[Bubblehead1980]

TMO 2.5 Update BH V2.0 (not yet released)
100 difficulty
Cams off, contacts on.


War Patrol Report
USS Nautilus SS-168
Fifth War Patrol
15 September- 9 November 1942


PROLOGUE


Returned to Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. on 27 August 1942. After disembarking
men of the Second Raider Battalion, normal leave and refit began. On 5 September, a SJ Surface Search
Radar was installed. RM1c N.B. Cox, USN, RM2c D.H. Rosencrans, RM2c W.E. Cox attended appropriate, albeit
brief training school on operation and maintenance of this new system. RdM2c B.L. Schmidt, a experienced
and rated radar operator was assigned from the Fleet Radar Training School for this patrol,
to assist NAUTILUS's crew. Underway training and testing was conducted on 11 and 12 September, with arming and
provisioning taking place 13-14 September. Twenty MK 14 torpedoes were loaded on 14 September. Ready for sea 15 September.


NARRATIVE

For her FIFTH War Patrol, NAUTILUS was assigned to a patrol area covering the Southern Kuril Islands and Eastern Hokkaido
from 45N-149E to 43-N 145-0E by 300 NM. No traffic was encountered in open ocean within the boundaries of assigned area.



September 15, 1942

Departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 0915 for assigned patrol area in Southern Kuril Islands and
South-Eastern Hokkaido. Exited harbor at 0950 and set course 255 for Midway, en route patrol area.
(Aircraft Contact No.1) At 1054 sighted PBY bearing 353 8700 yards.
SD was not active at this time. Exchanged recognition signals successfully.
Conducted trim dive at 1300 and surfaced at 1330 on previous course until 1830, when came to course 285 at
14 knots en route Midway Island.



September 16, 1942

En route Midway. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 17, 1942

En route Midway. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 18, 1942


En route Midway. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 19, 1942

Docked Midway from 1100-1700. Topped off fuel tanks and provisions. Departed at 1700 for assigned patrol area off Eastern Hokkaido and Southern Kuril Islands.


September 20, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 21, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 22, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 23, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 24, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 24, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 25, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 26, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 27, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.


September 28, 1942

En route patrol area. Conducted underway routine. Uneventful.

September 29, 1942

Now within range of enemy aircraft, submerged at dawn-0930. En route patrol area.Surfaced at 2036.


September 30, 1942

Now within range of enemy aircraft, submerged at 1009. En route patrol area.Surfaced at 2108.


October 1, 1942

Submerged at 0900. Surfaced at 2200 into heavy seas, overcast, and precipitation. Winds at 25 knots,
direction 171.


October 2, 1942

Storms persisted. DR position indicates are in assigned area.At 1936 SJ contact was made bearing 308 18,228 yards.
Estimated position 44-5N 137-31E. Heavy storms prevented immediate attack, began track via radar, awaiting
storm to subside. Estimated course of contact is 040 8-10 knots. A second, and third SJ contact was made at 1941.
By 2122, NAUTILUS was 6 NM ahead of the convoy, waiting for storms to subside for attack.

Briefly lost SJ contact from 2200, regained contact at 2221. Convoy changed course to 330 degrees.
Shadowed, awaiting storms to clear for attack.



October 3, 1942

Continued tracking targets after midnight on via SJ, no visual contact due to weather.
At 0352 SJ detected multiple stationary objects ahead, believe land. At 0410 through the fog and rain,
spotted coastal lighting. Avoiding risk of running aground, reversed course. DR position indicated possibly
located Hittokappu Bay, likely destination of the convoy. Lost SJ contacts at 0522, likely as entered the bay.

With daylight approaching and storms raging, increased speed to open range.


SJ radar made a new contact at 1158 bearing 231 20,253 yards.
Ordered intercept course 330. Storms still raging, heavy seas made forward progress difficult.
At 1309, heavy fog suddenly dissipated, revealing a large AK 7000 yards astern. Ordered a dive at 1310 for attack.

GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO was called at 1313 at NAUTILUS reached 75 ft. A turn to starboard at full speed was
made to conduct a "u turn" and bring bow tubes to bear. At 1320, the turn was completed, ordered periscope
depth. Upon observation, found skies had cleared, precipitations ceased, and seas calmed to light chop.
Observed a mid sized AK on course 065, plotted at 10 knots. Tubes 1,2,3,4 were ordered readied at 1325.


(Torpedo Attack No.1) At 1333 fired tubes 1,2,3, at target. All three torpedoes hit
as aimed. About one minute after final torpedo impact, a series of explosions ripped the vessel apart.
Observed the vessel split into a "V" at the keel amidships, two sections sinking separately.
No survivors observed. Ordered 150 ft, course 180 4 knts, and secured from GQ.
At 150 ft, torpedoes ordered reloaded.

AK ANZAN MARU 3936 tons sunk
44-51N 148-34E
3 October 1942 1339 (local)

Upon torpedo reload being completed, returned to periscope depth to observe a oddly
clear and beautiful blue sky, light clouds, calm seas, as opposed to first forty eight hours in the area.
Daytime temperature was 24 degrees F. Course 220 was set for the South-Western portion of area off
Eastern Hokkaido. Surfaced at 2230 into a cold, clear sky, and calm seas.



October 4, 1942

Submerged at 1030 for patrol en route to coast of Eastern Hokkaido. Uneventful, surfaced at 2231.


October 5, 1942

Submerged 9,500 yards South-East of Cape Shirepa, Hokkaido, 10,000 yards South-West of
Daikokujima Island, Hokkaido at before dawn , for patrol off Akkeshi Bay.
Surfaced at 2230.


October 6, 1942

Submerged at 1035 for patrol in the approaches to Akkeshi Bay.Surfaced at 2218.


October 7, 1942

Submerged for patrol at dawn.At 1543, OOD on No.2 periscope spotted a four engine patrol
aircraft (Aircraft Contact No.2) bearing 248 estimated range 9000 yards. Ordered 150 ft out of
precaution. Does not appear NAUTILUS was spotted.

Surfaced at 2134 into foul weather. Heavy seas, winds, precipitations, and fog.


October 8, 1942

Storms persisted through the day, cruised on surface 80-100 NM South of Akkeshi Bay.



October 9, 1942

Storms persisted through the day, cruised on surface 80-100 NM South of Akkeshi Bay.


October 10, 1942

Storms persisted through the day. Uneventful otherwise.



October 11, 1942


Storms cleared at 1230. Maintained surfaced patrol with SJ as seas remained heavy.


October 12, 1942

Maintained surfaced patrol in low visibility, rain. Skies somewhat cleared at 1500.At 1550,
spotted fishing boat bearing 006 range six miles. Submerged at 1553 to investigate
contact at closer range. GENERAL QUARTERS-BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION called at 1700.
Surfaced at 1716, blew tanks for fast surface. Commenced firing (Gun Action No.1) at 1717.
Ceased fire at 1719, fishing boat burning. Secured from Battle Surface. Fishing boat sunk at 1721.
No survivors spotted.


October 13, 1942

Submerged six nautical miles South-East of Cape Nosappu, Hokkaido before dawn (0944 local)
for patrol in the area. Spotted a fishing boat anchored in cove, bearing 001 11,000 yards at 1134.
Surfaced at 2208.


October 14, 1942

Seas came to a flat, icy calm in pre dawn hours, as NAUTILUS was twenty miles South-West of Etorofu Island,
preparing for submerge for the day. Enjoyed a beautiful arctic sunrise, then submerged at 1035 for patrol
to interdict any shipping pass between Kunashiri and Etorofu Islands. Surfaced at 2230, turned course
050 to patrol North Coast of Etorofu Island.


October 15, 1942

Submerged for patrol North of Etorofu Island at 1130.Surfaced at 2230.



October 16, 1942

Submerged at 1030 for patrol. Surfaced at 2200 South of Etorofu Island.


October 17, 1942

Submerged at 1030 for patrol. At 1045, sound reported several prop noises in distance bearing 070.
Due to distance, after SJ sweep made no contact, surfaced to investigate. Initial SJ contact at bearing 001
turned out to be a large iceberg. Disappointed, began to turn South, when lookout S1c L.B. Davis spotted in the distance,
a smoke plume in spite of the moderate fog and haze in area. Full Speed was ordered and at 1306
SJ made contact bearing 335 19460 yards.Ordered flank speed to close, turned to course 068
to shadow convoy at ten miles, pull ahead for submerged attack.

Called GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO at 1430 and Submerged for attack at 1435. Repeated observations
revealed one mid sized AK escorted by a DD of the Minekaze Class on course 075 est speed 10 knots. DD
began to zig along its base case, possibly suspecting presence of submarine. Backed down to open range
from projected track. The AK kept on steady course so not was clear was not alerted, just suspicious, or
conducting routine escort operations.

AK identified as RYUSEI MARU 6538 tons. All tubes made ready to fire at 1537. Fired (Torpedo Attack No.2)
Tubes 1,2,3, at 1441. Torpedo No.3 immediately jogged to starboard at wide angle, apparently suffering gyro
malfunction. Fired Tube No.4 at 1551:45. Torpedoes 1 and 2 impacted target. Target damaged, slowed, causing torpedo
No.4 to miss just ahead of the bow. The DD obviously spotted the origin of the wakes, turned towards
NAUTILUS. A depth of 250 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge was ordered. Thermal layer detected
at 107 ft.

Pinging began at 1546 as DD closed in fast.DD roared overhead at 1547, multiple splashes heard in water.
NAUTILUS leveled at 250 ft as multiple DC explosions shook the boat. Multiple DC explosions aster, distant.
Pinging began again at 1552. DD above at 1553, dropped multiple DC, splashes audible. Multiple DC explosions, boat shaken
damage reported (See Major Defects and Damage Section)

Depth charge exploded clsoe to conning tower at 1612 causing damage. Damage in multiple compartments reported. Minor flooding in conning tower due to busted piping, quickly stopped.

Sound reports noises of ship breaking up at last known bearing of RYUSEI MARU. Sounds grew
louder and audible through hull as well. Believe vessel sunk at 1625.


By 1820, it appeared enemy had lost contact with NAUTILUS as had been nearly one and half hours since last
depth charge, or ping, and sound reported DD astern, estimated 3000-4000 yards. Secured GQ,
maintained silent running at 350 ft depth, course 190, 3 knots. Sound lost contact with enemy DD at 1936 hours.

Periscope and SJ sweeps all clear at 2230, surfaced into cool night with calm seas.
Damage Control Party assigned to conduct repairs. Torpedoes ordered reloaded.


October 18, 1942


Set course at 0000 to patrol South of Akkeshi Bay, Hokkaido to clear area of last attack for a few days.
Submerged at dawn for patrol, surfaced at 2200.


October 19, 1942

Weather begin to once again deteriorate around 0430 with Overcast, medium precipitations,
heavy fog, and 10-12 ft seas with winds at 12-15 knots, direction 061. A sharp drop in temperature was also noted.


October 20, 1942

Foul weather conditions carried over from 19 October and remained same throughout the day.


October 21, 1942

Skies cleared around 0500, but moderate precipitations and choppy seas remained until
1300, when seas calmed and skies cleared for a pristine, but cold afternoon.


October 22, 1942

Submerged at 1100 for patrol twenty miles south of entrance to Akkeshi Bay.
As preparing to surface, observed two fishing boats bearing 021 10,000 yards.
At 2126 called GENERAL QUARTERS-BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION.

Blew tanks for rapid surface at 2140. Commenced firing at 2141 (Gun Action No.2)
Forward 6' 53 Caliber gun found to be inoperable, surely damaged in depth charge attack of
17 October.

Fishing boat (Target No.1) sunk by gunfire at 2144. Second fishing boat (Target No.2)
turned away at best speed, turned NAUTILUS for pursuit course. As closed range,
fishing boat suddenly opened fire with machine guns, several rounds striking NAUTILUS. At least
one round went over the commanding officer and bridge crew's head, striking.
lower portion of periscope shears, but a well timed duck by all prevented disaster.

Fishing Boat (Target No.2) was quickly dispatched by two hits from aft deck gun.
2152 ceased fire and secured from Battle Surface.




October 23, 1942

Submerged before dawn eleven miles ESE of Daikokujima Island for patrol.
Surfaced at 2230.


October 24, 1942

Submerge before dawn six miles SE of Cape Nosappu for patrol.
While at radar depth for SJ sweep,(Aircraft Contact No.3)
SD contact , range 12,000, closing. Went to periscope depth.
At 2011 spotted the contact bearing 253. Ordered depth of
150 ft until nightfall. Surfaced at 2214.




October 25, 1942

Delayed morning dive due to storms in area. Weather cleared
just before noon and submerged at 1218 for last day in assigned area.
Surfaced at 2148. SJ contact was made at 2159 bearing 200 18,228 yards. Turned to course 259 to intercept.Smoke sighted at 2204. GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO called. Submerged for attack at 2208.

Conducted approach on vessel identified in fading light
as a mid sized AK, making a "u turn" to bring stern tubes to bear.
At 2246, tubes 5 and 6 made ready for firing.
(Torpedo Attack No.3) Fired tubes 5 and 6, at 2250.
First torpedo hit at 2252:30, failed to detonate-dud.
Second torpedo hit at 2252:36, detonated, large fireball.
Lost targets engine noises on sound, engines ceased.

Ordered a turn to bring bow tubes to bear, as
stern tubes emptied. Target dead in water at 2311. Tube No.5 reload, stern tubes brought to bear. Tube No.6 reported reloaded at 2314. Fired tubes 5,6 at 2315 (Torpedo Attack No.3-A). At 2315:50 torpedo prematurely detonated. At 2325:56 and just yards from target, torpedo prematurely detonated. Due to proximity, it was thought this torpedo was a hit initially.
Turned about to fire bow tubes. (Torpedo Attack 3-B) fired tubes 1,2,3. Torpedoes 1 and 3 prematurely detonated. Torpedo 2 hit
target, causing a serious list to starboard and fire amidships.
AK KOTO MARU 4466 tons sunk at 44-40N 148-00E.

Due to fuel status and time on station expired, set course 115 to depart patrol area for Pearl Harbor via Midway andSecured General Quarters.


October 26, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.



October 27, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.


October 28, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.


October 29, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.


October 30, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.


October 31, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.


November 1, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.



November 2, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.



November 3, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.


November 4, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor via Midway.


November 5, 1942

Arrived at Midway and docked at 0630 to refuel. Refueled and departed
for Pearl Harbor at 1300.


November 6, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor


November 7, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor


November 8, 1942

En route Pearl Harbor


November 9, 1942

Arrived Submarine Base Pearl Harbor at 0800. Terminated war patrol





CONTACTS


Aircraft Contacts


No.

1. 1942/09/15 1054 (local)
21-20N 158-30W
Brg.353 Rng. 8,700 yards
Crs. 090 Spd. 100knots
Alt. 800 ft Type-PBY (USN)
How-Visual, SD power off.

2. 1942/10/07 1543
41-57N 144-55W
Brg.248 Rng. 9,000 yards
Crs. 070 Spd. 120 knots
Alt. 2000 ft Type-H6K 'MAVIS'
How-Visual-No.2 periscope.

3. 1942/10/24 2020
Brg. 253 Rng. 12,100 (initial) 6,000 yards (visual)
43-34N 145-42E
Crs. Unknown Spd. 100 knots
Alt. 500 ft Type- H6K 'MAVIS'
How- SD (initial). Visual





Ship Contacts


No.

1. 1942/10/2 1936 (local)
44-5N 137-31E(estimated)
Brg.308 Rng.18,228 yds.
Crs. 040 Spd. 8 knots (estimated)
Type-Unknown, no visual made due to storms.
How- Radar-SJ


2. 1942/10/03 1158 (local)
44-43N 148-30E
Brg.231 Rng.20,253 yds.
Crs. 060 Spd. 8 knots
Type-Unknown, no visual made due to storms.
Later observed to be AK ANZAN MARU
Torpedo Attack No.1 (sunk)
How- Radar-SJ (initial), Visual (later)


3. 1942/10/12 1550 (local)
41-55N 144-56E
Brg.006 Rng. 6 NM
Crs. 245 Spd. 5 knots
Type-Fishing Boat 200 tons
How- Visual, SJ (later)
Gun Action No.1


4. 1942/10/13 1134 (local)
43-21N 145-51E
Brg.001 Rng. 11,000 yards
Crs. 090 Spd. 0 knots
Type-Fishing Boat 200 tons
How- Visual-No.2 Periscope.
Anchored in cove, observed at dawn.


5. 1942/10/17 1306 (local)
44-42N 148-5E
Brg.001 Rng. 19460 yards
Crs. 070 Spd. 10 knots
Type-AK, DD
How- SJ-Visual
Torpedo Attack No.2




6. 1942/10/22 2114 (local)
41-55N 144-56E
Brg.021 Rng. 10,000 yards
Crs. 064 Spd. 5 knots
Type-Fishing Boat x2 200 tons each
How- Visual-No.2 Periscope.
Gun Action No.2





7. 1942/10/22 2159 (local)
44-38N 148-2E
Brg.200 Rng. 18,228 yards
Crs.065 Spd. 9 knots
Type- AK
How- SJ-Visual
Torpedo Attacks No. 3, 3-A, 3-B





ATTACK DATA


USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.1
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/03
TIME 1332
LAT 44-51N
LONG 148-34E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Day


Ships Sunk
ANZAN MARU AK
3936 tons
1942/10/03 1339
44-51N 148-34E

Verification-

Observed three torpedo hits amidships, forward mast, aft mast
in succession. Roughly one minute after last torpedo hit,
a series of large explosions ripped the vessel apart.
Vessel split into a "V" at the keel, sunk within minutes in two sections.
Observed both sink, the stern section sliding under last at 1339 hours.
No survivors observed.


Ships Probably Sunk
None

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None


TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME ANZAN MARU
CLASS AK
TONS 3936
COURSE 060
SPEED 10 knots
BEARING 350
TRUE BEARING 329
RANGE 969 yards
AOB 84 S
REMARK
Machine Guns/Auto-Cannon mounted stern, port, and starboard.
Shipping crates strapped to deck.



TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 1 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28831
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1990
GYRO 2 R
COURSE 341
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [ ]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to minimum depth
due to malfunctions with depth control.


TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28832
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1991
GYRO 2 R
COURSE 341
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [ ]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to minimum depth
due to malfunctions with depth control.


TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28833
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1992
GYRO 2 R
COURSE 341
TRACK 97 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [ ]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to minimum depth
due to malfunctions with depth control.



OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 339
SPEED 1.5 knot
ANGLE 2-down
SEA STATE Light chop


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



USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/17
TIME 1539
LAT 44-54N
LONG 148-22E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Day

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Probably Sunk
AK RYUSEI MARU
6538 tons
44-54N 148-22E
1942/10/17 1625 (local)

Verification-

Observed two torpedoes impact target. Target engines ceased, went dead in water.
Sound operator reported the tell tale sounds of a ship in distress, breaking out. Soon,
these sounds were clearly audible through hull. Sounds originated from last
bearing of target, indicating target sunk.

Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None


TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME RYUSEI MARU
CLASS AK
TONS 6538
COURSE 075
SPEED 9 knots
BEARING 350
TRUE BEARING 339
RANGE 1240
AOB 86 S
REMARK
Tanks lashed to deck.



TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 2 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO. 1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28835
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1994
GYRO 1 R
COURSE 350
TRACK 98 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Hit observed just forward of amidships. Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to
minimum depth due to malfunctions with depth control.


TUBE NO. 2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28836
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1995
GYRO 1 R
COURSE 350
TRACK 98 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Hit observed amidships. Per information received COMSUBPAC, set to
minimum depth due to malfunctions with depth control.


TUBE NO. 3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28837
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1996
GYRO 1 R
COURSE 350
TRACK 98 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Upon launch, torpedo took a hard jog to starboard, way off
of directed firing bearing/track. Likely suffered a gyro
malfunction/failure. Torpedo eventually detonated itself about one minute
after firing, as observed through periscope by CO and heard by entire crew.


TUBE NO. 4
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28838
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 1997
GYRO 1 R
COURSE 350
TRACK 98 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION End of Run
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Delayed launch, launched after No.3 torpedo suffered apparent
gyro failure. Target, damaged by two torpedo hits, slowed enough
causing No.4 torpedo to miss just ahead of the bow
aby less than 10 feet. Torpedo reached end of run,
end of run explosion audible through hull.



OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 350
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 1-down
SEA STATE Calm, flat, glassy.

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


USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/25
TIME 2250
LAT 44-40N
LONG 148-00E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Night

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None


Ships Damaged

AK KOTO MARU 4466 tons



Ships Probably Damaged
None


TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME KOTO MARU (similar to)
CLASS AK
TONS 4466
COURSE 065
SPEED 9 knots
BEARING 180
TRUE BEARING 340
RANGE 780
AOB 90 S
REMARK




TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3 TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO.5
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28951
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2050
GYRO 14 S
COURSE 174
TRACK 69 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Failed to acutate
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Torpedo impacted MOT, but failed to detonate. Audible clang heard
via sound gear and through hull.




TUBE NO.6
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28952
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2052
GYRO 14 S
COURSE 174
TRACK 69 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Failed to acutate
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Crippled target.


OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 150
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 1-down
SEA STATE Calm, flat, glassy.


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

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3-A
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/25
TIME 2315
LAT 44-40N
LONG 148-00E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Night

Ships Sunk
None

Ships Probably Sunk
None


Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None


TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME KOTO MARU (similar to)
CLASS AK
TONS 4466
COURSE 350
SPEED 0 knots
BEARING 178
TRUE BEARING 251
RANGE 1000 yards
AOB 89 S
REMARK
Crippled, dead in water, from hit in
Torpedo Attack No.3


TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3-A TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO.5
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28952
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2051
GYRO 357 R
COURSE 070
TRACK 93 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely detonated.


TUBE NO.6
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28953
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2052
GYRO
COURSE
TRACK
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely detonated.



OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 200
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 1-down
SEA STATE Calm, flat, glassy.




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

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3-B
WAR PATROL FIVE

DATE 1942/10/25
TIME 2326
LAT 44-40N
LONG 148-00E

TYPE OF ATTACK
Periscope, Submerged-Night

Ships Sunk

AK KOTO MARU
4466 tons
1942/10/25 2329
44-40N-148-00E

Verification-

Observed torpedo hits crippled vessel.
Observed vessel catch fire, listed to starboard,
and sink.

Ships Probably Sunk
None


Ships Damaged
None

Ships Probably Damaged
None


TARGET DATA (at firing)

NAME KOTO MARU (similar to)
CLASS AK
TONS 4466
COURSE 350
SPEED 0 knots
BEARING 357
TRUE BEARING 235
RANGE 1000 yards
AOB 89 S
REMARK
Crippled, listing, dead in water, but afloat. Damage is from hit in
Torpedo Attack No.3



TORPEDO ATTACK NO. 3-B TORPEDO FIRE CONTROL DATA (at firing)

TUBE NO.1
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28940
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2050
GYRO 355 R
COURSE 046
TRACK 63 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [ ] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [X] No [ ]
REMARK
Prematurely detonated.


TUBE NO.2
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28941
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2051
GYRO 355 R
COURSE 046
TRACK 63 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [X] No [ ]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic-Contact
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Hit. Target listed further to starboard, large fire amidships
and began to burn.



TUBE NO.3
TYPE MK 14
SERIAL NO. 28942
EXPLODER MK 6
SERIAL NO. 2052
GYRO 355 R
COURSE 046
TRACK 63 S
METHOD Single Bearing
POA MOT
SPREAD 0
FIRING INTERVAL 5 secs
DEPTH 3.5
POWER Low [ ] High [X]
HIT Yes [] No [X]
ACTUATION Magnetic
ACTUAL ACTUATION Magnetic
MALFUNCTION Yes [ ] No [X]
REMARK
Prematurely detonated.



OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH 64 ft
COURSE 236
SPEED 2 knots
ANGLE 1-down
SEA STATE Calm, flat, glassy.


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


USS NAUTILUS SS-168
GUN ACTION NO.1
WAR PATROL FIVE


DATE 1942/10/12
TIME 1722
LAT 41-54
LONG 144-54E



ACTION NARRATIVE

While on surfaced patrol in heavy seas, following storm clearing. OOD observed a fishing boat
bearing 006 at six miles. Submerged and closed to review boat. Upon review, decided to dispatch by gunfire.
Upon surfacing, boat attempted to evade, so commenced firing a broadside with both six inch guns, fore and
aft fifty caliber machine guns. Estimed 200+ .50 MG hits were achieved on the boat. The six inch guns had
some initial trouble due to sea state, but began to score hits, which quickly wrecked the wooden hulled boat.A large fire burned profusely, followed by few explosions. Boat quickly capsized to starboard,
with no survivors visible.



GUN ACTION NO.1 TARGET DATA (at firing)

CLASS Fishing Boat
TYPE Sail/Motorized
TONS 200
BEARING 075
TRUE BEARING 177
RANGE 2300 yards
COURSE 245
SPEED 8
REMARK
Caught fire, sunk.

GUN ACTION NO. 1 DATA (at firing)


ROUNDS EXPENDED

6' 53 Caliber- 11 HE

Hits-
4


.50 Caliber Machine Gun- 507 AP

Hits- 200+


OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH Surfaced
COURSE 245
SPEED 5 knots
RELATIVE ANGLE TO TARGET 85-90.
SEAS Heavy roll and chop


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

USS NAUTILUS SS-168
GUN ACTION NO.2
WAR PATROL FIVE


DATE 1942/10/22
TIME 2141
LAT 42-21N
LONG 144-46E



ACTION NARRATIVE

While scanning the area in preparation for surfacing the boat at dusk, observed two fishing boats
at 10,000 yards. Closed ranged, and surfaced for gun action. Upon ordered to commence fire, it was discovered
that the forward six inch deck gun was not operational, later found to be due to damage not previously
detected following depth charge attack of 17 October. Forward .50 cal machine gun and aft deck gun
quickly set the fishing boat on fire, which would sink soon after.

The second fishing boat was now on a course opposite NAUTILUS presenting a poor target,
so speed was increased to close target before firing. At 3000 yards, as target suddenly swung hard to port,
"Crossing the T" of NAUTILUS, and opened fire with machine guns. A few rounds of initial bursts struck NAUTILUS
forward deck, bridge sail structure, with a few flying just above the heads of the CO, OOD, and bridge crew
,striking the lower and mid sections of periscope sheers. A well timed duck by all crew
prevented injuries. The forward .50 caliber machine crew laid effective suppressing fire on the
fishing boats gun(s) as NAUTILUS swung to starboard, bringing the aft deck gun and machine gun to bear.
Four rounds and two solid hits from six inch gun, in addition to numerous continued machine gun hits
left the fishing boat a flaming wreck. Firing was ceased and boat quickly slipped beneath the waves.
No survivors from either boat were observed.



GUN ACTION NO.2 TARGET DATA (at firing)

TARGET NO. 1 GUN ACTION NO.2

CLASS Fishing Boat
TYPE Sail/Motorized
TONS 200
BEARING 330
TRUE BEARING 230
RANGE 4000 yards
COURSE 065
SPEED 5
REMARK


TARGET NO. 2 GUN ACTION NO.2

CLASS Fishing Boat
TYPE Sail/Motorized
TONS 200
BEARING 340
TRUE BEARING 240
RANGE 3000 yards
COURSE 065
SPEED 5
REMARK




GUN ACTION NO. 2 DATA (at firing)


ROUNDS EXPENDED

6' 53 Caliber- 21 HE

Hits-
6



.50 Caliber Machine Gun- 417 AP

Hits- Numerous


OWN SHIP DATA (at firing)

DEPTH Surfaced
COURSE 250/150
SPEED 5-10 knots
RELATIVE ANGLE TO TARGET 90/0 P
SEAS Calm





WEATHER


Weather conditions proved a challenge during this patrol. While the initial transit to area
was pleasant, upon crossing 40 degrees latitude frigid temperatures, along with frequent gales
made transit difficult.

Weather in patrol area, majority of the time was full of storms, heavy seas, winds, rain,
, sleet, snow, and fog. A few days saw cold, but near cloudless skies, with calm seas or light chop.


TIDAL INFORMATION

Tides in area were found to be normal as reported.


NAVIGATIONAL AIDES

The various islands of the Southern Kurils as well as lights and installations of Hokkaido
provided navigational aides while in area.



MINES

No mines were encountered on this patrol



ANTI SUBMARINE COUNTERMEASURES AND EVASION

Enemy ASW patrol presence was surprisingly limited in this area. No ASW patrol vessels were
spotted and just a few patrol aircraft.


Depth Charge Attack No.1
1942/10/17
1547-1820 (local)

The depth charge attack of 17 October was intense, and professional, yet somewhat brief
compared to past counter attacks NAUTILUS has endured. Enemy utilized passive and active sonar,
conducted numerous runs typically 5-10 minutes
apart, some in repeated order. Most depth charges appeared set too shallow of depth
in most cases. A total of fifty nine depth charge explosions were counted.

NAUTILUS suffered serious damage in this attack, for details see MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE.


Evasion

Evasion tactics were standard. Silent Running, combined with repeated course and speed changes
for duration of attack. Thermal layers were also utilized in addition to "bursts" of speed as required,
primarily when enemy DD was above preparing to drop.

NAUTILUS , rated to a test depth of 300 ft, was again required to descend to a depth of 370 ft
during this attack to evade. This extra 70 feet was handled well as before.


MAJOR DEFECTS AND DAMAGE


No major defects occurred on this patrol.


Damage occurred due to depth charge attack of 17 October. All damage repaired at sea, unless otherwise
noted.


1. Forward 6' 53 Caliber Gun- Rendered non operational, repaired in port.

2. Trim Pump

3. Hydraulic Pump-Disabled for twenty four hours

4. SJ Radar Cabinet

5. SJ Radar Antenna

6. Conning tower flooding-Pumped

7. WCA Sonar Stack (conning tower)

8. Compressor

9. No.2 Periscope

10. Forward Batteries

11. Piping Leaks

12. High Pressure Air Line leaks.


RADAR

SJ

The new SJ surface search radar performed quite well, enabling to locate targets would have likely not
without it. Typical detection range was 18000-20000 yards. The three crewman, quickly trained in its operation
during last refit period proved excellent operators, as did our "guest" operator from the radar school.


SD

SD Radar performed well with typical detection range of 8000-11000 yards.



RADIO


Radios performed well overall during this patrol.



SOUND GEAR AND SOUND CONDITIONS

Sound gear performed moderately well.

The cold waters, currents, and general conditions of the area were not ideal
for underwater sound gear.



THERMAL LAYERS

One thermal layer was detected at 106 feet
on 17 October at 44-54N 148-22E



PERSONNEL

Crew performance was excellent in spite of trying weather conditions in transit and in patrol area.

Two Officers and five men earned qualification during this patrol.


HEALTH AND HABITABILITY

Conditions aboard the boat were difficult at times due to the foul weather
which dominated transit to/from area and while on station. However,
hearty, well prepared meals, and the success of sinking three enemy vessels
by torpedo, and three small vessels by gunfire helped maintain morale.



Following suffered injuries during the 17 October depth charge attack:

LT R.B. Lynch, USN. (XO)
ENS N.B. Baker, USN.
RM1c N.B. Cox, USN.
RM2c D.H. Rosencrans, USN.
RdM2c B.I. Schmidt, USN.

All injured were at battle stations in conning tower when a depth charge detonated close
aboard. All injuries treated and healed at sea, with exception of RM1C's broken arm and hand.



MILES STEAMED-FUEL CONSUMED


Pearl to Midway
1350 miles 18560 gallons

Midway to Area
2470 miles 42800 gallons

In Area

6250 miles 70240 gallons

Area to Midway
2500 miles 43444 gallons


Midway to Pearl
1350 miles 19600 gallons



DURATION

DAYS
Pearl to Midway 4

Midway to Area 11

In Area 30

Area to Midway 13

Midway to Pearl 4

Days Submerged 30



FACTORS IN ENDURANCE


Torpedoes: 6

Fuel 27500 gallons

Provisions 21 days

Crew Indefinite


Reason for termination of patrol:

Fuel and time on station expired.



REMARKS


Another successful, busy, and challenging patrol for the NAUTILUS and her crew. Aside from enemy depth crarges,
the weather proved the most formidable opponent on this patrol. Fall/Winder weather in the Kurils and off Northern Japan
at sea, is less the hospitable. Perhaps explains he relatively light traffic encountered, perhaps in summertime
the sea lanes are more active.


Torpedo malfunctions continued to occur on this patrol, but were not as frequent in the first two attacks.
Torpedo Attack No.3 proved frustrating, requiring the firing of seven torpedoes to sink one vessel, for just two
hits. Premature detonations occurred, along with one 'dud'. No torpedoes are believed to have missed due to depth control
issues as on previous patrols due to setting torpedoes to minimum depth, but believe they still ran deeper than set.


In spite of challenges from weather, enemy depth charges, and torpedo malfunctions, three important
merchantman were sunk by torpedo and three fishing boats by gunfire.


W.H. Brockman Jr, LCDR, USN.















































October 18, 1942



October 19, 1942