LST vs. IdahoNYer (DBB-C, A AAR) 6 yrs and done! VJ Day!

[IdahoNYer]

10-11 Nov 43

Highlights – Vanimo taken and fighting ends on Ponape

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Natsushio - another Babar mine victim)
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 29
Allied: 25

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attack, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 1 ship hit (xAK dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Vanimo (SOPAC)
Damar (SWPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: IJN CVs location remains unknown. Worrisome.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, fighting ends at Ponape with the final Naval Guard unit being destroyed; about 800 Jpn troops lost to 70 US. Airfield and port are in bad shape as transports begin landing engineers and other supporting troops. Transports also begin to slowly pull out combat troops. Until the port is further repaired, progress will be slow. CVEs will remain on site to provide air cover until the AF if sufficiently repaired to support operations. Focus will now move to the last enemy held island, Jaluit, and bringing airpower against Truk.

In SOPAC, Vanimo falls without an attack - apparently the naval and bombardment completely wiped out the JNAF base force that was garrisoning the base. Will begin to bring in engineers to both Vanimo and Dagua. BB Wash TF begins refueling/rearming at New Hannover as the Hollandia Amphib force begins to arrive to stage. While IJN CAs remain at Biak, I’d really like to know where the KB is before I launch at Hollandia as the plan is only to support with LBA. May hold at New Hannover for a couple of turns to see what develops. I’ve also reinforced the CAP at New Hannover just in case the KB “goes deep” and raids the staging area. Lastly, troops will resume offensive operations at Umboi after their brief rest, and hopefully wrap things up. Screenshot below shows SOPACs Ampib operations progress.

In SWPAC, USMC paras take back Damar without finding any troops or ships. They’ll be pulled back off by PBY. An IJN minesweeper cleared about 20 mines before CD guns ended the operation. Still over 500 mines there. The US DMS did clear what appears to be the last 4 Japanese mines and returned safely to Bathurst. Air search and recon still shows IJN warships at both Dili and Ambon, but nothing firm as to where the KB is. Weather may be blinding the pilots of course, or just some bad luck. Or worse case, the KB may have shifted Theaters. Fairly quiet in the air, with only night raids from both sides; US planes hit Dili with good effect destroying 9 fighters on the ground while Bettys hit Bathurst destroying a single TBF. With it relatively quiet, will try a small fast transport run to bolster the supplies on Babar; AV with a DD escort. LRCAP will provide cover and PTs will go in as the naval support. Supplies are holding at around 1700 or so just by sub and air, but it wouldn’t hurt to double that amount if this gets through. I still figure L_S_T is going to force the issue at Babar, which will require more ground troops brought ashore and the KB in support.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, supplies are brought in to the troops outside Paoshan to where they have more than enough to make another attack this coming turn. Will limit the attack to US troops as I’m pulling out the Brits, Indians and Chinese troops - largely to reduce the stacking, but also to reposition them for further operations. Ships continue to bring supplies into Rangoon at a solid pace with no interference this turn. Shipping shortages will continue until the xAKs being brought from the USA arrive - those coming from west coast ports will take over a month to get into the Bay of Bengal. Current supply flow is more than sufficient for Allied operations in Burma, but much more will be needed to push supplies to China when the Burma Road reopens.

In the IO, other than hunting subs, its quiet. A supply convoy to Port Blair is under way, will expect a visit by Lillys when they arrive and begin offloading. The big news is CV Saratoga has completed repairs at Cape Town and will head to rejoin the fleet. All transports and ground troops are now assembled in Ceylon, so we’re close to resuming offensive operations.

[jwolf]

You have advanced far enough in New Guinea so that the KB can credibly threaten operations on either side of the island. Interesting times. [8D]

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: jwolf

You have advanced far enough in New Guinea so that the KB can credibly threaten operations on either side of the island. Interesting times. [8D]

Think it would take me landing at Biak or surrounding area for the KB to come calling - Babar is his focus, already much valued IJN resources have been committed there, and to take the island back, the KB needs to remain in the Banda Sea.

But....if the KB rounded to the north side of New Guinea, it would be rather painful to the Allied Cause there....

[IdahoNYer]

12-13 Nov 43

Highlights – Umboi Is taken

Jpn ships sunk:
CL: 1 (Kitakami - replaces Nagara claimed sunk in Dec ’42)
DD: 1 (Nenhoi - another Babar mine victim)
AMc: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
CV: 1 (Hiyo - REALLY??)
CL: 1 (Nagara)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 33
Allied: 22

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attack, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 1 ship hit (AMc sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Umboi IS (SOPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: IJN CVs confirmed at Dili. Two xAK reported carrying troops to Babar - another major push underway?

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, with the fighting over at Ponape, LBA rests and I exchange a number of experienced pilots to the reserve pool for rookies. Ponape AF now fully operational and LBA fighters will take over from the CVEs which are now released to support operations in SOPAC. CV Bunker Hill TF (CV, 2CVL, 2CA, 2CL, CLAA, DDs) waiting for some minor repairs to be completed to the two CLs at Kusaie Is, and then will depart to raid. It’s a small force, but may give L_S_T some concern to his shipping security - hoping to catch a troop convoy heading to the Marianas. With limited assault shipping available (about a Bde capability), it will be slow pulling troops off Ponape and bringing in engineers. Once that is accomplished, Jaluit Amph will take place.

In SOPAC, Umboi Is falls in the first attack, and resistance ends in the second. 3000 Jpn casualties to only 100 Allied. 3 South Sea Garrison units, Kure 3rd SNLF, Combined 8th SNLF, 19th Army HQ and three AA units destroyed. A good haul, and two pretty green US divisions a bit more seasoned. Focus now at Hollandia, as the IJN CV TFs are confirmed at Dili. Amph TF along with BB Wash TF and support will depart New Hannover and head to stage at Vanimo before landing in a few days. Vamino already has fighters as engineers finish repairing airfield damage. Engineers enroute to Dagua to get that AF operational in a week or so. Troops also begin loading at Shortlands to land at Sarmi, reportedly lightly defended. LBA will target Hollandia and Biak to begin setting conditions for upcoming landings. Back in the Solomons, xAPs are being maxed out moving support troops forward from rear area bases and moving troops forward for the upcoming Manus Amphib. Once busy bases such as Noumea and Luganville are mere shadows of their former selves. SOPAC will remain very busy in the days and weeks ahead!

In SWPAC, the Fast Transport (DD, AV) to Babar encounters an IJN YMS three times, but neither force engages and each continue to do their respective work. Surprisingly, no air attack, and supplies about half unloaded, but its time to pull out as much IJN activity seems to be taking place in the immediate area. Figure another push is underway to bring reinforcements to Babar, supported by the usual bombardment and likely KB air. Mines remain the best naval killers at Babar, still well over 500 in place, and another DD is claimed. Will sortie PTs and a small DD TF (3DD) to disrupt minesweeping and hopefully damage any lightly guarded troop landings. Allied LBA will be focused to hit any TF at Babar, with LRCAP stacked over the base as well. Will likely be another bloody day!

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, nothing gained against the IJA 65th Bde outside Paoshan as I forget to set the US 43rd Div to attack! Will try and do this right next turn. Otherwise quiet as ships continue to arrive unimpeded at Rangoon. In the air, two squadrons of British Heavies based at Rangoon reached out to hit Saigon in both night and daylight raids, finding no defenses, claimed 24 HI destroyed. While daylight raids are risky, the threat of deep penetration airstrikes should start to worry L_S_T. Even though Allied capabilities are rather very limited now, some British squadrons do have significant range.

In the IO, it remains quiet. Supply convoy from Port Blair arrives at Trinkat without the expected air attack, and the inbound supply convoy to Port Blair should arrive next turn. I expect one of those two will be the target of a heavily escorted Lilly raid. CAP will be up and ready.

[IdahoNYer]

14-15 Nov 43

Highlights – Babar bombarded heavily with US DDs in the way; large ineffective raid at Trinkat shipping

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Ayanami)
SS: 1 (I-160)
xAKL: 1
AMc: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: (I-27)

Allied ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Bush)

Air loss:
Jpn: 130
Allied: 66

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 1 ship hit (DD sunk)
Allies: 7 Attacks, 2 ships hit (DD, xAKL sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: IJN CVs no longer at Dili? Location unknown.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CV Bunker Hill TF (CV, 2CVL, 2CA, 2CL, CLAA, DDs) to depart on a raid heading west of Marcas between the Bonins and the Marianas. Goal here is to seek out shipping and test defenses, and perhaps drawing some forces out to garrison these areas in the future. Otherwise, shipping is focused on pulling combat troops off Ponape and pushing engineers in. That will take a while as most assault shipping has been pulled to SOPAC. CVE TF now under SOPAC to support Torokina and future landings.

In SOPAC, Hollandia Amph with 4th USMC Div and support will land next turn. Wash BB TF will provide cover, but not initially bombard, and CVE TF will close by the 2nd day to provide additional air cover. Not a good time for the IJN CVs to “disappear” as there is a possibility that that could show up north of New Guinea. LBA started the prep by Heavies hitting Torokina, Kaimana and Biak AFs with good effect, finding no CAP and destroying 28 a/c on the ground between the three bases. US LBA will focus on hitting ground troops at Torokina and providing LRCAP next turn. Allied shipping is also being maxed out in this Theater as the campaign shifts further west, and the logistical tail needs to jump forward. Sarmi landing force (One Bde and Eng) will move from Shortlands to Hansa Bay for the next operation. Following Sarmi, will need a tactical pause forward and focus on interior lines - such as the landings on Manus. Manus is needed for the port capability (Tulagi is the current primary anchorage/repair facility) and I expect that to be a very tough fight, tougher than either Ponape or Umboi. Two USMC Divisions are fully prepped and the US Americal Div will follow on in support.

In SWPAC, Babar remains the center of attention for both sides. Max IJN bombardment effort with three TFs (4CA, CL, DDs / BB, DDs / 4CA, 3CL, DDs) executing bombardment runs. The first CA TF encountered the 3 DDs which were clobbered, but again, mines hit two DDs, one later being sunk by a sub enroute home. Of the three US DDs battered by the CAs, one was sunk by a sub, but the other two arrived in a heavily damaged state at Bathurst. The bombardments were fairly effective, but only a single engineer battalion suffered badly. I failed to properly set a SBD squadron’s range at Babar, and they decided to strike targets at Dili, escorted by F4Us, and were mauled by heavy CAP; 18 Corsairs and 16 Dauntlesses fail to return in exchange for 13 Zeros and a George. Although CAP was robust, only the first (of two) raids encountered KB fighters, so the KB is apparently on the move. Will keep LRCAP over Babar, and strike a/c to range Babar (and hopefully ONLY Babar!) in case a major troop reinforcement takes place. Will also send in a DM to lay some additional mines, supported by 2DDs - not only to protect the DM, but to sweep IJN minesweepers. Still over 500 mines at Babar. The question is whether the KB is on the move to support the Babar operations, or moving out of theater.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, good attack against the IJA 65th Bde outside Paoshan as the fresh US 43rd Div is committed to open the Burma Road. Two attacks go in, over 750 IJA loss to less than 100 US. Seems like we’re finally “over the hump”, and its just a question of time before IJA resistance is eliminated. Will continue the attacks as troop fatigue is still good. Elsewhere, B-24s pound the isolated 21st Mixed Bde outside of Rangoon, inflicting over 1000 casualties in two days. Will move a Chinese Division in to eliminated the remnants. Brit Heavies target Medan in Sumatra at night, but fail to score any hits on the oil fields. Will try again next turn.

In the IO, IJA LBA reached out to hit the supply small convoy from at Trinkat. Heavy four squadron CAP got through the heavily escorted raids (no sweeps though) to the Lillys this time for a change. One small xAK was damaged by a single bomb hit, but the price was steep: 30 Oscar, 15 Frank and 32 Lillys lost in exchange for only 6 P-47, 2 Spit VIII and 2 P-40s. A good start to prep the upcoming Sabang landings. And things are finally put in motion for that adventure. Support troops start loading at Colombo which will convoy to land at Trinkat, escorted by a Royal Navy CA TF which will then be used support the Sabang landings by bombarding coastal Burma bases, starting with Victoria Point - where I think the Lillys are originating. Also at Colombo, the CVs start departing port, the first TF of 2CV, CVL and escorts, heading out to link up with the CVs at Addu. Next turn main body troops will begin loading and the remaining CV TF and accompanying surface TF will depart. The CVs will operate in a single “Death Star” TF after my last experience off Sabang when one CV TF reacted, and the other didn’t. The CVs will assemble at Diego Garcia and if my timing is right, link up with CV Saratoga heading in from Cape Town. Its about to get busy in the IO as I fully expect the KB to return to engage.

[IdahoNYer]

16-17 Nov 43

Highlights – Major IJN push to reinforce Babar underway; Hollandia landing goes in.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 2 (Amatsukaze, Arashi - both to collisions at Babar)
SS: 1 (I-27)
xAK: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: (I-160)

Allied ships sunk:
PT: 4

Air loss:
Jpn: 183
Allied: 216

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 1 ship hit (DD sunk)
Allies: 6 Attacks, 1 ships hit (SS (I-160) sunk) CA Atago missed off Babar!

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph:
Hollandia (SOPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: Looks like the entire IJN sitting on top of Babar!

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CV Bunker Hill TF departed on its raid heading NNW out of Kusaie.

In SOPAC, Hollandia Amph goes in without any problems; BB Wash TF will bombard next turn and will head back to New Hannover to replenish. Transports will also retire, head to Umboi to begin moving the two divisions off Umboi. CVE TF will remain to provide cover, along with some DDs and two AKs still offloading. 4th USMC Div will need a turn to rest before beginning the ground assault on the 3+ Naval Guard units defending. Sarmi Amph TF departed Shortlands and is enroute to stage at Vamino. In the air, LBA focused on hitting troops at Hollandia with minimal effect as well as hitting Manus AF with good effect. LBA will shift off Manus to Kavieng, as the IJA garrison seems to be stirring.

In SWPAC, well, the long awaiting major IJN push to retake Babar looks to be underway. A single huge amphib TF (3BB, 6CA, 2CL, 14DD, 17xAK, plus smaller escorts and minesweepers) moved to Babar along with two CV TFs and support TFs. L_S_T never does anything SMALL!! Didn’t expect the KB to sail directly to Babar to provide CAP - which it did effectively, but at high cost in fighters. Numerous Allied strikes all failed to penetrate the estimated 350+ plane CAP. Losses estimated at 130 Zeros but at a cost of 5 F4U, 20 F6F, 8 P-47, 6 P-38, 8 Kittys, 6 Spit VIIII, 35 SBD, 28 TBF, 17 Beauforts, and some 30 transports caught flying in supplies. Not a single strike penetrated to drop ordinance. The Allied naval response was almost as ineffective. The IJN armada passed over 5 subs, not a single torpedo out of 4 attacks found their mark, to include the CA Atago and an xAK. Not good. A PT squadron did engage, and although didn’t hit anything with a torp (synch bug showed the BB Haruna being hit! Damn!), sowed enough confusion in the huge TF that a total of 8 collisions were reported - 6 ships colliding with a single PB!!! Surprisingly, the over 500 mines didn’t hit a single ship, but the USMC Def Bn managed a number of hits on DDs and transports. The transports look to be carrying two infantry regiments, tank companies, AA units, a HQ, and most concerning, an engineer regiment. While almost 1000 troops were reportedly lost in the landings, few engineers were disabled or lost. So, L_S_T probably has enough ground strength to retake the island, even with the Fort Level 3. With the KB likely still to provide CAP, I’m focusing on fighters vs. attack aircraft next turn. Most attack aircraft will sortie at night, only a couple of squadrons set for daylight. Max fighter LRCAP to push over Babar though, intent to kill carrier fighters. Naval response will be more disruptive attacks, 2DDs and two PT squadrons - figure they might cause more collisions than anything else productive. Subs still lie in wait off Babar, but I don’t count on the subs for much with the amount of ASW effort arrayed against them.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, US 43rd Div continues to make progress outside Paoshan, causing about 1000 casualties, but still has a ways to go before the route is clear and the 65th Bde destroyed. Will continue the attacks. Allied Heavies begin hitting IJA forces south of Toungoo, and although few casualties were reported, it looks like those troops have begun pulling back.

In the IO, Franks sweep over Trinkat and do well this time. 24 Franks downed for a heavy price of 13 F4U, 6 P-47, 7 P-40K, and 6 Spit VIII. Frank does much better as a sweeper than an escort. Will reshuffle available air to ensure CAP remains robust as a troop convoy is coming in shortly. At sea, Dutch sub O16 sinks the IJN’s SS I-160 off Great Nicobar - she was likely damaged limping home (unfortunately, didn’t see it due to synch bug). The big news is the Sabang Operation is now fully underway as the Amphib TFs begin loading at Colombo and the last CVs are to depart Colombo for Diego Garcia next turn. Two divisions will be landed plus much support. If nothing else, I expect the KB to come back to the IO.

[BBfanboy]

Too funny!

Are you sure those collisions were not part of the sync bug?

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy


Are you sure those collisions were not part of the sync bug?

Pretty sure...came from the "true" combat report file sent by L_S_T. And L_S_T later told me that the Nagato Maru didn't make it.

[IdahoNYer]

18-19 Nov 43

Highlights – Most IJN elements pulls back from Babar as troop offload complete

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-109)
PB: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
CA: 1 (Kinugasa)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 101
Allied: 29

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 5 Attacks, 1 ship hit (PB sunk

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: Most of the KB moved off Babar, likely to replenish fighters. At least 3 carriers (Amagi, Katsuragi and Ryuho) remained just off Babar providing CAP.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CV Bunker Hill TF moved into position WNW of Marcus and will now head due west into the Philippine Sea, between the Mariannas and the Bonins. TF remains under severe storms and is likely not detected at this point. A/C will start naval search next turn and hopefully stumble on a convoy. Otherwise, troop shuttling continues in CENPAC.


In SOPAC, Hollandia Amph TFs and supporting TFs reach friendly ports and rearm/refuel. Amph TF begins loading the 33rd Div at Umboi to move it to Namatanai to replace the 1st Mar Div which will be used in the upcoming Manus landings. Sarmi Amph TF will hold at Vamino along with the CVE TF and the BB Wash TF will rendezvous there as well. Hollandia ground assault will begin next turn, supported by Heavies at Merauke and Mediums across New Guinea. Heavies at Buna get a needed rest. Elsewhere the focus is shuttle troops forward, and restocking bases with supply.

In SWPAC, the IJN apparently had completed its mission of dropping off reinforcements to Babar and largely withdrew, less an unknow TF with some carriers just off Babar to the east. Probing US DD TF (2DD) and PT squadrons fail to engage any targets at Babar, while the USMC Def Bn cripples an AMc clearing mines (still over 500). A single B-17 squadron flying against ground troops at 26k feet hits nothing, but as expected, draws out the Zeros which are then well handled by LRCAP. 45 Zeros shot down at a cost of 2 P-40, F4U and 2 B-17s. I’m assuming the other IJN CVs have pulled back to port to replenish fighters, and now the other TF probably needs the same. Will continue heavy LRCAP over Babar, and sortie DDs(2) and PTs to disrupt any further landing or minesweeping. A couple of attack squadrons will be set to range Babar, but nothing major. Troops ashore remain fairly highly fatigued, but did get a respite with no bombardments, but I doubt that will continue. The question is whether or not the KB will remain focused on Babar once other events elsewhere (such as the CV raid in CENPAC or the US CVs back in operation in the IO) become apparent.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, Continued progress against the 65th Bde with another 600+ casualties inflicted with zero Allied loss. Also, IJA losses now are coming in largely as squads destroyed, so good progress is being made. Heavies continue to pound IJA ground troops in the vicinity of Rangoon with mixed results, but no friendly loss, and will start to shift focus with one bomber group to support IO operations by hitting Victoria Point next turn. Focus remains opening up the route to Paoshan, and building up combat power and supplies in Burma - but LBA will assist in the Sabang operation as much as range permits - as well as shuttling fighters and bombers to the Andamans as required.

In the IO, combat wise, it was quiet. But lots of activity as the US CV TF(s) are all a sea, converging Diego Garcia. Sara is about 3 days out and CVL Cowpens just entered the map from Aden. All other CVs and supporting ships are either there already or will close next turn and refuel before heading out to support the landings at Sabang. Sara and Cowpens will catch up as they can. The Amphib operation is the biggest one yet attempted by the Allies. Two divisions (3rd Mar Div and 9th Aus) plus support will move in a Amph TF each of about 30 ships, centered around a R-Class BB, to the target. CVE TF (2CVE, CLAA, DDs), CA TF (2CA, 2CL, DDs) and ASW TF will accompany the Amph TFs. An additional Minesweeping TF will come out of the ships in the Andamans. A replenishment TF (3CVE, 3AO, DD/DEs) will also head out to sea in support as will a dozen more subs to establish patrol zones as well as 4 Brit subs to be prepared to lay mines in the Malacca straits. I’m sure L_S_T has gotten heavy radio traffic messages from Colombo, so I don’t think this will be a surprise, so the question is when he’ll bring the KB back, not if. Already at sea is the first support troops convoy that will offload Sabang bound engineers at Trinkat for easy shuttle. The Brit CA TF (3CA, 2CL, DDs) covering this will remain in the Andamans and provide support by initially bombarding Victoria Point. Lastly, another support troops convoy is loading at Colombo, and will head to offload at Trinkat next turn.

[jwolf]

L_S_T later told me that the Nagato Maru didn't make it.

We had some fun on L_S_T's AAR speculating about the fate of the captain of the Nagato Maru. Alas, he appears to have avoided justice by going down with his ship. [:D]

[IdahoNYer]

Yeah....I'm looking fwd to reading L_S_T's AAR when this is all said and done! Of course that's still a way's away.....and I've got some catching up to do on mine!

[IdahoNYer]

20-21 Nov 43

Highlights – IJA attack on Chungking makes progress, but at high cost; Babar holds attack

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 3 (Nowaki, Murakumo, Asagiri - all related to Babar - mines, collision and DD gunfire)
xAK: 2

Allied ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Strong)

Air loss:
Jpn: 39
Allied: 15

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 4 ship hit (xAK sunk, 3xAK dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Hollandia (SOPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: KB sighted at Ambon…Same two CV TFs, but a bit light on fighters.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CV Bunker Hill TF moving toward the Philippines, without any contact. Don’t think the CV TF has been sighted either. Will continue to “fish” in the Philippine Sea for a bit for convoys and then pull back. Intent is to disrupt and recon, not get into a furball. Ponape AF reaches level 4 and I bring in the Navy Heavies to raid Truk. Otherwise, limited assault shipping still ferrying engineers to Ponape. Once complete, will focus on Jaluit amphib with one Bde. All other combat troops have already started prepping for operations in the Marianas which is a long ways away.

In SOPAC, Hollandia taken on the second assault! Level 3 forts helped, but not enough. About 3300 Jpn troop casualties from three Naval Guard units and part of the 71st ID (apparently evac’d from Rabaul?) for a cost of only 300 troops. Jpn remnants fall back into the jungle towards Sarmi. Hollandia facilities will need some work, but engineers already on site repairing the level 2AF. Question is where should I plan the 4th Mar Div to go next? Yap/Ulithi, Babeldaob or further west on the northern New Guinea drive? Good decisions to have! Along those lines, the Sarmi Amph will move from Vamino to Sarmi with CVEs and the BB Wash TF in support. Only 1000 troops anticipated at Sarmi for the Bde sized Amphib; don’t anticipate any problems with the KB confirmed at Ambon and a heavy IJA push going on at Babar. Once Sarmi is secure, focus will be taking Manus, and Heavies will start prepping beginning with the 43rd Bomb Group, newly equipped with factory fresh B-24Js - one squadron retaining the last few B-17Fs in the Pacific. I need Manus’ port and ground troops need more prep time for further operations in NW New Guinea area - plus the KB needs to go elsewhere for those landings to proceed.

In SWPAC, the focus remains Babar and the action is heating up! Two IJN bombardment TFs (2CA, 3CL, DDs / 3BB, 2CA, 2CL, DDs) roll in, the CA TF brushing aside PTs without loss to either side, then sinking crippling one of the two DDs sent in to “disrupt” operations. Both TFs bombard, the BB TF doing well causing over 240 casualties. Troops are also offloaded by DDs which weren’t engaged. But mines continue to do their job, two more DDs (Shimakaze, Mikazuki) hitting mines. No Japanese air activity, and the KB was sighted throughout at Ambon. Allied air consisted LRCAP supporting a mixed heavy bomb group hitting ground targets with minimal effect. On the ground, the first IJA attack managed 1-2 odds and was held, but casualties were heavy, 1400 IJA loss to 500 Allied, but level 3 forts weren’t reduced. Will start flying in the USMC Para Bn as an immediate reinforcement, but more will be needed if Babar is to be held. While troops are available, bringing them in by sea will require the KB and much of the IJN to depart - and with events about to unfold in Sabang, L_S_T will have some decisions here shortly.

In China, major attack goes in at Chungking, and unfortunately it goes in on both days - a very successful, although expensive attack. Attack reduces forts from level 5 to 2. Casualties are heavy for both sides, in the first with 2-1 odds, 16,000 IJA to 5400 Chinese are lost and the second, 1-1 odds get 8500 IJA lost to another 5000 Chinese. This is the attack that L_S_T has been working towards. Even with the heavy losses, Chungking will finally fall - the forts can not be rebuilt with the constant bombing, and the troops can not be reinforced or replaced, while the IJA can shift fresh troops in.

In Burma, more progress against the 65th Bde near Paoshan, another 700 less defenders. In the air, Victoria Point hit with good effect by the 307th BG out of Prome, shutting down the AF, although few planes were destroyed.

In the IO, the Sabang Support Troops convoy begins unloading at Trinkat, and so far no reaction from IJA LBA. With Vicky Point neutralized, the Brit CA TF will instead bombard Sabang where a squadron of Franks were spotted. Guess that will also recon any minefield density before the Amphib TFs arrive. At Deigo Garcia, the Allied CV TFs take on fuel and combine into a single TF (6CV, 3CVL, 2BB, 2CA, 2CL, DDs) and a BB TF (2BB, 2CA, 3CL, DDs) which will follow, and hopefully be able to swap ships with full AA ammo after the CV TF is attacked. These US TFs along with DDs on ASW, will begin heading toward Sabang to support the landings next turn. CV Sara (w/4DD) will follow after she arrives next turn and takes on fuel at Diego Garcia. CVL Cowpens still a few days out. The Amph TFs and their support will make their turn due east to head towards Sabang next turn.

Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 135200 troops, 1445 guns, 1696 vehicles, Assault Value = 4136

Defending force 123784 troops, 353 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 2486

Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 3

Japanese adjusted assault: 6137

Allied adjusted defense: 2647

Japanese assault odds: 2 to 1 (fort level 3)

Japanese Assault reduces fortifications to 3

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), forts(+), leaders(+), experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
16090 casualties reported
Squads: 30 destroyed, 401 disabled
Non Combat: 57 destroyed, 327 disabled
Engineers: 96 destroyed, 266 disabled
Guns lost 60 (4 destroyed, 56 disabled)
Vehicles lost 170 (14 destroyed, 156 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
5446 casualties reported
Squads: 62 destroyed, 329 disabled
Non Combat: 28 destroyed, 134 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Guns lost 25 (4 destroyed, 21 disabled)
Units destroyed 2

Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 124627 troops, 1443 guns, 1692 vehicles, Assault Value = 3307

Defending force 118956 troops, 349 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 2113

Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 2

Japanese adjusted assault: 3348

Allied adjusted defense: 3023

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

Japanese Assault reduces fortifications to 2

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), forts(+), experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
8752 casualties reported
Squads: 15 destroyed, 388 disabled
Non Combat: 146 destroyed, 154 disabled
Engineers: 191 destroyed, 61 disabled
Guns lost 44 (5 destroyed, 39 disabled)
Vehicles lost 195 (74 destroyed, 121 disabled)
Units destroyed 1

Allied ground losses:
4923 casualties reported
Squads: 32 destroyed, 328 disabled
Non Combat: 50 destroyed, 95 disabled
Engineers: 2 destroyed, 5 disabled
Guns lost 25 (5 destroyed, 20 disabled)
Units destroyed 4

[IdahoNYer]

22-23 Nov 43

Highlights – Burma Road OPEN!!! CENPAC CV raid finds a fat convoy in the Philippine Sea.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 4 (Takanami, Yukikaze, Usugumo, Tachikaze)
SS: 1 (I-173)
xAP: 3

Allied ships sunk:
PC: 1
xAP: 1 (v. small)
LST: 1
xAPc: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 35
Allied: 44

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 6 Attacks, 2 ships hit (DD sunk (Usugumo, DD dam (Asanagi))

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph:
Sarmi (SOPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: KB moves to northern New Guinea waters vic of Biak in two TFs.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CV Bunker Hill TF finds and strikes at a large troop convoy east of Samar, Philippines (or perhaps two convoys?!). Airstrikes sink a DD and 3 large xAPs with a reported 10k+ men lost! BB Ise and two other xAPs dam. What luck! Mission accomplished, now to “get outta Dodge” before IJN CVs come up from the south. So far, so good - CV TF will initially head NW to avoid possible contact with BB Ise and then head east. With some luck, will avoid any surface engagements and be able to launch strikes are cripples/dam ships.

In SOPAC, I’m surprised to see two IJN CV TFs (Most of the KB!?!) moving at or towards Biak. A few ineffectual strikes from the US CVE TF covering the landings at Sarmi are crushed by CAP with 15 TBF and 5 SBD lost. But this is the first indication that the IJN KB is on the north side of New Guinea! So a small price to pay for this knowledge - a turn later, the Sarmi Amph and supporting TFs could have been caught and crushed. Now, all US TFs in northern New Guinea waters will head east at best speed - in case the KB heads east to raid. Sarmi Amph has completed offloading, so it and accompanying BB Wash TF and CVEs will make for Hansa Bay. Will have PTs to disrupt any IJN moves along the coast east of Hollandia, and am building up LBA CAP at Hansa Bay just in case. My bet is the KB doesn’t come east, but if it does, it could be troublesome. But with troops ashore at Sarmi, pulling shipping back east shouldn’t be a major issue. Will see what develops.

In SWPAC, 200 more mines are laid at Babar, and claim a DD sunk (Yukikaze) from CA TF (2CA, 3CL, DDs) bombardment run and DD Usugumo torpedoed by sub on the same run - bombardment accomplished nothing. No ground assault on the defending troops. With the KB north of New Guinea, will increase the bombing effort against the IJA at Babar, as well as bring in more troops via air. Still not committing capital ships yet, but will begin prepping (moving assets) to land at Saumlaki. I’m assuming the KB will not return as events develop elsewhere.

In China, no ground assault on Chungking. I expect the blow to fall next turn.

In Burma, the infamous IJA’s 65th Bde finally collapses west of Paoshan with 3000+ troops lost. Burma Road is officially OPEN, with Tsuyung receiving the first 500 supply! Probably too late for Chungking, but supplies should be flowing at an increasing rate into China from now on. More shipping is needed, and its enroute, but that will take some time. On that note, an IJN sub mines the approaches to Rangoon and hit a convoy before AMs can completely clear the route. A small xAP, LST, SC and xAPc are lost to mines and/or sub. Expect AMs to clear the mines next turn, so this won’t hinder more supply runs.

In the IO, Jpn air search as found the Sabang Amph, and likely the CVs - closing, but still out of bomber range however. Brit CA TF bombards Sabang with reasonable effect, and head back to Port Blair to replenish without issue. Amph TF will appear to head to Great Nicobar next turn, and Great Nicobar will be bombarded by air and naval - just a small bit of deception before the Amph TF turns to Sabang. With the KB near Biak, only LBA is an immediate concern, and there should be more than enough CAP - both naval and LBA, to cover the landings. So far, so good in the IO.

[Capt. Harlock]

Highlights – Burma Road OPEN!!! CENPAC CV raid finds a fat convoy in the Philippine Sea.

Nicely done!!

[Bif1961]

The worm is turning

[IdahoNYer]

24-25 Nov 43

Highlights – Chungking FALLS! IJN in force north of New Guinea causing trouble; Sarmi taken.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 3 (I-16, I-35, RO-105)
xAP: 1
xAKL: 2

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 2 (I-162, RO-109)

Allied ships sunk:
DE: 2 (Edward C. Daly, Kane)
AM: 1
AKA: 1
xAKL: 2
LCI: 4

Air loss:
Jpn: 29
Allied: 37

Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 8 Attacks, 5 ships hit (SS (RO-105), xAKL sunk, 2xAP, PB dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost:
Chungking (China)

Bases Liberated:
Sarmi (SOPAC)
Wewak (SOPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: At least half the KB, along with BB TF is northern New Guinea waters.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CV Bunker Hill TF finishes off a damaged xAP (and 2000 more troops!) before heading east. So far, so good as the TF heads towards the Marianas/Bonin Islands gap. All fighters are now up on a layered CAP (102 total) which should be enough to ward off a distant LBA strike. My only concern is whether or not there is an unseen portion of the KB racing north to intercept. In the Gilberts, assault transports begin to head to Tarawa to pick up the regiment slated for the Jaluit Amphib. Initial PB4Y-1 raids against Truk don’t accomplish much, but do lightly damage the AF and no CAP came up.

In SOPAC, IJN BB TF (2BB, 3CA, 2CL, DDs) raid the Sarmi anchorage, and although the majority of Allied shipping had departed, a pair of xAKLs and a small TF (2DE, AM, AKA, 4LCI) which I had mistakenly ordered to “remain on station” was caught and crushed. While the KB was in distant support, I missed an opportunity to hit this BB TF with LBA - a few B-25Ds and Beaufighters out of Merauke strafed and that was about it. Most Allied shipping has pulled east to hopefully safer waters - the BB Wash TF and the Sarmi Amph plus supporting ships is at Hansa Bay, fairly well protected by CAP. New Hannover has quite a few support ships in port, and also covered by CAP. Not sure if the IJN will venture that far east to engage these two anchorages - could be bloody and costly to both sides. At least I know that these IJN ships will not be able to intervene either at the Sabang landings or hit Babar for the next few days. And since Sarmi is the furthest west I intend to go for a bit, this raid, as long as it doesn’t pound a major anchorage, is not going to be a major factor in limiting the Allied advance. A prolonged, or heavy strike against New Hannover or Hansa Bay hard would be another story.

In SWPAC, IJN DDs drop off troops/supplies at Babar and manage to avoid the 700+ mines now there, but USMC Def Bn CD guns set DD Yukaze afire. No Jpn airstrikes in daylight, while many US mediums and Heavies hit targets on Babar, the result is negligible. Air transports continue to bring in supply and some miscellaneous troops to bolster the defense - hopefully just enough to hold the base. Meanwhile, transports head to Derby to pick up a US Infantry Regiment slated for Saumlaki - the island just east of Babar. Should the KB and the IJN BBs stay away from the Babar area for another couple of turns, will look at landing at Saumlaki which will mark the renewal of the SWPAC Amphib campaign. The question is whether the IJN remains here in strength.

In China, the first attack on Chungking carries the city and the base falls. Although I figured Chungking lost for about a year plus now, its still a bitter blow when almost 150,000 men are lost. On the bright side in China, the war will continue, and should prove perhaps a tougher contest to the IJA. After only one turn, the Burma Road lifeline has already increased supplies in China by 10k! Most bases in western China are already in good supply and many troop formations are beginning to receive troop replacements. With supplies coming in, so does the Allied air capability - three fighter squadrons (one Chinese, one Brit and one US) are moved into Kweiyang to keep the skies clear in Central China. Will begin moving in Allied AA units along the Burma Road as well as perhaps some AT and maybe even some armor. Having a supply corridor open in late ’43 will make this theater a whole lot more viable in ’44 than the punching bag its been for the first two years of the war.

In Burma, Allied LBA hits troop concentrations with minimal effect, but overall the ground campaign is pretty quiet. AMs clear the mines on the approaches to Rangoon, but it costs a minesweeper. With the Burma Road now open, will need to increase the supply flow into Rangoon dramatically - and right now, I don’t have the shipping available, and won’t have till the first of 1944.

In the IO, things are about to get busy. An IJN sub is sunk by DDs escorting the CV TF off Great Nicobar, and two DDs will have to head to Port Blair to reload depth charges. More subs are sighted of course, and subs remain the greatest threat to the CVs at the moment with at least part of the KB in northern New Guinea waters. Brit CA TF (3CA, 2CL, DDs) also avoids a torpedo spread off Trinkat as the TF headed to bombard Great Nicobar which it did with minimal effect. CV Saratoga linked up with CVL Cabot at Diego Garcia and refueled, and will head to join Spruance off Sabang next turn. The Sabang landings will begin next turn with a CA TF (2CA, CL, DDs) bombarding, and then two Amph TFs will bring in the two divisions and supporting troops to land. Greatest threat will be subs, mines and air attack. CVE TF will provide immediate air cover, and with the KB not expected to be in the area, additional Hellcats will cover from Spruance’s CVs which will loiter about 4 hexes off of Sabang. Some additional LRCAP will come out of Trinkat, but fighters are still needed to cover Trinkat which is packed with shipping at the moment. Still, there should be enough fighters to at least cause any raid some problems, whether they target the CVs, the landings or shipping at Trinkat.

Ground combat at Chungking (76,45)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 119080 troops, 1440 guns, 1504 vehicles, Assault Value = 3588

Defending force 114928 troops, 338 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1807

Japanese engineers reduce fortifications to 1

Japanese adjusted assault: 5756

Allied adjusted defense: 1599

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

Japanese forces CAPTURE Chungking !!!

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), preparation(-), supply(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
8857 casualties reported
Squads: 31 destroyed, 608 disabled
Non Combat: 5 destroyed, 92 disabled
Engineers: 2 destroyed, 56 disabled
Guns lost 36 (1 destroyed, 35 disabled)
Vehicles lost 72 (7 destroyed, 65 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
148257 casualties reported
Squads: 4883 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 7230 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 179 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 354 (354 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units destroyed 28

[IdahoNYer]

26-27 Nov 43

Highlights – Troops landed at Sabang!

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 3 (I-39, RO-36, RO-104)
xAP: 1
AK: 1
xAK: 1
xAKL: 2

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 1 (I-178)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 56
Allied: 41

Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 3 ships hit (xAK, xAKL sunk, xAK dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph:
Sabang (IO)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: KB looks to still be around Biak; unclear of its intentions.

West Coast/Admin: The big news is CV Long Island II has completed repairs from being shot to hell (38/38(17)/19(4)) in the Sabang affair back in August. She’ll depart East Coast next turn for Aden with 3 DDs. Now only Essex remains in the yards (at Columbo). Also, I shut down P-38G production, and convert it to P-38H in preparation for 12/43 where the P-38H production converts to the P-38J.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CV Bunker Hill TF looks to be pretty much clear of the Bonin/Marianas LBA fighter range as it approaches Marcus from the NW. The TF will launch a few strikes at Marcus as they pass to the east and then refuel from an AO. Purpose of the strikes is recon by fire and harassment. Following refueling in the coming days, the TF will head to launch sweeps and LRCAP over Truk to support Heavies out of Ponape - it appears fighters are back at Truk. Elsewhere, transports are still moving to Tarawa to load troops for Jaluit landings.

In SOPAC, IJN TFs appear to have reversed course and returned to the Biak area. With the direct threat removed, support troop convoys will resume courses to Hollandia and Sarmi, and the CVE and BB Wash TFs will return to New Hannover from Hansa Bay to replenish and prepare for future operations - covering the Manus landings. I don’t expect heavy IJN units to remain north of New Guinea, and have subs laying in wait for the passage back toward Ambon, or towards the Java Sea and the IO.

In SWPAC, its still fairly quiet. Allied LBA hits IJA troops at Babar with again, minimal effect, but are also unopposed again. 3 US DDs bombard troops as well without achieving any positive results. Additional troops and supplies continue to be flown in; hopefully enough to maintain a defense. Engineers continue to dig, but still a long way away from fort level 4. Will send in a small fast transport next turn with about 500 supply, escorted by a DMS and a pair of DDs. Goal remains to maintain a viable defense, nothing more. Should the KB and IJN fleet units not return to Ambon area, and instead continue toward the IO, will look to begin offensive operations next turn or so. Still a reasonable chance that L_S_T maintains focus here until Babar is re-taken. If that happens, will continue to wait out the IJN here.

In China, as expected, Kweiyang is hit by air, but unfortunately it was limited to sweeps and not bombers. The sweeping Oscars were met by a 30 plane CAP, but of second line aircraft - P-40s and Hurris, and the results were poor; 15 Oscars were lost to 15 Allied fighters. Have moved out the Hurris and P-40s and replaced them with a squadron on P-47s. The baseforce capability there is still small, and limits the numbers of fighters, so hopefully the P-47s can keep the air clear - I fully expect a major effort to shut down this airfield. Next turn, will begin sending limited recon planes into China skies, starting with reconing Chungking. Goal eventually is to bring bombers in to hit airfields and perhaps even troops. Guess it wasn’t a good idea to a house rule in limited strat bombing into and out of China till ’45? That would be nice to hit, but I need the bombers elsewhere anyway.

In Burma, continued Allied bombing of troop concentrations with limited effects. Will make two major attacks next turn, each with 2 Divisions plus - one at Bhamo, and the other fwd of the Pegu river line defenses as the IJA looks to be pulling back behind the river. Not sure about either of these attacks, have prepped with aircraft for a while, but I still think it’s a 50/50 shot at a successful attack, even with the bombers prepping. Still, need to keep the Burma Theater interesting!

In the IO, two divisions plus support are landed at Sabang with no issues! Amphib starts with US CA TF (2CA, 2CL, DDs) and then the Brit CA TF (3CA, 2CL, DDs) bombarding with very good effect in two separate bombardments - over 1000 casualties reported, and was surprised at a significant amount of LBA based there - figthters, divebombers and recon - probably closed to 150 a/c. Bombardment reportedly closed the AF and destroyed about 20 a/c as well. Was also surprised that the defenders were a single garrison unit and support. So two divisions are a bit of overkill - so one will attack next turn, the other will be held in reserve to pursue. At sea, IJN subs are massing, but perhaps the slight deception to land at Great Nicobar worked - the IJN subs are concentrated there, not Sabang (having strike a/c at Sabang also leads me to think L_S_T thought Great Nic was the target). Allied ASW a/c claim 5 subs hit, with another sunk and one heavily damaged by Allied ASW ships. In any case, the Allied CV TF will move to the west of Sabang to continue to provide air cover, and to rendezvous with CV Sara TF, hopefully out of the subs immediate vicinity. The Amph TFs will largely return to port - most heading back to Ceylon, some heading to Trinkat to begin shuttling in support, the Brit CA TF will return to Port Blair to replenish and remain in the immediate vicinity to provide support. Only one AKA and some LSTs will remain to offload, covered by the CVE TF and the US CA TF both of which will return to Ceylon with the AKA once she’s offloaded, hopefully in a day. Both Trinkat and Port Blair are also busy with shipping already, so Allied LBA fighters are stretched. Lastly, will send bombers to mine Sabang while the port is still in Jpn hands, and Brit Heavies will hit reported fighter concentrations at George Town AF at night. I don’t expect any major IJN moves just yet.

[IdahoNYer]

28-29 Nov 43

Highlights –Sabang taken!

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 3 (I-171, RO-108, RO-109)
PB: 2
AK: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
DD: 1 (Yunagi)
SS: 2 (I-165, I-182)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 119
Allied: 57

Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 7 Attacks, 2 ships hit (xAK, PB dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Sabang (IO)
Lae (SOPAC -flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: KB returns to Ambon; another push on Babar perhaps?

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CV Bunker Hill TF launches strikes against Marcus which accomplish little. TF takes on fuel from AO to NNE of Marcus and will need another turn to complete refueling. TF will then head toward Truk to provide fighter cover for LBA raids. Jaluit Amphib begins loading at Tarawa, the final Jpn bastion remaining in the Marshalls.

In SOPAC, IJN remains busy in the Biak area, but looks to be focused on shuttling troops rather than any strike against US bases. Allied shipping resumes bringing in support troops to Sarmi and Hollandia. LBA hits Rabaul with minimal effect, and will begin hitting Manus next turn to prep. IJA apparently pulled out of Lae, flipping the base - will bring in paras immediately out of Wau and start shipping infantry and engineers with available coastal shipping. Manus Amphib shipping is finalizing dispositions to load the Marines at Namatanai (1st Mar Div) and Buka (2nd Mar Div). Shipping availability will limit the initial landings to 1st Mar Div (+) - perhaps a regiment from 2nd Div and support. So a number of “lifts” will be needed to bring in all three divisions (Marines plus Americal). With luck, Manus will fall about the time Sarmi and Hollandia have been expanded enough to support further offensive operations toward western New Guinea.

In SWPAC, it continues to be quiet. A lone IJN DD (Wakaba) bombards Babar with little effect, but manages to avoid 3 sub attacks, mines and CD batteries. I’m assuming this was a “recon” to test the minefield? I’m thinking this is the prelude to another push on Babar, and will be met by the mines, subs, CD guns and a number of attack squadrons limiting their range to Babar only - so this could get busy! It could also get ugly for air loss if the KB pushes right on top of Babar again of course, but with the 600+ mines and 17 subs in the immediate area, it could also be costly for the IJN. I’m also sending in a single DM with a DD escort to lay 40 more mines, along with the usual PT squadron sortie. Of course, the KB may just be refueling at Ambon before heading out of the area too.

In China, it was quiet. Allied focus is shuffling troops to protect Kweiyang which I’m pretty sure is the next IJA target. Will delay north of the river with a few Corps, and then attempt to hold the river line. Chinese troops are still a ways away from being capable and filled with replacements, but at least they are supplied. I do notice that with Chungking eliminated, much of the IJA LBA has focused on hitting the half dozen Chinese Corps cut off in the mountains north of Chengtu. I’m going to try a long range (read low probability of success) CAP trap there - 3 Beaufighter squadrons and a P-38 squadron can range the 11 hexes from both Ledo and Kumning. With much luck, they could have a field day.

In Burma, as expected, neither Allied attack had any success. The Pegu line attack managed 1-2 odds and suffered over 1500 casualties to about 900 IJA while the Bhamo attack also managed 1-2 odds and we lost about 750 troops to the IJA’s 225. Not good in either attack. Will suspend the Pegu attacks as they were more of a holding attack with no real operational need. Will continue with Bhamo next turn as I need to clear this pocket which can threaten the Burma Road. I will start resting the Heavies in Theater as they are worn out from the constant ground support and are better served hitting bases.

In the IO, Sabang falls easily on the first assault with over 2500 IJA lost to only about 100 Allied. 3rd Mar Div plus support are in pursuit and hopefully can resume the attacks next turn. In the air, Jpn LBA strikes at the TFs at Sabang, heavily escorted Lillys encounter heavy CAP. Exactly 5 get through from two strikes and one managed to put a bomb into CVE Battler (21sys), but at heavy cost. The Allied TFs completed offloading, and the CVE TF departed on the second day which is when the IJA fighter sweeps came in, meeting only pretty tired LRCAP. So after two days, the Jpn lost 38 Oscars, 31 Lilly and 9 Tojo to 24 F6F, 3 F4U, 2 P-47 and a Seafire. The vast majority of the Allied losses were due to the sweeping Franks who had the altitude. US CV TF will pull off towards the Repl TF to avoid subs and send some ships to refuel, but maintain a heavy focus on ASW. With shipping clear of Sabang, CAP will be limited to a single P-47 squadron flown in (AF was intact) to Sabang. At Trinkat, support troops will load to be brought in to Sabang in a few days, protected by most of the LBA fighters overhead. CV TFs will close to provide cover for the support troop convoy which I expect will be heavily contested. Meanwhile the majority of the Sabang Amph TF is heading to Colombo for the next amphib operation - 7th ID to land at Sinabang off the Sumatra coast.

[jwolf]

All this time you've been talking about Sarmi somewhere in New Guinea, and I had never heard of it. Last night I finally saw it on the map -- I never noticed it before because the green dot blended in with the jungle background! [:o]

On topic, it looks like you're making solid progress in multiple fronts. I wonder when threats elsewhere will cause L_S_T to pull KB to another area, or if he really believes Babar is the decisive place.

[IdahoNYer]

Nov 43 Summary

A solid month with good gains, even heavier IJN DD losses, a solid raid but also a huge terrain loss. Babar Island remains in Allied hands after two months and has become a dogged holding action attritting the IJN. Despite a brief foray on the north coast of New Guinea, IJN focus still appears to be locked in to retake Babar. US CVs finally resume offensive operations, with a solid raid in CENPAC and resuming the offensive support in the IO with troops landing and seizing Sabang. Strategically, opening the Burma Road will have lasting impact in China, despite losing the prize of Chungking. Landings on the north coast of New Guinea and seizing Ponape in CENPAC continue to reduce the Japanese defensive perimeter. Naval losses for the month were in the Allies favor again mainly due to Babar; the IJN lost 1 CL, 13DD, 1E and 9SS compared to the Allies losing 5DD, 3 DE, 4 SS and 4PT overall. Of the IJN losses, the CL and all but one of the DDs can be attributed to mines or collisions in the Babar vicinity. In the air, it was a much better month for the Allied Cause, losses were 1250 for Jpn to 862 Allied, much closer to the desired 2-1 loss ratio than last month.

INTEL: I’m not sure if my carrier raid into the Philippine Sea brought the KB to the north side of New Guinea, or whether it was the Hollandia landings. Or just coincidence and timing of the carrier raid. In any case, the CVs returned to Ambon where they are in position to threaten both further SOPAC gains or support the effort to retake Babar. The big question at month’s end is whether or not they sortie to confront the US CVs now active in the IO. I figured they would be heading west as soon as the US CVs were sighted at sea, now, with them still at Ambon, I’m not so certain.

SUBWAR: Allied subs remain largely neutered by effective ASW efforts, but do remain a significant threat in the constricted waters in the Banda Sea around Babar. They have achieved some success against damaged warships near Babar and against merchant shipping around Ambon. IJN subs remain the major threat to US CVs, although the cost to the IJN remains high as Allied ASW efforts have also been fairly productive.

West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: Fighter production rises to 667 in Dec with the Brits getting the Corsair II and the P-38H converting to the P-38J and increasing from 40 to 50 P-38s a month. Its getting better, but fighters are still at a premium, especially the USMC Corsairs which production can’t keep up with incoming squadrons, especially with USMC squadrons with the -1A model deploying on CVs and CVLs. Medium bomber squadrons remain understrength across the Pacific, especially B-25C squadrons. Pilot pools are slowly getting better, but critical shortages of Aussie fighter pilots remain. On the naval side, only the CV Essex remains in the yards and all other CVs are back at sea. The question now is where to deploy the incoming CV/CVLs, to CENPAC for raiding or to augment “The Fleet” in the IO? Decisions, decisions…

NOPAC. NSTR all month.

CENPAC. The Bunker Hill TF raid was more successful than anticipated, quickly finding and crippling a big troop convoy. Timing could have been better, having the KB on the north coast of New Guinea for those few turns prompted a hastier withdrawal out of the Philippine Sea than originally anticipated. Still, the raid accomplished all tasks. Taking Ponape was a major slog, and grabbing an undefended Wake Island was a bonus - if just to extend search and recon. Jaluit is the last defended atoll and troops are loading to seize it at the beginning of Dec. That should wrap up island hopping for the year, not quite ready for either Woleai just yet or of course the Marianas. Focus will be limiting to bombing Truk and re-shuffling troop dispositions with minimal shipping assets. I have no ambition to invade Truk itself.

SOPAC. Good progress here, securing the north coast of New Guinea up to Sarmi and establishing what will become a major base at Hollandia. I think the tempo of the advance here surprised L_S_T and he has been racing to reinforce the Biak area, but I am extended at this point and need to focus on establishing the LOCs, especially take a good forward port, and that unfortunately is limited to either Rabaul, Kavieng or Manus, and I’m opting for Manus. That will be the major fight in December, although as the situation permits (in other words where does the KB go) I may look to continue the advance toward the western tip of New Guinea. A large IJA force has been isolated in the Lae area, but that will only be contained, with minimal heavy offensive actions, although I think L_S_T is busily pulling troops out by air and sub - and there is little I can do about it, other than the ever so rare LRCAP catching some transports.

SWPAC/WAUS. Babar continues to be the center of gravity for both sides, with the IJN committing everything including the KB to support its recapture, while the Allies are committing as few troops as possible to hold on the ground, and I’m still resisting committing any naval vessel larger than a DD. Mines remain the greatest threat to the IJN, and I’ve been able to keep over 600 sustained which have provided good results. Subs have been less successful, especially in hunting capital ships. IJN bombardments remain the greatest threat to holding the island, and I still have no effective counter. IJA troop strength has been gradually increased to almost two divisions worth of troops, centered on the IJA’s 2nd ID. More troops, the more supplies needed, and that has to be tough on the IJN. Allied defenses are still at Fort Level 3, slowly gaining toward level 4, despite the bombardments. Troop strength is still limited to a Bde+ sized force, and I’ve only brought in limited infantry reinforcements by air, although a few fast transport supply runs have been successful. LRCAP from Bathurst has remained an effective means of providing support to holding the island, only the intervention of the KB can keep the skies clear enough to support a major reinforcement effort. The situation is still “in doubt”, and regardless of the outcome, Babar has proven to be that attritional battle that L_S_T has tried to avoid. Over two months, losing an estimated two dozen DDs will have lasting effects on the IJN.

China. The fall of Chungking was a bitter blow, but establishing the supply life line of the Burma Road is an effective counter to prolong the ground campaign. Overall supply in China has jumped from a high of 13k prior to the road opening to a current level of just under 40k - and that’s just in a week! Troops are now largely in supply and replacements are starting to flow into units within China. Unheard of! Of course, the IJA now has a large number of troops freed up from Chungking that will naturally begin new offensive operations. Lastly, the supplies flowing in country will allow Allied airpower to come into play. Should be an interesting and new campaign in China in the coming months, with the focus of holding existing bases and bleeding the IJA.

Burma. The opening of the Burma Road was the focus and that was accomplished a month ahead of schedule, with about three RTA divisions isolated in the Bhamo region of the Burma jungles. Supplies are continuing to flow into Rangoon, but shipping remains a premium with the occasional Japanese effort to disrupt operations. This will get better in December as a large number of C2 cargo ships will arrive in Theater from US west coast bases. Focus in December will be to reduce the RTA forces in the Bhamo region as they remain a threat to the Burma lifeline to China. Otherwise, I don’t see much ground offensive operations. Heavies need a rest from supporting ground operations, and need to resume bombing operational targets - AFs, Ports and industry in range. The IJA Burma Army looks to be intact and deployed along the Pegu line. Getting across the river to threaten Moulmein will require a robust amphib flanking operation, which I’m not ready to do at the moment. Maybe in ’44, but not just yet. I’m surprised L_S_T hasn’t pulled more troops out of Burma to other Theaters.

IO. Finally resumed the Sabang operation, long delayed about 3+ months. I expected Sabang to have been heavily reinforced, as it had to be anticipated that it was a target. As it turned out, it was very lightly defended, so I’m not sure how much IJA has been committed to Sumatra. Focus will be advancing from Sabang along both coasts, as well as landing troops along the islands of the southern coast as well as on Sumatra itself as the situation progresses. The goal of course is to either seize or shut down oil production in Sumatra within 6 months. The Fleet will remain in support, and be prepared to defeat the KB should it come out for a fight. I estimate the CV forces are roughly equal, with a slight edge in planes carried to the IJN at this point, so I’m not actively hunting the KB just yet. I still think the KB will be forced to come out to fight before Palembang is under direct threat.