LST vs. IdahoNYer (DBB-C, A AAR) 6 yrs and done! VJ Day!
Moderators: wdolson, MOD_War-in-the-Pacific-Admirals-Edition
RE: 27-28 Sep 44
And here's the combat report
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Jorge_Stanbury
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RE: 27-28 Sep 44
2-day turns definitively played against you, as you would had ordered a better withdrawal than those escort TFs
was there any airbase in range? or did everyone ditched?
I think your main worry should be the fact he has nothing left to lose, he can take any risk now,
if I was in his position I would just focus anything left to re build a good kami force; probably won't be as big, but still capable. But rebuilding would take time, I agree so you should keep pushing on your invasion timeline, go for the "-jimas"
was there any airbase in range? or did everyone ditched?
I think your main worry should be the fact he has nothing left to lose, he can take any risk now,
if I was in his position I would just focus anything left to re build a good kami force; probably won't be as big, but still capable. But rebuilding would take time, I agree so you should keep pushing on your invasion timeline, go for the "-jimas"
RE: 27-28 Sep 44
ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury
2-day turns definitively played against you, as you would had ordered a better withdrawal than those escort TFs
was there any airbase in range? or did everyone ditched?
I think your main worry should be the fact he has nothing left to lose, he can take any risk now,
if I was in his position I would just focus anything left to re build a good kami force; probably won't be as big, but still capable. But rebuilding would take time, I agree so you should keep pushing on your invasion timeline, go for the "-jimas"
yeah...two day turns can be deadly....part of the fun using them! [:@]
And this debacle isn't over yet.
A number of planes from sunk ships made it to other bases/CVEs. Not critical at this point, I have plenty of planes and pilots in late '44 (FINALLY!), and I'll use political points to buy some destroyed fighter squadrons back, and surprisingly from past experience, they'll have some pilots.
Agree, I'll see at least one more mass assault by everything L_S_T can muster....as usual, the question is when.
29-30 Sep 44
29-30 Sep 44
Highlights – Continued blood letting as the IJN surface forces come out to wreak havoc….my only comment, so often said in ’42-’43….”it could have been worse”
Jpn ships sunk:
BB: 1 (Hiei -torpedoed, but doubtfully in sinking condition)
CA: 1 (Myoko)
CL: 1 (Agano)
DD: 3 (Natsushio, Murakumo, Asanagi)
E: 1
SS: 1 (RO-44)
PB: 1
xAK: 3
Jpn ships un-sunk:
DD: 1 (Takanami)
SS: 1 (I-27)
Allied ships sunk:
BB: 2 (Washington, Indiana - both already crippled)
BC: 1 (Renown)
CVE: 4 (Fanshaw Bay, Breton, Natoma Bay, Gambier Bay)
DD: 10 (Dashiell, Albert Grant, McGowan, Mullany, Prichett, Radford, Remey, Sterett, Wilson, Lang)
DE: 5 (Foreman, R.S. Suesens, McConnell, Samuel Miles, Osterhaus)
LST: 1
Air loss:
Jpn: 24
Allied: 156 (mostly on the CVEs)
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attacks, 1 ships hit (LST sunk)
Allies: 7 Attack, 2 ships hit (PB sunk, xAK dam)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: : L_S_T committed the “Fleet in Being” at the perfect moment, likely at high speed to catch the Allies in withdrawal. The previous days air campaign had to hurt, no strikes today…and many units were still in range. Or was it conservation and let the surface dogs finish victims?
Strategic Bombing Campaign: With the Fleet heading home with its tail between its legs, Strat bombing goes to night time raids, with good overall effect. Only 19 B-29s hit Shimonoseki (Oil) which had some Irvings on CAP, and damage was limited to 11 Oil damaged at a cost of 1 B-29 to Flak. 40 B-29s hit Hiroshima (HI) with good effect, damaging 88 HI without loss, although some Irvings were on CAP. Lastly, 25 B-29s hit Nagasaki (HI), no CAP, causing 93 HI damaged. These raids raised the VPs for strat bombing to 1032 with the first attempt at night bombing, and targeting industry instead of trying to generate fires with manpower. Night bombing will likely be the norm for a while. Strat bombing will take the next two days off, the B-29s expanding squadrons from 7 to 10 planes and diverting three Groups to mine Oita and Matsuyama to interdict the Bungo Straits and Hiroshima/Kure where I think the IJN is heading.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, another nasty turn as L_S_T coordinated his surface fleet superbly to chase down the withdrawing Allied Fleet. Although I knew the Fleet was intact, I really didn’t consider this option. I really, really should know better….been playing L_S_T in this PBEM for a long while, and I know he likes to do things BIG! In any case, it “could have been worse” as the CV TFs were not damaged, and evaded combat. The heroes were the numerous 2-4 ship DD TFs executing either ASW or surface action missions. The IJN TFs, two BB TF (4 BB, 2CA, CL, DDs) and (5BB, DDs), CA TF (8CA, DDs), and a CL TF (3CL, DDs) all ran into these small DD TFs and were worn down. So when the BB TF ran into the CV TF, they both avoided contact! Still, in a reenactment of Kurita of history, one BB TF ran into the reinforcing CVE TF (8CVE, CA, 2CLAA, 5DD, 3DE) and did some solid damage, sinking 4CVEs, but getting some damage, although no torpedoes in return. Now how they bypassed the CA TF that was with the CVEs is a mystery, although that likely would have just been additional US casualties. Another BB TF (with the Musashi), ran into the crippled US BBs which managed to hit Musashi enough for her to form into an escort TF. Still it wasn’t a fair fight. The Renown TF (BC, DDs) did little in return for being sunk by the same BB TF. What about the US airpower you ask?? Well, chalk this up to my poor playing. I expected subs and MTBs to try and nibble at the cripples, so most of my strike aircraft were set to ASW or night attack and search. I did have a number of TBFs on low naval to counter the MTB threat, so they were carrying bombs, not torpedoes, but they did damage a number of CLs and DDs. A few DB and TB flew normal attack missions, but dive bombing was poor as was the few torpedo attacks.
So now that more carnage is done, what’s next. The smart thing would probably be to continue all Fleet elements to Naga and sort things out. But, instead I’m sending the two CV TFs north towards Daito Shoto - Okinawa and then return. See if they can catch the withdrawing IJN ships before they make port. It’s a longshot, but I figure the IJN had to be at full speed heading south to catch the US Fleet, so now they should be sailing at reduced speed back to port - and some are straggling back damaged. Heavy CAP will be maintained, and won’t stay in range long, the Fleet will return to Naga. A CA TF (CA, 2CL, DDs) and a few DD TFs will provide support. Mediums out of Miyako-Jima will also try and reach out to catch some stragglers. One IJN TF, likely the big CA TF, looks to be heading NW from Daito Shoto instead of heading NE like all the others observed. I figure this may be a run toward the landings at Miyako-jima to catch some transports or bombard. So, shipping will be largely cleared, and light surface forces (DDs and PTs) will be there to intercept. Lastly, as mentioned, B-29s will lay mines around the Bungo Straits. On the ground in Formosa, troops that landed at Hengchun finally made it to Takao, and will join in the bombardments.
In SWPAC, the second attack on IJA troops around Manila will go in, with some fresh US troops committed. BB and CA TFs plus LBA will contribute to bombardments in support. Kume-jima troops will concentrate at Naga and be prepared to load once the Fleet get sorted out. Figure a week’s delay is optimistic, but possible.
In China, troops enter the outskirts of Canton and find about 26k defenders through a recon by bombardment. Troops continue to bypass to the east. West of Changsa, the IJA launch a spoiling attack on the advancing Chinese troops, and the Chinese hold inflicting about 3000 casualties to 2300 Chinese. In the north, troops reach Neikiang, and as it appears the IJA is withdrawing its 7k troops, the two Chinese Corps will attack, hoping to truly collapse any IJA defenses west of Chungking.
In SE Asia, another attack on IJA troops isolated near Vinh will go in, and the process of reducing this pocket will take a few days or a week. Troops continue to concentrate in Hanoi for the cross river attack to Haiphong in a few days. The CA TF (CA, 3CL, DDs) naval bombardment of Hanoi inflicted about 100 casualties, but coastal batteries damaged CA Australia (18sys) enough to send her to the yards for an overdue refit.
Highlights – Continued blood letting as the IJN surface forces come out to wreak havoc….my only comment, so often said in ’42-’43….”it could have been worse”
Jpn ships sunk:
BB: 1 (Hiei -torpedoed, but doubtfully in sinking condition)
CA: 1 (Myoko)
CL: 1 (Agano)
DD: 3 (Natsushio, Murakumo, Asanagi)
E: 1
SS: 1 (RO-44)
PB: 1
xAK: 3
Jpn ships un-sunk:
DD: 1 (Takanami)
SS: 1 (I-27)
Allied ships sunk:
BB: 2 (Washington, Indiana - both already crippled)
BC: 1 (Renown)
CVE: 4 (Fanshaw Bay, Breton, Natoma Bay, Gambier Bay)
DD: 10 (Dashiell, Albert Grant, McGowan, Mullany, Prichett, Radford, Remey, Sterett, Wilson, Lang)
DE: 5 (Foreman, R.S. Suesens, McConnell, Samuel Miles, Osterhaus)
LST: 1
Air loss:
Jpn: 24
Allied: 156 (mostly on the CVEs)
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attacks, 1 ships hit (LST sunk)
Allies: 7 Attack, 2 ships hit (PB sunk, xAK dam)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated: None
SIGINT/Intel: : L_S_T committed the “Fleet in Being” at the perfect moment, likely at high speed to catch the Allies in withdrawal. The previous days air campaign had to hurt, no strikes today…and many units were still in range. Or was it conservation and let the surface dogs finish victims?
Strategic Bombing Campaign: With the Fleet heading home with its tail between its legs, Strat bombing goes to night time raids, with good overall effect. Only 19 B-29s hit Shimonoseki (Oil) which had some Irvings on CAP, and damage was limited to 11 Oil damaged at a cost of 1 B-29 to Flak. 40 B-29s hit Hiroshima (HI) with good effect, damaging 88 HI without loss, although some Irvings were on CAP. Lastly, 25 B-29s hit Nagasaki (HI), no CAP, causing 93 HI damaged. These raids raised the VPs for strat bombing to 1032 with the first attempt at night bombing, and targeting industry instead of trying to generate fires with manpower. Night bombing will likely be the norm for a while. Strat bombing will take the next two days off, the B-29s expanding squadrons from 7 to 10 planes and diverting three Groups to mine Oita and Matsuyama to interdict the Bungo Straits and Hiroshima/Kure where I think the IJN is heading.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, another nasty turn as L_S_T coordinated his surface fleet superbly to chase down the withdrawing Allied Fleet. Although I knew the Fleet was intact, I really didn’t consider this option. I really, really should know better….been playing L_S_T in this PBEM for a long while, and I know he likes to do things BIG! In any case, it “could have been worse” as the CV TFs were not damaged, and evaded combat. The heroes were the numerous 2-4 ship DD TFs executing either ASW or surface action missions. The IJN TFs, two BB TF (4 BB, 2CA, CL, DDs) and (5BB, DDs), CA TF (8CA, DDs), and a CL TF (3CL, DDs) all ran into these small DD TFs and were worn down. So when the BB TF ran into the CV TF, they both avoided contact! Still, in a reenactment of Kurita of history, one BB TF ran into the reinforcing CVE TF (8CVE, CA, 2CLAA, 5DD, 3DE) and did some solid damage, sinking 4CVEs, but getting some damage, although no torpedoes in return. Now how they bypassed the CA TF that was with the CVEs is a mystery, although that likely would have just been additional US casualties. Another BB TF (with the Musashi), ran into the crippled US BBs which managed to hit Musashi enough for her to form into an escort TF. Still it wasn’t a fair fight. The Renown TF (BC, DDs) did little in return for being sunk by the same BB TF. What about the US airpower you ask?? Well, chalk this up to my poor playing. I expected subs and MTBs to try and nibble at the cripples, so most of my strike aircraft were set to ASW or night attack and search. I did have a number of TBFs on low naval to counter the MTB threat, so they were carrying bombs, not torpedoes, but they did damage a number of CLs and DDs. A few DB and TB flew normal attack missions, but dive bombing was poor as was the few torpedo attacks.
So now that more carnage is done, what’s next. The smart thing would probably be to continue all Fleet elements to Naga and sort things out. But, instead I’m sending the two CV TFs north towards Daito Shoto - Okinawa and then return. See if they can catch the withdrawing IJN ships before they make port. It’s a longshot, but I figure the IJN had to be at full speed heading south to catch the US Fleet, so now they should be sailing at reduced speed back to port - and some are straggling back damaged. Heavy CAP will be maintained, and won’t stay in range long, the Fleet will return to Naga. A CA TF (CA, 2CL, DDs) and a few DD TFs will provide support. Mediums out of Miyako-Jima will also try and reach out to catch some stragglers. One IJN TF, likely the big CA TF, looks to be heading NW from Daito Shoto instead of heading NE like all the others observed. I figure this may be a run toward the landings at Miyako-jima to catch some transports or bombard. So, shipping will be largely cleared, and light surface forces (DDs and PTs) will be there to intercept. Lastly, as mentioned, B-29s will lay mines around the Bungo Straits. On the ground in Formosa, troops that landed at Hengchun finally made it to Takao, and will join in the bombardments.
In SWPAC, the second attack on IJA troops around Manila will go in, with some fresh US troops committed. BB and CA TFs plus LBA will contribute to bombardments in support. Kume-jima troops will concentrate at Naga and be prepared to load once the Fleet get sorted out. Figure a week’s delay is optimistic, but possible.
In China, troops enter the outskirts of Canton and find about 26k defenders through a recon by bombardment. Troops continue to bypass to the east. West of Changsa, the IJA launch a spoiling attack on the advancing Chinese troops, and the Chinese hold inflicting about 3000 casualties to 2300 Chinese. In the north, troops reach Neikiang, and as it appears the IJA is withdrawing its 7k troops, the two Chinese Corps will attack, hoping to truly collapse any IJA defenses west of Chungking.
In SE Asia, another attack on IJA troops isolated near Vinh will go in, and the process of reducing this pocket will take a few days or a week. Troops continue to concentrate in Hanoi for the cross river attack to Haiphong in a few days. The CA TF (CA, 3CL, DDs) naval bombardment of Hanoi inflicted about 100 casualties, but coastal batteries damaged CA Australia (18sys) enough to send her to the yards for an overdue refit.
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RE: 29-30 Sep 44
and another entertaining combat report:
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GetAssista
- Posts: 2836
- Joined: Sat Sep 19, 2009 6:13 am
RE: 27-28 Sep 44
My god, it's full of stars!ORIGINAL: IdahoNYer
And here's the combat report
Turkey shoot, turkey shoot, another turkey shoot... for half the report. And them boom! CAP is spent on turkeys but they are still coming.
RE: 27-28 Sep 44
ORIGINAL: GetAssista
My god, it's full of stars!
Turkey shoot, turkey shoot, another turkey shoot... for half the report. And them boom! CAP is spent on turkeys but they are still coming.
Yeah....that's a short and sweet synopsis of a debacle!
Sep 44 Summary
Sep 44 Summary
A disastrous end to an otherwise productive month! Absolutely the worst 4 turns of the entire campaign, back to back at the end of the month. Losing about 1/3 of the carrier force in one action is a sure recipe for disaster, not to mention the supporting CVEs, BBs and escorts. Kudos to Large_Slow_Target for an outstandingly successful late war spoiling attack! He’s been waiting a long time to pull something like this off!
Was this a war changing event? No. Being as objective as I can, it’s too late to matter strategically. Will it delay the outcome? Yes…probably at least a month or a couple of months at most. Now, should another similar disaster occur, all bets are off, and it will slow operations to a more deliberate approach until the threat is removed. At the end of last month, I thought the air threat was neutered when 1200 aircraft were lost in a single day, and boy, was I wrong! Now, 2600 are lost in a single day! Is there still an air threat? I can’t discount it. However, other than the last week, it was a productive month with Formosa bases seized and operating B-29s, Manila seized, and B-29s flying out of Luzon bases, Vinh and Hanoi taken…the list goes on. Not to mention significant advances, yes advances, throughout China. Was going great until the last week! As for moving forward, the plan really remains the same. The next major landing will be at Kume-jima to begin developing the situation in the Ryukyu chain. That was slated to happen immediately, but will slip at least a week while the Navy sorts out its damage, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing as troops will get some needed prep time. Reducing the Manila garrison and seizing Takao on Formosa operations will continue, and SE Asia will focus on taking Haiphong, and continuing the drive towards Singapore. China will see continued advances, although that will likely slow as the IJA defensive lines are encountered. Naval losses for the month were of course heavy for the Allies from the last four days; the IJN reportedly lost only a BB, CA, CL, 3DD, 3E, 4SS, and 11 MTB, compared to the Allies losing 5CV, 3CVL, 2BB, BC, 4CVE, 12DD, 5DE, and a single PT. Surprisingly, no Allied subs were lost. In the air, just like last month, it was all about that one day in the air - 2953 for Jpn to 1151 Allied for the month’s tallies.
INTEL: I really didn’t expect a massive air response to the Fleet off Japan. I figured it would come during the Okinawa landings - hit the CVs while they are tied to protecting a beach head. But hindsight, supporting B-29 raid took away a similar amount of fighters, so it made perfect sense. I just failed to see it. And the icing on the cake was committing the IJN. Didn’t see that coming either. So, the big question is, “what is left in the tank?”. Can another massive air attack be mounted? The IJN remains a “Fleet in Being”, and can certainly sortie, but the real question is the airpower. I just don’t know. If there is gas in the tank for another massive air attack, I’d throw everything at the Kume-jima landings - the US transports and escorting Navy elements will have limited LBA support, the US Navy will continue to get stronger with time, and its well within range of Japanese air from China and Kyushu. Then again, I’ve been wrong fairly consistently lately.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: A reasonable start to the bombing campaign, only in its infancy. The removal of the CV TFs as a LRCAP/Sweep platform for the foreseeable future isn’t good, and will restrict the B-29s to primarily night missions for the next month. That said, until bases can be secured for B-24s, and land based fighters get to range over Japan, bombing will be limited. The current numbers of B-29s, with their poor service rating, will also limit operations. Regardless of these challenges, I see the Strat Bombing Campaign as the way forward to achieve a Decisive Victory in early ’45, eliminating the need to land troops on the Home Islands.
SUBWAR: Was surprised that no Allied subs were sunk in Sep. Just lucky, as a number were crippled by the still effective Japanese ASW efforts. Few targets remain at sea, although when the IJN sortied, the subs did little - about half a dozen should have been able to sight and engage the IJN but failed to penetrate any screen. Will continue to sortie subs, but don’t see much of a change in results.
West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: Fighter production increases to 980 in Oct with the addition of the improved versions of the British Spitfire and Thunderbolt, and no fighters go out of production. Pilot pools are short for US bomber pilots, and with the USMC squadrons expanding from 18 to 24 planes, they will be short fighter pilots by month’s end. At sea, the only major reinforcements next month will go to the Brits, a CV and a BB.
NOPAC. Quiet and will stay quiet.
CENPAC. Guam was secured without major issues, and the airbase is being expanded by a massive engineer effort. Pagan based recon has been active over the Home Islands, so when the AF is ready in a few weeks, the B-29s will have targets in and around the Tokyo area - at extended range of course.
SOPAC. No sugar coating the fact that the fleet was mauled in this last week of the month. Losing 1/3 of your carrier capacity is hard to sweep under the rug. It’s going to have an impact - the Fleet will be tied closer to LBA for a while. No more roaming off Japan to support the B-29s. However, it really shouldn’t change the immediate plan of securing the Ryukyu Islands in the coming month. I’m still debating Okinawa, but that may be more challenging with the loss of the CVs. The Kume-jima landings will be telling. On Formosa, will look to seize Takao this coming month and advance on Taihoku on its eastern tip, but the B-29s are already basing at Kagi and Taichu.
SWPAC. Taking Manila in the first attack was a major surprise! The remaining 80k defenders still need to be dealt with, and I imagine that will take the rest of the month. After that, the US troops will need a major rest and refit. Luzon airfields are basing B-29 raids, but having the Formosa bases, which are closer to Japan, already make the Luzon AFs somewhat redundant. Engineers are already working to get Manila port up and running, and will use the repair shipyard shortly with a number of the recently damaged warships already enroute.
China. I’m still amazed at the advances in China. To imagine Chungking and Hong Kong under Chinese threat?! Will continue to advance as practical, still trying to assess the new IJA main line of defense. And that is the goal for October, continue to advance as practical.
SE Asia. The Indochina campaign is coming to a conclusion with Hanoi and Vinh being secured, leaving only Haiphong to liberate. Isolated pockets of troops will still need to be dealt with, and that might take most of the month. Even so, I need to start seriously thinking what to do with the majority of the British 14th Army. Options include everything between assisting in liberating Chungking to landings on Korea. The Indian XV Corp continues its drive toward Singapore, and will likely threaten the base by month’s end.
A disastrous end to an otherwise productive month! Absolutely the worst 4 turns of the entire campaign, back to back at the end of the month. Losing about 1/3 of the carrier force in one action is a sure recipe for disaster, not to mention the supporting CVEs, BBs and escorts. Kudos to Large_Slow_Target for an outstandingly successful late war spoiling attack! He’s been waiting a long time to pull something like this off!
Was this a war changing event? No. Being as objective as I can, it’s too late to matter strategically. Will it delay the outcome? Yes…probably at least a month or a couple of months at most. Now, should another similar disaster occur, all bets are off, and it will slow operations to a more deliberate approach until the threat is removed. At the end of last month, I thought the air threat was neutered when 1200 aircraft were lost in a single day, and boy, was I wrong! Now, 2600 are lost in a single day! Is there still an air threat? I can’t discount it. However, other than the last week, it was a productive month with Formosa bases seized and operating B-29s, Manila seized, and B-29s flying out of Luzon bases, Vinh and Hanoi taken…the list goes on. Not to mention significant advances, yes advances, throughout China. Was going great until the last week! As for moving forward, the plan really remains the same. The next major landing will be at Kume-jima to begin developing the situation in the Ryukyu chain. That was slated to happen immediately, but will slip at least a week while the Navy sorts out its damage, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing as troops will get some needed prep time. Reducing the Manila garrison and seizing Takao on Formosa operations will continue, and SE Asia will focus on taking Haiphong, and continuing the drive towards Singapore. China will see continued advances, although that will likely slow as the IJA defensive lines are encountered. Naval losses for the month were of course heavy for the Allies from the last four days; the IJN reportedly lost only a BB, CA, CL, 3DD, 3E, 4SS, and 11 MTB, compared to the Allies losing 5CV, 3CVL, 2BB, BC, 4CVE, 12DD, 5DE, and a single PT. Surprisingly, no Allied subs were lost. In the air, just like last month, it was all about that one day in the air - 2953 for Jpn to 1151 Allied for the month’s tallies.
INTEL: I really didn’t expect a massive air response to the Fleet off Japan. I figured it would come during the Okinawa landings - hit the CVs while they are tied to protecting a beach head. But hindsight, supporting B-29 raid took away a similar amount of fighters, so it made perfect sense. I just failed to see it. And the icing on the cake was committing the IJN. Didn’t see that coming either. So, the big question is, “what is left in the tank?”. Can another massive air attack be mounted? The IJN remains a “Fleet in Being”, and can certainly sortie, but the real question is the airpower. I just don’t know. If there is gas in the tank for another massive air attack, I’d throw everything at the Kume-jima landings - the US transports and escorting Navy elements will have limited LBA support, the US Navy will continue to get stronger with time, and its well within range of Japanese air from China and Kyushu. Then again, I’ve been wrong fairly consistently lately.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: A reasonable start to the bombing campaign, only in its infancy. The removal of the CV TFs as a LRCAP/Sweep platform for the foreseeable future isn’t good, and will restrict the B-29s to primarily night missions for the next month. That said, until bases can be secured for B-24s, and land based fighters get to range over Japan, bombing will be limited. The current numbers of B-29s, with their poor service rating, will also limit operations. Regardless of these challenges, I see the Strat Bombing Campaign as the way forward to achieve a Decisive Victory in early ’45, eliminating the need to land troops on the Home Islands.
SUBWAR: Was surprised that no Allied subs were sunk in Sep. Just lucky, as a number were crippled by the still effective Japanese ASW efforts. Few targets remain at sea, although when the IJN sortied, the subs did little - about half a dozen should have been able to sight and engage the IJN but failed to penetrate any screen. Will continue to sortie subs, but don’t see much of a change in results.
West Coast/USA/Rear Areas: Fighter production increases to 980 in Oct with the addition of the improved versions of the British Spitfire and Thunderbolt, and no fighters go out of production. Pilot pools are short for US bomber pilots, and with the USMC squadrons expanding from 18 to 24 planes, they will be short fighter pilots by month’s end. At sea, the only major reinforcements next month will go to the Brits, a CV and a BB.
NOPAC. Quiet and will stay quiet.
CENPAC. Guam was secured without major issues, and the airbase is being expanded by a massive engineer effort. Pagan based recon has been active over the Home Islands, so when the AF is ready in a few weeks, the B-29s will have targets in and around the Tokyo area - at extended range of course.
SOPAC. No sugar coating the fact that the fleet was mauled in this last week of the month. Losing 1/3 of your carrier capacity is hard to sweep under the rug. It’s going to have an impact - the Fleet will be tied closer to LBA for a while. No more roaming off Japan to support the B-29s. However, it really shouldn’t change the immediate plan of securing the Ryukyu Islands in the coming month. I’m still debating Okinawa, but that may be more challenging with the loss of the CVs. The Kume-jima landings will be telling. On Formosa, will look to seize Takao this coming month and advance on Taihoku on its eastern tip, but the B-29s are already basing at Kagi and Taichu.
SWPAC. Taking Manila in the first attack was a major surprise! The remaining 80k defenders still need to be dealt with, and I imagine that will take the rest of the month. After that, the US troops will need a major rest and refit. Luzon airfields are basing B-29 raids, but having the Formosa bases, which are closer to Japan, already make the Luzon AFs somewhat redundant. Engineers are already working to get Manila port up and running, and will use the repair shipyard shortly with a number of the recently damaged warships already enroute.
China. I’m still amazed at the advances in China. To imagine Chungking and Hong Kong under Chinese threat?! Will continue to advance as practical, still trying to assess the new IJA main line of defense. And that is the goal for October, continue to advance as practical.
SE Asia. The Indochina campaign is coming to a conclusion with Hanoi and Vinh being secured, leaving only Haiphong to liberate. Isolated pockets of troops will still need to be dealt with, and that might take most of the month. Even so, I need to start seriously thinking what to do with the majority of the British 14th Army. Options include everything between assisting in liberating Chungking to landings on Korea. The Indian XV Corp continues its drive toward Singapore, and will likely threaten the base by month’s end.
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CaptBeefheart
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- Location: Seoul, Korea
RE: Sep 44 Summary
Ouch. It's not an apples to apples comparison, but I did a landing at Kanoya vs. Ironman Nasty and lost 12 CVEs. I had a CAP of over 2,000 aircraft (all fighters on CVs, CVLs and CVEs were set to different altitudes at 100% CAP and zero range) and by the end of the morning my CAP went to zero, with CVEs and the odd CV getting hit. Then CAP went up to about 1,600 in the afternoon. I took down 3,600 enemy aircraft for a loss of only about 200 (mostly lost on the decks). I have a healthy respect for what the IJ can put into the air near the Home Islands.
On a positive note, the morale of your opponent just went up a few notches. He'll be like the guy in the Cialis commercial looking confident around the office.
Cheers,
CB
On a positive note, the morale of your opponent just went up a few notches. He'll be like the guy in the Cialis commercial looking confident around the office.
Cheers,
CB
Beer, because barley makes lousy bread.
RE: Sep 44 Summary
ORIGINAL: CaptBeefheart
On a positive note, the morale of your opponent just went up a few notches. He'll be like the guy in the Cialis commercial looking confident around the office.
Cheers,
CB
Probably spot on! But.....That's an image I don't need....thanks for that!
[:D][:D][:D]
1-2 Oct 44
1-2 Oct 44
Highlights – a pretty quiet and uneventful turn to start the month!
Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-39)
Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-46)
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 6
Allied: 17
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attacks, 1 ships hit (LST sunk)
Allies: 4 Attacks, 0 ships hit (a damaged Kirishima was missed!)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Utan Melintang (SE Asia)
SIGINT/Intel: Looks like the Combined Fleet returned to home port without major losses, so its still very much a “Fleet in Being”. The question is of course what will bring it out from its lair? I’m still thinking the landing at Kume-jima may draw it out - the best chance to interdict a landing away from massive Allied LBA.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: No strat bombing raids as three B-29 squadrons were diverted to mining the Bungo Straits and Hiroshima, which failed to ambush any of the returning task forces. However, since some fires were still burning at Fukuoka, strat bombing point total increases slightly to 1062. Beginning 1 Oct, B-29 squadrons are expanding from 7 to 10 planes, so that will help the bombing effort, but will take time to get those additional aircraft operational. The B-29s will remain on the ground next turn to get some of those new planes repaired.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, focus remains getting Guam B-29 capable, and securing the lesser Marianas islands, of Anatahan and Agrihan as practical. CVE TF providing support will head to Naga to replace the lost CVEs, and freshly refitted CVEs out of Pearl will also head to Naga. Locally, Venturas out of Pagan strike Haha-jima port, leaving an xAK burning after a number of hits.
In SOPAC, the CV TFs sortie north toward Okinawa to try and catch withdrawing IJN elements, but come up empty as the Combined Fleet just focused on making port. Closest intercept was SS Kete missing a wounded BB Kirishima off Kyushu with 6 torps. L_S_T has the dice gods in his pocket recently! The IJN sub force isn’t idle either, one RO class sub was sunk by US DDs screening the Fleet off Daito Shoto, and about half dozen IJN subs are reportedly southeast of Miyako-jima heading west. Will vector additional ASW assets, but not sure what to make of this effort - perhaps attempting to isolate Miyako-jima? US Fleet will now head to Naga, delayed somewhat to provide cover for three crippled CVEs heading south slowly. On Formosa, getting close to making the first assault on Takao. Troops are pretty much in position, and will hit the target with additional bombardments for another turn, then look to begin the ground assault. In the air, focus is beginning to shift away from Takao, as a B-24 group will hit both Karenko and Taihoku on Formosa’s NE end.
In SWPAC, the attack on Manila inflicts about 12k IJA losses, but US forces also sustain about 3k, although the US losses are primarily disabled. Still, a tough slog, and US forces need a rest before continuing. The outcome is not in doubt, but will be a long effort, and costly. The eight US divisions engaged, will need a long while to rest and refit when this is over and done - which shouldn’t be a major show-stopper, as the next planning objective for SWPAC troops on Luzon is Japan. And that is spring ’45 at best.
In China, the attack on Neikiang, NW of Chungking is held by the IJA, about 900 casualties each. Will hold off another attack until rest and reinforcements arrive, but the IJA does appear to be pulling east, and fast. Goal in the north is to continue the advance north; Chengtu is a viable objective now. In the SE, Chinese troops continue to advance around the open eastern flank of Canton, and will attempt to cross the Pearl River to begin an advance on Hong Kong. Hong Kong! While the advance is getting a bit more extended due to avoiding Canton with the bulk of the forces, I don’t see a major IJA counter offensive in the works. Select British 14th Army troops, those not engaged in Indochina such as three Bdes available on Hainan, will be committed to this advance. Below screen shot shows the current situation in China Theater.
In SE Asia, the attack on Vinh was delayed a turn, and will go in next turn to allow for additional bombardments to take effect. The attack on Haiphong is almost ready to execute as well, waiting for one more Division to arrive. Initial bombardments of IJA troops in Haiphong do well, indicating the defenders aren’t well fortified. Still, Haiphong is protected by a river, so it will be a shock attack going in, can’t have too much combat power in the attack!
Highlights – a pretty quiet and uneventful turn to start the month!
Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-39)
Jpn ships un-sunk:
SS: 1 (RO-46)
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 6
Allied: 17
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attacks, 1 ships hit (LST sunk)
Allies: 4 Attacks, 0 ships hit (a damaged Kirishima was missed!)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Utan Melintang (SE Asia)
SIGINT/Intel: Looks like the Combined Fleet returned to home port without major losses, so its still very much a “Fleet in Being”. The question is of course what will bring it out from its lair? I’m still thinking the landing at Kume-jima may draw it out - the best chance to interdict a landing away from massive Allied LBA.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: No strat bombing raids as three B-29 squadrons were diverted to mining the Bungo Straits and Hiroshima, which failed to ambush any of the returning task forces. However, since some fires were still burning at Fukuoka, strat bombing point total increases slightly to 1062. Beginning 1 Oct, B-29 squadrons are expanding from 7 to 10 planes, so that will help the bombing effort, but will take time to get those additional aircraft operational. The B-29s will remain on the ground next turn to get some of those new planes repaired.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, focus remains getting Guam B-29 capable, and securing the lesser Marianas islands, of Anatahan and Agrihan as practical. CVE TF providing support will head to Naga to replace the lost CVEs, and freshly refitted CVEs out of Pearl will also head to Naga. Locally, Venturas out of Pagan strike Haha-jima port, leaving an xAK burning after a number of hits.
In SOPAC, the CV TFs sortie north toward Okinawa to try and catch withdrawing IJN elements, but come up empty as the Combined Fleet just focused on making port. Closest intercept was SS Kete missing a wounded BB Kirishima off Kyushu with 6 torps. L_S_T has the dice gods in his pocket recently! The IJN sub force isn’t idle either, one RO class sub was sunk by US DDs screening the Fleet off Daito Shoto, and about half dozen IJN subs are reportedly southeast of Miyako-jima heading west. Will vector additional ASW assets, but not sure what to make of this effort - perhaps attempting to isolate Miyako-jima? US Fleet will now head to Naga, delayed somewhat to provide cover for three crippled CVEs heading south slowly. On Formosa, getting close to making the first assault on Takao. Troops are pretty much in position, and will hit the target with additional bombardments for another turn, then look to begin the ground assault. In the air, focus is beginning to shift away from Takao, as a B-24 group will hit both Karenko and Taihoku on Formosa’s NE end.
In SWPAC, the attack on Manila inflicts about 12k IJA losses, but US forces also sustain about 3k, although the US losses are primarily disabled. Still, a tough slog, and US forces need a rest before continuing. The outcome is not in doubt, but will be a long effort, and costly. The eight US divisions engaged, will need a long while to rest and refit when this is over and done - which shouldn’t be a major show-stopper, as the next planning objective for SWPAC troops on Luzon is Japan. And that is spring ’45 at best.
In China, the attack on Neikiang, NW of Chungking is held by the IJA, about 900 casualties each. Will hold off another attack until rest and reinforcements arrive, but the IJA does appear to be pulling east, and fast. Goal in the north is to continue the advance north; Chengtu is a viable objective now. In the SE, Chinese troops continue to advance around the open eastern flank of Canton, and will attempt to cross the Pearl River to begin an advance on Hong Kong. Hong Kong! While the advance is getting a bit more extended due to avoiding Canton with the bulk of the forces, I don’t see a major IJA counter offensive in the works. Select British 14th Army troops, those not engaged in Indochina such as three Bdes available on Hainan, will be committed to this advance. Below screen shot shows the current situation in China Theater.
In SE Asia, the attack on Vinh was delayed a turn, and will go in next turn to allow for additional bombardments to take effect. The attack on Haiphong is almost ready to execute as well, waiting for one more Division to arrive. Initial bombardments of IJA troops in Haiphong do well, indicating the defenders aren’t well fortified. Still, Haiphong is protected by a river, so it will be a shock attack going in, can’t have too much combat power in the attack!
- Attachments
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- 441001.jpg (547.55 KiB) Viewed 370 times
3-4 Oct 44
3-4 Oct 44
Highlights – First damaged ships arrive at Manila for repairs.
Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Hamakaze)
SS: 1 (RO-116)
Jpn ships un-sunk:
CL: 1 (Agano)
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 4
Allied: 14
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Temuloh (SE Asia)
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: B-29s continue to rest while recon looks for more targets. Strat bombing VPs remain at 1062 as the fires begin to die out.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, the damaged ships begin arriving at ports - including the first use of Manila shipyards, being repaired from level 9 back up to 20. Currently at level 11 to start repairs on CVL Belleau Wood (31/5(5)/3). The two CV TFs remained at sea, sheparding the crippled CVEs toward Naga - they’ll break off next turn and return to port. About half a dozen IJN subs are still reportedly at sea prowling the waters off Formosa and NW Luzon - a number are reportedly hit by ASW a/c and one claimed by a DD. Will maintain increased ASW efforts to remove the threat. Also, a two DD sortie will raid reported PB location at Amani Oshima next turn. On Formosa, the long awaited attack on Takao will go in, supported by a BB TF (3 BB, DDs) and CA TF (2CA, CL, DDs) bombarding next turn. Hopefully the IJN subs won’t be a nuisance to that bombardment effort.
In SWPAC, as mentioned, Manila port is open for business; in addition to repairing ships, transports begin offloading from the docks. 3rd Fleet HQs is enroute and will establish at Manila with its naval support being put to good use immediately. Ground troops bombard the IJA remaining at Manila and cause over 500 casualties - and apparently trigger the wiping out of 7 support units. Troops will attack the pocket next turn which according to reports is reduced to less than 40k.
In China, in the north, with another corps arriving, troops will attack Neikiang again next turn, supported by both mediums and Heavies out of SE Asia command. In the south, lead elements are across the Pearl River without a fight, and will hold the bridgehead as additional troops are enroute before moving to lay siege to Hong Kong. Having both Canton and Hong Kong isolated but defended will be a challenge, and the Chinese forces are going to be a bit extended here as they also are pushing out to the east to regain contact with the IJA’s main defensive line, somewhere to the east. To help with that, SE Asia’s 14th Army will begin shipping troops over to assist in seizing both Canton and Hong Kong.
In SE Asia, another attack on Vinh will go in after some worn out troops swapped out for fresh. The main effort has shifted to Haiphong as the IV Corps troops begin moving across the river from Hanoi to Haiphong. Both of these will be supported by naval gunfire and LBA. XV Corps will attack Kuala Lumpur next turn as it continues to close on Singers.
Highlights – First damaged ships arrive at Manila for repairs.
Jpn ships sunk:
DD: 1 (Hamakaze)
SS: 1 (RO-116)
Jpn ships un-sunk:
CL: 1 (Agano)
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 4
Allied: 14
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit
Allies: 3 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Temuloh (SE Asia)
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: B-29s continue to rest while recon looks for more targets. Strat bombing VPs remain at 1062 as the fires begin to die out.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, the damaged ships begin arriving at ports - including the first use of Manila shipyards, being repaired from level 9 back up to 20. Currently at level 11 to start repairs on CVL Belleau Wood (31/5(5)/3). The two CV TFs remained at sea, sheparding the crippled CVEs toward Naga - they’ll break off next turn and return to port. About half a dozen IJN subs are still reportedly at sea prowling the waters off Formosa and NW Luzon - a number are reportedly hit by ASW a/c and one claimed by a DD. Will maintain increased ASW efforts to remove the threat. Also, a two DD sortie will raid reported PB location at Amani Oshima next turn. On Formosa, the long awaited attack on Takao will go in, supported by a BB TF (3 BB, DDs) and CA TF (2CA, CL, DDs) bombarding next turn. Hopefully the IJN subs won’t be a nuisance to that bombardment effort.
In SWPAC, as mentioned, Manila port is open for business; in addition to repairing ships, transports begin offloading from the docks. 3rd Fleet HQs is enroute and will establish at Manila with its naval support being put to good use immediately. Ground troops bombard the IJA remaining at Manila and cause over 500 casualties - and apparently trigger the wiping out of 7 support units. Troops will attack the pocket next turn which according to reports is reduced to less than 40k.
In China, in the north, with another corps arriving, troops will attack Neikiang again next turn, supported by both mediums and Heavies out of SE Asia command. In the south, lead elements are across the Pearl River without a fight, and will hold the bridgehead as additional troops are enroute before moving to lay siege to Hong Kong. Having both Canton and Hong Kong isolated but defended will be a challenge, and the Chinese forces are going to be a bit extended here as they also are pushing out to the east to regain contact with the IJA’s main defensive line, somewhere to the east. To help with that, SE Asia’s 14th Army will begin shipping troops over to assist in seizing both Canton and Hong Kong.
In SE Asia, another attack on Vinh will go in after some worn out troops swapped out for fresh. The main effort has shifted to Haiphong as the IV Corps troops begin moving across the river from Hanoi to Haiphong. Both of these will be supported by naval gunfire and LBA. XV Corps will attack Kuala Lumpur next turn as it continues to close on Singers.
5-6 Oct 44
5-6 Oct 44
Highlights – Good day on the ground! Takao and Neikiang taken while fighting ends earlier than expected at Manila.
Jpn ships sunk:
SC: 1
PB: 2
AK: 1
xAK: 3
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 13
Allied: 19
Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (APA sunk)
Allies: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (PB sunk)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Takao (SOPAC)
Kuala Lumpur (SE Asia)
Neikiang (China)
Timoeka (SWPAC)
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: Strat bombing VPs remained at 1062. Hope to change that these next two days as weather forecasts improve, so a max effort will be launched. The big event will targeting Kagoshima manpower in daylight by 5 Luzon based B-29 groups, supported by three P-38 squadrons sweeping (at extended range), and two Aussie B-24 squadrons at night from Miyako-jima. Recon over Osaka has shown no fighters and little Flak, so two Formosa based B-29 groups will test that by low level manpower raids, one daylight and one night. Another Formosa B-29 group will hit the largest remaining Japanese controlled oil center, Fushan, just east of Mukden in Manchukuo at low level at night, extended range. Lastly, Guam’s B-29 group gets into the fight for the first time and will hit Yokohama Heavy Industry at night. With all these raids hitting multiple target over a wide area with different attack approaches, I hope to convince L_S_T to disperse some of his fighter concentration throughout Japan, vs concentrating it in Kyushu.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, with Takao falling, and fighting ending in Manila, planning has now started against the Home Islands, which will be under CENPAC lead. I hope this plan will not need to be executed, and the Strat Bombing campaign will ultimately bring Japan to it’s knees, but its time to start the planning process. The plan will be to land up to three Corps of troops on Hokkaido, sometime in ’45. Hokkaido was chosen for a number of reasons - least likely and least defended vs. the obvious choice of Kyushu. Taking bases in Hokkaido will also gain LBA fighters and bombers to range central and northern Japan which currently are beyond effective range - the last oil centers are in this area as well. The downside of this is Allied logistics - everything will need to be hauled a long way by sea, with no nearby land bases. Nearby Kurile islands will also need to be secured as well. Anyway, still a long way off…but that’s the basis of the initial plan.
In SOPAC, the first attack on Takao takes the base on the first attack, despite level 5 forts and the 22k plus defenders. The long prep time of constant bombardments did well! After two days of attacking, over 16k defenders were casualties against about 1000 Allied, and the troops ready to resume the attack on the remaining few thousand defenders. Takao port and airbase will need some serious engineer effort, but that should soon be remedied; convoys will now re-route to Takao instead of Kagi/Taichu. SOPAC ground troops should conclude operations next turn, and then will largely ship out off island. The remaining two Japanese bases on Formosa will be left to SWPAC troops, although Taihoku will be left to starve - it has a large 60k garrison, and not worth the cost to seize. Also, in that same “not worth the cost” arenas, Okinawa with its reported 100k plus defenders will also be bypassed, while the lesser Ryukus will be seized. At sea, the bulk of the Fleet returned to Naga, and most slightly damaged ships (under 10 sys or 6 float) will remain in readiness, and will be prepared to head out to support Kume-jima within a week. Crippled CV Enterprise is ready to move from Lingayen to Manila, but the current sub threat off Manila remains high - a point made by the resolute RO-46 which missed CA Northampton off Subic, but hours later put two fish into an APA bound for Takao….and looks to have gotten clean away.
In SWPAC, the fighting ended in Manila after two attacks - the last 14k defenders destroyed at a minimal cost of less than 250 US casualties. A welcome surprise to end fighting so quickly. Most SWPAC troops engaged still will need some serious recuperation time. Planning efforts begin and will shift to relieve troops on Formosa and to seize islands SW of Kyushu. Seizing these islands are twofold - first gain fighter coverage over the Home Islands and continue to give L_S_T the impression that Kyushu is the ultimate goal of invasion. The landing at Kume-jima is the first step to isolate Okinawa and begin the island hopping toward Kyushu. Troops will begin loading over the next few turns.
In China, in the north, Neikiang is taken on the second attack, inflicting about 6000 IJA casualties against 1000 Chinese. This effectively opens up the route north to Chengtu, although it does look like L_S_T is attempting to shift troops north to screen the base and gain time - but these troops are in the open and Allied LBA is doing well against these targets. Will continue to push Chinese troops north, west of Chungking, supported by as much SE Asia’s 10th and 14th Airforce that can range. In the south, main body elements are now across the Pearl River, and will begin to head towards Hong Kong. Recon in force will also head east to gain contact with the IJA. Troops are a bit stretched, and will remain so until reinforced by additional SE Asia commonwealth assets. Still, having Hong Kong quickly is worth this risk, and the immediate goal is to cut Hong Kong off from Canton, then eliminate both pockets.
In SE Asia, attacks on Vinh are held off until troops can finish their repositions. IV Corps troops continue cross river operations, and should begin the shock attack on Haiphong next turn. XV Corps seized Kuala Lumpur and continue to head south against minimal rearguard actions.
Highlights – Good day on the ground! Takao and Neikiang taken while fighting ends earlier than expected at Manila.
Jpn ships sunk:
SC: 1
PB: 2
AK: 1
xAK: 3
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 13
Allied: 19
Subwar:
Jpn: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (APA sunk)
Allies: 2 Attacks, 1 ship hit (PB sunk)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Takao (SOPAC)
Kuala Lumpur (SE Asia)
Neikiang (China)
Timoeka (SWPAC)
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: Strat bombing VPs remained at 1062. Hope to change that these next two days as weather forecasts improve, so a max effort will be launched. The big event will targeting Kagoshima manpower in daylight by 5 Luzon based B-29 groups, supported by three P-38 squadrons sweeping (at extended range), and two Aussie B-24 squadrons at night from Miyako-jima. Recon over Osaka has shown no fighters and little Flak, so two Formosa based B-29 groups will test that by low level manpower raids, one daylight and one night. Another Formosa B-29 group will hit the largest remaining Japanese controlled oil center, Fushan, just east of Mukden in Manchukuo at low level at night, extended range. Lastly, Guam’s B-29 group gets into the fight for the first time and will hit Yokohama Heavy Industry at night. With all these raids hitting multiple target over a wide area with different attack approaches, I hope to convince L_S_T to disperse some of his fighter concentration throughout Japan, vs concentrating it in Kyushu.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, with Takao falling, and fighting ending in Manila, planning has now started against the Home Islands, which will be under CENPAC lead. I hope this plan will not need to be executed, and the Strat Bombing campaign will ultimately bring Japan to it’s knees, but its time to start the planning process. The plan will be to land up to three Corps of troops on Hokkaido, sometime in ’45. Hokkaido was chosen for a number of reasons - least likely and least defended vs. the obvious choice of Kyushu. Taking bases in Hokkaido will also gain LBA fighters and bombers to range central and northern Japan which currently are beyond effective range - the last oil centers are in this area as well. The downside of this is Allied logistics - everything will need to be hauled a long way by sea, with no nearby land bases. Nearby Kurile islands will also need to be secured as well. Anyway, still a long way off…but that’s the basis of the initial plan.
In SOPAC, the first attack on Takao takes the base on the first attack, despite level 5 forts and the 22k plus defenders. The long prep time of constant bombardments did well! After two days of attacking, over 16k defenders were casualties against about 1000 Allied, and the troops ready to resume the attack on the remaining few thousand defenders. Takao port and airbase will need some serious engineer effort, but that should soon be remedied; convoys will now re-route to Takao instead of Kagi/Taichu. SOPAC ground troops should conclude operations next turn, and then will largely ship out off island. The remaining two Japanese bases on Formosa will be left to SWPAC troops, although Taihoku will be left to starve - it has a large 60k garrison, and not worth the cost to seize. Also, in that same “not worth the cost” arenas, Okinawa with its reported 100k plus defenders will also be bypassed, while the lesser Ryukus will be seized. At sea, the bulk of the Fleet returned to Naga, and most slightly damaged ships (under 10 sys or 6 float) will remain in readiness, and will be prepared to head out to support Kume-jima within a week. Crippled CV Enterprise is ready to move from Lingayen to Manila, but the current sub threat off Manila remains high - a point made by the resolute RO-46 which missed CA Northampton off Subic, but hours later put two fish into an APA bound for Takao….and looks to have gotten clean away.
In SWPAC, the fighting ended in Manila after two attacks - the last 14k defenders destroyed at a minimal cost of less than 250 US casualties. A welcome surprise to end fighting so quickly. Most SWPAC troops engaged still will need some serious recuperation time. Planning efforts begin and will shift to relieve troops on Formosa and to seize islands SW of Kyushu. Seizing these islands are twofold - first gain fighter coverage over the Home Islands and continue to give L_S_T the impression that Kyushu is the ultimate goal of invasion. The landing at Kume-jima is the first step to isolate Okinawa and begin the island hopping toward Kyushu. Troops will begin loading over the next few turns.
In China, in the north, Neikiang is taken on the second attack, inflicting about 6000 IJA casualties against 1000 Chinese. This effectively opens up the route north to Chengtu, although it does look like L_S_T is attempting to shift troops north to screen the base and gain time - but these troops are in the open and Allied LBA is doing well against these targets. Will continue to push Chinese troops north, west of Chungking, supported by as much SE Asia’s 10th and 14th Airforce that can range. In the south, main body elements are now across the Pearl River, and will begin to head towards Hong Kong. Recon in force will also head east to gain contact with the IJA. Troops are a bit stretched, and will remain so until reinforced by additional SE Asia commonwealth assets. Still, having Hong Kong quickly is worth this risk, and the immediate goal is to cut Hong Kong off from Canton, then eliminate both pockets.
In SE Asia, attacks on Vinh are held off until troops can finish their repositions. IV Corps troops continue cross river operations, and should begin the shock attack on Haiphong next turn. XV Corps seized Kuala Lumpur and continue to head south against minimal rearguard actions.
- Attachments
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- 441005.jpg (91.44 KiB) Viewed 370 times
7-8 Oct 44
7-8 Oct 44
Highlights – B-29s had a rough day over Kagoshima, but better over Osaka.
Jpn ships sunk:
SC: 1
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 66
Allied: 82
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Anatahan (CENPAC - flipped)
Kukong (China)
SIGINT/Intel: Japanese daylight fighters remain robust over Kyushu, less so over Honshu. Night fighters on CAP seem stretched…at least based on recent raids.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: The turn’s raids started poorly with no night raids launching the first night, and then went downhill as Miyako-jima based sweeps didn’t fly at all the first day. The B-29s did of course fly against Kagoshima at 18k feet beginning in the afternoon on the first day, and were greeted by about 50 or so angry fighters. Sweeps did fly the second day, and P-38s managed about even kills to loss ratio against a CAP estimated at about 100 planes. Still, plenty of CAP left for the B-29s. All told 152 B-29s bombed the target over two days, with minimal results, fires never more than 25k, and losing about 33 planes to fighters, and another 10 as write offs. Add to that 20 P-38s, while about 50 enemy fighters shot down. Not a good day over Kagoshima, but better over Osaka. With only two groups, 33 B-29s hit manpower day and night, getting fires up to 140k and losing only 3 planes to fighters, only a dozen Zeros on daylight CAP and a similar amount of Nicks at night. Fires remain at over 40k and damage was moderate. Guam based B-29s failed to hit target at all at Yokahama, but suffered no loss to the dozen Nicks. The Fushan raid was scrubbed by weather both days. Primarily due to the Osaka raids, Strat bombing VPs increased by over 700 to 1782. The daylight results over Kagoshima were abysmal, and proved the need for better fighter cover in daylight - long range sweeps aren’t enough as L_S_T has a robust CAP intact. Surprisingly, Flak claimed zero bombers. Will look to focus on night bombing, and will put two groups over Osaka to work the still burning fires, and Guam’s group will look to have better results over Yokahama. Both raids will be at low level (2-6000ft).
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, Anatahan, a small atoll north of Saipan, flips to the Allied cause after constant air bombardment for the past month. Troops that were planning to land there in a few days switch to plan for landing at Agrihan, the northern most atoll in the Marianas. With fighting ending at Takao, full scale planning for Hokkaido begins in earnest, and the first troops are expected to ship out from Formosa and the Philippines back to the Hawaiian islands to plan and rehearse for the eventual landings.
In SOPAC, fighting ends at Takao with the last thousand IJA troops mopped up. Most of the combat troops in and around Takao will begin shipping off island in a few days as transports become available. B-24s fly into Takao and will begin bombing operations against targets in the Ryukyus, initially focusing on Okinawa. A rare night bombing by dozen Helens over two days against the B-29 AF at Taichu was intercepted by Black Widows which shot down 5 over the two days. AA claimed two more, and no damage reported.
In SWPAC, the 6th Aus Bde begins loading at Jolo for landings at Kume-jima. The remainder of the invasion force at Naga will begin loading in the next few turns. Troops in Manila begin loading for transit to both Formosa and Hawaii. CV Enterprise will journey from Lingayen to Manila next turn to begin initial repairs (13/67(67)/19(19). Once her float gets under 50, will look to move her to bigger repair facilities, perhaps even Hong Kong or Singapore once secured.
In China, in the north, the advance toward Chengtu continues with an IJA Bde sized unit begin destroyed NW of Chungking, losing 3600 troops to less than 100 Chinese. Troops begin moving north from Neikiang as more troops, including a pair of Commonwealth armored units, continue to cross into the bridgehead across the Yangtze river west of Chungking. In the south, Kukong is secured by advancing infantry against minimal resistance from a single IN Bde, which lost only 200 casualties before abandoning the base. Advancing troops are still searching for the main IJA defensive line east of Hong Kong. Troops will move to cut Hong Kong off from Canton next turn.
In SE Asia, the long awaited attacks on Vinh and Haiphong will go in next turn, supported by max effort from LBA and cruiser bombardments. Once these positions are secured, most LBA will focus on supporting ground actions throughout China. Ground troops will need some time to rest and refit, but some will ship as soon as practical to support operations at Canton and Hong Kong.
Highlights – B-29s had a rough day over Kagoshima, but better over Osaka.
Jpn ships sunk:
SC: 1
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 66
Allied: 82
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Anatahan (CENPAC - flipped)
Kukong (China)
SIGINT/Intel: Japanese daylight fighters remain robust over Kyushu, less so over Honshu. Night fighters on CAP seem stretched…at least based on recent raids.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: The turn’s raids started poorly with no night raids launching the first night, and then went downhill as Miyako-jima based sweeps didn’t fly at all the first day. The B-29s did of course fly against Kagoshima at 18k feet beginning in the afternoon on the first day, and were greeted by about 50 or so angry fighters. Sweeps did fly the second day, and P-38s managed about even kills to loss ratio against a CAP estimated at about 100 planes. Still, plenty of CAP left for the B-29s. All told 152 B-29s bombed the target over two days, with minimal results, fires never more than 25k, and losing about 33 planes to fighters, and another 10 as write offs. Add to that 20 P-38s, while about 50 enemy fighters shot down. Not a good day over Kagoshima, but better over Osaka. With only two groups, 33 B-29s hit manpower day and night, getting fires up to 140k and losing only 3 planes to fighters, only a dozen Zeros on daylight CAP and a similar amount of Nicks at night. Fires remain at over 40k and damage was moderate. Guam based B-29s failed to hit target at all at Yokahama, but suffered no loss to the dozen Nicks. The Fushan raid was scrubbed by weather both days. Primarily due to the Osaka raids, Strat bombing VPs increased by over 700 to 1782. The daylight results over Kagoshima were abysmal, and proved the need for better fighter cover in daylight - long range sweeps aren’t enough as L_S_T has a robust CAP intact. Surprisingly, Flak claimed zero bombers. Will look to focus on night bombing, and will put two groups over Osaka to work the still burning fires, and Guam’s group will look to have better results over Yokahama. Both raids will be at low level (2-6000ft).
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, Anatahan, a small atoll north of Saipan, flips to the Allied cause after constant air bombardment for the past month. Troops that were planning to land there in a few days switch to plan for landing at Agrihan, the northern most atoll in the Marianas. With fighting ending at Takao, full scale planning for Hokkaido begins in earnest, and the first troops are expected to ship out from Formosa and the Philippines back to the Hawaiian islands to plan and rehearse for the eventual landings.
In SOPAC, fighting ends at Takao with the last thousand IJA troops mopped up. Most of the combat troops in and around Takao will begin shipping off island in a few days as transports become available. B-24s fly into Takao and will begin bombing operations against targets in the Ryukyus, initially focusing on Okinawa. A rare night bombing by dozen Helens over two days against the B-29 AF at Taichu was intercepted by Black Widows which shot down 5 over the two days. AA claimed two more, and no damage reported.
In SWPAC, the 6th Aus Bde begins loading at Jolo for landings at Kume-jima. The remainder of the invasion force at Naga will begin loading in the next few turns. Troops in Manila begin loading for transit to both Formosa and Hawaii. CV Enterprise will journey from Lingayen to Manila next turn to begin initial repairs (13/67(67)/19(19). Once her float gets under 50, will look to move her to bigger repair facilities, perhaps even Hong Kong or Singapore once secured.
In China, in the north, the advance toward Chengtu continues with an IJA Bde sized unit begin destroyed NW of Chungking, losing 3600 troops to less than 100 Chinese. Troops begin moving north from Neikiang as more troops, including a pair of Commonwealth armored units, continue to cross into the bridgehead across the Yangtze river west of Chungking. In the south, Kukong is secured by advancing infantry against minimal resistance from a single IN Bde, which lost only 200 casualties before abandoning the base. Advancing troops are still searching for the main IJA defensive line east of Hong Kong. Troops will move to cut Hong Kong off from Canton next turn.
In SE Asia, the long awaited attacks on Vinh and Haiphong will go in next turn, supported by max effort from LBA and cruiser bombardments. Once these positions are secured, most LBA will focus on supporting ground actions throughout China. Ground troops will need some time to rest and refit, but some will ship as soon as practical to support operations at Canton and Hong Kong.
- Attachments
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9-10 Oct 44
9-10 Oct 44
Highlights – Osaka hit hard by night B-29 raid; Haiphong taken.
Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 2 (I-46, I-48)
E: 1
SC: 1
PB: 2
AG: 1
xAK: 1
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 29
Allied: 33
Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attack, 1 ship hit (xAK sunk)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Haiphong (SE Asia)
Kuantan (SE Asia)
Shaoyang (China)
SIGINT/Intel: Night fighters over Osaka not effective, but AA fire was against the low level raids.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: Good night effort against Osaka. A total of 36 B-29s hit manpower at night over the two days at low level, about half at 2000ft, the other at 6000ft. All were met by Nicks on CAP which lost 7 planes. Raids were on target, getting fires up to over 60k, and damage inflicted was better than expected - see attached screen shot. The night raid against Yokahama was much less effective. A total of 29 B-29s at 6000-10k ft again had no effects on target. They were met by a mixed CAP of Petes, Zeros, Judy night fighters and Irvings which lost 10 Petes, 2 Judys and an Irving for their efforts. Overall, between the two raids, B-29 losses were light to fighters, 2 B-29s, but Flak did well against the low level raids, 9 bombers lost. Strat bombing VPs increased from 1782 to 3366 from the efforts at Osaka where fires were still burning at over 12k. Need to rest the bombers as well as many of the long range recon birds at least for a turn. Will likely focus the next series of raids to Kyushu targets to coincide with landings at Kume-jima, and include night strikes on airfields in addition to industry.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, on Formosa, troops begin loading out from Takao for the shuttle to Manila, and then most will ship to the Hawaiian Islands. Lead Aus II Corps troops reach Karenko in the mountains, and will bombard to see what defenses are in place next turn. Another night bombing by about a dozen bombers (Helen/Sally mix) over two days against Taichu AF was again intercepted by Black Widows which shot down a pair over the two days, and again no damage inflicted. Will bring in more AA and have increased the daytime CAP just in case. In the PI, Fleet elements continue to repair damage at Naga and will be prepared to sail in a few days to support Kume-jima. 2xCVE TFs will move to Aparri and link up with BB TF out of Subic (6 BB, DDs) and rendezvous with the Repl TF to take on fuel prior to the Kume-jime operation. Repl TF#2 (both Repl TFs each have about half a dozen AOs and Repl CVEs) will sortie from Manus to be prepared to relieve Repl TF#1. Lastly at sea, increasing the number of subs significantly to support the Kume-jima landings just in case the IJN sorties.
In SWPAC, Main body troops embark at Naga for Kume-jima, while support troops begin loading across minor bases from the DEI to the PI. One Aussie Div plus two IN Bdes provide the primary punch for the landings, augmented by the usual suspects of armor, artillery and engineers. At Manila, the first troops bound for Takao will depart as will the first convoy bound for PH, both with infantry divisions aboard. Heavies based in both Formosa and Luzon hit both bases on Okinawa, Naga and Naha with good effect, although Flak claimed 3 B-24s. Will continue hitting Okinawa AFs next turn as well as a few port strikes. Once the AFs are shut down, raids will focus on ground troops at Okinawa, as well as the other Ryukyu islands bases including Kume-jima.
In China, in the north, the advance continues, and the Chinese main body looks to engage the retreating IJA troops south of Chengtu next turn, with continued support from LBA. In the east, lead elements take Shaoyang undefended west of Changsa. In the south, troops will attack to cut Hong Kong off from Canton next turn, while continuing to head east to identify the IJA defensive line. Ground bombardments at Canton show a robust defense of a division and two IN Bdes backed by significant artillery. Will wait until significant SE Asia troops arrive to attack Canton, but perhaps Hong Kong can be taken with a quick assault with troops on hand.
In SE Asia, the attack on Haiphong seizes the base on the initial attack, and eliminates all the defenders on the second day with light losses. Total bill was over 13k IJA troops lost to less than 1k Allied. The Indian IV Corps will begin immediately moving towards Canton, while the XXXIII Corps troops stand by for the next mission. The defenders at Vinh continue to offer a robust defense, although the defense may finally be giving way. The two attacks inflicted about 3000 casualties to roughly 500 Allied, but the Allies will maintain the attack next turn, hoping to clear the rail to Hanoi. XV Corps troops in Malaya take an undefended Kuantan on the east coast, and will attack to seize Port Dickson on the west coast next turn.
Highlights – Osaka hit hard by night B-29 raid; Haiphong taken.
Jpn ships sunk:
SS: 2 (I-46, I-48)
E: 1
SC: 1
PB: 2
AG: 1
xAK: 1
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 29
Allied: 33
Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 1 Attack, 1 ship hit (xAK sunk)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Haiphong (SE Asia)
Kuantan (SE Asia)
Shaoyang (China)
SIGINT/Intel: Night fighters over Osaka not effective, but AA fire was against the low level raids.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: Good night effort against Osaka. A total of 36 B-29s hit manpower at night over the two days at low level, about half at 2000ft, the other at 6000ft. All were met by Nicks on CAP which lost 7 planes. Raids were on target, getting fires up to over 60k, and damage inflicted was better than expected - see attached screen shot. The night raid against Yokahama was much less effective. A total of 29 B-29s at 6000-10k ft again had no effects on target. They were met by a mixed CAP of Petes, Zeros, Judy night fighters and Irvings which lost 10 Petes, 2 Judys and an Irving for their efforts. Overall, between the two raids, B-29 losses were light to fighters, 2 B-29s, but Flak did well against the low level raids, 9 bombers lost. Strat bombing VPs increased from 1782 to 3366 from the efforts at Osaka where fires were still burning at over 12k. Need to rest the bombers as well as many of the long range recon birds at least for a turn. Will likely focus the next series of raids to Kyushu targets to coincide with landings at Kume-jima, and include night strikes on airfields in addition to industry.
West Coast/Admin: NSTR.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, on Formosa, troops begin loading out from Takao for the shuttle to Manila, and then most will ship to the Hawaiian Islands. Lead Aus II Corps troops reach Karenko in the mountains, and will bombard to see what defenses are in place next turn. Another night bombing by about a dozen bombers (Helen/Sally mix) over two days against Taichu AF was again intercepted by Black Widows which shot down a pair over the two days, and again no damage inflicted. Will bring in more AA and have increased the daytime CAP just in case. In the PI, Fleet elements continue to repair damage at Naga and will be prepared to sail in a few days to support Kume-jima. 2xCVE TFs will move to Aparri and link up with BB TF out of Subic (6 BB, DDs) and rendezvous with the Repl TF to take on fuel prior to the Kume-jime operation. Repl TF#2 (both Repl TFs each have about half a dozen AOs and Repl CVEs) will sortie from Manus to be prepared to relieve Repl TF#1. Lastly at sea, increasing the number of subs significantly to support the Kume-jima landings just in case the IJN sorties.
In SWPAC, Main body troops embark at Naga for Kume-jima, while support troops begin loading across minor bases from the DEI to the PI. One Aussie Div plus two IN Bdes provide the primary punch for the landings, augmented by the usual suspects of armor, artillery and engineers. At Manila, the first troops bound for Takao will depart as will the first convoy bound for PH, both with infantry divisions aboard. Heavies based in both Formosa and Luzon hit both bases on Okinawa, Naga and Naha with good effect, although Flak claimed 3 B-24s. Will continue hitting Okinawa AFs next turn as well as a few port strikes. Once the AFs are shut down, raids will focus on ground troops at Okinawa, as well as the other Ryukyu islands bases including Kume-jima.
In China, in the north, the advance continues, and the Chinese main body looks to engage the retreating IJA troops south of Chengtu next turn, with continued support from LBA. In the east, lead elements take Shaoyang undefended west of Changsa. In the south, troops will attack to cut Hong Kong off from Canton next turn, while continuing to head east to identify the IJA defensive line. Ground bombardments at Canton show a robust defense of a division and two IN Bdes backed by significant artillery. Will wait until significant SE Asia troops arrive to attack Canton, but perhaps Hong Kong can be taken with a quick assault with troops on hand.
In SE Asia, the attack on Haiphong seizes the base on the initial attack, and eliminates all the defenders on the second day with light losses. Total bill was over 13k IJA troops lost to less than 1k Allied. The Indian IV Corps will begin immediately moving towards Canton, while the XXXIII Corps troops stand by for the next mission. The defenders at Vinh continue to offer a robust defense, although the defense may finally be giving way. The two attacks inflicted about 3000 casualties to roughly 500 Allied, but the Allies will maintain the attack next turn, hoping to clear the rail to Hanoi. XV Corps troops in Malaya take an undefended Kuantan on the east coast, and will attack to seize Port Dickson on the west coast next turn.
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11-12 Oct 44
11-12 Oct 44
Highlights – Kume-Jima Amphib operation to get underway.
Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 2
Allied: 11
Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Port Swettenham (SE Asia)
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: No raids, but Strat bombing VPs increases from 3366 to 4122 from the fires still burning at Osaka. Only Guam bases B-29s will launch next turn targeting Nagoya manpower.
West Coast/Admin: With the USMC fighter squadrons now at 24 planes, taking 15 CVEs and putting 8 Corsairs aboard, to put the new load-out as 16 Wildcats, 8 Corsairs (1A or D models), 6 TBFs. Will look to expand the numbers of CVEs with a Corsair load-out as CVEs come back to port for refit - one Corsair squadron to three CVEs works well.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, the support for the Kume-jima landings are put in motion with a CA TF (3CA, 2CL, DDs) and a CVE TF (13CVE, CA, DD/DEs) heading out with the Amphib TFs as they depart Naga heading initially to Batan Is. CV TFs will take another turn in port to continue minor repairs.
In SWPAC, Kume-jima operation slowly gets underway next turn with the 7th Aus Div, two IN Bdes and support loaded in two Amph TFs to depart Naga next turn. They’ll head to Batan Is and then to Miyako-jima to rendezvous with additional supporting TFs before heading to target. B-24s continue to focus their efforts on Okinawa targets; airfields reportedly shut down. The US 96th ID begins offloading at Takao as SWPAC begins assumption of all ground efforts on Formosa.
In China, in the north, the Chinese main body mauls the withdrawing IJA troops inflicting over 7000 casualties at a cost of about 500. They’ll continue north toward Chengtu, on the heels of the withdrawing IJA. British Heavies are brought back to Ledo in India and US B-25 group is brought into Kumning to support the drive on Chengtu. Also in the north, Chinese troops enter the outskirts of Chungking, but most troops are bypassing the Capital to the west and then north. A large body of IJA troops looks to be pulling out of Chungking heading north - now in the open are solid targets for airpower. In the south, while Canton is largely being bypassed, the focus is on Hong Kong, which is cut off by lead Allied troops in a single attack inflicting 2500 casualties from the defending IJA IN Bde. Troops will now advance into Hong Kong, reported defended by less than 20k troops. Lastly, troops are advancing on coastal bases such as Swatow and Amoy.
In SE Asia, it’s a turn of rest, refit and reorganization for most forces. Only the Indian XV Corps is currently engaged, taking Port Swettenham against minimal opposition. They will continue their drive toward the prize of Singapore. The remaining ground troops are available to remission, and currently only the IV Corps is heading towards the fight at Canton. 3-4 Bdes from the Samah operation are also heading to support attacks on both Hong Kong and Canton. The big XXXIII Corps as well as the much smaller III Corps will remain available for the time being - see how the situation develops in Hong Kong first. Air forces largely rest before being committed mostly against Hong Kong, although as already mentioned, some bombers are being pulled north to support the drive on Chengtu.
Highlights – Kume-Jima Amphib operation to get underway.
Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 2
Allied: 11
Subwar:
Jpn: 0 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Allies: 2 Attacks, 0 ships hit
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Port Swettenham (SE Asia)
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: No raids, but Strat bombing VPs increases from 3366 to 4122 from the fires still burning at Osaka. Only Guam bases B-29s will launch next turn targeting Nagoya manpower.
West Coast/Admin: With the USMC fighter squadrons now at 24 planes, taking 15 CVEs and putting 8 Corsairs aboard, to put the new load-out as 16 Wildcats, 8 Corsairs (1A or D models), 6 TBFs. Will look to expand the numbers of CVEs with a Corsair load-out as CVEs come back to port for refit - one Corsair squadron to three CVEs works well.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, NSTR.
In SOPAC, the support for the Kume-jima landings are put in motion with a CA TF (3CA, 2CL, DDs) and a CVE TF (13CVE, CA, DD/DEs) heading out with the Amphib TFs as they depart Naga heading initially to Batan Is. CV TFs will take another turn in port to continue minor repairs.
In SWPAC, Kume-jima operation slowly gets underway next turn with the 7th Aus Div, two IN Bdes and support loaded in two Amph TFs to depart Naga next turn. They’ll head to Batan Is and then to Miyako-jima to rendezvous with additional supporting TFs before heading to target. B-24s continue to focus their efforts on Okinawa targets; airfields reportedly shut down. The US 96th ID begins offloading at Takao as SWPAC begins assumption of all ground efforts on Formosa.
In China, in the north, the Chinese main body mauls the withdrawing IJA troops inflicting over 7000 casualties at a cost of about 500. They’ll continue north toward Chengtu, on the heels of the withdrawing IJA. British Heavies are brought back to Ledo in India and US B-25 group is brought into Kumning to support the drive on Chengtu. Also in the north, Chinese troops enter the outskirts of Chungking, but most troops are bypassing the Capital to the west and then north. A large body of IJA troops looks to be pulling out of Chungking heading north - now in the open are solid targets for airpower. In the south, while Canton is largely being bypassed, the focus is on Hong Kong, which is cut off by lead Allied troops in a single attack inflicting 2500 casualties from the defending IJA IN Bde. Troops will now advance into Hong Kong, reported defended by less than 20k troops. Lastly, troops are advancing on coastal bases such as Swatow and Amoy.
In SE Asia, it’s a turn of rest, refit and reorganization for most forces. Only the Indian XV Corps is currently engaged, taking Port Swettenham against minimal opposition. They will continue their drive toward the prize of Singapore. The remaining ground troops are available to remission, and currently only the IV Corps is heading towards the fight at Canton. 3-4 Bdes from the Samah operation are also heading to support attacks on both Hong Kong and Canton. The big XXXIII Corps as well as the much smaller III Corps will remain available for the time being - see how the situation develops in Hong Kong first. Air forces largely rest before being committed mostly against Hong Kong, although as already mentioned, some bombers are being pulled north to support the drive on Chengtu.
- Attachments
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- 441012.jpg (447.15 KiB) Viewed 370 times
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Jorge_Stanbury
- Posts: 4345
- Joined: Wed Feb 29, 2012 12:57 pm
- Location: Montreal
RE: 11-12 Oct 44
I will be studying your night bombing results; I mean I have never reached a point, in game, when night bombing is preferable to day bombings.
RE: 11-12 Oct 44
When you have massive day fighter CAP that you can not sweep away, you will need to try night bombing.
Seek peace but keep your gun handy.
I'm not a complete idiot, some parts are missing!
“Illegitemus non carborundum est (“Don’t let the bastards grind you down”).”
; Julia Child
I'm not a complete idiot, some parts are missing!
“Illegitemus non carborundum est (“Don’t let the bastards grind you down”).”
; Julia ChildRE: 11-12 Oct 44
ORIGINAL: Jorge_Stanbury
I will be studying your night bombing results; I mean I have never reached a point, in game, when night bombing is preferable to day bombings.
Strat bombing day or night is discovery learning on this end......so....results may vary!
13-14 Oct 44
13-14 Oct 44
Highlights – Troops enter Hong Kong outskirts; Fleet to depart Naga to support Kume-jima landings.
Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 7
Allied: 14
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 1 ship hit (DD Bryant dam)
Allies: 1 Attacks, 1 ship hit (PB sunk)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Port Dickson (SE Asia)
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: Only one raid, the Guam based 444th BG puts 13 B-29s over Nagoya at night at 6000ft, starting a small fire, but no damage to industry. Defending Nicks on CAP claim 2 Superforts at a cost of one of their own. Even with those poor results, existing fires still smoldering at Osaka, increases Strat bombing VPs from 4122 to 4536. Next turn will be a max effort from XX Airforce B-29s on both Formosa and Luzon hitting Nagasaki/Saesbo manpower. They will also be supported by V Air Force B-24s shuttle bombing out of Miyako-jima, three of the nine squadrons there will hit the AF, the rest augment the B-29s targeting manpower. Raiders will go in at varied altitudes, from 6000ft to 14k. I expect a robust night fighter defense and of course, heavy flak. Weather is reportedly good, although moonlight is only 3%.
West Coast/Admin: CV Enterprise begins repair at the Manila shipyard - initial repair estimates call for 6 months yard time. She’ll stay at Manila until her float gets below 50, then she’ll hopefully be able to use Singers.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, PV-2 Harpoons out of Pagan hit Makin Is port, and sight a few ships - they attempt a return engagement next turn hunting the ships. Meanwhile, Heavies out of Yap shift their efforts from Tinian to Saipan and Heavies out of Ponape continue to keep heads down at Truk.
In SOPAC, while attempting to clear IJN subs reported off Okinawa/Kume-jima, a US ASW TF (3DD) is bested by the hunted with the RO-114 putting a torp into DD Bryant. Will refocus additional ASW efforts to reduce the threat. The Fleet will depart Naga next turn to provide cover for the Kume-jima landings. The Fleet is now organized into two CV TFs and a BB TF plus of course the usual ASW TFs. Last month’s Kamikaze debacle literally cut the CV TFs by a third. Will keep the Fleet close at hand to the CVE TFs supporting the landings; not getting anywhere near the Japanese Homeland. The landings will also be supported by Oldendorf’s BB TF and two cruiser TFs. Also in support, the Silent Service is providing over two dozen subs in direct support to interdict any IJN sortie. Oldendorf and the cruiser TFs, along with the CVE TFs are accompanying the two Amph TFs, and will close on the final staging base of Miyako-jima next turn.
In SWPAC, Heavies continue to hit Okinawa bases to shut down airfields, and will start focusing on hitting troops next turn with a reduced amount of bombers. Many will rest to prepare to focus on Kume-jima. Goal of these strikes on Okinawa, in addition to shutting down the AFs, is to keep L_S_T thinking Okinawa is the ultimate target, and that Kume-jima is only going to be only the first step in taking Okinawa. The B-24s flown into Miyako-jima for the Nagasaki raid will pull off the island following the raids, and Miyako-jima will then base primarily fighters to support the Kume-jima landings.
In China, in the north, the Chinese main body catches up with withdrawing IJA troops just SE of Chengtu, and hope to attack next turn before the IJA troops can withdraw into the city. Chengtu is actually reportedly lightly defended, so a few Chinese Corps begin heading east to cut the road north out of Chungking where another sizeable IJA troop concentration looks to be moving north. Troops entering Chungking report defenders numbering only about 20k. Once some additional troops can be brought in, will look to bombard to test defenses. In the SE, Allied troops enter the outskirts of Hong Kong and will begin bombarding next turn, assisted by a cruiser TF in support. Another cruiser TF will also bombard Canton. Will keep both bases under bombardment, supplies permitting, until additional troops can be brought to bear - including two British Bdes moving south of Wuchow towards Hong Kong. Lastly, the coastal base of Swatow, east of Hong Kong, is reportedly undefended, so the vaunted Lushi Bde will jump in from Hanoi to secure the base. Still not clear where the main IJA defensive line is in the SE.
In SE Asia, Indian XV Corps takes Port Dickson and will now advance on Malacca. More airpower is shifted to support operations in China; a B-24 group moved to Liuchow to support the drive on Chengtu while mediums on Hainan begin supporting the drive on Hong Kong.
Highlights – Troops enter Hong Kong outskirts; Fleet to depart Naga to support Kume-jima landings.
Jpn ships sunk:
PB: 1
Allied ships sunk: None
Air loss:
Jpn: 7
Allied: 14
Subwar:
Jpn: 1 Attack, 1 ship hit (DD Bryant dam)
Allies: 1 Attacks, 1 ship hit (PB sunk)
Jpn Amph Inv: None
Allied Amph Inv: None
Bases lost: None
Bases Liberated:
Port Dickson (SE Asia)
SIGINT/Intel: NSTR.
Strategic Bombing Campaign: Only one raid, the Guam based 444th BG puts 13 B-29s over Nagoya at night at 6000ft, starting a small fire, but no damage to industry. Defending Nicks on CAP claim 2 Superforts at a cost of one of their own. Even with those poor results, existing fires still smoldering at Osaka, increases Strat bombing VPs from 4122 to 4536. Next turn will be a max effort from XX Airforce B-29s on both Formosa and Luzon hitting Nagasaki/Saesbo manpower. They will also be supported by V Air Force B-24s shuttle bombing out of Miyako-jima, three of the nine squadrons there will hit the AF, the rest augment the B-29s targeting manpower. Raiders will go in at varied altitudes, from 6000ft to 14k. I expect a robust night fighter defense and of course, heavy flak. Weather is reportedly good, although moonlight is only 3%.
West Coast/Admin: CV Enterprise begins repair at the Manila shipyard - initial repair estimates call for 6 months yard time. She’ll stay at Manila until her float gets below 50, then she’ll hopefully be able to use Singers.
In NOPAC, NSTR.
In CENPAC, PV-2 Harpoons out of Pagan hit Makin Is port, and sight a few ships - they attempt a return engagement next turn hunting the ships. Meanwhile, Heavies out of Yap shift their efforts from Tinian to Saipan and Heavies out of Ponape continue to keep heads down at Truk.
In SOPAC, while attempting to clear IJN subs reported off Okinawa/Kume-jima, a US ASW TF (3DD) is bested by the hunted with the RO-114 putting a torp into DD Bryant. Will refocus additional ASW efforts to reduce the threat. The Fleet will depart Naga next turn to provide cover for the Kume-jima landings. The Fleet is now organized into two CV TFs and a BB TF plus of course the usual ASW TFs. Last month’s Kamikaze debacle literally cut the CV TFs by a third. Will keep the Fleet close at hand to the CVE TFs supporting the landings; not getting anywhere near the Japanese Homeland. The landings will also be supported by Oldendorf’s BB TF and two cruiser TFs. Also in support, the Silent Service is providing over two dozen subs in direct support to interdict any IJN sortie. Oldendorf and the cruiser TFs, along with the CVE TFs are accompanying the two Amph TFs, and will close on the final staging base of Miyako-jima next turn.
In SWPAC, Heavies continue to hit Okinawa bases to shut down airfields, and will start focusing on hitting troops next turn with a reduced amount of bombers. Many will rest to prepare to focus on Kume-jima. Goal of these strikes on Okinawa, in addition to shutting down the AFs, is to keep L_S_T thinking Okinawa is the ultimate target, and that Kume-jima is only going to be only the first step in taking Okinawa. The B-24s flown into Miyako-jima for the Nagasaki raid will pull off the island following the raids, and Miyako-jima will then base primarily fighters to support the Kume-jima landings.
In China, in the north, the Chinese main body catches up with withdrawing IJA troops just SE of Chengtu, and hope to attack next turn before the IJA troops can withdraw into the city. Chengtu is actually reportedly lightly defended, so a few Chinese Corps begin heading east to cut the road north out of Chungking where another sizeable IJA troop concentration looks to be moving north. Troops entering Chungking report defenders numbering only about 20k. Once some additional troops can be brought in, will look to bombard to test defenses. In the SE, Allied troops enter the outskirts of Hong Kong and will begin bombarding next turn, assisted by a cruiser TF in support. Another cruiser TF will also bombard Canton. Will keep both bases under bombardment, supplies permitting, until additional troops can be brought to bear - including two British Bdes moving south of Wuchow towards Hong Kong. Lastly, the coastal base of Swatow, east of Hong Kong, is reportedly undefended, so the vaunted Lushi Bde will jump in from Hanoi to secure the base. Still not clear where the main IJA defensive line is in the SE.
In SE Asia, Indian XV Corps takes Port Dickson and will now advance on Malacca. More airpower is shifted to support operations in China; a B-24 group moved to Liuchow to support the drive on Chengtu while mediums on Hainan begin supporting the drive on Hong Kong.
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