BACK IN BUSINESS - PzB goes East again(st) Andy Mac

[PzB74]

Thx Erik; PsB must have gotten too little attention from his mother!

Wouldn't be so quick to judge Andy's dispositions; you should read his side of the story.
There's no way he knew what to expect; as I see it the lack of recon and support from Northern Oz were the biggest weaknesses.
Pretty sure he wanted a coupe de maine before we got to strong in this region.

Even a mediocre battle of attrition will favor the Allies; with all the reinforcements he is receiving he may be winning despite of loosing
some battles. We still don't have a choice as I see it - unless we react the perimeter will be swept back faster than we wish.
- The only reason I welcome a battle in last half of 43 is that it's much preferable to a battle in mid 44...

Will try to live up to the expectations guys, but don't give me to much rope [:'(]

Our focus now is to distribute air support, supplies and engineers as required and then set up the strongest LBA force possible
Planning to let 250 Helens support the shuttle bombardments of Waingapo.

A large force of subs also just arrived and I can now cover most approaches to the region.
I'm really pleased with the situation right now; the perfect setting for kicking ar$se and chewing bubble gum


AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR Sep 25, 43

Surface Combat

A series of surface battles between light forces.
We loose 2 destroyers, 2 more are damaged, a sub and our larget CM sinks together with an empty barge convoy.
In return we sink 2 enemy destroyers and heavily damage another.

The Flectchers are tough customers!

Night Time Surface Combat, near Roti at 66,115, Range 1,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
DD Shinonome
DD Shirakumo, Shell hits 1, on fire
DD Yugiri, Shell hits 3, on fire
DD Uruyuke

Allied Ships
DD Saufley, Shell hits 4
DD Waller, Shell hits 6, Torpedo hits 1, and is sunk
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Time Surface Combat, near Memboro at 64,112, Range 4,000 Yards

Japanese aircraft
no flights

Japanese aircraft losses
No Japanese losses

Japanese Ships
CM Tsugaru, Shell hits 1, Torpedo hits 3, and is sunk

Allied Ships
DD Jenkins
DD LaVallette, Shell hits 1
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Time Surface Combat, near Memboro at 63,112, Range 1,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
DD Oboro
DD Tatsuyuke, Shell hits 2
DD Tadeyame

Allied Ships
DD Jenkins
DD LaVallette
Day Time Surface Combat, near Endeh at 65,113, Range 4,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
LB-202, Shell hits 2, and is sunk
LB-203, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
LB-204, Shell hits 2, and is sunk
LB-205, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
LB-206, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
LB-207, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
LB-208, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
LB-209, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
LB-210, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
LB-211, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
LB-212, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
LB-213, Shell hits 3, and is sunk

Allied Ships
DD Nicholas
DD O'Bannon
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Time Surface Combat, near Sawoe-eilanden at 64,116, Range 8,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
DD Shinonome, Shell hits 1, on fire
DD Shirakumo
DD Yugiri
DD Uruyuke

Allied Ships
DD Saufley, Shell hits 5, heavy fires
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Day Time Surface Combat, near Sawoe-eilanden at 64,115, Range 11,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
DD Shinonome, Shell hits 6, heavy fires, heavy damage
DD Shirakumo, Shell hits 2, on fire
DD Yugiri, Shell hits 4, heavy fires, heavy damage
DD Uruyuke

Allied Ships
DD Nicholas, Shell hits 1
DD O'Bannon
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bombardments

Not taking any chances; the big boys hit Lombled!

Night Naval bombardment of Lomblen at 68,113

Japanese Ships
BB Haruna
BB Kongo
CA Ashigara
CA Takao
CL Ninaru
CL Yubari
DD Tagonami
DD Mikazuki
DD Uzuki
DD Akebono
DD Ayanami
DD Shirayuki

Allied Ships
PT-236, Shell hits 1, heavy damage

Allied ground losses:
161 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 8 destroyed, 21 disabled

Port hits 25
Port supply hits 11

E8N2 Dave acting as spotter for BB Haruna
BB Haruna firing at Lomblen
BB Kongo firing at Lomblen
F1M2 Pete acting as spotter for CA Ashigara
CA Ashigara firing at Americal Infantry Division
CA Takao firing at Americal Infantry Division
CL Ninaru firing at Americal Infantry Division
CL Yubari firing at Americal Infantry Division
DD Tagonami firing at Lomblen
DD Mikazuki firing at Lomblen
DD Uzuki firing at Lomblen
DD Akebono firing at Lomblen
DD Ayanami firing at 102nd Combat Engineer Regiment
DD Shirayuki firing at Lomblen
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sub Attacks

A sub is lost but another one sinks a destroyer in return.

Submarine attack near Derby at 62,123

Japanese Ships
SS I-38, hits 22, and is sunk

Allied Ships
CL Richmond
DD Meade
DD Aaron Ward
DD Endicott
DD Doyle
DD Carmick
DD Baldwin

SS I-38 is sighted by escort
DD Endicott fails to find sub and abandons search
DD Doyle attacking submerged sub ....
SS I-38 forced to surface!
DD Doyle firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Carmick firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Baldwin firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Endicott firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Doyle firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Carmick firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Baldwin firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Endicott firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Carmick firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Baldwin firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Endicott firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Doyle firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Carmick firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Baldwin firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Endicott firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Doyle firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Carmick firing on surfaced sub ....
DD Baldwin firing on surfaced sub ....
Sub slips beneath the waves
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Port Hedland at 59,126

Japanese Ships
SS I-29

Allied Ships
DD Buchanan, Torpedo hits 1, on fire, heavy damage
CL Richmond
DD Meade
DD Aaron Ward
DD Endicott
DD Doyle
DD Carmick
DD Baldwin
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Air Combat

Dispersed battles as enemy fighters perform sweep and smaller formations of ground attack and 4Es
attack our bases with limited effect. Our sweeps continue to dig into the enemy CAP.

In the South Pacific a convoy is sighted heading for Luganville; a heavy T-bolt escort shoot down our long
range escorts and 2 Nells. The attack plane can't hit the agile destroyers they so unwisely chose as targets.

I also ordered most of our bombers to hit Lomblen and paras to assist the SNLF unit in its assault

Morning Air attack on Waingapoe , at 63,113
Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid detected at 19 NM, estimated altitude 31,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 31

Allied aircraft
Hurricane XIIb x 2
P-38F Lightning x 8
P-38H Lightning x 8
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 36
F4U-1 Corsair x 8

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 7 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-38F Lightning: 1 destroyed
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 3 destroyed
F4U-1 Corsair: 2 destroyed
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 1st Australian Para Battalion, at 68,113 (Lomblen)
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 37 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-49-IIa Helen x 27

No Japanese losses

Allied ground losses:
49 casualties reported
Squads: 4 destroyed, 3 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
27 x Ki-49-IIa Helen bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 4 x 250 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 1st Australian Para Battalion, at 68,113 (Lomblen)
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 38 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 41
Ki-43-IIa Oscar x 24

Japanese aircraft losses
G4M1 Betty: 10 damaged

Allied ground losses:
6 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 1 (1 destroyed, 0 disabled)

Aircraft Attacking:
41 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 5000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Americal Infantry Division, at 68,113 (Lomblen)
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 39 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-43-IIb Oscar x 18
Ki-49-IIa Helen x 19

No Japanese losses

Allied ground losses:
13 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
19 x Ki-49-IIa Helen bombing from 1000 feet *
Ground Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

Also attacking 1st Australian Para Bn /2 ...
Also attacking Americal Infantry Div /1 ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Lomblen , at 68,113
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 10 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-43-IIb Oscar x 18
Ki-49-IIa Helen x 31

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-49-IIa Helen: 6 damaged

Allied Ships
PT-237, Bomb hits 1, and is sunk
PT-235, Bomb hits 1, and is sunk
PT-239, Bomb hits 1, and is sunk

Allied ground losses:
9 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 1 disabled

Port hits 8
Port supply hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
31 x Ki-49-IIa Helen bombing from 5000 feet
Port Attack: 4 x 250 kg GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on II./4th Infantry Battalion, at 63,127
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 40 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 17 minutes

Allied aircraft
F6F-3 Hellcat x 33
SB2C-1C Helldiver x 26
TBF-1 Avenger x 5

Allied aircraft losses
SB2C-1C Helldiver: 2 damaged

Japanese ground losses:
54 casualties reported
Squads: 5 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 2 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 2 (2 destroyed, 0 disabled)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 21st JAAF AF Bn , at 63,127
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 32 NM, estimated altitude 22,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Allied aircraft
F6F-3 Hellcat x 23
SB2C-1C Helldiver x 39
TBF-1 Avenger x 41

Allied aircraft losses
SB2C-1C Helldiver: 1 damaged

Japanese ground losses:
170 casualties reported
Squads: 15 destroyed, 4 disabled
Non Combat: 11 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 15 (9 destroyed, 6 disabled)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Memboro , at 63,112
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 120 NM, estimated altitude 27,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 45 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 22
N1K1 Rex x 7
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 3
Ki-44-IIb Tojo x 21

Allied aircraft
Hurricane XIIb x 1
P-38F Lightning x 3
P-38H Lightning x 3
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 30
F4U-1 Corsair x 5

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

Allied aircraft losses
Hurricane XIIb: 1 destroyed
F4U-1 Corsair: 1 destroyed
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Memboro , at 63,112
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 120 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 41 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 21
N1K1 Rex x 6
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 3
Ki-44-IIb Tojo x 18

Allied aircraft
B-24D Liberator x 14
B-24D1 Liberator x 12


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

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D Liberator: 3 damaged
B-24D1 Liberator: 5 damaged

Runway hits 4
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Memboro , at 63,112
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 27 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 9
N1K1 Rex x 6
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 1
Ki-44-IIb Tojo x 7

Allied aircraft
B-24D1 Liberator x 2

Japanese aircraft losses
N1K1 Rex: 1 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
B-24D1 Liberator: 2 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x B-24D1 Liberator bombing from 12000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 5 x 500 lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Memboro , at 63,112
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 80 NM, estimated altitude 9,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 23 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 7
N1K1 Rex x 2
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 1
Ki-44-IIb Tojo x 4

Allied aircraft
B-25C Mitchell x 8

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
B-25C Mitchell: 1 destroyed, 4 damaged

Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x B-25C Mitchell bombing from 7000 feet
Airfield Attack: 6 x 500 lb GP Bombs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Memboro , at 63,112
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 40 NM, estimated altitude 27,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 3
N1K1 Rex x 1
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 1
Ki-44-IIb Tojo x 2

Allied aircraft
P-38F Lightning x 4
P-38H Lightning x 4

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

Allied aircraft losses
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x P-38H Lightning sweeping at 25000 feet
3 x P-38F Lightning sweeping at 25000 feet
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Waingapoe , at 63,113
Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 17 NM, estimated altitude 33,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 22

Allied aircraft
Hurricane XIIb x 2
P-38F Lightning x 6
P-38H Lightning x 4
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 22
F4U-1 Corsair x 3

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M5 Zero: 4 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-38F Lightning: 1 destroyed
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 2 destroyed
F4U-1 Corsair: 1 destroyed
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Memboro , at 63,112
Morning Air attack on Waingapoe , at 63,113
Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 34 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-61-Ib Tony x 16

Allied aircraft
Hurricane XIIb x 2
P-38F Lightning x 3
P-38H Lightning x 2
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 14
F4U-1 Corsair x 1

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-61-Ib Tony: 2 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-38H Lightning: 1 destroyed
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Lakatoro at 119,152
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid detected at 27 NM, estimated altitude 20,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-46-IIIb Dinah x 5

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 14

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-46-IIIb Dinah: 2 destroyed
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Lakatoro at 119,152
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid detected at 120 NM, estimated altitude 18,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 45 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G3M3 Nell x 8

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 12

Japanese aircraft losses
G3M3 Nell: 2 destroyed, 1 damaged

Allied Ships
DD Thanet
DD Gwin

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x G3M3 Nell launching torpedoes at 200 feet
Naval Attack: 1 x 18in Type 91 Torpedo
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Americal Infantry Division, at 68,113 (Lomblen)
Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid spotted at 45 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 8
B6N1 Jill x 22
Ki-43-IIb Oscar x 18

No Japanese losses

Allied ground losses:
3 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground Combat

We wipie out Lomblen; this feels great - really had to get rid of this asap.
Now we can turn our full attention to Waingapo.

The Tanaka Detachment was expelled from Waingapo with losses and an enemy armored bde pursued it.
The Bde alone can't threaten our 250 AV garrison with 4 forts alone; if we can land enough reinforcements
within 3-4 days we have a chance of defeating this strong unit separately.

Ground combat at Lomblen (68,113)
Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 1233 troops, 15 guns, 2 vehicles, Assault Value = 67
Defending force 796 troops, 10 guns, 3 vehicles, Assault Value = 35

Japanese adjusted assault: 17
Allied adjusted defense: 1

Japanese assault odds: 17 to 1 (fort level 0)
Japanese forces CAPTURE Lomblen !!!

Allied aircraft
no flights

Allied aircraft losses
No Allied losses

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), disruption(-), preparation(-), fatigue(-)
experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
59 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
893 casualties reported
Squads: 22 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 15 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 83 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 14 (14 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Vehicles lost 4 (4 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units destroyed 5

Assaulting units:
Maizuru 1st SNLF
4th Raiding Rgt /5

Defending units:
Americal Infantry Div /1
102nd Combat Engr Rgt /1
810th EAB /1
872/873rd EAB /1
3rd USN Naval Const Rgt /1
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Waingapoe (63,113)
Allied Deliberate attack

Attacking force 16309 troops, 366 guns, 81 vehicles, Assault Value = 1152
Defending force 2643 troops, 32 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 85

Allied adjusted assault: 1231

Japanese adjusted defense: 85
Allied assault odds: 14 to 1

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), leaders(+), preparation(-)
Attacker:

Japanese ground losses:
1400 casualties reported
Squads: 19 destroyed, 31 disabled
Non Combat: 22 destroyed, 46 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 5 (5 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units retreated 1

Allied ground losses:
339 casualties reported
Squads: 3 destroyed, 40 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 13 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Units pursuing 1

Defeated Japanese Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
73rd Motorised Brigade
7th Australian Division
33rd Infantry Division
7th Infantry Division
3rd USN Naval Construction Regiment
XIV US Corps
36th Aviation Base Force
872/873rd Engineer Aviation Battalion
9 Group RAAF /1

Defending units:
Kimura Det
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the Balance

As you can see there are _not_ alot of engineers at Waingapoe.
Let them try to clean up the mess as 7 battleships and 5 heavy cruisers start shuttle bombardment runs
from Soerabaja [8D]

[PzB74]

This may be of some interest; in July last year I posted this regarding the building of mutually supporting defensive grid in the DEI:

Jap engineers need a lot of time to build bases, so construction work on the Prosperity Line has started!
To begin with 1 Eng or construction unit is put in place, then I add a naval garrion and base force and eventually and Air HQ.
In this case a range 5 Air HQ at Endeh will be perfecto. When it is time for mining I find an ACM, disband it in port and let the minelayers drop their eggs.
- All in all an expensive and time consuming process.

[Cribtop]

How far along with this plan have you gotten since Oct '42? What size and aviation support levels are at each of the bases in this hub? How many bases are "torpedo enabled?"

[PzB74]

I would say 70% completed and manned:
Makassar is a size 7 (and building AF) - goal is to reach size 9. A large garrison and reserve troops present plus a large Air Fleet with a range of 5 to provide "torpedoes" to surrounding bases.
Kendari is size 6 - well garrisoned but only 50 air support. Working to expand this.
The island 2 hexes south of Makassar is now size 6 and 200 air support. Just brought in a larger garrison.
Koepang holds approx 1.5 divisions, 5 forts and air support (moving out some as I expect this place to be closed)
The other bases on Timor including Roti have not been expanded; only built strong forts and garrisons of regimental size.

The Flores - Soemba islands have 5 bases as seen on the picture.
All bases have plenty supplies, 4-5 forts and garrisons of regimental size. Endeh was the main base with a major Air Fleet with a range of 5 to provide "torpedoes" to all bases not supported from Makassar.
I had still not achieved the level of air support I wanted in this area so I have air lifted and distributed available support to make all bases operational.

Outside of the picture the entire region between Ambon and New Guinea has been built up, garrisoned and fortified with decent air fleet support.
Java is also heavily fortified; it held the equivalent of 4-5 divisions of troops including 2 full sized armored divisions. Soerabaja is a size 9 af; just this turn I managed to bring in 250 AS.
With 250k units of fuel and large forts this is the left shoulder of the SRA regional defensive zone - the right shoulder is Ambon / Northern NG.

What also greatly aided my was the buildup of fuel and supply reserves; all islands had at least 20k supplies and Makassar had been made into a fuel depot with 80k supplies.

It was quite fortunate that Andy stuck his spearhead straight into the heart of our prepared defenses; there are several layers of islands and Waingapoe is a "first line" defensive base - it's quite impossible for Allied ships to move past the tangled and often mined straits that lead to the inner zone.

What remained of work was to also fortify and garrison the islands up to Java; 2 of the largest islands have not been fortified with one a size 3 AF and air support.
These bases are well protected by the size 9 AF complex in Soerabaja so I didn't expect anyone to make this spot their first priority.

So advice is; start building your defenses when the going is good in 42 [:)]

[inqistor]

ORIGINAL: PzB
Thx Erik; PsB must have gotten too little attention from his mother!

That "JFB worst nightmare" remind me cite from something. Either your last WITP game with Andy, or this AAR, where Allies landed at Timor in late 1942.

Even a mediocre battle of attrition will favor the Allies; with all the reinforcements he is receiving he may be winning despite of loosing
some battles.

Actually, with some effort Japan still can win short-term attrition war. Allies increase fighter production in 3/44 to 840+, actually only at 10/44 Allied production really kick in. Japan should be able to outproduce them, until then.

Planning to let 250 Helens support the shuttle bombardments of Waingapo.

3 days ago, 55 bombers scored 14 hits on ships at Waingapoe. Against airfield they should double, or triple number of hits
Send 100 bombers, and you will close it in one go. Have you got any Light Bombers unit left? It could be staged in nearby lvl2 airfield, and bombard Waingapoe constantly.

I'm really pleased with the situation right now; the perfect setting for kicking ar$se and chewing bubble gum

DUUUKEEE! So, when it come out? In May?

Dispersed battles as enemy fighters perform sweep and smaller formations of ground attack and 4Es
attack our bases with limited effect. Our sweeps continue to dig into the enemy CAP.

How many land radar sets have you got in the area? Raids seems not detected earlier.

We wipie out Lomblen; this feels great - really had to get rid of this asap.
Now we can turn our full attention to Waingapo.

Do not forget to mine approaches. Also some artillery would be useful at Waingapoe, to win bombardment engagements.

As you can see there are _not_ alot of engineers at Waingapoe.
Let them try to clean up the mess as 7 battleships and 5 heavy cruisers start shuttle bombardment runs
from Soerabaja [8D]

At Lomblen you disabled 29 engineers in one go. In two weeks, there should be no active engineers at Waingapoe.
Also, where are land based anti-ship planes? You should be able to field 200 easily. Another large unit arrives at 5th October.

ORIGINAL: d0mbo

What exactly is the allied engineer replacement rate?

I made a calculations about Allied shortages some time ago, in this topic. IIRC STANDARD engineers are in 600 per month, but COMBAT only 28, so eliminating them, will really hurt Allies long-term.

[PzB74]

Not sure - haven't checked and I'm afraid AE takes up so much time that Duke have to shoot it out on his own this time! [;)]

Hm, bombarding a rough jungle hex can be demanding as this turn show; need good weather to hit anything.
Let's make a few tests before making any conclusions.

Lots of attrition all over the line, could really need the Frank now!
Next turn a Zero unit that can be upgraded to the George arrives, that's something...

Not sure, have to look over the base forces to count radar sets.
Unfortunately our large minelayer were just sunk! Mine supplies are dwindling small I'm afraid.
- Got some local coasters that can be used though.

This is the combat report but I have not finished the turn yet - will be away until tomorrow night so a short break.

In Burma I noticed a major Allied buildup of fighters at Akyab; I think Andy wanted to sweep Rangoon.
So instead of being sitting ducks I ordered an all out sweep.

Results were mixed; the first 3 units that went in were outnumbered and outfought by the CAP.
When a huge combined sweep (240 fighters) went in things went better. Results were still 1-2. Think I will let Andy try the next sweep
and see how our 500 fighters at Rangoon handle themselves.

Our LBA also sank 2 loaded fuel AKs near Torres Straight.
A large number of experienced Netties and Betties also attacked the Luganville invasion force.
Must have been the weather cause they couldn't hit a thing...one torp hit and that was a dud [8|]


AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR Sep 26, 43

Surface Combat

Day Time Surface Combat, near Endeh at 64,113, Range 4,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
CL Tatsuta
DD Shimakaze
DD Arikaze
DD Takakaze
DD Satsukaze
DD Susukaze
DD Ishikaze

Allied Ships
PT-112
PT-113
PT-114
PT-129
PT-130, Shell hits 1
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Night Time Surface Combat, near Waingapoe at 63,113, Range 2,000 Yards

Japanese Ships
CL Tatsuta
DD Shimakaze
DD Arikaze
DD Takakaze
DD Satsukaze
DD Susukaze
DD Ishikaze

Allied Ships
PT-112
PT-113, Shell hits 1
PT-114
PT-129
PT-130
PT-131, Shell hits 1, and is sunk
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Sub Attacks

Not a fatal hit fortunately; this is a goodie convoy loaded with supplies and support units
including 4 Naval construction units, 2 Base force units and 3 AT units.

Sub attack near Balikpapan at 65,99

Japanese Ships
xAK Syoan Maru, Torpedo hits 1
SC Ch 47
SC Ch 27
xAK Kohoku Maru
xAK Eiko Maru #2
xAK Teihoku Maru
xAK Seia Maru
xAK Keiyo Maru
xAK Kamogawa Maru
xAK Kazuura Maru
xAK Akiura Maru
PB Yodozo Maru
PB Toyotu Maru

Allied Ships
SS Kingfish

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

SS Kingfish launches 6 torpedoes at xAK Syoan Maru
Kingfish diving deep ....
PB Yodozo Maru fails to find sub and abandons search
PB Toyotu Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
PB Toyotu Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
PB Toyotu Maru attacking submerged sub ....
PB Toyotu Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
PB Toyotu Maru fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Bombardments

Our bombardment was lame as the ships targetted LCUs instead of airfields and port.
Will try again in more force.

Night Naval bombardment of Waingapoe at 63,113

Japanese Ships
BB Ise
BB Nagato
CA Aoba
CA Atago
DD Hatakaze
DD Amagiri
DD Usugumo
DD Urakaze

Allied ground losses:
62 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 7 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

E8N2 Dave acting as spotter for BB Ise
BB Ise firing at 33rd Infantry Division
BB Nagato firing at 33rd Infantry Division
CA Aoba firing at 33rd Infantry Division
CA Atago firing at 33rd Infantry Division
DD Hatakaze firing at Waingapoe
DD Amagiri firing at 7th Infantry Division
DD Usugumo firing at 33rd Infantry Division
DD Urakaze firing at 33rd Infantry Division
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Air Combat

Morning Air attack on TF, near Horn Island at 91,129
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 35 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G3M3 Nell x 7

Allied aircraft
P-40K Warhawk x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
G3M3 Nell: 2 destroyed, 1 damaged

Allied Ships
xAK Trade Wind, Torpedo hits 2, and is sunk

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x G3M3 Nell launching torpedoes at 200 feet
Naval Attack: 1 x 18in Type 91 Torpedo
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 15th Garrison Unit , at 63,112 (Memboro)
Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid detected at 120 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 33 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M5 Zero x 4
N1K1 Rex x 2
Ki-44-IIb Tojo x 2
Ki-61-Ib Tony x 1

Allied aircraft
Hurricane XIIb x 1
B-25C Mitchell x 9
B-25D1 Mitchell x 21
P-38F Lightning x 3
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 13
F4U-1 Corsair x 1

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
Hurricane XIIb: 1 destroyed
B-25C Mitchell: 1 damaged
B-25D1 Mitchell: 1 damaged
P-38F Lightning: 1 destroyed
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

Also attacking 52nd JNAF AF Unit ...
Also attacking 4th Ind.Mixed Rgt /1 ...
Also attacking 15th Naval Construction Battalion ...
Also attacking 15th Garrison Unit ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on TF, near Horn Island at 91,129
Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 47 NM, estimated altitude 17,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 14 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-49-IIa Helen x 9

Allied aircraft
P-40K Warhawk x 1

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-49-IIa Helen: 1 destroyed, 1 damaged

Allied Ships
xAK Santa Isabel, Bomb hits 6, heavy fires, heavy damage

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x Ki-49-IIa Helen bombing from 100 feet *
Naval Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Waingapoe , at 63,113
Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 11 NM, estimated altitude 30,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 2 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIb Tojo x 34

Allied aircraft
Hurricane XIIb x 1
P-38F Lightning x 6
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 29
F4U-1 Corsair x 2

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

Allied aircraft losses
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 4 destroyed
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Akyab , at 54,45
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 45 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 12 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 42

Allied aircraft
P-39N1 Airacobra x 75
P-40N1 Warhawk x 25
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 52

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 10 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-39N1 Airacobra: 5 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 30000 feet *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Akyab , at 54,45
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 19 NM, estimated altitude 31,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIb Tojo x 42

Allied aircraft
P-39N1 Airacobra x 47
P-40N1 Warhawk x 19
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 49

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-44-IIb Tojo: 9 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-39N1 Airacobra: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
1 x Ki-44-IIb Tojo sweeping at 30000 feet *
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Horn Island at 91,129
Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid spotted at 45 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 16 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G3M3 Nell x 3

Allied aircraft
P-40K Warhawk x 5

Japanese aircraft losses
G3M3 Nell: 1 destroyed, 1 damaged

Allied Ships
xAK General Fleisher

Aircraft Attacking:
1 x G3M3 Nell launching torpedoes at 200 feet
Naval Attack: 1 x 18in Type 91 Torpedo
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Akyab , at 54,45
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 200 NM, estimated altitude 34,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 55 minutes

Japanese aircraft
A6M3a Zero x 36
Ki-43-IIb Oscar x 36
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 84
Ki-44-IIb Tojo x 93

Allied aircraft
P-39N1 Airacobra x 31
P-40N1 Warhawk x 13
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 43

Japanese aircraft losses
A6M3a Zero: 2 destroyed
Ki-43-IIb Oscar: 1 destroyed
Ki-44-IIa Tojo: 2 destroyed
Ki-44-IIb Tojo: 4 destroyed

Allied aircraft losses
P-39N1 Airacobra: 4 destroyed
P-40N1 Warhawk: 1 destroyed
P-47D2 Thunderbolt: 1 destroyed

Aircraft Attacking:
42 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 30000 feet *
24 x Ki-44-IIb Tojo sweeping at 30000 feet *
25 x Ki-44-IIb Tojo sweeping at 30000 feet *
20 x Ki-44-IIb Tojo sweeping at 30000 feet *
34 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 30000 feet *
25 x A6M3a Zero sweeping at 30000 feet
25 x Ki-43-IIb Oscar sweeping at 30000 feet
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, near Lakatoro at 119,151
Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid detected at 120 NM, estimated altitude 16,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 42 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G3M3 Nell x 21
G4M1 Betty x 33

Allied aircraft
P-47D2 Thunderbolt x 4

Japanese aircraft losses
G3M3 Nell: 1 destroyed, 6 damaged
G4M1 Betty: 9 damaged

Allied Ships
xAP West Point
DD Gansevoort
DD Nestor
DD Gwin
xAK Somelsdijk
DD Thanet
DE Arrow
xAK Sawokla

Aircraft Attacking:
33 x G4M1 Betty launching torpedoes at 200 feet
Naval Attack: 1 x 18in Type 91 Torpedo
20 x G3M3 Nell launching torpedoes at 200 feet
Naval Attack: 1 x 18in Type 91 Torpedo

CAP engaged:
15th FG/47th FS with P-47D2 Thunderbolt (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(4 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 4 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 24000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 1 minutes

West Point dead in the water ...
Nestor dead in the water ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground Combat

Andy rolled the dice and tried a shock attack at Memboro with his Motorized Bde..and virtually
nuked it. A very good result for us as this unit is probably much stronger in defense than attack in the jungle.
- We're now in the process of unloading 3 fresh divisions at Memboro..may take a while with a size 1 port.

Ground combat at Memboro (63,112)
Allied Shock attack

Attacking force 2411 troops, 64 guns, 47 vehicles, Assault Value = 141
Defending force 9516 troops, 132 guns, 11 vehicles, Assault Value = 261

Allied adjusted assault: 6

Japanese adjusted defense: 619
Allied assault odds: 1 to 103 (fort level 4)

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), forts(+), preparation(-), experience(-)
Attacker: shock(+), leaders(-), supply(-)

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

Allied ground losses:
865 casualties reported
Squads: 3 destroyed, 60 disabled
Non Combat: 2 destroyed, 30 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 29 disabled
Vehicles lost 19 (1 destroyed, 18 disabled)

Assaulting units:
73rd Motorised Brigade

Defending units:
4th Ind.Mixed Rgt /1
15th Garrison Unit
Kimura Det
11th Garrison Unit /1
25th Air Flotilla
6th JNAF Coy
20th AA Regiment
15th Naval Construction Battalion
52nd JNAF AF Unit
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[castor troy]

Hope you´ve got enough nav support at Memboro (or you´ve brought it with the divs) because even with amphib load you won´t be able to unload the heavy equipment at a port size 1. I have never understood this because you are able to unload if you invade but you aren´t if you own the port.

[PzB74]

3 of 4 TFs are amphibious; the transport tf will return with its heavy weapons and return with them in amph mode later! [:)]
Key now is to get critical mass ashore and a) destroy the Motor Bde b) become strong enough to resist any Allied attack

When this has been achieved we will consider how to destroy the remaining enemy units [8D]

[sprior]

It's a question of how it's packed. I believe transport TFs pack stuff in more tightly and so can carry more than amphibsious TFs

[castor troy]

ORIGINAL: PzB

3 of 4 TFs are amphibious; the transport tf will return with its heavy weapons and return with them in amph mode later! [:)]
Key now is to get critical mass ashore and a) destroy the Motor Bde b) become strong enough to resist any Allied attack

When this has been achieved we will consider how to destroy the remaining enemy units [8D]

even amphib TFs fail to unload heavy equipment at friendly level 1 ports if there isn´t enough nav support at the base (you can unload everything WITHOUT any nav support when you invade though - that´s what I´m wondering about). Don´t know the load costs for the Japanese but the Allied aren´t able to unload heavy stuff at a level 1 port without nav support, that´s why I´m always sending a USN base force with my troops.

[inqistor]

I find it interesting, that during AA combat almost NO planes, are being reported as damaged. Does Japan finally achieved critical firepower?

ORIGINAL: PzB
Hm, bombarding a rough jungle hex can be demanding as this turn show; need good weather to hit anything.
Let's make a few tests before making any conclusions.

In Guadalcanal scenario, I could keep base permanently closed, with bombardment every 1-2 days, on average 2 heavy ships, and 3 DDs.
It seems there is random roll of effectiveness before bombardment, so, if there is no enemy fleets in hex, it would be probably better, to split bombarding forces, and attack few times in one turn.

Not sure, have to look over the base forces to count radar sets.

There are 4 types of Sound Detector, of which only one do not upgrade into radar. Maybe yours failed to upgrade yet? They should long be in production.

In Burma I noticed a major Allied buildup of fighters at Akyab; I think Andy wanted to sweep Rangoon.
So instead of being sitting ducks I ordered an all out sweep.

Sending TOJOs at extended range is not a good idea. OSCARS should be enough for AIRACOBRAS, so add just more ZEROs. Besides it is port, which you already bombarded several times. Just send few CAs again.

A large number of experienced Netties and Betties also attacked the Luganville invasion force.
Must have been the weather cause they couldn't hit a thing...one torp hit and that was a dud [8|]

What with those TFs, which retreats toward Australia? Were they heavily CAPed? BETTYs could easily get them, at 22(?) hexes.

Allied Shock attack

Attacking force 2411 troops, 64 guns, 47 vehicles, Assault Value = 141
Defending force 9516 troops, 132 guns, 11 vehicles, Assault Value = 261

Allied adjusted assault: 6

Japanese adjusted defense: 619
Allied assault odds: 1 to 103 (fort level 4)

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), forts(+), preparation(-), experience(-)
Attacker: shock(+), leaders(-), supply(-)

Uuuu, no supply already? If you will keep transports away, THE SHOW will be over in a week.

[BigBadWolf]

Allied ground losses:
865 casualties reported
Squads: 3 destroyed, 60 disabled
Non Combat: 2 destroyed, 30 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 29 disabled
Vehicles lost 19 (1 destroyed, 18 disabled)

With 63 squads and 19 vehicles out of action, how much AV does 73rd has left? If you can push it back before reinforcments arrive, you will keep him in the dark untill you enter Waingapoe in force.

[Hortlund]

ORIGINAL: inqistor
Uuuu, no supply already? If you will keep transports away, THE SHOW will be over in a week.

"No supply already"... [8|] The unit was in pursuit and probably did not draw supply today.

ORIGINAL: BigBadWolf
With 63 squads and 19 vehicles out of action, how much AV does 73rd has left? If you can push it back before reinforcments arrive, you will keep him in the dark untill you enter Waingapoe in force.

AV will depend on supply, leadership rolls and whether any of the disabled squads "repair". During the attack, all units in the hex will be visible though, so there is no way to attack without telling Andy about the 3 new divisions.

[Hortlund]

ORIGINAL: PzB
In Burma I noticed a major Allied buildup of fighters at Akyab; I think Andy wanted to sweep Rangoon.
So instead of being sitting ducks I ordered an all out sweep.

STOP FIGHTING OVER HIS BASES. [:@] [:@]

You need to retain your pilots and make him lose his. By sweeping his bases, you are doing the opposite. And you give him the radar advantage for free.

[Mynok]

But he also gives him the advantage that sweeps have over CAP, which is not insignificant. You have to mix up.

[BigBadWolf]

ORIGINAL: Panzerjaeger Hortlund


AV will depend on supply, leadership rolls and whether any of the disabled squads "repair". During the attack, all units in the hex will be visible though, so there is no way to attack without telling Andy about the 3 new divisions.

True, but with all those disablements, base AV should be halved. But you are right, the point is moot, as I missed the part where PzB says that he's already unloading.

[crsutton]

ORIGINAL: castor troy

ORIGINAL: PzB

3 of 4 TFs are amphibious; the transport tf will return with its heavy weapons and return with them in amph mode later! [:)]
Key now is to get critical mass ashore and a) destroy the Motor Bde b) become strong enough to resist any Allied attack

When this has been achieved we will consider how to destroy the remaining enemy units [8D]

even amphib TFs fail to unload heavy equipment at friendly level 1 ports if there isn´t enough nav support at the base (you can unload everything WITHOUT any nav support when you invade though - that´s what I´m wondering about). Don´t know the load costs for the Japanese but the Allied aren´t able to unload heavy stuff at a level 1 port without nav support, that´s why I´m always sending a USN base force with my troops.

Yeah, even those little port service units help with this.

[PzB74]

Mmm, good points!
It's actually worse than I thought; a size 0 port so transport TFs can't unload at all :-\
Andy hasn't seen any reinforcements yet as only an AA unit has unloaded.

I'm air lifting a Port Support unit to the place from Soerabaja asap and converting all transports to amph TFs.
Will this enable us to fully or partially unload our amph TFs in a size 0 port?

Will try to attack the reduced Motor Bde next turn!

Yes, no more long range sweeps from Rangoon - but I still think it was right to try.
The hope was to inflict losses in a more favorable ratio but as commented long range and T-bolts makes this less likely.

If I set the elite Netties and Betties to attack at extreme range they most likely engage a target with a heavy CAP and gets slaughtered.

Some of the air support in the are is not provided by complete Base Force units but is detached air support from Air HQs.
These locations still don't field radar...

[Chickenboy]

ORIGINAL: Mynok


But he also gives him the advantage that sweeps have over CAP, which is not insignificant. You have to mix up.

Agree.

[PzB74]

CT; don't you think this sweep was quite good?
Seldom seen so many air units combined into one sweep (except from carriers)