19-20 Aug 42
Running a bit behind with updates...
Highlights - Quiet in the Aleutians; IJN capital ships massed in the Indian Ocean for the first time
Jpn ships sunk: None
Allied ships sunk:
AM: 1
xAKL: 1
Air loss:
Jpn: 26
Allied: 23
Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 2 ships hit (BB Mutsu and xAP dam)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: KB vanishes
West Coast/Admin. 3rd USMC Div ships out of SF to PH on convoy.
In NOPAC, quiet returns. No sign of IJN, except subs. Will wait and see for a bit to see if the IJN is just lurking out of air range.
CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, USMC Defense Bn landed on Ndeni without issue - unloading will take another day or two. Surprised the IJN hasn’t visited. Ndeni AF reaches level 1, USMC fighters arrive. This releases CV Enterprise TF, which will sortie north to raid reported shipping at Nauru-Ocean Island area. TF will then head SE to provide coverage for the invasion Vaitapu in the Ellice Is. Two large convoys are finishing offloading at Auckland, and another troops convoy begins loading at Auckland, bound for Noumea with support troops. Focus continues to build up bases.
In SWPAC, Portland Roads port reaches level 1, and this will allow some limited coastal shipping to “test the waters” and LBA responses out of Moresby, as the B-17 fleet continues to build strength with the arrival of the first B-17Fs. Intend to begin bombing of New Guinea bases (and Horn Island) by the end of the month.
In WAUS, Carnarvon convoy completes offloading without interference, and will begin to head back to Perth. Troops, both combat and support, continue to march from Carnarvon to Exmouth. On the Tennant Creek front, the IJA force at Daly Waters has indeed begun a march south. I’ve started to shift some air assets to be available, including a 36 plane USMC F4F squadron. Supply limits should hinder both sides in this upcoming fight at Tenant Creek, but no shortage of supply at Alice Springs or Cloncurry both of which are fully developed AFs.
In China, no change - continued heavy pressure on all sides. Lack of supplies continue to bedevil any defense.
In India/Burma, the big surprise for the turn is the appearance for the first time of capital ships in the Indian Ocean - and as L_S_T usually does things on a big scale, this is no exception. And as usual, Allied Intel provided absolutely ZERO warning that something different was afoot! The first indication I get is a CA TF (4CA, 4DD) bombarding Cox’s Bazaar with little effect. Then, not one, but TWO BB TFs (2BB, CL, 4DD / 2BB, 2CL, 4DD) hit Chittagong with good effect. BBs have truly been the decisive weapon so far this war, with those two bombardments effectively closing down a Level 7 AF protected by Fort Level 5. CD guns do nothing but bounce off BB Nagato. 11 a/c destroyed on the field. Field should be back up next turn, or shortly thereafter with the number of engineers there. The real question is whether or not these bombardment runs were a stand alone venture, or the beginning of an amphibious invasion? Chittagong and Cox’s Bazaar both have a couple of IN BDEs for defense, with additional troops moving up. On a positive note, on the run out, near Ramree Is, BB Mutsu was holed by a single torpedo from the Dutch sub KVII. Will route additional subs to intercept a likely run back to Rangoon.
LST vs. IdahoNYer (DBB-C, A AAR) 6 yrs and done! VJ Day!
Moderators: wdolson, MOD_War-in-the-Pacific-Admirals-Edition
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Jorge_Stanbury
- Posts: 4345
- Joined: Wed Feb 29, 2012 12:57 pm
- Location: Montreal
RE: 19-20 Aug 42
You should hope he decides to invade eastern Bengal (Bangladesh)... this is one place at which you will hold all the advantages: rail, lots of restricted troops now available, multiple big airbases, clear terrain, etc.
I think Chittagong as airbase was a mistake, too close, too vulnerable. Better to keep the big bases inland, Comilla for example.
You don't have USN PT boats there to counter the bombarding TFs. This is the best asset against bombardment, specially if combined with mines, torpedo/ dive bombers and CD guns to somehow make life miserable for bombarding TFs
I think Chittagong as airbase was a mistake, too close, too vulnerable. Better to keep the big bases inland, Comilla for example.
You don't have USN PT boats there to counter the bombarding TFs. This is the best asset against bombardment, specially if combined with mines, torpedo/ dive bombers and CD guns to somehow make life miserable for bombarding TFs
RE: 19-20 Aug 42
ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury
I think Chittagong as airbase was a mistake, too close, too vulnerable. Better to keep the big bases inland, Comilla for example.
At this point, I fully agree - and I'm building up the inland bases. This surprised me though - I figured with a Level 7 AF and a Level 5 Fort it could take the punch - BB bombardment (with IJN crew quality) has been just devastating across the entire Pacific!
21-22 Aug 42
21-22 Aug 42
Highlights - Dutch subs score again off Akyab; China’s troops actually win a big fight
Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-27 reportedly sunk off Geraldton)
Air loss:
Jpn: 17
Allied: 19
Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
I-27 claimed sunk by ASW escort off Geraldton
Allies: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (CA Maya dam)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR
West Coast/Admin. NSTR
In NOPAC, remains quiet as ships re-assemble at DH for Attu. Pulling one of three P-38E squadrons out to send to SE Asia. Will resume bombing of Attu.
CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, Enterprise TF SE of Nauru and will strike port/industry if no TF is sighted. Small bombardment TF (CLAA, 3DD) detatched to bombard Nauru as well. Both TFs will head SE toward Ellice Islands to provide cover for invasion. Quiet at Ndeni as US shipping begins return leg to Luganville.
In SWPAC, NSTR.
In WAUS, convoy returning from Carnarvon to Perth claims an IJN sub without it penetrating screen. No major enemy LBA activity anywhere over Aus. Surprising….
In China, there is good news for a change - In the SW, three Chinese Corps attack and throw back a division sized equivalent with heavy IJA loss. Nice to see a victory is a sea of defeat in China, but this small victory of course does nothing to stop the main push toward Chungking from the NE.
In India/Burma, heavy fighters sweeps over Chittagong and only get about 1-1 loss ratio over heavily outnumbered British CAP (7 lost ea). Chittagong AF is back in operation, and will commit additional fighters for CAP. Allies will remain defensive in the air until the 307th Bomb Group (currently arriving at Cape Town) is operational at Dacca. This will take another 30 days or so, and will coincide with getting the P-40K operational as well. Trying to conserve and build fighter strength is the challenge! Lastly, Dutch sub KXIV puts a fish into CA Maya off Akyab - at least the IJN bombardment sortie cost the IJN some yard time!
Highlights - Dutch subs score again off Akyab; China’s troops actually win a big fight
Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-27 reportedly sunk off Geraldton)
Air loss:
Jpn: 17
Allied: 19
Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
I-27 claimed sunk by ASW escort off Geraldton
Allies: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (CA Maya dam)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR
West Coast/Admin. NSTR
In NOPAC, remains quiet as ships re-assemble at DH for Attu. Pulling one of three P-38E squadrons out to send to SE Asia. Will resume bombing of Attu.
CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, Enterprise TF SE of Nauru and will strike port/industry if no TF is sighted. Small bombardment TF (CLAA, 3DD) detatched to bombard Nauru as well. Both TFs will head SE toward Ellice Islands to provide cover for invasion. Quiet at Ndeni as US shipping begins return leg to Luganville.
In SWPAC, NSTR.
In WAUS, convoy returning from Carnarvon to Perth claims an IJN sub without it penetrating screen. No major enemy LBA activity anywhere over Aus. Surprising….
In China, there is good news for a change - In the SW, three Chinese Corps attack and throw back a division sized equivalent with heavy IJA loss. Nice to see a victory is a sea of defeat in China, but this small victory of course does nothing to stop the main push toward Chungking from the NE.
In India/Burma, heavy fighters sweeps over Chittagong and only get about 1-1 loss ratio over heavily outnumbered British CAP (7 lost ea). Chittagong AF is back in operation, and will commit additional fighters for CAP. Allies will remain defensive in the air until the 307th Bomb Group (currently arriving at Cape Town) is operational at Dacca. This will take another 30 days or so, and will coincide with getting the P-40K operational as well. Trying to conserve and build fighter strength is the challenge! Lastly, Dutch sub KXIV puts a fish into CA Maya off Akyab - at least the IJN bombardment sortie cost the IJN some yard time!
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RE: 21-22 Aug 42
The Japanese unit near Liuchow apparently was out of supply? How did that happen? Great victory in any case!
RE: 21-22 Aug 42
ORIGINAL: jwolf
The Japanese unit near Liuchow apparently was out of supply? How did that happen? Great victory in any case!
I don't think they were OUT of supply, just low supply. They crossed the river to the west to flank the Chinese position blocking the route north. They IJA just underestimated the size of the Chinese force and paid a price for a change.
23-24 Aug 42
23-24 Aug 42
Highlights - Nauru Island raided; Allied CAP roughly handles Jpn sweeps over Chittagong
Jpn ships sunk:
DMS: 1
Jpn ships unsunk:
DD: 1 (Fubuki)
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 47
Allied: 30
Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR
West Coast/Admin. Another slow convoy departs LA for Auck.
In NOPAC, still quiet as ASW efforts continue - one sub reportedly hit by LBA off Unmak.
CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, Enterprise TF a/c hits resource targets at Nauru, damaging 11,and finds a small convoy off Ocean, crippling an xAK. Small bombardment TF (CLAA, 3DD) bombards Nauru with minimal effect. CL TF heads SE toward Ellice Islands to provide cover for invasion, while Enterprise will loiter one day and search for additional targets before heading toward the Ellice Islands. Vaitupu Amph TF will land troops the next turn, covered by Adm Scott’s CA TF (CA, 2CL, 5DD). Quiet in the Ndeni area.
In SWPAC, P-39s based at Portland Roads to cover xAKL w/AM heading to base along the coast - will be interesting to see what is launched out of Port Moresby.
In WAUS, quiet around Exmouth, except for Bettys doing night bombing at Carnavon - these had to be the elite, as 13 Bettys destroy 3 planes on the ground. Relatively minor overall, but will have to put some planes back up at night. Does look like a division sized IJA force is marching south toward Tennant Creek. Will begin air attacks next turn with B-17s out of Cloncurry, then mediums out of Alice Springs. Tennant Creek will continue to base fighters, but supply status is a concern. One regiment of the 41st ID, currently 80m north of Alice Springs, will begin moving north to support Tennant Creek - I’d move the entire division, but supply - or lack of it - will limit my capabilities. But it’s going to be worse for the IJA as they close on Tennant Creek.
In China, Chinese forces continue to pressure IJA in the SW - previously defeated IJA troops look to be pulling out, and two fresh Chinese Corps have just arrive - will attack!
In India/Burma, more large fighter sweeps over Chittagong and Cox’s Bazaar, are met by a fairly robust CAP over Chitagong (with bleed over to Cox). The initial CAP of 17 Hurri IIb, 8 Kittyhawks and 8 P-40s, stacked from 20-15k altitude does very well against successive waves of Tojos at 20k and Oscar IIa at 15k. Total tally is an impressive 12 Tojos and 10 Oscars in exchange for 9 Kittyhawks, 8 Hurris and no P-40s! Will move some squadrons around to keep the CAP fresh, and based on the Carnarvon raid, will keep fighters on night CAP as well - One AA Bn just isn’t enough.
Highlights - Nauru Island raided; Allied CAP roughly handles Jpn sweeps over Chittagong
Jpn ships sunk:
DMS: 1
Jpn ships unsunk:
DD: 1 (Fubuki)
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 47
Allied: 30
Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR
West Coast/Admin. Another slow convoy departs LA for Auck.
In NOPAC, still quiet as ASW efforts continue - one sub reportedly hit by LBA off Unmak.
CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, Enterprise TF a/c hits resource targets at Nauru, damaging 11,and finds a small convoy off Ocean, crippling an xAK. Small bombardment TF (CLAA, 3DD) bombards Nauru with minimal effect. CL TF heads SE toward Ellice Islands to provide cover for invasion, while Enterprise will loiter one day and search for additional targets before heading toward the Ellice Islands. Vaitupu Amph TF will land troops the next turn, covered by Adm Scott’s CA TF (CA, 2CL, 5DD). Quiet in the Ndeni area.
In SWPAC, P-39s based at Portland Roads to cover xAKL w/AM heading to base along the coast - will be interesting to see what is launched out of Port Moresby.
In WAUS, quiet around Exmouth, except for Bettys doing night bombing at Carnavon - these had to be the elite, as 13 Bettys destroy 3 planes on the ground. Relatively minor overall, but will have to put some planes back up at night. Does look like a division sized IJA force is marching south toward Tennant Creek. Will begin air attacks next turn with B-17s out of Cloncurry, then mediums out of Alice Springs. Tennant Creek will continue to base fighters, but supply status is a concern. One regiment of the 41st ID, currently 80m north of Alice Springs, will begin moving north to support Tennant Creek - I’d move the entire division, but supply - or lack of it - will limit my capabilities. But it’s going to be worse for the IJA as they close on Tennant Creek.
In China, Chinese forces continue to pressure IJA in the SW - previously defeated IJA troops look to be pulling out, and two fresh Chinese Corps have just arrive - will attack!
In India/Burma, more large fighter sweeps over Chittagong and Cox’s Bazaar, are met by a fairly robust CAP over Chitagong (with bleed over to Cox). The initial CAP of 17 Hurri IIb, 8 Kittyhawks and 8 P-40s, stacked from 20-15k altitude does very well against successive waves of Tojos at 20k and Oscar IIa at 15k. Total tally is an impressive 12 Tojos and 10 Oscars in exchange for 9 Kittyhawks, 8 Hurris and no P-40s! Will move some squadrons around to keep the CAP fresh, and based on the Carnarvon raid, will keep fighters on night CAP as well - One AA Bn just isn’t enough.
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Jorge_Stanbury
- Posts: 4345
- Joined: Wed Feb 29, 2012 12:57 pm
- Location: Montreal
RE: 23-24 Aug 42
For me the big question is what is he trying to achieve at Chittagong?
If you decide to reinforce Bangladesh. I suggest you keep strong bases in all rail junctions as the last thing you want is to be trapped there
Does he wants to bleed you in an attrition low intensity campaign? Or is this the beginning of something bigger.
Do you have any USA ID in India? 4E bombers?
If you decide to reinforce Bangladesh. I suggest you keep strong bases in all rail junctions as the last thing you want is to be trapped there
Does he wants to bleed you in an attrition low intensity campaign? Or is this the beginning of something bigger.
Do you have any USA ID in India? 4E bombers?
RE: 23-24 Aug 42
ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury
For me the big question is what is he trying to achieve at Chittagong?
If you decide to reinforce Bangladesh. I suggest you keep strong bases in all rail junctions as the last thing you want is to be trapped there
Does he wants to bleed you in an attrition low intensity campaign? Or is this the beginning of something bigger.
Do you have any USA ID in India? 4E bombers?
I'm pretty sure L_S_T is focused on holding Akyab and not planning an invasion behind the Allied lines - I could be wrong of course, so I've got 2 Bdes in Cox's Bazaar and a Div(+) at Chittagong. US 27th ID is bound for Chittagong and I've got two more combat regiments inbound from Eastern US, plus engineers and AA. Big air reinforcement (including a heavy bomber group and P-39 squadron) also being brought in.
Goal is to start air campaign in Sep when I get some P-40Ks in squadrons.
25-26 Aug 42
25-26 Aug 42
Highlights - Mini KB hits Ndeni, two IJN CVs missed by torps; Sonia shoot down over Paoshan
Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-154)
Allied ships sunk:
xAKL:1
Air loss:
Jpn: 59
Allied: 22
Subwar:
Jpn: 4 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv:
Vaitupu (SOPAC)
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Vaitupu
SIGINT/Intel: 21st ID moving to Rangoon
West Coast/Admin. NSTR.
In NOPAC, SS Swordfish misses CV Akagi w/4 torps off Etorofu as the KB apparently is heading back to Japan - this was confirmed by another sub sighting off Ominato, but SS Grenadier was unable to engage. With the KB confirmed out of the area, transports begin loading at DH for the much delayed Attu invasion.
CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, Busy two days in SOPAC. Vaitupu Amph TF lands an infantry battalion unopposed and takes the base, the only opposition is a lone sub that fails to penetrate the screen. While that operation is underway, SS S-37 misses CVL Zuiho w/ 4 torps NE of Tulagi - apparently the “mini” KB is coming out to play! And its more of a KB than a “mini” KB - Zuiho, Junyo and Hiyo, and it wouldn’t surprise me if Shokako or Zuikaku were out and about. This TF proceeds SE and launches a strike (47Z, 17K, 18V) on shipping off Ndeni. 11 Buffalos on CAP fail to penetrate the escort, but the strike only sinks a fast AKL, cripples a small fast xAP, and damages an APD - leaving a number of ships un damaged. Enterprise TF is well to the east, and will continue toward the safety of Pago-Pago, but the marjority of its planes fly off to operate from land bases should the IJN continue south. I’m assuming this is a raid on Ndeni, and I swap out the Marine Buffalo squadron for a Marine F4F squadron should the planes return. A robust welcome committee awaits at Luganville, should the IJN CVs venture south - at the expense of fighter strength at Noumea - taking a little risk here. Shipping is flushed south - with ships making for Noumea or Luganville or out of the New Hebrides entirely. Subs of course are sent to hunt the CV TF as well, so this could be an interesting turn coming up.
In SWPAC, very surpisingly, the xAKL docked at Portland Roads with absolutely no response from Moresby. Portland Roads AF now at level 2. Once the xAKL departs, LBA will begin hitting Horn Island.
In WAUS, B-17s hit the force heading south toward Tennant Creek with poor results, but meet no fighters. The Aus Bde 80m north of Tennant Creek will begin to pull back - no reason not to stretch the IJA south. Additional medium bombers arrive at Alice Springs which will begin ground attacks shortly. Quiet in the Exmouth area other than night raiding Bettys targeting Allied bases - raids are met by conventional fighters which take down a couple of Bettys - the first true night fighters, the P-70 Havoc, just arriving at Sydney.
In China, the two fresh Chinese Corps attacked SE of Nanning and were held with moderate casualties - IJA still look to be moving back across the river, so I’ll try one more attack to help that process.
In India/Burma, the big event is a raid on Paoshan by unescorted Sonias - which are mauled by the 15 P-40s on CAP, with 38 failing to return for no Allied loss. Quiet over Chittagong in daylight, and night time raiders find CAP and AA waiting over Calcutta as well, claiming a couple of Nells. The Brit 18th Div gets bombarded by sea at Akyab (3CA, 3CL, 6DD) with little effect. The 18th Div is to hold its position, with the Brit 70th and then the 2nd Div to move into the jungle to flank the position. This move will take some time, and until I get some additional airpower avail, I’m in no position for an offensive anyway. Lastly, the US 27th ID lands at on mainland India at Cochin, and will rail to Calcutta prior to commitment to the Burma frontier.
Highlights - Mini KB hits Ndeni, two IJN CVs missed by torps; Sonia shoot down over Paoshan
Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-154)
Allied ships sunk:
xAKL:1
Air loss:
Jpn: 59
Allied: 22
Subwar:
Jpn: 4 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv:
Vaitupu (SOPAC)
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Vaitupu
SIGINT/Intel: 21st ID moving to Rangoon
West Coast/Admin. NSTR.
In NOPAC, SS Swordfish misses CV Akagi w/4 torps off Etorofu as the KB apparently is heading back to Japan - this was confirmed by another sub sighting off Ominato, but SS Grenadier was unable to engage. With the KB confirmed out of the area, transports begin loading at DH for the much delayed Attu invasion.
CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, Busy two days in SOPAC. Vaitupu Amph TF lands an infantry battalion unopposed and takes the base, the only opposition is a lone sub that fails to penetrate the screen. While that operation is underway, SS S-37 misses CVL Zuiho w/ 4 torps NE of Tulagi - apparently the “mini” KB is coming out to play! And its more of a KB than a “mini” KB - Zuiho, Junyo and Hiyo, and it wouldn’t surprise me if Shokako or Zuikaku were out and about. This TF proceeds SE and launches a strike (47Z, 17K, 18V) on shipping off Ndeni. 11 Buffalos on CAP fail to penetrate the escort, but the strike only sinks a fast AKL, cripples a small fast xAP, and damages an APD - leaving a number of ships un damaged. Enterprise TF is well to the east, and will continue toward the safety of Pago-Pago, but the marjority of its planes fly off to operate from land bases should the IJN continue south. I’m assuming this is a raid on Ndeni, and I swap out the Marine Buffalo squadron for a Marine F4F squadron should the planes return. A robust welcome committee awaits at Luganville, should the IJN CVs venture south - at the expense of fighter strength at Noumea - taking a little risk here. Shipping is flushed south - with ships making for Noumea or Luganville or out of the New Hebrides entirely. Subs of course are sent to hunt the CV TF as well, so this could be an interesting turn coming up.
In SWPAC, very surpisingly, the xAKL docked at Portland Roads with absolutely no response from Moresby. Portland Roads AF now at level 2. Once the xAKL departs, LBA will begin hitting Horn Island.
In WAUS, B-17s hit the force heading south toward Tennant Creek with poor results, but meet no fighters. The Aus Bde 80m north of Tennant Creek will begin to pull back - no reason not to stretch the IJA south. Additional medium bombers arrive at Alice Springs which will begin ground attacks shortly. Quiet in the Exmouth area other than night raiding Bettys targeting Allied bases - raids are met by conventional fighters which take down a couple of Bettys - the first true night fighters, the P-70 Havoc, just arriving at Sydney.
In China, the two fresh Chinese Corps attacked SE of Nanning and were held with moderate casualties - IJA still look to be moving back across the river, so I’ll try one more attack to help that process.
In India/Burma, the big event is a raid on Paoshan by unescorted Sonias - which are mauled by the 15 P-40s on CAP, with 38 failing to return for no Allied loss. Quiet over Chittagong in daylight, and night time raiders find CAP and AA waiting over Calcutta as well, claiming a couple of Nells. The Brit 18th Div gets bombarded by sea at Akyab (3CA, 3CL, 6DD) with little effect. The 18th Div is to hold its position, with the Brit 70th and then the 2nd Div to move into the jungle to flank the position. This move will take some time, and until I get some additional airpower avail, I’m in no position for an offensive anyway. Lastly, the US 27th ID lands at on mainland India at Cochin, and will rail to Calcutta prior to commitment to the Burma frontier.
27-28 Aug 42
27-28 Aug 42
Highlights - Mini KB hits a small convoy east of Ndeni - but CAP does well; CAP over Chittagong holds its own against heavy sweeps.
Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Tanikaze - mines)
PB: 1
Allied ships sunk:
PT: 3
SC: 1
YMS: 1
xAP: 1 (small, fast - scuttled)
xAKL: 1
Air loss:
Jpn: 67
Allied: 51
Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 1 ship hit (PB sunk)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost:
Warazup (Burma)
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR
West Coast/Admin. Tenth Airforce’s P-38E squadron finally departs East Coast for Cape Town and then on to India after being held for months to support operations in the Aleutians.
In NOPAC, Attu amph TF completes loading and will move to staging area at Amchitka, along with BB TF (3BB, 6DD), ASW and minesweepers. Still quiet.
CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, the Mini-KB trolls SE of Ndeni for targets, and finds an xAKL escorted by a YMS heading south at best speed from Ndeni off Vanikoro and sinks both. Another xAKL escorted by an AM are also attacked just north of Luganville, and this time, they are protected by P-39 CAP - which shoots down 3 Zeros and 14 Vals in exchange for 8 P-39s - and no ships are hit! Nice. IJN DD TF (3DD) ventures into Ndeni, where Tanikaze hits a mine and later is reported sunk, but not before sinking 3 of 6 PTs there - the only 3 that engaged! No other shipping was present and the DDs did not bombard. I expect the IJN CVs to retire after the P-39s did well off Luganville, and shipping will return to plying the waters to and from Noumea and Luganville. CV Enterprise TF is just off Pago, and will head to Suva to refuel, then support reinforcements bound for Vaitupu.
In SWPAC, it remains quiet.
In WAUS, NSTR.
In China, the two Chinese Corps attacked SE of Nanning again and were held so that will stop any further offensive actions for a while. Of more concern in the IJA continue to push toward Chunking from over the mountains NE of the city. They are now within 160 miles and one hex away from clear terrain. Not good!
In India/Burma, major fighter sweeps over Chittagong are met by a robust CAP and when the dust settles, losses are an acceptable one to one loss ratio: 22 Oscar IIa, 14 Tojo in exchange for 22 P-40E, 14 Hurris. While I don’t mind the loss ratio, especially with Tojos involved, I can’t afford the airframes yet. On the positive side, despite losing 51 a/c during the turn across the Pacific Theater, only 5 pilots were killed. I have to assume that most Jpn pilots shot down over Allied bases did not survive. On the negative side of things, was surprised when the IJA defeated the Allied force at Warazup at 1-1 odds, and took the base. The defending force included the US 87th Mtn Reg - the first time US troops engaged in the CBI. This defeat will force me to send at least a portion of the US 27th ID to the Ledo area.
Highlights - Mini KB hits a small convoy east of Ndeni - but CAP does well; CAP over Chittagong holds its own against heavy sweeps.
Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Tanikaze - mines)
PB: 1
Allied ships sunk:
PT: 3
SC: 1
YMS: 1
xAP: 1 (small, fast - scuttled)
xAKL: 1
Air loss:
Jpn: 67
Allied: 51
Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 1 ship hit (PB sunk)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost:
Warazup (Burma)
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR
West Coast/Admin. Tenth Airforce’s P-38E squadron finally departs East Coast for Cape Town and then on to India after being held for months to support operations in the Aleutians.
In NOPAC, Attu amph TF completes loading and will move to staging area at Amchitka, along with BB TF (3BB, 6DD), ASW and minesweepers. Still quiet.
CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, the Mini-KB trolls SE of Ndeni for targets, and finds an xAKL escorted by a YMS heading south at best speed from Ndeni off Vanikoro and sinks both. Another xAKL escorted by an AM are also attacked just north of Luganville, and this time, they are protected by P-39 CAP - which shoots down 3 Zeros and 14 Vals in exchange for 8 P-39s - and no ships are hit! Nice. IJN DD TF (3DD) ventures into Ndeni, where Tanikaze hits a mine and later is reported sunk, but not before sinking 3 of 6 PTs there - the only 3 that engaged! No other shipping was present and the DDs did not bombard. I expect the IJN CVs to retire after the P-39s did well off Luganville, and shipping will return to plying the waters to and from Noumea and Luganville. CV Enterprise TF is just off Pago, and will head to Suva to refuel, then support reinforcements bound for Vaitupu.
In SWPAC, it remains quiet.
In WAUS, NSTR.
In China, the two Chinese Corps attacked SE of Nanning again and were held so that will stop any further offensive actions for a while. Of more concern in the IJA continue to push toward Chunking from over the mountains NE of the city. They are now within 160 miles and one hex away from clear terrain. Not good!
In India/Burma, major fighter sweeps over Chittagong are met by a robust CAP and when the dust settles, losses are an acceptable one to one loss ratio: 22 Oscar IIa, 14 Tojo in exchange for 22 P-40E, 14 Hurris. While I don’t mind the loss ratio, especially with Tojos involved, I can’t afford the airframes yet. On the positive side, despite losing 51 a/c during the turn across the Pacific Theater, only 5 pilots were killed. I have to assume that most Jpn pilots shot down over Allied bases did not survive. On the negative side of things, was surprised when the IJA defeated the Allied force at Warazup at 1-1 odds, and took the base. The defending force included the US 87th Mtn Reg - the first time US troops engaged in the CBI. This defeat will force me to send at least a portion of the US 27th ID to the Ledo area.
RE: 27-28 Aug 42
Not disputing this point ... but what are these losses like for the Japanese? They should be hurting, too, right?ORIGINAL: IdahoNYer
While I don’t mind the loss ratio, especially with Tojos involved, I can’t afford the airframes yet.
RE: 27-28 Aug 42
ORIGINAL: jwolf
Not disputing this point ... but what are these losses like for the Japanese? They should be hurting, too, right?ORIGINAL: IdahoNYer
While I don’t mind the loss ratio, especially with Tojos involved, I can’t afford the airframes yet.
Maybe I'm wrong, but since Japan can determine production based on its requirements, I don't think he's hurting for plane losses - in numbers of planes anyway. In pilots - yes.
There may be some lag time, but if he's experiencing higher losses than anticipated, he can ramp up production to compensate. Something us Allied players can only dream of...until we get the F6F anyway...
29-30 Aug 42
29-30 Aug 42
Highlights - KB sighted by subs departing Japan for Aleutian waters forcing the postponement of the Attu invasion again; IJN activity increases in the IO.
Jpn ships sunk: None
Allied ships sunk:
AM: 1
xAKL: 1
Air loss:
Jpn: 38
Allied: 21
Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 0 ships hit (3CVs missed!!)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: Three subs sight the KB coming out of Japan, heading toward Aleutian waters.
West Coast/Admin. Fast convoy departs LA bound for Auckland.
In NOPAC, a frustrating turn as the sub picket line just off the south coast of Hokkaido duly picks up the KB departing port, and heading ENE along the coast. Subs Gato, Haddock and Swordfish each manage to launch a spread at a CV and MISS!! On the bright side, at least I know the KB is on the move, and I didn’t have to be doubly frustrated by seeing a hit not explode. Should the KB continue towards the Aleutians, 10 more subs may have a chance at redemption. Attu invasion TFs reach the staging area at Amchitka as planned, but the sub sightings will force another postponement - all TFs (BB, Amph, ASW, and Minesweeping) will all head SE towards the CV TF and mark time - and keep my fingers crossed that the subs do a bit better in hitting targets.
CENPAC, 3rd Marine Div arrives from San Francisco without incident; they are currently planning for a landing at Tabiteuea in early ‘43. The convoy will depart for SF with some troops heading out of Pearl for assignment elsewhere, including the 22nd MAG, whose destination is India.
In SOPAC, its quiet. The IJN CV TF has disappeared, and my guess is that it has headed back towards Truk. In any case, resupply convoy arrives at Noumea without incident and inter-island shipping is resumed. Enterprise TF is just off Suva, and in need of fuel. Ndeni AF now level 2 and USMC SBDs arrive.
In SWPAC, IJN LBA finally awakens out of Moresby starting with a sweep over Portland Roads, followed by a Nell strike which sinks the AM and xAKL unloading there. On the positive side, P-400s on CAP do well, 11 A3 Zeros and 9 A2 Zeros are destroyed in exchange for 8 P-400s. This IJN LBA raid opens the door for the first P-38F sweep on Moresby - I figure the enemy pilots may be fatigued from their sweep/escort. Meanwhile, P-39s sweep over Horn Island and find no targets. Lastly, a squadron of B-26s sneak in under Moresby CAP and put a 500lb bomb on an xAP at the cost of two planes lost.
In WAUS, the IJA force I thought was heading south towards Tenant Creek has now sent units to its flanks - which looks more like a defensive posture. Will send Allied LBA to raid both the main ground force as well as Daly Waters (supply hub?) to see what we can stir up. On the Exmouth front, its quiet, and with the IJN activity in the Indian Ocean, those ships are NOT ready to strike against Exmouth or Carnarvon. So, its probably time to break up the CV TF laying well off the coast in the coming days/weeks.
In China, overall supply reaches 55k for the first time in over a month - have no idea why it’s going up right now however - and its still not being effectively distributed to bases or units.
In India/Burma, the IJN returns with a bombardment TF (BB, 3CA, 2CL, 5DD) hitting the British 18th Div at Akyab, while air search picks up another potential BB TF heading along the coast. British MGBs have moved to protect Chittagong, but both Cox’s Bazaar and troops at Akyab are exposed. Dacca is now operational as a level 4 AF, and British torpedo bombers are prepared to launch a night attack. Jpn LBA doesn’t hit Chittagong, giving Allied air a chance to repair, but does it Cox’s Bazaar without effect.
Highlights - KB sighted by subs departing Japan for Aleutian waters forcing the postponement of the Attu invasion again; IJN activity increases in the IO.
Jpn ships sunk: None
Allied ships sunk:
AM: 1
xAKL: 1
Air loss:
Jpn: 38
Allied: 21
Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 0 ships hit (3CVs missed!!)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: Three subs sight the KB coming out of Japan, heading toward Aleutian waters.
West Coast/Admin. Fast convoy departs LA bound for Auckland.
In NOPAC, a frustrating turn as the sub picket line just off the south coast of Hokkaido duly picks up the KB departing port, and heading ENE along the coast. Subs Gato, Haddock and Swordfish each manage to launch a spread at a CV and MISS!! On the bright side, at least I know the KB is on the move, and I didn’t have to be doubly frustrated by seeing a hit not explode. Should the KB continue towards the Aleutians, 10 more subs may have a chance at redemption. Attu invasion TFs reach the staging area at Amchitka as planned, but the sub sightings will force another postponement - all TFs (BB, Amph, ASW, and Minesweeping) will all head SE towards the CV TF and mark time - and keep my fingers crossed that the subs do a bit better in hitting targets.
CENPAC, 3rd Marine Div arrives from San Francisco without incident; they are currently planning for a landing at Tabiteuea in early ‘43. The convoy will depart for SF with some troops heading out of Pearl for assignment elsewhere, including the 22nd MAG, whose destination is India.
In SOPAC, its quiet. The IJN CV TF has disappeared, and my guess is that it has headed back towards Truk. In any case, resupply convoy arrives at Noumea without incident and inter-island shipping is resumed. Enterprise TF is just off Suva, and in need of fuel. Ndeni AF now level 2 and USMC SBDs arrive.
In SWPAC, IJN LBA finally awakens out of Moresby starting with a sweep over Portland Roads, followed by a Nell strike which sinks the AM and xAKL unloading there. On the positive side, P-400s on CAP do well, 11 A3 Zeros and 9 A2 Zeros are destroyed in exchange for 8 P-400s. This IJN LBA raid opens the door for the first P-38F sweep on Moresby - I figure the enemy pilots may be fatigued from their sweep/escort. Meanwhile, P-39s sweep over Horn Island and find no targets. Lastly, a squadron of B-26s sneak in under Moresby CAP and put a 500lb bomb on an xAP at the cost of two planes lost.
In WAUS, the IJA force I thought was heading south towards Tenant Creek has now sent units to its flanks - which looks more like a defensive posture. Will send Allied LBA to raid both the main ground force as well as Daly Waters (supply hub?) to see what we can stir up. On the Exmouth front, its quiet, and with the IJN activity in the Indian Ocean, those ships are NOT ready to strike against Exmouth or Carnarvon. So, its probably time to break up the CV TF laying well off the coast in the coming days/weeks.
In China, overall supply reaches 55k for the first time in over a month - have no idea why it’s going up right now however - and its still not being effectively distributed to bases or units.
In India/Burma, the IJN returns with a bombardment TF (BB, 3CA, 2CL, 5DD) hitting the British 18th Div at Akyab, while air search picks up another potential BB TF heading along the coast. British MGBs have moved to protect Chittagong, but both Cox’s Bazaar and troops at Akyab are exposed. Dacca is now operational as a level 4 AF, and British torpedo bombers are prepared to launch a night attack. Jpn LBA doesn’t hit Chittagong, giving Allied air a chance to repair, but does it Cox’s Bazaar without effect.
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- 29Aug42.jpg (127.43 KiB) Viewed 330 times
RE: 29-30 Aug 42
The captain of Akagi (and your opponent LST) must be running out of clean underwear ....
No matter how bad a situation is, you can always make it worse. - Chris Hadfield : An Astronaut's Guide To Life On Earth
Aug 42 Summary
Aug 42 Summary
Like Jul, August was a mixed month. On the positive side, Vaitapu occupied in the Ellice Islands, Ndeni AF is operational and growing, Exmouth reinforced and expanding (albeit slowly), Allied air continues to manage better than a 1-1 loss ratio against the latest enemy planes, and most importantly the fleet, especially the CV force, remains largely intact. On the negative side, I was caught flat footed when the IJN showed up in the Aleutians in force and savaged the US Fleet there, postponing the invasion of Attu yet again. Overall, I’m still satisfied with the results. I think the initiative has truly shifted to the Allied Cause. IJN forays are more raids, not tied to sustained offensive operations, but to delay Allied buildups. Those raiding forays are sill powerful, and the best defense is still withdrawal where possible, but once the raiding force retires, Allied offensive buildup was able to continue. As we move into September, buildup remains the focus for most theaters for the next two months as most of the Allied fleet will undergo refit in the next 60 days. Attu is still a target - if I can manage to get in without the KB coming to visit. The focus in the next 30 plus days will rely on airpower - begin starting to challenge in the air with a combination of sweeps and heavy bombers, primarily around Australia and Burma. I expect L_S_T to continue with an “active defense” - sortie the fleet to disrupt Allied thrusts. That means naval bombardments, CV raids and offensive fighter sweeps. Naval loss ratio for the month wasn’t as bad as I once feared despite the debacle known as the Aleutian Campaign; IJN reported losses for the month were a CA, 4CL, 4DD and 8SS as compared to the Allies losing a CA, 2CL, CLAA, 3DD and 3 PTs. Air losses were decidedly in the Allies favor, 449 for Jpn to 353 Allied, and with new fighters such as the P-40K and P-38F becoming operational next month, I hope to expand this gap in the coming months.
Screenshot shows disposition - didn’t have time to post specifics by Theater. Will try and do that each quarter instead of monthly.
INTEL: I’m convinced the IJN is done with major amphibious operations. I was wrong about Carnarvon, and realized that when the ships used at Port Hedland were then committed in the Indian Ocean. Figure L_S_T will attempt to preserve his current perimeter - which I’m betting includes bases of Akyab, Port Hedland, Moresby, Tulagi, Tarawa-Makin area, and apparently Attu. The greatest threat remains CV raids and BB bombardments - both of which get riskier as Allied airpower and subs become more numerous.
SUBWAR: Although disappointed at missed opportunities in August - at least five subs launched torps at CVs without success, subs did hit a BB and CA - and the “threat” of sub attack most likely has, and will, influence IJN operations. Still not having much success against the merchant marine however. On the positive side, Allied ASW platforms, both sea and air, are becoming more available and crews becoming more proficient - and IJN sub losses are on the rise.
West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: Focus is on refitting the fleet over the next two months. This will be done as quickly as possible - not staging ships into refit as I did during the 6/42 refit. Every ship that can reach a refit yard as soon as possible will be taken out of service, so ships will start heading to ports in Sep for their 10/42 refit. Most ships due refit in 9/42 are already in port to be taken out of service immediately. Pilot pools are very healthy with the exception of US Army bomber pilots, and that will be short for a few more months. Planes are still in short supply, but have been able to expand a few Marine fighter squadrons to 36 planes. Goal in Sep will be to retire the Marines’ Buffalo and the Army’s P-36 from frontline squadrons.
NOPAC. L_S_T has done an excellent job of keeping me off balance in the Aleutians. I figured that after the BB drubbing last month, the worst was over. What I certainly didn’t expect was the KB in Aleutian waters! All things considered, I got off lightly losing a few cruisers and DDs - not hitting Dutch Harbor saved the transports and the BBs in port there. Still, the invasion of Attu is again postponed, only to be restarted, then delayed yet again at the end of August when the KB left port headed toward the Aleutians. Will look to land on Attu again in Sep, but time is against me now with winter weather approaching. That said, its not worth risking APs and additional BBs to push this landing if the KB is about.
CENPAC. With Attu delayed, so is Baker Island. Not essential, but a tad frustrating. I can wait.
SOPAC. So far, so good in SOPAC. Actually on track, building up the base at Ndeni. That’s as far as the advance will go until the fleet returns from refit. Ellice Islands will be mopped up as well. All to set conditions for further offensive operations come 11/42. Bombing operations against Tulagi should commence in September as heavies become available - contingent to IJA offensive action against Tennant Creek in Australia.
SWPAC. September will kick off with P-38Fs sweeping Moresby as the first step in gaining air superiority in theater. This “should” start an Allied buildup to land at Horn Island, slated for Oct. This operation is geared to be executed only supported by LBA. Horn Island will be the first step in the long road to throw the Japanese out of Australia, as well as opening up southern New Guinea for future operations.
WAUS. Surprisingly, its been very quiet on the Carnavon-Exmouth front. No IJN activity other than subs - so my four CVs and a BC surface TF has been loitering for about a month without a target. On the positive side, Exmouth is expanding, and efforts will shift from port to AF construction shortly. On the negative side, the CVs could have been better used elsewhere. The naval TF(s) will disperse for refit shortly in any case. Focus there will remain developing Exmouth into a base to threaten Port Hedland. WAUS’s other front, Tennant Creek will focus on halting or destroying any IJA attempt to seize the base. I’m confident I have the forces to accomplish this task. Once the ground threat is removed, the air (especially the heavy bombers) will shift to supporting SWPAC and SOPAC for the remainder of ’42.
Burma/India. As expected, Akyab has stalemated. Not as expected, the IJN showed up in force in August to provide bombardment capability from Chittagong to Akyab. Fine - ships in the Indian Ocean are not in SWPAC or SOPAC. I’m good with that. Subs and eventually airpower will take care of the naval threat in the IO as time progresses. What surprised me is that Allied airpower has actually held its own against a reinforced IJA air - equipped with the Tojo no less. With September, the P-40K becomes available, as well as an influx of air reinforcements shipping to India from the US. Goal in September is to begin the air offensive and gain air superiority across the India-Burma frontier, setting conditions for ground offensive. The western gateway into China, Paoshan, still holds, although the IJA still threatens the position.
China. Supply, or lack there of, continues to be the #1 concern in the China Theater. The IJA drive toward Chungking from the NE is slow, but unrelenting. The SE front and southern fronts seemed to have stabilized, but lack of supply is still a major concern, although the IJA thrust from the SW was actually blunted. Will continue to attempt to hold the current perimeter as long as possible.
Like Jul, August was a mixed month. On the positive side, Vaitapu occupied in the Ellice Islands, Ndeni AF is operational and growing, Exmouth reinforced and expanding (albeit slowly), Allied air continues to manage better than a 1-1 loss ratio against the latest enemy planes, and most importantly the fleet, especially the CV force, remains largely intact. On the negative side, I was caught flat footed when the IJN showed up in the Aleutians in force and savaged the US Fleet there, postponing the invasion of Attu yet again. Overall, I’m still satisfied with the results. I think the initiative has truly shifted to the Allied Cause. IJN forays are more raids, not tied to sustained offensive operations, but to delay Allied buildups. Those raiding forays are sill powerful, and the best defense is still withdrawal where possible, but once the raiding force retires, Allied offensive buildup was able to continue. As we move into September, buildup remains the focus for most theaters for the next two months as most of the Allied fleet will undergo refit in the next 60 days. Attu is still a target - if I can manage to get in without the KB coming to visit. The focus in the next 30 plus days will rely on airpower - begin starting to challenge in the air with a combination of sweeps and heavy bombers, primarily around Australia and Burma. I expect L_S_T to continue with an “active defense” - sortie the fleet to disrupt Allied thrusts. That means naval bombardments, CV raids and offensive fighter sweeps. Naval loss ratio for the month wasn’t as bad as I once feared despite the debacle known as the Aleutian Campaign; IJN reported losses for the month were a CA, 4CL, 4DD and 8SS as compared to the Allies losing a CA, 2CL, CLAA, 3DD and 3 PTs. Air losses were decidedly in the Allies favor, 449 for Jpn to 353 Allied, and with new fighters such as the P-40K and P-38F becoming operational next month, I hope to expand this gap in the coming months.
Screenshot shows disposition - didn’t have time to post specifics by Theater. Will try and do that each quarter instead of monthly.
INTEL: I’m convinced the IJN is done with major amphibious operations. I was wrong about Carnarvon, and realized that when the ships used at Port Hedland were then committed in the Indian Ocean. Figure L_S_T will attempt to preserve his current perimeter - which I’m betting includes bases of Akyab, Port Hedland, Moresby, Tulagi, Tarawa-Makin area, and apparently Attu. The greatest threat remains CV raids and BB bombardments - both of which get riskier as Allied airpower and subs become more numerous.
SUBWAR: Although disappointed at missed opportunities in August - at least five subs launched torps at CVs without success, subs did hit a BB and CA - and the “threat” of sub attack most likely has, and will, influence IJN operations. Still not having much success against the merchant marine however. On the positive side, Allied ASW platforms, both sea and air, are becoming more available and crews becoming more proficient - and IJN sub losses are on the rise.
West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: Focus is on refitting the fleet over the next two months. This will be done as quickly as possible - not staging ships into refit as I did during the 6/42 refit. Every ship that can reach a refit yard as soon as possible will be taken out of service, so ships will start heading to ports in Sep for their 10/42 refit. Most ships due refit in 9/42 are already in port to be taken out of service immediately. Pilot pools are very healthy with the exception of US Army bomber pilots, and that will be short for a few more months. Planes are still in short supply, but have been able to expand a few Marine fighter squadrons to 36 planes. Goal in Sep will be to retire the Marines’ Buffalo and the Army’s P-36 from frontline squadrons.
NOPAC. L_S_T has done an excellent job of keeping me off balance in the Aleutians. I figured that after the BB drubbing last month, the worst was over. What I certainly didn’t expect was the KB in Aleutian waters! All things considered, I got off lightly losing a few cruisers and DDs - not hitting Dutch Harbor saved the transports and the BBs in port there. Still, the invasion of Attu is again postponed, only to be restarted, then delayed yet again at the end of August when the KB left port headed toward the Aleutians. Will look to land on Attu again in Sep, but time is against me now with winter weather approaching. That said, its not worth risking APs and additional BBs to push this landing if the KB is about.
CENPAC. With Attu delayed, so is Baker Island. Not essential, but a tad frustrating. I can wait.
SOPAC. So far, so good in SOPAC. Actually on track, building up the base at Ndeni. That’s as far as the advance will go until the fleet returns from refit. Ellice Islands will be mopped up as well. All to set conditions for further offensive operations come 11/42. Bombing operations against Tulagi should commence in September as heavies become available - contingent to IJA offensive action against Tennant Creek in Australia.
SWPAC. September will kick off with P-38Fs sweeping Moresby as the first step in gaining air superiority in theater. This “should” start an Allied buildup to land at Horn Island, slated for Oct. This operation is geared to be executed only supported by LBA. Horn Island will be the first step in the long road to throw the Japanese out of Australia, as well as opening up southern New Guinea for future operations.
WAUS. Surprisingly, its been very quiet on the Carnavon-Exmouth front. No IJN activity other than subs - so my four CVs and a BC surface TF has been loitering for about a month without a target. On the positive side, Exmouth is expanding, and efforts will shift from port to AF construction shortly. On the negative side, the CVs could have been better used elsewhere. The naval TF(s) will disperse for refit shortly in any case. Focus there will remain developing Exmouth into a base to threaten Port Hedland. WAUS’s other front, Tennant Creek will focus on halting or destroying any IJA attempt to seize the base. I’m confident I have the forces to accomplish this task. Once the ground threat is removed, the air (especially the heavy bombers) will shift to supporting SWPAC and SOPAC for the remainder of ’42.
Burma/India. As expected, Akyab has stalemated. Not as expected, the IJN showed up in force in August to provide bombardment capability from Chittagong to Akyab. Fine - ships in the Indian Ocean are not in SWPAC or SOPAC. I’m good with that. Subs and eventually airpower will take care of the naval threat in the IO as time progresses. What surprised me is that Allied airpower has actually held its own against a reinforced IJA air - equipped with the Tojo no less. With September, the P-40K becomes available, as well as an influx of air reinforcements shipping to India from the US. Goal in September is to begin the air offensive and gain air superiority across the India-Burma frontier, setting conditions for ground offensive. The western gateway into China, Paoshan, still holds, although the IJA still threatens the position.
China. Supply, or lack there of, continues to be the #1 concern in the China Theater. The IJA drive toward Chungking from the NE is slow, but unrelenting. The SE front and southern fronts seemed to have stabilized, but lack of supply is still a major concern, although the IJA thrust from the SW was actually blunted. Will continue to attempt to hold the current perimeter as long as possible.
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- 42Aug30sum.jpg (95.55 KiB) Viewed 330 times
RE: Aug 42 Summary
Why the rush to retake Attu? If you have to wait until the spring, what is the harm in that? In contrast, Baker and the Ellice islands are much more important strategically IMHO.
Do you have a reasonable chance to reconquer Burma soon enough in order to relieve China, specifically the threat to Chungking?
Do you have a reasonable chance to reconquer Burma soon enough in order to relieve China, specifically the threat to Chungking?
RE: Aug 42 Summary
ORIGINAL: jwolf
Why the rush to retake Attu? If you have to wait until the spring, what is the harm in that? In contrast, Baker and the Ellice islands are much more important strategically IMHO.
Do you have a reasonable chance to reconquer Burma soon enough in order to relieve China, specifically the threat to Chungking?
You're right - there is no rush to take Attu - its a dead end. Just didn't expect 4 CVs to come up to the Aleutians. Re-thinking whether this can still be pulled off in '42.
Burma is a long range effort - will be 6-12 months before I can threaten the IJA pushing into Paoshan and offer some supply relief into China.
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Jorge_Stanbury
- Posts: 4345
- Joined: Wed Feb 29, 2012 12:57 pm
- Location: Montreal
RE: Aug 42 Summary
Regarding refits, I fully agree on quick instead of stagged. Good news is that most of the refits in September and October are minor; taking in average 21 days. You will have your ships carrying improved radars and Bofors in no time [;)]
The exceptions are:
- 3 AMCs that convert to LCI in September...they will need relatively big shipyards (15 if I remember correctly), and 120 days. You should start them ASAP as they are your fist real APAs, ideally they should be in port by the time the refit is available.
- 2 standard type BBs in October. I don't remember which ones and I am not in my desk. What I did was to send them to the West coast, this to avoid congestion at PH
In September there are also lots of xAKs and auxiliar vessels getting better AA and in some cases deck guns. In my game I have tried my best to upgrade them, but I haven't stop any convoy or delay anything as value of the upgrade is marginal
The exceptions are:
- 3 AMCs that convert to LCI in September...they will need relatively big shipyards (15 if I remember correctly), and 120 days. You should start them ASAP as they are your fist real APAs, ideally they should be in port by the time the refit is available.
- 2 standard type BBs in October. I don't remember which ones and I am not in my desk. What I did was to send them to the West coast, this to avoid congestion at PH
In September there are also lots of xAKs and auxiliar vessels getting better AA and in some cases deck guns. In my game I have tried my best to upgrade them, but I haven't stop any convoy or delay anything as value of the upgrade is marginal
RE: Aug 42 Summary
ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury
Regarding refits, I fully agree on quick instead of stagged. Good news is that most of the refits in September and October are minor; taking in average 21 days. You will have your ships carrying improved radars and Bofors in no time [;)]
The exceptions are:
- 3 AMCs that convert to LCI in September...they will need relatively big shipyards (15 if I remember correctly), and 120 days. You should start them ASAP as they are your fist real APAs, ideally they should be in port by the time the refit is available.
- 2 standard type BBs in October. I don't remember which ones and I am not in my desk. What I did was to send them to the West coast, this to avoid congestion at PH
In September there are also lots of xAKs and auxiliar vessels getting better AA and in some cases deck guns. In my game I have tried my best to upgrade them, but I haven't stop any convoy or delay anything as value of the upgrade is marginal
I'm tracking with ya Jorge. Lex will be in the yards a bit longer since I didn't do her 6/42 refit, but the Oct refit is a BIG deal for the added AA - BOFORs rock!
Have one of the AMCs converting to LCIs now, and the other two will hit the yards once their convoys dock. As for the BBs, one is the Pennsy, and she's repairing at Bremerton and will be in the yards for 4 months with the refit - its a long one. That's OK, I can't get the old BBs sunk if they are in refit, right?
I've been pushing transports and auxillaries into refit as they turn around convoys since 6/42 - I now have an abundance of Merchies, except of course tankers.
Jorge - you on break with your game, its been a while since you've posted?