I've been so caught up with Dan and I's game and working a lot of hours that I noticed having failed to post my December 1, 1942 Update. Since Dan and I just closed out December and 1942 as a whole, I figured that this needed to be corrected quickly:
[font="times new roman"]December 1, 1942 [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Victory Points and Economic Summary[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Victory Points:[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Score[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Japan 32,178 (Up 1,397 Points)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Allies 10,163 (Up 778 Points)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I scored 2-1 in victory points which is solid and nothing to sneeze at. [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Ships Sunk[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Japan 246—2,184 VP—Only 12 ships (an I-Boat and 2 DD were only combatants lost) sunk during November.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Major Japanese Vessels Sunk to Date---BB Fuso and Yamashiro, BC Kirishima, CAs Kinugasa and Kako, 5 CL, 26 DD (12 Modern DD lost), and 16 SS (12 I-Boats and 4 Ro-).[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Allies 441---5,899 VP---Dan lost 68 ships! Totals for the month were: 1 AD, 34 AK, 2 TK, 5 AP, 29 PT, 1 DMS, 1 MSW, and 2 SS. His evacuation of Melbourne and Sydney has been and still is a disaster. [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Major Allied Vessels Sunk---CVs Enterprise, Lexington, Hornet, and Wasp, BBs Colorado, West Virginia, Idaho and Tennessee, 9 CA, 7 CL, 48 DD, and 4 SS.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Manchukuo Garrison---8,660 (8,000 Needed)—down 77 from pull outs.[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Political Points---977[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Units Transferred: [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Manchuria Aviation Regiment[/font]
[font="times new roman"]China Aviation Regiment and 1st Mixed Regiment[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Home Islands 1st Guards Mixed Brigade[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Industrial Report[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Supply 2,270,271[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Fuel 1,511,449[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Manpower 847 (787,010)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Heavy Industry 14,803 (16,977)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Resources 19,705 (1,780,442)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Oil 2072 (765,367)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Supply, Heavy Industry, Resources, and Oil are all up. Things look pretty good as Australia fixes itself. I am finished expanding the Home Islands economy. Any expansion now comes from newly conquered land. Fuel continues to be a concern as it dropped 160,000 between months.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"][/font]
[font="times new roman"]Shipyards[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Naval 1,342 (24)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Merchant 981 (6)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Repair 1,482[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I gained a new batch of MLE, AR, and a couple of AV. Don’t have many more in the construction pipeline so I should see my merchant construction picking up pace again.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Specific Ships:[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Musashi is 219 Days from completion. I’ve accelerated CVs Taiho (178), Unryu (393), Amagi (423), and Katsuragi (635). Continue to project the completion of Taiho at about March 1, 1943 with Unryu and Amagi being commissioned about July 1, 1943.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Weapons[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Armament 572 (74,492)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Vehicles 144 (1,477)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Stockpiles continue to rise here after a dip last month.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Aircraft[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Engines 1,979[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Assembly 1,096+(569-Rd)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]No engine expansion but my assembly jumped 110 planes as my A3a production started ramping up and Oscar IIc kicked in.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Engine Production[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Mitsubishi 805/Month—Need 481—1,896 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Nakajima 974—Need 891---91 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Kawasaki 180---Need 190---573 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Aichi 20---Need 0---207 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Got some Nakajima’s into the pool but am thinking of shifting some Mitsubishi over.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Plane Production[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Fighters Planes/Month (in Pool)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]A6M2 0 (468)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]A6M3 84 (8)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]A6M3a 166 (8)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Oscar 0 (491)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Oscar IIc 58 (27)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tojo 76 (23)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tony 190 (58)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Jack 65-R[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]See A3a REALLY come up and Oscar IIc start rolling off the line. My production is keeping up with the combat and I am making small gains within my stockpiling.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Bombers[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Betty 98 (370)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Sally 40 (11)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Helen 91 (2)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Lily 86 (7)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Nick-a 4 (0)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Nick-b 25 (0)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Val 32 (403)—Production is turned off.[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Kate 57 (124)—NOT keeping ahead of losses here…[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I have a real problem here. My bomber production is not keeping up with the heavy aerial combat over Burma, Australia, and Wotje. This is a real issue. I have excellent crews (most bomber Daitai/Sentai are in their low-to-mid 80s) but not enough airframes.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Recon/Float[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Emily 20 (44)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Alf 5 (53)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Pete 0 (45)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Pete A 0 (43)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Rufe 0 (64)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Glen 4 (43)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Dinah 0 (209)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Irving 8 (12)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Jake 8 (101)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Babs 12 (6)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Everything fine here.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Transports[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tina 10 (29)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Sally 5 (29)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Topsy 10 (45)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Mavis-L 5 (18)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tabby 10 (60)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Restarted production due to my heavy use of Transports in Australia.[/font]
Forlorn Hopes: The Japanese Respond
Moderators: wdolson, Don Bowen, mogami
December 1, 1942 VP/Industrial Report
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: December 1, 1942 VP/Industrial Report
Interesting read; I am curious, what are your aircraft losses to date? I am not a very experienced player, but I have lost 8800 A/C by 3/43 as Japan, my opponent 6800. Not sure if that is typical. I am sure I will lose more from here on out. Very high Ops losses for Japan.
Combat Report: Dec 24-31, 1942
Combat Report
December 24-31, 1942
Things continue to roll along Japan's way. The crisis within Burma may be passing as the Japanese counterstroke begins to take form. Wotje is now directly contested on the ground and should fall by the end of January. The final phase of the war in Australia is about to commence.
North Pacific
Nothing has happened up here for a long time. The Japanese have their main bases well supplied and dug-in. Cold Bay, Dutch Harbor, and Kodiak are all solid. They are not and have not been tested by the Allies for quite some time.
Central Pacific
The Marshalls
The Japanese finally make their assault landing on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! While the CD and mines exact a toll (with surprisingly few ships sinking), the Japanese land over 70,000 men and enough supplies to last them quite a while. While waiting for the Disruption to come down, the troops settle in to bombard the Americans while the skies are filled with strike after strike of Japanese planes (300-400 Sorties a day). Periodically the Imperial Navy adds its voice to the cacophany of explosions that inundate the Allied line. On an average day, the Americans lose 300-400 men, 4-7 guns, and 2-4 vehicles for little to no loss to Japan.
A follow-on landing force carrying 2 Artillery Regiments and some Engineers are waiting for another large Japanese Infantry Brigade to come up from Pago-Pago. Once it arrives, these 30,000 troops will assualt the Marine lines and Wotje will fall. Projected assault date is January 10, 1943.
Though a pain, American SS have not been too bad as of late. Perhaps it is the simple math that I am damaging, either by LBA or ASW, a SS every other day. The USS Pogy sank on December 31st after having endured this.
I have begun to rotate my aur units into this theatre for fantastic on-the-job training! The 6 Betty Daitai there all have experience nearing 90! [:D][:D] I am moving other units in and the high experienced out so this can be spread throughout the Central Pacific.
South Pacific
Bases need more supply but are in good shape. I am dispatching several good-sized fuel and supply convoys to Papeate and nearby bases as this is the logical point for another American attack. Regardless, I expect Dan to try to run his ships through this area to help supply New Zealand. Japanese CVs will be moving there very soon.
Australia
As shown by that screenshot taken a few days ago, I have EVERYTHING but Sydney and Melbourne. Over the last 10 days I have been moving troops around and getting my Aviation Support to Canberra, Newcastle, and Port Kembla. My troops are settleing in for a break and increasing the size of the AF as well as starting to build Forts. I've so many Engineers at Newcastle, it went from Sz-2 to 3 on the 29th and to Sz-4 on the 31st! How about that! Eat your heart out Seabees...
Dan has been using Sydney as his main bomber base and I have wanted him to keep doing that while I move my support personnel into position. I bloodied the Aussie's nose on the 30th and 31st when his strikes going into Newcastle were met by 50+ Fighters flying CAP. The Aussies lost 14 Fighters, 4 2EB, and 4 Liberators for only 2 Tony and 1 Zero.
I began moving my bombers into Canberra (AF Sz-6) and Newcastle (AF Sz-4) on the 31st. They will launch a massive strike at the Sydney AF in an effort to pound the aircraft sitting on that field. Figure to launch that attack on January 2nd with 150 Fighters (mostly Tony/Zero with some Tojo) and 300 Bombers (Sally and Helen). It is here that my bomber shortage is causing issues. I need about 50 airframes to fill out these Sentai and simply don't have them. Once I initiate this attack, it will be round-the-clock bombing.
During this week my CVs manage to sink over a dozen ships fleeing Melbourne. These were mainly TK and AP. I damage at least a dozen more beyond that...
With Newcastle and Devonport at Sz-4 AF, I move in 2 Daitai of Betty for sinking shipping. This now frees up my CVs patrolling between New Zealand and Australia. I recall Junyo/Hiyo, a CVL, and 4 CVE to Brisbane for fuel and replennishment. They will then swing around the southern portion of New Zealand and head for Papeate. I want to completely cut off New Zealand from the USA.
Burma
Things are strange here. Dan REFUSES to pull back from Meiktila even though I am obviously trying to swing around and flank him. He manages to drive my 2 Inf Div out of 34,30 north of Taung Gyi on the 29th. I decide to admit that THAT route take too long so I order the 38th ID and 2 Tk Reg to leave Taung Gyi for Meiktila. Once there, I will use them for defence or swing them up to Magwe and cut in behind him.
My AS has risen from 1,000 to over 1,350 at Meiktila. Forts are still holding at 6. The 10th Inf Div (I think it is that ID) unloaded at Rangoon and is already at Magwe. It, plus an SNLF and two small Engineer units are now moving east towards Mandalay and then SE to cut Dan's army off from its supplies.
There is a Reserve TK Regiment from Japan that will unload in about 5 days at Rangoon.
My aircraft continue to hammer any attempt to hit my troops at Meiktila. There is an average of 80-100 Tony flying CAP there at any given time and my remaining 100 Fighters and 200 bombers strike his troops with little to no fear!
Naval Action
As mentioned earlier, I put 5 TT into the Prince of Wales on Dec 22nd. It appeared that the BB would make Diamond Harbor except for the I-26! I ordered her to FULL SPEED on the 22nd and she got there just as the Prince was entering the harbor. Quickly brushing past a pair of escorts, the I-26 sank the Prince of Wales with 2 TTs! There was no ASW attack and so the I-26 survives to tell the tale.
How about that?! [8D]
Forgot to mention that CarDiv1 (Akagi/Kaga) took up station at Sabang on Dec 31st with Hiryu speeding over to join them within a few days. They will then go HUNTING!
China
We have returned to an apparent stalemate. It is obvious that Dan is sending Chinese troops into Burma and I trust his use of Political Points in doing so. If this is the situation then I will not hesitate to pull some more out for the Pacific...
I know that he has paid a penalty; however, when the month turned, he was socked with a 2,600 PP penalty for faling to withdraw British Warships! That has to hurt some....
Thoughts anyone???
December 24-31, 1942
Things continue to roll along Japan's way. The crisis within Burma may be passing as the Japanese counterstroke begins to take form. Wotje is now directly contested on the ground and should fall by the end of January. The final phase of the war in Australia is about to commence.
North Pacific
Nothing has happened up here for a long time. The Japanese have their main bases well supplied and dug-in. Cold Bay, Dutch Harbor, and Kodiak are all solid. They are not and have not been tested by the Allies for quite some time.
Central Pacific
The Marshalls
The Japanese finally make their assault landing on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day! While the CD and mines exact a toll (with surprisingly few ships sinking), the Japanese land over 70,000 men and enough supplies to last them quite a while. While waiting for the Disruption to come down, the troops settle in to bombard the Americans while the skies are filled with strike after strike of Japanese planes (300-400 Sorties a day). Periodically the Imperial Navy adds its voice to the cacophany of explosions that inundate the Allied line. On an average day, the Americans lose 300-400 men, 4-7 guns, and 2-4 vehicles for little to no loss to Japan.
A follow-on landing force carrying 2 Artillery Regiments and some Engineers are waiting for another large Japanese Infantry Brigade to come up from Pago-Pago. Once it arrives, these 30,000 troops will assualt the Marine lines and Wotje will fall. Projected assault date is January 10, 1943.
Though a pain, American SS have not been too bad as of late. Perhaps it is the simple math that I am damaging, either by LBA or ASW, a SS every other day. The USS Pogy sank on December 31st after having endured this.
I have begun to rotate my aur units into this theatre for fantastic on-the-job training! The 6 Betty Daitai there all have experience nearing 90! [:D][:D] I am moving other units in and the high experienced out so this can be spread throughout the Central Pacific.
South Pacific
Bases need more supply but are in good shape. I am dispatching several good-sized fuel and supply convoys to Papeate and nearby bases as this is the logical point for another American attack. Regardless, I expect Dan to try to run his ships through this area to help supply New Zealand. Japanese CVs will be moving there very soon.
Australia
As shown by that screenshot taken a few days ago, I have EVERYTHING but Sydney and Melbourne. Over the last 10 days I have been moving troops around and getting my Aviation Support to Canberra, Newcastle, and Port Kembla. My troops are settleing in for a break and increasing the size of the AF as well as starting to build Forts. I've so many Engineers at Newcastle, it went from Sz-2 to 3 on the 29th and to Sz-4 on the 31st! How about that! Eat your heart out Seabees...
Dan has been using Sydney as his main bomber base and I have wanted him to keep doing that while I move my support personnel into position. I bloodied the Aussie's nose on the 30th and 31st when his strikes going into Newcastle were met by 50+ Fighters flying CAP. The Aussies lost 14 Fighters, 4 2EB, and 4 Liberators for only 2 Tony and 1 Zero.
I began moving my bombers into Canberra (AF Sz-6) and Newcastle (AF Sz-4) on the 31st. They will launch a massive strike at the Sydney AF in an effort to pound the aircraft sitting on that field. Figure to launch that attack on January 2nd with 150 Fighters (mostly Tony/Zero with some Tojo) and 300 Bombers (Sally and Helen). It is here that my bomber shortage is causing issues. I need about 50 airframes to fill out these Sentai and simply don't have them. Once I initiate this attack, it will be round-the-clock bombing.
During this week my CVs manage to sink over a dozen ships fleeing Melbourne. These were mainly TK and AP. I damage at least a dozen more beyond that...
With Newcastle and Devonport at Sz-4 AF, I move in 2 Daitai of Betty for sinking shipping. This now frees up my CVs patrolling between New Zealand and Australia. I recall Junyo/Hiyo, a CVL, and 4 CVE to Brisbane for fuel and replennishment. They will then swing around the southern portion of New Zealand and head for Papeate. I want to completely cut off New Zealand from the USA.
Burma
Things are strange here. Dan REFUSES to pull back from Meiktila even though I am obviously trying to swing around and flank him. He manages to drive my 2 Inf Div out of 34,30 north of Taung Gyi on the 29th. I decide to admit that THAT route take too long so I order the 38th ID and 2 Tk Reg to leave Taung Gyi for Meiktila. Once there, I will use them for defence or swing them up to Magwe and cut in behind him.
My AS has risen from 1,000 to over 1,350 at Meiktila. Forts are still holding at 6. The 10th Inf Div (I think it is that ID) unloaded at Rangoon and is already at Magwe. It, plus an SNLF and two small Engineer units are now moving east towards Mandalay and then SE to cut Dan's army off from its supplies.
There is a Reserve TK Regiment from Japan that will unload in about 5 days at Rangoon.
My aircraft continue to hammer any attempt to hit my troops at Meiktila. There is an average of 80-100 Tony flying CAP there at any given time and my remaining 100 Fighters and 200 bombers strike his troops with little to no fear!
Naval Action
As mentioned earlier, I put 5 TT into the Prince of Wales on Dec 22nd. It appeared that the BB would make Diamond Harbor except for the I-26! I ordered her to FULL SPEED on the 22nd and she got there just as the Prince was entering the harbor. Quickly brushing past a pair of escorts, the I-26 sank the Prince of Wales with 2 TTs! There was no ASW attack and so the I-26 survives to tell the tale.
How about that?! [8D]
Forgot to mention that CarDiv1 (Akagi/Kaga) took up station at Sabang on Dec 31st with Hiryu speeding over to join them within a few days. They will then go HUNTING!
China
We have returned to an apparent stalemate. It is obvious that Dan is sending Chinese troops into Burma and I trust his use of Political Points in doing so. If this is the situation then I will not hesitate to pull some more out for the Pacific...
I know that he has paid a penalty; however, when the month turned, he was socked with a 2,600 PP penalty for faling to withdraw British Warships! That has to hurt some....
Thoughts anyone???
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: Combat Report: Dec 24-31, 1942
Q-Ball:
Let me check when I get Dan's next turn and I'll let you know with specifics...I've lost a lot of planes to AA fire. He has lost a ton of planes on the ground. If you add to the numbers together they probably equal out...
Let me check when I get Dan's next turn and I'll let you know with specifics...I've lost a lot of planes to AA fire. He has lost a ton of planes on the ground. If you add to the numbers together they probably equal out...
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
January 1, 1943 VP/Industrial Report
[font="times new roman"]January 1, 1943 [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Victory Points and Economic Summary[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I have never been so far ahead or in such total control of the Pacific as I am with this campaign. With the Allies reduced to a toehold in Australia, the Japanese focus for the first couple of months in 1943 shall be the destruction of the Allied troops on Wotje and a genuine attempt to capture Sydney and Melbourne, Australia.[/font]
[font="times new roman"][/font]
[font="times new roman"]While things are scary in Burma, the rest of the Japanese Empire looks pretty good. The Fleet is expanding and new construction shall be slipping down the ways very soon. The economy is humming along although there are some concerns about Fuel usage and adequate building of Bombers. Please take a look:[/font]
[font="times new roman"][/font]
[font="times new roman"]Victory Points:[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Score[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Japan 36,782 (Up 4,604 Points)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Allies 11,080 (Up 917 Points)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]WOW! I end the year with a lead of 3.32—1. Most of this massive growth in VP came from capturing Port Kembla, Canberra, and Newcastle. [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Ships Sunk[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Japan 269—2,274 VP—Only 23 ships (two I-Boats were only warships lost) sunk during November. Exact losses were: I-121, I-157, 11 MSW, 4 PG, 3 AK, and 3 AP. Considering that I invaded Wotje on December 24th—these are very light losses.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Major Japanese Vessels Sunk to Date---BB Fuso and Yamashiro, BC Kirishima, CAs Kinugasa and Kako, 5 CL, 26 DD (12 Modern DD lost), and 18 SS (14 I-Boats and 4 Ro-).[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Allies 492---6,422 VP---Dan lost 51 ships! Totals for the month were: 11 AK, 8 TK, 6 AP, 13 PT, 1 DD, 9 MSW, 1 ML, BB Prince of Wales, and 1 SS. Nearly all of these ships were lost fleeing Melbourne heading for NZ.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Major Allied Vessels Sunk---CVs Enterprise, Lexington, Hornet, and Wasp, BBs Colorado, West Virginia, Idaho, Tennessee, and Prince of Wales, 9 CA, 7 CL, 48 DD, and 7 SS.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Manchukuo Garrison---8,624 (8,000 Needed)—down 36 from pull outs.[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Political Points---2,719[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Units Transferred: [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Manchuria 3 Small BF for Australia[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Home Islands 1st Reserve Tank Regiment for Burma[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Industrial Report[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Supply 2,279,769[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Fuel 1,342,172[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Manpower 856 (874,204)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Heavy Industry 15,131 (772)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Resources 20,841 (1,960,247)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Oil 2081 (693,176)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Supply, Heavy Industry, Resources, and Oil are all up. There were large gains in Resources (+1,135) and Heavy Industry (+328). [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Fuel is becoming a critical concern as it dropped 150,000 between months. If my stockpile drops to 1.2 Million then I will halt naval operations for a while and see if I can bring my fuel state up…[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"][/font]
[font="times new roman"]Shipyards[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Naval 1,342 (4)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Merchant 981 (1)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Repair 1,508[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I am not expanding my Repair yards any more. They are large enough to handle much of anything. With my growth in Heavy Industry, I am going to expand my Naval Yards by about 50 so I have more room to build within the warship que.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Big construction decisions made on January 1st:[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Battleships[/font][/i]
[font="times new roman"]Musashi (202 Days) halted until Taiho completed.[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Ise (179 Days) Both BB Hybrid Conversions move at normal speed. [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Hyuga (180 Days)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Carriers[/font][/i]
[font="times new roman"]Taiho (114 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Unryu (329 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Amagi (377 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Katsuragi (609 Days). [/font]
[font="times new roman"]CVL Chitose (329 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"]CVL Chiyoda (329 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I also upgraded all 3 of my remaining BC during the month.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Weapons[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Armament 572 (77,084)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Vehicles 144 (770)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]My vehicle stockpile dropped by 50%! I have two new Tank Divisions (1 in China and 1 in Australia) that are outfitting and had 6 Tk Regiments all rebuilding last month as well. I’ve decided to expand my Vehicle number by about 50 to help with this.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Aircraft[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Engines 1,909[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Assembly 1,107+(635-Rd)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Had a slight increase in Assembly and a nice rise in Research.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Engine Production[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Mitsubishi 695/Month—Need 481—1,794 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Nakajima 993(31)—Need 912---0 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Kawasaki 201(39)---Need 190---472 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Aichi 20---Need 0---222 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I converted two small assembly lines from Mitsubishi to Nakajima and Kawasaki.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Plane Production[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Fighters Planes/Month (in Pool)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]A6M2 0 (443)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]A6M3 84 (19)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]A6M3a 167 (20)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Oscar 0 (518)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Oscar IIa 58 (46)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tojo 76 (32)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tony 190 (120)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Jack 72-R[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Saw growth in nearly all of my fighter stockpiles. Am not too big of fan of the Oscar IIa so I will shut off that production after completing about 150 planes. [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Bombers[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Betty 98 (389)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Sally 40 (1)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Helen 91 (1)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Lily 90 (0)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Nick-a 10 (0)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Nick-b 25 (6)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Val 32 (396)—Production is turned off.[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Kate 57 (118)—Still NOT keeping ahead of losses here…[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]There are major problems with my bomber production. I am losing too many planes and am not able to replace them. On the 1st, I shift 50% of my Betty building over to Sally so I can bump my numbers.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Recon/Float[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Emily 20 (55)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Alf 5 (53)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Pete 0 (44)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Pete A 0 (44)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Rufe 0 (64)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Glen 4 (42)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Dinah 0 (192)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Irving 12 (5)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Jake 8 (101)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Babs 0 (64)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Everything fine here.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Transports[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tina 10 (44)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Sally 5 (31)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Topsy 10 (50)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Mavis-L 5 (24)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tabby 10 (60)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Continue production due to my heavy use of Transports in Australia. Will shut these off again at the end of January.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Victory Points and Economic Summary[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I have never been so far ahead or in such total control of the Pacific as I am with this campaign. With the Allies reduced to a toehold in Australia, the Japanese focus for the first couple of months in 1943 shall be the destruction of the Allied troops on Wotje and a genuine attempt to capture Sydney and Melbourne, Australia.[/font]
[font="times new roman"][/font]
[font="times new roman"]While things are scary in Burma, the rest of the Japanese Empire looks pretty good. The Fleet is expanding and new construction shall be slipping down the ways very soon. The economy is humming along although there are some concerns about Fuel usage and adequate building of Bombers. Please take a look:[/font]
[font="times new roman"][/font]
[font="times new roman"]Victory Points:[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Score[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Japan 36,782 (Up 4,604 Points)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Allies 11,080 (Up 917 Points)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]WOW! I end the year with a lead of 3.32—1. Most of this massive growth in VP came from capturing Port Kembla, Canberra, and Newcastle. [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Ships Sunk[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Japan 269—2,274 VP—Only 23 ships (two I-Boats were only warships lost) sunk during November. Exact losses were: I-121, I-157, 11 MSW, 4 PG, 3 AK, and 3 AP. Considering that I invaded Wotje on December 24th—these are very light losses.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Major Japanese Vessels Sunk to Date---BB Fuso and Yamashiro, BC Kirishima, CAs Kinugasa and Kako, 5 CL, 26 DD (12 Modern DD lost), and 18 SS (14 I-Boats and 4 Ro-).[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Allies 492---6,422 VP---Dan lost 51 ships! Totals for the month were: 11 AK, 8 TK, 6 AP, 13 PT, 1 DD, 9 MSW, 1 ML, BB Prince of Wales, and 1 SS. Nearly all of these ships were lost fleeing Melbourne heading for NZ.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Major Allied Vessels Sunk---CVs Enterprise, Lexington, Hornet, and Wasp, BBs Colorado, West Virginia, Idaho, Tennessee, and Prince of Wales, 9 CA, 7 CL, 48 DD, and 7 SS.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Manchukuo Garrison---8,624 (8,000 Needed)—down 36 from pull outs.[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Political Points---2,719[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Units Transferred: [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Manchuria 3 Small BF for Australia[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Home Islands 1st Reserve Tank Regiment for Burma[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Industrial Report[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Supply 2,279,769[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Fuel 1,342,172[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Manpower 856 (874,204)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Heavy Industry 15,131 (772)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Resources 20,841 (1,960,247)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Oil 2081 (693,176)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Supply, Heavy Industry, Resources, and Oil are all up. There were large gains in Resources (+1,135) and Heavy Industry (+328). [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Fuel is becoming a critical concern as it dropped 150,000 between months. If my stockpile drops to 1.2 Million then I will halt naval operations for a while and see if I can bring my fuel state up…[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"][/font]
[font="times new roman"]Shipyards[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Naval 1,342 (4)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Merchant 981 (1)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Repair 1,508[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I am not expanding my Repair yards any more. They are large enough to handle much of anything. With my growth in Heavy Industry, I am going to expand my Naval Yards by about 50 so I have more room to build within the warship que.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Big construction decisions made on January 1st:[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Battleships[/font][/i]
[font="times new roman"]Musashi (202 Days) halted until Taiho completed.[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Ise (179 Days) Both BB Hybrid Conversions move at normal speed. [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Hyuga (180 Days)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Carriers[/font][/i]
[font="times new roman"]Taiho (114 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Unryu (329 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Amagi (377 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Katsuragi (609 Days). [/font]
[font="times new roman"]CVL Chitose (329 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"]CVL Chiyoda (329 Days)--Accelerated[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I also upgraded all 3 of my remaining BC during the month.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Weapons[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Armament 572 (77,084)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Vehicles 144 (770)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]My vehicle stockpile dropped by 50%! I have two new Tank Divisions (1 in China and 1 in Australia) that are outfitting and had 6 Tk Regiments all rebuilding last month as well. I’ve decided to expand my Vehicle number by about 50 to help with this.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Aircraft[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Engines 1,909[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Assembly 1,107+(635-Rd)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Had a slight increase in Assembly and a nice rise in Research.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Engine Production[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Mitsubishi 695/Month—Need 481—1,794 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Nakajima 993(31)—Need 912---0 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Kawasaki 201(39)---Need 190---472 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Aichi 20---Need 0---222 in Pool[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]I converted two small assembly lines from Mitsubishi to Nakajima and Kawasaki.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Plane Production[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Fighters Planes/Month (in Pool)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]A6M2 0 (443)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]A6M3 84 (19)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]A6M3a 167 (20)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Oscar 0 (518)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Oscar IIa 58 (46)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tojo 76 (32)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tony 190 (120)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Jack 72-R[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Saw growth in nearly all of my fighter stockpiles. Am not too big of fan of the Oscar IIa so I will shut off that production after completing about 150 planes. [/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Bombers[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Betty 98 (389)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Sally 40 (1)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Helen 91 (1)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Lily 90 (0)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Nick-a 10 (0)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Nick-b 25 (6)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Val 32 (396)—Production is turned off.[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Kate 57 (118)—Still NOT keeping ahead of losses here…[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]There are major problems with my bomber production. I am losing too many planes and am not able to replace them. On the 1st, I shift 50% of my Betty building over to Sally so I can bump my numbers.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Recon/Float[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Emily 20 (55)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Alf 5 (53)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Pete 0 (44)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Pete A 0 (44)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Rufe 0 (64)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Glen 4 (42)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Dinah 0 (192)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Irving 12 (5)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Jake 8 (101)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Babs 0 (64)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Everything fine here.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Transports[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tina 10 (44)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Sally 5 (31)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Topsy 10 (50)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Mavis-L 5 (24)[/font]
[font="times new roman"]Tabby 10 (60)[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
[font="times new roman"]Continue production due to my heavy use of Transports in Australia. Will shut these off again at the end of January.[/font]
[font="times new roman"] [/font]
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Combat Report: January 1-24, 1943
Combat Report
January 1-24, 1943
It has been quite a while since I updated the AAR. Many of my opponents know that I have been dealing with significant issues in life and those taken a bunch of extra time recently.
I feel that the war has shifted to more of a balance:
1. Dan's offensive into Meiktila, Burma has been magnificent at drawing my attention away from Australia and causing a whole series of Empire-wide issues.
2. Sydney, Australia is now firmly beseiged and I am getting ready to launch my final effort to gain air domination over that city.
3. The first tentative Allied Offensive at Wotje has been crushed!
I will travel around the differing theatres and get them caught up. After that, I think I need to explain some major issues sitting squarely before the Empire.
North Pacific
Other then small convoys keeping my three major garrisions at Dutch Harbor, Cold Bay, and Umnak well supplied, there is nothing happening up here.
Central Pacific
Wotje
My initial landing went surprisingly well and I moved additional troops (mainly artillery and engineers) onto the island over the first two weeks of Janaury. The skies were filled with daily strikes by nearly 250 fighters and 300 bombers. This total was reached by Maleolap and Kwajalein's AF plus 3 CV and 2 CVL adding their deckloads to the attack. To say that experience skyrocketed with these planes is an understatement!
The first Deliberate Attack is launched and Allied Forts (starting at 4) begin to drop. I attack on the 15th and 16th with good success. Sensing blood in the water, I order another Deliberate Attack on the 17th coupled with a Naval Bombardment. It works! I get a 9-1 attack and the Allies surrender 33,167 troops!
BANZAI! BANZAI!! BANZAI!!!
I do not know if Dan tried evacuating any cadres out of Wotje but he loses the 1st and 2nd Marine ID, a Raider Btn, 2 Artillery units, 2 Engineering units, and a large Base Force. Magnificent achievement for January 1943! His Pacific Offensive should be held up at least until June of 1943.
There are--seemingly--about 100 Allied SS operating around Wotje! I shift ALL of my bombers over to ASW and am rewarded to watch SS after SS take hits. There are 9 separate SS hit by LBA as well as a few from normal ASW TF.
I decide to send my CVs at Kwajalein back to the Home Isles on January 20th. Soryu, Shokaku, and Zuikaku are all due for upgrades in February and since they have very little System Damage, this should be done quite quickly.
Other Bases
As soon as Wotje falls I do a look around to see which bases need to have their garrisions altered and/or strengthened. Numerous convoys are formed on the 23rd/24th and units are loaded to be stationed at new homes. Many of my Japanese infantry Brigades and other units have a 90+ Experience rating. Since I am still figuring out who goes where, I will do a big screenshot update next week with what units are at which bases.
Dan's Logical Targets
Since I KNOW the Americans will be back, the question shifts to where? A good guess will be highly useful! These are my thoughts:
1. Midway
2. Papaete/Bora-Bora
3. Canton
My troop and air movements shall be predicated on those possiblities.
South Pacific
Since I control the bases around Syndey and Melbourne, I have moved Daitai of Bettys into Newcastle, Port Kembla, and Devonport to intercept any AK/AP he might try to move between NZ and Australia.
This development has freed up a portion of the Japanese CVs. I order my 4 CVE and 1 CVL (split in 2 TF) to move east of NZ to block any ships approaching from the east. Each TF has an AO with it so they can stay on station for a while. When fuel is low, they will move to Papaete for supply.
For the moment I chose to keep Junyo-Hiyo near Noumea. They will probably move up to join my heavy CV in mid-February. Am still thinking about what I might want to do...
Australia
Sydney--My victorious Japanese Army moves into positions around Sydney on the 16th. My 8 1/2 Inf Div, 6 Tk Regiments, and many other units carry an AS of nearly 5,000! All the units are at 90% or better strength. I gave them over two weeks to reorder themselves before moving into the Sydney hex. I start my bombardments and get a disappointing average of 50-100 Casualties a day. I want Dan to attack or counter battery so he uses up his supplies...
Melbourne--Even after all the ships I sunk in December, there are still nearly 40 hulks within Melbourne. For several days (12th/13th/14th) I pound the harbor and get a few to sink but then Dan moves a HUGE number of fighters into the hex. The move stuns me! I felt he would pull these fighter squadrons out or defend Sydney with them instead he catches me flatfooted! On the 15th, I send a combined strike of 66 F and 147 Bombers (I wasn't being stupid--at least there were a decent number of escorts) only to meet 93 Fighters. The losses are staggering: I lose 45 Fighters and 20 Bombers in exchange for 30 Allied Fighters. Ouch...
This attack coupled to events in Burma raise all sorts of issues for me with my LBA. I order all my Bombers to train and rest while I try to refill their losses. My bomber experience is still great with most in their 70s to low-80s but many of the Daitai and Sentai are operating at about 50% strength. I've got the pilots just don't have the airframes...
Fighters down here are in fairly rough shape. These battles have been whittling down my experience among my Zero Daitai. I refill these units with new airframes and order them elsewhere to train up for future battles.
To compensate, I order 3 Sentai (108 planes) of Tony from Kwajalein to Brisbane. They arrive on the 24th. Each of these units has experience in the 80s! I move two Zero Daitai down as well and these 54 planes have about the same quality of pilot. In a couple of days I will launch a Sweep using ALL these fighters from Newcastle and destroy the Allied fighters. At that point my bombers will move in and begin attacking in earnest.
Burma
Meiktila--This insane Allied offensive has certainly shown hints of brillance in it. In a desparate juggling act, I have moved numerous smaller and larger infantry units into Burma. I hold the town by my fingernails. The Forts have been steadily dropping but any time Dan gives me a day or two without an air attack, the Forts shot right back up to 1-2-3. There are lots of engineers present and they do good work.
I've been rotating units in and out of here from Rangoon due to how quickly they get ground up. I have been forced to move into this theatre a large number of units. Besides the smaller ones I have added 2 Engineering Regiments, a Reserve Tk Regiment from Japan, an Infantry Brigade from Japan, a Brigade from Australia, and an Infantry Division from Manchuria. The Brigade and Division just arrived and are moving up to Meiktila as we speak. They MIGHT be enough to hold the town.
Airpower
This is the issue. I held the air over Burma for a number of weeks and it allowed me to hold the city while exacting grievous aerial losses on Dan. Problem is when the Forts at Meiktila dipped below 3 I was forced to move the planes based there to either Taung Gyi, Magwe, or Rangoon. My CAP over the Meiktila became much less effective and Allied Airpower has become resurgent.
I've taken heavy losses in fighters and bombers here. While I still shoot down about 1.5 Allied planes to my every loss, I am growing feeble here. It is a grave concern. I HATE attritional battles and managed to avoid them throughout 1942 but not here.
Naval Movements
As detailed in the Thread I started a few days ago, I moved the freshly upgraded Akagi, Kaga, and Hiryu out to raid IO shipping. It was my hope to catch his shipping at Karachi by surprise. With all his troops and airpower projected into Burma I thought this was a risk I could take.
Unfortunately, after passing the Maldives I stumble onto a convoy. My Sea Eagles decimate the convoy sinking 3 of 6 AK and a British DD. With surprise lost, I move slightly NE to finish off the convoy and ready to return home. Another AK is sunk on the 22nd but--in a move that Dan and I didn't understand--my CV spot a TF in the shipping lane to the NW and a large strike of 13Z 69 DB 69 TB fly out and sink 2 TK and cripple 4 more.
I was shocked and offered Dan a mulligan but he said there was no HR infraction and not worry about it. Just the same, I move the CVs away towards the Maldives and will hug the edge of the board in returning home to Sabang. Once there, this CV TF will then link-up with my other CV and we will prepare for the 'Decisive' Battle sometime in mid-to-late 1943.
China
Stalemate. Dan has pulled at leat 15-18 Chinese units out of China and moved them to Burma. I had moved my Chinese units into the Pacific and Australia. Don't think that either of us has the strength to do anything here. This is prefectly fine with me.
Situation
1. I have a massive lead in Victory Points at the moment and with my victory at Wotje, can rest assured that the Americans cannot launch a major offensive for at least 4-6 months. This is a VERY good thing!
2. The problem is that my aircraft industry cannot keep up with my losses. This is particularly true in the area of bombers. Though I do not want to, I order an expansion of bomber production in Lily, Helen, and Sally. I've got plenty of Betty. My fighters are borderline but I think they are OK in terms of production numbers for the moment.
I have started to retrain my decimated Daitai and Sentai from Burma in China. It will take a month or so to polish them up. My crippled units in Australia stay there and will start to train when I regain command of the air there. They will join the bombers in hitting Sydney to get their experience up.
3. Burma is dangerous. The cupboard is now bare. Everything I can throw into this theatre is now present. We shall see if it is enough.
4. On the brightside, the Imperial Fleet is in top fighting form! I have a host of new CV/CVL/CVE that will be completed to add to my already powerful CVs in the Kaigun.
The only issue I have here is my BB strength. Since I have lost 3 BB (Yamashiro, Fuso, and Kirishima) and have 2 converting to BB-AV (Ise and Hyuga) this only leaves 3 BC, Yamato, Mutsu, and Nagato available. It isn't even that good. Nagato is finishing repairs in Singapore and Yamata is back in the Home Island repairing TT damage from an Allied SS.
My 3 BC are heading to Brisbane so they can begin bombarding Sydney. We'll see if they have enough strength to help...
This is the state of affairs within the Empire. Any thoughts and/or comments?
January 1-24, 1943
It has been quite a while since I updated the AAR. Many of my opponents know that I have been dealing with significant issues in life and those taken a bunch of extra time recently.
I feel that the war has shifted to more of a balance:
1. Dan's offensive into Meiktila, Burma has been magnificent at drawing my attention away from Australia and causing a whole series of Empire-wide issues.
2. Sydney, Australia is now firmly beseiged and I am getting ready to launch my final effort to gain air domination over that city.
3. The first tentative Allied Offensive at Wotje has been crushed!
I will travel around the differing theatres and get them caught up. After that, I think I need to explain some major issues sitting squarely before the Empire.
North Pacific
Other then small convoys keeping my three major garrisions at Dutch Harbor, Cold Bay, and Umnak well supplied, there is nothing happening up here.
Central Pacific
Wotje
My initial landing went surprisingly well and I moved additional troops (mainly artillery and engineers) onto the island over the first two weeks of Janaury. The skies were filled with daily strikes by nearly 250 fighters and 300 bombers. This total was reached by Maleolap and Kwajalein's AF plus 3 CV and 2 CVL adding their deckloads to the attack. To say that experience skyrocketed with these planes is an understatement!
The first Deliberate Attack is launched and Allied Forts (starting at 4) begin to drop. I attack on the 15th and 16th with good success. Sensing blood in the water, I order another Deliberate Attack on the 17th coupled with a Naval Bombardment. It works! I get a 9-1 attack and the Allies surrender 33,167 troops!
BANZAI! BANZAI!! BANZAI!!!
I do not know if Dan tried evacuating any cadres out of Wotje but he loses the 1st and 2nd Marine ID, a Raider Btn, 2 Artillery units, 2 Engineering units, and a large Base Force. Magnificent achievement for January 1943! His Pacific Offensive should be held up at least until June of 1943.
There are--seemingly--about 100 Allied SS operating around Wotje! I shift ALL of my bombers over to ASW and am rewarded to watch SS after SS take hits. There are 9 separate SS hit by LBA as well as a few from normal ASW TF.
I decide to send my CVs at Kwajalein back to the Home Isles on January 20th. Soryu, Shokaku, and Zuikaku are all due for upgrades in February and since they have very little System Damage, this should be done quite quickly.
Other Bases
As soon as Wotje falls I do a look around to see which bases need to have their garrisions altered and/or strengthened. Numerous convoys are formed on the 23rd/24th and units are loaded to be stationed at new homes. Many of my Japanese infantry Brigades and other units have a 90+ Experience rating. Since I am still figuring out who goes where, I will do a big screenshot update next week with what units are at which bases.
Dan's Logical Targets
Since I KNOW the Americans will be back, the question shifts to where? A good guess will be highly useful! These are my thoughts:
1. Midway
2. Papaete/Bora-Bora
3. Canton
My troop and air movements shall be predicated on those possiblities.
South Pacific
Since I control the bases around Syndey and Melbourne, I have moved Daitai of Bettys into Newcastle, Port Kembla, and Devonport to intercept any AK/AP he might try to move between NZ and Australia.
This development has freed up a portion of the Japanese CVs. I order my 4 CVE and 1 CVL (split in 2 TF) to move east of NZ to block any ships approaching from the east. Each TF has an AO with it so they can stay on station for a while. When fuel is low, they will move to Papaete for supply.
For the moment I chose to keep Junyo-Hiyo near Noumea. They will probably move up to join my heavy CV in mid-February. Am still thinking about what I might want to do...
Australia
Sydney--My victorious Japanese Army moves into positions around Sydney on the 16th. My 8 1/2 Inf Div, 6 Tk Regiments, and many other units carry an AS of nearly 5,000! All the units are at 90% or better strength. I gave them over two weeks to reorder themselves before moving into the Sydney hex. I start my bombardments and get a disappointing average of 50-100 Casualties a day. I want Dan to attack or counter battery so he uses up his supplies...
Melbourne--Even after all the ships I sunk in December, there are still nearly 40 hulks within Melbourne. For several days (12th/13th/14th) I pound the harbor and get a few to sink but then Dan moves a HUGE number of fighters into the hex. The move stuns me! I felt he would pull these fighter squadrons out or defend Sydney with them instead he catches me flatfooted! On the 15th, I send a combined strike of 66 F and 147 Bombers (I wasn't being stupid--at least there were a decent number of escorts) only to meet 93 Fighters. The losses are staggering: I lose 45 Fighters and 20 Bombers in exchange for 30 Allied Fighters. Ouch...
This attack coupled to events in Burma raise all sorts of issues for me with my LBA. I order all my Bombers to train and rest while I try to refill their losses. My bomber experience is still great with most in their 70s to low-80s but many of the Daitai and Sentai are operating at about 50% strength. I've got the pilots just don't have the airframes...
Fighters down here are in fairly rough shape. These battles have been whittling down my experience among my Zero Daitai. I refill these units with new airframes and order them elsewhere to train up for future battles.
To compensate, I order 3 Sentai (108 planes) of Tony from Kwajalein to Brisbane. They arrive on the 24th. Each of these units has experience in the 80s! I move two Zero Daitai down as well and these 54 planes have about the same quality of pilot. In a couple of days I will launch a Sweep using ALL these fighters from Newcastle and destroy the Allied fighters. At that point my bombers will move in and begin attacking in earnest.
Burma
Meiktila--This insane Allied offensive has certainly shown hints of brillance in it. In a desparate juggling act, I have moved numerous smaller and larger infantry units into Burma. I hold the town by my fingernails. The Forts have been steadily dropping but any time Dan gives me a day or two without an air attack, the Forts shot right back up to 1-2-3. There are lots of engineers present and they do good work.
I've been rotating units in and out of here from Rangoon due to how quickly they get ground up. I have been forced to move into this theatre a large number of units. Besides the smaller ones I have added 2 Engineering Regiments, a Reserve Tk Regiment from Japan, an Infantry Brigade from Japan, a Brigade from Australia, and an Infantry Division from Manchuria. The Brigade and Division just arrived and are moving up to Meiktila as we speak. They MIGHT be enough to hold the town.
Airpower
This is the issue. I held the air over Burma for a number of weeks and it allowed me to hold the city while exacting grievous aerial losses on Dan. Problem is when the Forts at Meiktila dipped below 3 I was forced to move the planes based there to either Taung Gyi, Magwe, or Rangoon. My CAP over the Meiktila became much less effective and Allied Airpower has become resurgent.
I've taken heavy losses in fighters and bombers here. While I still shoot down about 1.5 Allied planes to my every loss, I am growing feeble here. It is a grave concern. I HATE attritional battles and managed to avoid them throughout 1942 but not here.
Naval Movements
As detailed in the Thread I started a few days ago, I moved the freshly upgraded Akagi, Kaga, and Hiryu out to raid IO shipping. It was my hope to catch his shipping at Karachi by surprise. With all his troops and airpower projected into Burma I thought this was a risk I could take.
Unfortunately, after passing the Maldives I stumble onto a convoy. My Sea Eagles decimate the convoy sinking 3 of 6 AK and a British DD. With surprise lost, I move slightly NE to finish off the convoy and ready to return home. Another AK is sunk on the 22nd but--in a move that Dan and I didn't understand--my CV spot a TF in the shipping lane to the NW and a large strike of 13Z 69 DB 69 TB fly out and sink 2 TK and cripple 4 more.
I was shocked and offered Dan a mulligan but he said there was no HR infraction and not worry about it. Just the same, I move the CVs away towards the Maldives and will hug the edge of the board in returning home to Sabang. Once there, this CV TF will then link-up with my other CV and we will prepare for the 'Decisive' Battle sometime in mid-to-late 1943.
China
Stalemate. Dan has pulled at leat 15-18 Chinese units out of China and moved them to Burma. I had moved my Chinese units into the Pacific and Australia. Don't think that either of us has the strength to do anything here. This is prefectly fine with me.
Situation
1. I have a massive lead in Victory Points at the moment and with my victory at Wotje, can rest assured that the Americans cannot launch a major offensive for at least 4-6 months. This is a VERY good thing!
2. The problem is that my aircraft industry cannot keep up with my losses. This is particularly true in the area of bombers. Though I do not want to, I order an expansion of bomber production in Lily, Helen, and Sally. I've got plenty of Betty. My fighters are borderline but I think they are OK in terms of production numbers for the moment.
I have started to retrain my decimated Daitai and Sentai from Burma in China. It will take a month or so to polish them up. My crippled units in Australia stay there and will start to train when I regain command of the air there. They will join the bombers in hitting Sydney to get their experience up.
3. Burma is dangerous. The cupboard is now bare. Everything I can throw into this theatre is now present. We shall see if it is enough.
4. On the brightside, the Imperial Fleet is in top fighting form! I have a host of new CV/CVL/CVE that will be completed to add to my already powerful CVs in the Kaigun.
The only issue I have here is my BB strength. Since I have lost 3 BB (Yamashiro, Fuso, and Kirishima) and have 2 converting to BB-AV (Ise and Hyuga) this only leaves 3 BC, Yamato, Mutsu, and Nagato available. It isn't even that good. Nagato is finishing repairs in Singapore and Yamata is back in the Home Island repairing TT damage from an Allied SS.
My 3 BC are heading to Brisbane so they can begin bombarding Sydney. We'll see if they have enough strength to help...
This is the state of affairs within the Empire. Any thoughts and/or comments?
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
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ny59giants
- Posts: 9902
- Joined: Mon Jan 10, 2005 12:02 pm
RE: Combat Report: January 1-24, 1943
Dan's Logical Targets
Since I KNOW the Americans will be back, the question shifts to where? A good guess will be highly useful! These are my thoughts:
1. Midway REPLY - This may be his first target, if he goes for any of these three choices. First, both of you can only use CV air power to determine the outcome. Some of your Bettys may have effect, but only with CAP there to protect them
2. Papaete/Bora-Bora REPLY - This is were I would go. He needs to try to get some sort of supply line going back to Nz/Oz. From here he can have multiple springboards to Pago Pago, Canton, and Nz (if you have captured it). After the first few bases he may be able to take each of those next atolls and look forward to a Jutland in the Pacific. If he gets a toehold here, then the dominos may start to fall.
3. Canton REPLY - This is not favorable from my point of view due to lack of any support from close bases.
I would go for French Polynesia without any warning. Just appear out of the Panama shipping channels with the whole American fleet. I would have follow up forces in the channels waiting for a chance to expolit or retreat.
Burma: He will continue to move in his almost endless supply of Chinese LCUs and rotate them in and out for rebuilding. He gets too many Chinese squads as replacments for you to win this war of attrition on your terms. [:(] Your distain for ground combat in China has come back to bite you in this game. [:-] You have pulled out too many troops for other theaters. Thus, you don't have the forces to launch a counteroffensive here to prevent him from pulling more out. If anything, LBA attacks on Chungking from Ichang if possible to take a hit on his supply situation there. Don't know what to say about how to recover the initiative in Burma. [:(]
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[/center]RE: Combat Report: January 1-24, 1943
[left]Michael,[/left][left] [/left][left]Knew I could get a good and thoughtful set of thoughts from you![/left][left] [/left][left]My personal bet would be either Midway or Papaete. [/left][left] [/left][left]Midway--I have two Infantry Brigades, a CD unit, and a large Aviation Regiment on that pair of islands. Cannot justify a larger garrision because that would not be practical. It would be easy to reinforce and airpower would be mine. He would have to rely upon CV strength and--therefore--I rule it out as the most pactical target. I have total preponderance of CV power.[/left][left] [/left][left]Papaete and Bora Bora would--seemingly--be the best target. It is far from my base of power and much more exposed. Only danger is that I have TWO large AF next to each other. I am mining these islands and have an Assault Strength of 510 points on Papaete with another 316 on Bora Bora. I have decent recon strength, SS, and some airpower here. I think this place shall be reinforced and--perhaps--I will move the full power of the KB into the area around March.[/left][left] [/left][left]I am in deep trouble in Burma. He senses it but I KNOW it. If I can keep Meiktila for another week or so, my final reinforcements should be there and we shall see if I can maintain my grip on it. He was brilliant in choosing this strategy. With my airpower waining in this region, I am filled with the sense of Rangoon about to be placed under seige...[/left][left] [/left][left]Course the appearance of the a portion of the KB MIGHT make him pause a little...[/left][left] [/left]
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Combat Report: January 25-28, 1943
Combat Report
January 25-28, 1943
After a period of six long weeks, Meiktila finally fell to the Allies on January 28th. Dan achieved tactical surprise because I could not imagine the Allies amasssing a 200,000+ man army in BURMA! So be it for the failure of imagination. How has he managed to keep it supplied?
The war continues swimmingly along in other areas so let us circle the horn...
North Pacific
Nothing happening...
Central Pacific
I continue to move troops out of Wotje to re-garrision my atolls and islands throughout the Pacific. My planes hit two more American SS with LBA during this time.
I am getting ready to juggle my LBA throughout the Central/Southeast Pacific. Most of my Bettys and Fighters will move to either Midway or Papate/Bora Bora. As discussed above, these are the most likely places for the next American attack.
South Pacific
Very calm as well. I have 4 CVE and a CVL operating about 12-14 hexes east of NZ and they sink an AK on the 25th. I have Junyo and Hiyo moving around the southern edge of New Zealand and then they will move on to Papeate for fuel and provisions. This is my Southern CV Force until additional CVs arrive. Coupled with LBA in that area, it should be quite stout and manage to raise Hell if the Americans move in that direction.
Australia
My 3 Sentai of Tony are nearly ready for the offensive Fighter Sweep over Sydney. These Sentai have experience of 77, 79, and 81. They are GOOD! To them will be added another 54 Zero with skills in about the same range. Once they clear the skies over Sydney, the 220 bombers I have will begin their runs over the AF.
I have a pair of upgraded BC that have arrived at Brisbane and I send them with a CA, new CL (Agano), and 8 DD to bombard Sydney for the first time. The hex shows mines and I am concerned but will see...
Perth
Fearing any sort of flanking move, I have moved my 2 Parachute Regiments and a Tk Regiment up here to shore up the garrision. Purely precautionary...
Burma
Meiktila---As already said, this city finally falls on the 28th. My forces retreat SW towards Rangoon. I am going to draw them all the way back into the city for rebuilding. Several strong Infantry/Armor units will set-up a road blocktwo hexes above the city. When forced out, the Japanese had 3 Inf Div, 3 Inf Brig, 3 Tk Reg, and a BUNCH of support units.
I do want to mention that I staged a magnificent ambush over Meiktila on the 26th and truly mangled his bombing force! The Allies found 142 rested Japanese pilots who were full of fight. In the aerial battle that then occurred with two Allied waves of aircraft, the Japanese lost 7 Fighters in exchange for 16 P-40, 4 Hurricanes, 17 Wellingtons, and 16 Liberators/B-17s! [:D][:D][:D] It was fun to watch. WOW...
The question now becomes what will Dan do since the city has fallen?
He does have some serious challenges:
1. I immediately order my bombers to hit the AF so it isn't a factor immediately.
2. There are 2 full Japanese Infantry Divisions and support troops (AS 900 Forts 9) at Taung Gyi. These troops are low on supply but I have about 80 transports hauling in supplies every day.
3. Magwe is still in my hands. Any sort of serious effort will take it but he DOESN'T know that.
4. Rangoon has its Forts at 7 and growing plus a bunch of resting units.
5. Moulmein is occupied by a growing number of engineers and BF getting it ready as a possible fallback position.
I still have one Infantry Division that has not landed at Rangoon yet. It will help some when it does.
If Dan comes straight South towards Rangoon--I am in SERIOUS trouble. If he chooses the safer course and reduces my hold in central and southern Burma then I will have time to create a tough defensive position. With so many transferred ground units in Burma, I am smart to know that taking the offensive would be a BAD idea.
After its foray, my KB TF is nearly home at Sabang. While not achieving too much, I have to say that Akagi, Kaga, and Hiryu did manage to sink 1 DD, 5 AK, and 4 TK in their raid. Not too bad... Once back they head for the Central Pacific.
China
I have 7 Daitai and Sentai of Fighters hitting Chinese AF and units as I train them back up after the battle over Meiktila. It is a stalemate otherwise.
New Naval Construction
On the 27th, I happily receive the new CVEs Shinyo and Kaiyo. These CV will mate up with their planes (3 Chtai of Zero and 3 Chutai of Kates all with experience in the mid-80s) at Cebu and then head towards Papaete to reinforce those carriers.
January 25-28, 1943
After a period of six long weeks, Meiktila finally fell to the Allies on January 28th. Dan achieved tactical surprise because I could not imagine the Allies amasssing a 200,000+ man army in BURMA! So be it for the failure of imagination. How has he managed to keep it supplied?
The war continues swimmingly along in other areas so let us circle the horn...
North Pacific
Nothing happening...
Central Pacific
I continue to move troops out of Wotje to re-garrision my atolls and islands throughout the Pacific. My planes hit two more American SS with LBA during this time.
I am getting ready to juggle my LBA throughout the Central/Southeast Pacific. Most of my Bettys and Fighters will move to either Midway or Papate/Bora Bora. As discussed above, these are the most likely places for the next American attack.
South Pacific
Very calm as well. I have 4 CVE and a CVL operating about 12-14 hexes east of NZ and they sink an AK on the 25th. I have Junyo and Hiyo moving around the southern edge of New Zealand and then they will move on to Papeate for fuel and provisions. This is my Southern CV Force until additional CVs arrive. Coupled with LBA in that area, it should be quite stout and manage to raise Hell if the Americans move in that direction.
Australia
My 3 Sentai of Tony are nearly ready for the offensive Fighter Sweep over Sydney. These Sentai have experience of 77, 79, and 81. They are GOOD! To them will be added another 54 Zero with skills in about the same range. Once they clear the skies over Sydney, the 220 bombers I have will begin their runs over the AF.
I have a pair of upgraded BC that have arrived at Brisbane and I send them with a CA, new CL (Agano), and 8 DD to bombard Sydney for the first time. The hex shows mines and I am concerned but will see...
Perth
Fearing any sort of flanking move, I have moved my 2 Parachute Regiments and a Tk Regiment up here to shore up the garrision. Purely precautionary...
Burma
Meiktila---As already said, this city finally falls on the 28th. My forces retreat SW towards Rangoon. I am going to draw them all the way back into the city for rebuilding. Several strong Infantry/Armor units will set-up a road blocktwo hexes above the city. When forced out, the Japanese had 3 Inf Div, 3 Inf Brig, 3 Tk Reg, and a BUNCH of support units.
I do want to mention that I staged a magnificent ambush over Meiktila on the 26th and truly mangled his bombing force! The Allies found 142 rested Japanese pilots who were full of fight. In the aerial battle that then occurred with two Allied waves of aircraft, the Japanese lost 7 Fighters in exchange for 16 P-40, 4 Hurricanes, 17 Wellingtons, and 16 Liberators/B-17s! [:D][:D][:D] It was fun to watch. WOW...
The question now becomes what will Dan do since the city has fallen?
He does have some serious challenges:
1. I immediately order my bombers to hit the AF so it isn't a factor immediately.
2. There are 2 full Japanese Infantry Divisions and support troops (AS 900 Forts 9) at Taung Gyi. These troops are low on supply but I have about 80 transports hauling in supplies every day.
3. Magwe is still in my hands. Any sort of serious effort will take it but he DOESN'T know that.
4. Rangoon has its Forts at 7 and growing plus a bunch of resting units.
5. Moulmein is occupied by a growing number of engineers and BF getting it ready as a possible fallback position.
I still have one Infantry Division that has not landed at Rangoon yet. It will help some when it does.
If Dan comes straight South towards Rangoon--I am in SERIOUS trouble. If he chooses the safer course and reduces my hold in central and southern Burma then I will have time to create a tough defensive position. With so many transferred ground units in Burma, I am smart to know that taking the offensive would be a BAD idea.
After its foray, my KB TF is nearly home at Sabang. While not achieving too much, I have to say that Akagi, Kaga, and Hiryu did manage to sink 1 DD, 5 AK, and 4 TK in their raid. Not too bad... Once back they head for the Central Pacific.
China
I have 7 Daitai and Sentai of Fighters hitting Chinese AF and units as I train them back up after the battle over Meiktila. It is a stalemate otherwise.
New Naval Construction
On the 27th, I happily receive the new CVEs Shinyo and Kaiyo. These CV will mate up with their planes (3 Chtai of Zero and 3 Chutai of Kates all with experience in the mid-80s) at Cebu and then head towards Papaete to reinforce those carriers.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
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ny59giants
- Posts: 9902
- Joined: Mon Jan 10, 2005 12:02 pm
RE: Combat Report: January 25-28, 1943
Burma - I would say that Dan has the SE Asia Command HQ at Mandalay. He is drawing supplies through India and Imphal there. He get so many supplies through Aden that he can afford the spoilage. [;)]
He may wait and regroup. That would include pulling some of his most damaged units to Mandalay for rebuilding. Then mop up all the by passed bases and use them to retrain his LBA, especially his fighters. If he does this, then send your LBA against Mandalay to disrupt his HQ. Don't go after the AF, but his ground units. WitP will stack the SE Asia HQ on top. I hope your Helen factories are working 24 hour shifts 7 days a week. You need them everywhere. [:D]
He may wait and regroup. That would include pulling some of his most damaged units to Mandalay for rebuilding. Then mop up all the by passed bases and use them to retrain his LBA, especially his fighters. If he does this, then send your LBA against Mandalay to disrupt his HQ. Don't go after the AF, but his ground units. WitP will stack the SE Asia HQ on top. I hope your Helen factories are working 24 hour shifts 7 days a week. You need them everywhere. [:D]
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[/center]RE: Combat Report: January 25-28, 1943
I HOPE he chooses your options! If he comes down in force from Meiktila then I am in serious trouble. I've got a blocking force of 1 1/2 Inf Div, 2 Tk Reg, and a couple smaller units two hexes north of Rangoon. All other combat units are headed to Rangoon for refitting. I've got 35,000+ supply there so that should work fairly well. I've diverted BF and Engineers to Moulmein to build-up the Forts and begin usage of that AF.
I usaully keep a balanced amount of Sally and Helen in production but will shift everything over to Helen when I roll Feb 1st. I NEED bombers badly!
Things are about to pick-up at Sydney and we'll see how that goes...
I usaully keep a balanced amount of Sally and Helen in production but will shift everything over to Helen when I roll Feb 1st. I NEED bombers badly!
Things are about to pick-up at Sydney and we'll see how that goes...
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Combat Report: Jan 29-Feb 17, 1943
Combat Report
January 29-February 17, 1943
I had not realized how long it had been since my last posting! Actions has gone totally dorment in the Pacific while things remain hot-and-heavy in Burma and Australia. Though still doing well, I feel time slipping through my fingers as we move into 1943...
North Pacific
No action.
Central Pacific
My troop movement has--more or less--ended after winning Wotje back. I have adjusted several garrisions and reinforced the most probable of targets--Midway and Papeate.
American SS are a growing pain but I have managed to continue hitting them. My LBA and/or ASW Groups have hit 5 American subs this month and sunk 1. It is not much but a beginning. I have recalled most of my MSW, PC, PG, and APD to Home Waters to officially form my ASW Command. Once I have created 4-6 ASW TF led by Rr-Adm then I will start to HUNT those subs.
The KB
It is time to form up the KB for a major showdown battle with the Americans. I have Soryu, Shokaku, Zuikaku and CVL Zuiho in Toyko finishing their upgrades. About 4-5 days away are Akagi, Kaga, Hiryu, and a CVL coming home after their Indian Ocean raid. CV Taiho is TEN days from completion! When finished I will have 7 CV and 2 CVL that will move to Eniwetok.
It is my belief that Dan will most likely strike at Midway for his first target after his defeat at Wotje. Papaete would be good but he would have to contend with two large AF at Papaete and Bora Bora. I think he has learned his lesson so Midway is the logical choice.
To this end, I am ordering Junyo and Hiyo plus a CVL to move up from the Papaete area to link-up with my KB TF. I will then have 9 CV and 3 CVL readt for battle by March 1, 1943. I will divide this fearsome force into 3-4 TF and look for the opportunity to strike.
At best Dan has 3 CV, 2-3 CVL, and some CVE. If he lunges before June I will have him by at least 2-1 and perhaps up to 3-1 in CV strength. Not often one can say that as the Japanese in 1943.
South Pacific
As already mentioned, I have ruled Papeate out as the next logical target; however, that does not mean I am putting all my eggs in one basket. I will leave in that area a strong LBA component and a Carrier Struike Force of 2 CVL and 6 CVE. IF he does come this way then they will raise some Hell and--perhaps--get lucky.
Australia
Some of you may have read the Thread I started on taking an Urban hex in the War Room. Sydney is under seige and I am just waiting (dreading) to launch my first real assault. Things have been busy however!
Sydney
We last left off with my preparing to destroy the Allied Fighter Force that protected the city. This campaign began on February 2nd and effectively ended on the 6th with total Japanese aerial superiority! BANZAI! The scale and scope of the aerial battle was HUGE!
The Japanese threw into the fight 3 Sentai of Tony, 1 Sentai of Tojo, and 4 Daitai of Zero--250 fighters all told. I will do a quick litany of the aerial fighting:
2/2---222 Fighters vs. 75 Allied Fighters---34 Japanese planes fall in exhange for 75 Allied!
2/3---142 Fighters vs. 55 Allied Fighters---35 Japanese for 46 Allied
2/4---109 Fighters vs. 38 Allied Fighters---14 Japanese for 29 Allied
2/5---93 Fighters vs. 25 Fighters---6 Japanese for 22 Allied
2/6---108 Fighters escorting 184 Bombers vs. 14 Fighters---14 F and 9 B for 20 Fighters, 13 2EB, and 4 TB
Obviously on the 6th I starting bombing the city's AF. Total for this 5 day marathon aerial battle was 103 Japanese Fighters and 9 Bombers for 192 Allied Fighters, 13 2EB, and 4 TB. That is nearly a 2-1 margin of aerial victory! How about that???
Since this time I have been attacking the city everyday by ground and aerial bombardment. There is the occasional Naval Bombardment led by 3 BC coming south from Brisbane about every 6 days.
I think I want to make Sydney like Leningrad and try to starve out the garrision before I ever seriously attack it with my troops. With this in mind, I will wait until March 1, 1943 to launch my first ground attack.
Burma
SCARY is the word to describe this Theatre!
After moving south with the loss of Meiktila, I HOPED Dan would wait a bit before moving towards Rangoon and Moulmein. This was not to be the case...
My units have been replacing losses as fast as possible and reinforcements have been arriving into Rangoon but it has been too little too late. I tried to keep Dan above the hex NE of Rangoon so I could freely move troops from Rangoon up to the blocking force and then over to Moulmein. This was not to be the case. Dan took that hex and then directly moved into 30,33 on February 9th. I fought there for ten days before withdrawing from the hex on the 17th. My forces are now in three large groups and one smaller:
Rangoon Port 7, AF 7, Forts 6/91 AS 1192---201 Fighters and 140 Bombers
Moulmein Port 1, AF 4, Forts 3/72 AS 735---105 Fighters and 80 Bombers
Taung Gyi AF 4, Forts 9 AS 550
Magwe AF 3, Forts 9 AS 100
After I play the turn that Dan just sent, I will post a screenshot with what is where exactly.
That is the State-of-the-Empire right now. Questions or Ideas?
January 29-February 17, 1943
I had not realized how long it had been since my last posting! Actions has gone totally dorment in the Pacific while things remain hot-and-heavy in Burma and Australia. Though still doing well, I feel time slipping through my fingers as we move into 1943...
North Pacific
No action.
Central Pacific
My troop movement has--more or less--ended after winning Wotje back. I have adjusted several garrisions and reinforced the most probable of targets--Midway and Papeate.
American SS are a growing pain but I have managed to continue hitting them. My LBA and/or ASW Groups have hit 5 American subs this month and sunk 1. It is not much but a beginning. I have recalled most of my MSW, PC, PG, and APD to Home Waters to officially form my ASW Command. Once I have created 4-6 ASW TF led by Rr-Adm then I will start to HUNT those subs.
The KB
It is time to form up the KB for a major showdown battle with the Americans. I have Soryu, Shokaku, Zuikaku and CVL Zuiho in Toyko finishing their upgrades. About 4-5 days away are Akagi, Kaga, Hiryu, and a CVL coming home after their Indian Ocean raid. CV Taiho is TEN days from completion! When finished I will have 7 CV and 2 CVL that will move to Eniwetok.
It is my belief that Dan will most likely strike at Midway for his first target after his defeat at Wotje. Papaete would be good but he would have to contend with two large AF at Papaete and Bora Bora. I think he has learned his lesson so Midway is the logical choice.
To this end, I am ordering Junyo and Hiyo plus a CVL to move up from the Papaete area to link-up with my KB TF. I will then have 9 CV and 3 CVL readt for battle by March 1, 1943. I will divide this fearsome force into 3-4 TF and look for the opportunity to strike.
At best Dan has 3 CV, 2-3 CVL, and some CVE. If he lunges before June I will have him by at least 2-1 and perhaps up to 3-1 in CV strength. Not often one can say that as the Japanese in 1943.
South Pacific
As already mentioned, I have ruled Papeate out as the next logical target; however, that does not mean I am putting all my eggs in one basket. I will leave in that area a strong LBA component and a Carrier Struike Force of 2 CVL and 6 CVE. IF he does come this way then they will raise some Hell and--perhaps--get lucky.
Australia
Some of you may have read the Thread I started on taking an Urban hex in the War Room. Sydney is under seige and I am just waiting (dreading) to launch my first real assault. Things have been busy however!
Sydney
We last left off with my preparing to destroy the Allied Fighter Force that protected the city. This campaign began on February 2nd and effectively ended on the 6th with total Japanese aerial superiority! BANZAI! The scale and scope of the aerial battle was HUGE!
The Japanese threw into the fight 3 Sentai of Tony, 1 Sentai of Tojo, and 4 Daitai of Zero--250 fighters all told. I will do a quick litany of the aerial fighting:
2/2---222 Fighters vs. 75 Allied Fighters---34 Japanese planes fall in exhange for 75 Allied!
2/3---142 Fighters vs. 55 Allied Fighters---35 Japanese for 46 Allied
2/4---109 Fighters vs. 38 Allied Fighters---14 Japanese for 29 Allied
2/5---93 Fighters vs. 25 Fighters---6 Japanese for 22 Allied
2/6---108 Fighters escorting 184 Bombers vs. 14 Fighters---14 F and 9 B for 20 Fighters, 13 2EB, and 4 TB
Obviously on the 6th I starting bombing the city's AF. Total for this 5 day marathon aerial battle was 103 Japanese Fighters and 9 Bombers for 192 Allied Fighters, 13 2EB, and 4 TB. That is nearly a 2-1 margin of aerial victory! How about that???
Since this time I have been attacking the city everyday by ground and aerial bombardment. There is the occasional Naval Bombardment led by 3 BC coming south from Brisbane about every 6 days.
I think I want to make Sydney like Leningrad and try to starve out the garrision before I ever seriously attack it with my troops. With this in mind, I will wait until March 1, 1943 to launch my first ground attack.
Burma
SCARY is the word to describe this Theatre!
After moving south with the loss of Meiktila, I HOPED Dan would wait a bit before moving towards Rangoon and Moulmein. This was not to be the case...
My units have been replacing losses as fast as possible and reinforcements have been arriving into Rangoon but it has been too little too late. I tried to keep Dan above the hex NE of Rangoon so I could freely move troops from Rangoon up to the blocking force and then over to Moulmein. This was not to be the case. Dan took that hex and then directly moved into 30,33 on February 9th. I fought there for ten days before withdrawing from the hex on the 17th. My forces are now in three large groups and one smaller:
Rangoon Port 7, AF 7, Forts 6/91 AS 1192---201 Fighters and 140 Bombers
Moulmein Port 1, AF 4, Forts 3/72 AS 735---105 Fighters and 80 Bombers
Taung Gyi AF 4, Forts 9 AS 550
Magwe AF 3, Forts 9 AS 100
After I play the turn that Dan just sent, I will post a screenshot with what is where exactly.
That is the State-of-the-Empire right now. Questions or Ideas?
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
Burma Situation
Here is Burma! Any suggestions??? [X(][X(][X(]
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Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: Burma Situation
Taung Gyi appears to be useless to you at this point. If he wants to invade Siam down that trail, let him. His troops will be half-starved ruins by the time they come out of the jungle. I'd start evaccing my troops to either Rangoon or Bangkok using my transports while you still can control the air over the base. Anyone you can't evac out I'd start marching south although they will be useless as combat troops till they rebuild after the long hike.
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ny59giants
- Posts: 9902
- Joined: Mon Jan 10, 2005 12:02 pm
RE: Burma Situation
I agree, start evac of some fragments. How much and from where, is up to you as you know how long some of them will take to rebuild for late 44 or early 45.
Do what you can to prolong your 2 cut off bases, within reason. Once they fall, he will press on to Bangkok and beyond.
I would say that you need to proceed with Australia soon. Why?? Some of them are truly needed in Burma. [:D] He can send in his Chinese in waves, pull them back, rebuild, rinse, and repeat. [X(][:D] Unless you can come up with something that gives him pause to keep Chinese units in China, your going to feel like the Americans in Korea. [:(]
Do what you can to prolong your 2 cut off bases, within reason. Once they fall, he will press on to Bangkok and beyond.
I would say that you need to proceed with Australia soon. Why?? Some of them are truly needed in Burma. [:D] He can send in his Chinese in waves, pull them back, rebuild, rinse, and repeat. [X(][:D] Unless you can come up with something that gives him pause to keep Chinese units in China, your going to feel like the Americans in Korea. [:(]
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[/center]RE: Burma Situation
Welcome to the AAR Jzanes!
I could pull both of the Inf Div and the HQ and send them along the trail to rebuild in Bangkok. That could give me some form of stregic reserve. I just don't want to give him a Lvl 4 AF without a fight when I am at Sz-9 Forts! Maybe pull back 1 Inf Div and the HQ?
I can withdraw at anytime from Magwe. I wil stay there so I have recon up north for a while.
It appears that Dan is moving on Rangoon. The 2/18 turn showed one unit in the hex. I think this is a HUGE mistake! To truly besiege Rangoon, he will need ALL of that 3000 AS that has been hitting me; however, he then turns his back on those troops regrouping at Moulmein.
Supplies are solid and the AS of both locations went up over 20. The troops are refitting and getting replacements quickly. Add to that Rangoon went to Fort-7 this turn it will be a hard nut to crack. I respond my ordering all 250 bombers on Ground Attack and form a Bombardment TF of 1 BB and 9 DD to bombard the hex. Maybe I can beat him up HERE while I regroup in Moulmein...
There are still 2 Inf Brigades at sea right now heading for the area.
I could pull both of the Inf Div and the HQ and send them along the trail to rebuild in Bangkok. That could give me some form of stregic reserve. I just don't want to give him a Lvl 4 AF without a fight when I am at Sz-9 Forts! Maybe pull back 1 Inf Div and the HQ?
I can withdraw at anytime from Magwe. I wil stay there so I have recon up north for a while.
It appears that Dan is moving on Rangoon. The 2/18 turn showed one unit in the hex. I think this is a HUGE mistake! To truly besiege Rangoon, he will need ALL of that 3000 AS that has been hitting me; however, he then turns his back on those troops regrouping at Moulmein.
Supplies are solid and the AS of both locations went up over 20. The troops are refitting and getting replacements quickly. Add to that Rangoon went to Fort-7 this turn it will be a hard nut to crack. I respond my ordering all 250 bombers on Ground Attack and form a Bombardment TF of 1 BB and 9 DD to bombard the hex. Maybe I can beat him up HERE while I regroup in Moulmein...
There are still 2 Inf Brigades at sea right now heading for the area.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: Burma Situation
Michael:
I have been thinking that very thought. These are my options:
1. Pull 3 Inf Div, 1 Tk Div, and an Army HQ from Australia and use them as a little surprise for Dan. He MUST be so forward deployed it isn't even funny...
2. I THINK I have a possible attack vector in China. I am slowing gathering an army in Central China for a thrust towards those cities in Central China. I have ordered a HQ, 7 Inf Div, and 5-6 support units to an area for this attack. If I can get my AS above 3,000 this would be a formidable move.
I'll pull up the game and post a screenshot...
I want to try China first so I can at least make an attempt at Sydney. I'll give it a bit of time and see.
I have been thinking that very thought. These are my options:
1. Pull 3 Inf Div, 1 Tk Div, and an Army HQ from Australia and use them as a little surprise for Dan. He MUST be so forward deployed it isn't even funny...
2. I THINK I have a possible attack vector in China. I am slowing gathering an army in Central China for a thrust towards those cities in Central China. I have ordered a HQ, 7 Inf Div, and 5-6 support units to an area for this attack. If I can get my AS above 3,000 this would be a formidable move.
I'll pull up the game and post a screenshot...
I want to try China first so I can at least make an attempt at Sydney. I'll give it a bit of time and see.
Member: Treaty, Reluctant Admiral and Between the Storms Mod Team.
RE: Burma Situation
Thanx for the welcome John.
Has your opponent been flying recon over Taung Gyi? Regardless, I'd say leave some scraps in Taung Gyi so your opponent believes you are holding it in strength but move the main body of each unit out of their ASAP. The allies already have captured Meiktila (it will be a 4 airfield soon if it isn't already) so stopping them from grabbing another level 4 base isn't doing you enough good to warrant such a large garrison at Taung Gyi. It's only a matter of time before the RAF starts smashing Taung Gyi and stops your air supply operation, chases away your air, and attrits your troops. Plus, those two crack divisions moved to the Rangoon-Moulmein front will probably stop his offensive cold and give you time to set up a counter. If you evac them by air they will not suffer any significant disruption or fatigue hits and they'll be immediately combat ready.
I also see that you don't have a "corps" HQ at Moulmein. Moving the 15th army (a corps HQ) to Moulmein will increase your AV by 90%. The Burma Area HQ (a command HQ) by itself only adds 10%.
Hope this helps and good luck.
Has your opponent been flying recon over Taung Gyi? Regardless, I'd say leave some scraps in Taung Gyi so your opponent believes you are holding it in strength but move the main body of each unit out of their ASAP. The allies already have captured Meiktila (it will be a 4 airfield soon if it isn't already) so stopping them from grabbing another level 4 base isn't doing you enough good to warrant such a large garrison at Taung Gyi. It's only a matter of time before the RAF starts smashing Taung Gyi and stops your air supply operation, chases away your air, and attrits your troops. Plus, those two crack divisions moved to the Rangoon-Moulmein front will probably stop his offensive cold and give you time to set up a counter. If you evac them by air they will not suffer any significant disruption or fatigue hits and they'll be immediately combat ready.
I also see that you don't have a "corps" HQ at Moulmein. Moving the 15th army (a corps HQ) to Moulmein will increase your AV by 90%. The Burma Area HQ (a command HQ) by itself only adds 10%.
Hope this helps and good luck.
RE: Burma Situation
A couple quick thoughts:
I'd launch at least one attack on Sydney, after some more preparatory bombing/bombardment, before I'd consider pulling troops out. You're already there, even with a horrible result you'd be able to recover in a month or so, and it'd give you intel on whether you could actually pull it off or not. Plus I think you still want to take it... [;)]
I'm not sure about the China offensive, though. It'd be very hard to keep supplied and very easy for the Chinese to surround you. I think you could easily lose 3000 AV of the CEA, which would probably cripple you in that theater.
Keep up the good work! [:)]
I'd launch at least one attack on Sydney, after some more preparatory bombing/bombardment, before I'd consider pulling troops out. You're already there, even with a horrible result you'd be able to recover in a month or so, and it'd give you intel on whether you could actually pull it off or not. Plus I think you still want to take it... [;)]
I'm not sure about the China offensive, though. It'd be very hard to keep supplied and very easy for the Chinese to surround you. I think you could easily lose 3000 AV of the CEA, which would probably cripple you in that theater.
Keep up the good work! [:)]