F.d.U./B.d.U.'S War Log

1 - 15 January 1944

PG30338

     
     
 
1.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 Op(AL 81)
U 311
-
 Op(AL 81)
U 530
-
 Op(EL 30)
U 741
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
103
-
 AN 24
343
-
 CG 28
541
-
 Op(BE 81)
744
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
107
-
 BE 98
364
-
 Op(AL 26)
543
-
 Op(BC 40)
757
-
 BF 81
 
129
-
 Op(DC 26)
377
-
 Op(BE 58)
544
-
 Op(AL 78)
758
-
 Op(BE 82)
 
155
-
 BF 61
382
-
 Op(BE 8224)
545
-
 Op(AL 12)
762
-
 BF 44
 
178
-
 Op(LC)
386
-
 BF 81
547
-
 AF 48
763
-
 Op(AL 19)
 
190
-
 CF 65
390
-
 Op(AL 19)
618
-
 BE 69
801
-
 BE 73
 
193
-
 Op(DA 90)
392
-
 Op(AL 52)
625
-
 BE 65
846
-
 Op(AL 57)
 
219
-
 BF
415
-
 BF 71
629
-
 BE 68
952
-
 DJ 11
 
231
-
 BE 96
421
-
 BE 69
641
-
 Op(BE 58)
953
-
 BE 96
 
260
-
 Op(AL 78)
445
-
 BF 81
645
-
 Op(BE 81)
960
-
 Op(AL 19)
 
270
-
 Op(BE 8197)
471
-
 Op(AL 52)
653
-
 Op(AL 97)
972
-
 Op(AL 26)
 
275
-
 Op(BE 81)
505
-
 BE 69
666
-
 BE 69
976
-
 Op(AL 87)
 
302
-
 Op(AL 55)
510
-
 GQ 83
667
-
 BF 72
981
-
 Op(AL 26)
 
305
-
 Op(BE 81)
515
-
 EJ 78
672
-
 Op(AL 78)
984
-
 AN 35
 
309
-
 Op(AL 98)
516
-
 DQ 73
731
-
 Op(AL 97)
985
-
 AN 35
 
  On Return Passage:  U 103 - 107 - 155 - 190 - 219 - 415 - 421 - 505 - 515 - 516 - 618 - 625 - 629 - 667 - 801.
  Entered Port:  U 155 - Lorient;  U 103 - Bergen;  U 219 - Bordeaux.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  One Junkers 88 on night patrol north of Cape Ortegal (see paragraph IIIc).
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 275 came upon search group of 3 destroyers in BE 8248 and sank 2.
    2) U 382 sank an anti-submarine unit with torpedo type "T 5" in BE 8225.
    3) U 270 was attacked by a plane in BE 8197.
  b)  Own reconnaissance plane sighted a surfaced submarine at 1900 north of Cape Ortegal.  An English plane was circling over it without attacking.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings: At 1935 English plane reported a surfaced boat in BF 8415 (see IIIb), course 3600, 8 knots.  Subsequently until about 2230 10 more planes were established by Radio Intercept Intelligence.  They had apparently been guided to the boat.  Own night patrol with one Junkers 88 was sent out. Machine returned without sighting anything.
      Aircraft attack on boat in DB 9434, 8 explosions, air bubbles and oil patch followed the first attack at 0126.
      "Weserland" (Trans: Blockade runner) was spotted and attacked by an enemy seaplane.
    2) English units were located in AL 6980, AM 7357, AL 6660, BE 2950, BF 2522, BE 3850, BF 2282, BE 4220.
       
- 1 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d) According to a high grade Radio Intercept stragglers from convoy "SL 143" were given a course on 31.12. for the area 450  N.  This makes it appear as though convoy "MKS 34" which left Gibraltar on 24.12. at 1915 and consisted of 21 steamers and 1 troop transport had joined up with this other convoy.  The convoy, consisting of 10 or 11 steamers, reported by air reconnaissance on 30.12. and 31.12., must be an entirely different one, or at any rate part of a convoy.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) By 1000 on 2.1. Group "Borkum" will be on station in a new patrol strip from BE 8551 to 9464 in the following order:  U 541 - 270 - 645 - 305 - 275 - 382 - 758 - 641 - 377 and the new boats which are to join the Group, U 953 and U 231.
      From 2.1. a south-bound convoy is expected.  The operation must be carried out without air reconnaissance as the present strength of the G.A.F. in the Atlantic Command (F1.F. Atlantic) does not permit any sorties.
    2) Group "Hela" is giving up the search.   U 618 - 421 are continuing on their homeward passage.  U 666 is making for square AL 85.
  b) - c) None.
  d) From 2.1. at 0000 no attacks on single ships may be made in the area between EF 6378 - EH 6389 - DE 3659 - DD 2465, because of the blockade runner "Weserland".   The area to the south will continue to be closed as before.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 275                2 destroyers
    U 382                1 destroyer.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
2.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 Op(AL 81)
U 373
-
 BF 91
U 543
-
 Op(BC 47)
U 744
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
107
-
 BF 72
377
-
 Op(BE 94)
544
-
 BD 35
757
-
 BF 73
 
129
-
 DC 35
382
-
 Op(BE 86)
545
-
 Op(AL 12)
758
-
 Op(BE 86)
 
178
-
 Op(LC)
386
-
 BF 73
547
-
 AE 69
762
-
 BE 65
 
190
-
 CF 63
390
-
 Op(AL 19)
618
-
 BF 47
763
-
 Op(AK 20)
 
193
-
 Op(DN 68)
392
-
 Op(AL 52)
625
-
 BF 44
801
-
 BE 91
 
231
-
 Op(BE 94)
415
-
 BF 45
629
-
 BF 69
845
-
 AO 47
 
260
-
 Op(AL 78)
421
-
 BF 47
641
-
 Op(BE 94)
846
-
 Op(AL 57)
 
270
-
 Op(BE 85)
445
-
 BF 8173
645
-
 Op(BE 85)
952
-
 DJ 13
 
275
-
 Op(BE 86)
471
-
 Op(AL 52)
650
-
 BF 58
953
-
 Op(BE 94)
 
302
-
 Op(AL 55)
505
-
 BF 46
653
-
 Op(AL 97)
960
-
 AK 62
 
305
-
 Op(BE 86)
510
-
 GQ 93
666
-
 BE 61
972
-
 Op(AL 26)
 
309
-
 Op(AL 98)
515
-
 EJ 74
667
-
 BF 73
976
-
 Op(AL 87)
 
311
-
 Op(AL 81)
516
-
 DQ 54
672
-
 Op(AL 78)
981
-
 Op(AL 26)
 
343
-
 CG 29
530
-
 Op(EL 30)
731
-
 Op(AL 97)
984
-
 AN 31
 
364
-
 Op(AL 26)
541
-
 Op(BE 85)
741
-
 Op(AL 12)
985
-
 AN 31
 
       
- 2 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 103 - 107 - 129 - 190 - 415 - 421 - 505 - 515 - 516 - 618 - 625 - 629 - 667 - 801.
  Entered Port:  U 505 - Lorient.
  Sailed:  U 257 - St. Nazaire;  U 177 - La Pallice.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 270 sighted a destroyer in BE 8559.  The same boat reported at 0653 from this square that he had sunk a destroyer.
    2) U 543 sank a destroyer in BC 5489.
    3) U 305 was attacked by a plane in BE 8641, U 421 in BF 4810 (see Radio Intercept Intelligence), U 625 in BF 4491 (see Radio Intercepts).
    4) "Weserland" twice reported air shadower.  Position approximately 120 48' S., 220 16' W.
    5) See paragraph IV b).
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boats were sighted in AL 2891, 2 boats, position not given.  A plane reported a surfaced submarine in BF 4957, course 1200, 10 knots.  An hour later the same plane reported that it had attacked with depth charges.  Hit probable.  This boat was U 421 (see IIIa) 3).  0150 this plane received a B-Dreisteller (? 3 Group operational message) with tactical contents from Plymouth.  
      Another plane reported: ASV location, presumably submarine; later: Am over a submarine. At 2225 plane sent on operational 3-Group B message.  This submarine was probably U 625 (see III a) 3).
    2) English units were located in AL 9660, AL 91, 94, AL 9519, AL 93, AM 71, AL 9934, AM 7976, AM 5939, AL 5580.
    3) English steamer reported at 0404 from AL 2122:  "Have been torpedoed, taking to boats".  (U 744).
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Group "Ruegen" has been transferred.  It is proceeding at cruising speed to the following new patrol strips:
     
Group 1 from AL 2212 to 2274    
Group 2 from AL 1631 to 1694    
Group 3 from AL 2937 to 6843, in the following sequence: U 390 - 471 - 392 - 302
Group 4 (formerly Group 5)  from AL 6474 to 6745
Group 5 (formerly Group 6)  from AL 8438 to 8578
Group 6 (formerly Group 7)  from AL 9826 to 9896.
    2) As 9 of the boats in Group "Borkum" are fitted with 3.7 cm. A/A guns, it is intended that they shall also operate by day on the surface when the next convoy is picked up with favorable defences and in good weather.
       
- 3 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) 1) U 193 reported the situation in the Caribbean:  3.12, 12,000 GRT tanker sunk in DL 26 with 5 torpedoes type "T 3", course 1200, speed 17 knots.  Much sea and air patrolling in DM 10 - 50, DL 60, all with location, "blimps" and "patrol boats".  In DN 70 and 80 patrols better trained in starving out.  (Uberwachung geubter im Aushungern).  Little in the Gulf, and less fast single traffic.  Boat reported its position from DN 68, i.e. outside the Caribbean.  Boat was given a free hand outside the Caribbean until turning back because of lack of fuel.
    2) U 762 was given AL 58 as its new position.
    3) U 275 has turned back as the Commander has got appendicitis.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 270 1 destroyer  
U 543 1 destroyer  
U 193 1 tanker 12,000 GRT
       
VI. General:
  The following was radioed to all boats:
 
Admonitory Radio Message No. 72.
  a) 1) "Recently numerous boats have come through the Bay of Biscay unmolested, because they cruised carefully, as instructed.  In the evening of 1.1. a boat was picked up by an English plane and two hours later 10 planes were hunting this boat.  This case shows clearly:  Danger in Biscay is as great as ever, only cautious behavior will keep it off your own boat".
    2) If there is an opportunity, Spanish steamers in the Atlantic are to be stopped for political reasons.  Their passenger lists and bills of lading are to be checked in the correct manner.  The submarine is not to endanger itself.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
3.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 Op(AL 67)
U 343
-
 BE 99
U 541
-
 Op(BE 85)
U 741
-
 Op(AL 22)
 
107
-
 BF 49
364
-
 Op(AL 16)
543
-
 Op(BC 5489)
744
-
 Op(AL 22)
 
129
-
 DD 14
373
-
 BF 57
544
-
 Op(BD 50)
757
-
 BF 44
 
177
-
 BF 67
377
-
 Op(BE 94)
545
-
 Op(AL 22)
758
-
 Op(BE 86)
 
178
-
 Op(LC)
382
-
 Op(BE 86)
547
-
 AE 67
762
-
 BE 64
 
190
-
 CG 15
386
-
 BF 44
618
-
 BF 45
763
-
 Op(AK 20)
 
193
-
 Op(DN 90)
390
-
 Op(AL 29)
625
-
 BF 4491
801
-
 BE 92
 
231
-
 Op(BE 94)
392
-
 Op(AL 29)
629
-
 BF 45
845
-
 AN 36
 
257
-
 BF 58
415
-
 BF 57
641
-
 Op(BE 94)
846
-
 Op(AL 64)
 
260
-
 Op(AL 84)
421
-
 BF 4810
645
-
 Op(BE 85)
952
-
 CG 95
 
270
-
 Op(BE 8559)
445
-
 BF 44
650
-
 BF 57
953
-
 Op(BE 94)
 
275
-
 Op(BE 86)
471
-
 Op(AL 29)
653
-
 Op(AL 98)
960
-
 Op(AK 50/80)
 
302
-
 Op(AL 29)
510
-
 GR 75
666
-
 BE 29
972
-
 Op(AL 16)
 
305
-
 Op(BE 8641)
515
-
 EH 63
667
-
 BF 57
976
-
 Op(AL 85)
 
       
- 4 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
309
-
 Op(AL 98)
516
-
 DC 20
672
-
 Op(AL 85)
981
-
 Op(AL 16)
 
311
-
 Op(AL 67)
530
-
 Op(EL 20)
731
-
 Op(AL 98)
984
-
 AN 23
                   
985
-
 AN 23
 
  On Return Passage:  U 107 - 129 - 190 - 415 - 421 - 515 - 516 - 618 - 625 - 629 - 667 - 801.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 426 - Brest;  U 1062 - Bergen;  U 539 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  Night patrol for U 373 (see paragraph III a) 4).
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 744 reported from AE 7877 that he had scored two hits on a single ship (6,000 GRT), that was left sinking.  Boat was returning.
    2) U 305 reported unsuccessful aircraft attack in BE 8641,
    3) U 445 reported aircraft attack with bombs and aircraft armament in BF 8137.
    4) U 373 was attacked at 2059 in BF 5741 and was unable to dive.  Boat was instructed to be in BF 5581 by dawn, where it would be picked up by two minesweepers.  Own night patrol planes to be expected.
    5) U 625 was attacked by a plane in BF 4671 at 2031 after his report that he was returning.  At 0532 boat reported that the Commander and 1 rating were washed overboard when a plane attacked on 2.1.  The Commander was not found.  At 0545 boat was again attacked by a plane.   It reported later that it would be at the rendezvous as ordered a day later, as it would probably continue to cruise under water.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:  Surfaced boats were sighted in BF 4956, course 600, 12 knots. In BF 5444, course 400, 12 knots.  Boat was seen diving in BF 4837, course 2850, 14 knots.
    2) English units were located in AL 9670, BF 1990, BF 1650, AM 8184, AM 7280, CG 5880.
    3) Unidentified American steamer reported from CB 7794 that it had been torpedoed by a submarine and that the ship was being abandoned at 0800.  (Sunk by U 129?).
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Group "Borkum" has been divided into 3 small groups of 3 boats, as the return of U 275 and 541 has reduced the number to 9.  A patrol strip 120 miles long provides little opportunity to contact the awaited convoy, as its route is completely unknown.
       
- 5 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     The following patrol strips are being manned:
     Group 1, i.e. U 270 - 305 - 382 from BE 7898 to 7979.
     Group 2, i.e. U 645 - 758 - 641 from BE 8731 to 8612.
     Group 3, i.e. U 377 - 953 - 231 from BE 8954 to 8966.
    It was originally intended that the boats should make surface attacks by day, but this idea has been given up, as the small number of boats have not sufficient defensive power.
  b)  U 762 - 445 - 386 have been given AL 57 as a new approach point.
  c) Following radio message was sent to U 952 (en route to Mediterranean):
    1) At 0850 on 2.1., 7 destroyers were reported from Cape Spartel.  They were patrolling the northern sector of the area off Gibraltar.  6 more destroyers left port at the same time, making for the Atlantic on a westerly course.
    2) If submarine thought it had been discovered, it was to move away to the west and wait until the anti-submarine measures slackened.  Do not report moving away.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 744                1 ship                6,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
4.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 Op(AL 67)
U 364
-
 Op(AL 16)
U 541
-
 BE 86
U 744
-
 AL 26
 
107
-
 BF 57
373
-
 BF 76
543
-
 Op(BE 58)
757
-
 BE 62
 
129
-
 DD 19
377
-
 Op(BE 89)
544
-
 Op(BD 56)
758
-
 Op(BE 87)
 
177
-
 BF 83
382
-
 Op(BE 79)
545
-
 Op(AL 22)
762
-
 BE 29
 
178
-
 Op(LC)
386
-
 BE 66
547
-
 AE 83
763
-
 Op(AK 23)
 
190
-
 CG 13
390
-
 Op(AL 29)
618
-
 BF 46
801
-
 BE 93
 
193
-
 Op(DO 70)
392
-
 Op(AL 29)
625
-
 BF 54
845
-
 AN 29
 
231
-
 Op(BE 89)
415
-
 BF 54
629
-
 BF 45
846
-
 Op(AL 64)
 
257
-
 BF 54
421
-
 BF 57
641
-
 Op(BE 88)
952
-
 CG 90
 
260
-
 Op(AL 84)
426
-
 BF 55
645
-
 Op(BE 87)
953
-
 Op(BE 89)
 
270
-
 Op(BE 79)
445
-
 BE 66
650
-
 BF 46
960
-
 Op(AK 54)
 
275
-
 BE 91
471
-
 Op(AL 29)
653
-
 Op(AL 98)
972
-
 Op(AL 16)
 
302
-
 Op(AL 52)
510
-
 GR 88
666
-
 BE 25
976
-
 Op(AL 85)
 
305
-
 Op(BE 79)
515
-
 EH 33
667
-
 BF 57
981
-
 Op(AL 16)
 
309
-
 Op(AL 98)
516
-
 DQ 21
672
-
 Op(AL 85)
984
-
 AF 79
 
311
-
 Op(AL 67)
530
-
 Op(EB 90)
731
-
 Op(AL 98)
985
-
 AF 79
 
343
-
 CG 15
539
-
 BF 55
741
-
 Op(AL 22)
1062
-
 AF 87
 
  On Return Passage:  U 107 - 129 - 190 - 275 - 415 - 421 - 515 - 516 - 541 - 618 - 625 - 629 - 667 - 744 - 801.
  Entered Port:  U 373 - Brest;  U 618 - Lorient.
  Sailed:  U 532 - Penang.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  Fighter escort for U 629.
       
- 6 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Air attack on U 629 in BF 5731.
    2) Air attack on U 415 in BF 5449.
    3) Air attack on U 107 in BF 4824.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boats were sighted in DC 3457 (U 129?), BF 4964, BF 4664 (the same plane) BF 4584.
      Surfaced submarines were located by planes in following positions:  BF 5574, course 900, 10 knots; BF 4688, course 450, 10 knots.
      At 0304 plane reported ASV location and at 0307 that it had given up the attack.  No position given.
    2) English units were located in BF 2621, BF 2613, CG 8897, AM 9978, CG 8875.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  No fresh reports from Groups "Ruegen" and "Borkum".
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U 629 was unable to dive after being attacked by a plane (see paragraph III a) 1).  2 minesweepers were sent to meet submarine, also U 426 and U 539, who were on their outward voyage, were ordered to make for the scene of the attack.
      At 1300 U 629 was picked up by escort.
    2) U 426 reported:  At 2015 depth charges were dropped in BF 5439.  After getting a hydrophone bearing at 2032, boat fired torpedo T 5, 4 minutes later dull explosion followed 16 minutes later by a heavy one.   No further hydrophone locations.
      The shot was not justified, firstly because several of our own boats were probably in the area, and secondly because what were assumed to be depth-charge detonations could have been bombs.
      Following message was sent to all boats:
     
Admonitory Radio Message No. 74:
      Yesterday a boat reported from coastal waters that after depth charges had been dropped, she fired a torpedo T 5 a quarter of an hour later after getting a hydrophone bearing.  Boat heard 2 explosions.
      This shot could not possibly be justified, as the boat had not definitely sighted the enemy.   A blind shot in an area where out own forces operate, and which our submarines run through when entering or leaving port, is strictly forbidden.
       
- 7 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      It is quite possible to be confused by bombs and the diesel noises of an attacked U-boat.
  d)  U 618 reported that she had picked up 4 petty officers and 17 ratings from Z 27.  According to survivor's statements many of the crew had been picked up by an Irish steamer.  No certainty as to officer's fate.  S/O of Flotilla and C/O were still on board when the ship sank.  English cruiser used turret guns against drifting life boats.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
5.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 Op(AL 67)
U 343
-
 CG 15
U 539
-
 BF 54
U 744
-
 AL 39
 
107
-
 BF 58
364
-
 Op(AL 16)
541
-
 BE 94
757
-
 BE 37
 
129
-
 CB 79
377
-
 Op(BE 89)
543
-
 Op(BC 50)
758
-
 Op(BE 87)
 
177
-
 BF 89
382
-
 Op(BE 79)
544
-
 Op(BD 5820)
762
-
 BE 25
 
178
-
 Op(LC)
386
-
 BE 62
545
-
 Op(AL 22)
763
-
 Op(AK 21)
 
190
-
 BF 77
390
-
 Op(AL 29)
547
-
 AE 85
801
-
 BF 72
 
193
-
 Op(DO 85)
392
-
 Op(AL 29)
625
-
 BF 57
845
-
 AF 79
 
231
-
 Op(BE 89)
415
-
 BF 57
629
-
 BF 5245
846
-
 Op(AL 64)
 
257
-
 BF 46
421
-
 BF 57
641
-
 Op(BE 88)
952
-
 CG 90
 
260
-
 Op(AL 84)
426
-
 BF 54
645
-
 Op(BE 87)
953
-
 Op(BE 89)
 
270
-
 Op(BE 78)
445
-
 BF 79
650
-
 BF 45
960
-
 Op(AK 85)
 
275
-
 BE 95
471
-
 Op(AL 29)
653
-
 BE 26
972
-
 Op(AL 16)
 
302
-
 Op(AL 52)
510
-
 JJ 12
666
-
 BE 28
976
-
 Op(AL 85)
 
305
-
 Op(BE 79)
515
-
 DS 93
667
-
 BF 58
981
-
 Op(AL 16)
 
309
-
 Op(BE 98)
516
-
 DO 94
672
-
 Op(AL 82)
984
-
 AF 73
 
311
-
 Op(AL 67)
530
-
 Op(EC 70)
731
-
 Op(AL 98)
985
-
 AF 73
       
532
-
 LF 55
741
-
 Op(AL 22)
1062
-
 AF 76
 
  On Return Passage:  U 107 - 129 - 190 - 275 - 415 - 421 - 515 - 516 - 541 - 625 - 629 - 653 - 667.
  Entered Port:  U 629 - Brest;  U 985 - Bergen.
  Sailed:  U 281 - 406 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 107 was attacked by a plane in BF 5457 and U 541 in BF 7357.
    2) Blockade runner "Burgenland" reported from roughly 70 S., 200 W. that she was being attacked by several heavy units.  Sinking.
    3) See paragraph IV c) 1).
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boats sighted in:  BF 8723, BF 8489 (same plane - U 177), EC 6683 (U 530?), MS 97 (U 178), 2 boats in BF 5481, boats submerged, EO 1466 (no boat in the vicinity), 2 boats in unspecified positions, both on course east, 12 knots, submerged when observed.
       
- 8 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) English units sighted in BE 3410, BE 3284.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) New stations for Group "Ruegen" to render detection of the small strips by the enemy more difficult:
      Group 1 = U 547, 545, 741 from AK 3238 to 3298.  This group is to cruise on this patrol strip to the north, it will haul off via AE 7730 and AD 8650.  Contacts with the enemy in this area (U 744 and 545 on 30.12., 31.12., and 3.1.) show that the enemy makes very wide detours to avoid areas where he suspects submarines to lie in wait.
      Group 2 - U 364, 972, 981 from AL 1439 to 1633
      Group 3 - U 390, 471, 392 from AL 2867 to 0261
      Group 4 - U 302, 846, 311 from AL 5427 to 5721
      Group 5 - U 260, 92, 976 from AL 8266 to 9424
      Group 6 - U 731, 309, 666 from BE 1361 to 2176.
    2) Group "Borkum" to cruise in the following patrol strips until 6.1. at 1800:
      Group 1 from BE 7348 to 7368
      Group 2 from BE 8152 to 8242
      Group 3 from BE 8233 to 8323
      These groups are to operate on 7 or 8 January against a north-bound Gibraltar convoy.  On 6.1. air reconnaissance will be carried out from about CF 50 to 30.  It appears that the convoy left Gibraltar 2 days earlier than expected.  As this was first realized 2 days after the expected departure date (on 5.1.), the employment of air reconnaissance has been much delayed (the convoy has already been at sea for 4 days).
  b)  None.
  c) U 415 was attacked by a plane at 2304 in BF 5469.  At 0144 boat reported that it was not able to dive normally.  At 0337 the boat was again attacked, but reported 2 hours later that she was at the rendezvous for her escort.  2 minesweepers were sent to meet the boat.  At 0740 the submarine urgently requested support by naval forces.  At 0800 own fighters went out to act as air escort.
  d)  Standing orders No. 10 and 41 were radioed to all boats (see enclosure).
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
 
       
       
       
       
       
- 9 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     
ENCLOSURE I
       
Serial Order No. 10
       
- Issued January 1944 -
Anti-submarine defences in the Bay of Biscay
       
A. Air: An average of 40 planes are heard using their radio.  The main operational area lies farther east than formerly between 6 and 130 West.  Enemy air activity has also been observed in the approach routes area.
      The number of attacks remained satisfactorily low.  Routine patrolling of the Piening route must be expected.
   Attack Tactics:  Statements made by prisoners of war bear out the supposition that planes locate chiefly on "Naxos" frequencies.  Approach run from a great distance with continuous location.  Bombs dropped visually with or without searchlight; it is possible, but not usual, to drop bombs according to bearing without sighting.  As soon as a submarine has been sighted numerous planes are rapidly sent out.
       
B. Sea: No anti-submarine forces have been observed so far in the inner Biscay area as far as 120 West.  In the outer Biscay area between 15 and 220 West, anti-submarine formations co-operating with planes are working on the England - Gibraltar convoy routes.  Aircraft carriers have been observed near convoys.  By energetic use of of "Zaunkönig" (trans: T 5 acoustic torpedoes) not only single ships but whole search groups were successfully countered.  Enemy submarines are still stationed off the outer points of the approach routes, especially in Naval Grid Squares BF 54, 57, 58.  A concentration off the northern coast of Spain is suspected.
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
       
       
- 10 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     
ENCLOSURE II
       
Serial Order Number 41.
       
Showing of yellow flag when being picked up by fighter protection or air escort.
       
If a submarine is given fighter protection or air escort, she is to show a large yellow flag simultaneously with, or shortly after, exchange of recognition signals.  The flag is to be shown at the most obvious position and flown as long as the air escort lasts.
       
Reason:  To make it easier for planes to spot and maintain contact with the boat they are to protect, when several submarines are in the same sea area.
       
The flag is to be flown so that it is seen to the best advantage at a distance, but it must not interfere with the boat's A/A/ guns or look-out.
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
- 11 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
6.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 Op(AL 91)
U 343
-
 CG 18
U 532
-
 LF 42
U 757
-
 BE 29
 
107
-
 BF 49
364
-
 Op(AL 14)
539
-
 BF 46
758
-
 Op(BE 21)
 
129
-
 CB 88
377
-
 Op(BE 82)
541
-
 BE 96
762
-
 BE 22
 
177
-
 BF 88
382
-
 Op(BE 76)
543
-
 Op(BC 50)
763
-
 Op(AK 20)
 
178
-
 Op(LC)
386
-
 BE 37
544
-
 Op(BD 50)
801
-
 BF 73
 
190
-
 BF 79
390
-
 Op(AL 28)
547
-
 AE 84
845
-
 AN 35
 
193
-
 Op(DO 80)
392
-
 Op(AL 02)
625
-
 BF 52
846
-
 Op(AL 54)
 
231
-
 Op(BE 33)
406
-
 BF 58
641
-
 Op(BE 82)
952
-
 CG 90
 
257
-
 BF 45
415
-
 BF 52
645
-
 Op(BE 81)
953
-
 Op(BE 83)
 
260
-
 Op(AL 82)
421
-
 BF 57
650
-
 BF 44
960
-
 Op(AK 50/80)
 
270
-
 Op(BE 76)
426
-
 BF 54
653
-
 BE 37
972
-
 Op(AL 14)
 
275
-
 BF 71
445
-
 BF 75
666
-
 BE 25
976
-
 Op(AL 94)
 
281
-
 BF 58
471
-
 Op(AL 28)
667
-
 BF 58
981
-
 Op(AL 16)
 
302
-
 Op(AL 54)
510
-
 JJ 51
672
-
 AL 94
984
-
 AN 24
 
305
-
 Op(BE 76)
515
-
 DT 41
731
-
 Op(BE 13)
1062
-
 AF 72
 
309
-
 Op(BE 21)
516
-
 DE 68
741
-
 Op(AE 77)
545
-
 Op(AE 77)
 
311
-
 Op(AL 57)
530
-
 Op(EC 70)
744
-
 AL 65      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 107 - 129 - 190 - 275 - 415 - 421 - 515 - 516 - 541 - 625 - 653 - 667 - 672 - 744 - 801.
  Entered Port:  U 625 - 415 - Brest;  U 845 - Bergen;  U 667 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 621 - Brest;  U 455 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  Air reconnaissance in area south of Group "Borkum" to pick up the north-bound Gibraltar convoy.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  The following reports of aircraft attacks were received during the night:
   
1940 U 650 in BF 7764;
2025 U 426 in BF 4594;
2207 U 666 in BE 2425;
0012 U 107 in BF 5491;
0248 U 426 in BF 4584;
0610 U 541 in BF 5746;
0645 Same boat in BF 5751;
0643 U 275 in BF 7281;
1916 U 270 in BE 7349, during this attack a Fortress was shot down.
  Slight damage from bombs when plane jettisoned them.
    The mounting number of aircraft attacks is striking especially in the inner Bay of Biscay round the area of prescribed approach routes to home ports.
     The use of night fighters with Target Approach instrument (Zielanfluggeraet) would seem to be absolutely essential.  The reasons for the English air offensive in the Bay of Biscay are not known (possibly reaction to destroyer sinkings from 24.12.43. to 3.1.44.).
  b)  Air reconnaissance unsuccessful.
       
- 12 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) 1) U-boat sightings (Visual or ASV location):  BF 7246 (U 275?) course east, 8 knots; BF 5574, course east, 5 knots; BF 5759; BF 5461, course 1000, 6 knots; BF 4836, 2700, 8 knots; BF 7366; BF 5447, 2700, 15 knots; BF 5549 and the same plane again in BF 5554; BF 5464; and 8 sightings in unspecified positions.
    2) English units were located in AL 5291, BF 2226.
  d) According to reports from the main office of the German Intelligence Service in France, a convoy left Gibraltar yesterday which according to its composition must be the expected "MKS" convoy.
    It is possible that the Gibraltar convoys no longer run at 10-day intervals, but have been altered to a fortnightly schedule.  The next air reconnaissance will not take place until 8.1.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) New approach points have been allocated for boats leaving Western France to strengthen Group "Ruegen":  U 762 southern flank of "Ruegen 1"; U 757 "Ruegen 5"; U 386 "Ruegen 3".
    2) Group "Borkum" was moved 90 miles to the south.  Operations are planned for 10.1. against "MKS" convoy about in the center of CF.  (See paragraph III d).
  b) None.
  c) U 952 and 343 reported their positions from the Mediterranean.  Boats now come under F.d.U. Mediterranean.  U 343 took 12 days for the through trip.
  d) Admonitory Radio Message No. 75:
     Aircraft attacks yesterday and today show the majority of submarines still use the first and last hours of darkness to charge batteries.  The enemy has apparently discovered this, and sends out more concentrated air patrols at these times.  Hence, boats are to charge under way during the night proper, 3.7 cm. boats during the day.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 270                1 plane.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
7.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 Op(AL 91)
U 311
-
 Op(AL 57)
U 532
-
 LE 66
U 744
-
 AL 93
 
107
-
 BF 5491
364
-
 Op(AL 14)
539
-
 BF 45
757
-
 BE 29
 
129
-
 CB 94
377
-
 Op(BE 82)
541
-
 BF 5751
758
-
 Op(BE 81)
 
177
-
 BF 78
382
-
 Op(BE 72)
543
-
 Op(BC 80)
762
-
 AL 82
 
178
-
 Op(MS)
386
-
 BE 26
544
-
 Op(BD 50)
763
-
 Op(AK 20)
 
190
-
 BF 81
390
-
 Op(AL 28)
545
-
 Op(AD 86)
801
-
 BF 81
 
193
-
 Op(DO 40)
392
-
 Op(AL 02)
547
-
 AE 79
846
-
 Op(AL 54)
 
231
-
 Op(BE 83)
406
-
 BF 83
621
-
 BF 55
953
-
 Op(BE 83)
 
257
-
 BF 44
421
-
 BF 57
641
-
 Op(BE 82)
960
-
 Op(AK)
 
260
-
 Op(AL 82)
426
-
 BF 4594
645
-
 Op(BE 81)
972
-
 Op(AL 14)
 
270
-
 Op(BE 7349)
445
-
 BF 71
650
-
 BF 7764
976
-
 Op(AL 94)
 
       
- 13 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
275
-
 BF 72
455
-
 BF 55
653
-
 BE 62
981
-
 Op(AL 19)
 
281
-
 BF 83
471
-
 Op(AL 28)
666
-
 Op(BE 2425)
984
-
 AF 79
 
302
-
 Op(AL 54)
510
-
 JJ 53
672
-
 AL 98
1062
-
 AF 47
 
305
-
 Op(BE 76)
515
-
 DT 12
731
-
 Op(BE 13)
516
-
 DE 62
 
309
-
 Op(BE 21)
530
-
 Op(EC 60)
741
-
 Op(AD 86)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 107 - 129 - 190 - 275 - 421 - 515 - 516 - 541 - 653 - 672 - 744 - 801.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 305 sank one of 3 destroyers forming an anti-submarine group with a spread of 3 torpedoes in BE 7655 at 1711.  On 24.12. and 2.1. the submarine fired one T 5 miss at a cruiser and a destroyer, respectively, both inclination 1400.  Boat assumed that insufficient speed was the cause of failure.
      At 2222 the same boat sighted 2 destroyers in BE 7661.
    2) U 763 repulsed a "Lerwick" which was locating by means of Naxos in AK 2113.  After the boat had dived she observed different loud noises like a ship's screw and assumed noise-boxes.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) At 2335 an English plane reported:  "Have attacked German submarine with depth-charges, hit probable, am maintaining contact in 600".
      (position not indicated).
    2) At 2335 an English plane was ordered to carry out a search for submarines on a radius of 20 miles from an unspecified position.
    3) 3 submarines sighted and one ASV location in unspecified positions.
    4) English units were located in:  BF 2168, BF 2515, AM 5270, AM 5318, AL 6966, BD 9890.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Group "Ruegen" has been distributed singly, as it is not possible to operate with groups of submarines without sufficient air reconnaissance.
      The following boats have been allocated the following positions as attack areas; depth 30 miles.
       
- 14 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     
U 547 - AL 3225, U 545 - AL 2233, U 741 - AL 1268,
U 981 - AL 3395, U 972 - AL 2613, U 364 - AL 2545,
U 390 - AL 2861, U 762 - AL 0133, U 309 - AL 1959,
U 260 - AL 0248, U 731 - AL 4238, U 757 - AL 5522,
U 666 - AL 4588, U 471 - AL 5857, U 392 - AL 6786,
U 846 - AL 8419, U 311 - AL 9438, U 302 - BE 1312,
U 976 - BE 2194.            
    2) Group "Borkum" will cruise to the following position lines by 1800 on 8.1:
      Group 1 position line from CF 2418 to 2519.
      Group 2 position line from CF 2269 to 3171.
      Group 3 position line from CF 3139 to 3317.
  b) - c) None.
  d) 1) U 270 has reported that she is returning because of damage sustained in attack by plane on 6.1.  (Ballast tank No. 5 and bow tubes leaking, speed restricted to 10 knots).
    2) U 510 ("Monsun" boat) (Trans:  submarine based in Penang) reported on request that position was KZ 89.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 305                1 destroyer.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
8.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 Op(AL 94)
U 311
-
 Op(AL 82)
U 539
-
 BF 44
U 744
-
 AL 96
 
107
-
 BF 61
364
-
 Op(AL 25)
541
-
 BF 55
757
-
 Op(AL 94)
 
129
-
 CB 96
377
-
 Op(CF 31)
543
-
 Op(BC 60)
758
-
 Op(CF 23)
 
177
-
 CG 21
382
-
 Op(CF 25)
544
-
 Op(BD 50)
762
-
 Op(AL 54)
 
178
-
 Op(MS 80)
386
-
 BE 23
545
-
 Op(AE 78)
763
-
 Op(AK 20)
 
190
-
 BF 88
390
-
 Op(AL 28)
547
-
 AE 87
801
-
 BF 64
 
193
-
 Op(DO 70)
392
-
 Op(AL 64)
592
-
 BF 82
846
-
 Op(AL 81)
 
231
-
 Op(CF 33)
406
-
 BF 81
621
-
 BF 54
953
-
 Op(CF 32)
 
257
-
 BE 65
421
-
 BF 52
641
-
 Op(CF 31)
960
-
 Op(AK 50-80)
 
260
-
 Op(AL 57)
426
-
 BF 44
645
-
 Op(CF 22)
972
-
 Op(AL 26)
 
270
-
 Op(CF 24)
445
-
 BE 98
650
-
 BE 96
976
-
 Op(BE 21)
 
275
-
 BF 73
455
-
 BF 82
653
-
 BE 66
981
-
 Op(AL 24)
 
281
-
 BF 85
471
-
 Op(AL 52)
666
-
 Op(AL 88)
984
-
 AF 76
 
302
-
 Op(AL 81)
510
-
 JK 26
672
-
 BE 26
1062
-
 AE 69
 
305
-
 Op(CF 24)
515
-
 DG 94
731
-
 Op(AL 85)      
 
309
-
 Op(AL 84)
516
-
 DE 39
741
-
 Op(AL 12)      
       
530
-
 Op(EC 60)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 107 - 129 - 190 - 275 - 515 - 516 - 541 - 653 - 672 - 744 - 801.
  Entered Port:  U 107 - 801 - Lorient;  U 421 - Brest.
  Sailed:  U 571 - La Pallice;  U 271 - Brest;  U 845 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  2 Ju 290 carried out reconnaissance south of Group "Borkum's" patrol strip in search of the expected "MKS" convoy.
       
- 15 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) At 0053 U 976 reported star-shell on a true bearing of 500.   Shortly after at 0101 reported seaplane in square BE 2191:  "Have been observed".
    2) At 1115 a corrupt short message was received by a shore radio station:  "Am being attacked by plane in BE 6669 (signature as deciphered:  U 426).
  b)  Air reconnaissance unsuccessful.
  c) 1) A plane in the Caribbean area reported sighting a surfaced submarine at 2330, course 180 or 1900.  Boat circled as soon as it observed the plane, thus making it difficult to judge her previous course.   Correct recognition signals were made from submarine to plane.  Position upper right of DO 77.  (Probably American).
    2) 2 U-boats sighted in unspecified position.
    3) English units were located in BD 9260, BE 4430 and 7550, CG 8710.
  d)  None.
       
IV.   Current Operations:
  a) 1) Group "Ruegen" is en route to the individual attack areas 2 eastbound and one westbound convoy may now be expected.
    2) As air reconnaissance for Group "Borkum" was unsuccessful, the group is being moved farther south to correspond with the dead reckoning for a convoy that should arrive on the evening of 10.1.
      Group 1 position line from CF 5229 to 5318
      Group 2 position line from CF 2958 to 3758
      Group 3 position line from CF 3574 to 3676.
      Air reconnaissance is again planned for 9.1.
  b) 1) U 532 is occupying her old operational area in MS and LC.  The boat reported position from LD 80.
    2) U 386 has a temporary attack area in AL 60.  At the next new moon this boat is to operate in the North Channel.
  c) U 510 ("Monsun" boat) was ordered to refuel from the German tanker "Schliemann" after 1200 mean local time on 26.1 in KS 3525.  It is planned that boat shall then operate somewhere about KG.
  d)  According to Radio Intercept Intelligence, 2 dinghies containing airmen are drifting in BF 5441.  Boats have been ordered to pick up the men, if this is possible without boats going far out of their way.  Boats must proceed cautiously as enemy plane is maintaining contact. Our own and the English air-sea rescue machine has started.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- 16 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
Additional report for War Diary dated 8.1. as follows:
       
1)   Since 2.1. the number of night attacks has risen sharply to as many as 9 attacks in one night.  All took place in the Bay of Biscay, especially east of 110 West up to the approach routes.
  On the other hand, only 6 boats were attacked in the Bay during the whole of December.  The attacks were spread over the whole night, but were especially heavy during the first and last hours of darkness corresponding to the boats routine of re-charging in 2 periods of 1 1/2 - 2 hours each at about dawn or dusk.
    After 5 days the attacks ceased, despite good weather in the Biscay and southern England.
       
2)   It appears that this was a surprise attack to knock out the submarines, probably caused by the events which took place at the end of December.  The numerous sinkings of destroyers probably had a good deal to do with it.  Contrary to previous methods, attacks were made in the inner Bay area, where the submarine routes converge more.
       
3) Previous reports made by submarines show that apparently no new, previously unknown location method was used.  All boats observed "Naxos" location before or during the attack.   But it is possible that the enemy is now beginning to work with "Rotterdam" gear as intermittent transmitter.  As the "Naxos" antenna already has blind spots in reception, intermittent transmission still further complicates the task of the locator.
  Visibility was good on the days when the attacks were made, they were carried out during both moonlit and dark hours, thus, from the optical point of view, conditions were not noticeably better than during December.  It must therefore be assumed that a large group of planes, which may have been refitted with improved "Rotterdam" gear, was concentrated in force when weather conditions were favorable in order to achieve these surprising successes.  This view is supported by the sudden cessation of the attacks on 7.1., which gives rise to the theory that all planes that had been equipped with new gear were concentrated for 5 days on these attacks and are now having to be overhauled.
       
4)   Own measures:
  a) Submarines have been ordered to spread re-charging periods equally over the whole night, hours of darkness are, when possible, to be chosen. Boats armed with 3.7 cm. anti-aircraft guns are to charge during the day when the weather is suitable (clear sky, good visibility, moderate sea force).   In these cases, reliance is placed on the look-out and the efficiency of the armament, but the risk must be accepted that the boats may be located by enemy planes without their knowledge and attacked by a plane approaching from a great distance out of the sector most favorable to itself.
  b)  F.d.U. West has been ordered to lay "Thetis" buoys type 2 c (Trans: Radar decoy device) in the Bay of Biscay as quickly as possible.  These buoys have the same location reflex as a submarine, and interfere with location activity by enemy anti-submarine planes, in fact the majority of "pings" are made completely useless.
 
 
 
- 17 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    Buoys are to be laid at intervals of 25 miles by 10 submarines, each laying 10 - 15.  The first boat will be ready to leave on 11.1., the task can be completed by about the end of January.  The Bay of Biscay from the 200 meter line to about 10 West will then be covered.  The efficiency and life of these buoys will then be tested by planes.
  c) Everything possible is being done to improve the "Naxos" installation.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
9.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 AL 98
U 311
-
 Op(AL 94)
U 532
-
 LD 80
U 731
-
 Op(AL 57)
 
129
-
 CC 72
364
-
 Op(AL 35)
539
-
 BE 65
741
-
 Op(AL 22)
 
177
-
 CG 13
377
-
 Op(CF 35)
541
-
 BF 61
744
-
 BE 31
 
178
-
 Op(MS)
382
-
 Op(CF 53)
543
-
 Op(BC 60)
757
-
 Op(AL 91)
 
190
-
 BF 86
386
-
 BE 27
544
-
 Op(BD 59)
758
-
 Op(CF 29)
 
193
-
 Op(DO)
390
-
 Op(AL 28)
545
-
 Op(AL 22)
762
-
 Op(AL 51)
 
231
-
 Op(CF 36)
392
-
 Op(AL 67)
547
-
 Op(AL 32)
763
-
 Op(AK 22)
 
257
-
 BE 64
406
-
 BF 73
571
-
 BF 91
846
-
 Op(AL 84)
 
260
-
 Op(AL 52)
426
-
 BE 64
621
-
 BF 49
953
-
 Op(CF 35)
 
270
-
 BE 8815
445
-
 BE 92
641
-
 Op(CF 37)
960
-
 Op(AK 82)
 
271
-
 BF 55
455
-
 BE 81
645
-
 Op(CF 29)
972
-
 Op(AL 36)
 
275
-
 BF 81
471
-
 Op(AL 58)
650
-
 BE 95
976
-
 Op(BE 2191)
 
281
-
 BF 84
510
-
 KZ 98
653
-
 BE 47
981
-
 Op(AL 33)
 
302
-
 Op(AL 88)
515
-
 DG 68
666
-
 Op(AL 81)
984
-
 AF 72
 
305
-
 Op(CF 52)
516
-
 DF 11
672
-
 BE 37
1062
-
 AE 68
 
309
-
 Op(AL 72)
530
-
 Op(ED 10)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 92 - 129 - 190 - 270 - 275 - 515 - 516 - 541 - 653 - 672 - 744.
  Entered Port:  U 271 - Brest;  U 541 - Penang.
  Sailed:  U 123 - Lorient;  U 188 - Penang.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
  1)  During the afternoon reconnaissance by 2 Ju 290- in the area south of Group "Borkum" in search of the expected north-bound convoy.
  2) One machine in same area during the night.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 976 listened to a convoy in BE 2186, probably on a westerly course, moderate speed.  Depth charges were dropped before the boat surfaced, diving capacity limited.  Boat moved away to effect repairs.
  b) 1) Air reconnaissance sighted convoy in CG 9311 composed of 39 largish merchant ships.  Course and speed not observed because of repeated attacks by fighters.  Probable course (judging from wake) N.W.
    2) Nothing to report.
       
- 18 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) 1) 2 submarines sighted in unspecified positions.
    2) English units were located in BE 2310, BF 2138, BE 2460.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Group "Borkum" has been grouped in a patrol strip ahead of the probable convoy course (N.W.), because of the information gained from air reconnaissance.  The convoy is expected to pass during the evening of 10.1.  U 645, 305, 382, 758, 641, 377, 953, 231 are manning the patrol strip from CF 2945 to 3516.
    As the second air reconnaissance yielded no results, the Group dived at first light and set a receiving watch on very long wave.  They surfaced at 1930.   Further air reconnaissance is planned for the afternoon and evening of 10.1.
  b) - c) None.
  d)  U 445, who was badly damaged on 2.1. when attacked by a plane, is returning as repairs could not be carried out with materials available on board.  Boat reported much "Naxos" location by planes in the inner Biscay area.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
10.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 BE 26
U 309
-
 Op(AL 45)
U 530
-
 Op(ED 10)
U 741
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
123
-
 BF 55
311
-
 Op(AL 94)
532
-
 LD 75
744
-
 BE 34
 
129
-
 CC 58
364
-
 Op(AL 25)
539
-
 BE 64
757
-
 Op(AL 55)
 
177
-
 CG 15
377
-
 Op(CF 34)
543
-
 BC 90
758
-
 Op(CF 2564)
 
178
-
 Op(MS)
382
-
 Op(CF 29)
544
-
 Op(BD 83)
762
-
 Op(AL 01)
 
188
-
 LF 55
386
-
 BE 21
545
-
 Op(AL 22)
763
-
 Op(AK 21)
 
190
-
 BF 83
390
-
 Op(AL 26)
547
-
 Op(AL 32)
845
-
 AF 76
 
193
-
 Op(DO 90)
392
-
 Op(AL 87)
571
-
 BF 83
846
-
 Op(AL 84)
 
231
-
 Op(CF 35)
406
-
 BF 72
621
-
 BE 48
953
-
 Op(CF 35)
 
257
-
 BF 52
426
-
 BE 64
641
-
 Op(CF 37)
960
-
 Op(AK 82)
 
260
-
 Op(AL 02)
445
-
 BF 64
645
-
 Op(CF 29)
972
-
 Op(AL 26)
 
270
-
 BE 94
455
-
 BF 73
650
-
 BE 91
976
-
 Op(BE 2128)
 
275
-
 BF 82
471
-
 Op(AL 58)
653
-
 BF 48
981
-
 Op(AL 33)
 
281
-
 BF 75
510
-
 JA 74
666
-
 Op(AL 4582)
984
-
 AF 47
 
302
-
 Op(BE 13)
515
-
 DH 41
672
-
 BE 62
1062
-
 AE 67
 
305
-
 Op(CF 29)
516
-
 CD 87
731
-
 Op(AL 42)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 92 - 129 - 190 - 270 - 515 - 516 - 653 - 672 - 744 - 275.
  Entered Port:  U 445 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 267 - 592 - St. Nazaire;  U 212 - La Pallice.
       
- 19 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
II. Air Reconnaissance:  
  3 Ju 290 carried out patrols south of Group "Borkum" (one from 0400 to 0830, another from 1230 to 1630, the third from 1930 to 2330).
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 666 heard 2 fast vessels at 0414, presumed course 700 in AL 4582.
    2) U 758 reported a steamer at 0749 in CF 2564 on southwesterly course.
    3) See paragraph IV.
  b)  The 3 Ju 290 sighted nothing when out on reconnaissance.   When the third Ju 290 flew over Group "Borkum", it was fired at by U 305, recognition signals were then exchanged.
  c) 1) U-boat sighting at 1706 in unspecified position, course north, 12 knots.
    2) English unit was located in AL 96.
  d)  At 0800 the guardship "307", which belongs to the north-bound convoy that is expected, was located in CF 6419.  It appears that the convoy reported by Air Force on 9.1. was the north-bound "MKS".
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) At 1350 U 731 sighted 3 steamers in AL 8421, course 80, 16 knots.  At 1605 boat lost contact reverse course 65.  When this report was received, all boats in favorable position were ordered to proceed at full speed to attack.  Group "Ruegen" was instructed to follow up reports of the enemy energetically and with all possible speed, providing their own position was favorable.
    2) As the air reconnaissance for Group "Borkum" was unsuccessful, it must be assumed that the convoy has veered away to the west.  Group "Borkum" is therefore proceeding at high speed to new patrol strip from CF 2447 to 2357.  If the convoy has made a detour to the west, it should be picked up on this strip during the evening of 11.1.  If boats sight enemy by day when the weather is favorable they are to operate on the surface (5 boats with 3.7 cm. armament).
  b)  Attacks on single ships have been banned in the area from DD 2465 via DE 3659, via AK 9577, via AJ 8922, BC 5777 to CD 5833 because the blockade runner "Rio Grande" is on its homeward trip.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- 20 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
11.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 BE 37
U 302
-
 Op(BE 13)
U 530
-
 Op(ED 10)
U 741
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
123
-
 BF 57
305
-
 Op(CF 28)
532
-
 Op(LC)
744
-
 BE 62
 
129
-
 CC 65
309
-
 Op(AL 19)
539
-
 BE 9154
757
-
 Op(AL 55)
 
177
-
 CG 17
311
-
 Op(AL 94)
543
-
 BC 60
758
-
 BE 88
 
178
-
 Op(MS)
364
-
 Op(AL 25)
544
-
 Op(BD 50)
762
-
 Op(AL 01)
 
190
-
 BF 93
377
-
 Op(CF 26)
545
-
 Op(AL 22)
763
-
 Op(AK 25)
 
188
-
 LF 42
382
-
 Op(CF 28)
547
-
 Op(AL 32)
845
-
 AF 72
 
193
-
 DE 74
386
-
 AL 95
571
-
 BF 82
846
-
 Op(AL 84)
 
212
-
 BF 91
390
-
 Op(AL 26)
592
-
 BF 67
953
-
 Op(CF 34)
 
231
-
 Op(CF 34)
392
-
 Op(AL 87)
621
-
 BE 47
960
-
 Op(AK 91)
 
257
-
 BE 51
406
-
 BE 93
641
-
 Op(CF 26)
972
-
 Op(AL 26)
 
260
-
 Op(AL 02)
426
-
 BE 53
645
-
 Op(CF 28)
976
-
 Op(BE 2242)
 
267
-
 BF 58
455
-
 BF 78
650
-
 BE 8251
981
-
 Op(AL 33)
 
270
-
 BE 95
471
-
 Op(AL 58)
653
-
 BF 49
984
-
 AE 66
 
275
-
 BF 68
510
-
 JA 81
666
-
 Op(AL 4582)
1062
-
 AE 83
 
281
-
 BE 71
515
-
 DH 18
672
-
 BE 66      
       
516
-
 CD 82
731
-
 Op(AL 48)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 92 - 129 - 190 - 270 - 275 - 515 - 516 - 543 - 653 - 672 - 744 - 758.
  Entered Port:  U 275 - 212 - La Pallice.
  Sailed:  U 989 - 549 - Kiel;  U 714 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  2 Ju 290 patrolled the area S. of Group "Borkum".
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  See paragraph IV.
  b)  Morning patrol sighted nothing because gear broke down.   Evening patrol was cancelled because of bad weather over the harbor to be reconnoitered.  (Use of plane as shadower because of report from U 305 (paragraph IV) was not carried out for the same reason.  See paragraph IV a) No. 2)).
  c) 1) Surfaced submarine in unspecified position, course unknown, 9 knots.
      2 further submarine sightings in unspecified positions.
    2) English units were located in: BE 9460, BC 8490, AL 65, BE 2960, BE 8587, BE 989o.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) When Group "Borkum" was cruising to the W. on the evening of 11.1., U 305 - the most westerly boat on the patrol strip - sighted the convoy at 1819 in square CF 2452.
       
- 21 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      When this was reported Group "Borkum" was directed against the convoy.  At 2132 U 305 reported a destroyer in 2423 and said she was being forced to move away.  A few minutes later the boat reported the convoy on a northerly course in 2423.   At 2300 the same boat sighted star shell in 2194.   No further reports on the enemy were received.  At 0420 U 641 reported that she heard a series of heavy depth-charge detonations at 1930 from CF 2528 true bearing 2900.  The same boat dived at first light to repair her port Diesel.
      At 1020 U 758 was attacked by 3 carrier-borne planes with bombs and aircraft armament.  Boat reported 3.7 cm. functioned". Boat is returning because of considerable damage; its diving capacity is limited.
      Powerful carrier-borne air forces must be expected.  Boats have been ordered to continue fighting on the surface by day if they are in a favorable position from the convoy.
    2) The fact that the convoy was contacted proves that it passed both the patrol areas on 10.1. without being seen.  According to the dead reckoning based on the sighting on 9.1., and according to the dead reckoning on the air reconnaissance, our own air force should have met the convoy.
      According to dead reckoning the convoy could not possibly have avoided the patrol area, as in that case it would have had to sail at more than 9 knots, but this speed could not be reached by a convoy of its composition.
    3) The operation failed
      i) because the air reconnaissance failed to pick up the convoy, although as many planes as possible were used of the insufficient forces available.
      ii) because the submarines were consequently badly placed and too far apart, so that although one boat contacted the convoy the others could not reach it.
      It cannot yet be decided whether other reasons, such as strong enemy air forces and sea defences, also played their part.
 
 
 
- 22 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) 1) U 621 is manning AL 60 as its temporary attack area.   At new moon this boat and U 386 are to operate in the North Channel.
    2) U 260 has AE 47 as attack area.   Boat is to operate in the Caribbean.
    3) U 539 is on its way to DO 30.  Boat is to operate in the Caribbean.
  c)  U 757 and U 976 have been given rendezvous in AL 8289 at 1730 on 13.1. to transfer "Borkum" and "Naxos" to U 976.
  d) 1) From 11.1. U 267 is laying decoy buoys type "Thetis 2c" in the Bay of Biscay as far as 120 West, in order to interfere with enemy location.  Laying will be continued by other submarines.
      Description of "Thetis 2c" (decoy device:
      A thin wooden pole 5 meters long fixed vertically to a float, which is weighted underneath by a steel tube 5 meters long.  Thin metal dipoles, which are visible only at a very short distance, are attached to the wooden pole.
      Effect:  Buoy produces the same location reflex as a submarine.
    2) Serial Order No. 29 (January 1944)
      Reports of attacks by aircraft.
      In order to make it possible (for Submarine Operations) to ascertain the methods of location and attack used by enemy planes, the following points must be carefully noted and reported:
     
a) By radio telegram at the earliest opportunity (when outward-bound via Biscay or Iceland Passage, append information to passage report).
  1) Date, time, position of attack, if not reported by short signal.
  2) Own speed, phosphorescence of sea.
  3) Number and position of runs-in:  Escort flight.  Nose-dive, or low level flying.  Direction of run-in to boat.  With or without searchlights.  When were bombs dropped.
  4) When was location established and what type (e.g. "Naxos", "Borkum", "Wanze",
 
 
 
- 23 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     
    136 cm).  If no location, which gear was not functioning or not switched on.
  5) Special observations.
b)  In the War Diary:
  1-5 as a).
  6) Distance, bearing, height of plane when sighted.
  7) Which communications gear were switched on.
  8) Was battery being charged, if so with what current.
    3) Admonitory Radio Message No. 76:
      When about to dive because of danger from aircraft the "Naxos" antenna of one submarine was left on the bridge, cable caused conning tower hatch to jam while being closed.  Commanding Officer gave order "Blow" and dashed to the bridge.  His order reached the control room too late, the boat dipped, conning tower hatch was slammed from above, Commanding Officer overboard, not picked up.
      Moral: If the cable of the "Naxos" gear jams in the hatch when the boat submerges, do not interrupt the dive.  Hold conning tower hatch, cable will be flattened out (this has been tested in an experiment).  It is also advisable for helmsman to have a sharp knife in the conning tower so that he can cut the cable and throw it on to the bridge.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:
  Strength of air forces available for air reconnaissance for convoy "MKS 35" from 8 - 11.1.44:
  a)  The main reason for air reconnaissance was to contact the convoy 2 days after it left port.  It was then to be picked up again at intervals of about 12 hours until the boats could be brought in on a beacon signal.
  b) 6 Ju 290 belonging to Long-range Reconnaissance Group 5.  This number was increased to 8 on 10.1. through the endeavors of the unit.
 
 
 
- 24 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2 BV 222 broke down, the detailing of 2 BV 222 lying at Travemunde, which was promised for January, has not yet been carried out.
    Summary of operation:
   
8.1.
   Radar reconnaissance made by 1 Ju 290  
    Convoy not found.    
9.1.
   Radar reconnaissance made by 2 Ju 290  
    Convoy found!    
    Attempt to re-contact made by 1 Ju 290  
    Gear broke down, convoy not found    
10.1.
   Attempt to re-contact made by 1 Ju 290 (morning)
    Gear broke down, convoy not found.    
    Attempt to re-contact in order to send out beacon signals made by 1 Ju 290 (evening)
    Convoy not found.    
11.1.
   Radar reconnaissance made by 2 Ju 290 (evening)
  One plane had to break off search because of engine trouble.    
 
Total:
 8 Ju 290  
     The result of this reconnaissance shows that the number of planes was insufficient.  At least twice as many are necessary, as part from the fact that more can cover a larger area, if the radar gear on one plane breaks down, the other planes can be directed to the focal point and maintain successful and constant patrol.
     It is not possible to concentrate reconnaissance for a short time as the submarines must be given time to change their position.  With the few planes at present available such hard driving for long-distance reconnaissance prevents proper servicing (11.1. one Ju 290 had to break off operation because of engine trouble).
  c) As submarines within the scope of our own air reconnaissance are entirely dependent on its results, we cannot afford to rely on luck in finding the convoys.  The number of planes used for each operation must be at least double.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
12.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 BE 62
U 309
-
 Op(AL 19)
U 532
-
 Op(LC)
U 714
-
 BF 55
 
123
-
 BF 4650
311
-
 Op(AL 94)
539
-
 BE 59
731
-
 Op(AL 45)
 
129
-
 CD 44
364
-
 Op(AL 25)
543
-
 BD 75
741
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
177
-
 CG 41
377
-
 Op(CF 26)
544
-
 Op(BD 29)
744
-
 BE 63
 
       
- 25 -
 
 
     

 

     
 
 
 
 
178
-
 Op(MS)
382
-
 Op(CF 28)
545
-
 Op(AL 22)
757
-
 AL 58
 
188
-
 LE 65
386
-
 Op(AL 60)
547
-
 Op(AL 32)
758
-
 Op(CF 29)
 
190
-
 BF 80
390
-
 Op(AL 26)
549
-
 AO 47
762
-
 Op(AL 01)
 
193
-
 DE 73
392
-
 Op(AL 87)
571
-
 BE 81
763
-
 Op(AK 23)
 
231
-
 Op(CF 34)
406
-
 BE 68
592
-
 BF 83
845
-
 AF 47
 
257
-
 BE 51
426
-
 BE 52
621
-
 BE 66
846
-
 Op(AL 84)
 
260
-
 AL 25
455
-
 CG 22
641
-
 Op(CF 26)
953
-
 Op(CF 2233)
 
267
-
 BF 58
471
-
 Op(AL 58)
645
-
 Op(CF 28)
960
-
 Op(AK 83)
 
270
-
 BE 96
510
-
 JA 59
650
-
 BE 55
972
-
 Op(AL 26)
 
281
-
 BE 93
515
-
 DH 16
653
-
 BF 57
976
-
 AL 88
 
302
-
 Op(BE 13)
516
-
 CD 67
666
-
 BF 44
981
-
 Op(AL 33)
 
305
-
 Op(CF 28)
530
-
 Op(ED 10)
672
-
 BF 44
984
-
 AE 67
             
989
-
 AO 47
1062
-
 AE 85
 
  On Return Passage:  U 92 - 129 - 190 - 193 - 270 - 392 - 515 - 516 - 543 - 653 - 672 - 744 - 758.
  Entered Port:  U 267 - La Pallice.
  Sailed:  U 271 - Brest.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) On 11.1. at 1752 U 953 reported firing a "T 5" torpedo at a corvette.  Shot missed because speed of corvette was too low.  Depth-charges were dropped.
    2) U 305 sighted a destroyer in BE 7697.
    3) U 382 fired a "T 5" torpedo at a destroyer in CF 2183.  Faint explosion after 3 minutes 50 seconds, presumed a pistol failure.  Depth-charges were dropped.
    4) See paragraph IV b).
  b)  None.
  c) 1) Judging by radio reconnaissance (increased radio traffic with submarines) some English boats are being moved from home waters to the Gibraltar or Biscay area.
    2) English units were located in:  CF 5233 - CF 2530 - AL 5810 - CF 3498 - CE 6210 - BF 3144 - AM 1980 - BF 4540 - BF 2296 - BE 9254 - AL 6411 - BF 1920 - AL 4570 - BF 1910 - BF 6470 - BE 5650 - BE 9560 - BE 9576 - AL 6411.
    3) Radio Guard 123 (Funkwachschiff 123) was fixed by radio direction finder at 0910 in CF 29 - 61.  Guardship belonged to an unidentified southbound convoy.
       
- 26 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      Radio Guard 172 at 0910 in AL 5554 and 0830 in AL 9192 (unidentified convoy).
    4) An English unit acted as control to the English motor tanker "Inge Maersk" (9,397 GRT), position unspecified.
    5) English steamer sent out an S.O.S. from BB 6920 - "Request immediate assistance, steering gear damaged".
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Group "Ruegen" is distributed in the attack areas ordered.
    2) Group "Borkum" was asked to give position reports.  All boats except U 645 reported.
  b)

U 178 made situation report from LC (S.W. tip of India):   On 31.12. a submarine in LC 12;  on 1.1. a fast ship in LC 24, course east;  on 7.1. one cruiser, 2 destroyers, 3 corvettes in LC 16, course east, high speed.  Boat was ordered to refuel on 26.1. in KS 3525 from the German tanker "Schliemann" and to take over cipher material from U 510, who would refuel on the same day from "Schliemann".

  c)  U 544 - 516 - 129 are to meet on 16.1. an hour before sunset in CD 3851.  U 544 will give 30 cbm of fuel and "Borkum" gear to U 516, and "Borkum" gear to U 129.
     U 543 will report the weather twice daily for U 544.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
13.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 BE 66
U 309
-
 Op(AL 19)
U 532
-
 Op(LC)
U 731
-
 Op(AL 42)
 
123
-
 BF 84
311
-
 Op(AL 94)
539
-
 BE 62
741
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
129
-
 CD 43
364
-
 Op(AL 65)
543
-
 BD 73
744
-
 BE 44
 
177
-
 CF 66
377
-
 Op(BE 76)
544
-
 BD 82
757
-
 AL 82
 
178
-
 LC
382
-
 Op(CF 7925)
545
-
 Op(AL 22)
758
-
 BE 89
 
188
-
 LE 55
386
-
 Op(AL 60)
547
-
 Op(AL 22)
762
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
190
-
 BF 80
390
-
 Op(AL 26)
549
-
 AN 35
763
-
 Op(AK 20)
 
193
-
 DE 83
392
-
 AL 95
571
-
 BF 72
845
-
 AE 69
 
231
-
 Op(BE 7636)
406
-
 BE 64
592
-
 BF 82
846
-
 Op(AL 84)
 
257
-
 BE 28
426
-
 BE 28
621
-
 BE 62
953
-
 Op(BE 84)
 
       
- 27 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
260
-
 AL 21
455
-
 CG 25
641
-
 Op(BE 7966)
960
-
 Op(AK 82)
 
270
-
 BF 72
471
-
 Op(AL 58)
645
-
 Op(BE 79)
972
-
 Op(AL 22)
 
271
-
 BF 55
510
-
 JA 66
650
-
 BE 55
976
-
 AL 85
 
281
-
 BE 85
515
-
 DH 13
653
-
 BF 28
981
-
 Op(AL 33)
 
302
-
 Op(BE 13)
516
-
 CD 64
666
-
 Op(AL 45)
984
-
 AE 83
 
305
-
 Op(BE 7696)
530
-
 DO 70
672
-
 BE 45
989
-
 AN 35
             
714
-
 BF 54
1062
-
 AE 87
 
  On Return Passage:  U 92 - 129 - 178 - 190 - 193 - 270 - 392 - 515 - 516 - 543 - 653 - 672 - 744 - 758.
  Entered Port:  U 653 - Brest.
  Sailed:  U 212 - La Pallice;  U 283 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 621 reported aircraft attack in BE 5655.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:  1 sighting in unspecified position (U 621?), in BE 8562, course north, speed 7 knots, and in EO 5595 (none of own boats in the vicinity).
    2) ASV locations in BE 8539, BE 8919, BE 8617; one unspecified location.
    3) Radio guard 307 (unidentified convoy) located in BE 5840/50.
    4) English units were located in CF 9350, BF 2110, BD 3920, BD 8630, AM 5510, AN 0252, BE 8130, BE 1350, BE 8470, CG 4615, CG 13-16, CG 8510.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) When the convoy operation was broken off Group "Borkum" still consisted of 6 boats.  This is insufficient to carry out further convoy operations in CF or BE. New boats leaving Western France will join Group "Ruegen", unless they have been detailed for special duties.  As insufficient boats will leave port in the near future to bring both groups up to strength, Group "Borkum" will be dissolved.  Boats will join Group "Ruegen" and man the following attack areas to a depth of 30 miles:
       
- 28 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      U 377 - BE 2144, U 305 - BE 2859, U 231 - AL 9848, U 382 - BE 1555, U 641 - BE 2515.
      At the new moon Group "Ruegen" will be moved nearer to England.
    2) U 976 will man AL 8823 as her new attack area after taking over a "Borkum" set from U 757.
  b)  U 953 (formerly Group "Borkum") is making for DJ 21;  later, this boat will operate off Casablanca.
  c) 1) U 260 is manning the sea area off Reykjavik; U 386 is in the North Channel. Neither area has been navigated by submarines for a year.  Thus, despite probably difficult conditions, surprise successes are possible.  Reports on mines, shipping movements and known convoy routes will be radioed to the boats.
    2) U 257 has been ordered to be in AK 7125 on the evening of 21.1. to hand over charts to the blockade runner "Rio Grande".
    3) U 178 (Monsun boat) (Translator's note: based in Penang) is to be in KS 3525 on 26.1. to refuel from the German tanker "Schliemann" and to take over cipher material from U 510.
  d) U 714 is returning because of crack in the water jacket of her exhaust manifold.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
14.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 BF 44
U 302
-
 Op(BE 13)
U 530
-
 DO 70
U 731
-
 Op(AL 42)
 
123
-
 BF 78
305
-
 BE 57
532
-
 Op(LC 90)
741
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
129
-
 CD 53
309
-
 Op(AL 19)
539
-
 BE 73
744
-
 BF 55
 
177
-
 CG 4525
311
-
 Op(AL 94)
543
-
 BD 8119
757
-
 AL 58
 
178
-
 LC 45
364
-
 Op(AL 65)
544
-
 BD 87
558
-
 BE 97
 
188
-
 LE 48
377
-
 BE 8179
545
-
 Op(AL 22)
762
-
 Op(AL 12)
 
190
-
 BF 80
382
-
 BE 48
547
-
 Op(AL 22)
763
-
 Op(AK)
 
193
-
 DE 61
386
-
 Op(AL 60)
549
-
 AN 28
845
-
 AE 68
 
212
-
 BF 62
390
-
 Op(AL 26)
571
-
 BF 71
846
-
 Op(AL 84)
 
231
-
 BE 57
392
-
 BE 23
592
-
 BE 84
953
-
 CF 23
 
257
-
 BE 16
406
-
 BE 29
621
-
 BE 5655
960
-
 Op(AK)
 
260
-
 AE 77
455
-
 CG 2595
641
-
 BE 81
972
-
 Op(AL 22)
 
270
-
 BE 73
471
-
 Op(AL 58)
650
-
 BE 52
976
-
 Op(AL 88)
 
271
-
 BF 54
510
-
 JB 43
666
-
 Op(AL 45)
981
-
 Op(AL 33)
 
281
-
 BE 58
515
-
 BF 55
672
-
 BF 46
984
-
 AE 82
 
283
-
 AO 44
516
-
 CD 62
714
-
 BF 5444
989
-
 AN 28
                   
1062
-
 AE 22
 
       
- 29 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 92 - 129 - 178 - 190 - 193 - 270 - 392 - 515 - 543 - 672 - 714 - 741 - 744 - 758.
  Entered Port:  U 515 - Lorient.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) On 13.1. U 471 sank a heavily armed and loaded single ship (9,000 GRT) course 850, speed 15 knots, in AL 6712 at 0417.  Submarine fired spread of 3 and a "Zaunkönig" (Translator's note: acoustic torpedo).  While diving hit by "Zaunkönig" and noises made by a ship sinking were heard.
    2) Aircraft attacks:  U 515 (escort) at 0940 on approach route;  U 377 at 0950 in BE 8379;  U 212 at 2150 in BF 8321;  U 592 at 2350 in BF 8151.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) Guardship 307 located in BE 28.
    2) U-boat sightings:  UQ 36 (not a German boat).  BE 8411, course north, speed 4 knots, BE 4999 and 7321, course east, 6 knots.  BE 7361, course east, 6 knots (the same boat); BF 5848 (U 212?); BF 5879 (the same boat); BF 8141 (U 270?); English patrol reported a submerged submarine in an unspecified position.
    3) English units were located: DG 2340; BE 5580; BE 78; DH 28; AM 55; CF 1610; DH 5820; BE 3520.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Group "Ruegen" has been strengthened with 4 more boats and moved closer to the coast of England.  The boats belonging to Group "Ruegen" are now in the following attack areas:
     
U 984
- AM 1197  
U 545
- AM 1385
547
 - AL 3432  
981
 - AL 3476
762
 - AL 3686  
309
 - AL 3888
972
 - AL 3572  
390
 - AL 3923
731
 - AL 0291  
757
 - AL 6333
       
- 30 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     
666
 - AL 6196  
650
 - AL 6563
846
 - AL 6721  
471
 - AL 6799
406
 - AL 6943  
311
 - AL 9262
231
 - AL 9194  
281
 - AL 9559
377
 - AL 9798  
302
 - BE 1312
382
 - BE 2445        
      U 976 - 305 - 641 remain in the attack area previously allotted.  During the day boats are to submerge.  But if enemy ships are sighted they are to operate on the surface during the day if their position is favorable.  Boats are to dive only when there is danger from enemy planes.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U 976, who was to meet U 757 on 13.1. to take over "Borkum" gear, reported that she had not met U 757.  U 757 was asked to report position, but has not replied so far.
    2) U 621, who was to have operated in the North Channel reported that she was returning from BE 55 because of casualties and damage incurred on 13.1. by an air attack.
    3) As enemy air activity in the Bay of Biscay is at present less during the night than the day, and as daylight attacks are usually more dangerous than those at night, even boats with serviceable 3.7 cm. guns have been instructed to revert to charging under way during the night.
  d) 1) U 645 must be considered lost.  The boat left La Pallice on 2.12.43. while cruising in the patrol strip of Group "Coronel 2".  The boat last reported the weather from BE 1559.  Later the boat was transferred to Group "Borkum".  No clues to cause of loss or date.  Possibly loss occurred back in December.  Requests for position report on 14. and 14.1. were not answered.
    2) U 426 is assumed lost.  The last message she sent was a report of attack by aircraft on 8.1. in BE 6669.  A request for a passage report on 1.11. and for a position report on 13.1. was not answered.  It must be presumed that the boat was lost on 8.1. when attacked.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 471                1 ship              9,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
 
- 31 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
15.January 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 92
-
 BF 48
U 302
-
 Op(BE 13)
U 532
-
 LC 50
U 741
-
 AL 25
 
123
-
 CG 21
305
-
 BE 55
539
-
 BE 75
744
-
 BF 52
 
129
-
 CD 37
309
-
 Op(AL 29)
543
-
 BD 67
758
-
 BE 96
 
177
-
 CF 47
311
-
 Op(AL 92)
544
-
 CD 36
762
-
 AL 26
 
178
-
 LC 74
364
-
 AL 25
545
-
 AL 35
763
-
 Op(AK 24)
 
188
-
 LD 75
377
-
 BE 5748
547
-
 Op(AL 34)
845
-
 AE 67
 
190
-
 BF 55
382
-
 BE 46
549
-
 AF 79
846
-
 AL 82
 
193
-
 DE 36
386
-
 Op(AL 63)
571
-
 BE 8370
953
-
 CF 34
 
212
-
 BF 8321
390
-
 Op(AL 39)
592
-
 BF 8151
960
-
 Op(AK 85)
 
231
-
 BF 51
392
-
 BE 29
621
-
 BE 55
972
-
 Op(AL 35)
 
257
-
 BE 14
406
-
 BE 5487
641
-
 BE 54
976
-
 Op(AL 88)
 
260
-
 AE 71
455
-
 CG 52
650
-
 BE 25
981
-
 Op(AL 34)
 
270
-
 BF 82
471
-
 AL 6712
666
-
 AL 55
984
-
 AL 31
 
271
-
 BF 45
510
-
 JB 28
672
-
 BF 64
989
-
 AF 79
 
281
-
 BE 52
516
-
 CD 38
714
-
 BF 55
1062
-
 AL 23
 
283
-
 AN 35
530
-
 DO 70
731
-
 Op(AL 02)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 92 - 129 - 178 - 193 - 270 - 364 - 392 - 516 - 543 - 621 - 741 - 758.
  Entered Port:  U 190 - 714 - Lorient; U 744 - Brest;  U 672 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 267 - 977 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) At 0404 U 377 sighted search group in BE 5748, bow "T 5" torpedo missed, wrong side, stern "T 5" was followed after 9 minutes by a heavy explosion.
    2) U 281 fired a "T 5" at a search group in BE 8345 on 13.1. at 2354.  Detonation after 13 minutes 5 seconds.  After 18 minutes several dull bangs in the same direction.  No pursuit.
    3) U 953 sighted 4 destroyers in CF 6316.
    4) A distress signal was received on "Diana" (Translator's note: Radio frequency).  Time of origin was corrupt (05?) message ran:  "hit by torpedo, boat badly damaged, am sinking", signature corrupt.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings: None.
       
- 32 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) Enemy units were located in:  BE 35, AL 7191, CF 3620, AM 31, AK 83, CF 3620, AE 8940, BE 3840, AL 5291, AM 75, AM 33.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Group "Ruegen" is en route to the new attack areas.  2 westbound and one eastbound convoy are expected.
  b) U 123 has been given a fresh approach point - ET 20 (Freetown).
  c) Supply group, U 544 - 516 - 129, will move its rendezvous to the south or southeast if the weather is bad at the rendezvous previously fixed.
  d) I. U 757 must be assumed lost.   Boat made its last report (passage report) on 6.1. from BE 29.  Boat was then attached to Group "Ruegen".  She had not met U 976 at the rendezvous by 17.1.  She did not reply to requests for position on 14.1. and 15.1.  No clue to reasons for loss.
    II. Following message was radioed to all boats:
      Serial Order No. 35:
      Use of torpedoes against shallow draught vessels:
     
1) G 7 e torpedo - with non-contact pistol "Pi 2" and G 7 a torpedo with non-contact firing unit "T Z 3", have been released for operational use against iron vessels with dimensions 25 meters long, 6 meters wide, 1/2 meters deep, and above.  Depth-setting and restrictions caused by sea force in accordance with instructions for the operational use of "Pi 2" and "T Z 3".  Successes are possible against smaller iron vessels, but are not certain.
2) "Zaunkönig" (Acoustic torpedo) with non-contact firing unit "T Z 5" has been released for operational use against iron vessels with dimensions:  45 meters long, 6 meters wide, 1 meter deep, and above.  Depth-setting 3 meters, with sea-force 0-3, and 4 meters with sea-force 4.  For restrictions see "T 5".  Successes against small vessels are doubtful.
      Admonitory Radio Message No. 79:
     
2 submarines have again used "Aphrodite" (radar decoy device) with great success.
1) Boat was approached by search group, started
 
 
 
- 33 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     
  "Aphrodite" and cut across previous course, search group passed by astern.  One destroyer approached the boat.  Boat started "Aphrodite", turned away, destroyer passed astern.  Searchlights were turned in the direction of the "Aphrodite".  Another destroyer was not taken in by the "Aphrodite" but kept following the submarine, who was proceeding at full speed. It is possible that the destroyer was listening to the boat and distinguished her from the "Aphrodite".
2) When cutting in the Bay of Biscay, submarine kept starting "Aphrodite" during the period when air patrolling was at its strongest.  One plane attacked "Aphrodite" with searchlight and aircraft armament at a distance of 2 - 3,000 meters without picking up the boat.  Submarine remained surfaced for another hour without being disturbed.
      Admonitory Radio Message No. 80:
      In the race to overtake the enemy after his spurt ahead in developing efficient anti-submarine measures, every single experience must be used to discover the new enemy defence weapons and methods, so as to be able to counter-balance them at once by tactics and new weapons of our own. The flood of constantly changing orders and instructions will not cease until we have achieved a decisive advance.  Until then the boats must wrestle with it.  This is possible only by dealing carefully and speedily with all orders and corrections. Commanding Officers and Captain's Secretaries are responsible for this.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
       
                                                                          for B.d.U.
                                                                 Chief of Operations Division
                                                                        (Signed):  Godt.
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
- 34 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
Supreme Command of the Navy  
Naval War Staff Second Division/Submarine Operations  
 
10 January 1944.
       
U-boat Situation on 1 January 1944
       
I.
In service on 1 December 1943:  
419
Commissioned during December  
28
   
447
Paid off (U 46, U 345)  
2
Losses in December, On active service  
9
                                     In home waters  
0
In commission on 1 January 1944:  
436
     
In addition, foreign boats:  On active service  
2
                                                In home waters  
6
(UC 2 paid off)                           
2
Handed over to Japan up to date  
1
       
II.
Losses during December:    
Atlantic:
Type VII:
 U 86, 284, 391, 648 =
4
  Type IX: U 172                         =
1
  Type IXD2: U 849, 850               =
2
Mediterranean:
Type VII:
U 73, 593                  =
2
Northern Waters: None                                    =
0
Black Sea: None                                    =
0
     
9
  For details of losses see enclosure
       
III. Distribution of boats:
    
   
II
VIIa
VIIb/c
VIIf
VIId
IXb/c
IXd1
IXd2
Xb
1)  On active service  
  6
-
120
2
2
31
-
5
1
2)  On trials, training, experiments  
-
 -
140
2
-
27
-
8
1
3)  School boats  
33
 3
  48
-
-
  3
-
-
-
   
39
3
308
4
2
61
0
13
2
  Continuation:
    
   
XIV
XVII
Total
Foreign boats
 
1)  On active service  
1
-
168
2
  
2)  On trials, training, experiments  
1
-
181
6
  
3)  School boats  
-
2
  87
-
  
   
2
2
436
8
 
 
 
- 35 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  During December:
 
New boats went out on operational service  
+
16
Total number increased by  
+
17
Number of boats on active service increased by  
+
17
Number of boats on trials increased by  
+
11
Number of school boats decreased by  
-
1
       
IV. Distribution of boats on active service at 1.1.1944:
       
 
Atlantic
130
     boats
Mediterranean
13
         "
Northern Waters
19
         "
Black Sea
6
         "
 
168
         "
       
V. During December in the Atlantic:
       
 
The daily average of submarines at sea was 67 boats
of these, in operational area 31     "
en route 36     "
of these, returning home 14     "
       
VI. During December the following left for the Atlantic:
       
 
from home waters
9
   boats
from France and Norway
30
     "
       
       
                                                                                                 For B.d.U.
                                                                                     Chief of Operations Division
                                                                                              (Signed):  Godt.
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
 
 
- 36 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
 
Enclosure for Naval War Staff Second Division
 
Submarine Operations
   
  Enclosure for paragraph II (details of losses):
   
 
U 86 Experienced boat.  Last report on 28.11. North Atlantic.  Reason for loss unknown.
   
U 284 First trip.  Scuttled according to orders in the North Atlantic on 21.12. because of severe sea damage.  Crew transferred.
   
U 391 First trip.  Last report on 13.12. W. of the Bay of Biscay.  Loss probably through air attack.
   
U 648 Second trip.  Last report on 22.11. N. Atlantic.  Reason for loss unknown.
   
U 172 Experienced boat.  Last report 30.11. N. Atlantic.  Reason for loss unknown.
   
U 849 First trip.  Experienced Commanding Officer.  Last report 6.11. Central Atlantic.  Reason for loss unknown.
   
U 850 First trip.  Last report on 20.12. Central Atlantic.  Loss probably through air attack.
   
U 73 Experienced boat.  Last report on 14.12.  Western Mediterranean.  Reason for loss unknown.
   
U 593 Experienced boat.  No report.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
       
       
       
       
 
 
- 37 -