Japanese battleships retreat! Major air raids reported today!

SUMMARY ACTION: My opponent got cold feet. Force H-K, suffering from increased air attacks by the Dutch Air Force, withdrew north and east at high speed. Dutch bombers delivered a torpedo and bomb into the Kongo, and another bomb into the CA Atagi. Widening the gap between his BB's and the ABDA armada by 150 miles through the night, his fleet was spotted by Dutch seaplanes Sunday morning steaming eastwards just off the coast of Borneo towards the Phillipines. The Kongo just seemed to walk off the torpedo hit! None of the subs in my exit barrier managed to intercept. Allied intelligence has reason to believe Force H-K intends to bottle up what remains of the U.S. Asiatic Fleet in Manila Bay.

As a response, I have ordered all my submarine forces to bar the approaches to Manila Bay from the S. China Sea. Almost 20 subs approach in multiple task groups to meet the challenge. Meanwhile, Operation Fullback continues to load up her forces up for the reinforcement of the Andamans. The first Operation Key Stone transports have departed Celebes removing valuable fuel and supplies to Australia.

It seems the Japanese have increased her air missions. Both Changsa and Hong Kong suffered their first bombing raids, and Singapore was rocked by a 100+ bomber raid. Clark AFB also suffered air attacks, but the base has already been marginalized as a key airbase.

As for the ADBA armada, the threat from Force H-K has diminished. I have dispersed the fleet to bar the approaches to the Java Sea. Three groups of 2-3 CL's each are deployed at Pembang, Balikpapan and Batavia, all within one day's sailing from a central concentration point. I've also dispersed single destroyer patrols further east towards Celebes to warn of approaching Jap TF's that may have sailed from Truk.

A major disappointment that the enemy withdrew his fleet. But it was also wise on his part. I'd gloat all day about how a mongrel force of Allied light cruisers smashed a Japanese battleship force.

The KB has disappeared altogether, last spotted moving westwards about 350+ miles north of Midway. She may be heading for or near the Kuriles for replenishment before making another sortie. It will be at least another two weeks before it makes its presence known.

The B-17's had their first mission over Jolo, but failed to do any damage.

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