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Bubblehead1980 · 02-09-22, 05:38 PM

TMO 2.5 Update BH V 2.0 (not yet released, in testing)
Donation Narwhal Mod
100 difficulty, cams and contacts off.

WAR PATROL REPORT
USS NAUTILUS SS-168
WAR PATROL SIX
13 DECEMBER 1942-
26 February 1943

USS Nautilus, under W.H. Brockman Jr., USN, departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 0700 hours on 13 December 1942 for assigned patrol area east of Bougainville. The assigned area covered the approaches to Kieta Harbor as well as the Bougainville Strait and approaches to Tonolei Harbor on Southern Bougainville.

Upon departure conducted underway routine of dive, gunnery, torpedo fire control, and emergency drills. Arrived at Johnston Island on 15 December and topped off fuel tanks, then proceeded on course 235 at 10 knots. The route chosen took NAUTILUS between the Marshall and Gilbert Islands en route to assigned area. A SD contact at 11000 yards was made at 1739 on 17 December. NAUTILUS submerged and remained so until dusk, surfacing at 2020.

NAUTILUS arrived in patrol area at midnight on 25 December and submerged 25 miles off Kieta for patrol just after dawn. Surfaced that evening after a uneventful day and proceeded to Southern portion of area.

TORPEDO ATTACKS NO. 1, 1-A, 1-B.

On 27 December, north of the Bougainville Strait between Bougainville and Choiseul Island, SJ contact was reported bearing 001 at 18000 yards. Established visual contact at dawn, contact was a enemy patrol boat, NAUTILUS turned to avoid and submerged for patrol.

At 1420, sound reported high speed screws bearing 170 closing. Went to periscope depth and at 9000 yards spotted a enemy destroyer. General Quarters-Torpedo was called and initiated a approach. Destroyer was
soon identified to be of the Asashio Class on course 335 at 16 knots.

Next observation revealed a slight course change by DD put NAUTILUS too close for bow shot, so turned to starboard to bring stern tubes to bear.
Torpedoes were set to minimum depth due to ongoing depth control issues with MK 14 torpedo. At 1454 fired tubes 5, and 6, at 1300 yards from target.

First torpedo (Tube No.5) hit the target just aft of amidships area, causing large fire. Second torpedo (Tube No.6) passed below the stern but failed
to explode. The DD soon settled by the stern and slowed. Damage is believed to be caused by the magnetic detonator being actuated. Torpedo, set to minimum depth, obviously ran deeper than set, but was close enough to the hull of target to actuate the magnetic exploder.

As DD went dead in water, ordered stern tubes reloaded for the coup de grace. However, sound reported fast screws, warship closing from 157 degrees. Soon could see a PC type vessel closing at high speed, likely called in to assist the DD. Brought bow tubes to bear on the DD, now dead in the water and fired Tube No.1 at 1515:10. At 15:15:25 torpedo prematurely detonated. At 1515:45 fired tube no.2. Second torpedo hit, running into the side the stricken DD as aimed, blowing a large hole amidships, causing explosions and fire. The destroyer quickly sunk at position 6-29S 156-10E at 15:21 hours.

A fast patrol, PT boat boat was now closing at very high speed. NAUTILUS went to 250 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge on a course NW, away from scene. Ten minutes later enemy arrived on scene and began a search pattern. After two passes in general area of NAUTILUS, the vessel surprised NAUTILUS with pings, as did not figure such a diminutive craft would have active sonar. As vessel roared above, two splashes of depth charges were heard, followed by two close explosions, which caused minor damage (piping, air line leaks, broken bulbs and glass)

The enemy continued to hound NAUTILUS through the afternoon and into evening. At 1951 , while NAUTILUS was at 325 ft, a three close depth charge explosions caused damage throughout the boat. Most serious was aft battery damage and minor flooding in control room, which was quickly stopped.

While the vessel continued searching, this was the last of depth charges dropped. Finally at 0025 on 26 December, contact was lost with the enemy.
Came to periscope depth at 0230 and radar depth, with no contacts, secured silent running and surfaced, headed away from the area of action.

NAUTILUS conducted submerged patrol SE of Kieta within 5 miles of Bougainville coast by day 26-28 December before moving back South to patrol off Bougainville Strait.

At 0400 on 29 December, received orders from COMSUBPAC regarding special mission to evacuate civilians from Teop, Bougainville on 30 December.
Proceeded NNW at 11 knots to arrive on time for the operation.

SPECIAL MISSION

Orders specified NAUTILUS to send a landing party ashore at Teop on 29 December, to rendezvous with British and Australian citizens
, including children, and evacuate them before daylight 31 December.
Executive Officer LT R.B. Lynch, USN, was chosen to lead the six man party.

Submerged ten miles off Teop on 29 December and reconnoitered the area. Surfaced at 2100 and prepared to land party when received message to delay operation until 31 December.

Landing party sent ashore via raft at 0400 on 31 December. Pickup would be arranged upon signals from landing party or, if contact was last. NAUTILUS was be at same position from 0000-0530 each night until recovery made.

Received signals at 2230 31 December for pickup of landing party and civilians at 0200 on 1 January 1943. NAUTILUS closed to 2500 yards
of shore and spotted rafts containing the landing party, twenty six adults, and three children. All were aboard by 0400, NAUTILUS departed area, and
at 0415 received orders to transport passengers to Brisbane, Australia.
A course taking NAUTILUS around the North end of Bougainville through the Solomon and Coral seas to Brisbane at 14.5 knots was plotted and executed.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2

However, SJ made contact at 0545 bearing 341 18228 yards. Contact soon developed into a convoy with a DD escorting. NAUTILUS pulled ahead and submerged at 0808 for attack. Normal approach was conducted but upon next observation, convoy had zigged to course 210, a strait line for Kieta Harbor. This put NAUTILUS in position to attack the port column, instead of the starboard as expected. Target selected was a large troopship similar to KONRON MARU 8100 tons, in the middle of the port column.

At 0910:30 fired tubes-1,2,3,4 at target. Torpedoes 1,2,3 all prematurely detonated en route to target. These detonations alerted the convoy, as ships slowed and began turning away, as DD turned about to close the NAUTILUS. However, No.4 still found its point of aim, as impacted the target between her twin stacks at 0912:15. The large AP heaved, from a explosion and fired. A large hole was visible at waterline between the stacks, with fire emanating from the gaping hole in the ships side.

NAUTILUS went to 250 ft, silent running, and rigged for depth charge. The DD, believed to be of the Akatsuki Class, closed in pinging, dropping numerous charges, but none close. However, at 1104, with NAUTILUS at 275 ft, several close charges shook the boat. Damage was reported to forward batteries and hydraulic pumps were seriously damaged. This damage caused noticeable performance changing in rudder and dive plane controls, the boat felt more slugging than usual when submerged. A Damage Control Party was dispatched. At 1135 more close depth charges caused damaged in forward torpedo room, including minor flooding, which was quickly handled.

After several hours of depth charging, enemy lost contact t 1436. NAUTILUS continued on, secured GQ and silent running at 1800 and conducted repairs, surfacing at 2200 to continue on to Brisbane.

At 01010 on 2 January, SJ contact was made on three ships at 19000 yards, bearing 280. Upon closing found one DD escorting two large transports on NW course. With heavy seas and low visibility, struggled to pull ahead for dawn attack as convoy was moving at 12.5 knots. At 0302, range on the DD began to decrease rapidly and lookouts spotted him bearing 205 3000 yards, charging in "with a bone in his teeth". About to be overran by the DD,
NAUTILUS submerged , stopping at periscope depth, hoping to catch the DD with a stern torpedo shot. However, the setup was not favorable. Ordered rig for silent running and depth charge, and a depth of 250 feet. Due to limited visibility and it being unlikely the DD visually observed NAUTILUS, it is believed the DD, a fleet type, may have surface search radar and/or radar detection equipment, which permitted him to detect NAUTILUS.

The passed above and dropped two depth charges, no close. For next twenty minutes, the DD searched for NAUTILUS, then suddenly, began pinging the NAUTILUS. A persistent and at times accurate depth charge attack followed for next six and a half hours. Finally, contact left area at high speed, likely to catch up with his charges.

Just after coming to periscope depth at 1130, sound detected fast props closing, visual check of bearing 300, a second DD arriving on scene, likely dispatched from Buka, Bougainville to hunt for NUATILUS, which went back to 300 feet and maintained silent running, but secured from GQ.

At 1500, with the DD astern but noises audible, sound picked up a contact bearing 000 10000 yards estimated. Sounds appear to be of a submarine.
NAUTILUS crept to periscope depth and spotted a Japanese I-Class submarine on course 330 at 14 knots 6000 yards, range opening. NAUTILUS was unable to fire due to being out of position, unable to surface and attempt to attack due to proximity of the DD astern and enemy airbase less than 30 miles at Buka. Returned to 300 feet and surfaced after dark.

January 3-8 was uneventful as proceeded to Brisbane, scheduled for arrival on 9 January.

On 9 January docked at Brisbane, disembarked passengers and received orders to depart on 12 January for patrol area in the Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes. Crew enjoyed brief liberty periods, boat was refueled, provisioned, and rearmed. NAUTILUS departed Brisbane at 0900 on 12 January for new patrol area.

FRIENDLY FIRE INCIDENT

On 13 January at 1134 SD made contact at 11500 yards. A RAAF Catalina
soon came into view at bearing 085. The Catalina made high pass overhead at about 2000 feet, then made a fast, sharp, banking turn, and then diving toward NAUTILUS. The dive alarm was sounded as the aircraft closed, fast. As NAUTILUS passed 64 feet, four large explosions went off, shaking the boat, causing busted piping, air lines, broken bulbs, and glass, as well as serious damage to tubes No.5 and No.6. Appears NAUTILUS was mistaken for a enemy submarine. (Friendly Fire mod in TMO Update) All damage was able to be repaired within 48 hours.

After a otherwise uneventful passage, arrived in patrol area 400 NM south of Truk in the Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes on 20 January. Conducted submerged patrol along these lines by day.

TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3

Finally at 0610 on 25 January, SJ made contact at 330 19300 yards, NAUTILUS went to GQ and conducted approach for dawn periscope attack
on a northbound convoy of three AK, one DD escorting.

At 0800, fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at a large AK similar to JOKUJA MARU. All four torpedoes prematurely detonated, one just 5-10 feet from target. Alerted, ships began to maneuver as DD closed. With stern tubes brought to bear, fired tubes 5,6, at a mid sized AK similar to KANAGA MARU. However, her Captain demonstrated skill and maneuvered to avoid the torpedoes, with both missed just ahead of her bow as she turned to starboard.

NAUTILUS rigged for depth charge, silent running and went to 275 feet, below a thermal layer, the first found on this patrol. The DD closed in pinging, dropping depth charges in area. At 1002 DD appeared to gain solid contact on NAUTILUS, roared above and dropped two large patterns. Boat was shaken, but no damage. With NAUTILUS at 300 feet, boat lost contact and last heard on sound leaving area at high speed with the merchants. Believe heavy seas and thermal layer hampered enemy attack efforts in this instance. Surfaced a hour later and attempted to regain contact with convoy but was unable. Ended search after dark and continued patrol.

After several days of rough seas and weather in area, clear skies and calm seas arrived on evening of 30 January.

TORPEDO ATACK NO. 4

At 0704 on 31 January, SJ made contact bearing 352 19240 yards/ Conducted approach for dawn periscope attack and went to General Quarters-Torpedo and submerged for attack at 0800.

On observation at 0830, noticed the six ship, two escort convoy had zigged to the east, opening range considerably from planned firing point. Not wanting to fire from long range, NAUTILUS went to 175 feet at 7.5 knots for a run to close the range much as possible. Slowly and coming to periscope at 0851, range had closed enough to ensure a tolerable firing range. Identified the lead escort as a Chidori Class Torpedo Boat/Escort Vessel, one which had a reputation as a nasty adversary of our submarines. Astern was a older DD of the Wakatake Class.

At 0856 fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at a large AK in center position of port column (two columns, three AK in each, six total) from 2100 yards. Torpedo No.1 impacted amidships as aimed, setting off a massive initial explosion followed seconds later by a massive chain of secondary explosions, which appeared to lift the vessel out of the water. The scene was obscured by flame and smoke, but observed torpedo no.2 hit the bow section. When smoke dissipated somewhat, could see the ships keel had been broken, split at amidships, the vessel was now in two sections. Torpedoes 3 and 4 failed to hit anything, reached their end of run explosions. The bow and stern sections of the AK hit by torpedoes quickly sunk, with one life raft visible.

Soon the Wakatake DD was closing NAUTILUS at high speed. NAUTILUS went to 300 feet, rigged for silent running, and depth charge. Depth charges exploded above as NAUTILUS passed 250 feet but no damage. The other escort, the Chidori soon arrived on scene and lived up to its reputation as, in what is NAUTILUS's most intense depth charging to date, Chidori delivered a large pattern which violently shook the boat. Damage was reported throughout the boat including:

Heavy Flooding in Aft torpedo room, minor flooding in forward torpedo, Aft batteries heavily damaged. Hydraulic pumps again disabled, trim pump damaged, numerous air line and piping leaks. Aft flooding was tended two, the weight of the water, caused a stern angle to be taken by NAUTILUS, requiring more speed to control while the assigned Damage Control Party
worked to stop the flooding. Both escorts made numerous runs on NAUTILUS during this period.

Flooding was stopped , but had several feet of water in bilges and aft torpedo compartment. With batteries damaged, could not afford the power to maintained high speed at all times. NAUTILUS drifted to 430 feet when was forced to add speed to get boat back to 390 feet. Eventually the boat was stabilized, but due to damaged batteries, and excess use of power to compensate for flooding, battery power was at just 30 percent.

At noon, one escort(believed to be the Wakatake DD) left area, presumably to rejoin the convoy, but the Chidori remained behind, hunting, pinging, dropping charges, several came close. The damaged NAUTILUS was at 375 feet, slowly moving along, attempting to conserve battery power as the enemy persisted. Several random explosions, not in area of the escort were heard through the afternoon. Believe this to be from ASW aircraft from Truk sent to assist.

At 1901, suddenly the Chidori regained contact, made four runs on Nautilus over next thirty minutes, causing some damage. NAUTILUS's battery power was now 19 percent. Next few hours, enemy commenced periods of listening, followed by pinging, dropping charges, most close and never appearing to lose general idea of NAUTILUS's location.

Finally, at 0102 on 1 February, Chidori made a final run, rushing above but about 100 yards off to port, dropped a large pattern, which shook the boat, then departed area at high speed.

After over a hour of all clear, NAUTILUS eased to periscope depth at 0200, then SJ depth at 0215. All clear, secured and surfaced. Battery power was down to just 6 percent of capacity. Upon surfacing repairs immediately began and torpedoes reloaded.

At 0500 , received orders to proceed to Woleai for reconnoiter and bombardment mission. Proceeded on course for Woleai at 8.5 knots to conserve fuel.Several SD contacts en route were made, but no planes sighted.

Arrived off Woleai on 5 February, conducted daytime observation, plotting location of large fuel tanks and a large ship in the lagoon. Surfaced at 2350
but seas were too rough for bombardment. Seas finally calmed sufficiently by 0300 and ordered General Quarters-Gun Action.

Fired 100 6" 53 caliber rounds from 7500 yards, destroying eight large fuel tanks and damaging a mid sized AK as well as PC type in the lagoon. Cleared area by 0500. Submerged at 0800 to avoid patrolling aircraft.

At noon, while at periscope depth, received message to bombard Fais Island.
Surfaced at dusk and proceeded to Fais Island at 8 knots.

Arrived off Fais on 7 February and submerged at dawn. Surfaced at dusk and conducted bombardment of island. Destroyed a H6K MAVIS flying boat moored at the island, as well six small fuel storage tanks. Secured from GQ and set course for Pearl Harbor via Johnston Island due to fuel status.

Submerged to avoid aircraft NW of Truk, SE of Guam on 9, 10, February, contacted by SD only. On the morning of 12 February, SD failed to detect a 'MAVIS', and lookouts spotted a MAVIS incoming bearing 170 8000 yards. NAUTILUS submerged and as was passing 115 feet, rocked by several large explosions. Fortunately, no damage reported. Remained submerged until dark and surfaced. On 22 February at 0600, docked at Johnston Island for fuel. Departed at 1200 and proceeded to Pearl Harbor. Arrived Submarine Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 1600 26 February 1943 and terminated war patrol.

SHIPS SUNK

Asashio Class Destroyer
2370 tons
1942/12/27 1455(local)
6-29S 156-10E

AKAMA MARU
AK-Cargo
5425 tons
1943/01/01 0854 (local)
1-25N 148-19E

SHIPS DAMAGED

AP KONRON MARU
8100 tons
1943/01/01 0912 (local)
5-32S 155-36E

A few screenshots......

02-09-22, 05:38 PM	#5217
Bubblehead1980 Navy Seal Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Florida USA Posts: 6,922 Downloads: 550 Uploads: 42	USS NAUTILUS WAR PATROL SIX 13 December 1942-25 February 1942 TMO 2.5 Update BH V 2.0 (not yet released, in testing) Donation Narwhal Mod 100 difficulty, cams and contacts off. WAR PATROL REPORT USS NAUTILUS SS-168 WAR PATROL SIX 13 DECEMBER 1942- 26 February 1943 USS Nautilus, under W.H. Brockman Jr., USN, departed Submarine Base Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 0700 hours on 13 December 1942 for assigned patrol area east of Bougainville. The assigned area covered the approaches to Kieta Harbor as well as the Bougainville Strait and approaches to Tonolei Harbor on Southern Bougainville. Upon departure conducted underway routine of dive, gunnery, torpedo fire control, and emergency drills. Arrived at Johnston Island on 15 December and topped off fuel tanks, then proceeded on course 235 at 10 knots. The route chosen took NAUTILUS between the Marshall and Gilbert Islands en route to assigned area. A SD contact at 11000 yards was made at 1739 on 17 December. NAUTILUS submerged and remained so until dusk, surfacing at 2020. NAUTILUS arrived in patrol area at midnight on 25 December and submerged 25 miles off Kieta for patrol just after dawn. Surfaced that evening after a uneventful day and proceeded to Southern portion of area. TORPEDO ATTACKS NO. 1, 1-A, 1-B. On 27 December, north of the Bougainville Strait between Bougainville and Choiseul Island, SJ contact was reported bearing 001 at 18000 yards. Established visual contact at dawn, contact was a enemy patrol boat, NAUTILUS turned to avoid and submerged for patrol. At 1420, sound reported high speed screws bearing 170 closing. Went to periscope depth and at 9000 yards spotted a enemy destroyer. General Quarters-Torpedo was called and initiated a approach. Destroyer was soon identified to be of the Asashio Class on course 335 at 16 knots. Next observation revealed a slight course change by DD put NAUTILUS too close for bow shot, so turned to starboard to bring stern tubes to bear. Torpedoes were set to minimum depth due to ongoing depth control issues with MK 14 torpedo. At 1454 fired tubes 5, and 6, at 1300 yards from target. First torpedo (Tube No.5) hit the target just aft of amidships area, causing large fire. Second torpedo (Tube No.6) passed below the stern but failed to explode. The DD soon settled by the stern and slowed. Damage is believed to be caused by the magnetic detonator being actuated. Torpedo, set to minimum depth, obviously ran deeper than set, but was close enough to the hull of target to actuate the magnetic exploder. As DD went dead in water, ordered stern tubes reloaded for the coup de grace. However, sound reported fast screws, warship closing from 157 degrees. Soon could see a PC type vessel closing at high speed, likely called in to assist the DD. Brought bow tubes to bear on the DD, now dead in the water and fired Tube No.1 at 1515:10. At 15:15:25 torpedo prematurely detonated. At 1515:45 fired tube no.2. Second torpedo hit, running into the side the stricken DD as aimed, blowing a large hole amidships, causing explosions and fire. The destroyer quickly sunk at position 6-29S 156-10E at 15:21 hours. A fast patrol, PT boat boat was now closing at very high speed. NAUTILUS went to 250 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge on a course NW, away from scene. Ten minutes later enemy arrived on scene and began a search pattern. After two passes in general area of NAUTILUS, the vessel surprised NAUTILUS with pings, as did not figure such a diminutive craft would have active sonar. As vessel roared above, two splashes of depth charges were heard, followed by two close explosions, which caused minor damage (piping, air line leaks, broken bulbs and glass) The enemy continued to hound NAUTILUS through the afternoon and into evening. At 1951 , while NAUTILUS was at 325 ft, a three close depth charge explosions caused damage throughout the boat. Most serious was aft battery damage and minor flooding in control room, which was quickly stopped. While the vessel continued searching, this was the last of depth charges dropped. Finally at 0025 on 26 December, contact was lost with the enemy. Came to periscope depth at 0230 and radar depth, with no contacts, secured silent running and surfaced, headed away from the area of action. NAUTILUS conducted submerged patrol SE of Kieta within 5 miles of Bougainville coast by day 26-28 December before moving back South to patrol off Bougainville Strait. At 0400 on 29 December, received orders from COMSUBPAC regarding special mission to evacuate civilians from Teop, Bougainville on 30 December. Proceeded NNW at 11 knots to arrive on time for the operation. SPECIAL MISSION Orders specified NAUTILUS to send a landing party ashore at Teop on 29 December, to rendezvous with British and Australian citizens , including children, and evacuate them before daylight 31 December. Executive Officer LT R.B. Lynch, USN, was chosen to lead the six man party. Submerged ten miles off Teop on 29 December and reconnoitered the area. Surfaced at 2100 and prepared to land party when received message to delay operation until 31 December. Landing party sent ashore via raft at 0400 on 31 December. Pickup would be arranged upon signals from landing party or, if contact was last. NAUTILUS was be at same position from 0000-0530 each night until recovery made. Received signals at 2230 31 December for pickup of landing party and civilians at 0200 on 1 January 1943. NAUTILUS closed to 2500 yards of shore and spotted rafts containing the landing party, twenty six adults, and three children. All were aboard by 0400, NAUTILUS departed area, and at 0415 received orders to transport passengers to Brisbane, Australia. A course taking NAUTILUS around the North end of Bougainville through the Solomon and Coral seas to Brisbane at 14.5 knots was plotted and executed. TORPEDO ATTACK NO.2 However, SJ made contact at 0545 bearing 341 18228 yards. Contact soon developed into a convoy with a DD escorting. NAUTILUS pulled ahead and submerged at 0808 for attack. Normal approach was conducted but upon next observation, convoy had zigged to course 210, a strait line for Kieta Harbor. This put NAUTILUS in position to attack the port column, instead of the starboard as expected. Target selected was a large troopship similar to KONRON MARU 8100 tons, in the middle of the port column. At 0910:30 fired tubes-1,2,3,4 at target. Torpedoes 1,2,3 all prematurely detonated en route to target. These detonations alerted the convoy, as ships slowed and began turning away, as DD turned about to close the NAUTILUS. However, No.4 still found its point of aim, as impacted the target between her twin stacks at 0912:15. The large AP heaved, from a explosion and fired. A large hole was visible at waterline between the stacks, with fire emanating from the gaping hole in the ships side. NAUTILUS went to 250 ft, silent running, and rigged for depth charge. The DD, believed to be of the Akatsuki Class, closed in pinging, dropping numerous charges, but none close. However, at 1104, with NAUTILUS at 275 ft, several close charges shook the boat. Damage was reported to forward batteries and hydraulic pumps were seriously damaged. This damage caused noticeable performance changing in rudder and dive plane controls, the boat felt more slugging than usual when submerged. A Damage Control Party was dispatched. At 1135 more close depth charges caused damaged in forward torpedo room, including minor flooding, which was quickly handled. After several hours of depth charging, enemy lost contact t 1436. NAUTILUS continued on, secured GQ and silent running at 1800 and conducted repairs, surfacing at 2200 to continue on to Brisbane. At 01010 on 2 January, SJ contact was made on three ships at 19000 yards, bearing 280. Upon closing found one DD escorting two large transports on NW course. With heavy seas and low visibility, struggled to pull ahead for dawn attack as convoy was moving at 12.5 knots. At 0302, range on the DD began to decrease rapidly and lookouts spotted him bearing 205 3000 yards, charging in "with a bone in his teeth". About to be overran by the DD, NAUTILUS submerged , stopping at periscope depth, hoping to catch the DD with a stern torpedo shot. However, the setup was not favorable. Ordered rig for silent running and depth charge, and a depth of 250 feet. Due to limited visibility and it being unlikely the DD visually observed NAUTILUS, it is believed the DD, a fleet type, may have surface search radar and/or radar detection equipment, which permitted him to detect NAUTILUS. The passed above and dropped two depth charges, no close. For next twenty minutes, the DD searched for NAUTILUS, then suddenly, began pinging the NAUTILUS. A persistent and at times accurate depth charge attack followed for next six and a half hours. Finally, contact left area at high speed, likely to catch up with his charges. Just after coming to periscope depth at 1130, sound detected fast props closing, visual check of bearing 300, a second DD arriving on scene, likely dispatched from Buka, Bougainville to hunt for NUATILUS, which went back to 300 feet and maintained silent running, but secured from GQ. At 1500, with the DD astern but noises audible, sound picked up a contact bearing 000 10000 yards estimated. Sounds appear to be of a submarine. NAUTILUS crept to periscope depth and spotted a Japanese I-Class submarine on course 330 at 14 knots 6000 yards, range opening. NAUTILUS was unable to fire due to being out of position, unable to surface and attempt to attack due to proximity of the DD astern and enemy airbase less than 30 miles at Buka. Returned to 300 feet and surfaced after dark. January 3-8 was uneventful as proceeded to Brisbane, scheduled for arrival on 9 January. On 9 January docked at Brisbane, disembarked passengers and received orders to depart on 12 January for patrol area in the Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes. Crew enjoyed brief liberty periods, boat was refueled, provisioned, and rearmed. NAUTILUS departed Brisbane at 0900 on 12 January for new patrol area. FRIENDLY FIRE INCIDENT On 13 January at 1134 SD made contact at 11500 yards. A RAAF Catalina soon came into view at bearing 085. The Catalina made high pass overhead at about 2000 feet, then made a fast, sharp, banking turn, and then diving toward NAUTILUS. The dive alarm was sounded as the aircraft closed, fast. As NAUTILUS passed 64 feet, four large explosions went off, shaking the boat, causing busted piping, air lines, broken bulbs, and glass, as well as serious damage to tubes No.5 and No.6. Appears NAUTILUS was mistaken for a enemy submarine. (Friendly Fire mod in TMO Update) All damage was able to be repaired within 48 hours. After a otherwise uneventful passage, arrived in patrol area 400 NM south of Truk in the Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes on 20 January. Conducted submerged patrol along these lines by day. TORPEDO ATTACK NO.3 Finally at 0610 on 25 January, SJ made contact at 330 19300 yards, NAUTILUS went to GQ and conducted approach for dawn periscope attack on a northbound convoy of three AK, one DD escorting. At 0800, fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at a large AK similar to JOKUJA MARU. All four torpedoes prematurely detonated, one just 5-10 feet from target. Alerted, ships began to maneuver as DD closed. With stern tubes brought to bear, fired tubes 5,6, at a mid sized AK similar to KANAGA MARU. However, her Captain demonstrated skill and maneuvered to avoid the torpedoes, with both missed just ahead of her bow as she turned to starboard. NAUTILUS rigged for depth charge, silent running and went to 275 feet, below a thermal layer, the first found on this patrol. The DD closed in pinging, dropping depth charges in area. At 1002 DD appeared to gain solid contact on NAUTILUS, roared above and dropped two large patterns. Boat was shaken, but no damage. With NAUTILUS at 300 feet, boat lost contact and last heard on sound leaving area at high speed with the merchants. Believe heavy seas and thermal layer hampered enemy attack efforts in this instance. Surfaced a hour later and attempted to regain contact with convoy but was unable. Ended search after dark and continued patrol. After several days of rough seas and weather in area, clear skies and calm seas arrived on evening of 30 January. TORPEDO ATACK NO. 4 At 0704 on 31 January, SJ made contact bearing 352 19240 yards/ Conducted approach for dawn periscope attack and went to General Quarters-Torpedo and submerged for attack at 0800. On observation at 0830, noticed the six ship, two escort convoy had zigged to the east, opening range considerably from planned firing point. Not wanting to fire from long range, NAUTILUS went to 175 feet at 7.5 knots for a run to close the range much as possible. Slowly and coming to periscope at 0851, range had closed enough to ensure a tolerable firing range. Identified the lead escort as a Chidori Class Torpedo Boat/Escort Vessel, one which had a reputation as a nasty adversary of our submarines. Astern was a older DD of the Wakatake Class. At 0856 fired tubes 1,2,3,4 at a large AK in center position of port column (two columns, three AK in each, six total) from 2100 yards. Torpedo No.1 impacted amidships as aimed, setting off a massive initial explosion followed seconds later by a massive chain of secondary explosions, which appeared to lift the vessel out of the water. The scene was obscured by flame and smoke, but observed torpedo no.2 hit the bow section. When smoke dissipated somewhat, could see the ships keel had been broken, split at amidships, the vessel was now in two sections. Torpedoes 3 and 4 failed to hit anything, reached their end of run explosions. The bow and stern sections of the AK hit by torpedoes quickly sunk, with one life raft visible. Soon the Wakatake DD was closing NAUTILUS at high speed. NAUTILUS went to 300 feet, rigged for silent running, and depth charge. Depth charges exploded above as NAUTILUS passed 250 feet but no damage. The other escort, the Chidori soon arrived on scene and lived up to its reputation as, in what is NAUTILUS's most intense depth charging to date, Chidori delivered a large pattern which violently shook the boat. Damage was reported throughout the boat including: Heavy Flooding in Aft torpedo room, minor flooding in forward torpedo, Aft batteries heavily damaged. Hydraulic pumps again disabled, trim pump damaged, numerous air line and piping leaks. Aft flooding was tended two, the weight of the water, caused a stern angle to be taken by NAUTILUS, requiring more speed to control while the assigned Damage Control Party worked to stop the flooding. Both escorts made numerous runs on NAUTILUS during this period. Flooding was stopped , but had several feet of water in bilges and aft torpedo compartment. With batteries damaged, could not afford the power to maintained high speed at all times. NAUTILUS drifted to 430 feet when was forced to add speed to get boat back to 390 feet. Eventually the boat was stabilized, but due to damaged batteries, and excess use of power to compensate for flooding, battery power was at just 30 percent. At noon, one escort(believed to be the Wakatake DD) left area, presumably to rejoin the convoy, but the Chidori remained behind, hunting, pinging, dropping charges, several came close. The damaged NAUTILUS was at 375 feet, slowly moving along, attempting to conserve battery power as the enemy persisted. Several random explosions, not in area of the escort were heard through the afternoon. Believe this to be from ASW aircraft from Truk sent to assist. At 1901, suddenly the Chidori regained contact, made four runs on Nautilus over next thirty minutes, causing some damage. NAUTILUS's battery power was now 19 percent. Next few hours, enemy commenced periods of listening, followed by pinging, dropping charges, most close and never appearing to lose general idea of NAUTILUS's location. Finally, at 0102 on 1 February, Chidori made a final run, rushing above but about 100 yards off to port, dropped a large pattern, which shook the boat, then departed area at high speed. After over a hour of all clear, NAUTILUS eased to periscope depth at 0200, then SJ depth at 0215. All clear, secured and surfaced. Battery power was down to just 6 percent of capacity. Upon surfacing repairs immediately began and torpedoes reloaded. At 0500 , received orders to proceed to Woleai for reconnoiter and bombardment mission. Proceeded on course for Woleai at 8.5 knots to conserve fuel.Several SD contacts en route were made, but no planes sighted. Arrived off Woleai on 5 February, conducted daytime observation, plotting location of large fuel tanks and a large ship in the lagoon. Surfaced at 2350 but seas were too rough for bombardment. Seas finally calmed sufficiently by 0300 and ordered General Quarters-Gun Action. Fired 100 6" 53 caliber rounds from 7500 yards, destroying eight large fuel tanks and damaging a mid sized AK as well as PC type in the lagoon. Cleared area by 0500. Submerged at 0800 to avoid patrolling aircraft. At noon, while at periscope depth, received message to bombard Fais Island. Surfaced at dusk and proceeded to Fais Island at 8 knots. Arrived off Fais on 7 February and submerged at dawn. Surfaced at dusk and conducted bombardment of island. Destroyed a H6K MAVIS flying boat moored at the island, as well six small fuel storage tanks. Secured from GQ and set course for Pearl Harbor via Johnston Island due to fuel status. Submerged to avoid aircraft NW of Truk, SE of Guam on 9, 10, February, contacted by SD only. On the morning of 12 February, SD failed to detect a 'MAVIS', and lookouts spotted a MAVIS incoming bearing 170 8000 yards. NAUTILUS submerged and as was passing 115 feet, rocked by several large explosions. Fortunately, no damage reported. Remained submerged until dark and surfaced. On 22 February at 0600, docked at Johnston Island for fuel. Departed at 1200 and proceeded to Pearl Harbor. Arrived Submarine Pearl Harbor, T.H. at 1600 26 February 1943 and terminated war patrol. SHIPS SUNK Asashio Class Destroyer 2370 tons 1942/12/27 1455(local) 6-29S 156-10E AKAMA MARU AK-Cargo 5425 tons 1943/01/01 0854 (local) 1-25N 148-19E SHIPS DAMAGED AP KONRON MARU 8100 tons 1943/01/01 0912 (local) 5-32S 155-36E A few screenshots...... Last edited by Bubblehead1980; 02-09-22 at 05:49 PM.