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

[IdahoNYer]

7-8 Mar 44

Highlights – Dili taken in first attack.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (I-5)
PB: 1
xAK: 1
xAKL: 1
ACM: 1

Allied ships sunk:
DD: 1 (LaVallette)

Air loss:
Jpn: 12
Allied: 27

Subwar:
Jpn: 4 Attacks, 1 ship hit (DD LaVallette sunk)
Allies: 5 Attacks, 1 ship hit (xAK sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Dili (SWPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, NSTR.

In SWPAC, the first Allied attack at Dili secures the base with the IJA withdrawing west toward Koepang less 2100 men. Allied losses were less than 50 and will continue to advance and engage the withdrawing IJA troops. At sea, the Salajar and Pantar Amphibs completed loading at Broome and Exmouth respectively, and will head towards staging areas and then to targets. CVE and CA TF will move from Endeh to provide cover for landing support troops at Ruteng on the western coast of Flores. Main Body, US Fleet, arrived at Darwin to conduct minor repairs and offload Helldivers for additional fighters. CV Bunker Hill replaces its Beasts with a Hellcat squadron and its load will have 72 Fighters (36 F4U-1A, 36 F6F, 12 SBD-5 and 18 TBM-1C while the Intrepid will configure to 60 fighters (36 F6F, 24 F4U-1A, 24 SBD-5 and 18 TBM-1C). Remaining CVs will largely stay the same, goal having 48 fighters, usually 36 Hellcats and 12 Corsairs as available. Fleet will remain at Darwin for the next few days as these conversions take place. In the air, US LBA catches some additional IJN coastal shipping, damaging a three LSTs near Ternate. Lastly, Endeh AF now at Level 2, and will provide sweeps over Makassar in support of B-24 strikes and also provide some LRCAP over Ruteng.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, additional Allied troops move into Moulmein and will attack next turn, supported by a BB bombardment, and hopefully secure the base. Most Allied troops still trudging through the jungles east of the river as the IJA withdraw on roads into central Thailand.

In the IO, the overstacking at Palembang is corrected by withdrawing troops and remaining troops (about 2 divisions and artillery) will begin bombarding next turn. LBA continues to provide support by hitting ground targets, but flak remains heavy and two B-24s are lost. The B-24s are getting worn down by the constant use, and I’m going to rest one of the three bomb groups each turn - hopefully that will suffice. Lastly, IJN sub activity near the Sunda Strait is on the rise, with a sub picking off the crippled LaVallette one hex away from the safety of a base. Will focus more ASW a/c to counter the threat as well as putting some naval escorts to ASW work off the Strait as minesweepers begin sweeping mines at Merak.

[IdahoNYer]

9-10 Mar 44

Highlights – Moulmein taken in first attack.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-39)

Allied ships sunk:
AM: 1
AVD: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 26
Allied: 24

Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (AVD sunk)
Allies: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Bima (SWPAC-flipped)
Moulmein (Burma)

SIGINT/Intel: Still no indication of where the IJN is operating from, or any indication of what (or where) an Allied landing will trigger an IJN response.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, slowly consolidating assault shipping and moving troops to consolidated points of embarkation. Next amphib will still be the western New Guinea bases of Sorong and Sansapor, which will still require the support of the fleet. So….SOPAC is on hold until the CVs are done supporting the Celebes landings in SWPAC.

In SWPAC, heavies hit Kendari and Koepang with good effect, but mixed against Makassar. No CAP in any case, but Makassar still potentially viable as a base - bombing assessment recon didn’t fly. US CVE based naval air operating off Ruteng reached out to interdict a troop transport run north of Makassar, catching a convoy at Pare Pare, heavily damaging 3 of 4 spotted xAKs - apparently loaded with troops. Unclear of course whether the troops were coming in, or pulling out. My gut says these troops are from Makassar and are being pulled out. In any case, CVEs and CA TF will remain at Ruteng supporting the offloading of engineers and will link up with the Salajar Amphib there next turn. Pantar Amphib will proceed directly to target, and should have troops coming ashore next turn. Endeh AF now at level 3, and will continue its roll as an advanced fighter platform, providing sweeps over Makassar, and LRCAP over US TFs at Ruteng and later at Salajar. Main body of the US fleet remains at Darwin still undergoing minor repairs, but also adjusting some CV fighter loads, such as Lex and Sara swapping out 12 Hellcats each for Corsairs. Fleet will take another turn or two to complete these minor repairs and filling out some Corsair squadrons aboard the CVs after which the fleet will be ready to support landings on Celebes. CVL Princeton departed Darwin escorted by 2DDs bound for Sydney and repairs. Its Hellcats were flown off to Endeh to provide support until the Princeton’s repairs are completed. Lastly, enough assault shipping has gathered at Exmouth, so the US 41st ID with support elements begins loading for landing at Kolaka on Celebes, the backdoor to Kendari.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, the ground assault on Moulmein began with the Brit BB TF (2BB, CLAAA, DDs) bombarding inflicting about 250 casualties. The ground assault was a non-event - 2200 IJA support troops lost to no Allied. IJA withdrew from the hex and Allied troops will now begin advancing to the south towards Tavoy and to the SE towards Bangkok, as well as maintaining pressure to the east towards Rahaeng. Many Allied troops are still tied up in heavy jungle to the east of Moulmein, so the IJA is expected to be able to established another river line defense from Rahaeng down to Bangkok. At least with Moulmein secured, supplies should be able to flow without problems from Rangoon to support the advance.

In the IO, at sea, the highlight is the initial minesweeping effort to open the Sunda Strait - two minesweepers sweep Merak, clearing about 120 mines, two the hard way - one AM sunk, one damaged that will need to limp to Oosthaven. While more sweeping is needed, the good news is that the Allied minesweepers weren’t engaged by either naval, air or CD assets. IJN subs continue to be a nuisance, one being sunk off Benkoelen by DDs on ASW patrol. Will continue the ASW patrols and gather additional minesweepers (many are on escort duty or have departed Theater with departed assault shipping) for another go at the “Minefields of Merak”. The biggest challenge right now at sea is pushing sufficient supplies to the small ports of the Sumatran coast - this requires many small 2-3 supply ship convoys or larger LST convoys, otherwise ports become overcrowded and backlogged. Ultimately Benkoelen will be the primary port, and that will max out at level 4, but engineers still have much work to do there to expand both the port and AF. On Sumatra, the focus remains Palembang and the first ground bombardment goes fairly well, with the Allied guns inflicting 125 casualties to 35 in return. Air attacks continue to wear down the bomber force from accumulated flak damage - the heavies need to rest and I’m standing all of them down for a few turns. Will continue to fly mediums in support, and looking to reinforce the Havoc group with a B-25 group just arriving in Theater. Finding sufficient airfields for the additional mediums will be the issue. Still looking to soften up Palembang for another week before launching the first ground assault, depending on how well I can build up supply on Sumatra.

[IdahoNYer]

11-12 Mar 44

Highlights – First B-29 Squadrons arrive!

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Arare)
PB: 1
xAK: 2

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 20
Allied: 19

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Pantar (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Maumere (SWPAC)
Pantar (SWPAC)
Sawoe-eilanden (SWPAC-flipped)
Nadzab (SOPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: The first three B-29 squadrons arrive in Aden! They’ll need to be shipped into Theater and replacement aircraft don’t start arriving until next month, so it will be bit before they’ll fly their first combat mission, but it’s sure nice to see them start to arrive. First order of business is comb the existing medium and heavy bomber squadrons for their best pilots to go over to the B-29s.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Ponape based medium bombers catch a convoy at Truk. Two of the three sighted big AKs are hit by bombs, strafed and left damaged. No troop casualties are reported, so perhaps a supply run? No CAP, and recon now reports some ships in the harbor. Will keep the Mediums on naval strike, and bring in some Heavies to hit the port, preceded by P-38 and Corsair sweeps just in case fighters are brought in. I’m not expecting much, but its good to keep Truk “under the gun”.

In SOPAC, the veteran US Americal and the newly arrived green 38th ID attack the remnants of the once powerful IJA that threatened Lae at Nadzeb, wiping out the remaining 6000 troops and taking the level 6 fort base while only losing about 50 men. Casualties were reported only as 320 men on the combat report, but there was no sign of the remaining troops at the start of the new turn, so I’m assuming they were wiped out. Both Divisions are prepping for future operations and will gradually pull back to Lae. This attack looks to have eliminated any potential raiding force the IJA had remaining to threaten the eastern New Guinea Allied bases.

In SWPAC, the Flores Island operations to isolate Koepang pretty much came to a conclusion with Maumere being taken along with Pantar Amphib and also being taken - all undefended. Salajar Amphib will move from its staging at Ruteng on the NW side of Flores along with CVE and CA TFs to Salajar to land troops next turn. Expecting a fight at Salajar, an Aussie Bde against what I bet is either a Naval Garrison unit or an SNLF. Heavies hit both Koepang and Makassar with good effect, although Makassar looks still to be potentially open, although no aircraft are reportedly based there. Focus will now begin to shift to landing at Celebes with the Kolaka Amphib TF completing loading at Exmouth which will sail for initial staging at Endeh to link up with support forces. The US 41st ID is the primary unit involved in Kolaka, and has been recovering at Exmouth since getting mauled in the desert near Port Hedland by Jpn LBA a long, long time ago. The challenge with the Celebes operation will be shuttling assault shipping for bringing in follow on troops as both reinforcements and additional landings - ultimately 3-4 divisions worth plus support to secure the south half of Celebes. Allied Fleet, still repairing minor damages in Darwin, will sortie in support - but I’m looking at more of an offensive role for the CVs in support, such as raiding toward Manado area. The CVE TF along with LBA from Endeh should be sufficient to protect the landings from LBA, allowing the CVs to strike rather than protect. That’s the plan right now, but we’ll see what L_S_T does in response to the upcoming landings. Lastly, recon will begin to focus on the Balikpapan area for the first time as the first step to close the Makassar Strait - which is a potential route the KB could use to launch a nasty raid if the US CVs are near Manado. While the tempo has been pretty active in SWPAC, it should actually pick up in the coming turns.

In China, the IJA try another limited attack NW of Nanning, and the defending Chinese Corps again holds against the attacking two Bdes - 270 IJA lost to 120 Chinese. Supply situation throughout China continues to improve with Kweiyang actually reaching 20k supply.

In Burma, nothing really exciting as Allied troops slowly push out from the jungles - slowly, very slowly. With Moulmein taken, looking to try and organize the ground forces into Corps with 2 Divisions each or so. One Corps will head south to Tavoy and grind into the Malay Peninsula, one Corps focused on Chiang Mai area and clear the jungles of northern Burma, while the majority of the force to push between Rahaeng and Bangkok and force another river crossing north of Bangkok. Will probably take at least the rest of the month to complete the reorganization as well as reach the river north of Bangkok.

In the IO, it was pretty non-eventful. Allied ground bombardments at Palembang went in the IJA’s favor, with 75 Allied casualties to 50 IJA. Not going in the right direction there! With the Heavies still resting, Palembang is not being attritted near enough - thinking of debuting the B-29s at Palembang hitting ground targets perhaps? Just to see?? At sea, one sizable support reinforcement convoy is about to offload at Benkoelen while another is loading more basegroups and support troops at Colombo. Lastly, minesweepers will make another attempt at reducing the Merak minefields next turn.

[IdahoNYer]

13-14 Mar 44

Highlights – Troops go ashore at Salajar; CAP trap over Burma.

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1
LST: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 28
Allied: 43

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attacks, 1 ship hit (LST dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Salajar (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Alor (SWPAC - flipped)
Lomblen (SWPAC - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: Ki-84r Frank encountered in combat for first time.

West Coast/Admin: The third P-47D25 squadron receives their aircraft, and that will be last squadron to be equipped until the replacements reach 100 planes. One squadron is in Burma, one in Sumatra, and one in SWPAC.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, heavy bombers conduct port attack against Truk from Massau Is, supported by fighters out of Ponape damage two of those AKs hit previous day. No CAP, and will hit Truk again next turn.

In SOPAC, NSTR.

In SWPAC, landings go in at Salajar preceded by CA TF (2CA, CL) bombardment which inflicts about 180 casualties. 2nd Aussie Bde and supporting troops put ashore in good order (100% prep) and find an SNLF along with an Engineer Reg. Will need at least a turn to reduce fatigue from the amphib, but by end of the two days, all transports fully offloaded, and no reaction from the Japanese. TFs will depart, the Amphib TF heading to Saumlaki to embark troops earmarked for Celebes, the CA TF to return to Darwin to rearm, and the CVE TF to head south to rendezvous with the inbound Amphib TF heading toward its target at Kolaka on Celebes from Exmouth. The CV TFs will depart Darwin to provide “distant cover” for the Celebes landings, initially heading to just south of Kendari. US CV TFs now configured as two with 3CV, 3CVL, 2BB, 2CA, 2CL, DDs and one with 4CV, CVL, 2BB, 2CA, 2CL, DDs. A CA TF (2CA, CL, DDs) will depart Darwin to rendezvous with the Kolaka Amphib as well. Only BB Washington didn’t complete her necessary minor repairs at Darwin in time to sortie, and will join the fleet when she can. Lastly at sea, the Repl TF with 4 Repl CVEs, a CVE for CAP, 4 AOs plus escorts will follow the CVs to provide support - those CVEs carry over 100 replacement F6Fs plus DB and TBs which really help sustain the CVs at sea. In the air, bombers will provide support by hitting ground troops at Salajar as well as hitting Manado’s satellite AF at Sidate at night which looks to be provide most of the fighters in the area.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, L_S_T sets a nice CAP trap with Franks, including the newly arrived “r” model, on LRCAP near Raheng which catch some lumbering Vengences despite Allied fighter sweeps - that arrive late and don’t stand up well against the Franks which held the altitude advantage as well. After two days, 14 Vengeance, 8 Spits and 6 P-40s are lost against only 10 Franks. To counter the Franks, the first squadron to convert to the P-47D25 will fly sweeps, but what really needs to happen is recon needs to find out what bases the Franks are flying from, so recon flights will shift from locating ground units to bases.

In the IO, ground and air bombardment of IJA at Palembang continues with minimal results, perhaps 100 or so IJA troops reported as casualties. Will commit one Heavy Bomb Group next turn, others still repairing aircraft and are reporting about 50% readiness. At sea, minesweepers will have another run at clearing the Sunda Strait next turn with three AMs heading to Merak.

[jwolf]

Makassar is a really good base and in a good, strategic location as well. What is your rationale for targeting Kendari first? And do you expect to follow with an op at Makassar very soon?

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: jwolf

Makassar is a really good base and in a good, strategic location as well. What is your rationale for targeting Kendari first? And do you expect to follow with an op at Makassar very soon?

You're spot on jwolf!

Makassar is most definitely "on the list" - had troops prepped for Kendari side of Celebes first, mainly due to LBA range from Dili/Lautem. Didn't figure Endeh area would be undefended.

Once the transports offload at Kolaka, they'll head to pick up troops earmarked for the southwestern side of Celebes, which will culminate with taking Makassar.

[IdahoNYer]

15-16 Mar 44

Highlights – CV TFs sortie into the Banda Sea.

Jpn ships sunk
DD: 1 (Akizuki)
SS: 1 (I-122)
SSX: 1
ACM: 1
AMc: 1
AK: 1
xAP: 1

Allied ships sunk
AM: 1

[uAir loss:][/u]
Jpn: 18
Allied: 15

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (DD dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Tanahdjampea (SWPAC - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, US CL TF (CL, DDs) begins searching in NOPAC waters for reported PB as part of the IJN early warning screen.

In CENPAC, previously reported AKs in port no longer there as Heavies hit the port without seeing or hitting any ships. Will suspend further air attacks.

In SOPAC, Sansapor Amph TF will depart Manus to embark assault troops at Vanimo next turn. Looking to begin amphib operations in western New Guinea in the next week or so.

In SWPAC, Salajar Amphib and covering TFs depart to friendly ports while the ground troops prepare to assault next turn. CV TFs depart Darwin and head into the Banda Sea, so far without any interference. CV TFs will sortie north to hit reported TFs in and around Menado next turn before heading back to cover landings at Kolaka to begin operations in Celebes. Kolaka Amphib TF with supporting TFs should reach Salajar to stage, and then proceed to target. Troops will attack on Salajar next turn, supported by LBA. LBA will also strike Menado next turn, supported by naval fighters from the CVs.

In China, will commit South Africans to the attack with armor and two Chinese Corps in a spoiling attack east of Kweilin next turn. Been a long while since Allied troops attacked in China!

In Burma, P-47s find no enemy fighters aloft in Burma, but recon confirms Bangkok as the primary base of IJA fighter operations. Will take a few more weeks before Allied fighters can effectively sweep over Bangkok. Meanwhile, ground troops continue the advance from Moulmein.

In the IO, USMC troops destroy the remaining IJA troops that had withdrawn from Benkoelen, eliminating some 4500 troops at a cost of 10 US. While the focus remains on Palembang, Allied minesweepers sweep about 210 mines from Merak at a cost of one minesweeper lost. Will continue to sweep mines until cleared.

[IdahoNYer]

17-18 Mar 44

Highlights – Salajar taken, a good raid on Manado, Sunda Strait clear of mines and a successful Allied attack in China.

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 4
AMc: 3
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk:
TK: 1 (on convoy, no enemy contact - self implodes; only report was “fires out of control, ship cannot be saved”)

Air loss:
Jpn: 102
Allied: 56

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 2 ships hit (xAK, PB dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Salajar (SWPAC)
Moa (SWPAC - flipped)
Selaroe (SWPAC - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: Shipping in an around Manado less than expected; no sign of IJN.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, US CL TF (CL, DDs) finds and sinks PB in NOPAC waters which was part of the IJN early warning screen.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Sansapor Amph TF begins loading at Vanimo and should be able to depart towards target next turn with CVE (8CVE, CLAA, DD/DEs) and CA TF (3CA, CL, DDs) in support. The question is more whether or not the fleet CV TFs will be released and available from SWPAC. DD TF (3DDs) will sortie from Sarmi west along the New Guinea coast to Sorong and back to determine any naval or air reaction. Air power in Theater largely rests.

In SWPAC, Salajar taken in the first assault, and after two days of attacks, defenders lose 500 men to 5 Allied. AF construction will now begin. The main event was of course the CV raid supporting bomber strikes against Manado. Weather prevented strikes the first day over the base, and pickings were slim against TFs - three AMc sunk north of Manado. Second day strikes go in, with fighter sweeps taking on a robust CAP, initially 45 Zeros and 15 Frankr, which challenge the Hellcats and Corsairs. A few are still in the air when the B-24s come in, but overall a solid day. Totals include 24 Zeros and 6 Franks destroyed in the air, with 11 Franks, 14 Emily, 5 Nick, and 3 other a/c destroyed on the ground. Price wasn’t light, but acceptable; 11 Corsair, 4 Hellcats and 2 B-24s down in the furballs while flak claimed another B-24. AF is still operational, but it doesn’t look like L_S_T is planning on using it as a major base any longer - in other words, air strength wasn’t reinforced and no ships are reported in port. The CV sortie also looks to have pulled a number of subs west from stations near Sorong-Sansapor, which should make the approach to those bases easier for SOPAC forces. Next turn will have two of the CV TFs heading towards Kendari to provide cover for landings at Kolaka which should happen on the second day. The third CV TF will head to Saumlaki to replace its lost Corsairs and top off fuel. By no means necessary, but an opportunity to top off planes and fuel. The Kolaka Amph TF with supporting CVE and CA TFs are just off Salajar and will proceed directly to target. A DD TF (3DD, DMS) will detach and run up to raid reported shipping in and around Balikpapan. In the air, LRCAP out of Endeh will support the Kolaka operation while both Heavies and Mediums will focus on softening up Kolaka as well as hitting Makassar AF “just in case”.

In China, the South African Div, the US Provisional Tank Bde and two Chinese Corps conduct a successful spoiling attack east of Kweilin in a clear hex against what turned out to be two IJA divisions that just moved into the hex. Did not expect two divisions totaling over 25K men, but the results were good and the IJA troops look to be pulling back. Casualties after two days of attacks tallied about 5000 IJA troops lost to about 800 Allied. Allied troops are in good shape and will continue the attack next turn.

In Burma, NSTR.

In the IO, bombardments and air attacks continue against Palembang, but results continue to be poor with total IJA losses about 150 men. Expecting some heavy fortifications! Will start shuttling troops for the first ground attack, which I’m sure will be bloody. Will continue with the bombardments, although I don’t expect increased results. On the positive side, minesweepers clear the last 25 or so mines from the Sunda Strait at Merak, and will send the first subs through the straight next turn.

[IdahoNYer]

19-20 Mar 44

Highlights – Kolaka taken.

Jpn ships sunk:
AV: 1
SSX: 1
SC: 1
xAK: 1
AMc: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 32
Allied: 18

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 5 Attacks, 5 ships hit (AV, AMc sunk, TK dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Kolaka (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Kolaka (SWPAC)
Waingapoe (SWPAC - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: Looks as though L_S_T is pulling all shipping from Makassar Strait north towards the PI which means abandoning oil production at Balikpapan.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, US CL TF (CL, DDs) heads to raid Kuriles and is greated by two Betty strikes over the two days. One with 13 Bettys carrying torps and one with 18 Bettys bombing. Neither raid scores any hits and five Bettys are splashed by Flak. TF will continue towards Shimushiri-jima where shipping is still reported, and should be heading home before daylight. While I have the US 6th ID and plenty of support fully prepped for landings in Kuriles, that is still a ways off.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Sansapor Amph TF completed loading at Vanimo and will depart towards target with CVE and CA TF. Spt TFs with two engineer regiments will follow, loaded primarily into landing craft along with the first mass use of the LCI (G) landing craft. With negligible resistance so far in SWPAC, the CV TFs will transit through the Ceram Sea to SOPAC to provide cover and support as well. Once the CV TFs are in SOPAC, tempo will accelerate here and will also begin offensive operations to the north in CENPAC’s area of operations.

In SWPAC, CA TF and air bombardments destroy the defending JAAF unit at Kolaka so troops coming ashore just find debris, secure the base and begin moving towards Kendari. Additional support troops will start coming ashore next turn, as well as a big convoy loitering at Endeh will head to Kolaka with troops fully prepped for Kendari. CVEs and another CA TF will provide cover. The Kolaka Amphib TF will depart to Saumlaki to embark troops for the other side of Celebes, the landing at Watampone, then to advance inland towards Makassar and other bases. Am surprised at the lack of IJA resistance of Celebes so far - expected a knife fight to get bases in single engine range to Balikpapan, but it looks as though the last tankers have departed from Balikpapan and the IJN will not contest the Makassar Strait. US DD TF is still heading for Balikpapan, but looks as though the reported shipping has departed north. If this turns out to be true, perhaps L_S_T’s main defensive line is the Philippines?

In China, the Allies attack again with the South Africans and others against the withdrawing two IJA divisions and while successful, the attack’s price tag is climbing with 3300 IJA losses against 1000 Allied. Will suspend the attacks, and resume the defense as the IJA main body looks to be heading west from the Changsha area.

In Burma, the advance out of Moulmein continues as the Allied Corps reorganizations begins to flush out. While heavy IJA troop concentration is identified just west of Rahaeng, the rest of the IJA defensive line is still to be sorted out.

In the IO, I manage to overstack in Palembang as the troops redeploy and that instantly triggers supply issues. Will suspend the ground bombardments to see if that helps, but if I can’t build up enough supply to attack while overstacked, this will be a very bloody venture. May take a while to sort the optimum sustainable force package as the bombers continue to soften up defenses. On that note, was a good turn for the bombers, causing 250 casualties. At sea, subs begin transiting the Sunda Strait and it also appears the IJN has withdrawn from the Java Sea as Helldivers catch and damage an AS heading along the Borneo coast. Will sortie the Brit CA TF (BC, 2CA, 3CL, DDs) to bombard Merak to probe defenses. Primary focus at sea remains bringing in supplies and support troops to expand the AFs - still critically short AF space on Sumatra.

[jwolf]

Can the Japanese still take oil from NW Borneo -- Brunei area -- more or less safely? If so, that's about all isn't it? [&:]

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: jwolf

Can the Japanese still take oil from NW Borneo -- Brunei area -- more or less safely? If so, that's about all isn't it? [&:]

On Borneo, Brunei, Miri and Tarakan are still fairly accessible. Miri has been bombed, losing about 80 oil if memory serves. Soon, all will be under B-29 threat.


So the question is....how long or effectively can Japan's economy still run without DEI oil?

[IdahoNYer]

21-22 Mar 44

Highlights – Troops ashore at Sansapor; Heavy IJA fighter sweeps over Moulmein.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Nagatsuki - old Babar mine victim)
SS: 1 (I-184)
AK: 1
xAK: 2

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-110)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 50
Allied: 66

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Sansapor (SOPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: Still no idea where the IJN is bases, but sure looks like most of the IJA’s Franks are based in Bangkok.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, US CL TF (CL, DDs) finds no targets in the Kuriles and heads back towards the Aleutians without further air attack.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Sansapor Amph goes in and gets the vast majority of troops ashore during the second day landings. Troops are in good enough shape to attack the estimated 2000 defenders and will be supported by the CA TF bombardment as well as all the LBA bombers available. Two of the three US CV TFs enter the Pacific via the Ceram Sea and a small strike cripples two xAKs from a convoy off Peleliu. This marks the 1st return of US CVs into the Pacific since the Bunker Hill CV raid back in Dec 43 - in fact, Bunker Hill has managed to sail completely around Australia! The six pre-Essex US CVs haven’t been in the Pacific since operating in the Indian Ocean beginning around May 43. The third CV TF re-stocks Corsairs and completed refueling at Saumlaki and will depart through the Ceram Sea with the Repl TF next turn. Once the Amphib TF completes offloading, they will head to Hansa Bay to embark troops for the next target - Woleai Atoll (guess that will technically be a CENPAC operation) while the US 37th Div is brought in to Sansopar to begin the overland trek to Sorong which is expected to be a much tougher target than Sansapor. Still planning on landing the 4th Mar Div at Sorong, and hopefully timing it with the overland attack. Lots to do in SOPAC!

In SWPAC, its pretty uneventful. LBA rests as the Aussie 7th ID is brought in to Kolaka to follow and support in the attack on Kendari. Probably overkill based on the estimated 8,000 defenders, but both divisions as well as numerous support units were fully prepped for this operation. Initial Kolaka Amph TF is just short of Saumlaki, but will make port next turn and then begin loading troops for Watampone, right across the gulf from Kolaka. As Kolaka was the “back door” to Kendari, hopefully Watampone will serve a similar route to Makassar. Lastly, the DDs sent to raid Balikpapan find nothing and are headed back to Endeh.

In China, IJA LBA make a ground attack for the first time in a long, long time. Helens attack the East African Div and supporting troops inflicting about 40 casualties, but the East African Div has some 40 40mm Bofors which claim 8 of the attacking Helens. And of course, the Helens came in without escort to where I just pulled the Allied fighters off LRCAP! And while the Helens were hitting ground troops, Oscars sweep Kweiyang and are met by US P-40 squadron on CAP which down 7 Oscars in exchange for 5 P-40s. I’ve now pulled most of the fighters out of China back to Burma, but might still be able to shuttle the few remaining to give the IJA a challenge. At least supply is no longer a crippling issue.

In Burma, L_S_T surprises me with a massed sweep by first class fighters - all Franks - against Moulmein. CAP is weak, only a Spit V squadron on CAP there, as well as some P-40s and Hurris wander in from Bassein and Rangoon. Franks of course dominate - after two days over 400 Franks sortie and lose only 2 fighters air to air. Allies lose 17 P-40N5s, 10 Spits and 5 Hurris. Not a stellar performance, but with second class fighters against the IJA’s best, its to be expected. Can’t figure out why sweep Moulmein though - except perhaps to achieve just what happened, draw loose CAP out from Rangoon area. In any case, CAP is augmented over Rangoon and Moulmein, even bringing in both available P-47D25 squadrons. All these Franks look to be flying out of Bangkok, so the real answer is to bring the fight to them by hitting Bangkok with Heavies. But not ready to do that quite yet, although the first four B-29 squadrons were just landed in Karachi by AKVs. Time is on the Allies side. On the ground, will make the first ground attack against the defensive line being stood up on the Thailand-Burma border with lead elements heading toward Bangkok. I don’t expect success here, but figure with four divisions coming up behind, this will serve as a good “recon by fire”.

In the IO, bombers continue to have minimal effect on the Palembang defenders, claiming perhaps another 150 casualties in massed attacks from three Heavy Bomb groups and two Mediums. On the bright side, ground troops at Palembang have gathered enough supply, so it’s time to launch the first attack. 2 Divs and 2 IN Bdes supported by armor, engineers and artillery will launch the first ground attack next turn. I dread this….it will be bloody and if I’m lucky, it will wear down the defender’s fortifications at great cost. That’s the best I can hope for. All units are well prepped, and two additional divisions that need some more time to prep, as well as additional engineers, are standing by in the adjacent hex to replace losses. The Brit CA TF (BC, 2CA, 3CL, DDs) is still enroute to bombard Merak, and should bombard next turn.

[IdahoNYer]

23-23 Mar 44

Highlights – KAMIKAZEs!!!!

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Niizuki)
PB: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
DD: 1 (Arare)

Air loss:
Jpn: 349
Allied: 25

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 2 ships hit (PB sunk, DD dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Siangtan (China - flipped)

Bases Liberated:
Sansapor (SWPAC)

SIGINT/Intel:Manado wasn’t quite abandoned as a base as it looks as the source of the Kamikaze raid at shipping off Kolaka. Still not clue as to where the IJN is at.

West Coast/Admin: Brand new Essex class CVs Robert E Lee and Ulysses S Grant along with two CVLs and CA Boise II, depart San Diego for Pacific where they should join the fleet in a few weeks. Once arriving in Theater, both CVs will exchange their 36 Helldivers for 24 plane SBD squadrons and take on 24 Corsairs as well.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Sansapor taken in the first attack, with the remnants of the Naval Guard unit falling back to Sorong. CV TFs find no targets near Peliliu and with the Kamis coming out of Manado, the CV TFs will head back west to provide sweeps in support of B-24s hitting Manado. Otherwise, transports continue to discharge engineers at Sansapor, and begin loading the 37th Div at Madang for transit to Sansapor. Most of the assault transports from Sansapor are still enroute to Hansa Bay, so there is plenty of time for the CVs to support the raids on Manado and still be available to support Woleai landings. CVE TF remains to cover Sansapor.

In SWPAC, WoW! First use of Kamikazes and it’s a BIG massed effort! 11 separate strikes are launched at the CVE TF off Kolaka (8CVE, CLAA, DDs/DEs), with the first strike the largest at over 150 planes including 90 A6M5c Zeros flying as escorts. Altitude of strikes varied, with most coming in at over 32k, so even though CAP was over 170 fighters, CAP was maxed out at 20k and many, too many planes go through to hit and damage 5 of the 8 CVEs. All 5 will require yard time, and are incapable of operating aircraft, but all should be repairable if they get to the yards. For now, all 5 are disbanded into Kolaka’s level 2 port and their airgroups are dropped off at Kolaka’s level 0 airfield - which should expand to level 1 next turn. Most of their aircraft landed at Ruteng as fragments and they should be able to rejoin their parent squadrons next turn. On the positive side, while having 5 CVEs damaged, it was expensive - 83 Oscar IIb, 72 A6M2 Zero, 30 Jill, 24 A6M2 Sen Baku, and 24 A6M5 were lost as Kamikazes - 11 successfully hitting targets. Also, 67 A6M5c Zeros lost to CAP. CAP lost 5 FM2 Wildcats, 2 Hellcats, and a P-38 out of Endeh. At this point, I’m not sure who “won” this engagement. I guess if the Kamis come in hard again next turn, it will be a Jpn win, if not, chalk it up to the good guys. The biggest lessons learned here are the altitude of the attacking planes will now require stacking CAP from 5000ft through 30K plus - this will dilute the CAP, but I don’t see a choice here. Also, by most raids coming in at over 30K, 5” AA fire effects were probably much reduced. In the short term at Kolaka, more shipping is still offloading, so the remaining 3 CVEs will marry up with the CA TF to provide some additional AA capability and remain off Kolaka and all the avail LBA I can muster out of Endeh will fly LRCAP. PLUS - three B-24 groups will hit Manado AF, supported by fighters off the CVs. I’m curious to see how long it takes L_S_T to re-equip his Kamikaze units for another strike? Elsewhere, the Watampone Amph TF begins loading at Saumlaki, and should depart to target next month. Figure more CVEs will be needed for that landing - even if its only two hexes from Kolaka - so the CVE TF remaining in the IO will depart to SWPAC next turn as well. On the ground, led troops should enter Kendari hex next turn, and then a few more days for the column to close up and be ready to attack. So despite the Kamikaze attack and threat, the plan remains unchanged.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, the first attack across the Thai-Burma border on the route to Bangkok goes poorly, as the 2+ Indian Divisions are heavily repulsed by the reinforced 21st ID, losing 1700 troops to 400 IJA. Will wait until the US divisions are brought up before further attacks, but of course that means overstacking. While those results weren’t too surprising, what was surprising was seeing Franks used in a ground attack role on this same battle - About 200 Frank sorites do very little damage and lose 12 to AA and another 9 to Ops. Although the ground troops AA fire did well enough, will sortie some LRCAP over the troops next turn.

In the IO, the first assault goes in at Palembang and the results were probably as best as could be expected - repulsed with loss, but the forts were reduced from 4 to 3. I’ll take that! 2500 Allied troops lost, most from a single Brit Bde suffering disruptions, against only 500 IJA. Will swap out the 29th Brit Bde for the US 7th IN Div and resume the attack when the troops get set, hopefully being able to maintain positive supply despite the overstacking. Bombers continue the massed effort to support, but the full court press is starting to wear them down and may have to start resting squadrons. The Brit CA TF (BC, 2CA, 3CL, DDs) bombarded Merak causing around 160 casualties and no CD batteries replying - a good recon by fire to landing by the 3rd MAR Div once Palembang falls. Lastly, as mentioned earlier, the CVE TF (8CVE, CL, CLAA, DDs/DEs) will depart Theater next turn for SWPAC which shouldn’t impact operations - but truthfully, that Kamikaze attack off Kolaka could certainly happen anywhere at any time along the southwestern Sumatran coast against Allied shipping.

[jwolf]

Is Balikpapan still functional as a good airfield? I'm wondering about other bases from which the Japanese could mount another big strike. Ternate?

[Capt. Harlock]

Allied ships sunk:
TK: 1 (on convoy, no enemy contact - self implodes; only report was “fires out of control, ship cannot be saved”)

Guess the smoking lamp should have been out!

[Bif1961]

Looks like all your CVEs will survive but be out of the fight for awhile. You are right if he can follow this first attack with another at the same level you could be in danger of losing this round.

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: jwolf

Is Balikpapan still functional as a good airfield? I'm wondering about other bases from which the Japanese could mount another big strike. Ternate?

Both Balikpapan and Samarinda just to its north are still intact and viable as launch platforms. Ternate hasn't be built up past AF level 1. But truthfully, there are just to many bases that could be used - more than I can shut down and keep shut down. What I don't know is how much supply is available at some of the bypassed bases - such as Ambon, Boela and now Kendari. I don't think I can keep these bases out of commission indefinitely - I need my Heavies for other missions.

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: Bif1961

Looks like all your CVEs will survive but be out of the fight for awhile. You are right if he can follow this first attack with another at the same level you could be in danger of losing this round.

Just finished the turn - no Kamikaze or conventional follow up! Now the question is how long with the calm last...

[IdahoNYer]

25-26 Mar 44

Highlights – No follow-on Kamikaze strikes; Good raid Manado should shut down the base.

Jpn ships sunk:
E: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
DD: 1 (Kiyonami)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 30
Allied: 29

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 5 Attacks, 4 ships hit (E sunk, AK, xAKL dam)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Sansapor AF operational and Hellcats are flown in for CAP. With two engineer regiments hard at work, level 2 isn’t far away - and that will allow offensive fighter operations ranging to Manado. Support troops will continue to shuttle into Sanapor while the 37th ID will be brought in on three lifts. The combined Naval air sweeps and Heavies worked well over Manado, no CAP and the base was shut down. 15 likely previously damaged fighters (all used as Kamis) destroyed on the ground along with 3 Emilys. CVs will now head east, with one CV TF heading to Manus to refuel and get air sorties replenished. The other two will take on fuel from the Repl TF just north of Sansapor. BB TF (3BB, CA, CL, DDs) will bombard Manado, then head to Manus for replenishment. In theory, all refueling and replenishment should be completed enough to coincide with the next amphibious landings to be loaded for Woleai, a few days’ time away.

In SWPAC, a pretty un-evenful turn. No follow up raid on TFs at Kolaka, and Kolaka AF reaches level 1, so all the CVE squadrons’ fragments came back to roost with the parent squadron at Kolaka. Heavies as mentioned, were focused on hitting Manado, and also hit Ambon and Boela to keep those bases shut down. Watampone Amph TF completed loading at Saumlaki, and along with its CA TF (CA, 2CL, DDs) support, will begin to head toward target. They will stage at Kolaka, where I hope to rendezvous with the incoming CVE TF from the IO before landing. Not sure that will be synchronized enough, the CVEs may link up at the invasion site. In any case, In addition to Endeh, AFs at Kolaka and Salajar AFs will be able to support the landings, and Heavies will start hitting potential enemy airfields such as Balikpapan in the next few days as well. Tempo moving a bit quick for locking support - taking a little risk here. There are also a number of follow on Amph TFs currently loading along the Australian coast at Broome, Port Hedland and Derby that will land troops once Watampone is secured - both combat troops prepped for Makassar and Madjene as well as the usual engineers to expand the AF and port. Going to be VERY busy off Celebes, and right now the plan is not to commit the US CVs - only support with CVEs and LBA.

In China, NSTR.

In Burma, it’s pretty quiet. Allied troops continue to close up with lead elements near the Burma-Thailand border, and despite starting to overstack, the supply situation remains good. Until Palembang is secure, Allied air is minimally available, so any ground attack in the coming days will be without any “softening up”. So, for now, Allied troops will continue to probe forward, slowly.

In the IO, bombers continue to soften up Palembang defenses with a reported 200 casualties inflicted, and another 250 from ground troops bombarding. 7th ID and additional engineers have moved in, and supplies remain plentiful, so it’s time for another attack - 3 divisions plus support will attack, leaving a fresh Indian Division to the NW to replace losses if necessary. With the forts down to level 3, I’m hoping for better results than last time. With bombers getting fatigued from the constant use, and the 3rd Mar Div close to being prepped enough to land at Merak, it’s getting time to wrap things up at Palembang. Also, LBA Helldivers catch a convoy off Singkawang on the Borneo coast apparently loaded with troops. The DBs hit two AKs setting them afire, but miss an LSD. Too bad the TBFs didn’t fly! It really does look like the IJN has abandoned the Java Sea - I’m kinda surprised to see that, and curious as to what is left defending Java. Lastly, another 4xAKVs will depart Aden for Karachi with B-29s next turn. Four more squadrons await transit in Aden already, but I’m only using AKVs to ship the B-29s. Once I have 12 squadrons on the ground in India, will look to fly them forward to Burma and making them operational….debating on what the first target will be, and whether to chance a daylight attack. The 29s were going to head directly to Sumatra to hit the Borneo oilfields, but the AFs aren’t ready yet, and it looks like SWPAC B-24s might be able to range to most of those targets in a few turns.

[IdahoNYer]

27-28 Mar 44

Highlights – Palembang holds two attacks with heavy Allied loss.

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 13
Allied: 21

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Hengyang (China)

Bases Liberated:
Komodo (SWPAC - flipped)
Memboro (SPPAC - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, troops for Woleai begin loading at Hansa Bay while troops loading for Satawal begin loading at Kavieng. Neither appear well defended, and the division’s worth of combat power earmarked for both this atolls is probably overkill. However, both these bases will provide flank security for SOPAC, and jumping off “staging” bases for further amphibious operations in the Marianas. Woleai will provide a base for LRCAP while Satawal will serve as a PBY base. Lastly, these atolls will of course further isolate Truk.

In SOPAC, it’s pretty quiet as troops continue to flow into Sansapor. The highlight is the debut of BB Iowa and two other BBs bombarding Manado inflicting 650 casualties and shutting down the base. Repl TF is taking its sweat time entering the Ceram Sea, so refueling the CV TFs north of Sansapor hasn’t happened yet. CV TFs will need to swing east to provide support for Woleai landings, so the delay in refueling may be costly.

In SWPAC, Heavies put in good bomb runs to Makassar, Ambon and Boela and all three should be shut down. Recon now shows some LBA at Balikappan which may be a threat, and will need to move bombers into Endeh to target the AF there. But the focus for now is getting the Watampone landings ashore next turn - the Amphib TF with the CA TF will loiter at Kolaka next turn while the CVE TF from IO should also rendezvous there - assuming the recently detected minefield at the western end of Flores Island at Bima doesn’t pose a problem - a DMS and 3 AMs are heading to deal with the minefield. Follow on troops for Watampone beach head are also loaded at various ports and will begin to head to target next turn - lots of assault shipping employed here, all converging on Celebes. To help cover all this, AFs at Kolaka and Salajar should reach level 2 next turn, while Endeh is at level 5. On the ground, troops should reach Kendari next turn as well. Busy, busy.

In China, the IJA gained a solid victory by taking Hengyang just west of Changsa - which was expected eventually, but expected the Chinese Corp defending to hold better with the level 3 forts. Instead only 350 IJA casualties were lost against 7500 Chinese when the Corps surrendered. Back to the “old ways” for a turn. Not good. That said, Allied defenses further west should be a bit more challenging to overcome.

In Burma, NSTR.

In the IO, the ground troops took it on the chin at Palembang. First attack accomplished what I intended at a reasonable cost - reduced forts to level 2, inflicting 1300 casualties on the defenders at a cost of 2000 troops. Acceptable trade off if it ended there. But no! The Allied AI commander decided to continue the assault with the now heavily fatigued troops on the second day and got mauled; 600 IJA lost to 1800 Allied and no forts reduced. All three engineer units committed are gutted, along with the Brit LRP Bde taking the brunt of the losses. So another turn of swapping out troops - including the last fresh engineer unit, and one of three remaining Indian Bdes will be committed. May need more than one turn to recover some of the disruption and fatigue after that last attack, but I’m still looking to finish Palembang sooner rather than later. At least with the forts being reduced, the bombers are having more effect. At sea, the flow of supplies into Sumatra continues as much as the limited port facilities can handle.