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Old 06-29-21, 01:26 AM   #5071
Bubblehead1980
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Default USS Drum SS-228 Fourth War Patrol 29 November 1942- January 1943

TMO 2.5 with custom mods
100 difficulty. Cams and map contacts off.

USS Drum SS 228
Fourth War Patrol
29 November 1942 - 22 January 1942


Prologue

Arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. on November 8, 1942 from Third War Patrol. Commenced refit on November 9, 1942 by Submarine Base personnel. All damage from previous patrol repaired. On November 14, 1942, Lieut. Comdr. R.H. Rice, U.S. Navy was relieved as Commanding Officer by Lieut. Comdr. B.F. McMahon, U.S. Navy. Completed refit on November 23, 1942.Commenced training period on November 24, 1942. Completed on November 26, 1942. Readiness for sea date, November 29, 1942.


(1.) Narrative


29 November-

1000-Departed Pearl Harbor for patrol Area 8 via Midway.




3 December-

0925-Docked at Midway for fuel and provisions.

1230-Departed Midway.


4 December-14 December

En route to patrol area. No contacts except SD planes submerged for on 11 and 14 December.


15 December-

0300-Entered patrol Area 8.

16 December-

1929-SJ contact 272 degrees 8 NM. 30 22 N 132 14 E.


2035 - ATTACK NO. 1 : Fired three MK 14 torpedoes. Range: 800 yards AOB 88 Depth 3 ft. POA: MOT, Forward, Aft stack.

Two torpedoes prematurely exploded just yards from target, initially thought were hits were so close. Torpedo 3 hit target just forward of aft stack large explosions of engines/boilers but tanker apparently not loaded with fuel as did not ignite as expected. Engines may have been damaged but not disabled as sound confirmed prop turning.

2036 -Fired a fourth torpedo which hit the stern causing a large explosion. Tanker went dead in water down by stern.


2040-BUZYUN MARU (AO) 4804 tons sunk 30 20 N 132 17 E.

18 December

0334-Armed Fishing Boat Est. 200 tons sunk by gunfire. 31 02 N 132 32 E.


23 December-

0643- Sunk fishing boat es. 200 tons by gunfire. 29 07 N 131 58 E.



24 December-

0734- SJ contact. Bearing 300 8 NM. Pulled ahead for submerged attack at dawn.


0930-Barely able to maintain lead over fast moving ships astern. Waiting for sun rise for submerged attacked. General Quarters. Seas were now heavy, slowing Drum's surface speed.

1027-Observed what believed to be CVL with DD's and other vesells. Contact report sent to COMSUBPAC. Enemy task force consisting of one CV, one CVL, one CA, Four DD.Position 29 38 N 133 14 E Course 075 degrees Speed 18 knots. Submerged for attack.


1052 ATTACK NO. 2: Fired six MK 14 torpedoes at SHOKAKU Class Fleet Carrier. Range 1200 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth: 10 feet. POA: MOT with 2.5 degree spread on TDC. One torpedo prematurely detonated soon as armed. Another torpedo suffered apparent gyro failure and took a strait line course before exploding. Four others hit the carrier. The first two were absorbed well, the third caused a large secondary explosion as did the third. The carrier, deck burning with internal fires billowing smoke, slowed with a list. With a DD just 900 yards away, Drum went to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

1054-DD overhead, charges dropped none close. Enemy DD seemed unable to track Drum due to heavy seas.


1055-Large explosions heard and sounds of ship breaking up.

1059-A series of massive explosions at last known bearing of the CV that was torpedoed. The engine sounds of the CV had ceased just after Drum descended to 350 ft.

1100-Shokaku Class Fleet Carrier 28000 tons sunk 29 38 N 133 14 E.

Two enemy destroyers searching for Drum with occasional pinging but were unable to gain a fix due to heavy seas and a thermal layer. Soon departed the area at high speed to rejoin the rest of the force.

1400-Secured from GQ. Remained submerged for rest of day due to intense air cover in area.

2300-Surface.


27 December

2132- SJ contact bearing 046 9 NM. 29 20 N 133 10 E

2140-General Quarters.

2155-Submerged for dusk periscope attack. Convoy sighted four ships one escort.


2236 -ATTACK NO. 3 Fired two MK 14 torpedoes Range: 1000 yard AOB 85 Torpedo depth: 10 ft. POA: MOT, Both torpedoes impacted target. Target slowed, then went dead in water due to damage. Fired third torpedo, which prematurely exploded.

28 December-

0300-Surfaced. BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION. Target opened fire with MG/AC on Drum. Drum expended 14 3 inch 50 cal rounds for 13 hits.

0305-Fires on board enemy vessel. Cease fire. Crew abandoning ship.

0307-AKITA MARU class AK sunk 29 24 N 133 13 E.

0310-Begin end around on convoy for dawn submerged attack.

1049-Regained SJ contact. 350 9 NM.

1141-General Quarters.

1232-Submerged for attack.

1330-Attack No. 4- Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from tubes 1,2,3. Range 1000 AOB 90 depth 3 ft. First torpedo went into circular run forcing Drum to 100 feet. Second and third prematurely exploded 50-100 yards from target. First torpedo made a full circle before detonating itself .

1332-Enemy escort closed in pinging as Drum settled at 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running. Several depth charge explosions, not close.

1345-1800- Several close depth charges caused various damage . See damage section.

1920-After several hours under attack, lost sonar contact with enemy escort.

2300-Secure GQ, surface for end around.

29 December


0148- Regained SJ contact with convoy bearing 300 9 NM. Closing for night surface torpedo attack. Final attack as convoy will be well out of Drum's assigned area.

0151-General Quarters.

0219-Contact report sent to COMSUBPAC. Convoy course 023 9 knots. Three AK one Aux SC escorting.



0243-ATTACK NO. 5- Fired four Mk 14 torpedo range(s) 2100/1900 AOB: 70/85. Fired two torpedoes each at BIYO MARU and WATANABE MARU. All torpedoes prematurely exploded.

The explosions appeared to alert the convoy as it slowed, searchlights illuminated area along with star shells. Drum sped away into the night escaping detection. Set course to SW to return to patrol area.

1 January 1943-

0000- Position: 29 53 131 44 E 100 NM SE Kyushu, Japan in Area 8.

1140-Trim Dive.

1145-During morning trim dive, sound detected a contact bearing 145 long range.

1150-Surface. Intercept course for contact.


1206-SJ contact 000 9 NM. Simultaneously visually sighted smoke plume same bearing. General Quarters.

1240-Submerged for attack.

1257- ATTACK NO. 6- Fired one MK 14 torpedo. Range 1000 AOB 85 Torpedo Depth: 3 ft. POA: Aft stack. Torpedo hit the tanker under the stack as aimed.Tanker lost its way going adrift and down by the stern, eventually with half the ship submerged but seemed to secured herself. Crew had not abandoned ship. Decided to finish off with deck gun.

1311-Surface. BATTLE SURFACE-GUN ACTION, commenced firing.

1320-Cease fire. HARUNA MARU 1549 tons sunk by torpedo hit and gunfire. 29 29 N 131 55 E . Stubborn little tanker took a torpedo hit and 21 3 inch 50 cal shell hits before finally sinking. Crew in life rafts.


7 January-


0014- SJ contact 325 28 59 N 131 54 E.

0026- Contact report sent to COMSUBPAC. Convoy two large troopships 29 00 N 131 E two DD course 233 19 knots.

0027-Submerge for attack.

0039 ATTACK NO. 7: Fired two MK 14 torpedoes at large troopship...possibly KOTOBURKI MARU 18765 tons. Range 1850 yards. AOB 72 Depth 3 ft POA: MOT Both torpedoes prematurely exploded 6 and 9 seconds after launch.

0040-Went to 350 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge. Escorts did not pursue Drum, dropped one pattern each and left area at high speed with transports.


0300-Surface. Secure from GQ. All torpedoes expended, set course for Pearl Harbor via Midway.

8 January-

1400-1700- Refueled at Midway. Depart for Pearl Harbor.

22 January-

0900-Docked at Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor. Terminated war patrol.

(2.) Weather
The weather during this patrol was not worthy for the number of days of rough seas and overcast skies experienced. We had approximately forty percent (40%) of days when the seas were so rough that operations were difficult. However, the rough seas did provide cover from ASW efforts after the attacks of 24 and 27 December. The large number of overcast days made position keeping difficult, particularly in view of the strong northeast currents encountered during January.

(3.) Tidal Information
The flood and ebb of the tides effect the currents off the east coast of Kyushu, being northerly during the flood, and southerly during the ebb tide; the southerly current being the stronger of the two.

Drifts as high as three (3) to three and five tenths (3.5) knots were experienced in the Kuroshio during January, in the vicinity of the southeast corner of the operating area.

(4.) Navigational Aids
No navigational aids spotted in patrol area. Sofu Gan was used as an aid when departing patrol area.


(5.) Particulars of Attack

Vessels sunk:

12/16/1942 2039 BUZYUN MARU AO 4804 tons 30 20 N 132 17 E

12/18/1942 0332 Fishing Boat 200 tons 31 02 N 131 32 E

12/20/1942 0643 Fishing Boat 200 tons 29 07 131 58 E

12/24/1942 1100 Shokaku Class CV 28000 tons 29 38 N 133 14 E

12/28/1942 0303 AKITA MARU AK 3936 tons 29 24 N 133 13 E

1/1/1943 1320 HARUNA MARU AO 1549 tons 29 29 N 131 55 E


Vessels damaged: 0


Number of Torpedo Attacks: 7

Number of Gun Actions: 4

Torpedoes Expended: 24

3 inch 50 Cal Deck rounds expended: 41

20 MM rounds expended: 0


(6.) Enemy A/S Measures

Enemy counter attacks were basically the same as Drum encountered on three previous patrols. However, the poor sonar conditions severely affected the ability to track and attack Drum.

Conversely, once the seas calmed the same Aux. Subchaser escort that was so ineffective after attack No. 2 was able to deliver an effect and damaging depth charging after Attack No. 3 on 28 December, causing damage. See Damage section.


Enemy aircraft cover the area effectively with daily air patrols and respond to reports of submarines after attack. No patrol craft were spotted this patrol likely due to the open ocean nature of Drum's patrol area, not near the coast.


(6a.) Countermeasures-ASW

When under depth charge attack, a narrow profile to the sonar beam is presented as possible. 300 ft if the initial depth, with increases as required to get under the enemy attack. Drum did reach 400 ft at one point during the depth charging on 28 December.


(9.) Major Defects Experienced

Torpedo failure continue to plague Drum.

Premature detonations:10-12

Duds:0

Depth Control Issues: Unknown. No misses attributed to this issue as torpedoes set to minimal depth to compensate, depending state of seas.

Circular Run: 1

Gyro Failure: 1


(10.) Radio Reception

Radio reception was excellent on this patrol.


Radar: The SJ radar performed very efficiently. The Commanding Officer cannot praise this equipment too highly. It proved itself invaluable on many occasions. It is regretted that more opportunities to use it for attack were not presented.

Our experience with the SJ radar equipment has shown that the following results may be expected: (a) Large ships will be picked up at 14,000 - 15,000 yards; also any ship picked up at this range is at once identified as a large ship. (b) Destroyers will be picked up at from 8,000 to 10,000 yards. (c) Large sized sampans and patrol boats will be picked up at 5,000 - 7,000 yards. (d) Wooden sampans will not be picked up, or may give a ragged pip at ranges under 4,000 yards.


The radar proved itself invaluable defensively also, as it prevented us from running up on a patrolling destroyer on several occasions.

The performance of the SD radar was excellent.


(11.) Sound Conditions and Density Layers
Sound conditions were poor to fair. Thermal density layers were located at 200, 245 and 190 feet.


(12.) Damage/Casualties

28 December

At 1345 two or three close depth charges exploded near Drum's port side either or just below the forward torpedo and control room level. Damage was reported to the forward batteries. The control room and conning tower had leaks in high pressure air lines and piping spraying water into the compartments. The control room had flooding which was quickly quelled and water pumped within the hour by the Damage Control party.

A close depth charged at 1357 caused damage to the forward engine rooms and after batteries. Additional leaks in air lines and piping reported in control room and conning tower as well as throughout the boat.

At 1404 a very close depth charge caused more mild flooding in control room, quickly resolved. Damage was also done to the trim pump, radios, hydraulic pump, and compressor. as well as damage throughout the boat.


Post patrol inspection showed hull was damaged by the depth charge attacks, compromising diving depth by estimated 21 percent.

All damage was repaired by 29 December, minus the hull damage.

(13.) Nautical Miles steamed enroute to and from station 10620.

(14.) Fuel expended 109,511 gallons.


(15.) Comments

A challenging, busy, but successful patrol. If not for the repeated failures of MK 14 torpedo, would have been even more successful. The attack and sinking of the Shokaku Class Carrier on 24 December was a moment of fortune. Encountering at night on surface, with Drum in position already ahead and able to track until dawn. The calm seas growing rough just 30 minutes before attack time, providing cover from enemy sonar as Drum penetrated the escort screen, as well as after the attack.

After four consecutive war patrols, Drum is scheduled for a much needed extended refit before next patrol. This included modification to conning tower to further reduce her silhouette , with addition an improved SD radar, a 4 inch 50 caliber gun, and additional 20 MM guns which will improve her lethality.

Last edited by Bubblehead1980; 06-29-21 at 01:45 AM.
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Old 07-01-21, 04:40 AM   #5072
Bubblehead1980
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Default USS Drum SS 228 Fifth War Patrol 24 Mar- 6 May 1943

TMO 2.5 w custom mods
100 difficult. Contacts off, Cam on(for a change)


USS Drum SS-228
Fifth War Patrol

24 March- 1943


(A.) Prologue

Arrived Submarine Base, Pearl Harbor, T.H. on January 22, 1943 from Fourth War Patrol. Commenced repairs and overhaul by Navy Yard, Pearl Harbor, on January 25, 1943. Completed overhaul on March 11, 1943. Damage repaired.
4"/50 caliber gun installed forward of conning tower; pilot house cut away and twin 20 mm mounts installed fore and aft or conning tower, as well as on aft deck; all outstanding alterations completed. Loaded with 24 MK 14 torpedoes with new Torpex explosive warheads and new depth equipment, said to solved the deep running torpedo problem. Commenced training period March 16, 1943, and completed it on March 19, 1943. Ready for sea March 24, 1943.


B. Narrative

24 March

0900-Departed Pearl Harbor with escort PC 477 for assigned patrol area in Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes via Johnston Island. Orders specify a course that will take Drum through the Gilbert Islands between Tarawa and Makin Atolls.

1130-Trim Dive

1200-Surfaced

1300-1900-Conducted dive, torpedo, and gunnery drills.

25 March-

Conducted drills en route Johnston Island.

26 March-


1400-1700-Fueled at Johnston Island.

1705-Departed Johnston Islands for patrol area via Gilbert Islands.


6 April-

1524-Position 10' 0 S 149 10 E 75 NM NW of St Mathias Islands. One hour after submerging to avoid SD contact, sound reported distant props at bearing 289.

1537-Surface. Closed on contact bearing.

1551-Smoke Sighted bearing 350. Near simultaneous SJ contact bearing 354 9 NM .Appears to be a convoy. General Quarters.


1555-Submerged for attack. 7 NM ahead of convoy.

1616- Four ship one escort convoy course 015 speed 7 knots.

1649-Pinging. Drum somehow detected. Escort turning back 2000 yards away.

1650-ATTACK NO. 1: Switched to closest target, lead freighter in port column. MADRAS MARU class AK. Fired three MK 14 torpedoes range 1000 yards AOB 90. Depth 6 ft.

1651- Three torpedoes hit target. Third as Drum was passing 70 feet with escort closing.

1652-Escort closing in pinging short scale. Escort is MS-19 Class Minesweeper. Escort passed overhead. Splashes. Drum at 300 ft. DC explosions astern

1653- MADRAS MARU 3790 tons sunk 0 19 S 149 02 E

1700-Escort pinging closing Drum from 078.

1747-Close DC explosion. Damage reported (see damage section)

2000-lost sound contact with escort. Last heard leaving area at high speed.

2137- Visual, Sound, SJ SD sweeps all clear. Secure GQ, Surface for end around.



7 April-

0002-Regained SJ contact 001 9 NM. Continued end around.

0034-General Quarters.

0036- Convoy in sight. Course 012 8 knots. Approached from astern up to the port side of convoy, to gain position for surfaced torpedo attack.

0156-ATTACK NO . 2 :Fired four MK 14 torpedoes from stern tubes (on the surface) at two targets from 2100/1900 yards AOB 70/85. Two torpedoes prematurely exploded, one hit small freighter but failed to explode as confirmed by sound. One torpedo hit large freighter and exploded, causing large secondary explosion. Freighter dead in water. Heavy gunfire from convoy. shells landing to port and starboard ahead. Escort turned toward Drum firing. Drum on high speed run away.

0201-KIGAN MARU 7390 tons sunk at 0 17 N 149 10 E.

0218-Escort slowed and turned back, giving up chase. Drum continued on course SW to return to patrol area as last position shows had crossed out of area above 0 N of it in pursuit of convoy.

0225-Secure GQ. Reload torpedoes and complete battery charge.

2300-Heavy seas and wind.



8 April

0402- 0 40 S 147 30 E. SJ contact 320 9 NM. End around for dawn submerged attack.

0530- Ahead of two ship convoy, unclear if escorted. Visibility low. Convoy course 130 7 k nots.


0650-Range opening. Convoy zigged to west. New course 195 degrees. Heavy seas continue.


0850- General Quarters.

0903-Submerged for dawn periscope attack.

0925- Convoy zigged, with each ship in opposite directions. Ships are of identical class. Unclear if Drum detected (not sure how) or if routine move to throw off possible tracking submarine. Tracking lead freighter.

0943-ATTACK NO. 3- Fired two MK 14 torpedoes. Range 1000 yards AOB 85. Torpedo depth 15 feet. POA: MOT Both torpedoes impacted as aimed, causing large explosions and damage. Fires.

0946- KANAGA MARU 4923 tons sunk. 1 11 S 147 47 E.

1000-ATTACK NO. 4 Fired TWO MK 14 torpedoes 700 yards AOB 100. Torpedo Depth 15 feet. POA MOT. Both torpedoes impacted as aimed. one minute are second impact, a massive secondary explosion occurred, breaking the ship in half. KANAGA MARU class AK 4923 tons sunk 1 10 S 147 47 E

1005-Surfaced. Ran to west to clear scene.


1155-Submerged to reload torpedoes and permit crew rest. Unable to reload in heavy seas.

2100-Surfaced.


10 April-

0052- SJ contact bearing 054. Rapid bearing changes. Possibly warships out of Kavieng moving at high speed.

0053-General Quarters.

0130-Identified as two DD's possibly Kagero and Fubuki class. DD's were on apparent ASW sweep. Could indicate heavy traffic through area. Avoided contact and secured GQ, will patrol for more important targets.

0900-Patrolling 40 NM off Kavieng at 2 S 150 40 E

11 April-
.
0755-Sighted fishing boat possible picket.

0802-Submerged.

0821-Close inspection via periscope. Vessel appears to be native. No radio antenna or guns etc visible. Decided not to engage.

0830-Decided to remain submerged for day to patrol the strait between New Hanover and St Mathias Islands.


2133-Surface.


14 April-

0445-Encountered 3500 tons paddle coastal steamer off St Mathias Islands along with a large sampan. Steamer was flying Japanese flag. Believe making a cargo run to the Admiralties. Unusually far from shore, may have been lost in storms.

0455- BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION.

0505-GUN ACTION # 1: Sunk Coastal Paddle Steamer Est. 3500 tons at 0 45 S 148 35 N by 4 inch 50 cal gun fire (30 hits out of 51 fired) from ranges 4500-5000 yards. Steamer had 3 or 4 inch gun aft and returned fire with one shell coming close. Also fired with MG AC but Drum out of range

0516-Utilizing Drum's new additional twin 20 MM mounts, opened fired on the large sampan accompanying the steamer. The sampan was reduced to a flaming wreck with the hulk floating on fire by combined 20 MM fired. Used two 4 inch 50 cal shells at waterline to finish the job.

Sampan est. 80 tons sunk at 0 45 S 148 35 N.


0517-Secure General Quarters.




15 April-

1325-Submerged to avoid SD contact at 8 NM closing fast. 0 40 S 148 20 E.

2100-Surface.




18 April-

0234- SJ contact bearing 012 9 NM.


0245-General Quarters.


0314-Submerged for attack. Too much moonlight for night surface torpedo attack.


0330-Convoy zigged to west opening range. May be forced to fire from longer range.


0337-ATTACK NO. 5: Fired three MK 14 torpedoes. Range: 3455 yards AOB 90 Torpedo Depth: 10 feet. POA: MOT.

0338- two premature detonations.


0340-Torpedo impact. Large explosion. Target HAKUSIKA MARU 8150 tons. Sound reports engine noises on target have ceased.


0345-Pinging.

0346-DD overhead. Splashes in water.

0347-DC explosions. Drum at 350 ft.

0443-DD went silent. Believed DD was "sleeping" , listening.

0900-Dawn. Periscope depth. All clear. SJ sweep contact at 110. Visual on smoke plume, can see stationary vessel. This is vessel torpedoed in ATTACK NO. 5. Drum down to 90 ft. closed to finish target off. Believe escort and other AK left area.

1000-Opted to torpedo target in lieu of gun action. Seas are heavy. Target has 4 inch gun mounted forward as well.

1016 - ATTACK NO 5 (Continued) Fired 1 MK 14 torpedo range 800 AOB 90. Depth 15 ft POA MOT. Torpedo impacted but failed to detonate.

1017-Fired another torpedo. Impacted as aimed. Large hole amidships under stack. Large fire at waterline from the hole. Listing to port and by stern.

1022-Fired a third torpedo. Torpedo impacted.

1024-HAKUSIKA MARU 8150 tons sunk 0 15 S 149 03 E.

1100-Secured from GQ. Depth 300 feet. Reloading torpedoes, unable on surface due to heavy seas. Will remain submerged rest of day to avoid air patrols and allow crew to rest.


20 April-

1557 -SJ contact 059 9 NM closing fast. Weather:Storms, heavy seas, fog, rain. Estimated position 1 50 S 146 0 E 40 NM West of Admiralty Islands.

1730-Lost SJ contact.


22 April-

0655- SJ contact bearing 005 9 NM.

0720-Bearing changed, range opened. Believe convoy zigged to west. Closed for dawn periscope attack.

0745-Weather set in.Heavy rain wind seas, fog. Waiting to clear. Lost SJ contact.


Drum was not able to regain contact.


23 April-

2330- SJ contact 030 9 NM.

2332-Rapidly bearing change suggest targets moving high speed. General Quarters. Intercept course 220 flank speed.


2347-Convoy or task force course 170 est speed 18 knots. five contacts on SJ total. Will attempt night surface torpedo attack with stern tubes.

24 April-

0004-Two large AK or AP escorted by 3 DD DE. Course 171 17 knots. Contact report sent. 0 28 S 148 29 E Two large troopships three DD. One Fubuki class leading , other two unknown

0025-ATTACK NO 6. (night surface torpedo) Fired four MK 14 torpedoes Range: 3500 yards AOB 60. Forced to fire earlier due to port flank escorting DD rapidly returning to position and would be on top of Drum at planned firing point. Submerged just after firing.

0026-Two premature detonations.

0027-third premature. one torpedo impacted amidships of large troopship to be KOTOBUKI MARU 18765 tons. DD 1000 yards bearing 210. Pinging began 10 seconds after impact. Drum t0o 300 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge. A few depth charges were dropped but none close and escorts failed to established solid contact.


0326-Periscope/Radar depth. All clear. Secure SR Surfaced for pursuit course.

0800-Unable to regain contact with convoy. Turned north to avoid entering another patrol area. One KOTBUKI MARU class PL 18765 tons damaged by one torpedo hit.

26 April-

0928-Spotted fishing type boat bearing 004 range 6000 yards at dawn. BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION .

1003-Commenced firing 4 inch and 20 MM guns.

1008-Cease fire. Sunk one large Japanese fishing boat and one large sampan est 200 tons and 80 tons at 0 41 S 149 09 E.

1010-Secured GQ.


26 April-

0928-Spotted fishing type boat bearing 004 range 6000 yards at dawn. BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION .

1003-Commenced firing 4 inch and 20 MM guns.

1008-Ceased fire. Sunk one large Japanese fishing boat and one large sampan est 200 tons and 80 tons at 0 41 S 149 09 E.

1010-Secured GQ.



28 April-

0444-SJ contact bearing 035 9 NM.

0450-Rapid bearing and range change, believe have task for or high speed convoy as on 24 April.


0502-General Quarters. Range still closing. Speed is exceeding Drum's 20 knots. Opted for moonlight periscope attack with three remaining torpedoes in bow tubes.

0510-Submerged for attack. Lead DD spotted at 9200 yards ahead of Drum .

0517- Heavy cruiser. leading another possible CA with DD's forming screen possibly Takao Class at 3300 yards. Estimated course 350 speed 21 knots. Readied Tubes 3,4,5

0521 -ATTACK NO . 7: Fired three torpedoes. Range:2100 yards AOB: 80 Torpedo depth: 10 ft. POA: MOT MOT, Forward turret. Target is TAKAO CLASS CA 16870 tons.

0522-One premature detonation. Torpedo impact...last torpedo missed ahead by 10 feet or less as CA made hard starboard turn. Large fire consuming CA t impact area amidships and forward, bridge area on fire. Pinging from port flank DD just 1300 yards. Ordered 350 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

0525-DC splashes. DD overhead. DC explosions appear all above.

0531-Drum at 380 feet. Two DD now hunting. The DD's made tow runs each, no DC came very close. The DD's then tooled around for some time. Once again .The attack was surprisingly lax. See ASW section .


0808-Visual and SJ sweep clear. Surface. Secure GQ. All torpedoes expended but will pursue course 350 at best speed in attempt to regain contact to observe damaged CA and send out another contact report if possible.

1737- Submerged to avoid closing SD contact.

1757-Surfaced.

29 April-

0000-Discontinued pursuit due to fuel level , position shows well out of patrol area and that by this point unlikely to regain contact. Set course for Brisbane. East coast New Ireland


6 May-

1000-Docked at Brisbane. Terminated patrol .





(C.) Weather

The weather during the entire time in assigned area had what can best be described as mostly unfavorable conditions that included; calm to glassy seas, little or no wind, or heavy seas with high winds along with frequent rain squalls with attendant poor visibility, and partly cloudy skies. Heavy weather which suddenly set in during tracking of contact, caused loss of contact and prevented attack.


(D) Tidal Information
In the patrol area, currents of one-half knot setting east to southeast were experienced at times.

In the area, westward of the Solomon Islands, from 10° S. to the pass between New Ireland and Buka, currents of 1.0 to 1.5 knots setting southeasterly were encountered.

(E) Navigational Aids
None sighted.



(F) Attack


Torpedo Attacks Conducted: 7

Torpedoes expended:24

Gun Attacks:4

Gun rounds expended:

4' 50 Cal. x 71

20mm x 1142

Sinking by torpedo:

Date: Time: Type/Class/Name Tonnage: Location:

4/6/1943 1615 AK-MADRAS MARU 3790 0 19 S 149 02 E

4/7/1943 0201 AK KIGAN MARU 7390 0 17 N 149 10 E

4/8/1943 0946 AK KANAGA MARU 4923 1 11 S 147 47 E

4/8/1943 1000 AK KANAGA MARU 4923 1 11 S 147 47 E

4/18/1943 1024 AK HAKUSIKA MARU 8100 0 15 S 149 03 E


Sunk by gunfire:

Date: Time: Type/Class/Name Tonnage: Location:

4/18/1943 0505 AK Paddle Steamer 3500 0 45 S 148 35 N

4/18/1943 0510 Large Sampan 80 0 45 S 148 35 N

4/26/1943 1008 Fishing Boat 200 0 41 S 149 09 E

4/26/1943 1008 Sampan 80 0 41 S 149 09 E

Damaged:

Date: Time: Type/Class/Name Tonnage: Location: Cause:

4/24/1943 0027 AP KOTBUKI MARU 18765 0 28 S 148 29 E Torp.

4/28/1943 0522 CA Takao Class 15870 1 23 S 148 27 N Torp.


(G.) Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics

Anti-Submarine measures on this patrol was essentially no different that what Drum had encountered on four previous patrols. The depth charge attack on 6 April was most effective of the attacks received on this patrol, causing some damage (see damage section). The Minesweeper escort appeared to only have stern racks and no throwers with what is assumed typical active and passive sonar gear. The ideal sonar conditions did assist in this attack.


The escorting vessels in the attacks on the KOTOBUKI MARU and Takao Class Heavy Cruiser were not as effective nor persistent as one would assume they would be. Believe where enemy vessels are escorting fast warships and transports, their goal in depth charging is to keep the submarine down so they fast ships can open the range and prevent a follow up attack, upon which the escorts utilizing their speed can rejoin. Drum has encountered this on previous patrols and this one as well. This is opposed to escorts of convoys with slower vessels which tend to be quite persistent in their attacks, which often last hours.

Patrol aircraft were encountered nearly daily but no visual contacts were made as SD provided ample warning to dive.

Two surface patrols consisting of DD or DE types were encountered during patrol, they were focusing on the Bismark Sea "chokepoint" between Admiralty Islands and New Hanover/St Mathias Islands, and New Ireland. Possible these vessels have surface search radar.

Evasive tactics during depth charge attacks were Drum's standard fare: 300 foot depth, silent running, 5-10 degrees rudder all times, alternating as required with 25-50 ft depth increase in increments when the escort is making its run, while Drum is in its sonar blind spot, along with a speed burst (ahead full or flank as needed) typically lasting 60-120 seconds to get out from under the depth charge pattern. During this patrol Drum did reach a depth of 400 feet to get under the sonar and charges on 6 April .

Tactics above were used in other evasions, but max depth reached was 350 ft.

The improved model of the SD radar installed during refit typically detected aircraft at 12-15 NM, permitting a dive. In the calm and clear seas where the boat is likely visible from air, will dive to 200 ft for 30-60 minutes before coming back to scope depth for a visual and SD sweep before surfacing. When required, may remain submerged to avoid persistent air contacts, such as after an attack.

Escorted enemy vessels have become more common in recent patrols but a proper convoy system does not seem in place as most consist of a few vessels and one escort.


(H) Major Defects and Damage


Torpedoes continued to suffer failures...primarily premature detonations. Depth keeping performance was improved this patrol as believed suffered no deep runners. Dud torpedoes are an additional issue as well.


On 6 April one or two close depth charges caused minor damage to after batteries, hydraulic, and trim pumps. Water and air lines leaks in the conning tower and control room as well as electrical shorts. No.2 periscope, TBT mount on the bridge, and forward dive planes were also damaged but all repairs were conducted at sea.


(I) Radio

Radio function was normal throughout patrol.


(J) Radar

SJ radar performed well for most of patrol, typically detecting larger vessels at 8-9 NM. Smaller vessels around 5-6 NM.


The improved SD radar installed during refit after last patrol worked well with aircraft typically detected at 12-15 NM.


(K) Sound gear and Conditions

WCA Listening and Sonar gear function well overall. The sonar conditions were ideal for most of patrol, aside from the storms. During trim dives each morning a thorough sound sweep is made and is often our first indication of a nearby vessel.

(L) Thermal Layers

Three thermal layers were encountered during depth charge attacks at 190 , 250, and 211 feet. They aided in the successful evasion of enemy escorts.

(M) Crew

Total Crew:68

Officers: 7(Including Commanding Officer)

Chief Petty Officers: 6

Men: 55

Morale: Morale is high after another successful patrol.


Health: Health of crew is excellent.

Injuries: No injuries on this patrol .


(N) Miles Steamed/fuel consumed

Brisbane to Area 1965 Miles 17405 Gallons
In Area 5565 Miles 38483 Gallons
Area to Brisbane 1951 Miles 19823 Gallons
Total 9481 Miles 75711 Gallons


Duration of Patrol: 42 days.

Reason for termination: All torpedoes expended and low fuel state.


(O) Remarks

Failure of the magnetic detonators continues to be a problem. In five patrols this issue along with others has cost Drum the sinking of several vessels, including the Takao CA on this patrol. The explosions endanger the boat and crew as they reveal presence to enemy escorts, alerting targets to take evasion action, and foiling attacks. The torpedoes failure to exploded on contact resulting in"duds" also remains an issue. Drum suffered no apparent deep running or circle running torpedoes this patrol.

The cut down of the conning tower to reduce visibility and allow a forward twin 20 MM gun mount as well as addition of aft deck twin 20 MM gun mount proved an excellent set up during the gun actions on this patrol. The 20 MM 's make quick work of the smaller vessels permitting conservation of 4 inch ammo for larger targets.


The new torpex warheads did make a noticeable difference when the torpedoes impacted the enemy. Examples would be ATTACK NO. 3, two torpedoes to each vessel was enough to do the job where as previously three torpedoes would have been typically required. The hit on the Takao CA caused serious visible damage, believed had one of the other two torpedoes impacted, the cruiser would have been crippled if not outright sunk.

Drum refitted prior to fifth patrol...pilot house further cut away to reduce silhouette with fore gun platform added. Additional 20 MM twin mount on aft deck.

20 MM's opening up on small craft during Fifth War Patrol (modded them to function as AI deck guns)

BATTLE SURFACE- GUN ACTION

Periscope photo of HAKUSIKA MARU sinking.

Aerial shot of Drum submerging in Australian waters.

Sunset photo.

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Old 07-03-21, 03:50 PM   #5073
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Default USS Drum Sixth War Patrol 7 June-26 July 1943

TMO 2.5 w custom mods

100 difficulty, cams off map contacts on.


USS Drum SS-228
Sixth War Patrol
7 June-26 July 1943
Assigned area: Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes South of Truk, north of Bismark Sea, New Ireland, Admiralty Islands.



(A) Prologue

Returned from fifth war patrol on May 6, 1943. Normal refit by U.S.S. FULTON at Brisbane, Australia. Ready for sea, June 7, 1943.After six successful patrols ,Executive Officer LT Irving T. Ryan detached for new construction, LT Benjamin Roderick P. Digby assumed the role of Executive Officer.

Mission: DESTROY ENEMY VESSELS in Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes.


(B) Narrative

7 June-

0900- Departed Brisbane, Australia for patrol area.

1300-Trim dive.

8-10 June-

Conducted diving, attack, and emergency drills.

11 June

0350-In the Solomon Sea at 8 S 154 14 E lookouts spotted enemy destroyer, turned out to be part of a task force. SJ radar failed to detect them until was just 6000 yards away. Task Force on course 285 est 20 knots. Turned to avoid being sighted and began shadowing. General Quarters. The weather was difficult to put it mildly with heavy swells, wind, and cloud cover, but combined with moonlight provided a glow to the sea an odd light to the night sky. This made moving into firing position difficult for Drum.

0425-Task force is one CA, one CL, 5 DD. Course 283 17 knots. Unable to close to ideal range due to heavy seas limited Drums speed to 18 knots.Opted for long range shot on surface. Contact report sent to CTF-72

0340-Received reply from CTF-72 X ATTACK AND DESTROY X


0439-Task force zigged slightly towards Drum, closing the range. Give this, opted for submerged for attack.

0446 - ATTACK NO.1 - Fired six MK 14 torpedoes. Four at TAKAO CA believed to be the MAYA and two at AGANO CLASS CL. Range:4100/3800 AOB:42/52 POA:MOT (both)

Torpedo depth set to 12 feet due to heavy sea state.

0447- heard four premature detonations of torpedoes.

0448-Two torpedoes hit AGANO CL under forward turrets causing large explosions. Vessel quickly engulfed in flames and began to sink. One torpedo impacted the in the bow of the MAYA. Drum was already in a turn for follow up shot with stern tubes.

0449-Pinging. DD closing. Fired four torpedoes from stern tubes range 2900 yards AOB 110 depth 12 feet.

0450-Agano Class CL 6652 tons sunk 8 S 154 05 E. Three premature explosions heard and observed.

0452-Torpedo impacted amidships of CA as it attempted to comb the wake. Large explosion and fireball. DD at 800 yards closing fast. Ordered 300 ft, rigged for depth charge and silent running.


0503-Depth charges but none close. Heavy seas proved an obstacle to enemy ASW efforts.

0600-Lost sound contact with all vessels. Last contact had DD's moving away at high speed.

0800-Periscope depth. Now daylight, observed the CA dead in the weather, decks submerged with the superstructure protruding from the water. Obviously a wreck, but stubbornly refusing to sink, left behind by others. Drum began closing, increased depth to 200 feet to avoid a large enemy flying boat.



0830-Fired two torpedoes to finish off CA. One went into circular run forcing Drum deep. Second impacted but failed to detonate, audible thud heard on sound at time of impact but no explosion.

0836-Back at periscope depth. Fired two more torpedoes rang 600 yards, both impacted. The first torpedo detonated forward magazine setting off large explosions. Ship burning and begin to quickly sink.

0838-Takao Class Heavy Cruiser 9850 tons sunk 7 59 S 154 03 E.

0840-Secured GQ went deep to reload torpedoes and remain submerged for rest of day.


0915-Sound contact warship bearing 040 closing fast. Ordered periscope depth.

1013-Enemy destroyers possibly arriving to hunt for Drum in area of the previous attack.


2100-Surfaced and set course for Milne Bay to reload before proceeding to patrol area.


12 June -

1000-1700-Reloaded torpedoes and topped fuel at Milne Bay. Departed at 1715.

At 1800 Observed a large explosion, apparently a patrol craft wondered into the mine field or struck a loose mine. No survivors observed.


15 June-

0922- 1'3 N 152 54 E- Submerged to avoid closing aircraft at 180.After leveling at 170 feet, three large depth charge explosions.

1240-Surfaced.


16 June-

0603- During morning trim dive to 90 feet, sound detected possible submerged submarine bearing 092 degrees, possibly making an attack approach on Drum prior to trim dive. General Quarters. Drum went to silent running and began approach on contact.

0736 Sound has submerged submarine bearing 013 closing at low speed.

0837-ATTACK NO. 2 Fired one torpedo on sound bearings. Est range 2000 AOB 85. torpedo Depth 50 feet. Drum went to 200 ft. Torpedo missed. Sub continued on. Drum went to 300 feet.

1400-All clear

1450-Surfaced.

19 June-

0300- Received ULTRA. Large loaded tanker departing Woleai 0800 20 June. Plot should Drum could arrive off Woleai by 0500 20 June at 18 knots from present position. Set course for position 40 NM S of Woleai.


20 June-

1000-SJ contacts bearing 355 9 NM.

1002-Smoke spotted on horizon. General Quarters

1007-Large tanker with one escort spotted 060. Est course speed 200 at 16 knots. Contact report sent to CTF-72. Position 6 51 N 143 56 E 50 NM S of Woleai.

1008-Went to 300 feet for high speed run to close range.

1017-Convoy zigged to east according to sound.

1029-Periscope depth. Bearing 000 range 1700 yards Otori Class torpedo boat...trailing is large GENYO MARU class tanker 11800 tons.

1033-ATTACK NO. 2- Fired four MK 14 torpedoes range 1400 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth 15 feet. POA MOT. Target course is 170 14.5 knts. Two premature explosions.

1035-Two torpedoes impacted amidships, setting off massive explosion, obviously the tanker was loaded with fuel. Ship left a flaming wreck, dead in water, sinking.

1038-GENYO MARU 11800 tons sunk 6 52 N 143 56 E. Otori closing fast. Drum to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

1043-Pinging.


1045-DC explosions. Over the new several hours the escort hunted and laid several patterns but the attack was ineffective. Sonar conditions were ideal, so this was surprising.

1600-Lost sonar contact.

2100-Surfaced.



22 June-

0701-SJ contact bearing 270. 9 NM.

0819-Contact is Otori Class TB, possible the escort from the 20 June tanker sinking. Avoided contact.

23 June-7 July-

Continued patrol but made no contacts, except daily patrol aircraft which were never visually sighted. On 25 June received orders to deactivate magnetic features on torpedoes. All torpedoes switched to contact exploders.


8 July-

1507- SJ contact 326 9 NM.

1535-Submerge for attack on enemy TF.

1555- ATTACK NO. 4 Fired four torpedoes at Aoba Class CA. Range 3400 yards AOB 80 Torpedo depth 8 ft. POA MOT. target course/speed 025 17 knots. Lead CA is Takao class, led by Asashio DD. Unknown DD trailing.

1557-Torpedo 1 hit vessel amidships but failed to detonate, audible on sound and observed through periscope, confirmed dud. The alerted CA was expertly conned to comb the wakes of remaining torpedoes, with a hard turn to port with full power, causing torpedo 2 just miss the stern. The CA's turn continued to the same course as the approaching torpedoes, torpedo 3 passed down the starboard side at just a few feet, even close enough could have brushed the hull of the CA, as did torpedo 4 on the port side. Following orders from 24 June, magnetic features on all torpedoes were disabled. However, in this instance they likely would have lead to two hits as they passed along side at close enough range to trigger magnetic detonators.

1603-Pinging.Depth charge explosions.

1621- One close depth charge caused serious damage to Drum. Drum was at 375 feet. See Damage section for details.

1650-Lost sound contact with escorts. Once again, it appears those escorting task forces or fast moving convoys do not hunt to destroy an enemy submarine, but merely to hold the sub down while their charges escape. Also possibly they thought Drum was destroyed.


2100-Surface.

9-19 July- patrolled, no contacts.

19 July- Fuel situation necessitated began trek home with a stop at Milne Bay.

23 July-

1500-Arrived Milne Bay, refueled, departed 1900.


24 July- While transiting Jomard Passage, an RAAF PBY attacked Drum in a case of mistaken identity. The SD radar for unknown reasons did not detect the aircraft until was just 5 NM away. A crash dive was ordered and several explosions rocked Drum as she passed 146 feet. The bombing caused minor damage overall. See damage section .


26 July-

1500-Drum docked at Brisbane. Patrol terminated.



(C) Weather
The weather during was overall pleasant but there were periods of storms with heavy seas, cloud cover, and rain.

(D) Tidal Information
In the patrol area, 2° S. currents of one-half knot setting east to southeast were experienced at times.

In the area, westward of the Solomon Islands, from 10° S. to the pass between New Ireland and Buka, currents of 1.0 to 1.5 knots setting southeasterly were encountered.

(E) Navigational Aids
None sighted.

(F) Attack Data


Number of torpedo attacks: 4

Number of gun attacks:0

Number of torpedoes expended:23


Vessels sunk by torpedo:

Date: Time: Type/Class/Name Tonnage: Location:

6/11/1943 0450 Agano Class CL 6652 8 S 154 05 E

6/11/1943 0838 Takao Class CA 8650 7 59 S 154 03 E

6/20/1943 1038 GENYO MARU AO 11800 6 52 N 143 56 E


Vessels sunk by gunfire:

None.


(H) Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics


Compared to past patrols, the enemy ASW was mostly inefficient. The Otori Class torpedo boat, a class which has a nasty reputation among submariners, proved to be ineffective and not persistent during the 20 June counter attack.

The ASW efforts in the attack of 11 June were hindered by the heavy seas. However, their giving up quickly has been something have encountered last few patrols, as escorts and DD's in particular tasked with guarding warships or important fast transports tend to put the efforts in to keep a submarine deep and unable to track or attack their charges, provided the fast moving vessels times to get away before they speed up to rejoin. This is different than when attacking a slow or moderate speed convoy.

The counter attack of 8 July was more determined, forcing Drum deep to get under the enemy's sonar and charges in ideal sonar conditions. However, they again gave up far too soon to rejoin their charges. Drum was damaged but by no means eliminated.

Enemy air patrols were consistent with previous forays into the area, with SD contacts in the morning, most evenings, occasionally during the day.


Only one surface patrol was encountered, this was after the Solomon Sea attack on 11 June. The Otori encountered on 22 June south of Truk heading for Rabaul is believed to the escort of the tanker sunk on 20 June, en route to the destination.


(I) Major Defects and Damage


Drum suffered serious but manageable damage from a close depth charge on 8 July. Drum was at 375 feet and moving in a "burst" of speed at 9 knots as a enemy DD was overhead. Approximately a minute after last of a series of splashes were heard, four DC explosions occurred, followed by two more. The seventh and last, apparently landed close to Drum just aft of amidships at an unknown but close range and depth.

Most serious damage was a leak in the crew berthing area. The damage control team went into action and leak was stopped with minimal amount of water taken on. However, this put Drum out of trim an did sink to 430 feet before using additional speed helped stabilize the depth. The flooding was stopped and water pumped out.


The conning tower suffered leaks in air and water lines, which were repaired. The starboard prop shaft was damaged along with after batteries. All damage repaired within 48 hours.


Drum suffered additional damage from a "friendly fire" incident with an RAAF Catalina in the Jomard Passage on 24 July.

As Drum passed 140 feet, a series of explosions rocked here. Air and water lines throughout boat but including conning tower began to leak. Periscopes, sonar and sound gear, TDC, SJ radar, all damaged.

Upon surfacing, discovered the fore, aft, and aft deck 20 MM guns damage as well as the 4 inch 50 cal gun. Inspection revealed minor hull damage as well.


Defects-

Torpedo reliability remains an issue. Of twenty-three torpedoes expended, over half were defective with prematurely exploding torpedoes , duds, and a circle runner.

Defective torpedoes on 8 July most certainly costs Drum the sinking at a minimum serious damage of an enemy heavy cruiser as had it exploded properly, the ship would not have been able to so precisely maneuver to avoid the other three.


The order to deactivate the magnetic influence exploders on torpedoes dated 24 June was happily received. It is hoped that with these features deactivated. The occurrence of duds is concerning but likely related to the faulty exploders.

No known depth control issues were noticed with torpedoes on this patrol.



(J) Radio

Radio function as excellent throughout patrol.


(K) Radar function was mediocre to poor on this patrol, especially compared to previous patrols. The SJ failed to detect enemy task force before lookouts visually spotted it at 6000 yards on 11 June. At times it seemed to have trouble maintaining contact at distance more than 6 NM .


The Improved model of the SD radar, which worked great the previous patrol failed to detect an aircraft at the usual 12-15 NM on 15 June, instead detecting at 6 NM. This resulting the Drum being bombed but was able to submerge in time. A second failure on 24 July did not detect the RAAF Catalina until it was 5.5 NM away., resulting in a delayed dive and damage from a bombing.


(L) Sound Gear and Sound Conditions

Sound conditions were generally satisfactory for most of patrol. The excellent performance detected the submerged enemy submarine during the routine morning trim dive at a greater distance than originally thought.



(M) Thermal layers

Thermal layers were encountered at 191, 201, 155, 85, and 315 feet during the patrol.



(N) Health and Habitability


Crew health and morale remained excellent through the patrol. However, morale and rest levels did decline as patrol went on with no contacts aside from pesky aircraft. Torpedo failures and enduring counter attacks certainly do no improve heath of the crew. . No crew were injured during the patrol.


(O) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used


Brisbane to Area 1965 Miles 17405 Gallons
In Area 5565 Miles 38483 Gallons
Area to Brisbane 1951 Miles 19823 Gallons
Total 9481 Miles 75711 Gallons

(P) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 9
Days in Area 33
Days Enroute to Brisbane 8
Days Submerged 4


(Q) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Torpedoes 15
Fuel 17694 Gallons
Provisions 0
Water 14 days
Personnel 0
Limiting Factor This Patrol: Fuel and Orders of Commander TF-72.



(R) Comments


A successful patrol with two major enemy warships and major oil tanker sunk. However, torpedo performance cost the destruction or at least serious damage of another enemy cruiser. The Drum was also once again endangered by a circular running torpedo. The deactivation and hopeful replacement of the magnetic exploders gives hope these issues are resolved by Drum's next patrol.

The lack of merchant contacts in the latter half of the patrol was unusual for this area, it is possible the Truk-Rabaul area shipping lanes have been changed.


Agano class CL explodes from torpedo hits 11 June 1943

Takao class CA exploding after coup de grace morning of 11 June 1943.

After evading escorts all night, coming back to periscope depth in the morning, finding the crippled CA hull down, decks awash but stubbornly afloat, dead in water after two torpedo hits five hours before.

11800 ton loaded GENYO MARU tanker exploding after two torpedoes impacted.

8 July 1943. One dud(lower right hand corner), CA was expertly conned after the dud hit, one missed far to port due to the turn, other two came so close down sides the scraped lol. This was after magnetic features disabled, so no hits. Magnetic exploders likely would have went off being so close to target.

This has patrol left contacts for map on, but had external camera off.

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Old 07-04-21, 01:03 PM   #5074
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Default TMO 2.5 mod

Uss Seawolf... April 1942..








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Old 07-05-21, 09:56 AM   #5076
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Default Seadragon returning from patrol to Saipan, Fall 1944

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Old 07-05-21, 01:29 PM   #5077
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Old 07-06-21, 04:23 AM   #5078
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Default USS Drum SS-228 Seventh War Patrol 16 August-6 October 1943

TMO 2.5 w custom mods

100 difficulty. No contacts, no cams.


USS Drum SS-228
Seventh War Patrol
16 August- 6 October 1943

Assigned Area-Palau-Wewak-Rabaul shipping lanes

(A) Prologue

Returned from sixth war patrol 26 July 1943. Normal refit by the Submarine Repair Unit, assisted by U.S.S. FULTON, at Brisbane, Australia. Ready for sea: 16 August 1943.


(B) Narrative

16 August-

0930-Departed Brisbane en route patrol area via Milne Bay.

1130-Trim dive.

26 August-

0006-SJ contact 026 9 NM.

0009-General Quarters. Night surface torpedo

0024-One troopship est 6000 tons, one DD. Contact Report sent to CTF-72. Position 1 06 S 141 05 E Course 343 Speed 10 knots.

0028-Reply from CTF-72. Attack. Escorts should be attacked if possible.

0037-ATTACK NO. 1 Fired four MK 14 torpedoes. Target 1: KITRUIN MARU AP(3 torpedoes) Target 2 Minekaze Class DD (1 torpedo) Range :2400/2000 AOB 70/100 Torpedo depth 10 ft/3 ft POA MOT

Torpedo 1 impacted AP but was a confirmed dud. Torpedoes 2 and 3 impacted causing heavy damage. Torpedo 4 missed the DD just astern as it sped up after torpedo hit the first target. Drum illuminated by star shells and searchlight. DD turning after Drum, firing deck guns. two close splashes off bow. Ordered dive to 300 ft. Rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0038-KITRUIN MARU 6783 tons sunk 106 S 141 08 E.


0119-Close DC. Heavy damage reported in forward torpedo room.(See damage section). Damage control team assigned. Flooding reported.

0123-Flooding reported under control.

0151- Sound contact fading. Believe contact is "sleeping" trying to listen. Drum depth is 500 ft.

0230-Drum back at 350 ft.

0500-Radar depth: SJ contact 194 8 NM>

0502-Surfaced. Secured GQ.

0505-Inspection shows damage to torpedo tubes of varying degrees. Torpedo tube # 2 inoperable, under repair.

0800-Storms. Heavy seas, wind, medium fog, light rain




29 August-


1039-SD contact 16 NM. 0 50 S 140 50 E. Submerged

1300-Surfaced


1 September-

1431-SD contact 11 NM closing. Submerged. 2 S 142 0 E


1627-Surfaced.

28 August-
0100-Repairs on torpedo tube #2 complete. Tube is operational again.


5 September-

0524-Spotted three sampans ahead. Trailing for dawn gun action.


0540-General Quarters Battle Surface Gun Action

0610 - BATTLE SURFACE GUN ACTION. Approached from astern Commenced firing.

0624-Ceased fire. One large two medium sampans sunk by gun fire at 1 45 S 140 46 E. 80 tons (estimated) each.

5 September-27 September-

Patrolled assigned area with no contacts, aside from occasional SD contact at long range.


30 September-

0214-SJ contacts bearing 356 9 NM.

0221-General Quarters- Night surface torpedo.

0229-Contact report sent to CTF-72 Convoy sighted. Position: 2 23 S 143 31 E Est speed 8 knots est. course 261.

0238- Convoy course is 261 8.5 knots in two columns with five ships one known escort. Escort is Chidori or Otori type. Merchants are all AK of mid to large size.



0253 - ATTACK NO. 2 Range:2400/2300 AOB:70/95 POA MOT, Fore, Aft, MOT Torpedo Depth:10 ft.

0255- three torpedoes hit first target setting it afire. Three torpedoes hit second target, all confirmed duds. Convoy opened up with gunfire as Drum fled NE at high speed.

0300-SHAJIMA MARU 6450 tons sunk 2 25 S 140 46 E. Escort attempted to close Drum at high speed but unable to locate, slowed and began searching.

0354-Enemy escort is depth charging, convinced Drum had submerged. Drum on surface closing for follow up attack on surface with stern tubes.

0414- ATTACK NO 3. Fired four MK 14 from stern tubes on surface. Range: 1900 yards AOB 85 POA MOT. Four torpedoes hit SEIA MARU setting fires and causing list.

0416-SEIA MARU 7590 tons sunk. 2 26 S 143 24 E

0430-Secured GQ. Reloading torpedoes. End around for dawn submerged attack. Fuel is limiting factor as have just enough to move ahead for attack. Due to depart op area 0000 1 October.

0737-Regained SJ contact. General Quarters

0744-Smoke sighted bearing 054.

0820-Convoy zigged south west


0833-Submerge for attack.


0912-2000 yards off convoy track course 261. Escort is roughly 8000 yards astern of convoy, possibly checking out a false contact or guarding for a rear approach. This is fortunate as left convoy unguarded.

0923- ATTACK NO. 4 Range 900 yards AOB 90 Torpedo Depth 10 ft POA MOT MOT Fore mast, Aft mast. Four torpedoes fired, four impacts. Ship decimated. HAKUSIKA MARU 8150 tons sunk 2 23 S 143 31 E

0924- ATTACK NO 4a Range 900 yards AOB 85 Torpedo depth 10 ft POA MOT Fired two MK 14 torpedoes as trailing ship presented a favorable set up after hits on HAKUSIKA MARU. Both torpedoes hit the zigging target. RYUNN MARU class freighter crippled listing to starboard, large fire amidships, engine noises ceased. Moving to position for coup de grace with stern tubes if needed, all bow tubes expended.

0926-Sound check has escort closing from medium range, all clear.

0936- While moving into position. Crew of crippled freighter, in spite of list and fires fired at Drum's periscope with deck gun.

0937- Sound: Warship closing fast bearing 221 long range.

0939-Fired one MK 14 torpedo Range 700 yards AOB 90 MOT depth 6 ft. torpedo impacted. ship quickly completed its roll to starboard. RYUNN MARU 6538 tons sunk 2 16 S 142 56 E.

0942-Enemy escort sighted bearing 130 estimated range 6600 yards , closing. Drum to 300 feet, rigged for silent running and depth charge. Remaining enemy AK on zig course 261 unable to attack.

0950- DD on scene, pinging dropping charges astern, none close.

1010-DD overhead.

1011-While Drum was at a depth of 350 feet, a large, close pattern of depth charges caused heavy damage(see damage section). Flooding reported in forward torpedo and control room.

1018-Flooding reported under control in forward torpedo and control room . Forward dive planes inoperable.

1300-After several hours of evasion, lost contact with enemy.

1353-Secured GQ maintained silent running.

1833-Periscope depth. Clouds overcast, light fog, light chop to seas.

1935-Radar depth. SJ and SD sweep. All clear.

1845-Surfaced.

1848-Set course for Brisbane. Inspection shows boat has heavy damage (see damage section).


2 October-

0345- cleared Vitiaz Strait


6 October-

1800-Docked Brisbane. Terminated patrol.


(C) Weather
The area between the north coast of New Guinea and the Admiralty Islands \was generally favorable for most of the patrol, with the occasional squall popping up. The average winds were force two, predominantly southeast to southwest. Most days the sea were calm and glassy or has a light chop.

(D) Tidal Information
Variable currents up to one knot, setting southeast to southwest were noted well off the coast of New Guinea, south of the Admiralty Islands.

(E) Navigational Aids
None sighted.


(F) Attack

Vessels sunk by torpedo:

Date Time Ship Tons Location

9/5/1943 0038 KITRUIN MARU 6783 106 S 141 08 E

9/30/1943 0300 SHAJIMA MARU 6450 2 25 S 140 46 E

9/30/1943 0416 SEIA MARU 7590 2 26 S 143 24 E

9/30/1943 0923 HAKUSIKA MARU 8150 2 23 S 143 31 E

9/30/1943 0939 RYUNN MARU 6538 2 16 S 142 56 E


Vessels sunk by gunfire

9/5/1943 0624 Sampan x 3 80 (each) 1 45 S 140 46 E. 80 tons.



(G) Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics


Enemy ASW skill and efforts have definitely showed improvement with both depth charge attacks endured on this patrol causing heavy damage. Enemy active and passive sonar gear seems improved in ability and when combined with ideal sound conditions to gain and maintain contact on submerged submarines.

Enemy escorts are now typically equipped with both depth charge racks and throwers, enabling them to lay impressive patterns.

A noticeable enemy tactic is to "fake" a depth charge run coming from astern at high speed and not drop, but then to quickly turn in front of the submarine's expected path, in a version of "Crossing the T", laying patterns ahead and on top of the the submarine with racks and throwers.

Enemy seems to have implemented a convoy system as no unescorted vessels were encountered nor have been in last couple of patrols. Convoys typically consist of four to six vessels in two parallel columns with roughly 1000 yards between ships. Typically, there are two escorts, which make sweeping movements ahead and astern, often unexpected radical runs to the flanks.


While enemy tactics and weaponry to counter submerged attack have been improved, the night surface torpedo attack has proven quite effective. The enemy's apparent lack of surface search radar, combined with the darkness of the night and lack of escorts covering the flanks from which attacks are carried out, permits these attacks. Naturally, for a proper shot, submarine must close to 3000-2500 yards on the surface . The risk of gunfire, especially after illumination by star shells and searchlights from both escorts and the armed (often heavily) merchants, as well as possible ramming provides a certain amount of risk as well.

No surface patrols were encountered on this patrol. No patrol aircraft were sighted, with just a limited number of SD contacts.


Evasion on this patrol was fairly standard for the Drum. Depths of 300-400 feet with constant turns being conducted with 5-10 degrees rudder, silent running at 80 rpm, 50 at times, with max speed bursts when appropriate to get out from under depth charges and make radical course changes.

During the depth charge attack on 26 August, Drum was forced to a depth of 500 feet. Flooding caused the initial descent with leveling off at 475 feet, but when contact seemed to have a lock on Drum, eased down to 500 on next run and with a speed burst. At this depth, the enemy had difficulty tracking Drum. Once felt had shaken the escort, went back to 350 feet for safety and was able to slip away.


During the depth charging of 30 September, Drum was at 350 feet, having just slowed from a burst of speed when a well placed pattern ahead caused heavy damage, including flooding. Drum descended to 401 feet before backing full was able to level boat off and counter flooding. The forward dive planes were found to be inoperable, which made controlling the boat and evasion difficult. Drum was forced to endure several more patterns while conducting repairs and backing at moderate to high speeds. This seemed to confuse the enemy as their patterns were off mark each time.

Eventually, with flooding curtailed and water pumped, was able to control Drum better and maintained depth of 375 feet for rest of the evasion.

(H) Major Defects and Damage


The attack of 26 August caused serious damage to Drum. with forward torpedo room taking the brunt. Flooding and opening of sea vales causing moderate flooding in forward torpedo room. WCA sound gear and sonar head hoists were damaged.

All six forward torpedo tubes suffered heavy damage, with number two left completely inoperable for two days. All tubes were repaired following this attack over next 72 hours.

Air and water lines in conning tower and control room were leaking but repaired.


The depth charge attack of 30 September caused serious damage, much of which could not be repaired at sea.

A very close and large pattern caused leaks and flooding in forward torpedo room and control room. The damage control party were able to quell the flooding quickly and have water pumped out in just over an hour.

All six forward torpedo tubes were damaged beyond repair at sea. All forward torpedoes were expended at this point. Inspection revealed outer doors blown away.

The forward dive planes transmission was damaged beyond repair and thus the dive planes were rendered inoperable. This made evasion difficult let alone normal submerged operations.


The radio receiver was heavily damaged and was not able to be repaired before arriving back at Brisbane.

Inspection upon surfacing showed the 4 inch 50 cal deck gun to be heavily damaged and inoperable, along with the forward 20 MM mount. The aft and aft deck mounts were undamaged. Repairs were attempted but not completed before arriving back at Brisbane.

Most concerning is the apparent hull damage. Drum's hull was compromised by an estimated 20-21 percent.


Torpedo performance was greatly improved on this patrol. With the magnetic features of torpedo exploders disabled, premature detonations have been eliminated. All torpedoes appeared to run at set depth. As an attempt to prevent duds, care was taken to fire for torpedo impact at acute angles when possible per message received from CTF-72 on 18 August. 21 torpedoes were fired this patrol, with four confirmed duds.

(I) Radio

Radio equipment worked fine until the 30 September attack when the equipment, the receiver in particular was damaged and unable to be repaired before returning to Brisbane.


(J) Radar


SJ radar performance was improved this patrol. Contacts were typically detected at 8..5-9 NM. There remains a tendency of radar contact to weaken and at times to lose contact when at an AOB l to target ess then 75 or greater than 100. SJ radar has proven vital during night surface torpedo attacks.


SD radar performed well detecting contacts typically at 13-14 NM.


(K) Sound

Sound conditions were generally ideal, a blessing and a burden. The conditions permit Drum to easily track targets, but also enables the enemy's ASW efforts.


(L) Density Layers

Thermal layers were detected between 190 and 311 feet.


(M) Health , Morale, and Habitability.


Crew performance and morale was overall excellent. Those assigned to the forward torpedo room had a bit of a rough go at this time out, battle flooding twice and other serious damage in their compartment. Fortunately, all injuries were minor. One crewman was treated for battle fatigue as the events of 30 September left him shaken. Within a few days he returned to his normal duties. However, he was detached from the Drum upon return to port.




(N) Miles Steamed - Fuel Used

Brisbane to Area 2776.2 Miles 24288 Gallons
In Area 2390.4 Miles 10590 Gallons
Area to Brisbane 2530.0 Miles 33057 Gallons
Total 7696.6 Miles 67935 Gallons

(O) Duration

Total duration: 50 days

Days in patrol area: 34

Days en route to patrol area:10

Days en route to Brisbane: 6.5

Note: Transit Vitiaz Strait en route home in lieu of crossing north of Admiralty Islands and down the east coast of New Ireland, which cut transit time off. Given Drum's material state and given the chance of no encountering significant enemy forces in the straits, opted for the route , which could transit in one night.


(P) Factors of Endurance Remaining

Heavy damage
Torpedoes Remaining: 3-all stern.
Fuel: 17694 gallons

1 October was already scheduled departure date from patrol area.


(Q) Remarks


A challenging and ultimately successful patrol with five enemy merchant vessels sunk, as well as three sampans. The amount of time between the first ship sunk on 26 August and the last on 30 September, with no shipping contacts (aside from sampans) in between along these normally busy but ill defined shipping lanes leads me to believe the enemy changed their routes for most of September to avoid submarine attack, switching back towards the end, which routed the convoy encountered on 30 September into Drum's lap as had set course to the east to return to Brisbane.

Improved torpedo performance has greatly improved morale and ability to properly dispatch enemy shipping.
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Old 07-06-21, 08:12 AM   #5079
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Bubblehead1980 View Post
A challenging and ultimately successful patrol with five enemy merchant vessels sunk, as well as three sampans. The amount of time between the first ship sunk on 26 August and the last on 30 September, with no shipping contacts (aside from sampans) in between along these normally busy but ill defined shipping lanes leads me to believe the enemy changed their routes for most of September to avoid submarine attack, switching back towards the end, which routed the convoy encountered on 30 September into Drum's lap as had set course to the east to return to Brisbane.
over the years as i played this game i have noticed its tendency to not spawn groups after certain dates, like September 1.

September 1 is the starting effective date of the traffic files....convoys and task forces.
I think that SH4 gets itself lost when the player is on a career-mission and that date passes. traffic seems to disappear. i say again: this is an SH4 issue not a modder issue.

i can't prove anything but it sure seems to be true over thousands of missions.

anyway, nice patrol log. i wonder how you have time and consciousness to keep a detailed log while you are playing the game and then living Real Life as well, with all of its "distractions".

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Old 07-06-21, 02:15 PM   #5080
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Originally Posted by KaleunMarco View Post
over the years as i played this game i have noticed its tendency to not spawn groups after certain dates, like September 1.

September 1 is the starting effective date of the traffic files....convoys and task forces.
I think that SH4 gets itself lost when the player is on a career-mission and that date passes. traffic seems to disappear. i say again: this is an SH4 issue not a modder issue.

i can't prove anything but it sure seems to be true over thousands of missions.

anyway, nice patrol log. i wonder how you have time and consciousness to keep a detailed log while you are playing the game and then living Real Life as well, with all of its "distractions".

Drum's real patrol logs:

https://www.drum228.org/patrols.html

Ah yea just writing the reports up in fashion of the patrol reports have read on Drum and others (see link below)

I like keeping a log of important events during patrol, interesting to look back and has helped with modding as well. Figured reports like this may help others, especially newer players on patrol, kind of way real life skippers learned by reading patrol reports.

Time wise, well the events in the report take place over many days real time, so have plenty of time for my real life lol. I leave the sim running, check on it when home. During patrol, I just jot down the important details such as attack data in notepad and then punch up the report en route back to base. Since have to run the sim at somewhat low time compression to make sure don't miss contacts and keep the weather stable, plenty of time to do other things as well. Also, campaign is how I test because its difficult to replicate exact conditions in a single mission. Campaign is the focus of my mod so I've played through the war, played different periods, different areas etc to check. Time consuming but its a marathon not a race. Actually going on vacation end of the month so will be away from for a few weeks . I delayed releasing my update for TMO to work a few more things out, refine some things, but plan to release before I go walkabout


You are correct sir. The traffic delay I encountered was primarily because of the "dead zone" that occurs when the new layers take over. The 42b layers cover 8/1/1942-8/31/1943.So if convoys have a 25 percent chance of spawning every five days (120 hours) it will be at least September 5th( noticed sometimes the next day) before they spawn then with a low chance, it can be a few days.

I modified how convoys spawned, the "feeder" convoys on the less major routes are set to the random defaults, slightly decreased in frequency so have a more realistic amount of traffic. The major routes to ensure consistent but realistic traffic rates taking into account the time period. In most places I added convoys that spawn once at are set to ensure consistent but realistic traffic rate based on the time period. Obviously there are way more convoys running in Fall 1943-Spring 1944 than in mid 1942 when convoys were not the norm for the japanese. Fall 1943 they actually formed an escort command at the fleet level to coordinate escorts. This is now reflected in TMO, fall 43 start seeing actual convoys and their compositions changed. Typical early war convoy of haphazard years are 3-4 ships with one escort, sometimes may have two. Rarely three, three would denote an important group of ships. This is based off research have done, reading of many patrol reports indicating changes over time.

I don't mind the dead periods though, a lot of submarine warfare was sailing about for weeks at a time until found target, especially in the open ocean areas. Forces player to really hunt for targets. I've ensured the traffic is there, player just has to find it. As mentioned in the report, August 26 my was first attack, the next time found shipping to torpedo was 30 September, as was departing assigned area. This happened a bit in real life, weeks in area with nothing then boom found a big convoy at last minute.Added an element of excitement, a nothing patrol can turn into an excellent one. Only had the fuel to pursue and attack for short time, had to attack then. Plenty of torpedoes aboard.

I alluded to changing of convoy routes in my report. I did this as it did happen in real life. Japanese would suffer a lot of losses on one route and change the route for a while, then switch back after time for things to calm down. To a degree I have this implemented in the campaign. The traffic lanes do shift from time to time then shift back, especially as war goes on when convoy routes became more defined. Aggravating as this sim can be, amazing what can be done.

One area that comes to mind is Area 5 off Honshu. They suffered heavy losses in that area in late 43 and early 44, then the area went dead for quite a while, reports by subs assigned there as no traffic. Lockwood sent Tang there in August 1944. The Japanese had quit running convoys offshore in that area, in deeper waters, but instead were running shipping 2-3 ships at a time with plenty of escorts, close to shore from port to port during the day...talking few thousand yards off the beach, thus why the area seemed dead. Obviously this makes patrolling a challenge. Trying to replicate what Tang did in the area is fun but a challenge. Air and surface patrols almost daily, shallow waters, even the coastal pc type escorts can kill you in the shallows. Later in war, there is a coastal minefield (submerged and surfaced) they hide behind. It is one of the most challenging areas to patrol in TMO but with discretion, proper tactics, quite possible to turn out a solid patrol there.

I will say though the traffic in the area was a little too dead. The Palau-Wewak-Rabaul shipping lanes early 1943-early 1944, were busy as were supplying the Solomons and New Guinea forces , so prboably going to probably adjust it a little.
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Old 07-07-21, 08:12 PM   #5081
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Currently reading "Thunder Below" by Admiral Fluckey, and I am trying to duplicate his brilliant night surface attack on a Japanese convoy in the Formosa Straits, while operating as part of a 3 Boat Wolfpack in January 1945.
He approaches from 10,000 yards astern, and slips in between the escorts, firing at, and sinking, the rear merchant from a range of 2150 yards. He is not done at that point, but I cant re-write the book!!!
He describes the night as dark, the only light from the stars, and the ships appeared as indistinguishable blobs.

Conveniently.... my latest TMO save, was a convoy contact report as the sun was going down.
Weather is clear, no fog, wind at 4 mps.

On my first attempt, I went in SJ radar blasting. I cant say I was detected, but the escorts seemed to be attracted, or interested in my location.
I made it to within 1450 yards of the escorts, and 2650 to the rear merchant I was targeting .....and was LIT UP. Lol





On my second attempt, I turned off the SJ, and it appeared the escorts maintained a more relaxed formation. I was able to close to within 2000 yards of the rear merchant, and fired tubes 1,2,3.
The MOMENT they hit, I was again LIT UP, and forced to crash dive.

[url=https://postimages.org/][/ur







I "Attempt" to adjust the Graphic settings, and my monitor, to match my crews visual sighting to mine.
My Mod List is "Bubblehead Heavy" and it works well. Thanks Bubblehead1980 !!!

1_TriggerMaru_Overhaul_2-5
1_TMO_25_small_patch
ClemsonClassDD
Better US Crew and Player Rank Fix
IJN_Radar_Fix_2
Select Your Sub
TMO_Sample_Emblem
No Flags on subsV1.2
GatoLadder
Nav Map Make-Over v2.1
NMMO Airbase Add-on
NMMO v2.1 Patch 1 with AB
NMMO Maps Add-on
Bigger Better Protractors
410 Rockin Robbins EZ Plot V2.0
TheDarkWraith_DC_Water_Disturbance_v2_0_SH4
UPCUPGRADES+betterhuntersV1.2
Stop The Shouting
RealScopesV2
TMONewDepthChargesType2
TGT DIALS TO PK FIX - TMO
DarkerNightsEnv_V2
TMO17_19_different_smoke

Last edited by Strykr; 07-07-21 at 08:56 PM.
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Old 07-07-21, 11:13 PM   #5082
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Strykr View Post
Currently reading "Thunder Below" by Admiral Fluckey, and I am trying to duplicate his brilliant night surface attack on a Japanese convoy in the Formosa Straits, while operating as part of a 3 Boat Wolfpack in January 1945.
He approaches from 10,000 yards astern, and slips in between the escorts, firing at, and sinking, the rear merchant from a range of 2150 yards. He is not done at that point, but I cant re-write the book!!!
He describes the night as dark, the only light from the stars, and the ships appeared as indistinguishable blobs.

Conveniently.... my latest TMO save, was a convoy contact report as the sun was going down.
Weather is clear, no fog, wind at 4 mps.

On my first attempt, I went in SJ radar blasting. I cant say I was detected, but the escorts seemed to be attracted, or interested in my location.
I made it to within 1450 yards of the escorts, and 2650 to the rear merchant I was targeting .....and was LIT UP. Lol





On my second attempt, I turned off the SJ, and it appeared the escorts maintained a more relaxed formation. I was able to close to within 2000 yards of the rear merchant, and fired tubes 1,2,3.
The MOMENT they hit, I was again LIT UP, and forced to crash dive.

[url=https://postimages.org/][/ur







I "Attempt" to adjust the Graphic settings, and my monitor, to match my crews visual sighting to mine.
My Mod List is "Bubblehead Heavy" and it works well. Thanks Bubblehead1980 !!!

1_TriggerMaru_Overhaul_2-5
1_TMO_25_small_patch
ClemsonClassDD
Better US Crew and Player Rank Fix
IJN_Radar_Fix_2
Select Your Sub
TMO_Sample_Emblem
No Flags on subsV1.2
GatoLadder
Nav Map Make-Over v2.1
NMMO Airbase Add-on
NMMO v2.1 Patch 1 with AB
NMMO Maps Add-on
Bigger Better Protractors
410 Rockin Robbins EZ Plot V2.0
TheDarkWraith_DC_Water_Disturbance_v2_0_SH4
UPCUPGRADES+betterhuntersV1.2
Stop The Shouting
RealScopesV2
TMONewDepthChargesType2
TGT DIALS TO PK FIX - TMO
DarkerNightsEnv_V2
TMO17_19_different_smoke

Great book, Thunder Below. Such an exciting read. Well done, glad you are enjoying the mods. Did the gunfire hit you or just come close? Not sure is lit up is implying they put searchlights on you, shot you full of holes or both? lol. Did you survive the depth charging after diving?

Nice to be able to pull off realistic night surface attacks eh ? I plan on releasing my update which has updated versions of my mods for TMO in couple weeks before go on vacation( was end of June but refining a few things) and night surface attacks are even better now. I added some of the large almost allied style convoys japanese were deploying in spring summer, most of fall 1944, player can under the right conditions, get inside the columns and wreak havoc.

Also added a lot of the historical convoys/warships etc such as those Fluckey, O Kane, etc attacked, they show up at historic time and location of the engagement. They only spawn once and compositions are as historically accurate as possible within game. Can even try to pull off Fluckey's Namkwan Harbor raid in January 1945. , the convoys are there at anchor, escorts patrolling. Challenging but fun and can pull it off almost minute by minute according to his book.
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Old 07-08-21, 04:20 AM   #5083
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Default USS Drum SS-228 Eighth War Patrol 2 November- 7 December1943

TMO 2.5 with custom mods
100 difficulty cams and contacts off.

Note: In the real eight war patrol of Drum, the conning tower was cracked by depth charges, leading its replacement at Mare Island from January-March 1944.With no Gato conning towers available at the time, the Drum was fitted with a Balao class conning tower, a unique arrangement.

Like the previous patrols of the Drum I have documented, I have patrolled the same areas, taken same routes etc. as Drum did during the war and most have had near the same duration. On this patrol my conning tower did take damage from a depth charge, somewhat mirroring reality.


USS Drum SS-228
Eight War Patrol
2 November- 7 December 1943
Patrol Area: South-West of Caroline Islands in Palau-Truk-Rabaul shipping lanes.

(A) Prologue

Returned from seventh war patrol 6 October, 1943. Normal refit by the Submarine Repair Unit at Brisbane, Australia. Docked for application of Measure 32 paint scheme ,22-23 October, 1943. Commander D.F. Williamson relieved LCDR B.F. McMahon as Commanding Officer. Ready for sea: 2 November, 1943.


(B) Narrative


2 November-

1100-Departed Brisbane for patrol area via Tulagi.


6 November-

0708-1100-Refueled at Tulagi.


7 November-

1630- SD contact 9 NM. 3 38 S 156 39 E. Submerged to avoid aircraft.

1900-Surfaced.


13 November-

0412- SJ contact bearing 000 9 NM. 3 53 N 138 46 E

0416-General Quarters.

0429-Convoy zigged to east.

0445-Submerged for attack. Moonlight too plentiful for surface attack

0522 - ATTACK NO. 1 Target: AK KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons Range: 1000 AOB: 85 Torpedo Depth: 10ft POA MOT, Fore, Aft Fired 3 MK 14 torpedoes. All impacted as aimed. Ship burning bow to ster. listing

0526- ATTACK NO 1(a) Fired two MK 14 at large troopship in second column range 1400 yards AOB 80. Depth 10 ft. POA MOT. Both torpedoes hit.

0528-ATTACK NO 1(b) Fired one MK 14 at mid sized freighter identified as KINOPASAN MARU. Range 600 yards AOB 80 as crossed Drum's bow. One hit in stern area.

0529- KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons sunk 3 52 N 138 54 E

0530- HORAI MARU 9549 tons sunk 3 53 N 138 54 east. Troop transport.

0532-Escort spotted 330 4000 yards closing fast. Ordered 300 fett, rigged for depth charge and silent running.

0534-0645-Both escorts made multiple runs on Drum, a few close depth charges with no damage reported. Drum pushed to 395 feet to get under the enemy sonar and charges.

Last attack was 0645.

0650-One escort heard speeding away to NE at high speed, likely to rejoin convoy. Lost contact with other. possibly "sleeping" listening for Drum. Drum on course 270 at 395 feet and 2 knots. Maintained silent running.

0730-Secure GQ.

0900-Periscope depth.

0905-Surfaced for end around.

0914- SD contact 8 NM closing. Submerged.

0935-1200-Attempted to surface for end around multiple times. One, then two large flying boats patrolled the general area continuously covering the convoy. Submerged to 300 feet.

2100- Surfaced


22 November-

1130- SJ contact 9 NM. 3 17 N 141 24 E

1131- Smoke plumes from convoy spotted on horizon bearing 015. General Quarters.

1135- Convoy estimated course 151 degrees at 7 knots.

1220-Convoy zigged to SW thwarting set up as was about to dive.

1237-Convoy course 195 degrees 7 knots

1246-Submerge for attack. Contact report sent to CTF-72. Convoy sighted 3'3 N 141 19 E course 195 speed 8 knots.

1250-Reply from CTF-72 received as descending deep for high speed run to attack position. X ATTACK X

1300-Periscope depth. Convoy zigged east. Ruined the setup. Drum turned to close at high speed for possible shot from 4000-5000 yards.

1315- Convoy at 5600 yards course 135 8 knots.

1330-ATTACK NO 2 Target: RYUNN MARU class AK 6538 tons. Fired three Mk 14 on high speed setting. Range 3980 yards AOB 80 Torpedo Depth: 6 feet POA MOT.

1332-Two torpedoes missed astern. One impacted stern. Target possibly disabled closing for coup de grace.

1338- ATTACK NO 2(b) Closed to 2100 yards at target which was drifting at less than half a knot. Fired one MK 14 set for 6 feet. POA MOT. Type A Etorofu class escort closing in at high speed 020 degrees 3000 yards. Rigged for silent running and depth charge.

1339-As Drum passed 226 feet heard a torpedo impact. Confirmed by sound. Audible through hull.

1343- Enemy closed to 500 yards before pinging briefly. Passed overhead dropping large pattern. Drum descended to 350 ft.

1344-Sounds of ship sinking breaking up. RYUNN MARU 6538 tons sunk 3 04 N 141 20 E.

1347-Close depth charges. Boat shaken.

1359-Forward engine room reports minor damage (See damage section)

1404-Close explosions, damage reported. Pressure and water line leaks. Damage in forward engine and control room. (See damage section)


1444-Several charges close. Boat shaken. Forward torpedo reports minor damage(see damage section)


1514-Close explosion. Damage reported in aft battery.


1540-Last depth charge. Both enemy escorts sped away at high speed to rejoin convoy.

1935-Periscope depth. Dark fallen. all clear.

1943-Surfaced. Began reload, battery recharge and end around for night surface attack.


2314-Regained SJ contact. Bearing 357 9 NM. General Quarters Surface Attack-Torpedo

2345-Battery charge completed. Convoy zigged to SE.

23 November-

0008-Contact report sent to CTF-72. Convoy sighted 2 35 N 141 27 E Course 135 degrees speed 8 knots.

0011-Received reply from CTF-72. X ATTACK X

0025- Convoy zigged towards Drum. Sped away as shot was ruined.

0034- Convoy now on course 185 7 knots

0052 - ATTACK NO. 3 Fired four MK 14 torpedoes from stern tubes, two per target. Range: 2000/2300 AOB 90/80 Torpedo depth 8 ft POA MOT. One torpedo suffered apparent guidance failure and did not track to second target but went for first. All others ran normal.

0053-Torpedoes 1,2,3 hit trailing freighter. Setting it afire. Torpedo 4 hit middle freighter, causing large explosion and fire.

0055-MOMOYAMA MARU 4100 tons sunk 2 34 N 141 24 E. 4031 tons.

0056- SHAJIMA MARU freighter burning but underway.

0057-0554-Multiple attempts t close targets failed due to radical convoy movements and escorts. Rising half moon provided illumination. Worked into position by 0555.

0555-Submerged for attack due to morning twilight.

0606- ATTACK NO 3 (Continued) fired two MK 14 torpedoes from stern tubes. Range 1200 AOB 70 depth 8 ft POA MOT.

0607-Both torpedoes hit target, previously damage in ATTACK NO. 3. SHAJIMA MARU 6450 tons sunk 2 27 N 141 30 E.

Escort closing, ordered 350 ft, rigged for silent running and depth charge.

0612-Pinging.


0614-Escort overhead. Depth charge explosions.


0733-Close explosions. Aft battery reports damage.

0821- Close Dc. forward battery damage. Damage in conning tower and control room (see damage section)

1050-Last depth charge. Escorts left area at high speed.

1144-Secure GQ. Maintained silent running.

1526-Surfaced for end around and attack after charging batteries and repairs.


24 November-

0022-Unable to regain SJ contact. Rough seas hampered efforts.


2028- SJ contacts 000 6 NM.

2032- General Quarters- Surface Torpedo.

2050- Contact report sent to CTF-72. Convoy sighted. 6 vessels 2 escorts. Position 3 43 N 139 27 E. Course 120 degrees speed 9 knots.

2118- ATTACK NO.4 Fired six MK 14 torpedoes from forward tubes at two targets. SAKITO MARU type troopship and KIGAN MARU type merchant. Range 2200/2400 yards AOB:75/90 Torpedo depth 10 ft. POA MOT.

2119-All torpedoes hit their targets. Both ships quickly caught fire and sunk by the stern. SAKITO MARU AP 8839 tons and KIGAN MARU AK 7390 tons sunk at 3 41 N 141 30 E. Escorts identified as Wakatake DD(lead) and Chidori (trail), both fired off star shells and closed on Drum but did not open fire before lost contact.

2134-Moving for end around to fire last two torpedoes (stern) before dawn.



25 November-

0023- Regained SJ contact bearing 351 8 NM.


0116-ATTACK NO 5. Fired two remaining torpedoes (MK 14) at lead freighter in convoy. Range 2600 yards AOB 88 Torpedo depth 8 ft POA MOT. Both torpedoes hit as aimed starting large fires and setting off a large secondary explosion 10 seconds after last impact.

0117-BIYO MARU 5426 tons sunk 3 18 N 139 37. All torpedoes expended.

0200-All torpedoes expended, set course for Pearl Harbor to terminate war patrol.


(C) Weather
Weather on this patrol was mostly pleasant both en route to the area, while in the area and en route to Pearl Harbor. A squall which kicked up heavy seas did stifle Drum's efforts to end around for follow up attack on 24 November.

(D) Tidal Information
In the equatorial region between longitudes 140° East to 152° East, a current setting 285°(T), varying from one-half to one knot was experienced during the entire time in the area. The force and direction of the wind had little effect on this current.

(E) Navigational Aids
None sighted.

(H) Attack Data

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 1, Patrol No. 8

Time: 0522 (L) Date: 13 November 1943 Lat. 3 52 N 138 54 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

Submerged for attack due to excessive moonlight. Fired three MK 14 torpedoes from 1000 yards, AOB 80 Torpedo depth 10 ft POA: MOT.

Immediately Followed up with Attack 1(a) at a large troopship 1400 yards AOB 80 and 1(b) 600 yards AOB 80. These quick shots were conducted as excellent setup presented after initial attack. All torpedoes hit.
.

Ships Sunk:

AK KOBAYASHI MARU 9980 tons 3 52 N 138 54 E

AP HORAI MARU 9549 tons 3 53 N 138 54 E

Ships Damaged:

AK KINOPASAN MARU 3900 tons 3 53 N 138 54 E


Own Ship Data:

Speed 3 knots, Course 010°(T), Depth 64 ft., Angle 0°

Fire Control and Torpedo Data

Type Attack

Sighted convoy on the surface, intended a surfaced torpedo attack but due to moonlight and clouds clearing, submerged at about 10,000 yards. Closed the track of the target group. Torpedoes were fired using individual bearings for each shot.


Sea conditions - glassy.

U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 2, Patrol No. 8

Time: 1330 (L) Date: 22 November 1943 3 04 N 141 20 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

SJ made contact at 1130 and began tracking convoy. Submerged for attack at 1246. During the approach sound reported bearing shift. A periscope observation revealed convoy had zigged away roughly to the south-east. Once the new track settled was apparent could likely close for a shot. Ordered Drum to 100 feet and ahead flank to close the range. Ordered torpedoes set to low speed as a shot in excess of 4500 yards was likely.

At 1330 reached an attack position and fired three MK 14 torpedoes from 3900 yards AOB 80 set to 6 ft depth POA was MOT. Two torpedoes missed astern of target, but the last hit the stern. Believe it destroyed the prop, saft etc as vessel lost its way. Compensating for the speed change and with an escort bearing down on Drum, fired one more MK 14 before began descending to 300 feet, rigged for depth charge and silent running. As Drum passed 226 feet, the impact of a torpedo ws heard, audible through the hull and confirmed by sound. At 1344, sounds of ship breaking up were heard from last bearing of target.

Ships Sunk:

AK RYUNN MARU 6538 tons 3 04 N 141 20 E.


Ships Damaged:

None.


Own Ship Data:

Speed 2 knots, Course 160°(T), Depth 64 feet, Angle 0°

Sea conditions - glassy


U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 3, Patrol No. 8

Time: 0055 (L) Date: 23 November 1943 2 34 N 141 24 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

Follow up night surface attack to ATTACK NO. 2. Fired stern tubes at two targets from 2200 yards with AOB of 90 on target one and 70 on target two. Torpedoes were set to ten feet and POA was MOT. Torpedo #3 was supposed to go to target 2, but suffered a guidance failure and headed for general direction of target 1 and to our surprise, did hit. Torpedo 4 ran normally and hit the target.

Attack No. 3(continued) After multiple attempts to attack through the night, was unable due to increasing moonlight, radical evasive movements by the convoy, and escorts. Submerged in morning twilight at 0555 to attack. Fired two MK 14 torpedoes at 1200 yards AOB 90. Both impacted.

Ships Sunk:

0055- AK MOMOYAMA MARU 4100 tons 2 34 N 141 24 E

0607- AK SHAJIMA MARU 6450 tons 2 27 N 141 30 E

Ships Damaged:

0055- AK SHAJIMA MARU 6450 tons. 2 34 N 141 24 E


Own Ship Data:

Speed 0 knots, Course 240°(T), Depth: Surfaced

Sea conditions: Calm, Glassy.



U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 4, Patrol No. 8

Time: 2118 (L) Date: 24 November 1943 3 41 N 141 30 E

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

SJ failed to detect convoy until just 6 NM away in the dark night. Ordered General Quarters and began tracking the six ship two escort convoy.

At 2118 fired remaining six bow torpedoes at a large AK and AP from a range o 2200(AP) and 2400 (AK) AOB 90 (AP) and 75(AK). Torpedo depth of 10 feet with POA MOT. All torpedoes impacted, both vessels quickly went under.


Ships Sunk:

2120- AP SAKITO MARU 8839 tons 3 41 N 141 30 E

2129- AK KIGAN MARU AK 7390 tons 3 41 N 141 30 E



Own Ship Data:

Speed 0 knots, Course 090°(T), Depth: Surfaced

Sea conditions: light chop


U.S.S. DRUM, Torpedo Attack No. 5, Patrol No. 8

Time: 0116 (L) Date: 25 November 1943 3 18 N 139 37

Target Data - Damage Inflicted

Description:

Follow up attack on convoy from Attack No. 5 after end around. Convoy had reformed into a center column of two AK with an AK on each flank screening the center vessels. Escorts were forward and aft at 800-1000 yards.

Fired two remaining torpedoes (MK 14) from stern tubes at lead freighter in center column. Range 2600 yards AOB 88 Torpedo depth 8 ft POA MOT. Both torpedoes hit. The vessel was burning from bow to stern and quickly sunk,

Ships Sunk:

0117 BIYO MARU 5426 tons 3 18 N 139 37


Ships Damage:
None


Own Ship Data:

Speed 0 knots, Course 000°(T), Depth :Surfaced

Sea conditions-light chop.


() Anti Submarine Measures and Evasive Tactics


Counter Attack #1 11-13-1943

As noted on last patrol enemy ASW has improved in quality. This attack was performed well over several hours, pushing Drum to 395 feet, but ultimately ineffective.


Counter Attack #2 11-22-1943

The two Type A Etorofu Class escorts did an excellent job of depth charging in this attack. The lead escort used a new tactic of closing Drum but did not pinging until at roughly 500 yards. At this point the escort began intense short scale pinging as sped up to make his run, only ceasing as arrived overhead.

The second joined in and they took turns over several hours making runs using racks and throwers, causing damage to Drum.


Counter Attack #3 11-23-1943

The working over of attack no. 3 the Etorofus gave Drum, put counter attack #2 to shame. This time the close ones were really close, and they were big!

The initial attack was by one escort but he was joined within 15 minutes by the second escort, which had been astern of convoy on a sweep at time of Drum's attack. They proceeded to apparently circle Drum, taking turns listening while one attacked. Rinse and repeat was the method over next five and a half hours. The calm seas provided ideal sound conditions. Serious damage was suffered during this counter attack (see damage) section.
After five hours, contact faded and was lost.


(J) Major Defects and Damage

(1.) Damage From #3 Depth Charge Attack

(a)Damage to conning towercausing flooding. Air and water lines leaking.
(b) Damage to forward control room bulkhead caused flooding.
(c) Forward and Aft batteries damaged. This damage could not be completely repaired at sea, batteries would only gain a charge to 85 percent.
(d)compressor damaged
(e) Trim pump damaged
(f) 4 inch 50 Cal deck gun left inoperable. Repaired at sea. Test fired 1 December.

(2.) Damage From #2 Depth Charge Attack

(a) Aft batteries damaged
(b) Air and water line leaks throughout boat.
(c) Minor flooding in forward torpedo room. Tubes-3,5,6 damaged.
(d) Port sonar head hoist damaged.


Note: Drum's new paint job was left damaged by one or all attacks.

(3.) Torpedoes

Torpedo performance was excellent this patrol. This is said to be the first patrol out of Drum's eight where torpedo performance was so. Drum experienced no premature explosions, no duds, no known deep runners, no circular runs. One torpedo suffered an apparent gyro malfunction and did not take proper course to target. However, it did impact another ship contributing to its destruction. The new torpex warheads continue to provide the much desired extra punch.


(K) Radio

Radio performance was satisfactory.


(L) Radar

SJ radar performance was overall satisfactory, except for when it failed to detect the convoy on one occasion until at just 6 NM. Average detection range is 8 NM.


SD radar functioned well and average detection range was 11 NM.


(M) Sound conditions

Sound conditions were generally excellent this patrol with typically detecting contacts up to 8000 yards. Naturally, these conditions contributed to the effective depth charging and tracking by escorts.

(N) Density layers. Only one thermal layer was located on 13 November at 204 feet.


(O) Health, Morale, Habitability, and Crew.

The health, morale, and performance of the crew on this patrol was excellent. Several crew in the forward torpedo room and the Executive Officer in the conning tower suffered minor injuries during the Counter attack # 3. All maintained their stations and healed fine.

After the intense actions of 22/23 November with more action 24/25 November the crew was fatigued but with eight ships sunk and another damaged, and Drum en route to Pearl Harbor morale remained high.

(P) Miles Steamed-Fuel Used

Brisbane to Area 2097.5 Miles 17934 Gallons
In Area 3672.0 Miles 26499 Gallons
Area to Pearl Harbor 3848.4 Miles 40584 Gallons
Total 9617.9 Miles 85017 Gallons

(Q) Duration

Days Enroute to Area 10
Days in Area 15
Days Enroute to Pearl Harbor 13
Days Submerged 1


(R) Factors of Endurance Remaining
Torpedoes 0
Fuel 20873 gallons
Provisions 40 days
Personnel 30 days

Limiting Factor of This Patrol:

All torpedoes expended and damage to key systems.

Remarks:

A challenging yet highly successful patrol. Of the fifteen days on station, only thirty-seven hours eleven minutes were spent submerged. Of this time some twenty hours were during attacks and counter attacks.

It is significant to note that all six aircraft contacts in the area were in the vicinity of 2° N. Although much time was spent near 3° N., no planes were sighted in that locality.

Last edited by Bubblehead1980; 07-08-21 at 10:15 PM.
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Old 07-08-21, 07:52 PM   #5084
Strykr
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Originally Posted by Bubblehead1980 View Post
Great book, Thunder Below. Such an exciting read. Well done, glad you are enjoying the mods. Did the gunfire hit you or just come close? Not sure is lit up is implying they put searchlights on you, shot you full of holes or both? lol. Did you survive the depth charging after diving?

Nice to be able to pull off realistic night surface attacks eh ? I plan on releasing my update which has updated versions of my mods for TMO in couple weeks before go on vacation( was end of June but refining a few things) and night surface attacks are even better now. I added some of the large almost allied style convoys japanese were deploying in spring summer, most of fall 1944, player can under the right conditions, get inside the columns and wreak havoc.

Also added a lot of the historical convoys/warships etc such as those Fluckey, O Kane, etc attacked, they show up at historic time and location of the engagement. They only spawn once and compositions are as historically accurate as possible within game. Can even try to pull off Fluckey's Namkwan Harbor raid in January 1945. , the convoys are there at anchor, escorts patrolling. Challenging but fun and can pull it off almost minute by minute according to his book.
Both escorts and merchants appeared to know my exact location when torpedoes hit.
Wasn't sure if they would.....as torpedoes impacted port side, from the rear.
But would they expect me to to be attacking from behind ???
They sure did !!!
Captain Fluckey pressed forward.... and so did I. But not with the same results. Lol
I was illuminated by spotlights, and immediately fired upon by escorts and merchants.
However, although I heard the sound of ricochets, suffered only minor damage, which was quickly repaired by my OUTSTANDING crew.
I crash dove, and once under, turned into the closing escort to starboard, keeping my speed up until below the layer, then ordered silent running.
When I heard pinging, and or depth charges, I was moving at Ahead Standard, with course changes.
Although I did not play to completion, escorts did not appear to have my location locked down.


Yes !!! Surface attacks are certainly possible, historically accurate.... and fun.
I find myself playing a campaign looking to pull them off, and testing how close I can get, before getting detected. All depending on the sea state, weather, and moon of course.
Looking forward to your impending TMO update.

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Old 07-08-21, 11:43 PM   #5085
Bubblehead1980
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Originally Posted by Strykr View Post
Both escorts and merchants appeared to know my exact location when torpedoes hit.
Wasn't sure if they would.....as torpedoes impacted port side, from the rear.
But would they expect me to to be attacking from behind ???
They sure did !!!
Captain Fluckey pressed forward.... and so did I. But not with the same results. Lol
I was illuminated by spotlights, and immediately fired upon by escorts and merchants.
However, although I heard the sound of ricochets, suffered only minor damage, which was quickly repaired by my OUTSTANDING crew.
I crash dove, and once under, turned into the closing escort to starboard, keeping my speed up until below the layer, then ordered silent running.
When I heard pinging, and or depth charges, I was moving at Ahead Standard, with course changes.
Although I did not play to completion, escorts did not appear to have my location locked down.


Yes !!! Surface attacks are certainly possible, historically accurate.... and fun.
I find myself playing a campaign looking to pull them off, and testing how close I can get, before getting detected. All depending on the sea state, weather, and moon of course.
Looking forward to your impending TMO update.


Okay good so only the machine guns/auto cannons hit, not the big deck guns. Although the auto cannons (AA guns) are overpowered in TMO and will eat your hull integrity up . I want to reduce the armor level the can penetrate so can't chew up hull damage, but can damage topside equipment and crew (a problem want to solve but it is really difficult to correct actually as cant track down the shell they use, not clearly labeled )

Glad to hear its possible and enjoying it.

Yes, at times the ships do seem to have sixth sense of where player is. I believe they have built in radar detectors so SJ clues them, same way believe SD being on all the time and thus always emitting signal attracts them. I would like to make it where SD can be turned off such as in FOTRS but then would not have it on a retractable mast, cant have both apparently.

Sim has ships in two modes alert or relaxed. Once one reports a contact or sees a torpedo explosion etc they got into alert mode which seems to boost all of their sensors, so if one sees you , they instantly all know where you are. One of those AI things in the sim. Sometimes, I believe they "kind of" spot you but sim does not send them into alert mode yet. Theory have after hours and hours , months of testing and tweaking the sim.


A great tactic to come in from the rear of the target. In the forthcoming upgrade, some of the large 15-20 ship convoys have have gaps at the rear of the screen, so its fun to slip in and if cant make the turn to shoot, do a up the kilts shot" AOB 180, easy when traveling in straight line lol. Two of any torpedo will usually sink most merchants with that shot. Certainly will disable them for a follow up. Then the convoy tends to scatter in panic, can move about wreaking havoc until escorts arrive on scene, then have to dodge them.


What do you think of the torpedoes...are they underpowered? I recently upped their power slightly to reflect the torpex warheads used in 1943 onwards. I may have to adjust slightly, little overpowered now but then again accounts read they were effective.
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