Hirohito's Honor

[PaxMondo]

Here is information from that link about the fertilizer production at Hungnam, which was where the 10th Corps landed and was later removed during 1950, this starts towards the bottom of page 36:

The huge scale of electric power development on the Pujon River was unprecedented in the Japanese Empire. To initiate it, it was necessary to construct a railroad for material transport. The first power plant was finally completed in 1929.
Using the same methodology, Noguchi was also engaged in development of power sources on the Changjin and Hochon rivers, two other tributaries of the Yalu River. Construction of power
plants on these rivers began in 1933 and 1937, respectively. The scale of both of these projects surpassed that of the Pujon project.
Noguchi’s ultimate goal was to build a chemical fertilizer plant in northern Korea that would have access to ample and inexpensive electrical power. He invested ¥10 million to establish
Chosen Chisso Hiryo Kabushiki Kaisha (Korea Nitrogen Fertilizer Company) in 1927 (which merged with its parent company, Nippon Chisso Hiryo, in 1941), and began the construction of a
plant in Hungnam (in the eastern part of northern Korea), which was completed in 1929.
The Hungnam plant was comprised of facilities engaged in ammonia synthesis, electrolysis, ammonium sulfate manufacture, machinery manufacture, and catalysis. It had an initial production capacity of ammonium sulfate of 400,000 tons annually, which far exceeded that of Nippon Chisso Hiryo’s plants in Japan (in Nobeoka and Minamata). . . .

So there was the production of fertilizer for both Korea and Japan.

Matches my expectations pretty well, thanks for the confirmation.

I enjoy reading your AAR as well as these discussions. Are you thinking of writing a book about a possible alternative if Hirohito would have taken direct control and was no longer a figurehead? That would be interesting!

That's what this mod and this AAR will do.

Another thing, when your characters are walking around these industrial plants doing whatever they are doing, just don't have a steel beam fall on them unless you want to remove them from your narrative.

I hog all falling steel injuries for myself, thank you.

[PaxMondo]

11 Dec 41 – Jiro Horikoshi, Kiro Honjo, Takijiro Ohnishi, Ryoichi Nakagawa – Mitsubishi offices, Hiroshima

Jiro had called this meeting. Takijiro was nearby at Sakae Armory, so only Ryoichi had to make an overnight journey. Kiro deferred to Jiro to lead the meeting. Jiro began by simply stating that he needed to understand the 2 components of an aircraft NOT under his control: armaments and engines. He had direction from HIE to design effective aircraft, but to move forward even with preliminary designs he needed to understand the 2 other facets that needed to be integrated. Kiro simply nodded in agreement. With this, Jiro asked Takijiro to start.

Takijiro started with a brief description of what was being used now, and summarized HIE directive to get this down to 3 machine guns in production: 7.7mm, 13mm, and 20mm. All others would cease. The 20mm would evolve from what they currently had to a future version. The 7.7mm and 13mm already were in production, but some improvements were being planned for them.
Jiro saw this as carte-blanche to re-arm all of this eagles the way he thought they should be armed: centerline. The change in the weapon was nothing to stop him. He was most interested in “weight on target”, total gun weight including 15 secs of ammo, muzzle velocity, and range in this priority order. Taki could see what he was struggling with, so he pointed out the salient differences. The 20mm Type 99 came in two versions, but only the first version could be controlled to fire through the prop.* The 13mm Type 2 was a far better weapon, on par with the American M2. Maybe a bit more prone to jamming as it was currently canister feed, but still a good design. One real difference was total gun weight, the Type 99-1 was literally double the weight as compared to the Type 2, and less than double the impact. Now if the MG 151/20mm lived up to its hype, it would be less than double the Type 2 weight and more than double the impact.

But the selling point was the gun camera footage taken from fighters in China: you could clearly the see the 7.7mm shooting fairly straight with the 20mm arcing well below at the convergence point … you had to walk the 20mm up to the target … a lot of wasted ammo and time. And it got worse with the more G’s that you pulled … You could also see the 7.7mm not having any immediate effect on the chinese P40 fighters …. if HIE had seen this, no wonder he had made changes. Well, that leadership team had all had their moment in the garden.

Horikoshi-san looked at the data, looked at Kiro who nodded, and made his decision: everything would move to the 13mm Type 2 in the near term. His slide rule whisked a few times and then he looked up at Taki and said >1000 MG’s/month would be needed within 90 days. Once the MG151/20 was available, then they would transition all models to that as designs allowed. Taki blinked several times and then excused himself, he needed to meet with production today if possible. He had learned his lesson: when you met with Horikoshi-san; be careful what you wish for.

* Gun Nutjobs: So the 20mmm Type 99-1 was an Oerlikon FF design and the Type 99-2 was an FFL. The FFL used a longer cartridge (20x100RB instead of the 20x70RB) to achieve higher muzzle velocity. The FFL was modified version of the FF which replaced the reciprocating sleeve with a yoke. This design change increased the ROF, BUT had a downside in that the gun could no longer be synchronized to a propeller nor was it able to support a flexible mount. The Scen 1 data used on the guns is definitely another ‘Easter Egg” for the IJN. The 99-1 should have been dropped a point or two more on accuracy for the lower ROF, and a point on range to account for the poor muzzle velocity. Early war with the highly experienced pilots, they were quite able to account for the drop so the data as loaded could be accurate. By post-Midway though, accounts of pilots running out of ammo in the middle of battle with the A6M2 were common.

After a short recess was taken, Ryoichi began. First, he shares some of the recent induction “developments”, his optimism is palpable. Then he lays out the 7 and 9 star families and current status, and then some planned improvements. He has the roughest of timelines for everything, only 1st/2nd half of each year. Rough estimates that he clarifies to be guesses at power output. All of this done on the train down last night.

Jiro in next. He speaks for the aircraft design teams largely, Kiro mostly nods as they are old friends. The key is always power, more power is more payload or range or speed. All are desired, but always limited by power. Ryoichi asks about size and weight. Jiro responds within the boundaries that Ryoichi is speaking, more power will always be his choice IF delivery is constant.

Ryoichi rocks back, so for the 9 star family, only the Ha-42, the biggest and hence most powerful is sought. Jiro looks at Kiro and they nod; new designs would be based upon the Ha-42. This is a HUGE simplification. Even though the Ha-42 is furthest behind, being able to focus on just one engine …. Of course that still leaves the 7 star family that needs upgrades until the Ha-42 is available.

To this Jiro and Kiro add that the Ha-35 demand will fall off sharply once the Ha-42 is available. However, the Ha-33 and Ha-32 will continue to be used for some time as there are a number of designs going into production in the next 6 months using these engines. Finally, can anything be done for the older engine designs … in many cases they have 100’s in stock.

The meeting ends with Ryoichi taking notes on the forward engine use and promising to get better schedules to them within 30 days. He notes that a short term improvement to the Ha-35 is critical. With that he boards his train for the overnight back to Tokyo.

Kiro looks at Jiro, grins, “We have some work to do, but this will be fun. We are going to make some good planes”. Jiro gives him his wry grin “Yes, even these guesses are good news, and I think the Ryoichi was being conservative as he doesn’t want to disappoint. So, I can see more good news coming. But look, 2000hp, granted a big engine and 2 years away, but 2000hp. We can do a LOT with that.”. Kiro reflects on this a moment “We CAN do a lot with that, and we will. Join me for dinner?” With that, they leave the train station and walk towards a favorite diner. They will both work late into the night afterwards.

[PaxMondo]

11Dec41 Late Evening Tokyo, Tatsumi Eiichi: Intel Director

He was coming to the end of a long day, after a series of long days, looking forward to many more long days. He was still playing catch up, but at least all of his detractors had been silenced, firmly. He had been raised to a very high status, now he needed to perform.

His predictions had come about almost perfectly, sadly his accuracy was stunning even to himself. Now, how to turn this around.

First, forget what they thought they knew. Everything had to be re-validated and re-evaluated with a clean light. That meant new sources of intel and some hard data. Now that they were at war, a great deal of that data can come first hand from captured war material. A lab(s) with appropriate staff needed to be created, or seconded to his intel division. We need to rapidly evaluate and disseminate data into the war industry.

Next, future projects of capabilities and growth needed to be created and maintained. What would the imperialists do and what can we do to counteract? This will require the inputs of the senior design staff throughout the empire, there needed to be a working group of all disciplines. Small, but complete.

Finally, resources including a budget to accomplish all of this. That meant staff to monitor, none of which really existed right now … growth, he needed to manage a lot of growth. He needed a good administrator, as that was NOT his strength. Now, where/how would he find one he could trust?

[PaxMondo]

12Dec41 Tokyo mid-morning, Tatsumi Eiichi: Intel Director

He was still reeling; this emperor MOVED. He had submitted his ideas in summary form to the Imperial Chamberlain’s office early this morning to request an audience to present his ideas. Here it was now the same day just after morning tea, and he had an Imperial order authorizing everything in his hands delivered by courier. Further, the Chamberlain had provided 3 recommendations for an administrator(s), all three were awaiting interview. Labs had been seconded from each major branch (aircraft, engines, artillery, armor, electronics, and naval) that would be staffed by each branch, but submit reports to his designates. Each branch was also required to provide a senior design expert to be part of the review process, Dr. Horikoshi himself was specifically nominated for the aircraft consultant. His budget was tentatively set at Y25M and an entire wing of the war ministry was being vacated to accommodate the expansion of his senior staff. Additional office spaces in both Yokohama and Osaka would be provided along with secure ground communication systems. Clearly, his Majesty had already been thinking on similar lines and had a number of these already moving; no one could have put this into play in a couple of hours … he had a lot of catching up to do to get ahead …

[RangerJoe]

All of these moves remind me of an expressions that ends with ". . . or get off the pot!"

I might have to start one of the much harder scenarios in a few days . . .

Again, this is a great story!

[PaxMondo]

12Dec41 Colonel Kotani Etsuo, Northern Army Vice Director

The LOS from Shanghai to Fusan was now open and fairly secure. This would better allow the shifting of garrison forces around to relieve combat forces enabling them to take offensive positions. The 3 fronts were now starting to take shape.
The first troop shipment would arrive in HK tomorrow; this was a couple of IJN AF units and a couple of IJN Air defense forces for Canton. The forces were needed as the air bombardment of HK was going to last FAR longer than the original plan. The first new ID’s were still 3 – 4 days out of Canton.

Code: Select all

Day Time Surface Combat, near Hong Kong at 77,61, Range 18,000 Yards
 
Japanese Ships
      PB Chitose Maru #3
      xAK Kensin Maru #2
      xAK Konsan Maru
      xAK Manyo Maru
      xAK Nagato Maru
      xAK Ronsan Maru
      xAK Tyuwa Maru
      PB Aso Maru #7
 
Allied Ships
      MTB 7
      MTB 8
      MTB 9
      MTB 10
      MTB 11
      MTB 12
      MTB 26
      MTB 27
 
Maximum visibility in Overcast Conditions: 16,000 yards
Range closes to 17,000 yards...
Range closes to 13,000 yards...
Range increases to 15,000 yards...
Range closes to 13,000 yards...
Range increases to 14,000 yards...
Range closes to 13,000 yards...
Range closes to 12,000 yards...
CONTACT: Japanese lookouts spot Allied task force at 12,000 yards
Japanese TF attempts to evade combat
Range increases to 14,000 yards...
Range increases to 16,000 yards...
Range increases to 18,000 yards...
Range increases to 18,000 yards...
Both Task Forces evade combat

Ground combat at Kaoping (89,42)
 
Allied Bombardment attack
 
Attacking force 8308 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 217
 
Defending force 76190 troops, 1181 guns, 1993 vehicles, Assault Value = 2398
 
Allied ground losses:
      203 casualties reported
         Squads: 3 destroyed, 16 disabled
         Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled
         Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
 
Assaulting units:
    27th Chinese Corps
 
Defending units:
    19th/C Division
    29th/B Division
    14th/C Division
    10th/B Division
    29th/A Division
    23rd Tank Regiment
    14th/B Division
    19th/A Division
    9th Tank Regiment
    10th Tank Regiment
    10th/C Division
    16th Ind.Mixed Brigade
    10th/A Division
    5th Tank Regiment
    11th Tank Regiment
    14th/A Division
    3rd Tank Regiment
    19th/B Division
    29th/C Division
    NCPC Army
    57th Mobile AA Battalion
    28th Mobile AA Co 
    12th Hvy FA Rgt 
    20th Army
    4th Army
    29th Mobile AA Co 
    9th Hvy FA Rgt 
    4th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
    15th Hvy FA Rgt 
    8th Ind.VHvy.Art. Rgt 
    50th Fld AA Field AA Battalion
    55th Fld AA Field AA Battalion
    6th RF Gun Battalion
    Kwantung Army
    North China Area Army
    6th V.Hvy.Art. Bn 
    27th Mobile AA Co 
    22nd Medium FA Rgt 
    13th Ind.Art.Mortar Bn 
    5th Ind.VHvy.Art. Rgt 
    Botanko V. Hvy. Rgt 
    22nd Fld AA AA Battalion
    2nd V.Hvy.Art. Rgt 
    3rd V.Hvy.Art. Rgt 
    3rd Army
    28th Fld AA AA Battalion
    12th Army
    10th Mortar Battalion
    4th Hvy FA Rgt 
    23rd Fld AA AA Battalion
    Tonei V. Hvy. Rgt 
    4th RF Gun Battalion
    10th Hvy FA Rgt 
    5th Army
    1st V.Hvy.Art. Bn 
    7th Medium FA Rgt 
    20th Hvy FA Rgt 
    7th Ind.VHvy.Art. Rgt 
    4th Ind.VHvy.Art. Bn 
    5th Hvy FA Rgt 
    2nd Hvy FA Rgt 
    12th Ind.Art.Mortar Bn 
    11th Ind.Art.Mortar Bn 
    10th Mortar Battalion

Ground combat at 88,50 (near Hwainan)
 
Japanese Deliberate attack
 
Attacking force 8814 troops, 102 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 334
 
Defending force 16401 troops, 78 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 556
 
Japanese adjusted assault: 306 
 
Allied adjusted defense: 75 
 
Japanese assault odds: 4 to 1 
 
Combat modifiers
Defender: morale(-), experience(-)
Attacker: leaders(+)
 
Japanese ground losses:
      112 casualties reported
         Squads: 0 destroyed, 17 disabled
         Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
         Engineers: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
 
Allied ground losses:
      4065 casualties reported
         Squads: 243 destroyed, 13 disabled
         Non Combat: 150 destroyed, 0 disabled
         Engineers: 9 destroyed, 2 disabled
      Guns lost 8 (6 destroyed, 2 disabled)
      Units retreated 1
 
Defeated Allied Units Retreating!
 
Assaulting units:
    116th Division
 
Defending units:
    48th Chinese Corps
 
Morning Air attack on Amoy , at 83,61 
 
Weather in hex: Severe storms
 
Raid spotted at 31 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes
 
Allied aircraft
      DB-3M x 7
 
Allied aircraft losses
      DB-3M: 1 damaged
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       7 x DB-3M bombing from 16000 feet * 
               Airfield Attack:  5 x 100 kg GP Bomb
               

[PaxMondo]

All of these moves remind me of an expressions that ends with ". . . or get off the pot!"

I might have to start one of the much harder scenarios in a few days . . .

Again, this is a great story!

Thanks.

Yes a lot of moving pieces. In general, the IJ is really, really busy the first couple of months. Here, with the new leadership and new views on how things should work, it is even more.

Then add to this, all the things that Andy did for the allies.

HK Intel 12 Dec 41

Screenshot 2025-09-14 071218.jpg (22.91 KiB) Viewed 513 times

I mean, here is HK on the 12 Dec 41. When you look at this intel, WTF!??!? Brilliant job on the part of Andy to create this. So, what are you going to bring to this party? How much?

[PaxMondo]

12Dec41 - Seizo Arisue, Southern Army Vice Director
PI: Advance forces have reached Batangas. It will be another couple of days for the heavy forces to catch up. At least 1 ID is present. Pincer movement continues in Mindinao. Davao is secure and being built up as a interim staging area. Long term it will be an area Patrol post.

Malay: Still in initial stages of moving down the peninsula.

West Asia: CHI forces entered LangSon. This will trigger deployment of Viet garrison forces.

SE Pacific: Wake: supply still offloading. Follow on garrison forces getting ready to ship.
Guam: getting forces loaded for next assignment. 144th Rgmt to Malay to form ID. 15th Base force to Truk for now.
Mili: getting port to level 1. Being developed as Staging Base for SE pacific front. Baker taken today. Canton Is next on list.

Code: Select all

Ground combat at Lang Son (70,56)
 
Allied Bombardment attack
 
Attacking force 9191 troops, 33 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 164
 
Defending force 4484 troops, 55 guns, 1 vehicles, Assault Value = 161
 
Assaulting units:
    52nd Chinese Corps
 
Defending units:
    4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
    88th JAAF AF Coy 

Amphibious Assault at Baker Island (149,136)
 
TF 426 troops unloading over beach at Baker Island, 149,136
 
12 Support troops lost from landing craft during unload of 51st Nav Gd /2
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Amphibious Assault at Baker Island (149,136)
 
TF 15 troops unloading over beach at Baker Island, 149,136
 
 
  
Ground combat at Baker Island (149,136)
 
Japanese Shock attack
 
Attacking force 408 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 13
 
Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0
 
Japanese adjusted assault: 13 
 
Allied adjusted defense: 1 
 
Japanese assault odds: 13 to 1 (fort level 0) 
 
Japanese forces CAPTURE Baker Island !!!
 
Combat modifiers
Attacker: shock(+), leaders(-)
 
Assaulting units:
    51st Nav Gd /1

Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Naga at 81,81
 
Weather in hex: Severe storms
 
Raid detected at 39 NM, estimated altitude 22,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      A6M2 Zero x 22
      Ki-27b Nate x 15
 
Allied aircraft
      A-24 Banshee x 10
      B-18A Bolo x 6
      P-40B Warhawk x 14
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      A6M2 Zero: 2 destroyed
      Ki-27b Nate: 4 destroyed
 
Allied aircraft losses
      A-24 Banshee: 5 damaged
      B-18A Bolo: 1 destroyed
      P-40B Warhawk: 1 destroyed
 
Japanese Ships
      CA Maya
      CL Kuma
      CL Natori
      CA Ashigara
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       6 x B-18A Bolo bombing from 18000 feet
               Naval Attack:  4 x 500 lb GP Bomb
       6 x A-24 Banshee releasing from 2000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
       4 x A-24 Banshee releasing from 3000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 1000 lb GP Bomb
 
CAP engaged:
Tainan Ku S-1 with A6M2 Zero (18 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (22 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      18 plane(s) intercepting now.
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 18000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 18000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
50th Sentai with Ki-27b Nate (7 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (11 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      7 plane(s) intercepting now.
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 4 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 15 minutes
      8 planes vectored on to bombers
 
 
Morning Air attack on Manila , at 79,77 
 
Weather in hex: Moderate rain
 
Raid spotted at 36 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      G3M2 Nell x 9
      G4M1 Betty x 24
 
Allied aircraft
      no flights
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      G3M2 Nell: 1 damaged
      G4M1 Betty: 1 damaged
 
Allied aircraft losses
      P-35A: 35 damaged
      P-35A: 1 destroyed on ground
      P-40E Warhawk: 17 damaged
      P-40E Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground
      PBY-4 Catalina: 22 damaged
      A-24 Banshee: 20 damaged
      A-24 Banshee: 1 destroyed on ground
      SOC-1 Seagull: 1 damaged
      SOC-1 Seagull: 1 destroyed on ground
 
Airbase hits 8
Airbase supply hits 5
Runway hits 40
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      24 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
       9 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on Manila , at 79,77 
 
Weather in hex: Moderate rain
 
Raid spotted at 38 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      G3M2 Nell x 26
 
Allied aircraft
      no flights
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      G3M2 Nell: 7 damaged
 
Allied aircraft losses
      A-24 Banshee: 13 damaged
      P-40E Warhawk: 19 damaged
      P-40E Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground
      PBY-4 Catalina: 21 damaged
      PBY-4 Catalina: 1 destroyed on ground
      P-35A: 27 damaged
      P-35A: 1 destroyed on ground
      SOC-1 Seagull: 1 damaged
 
Airbase hits 6
Airbase supply hits 5
Runway hits 24
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      26 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
 
Morning Air attack on Amoy , at 83,61 
 
Weather in hex: Severe storms
 
Raid spotted at 31 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes
 
Allied aircraft
      DB-3M x 7
 
Allied aircraft losses
      DB-3M: 1 damaged
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       7 x DB-3M bombing from 16000 feet * 
               Airfield Attack:  5 x 100 kg GP Bomb
 
 

Afternoon Air attack on Pisanuloke , at 58,57 
 
Weather in hex: Heavy rain
 
Raid spotted at 24 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes
 
Allied aircraft
      H81-A3 x 12
      Hurricane IIa Trop x 22
      Hudson I x 13
 
No Allied losses
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      13 x Hudson I bombing from 5000 feet
               Port Attack:  4 x 250 lb GP Bomb
 
 

[PaxMondo]

12Dec41 – Late Night Tokyo, Saburo Ushiroku - Economics Ministry

Saburo finishes another day, and leans back in his chair; his stats for the days done. The ministry has been empty for hours now. He has been requested to be in attendance for the morning briefings with HIE. His current minister, Moshi?, is frequently floundering when called upon. He understands why, there are so many groups/teams/whatevers; it so hard to keep up with them all.

Going through them in his mind;

Chancellor Juji
Intelligence Director Tatsumi Eiichi with his team: Arisue, Etsuo, and Onoda.
Aircraft Designers: Jiro Horikoshi and Hiro Honjo
Aircraft Engine Designers: Ryoichi Nakagawa
Ship Design: Commander Yoshi Yashiba
Ship Construction: Shigeji Abe
AA: Admiral Seamu Toyoda, Capt Hata, Lt. Sagimora
Small Arms: Kijirō Nambu
Machine Guns: Takijiro Ohnishi

Aiyeeea!!! So many to try to keep track of. Sleep, he needed sleep because tomorrow only promised to be longer.

[PaxMondo]

13Dec41 – Imperial Palace Morning Briefing, Saburo Ushiroku - Economics Ministry

Bombshell. HEI through his Chamberlain, announced new, standardized TOE’s for Army and Naval Land Units. The rationale was explained that while in the past units could be customized for a mission specific profile, the exigencies that Japan now faced required that units be more exchangeable; better to counter unforeseen outcomes easier. As such, Army ID’s were now either a Class A or Class B. The difference being in the motorized component; Class B was intended for rough terrain with little to no motorized component. Infantry and Armor Brigades were also standardized. Etc. A major change is that the current Naval SNLF, which were largely raiding sized, would be slowly combined into larger forces to allow for the bigger operations foreseen in the war.

Examples:
IJA 41TypeA Div

IJA 41TypeA Div a.jpg (40.76 KiB) Viewed 424 times

IJA 41TypeA Div b.jpg (37.79 KiB) Viewed 424 times

IJA 41TypeB Div

IJA 41TypeB Div a.jpg (40.31 KiB) Viewed 424 times

IJA 41TypeB Div b.jpg (38.15 KiB) Viewed 424 times

As can be seen, the starting point of the TOE’s is very close to most ID starting points. They will slowly gain what they are missing as it becomes available, and in some cases like with an attached arty company will not recover them if lost.

[PaxMondo]

13Dec41 – Imperial Palace Morning Briefing, Saburo Ushiroku - Economics Ministry
The IJN TOE’s were something newer, representing roughly the combination of 3 current SNLF units. This was also done for the Base Gar units as well. Obviously, HIE foresaw the need for a large number of amphibious capable units in the future.

IJN 41 SNLF Div

IJN 41 SNLF Div a.jpg (39.53 KiB) Viewed 424 times

IJN 41 SNLF Div b.jpg (33.52 KiB) Viewed 424 times

IJN Base Gar 41 Div

IJN 41 Base Gar Div a.jpg (38.8 KiB) Viewed 424 times

IJN 41 Base Gar Div b.jpg (33.53 KiB) Viewed 424 times

Chancellor Juji concluded by stating that ALL other ground units had had similar reviews conducted with similar results. He reiterated that units would evolve to their new TOE's as need and supply would allow.

[PaxMondo]

13Dec41 – Imperial Palace Morning Briefing, Saburo Ushiroku - Economics Ministry

The buzz had barely concluded before the Chancellor stood again and announced the following upgrades that would occur shortly with the new year. Again, these would happen as supply and need dictated.

Small Arms
6.5mm to 7.7mm caliber Ariska rifles. This would improve the firepower of the IJ infantry needed for jungle warfare.

Machine Guns
Light machine guns would continue to be 7.7mm.
Heavy machine guns would become 13mm, giving some added light armor penetration.

Field Artillery
Standardize on a pair of 75mm guns.
75mm T94 Mtn Gun
75mm T90 Field Gun
Heavy Artillery would standardize on:
10cm T92 Gun
15cm T89 Gun

AA
25mm T96 AA Gun
8cm/60 T98 AA Gun
10cm T98 AA Gun

More information will follow as it is available.

HIE then took the floor. Speaking in his normal voice, but clearly for the room to hear, he stated that all of these improvements were incumbent upon the success of the current operations. The ability of the empire to function was in part based upon the flow of the requisite resources to her industries. Assigned targets need to be attained largely INTACT. That final word was stated clearly and with some finality to it; it resonated in the room for what seemed minutes. The briefing was then concluded for the day.

[PaxMondo]

13Dec41 Captain Onoda, Naval Vice Director

Shokaku - Today was passing between Marcus and Pagan Islands steadily steaming towards Shure drydock.

2nd convoy is in the Formosa straits between Formosa and China and narrowly gets away from a USN SS.
Sub attack near Taihoku at 87,62

Code: Select all

Japanese Ships
      xAP Argentina Maru
      xAP Terukuni Maru
      DD Nokaze
 
Allied Ships
      SS S-39
 
SS S-39 launches 4 torpedoes at xAP Argentina Maru
S-39 diving deep ....
DD Nokaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Nokaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Nokaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Nokaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Nokaze fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

Out subs are active between PH and the West Coast.
Zuikaku avoids a nighttime surface encounter.
Our interdiction around Pearl Harbor is having positive results.

Code: Select all

ASW attack near Hilo  at 183,111
 
Japanese Ships
      SS I-2, hits 2
 
Allied Ships
      DD Allen
      AK Castor
 
SS I-2 launches 2 torpedoes at DD Allen
DD Allen attacking submerged sub ....
DD Allen cannot reach attack position over SS I-2
DD Allen fails to find sub, continues to search...
DD Allen attacking submerged sub ....
SS I-2 eludes DD Allen by hugging bottom
SS I-2 eludes DD Allen by hugging bottom
SS I-2 eludes DD Allen by hugging bottom
DD Allen attacking submerged sub ....
SS I-2 eludes ASW attack from DD Allen 
DD Allen cannot establish contact with SS I-2
SS I-2 eludes DD Allen by hugging bottom
DD Allen fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

Sub attack near Pearl Harbor  at 178,112
 
Japanese Ships
      SS I-8
 
Allied Ships
      DD Porter, Torpedo hits 1,  on fire,  heavy damage
 
DD Porter is sighted by SS I-8
SS I-8 launches 2 torpedoes

Night Time Surface Combat, near Pearl Harbor at 187,96, Range 12,000 Yards
 
Japanese Ships
      CV Zuikaku
      DD Isogero
 
Allied Ships
      DD Cushing
      AP President Jackson
 
Reduced sighting due to 28% moonlight
Maximum visibility in Partly Cloudy Conditions and 28% moonlight: 6,000 yards
Range closes to 11,000 yards...
Range increases to 12,000 yards...
Range closes to 10,000 yards...
Range closes to 9,000 yards...
Range closes to 8,000 yards...
Range increases to 9,000 yards...
Range closes to 7,000 yards...
Range increases to 9,000 yards...
Range increases to 11,000 yards...
Range increases to 12,000 yards...
Range closes to 11,000 yards...
Range closes to 9,000 yards...
Range closes to 8,000 yards...
Range closes to 7,000 yards...
Range closes to 6,000 yards...
CONTACT: Japanese lookouts spot Allied task force at 6,000 yards
CONTACT: Allied lookouts spot Japanese task force at 6,000 yards
Both TF attempt to withdraw!
Range increases to 12,000 yards...
DD Cushing engages CV Zuikaku at 12,000 yards
DD Isogero engages DD Cushing at 12,000 yards
Task forces break off...


Sub attack near San Francisco  at 205,90
 
Japanese Ships
      SS I-26
 
Allied Ships
      xAK Dorothy Luckenbach, Torpedo hits 2,  heavy fires,  heavy damage
 
Allied ground losses:
      26 casualties reported
         Squads: 2 destroyed, 0 disabled
         Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
         Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
 
SS I-26 launches 4 torpedoes


Submarine attack near San Francisco  at 205,90
 
Japanese Ships
      SS I-26
 
Allied Ships
      xAK Dorothy Luckenbach, Torpedo hits 1,  on fire,  heavy damage
 
Allied ground losses:
      7 casualties reported
         Squads: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
         Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
         Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
 
xAK Dorothy Luckenbach is sighted by SS I-26
SS I-26 launches 2 torpedoes at xAK Dorothy Luckenbach
 


Submarine attack near San Francisco  at 202,93
 
Japanese Ships
      SS I-23
 
Allied Ships
      AP Barnett, Torpedo hits 1,  heavy damage
 
AP Barnett is sighted by SS I-23
SS I-23 launches 2 torpedoes at AP Barnett


Morning Air attack on TF, near Johnston Island at 170,121
 
Weather in hex: Clear sky
 
Raid spotted at 46 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 16 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      D3A1 Val x 14
      B5N2 Kate x 13
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      D3A1 Val: 1 damaged
 
Allied Ships
      DD Cummings, Bomb hits 1,  heavy fires
      AG Antares, Bomb hits 2,  on fire
      LST-930, Bomb hits 4, and is sunk
      AM Grebe, Bomb hits 1,  heavy fires,  heavy damage
 
Allied ground losses:
      1723 casualties reported
         Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
         Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 1 disabled
         Engineers: 97 destroyed, 22 disabled
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       6 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
      13 x B5N2 Kate bombing from 6000 feet
               Naval Attack:  2 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
       4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
       4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
 
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring DD Cummings
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring AM Grebe


Morning Air attack on TF, near Palmyra at 168,125
 
Weather in hex: Partial cloud
 
Raid spotted at 13 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      A6M2 Zero x 10
      B5N1 Kate x 1
 
No Japanese losses
 
Allied Ships
      AM Rail, Torpedo hits 1, and is sunk
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       1 x B5N1 Kate launching torpedoes at 200 feet
               Naval Attack:  2 x 45cm T91 Mod 2 Torp
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Palmyra at 168,125
 
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms
 
Raid spotted at 19 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      A6M2 Zero x 10
      D3A1 Val x 13
      B5N1 Kate x 5
      B5N2 Kate x 13
 
No Japanese losses
 
Allied Ships
      AG Arctic, Bomb hits 2,  heavy fires,  heavy damage
      AG Vega, Bomb hits 2,  on fire
      DD Patterson
      xAK Hoegh Merchant, Bomb hits 5, and is sunk
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       5 x B5N1 Kate bombing from 9000 feet
               Naval Attack:  2 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
       6 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
      13 x B5N2 Kate bombing from 6000 feet
               Naval Attack:  2 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
       7 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
 
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring AG Arctic
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring AG Vega
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAK Hoegh Merchant
 


Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Pearl Harbor at 183,101
 
Weather in hex: Partial cloud
 
Raid spotted at 11 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      A6M2 Zero x 2
      D3A1 Val x 27
      B5N2 Kate x 27
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      D3A1 Val: 2 damaged
 
Allied Ships
      DD Perkins, Bomb hits 1,  heavy fires
      AP President Jackson, Bomb hits 8, and is sunk
      AP President Polk, Bomb hits 1,  on fire
      AP President Monroe, Bomb hits 5,  heavy fires
      DD Cushing, Bomb hits 1,  on fire
      xAP Matsonia, Bomb hits 7,  heavy fires,  heavy damage
 
Allied ground losses:
      252 casualties reported
         Squads: 5 destroyed, 11 disabled
         Non Combat: 18 destroyed, 34 disabled
         Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
      Guns lost 55 (29 destroyed, 26 disabled)
      Vehicles lost 40 (22 destroyed, 18 disabled)
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       5 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
      27 x B5N2 Kate bombing from 9000 feet
               Naval Attack:  2 x 500 kg SAP Bomb
      18 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
       4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
               Naval Attack:  1 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
 
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring DD Cushing
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring DD Perkins
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring AP President Jackson
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring AP President Monroe

[PaxMondo]

13Dec41 Colonel Kotani Etsuo, Northern Army Vice Director

Our forces continue to buildup at Kaoping, Tsingsing, Kweisui, and Hongkong. In addition, forces are moving from Hankow to Sinyang to attempt to clear that stretch of LOS up to ChengChow.

Code: Select all

Ground combat at Kaoping (89,42)
 
Japanese Bombardment attack
 
Attacking force 52533 troops, 1050 guns, 767 vehicles, Assault Value = 2417
 
Defending force 8164 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 202
 
Allied ground losses:
      84 casualties reported
         Squads: 1 destroyed, 10 disabled
         Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
         Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
 
Assaulting units:
    29th/A Division
    3rd Tank Regiment
    10th/C Division
    29th/B Division
    5th Tank Regiment
    14th/B Division
    11th Tank Regiment
    9th Tank Regiment
    19th/A Division
    19th/C Division
    10th/B Division
    14th/A Division
    10th/A Division
    23rd Tank Regiment
    19th/B Division
    14th/C Division
    16th Ind.Mixed Brigade
    10th Tank Regiment
    29th/C Division
    57th Mobile AA Battalion
    28th Mobile AA Co 
    4th Ind.VHvy.Art. Bn 
    Botanko V. Hvy. Rgt 
    7th Ind.VHvy.Art. Rgt 
    7th Medium FA Rgt 
    3rd Army
    4th Army
    20th Hvy FA Rgt 
    20th Army
    12th Ind.Art.Mortar Bn 
    12th Hvy FA Rgt 
    50th Fld AA Field AA Battalion
    10th Mortar Battalion
    Tonei V. Hvy. Rgt 
    55th Fld AA Field AA Battalion
    NCPC Army
    1st V.Hvy.Art. Bn 
    8th Ind.VHvy.Art. Rgt 
    10th Hvy FA Rgt 
    5th Army
    15th Hvy FA Rgt 
    23rd Fld AA AA Battalion
    5th Ind.VHvy.Art. Rgt 
    29th Mobile AA Co 
    27th Mobile AA Co 
    6th V.Hvy.Art. Bn 
    13th Ind.Art.Mortar Bn 
    6th RF Gun Battalion
    3rd V.Hvy.Art. Rgt 
    28th Fld AA AA Battalion
    Kwantung Army
    4th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
    4th Hvy FA Rgt 
    22nd Fld AA AA Battalion
    9th Hvy FA Rgt 
    5th Hvy FA Rgt 
    12th Army
    11th Ind.Art.Mortar Bn 
    22nd Medium FA Rgt 
    4th RF Gun Battalion
    North China Area Army
    2nd Hvy FA Rgt 
    2nd V.Hvy.Art. Rgt 
    10th Mortar Battalion
 
Defending units:
    27th Chinese Corps
 
 
---------------------------------------------

 
Ground combat at Kaoping (89,42)
 
Allied Bombardment attack
 
Attacking force 8082 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 193
 
Defending force 76533 troops, 1182 guns, 1993 vehicles, Assault Value = 2417
 
Allied ground losses:
      107 casualties reported
         Squads: 1 destroyed, 7 disabled
         Non Combat: 2 destroyed, 0 disabled
         Engineers: 0 destroyed, 5 disabled
 
Assaulting units:
    27th Chinese Corps
 
Defending units:
    14th/A Division
    14th/C Division
    11th Tank Regiment
    5th Tank Regiment
    29th/A Division
    19th/A Division
    19th/C Division
    23rd Tank Regiment
    29th/B Division
    14th/B Division
    3rd Tank Regiment
    19th/B Division
    10th Tank Regiment
    10th/A Division
    10th/B Division
    10th/C Division
    16th Ind.Mixed Brigade
    9th Tank Regiment
    29th/C Division
    57th Mobile AA Battalion
    7th Ind.VHvy.Art. Rgt 
    12th Ind.Art.Mortar Bn 
    8th Ind.VHvy.Art. Rgt 
    4th Army
    4th RF Gun Battalion
    28th Mobile AA Co 
    Tonei V. Hvy. Rgt 
    13th Ind.Art.Mortar Bn 
    4th Ind.VHvy.Art. Bn 
    Kwantung Army
    9th Hvy FA Rgt 
    12th Hvy FA Rgt 
    22nd Medium FA Rgt 
    28th Fld AA AA Battalion
    5th Hvy FA Rgt 
    3rd V.Hvy.Art. Rgt 
    4th Hvy FA Rgt 
    5th Army
    27th Mobile AA Co 
    5th Ind.VHvy.Art. Rgt 
    NCPC Army
    2nd V.Hvy.Art. Rgt 
    3rd Army
    12th Army
    22nd Fld AA AA Battalion
    6th V.Hvy.Art. Bn 
    11th Ind.Art.Mortar Bn 
    29th Mobile AA Co 
    10th Hvy FA Rgt 
    23rd Fld AA AA Battalion
    15th Hvy FA Rgt 
    10th Mortar Battalion
    2nd Hvy FA Rgt 
    7th Medium FA Rgt 
    6th RF Gun Battalion
    50th Fld AA Field AA Battalion
    55th Fld AA Field AA Battalion
    20th Hvy FA Rgt 
    1st V.Hvy.Art. Bn 
    Botanko V. Hvy. Rgt 
    North China Area Army
    20th Army
    4th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
    10th Mortar Battalion

Unescorted attacks we are still able to defend against. HK suppression continues to prevent fortifications. Aircraft are based in Canton, Amoy, and Takao.

Code: Select all

Afternoon Air attack on Hankow , at 85,50 
 
Weather in hex: Overcast
 
Raid spotted at 17 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      Ki-27b Nate x 30
 
Allied aircraft
      DB-3M x 3
 
No Japanese losses
 
No Allied losses
 
CAP engaged:
54th Sentai with Ki-27b Nate (5 airborne, 10 on standby, 15 scrambling)
      5 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 34 minutes


Morning Air attack on Hong Kong , at 77,61 
 
Weather in hex: Heavy rain
 
Raid detected at 113 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 41 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      Ki-21-IIa Sally x 26
      Ki-51 Sonia x 4
 
Allied aircraft
      Hurricane IIb Trop x 2
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      Ki-21-IIa Sally: 2 destroyed, 7 damaged
      Ki-21-IIa Sally: 1 destroyed by flak
      Ki-51 Sonia: 1 destroyed by flak
 
Allied aircraft losses
      Hurricane IIb Trop: 2 damaged
      Vildebeest III: 1 destroyed on ground
 
Airbase hits 6
Runway hits 27
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      18 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
       3 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
       4 x Ki-51 Sonia bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack:  4 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
CAP engaged:
HK Wing with Hurricane IIb Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 1 scrambling)
      1 plane(s) intercepting now.
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters to 11000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 70 minutes
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on Hong Kong , at 77,61 
 
Weather in hex: Heavy rain
 
Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      Ki-21-IIa Sally x 12
 
Allied aircraft
      Hurricane IIb Trop x 2
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      Ki-21-IIa Sally: 2 destroyed, 2 damaged
      Ki-21-IIa Sally: 1 destroyed by flak
 
Allied aircraft losses
      Hurricane IIb Trop: 1 damaged
 
Airbase hits 1
Runway hits 4
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       8 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
CAP engaged:
HK Wing with Hurricane IIb Trop (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      1 plane(s) intercepting now.
      1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters to 8000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 14 minutes
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on Hong Kong , at 77,61 
 
Weather in hex: Heavy rain
 
Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      Ki-21-IIa Sally x 16
 
Allied aircraft
      Hurricane IIb Trop x 1
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      Ki-21-IIa Sally: 2 damaged
 
Allied aircraft losses
      Hurricane IIb Trop: 1 damaged
      Walrus II: 1 destroyed on ground
 
Airbase hits 2
Runway hits 17
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      16 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
CAP engaged:
HK Wing with Hurricane IIb Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters to 8000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on Hong Kong , at 77,61 
 
Weather in hex: Heavy rain
 
Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      Ki-27b Nate x 7
      Ki-30 Ann x 19
      Ki-51 Sonia x 9
 
Allied aircraft
      Hurricane IIb Trop x 1
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      Ki-51 Sonia: 2 damaged
 
No Allied losses
 
Airbase hits 2
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 5
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      19 x Ki-30 Ann bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack:  9 x 50 kg GP Bomb
       9 x Ki-51 Sonia bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack:  4 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
CAP engaged:
HK Wing with Hurricane IIb Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters to 8000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 2 minutes
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on Hong Kong , at 77,61 
 
Weather in hex: Heavy rain
 
Raid detected at 118 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 55 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      Ki-36 Ida x 14
      Ki-44 Tojo x 7
 
Allied aircraft
      Hurricane IIb Trop x 1
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      Ki-36 Ida: 1 destroyed by flak
      Ki-44 Tojo: 1 destroyed
 
No Allied losses
 
Runway hits 1
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      13 x Ki-36 Ida bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack:  5 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
CAP engaged:
HK Wing with Hurricane IIb Trop (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 7000 , scrambling fighters to 12000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 11 minutes
 

[PaxMondo]

13Dec41 - Seizo Arisue, Southern Army Vice Director

Viet forces arrive in Haiphong.

Code: Select all

Ground combat at Lang Son (70,56)
 
Allied Bombardment attack
 
Attacking force 9198 troops, 33 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 165
 
Defending force 4552 troops, 55 guns, 2 vehicles, Assault Value = 166
 
Allied ground losses:
      7 casualties reported
         Squads: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
         Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
         Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
 
Assaulting units:
    52nd Chinese Corps
 
Defending units:
    4th Ind.Mixed Brigade
    88th JAAF AF Coy

Lot’sa air attacks to defend against.

Code: Select all

Morning Air attack on TF, near Singora at 51,72
 
Weather in hex: Severe storms
 
Raid detected at 37 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      A6M2 Zero x 1
      Ki-27b Nate x 34
      Ki-43-Ia Oscar x 7
      Ki-43-Ib Oscar x 4
 
Allied aircraft
      Blenheim I x 3
 
No Japanese losses
 
Allied aircraft losses
      Blenheim I: 2 destroyed
 
CAP engaged:
Yamada Det S-1 with A6M2 Zero (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (1 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      1 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
      Raid is overhead
59th Sentai with Ki-43-Ia Oscar (2 airborne, 5 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (2 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      2 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 16000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
64th Sentai with Ki-43-Ib Oscar (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (4 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      4 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
      Raid is overhead
1st Sentai with Ki-27b Nate (4 airborne, 14 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      4 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 10000 and 17000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 26 minutes
77th Sentai with Ki-27b Nate (4 airborne, 12 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      4 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 8000 and 13000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on TF, near Singora at 51,72
 
Weather in hex: Severe storms
 
Raid spotted at 32 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 20 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      Ki-27b Nate x 32
      Ki-43-Ia Oscar x 6
      Ki-43-Ib Oscar x 3
 
Allied aircraft
      Swordfish I x 2
 
No Japanese losses
 
Allied aircraft losses
      Swordfish I: 1 destroyed
 
CAP engaged:
1st Sentai with Ki-27b Nate (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      11 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 10000 and 17000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes
59th Sentai with Ki-43-Ia Oscar (4 airborne, 1 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      4 plane(s) intercepting now.
      1 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 5000 and 16000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 21 minutes
64th Sentai with Ki-43-Ib Oscar (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 3 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
77th Sentai with Ki-27b Nate (4 airborne, 8 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      4 plane(s) intercepting now.
      3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 8000 and 13000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 38 minutes
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Singora at 51,72
 
Weather in hex: Severe storms
 
Raid detected at 36 NM, estimated altitude 15,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      A6M2 Zero x 2
      Ki-27b Nate x 33
      Ki-43-Ia Oscar x 7
 
Allied aircraft
      Buffalo I x 9
      Vengeance I x 4
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      Ki-27b Nate: 1 destroyed
      Ki-43-Ia Oscar: 1 destroyed
 
Allied aircraft losses
      Vengeance I: 1 destroyed
 
CAP engaged:
59th Sentai with Ki-43-Ia Oscar (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (7 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      7 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
      Raid is overhead
      2 planes vectored on to bombers
Yamada Det S-1 with A6M2 Zero (2 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (2 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      2 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
      Raid is overhead
      2 planes vectored on to bombers
1st Sentai with Ki-27b Nate (4 airborne, 13 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      4 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 9000 and 11000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
      12 planes vectored on to bombers
77th Sentai with Ki-27b Nate (4 airborne, 12 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      4 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 10000 and 11000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 25 minutes
      12 planes vectored on to bombers
 
 


Morning Air attack on TF, near Kota Bharu at 51,75
 
Weather in hex: Heavy rain
 
Raid detected at 38 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 24 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      A6M2 Zero x 3
      Ki-43-Ia Oscar x 5
      Ki-43-Ib Oscar x 9
 
Allied aircraft
      Hurricane I Trop x 10
      Hurricane IIa Trop x 9
      Hurricane IId Trop x 2
      Vildebeest III x 17
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      A6M2 Zero: 1 destroyed
      Ki-43-Ib Oscar: 1 destroyed
 
Allied aircraft losses
      Vildebeest III: 1 damaged
      Vildebeest III: 1 destroyed by flak
 
Japanese Ships
      CA Mogami, Torpedo hits 1
      CA Kumano
      DD Nowagero
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      16 x Vildebeest III launching torpedoes at 200 feet
               Naval Attack:  1 x 18in Mk XII Torpedo
 
CAP engaged:
Yamada Det S-1 with A6M2 Zero (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (3 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 3 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 4 minutes
59th Sentai with Ki-43-Ia Oscar (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (5 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 5 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters to 16000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 5 minutes
64th Sentai with Ki-43-Ib Oscar (4 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (9 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      4 plane(s) intercepting now.
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 5 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 6 minutes
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Kota Bharu at 51,75
 
Weather in hex: Partial cloud
 
Raid detected at 37 NM, estimated altitude 23,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      A6M2 Zero x 1
      Ki-43-Ia Oscar x 2
      Ki-43-Ib Oscar x 12
 
Allied aircraft
      Blenheim IV x 3
 
No Japanese losses
 
Allied aircraft losses
      Blenheim IV: 1 destroyed, 1 damaged
 
Japanese Ships
      CA Mogami
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       1 x Blenheim IV bombing from 19000 feet * 
               Naval Attack:  2 x 250 lb GP Bomb
 
CAP engaged:
Yamada Det S-1 with A6M2 Zero (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (1 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      1 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
      Raid is overhead
59th Sentai with Ki-43-Ia Oscar (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (2 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 17 minutes
64th Sentai with Ki-43-Ib Oscar (12 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      (12 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
      12 plane(s) intercepting now.
      Group patrol altitude is 10000 , scrambling fighters between 0 and 10000.
      Raid is overhead
      
 
 Afternoon Air attack on Chiang Mai , at 58,53 
 
Weather in hex: Light cloud
 
Raid spotted at 48 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 16 minutes
 
Allied aircraft
      H81-A3 x 24
      Hudson I x 13
 
No Allied losses
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      13 x Hudson I bombing from 15000 feet
               Port Attack:  4 x 250 lb GP Bomb     
 

Continue to suppress Manila and Cebu air fields.

Code: Select all

Morning Air attack on Manila , at 79,77 
 
Weather in hex: Overcast
 
Raid detected at 115 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 40 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      G3M2 Nell x 9
      G4M1 Betty x 25
 
Allied aircraft
      SO3C-3 Seacat x 4
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      G3M2 Nell: 3 damaged
      G4M1 Betty: 6 damaged
 
Allied aircraft losses
      SOC-1 Seagull: 1 destroyed on ground
      P-35A: 2 destroyed on ground
      A-24 Banshee: 1 destroyed on ground
 
Airbase hits 12
Airbase supply hits 6
Runway hits 72
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      25 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
       9 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
CAP engaged:
F-583 with SO3C-3 Seacat (0 airborne, 2 on standby, 1 scrambling)
      0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 1 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 12000 , scrambling fighters between 8000 and 12000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 33 minutes
 
 
 
---------------------------------------------

Morning Air attack on Manila , at 79,77 
 
Weather in hex: Overcast
 
Raid detected at 39 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      G3M2 Nell x 25
 
Allied aircraft
      SO3C-3 Seacat x 3
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      G3M2 Nell: 3 damaged
 
Allied aircraft losses
      P-40E Warhawk: 1 destroyed on ground
      P-35A: 1 destroyed on ground
 
Airbase hits 9
Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 34
 
Aircraft Attacking:
      25 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 8000 feet
               Airfield Attack: 20 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
CAP engaged:
F-583 with SO3C-3 Seacat (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
      2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
      Group patrol altitude is 12000 , scrambling fighters to 8000.
      Time for all group planes to reach interception is 60 minutes
 
 



Night Air attack on Cebu , at 80,86 
 
Weather in hex: Overcast
 
Raid spotted at 35 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes
 
Japanese aircraft
      Ki-21-IIa Sally x 4
 
Japanese aircraft losses
      Ki-21-IIa Sally: 2 damaged
 
Aircraft Attacking:
       4 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 5000 feet * 
               Airfield Attack: 13 x 50 kg GP Bomb
 
 

[PaxMondo]

13Dec41 - Saburo Ushiroku - Economics Ministry
Saburo got another item added to his daily tracking list: AvGas. Chancellor Juji gave him the background with this assignment. It appears that IJ started the war with about 100,000 sorties worth of AvGas in their inventory. That might seem like a lot, but considering that before the integration of the IJN/IJA into a consolidated air force, they had been flying about 3000 sorties/day and the allies were currently flying about 4000 sorties/day; it represented only about 30 days worth of AvGas. Current AvGAs production is only just over 2700 sorties/day. So, tracking AvGas inventory was critical for the war effort.
Currently, to conserve AvGas and build up inventories, the war cabinet was restricting flights and had grounded a great number of the older planes. They were simply too inefficient. The hope is that with conquest AvGas production will rise, and with new production of better models they will need to use more daily sorties. The key is watching both of these carefully.

411213 AvGas.jpg (67.62 KiB) Viewed 370 times

So, looking at the chart, the bars are daily numbers and the lines a total sorties. So, recently the number of daily sorties is down to about 1250/day while the production remains at 2700/day, giving IJ a gain of almost 1500 sorties/day. The scary part that even Saburo can see is that at some point the IJ is going to have to match the allied sortie rate, which now is over 4000 sorties/day. Given current production, that would mean a 1300 sortie/day deficit ... something that cannot be support for very long. Yes, this needs close watching indeed.

[PaxMondo]

Mod Note:

This is an external limitation to the IJ expansion that I added to my game many years ago. It prevents IJ from rampant AC expansion, particularly in the early war. This limitation forces the player (me) to commit to a realistic strategy. The approach was derived after a ton of research into what the actual capability IJ had for AvGas, and what they might have been able to do. Refinery construction in game is FAR FASTER than reality. In real life, start to finish on a medium sized refinery for that era, and you are talking at least 5 years.*

So, I worked out an algorithm that will allow me to use the refinery build/repair process as it is modelled in game and still get something that approximates reality AND will limit the number of sorties to something that approximates reality. So, this will be tracked and as you will see, it can and likely will impact the game as we go along. Basically, you can build 20,000 Tojos if you want, but you will only get to fly them for a couple of months and then they will be grounded for lack of AvGas.



*Site prep alone is 2 years in the best case. Refineries require huge amounts of infrastructure to support them: electricity, pipelines, transportation (rail/sea). This has to be in place BEFORE construction starts. Then you build it, then you start it up, finally you have production. Construction phase is 2 years or more greatly depending upon exact what units the refinery will be composed of. Most of the key items are CUSTOM made and require long lead times to fabricate and deliver. Then startup is 6 months and more to get running. There is a long process to starting up a refinery for the first time. Failure to follow this process will generally result in a fire … not a good thing at a refinery.

[PaxMondo]

13 Dec 41 Hiroshima Mitsubishi Design Center - Jiro Horikoshi

Ryoichi had gotten back to Jiro with some clearer numbers on the Ha-35, prioritized because it was for the “Eagles” (A6M). He was looking for about a 15% boost in power, from the current 940 hp to something near 1075 hp by 42 Feb 1. It was still going to be a 2 speed supercharger unit, but the 2nd speed would be significantly higher from using the new materials on the blower coupled with a smaller gear to get the higher speed. This would be a “field” install, so all current units could be upgraded to the new blower. There would be one catch: the higher speed meant higher exit temps and that meant the higher speed blower could not be used for take off or low level operations, but anything above about 5000ft would be fine.

Jiro leaned back in his chair with the telegram in his hands. 15%. 15%. Over 100hp. Huge. With the gun swap being about weight neutral (the 13mm weighed more than the 7.7mm, but less than the 20mm), he could replace the 2 cowling mounted 7.7mm with 13mm and then move the outboard cannons to inboard 13mm in the wing roots. That would give the plane 4x13mm CL guns. Equaling or better than the allied fighters. Losing the wing mounted cannon would improve the roll rate of his already very maneuverable Eagle.

So, the armament change wouldn’t use any of the new power. They could change the pitch on the propeller slightly, to improve climb and max speed, but he knew that he was already near the maximum speed on this design. Maybe get another 10 - 15mph at best. So that meant he could add armor and then range.

He already knew that the engine induction change would add no weight and the guns would be weight neutral as well. The speed increase would use a little of the new power, very little actually. So he had the bulk of the new power to add weight in the form of armor and fuel. The good news: both of these would also be field type changes on the aircraft. So, all current production could be upgraded to the new model in the field; a very big deal indeed.

He leaned forward, pulled a new piece of drawing paper into place and started to sketch out his ideas with one hand, the other (and this is a pro trick) was wisking the slide rule through hundreds of calcs. 1" armor plate needed to stop 50 cal at 100 yds is about 41 lbs/ft2 ... adding bladders to the fuel tanks so that they were self-sealing added ... still left enough power to handle more fuel for more range ... So passed another night ….

By morning he his rough calcs completed. The guns change actually came in less weight by about 70lb, ammo was the difference. He could increase the plane weight by about 200lbs with both self-sealing tanks and armor and still add another 300 lbs of fuel. This would take the range of the A6M from 11/14 to about 13/17 and a top speed from 331 to about 345. Most importantly it would add armor and take the "standard" gun value from 12 to 16.

[RangerJoe]

If I remember correctly, the Japanese at the end of the war also used turpentine as an aviation fuel. Not that I am recommending it for combat duty but if there should be an excess of turpentine from the wood from the charcoal production, then maybe that could be used for the training aircraft? Nothing too strenuous for the engine if it were to be used in the primary trainers. That maybe something to consider to "stretch" the avgas available for operations.

Also, did the Japanese use something like 100% octane or was it a lower rating, much more like mogas? The Germans even had a diesel powered bomber.

[PaxMondo]

If I remember correctly, the Japanese at the end of the war also used turpentine as an aviation fuel. Not that I am recommending it for combat duty but if there should be an excess of turpentine from the wood from the charcoal production, then maybe that could be used for the training aircraft? Nothing too strenuous for the engine if it were to be used in the primary trainers. That maybe something to consider to "stretch" the avgas available for operations.

Also, did the Japanese use something like 100% octane or was it a lower rating, much more like mogas? The Germans even had a diesel powered bomber.

Well, you can use any fuel you want in an engine. BUT, aircraft engines are about power to weight, so using lower power fuels like turpentine and diesel are possible, but the aircraft will be an emu, not an Eagle.

As already discussed, they will be looking at wet gas (Methanol) injection which was also the primary alternative that the Germans ended up using for exactly the same reasons: they could NOT get 140 octane AvGas, so they just used wet gas to make up for it. See the 10 Dec 41 entry for Ryoichi above for some prelimiary thoughts on this. Further info will be coming forth at a later date when this RnD really gets into swing.