Sleepless on Samoa, the Sequel (wneumann vs Pillager) Allies only

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/04/43

Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 8/03 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Nauru Is and Tabiteuea. Detected status of both Nauru and Tabiteuea show unidentified Jap planes based at each location, also ship(s) in port in both bases. No other visible Japanese forces or activity observed.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/03 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed 6, Moving West
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga , Speed 3, Moving Southwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Australia: Unescorted small Dutch AGP moving along the coast between Newcastle and Brisbane attacked and sunk by two Jap submarines. AAR’s follow.

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Submarine attack near Newcastle at 94,165 (N of Newcastle)

Japanese Ships
SS RO-62

Allied Ships
AGP Eridanus, Shell hits 6

AGP Eridanus is sighted by SS RO-62
SS RO-62 attacking on the surface
SS RO-62 low on gun ammo, Nakamura, T. breaks off surface engagement and submerges

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Submarine attack near Newcastle at 94,165

Japanese Ships
SS RO-63

Allied Ships
AGP Eridanus, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage (sunk)

AGP Eridanus is sighted by SS RO-63
SS RO-63 launches 2 torpedoes

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Burma: Not a good night for Allied air forces over Burma… though daylight would be much worse. The bombing raids are not producing much damage but they still draw the attention of 200 IJA fighters which are not being employed elsewhere.


Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon (after raids below) – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 85 aircraft (all fighters), airfield damage 6, 9 Jap LCU’s, light industry 5(36).

USAAF and RAF bombers launch night raid on Rangoon airfield. Allied plane losses were 15 bombers (9 B-17E, 2 B-24D, 3 Liberator II, 1 Wellington GR.VIII) – one plane destroyed in air-to-air action, one lost to flak, the remaining bombers destroyed ops losses. Allied pilots lost included 6 USAAF, 4 RAF. Japanese planes lost included 6 A6M3a Zero (5 air-to-air, 1 ops) plus two fighters destroyed on the ground (1 Ki-44 Tojo, 1 Ki-61 Tony). AAR’s plus Combat Events and Operation report entries follow.

7 x No.159 Sqn RAF Liberator II stray due to night
4 x No.160 Sqn RAF Wellington GR.VIII stray due to night
5 x No.353 Sqn RAF Wellington GR.VIII stray due to night
5 x 7th BG/9th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
7 x 341st BG/11th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
5 x 341st BG/22nd BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
4 x 341st BG/490th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
6 x 7th BG/492nd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 7th BG/493rd BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
5 x No.160 Sqn RAF Wellington GR.VIII stray due to night
5 x No.215 Sqn RAF Wellington B.X stray due to night
7 x 7th BG/9th BS B-24D Liberator stray due to night
4 x 341st BG/11th BS B-17E Fortress stray due to night
Damaged Liberator II from No.159 Sqn RAF does not return, pilot reported killed
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/11th BS crashes on landing
Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/22nd BS does not return, pilot reported killed
Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/22nd BS crashes on return leg, pilot reported killed
Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/11th BS shot down on way home, pilot reported killed
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/22nd BS is written off
Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/11th BS crashes on return leg, pilot reported killed
Damaged Wellington GR.VIII from No.160 Sqn RAF is missing
Liberator II from No.159 Sqn RAF is written off
Liberator II from No.159 Sqn RAF crashes on landing
Damaged B-24D Liberator from 7th BG/9th BS is missing, pilot reported killed
Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/491st BS crashes, pilot reported killed
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/491st BS is written off
Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/491st BS does not return, pilot reported killed


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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud (14% moonlight)

Raid detected at 71 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 26 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 19

Allied aircraft
Liberator II x 9
B-17E Fortress x 29

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 4 damaged
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed on ground
Ki-61-Ia Tony: 1 destroyed on ground

Allied aircraft losses
Liberator II: 2 damaged
B-17E Fortress: 14 damaged

Japanese ground losses:
5 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 6

Aircraft Attacking:
12 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 6000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 4 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x Liberator II bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
7 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 6000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 4 x 500 lb GP Bomb
5 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 6000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 4 x 500 lb GP Bomb
5 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 6000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 4 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 8 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 9000, scrambling fighters to 36750.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 48 minutes

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid spotted at 29 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 19

Allied aircraft
Wellington GR.VIII x 7

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Wellington GR.VIII: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x Wellington GR.VIII bombing from 8000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 3 x 250 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (15 airborne, 0 on standby, 4 scrambling)
15 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000, scrambling fighters to 36000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 52 minutes

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid spotted at 46 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 16 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 19

Allied aircraft
Liberator II x 7

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Liberator II: 1 damaged

Airbase hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x Liberator II bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (19 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
19 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid detected at 32 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 19

Allied aircraft
Wellington GR.VIII x 4

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Wellington GR.VIII: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x Wellington GR.VIII bombing from 8000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 3 x 250 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (19 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
19 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid detected at 16 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 19

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 2 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (19 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
19 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid detected at 46 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 16

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 7

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 2 damaged

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 6000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 4 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (16 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
16 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid detected at 21 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 16

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 5

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 6000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 4 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (16 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
16 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid detected at 37 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 15

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (15 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
15 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid detected at 37 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 12

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 1 damaged
B-24D Liberator: 1 destroyed by flak

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (12 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
12 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 7

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 7

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 4 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid spotted at 45 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 7

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 4

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 6000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 4 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
7 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 9000
Raid is overhead

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Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon (after raid below) – 109 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 132(169), refinery 97(4).

RAF 2E bombers launch what is likely an unproductive night raid on oil production facilities in Magwe – no detected additional damage to oil facilties. No Japanese CAP fighters reported destroyed. Six RAF bombers lost (includes 3 Blenheim IV, 2 Wellington B.X, 1 Wellington Ic) – 3 destroyed in air-to-air action, 3 ops losses. Three RAF pilots lost in this action. AAR’s plus Combat Events and Operation report entries follow.

4 x No.84 Sqn RAF Blenheim IV stray due to night
4 x No.215 Sqn RAF Wellington B.X stray due to night
5 x No.215 Sqn RAF Wellington B.X stray due to night
Blenheim IV from No.110 Sqn RAF crashes on landing
Wellington B.X from No.215 Sqn RAF is written off
Blenheim IV from No.45 Sqn RAF crashes on landing
Wellington Ic from No.146 Sqn RAF is written off

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Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Weather in hex: Severe storms (14% moonlight)

Raid detected at 79 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 27 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIa Nick x 13

Allied aircraft
Blenheim IV x 40

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Blenheim IV: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x Blenheim IV bombing from 8000 feet *
City Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb
12 x Blenheim IV bombing from 8000 feet *
City Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb
11 x Blenheim IV bombing from 8000 feet *
City Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIa Nick (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 4 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 6000, scrambling fighters between 3000 and 11000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 50 minutes

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Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid spotted at 71 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 24 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIa Nick x 10

Allied aircraft
Blenheim IV x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Blenheim IV bombing from 8000 feet *
City Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIa Nick (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
10 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 6000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 16 minutes

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Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 40 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 15 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIa Nick x 10

Allied aircraft
Wellington Ic x 12

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Wellington Ic: 2 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x Wellington Ic bombing from 6000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIa Nick (10 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
10 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 6000
Raid is overhead

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Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid spotted at 43 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 16 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIa Nick x 10

Allied aircraft
Wellington B.X x 5

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Wellington B.X: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Wellington B.X bombing from 6000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIa Nick (10 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
10 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 6000
Raid is overhead

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China: Three detected Jap LCU along the road from southern China to Lashio, one of these LCU identified as 15th Infantry Division (reported in a 8/03 Sigint entry). 15 Division had been previously employed at Chungking. Situation map follows.

[johnjohn]

On the Johnjohn front--computer problems have stalled play. A new video card is enroute to fix the problem.

March Development.

1. Hornet arrived and immediately swapped out DBs for SBD-3s. She is on the long run to the WC.
2. Raid on Midway has larger carrier force than H and S. Either several CVLs have joined up (mini KB) or another of the big fleet types has joined. Combat ops have 2 fleet and 2 CVL, about 200 planes total. However, Intel has lost two fleet carriers operating in DEI. Thus, Enterprise and Sara, operating near Luganville, are now one day out of PH. With Yorktown there, I have three (soon to be five) fleet carriers in CentPac with which to defend the islands. Not doing anything until the Vindies at Midway upgrade. The carrier groups will be down for most of April with planned upgrades.

Waiting on the video card to get back into the war. John

[wneumann]

johnjohn,

Prudence is often boring but rarely costly. I've taken the doctrine that US carrier operations in 1942-43 (or at least early 43) should satisfy four criteria before serious consideration can be taken to execute them: (1) the carrier operation is positively necessary, (2) the operation has a clearly defined objective, (3) tactical and/or strategic aspects of the situation at the time are at least somewhat favorable to the Allies launching an operation, (4) likely results from the carrier operation provide at least a medium if not long-term benefit to overall Allied conduct of the campaign. Preferably all four of the above criteria should be satisfied. The carrier raid on Palembang I launched earlier actually violated this rule slightly - although the raid was not absolutely necessary from at least a tactical standpoint, the case for criteria (2) (3) and (4) above were strong enough where requiring an absolute need for launching the raid could be somewhat overlooked. Simply a matter of discretion.

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/04/43

Japanese Home Islands: US patrol sub damaged in attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol south of Kanoya (hex location 102, 63). Reported damage to sub includes system 40, float 19, engine 3 – returning to base at 16 kts movement.


Central Pacific: Jap transport intercepted by US patrol sub at southern entrance to Kwajalein base. AAR follows.

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Submarine attack near Kwajalein Island at 132,116 (adjacent hex SW of Kwajalein)

Japanese Ships
AMC Hokoku Maru, Torpedo hits 1, heavy fires, heavy damage (oil cargo burning)

Allied Ships
SS Seadragon

AMC Hokoku Maru is sighted by SS Seadragon
SS Seadragon launches 4 torpedoes at AMC Hokoku Maru

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Jap transport convoy intercepted by US patrol sub east of the Marianas. AAR follows.

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Sub attack near Saipan at 115,95 (ESE of Saipan)

Japanese Ships
xAK Maebasi Maru
xAK Toba Maru
E Sanae

Allied Ships
SS Searaven

SS Searaven launches 2 torpedoes at xAK Maebasi Maru
E Sanae fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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Another nearby US patrol sub reporting contact with a detected Japanese transport TF east of the northern Marianas, visible on the game map at hex location 114, 90 (ESE of Pagan). It’s possible this contact could be the same Jap transport convoy intercepted by SS Searaven (AAR above), though the contact near Pagan could be a different Jap TF. No positive evidence going either way. Detected composition of the Jap TF near Pagan shows 4 unidentified ships, also movement on an E heading.


Sigint entry for 8/04 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Wake Is. Detected status of Wake Is shows unidentified Jap planes based there, airfield size 3(0), port size 1(0), no other visible Japanese forces or activity.

Heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Truk reported in another 8/04 Sigint entry. Detected status of Truk (as expected) shows unidentified Jap planes based there and ship(s) in port – no other visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Damaged US patrol sub returning to base intercepts Jap transport TF near Shortlands – this contact possibly moving on a course (either north or southbound) along the northern edge of the Solomons. AAR follows.

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ASW attack near Shortlands at 111,130 (NE of Shortlands)

Japanese Ships
PB Kensyo Maru
xAKL Fukuyo Maru
xAKL Tatsuha Maru
xAKL Kanaiyama Maru
xAKL Kashi Maru
xAKL Heiwa Maru
xAKL Sasago Maru
xAKL Ryoyu Maru #21
PB Heizan Maru

Allied Ships
SS Cisco

SS Cisco is sighted by escort
Cisco diving deep ....
PB Heizan Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/04 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Morioka Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 107,125 near Namatanai, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 108,124 near Lihir, Speed 7, Moving Northeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 107,123 near Tabar Island, Speed 7, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher Report: AK Kozui Maru reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 100 aircraft (all fighters), airfield damage 7, 9 Jap LCU’s, light industry 6(35).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 110 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 133(168), refinery 97(4).

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/05/43

Japanese Home Islands: US patrol sub damaged in attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol south of Kanoya (hex location 102, 63). Reported damage to sub includes system 40, float 19, engine 3 – returning to base at 16 kts movement.


Central Pacific: Jap transport intercepted by US patrol sub at southern entrance to Kwajalein base. AAR follows.

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Submarine attack near Kwajalein Island at 132,116 (adjacent hex SW of Kwajalein)

Japanese Ships
AMC Hokoku Maru, Torpedo hits 1, heavy fires, heavy damage (oil cargo burning)

Allied Ships
SS Seadragon

AMC Hokoku Maru is sighted by SS Seadragon
SS Seadragon launches 4 torpedoes at AMC Hokoku Maru

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Jap transport convoy intercepted by US patrol sub east of the Marianas. AAR follows.

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Sub attack near Saipan at 115,95 (ESE of Saipan)

Japanese Ships
xAK Maebasi Maru
xAK Toba Maru
E Sanae

Allied Ships
SS Searaven

SS Searaven launches 2 torpedoes at xAK Maebasi Maru
E Sanae fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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Another nearby US patrol sub reporting contact with a detected Japanese transport TF east of the northern Marianas, visible on the game map at hex location 114, 90 (ESE of Pagan). It’s possible this contact could be the same Jap transport convoy intercepted by SS Searaven (AAR above), though the contact near Pagan could be a different Jap TF. No positive evidence going either way. Detected composition of the Jap TF near Pagan shows 4 unidentified ships, also movement on an E heading.


Sigint entry for 8/04 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Wake Is. Detected status of Wake Is shows unidentified Jap planes based there, airfield size 3(0), port size 1(0), no other visible Japanese forces or activity.

Heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Truk reported in another 8/04 Sigint entry. Detected status of Truk (as expected) shows unidentified Jap planes based there and ship(s) in port – no other visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Damaged US patrol sub returning to base intercepts Jap transport TF near Shortlands – this contact possibly moving on a course (either north or southbound) along the northern edge of the Solomons. AAR follows.

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ASW attack near Shortlands at 111,130 (NE of Shortlands)

Japanese Ships
PB Kensyo Maru
xAKL Fukuyo Maru
xAKL Tatsuha Maru
xAKL Kanaiyama Maru
xAKL Kashi Maru
xAKL Heiwa Maru
xAKL Sasago Maru
xAKL Ryoyu Maru #21
PB Heizan Maru

Allied Ships
SS Cisco

SS Cisco is sighted by escort
Cisco diving deep ....
PB Heizan Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/04 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Morioka Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 107,125 near Namatanai, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 108,124 near Lihir, Speed 7, Moving Northeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 107,123 near Tabar Island, Speed 7, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher Report: AK Kozui Maru reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 100 aircraft (all fighters), airfield damage 7, 9 Jap LCU’s, light industry 6(35).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 110 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 133(168), refinery 97(4).

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/06/43

Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 8/05 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Maleolap, no visible Japanese forces or activity.

Heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions again reported from Truk in a 8/05 Sigint entry. No visible Japanese activity or change in the detected status of Truk.


Southwest Pacific: Japanese activity at Feni Islands dot hex base in the northern Solomons near Rabaul (hex location 132, 160) reported in two 8/05 Sigint entries. One 8/05 Sigint entry indicates Jap 3 Independent SNLF Co is now located at Feni Islands – this LCU transferred here from Truk. The second 8/05 Sigint entry reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions. Pillager appears to be starting development of Feni Islands as another position in the main Japanese outer perimeter line.


South Pacific: Floatplane from unidentified Jap submarine operating NW of Savaii (hex location 144, 156) reported flying over US 24 Infantry Rgt in Savaii. Pillager had been operating this particular sub patrol before (also previously reported here).

Transport convoy WP-71 (45 ships) arrives in Auckland from the mainland US. Cargo aboard the convoy includes two LCU’s (3 USN Naval Construction Rgt, 1881 Engineer Aviation Bn), 158K supply and 162K fuel. Amphibious ships arriving with WP-71 (2 APA, 4 LST) will be detached from the convoy and remain in South Pacific theatre on reserve for future operations.

Sigint entry for 8/05 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Ndeni. Detected status of Ndeni shows unidentified Jap planes based there, airfield size 3(5), port size 1(1), no other visible Japanese forces or activity.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/05 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Manus
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed 1, Moving Northwest


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 119 aircraft (all fighters), 9 Jap LCU’s, light industry 7(34).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 113 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 134(167), refinery 97(4).

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/07/43

Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 8/06 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Wake Is and Wotje. Detected status of the two bases show unidentified Jap planes based on Wake Is (reported previously), otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity at either location.

Sigint report entry for 8/06 indicates Jap 27 Field AA Gun Co was transferred from Manchuria and now located at Truk. I’ve been aware Pillager is transferring Japanese flak units out of Manchuria to reinforce anti-aircraft ground defenses in Burma and various Pacific theatre bases, this report the latest indication of the trend. The largest single force of Japanese flak units outside the Japanese Home Islands is based in Manchuria, these LCU also in much greater quantity than needed in Manchuria. It makes complete sense Pillager is removing Jap flak LCU from the Kwantung Army – my estimate being transfer of flak units probably has little if any impact on Japanese AV (assault value) required to stay in Manchuria. My estimate also concludes this activity is fully expected to continue.


South Pacific: Unidentified Jap patrol sub remains N of Savaii.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/06 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: CVL Chitose reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Jusan Maru reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay , Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 132 aircraft (all fighters), 10 Jap LCU’s (+1 from last report), light industry 8(33). No Japanese transport TF was detected entering Rangoon this game turn, the new Jap LCU now appearing in Rangoon may have arrived by overland movement.

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 111 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 135(166), refinery 97(4).

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/08/43

Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 8/07 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Ocean Is. Detected status at Ocean Is shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/07 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 4, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Shozan Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 1 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 97 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU’s (+1 from last report), light industry 8(33). For a second consecutive day, a new Jap LCU has appeared in Rangoon. My estimate is that in both cases (this game turn and last), the newly detected Japanese LCU in Rangoon is likely a new arrival in Burma and probably entered Burma via overland movement (if so, most likely from Thailand).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 100 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 136(165), refinery 97(4).


China: First report of a Japanese LCU transfer from China to the South Pacific. An 8/07 Sigint report entry indicates Jap 38th Infantry Division is loading or already moving via sea transport for Luganville. Based on 38 Division’s last reported location near Hengyang on 7/14 (the reported hex location on a movement path from Chungking to Hong Kong), the likely departure point for the division appears to be (or was) Hong Kong. FOW or not, this is still an item of interest.

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/09/43

Japanese Home Islands: US patrol sub hit and damaged in attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol S of Shikoku (hex location 105, 63). Reported damage to SS Shad is system 28, float 17, engine 4 – sub now returning to base at 16 kts.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/08 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: xAK Shinkoku Maru reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: CVE Chuyo reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 1 Jap TF in harbor, 119 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU’s, light industry 8(33). It appears for the moment Pillager has stopped repair of light industry facilities at Rangoon.

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 99 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 137(164), refinery 97(4).

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/10/43

South Pacific: Intercepted radio transmissions from unidentified Jap TF(s) east of Shortlands (hex location 113, 130) reported in an 8/09 Sigint entry. No information available as to number of Jap TF(s), composition or movement. Six US patrol subs are operating in nearby sea areas to the E, SE and S of this contact – the Jap TF(s) will likely come into contact with one or more US subs if moving in an east or south direction.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/09 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 100,126 near Finschhafen, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Australia: Transport convoy EX-39 (31 ships) arrives in Australia from Eastern US via Capetown. Cargo arriving aboard the convoy includes two LCU (249 Field Artillery Bn, 227 USN Base Force), 96K supply and 38K fuel.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, no Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 112 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU’s, light industry 9(32). It appears Pillager is resuming repair of light industry facilities at Rangoon.

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 121 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 138(163), refinery 97(4).

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/11/43

Central Pacific: Japanese transport TF intercepted by US patrol sub. Jap TF appears to be moving along a path between Ponape and Rabaul. AAR follows.

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Sub attack near Ponape at 115,118 (SW of Ponape)

Japanese Ships
TK Nanrei Maru
TK Juko Maru
PB Tenzan Maru

Allied Ships
SS Seahorse

SS Seahorse launches 2 torpedoes at TK Nanrei Maru
Seahorse diving deep ....
PB Tenzan Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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Sigint entries for 8/10 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Wake Is and Jaluit. Detected status of Wake Is shows unidentified Jap planes based there, no other visible Japanese forces or activity. No visible Jap forces or activity observed at Jaluit.


South Pacific: Transport convoy WP-74 (41 ships) arrives in New Zealand. Cargo arriving aboard WP-74 includes 176K supply and 73K fuel, no air units or LCU. Seven xAP with WP-74 are being detached to remain in South Pacific theatre for use in future operations.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/10 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 5, Moving Northeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 115,136 near Auki, Speed 8, Moving Southwest


Andaman Sea: US patrol sub attacked and damaged in action with Japanese surface ASW north of Malacca Straits. AAR follows.

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Sub attack near Victoria Point at 48,66 (S of Victoria Point)

Japanese Ships
DD Mutsuki
E Hachijo
DD Isonami

Allied Ships
SS Jack, hits 2 (system damage 5, float 32, engine 5, returning to base at 13 kts)

SS Jack launches 2 torpedoes at DD Mutsuki
Jack diving deep ....
DD Mutsuki attacking submerged sub ....
DD Isonami fails to find sub and abandons search
Escort abandons search for sub

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Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 1 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 106 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU’s, light industry 9(32).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 111 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 139(162), refinery 97(4).

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/12/43

Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 8/11 reports heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Nauru. Detected status of Wake Is shows unidentified Jap planes based there, ship(s) in port, airfield size 2(2), port size 2(0), no other visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: US patrol sub intercepts Jap transport TF near Lunga/Tulagi. Jap TF reported moving on SE heading. AAR follows.

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Sub attack near Russell Islands at 112,137 (N of Russell Islands)

Japanese Ships
xAP Palau Maru
APD Fuji
APD Nadakaze
APD Shimakaze
APD Tade
APD Hagi

Allied Ships
SS Thresher

SS Thresher launches 4 torpedoes at xAP Palau Maru
Thresher diving deep ....
APD Tade fails to find sub and abandons search
APD Hagi fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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Transport convoy WP-73A (12 ships) arrives at Suva. Cargo aboard WP-73A includes 86 Coast AA Rgt, 57K supply and 4K fuel. Arrival of the main body of convoy WP-73 in Auckland is expected next turn.

Sigint entry for 8/11 reports Jap 41 Air Defense AA Bn now located at Truk – this LCU transferred here from Korea.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/11 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: AK Kamogawa Maru reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 2 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 108,126 near Feni Islands, Speed 7, Moving Southwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 115 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU’s, light industry 9(32).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 90 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 140(161), refinery 97(4).


China: Another probable Japanese LCU transfer from China indicated in an 8/11 Sigint entry – 51 Independent Mountain Gun Bn is now located in Hong Kong (this unit previously at Chungking). Estimate is that 51 Mountain Gun Bn will shortly depart China via sea transport for an unknown destination.

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/13/43

At least some of the Big Picture: Allied preparations for strategic offensive operations in the Pacific theatres have entered advanced stages.

• US LCU and air forces are fully deployed from the mainland US to reserve positions in the front-line Pacific theatres. Current placement of most US ground and air combat forces reaching the Pacific theatres has been made with the primary aim of concealment from Japanese “eyes” – this deliberately done to (1) mask how US forces are being distributed, and (2) provide minimal or no information to Pillager as to the true level and extent of Allied preparations.

• Logistical preparations (base construction, supply and fuel stockpiles) are largely complete. Construction of port and airfield facilities at forward bases in the South Pacific and NE Australia is completed – many of these bases now expanded to maximum port/airfield sizes (airfields having a slight priority). HQ units, aviation and naval support LCU are moving into or already occupy these bases. Many forward airfields are fully stocked (supply) with sufficient aviation support on hand to support full operations – these airfields now simply awaiting the planes. Estimated stockpiles currently on-hand and available for offensive operations in South and SW Pacific theatres (combined) now approximately 4-5 million supply and 2.5 million fuel with more in transit.

• Allied transport convoy system (EX, WP convoys) continues running at maximum available capacity with the intent of pushing every possible supply and fuel point, plane and LCU into forward theatres as quickly as possible. No such thing as having too much. Current plans here anticipate at least some smaller transports (xAK, xAP) along with AO moved out of the long-range convoy system and re-allocated to support forward theatre operations – this activity gradual and already in progress for some time.

• As stated earlier, Allied air and ground combat forces in forward theatres continue to remain in reserve positions concealed from Japanese recon activity. Many LCU are preparing (many already fully-prepared) for initial objectives – this activity done very gradually to minimize, obscure or prevent “leaking” into Pillager’s intel reports.

• Front-line US forces in the South/SW Pacific have been heavily augmented with Australian and NZ air squadrons and LCU transferred out of restricted command and available for movement out of their home countries.

• A gradual transfer of amphibious transport, auxiliary ships, along with small ASW escorts and minesweepers have arrived in forward theatres with WP and EX transport convoys. Current estimate of 200+ amphibious transports (APA, AKA, AP, medium and small xAP, LST, LSI, LSD, LSI, etc) now in place and available for front-line operations. Small xAK and xAKL are also available in quantity as follow-up transport in support of amphibious operations.

• Pilot training continues to be heavily managed with the intent of pushing through as many trained pilots as possible in the remaining time. I’m anticipating the overall level of pilot training to gradually decrease somewhat as (1) air squadrons that have been training pilots in rear-area bases convert to front-line operations, and (2) air squadrons having scheduled withdrawal dates leave the game. Some measures are being devised to compensate for this reduction and also properly allocate type(s) of pilot training according to front-line requirements.

• 8/43 ship upgrades were designated the cut-off point for Allied naval forces to be employed in front-line operations. Upgrades are underway and expected to complete shortly – these affect mainly US fleet subs plus several fast BB planned to be used as carrier escort.

• Ships for the US main and escort carrier forces have been collected – this being the primary emphasis of US naval forces (in general). Priority use of fast BB, most cruisers (both CA and CL) and DD will be as escorts in carrier TF. Plans are to disperse US CV and CVL across as many TF as possible, each TF filled to its maximum effective complement of 15 ships. The main US carrier force is expected to operate as a compact mass.

• Most US CVE now in the game will be formed into a number of escort carrier TF. Current plans are to have no more than 2-3 CVE plus escorting DD in each TF (CVE being dispersed much like their larger cousins). Escort carrier TF are intended to provide direct air support over amphibious operations – CAP being the priority mission. Air units aboard most CVE will emphasize fighters, many bomber squadrons from CVE put ashore for use in pilot training. The use of CVE task forces is intended to free the main US carrier force for more offensive operations.

• Plans also include a bombardment force of several TF with older BB plus escorting DD/DE, this dependent on what is the optimal number of BB in a bombardment TF (the optimal number being a balance between how many BB are needed to execute a single effective bombardment vs the need for multiple bombardments on a single target). If multiple bombardment TF are employed, the intent is to create a relay system where at least one bombardment TF is hitting a target while its sister bombardment TF(s) are replenishing.

• It should be noted (if not noticed by now) that naval surface combat TF are largely de-emphasized at least in the short term (yes, there is a risk). Until the KB is eliminated or (otherwise) neutralized, the main Allied naval emphasis will remain on carrier operations. If necessary, the first-line of dealing with Japanese surface combat TF will be carrier and LBA air strikes.

• Concentrations of US 4E bomber squadrons have been formed for intended use as “flying artillery corps”.

• Plans are to make heavy use of air transport to fly supply and some LCU elements into front-line positions. A considerable force of USAAF air transport squadrons is available in both the South and SW Pacific theatre areas – this also helped by the fact it's no longer required to fly supply over the hump into China. Air transport will (of course) supplement sea transport, not necessarily replace it.

• Current priority for allocation of forces and logistics has been skewed somewhat toward the South and SW Pacific theatres, Central Pacific for the time being handled as a secondary theatre though not completely ignored. The possibility also has to be considered here that shifting all this stuff southward might open the Marshalls and Gilberts into the “soft underbelly” of the Japanese perimeter. Sufficient forces have been moved into the Central Pacific area (mainly Hawaii) to either exploit this possibility and/or reinforce offensive operations to the south.

It’s amazing how much goes on in a game turn even when nothing is going on...


Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 8/12 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Maleolap. Detected status of Maleolap shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Main body of transport convoy WP-73 (18 transports, 10 SC, 5 APA, 1 LST) arrives in Auckland from the mainland US. Cargo arriving aboard WP-73 includes one LCU (802 Engineer Aviation Bn), six air squadrons (3 transport, 2 fighter, 1 patrol), 97K supply and 2200 fuel. APA, LST and SC arriving with WP-73 are being detached from the convoy to remain on reserve in the South Pacific theatre for future operations.

Sigint entry for 8/12 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from the dot base hex at Tassafronga (western part of Guadalcanal adjacent to Lunga). One Jap LCU (Kure 5 SNLF) is reported at Tassafronga from available intelligence data – 5 SNLF has been in Tassafronga since 04/43. This turn’s Sigint entry could be an indicator that Pillager has at least occupied Tassafronga if not having construction activity underway to build port/airfield facilities and/or fortifications (if true, the latter not entirely unexpected). All this fits quite well into the high probability that Pillager has developed Guadalcanal and Tulagi into a Japanese stronghold position of some importance – largely confirming my estimate of Tulagi/Guadalcanal as a significant anchor point along the main Japanese outer perimeter line.

Another 8/12 Sigint entry reports Jap 56 Field AA Bn now located at Truk – this LCU transferred here from the Kwantung Army (Manchuria).

Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/12 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 108,126 near Feni Islands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 108,126 near Feni Islands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 126 aircraft (all fighters), 11 Jap LCU’s, light industry 9(32).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon – 116 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 141(160), refinery 97(4).


China: An 8/12 Sigint entry reports elements of Jap 17th Infantry Division are enroute to Tarawa via sea transport. 17 Division is another veteran of Chungking and last reported in Hong Kong on 8/03. Whether or not 17 Division is bound for Tarawa remains an open question but there’s little question the division is headed for the Pacific.

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/14/43

Japanese Home Islands: US sub Gudgeon hit and damaged S of Shikoku (hex location 105, 63) in multiple attacks by Ki-49 Helen air patrols. Reported damage to SS Gudgeon is system 64, float 36, engine 14 – sub now returning to base at 11 kts.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/13 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Manus
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 3 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 111 aircraft (all fighters), 12 Jap LCU’s (+1 from last report), light industry 10(31).

RAF bombers fly mine laying mission on Rangoon harbor, no reported plane losses on either side. Japanese minesweeping activity reported in daylight. AAR’s and Combat Events report entries follow.

4 x No.160 Sqn RAF Wellington GR.VIII stray due to night
5 x No.160 Sqn RAF Wellington GR.VIII stray due to night

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Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Weather in hex: Overcast (96% moonlight)

Raid detected at 73 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 30 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 17

Allied aircraft
Wellington GR.VIII x 9

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x Wellington GR.VIII laying Mk 13 Mine from 8000 feet *

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (0 airborne, 8 on standby, 6 scrambling)
8 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 7000 and 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 19 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Rangoon, at 54,53

Raid spotted at 30 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 17

Allied aircraft
Wellington GR.VIII x 4

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x Wellington GR.VIII laying Mk 13 Mine from 8000 feet *

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (11 airborne, 0 on standby, 6 scrambling)
11 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters between 7000 and 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Rangoon , at 54,53

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 17

Allied aircraft
Wellington GR.VIII x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Wellington GR.VIII laying Mk 13 Mine from 8000 feet *

CAP engaged:
253 Ku S-1 with A6M3a Zero (11 airborne, 0 on standby, 6 scrambling)
11 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters between 7000 and 10000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 51 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TF 94 encounters mine field at Rangoon (54,53)

Japanese Ships
AMc Wa 20
AMc Wa 6

23 mines cleared

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon (after raid below) – 102 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 142(159), refinery 97(4).

RAF 2E bombers launch night raid on oil production facilities in Magwe. No additional damage to oil production appeared in detected status of Magwe (above). Five Blenheim IV bombers reported lost (3 air-to-air, 2 ops) – no reported Japanese plane losses. AAR’s and Combat Events/Operations report entries follow.

5 x No.45 Sqn RAF Blenheim IV stray due to night
5 x No.84 Sqn RAF Blenheim IV stray due to night
7 x No.45 Sqn RAF Blenheim IV stray due to night
Pilot killed in landing accident of Blenheim IV from No.113 Sqn RAF
Damaged Blenheim IV from No.113 Sqn RAF shot down on way home
Blenheim IV from No.84 Sqn RAF crashes on landing

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Weather in hex: Clear sky (96% moonlight)

Raid detected at 64 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 22 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIa Nick x 13

Allied aircraft
Blenheim IV x 28

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Blenheim IV: 1 destroyed, 3 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x Blenheim IV bombing from 6000 feet *
City Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb
11 x Blenheim IV bombing from 6000 feet *
City Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIa Nick (0 airborne, 6 on standby, 4 scrambling)
3 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 10000, scrambling fighters between 7000 and 11000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 20 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIa Nick x 10

Allied aircraft
Blenheim IV x 5

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Blenheim IV: 2 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Blenheim IV bombing from 6000 feet *
City Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIa Nick (10 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
10 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Magwe, at 57,47

Raid detected at 32 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-45 KAIa Nick x 6

Allied aircraft
Blenheim IV x 5

No Japanese losses
No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Blenheim IV bombing from 6000 feet *
City Attack: 2 x 250 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
5th Sentai with Ki-45 KAIa Nick (6 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 10000
Raid is overhead

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Airfield bombing strike on Mandalay launched by RAF bombers. One Ki-46 Dinah reported destroyed on the ground, no detected airfield damage. No Allied planes lost. AAR follows.

Detected status of Mandalay after raid – unknown aircraft based in Mandalay (other than the destroyed Ki-46 Dinah), airfield size 6, 7 Jap LCU’s, resource production 2(19).

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Air attack on Mandalay, at 59,46

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud (96% moonlight)

Raid spotted at 36 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
no flights

Allied aircraft
Wellington Ic x 16

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-46-II Dinah: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Airbase hits 5
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 10

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x Wellington Ic bombing from 8000 feet
Airfield Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/15/43

Okinawa: US patrol sub intercepts small Jap transport TF in daylight action east of Okinawa. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Tokunoshima at 98,66 (adjacent hex SE of Tokunoshima)

Japanese Ships
xAK Chicago Maru, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
E W-5

Allied Ships
SS Cabrilla

SS Cabrilla launches 2 torpedoes at xAK Chicago Maru
Cabrilla diving deep ....
E W-5 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Central Pacific: Two US patrol subs intercept Japanese transport convoy in separate attacks. Both US subs were part of a TF with 5 subs just arriving at this location from Pearl Harbor to take up patrol areas between Truk and the Solomons – my general practice being to dispatch up to 5-6 subs in a group from Pearl Harbor to take up a cluster of assigned patrol zones near a given destination hex, the sub TF then dispersing into single-sub patrols on arrival. Intent of the practice being two fold – (1) simplifying my own “administrative tasks” and (2) masking the number of US patrol subs being sent to a particular area (it being assumed Pillager can or will spot the sub TF at some point in its movement but not necessarily know how many subs are going there). AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Truk at 113,116 (S of Truk)

Japanese Ships
DD Urakaze
PB Kiso Maru
CM Takashima
xAP Kongo Maru
xAP Koan Maru
xAP Kashima Maru
DD Hatsuharu

Allied Ships
SS Greenling, hits 4 (system damage 14, float 21, engine 10, now proceeding at 14 kts to Australia for repair)

SS Greenling launches 4 torpedoes at DD Urakaze
DD Hatsuharu fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Urakaze attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Truk at 113,116

Japanese Ships
xAP Koan Maru
PB Kiso Maru
CM Takashima
xAP Kongo Maru
xAP Kashima Maru
DD Hatsuharu
DD Urakaze

Allied Ships
SS Gurnard, hits 1 (minor system damage)

SS Gurnard launches 2 torpedoes at xAP Koan Maru
Gurnard diving deep ....
DD Hatsuharu fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Urakaze attacking submerged sub ....
DD Urakaze is out of ASW ammo
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/14 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: CVL Mizuho reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 127 aircraft (all fighters), 12 Jap LCU’s, light industry 10(31).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon (after raid below) – 108 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 142(159), refinery 97(4).


China: USAAF and RAF 4E bombers fly bombs over the hump to Chungking. I had been monitoring the detected status at Chungking, observed rebuilding activity in progress of both heavy and light industry facilities. Another effect of the fall of China allows Pillager use of significant heavy and light industrial capacity in China (once this capacity is rebuilt). While much of the Chinese industrial capacity is beyond my reach, that which is within the reach of Allied attack cannot go unanswered.

Detected status of Chunking (after attack) – 11 aircraft (all fighters), heavy industry 27(154), light industry 12(169), resource production 12(154), 17 Jap LCU’s. Pillager had rebuilt heavy industry in Chungking to 52(129) prior to this attack. The number of LCU now detected in Chungking also indicates (not surprisingly) that many Japanese LCU involved in the capture of Chungking have departed Chungking.

18 Allied bombers (13 B-17E, 3 B-24D, 2 Liberator II) reported destroyed in the raid – 11 of these planes air-to-air, 7 ops losses. Twelve Ki-61 Tony CAP fighters reported destroyed (10 air-to-air, 2 ops). While bomber losses were rather heavy, they are justified given potential value of the target. AAR’s and Operations report entries follow.

B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/490th BS is written off
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/22nd BS is written off
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/22nd BS is written off
Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/11th BS shot down on way home
B-24D Liberator from 7th BG/493rd BS is written off
Damaged B-24D Liberator from 7th BG/493rd BS does not return
Damaged Liberator II from No.159 Sqn RAF is missing
Damaged B-24D Liberator from 7th BG/9th BS is missing
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/491st BS is written off
Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/491st BS is missing
Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/491st BS is missing
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/491st BS is written off
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/491st BS is written off

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Chungking, at 76,45

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid detected (by radar) at 79 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 29 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-61-Ia Tony x 34

Allied aircraft
Liberator II x 9
B-17E Fortress x 42
B-24D Liberator x 30

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-61-Ia Tony: 4 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Liberator II: 1 destroyed, 4 damaged
B-17E Fortress: 3 destroyed, 15 damaged
B-24D Liberator: 7 damaged

Heavy Industry hits 79

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x Liberator II bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
10 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
6 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
11 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
10 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
10 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
85th Sentai with Ki-61-Ia Tony (0 airborne, 9 on standby, 21 scrambling)
4 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters between 2000 and 12000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 35 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Chungking, at 76,45

Raid spotted at 6 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 1 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-61-Ia Tony x 6

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 6


Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-61-Ia Tony: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 5 damaged

Heavy Industry hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
85th Sentai with Ki-61-Ia Tony (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
6 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 12000, scrambling fighters to 5000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 47 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/16/43

Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 8/15 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Ponape and Maleolap. Detected statuses of the two bases show no visible Japanese forces or activity at either location.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/15 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands (Jap TF visible at Shortlands, as shown 3 ships including 1 PB, 1xAK)
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 108,126 near Feni Islands, Speed 11, Moving Southwest (visible Jap TF in adjacent hex 107, 127)

Sigint entry for 8/16 reports Jap 1st Guards Infantry Division in Rabaul. It was known 1 Guards Division had been enroute via sea transport to Rabaul from Japanese Home Islands back in May 43 – this turn’s Sigint entry merely confirms its arrival in Rabaul.


Andaman Sea: US patrol sub in action with Jap surface ASW. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Victoria Point at 48,64 (W of Victoria Point)

Japanese Ships
DD Isonami
E Hachijo
DD Mutsuki

Allied Ships
SS Capelin

SS Capelin launches 2 torpedoes at DD Isonami
Capelin diving deep ....
DD Mutsuki attacking submerged sub ....
DD Isonami fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 3 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 110 aircraft (all fighters), 12 Jap LCU’s, light industry 10(31).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon - 89 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 142(159), refinery 97(4).

Sigint entry for 8/16 reports HQ Jap 15th Army now located in Mandalay – this HQ moved here from Rangoon. While there is no immediate significance for 15 Army HQ’s presence in Mandalay, this situation does need some watching for a possible increase of Japanese ground forces in northern Burma.


China: Detected status of Chungking – heavy industry 26(155), light industry 12(169), resource production 12(169), 17 Jap LCU’s.


USAAF and RAF 4E bombers strike heavy industry in Chengtu. As in the case of Chungking, detected status at Chengtu was being monitored. Rebuilding of heavy industry in Chengtu had been observed.

Detected status of Chengtu after the bombing raid – heavy industry 68(13), light industry 8(173), resource production 6(175), 11 aircraft (all fighters), 3 Jap LCU’s. The heavy industry figures above match detected values prior to the bombing attack - quite possible the status above may not reflect damage inflicted by the raid.

15 Allied bombers (4 B-17E, 6 B-24D, 5 Liberator II) reported destroyed in the raid – 12 of these planes air-to-air, 3 ops losses. Six Ki-44 Tojo CAP fighters reported destroyed (4 air-to-air, 2 ops). While bomber losses were rather heavy, they are justified given potential value of the target. AAR’s and Operations report entries follow.

Damaged B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/11th BS does not return
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/11th BS is written off
B-17E Fortress from 341st BG/11th BS is damaged on landing
B-24D Liberator from 7th BG/493rd BS is written off
B-24D Liberator from 7th BG/9th BS is written off

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Chengtu, at 75,41

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 7 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 34

Allied aircraft
Liberator II x 10
Wellington B.X x 11
B-17E Fortress x 29
B-24D Liberator x 29

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
Liberator II: 2 destroyed, 2 damaged
Wellington B.X: 1 destroyed, 2 damaged
B-17E Fortress: 1 destroyed, 4 damaged
B-24D Liberator: 2 destroyed, 5 damaged

Heavy Industry hits 54

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x Liberator II bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
10 x Wellington B.X bombing from 5000 feet *
City Attack: 4 x 500 lb GP Bomb
4 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
9 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
6 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
8 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb
12 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb
7 x B-24D Liberator bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 10 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
11th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (4 airborne, 9 on standby, 21 scrambling)
4 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 20000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 37 minutes

Banzai! - Maeda A. in a Ki-44-IIa Tojo rams a Liberator II for the Emperor

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Chengtu, at 75,41

Raid spotted at 15 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 11

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 6

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 2 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
11th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
11 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 5000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 66 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Chengtu, at 75,41

Raid spotted at 2 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 0 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 8

Allied aircraft
B-17E Fortress x 6

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-17E Fortress: 3 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x B-17E Fortress bombing from 5000 feet
City Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
11th Sentai with Ki-44-IIa Tojo (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 5 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
2 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 20000, scrambling fighters to 5000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 34 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Allied plane and pilot losses in the bomber squadrons attacking Chungking and Chengtu were considerable. Although replacement planes and pilots are readily available, it’s anticipated the bomber squadrons will require approx. 7-10 days’ time to recover damaged and destroyed aircraft plus receive new pilots. Of some concern is there are few 4E bomber planes available for RAF bomber squadrons outside the now depleted replacement pool of Liberator II bombers (this type no longer in production). The end result of this situation is that 4E strategic bombing operations from the India theatre will soon fall largely if not entirely on USAAF squadrons. One RAF squadron is currently operating 4E bombers (Liberator II) from India.

Intelligence data concerning status of Japanese held cities throughout China is easily available – my estimate is that much (if not most) of the information displayed is fairly accurate. If true, Pillager has mobilized a considerable quantity of Chinese industrial capacity for the Japanese war economy. Much of southern and central China is within striking range of Allied 4E bombers operating from Ledo – plans are to continue occasional Allied bombing raids on Chinese industrial targets within reach having significant strategic value. It should also be noted that Chinese industrial targets could later be subject to B-29 raids (alongside targets in the Japanese homeland).

Given that Ledo now has the role of “launching pad” for Allied strategic bombing raids on targets in China, it’s expected that Pillager will soon dispatch airfield bombing strikes from Burma against Ledo. As the bombers depart Ledo to recover, Allied CAP fighters are arriving in their place. The chess match continues…

[johnjohn]

John--finally back up and running with a new video card (No thanks to Dell).

On your summary of August 43, a most excellent presentation. One thing I noticed in my pre-crash computer effort is that the soft underbelly really is soft. Those atolls cannot be defended well, both due to lack of terrain and size, and limits on the number of troops that can operate without penalty. My forces easily took the Gilberts and Marshalls, but then I did not have the KB standing off ready to hit back. Your emphasis on confronting the KB makes sense. That carrier group is the anvil to whatever hammer the enemy engages with.

I am wrapping March 42 activity. The main issues are the fall of Bataan (Mar 26), and the continued loss of Burma, which was totally abandoned but for one base near Imphal (K-something). That base has been reinforced and built up, as have all the bases on the front line of India. Baker Island was finally taken, but several attempts to reinforce it have been intercepted by a strong Cruiser SAG, killing some 5000 enemy troops and sinking many of their smaller transports. I still hold a line from Ndeni (undefended) at present but ready to receive a small Marine battalion, through Loganville (40th Inf Div), Efate and Tanna, small Marine battalions, Noumea, 23rd Inf Div and Engr support with an F4F Marine squadron and Vindicator DB squadron in place with a Patrol Sqd of Cats, to Suva and Pago Pago to Canton Island and the Christmas Palmyra line. A smattering of Cruisers and Destroyers defend the islands with the Carriers upgrading at PH. DEI is still holding although the enemy is closing in on the big cities.

Port Morseby fell and I reactivated the lost units at Sydney, including the two Aussie brigades that make up the 8th Division. Presently I am beginning the transfer of SWPAC assets to Aussie. 200 fighters shipped to Auckland should arrive by the end of the week. However, there are no support forces in Aussie, so those are being shipped out from the WC. It will be six weeks before they arrive.

Thus far I am holding, and doing better than I did the first time around. Midway is proving difficult to resupply, with the enemy raiding the place every three weeks or so. I have two SBD sqd and one fighter on island, but they suppress these defenders with superior carrier air. So far, no troops have appeared. It looks as though this may go on for awhile. I am escorting a large supply run to Midway, but the main problem is lack of port facilities, so this is an amphib op. Meanwhile I am doing my best to stay away from any significant enemy forces.

John.

[wneumann]

Those atolls cannot be defended well, both due to lack of terrain and size, and limits on the number of troops that can operate without penalty.

True (and fortunately so in AE at least on paper most of the time)… Even so, the small terrain and size of atolls is to the defending (Japanese) player’s advantage before factoring in fortifications and quality of the garrison. AE’s limit on troop capacity that can be placed on atolls is going to somewhat mitigate effects of the fall of China in this campaign – at least to the extent of somewhat restricting how many Japanese LCU that Pillager can usefully transfer from China to the Pacific theatres. The AE restriction will likely cause Pillager to split up and disperse Jap LCU he does send to the Pacific from China.

Going the other way… I’m estimating (though maybe incorrectly) that AE’s allowable troop capacity on an atoll will accommodate one A/B/C sub-unit of a Japanese infantry division. If my estimate is correct, Pillager could be able to fully “stock” three atolls with sub-units from a single Jap division. I’m expecting Pillager will have most of the major Pacific atolls heavily defended once all reinforcements from China arrive. Combining (a) the characteristics of atolls in AE, (b) defending Japanese forces in many cases could be high-experience level troops from China, and (c) fortifications – Allied amphibious assaults on many atolls in this campaign will likely be a nasty proposition.

Any Allied assaults on atolls in this campaign will certainly be done with considerable discretion, preparation, plus a good dose of intelligence data. Possibly more so than under other circumstances.

Your emphasis on confronting the KB makes sense. That carrier group is the anvil to whatever hammer the enemy engages with.

The potential exists in this campaign for the carrier war (once it starts) to easily become an “all-in” poker hand. Pillager and I both have intact carrier fleets going into in late-1943, plus the fact that both US and Japanese carrier air arms are considerably beefed up in terms of both equipment (aircraft types) and pilot training. There are simply much bigger piles of chips to put on the table. Granted… a US S-class sub put a torpedo into CV Hiyo off Auckland in late-1942, my assumption being Hiyo remains alive and well given no positive evidence to the contrary. Outcome of carrier battles in this scenario could have a much greater effect in this campaign than if they occurred in 1942 as they did historically – the losing side of fleet carrier actions in this campaign having considerably less time and opportunity to recover their carrier forces before the clock runs out in 1945.

Initial contact between the KB and US carrier forces in this campaign is likely to be intense, possibly involving all available carriers on both sides. My opinion is dispersal of US fleet carriers into one CV task forces (or closely as possible to this), each TF with the maximum number of escorting BB, cruisers and DD up to the effective 15-ship maximum – similar to normal Allied practice in 1942-43 is the most effective option under these circumstances. Plans are for US carrier TF’s to operate in a compact mass. Benefits I anticipating seeing from this mode of organization are: (1) dispersal of US carriers in more TF will dilute effectiveness of KB naval air strikes on the US carrier force, (2) fighter CAP from US carrier TF’s can be mutually supporting, (3) maximized total flak value in each individual carrier TF, (4) increased possibility of more US carriers remaining intact for “second and later strike” activities. Given numbers and characteristics of available US and Japanese BB, cruisers and DD in late-1943, it is quite possible for US carriers to be better and more heavily escorted than their KB counterparts. Pillager may either need to concentrate KB carriers into fewer TF’s to properly utilize his available effective BB, cruiser and DD escorts, or disperse KB’s carriers into more but less well-escorted TF. Both these alternatives equally possible.

To adequately stock US carrier forces with escorting BB, cruisers and DD – it was necessary to de-emphasize surface naval combat forces. In any event, surface naval activity will be a distant second to carrier actions. In many cases (especially for the losing side in the carrier battles), operations by surface combat and bombardment TF will likely be less effective and also at a considerable degree of risk. I’m recognizing the possibly considerable risk factor in reducing Allied surface naval TF’s, but the step is necessary given the stakes in the carrier war.

Midway is proving difficult to resupply, with the enemy raiding the place every three weeks or so. I have two SBD sqd and one fighter on island, but they suppress these defenders with superior carrier air. So far, no troops have appeared. It looks as though this may go on for awhile. I am escorting a large supply run to Midway, but the main problem is lack of port facilities, so this is an amphib op.

Keep in mind a human Japanese opponent would probably get Midway if he really wants it depending on what Midway’s value would be to a human Japanese player. In my own campaign, Midway’s early garrison was limited to coast defense guns and construction engineers – the latter to build mainly fortifications, then port capacity. My long-range intent with Midway was developing it as a submarine refueling base, this extending range of US subs operating off the Japanese Home Islands and the East China Sea off Korea and Manchuria.

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/17/43

Eastern US: Transport convoy EX-47 (38 ships) departing this game turn for Australia via Capetown. Cargo aboard the convoy includes one LCU (382 Construction Rgt), 5 air transport squadrons, 182K supply and 23K fuel.


Japanese Home Islands: US patrol sub in daylight action with an unusually large Jap transport convoy S of Tokyo. Pillager using my transport convoy system? (probably not) Or a rather large cargo? AAR follows.

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Sub attack near Aogashima at 114,68 (SE of Aogashima)

Japanese Ships
AK Kamikaze Maru
AV Kamikawa Maru
AK Momokawa Maru
AK Yamahuku Maru
xAK Namba Maru
xAK Yoneyama Maru
xAK Yasuteru Maru
xAK Yosida Maru #3
xAK Uji Maru
xAK Toei Maru
xAK Taihei Maru
xAK Sumiyoshi Maru
xAK Nitimei Maru
xAK Nitiryu Maru
xAK Shinkoku Maru
xAK Nitiyo Maru
xAK Kyuma Maru
xAK Jusan Maru
xAK Achou Maru
xAK Taito Maru
E W-33

Allied Ships
SS Grunion

SS Grunion launches 2 torpedoes at AK Kamikaze Maru
Grunion diving deep ....
E W-33 attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

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A second US patrol sub (SS Grayback) near the Jap transport convoy above did not engage the convoy but was attacked and hit by a B5N2 Kate air patrol – position of SS Grayback was at hex location 116, 72 just S of the convoy action. Reported damage to SS Grayback is system 42, float 31, engine 3 – sub returning to base at 13 kts. At this point in the campaign I would estimate Pillager has upgraded torpedo bomber planes in the KB to where B5N2 Kates are mostly or entirely out of first line service. My estimate from this action leans toward the B5N2 Kate either operating from a small carrier in the area (CVE, possibly CVL) or else this plane is land-based and operating from an airfield in the Bonins.


Formosa: US patrol sub reporting contact with Japanese surface ASW in straits between Formosa and mainland China. AAR follows.

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ASW attack near Taihoku at 87,61 (NW of Taihoku)

Japanese Ships
PB Musashi Maru
E Chidori
PB Yodozo Maru

Allied Ships
SS Flying Fish

SS Flying Fish is located by PB Musashi Maru
Flying Fish diving deep ....
E Chidori fails to find sub and abandons search
PB Yodozo Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 8/16 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Roi-Namur and Wotje. Detected statuses of Roi-Namur shows unidentified Jap planes based there plus ship(s) in port. No visible Jap forces or activity shown at Wotje.


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/16 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: CVL Mizuho reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: CVL Mizuho reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Manus
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown


Australia: Transport convoy EX-40 (43 ships) arrives from Eastern US and Capetown. Cargo aboard the convoy includes 2 air transport squadrons, 184K supply and 12K fuel.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 116 aircraft (all fighters), 12 Jap LCU’s, light industry 11(30).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon - 74 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 143(158), refinery 97(4).


China: Detected status of Chungking – heavy industry 26(155), light industry 13(168), resource production 13(168), 6 Jap LCU’s. This game turn’s report indicates likely departure of some Jap LCU from Chungking – possible transfers from China to other theatres.

Detected status of Chengtu – heavy industry 68(13), light industry 9(172), resource production 7(174), 11 aircraft (all fighters), 3 Jap LCU’s.

[wneumann]

Summary of Operations 8/18/43

Central Pacific: Intercepted radio signals from unidentified Jap TF(s) detected and visible on the game map at hex location 115, 76 (W of Iwo Jima) reported in an 8/17 Sigint entry. No information available as to number of Jap TF(s), composition or movement. It is possible based on position of the Sigint contact that the radio signals are from the large Japanese transport convoy intercepted last game turn by US sub Grunion near Aogashima (hex location 114, 68) – if true this would indicate the Jap convoy intercepted by SS Grunion is moving southward in the general direction of Truk and the Marianas. Three other US subs in patrol zones E of the Marianas are now in the projected movement path of the Jap convoy.

Sigint entry for 8/17 reports heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Truk. Detected status of Truk shows the expected Jap planes based there plus ship(s) in port, no other visible Jap forces or activity.


South Pacific: Transport convoy WP-76 (43 transports, 3 LCI, 1 PC) arrives in New Zealand from the mainland US. Cargo arriving aboard the convoy includes one LCU (17 Naval Construction Rgt), three air squadrons (1 fighter, 1 patrol, 1 air transport), 163K supply and 163K fuel. LCI and PC from the convoy are being detached to remain on reserve in the South Pacific area for future operations.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 8/16 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Lunga is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: AM Wa 107 reported in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hansa Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: CVL Nisshin reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 104,133 near Woodlark Island, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 109,131 near Shortlands, Speed unknown (Catalina I air patrol spots Jap TF with 4 ships including two E at Shortlands, TF visible on game map)


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 125 aircraft (all fighters), 12 Jap LCU’s, light industry 12(29).

Detected status of Jap base in Magwe from aerial recon - 91 aircraft (all fighters), 14 Jap LCU’s, oil production 143(158), refinery 97(4).


RAF bombers launch small night raid on Mandalay airfield – this action intended as a recon in force rather than inflicting any serious damage. No Allied bombers lost, one Jap plane (Ki-46 Dinah) destroyed on the ground, no reported damage to Mandalay airfield facilities. Combat Events report entry and AAR’s follow.

5 x No.146 Sqn RAF Wellington Ic stray due to night

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Night Air attack on Mandalay, at 59,46

Weather in hex: Heavy rain (92% moonlight)

Raid spotted at 31 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Allied aircraft
Wellington Ic x 7

No Allied losses

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x Wellington Ic bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

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Night Air attack on Mandalay, at 59,46

Raid spotted at 15 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
no flights

Allied aircraft
Wellington Ic x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-46-II Dinah: 1 destroyed on ground

No Allied losses

Airbase supply hits 2
Runway hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Wellington Ic bombing from 5000 feet
Airfield Attack: 8 x 500 lb GP Bomb

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China: Sigint entry for 8/17 reports Jap 63rd Infantry Division is preparing for attack on Wuteh (a Russian-controlled dot hex base in southern Mongolia). Current known location of 63 Division is at Peiping – last reported there on 7/18/43 and this division has been in Peiping for a long period of time (presumably as a required garrison force). There has been no other evidence Pillager could be preparing or considering an attack on the USSR, but with the fall of China, this option would not be entirely impossible.