Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (Resurrected)
Moderators: wdolson, MOD_War-in-the-Pacific-Admirals-Edition
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.11
Date: 18th December 1941 Tokyo time
Another day in combat zone and yet no contact with enemy planes. While heavy clouds were still chasing on the sky, airstrip dried enough to permit Hayabusas of the 64th Sentai to take off for protection of naval task force unloading near Kuantan.
Flying endless patrols around the place was not really a dream job for the seasoned fighter pilots, but one never know when enemy will show up and loosing valuable cargo ships with loaded troops to enemy air is not the best way to win war.
Enemy airbases at Singapore and Johore Bharu are less then 200 miles away. While recon planes of 51st Recon Chutai flying daily to observe enemy bases reported only fighter planes based there, there was no trace of enemy bombers. As reported several days before, allies had around 50-60 bombers available on the Malayan airfields - where they are now is a question. But the threat still remains, so Colonel Katos Sentai has to fly these patrols.
2nd Lieutenant Fujimoto damaged his Hayabusa on landing driving into a mud hole. Fortunately he was unhurt and the plane required only light repairs, so it will be available for next day.
Date: 18th December 1941 Tokyo time
Another day in combat zone and yet no contact with enemy planes. While heavy clouds were still chasing on the sky, airstrip dried enough to permit Hayabusas of the 64th Sentai to take off for protection of naval task force unloading near Kuantan.
Flying endless patrols around the place was not really a dream job for the seasoned fighter pilots, but one never know when enemy will show up and loosing valuable cargo ships with loaded troops to enemy air is not the best way to win war.
Enemy airbases at Singapore and Johore Bharu are less then 200 miles away. While recon planes of 51st Recon Chutai flying daily to observe enemy bases reported only fighter planes based there, there was no trace of enemy bombers. As reported several days before, allies had around 50-60 bombers available on the Malayan airfields - where they are now is a question. But the threat still remains, so Colonel Katos Sentai has to fly these patrols.
2nd Lieutenant Fujimoto damaged his Hayabusa on landing driving into a mud hole. Fortunately he was unhurt and the plane required only light repairs, so it will be available for next day.
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
Suscribed
Appear at places to which he must hasten; move swiftly where he does not expect you.
Sun Tzu
Sun Tzu
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.12
Date: 19th December 1941 Tokyo time
This day was the full repetition of the previous one. With single exception. Night brought more rains and on the morning take off the strip was not dry enough. Warrant Officer Kaokis Hayabusa run over a mud hole, totally breaking off left landing gear. Only pilots skill prevented his Hayabusa to ram the next one taking off. Pilot survived with light bruises only, but his Hayabusa has to be written off completely.
Apart from this, patrols over naval task force unloading near Kuantan went off smoothly and no enemy planes were encountered either. It seems that enemy has pulled his forces somewhere else, but where?
Date: 19th December 1941 Tokyo time
This day was the full repetition of the previous one. With single exception. Night brought more rains and on the morning take off the strip was not dry enough. Warrant Officer Kaokis Hayabusa run over a mud hole, totally breaking off left landing gear. Only pilots skill prevented his Hayabusa to ram the next one taking off. Pilot survived with light bruises only, but his Hayabusa has to be written off completely.
Apart from this, patrols over naval task force unloading near Kuantan went off smoothly and no enemy planes were encountered either. It seems that enemy has pulled his forces somewhere else, but where?
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.13
Date: 20th December 1941 Tokyo time
Naval task force finished unloading at Kuantan thorough the night and withdrew to safe distance. Bombers, still based in Thailand has no valuable targets in their range. Only a Sentai of Ki-32 light bombers based at Patani airfield, about 100 miles to the north of Kota Bharu were in range to attack retreating enemy units. 1st Sentai provided escort for them and at the same time flew combat air patrol around the home base. Thus 64th Sentai was again allowed to rest for a day in Kota Bharu.
Fortunately weather was better then on preceding days so the men not necessary to other duties filled their time mostly outside. Football match as well as little baseball was played next to runway when no air operations were conducted there. Those unlucky enough to find themselves with some duties worked with better mood in clear and not so hot weather. Some of the men event went to the nearby strip of the beach to swim in the sea. Some even tried to catch some fish on hooks made of nails - although not very successfully. The only catches included seaweed and an army helmet with a hole through...
Date: 20th December 1941 Tokyo time
Naval task force finished unloading at Kuantan thorough the night and withdrew to safe distance. Bombers, still based in Thailand has no valuable targets in their range. Only a Sentai of Ki-32 light bombers based at Patani airfield, about 100 miles to the north of Kota Bharu were in range to attack retreating enemy units. 1st Sentai provided escort for them and at the same time flew combat air patrol around the home base. Thus 64th Sentai was again allowed to rest for a day in Kota Bharu.
Fortunately weather was better then on preceding days so the men not necessary to other duties filled their time mostly outside. Football match as well as little baseball was played next to runway when no air operations were conducted there. Those unlucky enough to find themselves with some duties worked with better mood in clear and not so hot weather. Some of the men event went to the nearby strip of the beach to swim in the sea. Some even tried to catch some fish on hooks made of nails - although not very successfully. The only catches included seaweed and an army helmet with a hole through...
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.14
Date: 21th December 1941 Tokyo time
No combat operation was scheduled for today, but news of transfer to Patani, about 200 miles to the north, were leaked through the chain of command. It may seem strange to move premium fighter unit from its forward airfield further from front line, but it has its own purpose. Two heavy bomber Sentais were prepared to move to Kota Bharu as its permanent base until the end of Malayan campaign. Kota Bharu, which was meant to become a base for both 64th and 59th Sentais equipped with Hayabusas, was not yet ready, but the place has to be made for bombers.
Thus men of the 64th Sentai began packing their belongings, loading equipment on trains moving north and several trucks with repair machinery moving south towards Kota Bharu. Mechanics were readying their planes, and pilots were flying checking flights around the field.
It was not much a question of belongings, as both pilots and mechanics carried little with them and tents were the main form of accommodation, but various tools and equipment for a military unit has to be carried around - from spare uniforms and flying suits, through food and various kitchen items to spare engines and propellers. All of these items had to be packed and loaded carefully and send to their destination...
Date: 21th December 1941 Tokyo time
No combat operation was scheduled for today, but news of transfer to Patani, about 200 miles to the north, were leaked through the chain of command. It may seem strange to move premium fighter unit from its forward airfield further from front line, but it has its own purpose. Two heavy bomber Sentais were prepared to move to Kota Bharu as its permanent base until the end of Malayan campaign. Kota Bharu, which was meant to become a base for both 64th and 59th Sentais equipped with Hayabusas, was not yet ready, but the place has to be made for bombers.
Thus men of the 64th Sentai began packing their belongings, loading equipment on trains moving north and several trucks with repair machinery moving south towards Kota Bharu. Mechanics were readying their planes, and pilots were flying checking flights around the field.
It was not much a question of belongings, as both pilots and mechanics carried little with them and tents were the main form of accommodation, but various tools and equipment for a military unit has to be carried around - from spare uniforms and flying suits, through food and various kitchen items to spare engines and propellers. All of these items had to be packed and loaded carefully and send to their destination...
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.15
Date: 22th December 1941 Tokyo time
Flight to Patani was a routine task which all pilots accomplished without fault. The ground movement wasn't as easy. The railways through conquered part of Malaya sustained damage in the campaign, and there was much traffic congestion around Patani. 200 miles by train took almost whole day, with numerous stops and waiting. Unloading also took some time because Patani was used as major hub for troops moving from north to south and sidetracks were full of trains with men and equipment. Military police was overloaded with numerous tasks - from guarding the prisoners of wars to directing working parties of Malay men repairing rails, sidetracks and roads in the area. On top of that they had to keep order in a place where men from Army, Air force, Navy and Naval air forces were streaming in numbers - of course several brawls took place with inter-service rivalry was the main spark.
Radio Tokyo announced today, that strong enemy surface task force made its presence known in area of Palau Islands recently, but our Imperial Navy prevailed and forced enemy naval force to retreat sinking at least two battleships and several cruisers in the process.
Date: 22th December 1941 Tokyo time
Flight to Patani was a routine task which all pilots accomplished without fault. The ground movement wasn't as easy. The railways through conquered part of Malaya sustained damage in the campaign, and there was much traffic congestion around Patani. 200 miles by train took almost whole day, with numerous stops and waiting. Unloading also took some time because Patani was used as major hub for troops moving from north to south and sidetracks were full of trains with men and equipment. Military police was overloaded with numerous tasks - from guarding the prisoners of wars to directing working parties of Malay men repairing rails, sidetracks and roads in the area. On top of that they had to keep order in a place where men from Army, Air force, Navy and Naval air forces were streaming in numbers - of course several brawls took place with inter-service rivalry was the main spark.
Radio Tokyo announced today, that strong enemy surface task force made its presence known in area of Palau Islands recently, but our Imperial Navy prevailed and forced enemy naval force to retreat sinking at least two battleships and several cruisers in the process.
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.16
Date: 23th December 1941 Tokyo time
While main part of the 64th Sentai was making itself comfortable on Patani airfield, time came for the 3rd Chutai to convert from their Ki-27s to brand new Ki-43s.
16 pilots with about hundred mechanics eagerly awaited the new fighters at Battambang airfield. Lined on both sides of the airfield all eyes were scanning the sky while ears were anxiously looking forward to hear the sound of new Nakajima Sake engines. Soon 16 shiny new machines popped over the horizon, passed over the airfield and made several aerobatic figures around to show the abilities of the new planes.
Once landed, 16 factory pilots were surrounded by crowds of mechanics led by pilots answering numerous questions. 3rd Chutai pilots soon found themselves sitting inside the cockipts with factory pilot and main mechanic from each side. Afternoon familiarization flights begun. 1st Lieutenant Ishikawa was the first to take the brand new Hayabusa into air. After several circles around the airfield and several easy aerobatic figures he even tried to fire the Ho-103 machine guns. The landing was not nearly perfect, but pilot and his brand new plane landed safely. After more debriefing two more pilots took into air one after another for their familiarization flights.
Six weary, Ki-27s silently and forgotten, were standing on the edge of the airfield. In several days, they will be flown by the Nakajima factory pilots back to their plant to be completely overhauled and then sent to some training unit to help train new piltos.
Date: 23th December 1941 Tokyo time
While main part of the 64th Sentai was making itself comfortable on Patani airfield, time came for the 3rd Chutai to convert from their Ki-27s to brand new Ki-43s.
16 pilots with about hundred mechanics eagerly awaited the new fighters at Battambang airfield. Lined on both sides of the airfield all eyes were scanning the sky while ears were anxiously looking forward to hear the sound of new Nakajima Sake engines. Soon 16 shiny new machines popped over the horizon, passed over the airfield and made several aerobatic figures around to show the abilities of the new planes.
Once landed, 16 factory pilots were surrounded by crowds of mechanics led by pilots answering numerous questions. 3rd Chutai pilots soon found themselves sitting inside the cockipts with factory pilot and main mechanic from each side. Afternoon familiarization flights begun. 1st Lieutenant Ishikawa was the first to take the brand new Hayabusa into air. After several circles around the airfield and several easy aerobatic figures he even tried to fire the Ho-103 machine guns. The landing was not nearly perfect, but pilot and his brand new plane landed safely. After more debriefing two more pilots took into air one after another for their familiarization flights.
Six weary, Ki-27s silently and forgotten, were standing on the edge of the airfield. In several days, they will be flown by the Nakajima factory pilots back to their plant to be completely overhauled and then sent to some training unit to help train new piltos.
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
"Two Battleships and several cruisers." Riiiight. Barb, was it really a big battle? Just curious.
Interesting detail about factory pilots and the upgrade process.
Interesting detail about factory pilots and the upgrade process.
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
Allied SCTF arriving at Babeldaob :
BB Prince of Wales
BC Repulse
CA Houston
CL Java
CL De Ruyter
CL Tromp
CL Danae
CL Dragon
CL Durban
CL Marblehead
CL Boise
DD John D. Ford
DD Paul Jones
DD Parrott
DD Pillsbury
DD Banckert
DD Van Nes
DD Witte de With
DD Evertsen
DD Kortenaer
DD Piet Hein
DD Van Ghent
DD Scout
DD Thanet
Allied DDTF running around:
DD Alden
DD Barker
DD Bulmer
DD Edsall
DD Peary
DD Pope
DD Stewart
DD Thracian
DD Express
On the Japanese side several TFs were involved. As far as we know, of the larger allied ships only Boise with several destroyers managed to escape. Mostly in damaged state. Japanese Navy suffered some losses (details are not known to public and our enemies) [:D]
IRL: new planes would be trickled into the unit at small rate in time of several weeks to allow several familiar flights to future pilots.
BB Prince of Wales
BC Repulse
CA Houston
CL Java
CL De Ruyter
CL Tromp
CL Danae
CL Dragon
CL Durban
CL Marblehead
CL Boise
DD John D. Ford
DD Paul Jones
DD Parrott
DD Pillsbury
DD Banckert
DD Van Nes
DD Witte de With
DD Evertsen
DD Kortenaer
DD Piet Hein
DD Van Ghent
DD Scout
DD Thanet
Allied DDTF running around:
DD Alden
DD Barker
DD Bulmer
DD Edsall
DD Peary
DD Pope
DD Stewart
DD Thracian
DD Express
On the Japanese side several TFs were involved. As far as we know, of the larger allied ships only Boise with several destroyers managed to escape. Mostly in damaged state. Japanese Navy suffered some losses (details are not known to public and our enemies) [:D]
IRL: new planes would be trickled into the unit at small rate in time of several weeks to allow several familiar flights to future pilots.
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.17
Date: 24th December 1941 Tokyo time
Airstrip repairs at Kuantan were proceeding at full speed. Two engineer companies plus several other units were working tirelessly for more than week to get the airstrip to shape. Bomb craters were being filled, surface strengthened, hangars and other facilities repaired, new phone lines laid down, radio tower blown up was built anew. It was not an easy task under hot southern sun, but the works were nearly finished and airfield will be operational in several days.
Trucks with some equipment and several men sent three days before from Kota Bharu to south arrived. Moving near the eastern coast of Malaya on trails pretending to be roads they encountered numerous problems. Being stuck in mud was as common as blown-up tires. Men within the truck convoy were at work from early morning to midday, with shovels, axes, pickaxes, ropes and whatever tools available to get trucks from the mud or to change tires. From midday to 4 PM the men and their trucks were hidden under the jungle cover, trying to eat something and rest a little. Then the movement continued - no surprise, that the men that arrived at Kuantan airfield were as dirty as engineers working there for several days.
Date: 24th December 1941 Tokyo time
Airstrip repairs at Kuantan were proceeding at full speed. Two engineer companies plus several other units were working tirelessly for more than week to get the airstrip to shape. Bomb craters were being filled, surface strengthened, hangars and other facilities repaired, new phone lines laid down, radio tower blown up was built anew. It was not an easy task under hot southern sun, but the works were nearly finished and airfield will be operational in several days.
Trucks with some equipment and several men sent three days before from Kota Bharu to south arrived. Moving near the eastern coast of Malaya on trails pretending to be roads they encountered numerous problems. Being stuck in mud was as common as blown-up tires. Men within the truck convoy were at work from early morning to midday, with shovels, axes, pickaxes, ropes and whatever tools available to get trucks from the mud or to change tires. From midday to 4 PM the men and their trucks were hidden under the jungle cover, trying to eat something and rest a little. Then the movement continued - no surprise, that the men that arrived at Kuantan airfield were as dirty as engineers working there for several days.
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.18
Date: 25th December 1941 Tokyo time
While pilots of the 3rd Chutai were making themselves familiar with their new planes back in Thailand, rest of the Sentai prepared themselves for another move. This time for Kuantan. Advanced echelon that arrived yesterday to the Kuantan area reported that runway is finally repaired enough to be of use. On landing, the pilots were greeted by members of the 59th Sentai, that arrived several hours earlier. This two units, both equipped with Hayabusas were to break the RAF over Singapore. While pilots from both units were discussing things fighter pilots usually talk about, their maintenance crews were transported by several army transport planes, while the rest were to be marched south like the advanced echelon did. They were to be expected in several days.
The tension went sky-high in the evening, when new orders from the HQ arrived. Regardless of their missing ground elements both units were to make their presence felt over Singapore the following morning. Bombers protected by 1st Sentai Ki-27s were to go in just after the lunch to catch most of the allied planes on ground. As able hands were in short supply, pilots had to make sure their machines are in perfect state for the upcoming battle themselves...
Date: 25th December 1941 Tokyo time
While pilots of the 3rd Chutai were making themselves familiar with their new planes back in Thailand, rest of the Sentai prepared themselves for another move. This time for Kuantan. Advanced echelon that arrived yesterday to the Kuantan area reported that runway is finally repaired enough to be of use. On landing, the pilots were greeted by members of the 59th Sentai, that arrived several hours earlier. This two units, both equipped with Hayabusas were to break the RAF over Singapore. While pilots from both units were discussing things fighter pilots usually talk about, their maintenance crews were transported by several army transport planes, while the rest were to be marched south like the advanced echelon did. They were to be expected in several days.
The tension went sky-high in the evening, when new orders from the HQ arrived. Regardless of their missing ground elements both units were to make their presence felt over Singapore the following morning. Bombers protected by 1st Sentai Ki-27s were to go in just after the lunch to catch most of the allied planes on ground. As able hands were in short supply, pilots had to make sure their machines are in perfect state for the upcoming battle themselves...
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.19
Date: 26th December 1941 Tokyo time
Morning hours of the Kuantan airfield were filled with much activity. Both fighter Sentais were being readied for the big mission today. Without their ground echelons they had to use what they had on hand. This went for food too. Instead of normal breakfast they had to do with products of local marketplace. Several pilots made jokes about the Air Force trying to made their Hayabusas lighter using a food diet.
Around 10:00 AM pilots were seated in their machines making final checks before start. Soon the green flare from a control tower appeared and roar of 50 engines spread around the airfield filled the area. Pilots were looking in direction of control tower for a second green flare - meaning that elements were to assemble for start next to runway in order of take-off.
Instead, a red flare was fired. At first thoughts about someones error in firing wrong flare went through the minds of pilots. But then a second red flare showed up. One by one pilots stopped their engines, many remained sitting in cabins for few minutes, and only then jumping out of their planes. Cursing, they headed to their operation rooms, only to hear what they already knew - that the mission for today was cancelled. Due to thick layer of clouds all over the southern Malaya the mission was delayed for one day in hope of better weather over target.
Date: 26th December 1941 Tokyo time
Morning hours of the Kuantan airfield were filled with much activity. Both fighter Sentais were being readied for the big mission today. Without their ground echelons they had to use what they had on hand. This went for food too. Instead of normal breakfast they had to do with products of local marketplace. Several pilots made jokes about the Air Force trying to made their Hayabusas lighter using a food diet.
Around 10:00 AM pilots were seated in their machines making final checks before start. Soon the green flare from a control tower appeared and roar of 50 engines spread around the airfield filled the area. Pilots were looking in direction of control tower for a second green flare - meaning that elements were to assemble for start next to runway in order of take-off.
Instead, a red flare was fired. At first thoughts about someones error in firing wrong flare went through the minds of pilots. But then a second red flare showed up. One by one pilots stopped their engines, many remained sitting in cabins for few minutes, and only then jumping out of their planes. Cursing, they headed to their operation rooms, only to hear what they already knew - that the mission for today was cancelled. Due to thick layer of clouds all over the southern Malaya the mission was delayed for one day in hope of better weather over target.
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.20 (Part 1)
Date: 27th December 1941 Tokyo time
On this day, finally, Lt.Col. Anma led formation of 26 dark-green Hayabusas to the main enemy bastion in the far east - Singapore. Cruising at 20,000 ft the formation had to circle around several clouds standing in the way. As a result of this maneuvering, one element of the 2nd Chutai lost sight of the formation and continued to target independently.
Alarms soon sounded over the Tengah, Sembawang and Kallang airfields at Singapore islands as reports of incoming Japanese formations filtered over the telephone and radio networks. One by one allied fighters from 4 squadrons took to the skies to defend the island from Japanese invaders. Driving their machines hard, pilots strived to gain altitude before the enemy arrive. In total 51 Buffalo Mk. I fighters took off for combat.
On approach to Singapore pilots from 1st Chutai flying below and forward of the 2nd Chutai were first to spot the dark shadows of climbing allied fighters. Without hesitation the pilots rolled their machines into dive to engage the enemy that so far has been elusive.
Picture: members of the 453rd Squadron RAAF running to their machines as scramble was ordered
Date: 27th December 1941 Tokyo time
On this day, finally, Lt.Col. Anma led formation of 26 dark-green Hayabusas to the main enemy bastion in the far east - Singapore. Cruising at 20,000 ft the formation had to circle around several clouds standing in the way. As a result of this maneuvering, one element of the 2nd Chutai lost sight of the formation and continued to target independently.
Alarms soon sounded over the Tengah, Sembawang and Kallang airfields at Singapore islands as reports of incoming Japanese formations filtered over the telephone and radio networks. One by one allied fighters from 4 squadrons took to the skies to defend the island from Japanese invaders. Driving their machines hard, pilots strived to gain altitude before the enemy arrive. In total 51 Buffalo Mk. I fighters took off for combat.
On approach to Singapore pilots from 1st Chutai flying below and forward of the 2nd Chutai were first to spot the dark shadows of climbing allied fighters. Without hesitation the pilots rolled their machines into dive to engage the enemy that so far has been elusive.
Picture: members of the 453rd Squadron RAAF running to their machines as scramble was ordered
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- 453_Buffalo.jpg (47.19 KiB) Viewed 1732 times
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.20 (Part 2)
Date: 27th December 1941 Tokyo time
Leading 1st Shotai of the 1st Chutai was 2nd Lt. Inuzuka. Bad luck was on his tail from the first moment. Diving down he overshoot with his first burst and while continuing the dive he was separated from his wingmen. Finding himself among numerous enemies he nevertheless engaged them in circling combat. Firing several bursts at several targets he was not able to obtain any hits. Finally finding one of the enemy fighters on a collision course he fired a burst that hit its mark and forced the enemy plane out of combat. Unfortunately the enemy was as good marksman as 2nd Lt. Inazuka and his burst from four half-inch machine guns fired at the same moment ripped Inazukas Hayabusa to pieces in an instant.
2nd Lt. Inazuka wingmens had better luck. W/O Okamoto claimed a damage to enemy fighter in initial pass, but he too found himself among the numerous enemies. After having his plane damaged by two enemy bursts, he wisely dived to the ground and escaped combat, finally landing his damaged Hayabusa back at Kuantan. W/O Uchida engaged several of the enemy planes finally claiming one shot down and one damaged (in fact both of his opponents were only damaged).
2nd Shotai of the same Chutai went into combat on tails of the 1st Shotai. 2nd Lt. Chojiro with wingmens 2nd Lt. Fujimoto and W/O Inokuchi claimed two enemy fighters in the initial dive and further two were claimed by 2nd Lt. Fujimoto in the ensuing combat. Of the enemy planes engaged by this formation one was shot down certainly and three more were damaged.
3rd Shotai led by 2nd Lt. Koda was next one entering the combat. 2nd Lt. Ban claimed found his first victim in a slow climb and his first burst hit the mark. On getting closer to the enemy plane he put more lead into target. Buffalo started to smoke and after a while pilot jumped from it, his plane plunged to the ground. Returning to combat 2nd Lt. Ban found that he spend most of his ammo on the first Buffalo and withdrew from combat. 2nd Lt. Koda attacked several enemy fighters claiming two of them before he was forced to withdrew from combat, however both of his victims survived and landed safely. W/O Junis Hayabusa was damaged in the first encounter with enemy by several bulets. One of the bullets passed the length of the plane wounding the pilot. Engine started to smoke, so W/O Juni immediately rolled his plane over the wing and sought protection of the nearest cloud. After long flight home he safely landed at Kuantan.
4th Shotai, led by 2nd Lt. Fujimoto, could claim only one damaged enemy plane, suffering two damaged Hayabusas in the combat. First, W/O Chozaburo engaged one of the Buffalos firing several bursts after it, and forgot to watch his back. This situation was almost immediately exploited by one of the Australians. W/O Chozaburo managed to escape his enemy with damaged plane and landed safely at Kuantan. W/O Shibayama engaged other enemy plane, but he too was forced to abandon combat with smoking plane. Shotai leader 2nd Lt. Fujimoto engaged at least 4 of the enemy planes, but his shooting was not so accurate as he wished it would be. None of the enemy planes was shot down.
In total 1st Chutai claimed 2 enemy planes shot down certainly, 4 probably and 6 more damaged for the loss 1 pilot KIA (2nd Lt. Inazuka) and 1 pilot WIA (W/O Juni). Of the 12 dispatched planes 1 was shot down and 5 sustained damage in various degrees.
Picture: Contrails visible on the sky over Singapore
Date: 27th December 1941 Tokyo time
Leading 1st Shotai of the 1st Chutai was 2nd Lt. Inuzuka. Bad luck was on his tail from the first moment. Diving down he overshoot with his first burst and while continuing the dive he was separated from his wingmen. Finding himself among numerous enemies he nevertheless engaged them in circling combat. Firing several bursts at several targets he was not able to obtain any hits. Finally finding one of the enemy fighters on a collision course he fired a burst that hit its mark and forced the enemy plane out of combat. Unfortunately the enemy was as good marksman as 2nd Lt. Inazuka and his burst from four half-inch machine guns fired at the same moment ripped Inazukas Hayabusa to pieces in an instant.
2nd Lt. Inazuka wingmens had better luck. W/O Okamoto claimed a damage to enemy fighter in initial pass, but he too found himself among the numerous enemies. After having his plane damaged by two enemy bursts, he wisely dived to the ground and escaped combat, finally landing his damaged Hayabusa back at Kuantan. W/O Uchida engaged several of the enemy planes finally claiming one shot down and one damaged (in fact both of his opponents were only damaged).
2nd Shotai of the same Chutai went into combat on tails of the 1st Shotai. 2nd Lt. Chojiro with wingmens 2nd Lt. Fujimoto and W/O Inokuchi claimed two enemy fighters in the initial dive and further two were claimed by 2nd Lt. Fujimoto in the ensuing combat. Of the enemy planes engaged by this formation one was shot down certainly and three more were damaged.
3rd Shotai led by 2nd Lt. Koda was next one entering the combat. 2nd Lt. Ban claimed found his first victim in a slow climb and his first burst hit the mark. On getting closer to the enemy plane he put more lead into target. Buffalo started to smoke and after a while pilot jumped from it, his plane plunged to the ground. Returning to combat 2nd Lt. Ban found that he spend most of his ammo on the first Buffalo and withdrew from combat. 2nd Lt. Koda attacked several enemy fighters claiming two of them before he was forced to withdrew from combat, however both of his victims survived and landed safely. W/O Junis Hayabusa was damaged in the first encounter with enemy by several bulets. One of the bullets passed the length of the plane wounding the pilot. Engine started to smoke, so W/O Juni immediately rolled his plane over the wing and sought protection of the nearest cloud. After long flight home he safely landed at Kuantan.
4th Shotai, led by 2nd Lt. Fujimoto, could claim only one damaged enemy plane, suffering two damaged Hayabusas in the combat. First, W/O Chozaburo engaged one of the Buffalos firing several bursts after it, and forgot to watch his back. This situation was almost immediately exploited by one of the Australians. W/O Chozaburo managed to escape his enemy with damaged plane and landed safely at Kuantan. W/O Shibayama engaged other enemy plane, but he too was forced to abandon combat with smoking plane. Shotai leader 2nd Lt. Fujimoto engaged at least 4 of the enemy planes, but his shooting was not so accurate as he wished it would be. None of the enemy planes was shot down.
In total 1st Chutai claimed 2 enemy planes shot down certainly, 4 probably and 6 more damaged for the loss 1 pilot KIA (2nd Lt. Inazuka) and 1 pilot WIA (W/O Juni). Of the 12 dispatched planes 1 was shot down and 5 sustained damage in various degrees.
Picture: Contrails visible on the sky over Singapore
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RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.20 (Part 3)
Date: 27th December 1941 Tokyo time
Leading 2nd Chutai was 1st Shotai with Lt.Col Anma and his wingmens 2nd Lt. Hashimoto and W/O Mitsumasa. In the initial phase of the battle Lt.Col Anma claimed a Buffalo "shot down in flames". As the combat spread into several groups of planes chasing each other across the sky, he claimed further two planes until he had run out of ammo. 2nd Lt. Hashimoto claimed two enemy fighters shot down, but his own plane was damaged and he was forced to abandon combat trailing smoke. 2nd Lt. Mitsumasa tried to stay with his Shotaichio which due to wild maneuvers performed by Lt.Col Anma wasn't an easy job. Protecting his leader he had not find himself in position to shoot.
2nd Shotai was led by W/O Agawa. This section managed to surprise several of the enemies, who forgot to watch for their 6s in combat with other elements of the 64th Sentai. At first W/O Kaoki claimed a Buffalo pursuing one of the 1st Chutai Hayabusas. At the same time W/O Agawa claimed two more in quick succession. W/O Kaoki then engaged one enemy fighter in frontal attack. Bullets from both sides hit their marks and both pilots were forced to turn for their base.
W/O Uchida tried to gain favorable position for attack, but in the mass of circling planes this was hard to obtain. After several attempts his engine started to run hard so he turned for a flight back without any success to claim.
Of the 3rd Chutai, only W/O Kikuchi manged to keep with the main formation while flying through several clouds on way to target. Now, without wingmen he hurled himself into combat on vertical plane. Suddenly a Buffalo appeared in his crosshairs, but he was not quick enough to shoot until it disappeared. Returning to altitude he looked for a vulnerable enemy plane below. After a while he had seen a Hayabusa being chased by Buffalo chased by another Hayabusa and yet another Buffalo. Seeing the last enemy preoccupied with covering his leader, W/O Kikuchi made a roll to the left and softly slided to a position behind the last Buffalo. Short burst forced the Buffalo to turn rapidly, but Kikuchis Hayabusa with better turn ratio managed to keep inside the enemy turn. Allied pilot, thinking that the Japanese plane was not able to follow, leveled the flight for a moment before attempt to turn in opposite direction. Hits from 12.7mm Ho-103 machine guns coupled with 7.7mm bullets from Type 97 machine gun appeared on the Buffalo sending it to the ground in flames. W/O Kikuchi encouraged by his first claim continued to engage enemy, but without success. Instead his own plane was damaged and he was forced to return prematurely.
4th Shotai entered combat with daring attack on section of Buffalos climbing to get above the furball. Led by 2nd Lieutenant Oba they immediately claimed one of the enemy planes exploding as well as three more planes of the same section damaged as a result of accurate shooting by Obas wingmens - W/O Ishimori and Koga. However 2nd Lieutenant Oba plane became damaged by parts of the exploded planes and he was forced to turn Back. Section, now led by W/O Koga, claimbed up again over the wildly maneuvring planes and looked for another victims. Diving down again W/O Koga attacked another Bufalo, but missed. On the other side W/O Ishimoris plane become damaged by a burst fired from Buffalo from 453rd Squadron RAAF. Protecting the plane of his wingmen, W/O Koga was attacked himself by another section of Buffalos. Trying to lure enemies from damaged plane of his wingmen he attacked both enemy planes face-to-face loosing his wingmen from sight. However this time shooting of the allied pilots hit their target and W/O Koga had to fight for his own survival with damaged plane. W/O Koga managed to return to base with severly damaged planes, but unhurt. W/O Ishimori was intercepted by another allied plane and shot down on way home. Wounded, he bailed out and was picked up by Japanese patrol boat the following day.
Picture: Hayabusa of Lt.Col Anma K. in January 1942
Date: 27th December 1941 Tokyo time
Leading 2nd Chutai was 1st Shotai with Lt.Col Anma and his wingmens 2nd Lt. Hashimoto and W/O Mitsumasa. In the initial phase of the battle Lt.Col Anma claimed a Buffalo "shot down in flames". As the combat spread into several groups of planes chasing each other across the sky, he claimed further two planes until he had run out of ammo. 2nd Lt. Hashimoto claimed two enemy fighters shot down, but his own plane was damaged and he was forced to abandon combat trailing smoke. 2nd Lt. Mitsumasa tried to stay with his Shotaichio which due to wild maneuvers performed by Lt.Col Anma wasn't an easy job. Protecting his leader he had not find himself in position to shoot.
2nd Shotai was led by W/O Agawa. This section managed to surprise several of the enemies, who forgot to watch for their 6s in combat with other elements of the 64th Sentai. At first W/O Kaoki claimed a Buffalo pursuing one of the 1st Chutai Hayabusas. At the same time W/O Agawa claimed two more in quick succession. W/O Kaoki then engaged one enemy fighter in frontal attack. Bullets from both sides hit their marks and both pilots were forced to turn for their base.
W/O Uchida tried to gain favorable position for attack, but in the mass of circling planes this was hard to obtain. After several attempts his engine started to run hard so he turned for a flight back without any success to claim.
Of the 3rd Chutai, only W/O Kikuchi manged to keep with the main formation while flying through several clouds on way to target. Now, without wingmen he hurled himself into combat on vertical plane. Suddenly a Buffalo appeared in his crosshairs, but he was not quick enough to shoot until it disappeared. Returning to altitude he looked for a vulnerable enemy plane below. After a while he had seen a Hayabusa being chased by Buffalo chased by another Hayabusa and yet another Buffalo. Seeing the last enemy preoccupied with covering his leader, W/O Kikuchi made a roll to the left and softly slided to a position behind the last Buffalo. Short burst forced the Buffalo to turn rapidly, but Kikuchis Hayabusa with better turn ratio managed to keep inside the enemy turn. Allied pilot, thinking that the Japanese plane was not able to follow, leveled the flight for a moment before attempt to turn in opposite direction. Hits from 12.7mm Ho-103 machine guns coupled with 7.7mm bullets from Type 97 machine gun appeared on the Buffalo sending it to the ground in flames. W/O Kikuchi encouraged by his first claim continued to engage enemy, but without success. Instead his own plane was damaged and he was forced to return prematurely.
4th Shotai entered combat with daring attack on section of Buffalos climbing to get above the furball. Led by 2nd Lieutenant Oba they immediately claimed one of the enemy planes exploding as well as three more planes of the same section damaged as a result of accurate shooting by Obas wingmens - W/O Ishimori and Koga. However 2nd Lieutenant Oba plane became damaged by parts of the exploded planes and he was forced to turn Back. Section, now led by W/O Koga, claimbed up again over the wildly maneuvring planes and looked for another victims. Diving down again W/O Koga attacked another Bufalo, but missed. On the other side W/O Ishimoris plane become damaged by a burst fired from Buffalo from 453rd Squadron RAAF. Protecting the plane of his wingmen, W/O Koga was attacked himself by another section of Buffalos. Trying to lure enemies from damaged plane of his wingmen he attacked both enemy planes face-to-face loosing his wingmen from sight. However this time shooting of the allied pilots hit their target and W/O Koga had to fight for his own survival with damaged plane. W/O Koga managed to return to base with severly damaged planes, but unhurt. W/O Ishimori was intercepted by another allied plane and shot down on way home. Wounded, he bailed out and was picked up by Japanese patrol boat the following day.
Picture: Hayabusa of Lt.Col Anma K. in January 1942
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RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.20 (Part 4)
Date: 27th December 1941 Tokyo time
Close behind the 64th Sentai was 59th Sentai, also equipped by Hayabusas. First to arrive was a single Shotai of 3rd Chutai - it also became separated by clouds, but through flying stright through the clouds they happened to arrive first to the scene of battle. This section engaged in general combat and claimed 2 Buffalos damaged without losses
Next to arrive was the separated 3rd Shotai of 2nd Chutai from the 64th Sentai. Led by 2nd Lieutenant Kizuka they claimed one Buffalo certainly shot down and three more damaged without loss of their own.
Lastly, the main part of the 59th Sentai arrived, picking up groups of enemy planes that were still climbing to intercept, or disengaged from the main battle.
In total 59th Sentai claimed 17 enemy planes shot down or damaged in combat for only three damaged planes of their own that day. In fact, allied records to be examined after the war wouldn't confirmed any losses, but many Buffalos landed with various degrees of damage and some had to be written-off.
64th Sentai, taking the brunt of combat, facing a total of 51 Buffalos with 29 Hayabusas, claimed a total of 33 planes destroyed or damaged (of these 5 were certainly shot down) for the loss of 3 planes shot down and 11 more damaged (one of these was written off due to damage suffered). In terms of pilots, the 64th Sentai lost 2nd Lt. Inazuka (KIA) and two pilots were wounded (W/O Juni, W/O Ishimori).
Picture: Many of the allied planes damaged in combat had to be written off, like this Buffalo - completely burned out after landing:
Date: 27th December 1941 Tokyo time
Close behind the 64th Sentai was 59th Sentai, also equipped by Hayabusas. First to arrive was a single Shotai of 3rd Chutai - it also became separated by clouds, but through flying stright through the clouds they happened to arrive first to the scene of battle. This section engaged in general combat and claimed 2 Buffalos damaged without losses
Next to arrive was the separated 3rd Shotai of 2nd Chutai from the 64th Sentai. Led by 2nd Lieutenant Kizuka they claimed one Buffalo certainly shot down and three more damaged without loss of their own.
Lastly, the main part of the 59th Sentai arrived, picking up groups of enemy planes that were still climbing to intercept, or disengaged from the main battle.
In total 59th Sentai claimed 17 enemy planes shot down or damaged in combat for only three damaged planes of their own that day. In fact, allied records to be examined after the war wouldn't confirmed any losses, but many Buffalos landed with various degrees of damage and some had to be written-off.
64th Sentai, taking the brunt of combat, facing a total of 51 Buffalos with 29 Hayabusas, claimed a total of 33 planes destroyed or damaged (of these 5 were certainly shot down) for the loss of 3 planes shot down and 11 more damaged (one of these was written off due to damage suffered). In terms of pilots, the 64th Sentai lost 2nd Lt. Inazuka (KIA) and two pilots were wounded (W/O Juni, W/O Ishimori).
Picture: Many of the allied planes damaged in combat had to be written off, like this Buffalo - completely burned out after landing:
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RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.21
Date: 28th December 1941 Tokyo time
Well deserved rest was ordered for the unit. After yesterday action many planes arrived with various degrees of damage - from bullet holes to barely running engines. While pilots were still excited and talked about maneuvres performed yesterday, usually using their hands to show position of their and enemy planes, mechanics and armorers gathered around damaged planes and took to work with their tools. At the same time a small army of clerks was going through the reports, summarizing, confirming, verifying and cross-checking number of paper documents required by the army bureaucracy. Not only expedition of ammunition and fuel was calculated, but such things as holed flyers jacket had to be requested as well as rations, razors, sun-glasses, mosquito-nets, various medicaments and other things.
Meanwhile the 59th Sentai, a sister unit also equipped with Hayabusas and stationed at Kuantan took over the mission of neutralizing Singapore air defenses. Taking off with the sun barely over the horizon, 27 of their Hayabusas were to sweep what was left of the enemy fighter force in Malaya. After several hours they come back - in a perfect formation, with not one plane missing. It was a little surprising, but the RAF decided not to intercept the formation and keep to the ground. After circling around Singapore island the 59th Sentai took course to home base, without seeing a single enemy plane in the air.
Our mechanics did a great job today, of the 10 planes damaged yesterday, they were able to repair 8. So the 64th was again in strength - 21 planes were ready for combat and 2 more still in repairs.
Date: 28th December 1941 Tokyo time
Well deserved rest was ordered for the unit. After yesterday action many planes arrived with various degrees of damage - from bullet holes to barely running engines. While pilots were still excited and talked about maneuvres performed yesterday, usually using their hands to show position of their and enemy planes, mechanics and armorers gathered around damaged planes and took to work with their tools. At the same time a small army of clerks was going through the reports, summarizing, confirming, verifying and cross-checking number of paper documents required by the army bureaucracy. Not only expedition of ammunition and fuel was calculated, but such things as holed flyers jacket had to be requested as well as rations, razors, sun-glasses, mosquito-nets, various medicaments and other things.
Meanwhile the 59th Sentai, a sister unit also equipped with Hayabusas and stationed at Kuantan took over the mission of neutralizing Singapore air defenses. Taking off with the sun barely over the horizon, 27 of their Hayabusas were to sweep what was left of the enemy fighter force in Malaya. After several hours they come back - in a perfect formation, with not one plane missing. It was a little surprising, but the RAF decided not to intercept the formation and keep to the ground. After circling around Singapore island the 59th Sentai took course to home base, without seeing a single enemy plane in the air.
Our mechanics did a great job today, of the 10 planes damaged yesterday, they were able to repair 8. So the 64th was again in strength - 21 planes were ready for combat and 2 more still in repairs.
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.22
Date: 29th December 1941 Tokyo time
On this day, we had been ordered to action again. While 59th Sentai was to be sent ahead to take on any enemy in the air, 64th was to escort 2 bomber Sentais flying from Kota Bharu. Plan was to draw enemy fighters to fight with the 59th Sentai and bomb them on ground once landed for rearming and refueling.
59th Sentai went into the air with 28 planes and half distance to target, while pilots of the 64th were running their machines around runway in preparation for take-off. But weather intervened again. Bombers were not able to go through the cloudy barrier in the middle of Malayan peninsula and were forced to return to base. Mission was cancelled. 59th Sentai didn't received the order due to some atmospheric disturbance and continued to their target in hope of engaging the enemy in force. But it was in vain - no enemy plane showed up to confront the 59th. So after another circle around Singapore island they turned back to their home base and after hour-long flight landed again at Kuantan safely.
Spending the whole day around the airfield men of the 64th Sentai had found time to create nengajō - a new years postcards. With courier plane leaving tomorrow morning for Japan it was the last chance to let know their families they are alive and well. Each of the men spend time to create their original postcard - brushes, paper and other writing necessaries were the most bartered items of the day.
While a lot of the military mail had to be on printed formulars, this special delivery was ordered by Lt.Gen Sugawara - commanding officer of the 3rd Hikō Shidan as a gift for the performance of the unit two days ago over Singapore. With the courier plane arriving that evening, news of another gift spread quickly around the airfield. This time it was the osechi-ryōri - a traditional dish served on new years celebration. Men gathered around the plane formed a chain and helped to unload the precious supplies. Last one to leave the plane were two bags of mail - and you can imagine the new heights the morale in the units had risen to ...
Date: 29th December 1941 Tokyo time
On this day, we had been ordered to action again. While 59th Sentai was to be sent ahead to take on any enemy in the air, 64th was to escort 2 bomber Sentais flying from Kota Bharu. Plan was to draw enemy fighters to fight with the 59th Sentai and bomb them on ground once landed for rearming and refueling.
59th Sentai went into the air with 28 planes and half distance to target, while pilots of the 64th were running their machines around runway in preparation for take-off. But weather intervened again. Bombers were not able to go through the cloudy barrier in the middle of Malayan peninsula and were forced to return to base. Mission was cancelled. 59th Sentai didn't received the order due to some atmospheric disturbance and continued to their target in hope of engaging the enemy in force. But it was in vain - no enemy plane showed up to confront the 59th. So after another circle around Singapore island they turned back to their home base and after hour-long flight landed again at Kuantan safely.
Spending the whole day around the airfield men of the 64th Sentai had found time to create nengajō - a new years postcards. With courier plane leaving tomorrow morning for Japan it was the last chance to let know their families they are alive and well. Each of the men spend time to create their original postcard - brushes, paper and other writing necessaries were the most bartered items of the day.
While a lot of the military mail had to be on printed formulars, this special delivery was ordered by Lt.Gen Sugawara - commanding officer of the 3rd Hikō Shidan as a gift for the performance of the unit two days ago over Singapore. With the courier plane arriving that evening, news of another gift spread quickly around the airfield. This time it was the osechi-ryōri - a traditional dish served on new years celebration. Men gathered around the plane formed a chain and helped to unload the precious supplies. Last one to leave the plane were two bags of mail - and you can imagine the new heights the morale in the units had risen to ...
RE: Kato Hayabusa Sentotai - War diary of 64th Sentai (2v2 PBEM)
64th Sentai war diary entry No.23
Date: 30th December 1941 Tokyo time
Order for the day was to repeat the mission, but this time in maximum force. To further reinforce the effort a 3rd Chutai of the 64th Sentai finally joined the unit at Kuantan airfield. 3rd Chutai arrived yesterday evening with 16 shiny new Hayabusas equipped with 2 Ho-103 machine cannons and after small rest and making themselves comfortable (as forward, dusty and crowded air base would allow) they were ready to fight the enemy. 4 bomber Sentais were to attack airfields on Singapore island, 59th Sentai covered by 3rd Chutai of the 64th from above was to sweep the area ahead of bombers, while the rest of the 64th was to provide close escort.
Soon after the 3rd Chutai and 59th Sentai took to the skies formations of bombers heading south passed overhead. 64th Sentai took off a litte later and started to climb toward bombers - and then almost everything went wrong with the coordination.
3rd Chutai of the 64th under the command of 1st Lt. Ishikawa lost sight of the 59th Sentai they were to protect from above as well as a pair of planes from the 4th Shotai. Continuing to Singapore independently, remaining 10 Hayabusas arrived first and started to patrol the area.
Next to arrive was 57 Type 97 Heavy Bombers from three bomber sentais - incidentally covering their arrival was 59th Sentai with 29 of theirs Hayabusas. Each of the bomber sentais had one of the runways as target, so uppon arriving, they had to separate to made their individual bombing runs. Air space being spacious as it is was suddenly full of formations and individual planes on different courses and different altitudes. Bombs went down with screams and soon mushrooms of clouds covered three of the four Singapore airfields.
In the ensuing chaos 3rd chutai rather cleared the area not to risk any "friendly favor". After them, formations of bombers cleared the area in eastern direction, soon followed by 59th Sentai. Sky over Singapore was empty for only few minutes - last formation of bombers arrived to unload their ordnance over the Tengah airfield. Had the RAF choose to appear in the air, they would have most probably claimed several planes of this formation. But RAF didn't showed up. Last one to arrive was the 64th Sentai with 22 of their Hayabusas with two additional machines of 3rd Chutai picked up along the route. Instead of providing bombers with the fighter cover, the main formation of the 64th arrived late and served only as a rearguard to returning bombers.
Date: 30th December 1941 Tokyo time
Order for the day was to repeat the mission, but this time in maximum force. To further reinforce the effort a 3rd Chutai of the 64th Sentai finally joined the unit at Kuantan airfield. 3rd Chutai arrived yesterday evening with 16 shiny new Hayabusas equipped with 2 Ho-103 machine cannons and after small rest and making themselves comfortable (as forward, dusty and crowded air base would allow) they were ready to fight the enemy. 4 bomber Sentais were to attack airfields on Singapore island, 59th Sentai covered by 3rd Chutai of the 64th from above was to sweep the area ahead of bombers, while the rest of the 64th was to provide close escort.
Soon after the 3rd Chutai and 59th Sentai took to the skies formations of bombers heading south passed overhead. 64th Sentai took off a litte later and started to climb toward bombers - and then almost everything went wrong with the coordination.
3rd Chutai of the 64th under the command of 1st Lt. Ishikawa lost sight of the 59th Sentai they were to protect from above as well as a pair of planes from the 4th Shotai. Continuing to Singapore independently, remaining 10 Hayabusas arrived first and started to patrol the area.
Next to arrive was 57 Type 97 Heavy Bombers from three bomber sentais - incidentally covering their arrival was 59th Sentai with 29 of theirs Hayabusas. Each of the bomber sentais had one of the runways as target, so uppon arriving, they had to separate to made their individual bombing runs. Air space being spacious as it is was suddenly full of formations and individual planes on different courses and different altitudes. Bombs went down with screams and soon mushrooms of clouds covered three of the four Singapore airfields.
In the ensuing chaos 3rd chutai rather cleared the area not to risk any "friendly favor". After them, formations of bombers cleared the area in eastern direction, soon followed by 59th Sentai. Sky over Singapore was empty for only few minutes - last formation of bombers arrived to unload their ordnance over the Tengah airfield. Had the RAF choose to appear in the air, they would have most probably claimed several planes of this formation. But RAF didn't showed up. Last one to arrive was the 64th Sentai with 22 of their Hayabusas with two additional machines of 3rd Chutai picked up along the route. Instead of providing bombers with the fighter cover, the main formation of the 64th arrived late and served only as a rearguard to returning bombers.