Anyone interested in some intellectual exercise?

I concur with taking advantage of this opportunity.

We seem to be doing well, good to see the situation around Ichang cleared up and ground communications reestablished, and that our bombers are having an impact.

This is the partially constructed FOB I ordered the SASO companies to fall back to earlier when we stumbled upon two undetected enemy Chinese Corps, the 111th SASO got somewhat shot up, and I have ordered additional major formations to move forward to engage. It appears the KMT are looking for a fight, we'll give them one. Unfortunately, we have only minimal air assets we can bring to bear, and only intrinsic (75mm) artillery and mortars. I do have two mechanized formations, I earlier decided to reinforce with from Samah, moving to contact as rapidly as possible.

I concur.

We've been exchanging artillery, and hitting this unit with airstrikes at Kweiteh since the first of the month. I decided they were sufficiently weakened, even though entrenched, that we'd go ahead and drive them out of the area. We did so, no friendly casualties. Enemy force completely wiped out. Remove 69th Corps from the enemies order of battle. The 51st Corps had been involved also, they apparently withdrew the majority of their personnel prior to the assault.

Excellent! Banzai!

 

O.K. now to another question. I have our main fleet carriers operating in pairs, Akagi/Kaga, Soryu/Hiryu, and Shokaku/Zuikaku, does this meet with approval?
-We will soon be getting the first of our CLAA conversions out of the shipyards, I thought best to employ them two per fleet carrier deck. That way if damage or tactical need forces us to split the task force, the two CLAA's paired with a particular carrier would remain with it. In the case they're operating in a task force as designed we'd have four CLAA's, one to cover each quadrant. Advice/opinions?
-I think 4 fleet destroyers per carrier is also appropriate for the same reasons. When operating as designed we'd have eight per carrier division task force. Advice/opinion?
-It is not currently planned to operate any of our fast BB's within a carrier task force. They may be used in conjunction, in a seperate TF or ahead as a screening force, but I do not currently anticipate their inclusion in the actual carrier division TF. Advice/opinion?
-Do you think it advisable to operate our heavy cruisers with the carrier divisions? If so how many per division/TF?

 

The two-ship divisional assignments make sense, but our primary operating mode should be as a unified Kido Butai comprising all six fleet carriers or at least four. This will both mass striking power and maximize defensive power/minimize risk. Conversely if we do employ a two-carrier division independently, it should be in a low-risk situation needing fewer escorts. Is it necessary or more convenient to attach CLAAs and destroyers to the carrier divisions? The proportions you suggest are good for a two-carrier division, but a four- or six-carrier force does not necessarily need 2-3 times as many escorts.

2 CLAAs per carrier means all twelve Kuma, Nagara, and Sendai class ships, less Oi and Kitakami which I assume will be used in their intended surface role. The CLAAs should reduce the need for fleet destroyers with the carriers. We currently have only about 67 Fubuki through Kagero classes, so I would recommend against assigning 24 of them to the carriers on a standing basis. A six-carrier Kido Butai could be well protected against air and submarine threats with say eight CLAAs and twelve DDs.

If a carrier TF is not going to include BBs or CAs, they should be available as a screening or covering force. A BB or CA force would also include additional fleet DDs.

 

I agree using Kido Butai in mass is the best option. However, instead of one big task force I was intending to have each division under it's own commander and all three under an overall commander. All divisions would operate in the same general area, but seperated by say ten miles. That might help prevent detection of the entire force and if one is detected and suffers a first strike the other two can retaliate, provide cover for the division hit or take on their aircraft. It will also help if allied search aircraft do spot one of the elements, they would probably report two decks, when we actually have six. The allied commander will devise his scheme of battle based upon what he thinks he's up against. He might even hesitate, waiting to see if other carriers are in the area, or hold back some aircraft in case he discovers another group. However, I am not an Admiral and will willfully and enthusiastically implement any operational scheme that yourself and Admiral Takao agree upon.

 

Office of Minister of War
Sunday 26 October 1941

No meeting of the council.

 

Office of Minister of War
Monday 27 October 1941

AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR Oct 25, 41
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 75th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 6
Ki-51 Sonia x 19

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
8 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
8 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 32nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 32nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 8th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 12 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-51 Sonia x 22

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
11 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
7 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
4 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 2nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 3rd New Chinese Corps, at 85,54 (Nanchang)

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 15 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-51 Sonia x 20

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
10 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
10 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 68th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 4,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 9
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 55

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

Allied ground losses:
236 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 13 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 18 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
21 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
21 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
13 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 88th Chinese Corps, at 89,56

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 30 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 33

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
3 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
6 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
2 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
7 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 88th Chinese Corps, at 89,56

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 25 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 9 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 17

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
1 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 86th Chinese Corps, at 86,59

Weather in hex: Severe storms

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E7K2 Alf x 17

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb
13 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 70th Chinese Corps ...


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 4,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 23

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
14 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb



--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid spotted at 17 NM, estimated altitude 4,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 14

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

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

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb



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

Ground combat at grid 7558

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 21516 troops, 287 guns, 381 vehicles, Assault Value = 708

Defending force 1054 troops, 10 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 7

Japanese adjusted assault: 765

Allied adjusted defense: 1

Japanese assault odds: 765 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE grid 7558 !!!

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

Allied ground losses:
1538 casualties reported
Squads: 35 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 145 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 20 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 13 (13 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units destroyed 1

Assaulting units:
15th Infantry Battalion
15th Armored Battalion
3d Light Tank Battalion
4th Med Tank Battalion
47th Infantry Division
138th SASO

Defending units:
2nd Prov Chinese Corps

This is one of the KMT corps that threatened Hangchow earlier this month. Our forces caught them as they were pulling back to the KMT held city of Chuhsien. The enemy forces were completely destroyed. 2d Provisional Corps can be removed from the enemy OOB.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1672 troops, 96 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 282

Defending force 6472 troops, 39 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 20

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

Assaulting units:
97th SASO
98th SASO
92d SASO
91st SASO
95th SASO
94th SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
96th SASO
93d SASO
90th SASO
21st Sinyang
99th SASO
6th Seige Gun Brigade
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment

Defending units:
12th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps


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

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1580 troops, 91 guns, 91 vehicles, Assault Value = 356

Defending force 45598 troops, 322 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1039

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

Assaulting units:
53d SASO
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
72d SASO
73d SASO
Ichang MP Co.
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade

Defending units:
32nd Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps


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

Ground combat at F0B 8659 (86,59)

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 32676 troops, 356 guns, 150 vehicles, Assault Value = 993

Defending force 16332 troops, 76 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 626

Japanese adjusted assault: 403

Allied adjusted defense: 441

Japanese assault odds: 1 to 2

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

Japanese ground losses:
498 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 37 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 7 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled

Allied ground losses:
978 casualties reported
Squads: 5 destroyed, 116 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 15 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 3 disabled
Guns lost 9 (2 destroyed, 7 disabled)

Assaulting units:
110th SASO
85th Infantry Division
111th SASO
113th SASO
86th Infantry Division
114th SASO

Defending units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
Tough fight with these two corps (70th & 86th) we took more casualties than I would have liked, but we should be able to annihilate them once our two mechanized
infantry regiments come up (17th and 18th). We can reinforce the enemy cannot. It also shows how inadequate supporting arms (air and artillery) adversely effects our capabilities.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at grid 7856

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 630 troops, 0 guns, 84 vehicles, Assault Value = 43

Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0

Japanese adjusted assault: 47

Allied adjusted defense: 1

Japanese assault odds: 47 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE grid 7856 !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker: leaders(+)

Assaulting units:
2d Light Tank Battalion

Enemy forces pulled back into Kukong we control this area, but if we leave 2d Lt. Tank out here by themselves they are in danger of being cut off. I do not think them strong enough to take Kukong without infantry support, and Kukong was not a phase one target (we have secured all phase one objectives). I recommend pulling them back to Wuchow. If we want to take Kukong we have a strong force (15th Corps) operating against a KMT corps south of there (the 63d at grid 79,58, we've had ongoing airstrikes). Once, our 15th Corps deals with the KMT 63d Corps we can redirect them north to take this position if the council so desires, chances are 63d Corps will retreat in that direction.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at grid 8955

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 12819 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 348

Defending force 835 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1

Japanese adjusted assault: 366

Allied adjusted defense: 11

Japanese assault odds: 33 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE grid 8955 !!!

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

Allied ground losses:
330 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 31 destroyed, 5 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
101st Infantry Division

Defending units:
10th Group Army

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

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 5105 troops, 36 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 18

Defending force 9849 troops, 154 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 282

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

Assaulting units:
12th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
92d SASO
97th SASO
95th SASO
90th SASO
21st Sinyang
94th SASO
98th SASO
93d SASO
91st SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
96th SASO
99th SASO
6th Seige Gun Brigade
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment


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

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 19859 troops, 151 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1033

Defending force 10383 troops, 146 guns, 95 vehicles, Assault Value = 356

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

Assaulting units:
68th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
53d SASO
73d SASO
72d SASO
Ichang MP Co.
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade

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

Ground combat at F0B 8659 (86,59)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 8740 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 541

Defending force 33832 troops, 366 guns, 150 vehicles, Assault Value = 959

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

Assaulting units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
85th Infantry Division
111th SASO
110th SASO
113th SASO
86th Infantry Division
114th SASO
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR Oct 25, 41 (redacted)

CS Convoy TF 4 will load Fuel at Hirosaki/Aomori for return to Hakodate
CS Convoy TF 18 will load Supplies at Hirosaki/Aomori for return to Hakodate
Repairs completed on AMc Banshu Maru #8 at Taihoku, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on xAKL Kibi Maru at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on xAKL Teshio Maru at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on xAKL Bisaku Maru at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
CS Convoy TF 7 begins loading Resources at Fusan for delivery to Fukuoka
CS Convoy TF 11 will load Resources at Haiphong for return to Samah
Pilot killed in landing accident of D3A1 Val from JVNDB-01
D3A1 Val from CVDB-08 is damaged on landing
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily from 205th BmbAttk Grp is damaged on landing
Ki-27B Nate from 13th Fighter Hikota crashes on landing
Repairs completed on LB-114 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
No additional repairs possible on CV-06 Shokaku using currently assigned resources at Truk
Shimonoseki expands airfield to size 5
F0B 9645 expands fortifications to size 1
CA-14 Mikuma beginning refit in shipyard at Nagasaki/Sasebo

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR Oct 26, 41
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 2nd Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 12
Ki-51 Sonia x 22

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
1 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
3 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
4 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 32nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 2nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 2nd Chinese Corps ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 75th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid spotted at 2 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 0 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-51 Sonia x 19

No Japanese losses

Allied ground losses:
14 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
15 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
4 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 3rd New Chinese Corps, at 85,54 (Nanchang)

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-51 Sonia x 20

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-51 Sonia: 1 damaged

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

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
2 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
4 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 8th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid spotted at 17 NM, estimated altitude 2,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 33

No Japanese losses

Allied ground losses:
119 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 5 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 10 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
21 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
8 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
4 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 68th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 2,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 3
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 22

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

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

Aircraft Attacking:
13 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
9 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 88th Chinese Corps, at 89,56

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 16 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 22

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
12 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
2 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
2 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
2 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 88th Chinese Corps, at 89,56

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 13 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 11

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
2 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 88th Chinese Corps, at 89,56

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 19 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 17

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 86th Chinese Corps, at F0B 8659

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid spotted at 4 NM, estimated altitude 5,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 2 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E7K2 Alf x 4

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 70th Chinese Corps, at F0B 8659

Weather in hex: Light rain

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 2,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E7K2 Alf x 16

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at 9049

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 2298 troops, 30 guns, 109 vehicles, Assault Value = 64

Defending force 387 troops, 13 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 8

Japanese adjusted assault: 29

Allied adjusted defense: 3

Japanese assault odds: 9 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE 9049 !!!

Combat modifiers
Defender: preparation(-), morale(-), experience(-)
Attacker: leaders(-)

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

Allied ground losses:
198 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 4 disabled
Non Combat: 10 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 3 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 12 (12 destroyed, 0 disabled)
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
1st Mech Infantry Battalion

Defending units:
89th Chinese Corps
We've been fighting this Corps since early in the month around Pengpu. It retreated east across the river into AoNC's area. We will pursue and destroy.

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

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1672 troops, 96 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 281

Defending force 6444 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 16

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

Assaulting units:
21st Sinyang
94th SASO
96th SASO
90th SASO
91st SASO
98th SASO
92d SASO
97th SASO
93d SASO
95th SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
99th SASO
6th Seige Gun Brigade
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment

Defending units:
12th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps


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

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1572 troops, 91 guns, 91 vehicles, Assault Value = 357

Defending force 45356 troops, 322 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1029

Allied ground losses:
215 casualties reported
Squads: 12 destroyed, 21 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled
Guns lost 5 (4 destroyed, 1 disabled)

Assaulting units:
53d SASO
72d SASO
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
73d SASO
Ichang MP Co.
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade

Defending units:
67th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps


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

Ground combat at F0B 8659

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 32371 troops, 356 guns, 150 vehicles, Assault Value = 964

Defending force 15631 troops, 74 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 541

Assaulting units:
85th Infantry Division
111th SASO
86th Infantry Division
113th SASO
110th SASO
114th SASO

Defending units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps


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

Ground combat at 8956

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 1616 troops, 0 guns, 100 vehicles, Assault Value = 60

Defending force 1955 troops, 35 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 16

Japanese adjusted assault: 44

Allied adjusted defense: 2

Japanese assault odds: 22 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE 8956 !!!

Combat modifiers
Defender: leaders(+), disruption(-), preparation(-), morale(-)
experience(-)
Attacker:

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

Allied ground losses:
900 casualties reported
Squads: 41 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 35 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 9 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 2 (1 destroyed, 1 disabled)
Units retreated 1

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
9th Armored
10th Armored

Defending units:
88th Chinese Corps

Another of the KMT corps positioned outside Hangchow, we've driven them almost back to Chuhsien.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at 9542

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 388 troops, 4 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 13

Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0

Japanese adjusted assault: 4

Allied adjusted defense: 1

Japanese assault odds: 4 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE 9542 !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker: leaders(-)

Assaulting units:
12th SASO
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at 9540

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 388 troops, 4 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 13

Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0

Japanese adjusted assault: 8

Allied adjusted defense: 1

Japanese assault odds: 8 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE 9540 !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker: leaders(-)

Assaulting units:
13th SASO
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at 9058

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 388 troops, 2 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 171

Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0

Japanese adjusted assault: 15

Allied adjusted defense: 1

Japanese assault odds: 15 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE 9058 !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker:

Assaulting units:
12th Armored Battalion
51st Infantry Battalion
101st SASO
50th Corps
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 5104 troops, 36 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 15

Defending force 9838 troops, 154 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 281

Assaulting units:
12th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
97th SASO
96th SASO
92d SASO
95th SASO
90th SASO
94th SASO
21st Sinyang
93d SASO
91st SASO
98th SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
99th SASO
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
6th Seige Gun Brigade
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment

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

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 26836 troops, 186 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 1005

Defending force 10382 troops, 146 guns, 95 vehicles, Assault Value = 357

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

Assaulting units:
45th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
53d SASO
72d SASO
73d SASO
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
Ichang MP Co.
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at F0B 8659 (86,59)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 15631 troops, 74 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 541

Defending force 33873 troops, 366 guns, 150 vehicles, Assault Value = 964

Assaulting units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
113th SASO
110th SASO
111th SASO
85th Infantry Division
86th Infantry Division
114th SASO
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Nanchang (85,54)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 5547 troops, 54 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 163

Defending force 10664 troops, 152 guns, 29 vehicles, Assault Value = 274

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

Assaulting units:
3rd New Chinese Corps

Defending units:
85th SASO
80th SASO
88th SASO
83d SASO
84th SASO
81st SASO
82d SASO
33d Nanchang Battalion
184th Regimental Combat Team
87th SASO
86th SASO
89th SASO
145th ArmyAvMaint C
105th ArmyAvMaint C
8th C.China SASO Detachment
1042d AA Battalion
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR Oct 26, 41 (redacted)

CS Convoy TF 11 will load Resources at Haiphong for return to Samah
Repairs completed on DD-10 Yukaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-06 Yakaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-08 Shiokaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-09 Akikaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-07 Hakaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-03 Okikaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-02 Sawakaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-01 Minekaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on SST I-5 at Shimonoseki, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on SST I-4 at Shimonoseki, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on SST I-3 at Shimonoseki, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on SST I-2 at Shimonoseki, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on SST I-1 at Shimonoseki, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on CL-105 Tatsuta at Yokohama/Yokosuka, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on CL-104 Tenryu at Yokohama/Yokosuka, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on CL-108 Oi at Yokohama/Yokosuka, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on CL-107 Kitakami at Yokohama/Yokosuka, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on CL-109 Tama at Yokohama/Yokosuka, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on CL-106 Kuma at Yokohama/Yokosuka, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DE-01 Hasu at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DE-02 Kuri at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DE-03 Tsuga at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DE-04 Hishu at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DE-05 Kiku at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DE-06 Susuki at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DE-07 Tsuta at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DE-08 Yomogi at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LB-115 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LB-501 at Saipan, ship returned to service
No additional repairs possible on CV-06 Shokaku using currently assigned resources at Truk
D3A1 Val from JVNDB-01 crashes on landing
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily from 200th BmbAttk Grp is damaged on landing
Repairs completed on AMc Ataka Maru at Taihoku, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on AMc Banshu Maru #51 at Taihoku, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LB-116 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LB-135 at Saipan, ship returned to service
No additional repairs possible on CV-06 Shokaku using currently assigned resources at Truk
CS Convoy TF 5 begins loading Oil at Muroran for delivery to Ominato
Shanghai expands airfield to size 5
FLB 9051 expands fortifications to size 1

 

On the 25th I made the following analysis:

"We've been exchanging artillery, and hitting this unit with airstrikes at Kweiteh since the first of the month. I decided they were sufficiently weakened, even though entrenched, that we'd go ahead and drive them out of the area. We did so, no friendly casualties. Enemy force completely wiped out. Remove 69th Corps from the enemies order of battle. The 51st Corps had been involved also, they apparently withdrew the majority of their personnel prior to the assault."

Based upon a radio intercept, 51st Corps was destroyed in the fighting. The KMT is planning to try and reconstitute, at Chungking, three of the units we have destroyed 2d Provisional, 51st and 69th Corps.

 

Enemy forces pulled back into Kukong we control this area, but if we leave 2d Lt. Tank out here by themselves they are in danger of being cut off. I do not think them strong enough to take Kukong without infantry support, and Kukong was not a phase one target (we have secured all phase one objectives). I recommend pulling them back to Wuchow. If we want to take Kukong we have a strong force (15th Corps) operating against a KMT corps south of there (the 63d at grid 79,58, we've had ongoing airstrikes). Once, our 15th Corps deals with the KMT 63d Corps we can redirect them north to take this position if the council so desires, chances are 63d Corps will retreat in that direction.

I am not familiar with the specifics, but your reasoning is sound. We've seen that the Chinese can concentrate against an isolated unit if we give them the opportunity. Also true that armor cannot conduct sustained operations without infantry and other supporting arms. Where we engage, it should be with force sufficient to ensure success.

No additional repairs possible on CV-06 Shokaku using currently assigned resources at Truk.

What repairs does Shokaku need? We will need her fully operational when we open hostilities with the western powers.

 

I'll try and get a screen shot so you can visualize what we're doing in that sector. (There is a free planning map online that I'd provided a link to earlier in the thread, if anyone is interested I'll repost the link)

Mostly just minor operational wear and tear, but she did develop some minor engine issues during her transit. I had put the crew to work making repairs, but apparently the engine issue was beyond their ability to repair with resources at hand. I have shipped construction units and supplies to Truk, and have them employed in improving the port and airfield facilities as rapidly as possible, building docks, quays, started work on a couple drydocks, warehouses, machine shops, etc. In this particular case, I had sent an AR to this location before sending the CV and SS task forces there. Unfortunately, the AR travels much slower and only arrived today. I have ordered her to assist in repairing Shokaku, so she will be in prime shape when we need her. I've been trying to preposition units so any necessary repairs, or resupply issues are taken care of well before we kick off our offensive.
As I stated earlier in the thread (many moons ago), ships (and aircraft) take damage from normal wear and tear, weather, accident, it's historical reliability/unreliability, etc. Operate your ships at high operational tempos, high speed, extreme distances, in bad weather, with inadequate support (parts/supplies/repair resources/facilities) and pretty soon you have a lot of decrepit/unusable ships. I go through the ships every couple days and sort by damage and pull those ships and repair them, most times the crews can take care of repairs pierside and they don't show up in the operational report. More serious repairs, where I have to stand them down and use port repair facilities are reported in the operational report when they return to service. In the case of Shokaku, I had her crew making repairs, and they did repair some minor hull damage, but I was notified that the engine damage was beyond their capabilities. (non combat damage to a ship is broken down into, hull, system, floatation, engines, and fire and then minor or major in each area. Minor damage the crew can normally fix, they can fix it faster with better facilities, or naval support personnel assigned to a port/anchorage and fastest in a repair shipyard. Major damage usually requires more extensive port facilities, repair shipyard, support ship, AS,AG,AD,AR,ARD etc. The support ship also needs to be of the correct type so an AS (submarine tender) can't effectively repair a destroyer, but an AD (destroyer tender) can. An AR can repair most types of damage except major hull/floatation damage, you'd need to drydock (of proper size) or have an ARD (with correct capacity) to perform the repairs. As to drydock size, you can't repair a 30,000 ton carrier in a 10,000 ton drydock, but could repair a 10,000 ton cruiser in the same. You'll notice there are a lot of AMc's (Coastal minesweeper) on the last several OR's, that's because I had a number of them anchored at Samah in preparation for our offensive operations. They're short range and I wanted to keep them close to where we'd need them. Most of the combatant ships, transports, and cargo ships we'll need for our Malaya/Borneo operations I'm moving a few at a time to Cam Rahn Bay, Saigon. I figured as we needed them for clearing minefields for our Malaya/Borneo landings I could send them to Cam Rahn, refuel and then get into position. Unfortunately, a big storm came through and them being small and fragile, a bunch were damaged. I've since sent the damaged ones to several nearby shipyards for repair and they should all be in good shape in time for our offensive operations. There are also a lot of landing boats (Daihatsu) both 47' and 57' types popping up in the OR. During the Ichang crisis I was using them to run supplies, munitions and replacement personnel up the Yangtzee to Hankow. The airstrikes use a lot of supply, AvGas, spare parts, lubricants, and then you have the munitions dropped. I didn't want to curtail ops due to lack of supply and we were using more than was being moved overland, so I sent Daihatsu protected by gunboats on supply runs to Hankow. The Chinese have control of the south bank of the river in numerous locations and we took some damage. It is now repaired. I've also been using them to run supplies from Saipan over to Tinian, cargo ships dock at Saipan and Tinian having only rudimentary port facilities I thought it more efficient/easier to use the smaller barges.
Hope this explains your questions (and good questions they are! You're noticing the details.)

This brings me to another question for the council in general. I had considered, once we get our combatant upgrades finished and have the capacity, to convert a few Kyushu class cargo ships to AR's. Your opinion?

 

Office of Minister of War
Tuesday 28 October 1941

AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR Oct 27, 41
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 3rd New Chinese Corps, at 85,54 (Nanchang)

Weather in hex: Clear sky

Raid spotted at 9 NM, estimated altitude 15,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-51 Sonia x 20

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-51 Sonia: 2 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
6 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
8 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 88th Chinese Corps, at 88,56 (Chuhsien)

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid spotted at 19 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 39

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
7 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
2 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
11 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
6 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
5 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 16th Construction Regiment ...
Also attacking 3rd War Area ...
Also attacking 88th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 16th Construction Regiment ...
Also attacking 88th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 16th Construction Regiment ...
Also attacking 88th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 16th Construction Regiment ...
Also attacking 88th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 16th Construction Regiment ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 88th Chinese Corps, at 88,56 (Chuhsien)

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid spotted at 17 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 18

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
6 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 70th Chinese Corps, at F0B 8659

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 15 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E7K2 Alf x 4

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 86th Chinese Corps, at F0B 8659

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 3 NM, estimated altitude 5,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 1 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E7K2 Alf x 16

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on 75th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid spotted at 16 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 6
Ki-51 Sonia x 14

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
8 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
4 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 13 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 9

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 4 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 1 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 14

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 14

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on 8th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 4,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 6
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 26

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

Allied ground losses:
85 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 11 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 8 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
13 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
13 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on 68th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 3
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 9

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
9 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Liuchow (74,55)

Japanese Shock attack

Attacking force 37994 troops, 536 guns, 175 vehicles, Assault Value = 1085

Defending force 9683 troops, 47 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 189

Japanese adjusted assault: 1138

Allied adjusted defense: 68

Japanese assault odds: 16 to 1 (fort level 2)

Japanese forces CAPTURE Liuchow !!!

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

Japanese ground losses:
971 casualties reported
Squads: 2 destroyed, 46 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 13 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 5 disabled

Allied ground losses:
4227 casualties reported
Squads: 133 destroyed, 77 disabled
Non Combat: 151 destroyed, 33 disabled
Engineers: 41 destroyed, 4 disabled
Guns lost 26 (16 destroyed, 10 disabled)
Units retreated 7

Defeated Allied Units Retreating!

Assaulting units:
41st Infantry Brigade
40th Infantry Brigade
48th Infantry Division

Defending units:
31st Chinese Corps
4th War Area
52nd Chinese Corps
35th Group Army
7th Chinese Base Force
9th Group Army
9th Chinese Base Force

I had ordered this force to take up position at Liuchow, begin bombardment while awaiting follow on forces, and attack when these forces came up. The commander reached the position and launched a hasty assault. He was succesful, but I feel our casualties were excessive. I have ordered the units to hold in place, defend and take on replacements. I am not ready to blame the commander, the major enemy combat elements, were the 52d and 31st Corps. 52d Corps had been heavily attrited and was falling back to the position. The city had fairly good fortifications and the commander may have felt to allow them to take up position in those position may have made the city too formidable a target. Once forcing a crossing of the river he may have decided he had the initiative and that a delay would have been counter-productive.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1672 troops, 96 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 281

Defending force 6410 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 15

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

Assaulting units:
95th SASO
97th SASO
91st SASO
90th SASO
92d SASO
96th SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
94th SASO
21st Sinyang
93d SASO
98th SASO
99th SASO
6th Seige Gun Brigade
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment

Defending units:
12th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1564 troops, 91 guns, 91 vehicles, Assault Value = 358

Defending force 45021 troops, 322 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 997

Allied ground losses:
91 casualties reported
Squads: 3 destroyed, 6 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
73d SASO
53d SASO
72d SASO
Ichang MP Co.
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade

Defending units:
2nd Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at F0B 8659 (86,59)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 32412 troops, 366 guns, 150 vehicles, Assault Value = 1282

Defending force 15632 troops, 74 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 540

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

Assaulting units:
18th Mech Inf Regiment
86th Infantry Division
111th SASO
17th Mech Inf Regiment
85th Infantry Division
113th SASO
110th SASO
114th SASO

Defending units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps

I've located additional air assets to assist in our assault against these forces tomorrow. Hopefully, the disruption and armored/mech forces arriving will allow us to stop this KMT drive and repulse it.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 5090 troops, 36 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 14

Defending force 9838 troops, 154 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 281

Assaulting units:
12th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
92d SASO
91st SASO
96th SASO
94th SASO
97th SASO
90th SASO
98th SASO
95th SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
21st Sinyang
93d SASO
99th SASO
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
6th Seige Gun Brigade
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 26705 troops, 186 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 987

Defending force 10381 troops, 146 guns, 95 vehicles, Assault Value = 358

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

Assaulting units:
32nd Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
53d SASO
72d SASO
73d SASO
Ichang MP Co.
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at F0B 8659 (86,59)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 15625 troops, 74 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 539

Defending force 43645 troops, 502 guns, 430 vehicles, Assault Value = 1282

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

Assaulting units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
113th SASO
85th Infantry Division
18th Mech Inf Regiment
86th Infantry Division
110th SASO
17th Mech Inf Regiment
111th SASO
114th SASO
----------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR Oct 27, 41 (redacted)

Repairs completed on LB-117 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on xAKL Togo Maru at Samah, ship returned to service
No additional repairs possible on CV-06 Shokaku using currently assigned resources at Truk
CS Convoy TF 18 begins loading Resources at Hakodate for delivery to Hirosaki/Aomori
CS Convoy TF 7 will load Supplies at Fukuoka for return to Fusan
Repairs completed on LB-118 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LSD-01 Shinshu Maru at Babeldaob, ship returned to service
No additional repairs possible on CV-06 Shokaku using currently assigned resources at Truk
CS Convoy TF 3 begins loading Oil at Shikuka for delivery to Sapporo
CS Convoy TF 4 begins loading Resources at Hakodate for delivery to Hirosaki/Aomori
CS Convoy TF 22 begins loading Resources at Shikuka for delivery to Sapporo
CS Convoy TF 23 begins loading Resources at Hakodate for delivery to Hirosaki/Aomori
Japanese forces CAPTURE Liuchow !!!
F0B 7156 expands fortifications to size 1
F0B 7658 expands fortifications to size 1
F0B 7660 expands fortifications to size 1
F0B 7757 expands fortifications to size 1

 

As far as the mining the subs could travel around Java/Sumatra and then move into position just before hostilities. I would suggest right around the north end of Sumatra for the mines if needed since that is the start of the choke point and yet offers some maneuver room. For the BC and CA, I suggest having a group or two attached to KB, but with ability to go off if needed, when facing the British Dutch. I would not do this with the Americans For the AR Do we have enough trained mechanics and proper machinery to stock new ships??

 

I must confess, I misunderstood your intent when you originally raised this suggestion general.

I was thinking surface minelayers and not submarine deployed mines. Now, understanding your initial intent it makes a great deal of sense. Your method for movement to the place of employment is also based upon good tactical thinking. My concern with mining is that to be most effective we would have to deploy them south of Medan where the straits are narrowest. If we mine this area we've cut ourselves off from the oil at Medan until we can clear the minefield. If we do employ mines the density of the minefield will determine how effective it is at denying passage through the straits to British naval reinforcements. It will take numerous boats or several sorties (subs returning to replenish mines) before we have a reasonable barrier.
That being said, I am not saying we should not use this method, I am simply pointing out factors we should consider. The final decision on the proper course, whether to use active (subs) or passive (mines) means, a combination of the two, or some alternate method, should be made by the war council.

View attachment 22763

 

In a discussion related to Sea Lion someone actually produced some stats on how quickly minefields deteriated. I don't remember the exact numbers but it only took a few weeks for a mine field to become significantly degraded. This left many of the mines free floating in the area so depending on the currents and tides the area at hazard expanded significnatly. Storms could also accelerate this as could strong currents and bottom conditions. No idea how or if the game accounts for any of this. It does imply that offensive mine fields should be viewed as short term efforts at least until significant friendly forces are in the are.

 

Good points, the game does take into consideration minefield deterioration unless tended by minefield tenders. One of the issues I am concerned with is losing our own tankers to a minefield we deployed and the time we might require to effectively clear the field, or that after clearing we may lose vessels to mines we missed.

 

Office of Minister of War
Wednesday 29 October 1941

AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR Oct 28, 41
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 68th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 13
Ki-51 Sonia x 38

No Japanese losses

Allied ground losses:
69 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 7 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
5 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
8 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
9 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
2 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
8 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 3rd New Chinese Corps, at 85,54 (Nanchang)

Weather in hex: Thunderstorms

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-51 Sonia x 22

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-51 Sonia: 2 damaged

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

Aircraft Attacking:
5 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
5 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
12 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 7,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 18

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
12 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
3 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
3 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 38

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

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

Aircraft Attacking:
20 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
4 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
14 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 75th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 4,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 25

No Japanese losses

Allied ground losses:
178 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 17 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 12 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
21 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
4 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 8th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 16 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 2
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 30

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

Allied ground losses:
222 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 11 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 19 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
21 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
9 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 2nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 32nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 2nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 32nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 2nd Chinese Corps ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 100th Chinese Corps, at 90,58

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 19 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 27

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
2 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
9 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb

This is a KMT Corps attacking our forces approaching Wenchow. In their advance on Wenchow they expended more supply than was anticipated and I had not stockpiled at what was to become their main supply point, because this was not a planned operation, but exploiting the rapid collapse of KMT forces in this sector. I think perhaps I've become infected with "victory disease". In our earlier operations this month we stuck strictly to plan. Even KMT attempts to divert us from our planned operations by attacking Ichang and Sinyang did not overly divert our attention. Now, the Chinese have launched a series of offensives in response to our actions in this and other areas (an area no initial operations were planned for) and unlike our earlier fights where we have had the advantage of armor, plentiful air support and artillery, we are now fighting their fight in certain areas. I have ordered our forces here to hold in place while we work the enemy over with air and a task force of amphibious cargo ships has been ordered to resupply our force across the beach.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 100th Chinese Corps, at 90,58

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 3 NM, estimated altitude 11,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 0 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 14

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
10 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 86th Chinese Corps, at 86,59 (F0B 8659)

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 8 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 2 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 10
G3M2 Nell x 33

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
33 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 15000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 551lb SAP Bomb, 16 x 33lb GP Bomb, 4 x 132lb GP Bomb
6 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb

This engagement started when one Chinese Corps attempted to ambush one our SASO Co.'s several days back. I ordered them to pull back and fortify at the FOB we had just started building, then dispatched reinforcements. The Chinese reinforced with a second corps. We now face two the 70th and 86th. I feel we have sufficient forces in position to attack and defeat these units, but at what cost? My instincts say attack, my mind says hold for a time and attrit them with airpower. The latter is what I have ordered as well as a supply buildup at Foochow to support our operations. While we did not seek this fight, if we had not stumbled upon the two Chinese Corps they might have attacked and taken our position there.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 10th Group Army, at 88,55

Weather in hex: Partial cloud

Raid spotted at 9 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 3 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 18

No Japanese losses

Allied ground losses:
48 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 10 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
3 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
12 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb

This is a headquarters group and while I stated earlier that I was mistaken in letting us get so heavily engaged, off-plan, this is a unit we need to destroy to eliminate their direction of combat forces in this area.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 70th Chinese Corps, at 86,59

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 4,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 10 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E7K2 Alf x 4

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 70th Chinese Corps, at 86,59

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 3 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 1 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E7K2 Alf x 13

No Japanese losses

Aircraft Attacking:
13 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 70th Chinese Corps, at 86,59

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 12 NM, estimated altitude 18,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G3M2 Nell x 22

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
22 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 15000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 551lb SAP Bomb, 16 x 33lb GP Bomb, 4 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 7 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 2 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 6

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1672 troops, 96 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 281

Defending force 6487 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 15

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

Assaulting units:
91st SASO
92d SASO
93d SASO
94th SASO
97th SASO
90th SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
95th SASO
21st Sinyang
96th SASO
98th SASO
99th SASO
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
6th Seige Gun Brigade
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment

Defending units:
12th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1580 troops, 91 guns, 91 vehicles, Assault Value = 362

Defending force 44679 troops, 322 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 968

Allied ground losses:
153 casualties reported
Squads: 5 destroyed, 8 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 1 disabled
Engineers: 1 destroyed, 0 disabled

Assaulting units:
72d SASO
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
73d SASO
53d SASO
Ichang MP Co.
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade

Defending units:
8th Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at F0B 8659 (86,59)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 42547 troops, 496 guns, 430 vehicles, Assault Value = 1290

Defending force 15524 troops, 74 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 529

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

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

Assaulting units:
17th Mech Inf Regiment
110th SASO
111th SASO
18th Mech Inf Regiment
86th Infantry Division
85th Infantry Division
113th SASO
114th SASO

Defending units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at F0B 7460

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 5428 troops, 63 guns, 25 vehicles, Assault Value = 224

Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0

Japanese adjusted assault: 166

Allied adjusted defense: 1

Japanese assault odds: 166 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE grid 7460 !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker:

Assaulting units:
20th Cavalry Battalion
13th Infantry Regimental Combat Team
21st Cavalry Battalion
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at 7457

Japanese Deliberate attack

Attacking force 630 troops, 0 guns, 84 vehicles, Assault Value = 43

Defending force 0 troops, 0 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 0

Japanese adjusted assault: 46

Allied adjusted defense: 1

Japanese assault odds: 46 to 1 (fort level 0)

Japanese forces CAPTURE grid 7457 !!!

Combat modifiers
Attacker: leaders(+)

Assaulting units:
3d Light Tank Battalion
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 5103 troops, 36 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 13

Defending force 9843 troops, 154 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 281

Assaulting units:
29th Chinese Corps
12th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
90th SASO
92d SASO
95th SASO
94th SASO
93d SASO
97th SASO
91st SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
98th SASO
96th SASO
21st Sinyang
99th SASO
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
6th Seige Gun Brigade
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 10910 troops, 76 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 958

Defending force 10447 troops, 149 guns, 95 vehicles, Assault Value = 362

Assaulting units:
45th Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
72d SASO
73d SASO
53d SASO
Ichang MP Co.
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at F0B 8659 (86,59)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 8673 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 527

Defending force 43706 troops, 502 guns, 430 vehicles, Assault Value = 1290

Assaulting units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
110th SASO
113th SASO
86th Infantry Division
17th Mech Inf Regiment
18th Mech Inf Regiment
85th Infantry Division
111th SASO
114th SASO
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Nanchang (85,54)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 5509 troops, 54 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 160

Defending force 10659 troops, 152 guns, 29 vehicles, Assault Value = 274

Assaulting units:
3rd New Chinese Corps

Defending units:
83d SASO
88th SASO
86th SASO
82d SASO
87th SASO
33d Nanchang Battalion
84th SASO
85th SASO
184th Regimental Combat Team
81st SASO
80th SASO
89th SASO
105th ArmyAvMaint C
145th ArmyAvMaint C
8th C.China SASO Detachment
1042d AA Battalion
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR Oct 28, 41 (redacted)

Repairs completed on DD-14 Namikaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-13 Nokaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-11 Tachikaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-12 Hokaze at Hiroshima/Kure, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LB-119 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LB-120 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
CS Convoy TF 7 begins loading Resources at Fusan for delivery to Fukuoka
CS Convoy TF 20 will load Supplies at Kagoshima for return to Shanghai
H6K4 Mavis reports radio transmissions at 106, 96 near Guam
Ki-51 Sonia from 14th LtBmb Hikotai crashes on landing
E7K2 Alf from JVNUFlt-15 is damaged on landing
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily from 202d BmbAttk Grp is damaged on landing
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily from 205th BmbAttk Grp is damaged on landing
D3A1 Val from JVNDB-07 is damaged on landing
Repairs completed on AMc Choun Maru #7 at Taihoku, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LB-122 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LB-123 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on LB-124 at Tungchow, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on CV-06 Shokaku at Truk, ship returned to service-Admiral Karronada
CS Convoy TF 5 begins loading Oil at Muroran for delivery to Ominato
CS Convoy TF 17 begins loading Supplies at Takao for delivery to Cam Ranh Bay
Tsingtao expands airfield to size 5
Tsingtao expands port to size 5-Tsingtao is intended as our main operational base for the Army of North China operational area and as you can see, we are improving the facilities there. It will be the point of entry for supplies and troops and port through which we export raw materials and locally produced goods back to the home islands.
Background information:

Tsingtao (Qīngdǎo; 120.318E 36.077N) is a superb natural port at the base of the Shantung Peninsula of China. In 1898, the Germans had pressured the Chinese into granting a 99-year lease on an area of about 190 square miles (500 km2) around the port, and by 1914 the city had a thoroughly German character (complete with thousands of imported German pines and oaks) and a modern harbor with a large floating dry dock. The base was seized by Japan during the First World War, when Japan was a British ally, and the leased territory reverted to China in December 1922. However, the failure of the Allies to hand Tsingtao back to China immediately led the Chinese government to reject the Versailles Treaty and provoked demonstrations throughout China.
By 1937 the population had grown to about 600,000 persons and cotton and tobacco were produced in the hinterland. There was an airfield nearby.
The city was deliberately burned by the retreating Kuomintang on 31 December 1937, as part of a scorched earth policy. It was occupied by Japanese naval forces in mid-January 1938, which advanced along the railroad to link up with 10 Division at Tsinan.

Chengchow expands airfield to size 2
Kweiteh expands fortifications to size 1
F0B 7558 expands fortifications to size 1
F0B 8659 expands fortifications to size 2
DD-S66 Shiratsuyu beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-S67 Shigure beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-S68 Murasame beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-S69 Yudachi beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-H60 Hatsuharu beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-H61 Nenohi beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-H63 Hatsushimo beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-H62 Wakaba beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-H65 Yugure beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-H64 Ariake beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-F59 Inazuma beginning refit in shipyard at Hiroshima/Kure
DD-28 Uzuki beginning refit in shipyard at Port Arthur
DD-29 Satsuki beginning refit in shipyard at Port Arthur
DD-30 Minazuki beginning refit in shipyard at Port Arthur
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Combined with the air scout possibility of other subs. We could try to coordinate a sub laying right in front of incoming tasks forces

 

Office of Minister of War
Thursday 30 October 1941

AFTER ACTION REPORTS FOR Oct 29, 41
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 2nd Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

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

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 9
Ki-51 Sonia x 19

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
9 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
4 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 2nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 75th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 2nd Chinese Corps ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 3rd New Chinese Corps, at 85,54 (Nanchang)

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-51 Sonia x 22

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-51 Sonia: 2 damaged

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

Aircraft Attacking:
8 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
12 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
2 x Ki-51 Sonia releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 4 x 110lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 20 NM, estimated altitude 4,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 28

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
9 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
3 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 6 NM, estimated altitude 5,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 1 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 14

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 1 NM, estimated altitude 5,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 0 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 14

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

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

Aircraft Attacking:
14 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 8th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 5 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-27B Nate x 6
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 34

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

Allied ground losses:
217 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 14 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 23 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
21 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
13 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 2nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 45th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 8th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 67th Chinese Corps ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 68th Chinese Corps, at 83,48 (Ichang)

Weather in hex: Heavy cloud

Raid spotted at 15 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 21

Japanese aircraft losses
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily: 1 damaged

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

Aircraft Attacking:
21 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb

Also attacking 32nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 32nd Chinese Corps ...
Also attacking 68th Chinese Corps ...
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 100th Chinese Corps, at 90,58

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 18 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 6 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 41

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
13 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
5 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
9 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
Further reconaissance indicates this is one of the stronger KMT formations, the 100th a part of the KMT 25th Group Army appears to have each of it's divisions at about 75% strength so we're facing 22-23,000 troops. I think holding in place and whittling them down is the proper course.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 70th Chinese Corps, at 86,59 (F0B 8659)

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 1 NM, estimated altitude 12,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 0 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 20

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
11 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
5 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
4 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 70th Chinese Corps, at 86,59 (F0B 8659)

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 11 NM, estimated altitude 13,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G3M2 Nell x 33

No Japanese losses

Allied ground losses:
60 casualties reported
Squads: 1 destroyed, 2 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 4 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Aircraft Attacking:
33 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 15000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 551lb SAP Bomb, 16 x 33lb GP Bomb, 4 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 10th Group Army, at 88,55

Weather in hex: Light cloud

Raid spotted at 30 NM, estimated altitude 14,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 11 minutes

Japanese aircraft
D3A1 Val x 18

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
3 x D3A1 Val releasing from 2000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
7 x D3A1 Val releasing from 1000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
8 x D3A1 Val releasing from 3000'
Ground Attack: 1 x 551lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 86th Chinese Corps, at 86,59 (F0B 8659)

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 8 NM, estimated altitude 5,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E7K2 Alf x 16

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
16 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 70th Chinese Corps, at 86,59 (F0B 8659)

Weather in hex: Moderate rain

Raid spotted at 12 NM, estimated altitude 19,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 4 minutes

Japanese aircraft
G3M2 Nell x 22

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
22 x G3M2 Nell bombing from 15000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 551lb SAP Bomb, 16 x 33lb GP Bomb, 4 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Morning Air attack on 63rd Chinese Corps, at 79,58

Weather in hex: Overcast

Raid spotted at 2 NM, estimated altitude 6,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 0 minutes

Japanese aircraft
Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily x 6

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
6 x Ki-48-IB (UA) Lily bombing and strafing from low level
Ground Attack: 4 x 220lb GP Bomb, 8 x 33lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Afternoon Air attack on 86th Chinese Corps, at 86,59 (F0B 8659)

Weather in hex: Heavy rain

Raid spotted at 14 NM, estimated altitude 3,000 feet.
Estimated time to target is 8 minutes

Japanese aircraft
E7K2 Alf x 4

No Japanese losses

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

Aircraft Attacking:
4 x E7K2 Alf bombing from 2000 feet
Ground Attack: 2 x 132lb GP Bomb
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1672 troops, 96 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 280

Defending force 6449 troops, 37 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 16

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

Assaulting units:
90th SASO
21st Sinyang
95th SASO
94th SASO
91st SASO
92d SASO
97th SASO
93d SASO
98th SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
96th SASO
99th SASO
6th Seige Gun Brigade
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment

Defending units:
12th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1572 troops, 91 guns, 91 vehicles, Assault Value = 363

Defending force 44419 troops, 322 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 952

Allied ground losses:
249 casualties reported
Squads: 6 destroyed, 18 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled
Guns lost 2 (2 destroyed, 0 disabled)

Assaulting units:
72d SASO
53d SASO
73d SASO
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
Ichang MP Co.
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade

Defending units:
2nd Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
45th Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at F0B 8659 (86,59)

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 42598 troops, 507 guns, 432 vehicles, Assault Value = 1296

Defending force 15435 troops, 74 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 523

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

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

Assaulting units:
110th SASO
18th Mech Inf Regiment
111th SASO
85th Infantry Division
113th SASO
17th Mech Inf Regiment
86th Infantry Division
114th SASO

Defending units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps

First time we've come off worse in an IDF exchange.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at F0B 7259 (72,59)-defensive position on outskirts of the recently seized port of Kwangchowan. Being held by the 22d Maizuru SNLF Battalion. Artillery is enroute and the 17th Mechanized Bn is now unloading at the port to reinforce. The battalion is only equipped with mortars and 70mm Type 92 howitzers.


Type 92 70mm howitzer

Japanese Bombardment attack

Attacking force 1387 troops, 18 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 50

Defending force 4723 troops, 43 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 178

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

Assaulting units:
22d Maizuru SNLF Battalion

Defending units:
64th Chinese Corps

This Corps came out of nowhere, it must be the garrison of Pakhoi, if so we have an opportunity. An amphibious seizure of Pakhoi would cut their only supply line, and take that port without a fight. Our ability to pull this off will depend upon the 22d Maizuru's ability to hold it's position against an entire KMT Corps (three divisions with a TOE of 10,000 each, but in practice normally about half strength, still a formidable force). The 22d Maizuru does hold a strong position, but lacks heavy supporting arms, we do have an artillery battalion enroute.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Sinyang (86,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 5118 troops, 36 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 16

Defending force 9832 troops, 154 guns, 96 vehicles, Assault Value = 280

Assaulting units:
12th Chinese Corps
29th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
92d SASO
97th SASO
96th SASO
4th RoC Grn Dragon Regiment
91st SASO
21st Sinyang
90th SASO
95th SASO
93d SASO
98th SASO
94th SASO
99th SASO
103d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
6th Seige Gun Brigade
102d RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
9th C.China SASO Detachment
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at Ichang (83,48)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 22454 troops, 146 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 933

Defending force 10476 troops, 149 guns, 95 vehicles, Assault Value = 363

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

Assaulting units:
45th Chinese Corps
2nd Chinese Corps
67th Chinese Corps
8th Chinese Corps
68th Chinese Corps
32nd Chinese Corps
75th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
72d SASO
53d SASO
1st RoC "Tiger" Division
73d SASO
Ichang MP Co.
104th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
105th RoC Inf Gun Field Artillery Battalion
7th Seige Gun Brigade
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at grid 8160

Allied Shock attack

Attacking force 4549 troops, 43 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 167

Defending force 5428 troops, 69 guns, 25 vehicles, Assault Value = 156

Allied adjusted assault: 34

Japanese adjusted defense: 73

Allied assault odds: 1 to 2 (fort level 0)

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

Japanese ground losses:
111 casualties reported
Squads: 0 destroyed, 13 disabled
Non Combat: 0 destroyed, 2 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 0 disabled

Allied ground losses:
1047 casualties reported
Squads: 8 destroyed, 150 disabled
Non Combat: 1 destroyed, 15 disabled
Engineers: 0 destroyed, 7 disabled
Guns lost 8 (1 destroyed, 7 disabled)

Assaulting units:
65th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
54th Infantry Regimental Combat Team
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at F0B 8659 (86,59)

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 6808 troops, 36 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 522

Defending force 43742 troops, 516 guns, 432 vehicles, Assault Value = 1294

Assaulting units:
70th Chinese Corps
86th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
110th SASO
86th Infantry Division
17th Mech Inf Regiment
111th SASO
113th SASO
85th Infantry Division
18th Mech Inf Regiment
114th SASO
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ground combat at 9058

Allied Bombardment attack

Attacking force 9684 troops, 38 guns, 0 vehicles, Assault Value = 399

Defending force 7469 troops, 40 guns, 204 vehicles, Assault Value = 184

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

Assaulting units:
100th Chinese Corps

Defending units:
51st Infantry Battalion
12th Armored Battalion
101st SASO
104th SASO
50th Corps
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
OPERATIONAL REPORT FOR Oct 29, 41 (redacted)

CS Convoy TF 20 will load Supplies at Kagoshima for return to Shanghai
Repairs completed on DD-02 Sawakaze at Yokohama/Yokosuka, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DD-07 Hakaze at Yokohama/Yokosuka, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on AMc Fumi Maru #2 at Taihoku, ship returned to service
CS Convoy TF 35 will load Supplies at Samah for return to Haiphong
Saipan expands airfield to size 4
Truk expands airfield to size 6
Liuchow expands fortifications to size 1
Repairs completed on DE-15 Karukaya at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Repairs completed on DE-13 Yugao at Port Arthur, ship returned to service
Low garrison leads to damage and 1 VP loss from partisan attack at Wuhu (89, 53)!-Obviously though we've cleared and liberated this town we need to keep a stronger presence in place until we can gain the local populace's trust.

 

Fm: Commanding General-Army of South China-JEF China-Canton China
DTG: 063030October41
Precedence-priority
To: Commander-JEF China;
Office of Minister of War;
Message: Approximately 2hrs. after dark (1949 local) the KMT 64th Corps launched a series of determined assaults against positions held by 22d Maizuru SNLF Bn outside Kwangchowan, China. On at least two occasions, friendly lines breached and integrity had to be restored with local counter attacks. Enemy forces broke contact and pulled back just before dawn, suspect to avoid retaliatory strikes by aircraft. 22d Maizuru SNLF continues to hold position.
58 bodies, enemy counted in and around position.
Friendly casualties 45KIA-2 DOW-96WIA-3MIA,presumed dead-Total 146

 

Clearly a threatening situation around Kwangchowan. One thought as before would be to use land-based aircraft to degrade the Chinese forces, but I am guessing we do not have many air units in the area? Could the navy assist, either with carrier planes or bombardment by battleships or cruisers? I do not as a general rule want to get our first-line naval forces tied down supporting ground operations in China, but we could offer a brief intervention to help stabilize the situation.

What is the current status of the Chinese cruisers Ning Hai and Ping Hai? We had discussed and I think agreed upon restoring them to our Chinese allies (I believe they are current at Sasebo, inactive). I don't suppose they could intervene at Kwangchowan in a timely manner, but they could be useful in similar situations in the future.

 

Actually we have quite a few KI-48's at Canton, I'll redirect them to hit the 64th Corps. I'll order the carriers at Takao to put to sea and take over the missions the KI-48's had been flying. We do not have extremely robust aviation assets at present, I've continually been expanding aircraft and engine production. I've assigned a number of training squadrons to China and have them flying operational missions 60%-training 30%-and have 10% stood down at any one time. Have to be careful to schedule sufficient rest if you want to fly for a prolonged period or fatigue becomes an issue. I figured kill two birds with one stone, and we had discussed using this method during our earlier discussions.
The carriers were staged at Takao and were performing refresher training. Having them intervene could be beneficial not only from a tactical perspective, but also if the British note they're being used operationally against the Chinese, and they will, they will become used to them being used in the area. They will probably not be as concerned when we have them operating later moving to start our offensive against them, as it will not be an unusual occurrence.
The action is taking place too far inland for naval gunfire support.

You are correct both are inactive at Sasebo. They are serving as barracks hulks. Current scheduling would have them rebuilt and re-commissioned on 25 Mar 42. I can move them forward on the build/re-build que if you so desire.