Matrix Games Forums

Summary of Operations 12/20/42

North Pacific: Construction to expand port and airfield facilities at Prince Rupert is now fully complete, airfield and port sizes in Prince Rupert are both at maximum. With rail connections through Vancouver to the mainland US and a size 9 port, plans to increase the use of Prince Rupert as a key transit point for movement between the mainland US and points in the North Pacific theatre will proceed.

Most of the construction engineer LCU’s in North Pacific theatre command had been employed in the port and airfield expansion at Prince Rupert. With completion of this project, preparations are underway to ship out five construction engineer LCU’s now in Prince Rupert to reinforce similar base expansion projects now underway at Dutch Harbor, Umnak Is and Adak.

At this time, there are no definite plans in place to conduct Allied offensive operations from the North Pacific theatre area (though I’m not ignoring the possibility of doing so). The primary objective of construction activity now underway in the North Pacific is the creation of base facilities sufficient to support medium to large-scale Allied operations in the North Pacific if needed or desirable. Plans also include fully stocking the expanded bases with supply and fuel stockpiles, along with deploying sufficient Allied defensive forces to occupy these bases.


Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 12/19 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Roi-Namur and Nikunau (Gilberts). Detected status of Nikunau shows undetermined Japanese aircraft based there, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity at either location. Sigint entry for 12/19 indicates Jap 2 Garrison Unit is now located at Roi-Namur, this LCU transferred to Roi-Namur from the Kwantung Army (Manchuria).


South Pacific: Operations report entry for 12/19 states Jap CV Hiyo remains afloat, this report negating the 12/06 Intelligence Display indicating CV Hiyo was sunk by US sub S-47 near Noumea on that date.

Japanese air bombing raid on Norfolk Is. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Norfolk Island, at 113,170

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 8

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking: (Jap planes appear to be based at Noumea)
8 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

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

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/19 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 2 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 6, Moving Northeast
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: DD Tsuga reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 2, Moving Northeast


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 3 Jap TF’s in harbor (+2 from last report), 48 aircraft (48 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


India: Japanese air bombing raids against Ledo airfield continued. Reported damage levels to Ledo airfield is now service damage 47, runway damage 42. One C-47 transport plane destroyed on the ground this game turn. Air evacuation of 8th New Chinese Corps from Chungking to Ledo continues. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Ledo, at 65,38

Weather in hex: Overcast

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 18

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
18 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Ledo, at 65,38

Weather in hex: Overcast

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 3

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Ledo, at 65,38

Weather in hex: Overcast

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 21
Ki-51 Sonia x 19

Allied aircraft
no flights

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
C-47 Skytrain: 7 damaged
C-47 Skytrain: 1 destroyed on ground

Airbase hits 1
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 9

Aircraft Attacking:
19 x Ki-51 Sonia bombing from 11000 feet
Airfield Attack: 4 x 50 kg GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Ledo, at 65,38

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Japanese aircraft
Ki-21-Ic Sally x 7
Ki-21-IIa Sally x 8

Allied aircraft
no flights

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
C-47 Skytrain: 2 damaged

Airbase hits 1
Runway hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x Ki-21-Ic Sally bombing from 11000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 11000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

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


China: Japanese ground bombardment continues at Chengtu. Latest AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 50021 troops, 590 guns, 315 vehicles, Assault Value = 1612
Defending force 36404 troops, 312 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1251

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

Allied ground losses:
75 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 6 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
8th Armored Car Co
15th Division
35th Division
104th Division
36th Division
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
23rd Army
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Mortar Battalion
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
95th Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
24th Chinese Corps
80th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
28th New Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Base Force
14th Group Army
10th Group Army
4th Construction Regiment

Summary of Operations 12/21/42

Central Pacific: US sub patrol engages Jap destroyer between Marcus Is and Iwo Jima. AAR follows. It cannot be determined from available information whether the Jap DD is moving alone or with other ship(s) in a TF.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Chichi-jima at 114,79 (ESE of Iwo Jima)

Japanese Ships
DD Natsushio

Allied Ships
SS Tambor

SS Tambor launches 2 torpedoes at DD Natsushio
Tambor diving deep ....
DD Natsushio attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

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

Sigint entries for 12/20 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Kwajalein and Tabiteuea. Detected statuses of the two bases show ship(s) in port plus aircraft based at each location. No other visible Japanese forces or activity observed in either Kwajalein or Tabiteuea.


South Pacific: Japanese air bombing raid on Norfolk Is airfield.

Sigint entry for 12/20 reports heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Truk. Detected status of Truk shows the expected Jap aircraft based there plus ship(s) in port. No other visible Japanese forces or activity at Truk.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/20 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Morioka Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed 0, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Mikasa Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed 6, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 5, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 3, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed 3, Moving Southwest


New Zealand: Another destroyed LCU acquired from the “dead” pile. 24 NZ Pioneer Co was recalled from destroyed LCU’s at a cost of 1 PP. 24 Pioneer Co is scheduled to re-enter the game as a reinforcement in about 20 days. Plans are to transfer this LCU to South Pacific command then rebuild to full TOE strength. This unit should be a worthwhile low-cost acquisition – one cannot have too many engineers. 24 Pioneer Co had been destroyed while attempting to evacuate it by sea from Singapore earlier in 1942.


Australia: Sigint entry for 12/20 reports unidentified Jap submarine at hex location 41, 147 due W of Perth. No Allied shipping in the vicinity of this contact.


Southeast Asia: Dutch sub O-23 intercepts small Jap transport TF at entrance to Malacca Straits. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Phuket at 47,71 (SE of Phuket)

Japanese Ships
SC CHa-10
TK Shinetsu Maru
PB Tokuho Maru #5

Allied Ships
SS O21

SS O21 launches 2 torpedoes at SC CHa-10
PB Tokuho Maru #5 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 3 Jap TF’s in harbor, 47 aircraft (47 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.

Sigint entry for 12/20 reports intercepted radio transmissions originating from one or more unidentified Jap LCU(s) at hex location 62, 45 in northern Burma. The Jap LCU(s) in this report are on a road between Lashio and Myitkyina, this road also intersecting with the main north-south road crossing from northern Burma into southern China near Lashio. This Sigint entry is possibly an indication that Pillager may have started some movement of Japanese LCU(s) from the China theatre southward into Burma. From the hex location reported in the Sigint entry, it also appears the detected Jap LCU(s) are likely bound for Myitkyina.


India: Japanese air bombing raids against Ledo airfield continue. Reported damage levels to Ledo airfield is now service damage 53, runway damage 50. Six C-47 transport planes destroyed on the ground this game turn. Air evacuation of 8th New Chinese Corps from Chungking to Ledo is continuing.


China: Japanese ground assault at Chengtu turned back. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 38951 troops, 478 guns, 278 vehicles, Assault Value = 1620
Defending force 36388 troops, 312 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1248
Japanese adjusted assault: 1210
Allied adjusted defense: 1593
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2 (fort level 0)

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

Japanese ground losses:
3785 casualties reported
Squads: 12 destroyed, 403 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 37 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 41 disabled
Guns lost 17 (2 destroyed, 15 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
1715 casualties reported
Squads: 22 destroyed, 73 disabled
Non Combat: 2 destroyed, 31 disabled
Engineers: 2 destroyed, 9 disabled
Guns lost 23 (2 destroyed, 21 disabled)

Assaulting units:
35th Division
104th Division
15th Division
8th Armored Car Co
36th Division
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Mortar Battalion
23rd Army
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
3rd New Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
80th Chinese Corps
95th Chinese Corps
24th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
28th New Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Base Force
10th Group Army
14th Group Army
4th Construction Regiment

Summary of Operations 12/22/42

CV Hiyo (the saga continues): Sunk Ships display in Intelligence reports now show CV Hiyo being sunk on 12/21 at hex location 104,60 (coastal hex on the SE coast of Kyushu), the cause of sinking now recorded as a 21” Mk 10 torpedo (same as carried aboard the S-47 which torpedoed it). Hiyo could have a second life as a submarine and it’s reported sunk whenever running submerged.


South Pacific: Japanese air bombing raids on Norfolk Is airfield continue. Latest AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Norfolk Island, at 113,170

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 6

No Japanese losses

Airbase hits 1
Runway hits 3

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

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

Sigint entry for 12/21 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Ndeni. Detected status of Ndeni shows undetermined Jap aircraft based there, no other visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Ndeni is 3(5), port size 1(1). Available intelligence data has three Jap LCU’s located at Ndeni – 5 JAAF AF Co, 15 Naval Gd, 12 Naval Construction Bn.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/21 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 107,126 near Rabaul, Speed 13, Moving Northeast


Southeast Asia: Dutch sub O-23 reports attack by Ki-49 Helen air patrol off Langkawi.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF’s in harbor (-1 from last report), 45 aircraft (45 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


India: Japanese air bombing raids against Ledo airfield continue on a slightly reduced scale. Reported damage levels to Ledo airfield is now service damage 54, runway damage 51. Six C-47 transport planes destroyed on the ground this game turn. Air evacuation of 8th New Chinese Corps from Chungking to Ledo continues, evacuation of Chinese 49th Division is starting. Once 49 Division is evacuated, removal of all transferrable Chinese LCU and air squadrons to India will be completed. Latest AAR follows.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Ledo, at 65,38

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Japanese aircraft
Ki-21-Ic Sally x 16
Ki-21-IIa Sally x 15

Allied aircraft
no flights

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-21-IIa Sally: 1 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
C-47 Skytrain: 12 damaged
C-47 Skytrain: 4 destroyed on ground

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

Airbase hits 1
Runway hits 11

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x Ki-21-Ic Sally bombing from 11000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
15 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 11000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

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


China: Japanese resume ground bombardment attack at Chengtu. Current situation map of Chungking area follows.

Summary of Operations 12/23/42

A slow day at the office...

South Pacific: Sigint entry for 12/22 reports heavy volumes intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Rabaul. Detected status of Rabaul shows the expected Jap aircraft based there, also ship(s) in port. No other visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Rabaul is 4(6), port size 4(4).

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/22 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 10 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown


Singapore: Sigint entry for 12/22 reports Jap 2 Heavy Artillery Rgt now located in Singapore – this unit transferred here from Kwantung Army (Manchuria). Previous known location of this LCU was Port Arthur on 10/27/42.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 1 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 40 aircraft (40 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


India: Japanese air bombing raids against Ledo airfield continue. Reported damage levels to Ledo airfield is now service damage 54, runway damage 48. Two C-47 transport planes destroyed on the ground this game turn. Air evacuations of 8th New Chinese Corps and Chinese 49th Division from Chungking to Ledo are still in progress.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attack at Chengtu continues.

Summary of Operations 12/24/42

Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 12/23 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Tarawa. Detected status of Tarawa shows no visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Tarawa is 3(2), port size 3(1).


South Pacific: Jap submarine intercepts inbound transport convoy WP-26 approaching Auckland. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Raoul Island at 125,185 (SSW of Raoul Island)

Japanese Ships
SS I-1

Allied Ships
xAK Steel Navigator
xAK Thomas Nelson
xAK Caleb Strong
xAK Defiance
xAK Am. Leader
xAK Hollywood
xAK Lena Luckenbach
xAK K.I. Luckenbach
xAK Mobile City
xAK Alabaman
DD Schley
DD Whipple

SS I-1 launches 2 torpedoes at xAK Steel Navigator
DD Schley attacking submerged sub ....
SS I-1 eludes DD Schley by diving deep
DD Schley attacking submerged sub ....
SS I-1 eludes DD Schley by diving deep
DD Schley fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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


Jap air bombing strikes resume against Norfolk Is. Latest AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Norfolk Island, at 113,170

Weather in hex: Clear sky

Japanese aircraft (bombers probably originating from Noumea)
G4M1 Betty x 7

No Japanese losses

Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

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

Sigint entry for 12/23 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Funafuti. Detected status of Funafuti shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/23 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: xAP Ukishima Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Southeast Asia: Sigint entry for 12/23 reports elements of Jap 28th Infantry Division are loaded aboard an xAK bound for Surat Thani (Thailand). 28 Division is being transferred to Southeast Asia from Kwantung Army (Manchuria) – previous reported location of 28 Division was Port Arthur on 10/15/42. This is the latest in a number of Sigint report entries indicating transfers & movement of Japanese LCU’s into Singapore from outside theatres (including Manchuria, Philippines).


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 40 aircraft (40 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


India: Japanese air bombing raids against Ledo airfield. Reported damage levels to Ledo airfield is now service damage 59, runway damage 47. Two C-47 transport planes destroyed on the ground this game turn. Evacuation of 8th New Chinese Corps is now complete. 8 New Chinese Corps reached India at 65% TOE strength and now moving to a base in the interior of India for rebuilding to full strength. Air evacuation of Chinese 49th Division to Ledo from Chungking continues. AAR’s of Japanese air strikes on Ledo follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Ledo, at 65,38

Weather in hex: Light rain

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 18

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
18 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Ledo, at 65,38

Weather in hex: Light rain

Japanese aircraft
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 3

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x Ki-44-IIa Tojo sweeping at 20000 feet

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Ledo, at 65,38

Weather in hex: Light rain

Japanese aircraft
Ki-21-Ic Sally x 5
Ki-21-IIa Sally x 6
Ki-44-IIa Tojo x 21
Ki-51 Sonia x 19

Allied aircraft
no flights

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-51 Sonia: 1 damaged

Allied aircraft losses
C-47 Skytrain: 8 damaged

Airbase supply hits 3
Runway hits 7

Aircraft Attacking:
19 x Ki-51 Sonia bombing from 11000 feet
Airfield Attack: 4 x 50 kg GP Bomb
6 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 11000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
5 x Ki-21-Ic Sally bombing from 11000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on Ledo, at 65,38

Weather in hex: Light rain

Japanese aircraft
Ki-21-Ic Sally x 11
Ki-21-IIa Sally x 8

Allied aircraft
no flights

No Japanese losses

Allied aircraft losses
C-47 Skytrain: 7 damaged
C-47 Skytrain: 1 destroyed on ground

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

Airbase hits 1
Airbase supply hits 1
Runway hits 4

Aircraft Attacking:
11 x Ki-21-Ic Sally bombing from 11000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb
8 x Ki-21-IIa Sally bombing from 11000 feet *
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb

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


China: Japanese ground bombardment attack at Chengtu continued, no changes from previous attacks. Latest AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 47730 troops, 590 guns, 315 vehicles, Assault Value = 1370
Defending force 35183 troops, 308 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1119

Allied ground losses:
111 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 12 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 5 (1 destroyed, 4 disabled)

Assaulting units:
35th Division
104th Division
15th Division
8th Armored Car Co
36th Division
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Mortar Battalion
23rd Army
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
80th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
24th Chinese Corps
95th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
28th New Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Base Force
10th Group Army
14th Group Army
4th Construction Regiment

Summary of Operations 12/25/42

Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 12/24 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Canton Is. Detected status of Canton Is shows no visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Canton Island is 2(0), port size 2(2).


South Pacific: Transport convoy WP-26 (29 ships) arrives in Auckland from the mainland US without further incident. Cargo aboard this convoy includes two LCU’s (3 USMC Parachute Bn, 179 USAAF Base Force), 126K supply and 6K fuel. A group of seven transports (6 AK & xAK, 1 TK) detached from convoy WP-26 delivered supply and fuel to Tahiti and is now returning to the US west coast.

Procedures to cover unloading operations in Auckland from Jap submarine attack are now in place and being employed in Auckland for the first time. The following actions are included in the procedure.

(1) All transport ships from the convoy will either be docked or disbanded in port while in Auckland. When the number and/or sizes of transport ships in a convoy exceed the docking limit, extra ship(s) will be disbanded in port. Disbanded ships under this scenario would include loaded transports awaiting dock space to unload as well as empty ships already unloaded and waiting for the convoy to be reformed for departure.

(2) Surface ASW TF(s) formed and patrolling Auckland base hex while unloading operations are underway.

(3) Local minesweeping TF(s) on patrol in Auckland base hex to detect Japanese mines and quickly eliminate those found.

It should be noted that continuous surface ASW and minesweeping patrols had been established and operating at Pearl Harbor, primary US West Coast ports and other major on-map bases where sufficient surface ASW and minesweeping ships are based. What’s been done is implementing this practice in Auckland on a continuous basis.

A US surface ASW TF reached the hex position (125, 185) where Jap submarine I-1 engaged convoy WP-26 on 12/24. No contact with the sub occurred.


Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/24 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 2 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: xAK Yuri Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Hoorn Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 3, Moving Northeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 107,126 near Rabaul, Speed 12, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 9 Japanese ships at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 1, Moving Northeast


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 1 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 44 aircraft (44 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s. Detected level of Jap activity in Rangoon appears to be rather static overall.


India: No Japanese air attacks on Ledo. Evacuation of Chinese 49th Division from Chungking to Ledo continues and nearly complete.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attack at Chengtu, several other actions in Chungking area. AAR’s and current situation map follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 47982 troops, 590 guns, 315 vehicles, Assault Value = 1395
Defending force 35173 troops, 307 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1117

Allied ground losses:
298 casualties reported
Squads: 11 destroyed, 6 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Guns lost 6 (2 destroyed, 4 disabled)

Assaulting units:
15th Division
104th Division
35th Division
8th Armored Car Co
36th Division
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
23rd Army
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Mortar Battalion
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
24th Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
95th Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
80th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
10th Group Army
14th Group Army
28th New Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Base Force
4th Construction Regiment

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 76,47 (E of Chungking)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 12524 troops, 102 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 459
Defending force 30 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1
Japanese adjusted assault: 218
Allied adjusted defense: 1
Japanese assault odds: 218 to 1

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), op mode(-), leaders(+), experience(-)
supply(-)
Attacker: leaders(-)

Allied ground losses:
33 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 4 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
110th Division

Defending units:
14th Chinese Base Force

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 76,43 (W of Chungking)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 12249 troops, 102 guns, 42 vehicles, Assault Value = 448
Defending force 12050 troops, 39 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 401
Japanese adjusted assault: 399
Allied adjusted defense: 57
Japanese assault odds: 7 to 1

Combat modifiers
Defender: leaders(+), experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker: leaders(+)

Japanese ground losses:
220 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 18 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Allied ground losses:
3640 casualties reported
Squads: 93 destroyed, 86 disabled
Non Combat: 152 destroyed, 38 disabled
Engineers: 7 destroyed, 10 disabled
Guns lost 12 (9 destroyed, 3 disabled)
Units retreated 5

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
32nd Division

Defending units:
42nd Chinese Corps
22nd Chinese Corps
115th Red Chinese Division
129th Red Chinese Division
18th Group Army

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

Summary of Operations 12/26/42

Yet another quiet day at the office.

Central Pacific: Sigint entry for 12/25 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Baker Is. Detected status of Baker Is shows unidentified Jap aircraft based there, no other visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield and port sizes at Baker Island are both 1(0).


South Pacific: Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/25 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 2 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed 5, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 3, Moving Southeast


DEI: Two Sigint entries for 12/25 report different elements of Jap 23rd Infantry Division are loaded aboard xAP’s and bound for Endeh (Timor) from Manchuria.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 45 aircraft (45 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


India: No Japanese air attacks on Ledo. Air evacuation of Chinese 49th Division to Ledo is completed. The four USAAF air transport squadrons at Ledo involved in evacuating Chinese LCU’s are transferring out of Ledo for rest and rebuilding to full strength – the squadrons each lost roughly half their planes (all C-47 Skytrain), also some pilots.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attack at Chengtu, no change from last game turn.

Summary of Operations 12/27/42

US Fleet Subs and 12/42 Submarine Upgrades: 41 of the 72 US fleet subs in service have completed the 12/42 ship upgrade, about 40% of these subs also received new commanders (plans are for commanders aboard subs completing the 12/42 upgrade to have aggressiveness ratings of at least 60 and best possible naval rating). Three other subs are now in the upgrade process. Most of the remaining 33 US fleet subs completed patrols and now returning from assigned patrol areas, these subs bound for Pearl Harbor or the US West Coast – plans are for returning subs to immediately begin 12/42 upgrade upon arrival.


Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 12/26 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Jaluit, Majuro and Gardner Is. Detected status of Jaluit shows one or more unidentified Jap LCU(s). Current intelligence data indicates four Japanese LCU are located on Jaluit – these including Jaluit Fortress and IJN Base Force LCU’s, also 41 Naval Gd and 24 JNAF AF Unit. Port size at Jaluit is 3(1), no airfield.

No visible Japanese forces or activity observed at Majuro or Baker Is.

Unidentified Jap submarine spotted in Christmas Is base hex by PBY Catalina air patrol, US air and surface ASW activated.


South Pacific: Another collision between two transport ships, this one between a TK and a large xAK in transport convoy WP-31 bound for New Zealand. Both ships received relatively light float and engine damage with slight loss of speed, both expected to reach New Zealand safely. Plans are for the two ships to undergo shipyard repair at Auckland or Australia before making a return trip to the mainland US. While my experience with ship collisions has been infrequent relative to the number and size of large transport convoys I’ve been operating, collisions are still a risk when running a convoy system. Fortunately no Allied transport ships have sunk due to collision, all ships damaged in collisions were successfully repaired and put back into operation.

Jap air bombing raid on Norfolk Is. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Norfolk Island, at 113,170

Weather in hex: Severe storms

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 5

No Japanese losses

Runway hits 2

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

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

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/26 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 12 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed 9, Moving Southwest
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 14 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 16, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 6, Moving Northeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed 4, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed 8, Moving Southwest


Malacca Strait: Dutch sub O-21 on patrol near the western (Andaman Sea) exit of the Malacca Straits reports several Jap air attacks. Jap planes in the attacks include Ki-48 Lily and Ki-30 Ann.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 49 aircraft (49 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


India: Japanese recon flights reported but no air bombing attacks on Ledo. Allied air transport squadrons operating from Ledo have now been transferred out. The last two Chinese LCU evacuated from Chungking (8th New Chinese Corps & 49 Division) are departing Ledo this game turn via rail movement to a rear-area base for recovery and rebuilding from replacement elements. Repair of airfield damage in Ledo is now underway.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks at Chengtu, also outside of Chungking. Pillager appears to be giving some attention to cutting off movement of Chinese LCU’s into Chungking. At this point, Japanese activity is not anticipated to impact or prevent withdrawal movement of Chinese forces into Chungking from outlying areas to the north and northwest. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 76,44 (adjacent hex SW of Chungking)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 12191 troops, 104 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 422
Defending force 27646 troops, 188 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 973

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

Assaulting units:
40th Division

Defending units:
27th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
16th Group Army
35th Group Army
2nd Prov Chinese Corps

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 48562 troops, 590 guns, 315 vehicles, Assault Value = 1458
Defending force 34960 troops, 305 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1116

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

Allied ground losses:
176 casualties reported
Squads: 4 destroyed, 13 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Guns lost 2 (1 destroyed, 1 disabled)

Assaulting units:
8th Armored Car Co
15th Division
35th Division
104th Division
36th Division
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
23rd Army
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
2nd Mortar Battalion
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
28th Chinese Corps
24th Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
80th Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
95th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
28th New Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Base Force
10th Group Army
14th Group Army
4th Construction Regiment

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

Summary of Operations 12/28/42

Central Pacific: PBY Catalina air patrol attacked Jap submarine (now identified as J1 class) in Christmas Is base hex. No reported hits or sinking of the Jap sub.


South Pacific: Another collision between two ships in transport convoy WP-31, this one between an AP and another large xAK in the convoy. Weather in the convoy’s sea area is reported overcast. While weather cannot be excluded as a factor in ship collisions, it does not appear likely in this instance. WP-31 contains 46 ships - not exactly the largest convoy I’ve sailed in AE, though convoy size cannot be excluded as a factor either. In this collision, the xAK got the worst of it, receiving significant float and engine damage, plus slowing to 7 kts. The AP received lighter damage. The damaged xAK was detached from the convoy and now sailing independently to maintain the convoy’s movement rate. The main body of WP-31 is approximately 5 days out from arrival in New Zealand.

Unidentified Jap submarine detected WSW of Suva, reported moving on a SE heading.

Jap air bombing raids on Norfolk Is airfield continue.

Sigint entry for 12/27 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Vaitupu (Ellice Islands). Detected status of Vaitupu shows no visible Japanese forces or activity. No evidence of airfield or port facility construction observed at Vaitupu.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/27 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 6, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed 6, Moving Southwest


Australia: Transport convoy EX-21 (23 ships) arrives in Australia from the Eastern US. Cargo arriving aboard the convoy includes three LCU (US 503 Parachute Rgt, 27 & 34 USN Seabee Bns), five USAAF air squadrons (three 2E bomber, two A-24 DB), 111K supply and 44K fuel.

Plans are to upgrade planes in both A-24 squadrons to 2E bomber types – pilots in each squadron are fully trained in low naval bombing attack. My general practice is to not add or upgrade planes in air squadrons shipped out of the mainland US until after their arrival in a forward theatre area. While this practice does consume supply in the forward theatre, it also ensures that planes for first-line aircraft types do not become “sunk in transit” while enroute from the US – supply points existing in much greater abundance compared to first-line replacement planes.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 3 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 45 aircraft (45 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks continue at Chengtu, also outside of Chungking. Latest AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 76,44 (adjacent hex SW of Chungking)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 12190 troops, 104 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 811
Defending force 27632 troops, 188 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 970

Assaulting units:
13th Division (arrived this game turn to reinforce attack)
40th Division

Defending units:
62nd Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
35th Group Army
16th Group Army
2nd Prov Chinese Corps

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 48889 troops, 590 guns, 315 vehicles, Assault Value = 1493
Defending force 34890 troops, 303 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1110

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

Allied ground losses:
149 casualties reported
Squads: 19 destroyed, 1 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 3 (1 destroyed, 2 disabled)

Assaulting units:
104th Division
15th Division
8th Armored Car Co
35th Division
36th Division
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
2nd Mortar Battalion
23rd Army
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
88th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
95th Chinese Corps
24th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
80th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
10th Group Army
14th Group Army
3rd Chinese Base Force
28th New Chinese Division
4th Construction Regiment

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

Summary of Operations 12/29/42

Central Pacific: Unidentified Jap submarine remains in Christmas Is base hex, spotted by PBY Catalina air patrols. A float plane from the Jap sub also reported flying over Christmas Is. No reported attacks on the Jap sub.

A heavy volume of intercepted radio transmissions from one or more unidentified Japanese TF(s) east of Guam (hex location 115, 96) was reported in a Sigint entry for 12/28. No information available as to the number of TF(s), their composition or movement. Position of this contact indicates the Jap TF(s) may be moving between the Japanese Home Islands and Truk in either direction.

Sigint entry for 12/28 reports heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Kwajalein. Detected status of Kwajalein shows the expected Jap planes based there plus ship(s) in port, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity.

Sigint entry for 12/28 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Funafuti. Detected status of Funafuti shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Small Jap air bombing raids on Norfolk Is airfield continue.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/28 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Port Moresby
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 10, Moving Southeast


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 35 aircraft (35 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks continue at Chengtu, also outside of Chungking. Latest AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 76,44 (adjacent hex SW of Chungking)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 24201 troops, 208 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 824
Defending force 27641 troops, 187 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 971

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

Assaulting units:
13th Division
40th Division

Defending units:
71st Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
16th Group Army
35th Group Army
2nd Prov Chinese Corps

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 49135 troops, 590 guns, 315 vehicles, Assault Value = 1729
Defending force 34833 troops, 301 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1113

Japanese ground losses:
18 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
91 casualties reported
Squads: 4 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 5 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
36th Division
35th Division
8th Armored Car Co
15th Division
104th Division
2nd Ind.Mixed Brigade (arrived this game turn to reinforce attack)
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
23rd Army
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Mortar Battalion
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
95th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
24th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
80th Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Base Force
14th Group Army
10th Group Army
28th New Chinese Division
4th Construction Regiment

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

Summary of Operations 12/30/42

More quiet times at the office...

Central Pacific: Unidentified Jap submarine remains detected in Christmas Is base hex, spotted by PBY Catalina air patrols. No attacks on the Jap sub reported.

Sigint entry for 12/29 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Nauru Is. Detected status of Nauru shows undetermined Jap aircraft based there, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Nauru is 2(2), port size 2(0).


South Pacific: Small Jap air bombing raids on Norfolk Is airfield continue.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/29 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed 1, Moving Southwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 15, Moving Northwest


Malacca Straits: Dutch submarine O-21 on patrol reports two attacks by Jap air patrols (Ki-48 Lily & Ki-49 Helen) at hex location 48, 72 off Langkawi. No reported hits on O-21.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 3 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 34 aircraft (34 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks continue at Chengtu, also outside of Chungking. No significant change in AAR’s from last game turn.

Summary of Operations 12/31/42

1/43 US Carrier Air Group Reorganization: I may have been fortunate in catching this at the last moment. This is related to changes due to occur with reorganization of VB and VS bombing squadrons aboard all six US fleet CV’s during the early part of 1943. Two actions occur in this reorganization process –

(1) VB squadrons aboard 5 of the 6 carriers (except CV Wasp) increase in size from 18 to 36 planes or can be manually set to keep their current size at 18. The five VB squadrons along with VS-72 on Wasp remain in the game as the one bombing squadron to be kept aboard each carrier. It appears VS-72 on CV Wasp can be resized to any desired number of planes within the ship’s remaining plane capacity or can be manually set to keep VS-72 at its current size of 15 planes.

(2) VS squadrons aboard carriers other than CV Wasp plus squadron VS-71 aboard CV Wasp all have a withdrawal date of 1 March 43. Except for CV Wasp, VS squadrons aboard the other five carriers have two available options depending on the squadron size setting for each squadron – (a) disband in Jan 43 which appears could occur automatically at that time; or (b) set to “No resize allowed” which presumably allows the squadrons to remain in the game until their scheduled withdrawal date of 3/43. The major concern with option (a) on these 5 squadrons is that automatic withdrawal could wreak havoc on the five carriers’ air groups. In the case of VS-71 on CV Wasp, there is no setting for the squadron to disband in Jan 43 allowing the status quo to be kept for now.

Initially, I had no problem allowing things to occur automatically, all other things being equal. On closer examination, maybe not. While I see this reorganization is required and must be completed by 3/1/43, there appear to be reason(s) that favor this process be done manually and incrementally.

Current actions and plans to manually implement VB and VS squadron reorganization are as follows. The overall plan is doing this by individual carrier, rather than doing all carriers at once. Step (1) below is effective immediately (12/31/42), the remaining steps to be performed starting on or after 1/01/43 by individual carrier as air group reorganization is done aboard each carrier.

(1) Size option on VB and VS squadrons aboard five of the six US fleet carriers (except CV Wasp) will be set to “No resize allowed” immediately to maintain the status quo on these carriers for now and prevent any automatic withdrawal of VS squadrons in Jan 43.

(2) Except for CV Wasp, VS squadrons will be transferred off the carrier and become land-based pilot training squadrons until their scheduled 3/01/43 withdrawal date. Once moved off the carrier, two further actions will occur.

Fully trained pilots in VS squadrons will transfer to the Reserve pilot pool, then replaced with rookie Replacement pilots and/or partially trained pilots now in the Reserve pool.

Planes in transferred VS squadrons will undergo a reverse “upgrade” from SBD-3’s to older dive bomber types (either SBD-2 or SBC-4). This upgrade is expected to return SBD-3 planes from converted VS squadrons back to the aircraft replacement pool for front-line use in other air units.

(3) Once step (2) above is completed for the VS squadron aboard an individual carrier, the VB squadron aboard that carrier will be expanded from 18 to 36 SBD-3 planes, this expansion intended to complete as quickly as possible. Additional SBD-3 planes will be drawn immediately from the replacement pool. Additional pilots needed to fill out the expanded VB squadron will be drawn from fully trained pilots in the Reserve pool.

(4) At this point, no immediate action is being taken for the two VS squadrons aboard CV Wasp (VS-71 and VS-72), except size options for these two squadrons have been set to “No resize allowed” for the moment. With regard to reorganization, details with the situation aboard CV Wasp appear different than on the other five US fleet carriers. I suspect it likely that reorganization aboard CV Wasp will be handled differently than the other US fleet carriers. Exactly how remains to be determined.

With all that… completion of steps outlined above have to be accomplished on all six US carriers by 3/01/43.

Three considerations are compelling me to handle this process manually (if possible) rather than automatically allow things to happen. First, I have only 50 SBD-3 planes in the replacement pool as of 12/31/42 – not enough planes to allow a reorganization of VB/VS squadrons aboard all six US fleet carriers simultaneously (at least 90 SBD-3 estimated as required in the aircraft replacement pool to do air groups on all six carriers at once). Second, plans are being considered for offensive operations by the main US carrier force in early 1943 – uncontrolled reorganization of VB/VS squadrons possibly delaying or disrupting an operation. Third, rather than allowing automatic withdrawal of VS squadrons in Jan 43, short-term employment of at least some of the VS squadrons in a land-based pilot training role for up to two months prior to 3/01/43 might be a feasible option.

With the 50 SBD-3’s currently available in the replacement pool, VB/VS squadrons can be reorganized immediately starting 1/01/43 for two of the five carriers (excluding CV Wasp) with a third carrier stated very shortly thereafter. The process would be implemented on other carriers as additional SBD-3 planes are produced (25 per month) and/or SBD-3 planes from converted VS squadrons re-enter the replacement pool in sufficient numbers. Timing of the air group reorganization on later carriers will depend on availablity of SBD-3 planes in the aircraft replacement pool - 18 planes typically needed to begin reorganization for another carrier. My intent is to complete this process as quickly as possible aboard all six US fleet carriers.

I haven’t found any discussion of this in the forums, the subject might be a good topic for discussion. All readers are welcome to chime in.


Central Pacific: PBY Catalina air patrols maintain contact with unidentified Jap submarine still in Christmas Is base hex. No reported attacks on the Jap sub.

Sigint entry for 12/30 reports heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Truk. Detected status of Truk shows the expected Jap aircraft based there and ship(s) in port, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity.

Intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Jaluit were reported in another 12/30 Sigint entry. Detected status of Jaluit shows no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Several actions reported E of Auckland between Jap submarines and Allied surface ASW. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ASW attack near Auckland at 117,185 (just outside Auckland)

Japanese Ships
SS I-1, hits 1 (probably no significant damage)

Allied Ships
DD Pope
xAK Time
xAKL Darvel
xAKL Georgian

SS I-1 launches 4 torpedoes at DD Pope
I-1 diving deep ....
DD Pope attacking submerged sub ....
Escort abandons search for sub

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Raoul Island at 125,185 (SW of Raoul Island)

Japanese Ships
SS I-19

Allied Ships
SC-701, Torpedo hits 1, heavy damage (sunk)
SC-700
DD Schley

SS I-19 launches 2 torpedoes at SC-701
I-19 diving deep ....
DD Schley fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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

Small Jap air bombing raids on Norfolk Is airfield continue.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/30 Operations report follow. One or multiple unidentified Jap TF(s) detected and visible in Rabaul.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 8 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown


Australia: As a measure to boost accumulation of fuel point stockpiles in Australia, heavy industry production centers at Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide were shut down at least temporarily. From research I had done in the forums, it appears HI located in Australia could be shut down at least on a temporary basis without disrupting other production - this due to the apparent fact that HI points pooled for the Allies can be used anywhere regardless of where the HI points were produced or are required.

Light industry production in Australia is continuing at full capacity as there are ample quantities of available resource points domestically. Domestic stocks of resource points in Australia have been augmented by a small fleet of xAKL’s in continuous operation between Hobart and Melbourne transporting resource points to the mainland from Tasmania.


DEI: Sigint entry for 12/29 reports intercepted radio transmissions from one or more unidentified Jap TF(s) at hex location 67, 107 along the southern coast of Celebes between Makassar and Kendari. No information available as to number of Jap TF, their composition or movement.


Malacca Straits: Dutch submarine O-21 on patrol near the straits takes on Jap surface ASW. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sub attack near Phuket at 47,71 (SE of Phuket)

Japanese Ships
PB Tokuho Maru #5
SC CHa-10

Allied Ships
SS O21

SS O21 launches 2 torpedoes at PB Tokuho Maru #5
PB Tokuho Maru #5 fails to find sub, continues to search...
Escort abandons search for sub

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


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 40 aircraft (40 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks continue at Chengtu, ground assault outside Chungking. AAR’s and current situation map of Chungking area follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 76,44 (adjacent hex SW of Chungking)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 24274 troops, 208 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 832
Defending force 27671 troops, 187 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 976
Japanese adjusted assault: 108
Allied adjusted defense: 550
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 5

Combat modifiers
Defender: experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker: fatigue(-), supply(-)

Japanese ground losses:
1072 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 110 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 10 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 14 disabled

Allied ground losses:
1076 casualties reported
Squads: 25 destroyed, 193 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 30 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Guns lost 18 (2 destroyed, 16 disabled)

Assaulting units:
13th Division
40th Division

Defending units:
52nd Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
16th Group Army
35th Group Army
2nd Prov Chinese Corps

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 55372 troops, 628 guns, 315 vehicles, Assault Value = 1771
Defending force 34763 troops, 300 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1122

Allied ground losses:
181 casualties reported
Squads: 6 destroyed, 11 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 1 disabled

Assaulting units:
15th Division
104th Division
35th Division
8th Armored Car Co
36th Division
2nd Ind.Mixed Brigade
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
23rd Army
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
2nd Mortar Battalion
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
24th Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
80th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
95th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
10th Group Army
28th New Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Base Force
14th Group Army
4th Construction Regiment

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



Japanese ground assault in far western area. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 80,21 (NW of Ansi)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 12524 troops, 102 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 459
Defending force 5113 troops, 61 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 151
Japanese adjusted assault: 386
Allied adjusted defense: 63
Japanese assault odds: 6 to 1

Combat modifiers
Defender: terrain(+), morale(-), experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker: leaders(+)

Japanese ground losses:
88 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 10 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
1615 casualties reported
Squads: 47 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 43 destroyed, 9 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 3 (3 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units retreated 7

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
6th Division

Defending units:
9th Separate Brigade
82nd Chinese Corps
8th War Area
5th Chinese Base Force
17th Chinese Corps
303rd Brigade
12th Chinese Base Force

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

Summary of Operations 1/01/43

US Fleet Subs and 12/42 Ship Upgrades: 55 of the 72 US fleet subs have completed or now undergoing the 12/42 ship upgrade. Nearly all the remaining 17 subs are enroute to Pearl Harbor or US West Coast ports and will begin upgrade immediately on arrival.

US fleet subs with the upgrade completed are departing Pearl Harbor and other bases for assigned patrol areas this game turn – subs completing the upgrade were held in port until 1/01/43 to ensure their departure with improved torpedoes on board.


1/43 US Carrier Air Group Reorganization: Air group reorganization completed on all six US fleet carriers. VB squadrons and VS-72 aboard CV Wasp have a full complement of SBD-3’s and all 36 (30 on Wasp) planes in these squadrons operational. Best of all, this did not use or require SBD-3 planes from the aircraft replacement pool.

The most effective solution to the matter turned out to be the simplest. Executing a withdrawal of the VS squadrons (carriers other than CV Wasp) plus squadron VS-71 aboard CV Wasp immediately moved all their SBD-3 planes and pilots to the VB squadron based aboard the same carrier (VS-72 aboard CV Wasp). All SBD-3 planes in the VB squadron (VS-72 on Wasp) were operational following the transfer. In addition, 20+ PP was received for withdrawal of each squadron.

It should be noted that squadron size settings on VS squadrons (carriers other than Wasp) and VS-71 aboard CV Wasp must be set to “disband in Jan 43”. Squadron size settings for VB squadrons and VS-72 on CV Wasp must be set to increase size from 18 to 36. Once this is done for both squadrons on a carrier, it is only necessary to execute withdrawal of the VS squadron (or VS-71 on CV Wasp) to “kick off” the entire process for that carrier – this process having to be repeated on each individual carrier.

I did this on the US West Coast with no difficulty once I worked out how to do it. In the squadron display for the VS squadron (or VS-71), both the “disband” and “withdraw” buttons are available. Even though the squadrons are set to “disband in Jan 43”, the “withdraw” button in the display is used to execute the transaction.


Central Pacific: No further contact reported with the Jap submarine at Christmas Is.

Sigint entry for 12/31 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Baker Is. Detected status of Baker Is shows unidentified Jap aircraft based there, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: Sigint entry for 12/31 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Lunga. Detected status of Lunga shows unidentified Jap aircraft based there, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Lunga is 3(5), port size 3(1).

Daily coastwatcher entries from 12/31 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: xAP Montevideo Maru reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed 11, Moving Southwest

Two detected Jap TF’s are visible in Noumea base hex. Known composition of the TF’s indicate both are transport TF (each containing AK or TK with light escorts), also the two TF are shown containing 6 ships each.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 42 aircraft (42 fighters, no bombers), 11 Jap LCU’s (+1 from last report).


Colombo: Four US fleet subs are now based and operating from Colombo. Planned assigned operational areas for the US subs will include Indian Ocean, Bay of Bengal, Malacca Straits, and southern and western sea areas in the DEI. A small number of additional US subs may be moved to the Indian Ocean theatre in the future, likely candidates for this employment being US subs entering the game as reinforcements in the Eastern US.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks continue at Chengtu, outside Chungking. AAR’s of these actions show no significant change from last game turn.

Summary of Operations 1/02/43

Eastern Pacific: Sigint entry for 1/01 reports intercepted radio transmissions from an unidentified Jap submarine at hex position 206, 75 WSW of San Francisco. Naval air search has been routed over this sea area to track the Jap sub, surface ASW may be dispatched to intercept the sub if (or when) it moves closer to the West Coast. The sub currently poses no threat to US ship movements.


Hawaii: Sigint entry for 1/01 reports Jap submarine I-29 is moving to hex location 179, 114 (SSW of Pearl Harbor). An unidentified Jap submarine (possibly the I-29) is detected and visible nearby. US surface ASW from Pearl Harbor is being dispatched to hex 179, 114 to find and attack I-29 on its arrival at this location.


Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 1/01 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Majuro and Roi-Namur. Detected status of Roi-Namur shows unidentified Jap aircraft based there, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity at either location.


South Pacific: Two detected Japanese transport TF’s remain visible at Noumea, these spotted by PBY Catalina air patrols operating from Suva.

Sigint entry for 1/01 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Shortlands. Detected status at Shortlands shows unidentified Jap aircraft based there, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Shortlands is 4(4), port size 3(3). One Japanese LCU (13 JAAF AF Bn) is known to be located at Shortlands from current available intelligence – level of detected base construction activity at Shortlands indicates additional unknown Jap LCU(s) could be here.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 1/01 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 6 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Manus
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul , Speed 6, Moving Southeast
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 4 , Moving Southeast


Australia: TOE composition of two Australian infantry divisions (1st & 2nd) became upgradable to where they can now be reorganized with elements identical to those now in the TOE of first-line Australian divisions (6th and 7th). Plans are to eventually transfer 1st and 2nd Divisions out of restricted command in Australia to SW Pacific, then upgrade TOE in these divisions. Transfer of 2nd Division to SW Pacific was done this game turn and now set to begin drawing replacement elements for the conversion.

Conversion of these divisions to the upgraded TOE replaces CMF Militia infantry squads with AIF 42 Infantry sections, plus some upgrade of heavy weapon elements.

I considered this conversion feasible for two reasons – (1) the TOE upgrade improves combat worthiness of the two divisions, and (2) command transfer to SW Pacific makes the divisions “mobile” and available for use in front-line operations outside mainland Australia.

Except for the still rebuilding 22 Australian Brigade (now at 70% TOE), all other sub-units of 8th Australian Division are on-map in Australia and at full TOE strength. All sub-units of the division except Lark Bn (still in ABDA) are now in SW Pacific command. Two steps remain to complete building of 8th Division before its sub units are combined to create a fully operational divisional LCU – completing buildup of 22 Brigade with replacement elements to full TOE strength and transfer of Lark Bn to SW Pacific command (215 PP cost). Completion of both steps is expected to occur by 2/43.

Other Australian LCU’s are already transferred to SW Pacific command – including HQ I Australian Corps, four Armored Rgts, 4 Armored Brigade, 2/11 Armored Car Bn, four artillery LCU, plus other small LCU’s. Transfer of HQ Australian I Corps to SW Pacific command also “mobilized” its attached LCU’s making them available for movement and operational use outside mainland Australia – LCU currently under I Australian Corps include 6th and 7th Australian Divisions, three artillery Rgts, plus a number of engineer, flak and base force units.

The planned end result of this is creating a substantial contingent of mobile first-line Australian ground forces within SW Pacific theatre command.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, one Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 44 aircraft (44 fighters, no bombers), 10 Jap LCU’s (-1 from last report).


China: Japanese ground forces launch deliberate attacks at Chengtu, outside Chungking. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 76,44 (adjacent hex SW of Chungking)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 23487 troops, 208 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 751
Defending force 25942 troops, 183 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 778
Japanese adjusted assault: 385
Allied adjusted defense: 309
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 1

Combat modifiers
Defender: experience(-), supply(-)
Attacker: fatigue(-)

Japanese ground losses:
652 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 69 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 10 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 13 disabled

Allied ground losses:
830 casualties reported
Squads: 9 destroyed, 122 disabled
Non Combat: 4 destroyed, 16 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 17 (10 destroyed, 7 disabled)

Assaulting units:
13th Division
40th Division

Defending units:
27th Chinese Corps
44th Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
35th Group Army
16th Group Army
2nd Prov Chinese Corps

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 33447 troops, 422 guns, 246 vehicles, Assault Value = 1796
Defending force 34670 troops, 300 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1123
Japanese adjusted assault: 1090
Allied adjusted defense: 1813
Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2 (fort level 0)

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

Japanese ground losses:
2684 casualties reported
Squads: 6 destroyed, 121 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 27 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 40 disabled
Guns lost 22 (2 destroyed, 20 disabled)
Vehicles lost 44 (1 destroyed, 43 disabled)

Allied ground losses:
925 casualties reported
Squads: 41 destroyed, 50 disabled
Non Combat: 8 destroyed, 33 disabled
Engineers: 3 destroyed, 1 disabled
Guns lost 33 (15 destroyed, 18 disabled)

Assaulting units:
15th Division
8th Armored Car Co
35th Division
104th Division
36th Division
2nd Ind.Mixed Brigade
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
23rd Army
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Mortar Battalion
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
88th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
80th Chinese Corps
95th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
24th Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
28th New Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Base Force
14th Group Army
10th Group Army
4th Construction Regiment

xxx

Summary of Operations 1/03/43

Hawaii: US surface ASW dispatched from Pearl Harbor to engage Jap submarine I-29 reached hex location (179, 114) SW of Oahu where the sub was reported heading to in a Sigint entry on 1/02. ASW did not make contact with the Jap sub.


South Pacific: Two detected Japanese transport TF’s remain visible at Noumea, these continue to be spotted by PBY Catalina air patrols operating from Suva.

Transport convoy WP-31 (50 ships) arrives in Auckland from the mainland US. Cargo arriving aboard the convoy includes four LCU’s (27th Infantry Division, 2 USMC Air Wing Base Force, 41 & 43 USN Seabee Bns), 126K supply and 111K fuel.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 1/02 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 14, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Belep Islands
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed 4, Moving Southwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 7 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 14, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown


Southeast Asia: Unidentified Japanese TF(s) detected in the Andaman Sea along the coast of Thailand near Phuket (hex location 48, 67) – no available information as to number of TF(s), composition or movement. Oddly enough, no entries exist in any of the game turn reports (Sigint, Operations, Combat Events, AAR) indicating the presence of the Jap TF(s), or that they were detected or spotted. Dutch sub O-21 is in the likely movement path of the Jap TF(s) if they’re bound for Singapore and due to enter the Malacca Straits this coming game turn – possible intercept if this proves to be true.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor (+1 from last report), 36 aircraft (36 fighters, no bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s (-1 from last report). Reports appear to indicate two Jap LCU’s have moved out of Rangoon base hex (via land movement) in the last two game turns.


China: Japanese resume ground bombardment attacks at Chengtu, also outside Chungking.

Summary of Operations 1/04/43

US West Coast: A cadre of 192 Tank Bn (US) re-entered the game this game turn as a reinforcement in San Francisco after purchasing it from the “dead pile” on 12/03/42 at a cost of 2 PP. 192 Tank Bn was initially in the Philippines and had been destroyed with the fall of Bataan. An additional 2 PP was spent transferring 192 Bn from West Coast to Pacific Ocean Areas command. Plans are to rebuild 192 Bn to full TOE strength with replacement elements for future front-line deployment. A cheap, potentially useful acquisition for the 4 PP cost involved.


South Pacific: Detected Japanese transport TF’s remain visible at Noumea and continue being spotted by PBY Catalina air patrols operating from Suva. A third Jap transport TF was sighted near Noumea – Pillager must be loading and/or unloading a significant volume of cargo. Two US sub patrols are moving closer to Noumea to get a better look at the activity and possibly pick off a ship or two.

Small Jap airfield bombing raid on Norfolk Is. AAR follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on Norfolk Island, at 113,170

Weather in hex: Severe storms

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 5

No Japanese losses

Airbase hits 1

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Airfield Attack: 2 x 250 kg GP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

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

Sigint entry for 1/03 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Rabaul. Detected status of Rabaul shows the expected aircraft (unidentified) based there, also ship(s) in port. No other visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Rabaul is 4(6), port size 4(4). Three Jap LCU’s are known to be located in Rabaul from currently available intelligence – HQ 8th Fleet, 5 & 10 Shipping Engineer Rgts. It would be not much of a surprise if my roster of Jap LCU’s at Rabaul is incomplete.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 1/03 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: 8 ships reported in port at Rabaul
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tanna
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown


Australia: Transport convoy MX-11 (25 ships, all TK) arrives in Australia from Abadan with cargo of 249K fuel.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 46 aircraft (46 fighters, no bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks at Chengtu and outside Chungking continue. No significant change from previous AAR’s. Current situation map of Chungking area follows.

Summary of Operations 1/05/43

Quiet day at the office... The logistics elves are working overtime.

Central Pacific: Multiple Sigint entries for 1/04 report heavy volume of intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Truk. Detected status of Truk shows the expected unidentified Jap aircraft based there, also ship(s) in port. No other visible Japanese forces or activity.

Another Sigint entry for 1/04 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Ponape. Detected status of Ponape shows evidence of airfield construction, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Ponape is 2(3), port size 1(1). Available intelligence data has only the static Ponape Naval Fortress LCU located on Ponape – possibly not the complete roster of Jap ground units there.


South Pacific: One detected Japanese transport TF’s remains at Noumea, other Jap TF have apparently departed to the north before US sub patrols could reach an intercept position.

Small Jap airfield bombing raids on Norfolk Is continue. AAR not changed significantly from last game turn.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 1/04 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Salamaua
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Koumac
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,137 near Tulagi, Speed 10, Moving Southwest
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Noumea
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown


DEI: Sigint entry for 1/04 reports radio transmissions intercepted from unidentified Jap TF(s) at hex position 81, 109 near Ceram. No information available as to number of TF(s), composition or movement.


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 45 aircraft (45 fighters, no bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks at Chengtu and outside Chungking continue. No reported changes from previous AAR’s. Current situation map of Chungking area follows.

Summary of Operations 1/06/43

Eastern US: Two transport convoys (EX-26, EX-27) departing from Eastern US and Panama for Australia via Capetown.

Convoy EX-26 (5 transports) departed Panama after picking up 158 Infantry Rgt and 13K supply at Cristobal. 158 Regiment entered the game (reinforcement) at Cristobal in SW Pacific command, this convoy dispatched to Cristobal from the Eastern US to pick up and transport 158 Rgt to Australia.

Convoy EX-27 (49 transports) is departing Eastern US for Australia. Cargo aboard this convoy includes three LCU (98 Field Artillery Bn, 224 USN Base Force, 15 Marine Defense Bn), five air transport squadrons, 138K supply and 85K fuel.


Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 1/05 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Baker Is and Roi-Namur. Detected statuses of the two bases show unidentified Jap aircraft based there, no other visible Japanese forces or activity.


South Pacific: All Japanese transport TF’s at Noumea have departed, the last departing Jap TF spotted but not attacked by a US sub patrol at hex location 115, 158 north of Noumea.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 1/05 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Ndeni
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Madang
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Kavieng
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Noumea is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Efate
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lunga
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Shortlands
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Tulagi
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Finschhafen
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Gasmata
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 4 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 6 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 107,126 near Rabaul, Speed 9, Moving Northeast


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 2 Jap TF in harbor, 39 aircraft (39 fighters, no bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


India: Chinese 54 Cavalry Division enters India after completing an overland march through northern Burma from the collapsed southern front in China. 54 Division reached India with only a small cadre (2% TOE strength, nearly all its squads disrupted). Plans are to move 54 Division to a rear-area base for rebuilding from replacement elements.

Two other Chinese LCU from the collapsed southern China front attempted the march to India, both “crumbled apart” in northern Burma during the march. Considering they had nowhere else to go, 1 out of 3 not bad.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks at Chengtu and outside Chungking continue.

Not that this really matters given the overall situation in China... There had been some question on my part as whether Pillager would concentrate on taking out Chengtu before launching the final assault on Chungking, or leave Chengtu until after Chungking falls. Pillager reinforced the Japanese attack on Chengtu this game turn with an infantry division (32nd) which may or may not have definitively answered the question. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at 76,44 (adjacent hex SW of Chungking)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 23015 troops, 208 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 704
Defending force 25180 troops, 175 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 706

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

Assaulting units:
13th Division
40th Division

Defending units:
44th Chinese Corps
27th Chinese Corps
62nd Chinese Corps
52nd Chinese Corps
71st Chinese Corps
93rd Chinese Corps
16th Group Army
35th Group Army
2nd Prov Chinese Corps

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ground combat at Chengtu (75,41)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 54605 troops, 626 guns, 314 vehicles, Assault Value = 2137
Defending force 33428 troops, 287 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1036

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

Allied ground losses:
113 casualties reported
Squads: 7 destroyed, 5 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
15th Division
8th Armored Car Co
104th Division
36th Division
32nd Division (arrived this game turn to reinforce attack)
35th Division
2nd Ind.Mixed Brigade
6th Medium Field Artillery Regiment
2nd Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
10th Ind. Mountain Gun Regiment
3rd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
2nd Ind.Hvy.Art. Battalion
1st Hvy.Artillery Regiment
2nd Mortar Battalion
23rd Army
20th Ind. Mtn Gun Battalion

Defending units:
95th Chinese Corps
88th Chinese Corps
64th Chinese Corps
3rd New Chinese Corps
80th Chinese Corps
24th Chinese Corps
28th Chinese Corps
39th New Chinese Division
28th New Chinese Division
3rd Chinese Base Force
14th Group Army
10th Group Army
4th Construction Regiment

Summary of Operations 1/07/43

Central Pacific: Sigint entries for 1/06 report intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Nikunau and Jaluit. Detected status of Nikumau shows unidentified Jap aircraft based there, no visible Japanese forces or activity at Jaluit.


South Pacific: A very eventful day aboard a convoy of small transports (one small TK, one small xAK, 5 xAK) delivering fuel and supply from Auckland to Suva. First, the TF ran into a Japanese minefield as it arrived in Suva – the local minesweeping patrol in Suva having (literally) tied up at the dock for the night. AAR of that fiasco follows.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TF 223 encounters mine field at Suva (132,160)

Allied Ships
DD Pope
SC-738
xAKL Darvel, Mine hits 1, on fire, heavy damage (sunk later in air attack)

4 mines cleared (by the convoy’s ASW escorts)

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

After the minefield came the Betties. Despite the fact all three Jap air strikes had been detected by radar plus all three US VMF squadrons in Suva were activated for CAP (40%) with fully-trained pilots and good commanders, CAP fighters appeared but did not attack the Jap planes at all in the first two raids below. During the third air raid, a lone F4F pilot made one dive through the Jap formation, shot down one G4M and waived “hello” to the others. Rumor has it there had been a brawl in downtown Suva during last game turn’s night phase between the fighter pilots and the (Kiwi) minesweeper crew. AAR’s follow.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on TF, at Suva (132,160)

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid detected at 55 NM, estimated altitude 10,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 19 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 8

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 21

Japanese aircraft losses
G4M1 Betty: 5 damaged

No Allied losses

Allied Ships
DD Schley
xAKL Georgian
xAKL Darvel (sunk from bomb hits)

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Naval Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-122 with F4F-4 Wildcat (3 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(3 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 1000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 9 minutes
VMF-221 with F4F-4 Wildcat (1 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(3 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 6000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 28 minutes
VMF-441 with F4F-4 Wildcat (1 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(3 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 0 being recalled, 2 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 9000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 22 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, at Suva (132,160)

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Raid detected at 39 NM, estimated altitude 8,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 13 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 6

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 21

Japanese aircraft losses
G4M1 Betty: 1 damaged

No Allied losses

Allied Ships
xAKL Kailua, Bomb hits 1, on fire (system damage 20, float 12, fire 6, engine 6)

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Naval Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-122 with F4F-4 Wildcat (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(7 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
7 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Raid is overhead
VMF-221 with F4F-4 Wildcat (7 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(7 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
7 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Raid is overhead
VMF-441 with F4F-4 Wildcat (3 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
(3 plane(s) diverted to support CAP in hex.)
3 plane(s) intercepting now.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 27 minutes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on TF, at Suva (132,160)

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Raid detected at 69 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 24 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G4M1 Betty x 7

Allied aircraft
F4F-4 Wildcat x 21

Japanese aircraft losses
G4M1 Betty: 1 destroyed, 2 damaged

No Allied losses

Allied Ships
xAKL Kailua, on fire (damage shown in second AAR)
TK Harpa, Bomb hits 2, heavy fires (sunk)

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x G4M1 Betty bombing from 6000 feet
Naval Attack: 2 x 250 kg SAP Bomb, 4 x 60 kg GP Bomb

CAP engaged:
VMF-122 with F4F-4 Wildcat (1 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
1 plane(s) intercepting now.
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 6 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 12 minutes
VMF-221 with F4F-4 Wildcat (0 airborne, 0 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 7 being recalled, 0 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 12 minutes
VMF-441 with F4F-4 Wildcat (0 airborne, 4 on standby, 0 scrambling)
0 plane(s) not yet engaged, 2 being recalled, 1 out of immediate contact.
Group patrol altitude is 15000, scrambling fighters to 15000.
Time for all group planes to reach interception is 18 minutes

Heavy smoke from fires obscuring xAKL Kailua
Heavy smoke from fires obscuring TK Harpa

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

Sigint entry for 1/06 reports intercepted Jap radio transmissions from Tulagi. Detected status of Tulagi shows evidence of construction, otherwise no visible Japanese forces or activity. Current airfield size at Tulagi is 2(2), port size 2(3).

The most heavily damaged xAK from the recent series of ship collisions in transport convoy WP-31 while approaching Auckland arrived safely this game turn in Wellington with its full cargo (6250 supply, 500 fuel) on board. The xAK had been detached from the convoy and moving independently after its collision. After unloading in Wellington, the damaged ship will undergo shipyard repair in Australia. The other three transport ships involved in the convoy WP-31 ship collisions remained with the convoy and now moving back to the US west coast after unloading in Auckland.

Daily coastwatcher entries from 1/06 Operations report follow.

Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Buna
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Manus
Coastwatcher Report: 4 ships in port at Luganville
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 5 Japanese ships at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 2 Japanese ships at 107,126 near Rabaul, Speed 11, Moving Northeast
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed 13, Moving Northwest
Coastwatcher Report: 1 ship in port at Thousand Ships Bay
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Lae
Coastwatcher Report: 5 ships in port at Milne Bay
Coastwatcher Report: harbor at Rabaul is reported empty
Coastwatcher Report: 3 ships in port at Woodlark Island
Coastwatcher sighting: 3 Japanese ships at 106,125 near Rabaul, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,136 near Thousand Ships Bay, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 116,159 near Lifou, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 114,138 near Lunga, Speed unknown
Coastwatcher sighting: 1 Japanese ship at 115,160 near Noumea, Speed unknown


Burma: Detected status of Jap base in Rangoon from British aerial recon – no Japanese ships anchored in port, 1 Jap TF in harbor (-1 from last report), 43 aircraft (43 fighters, no bombers), 9 Jap LCU’s.


China: Japanese ground bombardment attacks at Chengtu and outside Chungking, no significant changes in AAR’s.