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

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: jwolf


What's left that the Japanese can still use?

From the DEI gains? Not much......

Tarakan and Miri are both still in IJA hands, but are well bombed out and tanker runs pretty much ceased in late April - much to dangerous to the tankers.

So, Japanese oil production is left to what was there on 7 Dec 41.

L_S_T has already commented on a dire supply/fuel situation, and its only going to get worse.

[IdahoNYer]

22-23 May 44

Highlights – Fighting ends on Yap; Kamikaze strikes out of the Marianas are thwarted.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-37)
SC: 1
AK: 1
xAKL:

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 72
Allied: 28

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Groote Natoena (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Serasan (SWPAC - flipped)
Rambutyo (SOPAC - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: IJA medium bomber “Peggy” encountered for the first time - as a Kamikaze flying out of Marianas bases. So perhaps the upcoming Rota landings will be more contested than anticipated.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, fighting ends on Yap, one attack eliminating the last 1100 defenders. As transports begin pulling out assault troops from both Yap and Ulithi, Kamikaze strikes come in from the Marianas, focusing on the Transport TF off Ulithi, and somewhat successfully avoiding most of the CAP in the area. While CAP manages to shoot down 8 Bettys and 14 Peggys, 14 Bettys and 5 Frances managed to attempt Kamikaze strikes, all missing intended targets. The most likely reason the CAP was a bit ineffective was the weather which looked to have prevented much of the CV TF based (as opposed to CVE based) CAP from flying. Still…lucky. Will focus the CVE TF CAP more over Ulithi next turn, relying on LBA CAP at Yap to cover the transports there. CV TFs have all completed fueling and will finalize the TF compositions next turn as well, which will include sending two Essex CVs to Manus for the Jun refit. Meanwhile the Rota Amphib TFs will depart SOPAC waters and head to Woleai as the initial staging point.

In SOPAC, the Rota Amphib TFs will depart Kavieng, Mussau, and New Hannover next turn, all heading for Woleai initially. BB TF (4BB, DDs) will depart Hollandia to rendezvous with the Amphibs as well. This will leave SOPAC to focus on Mindanao - which will need some more emphasis as a robust CAP of Georges met strikes and sweeps targeting Cagayan. Was surprised to see the Georges, but even so, Allied fighters didn’t do too badly - 14 Georges lost for 6 P-38s and 4 Corsairs with a B-25 also lost to the CAP. Will focus some additional fighters in the forthcoming sweeps.

In SWPAC, troops are put ashore on the undefended Groote Natoena which will be developed into an airbase capable of ranging Indochina and protecting the shipping along the Borneo coast. Focus remains Borneo, with troops landing at undefended Kuching next turn. The challenge now will be to seize NE Borneo which, although reportedly undefended, is still a bit away from LBA support.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, with Java fully secured, all assets can focus on the developing campaign in Thailand. Another Indian Bde is brought ashore at Tavoy, and is heading south to seize Mergui, while the main campaign focuses on eliminating the primary IJA defenders before they can fall back to, or behind, Bangkok - which is resulting in overextending the ground forces somewhat. Still, will continue to press the attack as I’m not exactly sure there is a significant defense at the moment. Heavies will split duties between supporting the ground attack and reducing Bangkok’s industry - primarily its ability to produce supply.

[IdahoNYer]

24-25 May 44

Highlights – Borneo Blitz continues, Kuching taken.

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 22
Allied: 20

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Pagai-eilanden (SE Asia)
Kuching (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Kuching (SWPAC)
Groot Natoena (SWPAC)
Sambas (SWPAC - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: SS Perch II torpedoes a troop carrying xAK north of the Bonins - I figure its part of a convoy brining reinforcements south, so the CVs will head north to try an intercept.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, troops begin to come off Ulithi and Yap as the Rota Amph closes in on Woleai. CVE and CA TFs will rendezvous with the Amphib and BB TFs at Woleai before all head toward target. With little need to cover shipping at Yap/Ulithi, the CV TFs are free to sortie north towards the Bonins to attempt to engage that reported troop convoy. Two Essex class CVs (Essex, Long Island II) are cut loose to head to Manus and join CV Franklin for refit - Long Island II will also replace it’s SBDs with Helldivers during the 14 day refit, beginning 1 Jun. Even without the two Essex Class CVs, and the already detached CVLs, the three CV TFs can still muster almost 1200 carrier a/c, which should be more than enough to deal with any threat or targets of opportunity.

In SOPAC, its fairly quiet. With the Rota Amphib TFs on their way, SOPAC has limited offensive requirements and capabilities at the moment. Focus is interdicting any shipping in and around Mindanao, as well as improving current bases in Theater.

In SWPAC, troops come ashore at Kuching and seize the undefended base while troops also seize the undefended Groote Natoena. The Indian Lushai Para Bde begins being airlifted into Brunei and once that airlift is completed, will march to seize Miri. The challenge will be keeping troops in Brunei in supply as that is well within Jpn airstrike capability - and with Kuching now secured, the two CVE TFs will begin moving back towards the Makassar Strait and then supporting upcoming landings at Jolo and Tawi-Tawi. The holdup here is troop preparation, not defenses. Airfields and ports also need more expansion to support upcoming moves.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, Allied troops advancing from Tavoy reach the outskirts of Mergui and will attack next turn - defenses look to be a rear-guard shipping company. Goal remains cutting off the Malay Peninsula from the main defensive line around Bangkok. Will look to push a Corps size element south into the Malay Peninsula, while the majority of the troops continue to push into Thailand. Airpower focus remains somewhat split between reducing Bangkok’s supply output and supporting advancing troops.

[IdahoNYer]

26-27 May 44

Highlights – Rota Amphib TFs and support to depart Woleai for target; Heavy CAP over Cagayan

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Yamakaze)
xAK: 1
xAKL: 1

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

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 36
Allied: 59

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Namlea (SWPAC)
Pagai-eilanden (SE Asia)
Billiton (SWPAC)
Mergui (SE Asia)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Rota Amph TFs and supporting TFs depart Woleai. US CV TFs come up empty so far in the sortie toward the Bonins - will head a bit further northwest of Iwo before turning back to support the Rota Amphib.

In SOPAC, another tough day over Cagayan as CAP arrives mostly after the B-25s - the B-25s and Corsairs didn’t fair well against the Georges, but the P-38s did well. Tally after two days are 28 Georges against 19 Corsairs and 25 (yes 25!!) B-25s. Not a good two days. Morotai AF reaches Level 4, which brings in a B-24 Group which will now lead the attempt to neutralize Cagayan - supported by additional sweeps out of Talaud.

In SWPAC, focus now becomes consolidating current gains for a bit. Will look to build up Singkawang, Kuching and even Brunei bases as well as landings on undefended bases in northern Celebes to threaten Manado directly.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, Mergui falls easily and troops there will now focus on cutting the Malay peninsula. In Thailand, the “holding attack” offensive gains steam toward Rahaeng in the north as well as toward Bangkok. Will continue to be a slow grind, and I don’t look forward to the upcoming potential fight for Bangkok itself.

[IdahoNYer]

28-29 May 44

Highlights – Rota Amphib arrives at target; Cagayan CAP once again proves deadly.

Jpn ships sunk:
AV: 1
TK: 1
AMc: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 68
Allied: 79

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Linnga (SE Asia)

SIGINT/Intel: IJN convoy escorted by CVEs and CAs arrives at Cagayan with additional LBA fighters as CAP - the question is, troops coming in or pulling out?

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Rota Amph TFs and supporting TFs arrive at target without issues. US CV TFs still moving into position to provide cover, but I don’t expect any major surprises. Troops will land next turn, and one of the two Div sized Amph TFs will be cut loose to Kusaie to begin loading for Pagan as soon as practical. LBA Heavies out of Ponape and Kavieng will shift to hitting troops on Rota next turn as well.

In SOPAC, yet ANOTHER tough day over Cagayan! I’m caught flat footed when I realize the reason for the heavy CAP - a major convoy docks to either offload (most likely) or pull out troops. CVEs and CAs are present, and covered by a VERY robust CAP of 87 Franks and 43 Zeros. The P-38 sweeps and Hellcats on LRCAP over the target aren’t enough to protect the B-24s slated to hit the AF. After two days of heavy air activity, 33 P-38s, 11 Hellcats and 16 B-24s fail to return in exchange for 31 Franks and 17 Zeros. NOT a good two days in the air over Cagayan. Worse, the ships are untouched. Will look to use the B-24s to mine waters next turn, not just Cagayan, but surrounding ports as well. Fighters will again sweep, augmented by three P-47D25 squadrons. SBDs will be on hand to hopefully be able to make a strike.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, troops continue to press toward Bangkok, as well as trying to get behind Bangkok. Getting a bit stretched here, but the main body should be able to push on through towards the outskirts of Bangkok in a few days. Troops at Mergui begin advancing inland to cut the Maylay peninsula.

[IdahoNYer]

30-31 May 44

Highlights – Troops ashore at Rota; another furball over Cagayan.

Jpn ships sunk:
xAKL: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 70
Allied: 47

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Rota (CENPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel:IJN convoy at Cagayan disappears before any strikes come in. No indication that IJN will sortie against Rota landings.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Rota Amph TFs offload a Marine and Army division plus support with no surprises. BB TF (4BB, DDs) and air bombardments achieve little - less than 100 casualties inflicted - so I figure the two Bde size elements defending (Mixed Bde and Expeditionary Force) are well dug in. Will continue with bombardments, CA TF (4CA, DD) and LBA. LBA will include a B-24 Group freshly flown into Yap. Troops ashore will need a turn or two to recover fatigue and disruption. Transports will largely depart next turn, support troop laden APAs will remain loaded offshore along with the usual CVEs and additional CA TFs to provide cover. Will attempt to shuttle the CA TFs after bombardment runs back to Woleai to rearm - would like to do that with the BBs as well, but not sure if the three AKEs I have there will support. Probably not, so more AE/AKEs are enroute. I figure the CV TFs will be needed to provide support for another two weeks (including Pagan landings) before being released to SOPAC for support in the PI.

In SOPAC, a better day over Cagayan, although the convoy departed. The P-47D25s make a difference against the Georges and Franks, but losses are still on the heavy side. After two days, 41 Georges and 19 Franks are destroyed in exchange for 15 P-47s, 14 Hellcats and 4 P-38s. The Georges and Franks remain a tough opponent, likely manned by the best pilots available. Will continue fighter sweeps from Taluad as troops are shipped into position in New Guinea bases for upcoming landings in Mindanao. Until the CV TFs are cut loose from CENPAC, I’m hesitant to land in the PI as I really think that will trigger a response. Lastly, no clue what that heavily protected IJN convoy was doing at Cagayan which is concerning.

In SWPAC, while I’m still focused on bringing up supporting elements and “consolidating” gains, I’m still looking to press the advance in Borneo. A few small convoys will shuttle in engineers to Brunei and see what reaction that sparks. So far, no interdiction of the LST (as in ships, not opponent[;)]) supply convoys which is good news! The famed Aussie 2/9 CDO Bn will make yet another jump, this time into Jesselton, also reportedly undefended, to secure the NE tip of Borneo next turn. Fleet assets, including CVE and CA TFs, are gathering at Balikpapan to support the upcoming landings at Jolo and Tawi-Tawi. Although lightly defended, they ARE defended, so Aus IN Bdes will be committed - which will require a fairly extensive Amphibious and supporting operation - a bit of risk here with only CVE TFs and not CVs. Still, the two CVE TFs can muster over 400 fighters….which should be enough unless the KB decides to venture into the mix. Lastly, the US 40th ID and supporting elements will begin landings in SWPAC rear areas to secure bypassed bases, including ultimately laying siege to Manado.

In China, seeing an increase in enemy fighter sweeps against Kweilin. Not sure what these are supposed to do, I’m not opposing them and no bombers so far. Perhaps another ground push in the making coming up from the SE?

In SE Asia, the “holding attacks” are a complete failure as it certainly appears that the IJA is in full retreat across the front. Looks like a new line is being established east of the river line along the jungle terrain, and it will be a few turns before enough Allied troops can be brought up to contest that line and threaten Bangkok. I don’t think we’ll be strong enough to isolate Bangkok or cut off the still sizeable amount of troops in the NE around Rahaeng. The two US IDs, the 43rd and 27th, are being pulled out and will head toward Rangoon for transit to Batavia for future operations. They are somewhat replaced by fresh Chinese troops as well as two Southwest African divisions. Still plenty of ground combat power to press the next line of IJA defenses!

[CaptBeefheart]

Excellent progress.

You probably have something else figured out for them by now, but could the surplus Aussies be usefully employed by landing near Saigon and sweeping up the coast?

Cheers,
CB

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: CaptBeefheart

Excellent progress.

You probably have something else figured out for them by now, but could the surplus Aussies be usefully employed by landing near Saigon and sweeping up the coast?

Cheers,
CB

Still trying to decide what to do with the Aussies....but I already have all the troops in Sumatra and Java earmarked for Indochina. Some Aussie troops will support operations in the PI, but not all.

So for now...the Australians are a big "reserve"...probably overkill, but until I get a better read on what exactly is defending the PI, having some uncommitted troops isn't a bad thing at all.

[IdahoNYer]

May 44 Summary

An outstandingly successful month in territorial gains as L_S_T contracts his defensive perimeter, but no opportunities to bring the IJN into battle. Java, most of Borneo as well as Yap and Ulithi were taken and secured with minimal costs. The “holding attack” in Burma/Thailand was a major flop - the IJA are in full retreat! China has been fairly stable. Little IJN activity - Naval losses for the month were extremely minimal to both sides; the IJN reportedly lost 5E, and 2SSX compared to the Allies losing 1SS and 2 PT/MTBs. In the air, 603 a/c for Jpn to 504 Allied a/c.

INTEL: L_S_T has collapsed his defensive line considerably, totally abandoning the DEI. I expect the Philippines will be a tough fight, and could trigger an IJN response. I’m a bit surprised by his pullback in Thailand, although I figure Bangkok will be a tough nut to crack, similar to Palembang. He’s still has a large force in SE China that looks poised for further offensive action, but to what end?

SUBWAR: Minimal targets are now the issue - a few xAKs shuttling troops and supplies in the PI island chain are the primary targets available, and they are usually well protected with heavy airborne ASW. Little else seems to be tansiting the seas for the Allied subs to prey upon. Still, need to keep the subs on station should the IJN venture forth. In the meantime, Allied subs are more the prey than hunter.

West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: Fighter production increases slightly to 927 in June with the P-38L model coming on line. Will maintain the P-38J in production though and keep the P-38L limited to 30 a month. Best increase in Jun is the F-5E recon version comes avail with 20 a month - finally get some reasonable recon plane quantities perhaps. Pilot pools remain fair to good across the board. Will also continue the gradual replacing of SBDs with Helldivers on most CVs - slow process as the Repl CVEs’ groups will also need to be swapped out. June begins Essex CV and CVL upgrades as well as Gato subs - will stagger 3xCV and 3xCVL until completed - the CVLs making use of Soerabaja’s shipyard, the CVs in Manus. Still need to finish out the APA upgrades; balancing standing down ships against requirements has been challenging.

NOPAC. Staying quiet here in NOPAC. Have earmarked 2+ Army divisions and the 6th Mar Div for NOPAC, but not sure when I want to divert the CVs or assault shipping to begin a campaign in the Kuriles. Have a few months yet weather wise, perhaps after a solid foothold is achieved in the PI and SE Asia.

CENPAC. Yap and Ulithi were taken as planned with no major problems - Yap was tough as expected, Ulithi less so. Troops get ashore at Rota at month’s end, and Pagan is about a week away. Initial estimates on Rota’s defenses are that they are well dug in, and it will be a tough fight. Key for the Allies is not to take too much time in establishing a foothold here in the Marianas - the CVs are needed for the PI, and later SE Asia.

SOPAC. Reaching out with LBA from Talaud-eilanden to gain air superiority over Mindanao has proved to be challenging - especially over Cagayan. Still, until CVs and assault shipping return to Theater, not much more can be done. Allied Main Effort will return to SOPAC for the PI in a few weeks.

SWPAC. Did not expect such a rapid continued advance in SWPAC - but if the Borneo bases are left undefended, will continue to advance. Grabbing Kuching and looking to grab Jesselton without a major operation is a windfall. Greatest challenge in SWPAC now is what to do with the Aussie Army - which was and is prepping to be fighting hard for bases in Borneo, most of which were undefended and are now under Allied control. Still haven’t figured that one out yet.

China. Continued quiet, except for some fighter sweeps and the occasional bombing mission which have been unopposed by Allied fighters. Looks like L_S_T is still massing troops in the SE, but to what extent is unknown. Supply situation is fairly good and the Chinese troops with some Allied augmentation, especially in AT systems, should be able to fend off anything but a very major offensive.

SE Asia. Well…that “holding action” in Thailand became a general offensive, threatening Bangkok directly and splitting the IJA forces into three parts - defending Bangkok, defending northern Thailand around Rahaeng, and attempting to hold a line between the two. Doesn’t look like much in the way of defenses are established in the northern Malaya peninsula. Will continue to pressure the defenses, cutting off Malaya, isolating Bangkok, and eliminating the troops around Rahaeng being the goals for June. Not looking to advance east much further though. Still looking for an “end around” landing in SE Asia in July or so. Java was secured much more easily and rapidly than expected - minimal defenses encountered. These troops will provide the majority of forces to be used in SE Asia - they still need some time to prep, and assault shipping needs to be allocated as well.

[CaptBeefheart]

Do you have any prep for Hainan Island or the mainland base nearby (Pakhoi?)? That would cut off his Indochinese-Thai-Malaya forces in one fell swoop.

Cheers,
CB

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: CaptBeefheart

Do you have any prep for Hainan Island or the mainland base nearby (Pakhoi?)? That would cut off his Indochinese-Thai-Malaya forces in one fell swoop.

Cheers,
CB

Both "under consideration"! [;)] But until I getta feel for how well defended the PI is, I'm hesitant to commit planning here. That will cost me a few weeks, but I'm OK with that right now.

Figure I'll make the decision before the end of June. The bigger decision right now is whether to, or when, to begin operations in the Kuriles. I have troops planning for them, but not sure if they are sufficient, and I haven't figured out when I can cut the fleet loose to support operations there.

My original plan was to defeat the KB before heading to support operations in the Kuriles, but as long as the KB stays as a "Fleet in Being", I'm hesitant to commit the US CVs way up north where they're a bit isolated from other Theaters.

[IdahoNYer]

1-2 Jun 44

Highlights – Jesselton taken via airborne attack.

Jpn ships sunk:
SS: (I-21)
SC: 1

Allied ships sunk:
SS: 1 (Pipefish)

Air loss:
Jpn: 10
Allied: 13

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph/Airborne Inv:
Gorontalo (SWPAC)
Jesselton (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Jesselton (SWPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: Cagayan sweeps don’t draw CAP.

West Coast/Admin: Jun brings a surge in refit/upgrades to the CVLs, Essex CVs and Gato class subs. 3 ea CVs and CVLs begin upgrades while about 75% of subs in port also begin upgrades.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, the ground attack on Rota will begin this coming turn as the transports head back to Kavieng and Kusaie. Ground and air bombardments continue to achieve little - but the BBs can re-arm at Woleai and will begin to head back to Rota for another bombardment run. Still no indication that this foray into the Marianas will provoke a major response.

In SOPAC, Cagayan sweeps find no opponents for a change. Will rest the fighters a bit before resuming sweeps and perhaps bring bombers back into the fray to neutralize the AF. Focus remains organizing the upcoming Mindanao landings - still need to shuttle support troops to the embarkation sites at Hansa Bay and Lae. Goal is to start loading for Mindanao in about 2wks, but that depends on Rota cooperating. Landing at Gorontalo on the northern arm of Celebes was supposed to occupy an empty base - but apparently some IJA troops were there…so the small engineer unit landed my have some difficulties.

In SWPAC, Aussie Paras secure undefended Jesselton which now triggers another requirement to push engineers forward - added to the list of Kuching and Brunei. Jolo and Tawi-Tawi Amphibs are the next major moves, and transports are heading to embarkation sites - should be able to begin loading in a turn or two.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, continued pressure towards Bangkok, as well as looking to encircling the concentration of troops in Rahaeng area in northern Thailand. One Bde of the IJA’s 30th ID has been isolated north of Tavoy, but the majority of the IJA forces west of Bangkok look to be pulling back into the city - the Allied main body will engage these troops next turn if they remain in the hex NW of the city.

[IdahoNYer]

3-4 Jun 44

Highlights – Attack begins on Rota; ground offensive makes solid gains in Thailand.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Hatsushima)
xAKL: 1

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

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 28
Allied: 16

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Tandjoengpinang (SE Asia - flipped)
Beaufort (SWPAC - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: The only active IJN activity seems to be a robust ASW TF effort around Philippine waters.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, the initial ground attacks on Rota do well! In two attacks, forts are reduced from level 5 to level 3, and casualties were in acceptable levels: 3700 IJA troops lost to about 800 US. US troops remain in good shape and will continue the assault next turn - the only hiccup was no naval bombardment this turn. The CA TF I had slated I sent to Woleai….will make up for it this next turn with both BB and CA TFs bombarding. The Pagan Amphib TF begins loading the 5th Marine Div and supporting troops at Kusaie, so with some luck ground operations will conclude on Rota shortly and focus can shift cleanly to Pagan. Still a bit concerned that AFs on Saipan, Tinian and Guam can still be used by Kamikazes, but really can’t do much about that until AFs can be expanded on Rota and Pagan - then Allied bombers can focus on keeping the Jpn bases suppressed.

In SOPAC, NSTR.

In SWPAC, troops begin loading for Jolo at Samarinda and Tawi-Tawi at Salajar. An Aussie Bde for each target, plus associated engineers in support. Will look to consolidate both Amph TFs and move jointly towards the initial target of Jolo, then land at Tawi - similar to the Yap - Ulithi landings last month in CENPAC. The difference of course being no CV TFs in support, just CVEs. Engineers are starting to trek toward Brunei and Jesselton, and so far, although they are pretty exposed off the north Borneo, they haven’t been engaged. Jesselton AF is already operational, with PBYs and a squadron of Corsairs flown in. Although Jesselton’s level 1 AF won’t be expanded in time to support landings at Jolo and Tawi-Tawi (original plan was securing the AFs on those two islands to set conditions for landings at Jesselton!), Jesselton’s AF will be a major base in a few weeks to start ranging aircraft well into the Sulu Sea and Palawan.

In China, with continued unopposed IJA sweeps over Kweilin, I’ve moved two US fighter squadrons in to see if we can catch the next sweeps.

In SE Asia, a very good day in Thailand! First, the ground attack just west of Bangkok catches the tail end of the 15th Army pulling east - elements of 4 divisions totaling over 17k troops in the open and inflicts over 7000 casualties at a cost of 500 troops. IJA troops withdraw into Bangkok itself, so the Malay Peninsula is cut. Second, the isolated troops east of Tavoy were eliminated, a Bde sized force of 4700 men wiped out. This will allow the XV Indian Corps to start slowly heading south to clear the Malay Peninsula. Third, a pocket was established in northern Thailand centered around the Rahaeng area. Not really sure yet what exactly has been encircled…recon counts 11 units, but no idea yet how many or what kind of troops. Will take a while to eliminate these units of course, as well as take time to consolidate gains and work to seize Bangkok - unless of course L_S_T decides to abandon the city as he did Rangoon.

[IdahoNYer]

5-6 Jun 44

Highlights – While Allied troops storm the beaches of Normandy, Rota is secured and IJN MTBs come out in surge attack against US CV TFs off the Marianas.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Hamanami)
PB: 1
SC: 1
MTB: 18
SSX1
xAKL: 2

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 55
Allied: 20

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Sidate (SOPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Rota (CENPAC)
Gorontalo (SOPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: Was very surprised by the massed MTB attacks on the CV TFs! I figure it will be a while before L_S_T tries that again.

West Coast/Admin: Another CVE TF (Taffy) is formed in Portland with 5CVEs and assorted DDs and DEs as escort. They link up with BB California, freshly repaired from her Pearl Harbor damage, and will sail next turn to PH and link up with the fleet. This gives me four CVE TFs, although will need to rebalance their composition to distribute Hellcats across all of them. A fifth will be available in another month or so, but it may be broken down to reinforce the existing four.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, the Rota battle culminates with massed MTB attacks on the US CV TFs off. Over the two days, a total of 23 separate MTB TFs engage the US forces each with 3-6 MTBs. The escorting BB TF (BB, 4DD) and ASW TF (3DD) intercept most, but five MTB TFs manage to find and attack the CV TFs! Talk about a nail-biting replay!!! Fortunately, the moonlight was 100% which I think helped, and no MTB torpedoes found their mark on a target, and only one collision happened with the CA Northampton collided with a DD. US surface gunnery across all TFs was still terrible, but did manage to sink about 12 attacking MTBs. Once daylight broke, patrolling SBDs and TBFs claimed well over 2 dozen “hits” on surviving MTBs, which were headed back to Saipan. Off Rota itself, the BB TF and CA TF did a bit better bombarding with forts reduced to 3 - inflicting about 500 casualties. On the ground, only one attack was needed to secure the base and eliminate resistance, with over 1900 IJA troops taken out at a cost of 75 US. PBYs are immediately brought in, and engineers will focus on getting the AF built as quickly as possible - supporting troops waiting offshore being brought in next turn. Once their transports offload, the combat troops will start coming off. One CV TF will detach to refuel and cover the approaching Pagan Amphib TF departing Kusaie, the other two CV TFs will move west a bit, just in case another MTB attack comes in. Will try and wrap up CV TF involvement in the Marianas immediately after the Pagan landings, turning over naval cover to the CVE TF.

In SOPAC, Talaud based LBA continue to sweep Cagayan and find no CAP, but SBDs find shipping - sinking an SC and a pair of xAKLs. With no CAP, Heavies will again try and hit Cagayan AF next turn.

In SWPAC, Jolo Amphib TF should depart Samarinda next turn, headed to target. Supporting CA and CVE TFs will depart Balikpapan. Will take two days plus to reach target. Tawi Amphib continues to load at Salajar, and will head to Balikpapan to initially stage. Although I don’t expect a major response here, Jolo is at the limit of LBA support, so it will be up to the CVEs to provide the fighter cover. Convoys continue to run troops and supplies into Kuching, Brunei and now Jesselton without any interference - which kinda surprises me as these runs are exposed until AFs can be further developed. In the rear area, an AmphTrac Eng Bn manages to secure Gorontalo against what’s left of a JNAF fragment. Some additional IJA forces are marching toward the base, so elements of 40th ID will land to secure the newly captured base. Adjacent to Manado, parts of 40th ID land at Sidate, expected to find it undefended, but instead find a battalion sized force in place - they will attack to take it before IJA reinforcements can arrive from Manado. So, 40th ID’s “mop up” in the rear areas mission has started off fairly poorly - recon has been faulty, and it will likely take longer than expected to secure these bases.

In China, the US fighters moved to Kweilen do well against the continued sweeps - after two days, 26 Oscar IVs, and 13 Tojos downed for 4 P-47D25s and 6 P-51Bs. The fighter squadrons will remain and continue to provide CAP, although I don’t expect continued sweeps. I’ve also flown a couple more squadrons into nearby bases to sweep and provide LRCAP to support a B-29 strike on a reported IJA concentration of troops in the open near Wuchow. For now, with no major Japanese air over Thailand, I can afford to divert some to support the Chinese efforts. For a limited time however.

In SE Asia, troops continue to tighten the noose around the IJA concentration in and around Rahaeng, and the first Allied attack will try to take the base next turn. Recon has reported over 40k troops in Bangkok, and I’m toying with the idea of providing an opening to the SE to allow some of these troops to pull out - not than I can close off Bangkok just yet anyway, but…..

[IdahoNYer]

7-8 Jun 44

Highlights – Rahaeng and Sidate secured.

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 2
SC: 1
MTB: 7
TK: 1
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 52
Allied: 34

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Rahaeng (SE Asia)
Sidate (SOPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: Kweilin AF attacked by Sonias at night - is this the prelude to a ground push here?

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, 1/3 of the CV TFs refuels south of the Marianas, and will head to link up the Pagan Amphib TF and their support, heading toward target from Kusaie. The other two CV TFs will head to refuel this next turn as engineers have already expanded Rota AF to level 1, and should be level 2 next turn - so fighters are flown in to augment the CVEs providing cover for the transports. The transports have completed the offload of most of the support troops and have started loading up the combat troops - which will sail for Ponape and Kusaie where the troops can continue preparations for Guam. The CVEs will remain for another turn or two, then move to support Pagan. Heavies out of Yap hit Saipan port, catching a dozen or so MTBs there. Bombers will rest a bit before switching to prepping Pagan. Goal right now is to detach the CV TFs along with as many assault transports as quickly as possible to SOPAC for the Mindanao landings.

In SOPAC, Talaud based LBA continues support over Cagayan; sinking an SC and damaging four xAKLs. Still no CAP, and Heavies work over the Cagayan AF with good effect, reportedly shutting it down and destroying an estimated 17 Tabby and 12 Helen transports. SOPAC LBA will continue to sortie over Mindanao over the coming days in preparation for upcoming landings. As assault transports become available, may look to launch some rear-area landings as units’ prep time is reaching acceptable levels, and once the Mindanao landings take place, all APAs and AKAs will be heavily tasked.

In SWPAC, Jolo Amphib TF didn’t depart Samarinda as expected as it was still loading supplies. So, instead, the combined Jolo and Tawi Amphib TFs will depart next turn with all associated support. Still don’t expect any major problems here. At Jesselton, mines appeared - likely from a sub is the best guess. Fortunately they were discovered by a YMS escorting some LSTs, and no damage inflicted. Additional AMs will head in to sweep the mines before a series of convoys arrive with engineers and supplies. Lastly in SWPAC, the rear area landings at Sidate turned positive with the Bde sized 40th ID element taking the port in the second attack. Additional 40th ID troops will be brought in, ultimately laying siege to Manado.

In China, I’m surprised by continued air attention against Kweilin - starting with Sonias (haven’t seen them for a while!) hitting the AF at night and do rather well - 3 P-47s and a P-51B destroyed on the ground at no cost - despite having an Indian AA unit there. So, the two US fighter squadrons will move a few miles west to Liuchow which is better protected by a US AA unit. Spits are flown into Kweilin for CAP there, and two US squadrons out of Kweiyang will fly LRCAP over Kweilin should the daylight sweeps continue. Of course, still vulnerable there to night raiders.

In SE Asia, efforts to reduce the Rahaeng Pocket start well with Rahaeng being taken in the first assault, with 3000 RTA troops lost to 500 Allied. Will continue the pressure to reduce this pocket over the coming turns, as long as supplies permit. Still not sure what or how many troops are exactly is in this pocket! Elsewhere in Thailand, troops continue to maneuver around Bangkok, but not enough strength yet to try and cut it off. While keeping the pressure on Bangkok will continue, the emphasis will slowly start to shift toward the upcoming landings in Indochina - redeploying the two US IN Divs to the DEI, air forces prepping targets, and ensuring all assets are in place at points of embarkation when assault transports and of course the CV TFs are released from landings in the PI.

[jwolf]

BB California, freshly repaired from her Pearl Harbor damage

It took 2 1/2 years?! [X(]

[RangerJoe]

Probably refits as well. But for that length of time, a new BB could have been built.

[IdahoNYer]

RangerJoe nailed it - California also completed her 270 day refit/upgrade mounting the 5"/38s while she was repairing Pearl Harbor damage in San Francisco.

West Virginia's now in Bremerton and will still be repairing for a few months!

[ushakov]

In the real world, California and West Virginia didn’t return to service until 1944 either, maybe you should get some bonus points for historical accuracy?

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: ushakov

In the real world, California and West Virginia didn’t return to service until 1944 either, maybe you should get some bonus points for historical accuracy?

Somehow ushakov.....I don't think L_S_T would buy into that bonus point thing....but I'm all in!