Tell us what you're up to in current campaign (lets get this one going lol) - Page 5

Bubblehead1980 · 03-20-22, 06:06 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by 1Patriotofmany

3 hits on the Rodney east of Britain. OM Darkwaters

[/IMG]

Nice!

Bubblehead1980 · 03-20-22, 06:09 PM

TMO Update BH

August 2, 1943
USS Cisco SS-290
Balao Class

0800 Underway from Mare Island for final Sea Trial,
live fire torpedo practice, depth charge indoctrination, and
night surface attack training on convoy.

0830 Passed below Golden Gate Bridge. Set course for
Monterey Bay for first phase of sea trial.

Sammy-rai · 04-02-22, 05:04 AM

1943 January 14, just off the SW coast of New Ireland, kl 2200 -

Surface radar, then sonar detected a 4-vessel box formation, with one contact leading them and two more contacts astride the box's flanks.

As the SnapperII moved into firing position 90 degrees relative to the direction of the convoy, a preliminary speed estimate was taken. The result was 28 knots, either a mistake or the fastest convoy the Snapper had ever seen. A speed measurement was taken on another vessel and this time the result was 30 knots. Some sort of task force, then ??

Regardless, being well in front of their plotted path the SnapperII easily achieved a good firing position, 800 meters from the convoy's predicted passing point. SnapperII then went to periscope depth. Bow tubes were opened. Following normal procedure, firing would commence when the leading 'merchant' reached the 15 degree bearing point. Still no visual.

Visibility was decent and sea conditions were calm so as the spearpoint ship came within 1200 meters distance it was IDed as a Chidori, the feared anti-sub escort. It passed by surprisingly quickly. The sub's attack team now swung into action, working on a fix for the nearest vessels in convoy box.

To their surprise, both vessels were mere 1300-ton destroyers. Where were the juicy targets ? Suddenly it was noticed that the convoy box had reached the 15 degree mark without any of the contacts having been locked in and targeted. The captain then ordered that the trailing vessel in the box be attacked. The attack team went to work but by the time they had calculated a firing solution on the rearmost vessel in the box (a small Kaya class destroyer-escort), its bearing was 340 degrees and rapidly receding.

Captain Skeezix called off that attack and said to concentrate on hitting the nearest escort vessel guarding the rear of the convoy box. The last ship in this convoy, It loomed out of the darkness suddenly, nearer to the sub than it's companions had been. 'A Fubuki sir!' reported the exec. The attack team worked feverishly to achieve a firing solution but the 1750-ton destroyer had swept by the 15 degree firing point and was passing the 0 degree bearing before the team was finished. They then improvised a 345 degree targeting solution and quickly fired off two eels.

Watching their wakes, the skipper noticed at once that the 2 torpedoes had swung 90 degrees and seemed to be following a parallel course off to the side of the Fubuki. And that the Fubuki was pulling away from the torpedoes! In their haste to work out a firing solution, no one had told the torpedo room to set the speed to 'high'.

Results: 2 torpedoes fired, no hits.

Comments: What kind of setup was this - 2 full-sized destroyers guarding 4 smaller vessels ? Possibly an express-speed convoy? On the positive side, the Snapper remained undetected by this quite formidable group with great ASW potential. No pinging of any kind by any vessel at any time while the Snapper was observing. 800 meters is much too close for targeting a fast-moving convoy at night, even with clear skies and calm waters. Was this an ASW group trying to trick a sub into attacking it or an express convoy speeding on to Bouganville ? Attack team miscalculated time available to set up a firing solution, resulting in no attack and unsuccessful attack.

propbeanie · 04-02-22, 11:58 AM

The 'local' USN used to refer to that as The Tokyo Express, while the Japanese referred to it as The Rat Express. They would speed across and down from Rabaul or Kavieng to Bougainville / Shortlands, and down to Guadalcanal or other points South. By January of 1943, if they are headed for Guadalcanal, they are attempting to withdraw... Report immediately to a superior officer upon RTB for JAG assignment and a court date will be set... "they went too fast" is not an excuse... There will be no investigation, this will go straight to trial, and you will be found guilty...

Bubblehead1980 · 04-02-22, 06:15 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sammy-rai

1943 January 14, just off the SW coast of New Ireland, kl 2200 -

Surface radar, then sonar detected a 4-vessel box formation, with one contact leading them and two more contacts astride the box's flanks.

As the SnapperII moved into firing position 90 degrees relative to the direction of the convoy, a preliminary speed estimate was taken. The result was 28 knots, either a mistake or the fastest convoy the Snapper had ever seen. A speed measurement was taken on another vessel and this time the result was 30 knots. Some sort of task force, then ??

Regardless, being well in front of their plotted path the SnapperII easily achieved a good firing position, 800 meters from the convoy's predicted passing point. SnapperII then went to periscope depth. Bow tubes were opened. Following normal procedure, firing would commence when the leading 'merchant' reached the 15 degree bearing point. Still no visual.

Visibility was decent and sea conditions were calm so as the spearpoint ship came within 1200 meters distance it was IDed as a Chidori, the feared anti-sub escort. It passed by surprisingly quickly. The sub's attack team now swung into action, working on a fix for the nearest vessels in convoy box.

To their surprise, both vessels were mere 1300-ton destroyers. Where were the juicy targets ? Suddenly it was noticed that the convoy box had reached the 15 degree mark without any of the contacts having been locked in and targeted. The captain then ordered that the trailing vessel in the box be attacked. The attack team went to work but by the time they had calculated a firing solution on the rearmost vessel in the box (a small Kaya class destroyer-escort), its bearing was 340 degrees and rapidly receding.

Captain Skeezix called off that attack and said to concentrate on hitting the nearest escort vessel guarding the rear of the convoy box. The last ship in this convoy, It loomed out of the darkness suddenly, nearer to the sub than it's companions had been. 'A Fubuki sir!' reported the exec. The attack team worked feverishly to achieve a firing solution but the 1750-ton destroyer had swept by the 15 degree firing point and was passing the 0 degree bearing before the team was finished. They then improvised a 345 degree targeting solution and quickly fired off two eels.

Watching their wakes, the skipper noticed at once that the 2 torpedoes had swung 90 degrees and seemed to be following a parallel course off to the side of the Fubuki. And that the Fubuki was pulling away from the torpedoes! In their haste to work out a firing solution, no one had told the torpedo room to set the speed to 'high'.

Results: 2 torpedoes fired, no hits.

Comments: What kind of setup was this - 2 full-sized destroyers guarding 4 smaller vessels ? Possibly an express-speed convoy? On the positive side, the Snapper remained undetected by this quite formidable group with great ASW potential. No pinging of any kind by any vessel at any time while the Snapper was observing. 800 meters is much too close for targeting a fast-moving convoy at night, even with clear skies and calm waters. Was this an ASW group trying to trick a sub into attacking it or an express convoy speeding on to Bouganville ? Attack team miscalculated time available to set up a firing solution, resulting in no attack and unsuccessful attack.

Thanks for sharing, keeping this thread going. I haven't been on patrol in few weeks as have been working on next release of V2.0 mod, so have not really been able to share.

Appears to be you were running FOTRS mod? I thought it was TMO at first until I looked closer at screenshot.

I know that in TMO, I added certain convoys, typically based on actual convoys some cases landing forces, high priority contacts are "overprotected. " Importance of ships not necessarily denoted by their size.

Off top of my head I forget name of the sub but there was one in 1943 ran into a 3500 ton transport with four escorts, very heavy screen for one vessel esp for that time period, so they attacked. Turns out was carrying troops and ammo to Rabaul from Truk (later found out) or one the Cobia sunk in 1944, carrying tank regiment to Iwo Jima. One or two ships well protected.

I added quite a few "offbeat" contacts like this. Typically, the escorts are highly skilled as well.

Sammy-rai · 04-03-22, 01:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bubblehead1980

Appears to be you were running FOTRS mod? I thought it was TMO at first until I looked closer at screenshot.

To be sure, I'll be trying out TMO before too long. Friendly-fire feature is something I'm definitely interested in checking out. I'm playing SH4 using the FOTRS mod and submods - in my opinion a pretty sweet package.

Sammy-rai · 04-03-22, 01:59 PM

1943 January 15, just off the SE coast of New Ireland -

Weather: overcast sky, calm waters, good visibility.
No contacts this day.

The captain and officers of the SnapperII were down in the dumps after the dressing down received via radio communications. Before they had left Brisbane, the scuttlebutt had been that the base's new sub commander, Admiral Fife, would be cleaning house and removing those skippers he deemed 'unfit'. Skeezix had not considered himself in any danger. But now he was being threatened with a court martial while in the middle of a patrol!

As if that were not enough, the SnapperII received new orders to begin patrolling the SE coast of New Ireland for 'small convoys'. "Well boys," mused Captain Skeezix, "looks like they decided to put me in the backyard. We'll all be hunting fleas from now on."

Making good use of their free time, the captain and his men spent a good portion of the day practicing attacks via radar and sonar inputs.
************************************************** ************************************************** ***
1943 January 16, just off the SE coast of New Ireland, kl 2100 -

Weather: heavy rain, choppy waters, poor visibility.

Sonar reported three contacts traveling in single file formation. A preliminary speed measurement was taken in conjunction with the plotting of the convoy's path. Speed: 14.5 knots. Battle stations were sounded.

The SnapperII went to full speed and eventually lay submerged in a position 90 degrees to the convoy's path, at a distance of 1100 meters. (The attack team was now leery of being so close that they would not be able get a fix on a target before it steamed past them out of range.) As was their custom, they would try to launch a torpedo when it was 15 degrees off the bow. Bow torpedo tubes were duly opened. The captain then ordered all torpedoes set to 'high' speed with magnetic detonators 'on'.

The exec took up the attack periscope for a quick look-see. "Holy Jeezus, everything is black! Can't see where the ocean ends and the sky begins." He looked enquiringly at Captain Skeezix. "We stay put for the time being." was the captain's reply.

Two more speed measurements were taken as the convoy drew near: 14 knots was agreed upon as the new speed. At 25 degrees the exec took the periscope up to get a fix on the first vessel. "Still can't see a thing ! Too dark and the waves too choppy." The captain ordered the SnapperII forward at flank speed for 10 seconds, then slowed her down to 1/3 speed. Closer now, the exec took another look but still failed to make visual contact on a vessel. "For Christ's sake are you blind ?" - The skipper shoved his exec aside and took the periscope himself. "Give me a bearing on the last vessel!". Despite the sonarman's reports, Skeezix could not sight a vessel either.

"Zero the TDC - we'll fire straight ahead blind!". The TDC was duly zeroed and the first torpedo launched, but by now the last vessel was crossing the Snapper's bow, according to the sonarman. Frustrated, the captain laid his forehead against the perisope column.

Results: 1 torpedo fired, no hits.

Comments: The Captain ordered radio silence for the next 24 hours and has now retired to his cabin.
************************************************** ************************************************** ***********

propbeanie · 04-03-22, 03:07 PM

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!

A song that is overplayed, but is quite good still, and applies here... lol- Sorry, no Kerry Livgren, but... couldn't find a "Live!!!" video of Lonely Street either... nutz...

Bubblehead1980 · 04-03-22, 05:19 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Sammy-rai

To be sure, I'll be trying out TMO before too long. Friendly-fire feature is something I'm definitely interested in checking out. I'm playing SH4 using the FOTRS mod and submods - in my opinion a pretty sweet package.

FOTRS is excellent, can't go wrong with it

Lol Friendly Fire is definitely a interesting element. I've been bombed by a few "friendly planes". Lost a 14 patrol career in November 1944 to a Butler Class DE off Morotai, hedgehogs and Allied sonar vs a old Narwhal Class , not much of a chance lol.

My fault though, I was close to Mios Woendi to end a long patrol and ASSUMED the contact was a friendly DE given proximity to friendly bases, well his radar detected me on surface at night and he closed in firing, forced me to dive as could not out run him. (Sadly, the real life Seawolf was lost to in similar circumstances in October 1944 off Morotai as well)

In the soon to be released V2.0 of the update mod, I have reworked friendly fire a bit, still somewhat rare overall , but always a possible threat, especially in early war. New construction in 1942 off East Coast while U boats are a problem, friendly fire is likely .

Bubblehead1980 · 04-06-22, 07:59 PM

I've been working on the TMO UpdateV2.0 so have not been on patrol in a while. Testing out some new lifeguard patrol objectives (major revamp as they were terrible done in stock and were used in TMO)

USS Gato SS 212 map contacts and external cam on for testing, otherwise on max difficulty.

I was on patrol In DUNKERS DERP on 22 January 1944, awaiting orders to lifeguard station when SJ made contact at 28500 yards at 2341 hours. PPI scope indicated a large convoy in three columns, four ships each with five escorts. Soon plotted convoy as Northbound convoy, likely from Truk.

Closed range ant at 15000 yards called crew to GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE as conditions were ideal for night surface attack. There was no visible moon, just a slight glow in the otherwise dark night with crisp night air, winds at 3 kts direction 274, no fog, with moderate clouds.

GATO approached from the starboard side, looking to exploit the gap left every so often when escort would leave station to "sweep". GATO was ahead of convoy just 6000 yards ahead of convoy matching their 8 kt speed. At 0052 on 23 January 1944, escort made his sweep and GATO made a "U turn" into the convoy, increased speed to 15 knots and set course to enter via the gap.

As GATO came closer to lead escort, slowed to 10 knots to reduce bow and stern wakes. Soon noticed spacing was such could get inside convoy and with the enemy escort returning to station sooner than expected at high speed, decided to head inside. Maneuvered inside towards the center column where the most important ships are typically located, had a few tense moments as passed between first and second ships in outside starboard column, two mid sized AK's, roughly 4000 tons each.

Convoy was on course 340 at 8.5 kts and at 0101 the escor, now identified as a Chidori class torpedo boat, was back on station. Soon identified a large 11000 ton tanker similar to GENYO MARU and a large merchant similar to NAGARA MARU in center column. MK 14 3-A torpedoes in tubes 1-6 were made ready to fire, set to 10 feet. Stern tubes 7,8,9 with MK 18-1 torpedoes made ready as well, set to 10 feet.

At 0116, fired tubes 1,2,3 at the large AK. Each shot fired on single bearing with MOT (Middle of Target) as aiming point at five second intervals. Switched target to the tanker. Tubes 4,5,6 fired on divergent spread, as individual shots...aim points were middle of target, aft mast, fore mast.

Switched to Aft TBT and fired tubes 7,8,9 at mid sized AK astern. Immediately following release of last torpedo, ordered turn port aiming for intended "exit" spot.

At 0117 three torpedoes hit the large AK forward, setting it afire. Moments later, one torpedo hit the tanker, which erupted into a massive fireball, as it was obviously loaded with oil/fuel. Last two torpedoes were obviously redundant but contributed further to the conflagration.

By this point, GATO was up to flank speed and running through the convoy. A nearby AK spotted us and illuminated with spotlight, firing machine guns and then decks guns, a few close machine gun rounds, but no worries. Just then boom! two out of three MK 18's hit the AK astern, setting her afire. About 40 seconds later, ship erupted into massive fireball and split into two at keel amidships (love the fire damage mod!). At this point, star shells, spotlights, and fires had the area fairly well illuminated as GATO dodged gunfire.

Original escape spot was now blocked by a SC type escort, GATO changed course passing uncomfortably close to a mid sized AK astern in port column, which fired on GATO with her machine guns.

Soon noticed the Chidori had detected GATO and was closing at very high rate of speed. With one MK 18 (purposely saved for just this scenario) in tube 10, torpedo was set to minimum depth and tube opened. Course was changed to bring stern to bear for "Down the throat" shot on the on rushing Chidori if needed.

Chidori was closing fast from 4100 yards and APR-1 detected radar emissions ahead. Soon SD had a contact at 13000 yards closing fast. Seems a night flyer was called in from Iwo Jima, which was less than 100 miles away.

At 0120 fired Tube 10 down the throat from 3500 yards. Torpedo tracked perfectly but run below target(!). At 3000 yards, Chidori kicked on spotlight and opened fire. A crash dive was ordered.

GATO, was below in 38 seconds, on her way to 300 feet rigged for silent running and depth charge. Chidori began pinging immediately but at his high speed overshot GATO and dropped his pattern of charges too far ahead, none were close, but made a lot of noise.

GATO soon leveled at 300 feet as pinging returned. On this pass, Chidori pattern was on point, with one close charge pushing GATO to 311 feet, shaking boat terribly, causing minor damage. Ordered GATO to 350 feet as escort closed in for next run. A well delivered pattern of charges shook the boat violently. Minor flooding in forward torpedo room and conning tower quickly controlled.

GATO went to 375 feet and on next run went ahead to port on "burst" of speed (ahead flank) for one minute fifteen seconds. This seemed to throw the Chidori off initially as next pattern was not nearly as close.

However, two warship contacts soon arrived on scene , making runs, tooth shakers, but none were too close.

0144 the GENYO MARU tanker 11800 tons sunk! (love the longer sinking times I've implemented into V2.0)

Escorts soon made three depth charge runs in quick succession. GATO was forced to 390 feet. A close charge busted compressor and trim pumps, along with damage to dive planes transmission, but nothing too serious.

At 0201 NAGARAR MARU sunk.

Over next six hours GATO was depth charged numerous times by one escort, as other two departed scene and rejoined convoy. Some charges were close but GATO escaped further damage.

At 0830 after several hours of "sleeping" , escort was heard leaving area. Came to periscope depth, spotted a BETTY bearing 274 at 5000 yards, searching area. Went to 200 feet, secured GQ, reloaded tubes. At 1100 , back at periscope depth, all clear, surfaced to catch convoy, but SD contacts continued to force dives , preventing end around.

At 1400 on surface at flank speed to catch up with convoy, lookouts spotted aircraft astern, a BETTY was visible, flying low at high speed heading our way!. CRASH DIVE! (SD has been modified for realistic performance, contacts flying below 1000 feet at unlikely to be detected. Most planes in game fly above 1000 though).

As GATO passed 150 feet, boom! Boat was shaken, close bombs/depth charges from plane. Minor air and piping leaks in conning tower, lights went out for a few seconds, boat shaken but overall no further damage.

Went to 300 feet and remained so until dark, as each time went up, detected aircraft. At 1900, two DD arrived in area about 9000 yards away, hunting, likely based on earlier plane contact.

Surfaced at 2300, recharged batteries and back on patrol, awaiting lifeguard orders.

Strykr · 04-06-22, 11:58 PM

Bubblehead, your Patrol Report reads like "Thunder Below."

And that's a GOOD thing.
Amazing how your work allows Convoy infiltration.

Bubblehead1980 · 04-07-22, 12:51 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Strykr

Bubblehead, your Patrol Report reads like "Thunder Below."

And that's a GOOD thing.
Amazing how your work allows Convoy infiltration.

Thanks

I enjoy Fluckey's writing style in "Thunder Below" and do attempt to imitate it when do write ups. That was typed up in a hurry, noticed had a few typos when I just went back through it, corrected them. Glad you enjoyed.

Yes, it is the thing I am most proud of and happy with in the mod, making it possible to pull off such attacls, but maintaining the risk level. Escorts are not blind, especially once alerted. Just brings a whole new level to SH4 IMHO.

Bubblehead1980 · 04-07-22, 12:40 PM

TMO Update BH V2.0
27 January 1944
USS GATO SS-212
100 difficulty, cams and contacts on for testing purposes

Testing out series of new lifeguard missions added to campaign.

After running into a convoy while in area DUNKERS DERP on 22/23 January, sinking a large tanker, large merchant, and a mid sized merchant in night surface attack, received orders on 24 January to assume Lifeguard station off Eniwetok Atoll in the Marshall Islands . These carrier air strikes are in advanced of invasion of Kwajalein on 31 January.

Dodged a few patrol planes en route as hornets nest stirred in general area after GATO's attack on convoy, but arrived on station 6 miles off Eniwetok Atoll before midnight 27 January per orders.

At 0901 SD radar made contact with group of aircraft at 10 miles, submerged just in case were enemy but soon spotted TBF, F6F, SB2C and SBD aircraft bearing 190. Sounds of AA fire were heard and a few "puffs" observed near planes.

Watched as planes attacked ships in lagoon and land installations (have added land installations planes and ships will attack, namely fuel tanks, looking for others). GATO closed in submerged to get a closer look at action.

Watched a SB2C Helldiver on fire crash in the lagoon, no chute or smoke marker visible. At 0913 , bsberved a F6F explode and a parachute open. Avaitor splashes down about 5000-6000 yards SSE of Eniwetok. Gato went to 80 feet and ahead full to close the distance.

After a brief run, came to periscope depth and slowed for observation. A smoke marker was visible at bearing 343 about 8000 yards. This rescue would be a risk due to suspected shore batteries nearby, but GATO would pick the flyboy up regardless.

GATO closed to the location of the smoke marker and man in the water was spotted bearing 343. GATO came to 25 feet, decks slightly awash. LT jg H.C. Clifton, USNR, was rescued from the water. Just after pulling the aviator aboard, a large shell splash was observed about 1000 yards off starboard bow. Seems the shore batteries spotted us. GATO quickly went to 100 feet before coming back to periscope depth. By 1000 the first wave had cleared the area.

At 1015 sound made contact with what was revealed to be a small PC type vessel exiting southern entrance of the atoll, sweeping area of GATO's rescue, no doubt called in to hunt us after being spotted. GATO cleared area en route to lifeguard station North of Eniwetok for the second wave, due around 1230.

At 1145 GATO surfaced 10 miles North of Eniwetok on lifeguard station. At 1233 SD contacted large number of planes. Soon spotted TBF, F6F, and SB2C aircraft. These bombers went to work on islands in north end of lagoon as well as sinking a AK damaged in previous attack and cleared area by 1310.

At 1331 received report of downed aircrew in raft 5 miles NNE of the atoll. GATO went to four engine speed , making 21 knots in the calm seas.

Soon spotted two F6F's circling a raft (added this into the campaign) and a smoke marker on the horizon. Continued closing at high speed. Soon, GATO arrived and pulled the downed crew in the raft aboard.

Rescued were:

LT A.D. Sanford, USN.
ENS F.F. Walker, USN.
ARM2c S.E. Hartford, USN.

GATO returned to lifeguard station after completing this rescue.

At 1545 the third wave of aircraft, consisting of F6F and TBF arrived over the lagoon and struck facilities without incident. With this, the final wave scheduled for the day departing area at 1615, GATO stood easy by per orders remained in area.

At 1801, as dusk settled lookouts spotted a RUFE floatplane bearing 124 closing. SD failed to detected plane as was flying low (new SD settings!) ordered a crash dive. RUFE made a strafing run as GATO submerged in 41 seconds. As GATO passed 120 feet, two explosions, not close. Remained submerged until after dark, surfacing at 2100 to cruise area. A single strike is scheduled for the following day, with GATO due to be on lifeguard station by 0600.

Jeff1959 · 04-07-22, 02:48 PM

1943 January 13 00:00
Tautog, Tambor class

Patrolling of the Coast of Honshu. Periscope depth due to rough seas.
Sonar picks up warship sailing alone at medium range bearing 340.
Surface to see what it is.
Due to weather, cannot id ship until 1000 yards.

Hiryu class fleet carrier.
Drop to periscope depth.
Launch all six bow torpedoes.

4 hits, carrier comes to halt.
Drop down, reload and fire 4 more torpedoes.
4 hits, carrier sinks at 02:43.

SH4 1.5, GFO, Max Optics, Difficulty Normal

Sammy-rai · 04-08-22, 03:31 PM

1943 January 18, just off the SE coast of New Ireland, 0200 hours -

Weather: moderate rain, moderate waves, limited visibility.

At 0200 hours a contact was obtained by surface radar, closing, from the north, along the SE coast of New Ireland. Turned out to be 3 ships, with one vessel off to the side ahead of the other two ships, which were in a line.

The skipper conned the SnapperII to a firing position about 800 meters from the formation's probable path.and waited, submerged. Plan was to attack the first of the ships in the line and then circumstances permitting, follow up against the trailing ship. The lead vessel was presumed to be an escort of some sort and so ignored for the time being. The two ships traveling in a line were presumed to be merchants.

As the formation came within 1200 meters distance, the target vessel was identified as the 3200 GT Aden Maru. The other two contacts could still not be sighted due to weather conditions. The initial torpedo attack went off without difficulties. The result was a hit amidships to the Aden Maru. Captain Skeezix observed, and then ordered a second torpedo fired against her. This was followed by a crash drive in order avoid the anticipated response of the escort. As the sub prepared to dive, the exec noted that the freighter was slowing down while listing slightly to port.

Unseen, the second torpedo exploded on time and so was deemed a hit as well. But there was no protective response from either of the other contacts. Instead, tracked by sonar, they were heading straight for the safety of the broad but shallow waters of a nearby cove.

The captain cancelled the crash dive and ordered the Snapper surfaced. The torpedoed merchant was dead in the water and listing badly. The sub left it for the time being and pursued the fleeing Japanese vessels at flank speed, but these reached the cove easily. Here they began to twist and turn, making them difficult targets for a torpedo attack. The Snapper was eventually positioned outside the cove, ready to intercept any attempt to sneak out. Still dark and raining, the sub continued to track the two contacts 3000 meters away via radar and sonar.

An hour went by without either contact attempting a breakout. The skipper then ordered the Snapper forward at pericsope depth towards the contact which had been following behind the Aden Maru. After about 5 minutes, the engineer warned that depth under keel was now down to 5 meters and that continuing submerged would be hazardous.

By now the Snapper was still about 1700 meters from its target and just nosing over into 'shallow waters'. Captain Skeezix mulled over the situation and then said, "That's it, then. It's getting light and they're most likely waiting for help to arrive. Let's go back and finish off that cripple. Reverse standard". But before the helmsman could respond the sonar operator reported that the Snapper was being pinged and that the contact in front of them had swung about and was closing fast.

The captain was speechless for a moment and then ordered a dive to 30 meters.Thirty meters was the lowest the Snapper could get in these waters before the other vessel arrived. The exec, who had swung the periscope around to appraise the approaching enemy, began shouting "Dammit she's got a bone in her teeth - she's got a bone in her teeth ! Full emergency reverse! Full right rudder!". (When later asked what type of ship it was, he replied that "It looked to be some sort of a budget-version of a destroyer.")

The pinging grew in volume. Skeezix realized that he had unwittingly conned the Snapper into an exposed position. From experience he knew that their attacker's next action would be either to ram or make a depth charge run as the ship passed over the sub.

While the Snapper continued its slow backward descent, the pinging suddenly stopped while the whoosh-whoosh sound of the attacker's screws grew louder over them. The captain and crew knew what was in store and waited for a depth charge barrage to begin. At only 30 meters under, the Snapper was a sitting duck and would be torn apart by the explosions.

But no depth charges were dropped. Instead, the sonar operator reported that the Kaya DE veered off to the side, slowed to a crawl, and began circling around. Meanwhile, the Snapper continued retreating backwards slowly but surely towards deeper waters. No one had an explanation for why the enemy had broken off its attack.

At a distance of 3000 meters from the Kaya DE the captain ordered that the SnapperII be surfaced and set course for the crippled Aden Maru. Upon arrival, the sub's deck gun finished off the freighter with four explosive rounds. The skipper then conferred with his officers and decided that the Snapper's next move would be to once again run down those two vessels they had left in the cove.

But by now the two Japanese ships had departed the cove and were once again heading SE along the coast towards 'The Slot' and Guadalcanal. The Snapper plotted a course to make an end run around these two and cut them off.

The Snapper sped along at flank speed and in under an hour began to come up along side the Japanese ships at a distance of 3000 meters. The sub easily tracked them with its sonar and radar while the enemy seemed oblivious of their presence, due to the heavy rains. However, it was starting to get light.

In another half hour the Snapper had swung in to the right and once again settled into a submerged attack position (just as a snapping turtle should). By now it was daylight. At the right moment it sent a torpedo towards the lead ship, a Kaya DE. This torpedo was erratic. Luckily, the Snapper followed with another torpedo despite being discovered and shelled by the DE's sister ship all the while conducting its attack. The second fish passed the first and detonated in the bow of the Kaya. Then the first torpedo arrived, curving towards the bow area as well and detonating. The Kaya sank in less than five minutes.

The skipper was fuming at the remaining Kaya. Earlier it had fooled him badly and by all rights should have sunk the Snapper in shallow waters. And now she had interfered in their bid to sink the other DE. In any event, its attack had again chewed up the conning tower and the equipment there. Captain Skeezix was out after blood!

Thus, though the remaining Kaya fled promptly, the SnapperII relentlessly hunted it down and dispatched it with the last torpedo from its bow tubes.

The sub spent the rest of the day submerged, then surfaced after sunrise and radioed to ComSubPac:

FIVE HOUR RUNNING BATTLE DURING NIGHT CONVOY THREE ALL SUNK

"Let's see what they have to say now, sir! ", declared the radio operator. Captain Skeezix smiled back but said nothing.

Results: 5 torpedoes fired, 3 ships sunk, of which 1 sinking was deck-gun assisted.

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 ?

03-20-22, 06:09 PM	#62
Bubblehead1980 Navy Seal Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Florida USA Posts: 6,922 Downloads: 550 Uploads: 42	USS Cisco SS290 Sea Trials TMO Update BH August 2, 1943 USS Cisco SS-290 Balao Class 0800 Underway from Mare Island for final Sea Trial, live fire torpedo practice, depth charge indoctrination, and night surface attack training on convoy. 0830 Passed below Golden Gate Bridge. Set course for Monterey Bay for first phase of sea trial.

04-02-22, 11:58 AM	#64
propbeanie CTD - it's not just a job Join Date: May 2016 Location: One hour from Music City USA! Posts: 9,911 Downloads: 444 Uploads: 2	The 'local' USN used to refer to that as The Tokyo Express, while the Japanese referred to it as The Rat Express. They would speed across and down from Rabaul or Kavieng to Bougainville / Shortlands, and down to Guadalcanal or other points South. By January of 1943, if they are headed for Guadalcanal, they are attempting to withdraw... Report immediately to a superior officer upon RTB for JAG assignment and a court date will be set... "they went too fast" is not an excuse... There will be no investigation, this will go straight to trial, and you will be found guilty... __________________ "...and bollocks to the naysayers" - Jimbuna

04-03-22, 03:07 PM	#68
propbeanie CTD - it's not just a job Join Date: May 2016 Location: One hour from Music City USA! Posts: 9,911 Downloads: 444 Uploads: 2	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! A song that is overplayed, but is quite good still, and applies here... lol- Sorry, no Kerry Livgren, but... couldn't find a "Live!!!" video of Lonely Street either... nutz... __________________ "...and bollocks to the naysayers" - Jimbuna

04-06-22, 07:59 PM	#70
Bubblehead1980 Navy Seal Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Florida USA Posts: 6,922 Downloads: 550 Uploads: 42	First patrol in a while (testing) I've been working on the TMO UpdateV2.0 so have not been on patrol in a while. Testing out some new lifeguard patrol objectives (major revamp as they were terrible done in stock and were used in TMO) USS Gato SS 212 map contacts and external cam on for testing, otherwise on max difficulty. I was on patrol In DUNKERS DERP on 22 January 1944, awaiting orders to lifeguard station when SJ made contact at 28500 yards at 2341 hours. PPI scope indicated a large convoy in three columns, four ships each with five escorts. Soon plotted convoy as Northbound convoy, likely from Truk. Closed range ant at 15000 yards called crew to GENERAL QUARTERS-TORPEDO-SURFACE as conditions were ideal for night surface attack. There was no visible moon, just a slight glow in the otherwise dark night with crisp night air, winds at 3 kts direction 274, no fog, with moderate clouds. GATO approached from the starboard side, looking to exploit the gap left every so often when escort would leave station to "sweep". GATO was ahead of convoy just 6000 yards ahead of convoy matching their 8 kt speed. At 0052 on 23 January 1944, escort made his sweep and GATO made a "U turn" into the convoy, increased speed to 15 knots and set course to enter via the gap. As GATO came closer to lead escort, slowed to 10 knots to reduce bow and stern wakes. Soon noticed spacing was such could get inside convoy and with the enemy escort returning to station sooner than expected at high speed, decided to head inside. Maneuvered inside towards the center column where the most important ships are typically located, had a few tense moments as passed between first and second ships in outside starboard column, two mid sized AK's, roughly 4000 tons each. Convoy was on course 340 at 8.5 kts and at 0101 the escor, now identified as a Chidori class torpedo boat, was back on station. Soon identified a large 11000 ton tanker similar to GENYO MARU and a large merchant similar to NAGARA MARU in center column. MK 14 3-A torpedoes in tubes 1-6 were made ready to fire, set to 10 feet. Stern tubes 7,8,9 with MK 18-1 torpedoes made ready as well, set to 10 feet. At 0116, fired tubes 1,2,3 at the large AK. Each shot fired on single bearing with MOT (Middle of Target) as aiming point at five second intervals. Switched target to the tanker. Tubes 4,5,6 fired on divergent spread, as individual shots...aim points were middle of target, aft mast, fore mast. Switched to Aft TBT and fired tubes 7,8,9 at mid sized AK astern. Immediately following release of last torpedo, ordered turn port aiming for intended "exit" spot. At 0117 three torpedoes hit the large AK forward, setting it afire. Moments later, one torpedo hit the tanker, which erupted into a massive fireball, as it was obviously loaded with oil/fuel. Last two torpedoes were obviously redundant but contributed further to the conflagration. By this point, GATO was up to flank speed and running through the convoy. A nearby AK spotted us and illuminated with spotlight, firing machine guns and then decks guns, a few close machine gun rounds, but no worries. Just then boom! two out of three MK 18's hit the AK astern, setting her afire. About 40 seconds later, ship erupted into massive fireball and split into two at keel amidships (love the fire damage mod!). At this point, star shells, spotlights, and fires had the area fairly well illuminated as GATO dodged gunfire. Original escape spot was now blocked by a SC type escort, GATO changed course passing uncomfortably close to a mid sized AK astern in port column, which fired on GATO with her machine guns. Soon noticed the Chidori had detected GATO and was closing at very high rate of speed. With one MK 18 (purposely saved for just this scenario) in tube 10, torpedo was set to minimum depth and tube opened. Course was changed to bring stern to bear for "Down the throat" shot on the on rushing Chidori if needed. Chidori was closing fast from 4100 yards and APR-1 detected radar emissions ahead. Soon SD had a contact at 13000 yards closing fast. Seems a night flyer was called in from Iwo Jima, which was less than 100 miles away. At 0120 fired Tube 10 down the throat from 3500 yards. Torpedo tracked perfectly but run below target(!). At 3000 yards, Chidori kicked on spotlight and opened fire. A crash dive was ordered. GATO, was below in 38 seconds, on her way to 300 feet rigged for silent running and depth charge. Chidori began pinging immediately but at his high speed overshot GATO and dropped his pattern of charges too far ahead, none were close, but made a lot of noise. GATO soon leveled at 300 feet as pinging returned. On this pass, Chidori pattern was on point, with one close charge pushing GATO to 311 feet, shaking boat terribly, causing minor damage. Ordered GATO to 350 feet as escort closed in for next run. A well delivered pattern of charges shook the boat violently. Minor flooding in forward torpedo room and conning tower quickly controlled. GATO went to 375 feet and on next run went ahead to port on "burst" of speed (ahead flank) for one minute fifteen seconds. This seemed to throw the Chidori off initially as next pattern was not nearly as close. However, two warship contacts soon arrived on scene , making runs, tooth shakers, but none were too close. 0144 the GENYO MARU tanker 11800 tons sunk! (love the longer sinking times I've implemented into V2.0) Escorts soon made three depth charge runs in quick succession. GATO was forced to 390 feet. A close charge busted compressor and trim pumps, along with damage to dive planes transmission, but nothing too serious. At 0201 NAGARAR MARU sunk. Over next six hours GATO was depth charged numerous times by one escort, as other two departed scene and rejoined convoy. Some charges were close but GATO escaped further damage. At 0830 after several hours of "sleeping" , escort was heard leaving area. Came to periscope depth, spotted a BETTY bearing 274 at 5000 yards, searching area. Went to 200 feet, secured GQ, reloaded tubes. At 1100 , back at periscope depth, all clear, surfaced to catch convoy, but SD contacts continued to force dives , preventing end around. At 1400 on surface at flank speed to catch up with convoy, lookouts spotted aircraft astern, a BETTY was visible, flying low at high speed heading our way!. CRASH DIVE! (SD has been modified for realistic performance, contacts flying below 1000 feet at unlikely to be detected. Most planes in game fly above 1000 though). As GATO passed 150 feet, boom! Boat was shaken, close bombs/depth charges from plane. Minor air and piping leaks in conning tower, lights went out for a few seconds, boat shaken but overall no further damage. Went to 300 feet and remained so until dark, as each time went up, detected aircraft. At 1900, two DD arrived in area about 9000 yards away, hunting, likely based on earlier plane contact. Surfaced at 2300, recharged batteries and back on patrol, awaiting lifeguard orders. Last edited by Bubblehead1980; 04-07-22 at 12:52 AM.

04-07-22, 02:48 PM	#74
Jeff1959 Watch Join Date: Aug 2011 Posts: 27 Downloads: 115 Uploads: 0	Patrol 4 1943 January 13 00:00 Tautog, Tambor class Patrolling of the Coast of Honshu. Periscope depth due to rough seas. Sonar picks up warship sailing alone at medium range bearing 340. Surface to see what it is. Due to weather, cannot id ship until 1000 yards. Hiryu class fleet carrier. Drop to periscope depth. Launch all six bow torpedoes. 4 hits, carrier comes to halt. Drop down, reload and fire 4 more torpedoes. 4 hits, carrier sinks at 02:43. SH4 1.5, GFO, Max Optics, Difficulty Normal

04-03-22, 01:59 PM	#67
Sammy-rai Seaman Join Date: Dec 2021 Location: Norway Posts: 39 Downloads: 28 Uploads: 0	1943 January 15, just off the SE coast of New Ireland - Weather: overcast sky, calm waters, good visibility. No contacts this day. The captain and officers of the SnapperII were down in the dumps after the dressing down received via radio communications. Before they had left Brisbane, the scuttlebutt had been that the base's new sub commander, Admiral Fife, would be cleaning house and removing those skippers he deemed 'unfit'. Skeezix had not considered himself in any danger. But now he was being threatened with a court martial while in the middle of a patrol! As if that were not enough, the SnapperII received new orders to begin patrolling the SE coast of New Ireland for 'small convoys'. "Well boys," mused Captain Skeezix, "looks like they decided to put me in the backyard. We'll all be hunting fleas from now on." Making good use of their free time, the captain and his men spent a good portion of the day practicing attacks via radar and sonar inputs. ************************************************ ********************************************** * 1943 January 16, just off the SE coast of New Ireland, kl 2100 - Weather: heavy rain, choppy waters, poor visibility. Sonar reported three contacts traveling in single file formation. A preliminary speed measurement was taken in conjunction with the plotting of the convoy's path. Speed: 14.5 knots. Battle stations were sounded. The SnapperII went to full speed and eventually lay submerged in a position 90 degrees to the convoy's path, at a distance of 1100 meters. (The attack team was now leery of being so close that they would not be able get a fix on a target before it steamed past them out of range.) As was their custom, they would try to launch a torpedo when it was 15 degrees off the bow. Bow torpedo tubes were duly opened. The captain then ordered all torpedoes set to 'high' speed with magnetic detonators 'on'. The exec took up the attack periscope for a quick look-see. "Holy Jeezus, everything is black! Can't see where the ocean ends and the sky begins." He looked enquiringly at Captain Skeezix. "We stay put for the time being." was the captain's reply. Two more speed measurements were taken as the convoy drew near: 14 knots was agreed upon as the new speed. At 25 degrees the exec took the periscope up to get a fix on the first vessel. "Still can't see a thing ! Too dark and the waves too choppy." The captain ordered the SnapperII forward at flank speed for 10 seconds, then slowed her down to 1/3 speed. Closer now, the exec took another look but still failed to make visual contact on a vessel. "For Christ's sake are you blind ?" - The skipper shoved his exec aside and took the periscope himself. "Give me a bearing on the last vessel!". Despite the sonarman's reports, Skeezix could not sight a vessel either. "Zero the TDC - we'll fire straight ahead blind!". The TDC was duly zeroed and the first torpedo launched, but by now the last vessel was crossing the Snapper's bow, according to the sonarman. Frustrated, the captain laid his forehead against the perisope column. Results: 1 torpedo fired, no hits. Comments: The Captain ordered radio silence for the next 24 hours and has now retired to his cabin. ************************************************ ********************************************** *********

04-06-22, 11:58 PM	#71
Strykr Mate Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Northeast CT, USA Posts: 56 Downloads: 1099 Uploads: 0	Bubblehead, your Patrol Report reads like "Thunder Below." And that's a GOOD thing. Amazing how your work allows Convoy infiltration.

04-07-22, 12:40 PM	#73
Bubblehead1980 Navy Seal Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Florida USA Posts: 6,922 Downloads: 550 Uploads: 42	TMO Update BH V2.0 27 January 1944 USS GATO SS-212 100 difficulty, cams and contacts on for testing purposes Testing out series of new lifeguard missions added to campaign. After running into a convoy while in area DUNKERS DERP on 22/23 January, sinking a large tanker, large merchant, and a mid sized merchant in night surface attack, received orders on 24 January to assume Lifeguard station off Eniwetok Atoll in the Marshall Islands . These carrier air strikes are in advanced of invasion of Kwajalein on 31 January. Dodged a few patrol planes en route as hornets nest stirred in general area after GATO's attack on convoy, but arrived on station 6 miles off Eniwetok Atoll before midnight 27 January per orders. At 0901 SD radar made contact with group of aircraft at 10 miles, submerged just in case were enemy but soon spotted TBF, F6F, SB2C and SBD aircraft bearing 190. Sounds of AA fire were heard and a few "puffs" observed near planes. Watched as planes attacked ships in lagoon and land installations (have added land installations planes and ships will attack, namely fuel tanks, looking for others). GATO closed in submerged to get a closer look at action. Watched a SB2C Helldiver on fire crash in the lagoon, no chute or smoke marker visible. At 0913 , bsberved a F6F explode and a parachute open. Avaitor splashes down about 5000-6000 yards SSE of Eniwetok. Gato went to 80 feet and ahead full to close the distance. After a brief run, came to periscope depth and slowed for observation. A smoke marker was visible at bearing 343 about 8000 yards. This rescue would be a risk due to suspected shore batteries nearby, but GATO would pick the flyboy up regardless. GATO closed to the location of the smoke marker and man in the water was spotted bearing 343. GATO came to 25 feet, decks slightly awash. LT jg H.C. Clifton, USNR, was rescued from the water. Just after pulling the aviator aboard, a large shell splash was observed about 1000 yards off starboard bow. Seems the shore batteries spotted us. GATO quickly went to 100 feet before coming back to periscope depth. By 1000 the first wave had cleared the area. At 1015 sound made contact with what was revealed to be a small PC type vessel exiting southern entrance of the atoll, sweeping area of GATO's rescue, no doubt called in to hunt us after being spotted. GATO cleared area en route to lifeguard station North of Eniwetok for the second wave, due around 1230. At 1145 GATO surfaced 10 miles North of Eniwetok on lifeguard station. At 1233 SD contacted large number of planes. Soon spotted TBF, F6F, and SB2C aircraft. These bombers went to work on islands in north end of lagoon as well as sinking a AK damaged in previous attack and cleared area by 1310. At 1331 received report of downed aircrew in raft 5 miles NNE of the atoll. GATO went to four engine speed , making 21 knots in the calm seas. Soon spotted two F6F's circling a raft (added this into the campaign) and a smoke marker on the horizon. Continued closing at high speed. Soon, GATO arrived and pulled the downed crew in the raft aboard. Rescued were: LT A.D. Sanford, USN. ENS F.F. Walker, USN. ARM2c S.E. Hartford, USN. GATO returned to lifeguard station after completing this rescue. At 1545 the third wave of aircraft, consisting of F6F and TBF arrived over the lagoon and struck facilities without incident. With this, the final wave scheduled for the day departing area at 1615, GATO stood easy by per orders remained in area. At 1801, as dusk settled lookouts spotted a RUFE floatplane bearing 124 closing. SD failed to detected plane as was flying low (new SD settings!) ordered a crash dive. RUFE made a strafing run as GATO submerged in 41 seconds. As GATO passed 120 feet, two explosions, not close. Remained submerged until after dark, surfacing at 2100 to cruise area. A single strike is scheduled for the following day, with GATO due to be on lifeguard station by 0600.

04-08-22, 03:31 PM	#75
Sammy-rai Seaman Join Date: Dec 2021 Location: Norway Posts: 39 Downloads: 28 Uploads: 0	SnapperII - Captain Skeezix #3 1943 January 18, just off the SE coast of New Ireland, 0200 hours - Weather: moderate rain, moderate waves, limited visibility. At 0200 hours a contact was obtained by surface radar, closing, from the north, along the SE coast of New Ireland. Turned out to be 3 ships, with one vessel off to the side ahead of the other two ships, which were in a line. The skipper conned the SnapperII to a firing position about 800 meters from the formation's probable path.and waited, submerged. Plan was to attack the first of the ships in the line and then circumstances permitting, follow up against the trailing ship. The lead vessel was presumed to be an escort of some sort and so ignored for the time being. The two ships traveling in a line were presumed to be merchants. As the formation came within 1200 meters distance, the target vessel was identified as the 3200 GT Aden Maru. The other two contacts could still not be sighted due to weather conditions. The initial torpedo attack went off without difficulties. The result was a hit amidships to the Aden Maru. Captain Skeezix observed, and then ordered a second torpedo fired against her. This was followed by a crash drive in order avoid the anticipated response of the escort. As the sub prepared to dive, the exec noted that the freighter was slowing down while listing slightly to port. Unseen, the second torpedo exploded on time and so was deemed a hit as well. But there was no protective response from either of the other contacts. Instead, tracked by sonar, they were heading straight for the safety of the broad but shallow waters of a nearby cove. The captain cancelled the crash dive and ordered the Snapper surfaced. The torpedoed merchant was dead in the water and listing badly. The sub left it for the time being and pursued the fleeing Japanese vessels at flank speed, but these reached the cove easily. Here they began to twist and turn, making them difficult targets for a torpedo attack. The Snapper was eventually positioned outside the cove, ready to intercept any attempt to sneak out. Still dark and raining, the sub continued to track the two contacts 3000 meters away via radar and sonar. An hour went by without either contact attempting a breakout. The skipper then ordered the Snapper forward at pericsope depth towards the contact which had been following behind the Aden Maru. After about 5 minutes, the engineer warned that depth under keel was now down to 5 meters and that continuing submerged would be hazardous. By now the Snapper was still about 1700 meters from its target and just nosing over into 'shallow waters'. Captain Skeezix mulled over the situation and then said, "That's it, then. It's getting light and they're most likely waiting for help to arrive. Let's go back and finish off that cripple. Reverse standard". But before the helmsman could respond the sonar operator reported that the Snapper was being pinged and that the contact in front of them had swung about and was closing fast. The captain was speechless for a moment and then ordered a dive to 30 meters.Thirty meters was the lowest the Snapper could get in these waters before the other vessel arrived. The exec, who had swung the periscope around to appraise the approaching enemy, began shouting "Dammit she's got a bone in her teeth - she's got a bone in her teeth ! Full emergency reverse! Full right rudder!". (When later asked what type of ship it was, he replied that "It looked to be some sort of a budget-version of a destroyer.") The pinging grew in volume. Skeezix realized that he had unwittingly conned the Snapper into an exposed position. From experience he knew that their attacker's next action would be either to ram or make a depth charge run as the ship passed over the sub. While the Snapper continued its slow backward descent, the pinging suddenly stopped while the whoosh-whoosh sound of the attacker's screws grew louder over them. The captain and crew knew what was in store and waited for a depth charge barrage to begin. At only 30 meters under, the Snapper was a sitting duck and would be torn apart by the explosions. But no depth charges were dropped. Instead, the sonar operator reported that the Kaya DE veered off to the side, slowed to a crawl, and began circling around. Meanwhile, the Snapper continued retreating backwards slowly but surely towards deeper waters. No one had an explanation for why the enemy had broken off its attack. At a distance of 3000 meters from the Kaya DE the captain ordered that the SnapperII be surfaced and set course for the crippled Aden Maru. Upon arrival, the sub's deck gun finished off the freighter with four explosive rounds. The skipper then conferred with his officers and decided that the Snapper's next move would be to once again run down those two vessels they had left in the cove. But by now the two Japanese ships had departed the cove and were once again heading SE along the coast towards 'The Slot' and Guadalcanal. The Snapper plotted a course to make an end run around these two and cut them off. The Snapper sped along at flank speed and in under an hour began to come up along side the Japanese ships at a distance of 3000 meters. The sub easily tracked them with its sonar and radar while the enemy seemed oblivious of their presence, due to the heavy rains. However, it was starting to get light. In another half hour the Snapper had swung in to the right and once again settled into a submerged attack position (just as a snapping turtle should). By now it was daylight. At the right moment it sent a torpedo towards the lead ship, a Kaya DE. This torpedo was erratic. Luckily, the Snapper followed with another torpedo despite being discovered and shelled by the DE's sister ship all the while conducting its attack. The second fish passed the first and detonated in the bow of the Kaya. Then the first torpedo arrived, curving towards the bow area as well and detonating. The Kaya sank in less than five minutes. The skipper was fuming at the remaining Kaya. Earlier it had fooled him badly and by all rights should have sunk the Snapper in shallow waters. And now she had interfered in their bid to sink the other DE. In any event, its attack had again chewed up the conning tower and the equipment there. Captain Skeezix was out after blood! Thus, though the remaining Kaya fled promptly, the SnapperII relentlessly hunted it down and dispatched it with the last torpedo from its bow tubes. The sub spent the rest of the day submerged, then surfaced after sunrise and radioed to ComSubPac: FIVE HOUR RUNNING BATTLE DURING NIGHT CONVOY THREE ALL SUNK "Let's see what they have to say now, sir! ", declared the radio operator. Captain Skeezix smiled back but said nothing. Results: 5 torpedoes fired, 3 ships sunk, of which 1 sinking was deck-gun assisted. 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 ?