Aztez (A) vs Donnie_1974_Texas/Rob Brennan (J) BB mod 160 scen.

[aztez]

This is an allied AAR so Rob is not invited to join the action here. He will propably start an AAR of his own though.

This PBEM has taken longtime to setup. We actually discussed this well over a year ago but finally it is about go through.

We will be using BigB’s mod. (Scenario 160, Grand Campaign)

Many thanks to him for his great effort. It really seems that he has put a lot of effort into this.

We will be using 2 day turn cycles.



House rules


1. Only 1 port strike on turn one.
2. The maxium number of ships at ASW TF is 6.
3. Minium altitude for 4E bombers on naval assault is 15 000 feet.
4. No changing HQ units in order to save PP.
5. PP must be paid for Manchuko and Chinese units in order operate out of their theatres.
6. Maxium number of operational aircraft on non atoll base: level x 50
7. Maxium number of operational aircraft on atoll base: level x 20 (Truk and Kwaleijin will go into x50 rule)
8. Maxium of 8 CV's in an hex. (4 CV's + 4 CVL/CVE ships)
9. If Japanese go for USSR than the Soviets need to be activated 7 turns before the assault.
10. When transfering aircraft long ranged bombers need to be on standby orders. This does not apply to fighters.
11. Only base hexes can be targeted on amphibitious invasions.
12. Pursue command in ground combat is banned for both sides.
13. No Corsairs in US CV’s until early part of 1944. No Corsairs in British CV’s until mid 1943.


We also have agreed to keep an open mind for any future "rules" which might arise during the gameplay. (I doubt there will be any)

More about strategies once I’am more familiar on the allied setup on this mod.

There is complete FOW in place. I haven't looked Japanese side at all on this mod. Neither has Rob the allied side.

[Sardaukar]

Should be interesting !! Been playing BigB's mod against AI and it's very good. Do you have AB's extended or stock map in use ?

[aztez]

ORIGINAL: Sardaukar

Should be interesting !! Been playing BigB's mod against AI and it's very good. Do you have AB's extended or stock map in use ?

Yeah. This ought to be one hell of an ride so to speak.

We will be using stock map. Rob said that it is enough an change to swap into Japanese side of things. He wanted to go with the standard map.

I have actually sent the first turn back to him. So, this has already begun.

I'am still getting used to this new mod. It is quite diffrent than stock that I'am used to play but I must say that I'am impressed.

[ny59giants]

House rules


1. Only 1 port strike on turn one.
2. The maxium number of ships at ASW TF is 6.
3. Minium altitude for 4E bombers on naval assault is 15 000 feet.
4. No changing HQ units in order to save PP.
5. PP must be paid for Manchuko and Chinese units in order operate out of their theatres.
6. Maxium number of operational aircraft on non atoll base: level x 50
7. Maxium number of operational aircraft on atoll base: level x 20 (Truk and Kwaleijin will go into x50 rule)
8. Maxium of 8 CV's in an hex. (4 CV's + 4 CVL/CVE ships)
9. If Japanese go for USSR than the Soviets need to be activated 7 turns before the assault.
10. When transfering aircraft long ranged bombers need to be on standby orders. This does not apply to fighters.
11. Only base hexes can be targeted on amphibitious invasions.
12. Pursue command in ground combat is banned for both sides.
13. No Corsairs in US CV’s until early part of 1944. No Corsairs in British CV’s until mid 1943.


We also have agreed to keep an open mind for any future "rules" which might arise during the gameplay. (I doubt there will be any)

Are you allowing the Japanese to conduct their training of their Air Force in China or does the mod neglect the need for this??
If allowed, I would suggest that you be allow to change LCU based on the West Coast to the China Command (especially AAA units).

[aztez]

ny59giants:  We have agreed that "modest" training is allowed but I intend to try an keep this option closed for the enemy. China is so much diffrent overall than stock so It will take time get used to it.
 
AAA units are allowed to be placed in China. I propably intend to move couple of them there. FLAK is always good to have in this place. 
 
I did receive the first turn from Rob and ran it this morning before I got off to work. He is definately trying to be sneaky and actually I think he did a good preparing his turn! [:-] ...but his strategy is pretty obvious by the looks of things.
 
I will do an update of the turn later tonight once I get home. A lot of things to do now that I can issue orders to my vessels and such.

[aztez]

Game date is 9th of December 1941


Malaya and Burma


Kido Budai showed up just 120 miles west of Singapore. There was nothing allies could do to stop the airstrikes.


Day Air attack on Singapore , at 23,50

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 9
D3A Val x 135
B5N Kate x 143

Allied aircraft
Buffalo I x 9

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val: 11 destroyed, 52 damaged
B5N Kate: 4 destroyed, 15 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
Buffalo I: 11 destroyed
Catalina I: 1 destroyed
Vildebeest IV: 7 destroyed
Swordfish: 1 destroyed

Allied Ships
BC Repulse, Bomb hits 21, on fire, heavy damage
BB Prince of Wales, Bomb hits 18, on fire, heavy damage
DD Encounter, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
DD Stronghold, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage


Allied ground losses:
42 casualties reported

Airbase hits 18
Airbase supply hits 4
Runway hits 41

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Air attack on Singapore , at 23,50

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 18
D3A Val x 118
B5N Kate x 129

Allied aircraft
Buffalo I x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val: 7 destroyed, 25 damaged
B5N Kate: 3 destroyed, 15 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
Buffalo I: 6 destroyed
Blenheim IV: 3 destroyed
Swordfish: 2 destroyed
Vildebeest IV: 2 destroyed

Allied Ships
BB Prince of Wales, Bomb hits 13, on fire, heavy damage *sunk*
BC Repulse, Bomb hits 13, on fire, heavy damage *sunk*
CL Mauritius, Bomb hits 1, on fire
DD Jupiter, Bomb hits 1, heavy damage
DD Stronghold, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage


Allied ground losses:
39 casualties reported

Airbase hits 9
Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 72
Port hits 6
Port supply hits 1


Force Z seized to exist! [:-][8|]

There were amphibitous landings at Mersing and Khota Bharu. I think Rob tries to cut my troops in half!


Central & North Pacific


As expected from the above report this sector was quiet.

IJA did however manage to capture the Wake Island atoll.

Operation Hawk begins for allied side.


China


IJA conducted airstrikes againts Chinese guerilla units and the battle for Hong Kong did start.

I have splitted my troops in 4 armies. (more on this at the screenshot)

Since Rob did march into Hong Kong that means I will conduct my own offensives in Southern China immediately.


Australia, NZ & South Pacific


Tarawa was captured. No moves were towards Solomons by the enemy.


India & Burma


Allied troops begin to reorganize defenses.

Japanese paratroopers did try to capture Victoria Point but this assault was repulsed.


DEI


Japanese land at Kuching and Amboina. These bases will fall propably next turn.

Dutch begin to organize their defenses in Java.


Philippines


There were strong landings at Naga, Davao, Jolo, San Marcelino and Aparri.

Enemy seems to be trying blitzkrieg here.

US Submarines are dispatched into sea from Manila.

IJA neutralized the US airfield at Clark Field.


Day Air attack on Clark Field , at 43,51

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 77
G3M Nell x 36
G4M1 Betty x 53
Ki-46-II Dinah x 2

Allied aircraft
P-35A x 4
P-40E-1-CU Warhawk x 1
P-40B Tomahawk x 2

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 damaged
G4M1 Betty: 2 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
P-35A: 9 destroyed
P-40E-1-CU Warhawk: 9 destroyed
P-40B Tomahawk: 9 destroyed
P-26A: 6 destroyed
B-17D Fortress: 4 destroyed


Allied ground losses:
115 casualties reported
Guns lost 2

Airbase hits 14
Airbase supply hits 9
Runway hits 163


To say at very least it was very intresting 1st turn. I have made my first moves now so it will be intresting to see whether these will pay off or not.


Here is an screenshot from Malaya Peninsula...

[aztez]

Here is the situation at Philippines...

[aztez]

and in China

[aztez]

The beginning strategy:


A lot of things are happening behind the curtain.


Philippines


I will fall back on Clark Field and Manila. I can field sizeable resistance in both places. Naga wohn't be abandoned yet. (Depends whether he lands more troops there)
PT boats and obsolete DD's will engage enemy transports next turn at San Marcelino. These ships are on patrol/not retire orders.

Allied submarines will hit enemy shipping near Luzon. I think he will regret not taking out Manila or Pearl Harbour.

Supply levels are good and I will recieve additional infantry units soon. I might even bring in more troops from nearby bases since I do get 100 PP per turn which gives a player some freedom.


DEI


I have already started building up fortress Java. The idea is to garrison Soerebaja and Batavia properly. If I can hold him long enough at Luzon than he will have tough time coming through DEI.

Already started shipping resources and fuel out of Java. I don't want him capture these intact.

Dutch surface combat TF will try intervene enemy landings at Davao. Hopefully I can pull this off.


China


As you can see I have divided my China into 4 sectors. Army groud A, B, C and D.

These are sizeable armies and there is noway he can bypass any of my units. Each army unit has several thousand of assault points available.

Rob did move into Hong Kong so I moved into Canton. That will give him headache that is for sure. Actually more troops are on their way.

AVG is already ready at China so there will not be any easy targets available here for long.

This operational theatre is definately not a walkthrough anymore due to static Chinese units. It will take some pushing to advance that is for sure. The good thing is also that if/when he conquers an base here these units will become alive! ...and will fight another day!


India & Burma


I like what Big B has done in India. Those district units will carry extra punch so if he chooses to come here than he is more than welcomed to try.

These extra units will mean that I intend to fight it out in Burma. Already units moving towards Rangoona and Moulmein region. Unless he brings in sizeable army than he will be stalled. (at least I hope so)

Chinese SEAC forces are moving towards Burma too. These troops + British ones should give Rob a nasty suprise indeed.

RN is not strong yet so I need to reorganize these ships.

I will move fuel out of Rangoon ASAP.


Central & North Pacific


The build up here continues from the beginning. He wohn't advance further than Midway unless he wants to commit his forces fully.

I don't actually mind him taking Wake. This will give me a personal training ground near my naval bases.

Allied CV's are moving towards Wake and hopefully I can catch some of these enemy ships that were involved in this operation.


Malaya Peninsula

It was a nasty suprise from Rob to land at Mersing.

That is fine. What I have done is to give my ground units orders to link up at Johore Bharu just North of Singapore. I can propably field a couple divisions worth of assault points there. Hopefully these are enough to hold him there for a while.

RAF have withdrawn some of its aircraft to India/Burma.

What is left of Force Z will engage enemy vessels at Mersing. My ships are on patrol/not retire orders. So, basically it will be an suicide mission.


Australia, NZ & South Pacific


I don't intend to give a freedom here either. He can have some bases but I will not let him cut me off from WC. There are measures already rolling to get the defenses ready.



That is the initial game plan. Things will evolve once I get more info what he is up to. Hopefully he will have to adjust his plans too.

[aztez]

Action packed turn! [:D] ...Some good news some bad news.


Game date is 11th of December 1941


Malaya


Mersing did fall to an massive Japanese onslaught.


Ground combat at Mersing

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 36602 troops, 449 guns, 192 vehicles, Assault Value = 586

Defending force 5644 troops, 53 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 113

Japanese max assault: 1014 - adjusted assault: 592

Allied max defense: 89 - adjusted defense: 15

Japanese assault odds: 39 to 1 (fort level 3)

Japanese forces CAPTURE Mersing base !!!


Japanese ground losses:
104 casualties reported
Guns lost 3

Allied ground losses:
166 casualties reported
Guns lost 15


Defeated Allied Units Retreating!


That is bad news. I don't know how my troops are positioned at the moment since I only have combat replay at hand.

Good news came from Northern Malaya though. Allied troops managed to stop Japanese division at Khota Baru.


Ground combat at Khota Bharu

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 20933 troops, 258 guns, 14 vehicles, Assault Value = 448

Defending force 10894 troops, 58 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 181

Japanese max assault: 984 - adjusted assault: 354

Allied max defense: 147 - adjusted defense: 75

Japanese assault odds: 4 to 1 (fort level 4)

Japanese Assault reduces fortifications to 0


Japanese ground losses:
213 casualties reported
Guns lost 8
Vehicles lost 1

Allied ground losses:
267 casualties reported
Guns lost 3


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Khota Bharu

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 20660 troops, 245 guns, 12 vehicles, Assault Value = 435

Defending force 10509 troops, 46 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 161

Japanese max assault: 840 - adjusted assault: 44

Allied max defense: 118 - adjusted defense: 87

Japanese assault odds: 0 to 1 (fort level 0)


Japanese ground losses:
966 casualties reported
Guns lost 31
Vehicles lost 4

Allied ground losses:
91 casualties reported
Guns lost 3


This means that Rob need to bring in more troops or otherwise he will be stalled here.

Remains of Force Z fought bravely in their suicide mission near Mersing.


Night Time Surface Combat, near Mersing at 23,49

Japanese Ships
BB Kongo, Shell hits 1
BB Haruna
CA Takao
CA Atago
CL Jintsu, Shell hits 2, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
DD Asashio
DD Oshio
DD Michishio
DD Arashio
DD Akatsuki
DD Hibiki

Allied Ships
CL Danae
DD Vampire, Shell hits 1, on fire
DD Vendetta
DD Tenedos, Shell hits 52, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
DD Electra, Shell hits 1, on fire
DD Express

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Time Surface Combat, near Mersing at 23,49

Japanese Ships
BB Kongo, Shell hits 1
BB Haruna
CA Takao
CA Atago, Shell hits 1
CL Jintsu, Shell hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
DD Asashio
DD Oshio, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
DD Michishio
DD Arashio
DD Akatsuki
DD Hibiki

Allied Ships
CL Danae, Shell hits 4
DD Vampire, Shell hits 5, and is sunk
DD Vendetta, Shell hits 1
DD Tenedos, and is sunk
DD Electra, Shell hits 5, on fire
DD Express


Good job! Unfortunately CL Danae was later sunk by enemy LBA aircraft. The mission was a success though since it enabled the damaged RN ships to escape from Singapore.


Central & North Pacific


[>:][>:][>:][>:][>:]


China


IJA tried to capture the Pucheng base in Southern China. This resulted to heavy enemy casualties.


Ground combat at Pucheng

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 12468 troops, 147 guns, 10 vehicles, Assault Value = 274

Defending force 18374 troops, 47 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 460

Japanese max assault: 330 - adjusted assault: 24

Allied max defense: 491 - adjusted defense: 964

Japanese assault odds: 0 to 1 (fort level 5)


Japanese ground losses:
2991 casualties reported [:D][:D][:D]
Guns lost 46
Vehicles lost 5

Allied ground losses:
36 casualties reported


The fortress of Hong Kong holds. Soon Rob will have more think when my troops enter the city of Canton! [;)]


Australia, NZ & South Pacific


[>:][>:][>:][>:][>:]


India & Burma


The preparations are ongoing. I do want to suprise him here.

The defenses at India should be looking solid soon.


Philippines


Japanese troops capture Davao, Jolo and San Marcelino.

Enemy seems to landing at Legaspi too. I would assume that at least another division is on its way.

The CA Houston managed to suprise some enemy transports near Jolo.


Day Time Surface Combat, near Jolo at 38,59

Japanese Ships
PG Tatsumiya Maru, Shell hits 2
PC Ch 7, Shell hits 8, on fire, heavy damage
AP Kasuga Maru, Shell hits 12, on fire, heavy damage
AP Nissen Maru #2, Shell hits 12, on fire, heavy damage
AP Syoka Maru, Shell hits 3, on fire
AP Tatuta Maru, Shell hits 11, on fire

Allied Ships
CA Houston, Shell hits 3


Amazing! This captain really deserves an medal of honour.

The obsolete US Navy at Philippines fought also bravely againts superior enemy near San Marcelino.


Day Time Surface Combat, near San Marcelino at 43,50

Japanese Ships
DD Ikazuchi, Shell hits 3
DD Inazuma, Shell hits 3
PG Akitsu Maru, Shell hits 1, on fire
PG Chiyo Maru
PC Ch 1, Torpedo hits 1, and is sunk

Allied Ships
PG Isabel, Shell hits 2, on fire
PG Asheville, Shell hits 9, Torpedo hits 1, and is sunk
PG Tulsa, Shell hits 20, on fire, heavy damage
PT PT-31
PT PT-32, Shell hits 23, and is sunk
PT PT-33
PT PT-34
PT PT-35, Shell hits 3, and is sunk
PT PT-41

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Time Surface Combat, near San Marcelino at 43,50

Japanese Ships
CL Naka
DD Natsugumo, Shell hits 1
DD Minegumo, Shell hits 3, on fire
DD Asagumo
DD Murasame, Shell hits 4
DD Harusame, Shell hits 2, on fire
DD Yudachi, Shell hits 1
DD Samidare, Shell hits 4, on fire

Allied Ships
DD John D. Ford, Shell hits 12, and is sunk
DD Peary, Shell hits 8, on fire, heavy damage
DD Pillsbury, Shell hits 11, on fire, heavy damage
DD Pope, Shell hits 2, on fire

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Time Surface Combat, near San Marcelino at 43,50

Japanese Ships
CL Naka
DD Natsugumo
DD Minegumo, on fire
DD Asagumo
DD Murasame
DD Harusame, on fire
DD Yudachi
DD Samidare, on fire, heavy damage

Allied Ships
PG Isabel, Shell hits 9, on fire, heavy damage
PG Tulsa, Shell hits 5, and is sunk
PT PT-31, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
PT PT-33
PT PT-34
PT PT-41, Shell hits 3, on fire, heavy damage

It could have been worse and at least these sailors fought as they were supposed to do.


DEI


KB turned up near Java. This was unexpected development. The result was not good. [8|]


Day Air attack on TF, near Soerabaja at 22,65

Japanese aircraft
D3A Val x 22
B5N Kate x 21

Allied aircraft
CW-21B Demon x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val: 1 damaged
B5N Kate: 1 destroyed, 1 damaged


Allied Ships
CL Dragon, Bomb hits 1, Torpedo hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
CL Durban, Bomb hits 1, on fire

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Air attack on TF, near Soerabaja at 22,65

Japanese aircraft
D3A Val x 28
B5N Kate x 19

Allied aircraft
CW-21B Demon x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val: 8 damaged
B5N Kate: 2 destroyed, 2 damaged


Allied Ships
DD Van Nes
DD Evertsen
CL Java, Bomb hits 9, on fire, heavy damage *sunk*

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Air attack on TF, near Soerabaja at 22,65

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 58
D3A Val x 35
B5N Kate x 48

Allied aircraft
CW-21B Demon x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val: 2 destroyed, 3 damaged
B5N Kate: 3 destroyed, 7 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
CW-21B Demon: 3 destroyed

Allied Ships
DD Banckert
CL De Ruyter, Bomb hits 2, Torpedo hits 5, on fire, heavy damage *sunk*
CL Tromp, Bomb hits 5, Torpedo hits 2, on fire, heavy damage *sunk*
DD Witte de With, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage


I will set every plane in the area to be on naval strike next turn! [:-] If I get lucky he will regret this little passage. I have decent amount of bombers available here and maybe some of those Dutch torpedo bombers will hit juicy targets. Fingers crossed.

Naturally I need check positions of my surface TF in the sea.

Kuching and Amboina were captured as expected.

Here is an screenshot from the naval battle near Mersing. Let's have a silent moment for those sailors who lost their lifes.

[Sardaukar]

Don't expect too much from your Dutch bombers vs KB...[:'(] They are so low on exp/morale that probably won't fly or get massacred.

Cutting the Malaya peninsula was nice touch from Rob. If he gets Singapore quickly you will be in trouble in Burma and DEI quicker than usual. Myself, I'd have gone after subs in Manila, those S-boats do not suffer from increased torpedo dud rate (they have Mk 10 torps) and can sink ships quite nicely. So don't forget to sortie everysub you have..you may get lucky and bag a CV or BB.

[aztez]

ORIGINAL: Sardaukar

Don't expect too much from your Dutch bombers vs KB...[:'(] They are so low on exp/morale that probably won't fly or get massacred.

Cutting the Malaya peninsula was nice touch from Rob. If he gets Singapore quickly you will be in trouble in Burma and DEI quicker than usual. Myself, I'd have gone after subs in Manila, those S-boats do not suffer from increased torpedo dud rate (they have Mk 10 torps) and can sink ships quite nicely. So don't forget to sortie everysub you have..you may get lucky and bag a CV or BB.

Yeah. The dutch airforce is not exactly a elite force at the beginning. I did order them on naval assault though since this is diffrent Air to Air model after all. If some of them would get through than Rob would need to be more careful in his adventures. That is the main reason and hopefully I can protect some of my ships this way too.

I just checked and I have around 500 assault points at Johore Baru. Level 5 fortifications so maybe I can hold the line long enough. I know I should not give him the oppurtunity move into DEI too fast.

I'am actually moving Dutch infantry units into Java. The 100 PP will allow me to do so. I did actually free up one small Philippino brigade which will move into Manila.

All the submarines are on the sea. Couple of them actually fired last turn. Two misses and one dud torpedo.

Dutch navy will try to hit his landing forces at Davao next turn. Hopefully they can reach by night.

China is looking good. Rob has just 6 units at Canton now and I'am moving my troops towards the city. So, basically he really needs to hurry up at Hong Kong! [:D][;)]

There are 4 Japanese infantry units moving towards Moulmein. That is fine since I intend to fight it out as I promised at Burma.

[aztez]

Game date is 13th of December 1941


Malaya


The enemy landings continue at Mersing and Khota Bharu.

RAF sortied from Singapore but was unable to hit any enemy transport TF.

Allied reorganization continues. Rob is still resting at Mersing and this gives me time.


Central & North Pacific


Allied BB's gather at Midway. These ships will move out and bombard the enemy troops at Wake Island! [;)]

US CV's continue to towards Wake too just in case Rob tries interfere.


China


Enemy troops were thrown out of Pucheng.


Ground combat at Pucheng

Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 14425 troops, 47 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 461

Defending force 4793 troops, 45 guns, 4 vehicles, Assault Value = 63

Allied max assault: 475 - adjusted assault: 1318

Japanese max defense: 40 - adjusted defense: 52

Allied assault odds: 25 to 1


Japanese ground losses:
17 casualties reported
Guns lost 2

Allied ground losses:
225 casualties reported
Guns lost 11


Defeated Japanese Units Retreating! *First victory of the war for Chinese army*

I will continue to harash Rob's supply routes with my Guerilla units. In the mean time real army is advancing towards their designed destinations.

Chinese armed forces also entered the city of Canton! [:D]


Australia, NZ & South Pacific


[>:][>:][>:][>:][>:]


India & Burma


Japanese troops seize the bases at Victoria Point and Tavoy.


Ground combat at Tavoy

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 21567 troops, 246 guns, 16 vehicles, Assault Value = 476

Defending force 774 troops, 7 guns, 2 vehicles, Assault Value = 1

Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 1

Japanese max assault: 978 - adjusted assault: 980

Allied max defense: 0 - adjusted defense: 1

Japanese assault odds: 980 to 1 (fort level 1)

Japanese forces CAPTURE Tavoy base !!!



Allied ground losses:
176 casualties reported
Guns lost 3
Vehicles lost 1


Defeated Allied Units Retreating!


Hmm. Japanese division at Tavoy. I think Rob expects allies to withdraw but instead he will have full fight on his hands soon enough.


Philippines


This seems to be one massive operation for Japanese army. Look at the size of this transport TF at San Marcelino.


Night Time Surface Combat, near San Marcelino at 43,50

Japanese Ships
MSW W.7
MSW W.8
MSW W.9
MSW W.10
MSW W.15
MSW W.16
MSW W.17
MSW W.18
MSW W.19
PC Ch 3
PC Ch 13
PC Ch 14
PC Ch 15
PC Ch 16
PC Ch 17
PC Ch 18
PC Ch 32
AP Aki Maru
AP Anyo Maru
AP Anzan Maru
AP Arizana Maru
AP Arizona Maru
AP Burisuben Maru
AP Chowa Maru
AP Hanakawa Maru
AP Hawaii Maru
AP Husimi Maru
AP Jinsan Maru
AP Kamo Maru
AP Karachi Maru
AP Kasima Maru
AP Keisho Maru
AP Koyo Maru
AP Kumagawa Maru
AP Matsukawa Maru
AP Maya Maru
AP Oigawa Maru
AP Oridono Maru
AP Ozan Maru
AP Sanko Maru
AP Satsuma Maru
AP Shinko Maru
AP Shirogane Maru
AP Tutukami Maru
AP Tensyo Maru
AP Tenyo Maru
AP Tenzan Maru
AP Terukuni Maru
AP Tohuku Maru
AP Tsuyama Maru
AP Ueizuru Maru
AP Unkai Maru #6
AP Waura Maru
AP Yasukuni Maru
AP Yosyu Maru
AP Palao Maru
AP Kikuryu Maru

Allied Ships
DD Peary, Shell hits 3, on fire, heavy damage
DD Pillsbury, Shell hits 3, on fire, heavy damage


The US naval operation at Davao was not as succesfull as It could have been.


Night Time Surface Combat, near Davao at 41,61

Japanese Ships
CL Nagara, Shell hits 2
DD Yukikaze, Shell hits 8, on fire
DD Tokitsukaze, Shell hits 2, on fire
DD Umikaze
DD Suzukaze
DD Shiokaze

Allied Ships
CL Marblehead, Shell hits 2
CL Boise, Shell hits 2, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
DD Alden
DD Barker, Shell hits 1
DD Bulmer
DD Edsall, Shell hits 1
DD John D. Edwards
DD Paul Jones, Shell hits 3, on fire
DD Parrott
DD Whipple
DD Stewart


I need to check what the damage levels are for my combat ships.


DEI


The KB did a lot of damage near Soerebaja! [8|][:@][:-]


Day Air attack on Soerabaja , at 22,65

Japanese aircraft
D3A Val x 42
B5N Kate x 48

Allied aircraft
CW-21B Demon x 5
Brewster 339D x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val: 4 destroyed, 8 damaged
B5N Kate: 6 destroyed, 6 damaged


Allied Ships
DD Van Ghent, Bomb hits 2, on fire
AS Colombia, Bomb hits 2, on fire
DD Witte de With, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
CL Durban, Bomb hits 1
CL De Ruyter, Bomb hits 3, on fire, heavy damage
DD Banckert, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
DD Piet Hein, Bomb hits 1, on fire
CL Java, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
DD Van Nes, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage


Allied ground losses:
41 casualties reported
Guns lost 1

Port hits 3
Port fuel hits 2

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Air attack on TF at 24,65

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 53
D3A Val x 36
B5N Kate x 54

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val: 1 damaged

Allied Ships
AP Rochussen, Bomb hits 2, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
AK Sigli, Bomb hits 5, on fire, heavy damage
MSW Pieter de Bitter, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
AP Van Landsberge, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
AK Loa Koeloe, Bomb hits 1, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
AK Toendjoek, Bomb hits 2, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
AK Parigi, Torpedo hits 1, on fire
MSW Abraham Crijnssen, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
AK Sinabang, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
AK Senang
AP Van Overstraten, Torpedo hits 1, on fire


Allied ground losses:
158 casualties reported

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Air attack on TF at 24,65

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 4
D3A Val x 18

No Japanese losses

Allied Ships
AK Senang, Bomb hits 1, on fire
AK Toendjoek, Bomb hits 3, on fire, heavy damage
AP Van Neck
AP Van Overstraten, Bomb hits 1, on fire


Allied ground losses:
60 casualties reported

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Air attack on TF, near Pamakasan at 24,66

Japanese aircraft
D3A Val x 56
B5N Kate x 43

No Japanese losses

Allied Ships
AK Modjekerto, Bomb hits 1, Torpedo hits 3, on fire, heavy damage
AK Ban Ho Guan
AK Soerabaja, Bomb hits 3, Torpedo hits 3, on fire, heavy damage
AK Duymaer van Twist, Bomb hits 2, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
AK Tjisaroea, Bomb hits 6, on fire, heavy damage
AK Benkalis, Bomb hits 6, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Air attack on TF, near Soerabaja at 22,65

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 58
D3A Val x 28
B5N Kate x 17

Allied aircraft
CW-21B Demon x 6
Brewster 339D x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
CW-21B Demon: 5 destroyed
Brewster 339D: 5 destroyed

Allied Ships
AP Van Neck, Bomb hits 3, on fire
AP Rochussen, Bomb hits 4, Torpedo hits 3, on fire, heavy damage
AK Sigli, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
AK Loa Koeloe, Bomb hits 1, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
AK Sinabang, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Air attack on Soerabaja , at 22,65

Japanese aircraft
D3A Val x 85
B5N Kate x 119

Allied aircraft
CW-21B Demon x 4
Brewster 339D x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
D3A Val: 2 destroyed, 6 damaged
B5N Kate: 8 destroyed, 4 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
CW-21B Demon: 1 damaged

Allied Ships
CL Java, Bomb hits 23, on fire, heavy damage
CL Durban, Bomb hits 10, on fire, heavy damage
DD Evertsen, Bomb hits 4, on fire, heavy damage
DD Van Ghent, Bomb hits 3, on fire, heavy damage
DD Witte de With, Bomb hits 6, on fire, heavy damage
DD Piet Hein, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
DD Van Nes, Bomb hits 2, on fire, heavy damage
AS Colombia, Bomb hits 1, heavy damage
DD Kortenaer, Bomb hits 1
DD Banckert, Bomb hits 1, on fire, heavy damage


Allied ground losses:
177 casualties reported
Guns lost 4

Port hits 14
Port fuel hits 1
Port supply hits 2


Ouch! Allthough what can you expect from the death start itself. The good news is that Rob needs reorganize his CV Fleet once the KB reaches port. (4+4 CV houserule per hex)

Baby KB seems to be stationed near Mindanao at the moment.

Allthough not all was bad news. I caused Rob some heart beating hoperfully when Dutch PT Boats suprised KB at night.


Night Time Surface Combat at 24,63

Japanese Ships
CV Kaga
CV Hiryu
CV Soryu
CV Shokaku
CV Zuikaku
CV Akagi
BB Hiei
BB Kirishima
CA Tone
CA Chikuma
CL Abukuma
DD Akigumo
DD Kagero, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
DD Isokaze
DD Shiranuhi
DD Urakaze
DD Hamakaze
DD Tanikaze
DD Arare
DD Kasumi
DD Akebono
DD Sazanami
DD Ushio

Allied Ships
PT TM-4
PT TM-5
PT TM-6
PT TM-7
PT TM-8
PT TM-9, Shell hits 40, and is sunk


The Dutch airforce finished off the the damaged DD later on.


Day Air attack on TF at 25,63


Allied aircraft
CW-21B Demon x 8
Brewster 339D x 2
T.IVa x 5
Martin 139 x 6


No Allied losses

Japanese Ships
DD Kagero, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage *sunk*


I think I propably sunk 2 more enemy DD's and damaged couple other. This cannot be confirmed though before I get the actual turn.


Here is the screenshot from the duel between KB and Dutch PT crews.

[LittleJoe]

Good luck with the move at Wake, make rob pay for positioning the KB in the DEI. [;)]

[aztez]

Thanks Joe. The plan is to bombard the base and have US CV fleet to cover for any interventions.

Rob will have his hands full at China soon too. I can promise that he wohn't like this theatre one dam bit! [:D] ...than again I don't have any clue what kind of forces he has there.

I'am already moving ships/troops/planes into Southern Pacific. No sign of enemy yet.

I think I have a chance to hold on at Malaya too. Same goes for Philippines. In best case scenario these battles will turn into attrition battles... and can't actually wait him to advance into Burma. He is propably used to have find the country abandoned but this is not the case this time around.

[LittleJoe]

Well as Allies he defended Burma strongly and managed to stop me at Mandalay, so he'll know the dangers of a half hearted advance into the place.

[aztez]

I'am counting on the fact that he has other things on his mind! [;)]
 
It would not be first time when mistakes are made and with this mod I can actually afford to battle it out at Burma.
 
Oh, we will know soon enough.
 
I heard that you two are going swap sides once your PBEM is done. Remember to do an AAR.

[LittleJoe]

Yea, we were gonna do it before the end of our PBEM, but it would just mean having two PBEM's going at a crawl. Rob can churn out turns pretty quick, but it takes me 3-4 hours to do most turns.

Ill definately do a AAR though.

[aztez]

Game date is 15th of December 1941


Malaya


An counterstrike is ordered at Johore Bharu next turn. There are 3 enemy units that just entered the hex and if I'am lucky those troops will retreat towards Mersing.

Additional brigade should reach Khota Bharu within a turn or two. Hopefully that will cause some headaches to the Japanese.


Central & North Pacific


Japanese submarines spotted my BB TF's near Wake Island. Too bad but the operation will go ahead as planned.

Lets just say that I want to remind Rob what was not sunk on turn 1. [;)]

CV Saratoga has now reached Pearl Harbour. She will link up with rest of the US CV's once these ships return from sea.


China


A stalemate is currently happening at Hong Kong. There is just 1 Japanese division and some engineers assaulting the base.

Chinese infantry entered the city of Canton. I have issued a deliberate assault next turn to see what kind of odds I can get here. [8|]

If I'am lucky than Rob is screwed.


Australia, NZ & South Pacific


[>:][>:][>:][>:][>:]


India & Burma


[>:][>:][>:][>:][>:]


Philippines


Two enemy tank brigades entered Clark Field and suffered heavy casualties! [:D][:D][:D]


Ground combat at Clark Field

Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 35465 troops, 247 guns, 245 vehicles, Assault Value = 1065

Defending force 1880 troops, 0 guns, 130 vehicles, Assault Value = 74

Allied max assault: 1114 - adjusted assault: 813

Japanese max defense: 75 - adjusted defense: 1

Allied assault odds: 813 to 1


Japanese ground losses:
700 casualties reported
Vehicles lost 73

Allied ground losses:
180 casualties reported
Guns lost 4
Vehicles lost 2


Defeated Japanese Units Retreating!


The first airstrike was launched againts Manila too last turn. I do like the changes Big B has made into the air to air model! [&o]


Day Air attack on TF, near Manila at 43,52

Japanese aircraft
A6M2 Zero x 12
G3M Nell x 12

Allied aircraft
P-26A x 1
P-35A x 3
P-40E-1-CU Warhawk x 25
P-40B Tomahawk x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed
G3M Nell: 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-40E-1-CU Warhawk: 3 destroyed, 5 damaged

Allied Ships
AK Kanlaon II, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage


A lot of submarines attacked enemy shipping near Luzon. But just two torpedoes actually managed detonate!!! I really need sue the manufacturer of these weapons for all his worth! [8|]


DEI


KB seems to be withdrawing towards North. (Propably Saigon or some other enemy base at Thailand) That is good news though. Now Rob forced to reorganize his fleet.

Japanese airforce is causing a lot of harm here though. Rob has put up fighters and bombers into Kuching, Davao, Jolo and Amboina. These pilots have made several naval strikes in past two days.

[aztez]

Game date is 17th of December 1945


Malaya


The advancing Japanese Tank units were repulsed and forced to retreat at Johore Baru.


Ground combat at Johore Bahru

Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 26953 troops, 243 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 689

Defending force 2916 troops, 0 guns, 192 vehicles, Assault Value = 108

Allied max assault: 666 - adjusted assault: 327

Japanese max defense: 107 - adjusted defense: 133

Allied assault odds: 2 to 1


Japanese ground losses:
186 casualties reported
Vehicles lost 12

Allied ground losses:
199 casualties reported
Guns lost 9


Defeated Japanese Units Retreating! [:D][;)]


The bad thing is that IJA has gained total airsuperiority over Malaya peninsula. Actually it is time to withdraw some of my RAF units.

1 Japanese division entered Alon Star and captured the base. Rob really needs more troops if he is planning to cut my troops at Khota Bharu.


Central & North Pacific


The 1st allied carrier strike was launched againts Wake Island.


Day Air attack on Wake Island , at 82,63


Allied aircraft
F2A Buffalo x 11
SBD Dauntless x 66
TBD Devastator x 27


No Allied losses

Airbase hits 10
Airbase supply hits 5
Runway hits 31


Allied BB's got their first taste of enemy blood too at Wake Island.


Naval bombardment of Wake Island, at 82,63

Allied Ships
DD Conyngham
DD Case
DD Cummings
DD Jarvis
DD Patterson
DD Henley
DD Ralph Talbot
CL St. Louis
CL Detroit
CL Raleigh
CA New Orleans
BB Oklahoma
BB Nevada
BB West Virginia
BB Maryland

Japanese ground losses:
66 casualties reported
Guns lost 2

Runway hits 11
Port hits 4
Port supply hits 6

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Naval bombardment of Wake Island, at 82,63

Allied Ships
CL Honolulu
CL Phoenix
CL Helena
CA San Francisco
CA Minneapolis
BB Tennessee
BB California
BB Pennsylvania
BB Arizona

Japanese ground losses:
64 casualties reported
Guns lost 5

Runway hits 16
Port hits 6
Port supply hits 8


The damage is moderate at best but these strikes were psychological warfare. It is time link up with CV Saratoga for next operations.


China


I'am still trying to cut off his supply routes with my guerilla units. Rob is not too pleased about this! [:D]

The Canton assault was not succesfull.


Ground combat at Canton

Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 37786 troops, 122 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1219

Defending force 40272 troops, 258 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 459

Allied max assault: 1208 - adjusted assault: 89

Japanese max defense: 507 - adjusted defense: 6685

Allied assault odds: 0 to 1 (fort level 4)


Japanese ground losses:
56 casualties reported
Guns lost 3

Allied ground losses:
1849 casualties reported
Guns lost 41


I will keep my units on the city hex thus this will stop any enemy production at the city itself.

Japanese find it hard going at Hong Kong too.


Ground combat at Hong Kong

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 29100 troops, 301 guns, 16 vehicles, Assault Value = 547

Defending force 13117 troops, 112 guns, 4 vehicles, Assault Value = 233

Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 7

Japanese max assault: 1160 - adjusted assault: 333

Allied max defense: 255 - adjusted defense: 229

Japanese assault odds: 1 to 1 (fort level 7)

Japanese Assault reduces fortifications to 7


Japanese ground losses:
455 casualties reported
Guns lost 12
Vehicles lost 1

Allied ground losses:
94 casualties reported
Guns lost 6
Vehicles lost 1

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Hong Kong

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 28598 troops, 288 guns, 15 vehicles, Assault Value = 521

Defending force 13005 troops, 107 guns, 3 vehicles, Assault Value = 232

Japanese max assault: 894 - adjusted assault: 480

Allied max defense: 213 - adjusted defense: 713

Japanese assault odds: 0 to 1 (fort level 7)


Japanese ground losses:
209 casualties reported
Guns lost 15
Vehicles lost 6

Allied ground losses:
74 casualties reported
Guns lost 4


Nice results. I doubt Rob counted to face up this kind of an resistance.


Australia, NZ & South Pacific


Japanese start to land troops at Kavieng and Nauru atoll. These empty bases are easy targets.

To everyone suprise the US base at Guam refuses to surrender! [X(]


Ground combat at Guam

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 2282 troops, 11 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 58

Defending force 1276 troops, 3 guns, 1 vehicles, Assault Value = 17

Japanese max assault: 112 - adjusted assault: 4

Allied max defense: 15 - adjusted defense: 22

Japanese assault odds: 0 to 1 (fort level 0)


Japanese ground losses:
471 casualties reported
Guns lost 5


India & Burma


[>:][>:][>:][>:][>:]


Philippines


The Japanese push forward their offense at Naga.


Ground combat at Naga

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 41784 troops, 508 guns, 14 vehicles, Assault Value = 879

Defending force 13237 troops, 84 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 377

Japanese max assault: 868 - adjusted assault: 386

Allied max defense: 381 - adjusted defense: 239

Japanese assault odds: 1 to 1 (fort level 3)

Japanese Assault reduces fortifications to 2


Japanese ground losses:
952 casualties reported
Guns lost 31
Vehicles lost 1

Allied ground losses:
96 casualties reported
Guns lost 3

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Naga

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 40581 troops, 464 guns, 12 vehicles, Assault Value = 822

Defending force 13117 troops, 80 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 374

Japanese max assault: 544 - adjusted assault: 237

Allied max defense: 379 - adjusted defense: 167

Japanese assault odds: 1 to 1 (fort level 2)

Japanese Assault reduces fortifications to 1


Japanese ground losses:
185 casualties reported
Guns lost 15
Vehicles lost 2

Allied ground losses:
120 casualties reported
Guns lost 4


Time to start planning an organized withdrawal here. I might launch an counterstrike towards Southern Luzon soon.

Meanwhile enemy troops at Clark Field find it tough going yet again.


Ground combat at Clark Field

Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 35295 troops, 252 guns, 245 vehicles, Assault Value = 1050

Defending force 15831 troops, 237 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 294

Allied max assault: 1105 - adjusted assault: 542

Japanese max defense: 284 - adjusted defense: 32

Allied assault odds: 16 to 1


Japanese ground losses:
1503 casualties reported
Guns lost 65

Allied ground losses:
574 casualties reported
Guns lost 23
Vehicles lost 6


Defeated Japanese Units Retreating! [:D][:D][:D][:D][&o]


I will soon receive reinforcements at Bataan. These troops are most welcomed.


DEI


A couple of enemy transports TF are spotted near Kuching. These ships might sail into Palempang. (Guessing here)


I will post a couple of screenshots once the real turn is in.