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

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: Capt. Harlock

Any more details?

Old sinking; Tracker says CL Agano was sunk on 21Nov44 off Amami-Oshima by sub torp.

[IdahoNYer]

3-4 Jan 45

Highlights – Less than desired results against Shimonoseki due to weather.

Jpn ships sunk:
CV: 2 (Soryu, Shokaku - both confirmed from last month’s strikes)
PB: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 10
Allied: 18

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: None

SIGINT/Intel: Was surprised that there were no fighters over Shimonoseki. Will look at expanding sweeps over select cities in the future to test defenses across Honshu.

Strategic Bombing Campaign: Strike against Shimonoseki was heavily impacted by adverse weather, both over the target as well as Formosa. No raids went in the first day, and second day was limited to a total of only 85 B-29s and 47 B-24s focused on hitting Shimonoseki’s resource and refinery targets during 7 separate strikes. Those bombers that made runs did well, but too many didn’t launch or aborted. The only loss was a single B-29 to Flak. Again, there was no CAP and sweeps found no targets. The bombing results increased the Strat bombing VPs from 13,220 to 13,698 which isn’t bad for a raid heavily impacted by weather - but that’s all part of trying to execute a strat bombing campaign during the winter. Bad weather again is again forecasted for targets, so strat bombers and supporting fighters will rest.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, The Fleet arrived at Naga and CVs began deckload reconfigurations as they entered port with the new Corsair squadrons coming in as reinforcements, with planes, but no pilots. This of course caused most flattops to exceed capacity which then, surprisingly, resulted in most airgroups adjusting their max capacity. Didn’t expect that at all, since I thought all US Navy squadrons’ sizes were date locked, but apparently starting in Jan ’45 they can resize as needed - will have to get to next turn to confirm that of course. If that holds, that will allow a bit more flexibility, such as including night fighters a bit more easily. In any case, numerous ships are disbanded to begin repairs at Naga, while others will journey to Manila to make use of its yards - CV Enterprise (damage now down to 0/46(46)/19(19))will depart Manila for Singapore to finish out her repairs shortly to make room at the yards. When the Fleet heads back out to sea, it will be under SOPAC command to support the upcoming landings.

In SOPAC, Oldendorf’s BB TF (4BB, DDs) will again bombard Tokara Retto next turn, and head back to Miyako to rearm. The Yakushima Main Body Amph TF completed loading at Balikpapan, and will begin its journey north, heading initially to Miyako-jima. The supporting effort Amph TF (to load 2x IN Reg and artillery) arrived at Lingayen and will begin loading in a few days. Assault shipping is still gathering at Lucena in Luzon to load the Tokara Retto bound troops and shipping allocated to supporting engineers for both landings are still enroute to various ports around the PI. Goal remains to land at Yakushima first, then immediately at Tokara Retto the next turn - which assumes transports can offload at Yakushima within a day so CVEs and other supporting TFs can provide the necessary cover.

In SWPAC, LRCAP and sweepers found no targets again over Shimonoseki, and most will rest this turn as Tokara Retto remains the focus of tactical air support. Yakushima will be left alone until the Amphib TF reaches its final staging port as Tokara Retto is more heavily defended as will require a shock attack due to the island’s smaller size.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, XXXIII Corps began its advance the north of Hangchow with a solid victory against the defending three divisions which suffered over 11k casualties compared to only 1300 Allied troops. The IJA withdrew east into clear terrain, and now will be the focus of tactical air until the Allied troops can advance and close on the troops. IJA troops are also looking to be withdrawing out of Hangchow, so air will also focus on these 30k troops as they try and pull out. XXXIII Corps is now focused on advancing to Shanghai. Amazing! In the air, tactical bombers will support the ground offensive, while most heavy bombers stand down. The four British B-24 squadrons didn’t fly to hit Nagasaki AF at night due to weather, and will try again next turn.

[IdahoNYer]

5-6 Jan 45

Highlights – Brit heavies hit Nagasaki AF with reasonable effect but not without cost.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Onami)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 24
Allied: 13

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

Strategic Bombing Campaign: B-29s rest and Strat bombing VPs remained at 13,698. Weather looks promising over Shimonoseki next turn so will launch another daylight strike at the city with all avail B-29s and two B-24 Bomb Groups. Weather over Formosa isn’t as promising, but will see how it goes, supported by fighter sweeps and LRCAP again. To begin strat bombing in China, a B-24 bomb group is brought into Changsa and will hit the oil industry at Lanchow in northern China in daylight.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Oldendorf’s BB TF (4BB, DDs) conducts another successful bombardment against Tokara Retto. Yakushima Amph TF#2 begins loading at Lingayen while TF#1 continues north from Balikpapan. Will move CVE TFs, Oldendorf’s BBs plus CA TFs and other support to Amami starting next turn. Landings are still about a week away, and assault transports are still gathering at Lucena for the Tokara Retto amphib; they should start embarking next turn if my amphib math is correct. CVs continue to repair and reconfigure deckloads at Naga.

In SWPAC, NSTR.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, the majority of IJA troops at Hangchow have pulled out, leaving a small rear guard behind. XXXIII Corps will assault to seize Hangchow next turn, with many of the troops staying in reserve pursuit status to follow up to the NE. All avail airpower will focus on the now huge IJA concentration of withdrawing troops now in the open NE of Hangchow as XXXIII Corps troops close in from the west and SW. XXXIII Corps will press on to Shanghai. XV Corps at Haiphong are still awaiting assault shipping which should close next turn, so will look to begin configuring loads next turn for the Saishu To landings. Lastly, Brit Liberators out of Wenchow hit Nagasaki AFs at night and destroyed about a dozen fighters. However, CAP was robust with about 30 fighters aloft and clawed down 6 bombers - including one that was rammed!

[IdahoNYer]

7-8 Jan 45

Highlights – Hangchow taken; solid raid on Shimonoseki.

Jpn ships sunk:
CV: 2 (Unryu, Junyo - more Sea of Okhotsk victims from last month)
E: 1
ACM: 2
CMc: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 11
Allied: 14

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Hangchow (SE Asia)

SIGINT/Intel: SS Boarfish sighted CS Nisshin w/6DDs south of Hokkaido, the question of course is where they are headed and why. Two possibilities come to mind….first, another CV raid is afoot with the one or two remaining CVs of the KB. Second, and I think more likely, is the Nisshin TF is heading to one of the Kuriles to bring back a crippled CV. Hopefully air search or recon can confirm or deny one of these two possibilities.

Strategic Bombing Campaign: Very good daylight raids against Shimonoseki over both days! Sweeps don’t find any CAP. 359 B-29s and 195 B-24s came in over the two days in 27 separate attacks focusing on primarily on hitting Resources. Largest raid consisted of 81 B-29s and 12 B-24s. No bombers were lost and bombing results were very good which increased the Strat bombing VPs from 13,698 to 14,686. The oil center at Lanchow was also hit effectively by 73 B-24s and 48 Chinese B-25s in 8 separate raids which reduced the oil production from 91 to 23. B-29s will shift back to night for a raid on Nagasaki next turn. Weather is reported as good and the raid with focus primarily on manpower, but also hit the airfield and the port.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, with the Nisshin TF sighted, air search is augmented and additional subs are focused to pick up any possible CV raid - which I expect to have as much success with as previous attempts.

In CENPAC, more PBYs are focused on north Pacific waters and a couple of DDs will depart Pearl to take up patrol in the “black gap” north of Midway. Additional subs are also sent to sea. The Hawaiian chain’s defenses have more fighters just in case, but also have more potential targets with the Hokkaido/Kurile assault shipping assembling.

In SOPAC, Oldendorf’s BB TF (4BB, DDs) rearms at Amami and will head back for another bombardment run next turn as amphib support elements close in on Amami as well. Yakushima two Amph TFs should close on Miyako-jima next turn for initial staging and some reconfiguring. Then on to Amami for final preparations. Tokara Retto amphib begins loading at Lucena while Yakushima and Tokara Reto support TFs begin loading engineers which will take a few days at a few different ports. CVs continue to repair and reconfigure deckloads at Naga, and should be ready for sea shortly.

In SWPAC, fighters will conduct some limited sweeps over a few Japanese AFs in Honshu as a recon next turn, but overall, the focus remains on the upcoming landings.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, XXXIII Corps troops seize Hangchow and begin massing to attack the main body (80k+) of IJA troops outside the city to the NE. Airpower continues to pound this IJA concentration, inflicting over 4000 casualties. Assault transports arrive at Haiphong and configure to load XV Corps which should start next turn as troops make final preparations for landing at Saishu To.

[IdahoNYer]

9-10 Jan 45

Highlights – Allies win two small naval clashes at Tokara Retto.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 2 (Akikaze, Numakaze)
E: 1
PB: 1
CM: 1
SC: 3
SSX: 1
xAK: 2

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 17
Allied: 20

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Wuchang (China)

SIGINT/Intel: No further contact with the CS Nisshin TF which is of course worrisome. The fighter sweeps over Honshu found no CAP over Hiroshima and Kobe, but a large CAP over Fukuoka. Looks like L_S_T has concentrated most daylight fighters in Nagasaki and Fukuoka totaling some 2000 fighters. Likely more to launch at the next Allied landing than air defense, and may provide some opportunities for daylight bombing. Still that’s a heck of a lot of aircraft available to throw at an amphibious landing!

Strategic Bombing Campaign: Zero raids against Nagasaki due to weather - so much for the weather forecasts! Weather supposedly poor again over Nagasaki, so will attempt to hit Fukuoka instead. Similar focus, another night raid, mostly against Manpower with four squadrons hitting the packed AF as well. Strat bombing VPs remained at 14,686.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Allied CL TF (CL, 4DD, DMS) precedes Oldendorf’s BB TF (4BB, DDs) bombardment run against Tokara Retto and runs into a minelaying TF (CM, E) sinking both, and what also looked like a fast transport run (4DD, 8E) and sunk 2DDs without loss. Not sure if they were bringing in troops or supplies or pulling troops off of course. Still, whatever L_S_T was attempting, the CL TF disrupted it a bit. Oldendorf’s BBs were unaffected and had a good run inflicting over 350 casualties. Will rest Oldendorf next turns as subs are being sighted, and instead will send an ASW TF in to hunt subs. Yakushima’s Amphib TF continues to assemble at Miyako-jima while the Tokara Retto Amphib TF continues to load slowly at Lucena. Two of the three CV TFs will depart Naga and head towards Miyako-jima. The third along with supporting surface TFs should be ready to depart next turn - still finishing up minor repairs and deckload reconfigurations. Both primary Replenishment TFs have received their AE additions to the replenishment CVEs and AOs and are fully loaded to refuel and rearm the Fleet. One will depart Manus next turn while the other will depart Naga in about two to three days.

In SWPAC, only the fighter sweep against Fukuoka was challenged, and the lone P-38 squadron got the worst of it against a huge CAP of over 350 front line fighters. 11 P-38s were shot down in exchange for only 5 Franks and 2 Tonys. SWPAC air will focus now on protecting the airspace for the upcoming landings as well as softening up the landing sites. Supporting the Strat bombing campaign is on hold for a bit.

In China, Chinese troops secure Wuchang as the IJA pulls out which will provide another forward AF to reach deep into occupied territory. As SE Asia troops move east of Hangchow, Chinese troops will support the advance by moving on towards Nanking, and exploring the possibility of securing a lodgment across the Yangtze river if possible - in other words, an open hex.

In SE Asia, XXXIII Corps troops begin to move east from Hangchow as airpower continues to pound retreating IJA troops. But airpower fails to delay the exodus long enough for ground troops to catch the withdrawing troops. XXXIII Corps will divide into two elements, one to move directly east to Shanghai and the other to attack north before turning east to secure the approaches to Shanghai by taking first Wusih and then Soochow. Nanking will be left to the Chinese, and I fully expect XXXIII Corps to culminate with seizing Shanghai if that is even feasible.

[IdahoNYer]

11-12 Jan 45

Highlights – Allied forces close in on Shanghai.

Jpn ships sunk:
CA: 1 (Mogami - replaces Myoko)
DD: 1 (Suzunami)
SC: 1
LSD: 1

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

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 06
Allied: 16

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Wuhu (China)
Soochow (SE Asia)

SIGINT/Intel: Still not sure about that CS Nisshin TF; no further sightings doesn’t really confirm or deny that it is still at sea with CVs. More pressing is the 2500+ reported fighters avail to hit the next landings. The few SSXs recently sighted and engaged are surprising, I figured they’d mass at the landings, along with MTBs. Still think there will be a mass response with everything L_S_T has in the tank when the landings go in at Yakushima.

Strategic Bombing Campaign: Weather continues to ground the B-29s. No raids again, and weather forecast has extreme overcast over the B-29 AFs, so bombers will rest next turn. If nothing else, at least building up some replacement a/c. Strat bombing VPs remained at 14,686.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, just in case, fighters are brought in to provide CAP at Lihue and Kona ports where transports are gathered.

In SOPAC, Yakushima Amphib TFs arrive at Miyako-jima and reorganize into two balanced TFs which will depart next turn for final staging at Amami Oshima. Two CVE TFs will sail with them, joining the third CVE TF already at Amami. The ASW TF sortie from Amami to Tokara Retto engaged another SSX, but no sinking was confirmed. Oldendorf’s BB TF (4BB, DDs) will again head to bombard, preceded by the CL TF as one last softening up run against Tokara Retto before priority shifts to Yakushima. The Tokara Retto Amphib TF completed loading at Lucena and will head to Miyako-jima next turn. Two of the three CV TFs will arrive at Miyako next turn and will finalize composition and deckload configurations (the new Corsair squadrons still need some additional planes to fill out) before heading into the East China Sea to support operations. The third CV TF will depart Naga next turn along with remaining supporting surface TFs from ships recently repaired. These TFs will likely not head to Miyako, but rather link up with the Fleet in the East China Sea. Lastly, the Repl TF at Naga will also head to sea as the last of four AEs have joined up. No idea if four AEs are too much or not enough to rearm the Fleet with AA ammo specifically, but will likely find out in the coming turns.

In SWPAC, with the Tokara Retto amphib TF finished loading, the supporting engineers now will begin loading at both Lucena and Manila. One B-24 group continues to hit Tokara Retto with minimal effect. One P-47 squadron will sweep just south of Nagasaki to see what stirs up, but most other squadrons are on CAP to provide cover as the Yakushima Amphibs move to stage at Amami - just in case L_S_T decides for a pre-emptive strike.

In China, Chinese troops secure Wuhu against the IJA rear guard as the main force there pulled out to the NE. Troops there will now advance on Nanking directly to cover XXXIII Corps’ flank. One Chinese Corps will begin its advance across the Yangtze to completely isolate Shanghai. Elsewhere, Chinese troops will probe IJA defenses across the river from Wuchang to see if those hexes are really empty.

In SE Asia, XXXIII Corps troops take Soochow NW of Shanghai as IJA defenders scramble north, avoiding a fight. The IJA main body of 80k troops continues to be heavily attritted by bombers as it struggles to stay ahead of XXXIII Corps which may have another opportunity to engage that force next turn. Troops should also enter Shanghai next turn as recon shows defenses to have about 30k troops. If that holds true, XXXIII Corps will have more than enough combat power to secure the city. At Haiphong, III Corps begin loading its 2+ divisions to begin the approach to Saishu To. They will initially head to Hong Kong to link up with combat engineers and then sail along the coast to ultimately stage at Ningpo before making the crossing to Saishu To. That crossing will need the US Navy in support, so Yakushima and Tokara Retto must be secured first.

[gervabit]

Question, do non-Chinese allied units pay PP to be in China?

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: gervabit

Question, do non-Chinese allied units pay PP to be in China?

No. However, we did have a HR that restricted Indian units needed to pay PP to fight outside of India - but that was more to release them for the fight in Burma and Malaya.

[IdahoNYer]

13-14 Jan 45

Highlights – Commonwealth forces catch up to withdrawing IJA and inflict heavy loss.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Kagero)
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 07
Allied: 15

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 1 ship hit (xAK sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: All quiet…before the storm. I think the big question is not if, but when L_S_T launches mass raids into the upcoming Allied amphibious landings - immediately, or after the troops gain a foothold.

Strategic Bombing Campaign: Bombers rest, but will launch against Nagasaki at night next turn. Strat bombing VPs remained at 14,686.

West Coast/Admin: CV Enterprise arrived at Singapore to complete repairs. She’s at 0/46(46)/19(19) which is down from her initial damage (22/83(67)/24(19)) suffered from the torpedo attack on 11 Nov 44. Even with Singer’s yard pretty much devoted to her repair, she’ll be in the yards there for 3 months or so.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, Tokara Retto gets another dose of Oldendorf’s BBs which inflicted about 300 casualties before they shift to Yakushima. The two Tokara Retto Amphib TFs were supposed to both depart Lucena, but apparently the TF embarking the US 1st Cav Div didn’t get the word, and they remained loading supply. So, they’ll have to catch up to the other TF, already well enroute to Miyako-jima. For next turn, the fireworks will begin at Yakushima. The Yakushima Amphib TFs with a host of supporting TFs will set out from Amami next turn and begin landing troops. Oldendorf’s BB TF will bombard, while two Cruiser and three CVE TFs provide the primary cover. Three DD TFs will head out one hex further to provide “picket” duty to provide warning and disrupt any naval or air counter attacks. The CVE TFs should provide alsmost 600 fighters for CAP, although many are Wildcats. Army LRCAP will supplement cover with another 200 or so planes - in theory of course with LRCAP variables. The Fleet will depart from Miyako-jima into the East China Sea to provide distant cover (hopefully draw strikes away from the Amphib landings) with three CV TFs, two BB TFs and other supporting TFs. They will also have DD picket TFs out front. The CVs should also have about 600 front line fighters available for CAP, and also provide strike capability to any IJN sortie. A limited amount of US Army fighters will also be allocated to LRCAP over the Fleet. The goal in this plan is to give the Kamikazes two potential targets, the Fleet and the Amphibious landings - if the Kamis split their effort, the CAP probably can contain it. If they mass, on one target due to weather or range settings, this may get dicey. In any case, next turn or couple of turns following may be interesting!

In SWPAC, LBA will now focus primarily on supporting the Yakushima landings with fighters flying LRCAP over the target as well as the Fleet in support while bombers primarily focus on softening up ground defenses. A limited number of bombers will continue to hit Tokara Retto just to keep things honest. A small number of squadrons will remain on naval attack just in case the IJN tries a sortie. With half of the Tokara Retto bound troops still loitering of Lucena in the PI, the landings there will be at best executed within the week.

In China, Chinese troops advancing east of Chungking begin catching up to and engaging withdrawing IJA troops in heavily forested terrain which results in fairly balanced casualties. Supplies in this terrain is the major limiting factor, and C-46s will be brought in to drop supplies for the advancing Chinese Corps.

In SE Asia, XXXIII Corps managed to catch up to the withdrawing main body of IJA troops north of Hangchow. About half of the 80k were engaged by about the same number of Allied troops which inflicted over 13k casualties at a cost of about 1000 before the IJA troops were able to withdraw into Nanking. With the bulk of the IJA troops no longer withdrawing in the open, much of the supporting Allied LBA rests before switching targets to Shanghai - but that fight is now opening up as troops advance into the city’s outskirts and will bombard to see what the defenders look like. The first ground attack is still a few days or weeks away as more troops, engineers and additional artillery need to be brought in. III Corps troops bound for Saishu To have completed loading on assault transports and landing craft at Haiphong and will head to Hong Kong to gather combat engineers and additional naval forces. This Amphib force will then sail along the Chinese coast to finally stage at Ningpo before making the final dash across the Yellow Sea to target. That is the part of the journey that will require significant USN support.

[IdahoNYer]

15-16 Jan 45

Highlights – Yakushima landings go in; big furball over the landings with enemy LRCAP.

Jpn ships sunk:
CA: 1 (Mikuma - old)
CL: 1 (Tama - old)
DD: 1 (Naganami - old)
MTB: 3
SSX: 5
SC: 1
AMc: 1
TK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 383
Allied: 231

Subwar:
Jpn: 3 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Yakushima (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Tungchow (SE Asia)
Wusih (SE Asia)

SIGINT/Intel: Didn’t expect enemy LRCAP over Yakushima and Tokara Retto! Assume L_S_T was trying for a CAP trap against the bombing runs and got surprised with the landings going in. So, can expect the Kamikazes next turn now that the landings have gone in. Daylight CAP over Nagasaki also remains very robust, including fighters from the KB.

Strategic Bombing Campaign: Weather finally permits a solid raid against Nagasaki! Poor weather scrubbed all but five small attacks on the first day totaling only 31 B-29s which caused little damage. CAP was pretty light, with only 10 Irvings and 9 Petes. Same CAP on the second night when the weather cleared and the bomber stream excelled - 21 separate attacks totaling 166 bombers inflicted solid damage with fires getting to just over 275k and hitting the AF hard destroying a reported 90 a/c on the ground. 4 B-29s were lost, one to air to air, the other three to ops. Two Irving pilots rammed their targets, but one of these B-29s made it back to base. Strat bombing VPs increased from 14,686 to 15,212 and the fires continue to burn brightly at over 43k. That was the good news, the bad news was that I tried to sneak in two Brit B-24 squadrons in daylight to hit the AFs - figured the day fighters would be busy hitting the beach head. Not quite. The Brits got mauled, running into about 250 angry fighters on the first day which tore them up, knocking down 25 of the 32 bombers! Will have a go against Nagasaki at night again next turn, hitting both industry and the airfield again.

[IdahoNYer]

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, NSTR.

In SOPAC, the landings start off with a surprise - MTBs waiting for the Tokara Retto bombardment force (2BB, DDs, DMS), which I had neglected to support with a surface TF to clear the way, so five separate MTB squadrons of four boats each made runs, one managing to get a torpedo into BB California which didn’t even scratch paint. Three MTBs were sunk, and no damage inflicted to the US force which successfully bombarded, inflicting only about 75 casualties. Mini subs also get in the picture in and around Tokara Retto, with three unsuccessful attacks on the bombardment force, losing three subs in the process. A fourth sub was dispatched near Amami. The main show, the landings at Yakushima go in without a hitch. No interference for Oldendorf’s bombardment (4BB, DDs, DMS) run which inflicts over 300 casualties to the Bde sized defenders. Troops come ashore in good order as well, the only casualty is a single APA grounded and will have to go back to Manila for repairs. Come daylight, the supporting US B-24s are intercepted by large numbers of LRCAP roaming over Yakushima and Tokara Retto which was a most unexpected development. So, the CVE’s CAP was now tied to escorting the bombers instead of free roaming against the expected incoming Kamikazes which never materialized. Losses to the CVE’s CAP was heavy, especially to the Wildcats - 51 Wildcats, 9 Corsairs, and three Spitfires were lost in air to air - as well as 23 TBFs shot down in ASW and search roles. Many surviving fighters were also written off as ops losses. These heavy CAP losses will require the CVEs to retire to replenish planes before the next landings - and as the transports have offloaded, all but picket DDs and PTs will retire back to Amami to link up with the Tokara Retto Amphib as well as the Support TFs for Yakushima carrying engineers. With numerous subs and MTBs still around Tokara Retto, the transports and CVEs will first head SE, then west toward Amami, hopefully avoiding the threat. Additional DDs will sortie from Amami as ASW TFs as well to hunt the subs. The Fleet at sea was a spectator to all this action, no raids were launched against it, and will also pull back 80 miles to the SW and hold off Amami. I’m hoping that L_S_T will indeed launch his Kamis next turn, and they will only range the picket DDs at PTs at Tokara and Amami, covered by LRCAP. In any case, depending on what transpires next turn will influence whether Tokara Amphib goes in, or bringing the follow-on engineer support TF into Yakushima.


In SWPAC, 1st Mar Div and the two supporting US Army Infantry Regiments plus combat engineers, armor and artillery go ashore at Yakushima in good enough order to attack the defending IJA Mixed Regiment and Naval Guard unit defending. As mentioned earlier, the surprise was the mass of Japanese LRCAP over both Tokara Retto and Yakushima. Numbers varied with each US strike, anywhere from a pair of Franks to about 100 front line fighters. Into this flew the supporting bombing strikes of B-24s liberally escorted by LRCAP and the CVEs. In addition to the CVE’s fighter losses. SWPAC lost 7 B-24s, 6 P-47s, 5 P-38s and a pair of Mustangs. Total Japanese fighter losses to air to air are estimated at 135 Franks and 36 Tonys. As the Allied air search and ASW TBFs were caught up in this action, so were the Japanese search and air transport missions; 19 Glen, 11 Alf, 15 Emily and 7 Mavis were shot down. As the Navy’s Wildcats took the brunt of the losses, the USAAF fighters will provide the bulk of the LRCAP as well as some sweeps over Tokara Retto and Yakushima next turn. Bombers will stand down however until L_S_T plays his next hand.

In China, Chinese troops do better this turn east of Chungking as they continue to engage withdrawing IJA troops; in two separate attacks they inflict over 1300 casualties in exchange for only about 120. Approaching Nanking on XXXIII Corps flank, two Chinese Corps collapse the IJA rear guard into Nanking at a cost of 700 IJA troops. The big question whether or not the Chinese Corps can successfully get across the river between Hankow and Anking - the heavily wooded terrain appears to be undefended, but that is very curious as the river line would be a formidable defense. Will need some additional recon in the area before the troops get across.

In SE Asia, XXXIII Corps bombardment recon of Shanghai reveals what looks like a very weak defense of third rate troops (RGC, tax police etc) left behind. Will still wait for additional artillery and combat engineers to be brought in, but should make the first attack within a week based on the defenses. On the north side of the Yangtze River, Tungchow flips to Allied control. To take advantage of this opportunity, the airborne Lushi Bde, in reserve at Haiphong, will be flown in to secure the base and engineers will be brought in by landing craft from the Ningpo area. I really don’t intend to advance XXXIII Corps north of Shanghai, and will turn this gain over to Chinese troops as soon as practical - but gaining bases north of Shanghai, especially those that can be developed into large AFs, need to be secured and put to use as soon as possible. Lastly, the slow British BB TF (2BB, 2CL, DDs, DSM) will depart Formosa and head to bombard Shanghai next turn. They’ll then rearm off AKEs now moving to Hangchow to provide support at both Shanghai and the upcoming Saishu To landings.

[Bif1961]

Bloody bad luck with British B-24s on the day light raid, but you know the British prefer to bomb at night ole boy. [;)]

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: Bif1961

Bloody bad luck with British B-24s on the day light raid, but you know the British prefer to bomb at night ole boy. [;)]

True....true....true....

but it was simply the fact that I could afford the loss of British Liberators more than US.

US squadrons expand from 12 to 16 bombers next month, and a rough count that adds up to about 30 combat squadrons or 120 bombers needed just for the expansion.

[IdahoNYer]

17-18 Jan 45

Highlights – Yakushima taken as Kamis flail against Picket DDs; yet another rear area CV raid causes havoc.

Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Fumizuki)
MTB: 3
ML: 2
SSX: 3
AG: 2
xAK: 1

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

Allied ships sunk:
DE: 1 (Douglas A. Munro)
AM: 1
TK: 7

Air loss:
Jpn: 321
Allied: 63

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Yakushima (SWPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: Gotta figure Kamis supported by sweepers over Tokara Retto and Yakushima will continue, as will the mini-subs and MTB attacks, but doubt any major units of the IJN will sortie here. Looks like those major units are out at sea again in another rear area CV raid - located now in the “Black Gap” between Hawaii and the West Coast. Still amazes me that the numerous subs, air search and even some DD patrols failed to sight the raiders as they obviously once again skirted the gap between Midway and the Aleutians - right past those DD patrols. Still, good to know where the CVs are, but no idea what the raiders consist of so far - CVs or CVEs? Based on my “blood board” tracking, two Unryu class CVs are not reported as sunk, but not sure if they’ve been built either, and a number of CVEs could still be afoot. Nisshin is out there in support somewhere, that old sighting near the Kuriles had to be the TF heading out. Now the question is whether they stay to raid, or begin to head back home.

Strategic Bombing Campaign: Weather actually allows for two nights of raids against Nagasaki with good results at reasonable cost. CAP remained minimal with only a dozen fighters, a mix of the same Irvings and Petes. The bomber stream consisted of 24 separate attacks totaling 268 bombers and inflicted solid damage with fires getting to just over 275k and remain burning at over 39k. The AF was also hit hard, destroying a reported 86 a/c on the ground. 5 B-29s were lost, one to air to air, two to Flak, and two to Ops. Strat bombing VPs increased from 15,212 to 15,734. Will shift the B-29s to hit Fukuoka as weather is reportedly better there, while four B-24 squadrons, (2 Brit, 2 US) will hit Nagasaki AF at night if they can get through the reported thunderstorms.

[IdahoNYer]

West Coast/Admin: With another rear area CV raid afoot, defenses go up along the coast - CAP is put back up over Seattle, San Fran, and Los Angeles, patrols are increased, and available bombers are missioned to naval attack - and that includes a B-29 squadron that was geared to begin heading to Formosa. The few recently departed convoys are turned around back to port to await developments.

In NOPAC, a few more subs will head to sea to search out the raiders and a pair of DDs will also sortie, heading to the West Coast to see if they can stumble on the CVs. Bases have quite a bit more fighters available for CAP than the previous raid warnings, so if the raiders venture to hit any of the Aleutian bases they can expect a warm reception.

In CENPAC, well, here we go again! Another Rear Area CV raid located the hard way between Hawaii and the West Coast. An empty Tanker convoy heading from the Aleutians back to San Francisco paid the price with all 7 tankers and escorts being sunk. While every loss is somewhat painful, the TK loss won’t be felt at this point in the war. Fortunately, no other convoys are in immediate danger, and those in CENPAC will head away from the danger point to friendly ports, or re-route and continue to destinations. A big, fully laden fast convoy bound to New Zealand is the only one that will use full speed for a turn to ensure they can get to safer waters, the other half dozen or so convoys in the eastern and northern Pacific should be clear. Pearl and the bases along the Hawaiian chain are all now on alert, air search augmented with a some B-29s enroute to Formosa, and plenty of fighters to provide CAP at all necessary bases. The Hawaiian ports are of course packed with troops and assault transports for the upcoming Hokkaido and Kuriles operation, and are a priority to protect. Also at Pearl are two Essex class CVs finishing out refit - they should be complete next turn, and with the BC Alaska and couple of cruisers and DD escorts on hand, they will head out and attempt to engage the raiders. I’ve also got a few CVEs and three old BBs at Pearl, and I’m debating whether or not to send the CVEs out as well - the BBs are better off left at Pearl. Of course, I’d like to know the raider’s composition beforehand, but I don’t think L_S_T would expect carriers to come out of Hawaii, and instead would be keeping an eye on the US Fleet off Kyushu. The big question is of course where the raiders will head now that they have been found - continue east to raid the West Coast, turn back toward Japan via the north Pacific gaps, or head southerly towards Hawaii and SOPAC shipping lanes? Time will tell - and hopefully we can get some air search or patrolling ships to find out with minimal cost.

[IdahoNYer]

In SOPAC, ya gotta love when a plan comes together! The Picket DDs did in fact draw a number of Kamikaze raiders, and the Kamis came in before the high altitude sweepers in support. The agile DDs avoided all but one single raider, a lone Pete that slammed into DD Anthony causing moderate damage - enough to send the DD back to Manila, but not in danger of sinking. Mini subs and MTBs were also active, but not causing any damage and a number were dispatched by DDs. The CVEs’ air groups were all replenished to full strength at Amami, and will sortie back out to Yakushima to provide cover for the reinforcing engineer laden transports going in next turn. The Fleet will head back northeast 80m in support, and both elements will be screened by Picket DD TFs as I can expect more Kamis next turn. Tokara Retto Amphib TFs have gathered at Amami and will continue to loiter there and await the call to move in. Lastly, will detach a Brit CA TF (2CA, 3CL, DDs, DMS) back to SE Asia via bombarding Tokara Retto.

In SWPAC, troops secure Yakushima on the first attack, inflicting about 1800 casualties over the two days at a cost of about 250 US. Engineers will begin scraping out an AF and more engineers will be brought in next turn as the remaining thousand or IJA should be taken care of by the Marines. In the air, it was indeed a busy two days. The first day, the Kamis focused more on the DDs off Tokara Retto, and were met by a robust LRCAP of over 200 fighters, with about half coming off the Fleet carriers just to the SW. Raids against the DDs off Yakushima met less LRCAP as most were focused on Tokara Retto perhaps? These raids also had a mix of Tonys sweeping at high altitude in support, but what LRCAP that was available did well, with only that one Pete hitting a DD. All told, after two days, the butchers bill was high for the attackers: 104 Zeros, 29 George, 20 Tony, 15 Frank, 9 Jack, 24 Pete, 16 Alf, and 16 Sally. Allies lost 12 P-47, 12 Hellcats, 7 Mustangs and 7 Corsairs. Next turn, LRCAP will focus on Yakushima with a few squadrons also covering the Pickets and the Carriers at sea as well. But the primary focus is supporting the reinforcement of engineers into Yakushima. Once that is completed, focus will shift to seizing Tokara Retto and pulling combat troops off Yakushima.

In China, Chinese troops attack and eliminate a Mixed Bde east of Chungking, inflicting over 3000 casualties at cost of only 10 men. Troops continue to advance slowly on a broad front in north and central China and next turn should see three Corps attempting to cross the Han River between Hankow and Anking. Chinese troops also enter Nanking and will see what the defenses are in the next few turns.

In SE Asia, XXXIII Corps is still assembling combat power to make its first assault against Shanghai, probably in the next two turns. III Corps Amphib TFs are still holding at Hong Kong, but I have decided to get the LRP Bde off the LCIs and into assault transports as they are starting to gather significant disruption. Still looking at launching the Saishu To landings as soon as practical following the Tokara Retto amphib.

[CaptBeefheart]

Very interesting. Good to see so far the kamis have done little damage. Good luck with that.

Apologies if I missed it, but do you gents plan to play beyond auto-vic? I'd expect you are getting pretty close to a 2:1 VP ratio, what with strat bombing success and capturing some valuable bases.

Cheers,
CB

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: CaptBeefheart

Very interesting. Good to see so far the kamis have done little damage. Good luck with that.

Apologies if I missed it, but do you gents plan to play beyond auto-vic? I'd expect you are getting pretty close to a 2:1 VP ratio, what with strat bombing success and capturing some valuable bases.

Cheers,
CB

Funny you should mention that Capt.....the first peace overtures have just been sent through the Swiss Embassy.....

L_S_T just asked that question in an email. My reply was that's its totally up to him whether to continue or not. Should have a solid answer in the next email exchange.

[IdahoNYer]

19-20 Jan 45

Highlights – Massive Kamikaze strikes against CVEs off Yakushima!

Jpn ships sunk:
SC: 1
SSX: 8
MTB: 4
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk:
CVE: 1 (Battler)
AM: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 1,256
Allied: 221

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: The mass Kamikaze strikes were expected, just never really ready for the quantity of the strikes! The question now is, is the bolt shot or is there more to throw at the Allies? Time will tell….my bet is there will be a brief intermission where air groups restock. Did also see the first reported use of the Okha - one was launched from a Betty and missed. As for the CV Raiders, they continue SE in empty ocean between Hawaii and the West Coast which is somewhat surprising. I’m assuming they’ll turn around and begin to head NW toward the North Pacific, but that’s strictly a guess.

Strategic Bombing Campaign: Weather allowed for two nights of raids against Fukuoka with mixed results, but losses begin to mount. CAP was more robust than the Nagasaki raids, and maxed out at about 65 planes, a mix of Nicks and Irvings. The bomber stream consisted of 27 separate attacks totaling 197 bombers and inflicted moderate damage with fires getting to just over 130k and remain burning at about 18k. The AF was also hit hard, destroying a reported 68 a/c on the ground, and another 24 night fighters downed by the bombers. But the bombers lost 11 B-29s, 7 to air to air, the remaining 4 to Ops. Strat bombing VPs increased from 15,734 to 16,128. Bombers will take a well deserved rest for a few turns to rest and repair planes.

[IdahoNYer]

West Coast/Admin: Convoys continue to shelter in port to await the developments of the latest CV raid.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CV Randolph finished out her refit, but CV Bennington was delayed a bit and remained stood down delaying the sortie against the CV raid. Will look to sail next turn with the two CVs, BC Alaska, 2CA, 2CL and likely the CVEs plus escorting DDs. I’m hesitant about bringing the CVEs as they will slow down the TF, but not having a solid understanding of the raiders composition, I’d rather error with more than necessary fighters available to cover the TF. If the Raiders remain heading SE between Hawaii and the West Coast, they will find little in the way of victims, although a few DDs/DEs are enroute to scout the area and perhaps draw strikes.

In SOPAC, the main event….yet another mass Kamikaze attack on the poor CVEs. Despite having multiple CVE TFs off Yakushima, as well as numerous other potential targets, all 33 (yes THIRTY THREE!) Kamikaze strikes went against a single CVE TF. The plucky CVEs did well on the first day, with the help of Army LRCAP in support, all but a few ineffective raiders were shot down or aborted with heavy losses. The second day targeted the same CVE TF and by late morning, the raids began to get through and score hits, despite continued heavy losses. All told, CVE Battler was sunk and CVE Ameer was scuttled after her aircraft were put ashore at Yakushima this turn as fires still raged. 8 other CVEs were hit - the two most heavily damaged will disband in Yakushima and put fires out, but should be in no danger of sinking while the other 6 moderately damaged will head to Amami and then on to the repair yards. US fighters shot down about 900 planes while another 200 or so lost to AA or Ops (which includes Kamikaze attacks). The cost wasn’t light to the CAP either, 118 fighters were shot down and another 65 to ops, although pilot losses were relatively light all things considered. The other Allied naval loss was an AM to an SSX which were active in the area, but only had that one victim at a cost of 8 mini subs. So, an expensive day for the Japanese to sink 2 ships and cripple a third. The raid will force the remaining CVE and supporting TFs at Yakashima to head back to Amami to gather replacement planes and restock AA ammunition, so the Tokara Retto landings are again delayed two more days. Four freshly repaired CVEs will head from Hong Kong to join operations, somewhat replacing the CVE lost to damage from the attack. Meanwhile, the two Koshiki-jima Retto Amphib TFs begin loading troops at Naga for the next US landing.


In SWPAC, troops eliminate the remaining 1800 Yakushima defenders for a cost of about a dozen US. Engineers get the AF operational which was a savior to a number of CVE’s planes and pilots, and the AF will likely reach level 2 next turn. P-47s are flown in to augment the motley collection of CVE planes - most of which will fly off next turn as they are repaired and additional Army and USMC planes will be brought in to provide CAP. Unfortunately, with the CVE TFs forced to withdraw back to Amami, the transports were unable to take off any combat troops, so Yakushima remains overstacked. Will look to fix that issue after the Tokara Retto landing and the Yakushima AF is a bit more built up. While Tokara Retto landings are next up, the Koshiki-jima Retto operation begins with the two divisions and supporting troops beginning to load on transports at Naga.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, BB TF (2BB, 2CL, DDs, DSM) bombarded Shanghai with good effect inflicting about 300 casualties and they will repeat the bombardment next turn after rearming at Hangchow. XXXIII Corps should be ready to launch its first attack against Shanghai in 3 days. Half of the III Corps Amphib TFs will head to initially stage at Taihoku on Formosa and link up with the Brit CA TF detached from SOPAC - less one CA (Cumberland) and DD which collided and will need some repair time at Hong Kong. The remaining Amph TF will complete loading the LRP Bde and follow to Taihoku, then both TFs will sail for Ningpo (or Shanghai if taken) once the US Fleet assets can detach off of Kyushu.