What are you up to in your current camapign (lets get a sticky going)

[Bubblehead1980]

TMO with custom Mods.

USS Drum SS 228

Departed Pearl Harbor 2 June. Assignment is to drop off some troops on coast of Formosa(one of those makes no sense type orders in SH 4 ugh) . Will patrol East China Sea North of Formosa after drop off.

Refueled at new US anchorage at Majuro as distance is closer than to Midway.

While en route to drop off received word of US landings on Saipan.

One 15 June contact reports from Flying Fish regarding Task Force exiting San Bernadino Strait with three carriers, three battleships plus many others. Few hours later a contact report from Seahorse was received regarding a Task Force 200 NM SE of Mindanao steaming towards Philippine Sea.


Plot based on contact reports has both TF roughly in the areas Corn Field and Flower Bed over next few days. These areas were along our route , decided to patrol a few days based on contact reports.

0700 16 June picked up radar signals and made contact with US Submarine...USS Cavalla. Passed at 4000 yards.


0145 SJ contact was made with multiple ships. Ships moving high speed possible TF. Closed to find four large tankers and three destroyers. Believe this to be support train for enemy task force.

0238 Fired six Mark 14's at two NIPPON MARU class tankers 10000 tons each . All torpedoes hit, both tankers exploded in massive fireballs and sunk. Radar emissions were detected but did not seem to detect DRUM as approached but possible after attack as starboard flank escort turned right towards us at high speed. While racing away on surface, destroyer placed spotlight on DRUM and opened fire with main battery, with two near splashes, light auto cannon and machine guns alos opened fire. While diving to escape, some light fire hit the boat, Officer of the Deck was wounded by the automatic fire before leaving the deck.

Submerged to 375 feet. Many depth charges but none too close. Slightly heavy seas and thermal layer helped mask the DRUM.

Slipped away but one destroyers hunted for eight hours. Each time came to scope depth or even radar was still one still hanging around in area. Reloaded tubes and surfaced at dawn.

[Cajun Kaleun]

USS S-28 based out of Java in early 42. Tasked for the Celebes Sea. Steam north and after exiting the Makassar Strait into the Celebes we catch sight of a destroyer streaming west and then a passenger liner being escorted with another destroyer trailing. We maneuver into a firing position and sit submerged. Let the first destroyer pass by and then let two fish swim and dive deep. Both fish hit sinking her and we escaped without pursuit.

Spent several days chasing phantoms and avoiding destroyers eventually we come across a lone merchant and sink her with a single fish. Eventually fuel starts getting low and we start heading back to Java. Once it off the Makassar Strait we get the message that an invasion force is headed for Java. We keep moving hoping to get to port before it falls. We entered the Bali Sea only to get a message to rebase at Fremantle. With very limited fuel we limp to Australia and just barely manage to make it to our new home.

I will have to credit my Type IX time for succeeding in this situation it was way too close to empty.

[Macgregor the Hammer]

Originally Posted by Bubblehead1980

TMO with custom Mods.
0238 Fired six Mark 14's at two NIPPON MARU class tankers 10000 tons each . All torpedoes hit, both tankers exploded in massive fireballs and sunk. Radar emissions were detected but did not seem to detect DRUM as approached but possible after attack as starboard flank escort turned right towards us at high speed. While racing away on surface, destroyer placed spotlight on DRUM and opened fire with main battery, with two near splashes, light auto cannon and machine guns alos opened fire. While diving to escape, some light fire hit the boat, Officer of the Deck was wounded by the automatic fire before leaving the deck.

I love the smell of burning tankers in the morning! It smells like..................Victory!!!

[Bubblehead1980]

Originally Posted by Macgregor the Hammer

I love the smell of burning tankers in the morning! It smells like..................Victory!!!

Indeed. They blow up quite nicely when loaded with fuel. Usually only requires one torpedo to set them off, but per doctrine fire a spread in case loaded with fuel (difficult to sink then) or to account for speed course change etc during torpedo run.

[Armistead]

Originally Posted by Bubblehead1980

Indeed. They blow up quite nicely when loaded with fuel. Usually only requires one torpedo to set them off, but per doctrine fire a spread in case loaded with fuel (difficult to sink then) or to account for speed course change etc during torpedo run.

Some loaded convoys I use to could get 3 plus ships for 1 torp, course only the one you hit count

[Bubblehead1980]

Originally Posted by Armistead

Some loaded convoys I use to could get 3 plus ships for 1 torp, course only the one you hit count

I have had this happen as well. Typically they are not spaced close enough during initial attack but have seen it happen. I added some tankers to my install, including Tonan Maru No 1 and 2 (19000+ tons) and a 15000 ton tanker, when loaded with fuel explosions are quite large. Watched them take out smaller merchants such as Taihosan Maru even at nice distance.

[Bubblehead1980]

TMO with custom mods

12 August - 18 September 1944

Received worst depth charging so far. Heavy damage.

After a frustrating last patrol in Philippine and East China Sea ( sunk two large fleet tankers and a coastal steamer. Spotted but unable to close imperial battle fleet on 19-20 June West of Marianas due to numerous enemy aircraft contacts. ) assigned to Area 5 in Japanese home islands.

Departed August 12 Arrived in Area 23 August Patrols in open waters proved negative so per intelligence reports Japanese were moving merchant traffic along coast, moved in closer to coast submerged during daylight with periscope and periodic SJ sweeps while submerged.

August 28 tracked a large tanker and merchant with 6 PC type escorts just 6000 yards off coast between Omaezaki Cape and Ise Bay. heading West at 8.5 knots. Was not in favorable position at initial contact, so moved away from coast, surfaced to get ahead of convoy. A lone "VAL" dive bomber soon appeared and remained in area, appeared it was providing escort. This caused Drum to dive numerous times as it appeared to be closing but changed course at last minute. Unfortunately, was unable to gain attack position before convoy made port. Left coastal area to recharge batteries.

Afternoon of 29 August while submerged patrol off coastal between Omaezaki and Ise Bay, spotted smoke in periscope. Sound check revealed distant screw. SJ sweep at radar depth revealed small convoy heading our way. Went to GQ and began closing. Found a Madras Maru merchant with 5-6 escorts. One Matsu Class DE in lead, multiple PC types forming rest of screen. Were roughly 5000 yards off coast. Closed in at 100 feet came to scope depth convoy had moved closer with course change. Turned for stern shot with Mark 18's from 3800 yards as it kept us relatively deep waters for evasion. Fired spread of three Mark 18 torpedoes. Number 2 was a circle run, forcing us to go deep to avoid. Began heading away from coast for deeper waters when heard two torpedo impacts.

Initial evasion at 375 feet was successful but soon two of the escorts(cams off so not sure but believe based on sound one was the DE other was one of the PC types) contacted us and stayed on for nearly 7 hours, at one point due to flooding and inability to lose was at 589 feet, nearly 300 feet below test depth. Finally flooding stopped and enough water pumped to control vessel. Continued evasion, endured few more close charges but eventually slipped away.

Surfaced at 0300 hours to recharge and repair. Stern tubes 8,9 were damaged beyond repair but other damage, while serious was repairable.

SJ regained contact at 0400. Convoy was barely moving, likely due to the heavily damaged vessel from two torpedo hits but at their 3 knot speed would arrive Ise Bay around dawn. Night was dark enough with light fog and escort screen had a gap as one escort was still off hunting. Closed for night surface attack torpedo. Radar emissions were detected from lead escort but managed to approach undetected. Fired Four Mark 23's at Madras Maru from 4100 yards. Fired two at Matsu DD directly ahead. As torpedoes neared end of run, began high speed turn to race away. All four torpedoes hit the Madras Maru, obliterating the target. The two missed the DE, which was now turning to pursue us, having detected on radar no doubt.


Lined up aft TBT for stern tube down the throat shot on Matsu should it be necessary as she could overtake us with speed. However, its advance was slowed as it was zigging back and forth, no doubt anticipating we would fire torpedoes. However, she began opening fire with her forward deck gun which landed some close splashes but with each one accuracy fell off. The problem became a PT type boat closing at 30 plus knots from aft port with radar signal painting us. Too shallow for torpedoes and saving those two for the Matsu, Ordered 40 MM and 20 MM guns manned. PT opened fire as tracers passed over and around us a 3000 yards but held fire. A few of the light automatic rounds hit Drum. Finally at 2000 yards opened fire with 40 MM and 20 MM guns. Boat caught fire, lost way, exploded and sunk.

Unfortunately the engagement provided the Matsu with clear visual bearing on us and began closing at high speed, firing star shells and its deck gun. Two near misses caused hull damage.Began slight constant helming with 5 degree rudder port and starboard , providing a zigging target. While did not hole the boat, the near misses did cause apparent hull damage.

Lined up for down throat shot with stern tubes, just waiting for the DE to be within range when it began zigging again, slowing its advance. After a prolonged pursuit and a radical turn DE slowed and began dropping depth charges, convinced we had dived to evade.

Moved 100 NM out to sea to assess damage and repair.

Assessment of damage revealed two stern tubes could not be repaired and hull damage rated at "12". This could seriously endanger ability to safely evade deep as required when submerged, decided to head back to Pearl Harbor.

Just after midnight 31 August while en route home made contact with a 9 ship 4 escort convoy 200 NM off coast of Japan on course most likely for Tokyo. Opting a hit and run night surface attack, closed in and fired six Mark 23's. Sinking an Akita Maru freighter and a Shajima Maru freighter. Racing away evading gunfire with no damage.

On 11 September while 300 NM South Wake Island, with a light fog and overcast, moderate seas. An enemy plane appeared on SD at just 5 NM. Made emergency dive but as passed 125 feet several large explosions rocked the boat. Serious damage in forward torpedo room including flooding reported. Emergency surface with AA guns manned but no plane in sight.

About 6 minutes later a large flying boat (EMILY) appeared and flew in towards us. 40 MM and 20 MM hits blew the wing off the aircraft as it pass just 100 over pulling out of its glide. Two depth charges fell but missed by a great deal as plane crashed into waters.

Over next few hours while repairs conducted and water pumped out, more planes arrived search but even a few came close, never spotted us, in large part due to the low visibility. Finally water pumped out and repairs made. Continued on to Pearl Harbor where arrived 18 September.

[Bubblehead1980]

Not my campaign but a test campaign to make sure traffic is showing up and test some changes. Just had about most fun can have in this sim..


TMO with custom mods.

USS Tang SS 306

June 1944


Added the convoy Tang attacked en route to Yellow Sea on her third patrol on June 24/25 in Koshiki straits as it approached Nagasaki. This convoy was in very shallow waters and consisted of 8 ships with 12 escorts(!).

Convoy appears at historic time and place. Tracked convoy along coast and found a gap in the screen when a escort dropped out of place for a few minutes, checking the flank. Approached from astern as Tang did in real life, eased my way into the screen.. Came within 3000 yards of a type c escort did not detect us visually or on its radar. The night was quite dark for TMO so that helped. I also changed a setting which actually makes night affect the escorts vision . Not easy as they can still spot you and fire, but a sub was a tough target to spot on the surface.

Once inside screen fired on four three large ships and large tanker. Large and loud explosions (if you dont use Vickers EAX sound mod, you really must) Sunk all. Avoided rash of radar equipped escorts but high speed movements. A large merchant was across stern at 2800 yards fired Four mark 18 torpedoes. All hit and ship was crippled, eventually sunk..

Unfortunately, this brought attention of a Matsu DE and Etorofu escort, which opened fire and closed as we turned away at high speed, they continued closing. Waiting for tubes (especially stern tubes to reload). We hugged the coast within 900 yard (no shore battery in this spot but coastal searchlight which have found do not work in SH 4. Anyone want to fix this?) Matsu continued to close and opened fire, severla shell splashes were close. Saw some that were off hit the beach.

Radar signal was strong and he had us. Mark 18 reloaded in stern tubes, just two left. Lined up bow shot at 3700 yards and fired a down the throat shot. Reserved other for last ditch. 40 MM guns manned.

The matsu seemed to lose contact or was deterred by the proximity of the coast as it slowed and seemed to lose us.

Took stock of our position we were STILL inside the screen and located a large freighter at 300 about to cross our bow at 7 knots. Readied last two mark 23 torpedoes forward , closed in and fired. As we turned away merchant turned on his spotlight illuminating the Tang and firing machine guns. Returned fire with 40 MM guns . Rest of tracers and deck gun fire splashes near but no hits. Both torpedoes hit, freighter caught fire from bow to stern and began to sink,

As raced for the gap in the screen visible on PPI scope, the matsu and three escorts were closing forming a semi circle astern, another approaching from bow at 6000 yards, seemed to be boxing Tang in in. Changed course to run close to coast again. Saving last torpedo in tube 10(Mark 18) for a last ditch shot if needed. Shell splashes landed close but no hits.

Changed course and as noticed an object in water a close range. Life raft? Dark so could not tell then could see, it was a mine! (I added defensive minefields a while back in coastal approaches, forgot this was an area I did. Apparently seems to be a lone mine representing a floater) was able to give just enough rudder to avoid the mine. Two escorts continued pursuing but range steadily opened. Suddenly was bout 8000 yards back two large explosions, could see a vessel burning. The Matsu had ran into the mine we barely avoided lol. Unbelievably a few minutes later, another explosion, an unknown escort (possibly the Etorufu) hit another apparently. With this slowed speed and kept careful watch. By this time it was 0600 and a morning glow provided illumination not present throughout the night. Cleared the coast.

Since a test career enjoyed watch 40 MM take down two aircraft en route to Cheju. Went to Cheju (Where Tirante raided the harbor in 1945) and observed the pc patrolling the area as well as the minefield. Ran the boat into a mien on the surface. sent damage to 100. Boat was sinking by the bow as the screen faded to black.

Used auto targeting since this was a test run not an actual career. Really too bad cant get a more realistic auto target simulating crew plotting target, without the silly triangle etc and instant firing solution. Was a lot of fun not having to do all the plotting lol but does take away from the challenge.


This was a test of my campaign traffic. As part of my campaign traffic overhaul for TMO, Convoy layers remain randomly generated but reflect a more realistic composition of japanese convoys, which changes over the war, so your average convoy in 1942 will not be the same as one in 1944. I have also added convoys generate one time to appear at historical time and location, such as the one I discussed above. Routes also change, such as in late war the stay close to the coast.Tang's final convoy attacked off Formosa Oct 24/25 1944 is in sim as well and organized as O Kane described in his book Clear the Bridge(close as can within the parameters of sim) There are several of these through the war from 1941-1945.

Also change up some things with AI visual sensors so can pull off night surface attacks without sacrificing the risk . Of course it all depends on how dark night is. Unfortunately most nights in TMO are not dark enough, working on getting that fixed.

Testing went well, will continue to test and hopefully finally release upgrade soon.

[Texas Red]

New career with FORTSU 1.26p


December 9, 1941
USS Sculpin (Sargo Class)
Cavite Naval Base, Philipines
LCDR Ryan Reynolds
Patrol 1

We departed Cavite yesterday. We recieved news of the attack on Pearl Harbor and I was immeadiately called into the admiral's office where he gave me my orders for my patrol: Reconnoiter the "Blind Bombing Area" area for 10 non-continous days, sink ships at my discretion.
The Astatic fleet certainly will not hold up well in the face of an invasion. We are the neglected brother of the Pacific Fleet based in Pearl. We have nothing that could be matched or superior to what they have. We have always been a second priority, Washington sends us old and crappy equipment that breaks half the time.
My boat, the USS Sculpin, which had just completed a simulated war patrol with the S-27 only 3 days ago was set to leave on the 8th. The dock crew miraculously got her ready in time for the departure of our first patrol.

Currently, we are only 100 or so miles NW of Cavite at this time. I will write back later with another log.

[Kieldk]

Originally Posted by Bubblehead1980

Not my campaign but a test campaign to make sure traffic is showing up and test some changes. Just had about most fun can have in this sim..


TMO with custom mods.

USS Tang SS 306

June 1944


Added the convoy Tang attacked en route to Yellow Sea on her third patrol on June 24/25 in Koshiki straits as it approached Nagasaki. This convoy was in very shallow waters and consisted of 8 ships with 12 escorts(!).

Convoy appears at historic time and place. Tracked convoy along coast and found a gap in the screen when a escort dropped out of place for a few minutes, checking the flank. Approached from astern as Tang did in real life, eased my way into the screen.. Came within 3000 yards of a type c escort did not detect us visually or on its radar. The night was quite dark for TMO so that helped. I also changed a setting which actually makes night affect the escorts vision . Not easy as they can still spot you and fire, but a sub was a tough target to spot on the surface.

Once inside screen fired on four three large ships and large tanker. Large and loud explosions (if you dont use Vickers EAX sound mod, you really must) Sunk all. Avoided rash of radar equipped escorts but high speed movements. A large merchant was across stern at 2800 yards fired Four mark 18 torpedoes. All hit and ship was crippled, eventually sunk..

Unfortunately, this brought attention of a Matsu DE and Etorofu escort, which opened fire and closed as we turned away at high speed, they continued closing. Waiting for tubes (especially stern tubes to reload). We hugged the coast within 900 yard (no shore battery in this spot but coastal searchlight which have found do not work in SH 4. Anyone want to fix this?) Matsu continued to close and opened fire, severla shell splashes were close. Saw some that were off hit the beach.

Radar signal was strong and he had us. Mark 18 reloaded in stern tubes, just two left. Lined up bow shot at 3700 yards and fired a down the throat shot. Reserved other for last ditch. 40 MM guns manned.

The matsu seemed to lose contact or was deterred by the proximity of the coast as it slowed and seemed to lose us.

Took stock of our position we were STILL inside the screen and located a large freighter at 300 about to cross our bow at 7 knots. Readied last two mark 23 torpedoes forward , closed in and fired. As we turned away merchant turned on his spotlight illuminating the Tang and firing machine guns. Returned fire with 40 MM guns . Rest of tracers and deck gun fire splashes near but no hits. Both torpedoes hit, freighter caught fire from bow to stern and began to sink,

As raced for the gap in the screen visible on PPI scope, the matsu and three escorts were closing forming a semi circle astern, another approaching from bow at 6000 yards, seemed to be boxing Tang in in. Changed course to run close to coast again. Saving last torpedo in tube 10(Mark 18) for a last ditch shot if needed. Shell splashes landed close but no hits.

Changed course and as noticed an object in water a close range. Life raft? Dark so could not tell then could see, it was a mine! (I added defensive minefields a while back in coastal approaches, forgot this was an area I did. Apparently seems to be a lone mine representing a floater) was able to give just enough rudder to avoid the mine. Two escorts continued pursuing but range steadily opened. Suddenly was bout 8000 yards back two large explosions, could see a vessel burning. The Matsu had ran into the mine we barely avoided lol. Unbelievably a few minutes later, another explosion, an unknown escort (possibly the Etorufu) hit another apparently. With this slowed speed and kept careful watch. By this time it was 0600 and a morning glow provided illumination not present throughout the night. Cleared the coast.

Since a test career enjoyed watch 40 MM take down two aircraft en route to Cheju. Went to Cheju (Where Tirante raided the harbor in 1945) and observed the pc patrolling the area as well as the minefield. Ran the boat into a mien on the surface. sent damage to 100. Boat was sinking by the bow as the screen faded to black.

Used auto targeting since this was a test run not an actual career. Really too bad cant get a more realistic auto target simulating crew plotting target, without the silly triangle etc and instant firing solution. Was a lot of fun not having to do all the plotting lol but does take away from the challenge.


This was a test of my campaign traffic. As part of my campaign traffic overhaul for TMO, Convoy layers remain randomly generated but reflect a more realistic composition of japanese convoys, which changes over the war, so your average convoy in 1942 will not be the same as one in 1944. I have also added convoys generate one time to appear at historical time and location, such as the one I discussed above. Routes also change, such as in late war the stay close to the coast.Tang's final convoy attacked off Formosa Oct 24/25 1944 is in sim as well and organized as O Kane described in his book Clear the Bridge(close as can within the parameters of sim) There are several of these through the war from 1941-1945.

Also change up some things with AI visual sensors so can pull off night surface attacks without sacrificing the risk . Of course it all depends on how dark night is. Unfortunately most nights in TMO are not dark enough, working on getting that fixed.

Testing went well, will continue to test and hopefully finally release upgrade soon.

I really like reading your logs!

I tried your depth charge mod and I like it

Continue your great work with TMO and I might return one day

Right now I’m playing UBOAT....

But it still needs allot of work

Noticed yesterday a plane attacked me and we went to 120 Meters

And I could still follow the plane on the map!

Total immersion breaker, and after some time some of the crew got heart attacks even if we where not attacked, but because the plane was still visible on the map so there was still an alarm
Silly game plot

[Rinaldi]

FOTRSU mod with "AI_1" mod installed.

CAPT J. Harriet
USS Snapper
12th War Patrol:

November 1, 1943:
-Departed 0215 from Fremantle for patrol grid G3.

November 2, 1943:
-Snapper stops in Exmouth Gulf to top-up fuel reserves.

November 7, 1943:
- Snapper transits Manipa Strait, en route to patrol zone. Two Japanese schooners sunk by gunfire.

November 10, 1943:
-Snapper running 35nm south of Mindanao on surface. SJ reports single contact, bearing 252(T) speed 10 knots estimated. Intercept plotted and telegraph put to ahead full.
- Attacked and sunk freighter on surface later that morning approx 0445 hours. Two torpedoes fired for two observed hits. 3783t estimated.
- Snapper spends daylight hours at 120 feet, bearing 270(T), reloading torpedoes and avoiding inevitable enemy air search.

November 11, 1943:
- Submerged 38nm south of Mindanao coast.
- Hydrophone detects multiple screws, slow speed estimate. Submerged movement into attack position plotted.
- Radar depth thirty minutes later. Confirmed convoy of six medium sized contacts heading towards Snapper. No apparent escorts on scope.
- In position to attack approx 0450. Fired two spreads of two torpedoes each, which appear to miss.
-Gunfire from armed merchants force Snapper deep, battle stations torpedoes called. Reload commenced. Screws of lead merchants audible passing overhead.
- 0510, pos'n Long 124°57"E, Lat 5°19"N, attacked at periscope depth, moving at flank speed majority of time.
- 0517, medium oiler hit from stern tube, range 600 yards, and sunk, 5000t estimate.
- 0526 freighter hit bow tube, again from point blank range, sunk over next hour. 3734t
- 0530 second freighter hit from bow tube, range approx 1100 yard. Listing heavily to starboard, falls out of formation. Snapper shadows throughout day at 150 feet.
-Sea state too poor for gun attack, stern tube fired at second freighter. 1900 hit observed, sunk by 1903,

November 13 1943, 1943:
- 0200 Snapper running on surface 90nm southeast of Davao, SJ contact large convoy of mix small and large contacts. Speed estimate 16 knots, course 335(T).
- Surface attack conditions excellent, moderate swell and overcast. No visible moon. Intercept planned, telegraph reports flank. General quarters called.
- 0350 Visual contact. Convoy consists of three troopships escorted by 5 unidentified ships.
- 0414 3 torp spread at second troopship in line. 2 hits observed, distress flares, star shells from convoy. Snapper reverses course and makes good its escape at high speed. Ship sinks slowly by the bow.
-Briefly appears Japanese destroyer giving stern chase but we appear to remain undetected.
- 0420 Hydrophone reports depth charges well abaft. Torpedo reload ordered.
- 0700 second attack launched at periscope depth, a tight three torpedo spread fired at lead troopship. All appear to miss slightly forward. Solution suggested 7 knots, speed more likely 6 knots. Snapper spends next several hours avoiding depth charges, none of which are accurate.
- Now out of torpedoes Snapper puts to sea and home.







November 22 1943:
-0229 Snapper arrives at Fremantle and ends patrol with an estimated 26, 000 tons sunk.

[Bubblehead1980]

Originally Posted by Rinaldi

FOTRSU mod with "AI_1" mod installed.

CAPT J. Harriet
USS Snapper
12th War Patrol:

November 1, 1943:
-Departed 0215 from Fremantle for patrol grid G3.

November 2, 1943:
-Snapper stops in Exmouth Gulf to top-up fuel reserves.

November 7, 1943:
- Snapper transits Manipa Strait, en route to patrol zone. Two Japanese schooners sunk by gunfire.

November 10, 1943:
-Snapper running 35nm south of Mindanao on surface. SJ reports single contact, bearing 252(T) speed 10 knots estimated. Intercept plotted and telegraph put to ahead full.
- Attacked and sunk freighter on surface later that morning approx 0445 hours. Two torpedoes fired for two observed hits. 3783t estimated.
- Snapper spends daylight hours at 120 feet, bearing 270(T), reloading torpedoes and avoiding inevitable enemy air search.

November 11, 1943:
- Submerged 38nm south of Mindanao coast.
- Hydrophone detects multiple screws, slow speed estimate. Submerged movement into attack position plotted.
- Radar depth thirty minutes later. Confirmed convoy of six medium sized contacts heading towards Snapper. No apparent escorts on scope.
- In position to attack approx 0450. Fired two spreads of two torpedoes each, which appear to miss.
-Gunfire from armed merchants force Snapper deep, battle stations torpedoes called. Reload commenced. Screws of lead merchants audible passing overhead.
- 0510, pos'n Long 124°57"E, Lat 5°19"N, attacked at periscope depth, moving at flank speed majority of time.
- 0517, medium oiler hit from stern tube, range 600 yards, and sunk, 5000t estimate.
- 0526 freighter hit bow tube, again from point blank range, sunk over next hour. 3734t
- 0530 second freighter hit from bow tube, range approx 1100 yard. Listing heavily to starboard, falls out of formation. Snapper shadows throughout day at 150 feet.
-Sea state too poor for gun attack, stern tube fired at second freighter. 1900 hit observed, sunk by 1903,

November 13 1943, 1943:
- 0200 Snapper running on surface 90nm southeast of Davao, SJ contact large convoy of mix small and large contacts. Speed estimate 16 knots, course 335(T).
- Surface attack conditions excellent, moderate swell and overcast. No visible moon. Intercept planned, telegraph reports flank. General quarters called.
- 0350 Visual contact. Convoy consists of three troopships escorted by 5 unidentified ships.
- 0414 3 torp spread at second troopship in line. 2 hits observed, distress flares, star shells from convoy. Snapper reverses course and makes good its escape at high speed. Ship sinks slowly by the bow.
-Briefly appears Japanese destroyer giving stern chase but we appear to remain undetected.
- 0420 Hydrophone reports depth charges well abaft. Torpedo reload ordered.
- 0700 second attack launched at periscope depth, a tight three torpedo spread fired at lead troopship. All appear to miss slightly forward. Solution suggested 7 knots, speed more likely 6 knots. Snapper spends next several hours avoiding depth charges, none of which are accurate.
- Now out of torpedoes Snapper puts to sea and home.







November 22 1943:
-0229 Snapper arrives at Fremantle and ends patrol with an estimated 26, 000 tons sunk.

Very Nice!

[Bubblehead1980]

TMO with custom mods

USS Drum SS 228

12th War Patrol

January 1945-

Departed Pearl Harbor on 31 January for Area 6 off Japan. Refueled at Saipan then proceeded to area arriving February 14 in bad weather.

With nearly all traffic now running within 5-10 NM of coast in shallows, moved in for submerged daytime patrol with periodic radar sweeps.

Contacted surface and air patrols, avoiding them.

As was heading out to sea late on 15 February to surface for nightly battery charge, SJ made contact on a convoy on a Westbound course close to shore. Surfaced and waited for nightfall to conduct night surface attack.

2300 Moved in. Convoy is three ships with eight escorts in a circle. Armed with new Mark 16 torpedoes in forward tubes, planned to fire two at each freighter from 5000 yards, close as could get after a couple of tries. due to flank escorts. Also, multiple escorts appeared to have radar according to APR-1 equipment.

Finally around 0005 hours 16 February was in firing position. Fired tubes 1 and 2 at lead freighter, belieed to be HEITO MARU . As was about to fire on the aft freighter, saw lead escort turn towards us and star shells fired, seems radar had picked us up. Turned away at high speed but escort was Matsu DE, could not outrun so while dodging gunfire lined up for down the throat shot with Mark 18 from stern tube. Subchaser type escort and aux subchaser also in pursuit firing main batteries and light cannons machine guns at DRUM. Fired Mark 18 from tube 7.Missed. Adjusting and fired on the DE which was not at just 3900 yards. This torpedo found home, causing a fire and DE to turn away. Other escorts could not catch us, eventually pulled away. The DE sunk 10 minutes later, going down by the bow. The torpedoes fired at freighter missed and impacted the beach.

Pulled ahead reloaded tubes and moved in for another shot. This came snuck through the screen from the rear, got into position to fire and fired on the rear and middle freighter with Mark 16's. While exiting the screen an escort detected us on radar as came running to our position. Alerted, freighters slowed and torpedoes barely missed ahead of targets. Again we were under pursuit by four escorts, fired Mark 18 from stern tubes but none hit. However, DRUM managed to pull away.

Reloaded again and moved in few hours later for another attack around 0500. Contemplated submerged attack since these radar equipped escorts were on their game but with just 100 feet or less under the keel, would only dive if forced to do so. Fired from longer range of 7000 yards with Mark 14 torpedoes on two freighters. During torpedo run, an SD contact appeared and was closing.as we turned away seems aircraft's radar detected us as it closed in, again escorts headed our way and ships slowed, torpedoes missed and impacted the beach. The aircraft flew in low, identified as an EMILY flying boat. 40 MM AA guns and 20 MM was manned. Aircraft made a dive and was set afire, it flew on.

Soon escorts were closing, including Matsu class DE, which as noted cant outrun. Fired Mark 14's from stern tube, which DE avoided. De was now 3000 yards off and while its main battery fired missed with some landing close, the machine gun and autocannon fire did occasionally hit DRUM causing minor damage. Fired last stern torpedo down the throat of the DE which barely evaded the fish, watched in TBT as it slid down the side of the Matsu(makes one miss the magnetic detonators)

As Matsu was getting too close, now had 5 inch foward gun manned in case was needed. As Matsu closed to 2000 yards opened fire with aft 40 MM and 20 MM.The Matsu caught fire amidships from 40 MM hits and then a large explosion, believe the HE rounds set off the torpedoes. This caused the Matsu, burning, to slow and DRUM to put distance. Two minutes later a very large explosion followed by more secondary explosions from depth charges on stern , Matsu went dead water and sunk.

Other escorts were still in chase but unable to close. Soon the EMILY returned 40 MM set it on fire again and plane made a dive dropping bombs and depth charges which landed VERY close. The close explosions caused minor hull damage. THe gunners on the EMILY strafed the DRUM diving and after the dive. Two crewman manning the after 40 MM were killed by the gunfire. Chief of the Boat was wounded, as was PO 3 look out. Both recovered. The EMILY flew on burning, assume it crash.

With dawn fast approaching, made it to deep water and away from suspect minefields and dove at dawn for day of rest after a frustrating night.


17-19 February foul weather prevented coastal patrolling. While patrolling off shore in heavy fog a fishing boat suddenly appeared. DRUM was turned hard over barely avoiding a collision. The fishing boat was armed as it opened up with machine gun/auto cannon fire. DRUM sailed out of view but after calling GQ and manning the 40 MM guns(seas were fairly calm for storm) turned back and encountered the fishing boat. 40 MM made quick work setting the boat afire.

Radar had two more contacts nearby, seems we had wondered into a trio of fishing boats. After poking around found both and sunk them with 40 mm fire.


February 20 weather cleared and resumed coastal submerged patrol in daylight. Spotted an aircraft with observation periscope at 1421 . Went to 100 feet. When came back an hour later, a plane was observed quite close and slowly circling. Sound suddenly reported warship contacts closing fast. Seems the plane had spotted us and called in a nearby coastal patrol. Turned for deep waters and rigged for silent running.

Once patrol began pinging, dropped a decoy and went ahead full and to 300 feet , just off the bottom. Escort dropped a pattern which caused damage to compressor, pumps, minor leaks in conning tower, damage to stern tubes and electric engines. However, after this both escorts stayed on the decoy and the second dropped as we found deep water and escaped at 475 feet. After being pinged and a final pattern dropped which shook the boat, patrol lost contact.

Stayed submerged rest of day surfaced at night to charge batteries and patrol.

[Bubblehead1980]

TMO w custom mods.

USS Drum SS-228


12th War Patrol


Area 6.

Frustrating patrol concludes.


After frustrating attempts to attack convoy hugging cost due to radar equipped escorts and being detected by aircraft while patrolling in shore, moved out to sea to reload and rest. Six Mark 18s left in forward tubes with four Mark 14 reloads. All stern torpedoes expended.

February 22 moved back inshore to patrol for traffic. Detected a convoy of three ships with 6 escorts near dusk Close enough could pull off a dusk torpedo attack, then follow up with last four in a night surface attack.

Maneuvered into perfect firing position 1800 yards off track inside the screen while starboard flank escort was away on a sweep. Fired three Mark 18's each at a SEIA MARU and AKITA MARU. During torpedo run, heard gunfire and soon pinging. Raised scope to see freighters had slowed and were maneuvering. Only one torpedo found its mark damaging AKITA MARU. Not sure how was detected(possible merchants have hydrophones) escorts were closing.

Dropped decoys went deep as possible in relatively shallow water and made high speed run to deeper water. Few close depth charges but after sometime lost the escorts. Decoys are a blessing.

Surfaced, made end around. Fired four Mark 14's from 5600 yards. Two hit SEIA MARU which was obviously loaded with volatile materials such as am on as it exploded in a massive fireball after just one hit. Turned away with radar equipped escorts pursuing me but could not close the range.Plenty of fuel aboard, set course for Pearl Harbor at Standard speed (15.5 knots). Arrived March 3.


Ended patrol with two Matsu class DE sunk, three fishing boats sunk, one SEIA MARU 7250 tons sunk. One AKITA MARU damaged.

Most frustrating patrol have had in long time. 1945 gets challenging.

[4H_Ccrashh]

First Patrol is over.

Fired 22 torpedoes for a total of 5 hits , sinking only three ships.

Two marus and one heavy cruiser.