Tell us what you're up to in current campaign (lets get this one going lol) - Page 6

Sammy-rai · 04-08-22, 04:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by propbeanie

If I may, skipper - next time, Radar Depth, and give a couple of sweeps to definitely establish course and speed, plus it will help with identifying DD versus merchants, etc. Observation periscope, but use the <Insert> key to raise the scope just above the waves. It brings in more light, and since you're at roughly 45 foot instead of 62 for the radar, you won't need much of a rise to use it. The <Delete> key lowers it, or you can use the push button to bring it fully down. Between the radar and the Observation periscope, you might get enough info to actually attack with. That is all. Carry on!

Radar Depth = Decks Awash ? I haven't tried that yet - my experience so far is that the hydrophone gives the same info but works both above and below the water. Range is a little weaker, though ? IIRC once in awhile the radar displays bigger icons for some contacts but otherwise no advantage in discerning escort vs merchant.

Thx for the observation scope tip but I tried this twice before without noticing any improvement. But I guess there are some weather conditions where nothing helps . . .

KaleunMarco · 04-08-22, 05:45 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sammy-rai

Comments: Why did the Kaya veer off from the ram/depth charge attack ? Did it lack depth charges ? Did it have a novice crew ? Why did the Kaya switch from timid to aggressive tactics ?

they knew whom they were up against....and left the building in a hurry.

Rhodes · 04-12-22, 05:05 AM

August 1943.

The USS Paddle (Gato class) just left a buddy (commando) in Okinawa in the early morning hours.

And then SUBPAC decided to send me to check a harbour and take picturesque photos of it, north of Bungo Strait...

Bubblehead1980 · 04-12-22, 07:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rhodes

August 1943.

The USS Paddle (Gato class) just left a buddy (commando) in Okinawa in the early morning hours.

And then SUBPAC decided to send me to check a harbour and take picturesque photos of it, north of Bungo Strait...

lol I would have a err "radio failure" , noted in ships log to show we never received such (moronic, unrealistic) orders. I really would just go hunt ships in Area 7instead, stay out of the straits, possible mines and all. You'll get way more renown for sinking ships. Fortunately, in soon to be released V2.0, such silly photo orders will be gone.

Funny you post about this, I am in final stages of work for next mod release, mostly tested. I've eliminated those ridiculous photo missions as well as the special missions as mentioned. Now, photo missions now are to photograph invasion beaches before hand or to photograph during/after bombardments by friendly warships for damage assessments. A few coastal ports can be photographed if possible. Many are based on real photo missions US subs conducted during the war.

Currently I am adding the new patrol objectives into campaign...namely lifeguard assignments for late war(complete overhauled, not boring/ unrealistic as in stock , TMO eliminated them all together previously, but were such a big part of sub operations in 1944/1945, had to add them. In testing they have been fun/exciting.

Rhodes · 04-12-22, 12:23 PM

I don't mind this kind of missions, but from time to time. And I do prefer the insertions ones. But not one after the other,like there is nothing else to do.
The insertion went well, I spot shore batteries and went underwater, 50ft always until the spot. Pop up and kick the command out,go to work! And went under again and got away.
The harbour was a little more idiotic, crossed the strait at night, surface and noticed that was a storm raging.
Had to wait near the target until it cleared, going back and forth waiting at night on the surface and bellow during the day. No warships,just a few merchants. It made me remember "Destination: Tokyo".
When the weather cleared,took the pick and sunk 2 ships.
Now subpac send me to patrol corridor II... and after this:

What the hell do they think we are? The bus?

Never saw this order, never received this order and who says I did, lies!

Bubblehead1980 · 04-12-22, 05:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rhodes

I don't mind this kind of missions, but from time to time. And I do prefer the insertions ones. But not one after the other,like there is nothing else to do.
The insertion went well, I spot shore batteries and went underwater, 50ft always until the spot. Pop up and kick the command out,go to work! And went under again and got away.
The harbour was a little more idiotic, crossed the strait at night, surface and noticed that was a storm raging.
Had to wait near the target until it cleared, going back and forth waiting at night on the surface and bellow during the day. No warships,just a few merchants. It made me remember "Destination: Tokyo".
When the weather cleared,took the pick and sunk 2 ships.
Now subpac send me to patrol corridor II... and after this:

What the hell do they think we are? The bus?

Never saw this order, never received this order and who says I did, lies!

I would not mind occasional photo mission etc if they made sense, had some sense of historical accuracy, were not repetitive, boring etc. Thus, why I changed them in upcoming version to be more immersive, to make sense.

What message? Your radio is broken lol

Bubblehead1980 · 04-12-22, 08:14 PM

TMO V2.0
100 difficulty, cams and contacts on for testing purposes.

Testing out patrol objectives added to new campaign, among them lifeguard missions for 1945.

Ordered to lifeguard station in Tokyo area(Sagami Wan). Lifeguard station is along the departure route of the bombers. Near daily B-29 raids (B-24 substituting, as we do not have a B-29 for SH 4, yet) on Tokyo area will make for a busy assignment as I have added AA guns to target areas, as well as "targets" for bombers actually attack/engage. Per history, B-29's switching to night time missions in March 1945.

January 24 1945

About 1300 SD radar picked up large waves of bombers heading South away from Tokyo. Via periscope, observed a few of the high flying bombers, but noticed at bearing 030 a smoke trail, appeared one was hit.

At 1312 observed bomber exploded and several chutes visible. Wreckage followed by downed aircrew splashed into the waters 11 miles SSE of Yokosuka. Risky area for rescue, heavily patrol typically, close to air bases, shore batteries on each side of bay and possible mines. Ordered GQ, surfaced with AA guns manned and deck gun crew on stand by. Upon surfacing, went to four engine speed, closed aircrew splash down position at flank speed.

1338 spotted smoke marker in distance bearing 010.

1341 APR-1 detected radar emissions, possibly land based radar.

1344 APR-1 detected radar emissions and made simultaneous SJ contact bearing 300 11 miles.

1351 spotted raft with several aircrew (loved the rescue raft mod) , pulled along side, conducted rescue of five aircrew in raft.. Another smoke marker was spotted bearing 091, this would take BALAO closer to shore and possible shore batteries, but ordered flank speed to close the marker.

1402 spotted airman bobbing in the water bearing 351.

1403 SD contact 11000 yards closing.

1405 "PETE" spotted bearing 174. AA gunners ordered to open fire when aircraft closed.

1407 After a couple minutes meandering around, PETE made a attack run. 40 and 20 MM AA guns opened fired. PETE dropped two bombs, not close. While pulling out of dive, 40 MM forward got a solid hit on the PETE, which caught fired made a wild turn, and then splashed into the bay.

Approached the downed airman's position less than 10000 yards off the eastern shore of the bay, where shore batteries were known to be located with caution.

Our SJ contact from earlier was now closing, with APR-1 detecting his radar signals, we rushed in a flank speed to snatch up the airman. Pulled along side and rescue him, as we were turning away at high speed, spotted shell splashes and observed the flashes from shore batteries. Continued opening range at high speed with slight constant zig along base course, "chasing" the splashes.

Lookouts spotted aircraft bearing 040 (flying low, SD did not detect it). Spotted aircraft as two "KATE" type torpedo bombers closing in fast.

As closed, observed the bombers had depth charge/bombs aboard, not torpedoes. Swung into the KATES to bring broadside firing of AA guns at the KATES. Also loaded up 5 inch AA ammunition and fired(only can do this manually) as well. One KATE caught fire and splashed into the water, other braved through and dropped a "stick" which missed as KATE circled back made a "dry" run, then flew on.

Lookouts spotted our SJ contact astern, it was DE type vessel closing at high speed but still at 9000 yards. BALAO continued high speed jaunt into open waters, dodging occasional shell splash from shore batteries.

In open waters with the DE, not identified as a Matsu Class , overtaking BALAO quickly, submerged, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

BALAO first went to 450 feet, as the DE closed in pinging, dropped a couple patterns, which were way off. Then after about ten minutes of pinging, DE made a run and laid a nice, close pattern, causing minor damage. Balao wen to 500 ft, more close depth charges, finally at 600 feet, escort seemed to have trouble tracking BALAO, but kept hunting.

After three hours, lost contact, but aware he may have been "sleeping", maintained 600 feet and silent running. Secured from GQ.

Upon returning to periscope depth and then radar depth for sweep, closest contact was 18000 yards astern. Secured silent running and surfaced to search general area for other aircrew along the formations retirement path to towards the Mariana Islands.

One hour after surfacing, received report of downed aircrew near Hachijo- Jima about 95 miles away. (report was likely hours old due to time submerged but broadcasted until received as marked in the mission file). Set course for Hachijo Jima at flank speed.

Spotted aviator in water five miles West of Hachijo Jima, as slowed to come along side to recover him, APR-1 and SD radar had simultaneous contact at 7 miles. Submerged to avoid, raised SD antenna. SD contact was lost 5 minutes later. Surfaced and closed downed airman, rescuing him from the water. Without no strike scheduled for next day, decided to proceed to Cape Inubosaki Area and patrol for coastal shipping.

Rob Jacobsen · 04-12-22, 09:00 PM

I have met my patrol objectives, arriving on site and patrolling for 24 hours in a VIIC, but I used only 2 torpedoes. I sank one cargo ship with my deck gun, attacked 2 others with 1 torpedo each, and finished off one with my deck gun. I still have full racks and reserves.

Do I return to base? Maybe I'll be needed elsewhere and should return on schedule. But I'm reluctant to head back with so many unspent torps. Advice?

Bubblehead1980 · 04-13-22, 12:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rob Jacobsen

I have met my patrol objectives, arriving on site and patrolling for 24 hours in a VIIC, but I used only 2 torpedoes. I sank one cargo ship with my deck gun, attacked 2 others with 1 torpedo each, and finished off one with my deck gun. I still have full racks and reserves.

Do I return to base? Maybe I'll be needed elsewhere and should return on schedule. But I'm reluctant to head back with so many unspent torps. Advice?

Can send a status report for new orders or just continue hunting in area.

Bubblehead1980 · 04-17-22, 06:31 AM

TMO Update BH V2.0 testing
max difficulty, cams and contacts on for testing purposes.

March 19, 1945
USS Balao on lifeguard duty Area 7 off Kyushu in support of Task Force 58's strikes in lead up to Okinawa Invasion.

Arrived on lifeguard station SSE of Kyushu on 17 March 1945 per orders, reconnoitered the area, as carrier air strikes by TF 58 were scheduled 18-23 March before forced moved on to hit Okinawa prior to landings on 1 April .

At 0200 on 18 March, ran into three , 200 ton fishing boats sailing about 6000 yards apart. Ordered GENERAL QUARTERS BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION. At 0215, opened fire and sunk all three boats with 5 inch, 40mm and 20mm gunfire. Ceased fire 0224.

At dawn, submerged 10 miles of Miyazaki to patrol lifeguard station. At 1140, raised SD antenna as strike was expected to be arriving in area. At 1149 SD made a contact with large number of aircraft. Two minutes later spotted Avenger, Helldiver, and Hellcat aircraft bearing 161 about 10000 yards estimated range. Observed via periscope as some aircraft struck Miyazaki area while others continued on to inland targets.

Observed a explosion a few thousand yards off shore and soon spotted smoke markers indicating downed aircrew. Ordered General Quarters-Rescue, and closed smoke marker. At 1203, made periscope observation, and soon after spotted a Zero closing bearing 091, as scope dropped spotted tracers and gunfire, BALAO's scope was being strafed. Ordered 150 feet emergency and continued on towards location of downed flier. About one minute later, as leveled off at 150 feet, BALAO was rocked by two explosions, obviously from the aircraft. Went to 250 feet, continued course. Minor damage reported.

At 1235, returned to periscope depth, spotted a second smoke marker bearing 052 degrees. Closed original marker and spotted a aviator in the water. Closed to about 1500 yards from aviator in water and surfaced to decks awash (25 ft). Motored in for rescue about 9000 yards off the beach off Miyazaki. Observed fires burning in Miyzaki area from air strikes. At 1301, made SD contact with planes returning from strikes inland on Kyushu.

At 1306 pulled along side downed aviator, who was pulled aboard. Set course for another smoke marker observed earlier at high speed, estimated range 6 miles. At 1344 spotted a raft with several aircrew in water about 6000 yards off Miyazaki beach. Submerged to approach on the raft due to known shore batteries.

Surfaced to decks awash at 1400 about 6300 yards off Miyazaki, closed the raft. Just as pulled along side the raft, observed flashes from a shore and shell splashes in water, first one being well astern. With shore batteries firing on Balao, pulled the raft ashore. Not wanting to get tied down in shallow possible mine infested waters, opted for high speed run away from beach in lieu of submerging, dodging shell splashes by "chasing" them. At 1407, one shell splash to port was quite close, perhaps 25 yard, others were not nearly as close. As we pulled away from coast, observed several mines ahead to starboard and port, apparently were inside the defensive minefield. As closed mines , 40mm and 20mm guns were used to detonate three mines to clear a path.

At 1430 SD radar contacted a second large inbound strike wave and at 1437 spotted formation of Helldivers, Avengers, Hellcats, Corsairs, and Dauntlessness. Returned to position in area of Miyazaki and observed explosions ashore from air strikes. At 1524 received report of downed aviator North of Balao's position off Cape Togenkyo. Set course at high speed to close reported position, submerging to avoid a SD contact at 1537.

After 15 minutes submerged, surfaced and soon arrived, searching area off Cape Togenkyo. At 1613 spotted smoke marker in distance and closed at high speed, soon spotted what appear to be fishing trawler sailing towards the marker as well. Ordered GENERAL QUARTERS BATTLE SURFACE,. All guns manned, vessel was identified as a tug boat with gun forward.

From range of 7000 yards opened fire with 5 inch gun. After four missed, scored a solid hit amidships at waterline of the tug boat, which caught fire and slowed. A few shell splashes landed towards Balao, but as range closed quickly, scored three more hits with 5 inch gun on the Tug, which ceased firing, went dead in water burning and after five minutes, exploded , capsized and sunk.

Pulled along side downed aviator in water and pulled him aboard, just as two "Val" dive bombers were spotted bearing 280 flying low (below SD radar ) , with bombers close, did not dive as was in shallow possible mined waters and would not reach safe depth before planes attacked. AA guns ordered to fire at will, the aft and forward 40 MM along with deck mounted 20 MM put up a impressive flak show, flaming one Val as it entered its dive, which crashed into water. A hard turn to port avoided the bomb dropped by second Val, which exploded off starboard, causing no damage. Forward 40MM scored hits on the Val as it pulled out of her dive. While plane did not burn, it kept on flying away, did not make a second pass. Soon more SD contacts were closing, but Balao now clear of the shore, submerged to avoid.

Surfaced at 1800 and proceeded to position off Miyazaki to cover the final raid of the day, sweeping waters in area for downed air crew.
Received messages indicating TF 58 carriers, not far from Balao's position had come under attack by enemy aircraft. Enterprise CV 6, Yorktown CV-10 and Intrepid CV-11 all damaged by bombs and kamikaze attacks.

At 1901 SD detected final strike outbound from Kyushu, more fires observed burning near Miyazaki. At 2100, as night fell, observed smoke marker about 20 miles off Miyazaki, pulled along side and rescued downed TBF aircrew. With strikes concluded for the day, closed coastal areas to patrol for enemy vessels off Fuka Island near entrance to Bungo Suido.

At 0100 , SJ made contact bearing 040 27000 yards. Closed contact, which developed into multiple pips. At 6 NM called GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE.

At 0131 visually identified a large AK and mid sized tanker with six escorts...one DE leading with five other SC PC type escorts. Convoy was Southbound about 4000 yards off shore passing between Fuka Island and Kyushu. MK 18-2 torpedoes in tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6, were made ready to fire. The screen's spacing would force to fire from longer range than desired of 3200 yards. Maneuvered just inside the screen between the port forward and port aft escorts , each about 2500 yards on each side of BALAO and fired
six MK 18-2 torpedoes set at depth of 10 feet. Four torpedoes went to the large AK with two to the smaller tanker, at 0146.

At 0148, two torpedoes hit the tanker, which erupted into a into massive fireball characteristic of a loaded tanker, three of four hit the large AK which caught fired and slowed. Meanwhile, Balao was turning away at high speed, with the PC's firing and one illuminating Balao with her searchlight. While racing away, the torpedo that missed hit the SC on far side of convoy, which exploded in massive fireball.

BALAO had soon outran the the PC's but the DE was closing fast, with BALAO's APR-1 detecting his radar emissions (Curiously, previously did not detect any, wondering if he switch it on after being alerted, i've encountered this before, rare but does happen it seems)

DE soon identified as a Matsu Class, which BALAO could not outrun. Stern tubes were made ready to fire, set minimum depth and stern brought around to set up for a "down the throat" shot on the pursuing DE. DE at 5000 yards fired star shells which illuminated skies above BALAO. At 0156 fired two MK 18-2 torpedoes from tubes 7,10 "down the throat" of the Matsu. (Torpedoes tracked properly, should have been hits but one ran deep below the hull, second (ran down the side scraping the hull, really makes long for magnetic detonators lol) .

0201: Auxiliary Subchaser 1000 tons sunk. mid sized AO unidentified sunk. Estimated 4000 tons.

DE opened fire with close shell closes, worried about radar guided gunfire, BALAO submerged, rigged for silent running and depth charge, dropping SBT-1 decoys at 75 and 125 feet, leveled off at 175 feet with just 30 feet below keel.

First pattern was close and caused damage. Most serious damage reported was to aft batteries and some flooding. DC party was formed and quickly stopped flooding with a small amount of water in aft engine room.

Follow up patterns by the DE were not as accurate, likely due to thermal layer passed at 170 feet. However, soon his "little friends", three of them arrived on scene. More decoys were deployed which distracted escorts but one stubborn PC stayed on Balao, passed above dropping usually two to three charges per run. One very close one caused damage and minor flooding in conning tower.

BALAO endured multiple other DC runs but increasing depth, thermal layer, decoys permitted a escape. At 0500 lost contact with all escorts, maintained silent running but secured GQ, as escorts were likely "sleeping". At 0511 three escorts reported moving away, likely rejoining the convoy. Balao continued silent running at depth of 350 feet to seaward.

Came to periscope depth at 0700, all clear. At SJ radar depth, detected two pips, apparently stationary astern at 12000 yards. Secured silent running , surfaced, and closed to investigate in the remaining darkness before dawn.

At 0730, spotted a large AK dead in water, with one PC type escort stationary off his port side, likely listening for BALAO. Soon developed other pips in area, spread out, no doubt searching for Balao. Turned about and backed down to fire remaining torpedoes in stern tubes. Fired tubes 8 and 9 (MK 18-2) at range of 3800 yards at 0801. Both torpedoes hit the AK, which exploded and listed hard to port. Balao raced away with the PC in pursuit but unable to close. APR-1 detected radar emissions, presumably from the DE but she was not nearby. as was off searching. Soon the PC gave up pursuit. Balao slowed to observe damaged AK and reloaded tubes.

At 0817 , AK HIYAMA MARU 7650 tons sunk. BALAO secured GQ and cleared area toward Cape Ashizuri in support of TF 58 strikes schedule to hit the Kure area, set to begin in just a few hours.

Rhodes · 04-22-22, 05:37 AM

10th November 1943 - 14th December 1943

3rd patrol of the USS Paddle.

After a ordinary voyage to the patrol area - north-east of Miako, between Honshu and Hokkaido, for 5 days of anti-shipping objectives,the USS Paddle focused the patrol south of the ordered area.

Weather was clear, no fog or light fog during the night, wind 15 m/s during all the patrol time.

A few days in the area, a task force was detected, 2 destroyers at high speed. Resulted a failed attack since the speed was off, the targets were slower than estimated. Broke off the attack since I could not keep up.

The next night, a strange small convoy detected: one merchant ship and 4 escorts, all small anti-submarine ships (subchasers, trawlers, etc.)

USS Paddle manage to get inside the escorts screen but was detected prior to shoot. All 4 escorts come down on the sub.
After a few minutes escaping on the surface, do to the increasing shells hinting near the sub, I ordered crash dive. Thermal layer was high, at 160ft and after passing it, silent running and hard to starboard.

The escorts failed to detect the sub and the USS Paddle went away, surfacing after a few hours and resuming patrol.

After a few days, in the same location a convoy was detected by radar. After the initial approach, two marus were sunk, but the lead escort - chidori class, detected us and we could not escaped at surface.

After crashing dive and going quiet, they detected us by active sonar ping and drop well placed charges.

When escaping the attack, the charges damage the bulked, aft tubes and propeller shafts. Heavy flooding.

After a few moments trying to get the situation under control, the flooding became uncontrolled, so I ordered the main ballast tanks blow and we will try to escape at surface, since we had light fog,so use the weather in our favour.

(and for some reason the game did had some hic-up and after surface, only I could go outside. The watch crew didn't appeared, like the sub was still below water.)

Ordered all ahead flank, but only got 14kn. Still we lose the chidori and the other escorts in the fog.

By morning (and after reloading the game), the damage and flooding were fixed, but we lost my aft tubes (even with part not showing damage in the damage menu).

The next night, near the same area, another convoy detected. Manage to get near and 3 more marus went down. The mark 18 missed it targets.

Escaped and with no more torpedo in the bow tubes, and the aft inoperable, the USS Paddle returned to base.

Bubblehead1980 · 04-22-22, 07:54 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rhodes

10th November 1943 - 14th December 1943

3rd patrol of the USS Paddle.

After a ordinary voyage to the patrol area - north-east of Miako, between Honshu and Hokkaido, for 5 days of anti-shipping objectives,the USS Paddle focused the patrol south of the ordered area.

Weather was clear, no fog or light fog during the night, wind 15 m/s during all the patrol time.

A few days in the area, a task force was detected, 2 destroyers at high speed. Resulted a failed attack since the speed was off, the targets were slower than estimated. Broke off the attack since I could not keep up.

The next night, a strange small convoy detected: one merchant ship and 4 escorts, all small anti-submarine ships (subchasers, trawlers, etc.)

USS Paddle manage to get inside the escorts screen but was detected prior to shoot. All 4 escorts come down on the sub.
After a few minutes escaping on the surface, do to the increasing shells hinting near the sub, I ordered crash dive. Thermal layer was high, at 160ft and after passing it, silent running and hard to starboard.

The escorts failed to detect the sub and the USS Paddle went away, surfacing after a few hours and resuming patrol.

After a few days, in the same location a convoy was detected by radar. After the initial approach, two marus were sunk, but the lead escort - chidori class, detected us and we could not escaped at surface.

After crashing dive and going quiet, they detected us by active sonar ping and drop well placed charges.

When escaping the attack, the charges damage the bulked, aft tubes and propeller shafts. Heavy flooding.

After a few moments trying to get the situation under control, the flooding became uncontrolled, so I ordered the main ballast tanks blow and we will try to escape at surface, since we had light fog,so use the weather in our favour.

(and for some reason the game did had some hic-up and after surface, only I could go outside. The watch crew didn't appeared, like the sub was still below water.)

Ordered all ahead flank, but only got 14kn. Still we lose the chidori and the other escorts in the fog.

By morning (and after reloading the game), the damage and flooding were fixed, but we lost my aft tubes (even with part not showing damage in the damage menu).

The next night, near the same area, another convoy detected. Manage to get near and 3 more marus went down. The mark 18 missed it targets.

Escaped and with no more torpedo in the bow tubes, and the aft inoperable, the USS Paddle returned to base.

Ouch on the damage, but at least you survived, esp when when forced to surface. How far away were they when you surfaced?

Rhodes · 04-22-22, 08:24 AM

Possibly at 2000/3000 yards or less. They did lose contact after the initial run, but I am sure that they would regain if I stayed submerge. I would have to be at head standard to maintain depth and they would pick me up soon.

And they did detected me after surface,but didn't hit me.

Over all, has game, it was a cool doing this all.

Bubblehead1980 · 04-22-22, 10:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Rhodes

Possibly at 2000/3000 yards or less. They did lose contact after the initial run, but I am sure that they would regain if I stayed submerge. I would have to be at head standard to maintain depth and they would pick me up soon.

And they did detected me after surface,but didn't hit me.

Over all, has game, it was a cool doing this all.

Nice. I would say you made right decision. After all, on a foggy dark night, a surfaced sub is a tough target to spot/keep track of.

Bubblehead1980 · 04-26-22, 02:02 PM

TMO Update BH V2.0 (Testing)
100 difficulty, cams contacts on for testing.

Testing Life Guard objectives added to campaign for 1945.

USS Sea Dog SS-401
July 1945

Departed Pearl Harbor June 21 1945 with orders to to Lifeguard Duty in Area 4 in support of Task Force 38 (Halsey) air strikes on Japan scheduled to begin 10 July 1945 in addition to regular B-28 strikes from the Mariana Islands against Japan. (no B-29 for SH 4 yet somehow, B-24 filling in). with air strikes on Tokyo area . Real operation in July-August 1945 by TF 38 (which included TF 37 aka British Pacific Fleet..These forces are now present in the campaign at historical times and places with air strikes)

After departing a stop at Saipan to top off fuel, proceeded to assigned station 10 NM off Cape Nojima Saki in Tokyo area. Arrived on station at 1900 9 July, meeting the 0000 10 July deadline in operation order.

Searched area for shipping through the night. At 0430 spotted a large fishing boat. A quick gun action with 40 and 20 MM sunk the 200 ton fishing vessel.

At 1000 (base time, which sub clock is on) as dawn began to break, with SEA DOG within 10 miles of shore, submerged and began observation of area. Raised SD mast just before noon and at 1234 SD contacted multiple aircraft at 24000 yards. Periscope observation soon revealed 30+ aircraft...F6F, F4U, TBF, SB2C heading for Tokyo area.

Per procedure, SEA DOG's lifeguard station is situated along the planned egress route of the strikes. Multiple planes, some flying high, some low flew over SEA DOG's position.

At 1351 received radio report of downed pilot in raft in Sagami Wan, F6F circling his wingman. SEA DOG went to GQ, Surfaced and heading for report at flank speed.

Spotted a smoke marker bearing 021 estimated range about five miles. Closed marker to find a downed pilot in water (not the contact reported). Quickly retrieved the downed aviator and proceeded to original contact.

Soon had a lone SD contact and a few minutes later spotted a smoke marker. Observed F6F at low altitude circling area. Closed contact to find downed aviator in water, who was quickly recovered. Departed area to return to designated lifeguard station for expected second wave from TF 38.

About 6 miles from designated station, a low flying aircraft which SD failed to detect was spotted. Crash dive was ordered and as SEA DOG leveled off at 150 feet, large explosions were heard above.

About 30 minutes later came to periscope depth and spotted aircraft of second wave inbound Tokyo area, taking heavy AA fire from Cape Nojima (AA guns added to strategic locations). One TBF was observed to exploded, no survivors observed.

At 1642 received report of downed aircrew in raft near Cape Inubosaki, surfaced and proceeded area at flank speed. Crew called back to GQ, 40 and 20 mm guns ordered manned to defend against aircraft and for quick response to mine sighting as contact location was just inside area of known minefield.

After a 46 minute run was nearing Cape Inubosaki when SJ made a contact bearing 344 28100 yards. Soon outline and smoke plume of a trawler PC type vessel was spotted rounding Inubosaki, possibly heading towards downed pilot (smoke marker now visible). 5 inch gun ordered manned in case needed to fire on this PC. Suddenly SD made contacts and soon two F4U's were observed bearing 200. Appears F4U's spotted the trawler and closed in. Rocket (and gun?) attacks left the trawler on fire, which soon sunk two miles E of Cape Inubosaki.

SEA DOG continued to near what was revealed to be a occupied raft. Sharp lookout was kept for shore batteries and mines. Soon several mines were spotted off port a nf starboard bow, mines detonated by 40 and 20 mm gunfire. F4U's were not making runs at enemy positions on Cape Inubosaki in the distance.

SEA DOG soon came along side the raft and recovered the crew, then reversed course to travel back the "clear" track through the minefield and return to the lifeguard station off Cape Nojima.

A fast closing SD contact forced SEA DOG to submerge as approached lifeguard station. While back on station, raised SD mast soon detected another inbound wave from TF 38. Observed mid air collision between two F6F's over Cape Nojima with two parachutes and soon two smoke markers. One aviator was down over land, other roughly 6000 yards off shore in clear view of shore batteries. SEA DOG closed downed aviator submerged and entering shallow waters.

After some time, aviator had drifted towards SEA DOG, which came to decks awash for a quick rescue. Shore batteries spotted SEA DOG and opened fire, with shell splashes visible as submerged just after rescue

Returned to station and observed final wave of the day outbound without further reports of downed plans. Maintained station until dark, then surfaced and searched area for unreported downed aircrew.

At midnight , SEA DOG was released from station as TF 38 would be moving on (to refuel on 11-12 July, then strike Northern Japan on 14 July) and began patrol of Area 4, primarily coastal waters used by enemy shipping.

At 0300 received orders to proceed to the Kamaishi area by midnight 13 July. Task Unit 34.8.1 (TU 34.8.1) ...battleships USS South Dakota, Indiana and Massachusetts as well as heavy cruisers USS Quincy and Chicago and nine destroyers, under Rear Admiral John F. Shafroth Jr. was scheduled to bombard Kamaishi on 14 July. SEA DOG was assigned to reconnoiter the area ahead of time, conduct observation of the bombardment, in addition to conducting pre and post bombardment photography of Kamaishi for damage assessment purposes.

Arrived off Kamaishi just after midnight 13 July and reconnoitered the area through the day, taking photography of small vessels anchored in port and the steelworks industry (industry added to the campaign.loc file in some coastal cities where appropriate) Avoiding a PC and aircraft through the day.

At 1100 on 14 July SEA DOG was submerged just 6 miles off Kamaishi as bombardment was scheduled to begin at noon.A quick trip to radar depth, SJ detected the approaching Task Unit, PPI showing them in a impressive single file battle line.

At 1221 bombardment by battleships began with few shore batteries returning fire. Fires (fuel tanks) and explosions observed a shore. One DD and one CA took hits from shore batteries with a fire observed on the DD . After roughly 35 minutes the bombardment ended, apparently causing heavy damage.

SEA DOG headed for open ocean, returning after dawn on 15 July to take post bombardment photos. Masts of sunken vessels in harbors were observed, as was damage ashore.

Returned to lifeguard station as TF 38 was to strike Tokyo again on 17 and 18 July.

On 18 July, received reports of raft in Sagami Wan but no raft was located.

Released from lifeguard on 19th, continued patrol of area 4.

Received message that Destroyer Squadron (DESRON 61) would make a anti shipping sweep in Sagami Wan night of 22-23 July. (Battle of Sagami Bay, last surface action of the war)

At 2150 on 22 July, SEA DOG made SJ contact on a small convoy of two AK and two SC in Sagami Wan. Went to GQ and began to close for night surface attack. A contact report was sent and soon SJ had contact with approaching DESRON 61. Closed on 3000 ton freighter and fired three MK 18 torpedoes from 1,2,3 from a range of 2500 yards. All three torpedoes hit. The ship, apparently loaded with ammo, explode in a particularly amazing fashion. Fires served to help illuminate SEA DOG as she turned away at high speed under heavy fire. Severe machine gun rounds impacting, with one lookout wounded by gunfire. Both SC's now in pursuit of SEA DOG.

APR-1 was not detecting DESRON's radar signals as they closed at high speed and engaged the subchasers in a violent, close range gun battle, sinking both subchasers. Another DD engaged and sunk the other AK by gunfire.

SEA DOG secured from GQ, with one 4200 HOTO MARU freighter sunk.

SEA DOG received orders to Area 6 to cover TF 38's (and TF 37 British carriers) strikes on Osaka-Kobe area on 24 July, while others were Kure Naval Base and Inland Sea.

Multiple planes observed through day returning from strike smoking and one on fire crashed, with no survivors. At 1701, received reports of British Avanger torpedo bomber downed in Kii Suido, crew in raft with Hellcats circling.

SEA DOG went to GQ and rushed in at flank speed, AA guns manned.

A PC type guard boat encountered at 1741 was quickly dispatched with 5 inch gun fire from 3100 yards. Vessel sunk at 1746. SD soon detected two contacts, in time observed to be Hellcats circling a raft in middle of the Kii Suido.

Just after picking up the crew, a low flying PETE single engine floatplane(did not show up on SD radar) was spotted closing. 40 mm and 20 MM guns opened fire as SEA DOG conducted evasive maneuvers, PETE's bombs missing astern to starboard. 40 mm hits were observed and plane left area.

At 1803 APR-1 detected radar signals and then SJ made contact. Range of contact was rapidly decreasing. Soon a PT type boat was spotted bearing 188 closing high speed. SEA DOG remained on the surface to avoid submerging in shallow, possible mine infested waters.

Unable to outrun the PT, SEA DOG pulled the pluge, submerging in about 450 feet of water. PT closed in, pinging, dropping several depth charges, but none were close. On its fourth run, one charge, believed right above to port, caused heavy damage to the conning tower. Flooding reported with equipment smashed and injuries. Compartment was abandoned as completely flooded (moved crew out as bulkhead damage was 90 percent and quickly flooded. Hull damage went to 10 percent).

After several more close runs, increased depth and multiple SBT-1 decoy launches, was able to shake the nasty little bugger (as the downed Brit aircrew would likely have called him). Over time conning tower was pumped and surfaced. Both periscope heads were destroyed, rendering scopes non operational. This along with other damage and questionable integrity of conning tower, prompted decision to request permission to return home. Reply to status report granted discretion to RTB. SEA DOG set course for Guam.

At 0814 following morning, made SJ contact, then visual contact with Task Force 38. Quite the impressive sight. (not realistic but fun to get inside and move about looking the fleet over, if they are moving at a speed catch match, which is rare)

While en route to Guam on 27 July, received reports of PBY missing in area. Proceeded to conduct search and at 1804 on 28 July, spotted a smoke marker and soon observed a PBY down in water (added V2.0) Rescued crew via raft. Used 40 and 20 MM to scuttle the PBY, which was not capable of taking off again.

Arrived Guam 1 August at 1130 hours. Terminated patrol.

04-12-22, 05:05 AM	#78
Rhodes Silent Hunter Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Figueira da Foz, Portugal Posts: 4,486 Downloads: 109 Uploads: 0	August 1943. The USS Paddle (Gato class) just left a buddy (commando) in Okinawa in the early morning hours. And then SUBPAC decided to send me to check a harbour and take picturesque photos of it, north of Bungo Strait... __________________ http://www.flickr.com/photos/16416646@N05/

04-12-22, 12:23 PM	#80
Rhodes Silent Hunter Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Figueira da Foz, Portugal Posts: 4,486 Downloads: 109 Uploads: 0	I don't mind this kind of missions, but from time to time. And I do prefer the insertions ones. But not one after the other,like there is nothing else to do. The insertion went well, I spot shore batteries and went underwater, 50ft always until the spot. Pop up and kick the command out,go to work! And went under again and got away. The harbour was a little more idiotic, crossed the strait at night, surface and noticed that was a storm raging. Had to wait near the target until it cleared, going back and forth waiting at night on the surface and bellow during the day. No warships,just a few merchants. It made me remember "Destination: Tokyo". When the weather cleared,took the pick and sunk 2 ships. Now subpac send me to patrol corridor II... and after this: What the hell do they think we are? The bus? Never saw this order, never received this order and who says I did, lies! __________________ http://www.flickr.com/photos/16416646@N05/ Last edited by Rhodes; 04-12-22 at 03:35 PM.

04-12-22, 08:14 PM	#82
Bubblehead1980 Navy Seal Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Florida USA Posts: 6,922 Downloads: 550 Uploads: 42	Lifeguard 1945 Test TMO V2.0 100 difficulty, cams and contacts on for testing purposes. Testing out patrol objectives added to new campaign, among them lifeguard missions for 1945. Ordered to lifeguard station in Tokyo area(Sagami Wan). Lifeguard station is along the departure route of the bombers. Near daily B-29 raids (B-24 substituting, as we do not have a B-29 for SH 4, yet) on Tokyo area will make for a busy assignment as I have added AA guns to target areas, as well as "targets" for bombers actually attack/engage. Per history, B-29's switching to night time missions in March 1945. January 24 1945 About 1300 SD radar picked up large waves of bombers heading South away from Tokyo. Via periscope, observed a few of the high flying bombers, but noticed at bearing 030 a smoke trail, appeared one was hit. At 1312 observed bomber exploded and several chutes visible. Wreckage followed by downed aircrew splashed into the waters 11 miles SSE of Yokosuka. Risky area for rescue, heavily patrol typically, close to air bases, shore batteries on each side of bay and possible mines. Ordered GQ, surfaced with AA guns manned and deck gun crew on stand by. Upon surfacing, went to four engine speed, closed aircrew splash down position at flank speed. 1338 spotted smoke marker in distance bearing 010. 1341 APR-1 detected radar emissions, possibly land based radar. 1344 APR-1 detected radar emissions and made simultaneous SJ contact bearing 300 11 miles. 1351 spotted raft with several aircrew (loved the rescue raft mod) , pulled along side, conducted rescue of five aircrew in raft.. Another smoke marker was spotted bearing 091, this would take BALAO closer to shore and possible shore batteries, but ordered flank speed to close the marker. 1402 spotted airman bobbing in the water bearing 351. 1403 SD contact 11000 yards closing. 1405 "PETE" spotted bearing 174. AA gunners ordered to open fire when aircraft closed. 1407 After a couple minutes meandering around, PETE made a attack run. 40 and 20 MM AA guns opened fired. PETE dropped two bombs, not close. While pulling out of dive, 40 MM forward got a solid hit on the PETE, which caught fired made a wild turn, and then splashed into the bay. Approached the downed airman's position less than 10000 yards off the eastern shore of the bay, where shore batteries were known to be located with caution. Our SJ contact from earlier was now closing, with APR-1 detecting his radar signals, we rushed in a flank speed to snatch up the airman. Pulled along side and rescue him, as we were turning away at high speed, spotted shell splashes and observed the flashes from shore batteries. Continued opening range at high speed with slight constant zig along base course, "chasing" the splashes. Lookouts spotted aircraft bearing 040 (flying low, SD did not detect it). Spotted aircraft as two "KATE" type torpedo bombers closing in fast. As closed, observed the bombers had depth charge/bombs aboard, not torpedoes. Swung into the KATES to bring broadside firing of AA guns at the KATES. Also loaded up 5 inch AA ammunition and fired(only can do this manually) as well. One KATE caught fire and splashed into the water, other braved through and dropped a "stick" which missed as KATE circled back made a "dry" run, then flew on. Lookouts spotted our SJ contact astern, it was DE type vessel closing at high speed but still at 9000 yards. BALAO continued high speed jaunt into open waters, dodging occasional shell splash from shore batteries. In open waters with the DE, not identified as a Matsu Class , overtaking BALAO quickly, submerged, rigged for silent running and depth charge. BALAO first went to 450 feet, as the DE closed in pinging, dropped a couple patterns, which were way off. Then after about ten minutes of pinging, DE made a run and laid a nice, close pattern, causing minor damage. Balao wen to 500 ft, more close depth charges, finally at 600 feet, escort seemed to have trouble tracking BALAO, but kept hunting. After three hours, lost contact, but aware he may have been "sleeping", maintained 600 feet and silent running. Secured from GQ. Upon returning to periscope depth and then radar depth for sweep, closest contact was 18000 yards astern. Secured silent running and surfaced to search general area for other aircrew along the formations retirement path to towards the Mariana Islands. One hour after surfacing, received report of downed aircrew near Hachijo- Jima about 95 miles away. (report was likely hours old due to time submerged but broadcasted until received as marked in the mission file). Set course for Hachijo Jima at flank speed. Spotted aviator in water five miles West of Hachijo Jima, as slowed to come along side to recover him, APR-1 and SD radar had simultaneous contact at 7 miles. Submerged to avoid, raised SD antenna. SD contact was lost 5 minutes later. Surfaced and closed downed airman, rescuing him from the water. Without no strike scheduled for next day, decided to proceed to Cape Inubosaki Area and patrol for coastal shipping.

04-12-22, 09:00 PM	#83
Rob Jacobsen Mate Join Date: Apr 2022 Location: Irvington, NY, USA Posts: 54 Downloads: 8 Uploads: 0	12 torps left I have met my patrol objectives, arriving on site and patrolling for 24 hours in a VIIC, but I used only 2 torpedoes. I sank one cargo ship with my deck gun, attacked 2 others with 1 torpedo each, and finished off one with my deck gun. I still have full racks and reserves. Do I return to base? Maybe I'll be needed elsewhere and should return on schedule. But I'm reluctant to head back with so many unspent torps. Advice?

04-22-22, 05:37 AM	#86
Rhodes Silent Hunter Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Figueira da Foz, Portugal Posts: 4,486 Downloads: 109 Uploads: 0	10th November 1943 - 14th December 1943 3rd patrol of the USS Paddle. After a ordinary voyage to the patrol area - north-east of Miako, between Honshu and Hokkaido, for 5 days of anti-shipping objectives,the USS Paddle focused the patrol south of the ordered area. Weather was clear, no fog or light fog during the night, wind 15 m/s during all the patrol time. A few days in the area, a task force was detected, 2 destroyers at high speed. Resulted a failed attack since the speed was off, the targets were slower than estimated. Broke off the attack since I could not keep up. The next night, a strange small convoy detected: one merchant ship and 4 escorts, all small anti-submarine ships (subchasers, trawlers, etc.) USS Paddle manage to get inside the escorts screen but was detected prior to shoot. All 4 escorts come down on the sub. After a few minutes escaping on the surface, do to the increasing shells hinting near the sub, I ordered crash dive. Thermal layer was high, at 160ft and after passing it, silent running and hard to starboard. The escorts failed to detect the sub and the USS Paddle went away, surfacing after a few hours and resuming patrol. After a few days, in the same location a convoy was detected by radar. After the initial approach, two marus were sunk, but the lead escort - chidori class, detected us and we could not escaped at surface. After crashing dive and going quiet, they detected us by active sonar ping and drop well placed charges. When escaping the attack, the charges damage the bulked, aft tubes and propeller shafts. Heavy flooding. After a few moments trying to get the situation under control, the flooding became uncontrolled, so I ordered the main ballast tanks blow and we will try to escape at surface, since we had light fog,so use the weather in our favour. (and for some reason the game did had some hic-up and after surface, only I could go outside. The watch crew didn't appeared, like the sub was still below water.) Ordered all ahead flank, but only got 14kn. Still we lose the chidori and the other escorts in the fog. By morning (and after reloading the game), the damage and flooding were fixed, but we lost my aft tubes (even with part not showing damage in the damage menu). The next night, near the same area, another convoy detected. Manage to get near and 3 more marus went down. The mark 18 missed it targets. Escaped and with no more torpedo in the bow tubes, and the aft inoperable, the USS Paddle returned to base. __________________ http://www.flickr.com/photos/16416646@N05/

04-17-22, 06:31 AM	#85
Bubblehead1980 Navy Seal Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Florida USA Posts: 6,922 Downloads: 550 Uploads: 42	TMO Update BH V2.0 testing max difficulty, cams and contacts on for testing purposes. March 19, 1945 USS Balao on lifeguard duty Area 7 off Kyushu in support of Task Force 58's strikes in lead up to Okinawa Invasion. Arrived on lifeguard station SSE of Kyushu on 17 March 1945 per orders, reconnoitered the area, as carrier air strikes by TF 58 were scheduled 18-23 March before forced moved on to hit Okinawa prior to landings on 1 April . At 0200 on 18 March, ran into three , 200 ton fishing boats sailing about 6000 yards apart. Ordered GENERAL QUARTERS BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION. At 0215, opened fire and sunk all three boats with 5 inch, 40mm and 20mm gunfire. Ceased fire 0224. At dawn, submerged 10 miles of Miyazaki to patrol lifeguard station. At 1140, raised SD antenna as strike was expected to be arriving in area. At 1149 SD made a contact with large number of aircraft. Two minutes later spotted Avenger, Helldiver, and Hellcat aircraft bearing 161 about 10000 yards estimated range. Observed via periscope as some aircraft struck Miyazaki area while others continued on to inland targets. Observed a explosion a few thousand yards off shore and soon spotted smoke markers indicating downed aircrew. Ordered General Quarters-Rescue, and closed smoke marker. At 1203, made periscope observation, and soon after spotted a Zero closing bearing 091, as scope dropped spotted tracers and gunfire, BALAO's scope was being strafed. Ordered 150 feet emergency and continued on towards location of downed flier. About one minute later, as leveled off at 150 feet, BALAO was rocked by two explosions, obviously from the aircraft. Went to 250 feet, continued course. Minor damage reported. At 1235, returned to periscope depth, spotted a second smoke marker bearing 052 degrees. Closed original marker and spotted a aviator in the water. Closed to about 1500 yards from aviator in water and surfaced to decks awash (25 ft). Motored in for rescue about 9000 yards off the beach off Miyazaki. Observed fires burning in Miyzaki area from air strikes. At 1301, made SD contact with planes returning from strikes inland on Kyushu. At 1306 pulled along side downed aviator, who was pulled aboard. Set course for another smoke marker observed earlier at high speed, estimated range 6 miles. At 1344 spotted a raft with several aircrew in water about 6000 yards off Miyazaki beach. Submerged to approach on the raft due to known shore batteries. Surfaced to decks awash at 1400 about 6300 yards off Miyazaki, closed the raft. Just as pulled along side the raft, observed flashes from a shore and shell splashes in water, first one being well astern. With shore batteries firing on Balao, pulled the raft ashore. Not wanting to get tied down in shallow possible mine infested waters, opted for high speed run away from beach in lieu of submerging, dodging shell splashes by "chasing" them. At 1407, one shell splash to port was quite close, perhaps 25 yard, others were not nearly as close. As we pulled away from coast, observed several mines ahead to starboard and port, apparently were inside the defensive minefield. As closed mines , 40mm and 20mm guns were used to detonate three mines to clear a path. At 1430 SD radar contacted a second large inbound strike wave and at 1437 spotted formation of Helldivers, Avengers, Hellcats, Corsairs, and Dauntlessness. Returned to position in area of Miyazaki and observed explosions ashore from air strikes. At 1524 received report of downed aviator North of Balao's position off Cape Togenkyo. Set course at high speed to close reported position, submerging to avoid a SD contact at 1537. After 15 minutes submerged, surfaced and soon arrived, searching area off Cape Togenkyo. At 1613 spotted smoke marker in distance and closed at high speed, soon spotted what appear to be fishing trawler sailing towards the marker as well. Ordered GENERAL QUARTERS BATTLE SURFACE,. All guns manned, vessel was identified as a tug boat with gun forward. From range of 7000 yards opened fire with 5 inch gun. After four missed, scored a solid hit amidships at waterline of the tug boat, which caught fire and slowed. A few shell splashes landed towards Balao, but as range closed quickly, scored three more hits with 5 inch gun on the Tug, which ceased firing, went dead in water burning and after five minutes, exploded , capsized and sunk. Pulled along side downed aviator in water and pulled him aboard, just as two "Val" dive bombers were spotted bearing 280 flying low (below SD radar ) , with bombers close, did not dive as was in shallow possible mined waters and would not reach safe depth before planes attacked. AA guns ordered to fire at will, the aft and forward 40 MM along with deck mounted 20 MM put up a impressive flak show, flaming one Val as it entered its dive, which crashed into water. A hard turn to port avoided the bomb dropped by second Val, which exploded off starboard, causing no damage. Forward 40MM scored hits on the Val as it pulled out of her dive. While plane did not burn, it kept on flying away, did not make a second pass. Soon more SD contacts were closing, but Balao now clear of the shore, submerged to avoid. Surfaced at 1800 and proceeded to position off Miyazaki to cover the final raid of the day, sweeping waters in area for downed air crew. Received messages indicating TF 58 carriers, not far from Balao's position had come under attack by enemy aircraft. Enterprise CV 6, Yorktown CV-10 and Intrepid CV-11 all damaged by bombs and kamikaze attacks. At 1901 SD detected final strike outbound from Kyushu, more fires observed burning near Miyazaki. At 2100, as night fell, observed smoke marker about 20 miles off Miyazaki, pulled along side and rescued downed TBF aircrew. With strikes concluded for the day, closed coastal areas to patrol for enemy vessels off Fuka Island near entrance to Bungo Suido. At 0100 , SJ made contact bearing 040 27000 yards. Closed contact, which developed into multiple pips. At 6 NM called GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE. At 0131 visually identified a large AK and mid sized tanker with six escorts...one DE leading with five other SC PC type escorts. Convoy was Southbound about 4000 yards off shore passing between Fuka Island and Kyushu. MK 18-2 torpedoes in tubes 1,2,3,4,5,6, were made ready to fire. The screen's spacing would force to fire from longer range than desired of 3200 yards. Maneuvered just inside the screen between the port forward and port aft escorts , each about 2500 yards on each side of BALAO and fired six MK 18-2 torpedoes set at depth of 10 feet. Four torpedoes went to the large AK with two to the smaller tanker, at 0146. At 0148, two torpedoes hit the tanker, which erupted into a into massive fireball characteristic of a loaded tanker, three of four hit the large AK which caught fired and slowed. Meanwhile, Balao was turning away at high speed, with the PC's firing and one illuminating Balao with her searchlight. While racing away, the torpedo that missed hit the SC on far side of convoy, which exploded in massive fireball. BALAO had soon outran the the PC's but the DE was closing fast, with BALAO's APR-1 detecting his radar emissions (Curiously, previously did not detect any, wondering if he switch it on after being alerted, i've encountered this before, rare but does happen it seems) DE soon identified as a Matsu Class, which BALAO could not outrun. Stern tubes were made ready to fire, set minimum depth and stern brought around to set up for a "down the throat" shot on the pursuing DE. DE at 5000 yards fired star shells which illuminated skies above BALAO. At 0156 fired two MK 18-2 torpedoes from tubes 7,10 "down the throat" of the Matsu. (Torpedoes tracked properly, should have been hits but one ran deep below the hull, second (ran down the side scraping the hull, really makes long for magnetic detonators lol) . 0201: Auxiliary Subchaser 1000 tons sunk. mid sized AO unidentified sunk. Estimated 4000 tons. DE opened fire with close shell closes, worried about radar guided gunfire, BALAO submerged, rigged for silent running and depth charge, dropping SBT-1 decoys at 75 and 125 feet, leveled off at 175 feet with just 30 feet below keel. First pattern was close and caused damage. Most serious damage reported was to aft batteries and some flooding. DC party was formed and quickly stopped flooding with a small amount of water in aft engine room. Follow up patterns by the DE were not as accurate, likely due to thermal layer passed at 170 feet. However, soon his "little friends", three of them arrived on scene. More decoys were deployed which distracted escorts but one stubborn PC stayed on Balao, passed above dropping usually two to three charges per run. One very close one caused damage and minor flooding in conning tower. BALAO endured multiple other DC runs but increasing depth, thermal layer, decoys permitted a escape. At 0500 lost contact with all escorts, maintained silent running but secured GQ, as escorts were likely "sleeping". At 0511 three escorts reported moving away, likely rejoining the convoy. Balao continued silent running at depth of 350 feet to seaward. Came to periscope depth at 0700, all clear. At SJ radar depth, detected two pips, apparently stationary astern at 12000 yards. Secured silent running , surfaced, and closed to investigate in the remaining darkness before dawn. At 0730, spotted a large AK dead in water, with one PC type escort stationary off his port side, likely listening for BALAO. Soon developed other pips in area, spread out, no doubt searching for Balao. Turned about and backed down to fire remaining torpedoes in stern tubes. Fired tubes 8 and 9 (MK 18-2) at range of 3800 yards at 0801. Both torpedoes hit the AK, which exploded and listed hard to port. Balao raced away with the PC in pursuit but unable to close. APR-1 detected radar emissions, presumably from the DE but she was not nearby. as was off searching. Soon the PC gave up pursuit. Balao slowed to observe damaged AK and reloaded tubes. At 0817 , AK HIYAMA MARU 7650 tons sunk. BALAO secured GQ and cleared area toward Cape Ashizuri in support of TF 58 strikes schedule to hit the Kure area, set to begin in just a few hours.

04-22-22, 08:24 AM	#88
Rhodes Silent Hunter Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: Figueira da Foz, Portugal Posts: 4,486 Downloads: 109 Uploads: 0	Possibly at 2000/3000 yards or less. They did lose contact after the initial run, but I am sure that they would regain if I stayed submerge. I would have to be at head standard to maintain depth and they would pick me up soon. And they did detected me after surface,but didn't hit me. Over all, has game, it was a cool doing this all. __________________ http://www.flickr.com/photos/16416646@N05/

04-26-22, 02:02 PM	#90
Bubblehead1980 Navy Seal Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Florida USA Posts: 6,922 Downloads: 550 Uploads: 42	TMO Update BH V2.0 (Testing) 100 difficulty, cams contacts on for testing. Testing Life Guard objectives added to campaign for 1945. USS Sea Dog SS-401 July 1945 Departed Pearl Harbor June 21 1945 with orders to to Lifeguard Duty in Area 4 in support of Task Force 38 (Halsey) air strikes on Japan scheduled to begin 10 July 1945 in addition to regular B-28 strikes from the Mariana Islands against Japan. (no B-29 for SH 4 yet somehow, B-24 filling in). with air strikes on Tokyo area . Real operation in July-August 1945 by TF 38 (which included TF 37 aka British Pacific Fleet..These forces are now present in the campaign at historical times and places with air strikes) After departing a stop at Saipan to top off fuel, proceeded to assigned station 10 NM off Cape Nojima Saki in Tokyo area. Arrived on station at 1900 9 July, meeting the 0000 10 July deadline in operation order. Searched area for shipping through the night. At 0430 spotted a large fishing boat. A quick gun action with 40 and 20 MM sunk the 200 ton fishing vessel. At 1000 (base time, which sub clock is on) as dawn began to break, with SEA DOG within 10 miles of shore, submerged and began observation of area. Raised SD mast just before noon and at 1234 SD contacted multiple aircraft at 24000 yards. Periscope observation soon revealed 30+ aircraft...F6F, F4U, TBF, SB2C heading for Tokyo area. Per procedure, SEA DOG's lifeguard station is situated along the planned egress route of the strikes. Multiple planes, some flying high, some low flew over SEA DOG's position. At 1351 received radio report of downed pilot in raft in Sagami Wan, F6F circling his wingman. SEA DOG went to GQ, Surfaced and heading for report at flank speed. Spotted a smoke marker bearing 021 estimated range about five miles. Closed marker to find a downed pilot in water (not the contact reported). Quickly retrieved the downed aviator and proceeded to original contact. Soon had a lone SD contact and a few minutes later spotted a smoke marker. Observed F6F at low altitude circling area. Closed contact to find downed aviator in water, who was quickly recovered. Departed area to return to designated lifeguard station for expected second wave from TF 38. About 6 miles from designated station, a low flying aircraft which SD failed to detect was spotted. Crash dive was ordered and as SEA DOG leveled off at 150 feet, large explosions were heard above. About 30 minutes later came to periscope depth and spotted aircraft of second wave inbound Tokyo area, taking heavy AA fire from Cape Nojima (AA guns added to strategic locations). One TBF was observed to exploded, no survivors observed. At 1642 received report of downed aircrew in raft near Cape Inubosaki, surfaced and proceeded area at flank speed. Crew called back to GQ, 40 and 20 mm guns ordered manned to defend against aircraft and for quick response to mine sighting as contact location was just inside area of known minefield. After a 46 minute run was nearing Cape Inubosaki when SJ made a contact bearing 344 28100 yards. Soon outline and smoke plume of a trawler PC type vessel was spotted rounding Inubosaki, possibly heading towards downed pilot (smoke marker now visible). 5 inch gun ordered manned in case needed to fire on this PC. Suddenly SD made contacts and soon two F4U's were observed bearing 200. Appears F4U's spotted the trawler and closed in. Rocket (and gun?) attacks left the trawler on fire, which soon sunk two miles E of Cape Inubosaki. SEA DOG continued to near what was revealed to be a occupied raft. Sharp lookout was kept for shore batteries and mines. Soon several mines were spotted off port a nf starboard bow, mines detonated by 40 and 20 mm gunfire. F4U's were not making runs at enemy positions on Cape Inubosaki in the distance. SEA DOG soon came along side the raft and recovered the crew, then reversed course to travel back the "clear" track through the minefield and return to the lifeguard station off Cape Nojima. A fast closing SD contact forced SEA DOG to submerge as approached lifeguard station. While back on station, raised SD mast soon detected another inbound wave from TF 38. Observed mid air collision between two F6F's over Cape Nojima with two parachutes and soon two smoke markers. One aviator was down over land, other roughly 6000 yards off shore in clear view of shore batteries. SEA DOG closed downed aviator submerged and entering shallow waters. After some time, aviator had drifted towards SEA DOG, which came to decks awash for a quick rescue. Shore batteries spotted SEA DOG and opened fire, with shell splashes visible as submerged just after rescue Returned to station and observed final wave of the day outbound without further reports of downed plans. Maintained station until dark, then surfaced and searched area for unreported downed aircrew. At midnight , SEA DOG was released from station as TF 38 would be moving on (to refuel on 11-12 July, then strike Northern Japan on 14 July) and began patrol of Area 4, primarily coastal waters used by enemy shipping. At 0300 received orders to proceed to the Kamaishi area by midnight 13 July. Task Unit 34.8.1 (TU 34.8.1) ...battleships USS South Dakota, Indiana and Massachusetts as well as heavy cruisers USS Quincy and Chicago and nine destroyers, under Rear Admiral John F. Shafroth Jr. was scheduled to bombard Kamaishi on 14 July. SEA DOG was assigned to reconnoiter the area ahead of time, conduct observation of the bombardment, in addition to conducting pre and post bombardment photography of Kamaishi for damage assessment purposes. Arrived off Kamaishi just after midnight 13 July and reconnoitered the area through the day, taking photography of small vessels anchored in port and the steelworks industry (industry added to the campaign.loc file in some coastal cities where appropriate) Avoiding a PC and aircraft through the day. At 1100 on 14 July SEA DOG was submerged just 6 miles off Kamaishi as bombardment was scheduled to begin at noon.A quick trip to radar depth, SJ detected the approaching Task Unit, PPI showing them in a impressive single file battle line. At 1221 bombardment by battleships began with few shore batteries returning fire. Fires (fuel tanks) and explosions observed a shore. One DD and one CA took hits from shore batteries with a fire observed on the DD . After roughly 35 minutes the bombardment ended, apparently causing heavy damage. SEA DOG headed for open ocean, returning after dawn on 15 July to take post bombardment photos. Masts of sunken vessels in harbors were observed, as was damage ashore. Returned to lifeguard station as TF 38 was to strike Tokyo again on 17 and 18 July. On 18 July, received reports of raft in Sagami Wan but no raft was located. Released from lifeguard on 19th, continued patrol of area 4. Received message that Destroyer Squadron (DESRON 61) would make a anti shipping sweep in Sagami Wan night of 22-23 July. (Battle of Sagami Bay, last surface action of the war) At 2150 on 22 July, SEA DOG made SJ contact on a small convoy of two AK and two SC in Sagami Wan. Went to GQ and began to close for night surface attack. A contact report was sent and soon SJ had contact with approaching DESRON 61. Closed on 3000 ton freighter and fired three MK 18 torpedoes from 1,2,3 from a range of 2500 yards. All three torpedoes hit. The ship, apparently loaded with ammo, explode in a particularly amazing fashion. Fires served to help illuminate SEA DOG as she turned away at high speed under heavy fire. Severe machine gun rounds impacting, with one lookout wounded by gunfire. Both SC's now in pursuit of SEA DOG. APR-1 was not detecting DESRON's radar signals as they closed at high speed and engaged the subchasers in a violent, close range gun battle, sinking both subchasers. Another DD engaged and sunk the other AK by gunfire. SEA DOG secured from GQ, with one 4200 HOTO MARU freighter sunk. SEA DOG received orders to Area 6 to cover TF 38's (and TF 37 British carriers) strikes on Osaka-Kobe area on 24 July, while others were Kure Naval Base and Inland Sea. Multiple planes observed through day returning from strike smoking and one on fire crashed, with no survivors. At 1701, received reports of British Avanger torpedo bomber downed in Kii Suido, crew in raft with Hellcats circling. SEA DOG went to GQ and rushed in at flank speed, AA guns manned. A PC type guard boat encountered at 1741 was quickly dispatched with 5 inch gun fire from 3100 yards. Vessel sunk at 1746. SD soon detected two contacts, in time observed to be Hellcats circling a raft in middle of the Kii Suido. Just after picking up the crew, a low flying PETE single engine floatplane(did not show up on SD radar) was spotted closing. 40 mm and 20 MM guns opened fire as SEA DOG conducted evasive maneuvers, PETE's bombs missing astern to starboard. 40 mm hits were observed and plane left area. At 1803 APR-1 detected radar signals and then SJ made contact. Range of contact was rapidly decreasing. Soon a PT type boat was spotted bearing 188 closing high speed. SEA DOG remained on the surface to avoid submerging in shallow, possible mine infested waters. Unable to outrun the PT, SEA DOG pulled the pluge, submerging in about 450 feet of water. PT closed in, pinging, dropping several depth charges, but none were close. On its fourth run, one charge, believed right above to port, caused heavy damage to the conning tower. Flooding reported with equipment smashed and injuries. Compartment was abandoned as completely flooded (moved crew out as bulkhead damage was 90 percent and quickly flooded. Hull damage went to 10 percent). After several more close runs, increased depth and multiple SBT-1 decoy launches, was able to shake the nasty little bugger (as the downed Brit aircrew would likely have called him). Over time conning tower was pumped and surfaced. Both periscope heads were destroyed, rendering scopes non operational. This along with other damage and questionable integrity of conning tower, prompted decision to request permission to return home. Reply to status report granted discretion to RTB. SEA DOG set course for Guam. At 0814 following morning, made SJ contact, then visual contact with Task Force 38. Quite the impressive sight. (not realistic but fun to get inside and move about looking the fleet over, if they are moving at a speed catch match, which is rare) While en route to Guam on 27 July, received reports of PBY missing in area. Proceeded to conduct search and at 1804 on 28 July, spotted a smoke marker and soon observed a PBY down in water (added V2.0) Rescued crew via raft. Used 40 and 20 MM to scuttle the PBY, which was not capable of taking off again. Arrived Guam 1 August at 1130 hours. Terminated patrol.