Flusser. When she allowed her periscope to emerge from the depths, she sighted a massive flat-top in her view. The USS Lexington was there, silhouetted by the moonlight. The skipper triple-checked his firing solutions and released 6 fish at the unsuspecting carrier. After 45 seconds, the torpedoes should've detonated, but the only one that landed failed to detonate, deflecting harmlessly off of her torpedo bulges. The skipper didn't have time to curse his weaponry, and dove deep as the enraged DDs swarmed his location. He emerged a few miles and hours after, reporting to Combined Fleet HQ that the Carrier was bound for Wake Island.
That morning, 2 squadrons of Dauntlesses, escorted by Buffalos, descended on the unsuspecting transport group at Wake Island. All but 2 PT boats were sunk, stranding the SNLF without all their equipment. The bombardment group of cruisers and DDs had withdrawn prior, narrowly avoiding the same fate. The presence of 2 squadrons confirms that a second CV is probably present, perhaps the Big E? Kido Butai will steam north and has slightly closed the range from the move yesterday. She still lies between the enemy TF and the safety of Pearl Harbor. My replenishment group will run full-speed to the south, to avoid being caught up in the fighting. Hundreds of miles north, the Wake Island bombardment group of 2 DDs, and their lone oiler continue to run to the Home Islands, hoping to evade the rampaging enemy CVs. I intend to keep the enemy separated from Pearl by the KB and force an engagement. My DDs have good fuel loads, and as long as I don't sprint around at flank speed I should be ok. I'm hoping that the enemy will take another torpedo attack by a sub.
The raid in the Marshalls and on Wake marks a loss, but nothing of particular note. The loss of 2 AMCs and a handful of xAKLs is saddening, but I can always take Wake later. If I can avenge the transports with Lexington, and maybe even Enterprise, then it will be a worthy sacrifice.
At Pearl Harbor, the SS Thresher was sailing out by Lihue, surfaced to let the crew get some air as they were in friendly waters. None were on particularly keen lookout, and a torpedo from I-15 slammed amidships, causing heavy damage and loss of life.
Philippines
A minor setback today, as a PT boat group sortied out again. I wanted my DD squadron to take point, but the orders got mixed up and instead, the landing force went ahead, so they encountered the MTBs and PT boats. The enemy lost 3 PT boats, and I lost 2 DMS' to torpedo attacks. A few transports took minor damage. In the afternoon, the DD squadron arrived and knocked out 4 more, leaving only 5 left. The landing force will simply go to Aparri instead, rather than risk another fiasco. Enemy subs are blocking the way, but ASW TFs are taking point to ensure they're suppressed. The Ternate invasion force is passing by the north to ensure safety.
At Iba, I forgot to take one squadron of Bettys of airfield attack, and 9 were lost. The enemy, for his trouble, lost 8 fighters of varying types today during sweeps. A sloppy mistake that I need to ensure I don't replicate.
Malaya
Second and third-wave transports are inbound, and the allies suffered many hits on Georgetown airfield today. The fighters and bombers will stand down due to poor weather forecasts. The cover force, flagged by Kongo, is departing for the Celebes to try and catch the Asiatic fleet.
Borneo
Troops land at Miri, and transports will arrive at Singkawang tomorrow. Transports will depart from Cam Ranh Bay for Kuching tomorrow with escorts.
China
A Japanese assault at Ichang is repelled with 1:1 casualties, and then a Chinese shock attack is repelled.
Hong Kong forts go down to level 2, and 2 squads are destroyed with 24 disabled.
Troops are massing near Chengcha to outflank to the south and secure the crossing without a river assault.
Fate didn't smile on me today, but the potential for a carrier engagement still exists.
Marshalls
Rather than leave anyone in suspense, we'll get right into the CV situation. The enemy carrier TF defied my expectations of running south to Australia and rather ran north towards Wake Island. In the night, RO-66 snuck past the CA Chicago, and DDs Drayton, Porter, and Flusser. When she allowed her periscope to emerge from the depths, she sighted a massive flat-top in her view. The USS Lexington was there, silhouetted by the moonlight. The skipper triple-checked his firing solutions and released 6 fish at the unsuspecting carrier. After 45 seconds, the torpedoes should've detonated, but the only one that landed failed to detonate, deflecting harmlessly off of her torpedo bulges. The skipper didn't have time to curse his weaponry, and dove deep as the enraged DDs swarmed his location. He emerged a few miles and hours after, reporting to Combined Fleet HQ that the Carrier was bound for Wake Island.
That morning, 2 squadrons of Dauntlesses, escorted by Buffalos, descended on the unsuspecting transport group at Wake Island. All but 2 PT boats were sunk, stranding the SNLF without all their equipment. The bombardment group of cruisers and DDs had withdrawn prior, narrowly avoiding the same fate. The presence of 2 squadrons confirms that a second CV is probably present, perhaps the Big E? Kido Butai will steam north and has slightly closed the range from the move yesterday. She still lies between the enemy TF and the safety of Pearl Harbor. My replenishment group will run full-speed to the south, to avoid being caught up in the fighting. Hundreds of miles north, the Wake Island bombardment group of 2 DDs, and their lone oiler continue to run to the Home Islands, hoping to evade the rampaging enemy CVs. I intend to keep the enemy separated from Pearl by the KB and force an engagement. My DDs have good fuel loads, and as long as I don't sprint around at flank speed I should be ok. I'm hoping that the enemy will take another torpedo attack by a sub.
The raid in the Marshalls and on Wake marks a loss, but nothing of particular note. The loss of 2 AMCs and a handful of xAKLs is saddening, but I can always take Wake later. If I can avenge the transports with Lexington, and maybe even Enterprise, then it will be a worthy sacrifice.
At Pearl Harbor, the SS Thresher was sailing out by Lihue, surfaced to let the crew get some air as they were in friendly waters. None were on particularly keen lookout, and a torpedo from I-15 slammed amidships, causing heavy damage and loss of life.
Philippines
A minor setback today, as a PT boat group sortied out again. I wanted my DD squadron to take point, but the orders got mixed up and instead, the landing force went ahead, so they encountered the MTBs and PT boats. The enemy lost 3 PT boats, and I lost 2 DMS' to torpedo attacks. A few transports took minor damage. In the afternoon, the DD squadron arrived and knocked out 4 more, leaving only 5 left. The landing force will simply go to Aparri instead, rather than risk another fiasco. Enemy subs are blocking the way, but ASW TFs are taking point to ensure they're suppressed. The Ternate invasion force is passing by the north to ensure safety.
At Iba, I forgot to take one squadron of Bettys of airfield attack, and 9 were lost. The enemy, for his trouble, lost 8 fighters of varying types today during sweeps. A sloppy mistake that I need to ensure I don't replicate.
Malaya
Second and third-wave transports are inbound, and the allies suffered many hits on Georgetown airfield today. The fighters and bombers will stand down due to poor weather forecasts. The cover force, flagged by Kongo, is departing for the Celebes to try and catch the Asiatic fleet.
Borneo
Troops land at Miri, and transports will arrive at Singkawang tomorrow. Transports will depart from Cam Ranh Bay for Kuching tomorrow with escorts.
China
A Japanese assault at Ichang is repelled with 1:1 casualties, and then a Chinese shock attack is repelled.
Hong Kong forts go down to level 2, and 2 squads are destroyed with 24 disabled.
Troops are massing near Chengcha to outflank to the south and secure the crossing without a river assault.
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
At this time, the American carriers should have two 18 plane dive bomber squadrons each. But do you see what might have happened if you would have sent 3 carriers towards Wake island?
Bad luck on that submarine and its torpedo.
Bad luck on that submarine and its torpedo.
Seek peace but keep your gun handy.
I'm not a complete idiot, some parts are missing!
“Illegitemus non carborundum est (“Don’t let the bastards grind you down”).”
― Julia Child
I'm not a complete idiot, some parts are missing!
“Illegitemus non carborundum est (“Don’t let the bastards grind you down”).”
― Julia Child
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
It certainly would've been a gamble had I sent them. I'm moreso thinking about splitting IF the American carrier force is depleted. For the time being, KB will stay together for the decisive battle.
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
December 11, 1941
No carrier battle today, but the possibility grows ever higher.
Marshalls
Lexington and her TF bolted east, trying to get closer to Pearl. My oilers ran south to avoid being caught up, and are now racing for Kwajalein. The KB shifted north to block the enemy from reaching PH, and they are now 12 hexes away. Attack squadrons are set up, and the CAP is set in preparation for the upcoming clash. No indication of a second carrier (based on the information given to me by RangerJoe about US CV complements) so this may just be Lady Lex. Regardless, it's a target that needs to be destroyed to salvage a victory out of the Wake Island strike and would make their sacrifice worthwhile.
Philippines
Troops land at Legaspi without resistance. The CL Nagara is torpedoed by a Dutch submarine as it's covering the landing force, but can still make 14 knots and is running to Badeldaob for emergency repairs. It will then try to put to Okinawa for a repair yard, as she took 25 system damage, 54 floatation. Elsewhere, Guam is taken.
The PT boats got into another skirmish today, losing 3 of their number to a DD squadron and being brought down to just 2 MTBs remaining.
Sweeps today were highly effective, with the Empire losing 2 Zeroes for 10 enemy fighters.
Borneo
Landing ships approach Sambas, covered by Kongo and Haruna. They'll take the town when they land tomorrow and move to Singkawang. I chose this to avoid enemy aircraft from Singapore interdicting the landings.
In the Celebes Sea, Ryujo's Kates descend on the Tanker British Sailor, landing 3 bomb hits and losing sight of the ship due to heavy fires. She will not survive. Ryujo is moving deeper into the Celebes sea to pursue elements of the Asiatic Fleet attempting to evacuate.
Malaya
Sweeps today don't happen due to weather. Troops are nearing Alor Starr, and will swiftly move to Taiping afterwards.
Victoria Point falls.
More troops come ashore at Patani.
A Battlecruiser (Repulse) is moving extremely slowly towards Singapore. 2 Submarines are attempting to make an intercept tomorrow.
New Guinea Area
Troops land at Kavieng, and are preparing to land at the Shortlands. Landing forces are en route to Hollandia, Aitape, Wewake, and Manus.
China
The Chinese are repelled at Ichang again. Reinforcements in the form of armor and the 13th Division will arrive shortly. The enemy abandoned the hex south of Chencgha on the wrong side of the river, so Chengcha is being cut off from the south now.
Hong Kong is bombed by dozens of aircraft and by artillery, another assault will go in tomorrow.
No carrier battle today, but the possibility grows ever higher.
Marshalls
Lexington and her TF bolted east, trying to get closer to Pearl. My oilers ran south to avoid being caught up, and are now racing for Kwajalein. The KB shifted north to block the enemy from reaching PH, and they are now 12 hexes away. Attack squadrons are set up, and the CAP is set in preparation for the upcoming clash. No indication of a second carrier (based on the information given to me by RangerJoe about US CV complements) so this may just be Lady Lex. Regardless, it's a target that needs to be destroyed to salvage a victory out of the Wake Island strike and would make their sacrifice worthwhile.
- Sitrep CV
- 164a14d80461c991b7e1ff626028af6a.jpg (1.4 MiB) Viewed 385 times
Philippines
Troops land at Legaspi without resistance. The CL Nagara is torpedoed by a Dutch submarine as it's covering the landing force, but can still make 14 knots and is running to Badeldaob for emergency repairs. It will then try to put to Okinawa for a repair yard, as she took 25 system damage, 54 floatation. Elsewhere, Guam is taken.
The PT boats got into another skirmish today, losing 3 of their number to a DD squadron and being brought down to just 2 MTBs remaining.
Sweeps today were highly effective, with the Empire losing 2 Zeroes for 10 enemy fighters.
Borneo
Landing ships approach Sambas, covered by Kongo and Haruna. They'll take the town when they land tomorrow and move to Singkawang. I chose this to avoid enemy aircraft from Singapore interdicting the landings.
In the Celebes Sea, Ryujo's Kates descend on the Tanker British Sailor, landing 3 bomb hits and losing sight of the ship due to heavy fires. She will not survive. Ryujo is moving deeper into the Celebes sea to pursue elements of the Asiatic Fleet attempting to evacuate.
Malaya
Sweeps today don't happen due to weather. Troops are nearing Alor Starr, and will swiftly move to Taiping afterwards.
Victoria Point falls.
More troops come ashore at Patani.
A Battlecruiser (Repulse) is moving extremely slowly towards Singapore. 2 Submarines are attempting to make an intercept tomorrow.
New Guinea Area
Troops land at Kavieng, and are preparing to land at the Shortlands. Landing forces are en route to Hollandia, Aitape, Wewake, and Manus.
China
The Chinese are repelled at Ichang again. Reinforcements in the form of armor and the 13th Division will arrive shortly. The enemy abandoned the hex south of Chencgha on the wrong side of the river, so Chengcha is being cut off from the south now.
Hong Kong is bombed by dozens of aircraft and by artillery, another assault will go in tomorrow.
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Nihonmachi
- Posts: 15
- Joined: Wed Mar 13, 2024 4:35 pm
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
Does he has detection on those oilers?
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
He has 3/6 detection from the PBYs based at Johnston Island. I don't think he has any strike ability, and they'll have CAP when they reach the Marshalls. The Marshalls seem like the safest place to run them, given they can't keep up with KB and I don't know which way his CVs are going. Lexington can't cover the hexes necessary to launch a strike on them this turn.
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Nihonmachi
- Posts: 15
- Joined: Wed Mar 13, 2024 4:35 pm
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
If he reads you correctly he can turn south towards the tankers, maybe even linking up with the rest of the CVs, getting the tankers could be his intention.Icechuck wrote: ↑Fri Mar 22, 2024 7:13 pmHe has 3/6 detection from the PBYs based at Johnston Island. I don't think he has any strike ability, and they'll have CAP when they reach the Marshalls. The Marshalls seem like the safest place to run them, given they can't keep up with KB and I don't know which way his CVs are going. Lexington can't cover the hexes necessary to launch a strike on them this turn.
Too much questions for my taste.
Re: Icechuck's Round 2 AAR - New Player Japan Experience
That might be his plan. I don't think Lexington can get far enough south to hit me this turn, and if she does she'll have to pass right by KB. We'll have to see though.Nihonmachi wrote: ↑Fri Mar 22, 2024 7:48 pmIf he reads you correctly he can turn south towards the tankers, maybe even linking up with the rest of the CVs, getting the tankers could be his intention.Icechuck wrote: ↑Fri Mar 22, 2024 7:13 pmHe has 3/6 detection from the PBYs based at Johnston Island. I don't think he has any strike ability, and they'll have CAP when they reach the Marshalls. The Marshalls seem like the safest place to run them, given they can't keep up with KB and I don't know which way his CVs are going. Lexington can't cover the hexes necessary to launch a strike on them this turn.
Too much questions for my taste.