Again, close them down. Keep a few free spies available in case we need them, but we really should spend our bright people on something which will deliver benefits faster.
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Generals, Admiralty, Our Gracious Emperor,
It appears that we have now reached a point of general consensus with regards to the invasion of the Philippines and Guam as a strike back at the Americans as a show of force, and to deny them bases from which to raid our convoy lines. However I would like to see us concentrate for our long term goals, as much as we focus on our short ones.
5 years ago we gathered to sign a document that would initiate policy pushing us towards Great Power status. With the American declaration of war, we can mobilise the masses, nationalise a war economy, and with a slight change of leadership in government we can certainly achieve that very goal! In that, we have completed our strategic aim.
With this we should seriously consider looking into the technology of the future. We know that it is theorised there is unthinkable amounts of energy locked away inside an atom, we could build new cylotrons to investigate, or we may want to look into rocket propulsion technologies for rocket artillery or aviation. Since we do not have the number or quantity of raw industrial power the Americans can put out we shall need the technological edge on our warriors swords. Such technologies would from their very development strike fear into Americans hearts, so that even if we can't prosecute a war to their homeland on a massive scale now, one day we could!
At the same time we need to insure that we are well defended, and committed to industrialisation of China. The opportunity for civil unrest will be high unless we commit to works and programs that improve their quality of life. We need to continue the rail lines, and expand new ones in the south. If the British Empire decides to rally against us they will push at us through Burma into our ally. We need to insure that the Guangxi regime is propped up here.
As part of our strategic battle with America we need to use our mobilisation on a massive scale. Our end exit strategy is to be aggressive deterrence. To that end ship building not only needs to continue at its current rate, but to be expanded. Strategically we should aim over the next few years to build the worlds largest navy!
Having the biggest fleet, will be a huge psychological blow to the American will to prosecute a war against Japan. We need to production line produce escort cruisers, as a priority, and consider the create of medium strength surface battlefleets, with battlecrusiers and light carriers at their hearts. For every loss we take, it needs to be replaced. For every kill we inflict, the more the balance tips in our favour. Rather than two fleets meet on the high seas for a single decisive action, we will take the route of their attrition. Both physical, and psychological. If we have the technological edge we do have, our fleets will be as modern as the Americans and thus will perform outstandingly.
This concept of fighting our battles with smarts, and by winning the battle behind the lines so to speak needs to be put into full practice. When our marrines and troops land in the Philippines we must liberate them from their American masters, our troops will carry boiled sweets for the children, and pots and pans for their mothers and shovels and hoes for the fathers. We shall bring gifts, we shall import Japanese culture and in that way we will discredit the Americans and help reduce any partisan feelings against our incorporation of the Philippines into the Empire of the Rising sun.
I mean, when we look at examples of the American propaganda;
They are painting us in the darkest of lights, we must illuminate the Asian peoples minds that the Americans are at war with all of Asia, not just us. They fear a united asia, and instead want to keep it as their stopping ground and puppets. Look at how they mock the Asian people? This is not a war of ideology for them, this is a war of genocide for them. To enslave us, as they did the black man.
We rally the people, and insure our troops act with all the professionalism and honour as any true Samurai so that we can truly show the world the insidious nature of the American and his attempts at world tyranny.
To this end we need to look for any allies we can. Thailand and Indochina need to be sent diplomatic envoys to see if they would support an alliance with us, although us being at war this might not amount to much.
Given our status as a Great Power in a Great War and the fact that an invasion of the American homeland may be near impossible. It it my proposal that we should divert leadership to a dedicated intelligence operation in America. We should first establish a ninja spy ring and then concentrate on efforts to disrupt production or research efforts. With a particular focus on exposing American imperialists and propaganda printers for what they are and defaming them.
We should find a good support in the emigrated peoples here since I hear that the Americans are intending to put American-Japanese people in detention;
With these actions it becomes imperative that we improve our security troops training so that we can articulate these outrages to the common Chinese farmer who would otherwise not understand, and instead see us as their oppressors when in reality we Japanese are the guardians of Asia against this American imperialism.
This is a war against all of Asia and must be fought like one, with all the massive economic mobilisation that we have to show that we have the self-determination to live under our own sphere of prosperity; the Empire of the Rising Sun.
It appears that we have now reached a point of general consensus with regards to the invasion of the Philippines and Guam as a strike back at the Americans as a show of force, and to deny them bases from which to raid our convoy lines. However I would like to see us concentrate for our long term goals, as much as we focus on our short ones.
5 years ago we gathered to sign a document that would initiate policy pushing us towards Great Power status. With the American declaration of war, we can mobilise the masses, nationalise a war economy, and with a slight change of leadership in government we can certainly achieve that very goal! In that, we have completed our strategic aim.
With this we should seriously consider looking into the technology of the future. We know that it is theorised there is unthinkable amounts of energy locked away inside an atom, we could build new cylotrons to investigate, or we may want to look into rocket propulsion technologies for rocket artillery or aviation. Since we do not have the number or quantity of raw industrial power the Americans can put out we shall need the technological edge on our warriors swords. Such technologies would from their very development strike fear into Americans hearts, so that even if we can't prosecute a war to their homeland on a massive scale now, one day we could!
At the same time we need to insure that we are well defended, and committed to industrialisation of China. The opportunity for civil unrest will be high unless we commit to works and programs that improve their quality of life. We need to continue the rail lines, and expand new ones in the south. If the British Empire decides to rally against us they will push at us through Burma into our ally. We need to insure that the Guangxi regime is propped up here.
As part of our strategic battle with America we need to use our mobilisation on a massive scale. Our end exit strategy is to be aggressive deterrence. To that end ship building not only needs to continue at its current rate, but to be expanded. Strategically we should aim over the next few years to build the worlds largest navy!
Having the biggest fleet, will be a huge psychological blow to the American will to prosecute a war against Japan. We need to production line produce escort cruisers, as a priority, and consider the create of medium strength surface battlefleets, with battlecrusiers and light carriers at their hearts. For every loss we take, it needs to be replaced. For every kill we inflict, the more the balance tips in our favour. Rather than two fleets meet on the high seas for a single decisive action, we will take the route of their attrition. Both physical, and psychological. If we have the technological edge we do have, our fleets will be as modern as the Americans and thus will perform outstandingly.
This concept of fighting our battles with smarts, and by winning the battle behind the lines so to speak needs to be put into full practice. When our marrines and troops land in the Philippines we must liberate them from their American masters, our troops will carry boiled sweets for the children, and pots and pans for their mothers and shovels and hoes for the fathers. We shall bring gifts, we shall import Japanese culture and in that way we will discredit the Americans and help reduce any partisan feelings against our incorporation of the Philippines into the Empire of the Rising sun.
I mean, when we look at examples of the American propaganda;
They are painting us in the darkest of lights, we must illuminate the Asian peoples minds that the Americans are at war with all of Asia, not just us. They fear a united asia, and instead want to keep it as their stopping ground and puppets. Look at how they mock the Asian people? This is not a war of ideology for them, this is a war of genocide for them. To enslave us, as they did the black man.
We rally the people, and insure our troops act with all the professionalism and honour as any true Samurai so that we can truly show the world the insidious nature of the American and his attempts at world tyranny.
To this end we need to look for any allies we can. Thailand and Indochina need to be sent diplomatic envoys to see if they would support an alliance with us, although us being at war this might not amount to much.
Given our status as a Great Power in a Great War and the fact that an invasion of the American homeland may be near impossible. It it my proposal that we should divert leadership to a dedicated intelligence operation in America. We should first establish a ninja spy ring and then concentrate on efforts to disrupt production or research efforts. With a particular focus on exposing American imperialists and propaganda printers for what they are and defaming them.
We should find a good support in the emigrated peoples here since I hear that the Americans are intending to put American-Japanese people in detention;
With these actions it becomes imperative that we improve our security troops training so that we can articulate these outrages to the common Chinese farmer who would otherwise not understand, and instead see us as their oppressors when in reality we Japanese are the guardians of Asia against this American imperialism.
This is a war against all of Asia and must be fought like one, with all the massive economic mobilisation that we have to show that we have the self-determination to live under our own sphere of prosperity; the Empire of the Rising Sun.
I agree with Admiral Yamamoto's view on the Americans, but want to emphasise one matter - the Chinese are too uneducated and their minds are filled with too much of Chiang's and communist propaganda in order to join Us against the USA as an equal partner. Therefore, they will continue to oppose us as long as Kuomintang and communists stay in power in China.
Power of the atom? Admiral, we do not have enough resources to pursue experimental, costly technological projects. Now, when the westerns fear and respect us, we should not become overconfident and behave like children who have too many toys to play with. Our research projects should be focused on key areas only and pursued with our strategic and economic situation in mind. Currently you want to unleash the power of the atom and build giant rockets. What will be next? Ballon bombs?
Power of the atom? Admiral, we do not have enough resources to pursue experimental, costly technological projects. Now, when the westerns fear and respect us, we should not become overconfident and behave like children who have too many toys to play with. Our research projects should be focused on key areas only and pursued with our strategic and economic situation in mind. Currently you want to unleash the power of the atom and build giant rockets. What will be next? Ballon bombs?
Just because we can get greater power status and thereby 5 more LS doesn't mean we suddenly can walk on the moon.
First we would want to invest 1 LS in slightly more officers, that leave 4 LS, or 2 for each branch.
The army could use ours to keep up on doctrines and develop our mech's.
Likewise the navy could research more doctrines and add more technologies to their ships.
Researching in rockets and atomics would at first not cost so much in LS but the needed industrial development will not be that small.
We would need a continual production of rocket test sites and nuclear test facilities, these will cost a lot of IC for the first run and there after falling to 8-10IC each.
But where splitting the Atom might be fantastic, we will lose if we don't develop rockets and jet turbines, the German research tells us this is the future and within reach, where atomics are an uncertain feature.
I would therefore suggest that we should start a rocket program and yes I know that building a rocket test site at the cost 25-30IC for 6 months right now is not the most fun part of budget making, but it is a necessity. If we don't invest in this our enemy's fighters will be around 25% stronger than ours mid-'43. And yes I would much rather build some nice toys like mech's, BB's and CV's.
Admiral Yamamoto's suggestion to make the worlds largest navy is a nice idea, and only practical by sinking the other countries navies as we can't realistic out produce all of them. The USA starts with over 100 ships in '36 and would now have around 150+, as the recession gradually fades they could start building more and more ships in parallel and as practice increase more and more will be finished quicker. We now struggle building a CVL, BC and 2 CL at the same time ... we would need to triple that just to keep up. Which is not feasible unless we stop all other production and then we will just fall behind in army size.
First we would want to invest 1 LS in slightly more officers, that leave 4 LS, or 2 for each branch.
The army could use ours to keep up on doctrines and develop our mech's.
Likewise the navy could research more doctrines and add more technologies to their ships.
Researching in rockets and atomics would at first not cost so much in LS but the needed industrial development will not be that small.
We would need a continual production of rocket test sites and nuclear test facilities, these will cost a lot of IC for the first run and there after falling to 8-10IC each.
But where splitting the Atom might be fantastic, we will lose if we don't develop rockets and jet turbines, the German research tells us this is the future and within reach, where atomics are an uncertain feature.
I would therefore suggest that we should start a rocket program and yes I know that building a rocket test site at the cost 25-30IC for 6 months right now is not the most fun part of budget making, but it is a necessity. If we don't invest in this our enemy's fighters will be around 25% stronger than ours mid-'43. And yes I would much rather build some nice toys like mech's, BB's and CV's.
Admiral Yamamoto's suggestion to make the worlds largest navy is a nice idea, and only practical by sinking the other countries navies as we can't realistic out produce all of them. The USA starts with over 100 ships in '36 and would now have around 150+, as the recession gradually fades they could start building more and more ships in parallel and as practice increase more and more will be finished quicker. We now struggle building a CVL, BC and 2 CL at the same time ... we would need to triple that just to keep up. Which is not feasible unless we stop all other production and then we will just fall behind in army size.
I'd have to agree that research into rockets and wonder weapons will not be the way we need to go. We would still need to devote massive resources and manpower to either of these projects and we currently have quite pressing matters on hand. While we might see these things as ways to see off our enemies in the future, we are right now surrounded by hostile nations and have to devote what we have into the most worthy short term solutions we can get. This means officers and research projects as well as more men and ships under arms. We might consider setting up additional air wings above all, since I feel the army will need them particularily and the islands can use eyes in the skies.
Memorandum:
This Admerial supports a rocketry science division, however we shall have to first develop some rocket tests, and look at the general research topic area for at least the rest of the coming year, before we consider starting a test site construction.
As far as I am aware the needs of a rocket test site are fairly low, we may only need as much as two platforms in order to test engines for aircraft design. Indeed the number of additional research teams may need total 5 over the next couple years, and of those the 5 teams, 2 will be on the aeronautical side of things. With a nominal investment of 2 research teams this area of technology could be easily opened up by late 43' given time to build the facilties.
The total associated costs would be large however to put into production such new weapons, but they would give us a substial advantage from the air.
On the otherhand...
If we are going to pursue the economic mobilisation of the nation to win the Battle of the Pacific, then that cost would be better absorped by the navy on building more ships.
Then...
We have to consider the investment in an American Spy ring.
Both of these latter points of policy I support more than the rockety science division. Therefore the only way I envisage we can afford the associated costs of rocketry science is is the Army takes over the bulk of the costs. Afterall with the war in China winding down, and once we've garrisoned up China and the borders, there will be little need for large scale army spending. Already if the Army is looking into a mechanised army force they might wish to consider these programs along side those upgrade programs.
Rocket artillery and better aircover shall surely appear a bonus in the Army's book...?
This Admerial supports a rocketry science division, however we shall have to first develop some rocket tests, and look at the general research topic area for at least the rest of the coming year, before we consider starting a test site construction.
As far as I am aware the needs of a rocket test site are fairly low, we may only need as much as two platforms in order to test engines for aircraft design. Indeed the number of additional research teams may need total 5 over the next couple years, and of those the 5 teams, 2 will be on the aeronautical side of things. With a nominal investment of 2 research teams this area of technology could be easily opened up by late 43' given time to build the facilties.
The total associated costs would be large however to put into production such new weapons, but they would give us a substial advantage from the air.
On the otherhand...
If we are going to pursue the economic mobilisation of the nation to win the Battle of the Pacific, then that cost would be better absorped by the navy on building more ships.
Then...
We have to consider the investment in an American Spy ring.
Both of these latter points of policy I support more than the rockety science division. Therefore the only way I envisage we can afford the associated costs of rocketry science is is the Army takes over the bulk of the costs. Afterall with the war in China winding down, and once we've garrisoned up China and the borders, there will be little need for large scale army spending. Already if the Army is looking into a mechanised army force they might wish to consider these programs along side those upgrade programs.
Rocket artillery and better aircover shall surely appear a bonus in the Army's book...?
As Admiral Baltasar said, we should concentrate on short-term needs for now. Most importantly, we should ensure that our military doctrines are as practical and as effective as possible. It is clear that industrial capacity is our most limiting factor, so we should utilise what we have to the maximum. Also, when the next set of factories is completed and our economy is properly mobilised for war, I think that we should transfer the resources devoted to factory construction to other areas. We need more of everything - infantry divisions, aircraft, ships, supplies. Under these circumstances, new factory complexes are a luxury which we cannot afford. More industrial capacity will need to be gained from conquest and development of more modern industrial techniques.
Speaking of which, I think that we should prioritise the research of Industrial Efficiency and Industrial Production ASAP, even if it means that it will be harder to develop those techs.
Speaking of which, I think that we should prioritise the research of Industrial Efficiency and Industrial Production ASAP, even if it means that it will be harder to develop those techs.
Short term is good when you can still develop long term projects, but if you sacrifice long term project, we will be in a much worse place in 2 years when we then need 2 years to complete it, remember jet engines affect all planes including CaG.
Jet engines may be the future of aviation, but cost and time needed for development mean that we should not devote excessive resources to this project at the moment. We can return to this discussion in several months, when it should be clear where we stand in China and the Pacific Theatres.
Memorandum:
HQ north doesn't support rocket artillery, it will just be another research field we have to cover where other areas are much more needing, like jet engines and mechs.
HQ north doesn't support rocket artillery, it will just be another research field we have to cover where other areas are much more needing, like jet engines and mechs.
Memorandum
HQ North does not support stopping building more factories and refineries, as this would lead to less supplies and fuel in the future.
HQ North does not support stopping building more factories and refineries, as this would lead to less supplies and fuel in the future.
Influence Levels
This section has been overhauled. It now shows specific war assets of the IJN and the IJA and describes what was authorised and what was not. The main reason for this change is the fact that the previous influence levels were not very useful or extremely informative, anyway. Also, since the beginning of the war with the USA things have been much harder to track and follow, so the new system reduces micromanagement.
Air assets
IJA
8 H-FTRs
3 LBs
IJN
9 CAGs
1 NAV
1 MB
Common
4 L-FTRs
2 HBs
1 TRAN
Thanks to the one CAG we had in production "reserve", an additional air wing could be produced quickly. I also authorised the formation of one new CAG, which took priority over additional ship orders, as we have no CAG reserve.
Fleets
Fleets were reorganised so that we now have 2 SAGs, 2 CTFs, 1 Reserve SAG, 1 Reserve CTF and 2 Patrol Fleets. Unassigned naval assets form the IJN Reserve. Damaged ships are sent to ports with escorts if possible (ideally this is what the reserve fleets are for) and vessels from the IJN Reserve fill the missing slots. If no ships of a given type are available, then other ships serve as emergency support. This happened after the Guam Campaign, especially.
All submarines are currently docked at ports. The Admirals didn't express the will to utilise them and I thought that we might as well save some oil.
Fleet composition
The Admirals gave some ideas about the reorganisation of the fleets, but they were a bit vague, so I improvised.
1st SAG - 2xBB2xCA3xDD (currently 2xBB1xCA2xCL3xDD)
2nd SAG - 2xBB2xCA1xCL2xDD (currently 1xBB2xCA1xCL2xDD)
3rd CTF - 2xCV4xCL
4th CTF - 1xCV1xCVL3xCL
1st CTF Reserve - 2xCVL3xCL
2nd SAG Reserve - 3xBC2xCL2xDD
1st Patrol Fleet - 1xCL3xDD
2nd Patrol Fleet - 1xCL3xDD
TP fleets have their own escorts (just in case). Mostly CAs, although when the 3rd TP fleet was formed, I used whatever I had at my disposal without going overboard, so a BC and some DDs were assigned to that fleet.
IJN Land Troops
1 SNLF Corps - 5 MAR divisions (15 brigades)
31 GARs (GAR divs stationed in Taiwan and Japan are Army-controlled)
In general more GARs will be needed in order to cover the Philippines and other Pacific areas. That's why 3 GAR runs have been authorised and no new light cruisers were ordered. It is the IJN's duty to protect the Pacific area - the IJA will support the Navy in major defensive operations (and of course the IJA will conduct practically all offensive operations).
IJA Reserve
I authorised another IJA GAR run and one 2xINF+1xART run, which will be needed for future conquests. Currently the IJA has 2 GAR divs and 1 ENG brigade in reserve - all other available units were sent to the Philippines (some were transferred from AGs fighting in Central China, as infrastructure there is very poor and units fighting in other areas are critical to the war effort).
Research
I followed the old research plans, as new ones weren't provided. I added some requested techs to the lists, though (Oil Refining, Tank Crew Training etc.).
Other
I still follow the old doctrine in relation to convoy tranports and escorts, so the threshold is 150/30. The activity of enemy subs is increasing - we lost 6 convoy transports and 2 convoy escorts. Probably just a start. The fact that none of our patrol fleets managed to intercept the enemy sub flotillas doesn't bode well for the future.
Requests for new rocket testing facilities were denied. Our budget is strained already. Simply put, we cannot afford that ATM.
Our intelligence network is deteriorating quickly, especially in Japan itself. I increased the intelligence budget to 0.95 LP, but apparently it is not enough. This is the price we pay for underfunding the spy network, I guess.
War Economy was enacted and a new +10% IC minister was appointed, which means that we finally managed to become the Great Power.
This section has been overhauled. It now shows specific war assets of the IJN and the IJA and describes what was authorised and what was not. The main reason for this change is the fact that the previous influence levels were not very useful or extremely informative, anyway. Also, since the beginning of the war with the USA things have been much harder to track and follow, so the new system reduces micromanagement.
Air assets
IJA
8 H-FTRs
3 LBs
IJN
9 CAGs
1 NAV
1 MB
Common
4 L-FTRs
2 HBs
1 TRAN
Thanks to the one CAG we had in production "reserve", an additional air wing could be produced quickly. I also authorised the formation of one new CAG, which took priority over additional ship orders, as we have no CAG reserve.
Fleets
Fleets were reorganised so that we now have 2 SAGs, 2 CTFs, 1 Reserve SAG, 1 Reserve CTF and 2 Patrol Fleets. Unassigned naval assets form the IJN Reserve. Damaged ships are sent to ports with escorts if possible (ideally this is what the reserve fleets are for) and vessels from the IJN Reserve fill the missing slots. If no ships of a given type are available, then other ships serve as emergency support. This happened after the Guam Campaign, especially.
All submarines are currently docked at ports. The Admirals didn't express the will to utilise them and I thought that we might as well save some oil.
Fleet composition
The Admirals gave some ideas about the reorganisation of the fleets, but they were a bit vague, so I improvised.
1st SAG - 2xBB2xCA3xDD (currently 2xBB1xCA2xCL3xDD)
2nd SAG - 2xBB2xCA1xCL2xDD (currently 1xBB2xCA1xCL2xDD)
3rd CTF - 2xCV4xCL
4th CTF - 1xCV1xCVL3xCL
1st CTF Reserve - 2xCVL3xCL
2nd SAG Reserve - 3xBC2xCL2xDD
1st Patrol Fleet - 1xCL3xDD
2nd Patrol Fleet - 1xCL3xDD
TP fleets have their own escorts (just in case). Mostly CAs, although when the 3rd TP fleet was formed, I used whatever I had at my disposal without going overboard, so a BC and some DDs were assigned to that fleet.
IJN Land Troops
1 SNLF Corps - 5 MAR divisions (15 brigades)
31 GARs (GAR divs stationed in Taiwan and Japan are Army-controlled)
In general more GARs will be needed in order to cover the Philippines and other Pacific areas. That's why 3 GAR runs have been authorised and no new light cruisers were ordered. It is the IJN's duty to protect the Pacific area - the IJA will support the Navy in major defensive operations (and of course the IJA will conduct practically all offensive operations).
IJA Reserve
I authorised another IJA GAR run and one 2xINF+1xART run, which will be needed for future conquests. Currently the IJA has 2 GAR divs and 1 ENG brigade in reserve - all other available units were sent to the Philippines (some were transferred from AGs fighting in Central China, as infrastructure there is very poor and units fighting in other areas are critical to the war effort).
Research
I followed the old research plans, as new ones weren't provided. I added some requested techs to the lists, though (Oil Refining, Tank Crew Training etc.).
Other
I still follow the old doctrine in relation to convoy tranports and escorts, so the threshold is 150/30. The activity of enemy subs is increasing - we lost 6 convoy transports and 2 convoy escorts. Probably just a start. The fact that none of our patrol fleets managed to intercept the enemy sub flotillas doesn't bode well for the future.
Requests for new rocket testing facilities were denied. Our budget is strained already. Simply put, we cannot afford that ATM.
Our intelligence network is deteriorating quickly, especially in Japan itself. I increased the intelligence budget to 0.95 LP, but apparently it is not enough. This is the price we pay for underfunding the spy network, I guess.
War Economy was enacted and a new +10% IC minister was appointed, which means that we finally managed to become the Great Power.
Chapter Four, Part Two: Sino-Japanese War / Japanese-American War
Jun 1941 - Aug 1941
Previously in the Influence Wars...
In China, the Japanese forces advanced vigorously in Central China, but met fierce opposition in the South. Meanwhile, the USA declared war on the Empire of Japan and the Japanese-American conflict began. Despite this, a decision was made not to join the Axis in order not to start a war with the Soviet Union.
In Europe and North Africa, the Axis forces were hard pressed on all fronts, but made some progress in Russia.
And now, the conclusion...
The Guam Campaign
Initial attack 4th - 19th of June 1941
The Guam Campaign was planned as a quick and decisive operation involving Japanese marines and several Japanese fleets. The strategic location of Guam made the island a natural target. The big question was how heavily should the Japanese Navy commit to this operation - a decisive battle at this stage of war was unlikely and undesirable, because many campaigns on larger scale were planned, including the conquest of the Philippines and other Pacific possessions of the USA. The Japanese forces had to be large enough in order to ensure a quick victory, but not too large so that in the event of defeat, we would still have naval reserves. A smaller force also had the advantage of consuming less oil.
In the end, 2 SAG, 1 CTF and 1 TP Fleet (with additional escorts) were assigned to the operation. Land and air forces included 2 naval infantry divisions, 2 light fighter air wings and 1 naval bomber air wing. Initially there were plans for 4 (not 2) light fighter air wings to be sent to Saipan, but the attacks of American bombers on Taiwan and surprising activity of the Chinese Air Force prevented that from happening.
Unfortunately, the Americans were well-prepared for our assault. It quickly became apparent that the American soldiers are much more worthy opponents than the Chinese. Moreover, Guam defenders were assisted by very defensible jungle terrain and tricky weather conditions, which hampered the efficiency of our bombers. However, the American bombers were easily intercepted by fast Japanese fighters, so during the first half of June, the enemy presence in the air was almost non-existent.
Naval Battles of Guam 19th - 23rd of June 1941
On the 19th of June, the first enemy fleet engaged our task forces. It was an American CTF and USS Yorktown was the biggest ship in the fleet. IJN Yamato tried to close in and attack the USS Yorktown, but was engaged by enemy's heavy cruisers. After a short exchange of salvoes, USS Baltimore was hit by projectiles from Yamato's main guns and sank several hours later. While large size of the screening force of the invasion fleet created various coordination problems, our air superiority and the bravery and skill of our sailors ensured our victory in this first naval engagement with the US Navy. It was a much needed morale boost for the Japanese, as the first battles often set the tone for the rest of war.
However, the enemy had no intention of abandoning his relief operation of Guam so quickly. During 20th and 21th of June, American SAGs tried to intercept the invasion fleet twice and failed in both cases. No ships were sunk on either side. However, some of our naval vessels were badly damaged during these battles and the Japanese Admirals feared that another enemy attack could result in losses on our side. The Japanese sailors were also frustrated by the inefficiency of our patrol bombers, which missed enemy fleets several times. Considering that the bomber force received little attention during the last years, it should be hardly surprising.
June 22 was decisive - on that day the defenders of Guam finally surrendered and the Japanese soldiers secured the island. The enemy fleet had to abandon the Guam port. Relieved from the escort duty, our fleets could engage the enemy with their full might. A fierce naval battle ensued. It involved intensive fire exchanges between the Japanese battleships and US cruisers. The enemy was clearly trying to protect USS Yorktown at all cost. During the course of battle, USS San Juan was sunk after receiving direct hits from IJN Nagato's main guns and IJN Soryu's torpedo bombers.
When the enemy retreated, Admiral Yamamoto decided to pursue him. He also called for additional support and Japanese reserve fleets were dispatched from Taiwan. The Americans wanted to ensure Yorktown's survival and threw everything they had at us, which resulted in total chaos. Enemy torpedo bombers damaged several of our ships and the situation became dire when two American cruisers outrun our screening ships and attacked the Japanese carriers directly with the support of Yorktown's bombers. Fortunately, IJN Soryu and Ryujo managed to disengage, but they took some damage. Battleships IJN Yamato, IJN Mutsu and IJN Nagato fought bravely and caused considerable damage to the enemy, but they also took heavy beating themselves. The sudden appearance of the US submarines caused further confusion and destruction. The IJN Yamato barely left the battle without being sunk and the heavy cruiser IJN Takao was a floating fireball. However, it was the opposing side which suffered ship losses, as USS Northampton was sunk by IJN Soryu's torpedo bombers.
When the Americans disengaged, it became too risky to pursue them further. Despite the fact that the outcome of the campaign was a strategic success, the damage caused to our ships and aircraft was simply too great. Unescorted ships were too vulnerable to enemy submarines and patrol fleets, so a decision was made to withdraw all fleets to Japan and start preparations for the Philippines Campaign.
The Philippines Campaign
Compared to the intensive Guam Campaign, the attack on the Philippines was relatively uneventful. The Japanese forces consisted of 2 Homegun, 1 SNLF Corps and the bulk of our Navy (damaged ships were replaced with older vessels from the IJN Reserve). Everything went according to the plan - the diversionary attacks in northern and western Philippines were successful and a direct strike at Manila was unopposed. By the end of July, the defenders were disorganised, under-supplied and broken. At first the American fighters caused considerable damage to our aircraft, but the resistance ceased when we overrun the Philippine airfields. Except a single incident with enemy submarines, which resulted in the destruction of several submarines, the Americans did not attempt to intercept the invasion fleets. It is believed that they are still recovering from the Guam Campaign.
The Administration believes that the Philippines Campaign will be over by the end of August at worst.
War in China
In China, the frontline has been mostly static, except in the South. The Chinese made a strong counter-attack in July, which caused considerable damage, as 2 infantry divisions were lost in the resulting encirclement. However, while the Chinese were focused on their counter-attack, the Japanese commanders saw the opportunity to strike directly at Chongqing, which was lightly defended. The battle was bloody, but the enemy was overrun and our forces are entering Chongqing as this report is being written.
Economy and Research
We have begun the increased mobilisation of our economy for the war effort, which greatly increased our capabilities. Both the total industrial output and research budget are at record-high levels (the unfortunate side-effect is the greatly increased resource consumption). Our successes in the war against the USA bolstered our position and the Empire of Japan is now considered to be a Great Power - the western nations finally accepted the facts and started to respect or even fear us.
Also, General Tojo announced the adoption of harsher occupation policy in areas controlled by the Chinese communists. Apart from potential economic benefits, it is believed that this should help the Japanese-German relations without forcing Japan to formally join the Axis.
Unfortunately, our intelligence network is not doing so well. The American spies are causing us much trouble and infiltrated several important government positions.
Overviews
Jun 1941 - Aug 1941
Previously in the Influence Wars...
In China, the Japanese forces advanced vigorously in Central China, but met fierce opposition in the South. Meanwhile, the USA declared war on the Empire of Japan and the Japanese-American conflict began. Despite this, a decision was made not to join the Axis in order not to start a war with the Soviet Union.
In Europe and North Africa, the Axis forces were hard pressed on all fronts, but made some progress in Russia.
And now, the conclusion...
The Guam Campaign
Initial attack 4th - 19th of June 1941
The Guam Campaign was planned as a quick and decisive operation involving Japanese marines and several Japanese fleets. The strategic location of Guam made the island a natural target. The big question was how heavily should the Japanese Navy commit to this operation - a decisive battle at this stage of war was unlikely and undesirable, because many campaigns on larger scale were planned, including the conquest of the Philippines and other Pacific possessions of the USA. The Japanese forces had to be large enough in order to ensure a quick victory, but not too large so that in the event of defeat, we would still have naval reserves. A smaller force also had the advantage of consuming less oil.
In the end, 2 SAG, 1 CTF and 1 TP Fleet (with additional escorts) were assigned to the operation. Land and air forces included 2 naval infantry divisions, 2 light fighter air wings and 1 naval bomber air wing. Initially there were plans for 4 (not 2) light fighter air wings to be sent to Saipan, but the attacks of American bombers on Taiwan and surprising activity of the Chinese Air Force prevented that from happening.
Unfortunately, the Americans were well-prepared for our assault. It quickly became apparent that the American soldiers are much more worthy opponents than the Chinese. Moreover, Guam defenders were assisted by very defensible jungle terrain and tricky weather conditions, which hampered the efficiency of our bombers. However, the American bombers were easily intercepted by fast Japanese fighters, so during the first half of June, the enemy presence in the air was almost non-existent.
Naval Battles of Guam 19th - 23rd of June 1941
On the 19th of June, the first enemy fleet engaged our task forces. It was an American CTF and USS Yorktown was the biggest ship in the fleet. IJN Yamato tried to close in and attack the USS Yorktown, but was engaged by enemy's heavy cruisers. After a short exchange of salvoes, USS Baltimore was hit by projectiles from Yamato's main guns and sank several hours later. While large size of the screening force of the invasion fleet created various coordination problems, our air superiority and the bravery and skill of our sailors ensured our victory in this first naval engagement with the US Navy. It was a much needed morale boost for the Japanese, as the first battles often set the tone for the rest of war.
However, the enemy had no intention of abandoning his relief operation of Guam so quickly. During 20th and 21th of June, American SAGs tried to intercept the invasion fleet twice and failed in both cases. No ships were sunk on either side. However, some of our naval vessels were badly damaged during these battles and the Japanese Admirals feared that another enemy attack could result in losses on our side. The Japanese sailors were also frustrated by the inefficiency of our patrol bombers, which missed enemy fleets several times. Considering that the bomber force received little attention during the last years, it should be hardly surprising.
June 22 was decisive - on that day the defenders of Guam finally surrendered and the Japanese soldiers secured the island. The enemy fleet had to abandon the Guam port. Relieved from the escort duty, our fleets could engage the enemy with their full might. A fierce naval battle ensued. It involved intensive fire exchanges between the Japanese battleships and US cruisers. The enemy was clearly trying to protect USS Yorktown at all cost. During the course of battle, USS San Juan was sunk after receiving direct hits from IJN Nagato's main guns and IJN Soryu's torpedo bombers.
When the enemy retreated, Admiral Yamamoto decided to pursue him. He also called for additional support and Japanese reserve fleets were dispatched from Taiwan. The Americans wanted to ensure Yorktown's survival and threw everything they had at us, which resulted in total chaos. Enemy torpedo bombers damaged several of our ships and the situation became dire when two American cruisers outrun our screening ships and attacked the Japanese carriers directly with the support of Yorktown's bombers. Fortunately, IJN Soryu and Ryujo managed to disengage, but they took some damage. Battleships IJN Yamato, IJN Mutsu and IJN Nagato fought bravely and caused considerable damage to the enemy, but they also took heavy beating themselves. The sudden appearance of the US submarines caused further confusion and destruction. The IJN Yamato barely left the battle without being sunk and the heavy cruiser IJN Takao was a floating fireball. However, it was the opposing side which suffered ship losses, as USS Northampton was sunk by IJN Soryu's torpedo bombers.
When the Americans disengaged, it became too risky to pursue them further. Despite the fact that the outcome of the campaign was a strategic success, the damage caused to our ships and aircraft was simply too great. Unescorted ships were too vulnerable to enemy submarines and patrol fleets, so a decision was made to withdraw all fleets to Japan and start preparations for the Philippines Campaign.
The Philippines Campaign
Compared to the intensive Guam Campaign, the attack on the Philippines was relatively uneventful. The Japanese forces consisted of 2 Homegun, 1 SNLF Corps and the bulk of our Navy (damaged ships were replaced with older vessels from the IJN Reserve). Everything went according to the plan - the diversionary attacks in northern and western Philippines were successful and a direct strike at Manila was unopposed. By the end of July, the defenders were disorganised, under-supplied and broken. At first the American fighters caused considerable damage to our aircraft, but the resistance ceased when we overrun the Philippine airfields. Except a single incident with enemy submarines, which resulted in the destruction of several submarines, the Americans did not attempt to intercept the invasion fleets. It is believed that they are still recovering from the Guam Campaign.
The Administration believes that the Philippines Campaign will be over by the end of August at worst.
War in China
In China, the frontline has been mostly static, except in the South. The Chinese made a strong counter-attack in July, which caused considerable damage, as 2 infantry divisions were lost in the resulting encirclement. However, while the Chinese were focused on their counter-attack, the Japanese commanders saw the opportunity to strike directly at Chongqing, which was lightly defended. The battle was bloody, but the enemy was overrun and our forces are entering Chongqing as this report is being written.
Economy and Research
We have begun the increased mobilisation of our economy for the war effort, which greatly increased our capabilities. Both the total industrial output and research budget are at record-high levels (the unfortunate side-effect is the greatly increased resource consumption). Our successes in the war against the USA bolstered our position and the Empire of Japan is now considered to be a Great Power - the western nations finally accepted the facts and started to respect or even fear us.
Also, General Tojo announced the adoption of harsher occupation policy in areas controlled by the Chinese communists. Apart from potential economic benefits, it is believed that this should help the Japanese-German relations without forcing Japan to formally join the Axis.
Unfortunately, our intelligence network is not doing so well. The American spies are causing us much trouble and infiltrated several important government positions.
Overviews
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Developments in Europe are worrying. It'd be better for us if the Germans had a clear upper hand, but they might still be railing forces from France to Russia.
Operations in Guam and the Philippines are satisfying. Not losing ships is always preferred. Next operations should see the Philippines conquered soon, then we can shift forces towards the US islands further east. In these operations, we should use what we have and try to use opportunities to knock out US fleets. We'll be at the end of a long supply line, hence the need to establish fleet bases out there.
If the US attempt to invade our holdings, the fleets should seek to throw them back. US transports will be escorted but after the initial battles, they might think that we're at least as damaged as they are. They might be able to outproduce our shipyards, but we're able to sink them faster than that.
Research:
Don't have any suggestions for changes. We will undoubtly need to look further into ASW, but that'll have to be put into the normal research queue.
Espionage:
We need to maintain a sizable force to get rid of enemy spies immediately. I trust that our networks are working on rooting out hostile cells? Again, we should keep a threshold of 5 free spies to replace losses to our home defense. Other than that, we do not need more espionage right now.
Production:
Since our industrial capacity has skyrocketed, we might want to discuss our next steps. Another spare CAG wing would be prudent, I think that the flattops will agree with me here. Other than that, I still feel that we need to improve the infrastructure in China dramatically. We can't be dependent on just one highway, we need a fallback supply road out there. What is the opinion of the army on this and how many provinces do you think will need to recieve further budget for this? Additionally, I feel that we need more garrison forces around the empire, the ports in China in particular. A new homengun of cavalry might also be interesting because they are relatively easy on supplies and pack enough punch to get rid of partisans as well as smaller enemy formations.
Once this has been discussed, we might have a look at how much capacity there is left and think about starting another batch of ships. The next ships are to arrive in Q1 and 2 '42. Since large units will take quite long to finish and we do need more modern ASW vessels, another batch of light cruisers would be prudent.
Operations in Guam and the Philippines are satisfying. Not losing ships is always preferred. Next operations should see the Philippines conquered soon, then we can shift forces towards the US islands further east. In these operations, we should use what we have and try to use opportunities to knock out US fleets. We'll be at the end of a long supply line, hence the need to establish fleet bases out there.
If the US attempt to invade our holdings, the fleets should seek to throw them back. US transports will be escorted but after the initial battles, they might think that we're at least as damaged as they are. They might be able to outproduce our shipyards, but we're able to sink them faster than that.
Research:
Don't have any suggestions for changes. We will undoubtly need to look further into ASW, but that'll have to be put into the normal research queue.
Espionage:
We need to maintain a sizable force to get rid of enemy spies immediately. I trust that our networks are working on rooting out hostile cells? Again, we should keep a threshold of 5 free spies to replace losses to our home defense. Other than that, we do not need more espionage right now.
Production:
Since our industrial capacity has skyrocketed, we might want to discuss our next steps. Another spare CAG wing would be prudent, I think that the flattops will agree with me here. Other than that, I still feel that we need to improve the infrastructure in China dramatically. We can't be dependent on just one highway, we need a fallback supply road out there. What is the opinion of the army on this and how many provinces do you think will need to recieve further budget for this? Additionally, I feel that we need more garrison forces around the empire, the ports in China in particular. A new homengun of cavalry might also be interesting because they are relatively easy on supplies and pack enough punch to get rid of partisans as well as smaller enemy formations.
Once this has been discussed, we might have a look at how much capacity there is left and think about starting another batch of ships. The next ships are to arrive in Q1 and 2 '42. Since large units will take quite long to finish and we do need more modern ASW vessels, another batch of light cruisers would be prudent.
To the Chief of the Air force
Are our heavy bombers not bombing the Chinese factories, especially the commies as we requested?
From where are we currently bombing the Chinese with our Dive bombers? Do you intent to move them to Chongqing once once we control it?
Is there any air base north east of Truk that is capable of holding 3 H-Ftr for the purpose of scouting for US CV movements?
To remind the chief of the air force, all missions shall be set to passive, and all air force units may only contain 1(one) wing to avoid losing any more planes.
For the purpose of defeating the Chinese we need to crush their industry and therefore the Heavy Bombers should only fly strategic bombings.
Unless there is a special need to defeat a Chinese division, and then only to save surrounded units, the Light Bombers should only fly interdiction.
If the Chinese air force is defeated 3 H-Ftr can join the interdiction runs, if not they do more damage by shooting down Chinese bamboo planes.
Are our heavy bombers not bombing the Chinese factories, especially the commies as we requested?
From where are we currently bombing the Chinese with our Dive bombers? Do you intent to move them to Chongqing once once we control it?
Is there any air base north east of Truk that is capable of holding 3 H-Ftr for the purpose of scouting for US CV movements?
To remind the chief of the air force, all missions shall be set to passive, and all air force units may only contain 1(one) wing to avoid losing any more planes.
For the purpose of defeating the Chinese we need to crush their industry and therefore the Heavy Bombers should only fly strategic bombings.
Unless there is a special need to defeat a Chinese division, and then only to save surrounded units, the Light Bombers should only fly interdiction.
If the Chinese air force is defeated 3 H-Ftr can join the interdiction runs, if not they do more damage by shooting down Chinese bamboo planes.
They are bombing communist fortresses.
From Changde. Yes.
Eniwetok.
At the moment all air groups except CAGs are set on passive stance and contain 1-2 air wings.
Question to the other Admiral and Generals:
Do we invest more heavily into air doctrines and techs? If we do this, should we also raise more air wings?
Do we invest more heavily into air doctrines and techs? If we do this, should we also raise more air wings?
To the minister of armaments and the minister of the Kempetai,
It looks like someone is embezzling research funds! as we have allocated 18 research teams and the ministry reports 18 teams, but 7 of them are reported twice! starting from Bridging down to Armoured division breakthrough.
It looks like someone is embezzling research funds! as we have allocated 18 research teams and the ministry reports 18 teams, but 7 of them are reported twice! starting from Bridging down to Armoured division breakthrough.
We don't invest more heavily into air techs, we simply research them at this time (air techs are at odd year numbers), and we do this simply to keep our fighters up to date, and a small investment to help our light aircraft perform bombing better, ie. intercepter, H-Ftr, light bomber and CaG.
The army is continuously producing a H-Ftr, these cost ~12 IC, that is 10% of the total production IC, the navy produces one CaG (and will most likely continue that to keep up with CV production) at ~7.5 IC, so totally we use around 15% on the airforce, I don't think we can afford more, especially as the navy needs more of those floating thingies they like so much, and the army need more boots and tracks.
Edit:
There is still no research allocated for twin-engine aircrafts and doctrines as we cant afford it, hence the naval bomber and the medium bomber should not be involved in any major actions, the naval bomber is best used against raiders and subs.
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