Thanks crsutton. I have a feeling the system damage might have something to do with it as well. I'll just have to cross my fingers for now. I don't think there is a chance Hiryu can make it to Singapore in her current condition.
Also, there was a little bug with one of my subs. No matter where I put the sub it had a very low level fire taken during a bombing attack that would never go out. It eventually started to eat my sub up. I posted in the tech support forum and I think it was Dan that had me disband the sub and then reform it with a new mission. Apparently it was connected to the mission assigned. Once I did that the fire went out within a turn. If you can disband and them reform the carrier into a new TF that might be worth a try.
I will try that after I get the next turn back. I don't know what port level Billiton is right now, but I will expand it as quickly as I can. I hope I'm not too late. I really appreciate your suggestions.
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
A couple of quiet turns so I'll combine the two days of action into one update. The only action of note is really in Java and even that is lackluster. The Hiryu is still in the same predicament at Billiton, the fires remained at 2 on the 28th, but system and fire damage increased on the 29th to 51 and 3 respectively. I'm currently expanding the port to level 3 and sending an AR from Babeldoab to see if that may help. I will also send a fleet HQ from Singapore, maybe the naval support will somehow make a difference.
Malaya:
I landed the 56th Inf. Rgt. on Bintan today. It's overkill I know, but they were the only forces on hand. I believe Smeulders may be using the remaining Dutch bases in the area to refuel his submarines, so I'll reduce them sooner than later.
Java:
I begin to clear mines in the harbour at Batavia. I've had 2 CA's and 2 DD's there for sometime now, but I am not willing to risk a mine hit leaving the port. I moved in a DMS last turn and it cleared 2 mines.
The Imperial Guard Div. launches a Deliberate attack against Bandoeng on the 28th, but the defenses hold. The fort remains at level 2 and casualties were 343 to 174 in favour of the Allies. Another assault follows on the 29th, this time resulting in the reduction of the forts to level 1. Casualites again were light for both sides, 292 to 211 in favour of the Allies once again. another attack will follow tomorrow.
Reinforcements will be arriving today at Kalidjati consisting of an Inf. Rgt. and a BF. The lead elements of the 21st Division from Luzon will be arriving in the next two days. The priority remains the capture of Bandoeng and the landing of additional troop strength for the eventual assault on Batavia.
No sign of the Allied airforce for two days over northern Java. I bombed Batavia's airfield since recon still showed some aircraft there. A 139WH-3 was reported destroyed on the ground. The airfield at Kalidjati is still being repaired, but I may move a unit of Oscar's in anyway. I find that sometimes the mere appearance of Japanese units is sufficient to deter any Allied action. Considering the Allied fighter and bomber losses over the previous two days for no gain, I'm not surprised.
The SS S-38 was spotted in the port at Kalidjati on the 29th by ASW. Five near misses were recorded, I just can't get DC direct hits even in shallow water or a port. It truly has been discouraging getting these poor ASW results time after time.
Malaya:
The 56th Inf. Rgt. captured Bintan today and will immediately load up for the invasion of Bandjermasin on Borneo.
China:
Of the Chinese force I was chasing north of Kukong all but one escaped. The remaining Chinese unit was mauled by advancing Japanese forces, suffering 1016 casualties to Japan's 188.
Miscellaneous:
Ominato expands airfield to size 3
Ominato expands port to size 6
Nanchang expands airfield to size 4
Bataan expands fortifications to size 2
Rabaul expands port to size 5
Hachinohe expands airfield to size 4
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
Imperial forces were busy today with unopposed landings and a seaborne invasion today. Here we go.
Sub Ops:
SS S-36 spotted the ACM Ataka Maru near Madjene, but elected to not attack. Wanting bigger fish to fry no doubt.
SS Tautog was spotted by escorts near Mussau Island, no ASW or torpedo attack resulted.
SS Gato was spotted by escort DD Yugiri near Itbayat Island and suffered a DC near miss hit. This TF was a fuel convoy so nice to avoid a torpedo attack.
SS Gato was spotted by escorts of a resource TF and no ASW or torpedo attacks were launched.
SS Pike was spotted near Shikuka by an ASW TF, but no DC attack was launched.
SS KIX was spotted near Toboali by the DD Asanagi and suffered a DC near miss hit.
Java:
Japanese minesweeping operations at Batavia cleared 23 mines from the port.
Bandoeng was Deliberate assaulted again today. Japanese forces reduced the forts to level 0, and casualties were 292 to 510 in favour of the Japanese. I will occupy the hexes east Bandoeng to force any retreat by the Dutch towards Batavia. I don't want to have to fight my way down the whole island. No sign of Allied air units again today and my position gets stronger everyday as reinforcements land at Kalidjati daily, the fall of northern Java is just a matter of time. The airfield at Kalidjati is days away from being repaired so I can begin to harrass Allied air units based at Soerabaja, and eliminate any naval strike threats from there. I'm happy with my situation here. Now I just have to save the Hiryu somehow.
Timor:
Imperial forces began the invasion of Timor today by landing at Koepang. Supported by gunfire from the CA Kako and CL Kashima troops stormed the beach suffering 101 casualites during the offloading. Three Naval Guard units and two JNAF AF Bn.'s are ashore. No transports or support ships were hit from coastal fire. Allied defenders consist of the Timor Garrison Battalion, Dili Detachment and Koepang Base Force. AV comparison is 183 to 59 in Japan's favour. a deliberate attack will be launched tomorrow.
New Guinea:
Sorong was captured today uncontested.
China:
Heavy bombing by Sally's and Sonia's resulted in 306 casualties on the 49th Chinese Corps south of Henyang (Sp?). This force was then Deliberate attacked by the 39th Div. and forced to retreat north in Henyang at the loss of 1952 casualties to 65 suffered by the Japanese. That leaves one Chinese formation in the south and the Chinese forces around Yenan to clear up and my entire rear area will be secure. then I can focus on my Chinese offensives.
Miscellaneous:
Kuala Lumpur expands airfield to size 3
Miri expands airfield to size 4
Wake Coastal Gun Battalion arrives at Wake Island (I'm going to withdraw this unit to somewhere else)
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
My dilemma with the Hiryu continues. I figured out she can't get repaired at Billiton, because the port size is only two and she needs a minimum of level 4 in order to start repairs. I don't think I can expand Billiton which is a port of 2(0). I am going to take Toboali, currently 2(1), and expand the port to level 4. I will expand Pontianak, currently 3(2), on Borneo to a level 4 port. Then I am afraid I wil have to risk moving the Hiryu to either one to try and get her repairing. I have an AR en route and I will land it at Billiton while operations go ahead to build a level 4 port as fast as possible. I don't think the AR will help, but you never know. I am bringing in minelayers to ring Billiton and area to try and eliminate the Allied subs sniffing around. To that end too, every ASW force I have on hand is vectoring to the area. I have lost 11 days since the Hiryu was first torpedoed waiting for the fires to go out, and they still haven't. Damage is currently at: Systems 52 Flotation 88 Engines 38 Fire 4. If I get her underway she can only make 3 knots and will be a sitting duck for an Allied submarine, if she doesn't sink outright.
I really am PO'd about this whole situation, a critical hit on the CV and an AI retreat routine that sent the carrier north towards Singapore rather then towards Oosthaven which was only 4 hexes away from the spot she was torpedoed. Oosthaven is easily expandable to a level 4 port and at the time was swarming with most of the Japanese Navy there. I think had the retreat been towards Oosthaven, the Hiryu might very well be on the road to recovery by now. I can totally understand Cuttlefish's frustration in terms of AI retreat routines. This one may have cost me a carrier of my own. I hope my submarines will return the favour whenever Smeulders breaks his carriers out from under mothballs, and they make a special guest appearance.
Any suggestions out there, anything I may be missing so I don't sink the Hiryu or does it look hopeless? Are there alternative ideas on how best to try and save her? Anyone? Bueller?
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
SS RO-61 lurking off the coast of Cooktown, Australia, spotted a small Allied TF today and put 3 torpedoes into the PG Moresby sinking her. One DC near miss hit was received from the remaining escorts.
SS S-37, SS KXIII, SS Cachalot, SS Trusty were all spotted by ASW assets today, unfortunately no DC hits were scored.
Java:
Mine sweeping at Batavia continues, 50 more were cleared from the port.
The Celebes:
The 81st Naval Guard unit which had embarked from Balikpapan landed unopposed at Donggala today.
Timor:
A deliberate attack by Japanese forces met with failure today at Koepang. The fort level remains at 1, but the defenders did suffer 637 casualties to 109 for the Japanese. I may launch a Shock attack tomorrow instead of my usual deliberate one to try and break the defences.
China:
I sent unescorted bombers a little too close to Changsha to bomb the 6th Chinese Corps south of Hengyang today, and they were interdicted by H81-A3’s of the AVG. Seven Sally’s were downed outright and a further eight damaged. The reduction of the airfield at Changsha is the new priority since there are no more Chinese units in open terrain to bomb.
Sumatra:
I continue to defeat the Dutch forces remaining on the island. The Tapanoeli Garrison Bn. was deliberate attacked again by the 21st Inf. Rgt. and the 56th Recon Rgt. The Dutch were defeated and continue to retreat towards Padang.
The Philippines:
The mopping up of Allied held bases in the Philippines continued. Tagbilaran and Calayan were captured unopposed today. Tomorrow, two Inf. Rgt.s and 2 Medium FA Rgt’s, will land at Roxas to begin the conquest of the island of Panay.
So ends March 1942. I am going to look over production figures and take stock of my war effort to date. It's time to take a look at things strategically and determine what the goals are for the remainder of 1942. A fleet and air unit reorganization is due as well.
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
My air assets dedicated to ASW are spotting more enemy submarines, however my seaborne ASW assets that I then vector towards the target has no problem locating it, but then...nothing. I'll have to look at aggressiveness of the commanders perhaps, or start including a DD or two with my SC's to provide that catalyst to get some DC attacks in. So as you can see, spotting the subs is definitely improving, but the lack of damaging attacks is discouraging.
SS O24 spotted near Muntok by PB Teiko Maru...no DC attack.
SS KXVI spotted near Bataan by SC's CHa-3 and CHa-20...no DC attack.
SS KXVI spotted near Bataan by SC CHa-26...attacked, but no DC hits.
SS KXIII spotted near Toboali by DD's Asagumo and Ariake...attacked and four damaging near miss hits recorded.
SS O24 spotted near Muntok by SC CHa-22...no DC attack.
SS O24 spotted near Muntok by PB Teiko Maru again...no DC attack again.
SS Trusty spotted near Billiton by SC's CHa-3 and CHa-20...no DC attack.
SS O24 spotted near PB's Kaisho Maru and Teiko Maru...no DC attack again.
Java:
52 mines cleared at Batavia.
Sumatra:
The Dutch Teloekbetoeng BF has been hanging out west of Oosthaven since the base was captured. It's time to eliminate this small force. The Yokosuka 3rd SNLF and 2 Mortar Bn's are designated for this task. A deliberate attack inflicted 28 casualties on the Dutch for no loss. Not a great attack, but I'll just whittle away.
The Philippines:
Taliaboe was captured by the 1st Ind. SNLF Coy.
The Celebes:
Donggala was captured.
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
SS Tarpon was spotted near Fufue-jima by the SC CH 2, no DC attack.
Java:
32 mines were cleared at Batavia.
Another deliberate attack was launched against Bandoeng. The fort level was reduced to 0. Casualties were 262 to 330 in favour of Japan. I'm awaiting reinforcement from Kalijati, and for the southeast retreat route to be blocked, before I launch the final shock attack to carry the base.
Timor:
A deliberate attack was successful in taking Koepang today. Allied units retreat east into the jungle leaving 263 casualties behind. Japanese losses were 78. Air units will be re-based here next turn.
Miscellaneous:
Hankow expands airfield to size 7
Kaifeng expands airfield to size 4
April 3/42:
Sub Ops:
Once again the SS Tarpon is spotted, this time by an escort of a resource TF. No DC attack was launched.
Sumatra:
The 56th Inf. Rgt. began unloading at Singkep.
Java:
Batavia's airfield was bombed by Sally's (14), one PBY-5 Catalina was reported destroyed on the ground, always a nice result.
Another deliberate attack at Bandoeng resulted in only 1:2 odds today. Japanese losses were heavy at 463 to the Allied loss of 613.
China:
An air battle occurred over Changsha today. I swept yesterday with no reaction, but today Smeulders sent in the AVG to tangle with my fighters. KI-43-Ic Oscar's (9) at 16000ft were intercepted by H81-A3's (29) flying CAP. The Allied fighters included two units at different altitudes: 20,000ft and 15,000ft. One Oscar was downed as was one H81-A3. Considering I was heavily outnumbered I'm happy I didn't get clobbered.
However, playing with PDU off means I don't have the luxury of upgrading most of my air units to better aircraft at this time. Following the Oscar raid, a Ki-27b Nate unit swept as well. The Nates (8) at 13,000ft were intercepted by the CAP of H81-A3's (23). One Nate was destroyed for no Allied loss. The Nates seemed to maneuver well at the low altitude, but I'm surprised more were not lost.
The 83rd Chinese Corps, the unit farthest east in my rear around Yenan was plastered today by a combined raid of Sally's, Ann's and Lily's. Total Chinese losses were 260. I will bomb this unit until it is destroyed. I have learned it's the only way to eliminate small pockets of resistance like this that can move around in my rear areas. Ground assault just causes the defender to retreat with little loss, wasting my time moving units around. waiting for it be destroyed from lack of supply isn't generally an option because Smeulders either tries to block a supply route or take an undefended base.
Miscellaneous:
Billiton expands airfield to size 3
This was interesting, 3 Ki-27b Nate replacements arrive at Tokyo and 6 Ki-21-Ic Sally replacements arrive at Tokyo. Both these air units are actually in China at Hankow. I wonder why the replacements arrived in the Home Islands and not China? I hope this isn't the norm from now on, a huge pain to waste time flying them over to China, also the planes arrive with no pilots. Is this how replacements are intended to work in some cases?
April 4/42:
Sub Ops:
SS Seal locates an unescorted two xAKL TF near Tokara Retto, and puts a torpedo into the xAKL Ina Maru. Flotation damage is 88 so I expect her to sink next turn.
New Guinea:
A ground bombing raid by Betty's over Port Moresby today achieved no result other than one G4M1 Betty being shot down with 2 more damaged.
Sumatra:
A deliberate attack by the 56th Inf. Rgt. at Singkep reduced the fort level to 0. The defenders held, but suffered 127 casualities to only 6 for Japanese forces.
Java:
I bombed Batavia's airfield again in the hopes of destroying some more aircraft on the ground. Just 2 ABS and 6 Runwat hits were recorded.
China:
The 83rd Chinese Corps was bombed again today, a further 109 casualties. I believe there is 600+ yet to go, I'll comment again on this unit once it is destroyed.
Changsha was swept again, but no sight of the AVG. That's on par for Smeulders, he likes to use hit and run tactics.
Miscellaneous:
Takao expands port to size 6
Manila expands port to size 6
Bihoro expands airfield to size 5
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
Nothing to report other than the sinking of the xAKL Ina Maru, which succumbed to the torpedo she received yesterday.
Java:
Batavia was bombarded by the CA Furataka and CL Kiso and damage to the airfield was: 12 AB, 6 ABS, and 76 Runway hits. Port damage was: 5 Port, 1 Port Fuel and 1 Port Supply hits. Ground casualities were 91. The cruisers will bombard one more time then retire to Singapore to rearm.
My deliberate assault at Bandoeng, unfortunately, was more successful than anticipated. I didn't factor in the extra firepower from the 21st/A Div. would tip the balance. Casualties were heavy for Japanese forces, 836 compared to only 1791 for the Dutch forces. I'm happy taking the base obviously, but my blocking force did not reach their objective in time, so I will have to chase this Allied force down the length of the island now. If I neutralize the airfield at Soerabaja though, I may do a small seaborne invasion at Semarang (ala Anzio) to try and trap Allied forces retreating southeast.
Sumatra:
The invasion force landed at Toboali and will be assaulted tomorrow. Expanding of the port will commence immediately. I will vector as many construction units and as much supply here to build up the port as quickly as I can, in case it looks like the Hiryu will not make Palembang. Singkep was captured today after the successful deliberate attack by the 56th Inf. Rgt. The defending Dutch force, the Riouw KNIL Bn was destroyed for only 13 Japanese casualites.
The Dutch Zuid KNIL Bn was wiped out on the west coast south of Padang. That leaves three remaining pockets of resistance left on the island.
Borneo:
Good news here. My Bandjermasin invasion force was not spotted prior to hitting the base. A shock attack will go in tomorrow as the last of the troops unload. I expect to see an Allied bombing raid shortly. If I lose anything now that's ok, the main priority was to land the 41st Inf. Rgt. intact, mission accomplished.
New Guinea:
Betty's based at Rabaul bombed the airfield at Port Moresby to keep Smeulders honest. Nothing was hit and damage was minimal, 1 ABS and 8 Runway hits.
One thing of note, once again my troops following another unit have suddenly lost all their previous movement and are set back to 0. The unit that was leading shows the destination grayed out and progress as 0 now as well. This happened to me in Malaya, China and now New Guinea. I think this has to be a bug, as I did not adjust anything on these units to avoid any inadvertent mis-click. This has set my planned assault on Port Moreby by land back at least 3 weeks, incredibly frustrating. I am going to have to send surface ships and transports to attempt a combined sea and air assault now to speed it up.
China:
I swept Changsha again, but no sign of the AVG.
I bombed the 83rd Chinese Corps again, but the air attacks went in piecemeal, unlike last turn when all the bombers hit at once, and the results were brutal. Casualties inflicted were 38. The good news is that every loss is destroyed now, it's just a matter of time till it's completely wiped out.
A small deliberate attack by armoured forces west of Yenan forced the Chinese defenders to retreat inflicting 36 casualies. I will send in the bombers in a day or two to destroy it. I believe there are less than 200+ troops left.
Miscellaneous:
Lae expands airfield to size 5
I am sending all major fleet units in the Java theatre back to Singapore shortly to rearm and refuel, while the army and air force finish operations in Northern Java. This is coinciding with a large withdrawal of Allied submarines from the area. At first I thought, what the heck, but then I realized what Smeulders is up too. He is preparing his submarine picket and defence of Northern Australia, particularly Darwin. This will facilitate my Fleet reorganization nicely, and I hope to move a massive amount of ships around with as little threat from Allied submarines as possible. Port Blair is next in the sights and a TF will be designated for its capture at Singapore.
Looking at my situation and the time frame remaining for offensive actions, I am not sure I will be able to take Northern Australia. I have a strategy in mind that I will present in an update or two for some opinions. To that end the complete reorganizing of the Fleet is neccessary to allocate assets to the final offensives planned for my expansion, and then set up my Fleet's defensive dispositions. Behind the scenes, support troops are shuttling to bases due expansions and where defensive positions need to be built up. It's been my intention to not over-extend myself beyond roughly what the Japanese did historically, being my first time playing. If I was more familiar with the game and not so disorganized, I'd have been much more aggressive. So I'm opting for a tighter/stronger perimeter for defence, with a very aggressive use of my Fleet planned to disrupt and destroy Allied naval assets until the counterattack phase of the Allies. One thing I know for sure, I will not mount a passive defence. Smeulders will have a fight on his hands for every inch of the rather small Empire I've created.
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
SS Pike spots the DD Minegumo near Shikuka and fires 4 torpedoes, all miss. No ASW DC hits are recorded.
The Philippines:
Japanese forces attacked Iloilo and captured the base. Allied forces are retreating after sustaining 1160 casualties, Japanese losses were only 57.
New Guinea:
Betty's hit the airfield at Port Moresby causing 6 Runway hits.
Borneo:
Japanese forces launched a shock attack against Bandjermasin which failed to take the base. The fort level has been reduced to 0, casualties were 224 against 143 in favour of the Allies. I will attack again tomorrow.
Sumatra:
Toboali was captured today, and expansion of the port will commence tomorrow. The Hiryu is putting on steam and will attempt to make the port from Billiton at 2 knots. Fire damage has increased to 21 and system damage is now 58.
Java:
The CA Furutaka and CL Kiso fired off the last off their rounds at Batavia's airfield causing 8 Runway hits, and will now head back to Singapore to rearm.
China:
Japanese bombers continue to pound the 83rd Chinese Corps. Another 108 casualites were inflicted, a few more days of bombing and I think this force will be destroyed.
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
HI - 7020 Pool = 142821
Manpower - 864 Pool = 299725
Armament - 620 Pool = 42499
Naval - 1581 Pool = 0
Merchant 807 Pool = 36588
I'm assessing aircraft production. Once the current expansion has been completed aircraft production will be completely re-assessed. Playing defined upgrades are off so I still need to produce most aircraft. I don't have the flexibility to convert air units to what I'd prefer. So when I re-evaluate what needs to be produced, I will adjust engine production appropriately. I do know I need to produce more Ha-35 engines to at least 400, maybe even 500.
I'll start posting more information on HI expansion and the economy in general. I believe I'm a little more aggressive in expanding production early in some areas, so I'll start going into more detail for those interested in seeing the long term affects and economic outcome. The plan is to expand mostly in 1942 (pay the supply, manpower and HI now) and then stockpile as much of the raw resources and HI as possible to run the economy later into 1944-45.
An overall strategy update is next on the agenda. I am currently thinking of an invasion of Eastern Australia to draw Smeulders into committing his fleet. I don't think he'll committ it in defence of Darwin. He's building up strength in Eastern Australia and that's where I'd like to hit him, to disrupt his plans. He's expecting me to take Darwin, which he's garrisoned with 20,000+ troops, but little air or naval power in the region. It's time for me to raid aggressively and seek out his fleet, while I consolidate my gains and finish the invasion of Java. The lack of any severe losses to his navy will bite me in the butt later. I just need to find it without compromising my position or running around on a wild goose chase to hopefully find something to sink. I think he'll react if I threaten Eastern Australia. Do I want it...no. If it leads to a confrontation with his navy and gives me a chance for a decisive defeat of his forces, I'm going to try it.
Can Darwin be isolated by taking Western and Eastern Australia? Or is Darwin a must take,and is there a chance of me doing that this late in the expansion period? I just feel if I hit Smeulders in Eastern Australia, I'd do more to upsetting his plans then if I take Darwin, he's conceding that to me really and that bothers me. I want to hit him where he doesn't expect it and make him suffer some serious losses.
As always, any feedback would be greatly appreciated!
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
The Hiryu sank today trying to reach Toboali. I think it was BS how I lost her, and my opponent benefited from a freebie given to him by the AI. The ship remained with fires burning for almost two weeks after initially being torpedoed, preventing me from trying to repair her, or even fly the aircraft off the carrier. I did save the valued pilots by transferring them to the general reserve though. That's all I'll say anymore on the matter. Scratch one Japanese flat top. [:@]
Oh, on another note, the ACM Ataka Maru sinks after hitting a mine in my own minefield at Madjene, which I had just sent there to maintain it. So far the Allies sail through my minefields with impunity, and my own ships hit my own mines...nice. Who was saying luck doesn't have anything to do with events at times? So far I haven't had much good luck in this PBEM. [8|]
The Celebes:
West of Kendari, Dutch forces were deliberate attacked and forced two units to retreat with a further unit surrendering. Dutch losses were 327 to only 5 for Japanese forces.
Borneo:
Bandjermasin was captured, forcing the Dutch to retreat. Casualties were 70 to 251 in favour of the Japanese. I'll expand the airbase to level 4, and once some air support units land, I'll transfer a unit of Zero's to the airfield and begin sweeping Soerabaja.
New Guinea:
Port Moresby's airfield was bombed again by Betty's (30) and damage was minimal again, 1 AB, 2 ABS and 9 Runway hits.
Java:
Batavia's airfield was bombed causing 2 AB and 14 Runway hits. If anything, I hope the bombing is forcing supply to be used repairing the airfield.
Semarang was bombarded by the CA Furutaka and CL Kiso. Damage at the airfield was 4 Runway hits, and the port received 1 Port and 2 Port Fuel hits.
China:
I changed the target of the Sally's today and they hit the Chinese 11th Corps west of Yenan. I'll elimate this unit as it consists of less than 100 troops and 50+ guns.
Sonia's (46) bombed the 11th Chinese BF south of Hengyang today, they were intercepted by H81-A3's (4) on LRCAP. Three Sonia's were destroyed and 2 damaged. Once again these hit and run raids by Allied air units.
Miscellaneous:
TK Okigawa Maru arrived at Yokohama. She'll immediately be sent to Ominato to deliver fuel to Hokkaido so the HI on the island will start producing.
My transport TF has arrived at Wake and the loading of the CD unit has begun for deployment elsewhere.
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
Port Moresby's airfield is bombed by Betty's (30) escorted by Zero's (18) and cause 2 AB, 1 ABS and 2 Runway hits.
China:
Sally's (60) and Ki-30 Ann's (3) continue to bomb Chinese units around Yenan. The 11th and 3rd Chinese Corps' at 86,37 sufferred 7 casualties with 29 guns lost/disabled.
Java:
I launched an air attack against the port at Semarang today. Recon has been showing a CL in port for the last few days and with little Allied CAP active, I decided to strike. Ki-21-IIa Sally's (20) escorted by KI-43-Ic Oscar's (23) found not a CL, but my old friend AVP Poolster still kicking. 2 bomb hits have finally sent her to the bottom. The port suffered a further 2 Port, 3 Port Fuel and 3 Port Supply hits.
The 21st/A/B Div. units continue to attack Dutch units retreating from Bandoeng. A deliberate attack was inconclusive with casualties of 320 for the Allies against 126 for Japanese forces.
Borneo:
I have support troops hitting the beaches at Bunguran. The island north of Kuching will become a level 4 airbase for ASW bomber operations and naval search providing cover for my fuel/oil laden TF's leaving Singapore for destinations east.
Miscellaneous:
Tsiaotso expands fortifications to size 1
Ternate expands airfield to size 2
April 9/42:
Sub Ops:
A 4 DD fast transport TF I have shuttling troops around in the Marshalls was attacked by the SS Plunger near Eniwetok, all four torpedoes luckily missed. The submarine actually recieved one direct DC hit in return!
New Guinea:
Port Moresby received its daily visit from the Betty's (29) and Zero's (17) and damage to the airfield was 2 AB, 1 ABS and 11 Runway hits.
Java:
Another deliberate attack southeast of Bandoeng by 21st Div. troops forced the Dutch forces into the mountains. Japanese troops suffered 400 casualties against 1378 for the Dutch.
China:
A small deliberate attack at 80,55 by the 66th Ind. Rgt. pushed the Chinese out and reteating north towards Henyang. Chinese forces suffered 205 casualties to no loss for Imperial troops.
Sally's, Lily's and Ann's in a combined strike of 90 bombers hit the 83rd Chinese Corps east of Yenan at 91,38 wiping the unit out completely, after taking 143 casualties. I will refocus on the 11th Chinese Corps tomorrow to eliminate this force quickly. I hope to eliminate the remaining units around Yenan by the end of the month, then the Sian campaign can begin. In the meantime, my units in China are not idle. Units are being reformed and being redeployed for the coming offensives. Airbases are being built up to support operations, as are defensive positions in static areas to absorb any Chinese counterattacks.
Miscellaneous:
Davao expands airfield to size 3
Jolo expands airfield to size 5
Lae expands fortifications to size 1
Device Kawasaki Ha-60 advances R&D
April 10/42:
Sub Ops:
SS S-38 sinks the DD Tsuga while escorting a small invasion TF bound for Dili on Timor. The other DD escort fails to spot or launch a counter ASW attack.
Attu:
I sent a small invasion TF to capture Attu. The 47th Naval Guard unit landed unopposed. The reasoning here is to force Allied submarines to have to refuel farther away from the Home Islands. I'm curious to see if there will be any Allied reaction to this. I'm just probing here and there to see if Smeulders will commit any fleet units.
The Philippines:
Allied defence of Panay has collapsed after a successful deliberate attack by Japanese troops at San Jose. The 61st PA Inf. Div. and the 3rd PI BF were eliminated, 3705 Allied troops lost against 41 for Japanese forces. Mopping up will continue as soon as these troops are loaded up for the next objective.
China:
Once again the bombers were back to continue to pound Chinese forces around Yenan. The 11th/3rd Chinese Corps' took 7 casualties and a further 30 guns destroyed/disabled.
A rare bombing raid by A-29A Hudson's (8) at 78,54 hit the Japanese 2nd Ind. Mixed Rgt. inflicting 12 casualties.
Miscellaneous:
Nagasaki/Sasebo expands airfield to size 7
Lunga expands fortifications to size 1
Rabaul expands fortifications to size 1
Manado expands fortifications to size 3
I continue to reorganize my fleet. Two CV's are leaving Singapore for redeployment farther east to link up with KB which is leaving Balikpapan next turn en route for Babeldoab. I have decided that with no intelligence on Allied carriers or fleet movements, it's best to have my carriers combined until I learn more. Smeulders' lack of interdicting my operations in Java and Timor will allow me to rely on LBA and SCTF's to defend my movements. It's time to have KB disappear for awhile and let my opponent wonder where they are. I'll post more on the fleet reorganizing later.
I am reassessing my planned offensive against Eastern Australia. I think the priority right now should be the capture of Darwn and area, see how Smeulders reacts and go from there. I've decided the use of Darwin as a 4E bomber base against me really requires me to take it, to delay that inevitability for as long as possible. The 4 Div. is en route from Luzon to Makassar and will be one of the primary units for Australia.
I continue to transport support units around and build up my defences as the base expansions clearly show. Supply and fuel are being stockpiled at key locations to provide adequate reserves for when my fleet is heavily engaged...somewhere!
Stay tuned.
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
The 3rd Prov. Chinese Corps was finally destroyed at 86,37 by air bombing, that leaves the remnants of the 11th Chinese Corps to go.
Java:
Dutch troops at Tjilitjap were bombed by Sally's operating from Kalidjati. 14 casualties were recorded. A small recon artillery bombardment of Batavia destroyed 2 vehicles and indicated an Allied AV of 475. As soon as the remainder of my forces arrive the assault will begin, I should have somewhere in the neighborhood of 1000 AV.
The Banda Sea:
Japanese troops pushed the defending Dutch troops further into the bush after a successful deliberate assault. Casualites were 172 and 46 for the Dutch and Japanese respectively. The Dutch force will be destroyed by bombing and lack of supply attrition. It's good experience for my rookie pilots.
Japanese forces began amphibious landings at Waingapu and Dili. Both bases are undefended.
Attu:
The base was captured today by the 47th Naval Guard unit.
Miscellaneous:
Cam Ranh Bay expands port to size 6
Bataan expands fortifications to size 3
Rabaul expands fortifications to size 2
Makassar expands fortifications to size 1
xAK Teishun Maru arrives at Saigon
April 12/42:
China:
I've turned the attention of the bombers on the 35th Chinese Corp at 90,38. 80 Casualties and 2 guns were lost. The 11th Chinese Corps at 86,37 was bombed, but no casualties were recorded.
Java:
The airbase at Madioen was bombed by Ki-21-IIa Sally's (19) escorted by KI-43-Ic Oscar's (24) and the airfield received 4 AB and 12 Runway hits, a 139WH-3 was reported destroyed on the ground to no Japanese losses.
The Banda Sea:
Both Dili and Waingapu were captured, add two more bases to the growing Empire.
Miscellaneous:
DD Asakaze beginning refit in shipyard at Singapore
DD Tachikaze beginning refit in shipyard at Singapore
SC Ch 25 taken out of commission to begin refit at Nagasaki/Sasebo
3rd Sentai converting to Ki-48-IIa Lily (Always nice to upgrade an air unit!)
26th Air Defense AA Regiment arrives at Mukden
24th Air Defense AA Regiment arrives at Sapporo
April 13/42:
Southeast Pacific:
A small invasion force landed at Ndeni. The plan here is to take as many of these small bases in the area with the same unit until it's intercepted and destroyed. I need time to shift naval assets over to set up some semi-permanent air recon bases. I wonder if Smeulders is thinking it's bait to try and lure him out, it's not. I have no fleet to speak of in the Southeast Pacific, but this will change shortly as fleet units will be rebased to Truk and area.
China:
The 11th Chinese Corps has disappeared from the map so it looks like attrition has claimed the unit, one more Chinese force to go then I can focus on Sian.
The 35th Chinese Corps was again bombed by 88 aircraft today, losses to the rabble were 103 casualties.
Java:
Another air raid on Madioen was successful today. Allied fighter units on CAP actually made a special guest appearance, but this raid was stronger than the previous one [;)]. Sally's (20) escorted by Oscar's (45) were intercepted by Allied B-339D's (3), Hurricane IIb Trops's (3) and P-40E Warhawk's (4). 6 Sally's were damaged against 1 each of the Allied fighters downed by the Oscar's, and a further P-40E and 139WH-3 destroyed on the ground, the airfield suffered 3 AB, 3 ABS and 32 Runway hits. No Oscar's were lost.
The Celebes:
Japanese forces landed at Talaud, once taken, an airbase of level 4 will be built. Kolaka was assaulted driving out the Dutch defenders. The Kure 3rd SNLF suffered no losses, while the Dutch suffered 50. Attrition will now claim the remaining Dutch forces on the island.
Borneo:
Japanese ground forces pushed the Dutch into the jungle after a successful deliberate attack at 62,97 west of Balikpapan. Casualities for the Dutch were 240 against only 13 for the Kimura Det. Once again, the jungle and bombing will claim these Dutch units over time.
Miscellaneous:
Mandalay expands fortifications to size 1
Lae expands fortifications to size 2
Kendari expands fortifications to size 1
A lot of reinforcements today, they will rail to Nagasaki and then be shipped out. The majority are bound for DEI with a few going to Truk for deployment in the Southeast Pacific and Marshall's.
13th Air Flotilla arrives at Hamamatsu (I'm hoping I can buy out this HQ for deployment to the Banda Sea region)
26th Air Flotilla arrives at Yokohama/Yokosuka (Will be shipped to Sumatra, Malaya, or the DEI depending on need)
13th Mortar Battalion arrives at Mishan
18th Naval Guard Unit arrives at Tokyo
85th Naval Guard Unit arrives at Tokyo
86th Naval Guard Unit arrives at Tokyo
87th Naval Guard Unit arrives at Tokyo
88th Naval Guard Unit arrives at Tokyo
89th Naval Guard Unit arrives at Tokyo
I/19th Naval Guard Unit arrives at Tokyo
II/19th Naval Guard Unit arrives at Yokohama/Yokosuka
III/19th Naval Guard Unit arrives at Tokyo
3rd Indpt SNLF Coy arrives at Tokyo
6th Indpt SNLF Coy arrives at Tokyo
11th Ind.Hvy.Art Battalion arrives at Fushun
12th Ind.Hvy.Art Battalion arrives at Fushun
April 14/42:
Sub Ops:
The SS I-165 was spotted near Colombo and DC'd by the DD Isis, no hits were recorded. This is starting to bug me. Allied subs almost always launch a torpedo attack against my escorts, yet whenever I encounter an Allied TF, I'm immediately DC'd and almost 99% of the time never try to launch a torpedo attack. Japanese uber subs my ass [8|].
SS Pike was spotted east of Toyohara for days now by air ASW. I vectored 2 ASW TF's consisting of 1 DD, 3 Sc's and 3 Sc's respectively to attack, here's the result:
ASW attack near Toyohara at 126,46
Japanese Ships
SC CHa-18
DD Minegumo
Allied Ships
SS Pike
SS Pike is located by SC CHa-18
Pike diving deep ....
DD Minegumo fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Minegumo fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Minegumo fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Minegumo fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Minegumo fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub
Once again, I do everything I possibly can and...nothing! Uber Japanese ASW my ass [:D]. There are actually a total of 5 submarines formed in a line that have all been spotted by air ASW, yet my ASW hunting groups constantly fail to react and attack them.
Australia:
It's been a long time since I've been able to say that word! [:D]
Darwin was bombed by G4M1 Betty's based at Ambon. Damage to the airfield was minimal at 2 AB and 12 Runway hits. I just want to get into Smeulder's kitchen a little letting him know that Darwin and area is under direct threat now. There was no CAP today, I believe there is just recon units there currently. I expect there to be some CAP there tomorrow to try and down a few unescorted bombers, however no raid will be launched.
Timor:
The Dutch units east of Koepang were bombed by D3A1 Val's which destroyed 1 gun, it's a start! This air unit is 90% rookies so they need all the experience they can get.
The Banda Sea:
An invasion force landed at Saumlaki. An airbase will be built here, which will directly threaten Darwin with fighter sweeps and provide escorts for my bombing raids.
China:
The daily bombing of the 35th Chinese Corps continued. Another 74 casualities inflicted. Ground units are pressing in to surround and destroy this formation. Then they join up and march on Sian. There are still 10000+ Chinese troops in this formation.
Port Blair:
Ki-21-IIa Sally's bombed the base inflicting 14 casualites on the British. Troops from Sabang will be loaded up soon to invade and then set up a recon airbase.
Miscellaneous:
Babeldaob expands fortifications to size 2
Bassein expands fortifications to size 1
Shortlands expands airfield to size 2
Nadzab expands airfield to size 2
Great! More reinforcements. I'm going to have to divert shipping to Nagasaki to get these troops into theatre quickly.
5th Ku S-1 arrives at Takao
38th Sentai arrives at Sapporo
94th Sentai arrives at Tokyo
203rd Sentai arrives at Ominato
171st Cavalry Regiment arrives at Changchun
71st Mountain Gun Regiment arrives at Changchun
71st Engineer Regiment arrives at Changchun
49th JNAF AF Unit arrives at Tokyo
Screenshots will follow to update the major theatres of operation as of April 15th, 1942. I've been thinking long and hard on my strategic goals for the remainder of the game and think I've settled on a plan. Thanks for following everyone. I see Chickenboy has started a thread on the topic of another Allied opponent pulling a Sir Robin or Turtle defence. I will follow that closely as that is exactly what I am facing here. Any comments and strategy advice would be grealty appreciated. I think I have the measure of my opponent somewhat, but then again I don't have much to base it on so far. I'll discuss what I think during the overall strategy assessment.
Luck is the residue of design - John Milton
Don't mistake lack of talent for genius - Peter Steele (Type O Negative)
Hiya, SqzMyLemon:
I've yet to go through this entire AAR-I'm kicking myself for not having subscribed to it earlier. I just wanted to say that I really like your AAR summaries and write-ups. Most enlightening! [&o]
Now, of course, I'm going to have to steal your ideas where I can...[8D]
