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

[BBfanboy]

ORIGINAL: IdahoNYer

ORIGINAL: jwolf

Manado, at the northern end of Sulawesi, is a great base to secure in order to take control over the Celebes Sea in preparation for Mindanao.

Very true.....and L_S_T knows that as well, and has a reported 25k men dug in to defend it. Will bypass....

Low hanging fruit if you land a couple of divisions at the little dot base one or two hexes west of Manado. You automatically cut Manado off from supply by land. If the base in unoccupied any small unit can take it and then the unprepped divisions can land the turn after ...
But you seem to have specific plans for all your good troops so I imagine you bypass and hope that he tries to rescue some of the Manado troops. [:)]

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: BBfanboy

ORIGINAL: IdahoNYer

ORIGINAL: jwolf

Manado, at the northern end of Sulawesi, is a great base to secure in order to take control over the Celebes Sea in preparation for Mindanao.

Very true.....and L_S_T knows that as well, and has a reported 25k men dug in to defend it. Will bypass....

Low hanging fruit if you land a couple of divisions at the little dot base one or two hexes west of Manado. You automatically cut Manado off from supply by land. If the base in unoccupied any small unit can take it and then the unprepped divisions can land the turn after ...
But you seem to have specific plans for all your good troops so I imagine you bypass and hope that he tries to rescue some of the Manado troops. [:)]

I'm not sure I'm on the right path bypassing too many strongholds - it may cost me later. Truk, Rabaul, Ambon, Keopang, Manado etc...

But....the time in planning preparation to secure any of these would cost me 2-3 divisions and support. Not ready to do that just yet. Yet....

[IdahoNYer]

30 Apr - 1 May 44

Highlights - Landings go in at Talaud-eilanden and Samarinda without issue.

Jpn ships sunk:
E: 1
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 14
Allied: 21

Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 6 Attacks, 0 ships hit (all against ASW vessels)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv:
Samarinda (SWPAC)
Talaud-eilanden (SOPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Muntok (SE Asia - flipped)
Banjoewangi (SWPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, B-29s launch for the first time out of Kavieng targeting Rota. Results are poor, but the softening up has begun. Navy Heavies out of Ponape will hit Saipan next turn after a brief rest.

In SOPAC, landings go in at Talaud-eilanden without any unpleasant surprises which is good as only one of three CV TFs moved to provide cover - I managed to set two to follow the WRONG TF (198 vs 148…damn font and bad eyesight!). Will hopefully be able to fix that issue before L_S_T launches any response. Talaud looks to be fairly well defended, and the Marines need some rest from the landings so the first attack will wait a bit, and LSTs are also enroute with the tank battalion. Most of the transports do complete unloading and will head back to Kavieng to gather for the Yap landings. LBA will focus on softening up Talaud, and the old BB TF (4BB, DDs) will sortie from Hollandia to bombard Talaud as well. CV TFs and the CVEs will continue to provide cover until the base is secured, then head to CENPAC to cover the Yap landings.

In SWPAC, troops go ashore at the undefended Samarinda adjacent to Balikpapan, but the base fails to flip, so it remained under Japan’s control - which delayed any attack on Balikpapan as well. With my luck those defenders would retreat to Samarinda! The wait isn’t the worst thing, much support still needs to be brought forward, and troops need plenty of time for planning before any further major advances in SWPAC. The Eastern Java landings are progressing, and follow on forces are enroute. Most combat power to secure the island is coming out of SE Asia command.

In China, Kweilin AF is targeting by IJA LBA, and the Indian AA battalion doesn’t do enough against the Sonias, so will sortie some fighters from other AFs to provide LRCAP. Only P-40 series aircraft are available, so this could be expensive, although so far no IJA sweeps have taken place.

In SE Asia, bombing against troops “in the open” defending the river line north of Bangkok didn’t accomplish much, but those troops don’t counter attack against the Allied troops across the river either. Will see how that goes next turn. In Java, advancing Allied armor finds two IJA units bunkered down in the usual fortified inland base of Bandoeng. Will see what’s there, but there is no rush to try to push these defenders out - they can remain there. I’d rather have them there than defending Batavia - which I’m moving troops into next turn or two that are actually somewhat prepped for Batavia. Will continue to advance along the north coast to link up with SWPAC, and another Bde is coming into land at Kalidjati - which was mined and now cleared by Allied sweepers. In the Java Sea, Muntok flips on Banka island providing an easy entry point to secure the island - just need to get some transports freed up to bring over some engineers. Lastly, Singers continue to attract LBA attention to reduce industry - and supply production. Still need to decide where to focus planning for the majority of the available ground forces…decisions, decisions.

[IdahoNYer]

2-3 May 44

Highlights – Samarinda and its oil production taken; CAP trap over Saipan.

Jpn ships sunk:
E: 1
SSX: 1
LSD: 1
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 26
Allied: 53

Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit
Allies: 4 Attacks, 2 ships hit (E, LSD sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Samarinda (SWPAC)
Probolinggo (SWPAC - flipped)
Chribon (SE Asia - flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: CV Franklin arrives in Panama and will head to join the Carrier Force.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CAP trap with about 40 Franks over Saipan claims 20 Navy PB4Y-1s as P-38s sweepers show up late. Lightnings don’t fare well either when they do show, losing 10 to 6 Franks. Not a good day over Saipan! At least the B-29s over Rota weren’t intercepted and did some damage. In any case, bombing will be suspended for a bit - nothing to be gained for the moment. CVs will be enroute in a few weeks to change things up in the Marianas. Also, CV Essex steams past Pearl, picking up a replacement Hellcat squadron which will be transported to equip one of CVEs being repaired at Sydney.

In SOPAC, no issues at Talaud-eilanden as US CV TFs join up off the isle. I hold off attacking one more turn as the BB TF (4BB, DDs) should bombard next turn - will also have the CA TF (3CA, CL, DDs) bombard before they head back to Manus to rearm in preparation for the upcoming landings at Yap. Assault transports still enroute and gathering at Kavieng. Focus now shifting troops forward to build up bases in SOPAC. Challenge also is pulling combat troops back from forward areas to rest and prep for upcoming operations - stacking level is at a premium in SOPAC bases on the New Guinea coast.

In SWPAC, Samarinda is taken by attack, although undefended. Its oil facilities are taken intact, although its airfield and port will need a bit of repair. Still, P-47s are flown in and may be able to begin sweeps over Miri next turn. Focus now will be taking Balikpapan and shutting down IJN shipping to all Borneo ports. B-25s manage to catch a pair of TKs at Tarakan trying to sip fuel, one is crippled by three bomb hits the other damaged by strafing. Shipping continues to be detached to SOPAC/CENPAC as troops are offloaded, so operations will be limited in SWPAC. Troops continue to advance on Java, only resistance appears to be in Soerabaja on the eastern end of the island.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, the expected IJA attack on the Indian Bde across the river north of Bangkok is repulsed with the help of effective air support hitting the attackers in the open. Might just be able to retain this bridgehead after all - an Indian Div should reinforce within a week. Another Bde is landed on Java and the advance will head east on both coasts to link up with SWPAC troops. Batavia finally be attacked next turn as troops prepped for the OBJ have finally arrived. The US 3rd Mar Div will pursue any remaining defenders.

[jwolf]

I'm not sure I'm on the right path bypassing too many strongholds - it may cost me later. Truk, Rabaul, Ambon, Keopang, Manado etc...

But....the time in planning preparation to secure any of these would cost me 2-3 divisions and support. Not ready to do that just yet. Yet....

I'm curious when you'll come to one of these strongholds that you finally decide really has to be taken. Marianas?

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: jwolf

I'm not sure I'm on the right path bypassing too many strongholds - it may cost me later. Truk, Rabaul, Ambon, Keopang, Manado etc...

But....the time in planning preparation to secure any of these would cost me 2-3 divisions and support. Not ready to do that just yet. Yet....

I'm curious when you'll come to one of these strongholds that you finally decide really has to be taken. Marianas?

Great question! To me, its all about ports - good ports are few and far between. Manus and Hollandia to me were must haves. Rangoon also. Palembang at the time, but with Java open, didn't really need it.

With Java accessible, I'll add Soerabaja as a must have and will have to fight for it. Taking Batavia without a big fight is gold.

Marianas....? I'm going for Rota and Pagan to neutralize the main bases. I'll likely go for Guam later...much later. I just don't think B-29s at long range strat bombing Japan in a PBEM game from the Marianas will pay off, so I'm not focused in taking them.

Focus will eventually head up to the PI, so I'll likely add Manilla to the list.

From there...will see...

[IdahoNYer]

4-5 May 44

Highlights – Batavia and Balikpapan taken.

Jpn ships sunk:
SC: 2
SSX: 1
xAP: 1
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk:
SS: 1 (Cisco - outright by an escort’s depth charges - they are getting VERY lethal!)

Air loss:
Jpn: 35
Allied: 35

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit (SS Cisco sunk in that one attack)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost:
Kluong (SE Asia - base in Malaya just north of Singers that was flipped, was retaken)

Bases Liberated:
Balikpapan (SWPAC)
Batavia (SE Asia)
Semarang (SE Asia - flipped on Java)

SIGINT/Intel: IJN transport ships sighted at Cagayan in Mindanao, unknown if loading or offloading.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Yap Amphib assault shipping begins arriving at Kavieng - taking a bit longer than I thought to gather the shipping due to the increasing distances to the “front line”. Troops are fully prepped, and should begin loading next turn, although all shipping will not close for another few days. Air rests, no attacks or sweeps against the Marianas.

In SOPAC, BB and CA TFs bombard Talaud-eilanden with reasonably good effect, inflicting over 500 casualties. CA TF begins heading to Manus to rearm, while the BBs remained, and will bombard one more time with escorts to support the ground attack this coming turn. CVEs also remain and will stay in place to support offloading of engineers in the coming turns as well. CV TFs, along with CA TF and ASW TFs will sortie north, just east of Mindanao in an attempt to interdict that transport TF at Cagayan. CV TFs will then head east in support of the Yap Amphib. SOPAC will retain only DDs while the focus shifts to CENPAC in the coming turns, before the focus returns to SOPAC for landings on Mindanao.

In SWPAC, Balikpapan falls in the first assault, 3000 IJA casualties, the remaining troops falling back to the south. Surprisingly, both oil and refinery industry are captured fully intact. US fighters are flown in to provide CAP as engineers continue to offload. The first sweep from Samarinda against Miri will fly next turn, weather permitting. No bombers just yet, but that is coming. Some additional support troops are landed in Java, but that flow will dry up as Java will be handed completely over to SE Asia. SWPAC planning will now focus on Borneo, numerous PI islands and Luzon - but Luzon is a few months away as planning/preparation is just starting as troops are freed up from the Balikpapan assault.

In China, some limited Allied airstrikes - but including a B-29 raid and a few Mitchells, escorted (and sweepers) by P-40s just NW of Wuchow were met by a number of Oscar IVs and a few Franks. The bombers achieved their purpose - hitting 3rd Tank Div, and hopefully slowing it down a bit until Allied troops can reposition, and inflicting about 200 casualties and knocking out over 25 AFVs. Air combat was mixed, the P-40s doing better than expected, but the Mitchells still took some fire; 15 Oscars and 2 Franks down in exchange for 8 P-40s and 7 B-25s. No B-29s were lost. It does look like a major IJA push is underway aiming at Liuchow, the SE portion of the Chinese position, which is reinforced a bit by some Allied units as well. The Chinese troops are dug in, and in supply, but lack good AT guns, which hopefully the Allied “corset” units can assist with. I may commit more fighters, but not at the moment.

In SE Asia, Batavia is taken in the first assault as expected - the SNLF, less 650 troops withdrawing with the 3rd Mar Div in pursuit. While Batavia’s port and AF will need some repairs, it offers the best port in the area (until Soerabaja is taken), and will become the primary base for SE Asia naval units. Support ships will begin transiting from Benkoelen and Siberoet starting next turn. Siberoet and Sabang have been the primary ports for supplies flowing into Sumatra, now, Batavia will replace Siberoet as the main conduit. While the majority of troops in Sumatra have begun planning for Indochina, about 4 Bdes will focus on securing Java, culminating with Soerabaja. In Burma/Thailand, bombers have a good two days hitting IJA in the open along the river which appear to be moving toward Bangkok. Still, goal is to “demonstrate” and not launch a major offensive here…so other troops pretty much hold in place.

[IdahoNYer]

6-7 May 44

Highlights – Talaued-eilanden taken while carrier raid on PI shipping is effective; good fighter sweep over Miri.

Jpn ships sunk:
E: 4
SS: 1 (I-160)
PB: 1
xAK: 1
xAKL: 3
LST: 2

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: (I-27)

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 88
Allied: 42

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Talaud-eilanden (SOPAC)
Madioen SE Asia - flipped Java)
Malang (SE Asia - flipped Java)

SIGINT/Intel: Georges are brought back into Tarakan…..puzzling.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Yap Amphib assault shipping begins loading at Kavieng - about two divisions and support are loading up for Yap, while a Bde and support await loading for Ulithi.

In SOPAC, Talaud-eilanden taken in the first assault, but not without cost. In two attacks, Jpn forces lose just over 2500 men while inflicting almost 1000 US casualties. Allied troops need to rest before finishing the job, but with the base taken, fighters and PBYs are already based there, and engineers start their work to expand facilities. CVE and CA TFs will remain to cover the offloading of support troops, but their time is limited as they will need to support the Yap Amphib. At sea, the US CV TFs sortie north along Mindanao’s east coast, up toward Samar where search aircraft spot a number of Jpn transports with troops (either loading or offloading?). Strikes do well, meet no CAP in strikes near Cagayan, Panay and west of Samar. A number of LSDs are hit and left burning, as well as a number of smaller transports hit as well. A good day’s work! CVs will continue north toward Samar for another potential naval strike opportunity next turn, but will not loiter, and will head back south on day 2. Focus now will become supporting the Yap landings, most LBA bombers coming out of SOPAC bases.

In SWPAC, fighters out of Samarinda launch a series of sweeps against Miri and are met by a robust CAP initially of 90 Zeros, which doesn’t fair well against the P-47s, Corsairs or P-38s. At the end of two days, 67 Zeros are splashed in exchange for 15 Corsairs and 5 P-47s. A good day in the air over Miri! Will continue sweeps next turn, but include Heavies (including B-29s) to hit the airfield, port and oil targets. Strike aircraft will also be available to hit potential naval targets - but Tarakan has become troublesome, and hopefully naval strikes don’t wander from Miri to Tarakan. An errant F6F sweep hit Tarakan, losing 7 F6Fs to 4 Georges. Not sure what the Georges are doing in Tarakan - perhaps staging enroute to Miri or providing cover for another convoy coming in to draw remaining fuel or oil? Not sure. In any case, the priority of strikes will again focus on Miri, only 3 B-24 squadrons will hit Tarakan AF at night. At sea, the CVEs will be pulled from Samarinda and Balikpapan to prepare for further operations - some will likely head out of Theater. Will look to land small battalion size forces on Borneo’s southern coast bases of Sampit and Bandjermasin. Will the two battalions are ill-prepped, the bases are reportedly undefended. Goal is to fully secure the Java Sea and be in position to strike at the Singkawang area. Focus now in SWPAC is to consolidate gains - which will involve securing some bypassed bases, and continue preparations for the remainder of Borneo and approaches to the Sulu Sea.

In China, general supply totals exceed 100,000 for the first time!

In SE Asia, Java is rapidly being secured, and troops will move on Soerabaja and Tjilatjap in the next few days. Batavia is being established as the major hub in the area, and the first support and repair ships have disbanded to begin operations. B-29s out of Siberoet will sortie to hit Miri next turn, otherwise most Heavies in Sumatra and Java rest. Fairly quiet in Burma/Thailand - focus is holding the bridgehead across the river north of Bangkok - only air attacks in support of the bridgehead for the time being. SE Asia focus will shift to the Burma/Thailand sector in the coming turns in support of a flanking amphib to secure Tavoy. That will also trigger some ground attacks west of Bangkok to focus L_S_T’s attention to that front on the ground. Also a bit of risk there…no CVEs to support the amphib - all CAP to be provided by LRCAP from Rangoon/Pegu/Moumein bases.

[IdahoNYer]

8-9 May 44

Highlights – Solid raids on Miri; Tjilatjap taken

Jpn ships sunk:
E: 1
SS: 1 (RO-108)
AG: 1
AK: 1
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 55
Allied: 31

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amph Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Tjilatjap (SE Asia)

SIGINT/Intel: Some of the Tarakan Georges made up the CAP over Miri. Not totally unexpected, but not all accounted for. Only TKs and light shipping at Miri, no fleet units.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Yap Amphib completes loading at Kavieng (and some support units at Umboi). Over 30k worth of troops, about two divisions plus support. Amphib TF will head to stage at Woleai and link up with other supporting TFs - CVEs, CA TF etc. Ulithi Amph (One Bde and support) now begins loading at Kavieng as well as some additional support for Yap. CVs are heading east to cover the landings, they will initially position north of Yap and Ulithi, although I don’t expect any major IJN counters. LBA will begin prep attacks, with B-29s out of Kavieng and B-24s out of Sarmi/Hollandia. With barracks space freed up at Kavieng, half the troops earmarked for Rota will now be moving there from New Guinea. Intent is to follow up with Rota as soon as possible. Troops for Pagan are still prepping in Noumea, but they will also need to be brought forward soon. The goal was to release the Assault shipping and CVs back to SOPAC by Jun, but that was probably too optimistic. Perhaps the first half of Jun.

In SOPAC, shuttling troops and bringing in supplies are now the main effort, building up Talaud, Morotai and Ternate. Heavies and long range fighters focused in supporting CENPACs efforts at Yap.


In SWPAC, weather holds off strikes against Miri for the first day, but weather clears enough on the second day for a few good strikes. Only about 20 Georges are found on CAP which give the Corsair sweepers a run for their money, but the P-47s clear the skies even before the P-38s can engage. B-29s and B-24s do well against Miri’s port, airfield and oil, but all three will require additional strikes. TBFs out of Samarinda catch a few TKs and escorts, sinking an E and leave 4 TKs burning with fuel cargo. Will continue to target Miri, hopefully weather will improve and the B-25s can engage any TKs. Elsewhere, recon is reporting the Jpn bases in southern Borneo along the Java Sea are undefended, and Aussie Cdo Bn will drop on Bandjermasin next turn. IN Bns are prepping for Sampit and Ketapang and troops will embark as soon as practical. The majority of ground troops in SWPAC still need some time to prep for other objectives, although if recon shows minimal forces in the Singkawang/Kuching areas, will press for landings will less than fully prepped troops.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, Tjilatjap falls undefended to the Canadian Bde as troops continue toward Soerabaja. Batavia has fighters flown in to provide CAP and is now a fully functional major hub of operations. In Thailand, will try an attack to consolidate the Indian bridgehead across the river north of Bangkok. Although still not looking to achieve a major push here, but if successful, will cut the IJA defenders in half - the main force defending Bangkok and the other half in the jungles near Raheng. Those defenders in and around Raheng should have considerable trouble with supply and the jungle terrain should also hinder any withdrawal. Now to get the Tavoy landings underway in a few days!

[IdahoNYer]

10-11 May 44

Highlights – Rapid advance continues on Java; another good day over Miri.

Jpn ships sunk:
SC: 4
TK: 1
AMc: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 10
Allied: 18

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Airborne Assault:
Bandjermasin (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Djokjakarta (SE Asia - Java, flipped)
Soerakarta (SE Asia - Java, flipped)
Bandjermasin (SWPAC)

SIGINT/Intel: Miri devoid of CAP, looks like L_S_T is really pulling back his combat power to interior lines - where, I have no idea.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Yap Amphib continues on toward staging - will pass Woleai and now stage just south of Yap. Ulithi Amph completes loading and will proceed toward Woleai as well. CVs move to just north Yap, no contact with any enemy forces. Heavies hit both Yap and Ulithi AFs with good effect as part of the “softening up” and will now shift to ground units. CA TF will go in to bombard Ulithi while the old BB TF will bombard Yap. So far, so good.

In SOPAC, Talaud is secured with two final attacks, the IJA losing the remaining 5000+ troops in exchange for about 250 US. Talaud is now built up enough for fighter sweeps and perhaps some naval interdiction over Mindinao, as some small TFs are sighted near Cagayan. Focus remains shuttling troops - need to move troops earmarked for Rota and Pagan forward to embarkation bases. Finding bases with sufficient troop capacity is the challenge. Likewise, combat troops, both Army and Marine, on Talaud will be pulled off to make room for engineers - they will go to Darwin to rest and refit before their next major landings on the PI. Lastly, CV Essex arrives at Manus and will carry the first squadron of F6F-3N night fighters - her air group will consist of 36 F6F, 24 F6F-3Ns, 24 SBD and 18 TBF. Essex also brought in a second F6F-3N squadron, which will be brought up to 24 planes and divided into three 8 plane sections, each going to a CVE to provide some night fighter support to the CVE TFs.

In SWPAC, strikes hit Miri with good effect on both the oil centers and AF, no CAP present. Some small shipping hit and sunk (SCs), but no TKs sighted or engaged. Will continue to focus Heavies on Miri, while recon looks at Brunei and other potential targets on the Borneo coast. On the southern end of Borneo, Aussie commandos para drop and secure the undefended base of Bandjermasin. Recon is showing all southern Borneo bases undefended - including perhaps Kuching area where an Aussie Corps worth of troops is currently prepped for. Small battalion size Amphib TFs will depart for Sampit and Ketapang next turn, while the Aussie Cdos at Bandjermasin will be pulled out to jump at Pontianak as soon as practical. If recon holds true, will look to get the Singkawang amphib embarked as early as next turn - a bit of risk here as I planned to lose one of two CVE TFs (8CVEs ea) to CENPAC for the upcoming landings in the Marianas - may leave two to support the increased tempo on Borneo.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, the lead brigade reaches Soerabaja and will recon by artillery fire next turn. SWPAC bombers hit Soerabaja to begin softening up, and will shift to ground targets next turn, augmented by SE Asia based B-25s out of Batavia. Looks like Soerabaja has only about 8k troops, and I think most are support troops. With some luck, all of Java can be secured in a week and if I’m really lucky, the Soerabaja shipyard can be taken intact. On the land front, the Tavoy Amphib operation begins loading at Rangoon - an Indian IN Bde and US Armor Bn will load and do and “end around” to secure Tavoy behind the two IJA Bdes holding just to the north. With luck, the reported JAAF unit is the only defense at the base, and Tavoy can be secured quickly. With no naval air avail, the Amphib will be covered entirely by LRCAP which is always risky - especially so with Kamikazes available. If Tavoy goes well, will look to follow up by landing a fully prepped Indian Div (understrength however) at Mergui just south of Tavoy to fully split the defenders of Malaya away from the main IJA force defending Thailand, centered around Bangkok.

[IdahoNYer]

12-13 May 44

Highlights – Weather interferes with Miri raids; IJA looks to be pulling off the Bangkok defensive river line.

Jpn ships sunk:
E: 1
AS: 1
xAKL: 1

Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 1 (I-185 again!)

Allied ships sunk:
PT: 1

Air loss:
Jpn: 10
Allied: 17

Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit (although sub laid mines claim a PT at Talaud)
Allies: 1 Attacks, 1 ship hit (xAKL sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amphib Inv: None

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Loemadjang (SE Asia - Java, flipped)

SIGINT/Intel: Surprised to see major IJA retrograde movements heading east from the Burma-Thailand border defense. I haven’t pushed hard here, yet it certainly looks like the IJA are pulling out. No sign of the IJN or much air activity. Ultra reports (L_S_T emails) concern in Jpn industry capability with only 2million supply avail.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, CA TF (3CA, CL, DDs) bombards, and LBA shifts to hitting ground targets at Ulithi with solid results of over 700 casualties - tells me the Naval Guard unit there isn’t well dug in. Bombers hitting Yap however barely manage to inflict about 150 casualties, so expect they will be a tougher nut to crack - as anticipated. Yap Amph will proceed to target and begin landings. Ulithi Amph will accompany to Yap, but troops will stay aboard. CV TFs stay in support to the north, BB TF and CVE TF will accompany to Yap, the BBs bombarding, the Ulithi CA TF now rearmed at Woleai, will sortie to Yap to provide cover. I don’t expect much reaction to the landings. Lastly, Truk AF was hit by Navy Heavies with good effect to protect the shipping lanes.

In SOPAC, its quiet, no targets or bad weather prevented any strikes out of Talaud. However, an IJN sub laid mines at Talaud, sinking a PT. The I-Boat was heavily damaged in the process and minesweepers should take care of the mines in short order. The mines did just miss a big convoy taking the majority of the Marines off the island. CV TF (3CV, BB, CA, 2CL, DDs) will depart Manus to link up with the fleet - The recently arrived Illustrious, the repaired Bunker Hill and Essex along with BB Richelieu and CAs will not necessarily augment the CV TFs, but rather look to replace ships for upcoming refit/upgrades and/or CVs that have low air ops remaining.

In SWPAC, strikes only hit Miri on the second day due to weather, and no shipping was sighted. Miri’s oil industry capability is being reduced, but with Allied tactical air now extending to Miri, hitting the industry really isn’t necessary - the TKs would be better targets if they try to recover any oil or fuel. Assault shipping is being gathered in Makassar as well as supporting CVE and CA TFs for the next move. Aussie II Corps has about 2 divisions earmarked for the Singkawang/Kuching area of Borneo, but recon is showing that entire SW corner of Borneo undefended! Will look to land a single Bde and support troops instead. Still, CVE and CA TFs will be needed as the area is still exposed, and enemy air threat is feasible, although at this point, not likely. Focus remains securing Borneo for the time being as troops need more prep time and supporting AFs still need much work before looking more northerly towards the PI.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, on Java, Soerabaja looks to be defended primarily by two IN Bns and supporting troops. The lead Allied Bde will hold in place and await some additional troops, but Soerabaja should be in Allied hands within a week or so. Will use the 3rd Mar Div to clear out the IJA support troops holding the Bandoeng redoubt once engineers are brought up. SE Asia’s main effort is shifted to securing Tavoy with a Bde size Amphib landing which will depart Rangoon this turn, supported by LRCAP as well as LBA bombers and a CL TF (2CL, DDs). Unfortunately, it does look like my “holding attack” on the Bangkok line has failed in its purpose - L_S_T looks to be pulling off to the east, leaving some stay behinds to delay rather than defend. Hadn’t planned to have Allied troops vigorously attack and pursue at this point….but….fight the enemy and not the plan, right? So, it looks like Bangkok may turn into another Rangoon - a major base abandoned without a serious fight? There’s a lot of positive there if that’s the case, but I don’t really want to see this major IJA army withdrawing into Indochina or even China. Still a bit too early to determine what exactly is pulling out, or how far. So for now, will continue to focus on splitting the IJA Thailand Army from Malaya with taking Tavoy.

[IdahoNYer]

14-15 May 44

Highlights – Yap and Tavoy Amphibs go in without incident; interesting Intel.

Jpn ships sunk:
AMc: 1

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

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 35
Allied: 34

Subwar: Jpn shipping is minimal; Allied subs are more targets for ASW than predators.
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 1 ship hit (AMc sunk)

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amphib Inv:
Yap (CENPAC)
Tavoy (SE Asia)
Batoe-eilanden (SE Asia)
Ketapang (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated: None

SIGINT/Intel: An interesting source of good intel this turn - the infamous Synch Bug! The replay showed Kamikaze Judys hitting rear area convoys off New Ireland. Replay showed a TK, xAK and a pair of LSTs being hit, with a pair of Kittyhawks on local CAP shooting down about 4 Judys. But none of that happened! So, this means that Rabaul has some aircraft and enough supply to launch strikes!

West Coast/Admin: With less than expected resistance on Borneo, I’ve increased the number of APAs in the yards upgrading to about a dozen.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, BB TF (4BB, DDs) bombards Yap, and LBA continues to hit ground targets at both Yap and Ulithi with good effect as the Yap landings go in. Yap defenses seem to be fairly robust, with three Naval Guard units, likely well dug in. The two divisions and support landed in good order, but will take a turn to recover some disruption and let the flyboys continue to attrit the defenders. Ulithi Amphib will go in next turn supported by another CA TF bombardment. Being an atoll, I expect a bloody fight. At sea, with the 3 CVs out of Manus linking up, the CV TFs shuttle a few CVs around, pulling three CVs that are short air ops, that will head to Woleai to replenish. One CV TF will also detach and head south of Yap-Ulithi to take on fuel from the Repl TF. Although I don’t expect the KB to come into play here, the two remaining CV TFs should be able to deal with any threat with over 800 carrier planes available. Also, the assault shipping from the Yap Amphib will now head toward SOPAC to embark Rota Amphib units. Will still need to pull out those assault units once Yap is secured, but the priority for assault shipping is the upcoming Rota Amphib. Secondary assault shipping (APs/AKs vs. APAs/AKAs) and landing craft will be used to pull the troops off.

In SOPAC, with that Intel gem provided by the Synch Bug, I’ve shuttled some additional fighters to provide some semblance of air cover to convoys in range of Rabaul. Also, will recon Rabaul and put some bombers to work. Having bypassed bases in the rear area launching strikes has always been a major concern - lots of soft targets transiting those waters. Busy time in those rear area waters in SOPAC as troops earmarked for Rota are transiting to embarkation points at Kavieng and New Hannover - both very much in range of Rabaul. Elsewhere, B-25s out of Talaud-eilanden hit and damage two PBs north of Cagayan while sweeping P-38s take on Jacks on CAP over Cagayan. First time CAP has been encountered over Mindanao. The P-38s do OK, 17 Jacks lost for 10 P-38s, and no B-25s lost. Will continue the anti-shipping threat over Mindanao, as well as fighter sweeps in support.

In SWPAC, strikes reduce Miri oil production to 27, so some bombers will rest while others shift to Brunei. Mission accomplished! Focus can now shift to getting troops ashore at Singkawang on the SW tip of Borneo. An embarked Aussie Bde, which was coming up from Australia to preposition at Makassar will stay loaded and head directly to Singkawang, supported by two CVE TFs (10 CVEs ea) and a robust CA TF (4CA, 3CL, DDs). This should be enough to take care of covering the amphib, although I don’t expect the IJN in force anywhere in the South China Sea. Supporting Bn sized landings went in at Ketapang, and will go in next turn at Sampit as well as an Airborne landing to take Pontianak. All of these targets are reportedly undefended. With some luck, Allied air will be operating out of Singkawang and Kuching within a week. The challenge is now to shift the effort to the north and the approaches to the PI - troops still need more time to prep before landings can tack place at Jolo and Tawi-Tawi to open up the approaches to the Sulu Sea.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, on Java, will hold off the attack on Soerabaja until additional infantry can arrive - couple of days at most. Bombers can make good use of the time. On the Burma/Thai front, Tavoy Amphib goes in without any issues, and the base is minimally defended by a Eng Co. With the IJA pulling back, will launch a supporting ground attack along the main road to Bangkok supported by all available air. I expect a bloody fight, but a solid push may advance the front to threaten Bangkok itself.

[CaptBeefheart]

Despite the tough break on the CV losses, I'd say you are doing quite well. Thanks for this AAR. I like your monthly summaries a lot.

I'm surprised Java is so undefended. Although I've only played against the AI, I found the usual oil centers to be awash in fuel, which lessens the need to cart the stuff in from CONUS or the Middle East. How much fuel have you captured in Sumatra and Java so far?

Cheers,
CB

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: CaptBeefheart

Despite the tough break on the CV losses, I'd say you are doing quite well. Thanks for this AAR. I like your monthly summaries a lot.

I'm surprised Java is so undefended. Although I've only played against the AI, I found the usual oil centers to be awash in fuel, which lessens the need to cart the stuff in from CONUS or the Middle East. How much fuel have you captured in Sumatra and Java so far?

Cheers,
CB

Thanks CaptBeefheart! Appreciate it!

Getting Java without heavy cost was certainly a plus - same for Balikpapan. Of all the oil centers taken so far, only Balikpapan had about 25k in oil when taken, and has bene producing at full capacity. Not much to be gained from the other oil/refinery centers taken. But the Balikpapan oil/refinery will take a load of shipping from the USA - already about 85k of fuel avail, and I'm routing tankers to pick up fuel which should be able to sustain all of SWPAC operations - so no longer needing to haul fuel from Townsville to Darwin on a regular basis!

[IdahoNYer]

The game has continued despite work and life's best efforts to get in the way! Need to catch up on the AAR a bit of course too....

16-17 May 44

Highlights – Ulithi landings go well; Ulithi and Tavoy taken; ground attack towards Bangkok begins early.

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1
TK: 2
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 64
Allied: 34

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amphib/Airborne Inv:
Sampit (SWPAC)
Ulithi (CENPAC)
Pontianak (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Sampit (SWPAC)
Ulithi (CENPAC)
Tavoy (SE ASIA)
Ketapang (SWPAC)
Pontianak (SWPAC)
Batoe-eilanden (SE ASIA)

SIGINT/Intel: Much local shipping observed (out of strike range) between the isles of the PI - assuming these are troops deploying in.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, after a CA TF (3CA, CL, DDs) and a CL TF (2CL, DDs) bombard Ulithi with excellent effects, inflicting over 700 casualties, the US 21st IN Reg and support come ashore and take the atoll in a single shock attack; over 3000 Jpn lost to less than 250 US. With two Naval Guard units and level 4 forts, I’m very surprised this went so well. Assault transports begin to re-embark the assault troops as support forces already staged at Woleai will begin coming in. PBYs already begin operations out of Ulithi. Next up is Yap, as the ground assault begins, and Yap support elements move up from Woleai to Ulithi to stage. Once CV TF successfully refueled from the Repl TF and, along with the 3 CVs replenished (including air operations) at Woleai, will head back to the CV TFs patrolling NE of Ulithi. No indication of IJN intervention here. As operations wrap up in the Yap/Ulithi landings, the majority of the Yap assault shipping is just arriving at Madang where they will start to embark half the troops earmarked for Rota - the rest of the Rota assault troops are still arriving at Kavieng. Rota will also be a 2+ Division amphib operation. LBA Staying busy in CENPAC for the rest of the month!

In SOPAC, those Judys at Rabaul make an actual (vs. synchbug) appearance by striking convoys docked at New Hannover - which is probably one of the best targets I could have wished for…actually has a dedicated CAP! All 17 Judys splashed by mixed CAP of 25 fighters - none got through to the ships. Bombers begin, and will continue to plaster Rabaul to shut down the AF. Flak isn’t light, but not extreme and only 1 medium bomber is lost. Strike aircraft out of Talaud find PB targets near Cagayan as fighters sweep Jacks again. 3 PBs are left burning while AA fire claims 3 low level B-25s. 27 Jacks are splashed by the sweeps which lost 8 P-38s and a pair of Corsairs. Will continue to fly anti-shipping sorties out of Talaud as engineers work to expand the AF. Elsewhere, focus remains shifting forces forward and moving assault troops to embarkation bases - and will shortly work to find bases for troops returning from Yap/Ulithi to recover and plan for future operations.

In SWPAC, strikes against Miri and Brunei look to have accomplished shutting down most of the oil production, so will now rest the bombers and prepare to move at least some of the Heavies forward - to Balikpapan/Samarinda bases. As the Singkawang Amph TF and support heads to target, likely to begin landings on the second day next turn, undefended southern Borneo bases are mopped up with battalion size landings - Pontianak (via ASSLT), Ketabang and Sampit (via amphib). Kuching and Brunei are both reportedly also undefended, so I’m scrambling to link up battalion sized forces with transport to land and grab the bases. Recon is also being maximized to see what is the extent of defenses in NE Borneo and the islands bordering the Sulu Sea such as Jolo and Tawi-Tawi. The result of all these “quick grabs” have been a marked acceleration of SWPAC’s operational tempo - and over a Corps of troops with now obsolete planning objectives - Bdes and even Divisions planned to secure objectives now being secured by single battalions after finding the bases undefended. Not complaining here…..just now have to figure out what’s next!

In China, well, one unexpected consequence of the improved supply situation in China is that replacement squads are now zero-balance. I never expected to be able to push through over 2600 ’43 In squads and over 3300 ’41 In squads in the pools to units! Very nice! Now that I’ve noticed this (about 4 turns after the fact!), I’ve shut down all replacements and will focus putting the replacements into specific units rather than across the army. While still not on par with its IJA opponents - especially in heavy weapons and artillery - the Chinese Army in ’44 is no longer a pushover.

In SE Asia, will look to wrap up remaining two pockets on Java in the next few turns. Bombers continue to do well in softening up the targets. Available shipping is being used to move support troops to get islands off Sumatra, Singkep and Muntok on Banka Is up as forward AFs. The main effort is now firmly shifted to the land fight going into Malaya and Thailand, duly supported by most of the bomber force, and will shift the rest once Soerabaja is taken. Tavoy is minimally defended by a single shipping company and falls easily. Ground troops now heading south to secure Mergui as well as east to perhaps cut off IJA troops remaining NW of Bangkok. The “holding attacks” I intended on the Burma/Thai front have actually managed to bend if not break the IJA line - and a major 5 Division supporting attack I had long dreaded to undertake went in, and after two attacks pushed the dug in IJA defenders back at much less cost than I anticipated - with 4000 IJA casualties to 1600 Allied - and the Allied divisions (plus support) are all in good shape to continue the advance toward Bangkok. Bombers are the Allied mobile artillery, hitting both ground attack targets and IJA troop movements behind the lines. Enemy CAP is totally absent so far. Lastly, Additional infantry and support troops will be shuttled into Tavoy with the intent to cut the Malay peninsula - recon will take a hard look at Victoria Point to see if it is defended.

[jwolf]

While still not on par with its IJA opponents - especially in heavy weapons and artillery - the Chinese Army in ’44 is no longer a pushover.

Are you able to push a few Commonwealth armor and artillery units through Northern Burma into China? Granted you want most of these units for the push through SE Asia, but they can equalize the difference between Chinese and Japanese forces in my admittedly limited experience.

[IdahoNYer]

ORIGINAL: jwolf

While still not on par with its IJA opponents - especially in heavy weapons and artillery - the Chinese Army in ’44 is no longer a pushover.

Are you able to push a few Commonwealth armor and artillery units through Northern Burma into China? Granted you want most of these units for the push through SE Asia, but they can equalize the difference between Chinese and Japanese forces in my admittedly limited experience.

Yes! A number of Commonwealth AT and AA units, some armor as well. Even two East African (I think East) infantry units - a division and a Bde. As soon as the Burma Road was opened, units started to head across the Hump!

[IdahoNYer]

18-19 May 44

Highlights – Singkawang landings go well securing the base; Yap holds off first attack.

Jpn ships sunk:
xAK: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 10
Allied: 22

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Amphib/Airborne Inv:
Singkawang (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Singkawang (SWPAC)
Bandoeng (SE ASIA)

SIGINT/Intel: Very little Japanese activity observed at sea and nothing in the air.

West Coast/Admin: NSTR.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, after a CL TF (2CL, DDs) bombards Yap inflicting about 250 casualties, and the aerial bombardment tallys only another 35, I wasn’t totally surprised when the IJA held the first attack. The four Naval Guard Units defending were at Fort Level 4 which wasn’t reduced, despite the US engineers, and the casualties tallied 1600 Jpn to 600 US - which wasn’t terrible all things considered, and it was probably good that the AI decided not to attack again on the second day. The US forces are still in good shape and will attack again next turn, following another bombardment by the BB TF (4BB, DDs) - with one DD less as BB Maryland sliced into DD Gridley. Gridley (3/4(4)/13(9)) will head to Manus for evaluation and hopefully repairs. Maryland’s damage was limited (1/3(3)/2(1)) and continue mission, but she’s going to need some time at an ARD or shipyard in her near future. For now, I need her guns. While fighting continues on Yap, troops are still being re-embarked off of Ulithi, and Yap support troops remain embarked at Ulithi as well. The fueling and re-arming of the Carrier TFs continue with another third heading south to refuel and three more (including Lex, Sara) head to Woleai to replenish. Next turn will look to losing 3 CVLs and two Essex Class CVs to head to ports to be in position for the 1 Jun refits. So the CVs will be a little light going in to support the upcoming Rota landings.

In SOPAC, no further Kamikazes come out of Rabaul, or anywhere else. Which is good as the Rota Amphib begins loading the USMC contingent at Madang. In fact, was pretty quiet in SOPAC. Remaining troops earmarked for Rota are at Kavieng and New Hannover, and assault transports are enroute there to embark troops. With a number of APAs still tied up with Yap Support troops, I’m not sure I have enough on hand for the full 2½ divisions and support for Rota. Then again, based on recon, I’m not sure I need all that either. Will go with what I can load, the rest if needed can be brought in later.

In SWPAC, the Borneo Blitz continues with the Singkawang landings going in unopposed and taking the base. Support troops are inbound, and fighters and PBYs are already operational at the base. Next amphib up is Kuching, also appearing to be undefended. Recon is also showing Brunei as undefended so the vaunted Aussie 2/9 Cdo Bn will make yet another drop (its fourth on Borneo) to seize the base. If the CDOs can seize the base, will follow up with a Para Bde “on loan” from SE ASIA Theater resting at Batavia to seize Miri overland. Will continue to attempt to seize these undefended bases as rapidly as possible, with minimal forces - so far, this has allowed about 3 divisions worth of Australian troops from the Aussie II Corps to be re-missioned, and if all goes well, I may be able to free up half of the Aussie I Corps as well. The remaining troops of the Aussie I Corps are already missioned to islands on the approach to the PI such as Jolo, Tawi-Tawi and Palawan which all seem to be defended, although not heavily right now. The challenge is still brining support troops forward and expanding the recently taken bases. That’s the risk with any bases in the Brunei area - they are a bit exposed from supporting LRCAP and will rely on the covering CVE TFs. On the positive side, I don’t see much in the way of major Japanese airbases in range to counter. Tarakan and Miri have been built up and suppressed, other bases in range are undeveloped. The KB is of course a threat, but I don’t see L_S_T sailing it into the South China Sea - and just in case will start moving about a dozen additional subs to patrol there. The two supporting CVE TFs can bring 400+ fighters as CAP, but they are pretty anemic as strike platforms.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, on Java, the 3rd Mar Div easily takes Bandoeng despite the level 3 forts - no combat units were defending, only support troops which lost 1400 troops to the 70 US. The first attack on Soerabaja will go in next turn and fingers are crossed! On the other side of the Theater, troops continue to advance into Thailand; no surprises so far. Heavies will turn their attention to Bangkok to hit manpower in order to reduce any supply flow for the defending IJA troops. Recon re-focuses to get a better picture of the IJA withdrawal - concern is that the ground advance will over extend and be exposed to a well-timed counter attack.

[IdahoNYer]

20-21 May 44

Highlights – Yap, Soerabaja and Brunei taken.

Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 2
AK: 1
AMc: 1

Allied ships sunk: None

Air loss:
Jpn: 24
Allied: 23

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

Jpn Amph Inv: None

Allied Airborne Inv:
Brunei (SWPAC)

Bases lost: None

Bases Liberated:
Yap (CENPAC)
Brunei (SWPAC)
Soerabaja (SE Asia)
Toboali (SE Asia)

SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.

West Coast/Admin: With Soerabaja port and repair shipyard taken, SOPAC/CENPAC ships requiring refit and repairs can now cut the distance in half to the nearest facilities - vs. PH, Brisbane or Auckland.

In NOPAC, NSTR.

In CENPAC, Yap falls in the first attack, with over 3500 IJA casualties and 600 US. Remnants still need to be mopped up, but US forces still in good shape fatigue wise, and will continue the assault. Fighters and PBYs begin operating from Yap AFs. Waiting support troops aboard ships off Ulithi will head to offload next turn, with the emptying transports loading combat troops to ship back to New Guinea bases. CV TFs continue to replenish - but with Soerabaja’s repair facilities taken intact, 3 CVLs will depart for there for the June refit. One CV TF still needs to take on fuel, and will also cut loose two Essex Class CVs to refit at Manus next turn as well - CV Franklin, enroute from Pearl, will also refit at Manus when she arrives in a few days. So, to support the Rota landings, the CV TFs will be short a few decks - the goal is to have most of the Essex class swapped out prior to landings on Luzon as early as July.

In SOPAC, Marines earmarked for Rota complete loading to assault transports at Madang, and the Amph TF will head initially to Mussau Is. The Army complement will begin loading at Kavieng and New Hannover next turn. Like Yap, Rota is a 2+ division operation. Elsewhere, 8 Sonias come out of Menado to hit shipping off Talaud and are easily handled by Corsair CAP, shooting all 8 down. Otherwise its quiet.

In SWPAC, Aussie commandos land and seize undefended Brunei while support troops will start landing at Singkawang and Kuching landings should also begin shortly. The island of Groot Natoena, due east of Mersing by about 300 miles will also have troops coming in to seize it - also, undefended. Will need to consolidate these gains in the coming turns, and then look to seize Jolo and Tawi-Tawi - the biggest hold up there is the assault troops need more prep time. Although not strongly defended, both these islands are occupied. I also need to start seriously thinking of what to do with the Aussie I and II Corps - about 5+ divisions of troops are now without a mission since Borneo has proven to be less than heavily defended.

In China, NSTR.

In SE Asia, Soerabaja falls in the first attack, some 3000 troops eliminated in two attacks with NO Allied losses. Best part is the port’s facilities were taken intact and the repair shipyard will begin receiving customers as early as next turn. Support ships as well as some naval support at Batavia will move over to Soerabaja to develop it into a major naval base to support both SE Asia and SWPAC naval operations. In Thailand, Allied troops continue to advance to pressure Bangkok while Heavies have minimal success in hitting Bangkok’s industry.

[jwolf]

Soerabaja falls in the first attack, some 3000 troops eliminated in two attacks with NO Allied losses.

Amazing result -- not even a clumsy soldier who tripped over a rock. That is a great base to have, very helpful, especially the shipyard.

By this time you have taken and/or destroyed most (all?) of the oil production in the SRA. What's left that the Japanese can still use?