Idea: secret, hidden forward operating bases for refueling and repairs

[magic452]

Drifter, not a bad idea at all, could add a little something different. I like it. Just refuel, no rearm though if that is possible. Engine repairs only but I don't see how you could do that. Big renown hit.

Magic

[Frumpkis]

I like the idea of a forward refueling operation, although to be realistic, it should probably be something like a clandestine offshore rendezvous with a sampan loaded with diesel drums. And refuel only, no engine parts or re-arming.

I can't see a sub commander wanting to actually bring the boat into a coastal port anywhere near occupied territory for this. Too risky, especially when the whole idea of a fleet boat is that it's self-contained for a long patrol and shouldn't really need this sort of thing very often, if at all. On the other hand, random events are a good way to shake up a campaign, so it's a good idea if it doesn't happen too frequently or predictably.

[Drifter]

Originally Posted by Frumpkis

I like the idea of a forward refueling operation, although to be realistic, it should probably be something like a clandestine offshore rendezvous with a sampan loaded with diesel drums. And refuel only, no engine parts or re-arming.

I can't see a sub commander wanting to actually bring the boat into a coastal port anywhere near occupied territory for this. Too risky, especially when the whole idea of a fleet boat is that it's self-contained for a long patrol and shouldn't really need this sort of thing very often, if at all. On the other hand, random events are a good way to shake up a campaign, so it's a good idea if it doesn't happen too frequently or predictably.

It wouldn't represent a coastal port. Rather, a small forward base with a tiny dock that was being kept hidden from the Japanese.

I agree that it would be risky for a sub captain to try and refuel at a secret base like this. That is why I say that it would be used for emergencies only, such as heavy sub damage with major loss of fuel. It would not be considered a regular refueling base. Plus, if used, the captain would take a big renown hit.

[TH0R]

A very interesting idea. What is historical background behind this?

[Drifter]

Originally Posted by TH0R

A very interesting idea. What is historical background behind this?

I don't really have any specific historical information for these types of operations. I don't even know if they happened. I was just trying to think of a go-between fix for the player inability to call for help if out of fuel or severely damaged. Maybe someone here has some historical info.

[Armistead]

I'm sure some would like it, I doubt I would. You could make it just a refit so only minor repairs. What would be nice if like history there we're a few instances of subs taking fuel from other subs. If you could keep the torps out and limit fuel it may work , just don't think you can.

[Sailor Steve]

British and Australian coastwatchers spied on enemy ship movements and radioed them in. There were no secret bases. How would they even get drums of diesel fuel? That would require that some surface supply ship move deep into enemy waters to make the deliveries. It just didn't happen.

Not saying you shouldn't do it. It sounds like fun. Just saying don't imagine it's historical.

[Drifter]

Originally Posted by magic452

Drifter, not a bad idea at all, could add a little something different. I like it. Just refuel, no rearm though if that is possible. Engine repairs only but I don't see how you could do that. Big renown hit.

Magic

I agree, although I'm not sure it's possible to only refuel. I think that part is hard-coded.