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

16 - 31 March 1944

PG30343

     
     
 
16.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 JC 23
U 262
-
 Op(AK 36)
U 532
-
 JC 32
U 709
-
 Op(BD 32)
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
267
-
 AK 99
539
-
 BF 44
741
-
 Op(AL 17)
 
91
-
 Op(BD 39)
302
-
 BF 47
541
-
 DG 35
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
92
-
 AL 87
311
-
 BE 61
546
-
 Op(AK 65)
801
-
 DS 68
 
123
-
 ES 28
333
-
 AM 51
549
-
 BD 65
802
-
 Op(BE 70)
 
154
-
 Op(EB)
358
-
 Op(AK 38)
550
-
 BC 35
843
-
 EH 19
 
155
-
 BF 74
392
-
 CG 77
552
-
 Op(AK 24)
845
-
 BF 45
 
168
-
 KU 18
413
-
 AM 51
575
-
 Op(BD 40)
851
-
 AK 86
 
170
-
 DC 66
415
-
 Op(AK 95)
603
-
 Op(AK 98)
852
-
 FL 24
 
178
-
 GQ 98
421
-
 CG 94
608
-
 Op(AK 65)
856
-
 AK 62
 
183
-
 LP 12
437
-
 Op(AK 36)
618
-
 CG 95
962
-
 Op(AL 39)
 
188
-
 JC 45
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
621
-
 Op(AM 24)
963
-
 Op(BD 38)
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
466
-
 CF 64
653
-
 Op(AK 98)
986
-
 Op(AK 33)
 
218
-
 EE 53
488
-
 DS 88
667
-
 BE 61
1059
-
 DF 83
 
255
-
 Op(AK 24)
510
-
 LC 11
672
-
 Op(AK 61)
1062
-
 JJ 53
 
256
-
 BE 53
518
-
 Op(EB)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 168 - 178 - 183 - 188 - 256 - 510 - 532 - 539 - 549 - 845.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 373 - 471 - 505 - Brest; U 190 - Lorient;  U 181 - 196 - 960 - La Pallice;  U 970 from Group Mitte - Bergen
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 311 picked up a convoy by hydrophone in BE 60.
    2) U 801 was attacked by 2 aircraft at 1930 in EH 3811.  Slight damage to boat, 9 seamen casualties, 5 badly wounded, Commanding Officer slightly wounded.
      Boat is proceeding to U 488's rendezvous with U 843, but is only to refuel if she can continue to operate.  Some exchange of crews can be made as long as it does not affect the operational efficiency of U 488 or 843.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) No U-boat sightings, no ASV locations.
    2) Guardship 180 located in BD 64.
    3) Colombo broadcast a U-boat warning for LJ 85 (Japanese U-boat) and repeated the SSS report of U-boat attack in MK 5810 (Japanese boat).
    4) SSS report from DC 7237.  Probably U 170.
    5) According to a Radio Intelligence report a steamer was torpedoed at 0140/7/3 in EC 7470 (U 518, U 154).
       
- 176 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      Shipping was warned of possible drifting wreckage.
    6) Enemy units were located in:  AM 4930 - 7227 - AN 1451 - BE 2260 - 2280 - BF 1260.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  Group "Preussen" is transferring 180 miles in direction 1600.  Purpose:  to make it difficult for the enemy to pick up the boats by keeping them constantly moving.
  b) - c) None.
  d) With reference to the air attack on 12.3., U 311 reports:  Radar excellent, aircraft located all the time from 8,000 to 1,000 meters.  Without radar boat would have been surprised from astern.
       
V. Reports of Success: None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
17.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 KS 89
U 256
-
 BE 62
U 505
-
 BF 55
U 741
-
 Op(AL 42)
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
262
-
 Op(AL 19)
510
-
 LC 49
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
92
-
 BE 11
267
-
 Op(BD 32)
518
-
 Op(EB 8696)
801
-
 EH 3811
 
123
-
 ES 43
302
-
 BE 69
532
-
 KS 89
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
154
-
 Op(EB)
311
-
 BE 2249
539
-
 BF 45
843
-
 EH 14
 
155
-
 BE 96
333
-
 Op(AM 51)
541
-
 DG 29
845
-
 BF 46
 
168
-
 KU 25
358
-
 Op(AK 03)
546
-
 Op(AK 68)
851
-
 AK 89
 
170
-
 Op(DC 64)
373
-
 BF 55
549
-
 BE 47
852
-
 FG 47
 
178
-
 GQ 86
392
-
 DH 33
550
-
 BC 61
856
-
 AK 64
 
181
-
 BF 91
413
-
 Op(AM 51)
552
-
 Op(AK)
960
-
 BF 91
 
183
-
 LP 21
415
-
 Op(AK 98)
603
-
 Op(BD 32)
962
-
 Op(AK 63)
 
188
-
 JD 68
421
-
 CG 94
608
-
 Op(AK 93)
963
-
 Op(BD 65)
 
190
-
 BF 55
437
-
 Op(AL 44)
618
-
 Op(CG 95)
970
-
 AF 23
 
196
-
 BF 91
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
621
-
 Op(AM 24)
986
-
 Op(AK 38)
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
466
-
 CF 68
653
-
 Op(BD 31)
1059
-
 DF 97
 
218
-
 EE 57
471
-
 BF 55
667
-
 BE 28
1062
-
 JK 29
 
255
-
 Op(AK 35)
488
-
 EH 21
672
-
 Op(AK 64)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 168 - 178 - 183 - 188 - 256 - 510 - 532 - 539 - 549 - 845 - 963.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 311 was driven off by the port escort of the convoy last reported in BE 2247 on a N. course and had to dive
       
- 177 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      because of aircraft.   1259 fired a T 5 at a destroyer, inclination 90, range 25 hectometers. Explosion after 13.5 minutes and sinking noises heard in multi-unit hydrophones.  Boat was then depth-charged for 4 hours by 4 escort vessels, during which a T 5 ran in the tube.  Position BE 2166.
    2) U 415 was heavily depth-charged by an anti-submarine group in AK 9524.  Main periscope completely wrecked.  Unfit for deep diving.  Returning.
    3) U 549 sighted a passenger ship in BE 4748, course W.
    4) U 518 was attacked by an aircraft at 0758 in EB 8696 and afterwards made a situation report which was received very corrupt.  Boat was moving off to the E.  Nothing else could be deciphered.
  b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:  EL 3244, EB 9766 (U 518, U 154) and 8 miles off La Roche bearing 3000 (U 214).   Also a U-boat diving (according to a report from Colombo).
    2) 1 ASV location in an unresolved position and 2 ASV locations which were immediately cancelled, also in unresolved positions (Thetis?) (Translator's note:  Radar decoy device).
    3) Allied steamer made the following SSS report at 2130 from LC 4270:  Am being fired on by U-boat. Another steamer made an SOS in the S. Atlantic (repeated by Whitehall).
    4) Enemy units were located in: AM 5824 - 5360 - 7712 - 7910 - AN 4119 - 6447.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Group "Preussen" on passage to attack areas.
  b) - c) None.
  d) The following boats must be presumed lost:
    1) U 91 and U 709:
      U 91 last reported on 19.2. beacon-signals from an aircraft over Group "Hai's" convoy.  U 709 last reported a stern-tube miss with T 5 at a corvette.  End-of-run detonation.  Since then no further reports.  No reply to order on 16 and 17.3. to report date of return passage.  Possibly both boats lost while attacking the convoy.
    2) U 575:
      Last report on 13.3. concerning attack by aircraft.  Orders to report weather and position on 15 and 16.3. were not answered.  Possibly lost by air attack.
 
 
 
- 178 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    3) To loss of U 177:
      According to a Radio Intelligence report Admiral W. Africa made the following to a ship on 6.2.:  U-boat survivors in FL 46.  Alter course to pass that position.  (According to dead reckoning U 177 must have been in about that area at that time.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 311                1 destroyer.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
18.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 KS 89
U 256
-
 BE 63
U 505
-
 BF 57
U 741
-
 Op(AL 45)
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
262
-
 Op(AL 41)
510
-
 LC 75
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
92
-
 Op(BD 30)
267
-
 Op(BD 32)
518
-
 Op(EB)
801
-
 EH 19
 
123
-
 ER 63
302
-
 BE 67
532
-
 KS 89
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
154
-
 Op(EB)
311
-
 BE 21
539
-
 BF 49
843
-
 EH 14
 
155
-
 BE 98
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
541
-
 DG 27
845
-
 BF 46
 
168
-
 KU 32
358
-
 Op(AL 44)
546
-
 Op(AK 92)
851
-
 BD 24
 
170
-
 Op(DC 40)
373
-
 BF 54
549
-
 BE 48
852
-
 FG 73
 
178
-
 GQ 58
392
-
 DJ 12
550
-
 BC 35
856
-
 AK 82
 
181
-
 BF 86
413
-
 Op(AM 50)
552
-
 Op(AK 25)
960
-
 BF 58
 
183
-
 LE 91
415
-
 Op(AK 98)
603
-
 Op(BD 38)
962
-
 Op(AL 69)
 
188
-
 JB 83
421
-
 CG 94
608
-
 Op(AK 96)
963
-
 BE 41
 
190
-
 BF 57
437
-
 Op(AL 71)
618
-
 CG 95
970
-
 AF 76
 
196
-
 BF 86
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
986
-
 Op(AK 63)
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
466
-
 CF 93
653
-
 Op(BD 37)
1059
-
 DR 36
 
218
-
 Op(EE 77)
471
-
 BF 54
667
-
 BE 24
1062
-
 JK 35
 
255
-
 Op(AK 39
488
-
 EH 15
672
-
 Op(AK 92)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 168 - 178 - 183 - 188 - 256 - 510 - 532 - 539 - 549 - 845 - 963.
  Entered Port:  U 373 - Brest;  U 960 - La Pallice.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 421 was attacked by aircraft at 2347 in CG 9555.  Boat was ordered to act as the situation required.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) No U-boat sightings.  2 ASV locations in unresolved positions.
    2) Radio guardship BGG located in BE 55.
    3) English unit reported an attack on a convoy in AL 9774 (U 311?).
       
- 179 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    4) Enemy units were located in:  AF 7880 - AL 9920 - 9990 - 3660 - AM 4950 - 5140 - 3350 - 7280 - 3570 - AN 1520 - 1510 - BE 6380 - 2286 - 2840 - BF 1690.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations.
  a)  None.
  b)  U 183 is proceeding without escort from the rendezvous.
  c)  Rendezvous for supply of U 1059 and U 123 from U 488 is EG 6558 on 23.3.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
19.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 KS 92
U 255
-
 Op(AK 39)
U 488
-
 EH 14
U 667
-
 BE 13
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
256
-
 BF 44
505
-
 BF 41
672
-
 Op(AK 92)
 
92
-
 Op(BD 30)
262
-
 Op(AL 41)
510
-
 LC 75
741
-
 Op(AL 45)
 
123
-
 ER 64
267
-
 Op(BD 32)
518
-
 Op(EB)
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
154
-
 Op(EB)
302
-
 BE 56
532
-
 KS 92
801
-
 EH 14
 
155
-
 CF 36
311
-
 AL 84
539
-
 BF 49
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
168
-
 KL 96
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
541
-
 DG 19
843
-
 EH 14
 
170
-
 Op(DC 40)
358
-
 Op(AL 44)
546
-
 Op(AK 94)
845
-
 BF 46
 
178
-
 GQ 43
392
-
 CG 88
549
-
 BE 49
851
-
 BD 43
 
181
-
 BF 85
413
-
 Op(AM 50)
550
-
 BC 59
852
-
 FG 87
 
183
-
 LF 44
415
-
 BD 33
552
-
 Op(AK 20)
856
-
 AK 84
 
188
-
 JB 84
421
-
 CG 94
603
-
 Op(BD 38)
962
-
 Op(AL 69)
 
190
-
 BF 81
437
-
 Op(AL 71)
608
-
 Op(AK 96)
963
-
 BE 45
 
196
-
 BF 85
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
618
-
 CG 95
970
-
 AF 72
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
466
-
 CF 75
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
986
-
 Op(AK 63)
 
218
-
 Op(EN 33)
471
-
 BE 45
653
-
 Op(BD 37)
1059
-
 DR 63
                   
1062
-
 JL 14
 
  On Return Passage:  U 168 - 178 - 183 - 188 - 256 - 415 - 510 - 532 - 539 - 549 - 845 - 963.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 763 - 228 - St. NAzaire;  U 821 - Bergen;  U 960 - La Pallice;  U 473 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 311 fired a FAT 2 (type torpedo) at a steamer escorted by 3 destroyers on 19.3. in AL 9775.  Detonation after 73 seconds.  At 1250 dull explosion, cracking noises for a short time.  Presumed sunk.  (See Radio Intelligence report on 19th).
       
- 180 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) U 256 was attacked by an aircraft at 2321 in BF 4521 and reported 6 hours later that she was entering port.
    3) U 183 was attacked by a submarine with a quadruple fan shot at 0630 in LF 4277.  Avoided.  She will not reach the escort rendezvous until  2000/20/3 as oil in her starboard thrust bearing has run out.
  b) None.
  c) 1) 2 ASV locations in unresolved positions, aircraft located in BF 4418 and BE 6911, 3 locations in unresolved positions.
    2) Guardship BCG located by radio direction finder in BD 3980.
    3) Enemy ship made SSS reports from LL 3440:  Am being fired upon by U-boat.  Later:  Have been torpedoed and am being chased (Japanese U-boat).
    4) Enemy units were located in: AM 5540 - 5720 - 7390 - 5450 - 5240 - AL 6260 - BC 2751 - BD 3820 - BE 19 - 1930.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  New disposition of Group "Preussen" in the following attack areas, depth 50 miles:
     
U 255
-
 AL 1634  
U 962
-
 AK 6913
986
-
 AL 1589  
653
-
 BD 3198
672
-
 AL 1891  
267
-
 BD 3659
262
-
 AL 1942  
92
-
 BD 3891
358
-
 AL 4215  
603
-
 BD 6695
741
-
 AL 4416  
302
-
 BE 4145
311
-
 AL 4878  
667
-
 AK 9833
437
-
 AL 7781  
 
  b)  U 218 has not yet laid her mines off Trinidad because of strong anti-submarine activity and patrol.  Boat is proceeding to Port Castries (St. Lucia) first and will then try Trinidad again.
  c)  U 532 and U JT 24 have supplied and are proceeding to Penang in company.
  d) None. 
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 311                1 ship               5,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
20.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 KT 42
U 256
-
 BF 45
U 510
-
 LC 75
U 763
-
 BF 67
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
262
-
 Op(AL 19)
518
-
 Op(EB)
801
-
 EH 18
 
92
-
 Op(BD 38)
267
-
 Op(BD 36)
532
-
 KT 42
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
123
-
 ER 21
302
-
 BE 55
539
-
 BF 58
821
-
 AF 87
 
154
-
 Op(EB)
311
-
 AL 72
541
-
 DF 63
843
-
 EH 17
 
155
-
 CF 38
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
546
-
 Op(AK 95)
845
-
 BF 57
 
       
- 181 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
168
-
 KM 48
358
-
 Op(AL 41)
549
-
 BE 58
851
-
 BD 18
 
170
-
 Op(DC 40)
392
-
 CG 88
550
-
 BC 62
852
-
 FO 19
 
178
-
 GQ 12
413
-
 Op(AM 50)
552
-
 Op(AK)
856
-
 AK 79
 
181
-
 BF 76
415
-
 BE 14
603
-
 Op(BD 62)
960
-
 BF 91
 
183
-
 LF 56
421
-
 CG 98
608
-
 Op(AK 96)
962
-
 Op(AK 69)
 
188
-
 JB 76
437
-
 Op(AL 74)
618
-
 CG 85
963
-
 BE 54
 
190
-
 BF 72
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
970
-
 AF 47
 
196
-
 BF 84
466
-
 CG 79
653
-
 Op(BD 31)
986
-
 Op(AL 17)
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
471
-
 BF 44
667
-
 BE 12
1059
-
 DR 93
 
218
-
 Op(EN 33)
473
-
 AO 44
672
-
 Op(AK 93)
1062
-
 JL 13
 
228
-
 BF 67
488
-
 EH 15
741
-
 Op(AL 44)      
 
255
-
 Op(AK 38)
505
-
 BF 22
744
-
 Op(AE 47)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 168 - 178 - 183 - 188 - 256 - 415 - 510 - 532 - 539 - 549 - 845 - 963.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 976 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) No U-boat sightings.
    2) ASV locations in DJ 2116 or 1324.  3 ASV locations in unresolved positions, 2 others, which were immediately cancelled.
    3) Enemy units were located in AM 5570 - 3230 - 1650 - 7760 - AN 1530.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - c) None.
  d)  The following was radioed to all boats:
    1) Admonitory radio message No. 95:
      Prisoner's statements indicate that the enemy may recognize Aphrodite as a decoy from the appearance of several echoes.  Therefore avoid crowding, start the decoys at greater intervals.
    2) Serial Order No. 22:
      A Northern Waters boat, while blowing after a depth-charge hunt, saw flames on the after deck from a burning mass on the pressure hull.  At the same time there was a smell of phosphorous or sodium similar to the fug-box with practice torpedoes.  Phenomenon lasted for 1 - 1 1/2 hours.
       
- 182 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      When No. 1 ballast-tank was flooded the flames abated.  It is presumed that this is some means whereby the enemy can see boats at night when they have surfaced after a depth-charge hunt.  This is the first recorded instance.  Boats are to report such incidents at once and if possible bring a sample of the burning material with them.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
21.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 KT 24
U 256
-
 BF 55
U 510
-
 LN 13
U 763
-
 BF 83
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
262
-
 Op(AL 19)
518
-
 Op(EB 90)
801
-
 EH 78
 
92
-
 Op(BD 28)
267
-
 Op(BD 36)
532
-
 KT 24
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
123
-
 EH 75
302
-
 BE 46
539
-
 BF 61
821
-
 AF 76
 
154
-
 Op(EB 90)
311
-
 Op(AL 48)
541
-
 DG 42
843
-
 EH 45
 
155
-
 CF 30
333
-
 Op(AM 30)
546
-
 Op(AK 68)
845
-
 BF 57
 
168
-
 KM 54
358
-
 Op(AL 52)
549
-
 BE 59
851
-
 BD 44
 
170
-
 Op(BD 60)
392
-
 DJ 21
550
-
 BC 67
852
-
 FO 54
 
178
-
 GP 91
413
-
 Op(AM 50)
552
-
 Op(AK 20)
856
-
 BC 36
 
181
-
 BF 78
415
-
 BE 19
603
-
 Op(BD 66)
960
-
 BF 58
 
183
-
 LF 56
421
-
 CG 98
608
-
 AL 78
962
-
 Op(AL 69)
 
188
-
 JA 98
437
-
 Op(AL 77)
618
-
 CG 97
963
-
 BE 55
 
190
-
 BF 74
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
970
-
 AE 69
 
196
-
 BF 75
466
-
 CG 87
653
-
 Op(BD 21)
976
-
 BF 67
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
471
-
 BE 69
667
-
 BE 55
986
-
 Op(AL 15)
 
218
-
 Op(EE 69)
473
-
 AO 36
672
-
 Op(AL 44)
1059
-
 EG 33
 
228
-
 BF 83
488
-
 EH 17
741
-
 Op(AL 44)
1062
-
 JL 22
 
255
-
 Op(AL 16)
505
-
 BF 74
744
-
 Op(AE 47)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 168 - 178 - 183 - 188 - 256 - 415 - 510 - 532 - 549 - 539 - 608 - 845 - 963.
  Entered Port:  U 183 - Penang;  U 539 - Lorient.
  Sailed:  U 548 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 413 sighted a convoy of about 5 ships at 2139 in BF 3591, course W.  No shadower's reports because no other boat in the vicinity.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) 2 U-boat sightings in an unresolved position.  Signals received by Gibraltar.  They may possibly concern 2 of the 4 boats proceeding through the Straits of Gibraltar.  Aircraft aircraft attacked one boat on an E. course, 6 knots, with depth-charges.
      No ASV locations.
       
- 183 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) Aircraft escorting a KMS convoy located in AM 5340.
    3) Enemy units were located in AM 3610, 7210, AN 1492, BE 4280.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Attack areas of Group "Preussen" have been extended to 100 miles in order to avoid a stationary disposition and make it more difficult for the enemy to find the boats.
  b)  None.
  c)  U 168 has announced her arrival in Batavia for 24.3.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
22.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 KJ 95
U 262
-
 Op(AL 19)
U 518
-
 Op(EB 90)
U 801
-
 EH 55
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
267
-
 Op(BD 36)
532
-
 KJ 95
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
92
-
 Op(BD 38)
302
-
 BE 51
541
-
 DF 64
821
-
 AF 75
 
123
-
 EG 93
311
-
 Op(AL 48)
546
-
 Op(AK 68)
843
-
 EH 72
 
154
-
 Op(EB 90)
333
-
 Op(AM 30)
548
-
 AO 47
845
-
 BF 57
 
155
-
 CF 64
358
-
 Op(AL 42)
549
-
 BE 68
851
-
 BD 72
 
168
-
 KM 34
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 BC 83
852
-
 FO 82
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
413
-
 Op(BE 35)
552
-
 Op(AK 24)
856
-
 BC 92
 
178
-
 GP 51
415
-
 BE 51
603
-
 Op(BD 66)
960
-
 BF 57
 
181
-
 BE 91
421
-
 CG 95
608
-
 BE 12
962
-
 Op(AL 69)
 
188
-
 JA 88
437
-
 Op(AL 77)
618
-
 CG 95
963
-
 BE 56
 
190
-
 BE 99
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
970
-
 AE 68
 
196
-
 BF 77
466
-
 CG 88
653
-
 Op(BD 31)
976
-
 BF 58
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
471
-
 CG 29
667
-
 BE 43
986
-
 Op(AL 15)
 
218
-
 Op(ED 69)
473
-
 AN 39
672
-
 Op(AL 01)
1059
-
 EG 38
 
228
-
 BF 81
488
-
 EG 66
741
-
 Op(AL 45)
1062
-
 JA 88
 
255
-
 Op(AL 16)
505
-
 BE 99
744
-
 Op(AE 47)      
 
256
-
 BF 28
510
-
 Op(LC)
763
-
 Op(BF 82      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 168 - 178 - 188 - 256 - 415 - 532 - 549 - 608 - 845 - 963.
  Entered Port:  U 256 - Brest;  U 473 - Bergen.
  Sailed:  U 68 - 129 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 802 sank three small steamers totaling 5,000 GRT from a coastal convoy in BB 7537, course 2400.  Slight
       
- 184 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      anti-submarine activity off the harbor, no air activity at night.
    2) U 413 sank a destroyer from the reported convoy.  Fired a triple FAT at a bunch of steamers, success doubtful, 13-minute run, third steamer missing afterwards.
      T 5 miss at destroyer during full moon in BE 20, 30, otherwise nothing worth while seen.
      At the first approach driven off by aircraft.  All torpedoes used, returning.
    3) U 667 sighted a steamer, course 150, high speed, 2042 in BE 5164.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Gibraltar aircraft sighted a U-boat diving at 1212 in an unresolved position, course E., speed 6 knots and attacked with depth charges, after it had located the boat by ASV at 1206.
    2) 2 ASV locations by Gibraltar aircraft in unresolved positions (2220 and 2222).
    3) 2 American units were ordered to make a search with ASV in CA 8158 and 8181, as contact had been reported there.  Blimps and aircraft cooperated.
    4) 1 escort aircraft belonging to the current KMS was located in AM 5340.
    5) Enemy units were located in:  AL 9633, AM 5563 - 5280 - 5559 - 5316 - 5260 - 3610 - 7210 - 0258 - AN 2825 - 1492 - BE 1377 - 4280.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Group "Preussen" dissolved.  Boats redisposed as below, in order to keep them moving and make it difficult for the enemy to find them.
    Losses in the Atlantic during the last months were notably heavy in an area from about BE 20, 10, AL 90, 80, BD 30.  It is suspected that there is constant strong patrol by aircraft and anti-submarine groups, as the majority of convoys take this route.
     This area is therefore being cleared for the present and several boats are being used against the W. sector of this convoy route.
     New disposition:
    1) U 267 and 667 to proceed S.W. slowly between lines 1 and 2, U 92 and 302 between lines 2 and 3.  Day's run 50 miles.  Freedom of action on sighting the enemy.  Line 1 runs from BD 2865 to BC 7325, line 2 from BD 5685 to BC 8755, line 3 from BD 9185 to CD 1575.
 
 
 
- 185 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) The following boats will patrol E.W. in attack areas in the latitude of the following squares:
      U 255 and U 986 - AL 11, AL 13;
      U 672 and U 262 - AL 15, 17, 19;
      U 358 and U 741 - AL 41, 44, 47;
      U 962 and U 311 - AL 71, 74, 77.
      The W. limit is the longitude of BD 6115, the E. limit that of AL 6335.
      Boats have freedom of action within the areas indicated according to anti-submarine situation and moon and weather conditions in the E. or W. half.
  b) U 976, 960, 228, 763, which had sailed on 19.3., were ordered to return, so that Group "Marder" may be brought up to strength quickly.  Group "Marder" will now consist of 15 boats by 8.5.
  c) U 1062 has delivered cipher memoranda to U 188.  U 1062 has announced her arrival in Penang for 18.4.  U 188 is returning home.
  d)  U 653 must be presumed lost.  The boat left Brest on 2.3.44 and operated against a convoy on the 11th.  During this she sighted a group of destroyers, course 200 in BE 2451 and sank a destroyer.  Since then no further report.  Orders to report weather and position on 17, 18, and 20.3. remained unanswered.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 802 3 ships 5,000 GRT
U 413 1 destroyer  
       
VI. General:
    The convoy operation planned with air reconnaissance by Fliegerkorps X for the March new moon period will not be carried out.  The main reason for this is our own lack of forces; the inadequate number of aircraft of Fliegerkorps X available for reconnaissance is a secondary reason.
    Only 2 boats type VIIC were transferred from the Norway area to the North Atlantic in February and March.  On the other hand losses of VIIC boats were so high that there are at present only 18 boats in operations areas.  Of these 5 are detached close inshore for special operations and 1 for weather reporting.  Altogether therefore only 12 boats remained for a convoy operation.
  Fliegerkorps X has about 8 Ju 290, 1 BV 222 and a few Ju 88 for reconnaissance.  As experience of the last convoy operation has shown that Ju 290s can no longer be used singly, but at least 2 aircraft have to fly together, an operation lasting several days cannot be carried out with this small number.
    After the chances of success of an operation with insufficient forces had been weighed against the losses to be expected, it had to be abandoned.
 
 
 
- 186 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
23.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 JK 47
U 228
-
 BF 73
U 505
-
 CG 12
U 744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
255
-
 Op(AL 16)
510
-
 Op(LC)
763
-
 BE 9393
 
68
-
 BF 55
262
-
 Op(AL 19)
518
-
 Op(EB 90)
801
-
 EH 67
 
92
-
 Op(BD 34)
267
-
 Op(BD 36)
532
-
 JK 47
802
-
 Op(BB 75)
 
123
-
 EG 65
302
-
 Op(BE 42)
541
-
 DF 55
821
-
 AF 77
 
129
-
 BF 55
311
-
 Op(AL 48)
546
-
 Op(AK 68)
843
-
 EH 87
 
154
-
 Op(EB 90)
333
-
 Op(AM 30)
548
-
 AN 34
845
-
 BF 65
 
155
-
 CF 91
358
-
 Op(AL 42)
549
-
 BE 69
851
-
 BC 96
 
168
-
 KB 17
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 BC 85
852
-
 FO 89
 
170
-
 Op(BD)
413
-
 Op(BE 30)
552
-
 Op(AK 23)
856
-
 BC 61
 
178
-
 GP 16
415
-
 BE 52
603
-
 Op(BD 66)
960
-
 BF 49
 
181
-
 CG 12
421
-
 CG 95
608
-
 BE 16
962
-
 Op(AL 69)
 
188
-
 JL 23
437
-
 Op(AL 77)
618
-
 CG 95
963
-
 BE 56
 
190
-
 CG 12
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
970
-
 AE 67
 
196
-
 CG 13
466
-
 CG 89
667
-
 BE 51
976
-
 BF 49
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
471
-
 CG 55
672
-
 Op(AL 18)
986
-
 Op(AL 15)
 
218
-
 Op(ED 69)
488
-
 EG 65
741
-
 Op(AL 55)
1059
-
 EG 65
                   
1062
-
 JA 86
 
  On Return Passage:  U 168 - 178 - 188 - 415 - 532 - 549 - 608 - 845 - 963.
  Entered Port:  U 68 - Lorient.
  Sailed:  U 766 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings in:  square BF 4523.  Square BF 7314.  U-boat was escorted by several Ju 88.  Aircraft later reported attack by 4 Ju 88.  A Gibraltar aircraft reported at 1957 a periscope in 340 14' N., longitude not resolved.  Further U-boat sighting in unresolved position.
    2) 3 ASV locations, all of which were cancelled.
    3) Enemy units were located in:  square AM 5510, 1999, AL 5860, BE 2462, 1890, 2630.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - d) None.
       
V.   Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
- 187 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
24.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 KK 24
U 255
-
 Op(AL 21)
U 510
-
 Op(LC)
U 766
-
 AF 79
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
262
-
 Op(AL 01)
518
-
 Op(EB 90)
801
-
 EH 93
 
92
-
 Op(BD 65)
267
-
 Op(BD 38)
532
-
 KK 25
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
123
-
 EG 65
302
-
 Op(BD 66)
541
-
 DF 49
821
-
 AM 32
 
129
-
 BF 57
311
-
 Op(AL 75)
546
-
 Op(AK 65)
843
-
 ER 25
 
154
-
 Op(EB 90)
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
548
-
 AN 28
851
-
 CD 31
 
155
-
 CF 89
358
-
 Op(AL 51)
549
-
 BF 57
852
-
 FV 34
 
168
-
 KB 15
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CC 32
856
-
 BC 88
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
413
-
 BE 39
552
-
 Op(AK 21)
960
-
 BF 57
 
178
-
 GF 84
415
-
 BE 53
608
-
 BE 27
962
-
 Op(AL 71)
 
181
-
 CG 11
421
-
 CG 95
618
-
 CG 95
963
-
 BE 66
 
188
-
 JL 25
437
-
 BE 11
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
970
-
 AE 83
 
190
-
 CG 14
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
667
-
 Op(BD 39)
976
-
 BF 57
 
196
-
 CG 12
466
-
 CG 95
672
-
 Op(AL 25)
986
-
 Op(AL 23)
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
471
-
 CG 59
741
-
 Op(AL 29)
1059
-
 EG 65
 
218
-
 Op(ED 69)
488
-
 EG 65
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
1062
-
 JA 92
 
228
-
 BF 57
505
-
 CG 14
763
-
 BF 74      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 178 - 188 - 228 - 413 - 415 - 437 - 532 - 549 - 608 - 763 - 960 - 963 - 976.
  Entered Port:  U 168 - Batavia.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 302 sighted a small fast convoy at 0654 in BE 4178, course N.  She sank a destroyer with T 5 (explosion after 11 minutes).  Sinking noises.
      Boat is not to make shadower's signals as there is no other boat in the vicinity.
    2) U 856 was attacked by an aircraft in CC 3632 at 0128 and at 0705 reported no damage.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
      1255 U-boat diving in BE 4523.
      1302 in CG 9585.
      2 sightings in unresolved positions.
    2) 1 ASV location in unresolved position.  Attack abandoned.  Several locations which were afterwards cancelled.
    3) American steamer made SOS from AM 9815.  Requested tug assistance.
       
- 188 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    4) Enemy units were located in:  AM 5570 - 7980 - 5240 - 5280 - BE 2490 - 1836 - 4530 - 2730.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) North Atlantic boats are in attack areas as ordered.
  b) None.
  c) U 843 (Monsun boat) has supplied from U 488 and is proceeding on her passage to the Indian Ocean.  U 488 is proceeding to new rendezvous with U 123, U 1059, U 801.
  d) 1) The following boats must be presumed lost:
     
a) U 845.  Boat left Bergen 8.1. and was operating in the sea area off Newfoundland.  On her return passage she sighted a convoy on 10.3. and made her last report.
  Boat should have entered port meanwhile because of fuel.  Loss due to Biscay patrol or convoy escort.
b) U 603.  Boat left Brest 6.2.44. and made her last signal on 18.2.44. reporting an air attack in BE 1738.  Orders to report position and weather on 21.3., 22.3., and 23.3. were not answered.  Loss by air attack possible.
    2) Experiences with Schnorchel:  (see VI).
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 302                1 destroyer.
       
VI. General:
  Schnorchel:
  With the aid of the Schnorchel mast it is possible to proceed submerged on Diesels (charging battery) at periscope depth (13.5 meters).  The Schnorchel mast is raised hydraulically; it is fitted forward of the conning tower on the port side and is lowered onto the upper deck during passage surfaced and ordinary passage submerged.  Air supply with Schnorchel via the automatic float valve, air supply valve (which acts as a quick-shutting valve) and by means of a connection from air-intake mast to Diesel mast via the Diesel foot valve in to the Diesel compartment.  Exhaust via main exhaust valve, exhaust conduit, Schnorchel exhaust valve (newly fitted in front of the exhaust manifold) in the Schnorchel mast.  Outlet 1.3 meters below float valve.
    Possible degrees of speed with type VIIC boats:
  1) Both Diesels up to 270 revs. on propeller:  6.5 knots.
  2) One side charging only, Diesel 400 revs., charging current about 1500 amps., one side proceeding on main engines only, speed according to seaway.
 
 
 
- 189 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  3)  Both Diesels on propeller with subsidiary charging.  Speed 5.8 knots at 240 revs.  Charging about 700 amps.
    Experiences to date:
  It is possible to use Schnorchel up to sea 3, at night only because of smoke.  The Schnorchel mast is not proof against Radar.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
25.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LY 94
U 255
-
 Op(AL 31)
U 510
-
 Op(LC)
U 763
-
 BF 72
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
262
-
 Op(AL 29)
518
-
 Op(EC 40)
766
-
 AF 75
 
92
-
 Op(BD 64)
267
-
 Op(BD 37)
532
-
 LY 94
801
-
 EJ 75
 
123
-
 EG 63
302
-
 Op(BD 69)
541
-
 DF 47
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
129
-
 BF 73
311
-
 Op(AL 84)
546
-
 Op(AK 65)
821
-
 AM 31
 
154
-
 Op(EC 74)
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
548
-
 AN 23
843
-
 EH 8879
 
155
-
 DH 13
358
-
 Op(AL 51)
549
-
 BF 55
851
-
 CD 37
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CC 31
852
-
 FV 62
 
178
-
 GF 49
413
-
 BF 41
552
-
 Op(AK 26)
856
-
 CC 3632
 
181
-
 CF 36
415
-
 BE 64
608
-
 BE 52
960
-
 BF 57
 
188
-
 JL 19
421
-
 CG 95
618
-
 CG 95
962
-
 Op(AL 72)
 
190
-
 CF 39
437
-
 BE 15
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
963
-
 BF 44
 
196
-
 CG 14
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
667
-
 Op(BD 38)
970
-
 AE 85
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 25)
471
-
 CG 83
672
-
 Op(AL 26)
986
-
 Op(AL 24)
 
218
-
 Op(ED 69)
488
-
 EG 93
741
-
 Op(AL 52)
1059
-
 EG 93
 
228
-
 BF 57
505
-
 CG 17
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
1062
-
 JB 48
 
  On Return Passage:  U 123 - 178 - 188 - 228 - 413 - 415 - 437 - 532 - 549 - 608 - 763 - 960 - 963 - 976.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 537 - Lorient;  U 993 - 961 - Bergen
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 302 was driven off the convoy on 24.3. at 1300 in BE 4166.  Bombs and depth charges.  No damage.
  b)  Our own aircraft sighted at 1015 2 light craft in BF 4827, 1800, 20 knots.
  c) 1) At 2237 an aircraft of No. 19 Group was flying over 2 surfaced U-boats in an unresolved position and made a short signal.  Then 2 other aircraft were signaled from Plymouth, presumably with orders to act on the sighting of the first aircraft.
    2) 3 ASV locations in unresolved positions.  1 location which was cancelled immediately.
       
- 190 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    3) Radio guardships located:
      "120" in BE 1920/30 and BE 1280 (HX or SC)
      "BAT" in AM 5140 and 5244 (ON?)
      "BCN" in AM 5229
      "BMH" in BE 1280
      "480" in CF 9640 (unidentified convoy).
    4) Enemy units were located in: AJ 6993 - AM 5510 - 3790 - 5330 - 3660 - 3220 - 1662 - AL 9720 - BC 3720 - 3890 - BD 2120 - BE 5816 - 5330, BF 1920.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) New operations areas:  U 856 in the area N. of the line CB 1977 to 2999 (sea area S. of Newfoundland) to the coast.
    U 550 squares CB 40 and 50.
  c) 1) U JT 24 needs a complete overhaul when she gets to Penang.   Boat is showing definite signs of old age.   U JT 21, which has had a long dockyard period, in Western France, will have to be paid off, as too much working time will again be lost (changing Diesels).
    2) U 976.  This boat was attacked on 23.5. by 6 4-engined aircraft and 6 mosquitoes, after she had been picked up by ground mine escort to put into St. Nazaire.  She was sunk by fire from aircraft armament after an action lasting 20 minutes.  Crew saved by patrol vessel.  4 dead, 3 badly wounded.
  d)  U 466 reported her position from CH 5425 and passed into the Mediterranean.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
26.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LY 66
U 262
-
 Op(AL 20)
U 532
-
 KK 18
U 801
-
 EG 65
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
267
-
 Op(BD 29)
537
-
 BF 55
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
92
-
 Op(BD 59)
302
-
 Op(BE 41)
541
-
 DE 68
821
-
 AM 24
 
123
-
 EG 65
311
-
 Op(AL 80)
546
-
 Op(AK 65)
843
-
 ER 37
 
129
-
 BF 72
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
548
-
 AF 79
851
-
 CD 56
 
       
- 191 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
154
-
 Op(BB 90)
358
-
 Op(AL 60)
549
-
 BF 61
852
-
 FV 93
 
155
-
 DH 14
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CC 22
856
-
 CC 26
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
413
-
 BF 42
552
-
 Op(AK 28)
960
-
 BF 91
 
178
-
 EF 18
415
-
 BF 63
608
-
 BE 61
961
-
 AF 79
 
181
-
 CF 63
421
-
 CG 95
618
-
 CG 95
962
-
 Op(AL 80)
 
188
-
 JL 17
437
-
 BF 27
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
963
-
 BF 45
 
190
-
 CF 63
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
667
-
 Op(BD 61)
970
-
 AE 67
 
196
-
 CF 39
471
-
 CG 94
672
-
 Op(AL 30)
986
-
 Op(AL 30)
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
488
-
 EG 95
741
-
 Op(AL 60)
993
-
 AF 79
 
218
-
 Op(EE 71)
505
-
 CF 65
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
1059
-
 EG 65
 
228
-
 BF 65
510
-
 Op(LC)
763
-
 BF 81
1062
-
 JB 54
 
255
-
 Op(AL 30)
518
-
 Op(EB 90)
766
-
 AF 77      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 123 - 178 - 188 - 228 - 413 - 415 - 437 - 532 - 549 - 608 - 763 - 960 - 963.
  Entered Port:  U 549 - Lorient;  U 228 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 437 (on return passage) was passed over by fast vessels at 0450 in BE 5884, course N.
    2) U 262 sighted 2 destroyers at 0200 in AK 3925.
    3) Aircraft attacks:
      U 963 at 0553 in BF 5216 (escort rendezvous).  Boat later reported that she had been picked up by escort. 
      U 390 on her way back from deep-diving trials at 1120 (position approximately BF 6770).  Attack carried out by 6 Mosquitoes was unsuccessful, but the boat of the Senior Officer of the escort had one man seriously wounded.
  b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sighted in CC 5322 (U 550?).
    2) ASV location in BF 4968 by an aircraft of No. 19 Group.  4 ASV locations in unresolved positions, or without further details.
      2 locations which were immediately cancelled.
    3) Enemy units were located in:  AL 8877 - 9633, AM 3530 - 5227 - 7260 - 3451, BE 2233.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
       
- 192 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b)  U 218 was for the second time not able to lay mines off Trinidad because of anti-submarine activity.  Mines off Port Castries have been laid.
     Boat is now carrying out the subsidiary operation San Juan (Puerto Rico (2 MTA) and has been ordered to lay the SMA also off San Juan according to traffic situation.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success: None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
27.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 KK 21
U 262
-
 Op(AK 39)
U 518
-
 Op(EB 90)
U 766
-
 AE 99
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
267
-
 Op(BD 52)
532
-
 KK 21
801
-
 EH 47
 
92
-
 Op(BD 83)
302
-
 Op(BD 65)
537
-
 BF 82
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
123
-
 EG 63
311
-
 Op(AL 90)
541
-
 DE 83
821
-
 AM 25
 
129
-
 BF 74
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
546
-
 Op(AK 68)
843
-
 ER 65
 
154
-
 Op(EB 90)
358
-
 Op(AL 60)
548
-
 AF 76
851
-
 CC 33
 
155
-
 DG 38
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CC 16
852
-
 FV 99
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
413
-
 BF 28
552
-
 Op(AK 24)
856
-
 CC 24
 
178
-
 GF 11
415
-
 BF 44
608
-
 BE 65
960
-
 BF 68
 
181
-
 CF 65
421
-
 CG 95
618
-
 CG 95
961
-
 AF 76
 
188
-
 JK 62
437
-
 BE 58
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
962
-
 Op(AL 90)
 
190
-
 CF 68
448
-
 Op(HE 18)
667
-
 Op(BD 53)
963
-
 BF 52
 
196
-
 CF 62
471
-
 CG 95
672
-
 Op(AL 30)
970
-
 AE 31
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
488
-
 EG 65
741
-
 Op(AL 60)
986
-
 Op(AL 30)
 
218
-
 Op(EE 45)
505
-
 CF 91
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
993
-
 AF 76
 
255
-
 Op(AL 30)
510
-
 Op(LC)
763
-
 BF 68
1059
-
 EG 93
                   
1062
-
 JB 29
 
  On Return Passage:  U 123 - 178 - 188 - 413 - 415 - 437 - 608 - 763 - 960 - 963.
  Entered Port:  U 963 - 413 - Brest; U 763 - 960 - La Pallice.
  Sailed:  U 68 - Lorient;  from Group "Mitte" - U 740 - 473 - Bergen
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 510 on return passage, sank a freighter of 6,000 GRT on 7.3 in MA 6751, 1500, 13 knots. On 19.3. a Liberty type ship, 7,000 GRT, in MR 6398, 1750, 10 knots.  On 24.3. cargo sailing vessel in MS 5864, course W.  On 27.3. freighter of 5,000 GRT in LC 6659, course 550, 11 knots.
      The boat also sighted fast vessels on 15.3. in MR 1825 and on 23.3. in MS 5548, course about 2750.
       
- 193 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      Single-ship traffic is therefore now running approximately along the 200 meter line to MS 5455, then course W.  Good waiting position there, as there is no air activity.  The boat needs about 20 cbm. to return to Penang.  It is intended to supply her from U 532.
    2) U 960 and U 763 were attacked by 7 fighter bombers at the escort rendezvous.  U 960 has 2 seriously wounded, 7 slightly wounded and probably 1 machine shot down.  This shows that these attacks by the enemy are planned.  (see IV d).
  b)  None.
  c) 1) No U-boat sightings.
    2) ASV location in BF 4456.  Aircraft abandoned the attack 5 minutes later.
      4 ASV locations which were cancelled immediately by the aircraft concerned.   One of these was in DJ 2139, another in the Gibraltar area.
    3) Enemy units were located in:  AE 8152, AL 9860, AM 5440 - 5250 - 6410 - 5430 - 4434, BE 2919, BF 1426 - CG 4890.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) U 255 and U 618 (on their way to the Mediterranean) are returning.
  b) During the last 3 days U-boats have daily been attacked by aircraft at or near the rendezvous points, in one case by 6 4-engined bombers and 6 Mosquitoes.
    This seems to show that the enemy has developed a new strategy.   He appears to have realized that boats now pass through the Bay of Biscay submerged only and that therefore the aircraft will encounter comparatively few boats.  Clearly also the enemy has had numerous false Radar locations from Thetis laid in the Bay and this fact will have contributed to his change of tactics.  These reasons have obviously led him to use his aircraft in increased numbers in areas where the boats are forced to proceed surfaced, i.e. near the approach routes at water depths in which there is danger from ground mines.
     By way of countermeasure, the inner escorts were immediately reinforced.  Because of F.O.I.C. W. Defences' lack of forces this will mean that the outer escorts will have to be reduced.  It is therefore intended to let more boats proceed without escort by night along the outer routes.  This will cause delay, because boats will now
 
 
 
       
- 194 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     need 2 nights and a day for deep-diving trials; during the day they will be submerged beyond the outer point.  Fliegerkorps X will have a Staffel of Ju 88s in readiness at rendezvous time; it is aimed to carry out submarine hunts with Ju 88s in the area of the rendezvous.
  c)  None.
  d)  Analysis shows that the center of U-boat losses during the last two months was BE 10, 20 and AL 90.
     The enemy seems to patrol this area, through which pass all the inward-bound convoys and about half of the outward-bound, particularly well.
     Because of anti-submarine activity only small successes have been scored in this area and C-in-C Navy has therefore decided:
    a) to clear this area for the present.
    b) to order boats on return passage to avoid the upper half of BE.   This will mean that North Atlantic boats will have to start their return passage 2 - 3 days earlier.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 510 3 ships 23,000 GRT
  1 sailing vessel  
U 960 1 aircraft  
U 256 1 aircraft (cleared up with the C.O. after boat had returned).
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
28.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LY 83
U 255
-
 Op(AK 33)
U 510
-
 LN 16
U 744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
262
-
 Op(AK 03)
518
-
 Op(EB 90)
766
-
 AM 32
 
68
-
 BF 55
267
-
 Op(BD 43)
532
-
 LY 83
801
-
 EH 48
 
92
-
 Op(BD 76)
302
-
 Op(BD 64)
537
-
 BF 84
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
123
-
 EG 39
311
-
 Op(AL 88)
541
-
 DE 81
821
-
 AM 18
 
129
-
 BE 99
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
546
-
 Op(AK 68)
843
-
 ER 96
 
154
-
 Op(EB 90)
358
-
 Op(AL 67)
548
-
 AF 73
851
-
 CD 88
 
155
-
 DG 29
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CC 43
852
-
 GH 24
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
415
-
 BF 48
552
-
 Op(AK)
856
-
 CC 15
 
178
-
 FT 85
421
-
 CG 95
608
-
 BE 69
961
-
 AF 76
 
181
-
 CF 67
437
-
 BE 91
618
-
 CG 82
962
-
 AL 82
 
188
-
 JK 56
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
970
-
 AL 31
 
190
-
 CF 30
473
-
 AF 79
667
-
 Op(BD 55)
986
-
 Op(AL 24)
 
196
-
 CF 68
471
-
 CG 95
672
-
 Op(AL 26)
993
-
 AF 76
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
488
-
 EG 60
740
-
 AF 79
1059
-
 EG 99
 
218
-
 Op(EE 17)
505
-
 CF 89
741
-
 Op(AL 61)
1062
-
 JB 33
 
  On Return Passage:  U 123 - 178 - 188 - 255 - 415 - 437 - 510 - 532 - 608 - 618.
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
- 195 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  Sailed:  U 543 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sighted by an American steamer in MR 3444.
    2) 2 ASV locations in unknown positions.  Both locations were afterwards cancelled.
    3) Enemy units were located in: AL 5570, AM 7310 - 7774 - 1780, AN 2750, BF 2297.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - c) None.
  d)  U 421 reported her position from the Mediterranean.  She cannot operate further and is returning to Toulon.
       
V. Reports of Success: None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
29.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LY 36
U 255
-
 AK 35
U 518
-
 Op(EB 90)
U 744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
262
-
 Op(AL 19)
532
-
 LY 36
766
-
 AM 33
 
68
-
 BF 54
267
-
 Op(BD 46)
537
-
 BF 76
801
-
 EH 48
 
92
-
 Op(BD 84)
302
-
 Op(BD 53)
541
-
 DE 72
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
123
-
 EG 39
311
-
 Op(AL 87)
543
-
 BF 55
821
-
 AM 17
 
129
-
 CG 12
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
546
-
 Op(AK 95)
843
-
 FD 11
 
154
-
 Op(EB 90)
358
-
 Op(AL 58)
548
-
 AF 47
851
-
 DF 24
 
155
-
 DG 52
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CC 45
852
-
 GH 51
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
415
-
 BF 46
552
-
 Op(AK)
856
-
 CB 36
 
178
-
 FT 57
437
-
 BF 68
608
-
 BF 47
961
-
 AF 72
 
181
-
 DH 53
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
618
-
 CG 55
962
-
 Op(AL 81)
 
188
-
 JJ 83
471
-
 CG 95
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
970
-
 AL 22
 
190
-
 CF 64
473
-
 AF 76
667
-
 Op(BD 54)
986
-
 Op(AL 23)
 
196
-
 CF 91
488
-
 EG 68
672
-
 Op(AL 25)
993
-
 AF 72
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
505
-
 DH 13
740
-
 AF 76
1059
-
 EG 99
 
218
-
 Op(ED 36)
510
-
 LD 88
741
-
 Op(AL 52)
1062
-
 JC 15
 
  On Return Passage:  U 123 - 178 - 188 - 255 - 415 - 437 - 510 - 532 - 608 - 618.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
- 196 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 311 sighted a tanker at 1256 in AL 9343, course 2200, high speed.
    2) U 154 reported the situation in the Caribbean from 4 - 7.3.  Passage through Windward Passage, no traffic, little air patrol. Location transmission from shore on Naxos.
      13.3.  T 5 miss at 8,000 GRT tanker in EL 2368 (range too great) and a T 3 miss at a 6,000 ton tanker (engine failed). Otherwise no traffic off Colon.  Strong air activity, medium sea patrol.  Numerous location transmission from shore on Naxos.
      15.3.  Depth-charge hunt in EL 3127, during which forward hydroplane motor damaged.  Boat afterwards operated in EC 90 (Aruba and Curacao).  Slight fast single-ship traffic to W. and N.
      No air activity during return passage through Anegada Channel, no Radar.
      Boat is starting return passage with 86 Cbm.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Allied steamer sighted a U-boat in LD 41.
    2) English aircraft made an operational signal to Gibraltar from DJ 1392.
    3) 2 ASV locations without further details.  Both locations were afterwards cancelled.
    4) Enemy units were located: BD 3410 - CG 8822.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) The following boats have been allocated new attack areas:
    1) U 541 (as U 170) an area between the latitudes of CA 9930 and DN 5320, W. of the line joining these squares (coast of Florida).
    2) U 505 - 190 will make for EU 70.  Operation intended E. of this (Gold Coast).
    3) U 92 and U 962 will occupy the following attack areas, from which they will make weather reports twice daily:
      U 92 (relieving U 546) squares BD 45 - 46 - 48 - 49 - 72 and 73. 
      U 962 squares AK 64 - 69 and 91 - 96.
       
- 197 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) Rendezvous points for handing over of memorandum on new key-word order:
     
On 31.3. - U 672 and U 986 in AL 1635
    U 262 and U 741 in AL 0184
    U 311 and U 358 in AL 9147
    U   92 and U 302 in BD 5757.
On 1.4. - U 546 and U 962 in AK 9255.
     The order to be handed over so that instructions will not have to be radioed to each boat individually.  As the cipher settings for these radio messages are based on the lists of crews, each radio message gives the enemy an added chance to break into the system.
  c) 1) U 488 has supplied U 123 for her return passage.  U 801 and U 1059 did not appear at the rendezvous.  U 488 is going to a new waiting position in EG 9385.
    2) U 510 reports that she can reach Penang without supplying.   U 532 can therefore give U 1062 the required 30 Cbm. fuel.  U 532 is to suggest a rendezvous for this.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
30.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LP 77
U 255
-
 AK 39
U 518
-
 Op(EB 80)
U 744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
66
-
 Op(EB)
262
-
 Op(AL 01)
532
-
 LP 77
766
-
 AM 26
 
68
-
 BF 49
267
-
 Op(BD 45)
537
-
 BF 78
801
-
 EG 60
 
92
-
 Op(BD 75)
302
-
 Op(BD 58)
541
-
 DD 93
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
123
-
 EG 60
311
-
 Op(AL 92)
543
-
 BF 57
821
-
 AL 38
 
129
-
 CG 14
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
546
-
 Op(AK 91)
843
-
 FD 18
 
154
-
 DO 94
358
-
 Op(AL 91)
548
-
 AE 69
851
-
 DF 51
 
155
-
 DG 58
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CB 66
852
-
 CF 58
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
415
-
 BF 46
552
-
 Op(AK)
856
-
 CB 34
 
178
-
 FT 18
437
-
 BF 69
608
-
 BF 48
961
-
 AF 47
 
181
-
 DH 57
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
618
-
 CG 52
962
-
 Op(AL 71)
 
188
-
 JJ 45
471
-
 CG 95
621
-
 Op(AM 30)
970
-
 AL 22
 
190
-
 CF 91
473
-
 AF 72
667
-
 Op(BD 49)
986
-
 Op(AL 14)
 
196
-
 CF 89
488
-
 EG 93
672
-
 Op(AL 16)
993
-
 AF 47
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
505
-
 DH 19
740
-
 AF 72
1059
-
 ER 19
 
218
-
 Op(DO 98)
510
-
 LD 87
741
-
 Op(AL 51)
1062
-
 KS 94
 
  On Return Passage:  U 123 - 178 - 188 - 255 - 415 - 437 - 510 - 532 - 608 - 618.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 515 - Lorient.
       
- 198 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 448 reports the situation North of Iceland:   No longer possible to round Cape North by day.  Boat was off the northwest coast from 16 - 23.3., inside the 40 meter line for 3 days.  No steamer seen.  Only occasional fishing smacks.  A location transmission from a shore base was picked up for certain once 2 miles off the coast in about AE 4116.  Afterwards location transmission was received up to 35 miles away, although there was no activity by sea or in the air.  Boat assumes that this sea area has no importance for the enemy at the moment.
    2) U 621 situation from the Minch:  On 19.3. a ship type "Empress of Asia" (14,000 GRT) sighted in AM 3462, course 2100.  No chance to attack as range too great.   On 20.3. fired a T 5 in AM 3465 at a vessel with searchlight.  Type of ship not identified because of bad visibility.  Explosion after 10 minutes 45 seconds and sinking noises.  Location transmission on Naxos in AM 3360.   Boat is returning because of the state of her battery. Automatic mechanism of 3.7 cm. out of order, short in the cable.
    3) U 532 sank the Austrailian S.S. "Age" (4,734 GRT) on 27.3. in LY 57, 3200, 11 knots.
    4) U 953 was unsuccessfully attacked by aircraft at 0245 and 0350 in BF 9133 (deep diving trials).
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:  1756 in CG 9168 (U 471?).  0247 a surfaced U-boat in BF 9133 (U 953?).  1942 a surfaced U-boat in AM 5316, aircraft attacked with depth-charges, presumably no hits.  5 U-boat sightings in unresolved positions.
    2) ASV locations in CG 8946, CG 8686, DJ 2198.  All locations were cancelled shortly afterwards by the aircraft concerned.  One location in an unresolved position, cancelled shortly after.
    3) Enemy units were located:  AL 72 - AM 5290 - 0280 - 2715 - AA 1640.
    4) English steamer made SSS from LY 4990.  Signals suddenly broke off (may be attack by U 532).
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) U 970 and U 821 have been allocated attack areas; U 970 as U 358, U 821 as U 311, patrolling E. - W.
       
- 199 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b)  None.
  c) U 488 reported that U 123's main transmitter was out of order and that the following was the situation as gathered verbally during supply:  (Gold Coast).  Strong air activity with Radar at night close inshore, little sea patrol. Triple miss at troop transport, T 5 miss at destroyer, chased a fast steamer in vain.  No successes.  U 532 suggests LY 6855 as rendezvous to refuel U 1062 on 8.4.
  d) 1) It is intended to operate U 129 off the Brazilian coast.  This area was cleared in the Autumn of 1943 because air activity made such heavy demands on the crews.  A fresh attempt is now to be made, with Naxos.  Even if few successes are scored, the mere presence of U-boats will tie down the enemy forces to a considerable extent.
    2) U 1224 (German U-boat handed over to Japan, with Japanese crew) left Kiel.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 621 1 escort vessel  
U 532 1 ship 4,734 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
31.March 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LP 55
U 255
-
 AK 65
U 515
-
 BF 57
U 741
-
 Op(AL 01)
 
66
-
 Op(EV)
262
-
 Op(AL 01)
518
-
 Op(EB 90)
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
68
-
 BF 48
267
-
 Op(BD 44)
532
-
 LY 31
766
-
 AM 16
 
92
-
 Op(BD 73)
302
-
 Op(BD 57)
537
-
 BF 77
801
-
 EG 60
 
123
-
 CF 39
311
-
 Op(AL 91)
541
-
 DD 91
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
129
-
 EH 11
333
-
 Op(AM 50)
543
-
 BF 73
821
-
 AL 39
 
154
-
 DP 48
358
-
 Op(AL 91)
546
-
 Op(AK 91)
843
-
 FD 49
 
155
-
 DG 86
392
-
 CG 98
548
-
 AE 67
851
-
 DF 58
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
415
-
 BF 28
550
-
 CB 64
852
-
 GH 89
 
178
-
 FL 98
437
-
 BF 47
552
-
 Op(AK 20)
856
-
 Op(CB 26)
 
181
-
 DH 72
448
-
 Op(AE 18)
608
-
 BF 49
961
-
 AE 69
 
188
-
 GZ 63
471
-
 CG 95
618
-
 CG 25
962
-
 Op(AK 93)
 
190
-
 CF 86
473
-
 AF 47
621
-
 AL 35
970
-
 AL 29
 
196
-
 DH 25
488
-
 EG 93
667
-
 Op(BD 47)
986
-
 Op(AL 16)
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
505
-
 DH 45
672
-
 Op(AL 16)
993
-
 AF 69
 
218
-
 Op(DO 89)
510
-
 LD 96
740
-
 AF 47
1059
-
 ER 19
                   
1062
-
 KS 69
 
  On Return Passage:  U 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 255 - 415 - 437 - 510 - 532 - 608 - 618 - 621.
  Entered Port:  U 415 - Brest.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
- 200 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 66 reported situation and successes from operations area (Gold Coast):
      Sunk:  5.3. EW 8427 "Kohn Holt", 4,975 GRT, course E., zig-zagging, 12 knots.  Captain and one passenger on board.  21.3. in EW 7123 tanker type "British Confidence", 8,400 GRT, course N.W., zig-zagging, 11 knots.  4 MTBs as escort, one with a red searchlight.
      According to the captured Captain, U 66 sunk "Silver Maple", 5,313 GRT on 26.2. during the attack on the convoy and an unidentified freighter of 5,000 GRT.  Total success therefore 5 ships totaling 30,688 GRT.
      Traffic situation:
     
a) Steamer route runs from Cape Blanco along the coast to Lagos.  Convoys daily in both directions.  Strong, experienced sea patrol, with Radar and Asdic.  Inexperienced air patrol day and night with Radar.
b) Freetown and Sekondi are the only intermediate ports.  English convoys do not touch Dakar.
c) No single ship traffic close inshore.  Single ships usually sail further out to sea, only those making over 15 knots keeping close to the coast.  Air and sea patrol along the coastal route only with convoys, except for the area off "Monrovia".  Strong air activity there by night with location transmissions detected on Naxos and Borkum.
d) Apart from the convoys already reported, a S.-bound convoy heard in hydrophones in EK 4373 and a N.-bound convoy in EK 4987.
    2) U 333 is returning slowly from her operations area in the North Channel.  Boat was detected by aircraft in AM 5320, then constant sea patrol and submarine hunt.  No chances of attack in AM 40 and 70.
  b)  A formation of 11 Ju 88 carried out a long-range hunt in the Bay and shot down 2 Liberators in the N. of the Bay.
  c) 1) An aircraft of No. 19 Group sighted a periscope in an unresolved position.
    2) ASV locations in:  BE 9173 - BF 5572 - BF 5782 (in this case aircraft reported attack broken off 15 minutes later) and BF 5546.
       
- 201 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    3) Radio guardships were located in BE 1263 - BE 22.
    4) Enemy units were located in: BE 8836 - BF 2370 - AM 7250 - 7942 - 7425.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) U 448 is relieving U 552 and will occupy this area for attack and to make weather reports.
  b) - c) None.
  d) Experimental Radio Message No. 100:
    2 boats, coming into port under escort, were attacked by 6 enemy fighter bombers within sight of the lock.  Because of the elation at home-coming, Flak armament was not in full working order in one boat.  This shows that all Flak guns must be manned and ready to fire until the lock or the harbor boom has been reached.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 66                2 ships               13,375 GRT.
       
       
                                                                           (Signed):  GODT.
                                                                Chief of Operations Department,
                                                                                 for B.d.U.
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
- 202 -
 
 
     

 

 

     
     
 
     
Appendix 1.
   Supreme Command of the Navy.
Naval War Staff (2nd Division)/B.d.U. Op.
     
Staff Headquarters Koralle.
     
25 March 1944.
       
Operation against MKS 35 from 8 - 11.1.1944 ("Borkum")
       
A. Aim of air reconnaissance:  To pick up the convoy 2 days after it had sailed, to pick it up again at 12-hourly intervals until boats had been brought up by means of beacon-signals.
       
B.   Forces available:  There were 6 Ju 290 available belonging to No. 5 Long Range Reconnaissance Group, by great efforts on the part of this unit the number was raised to 8 by 10.1.
       
   
8.1. Situation at sea: U-boats in patrol lines:
      I from CF 5229 to 5318
    II from 2958 to 3758
  III from 3574 to 3676
  Air situation: Reconnaissance by 1 Ju 290.
  Take-off:  0827, landed:  0016/9/2.
  Area covered:  DJ 1237 - CG 7855 - CG 4889 - CG 8192.
  Convoy not found.
   
9.1. Air situation: Reconnaissance by Ju 290.
  Take-off:  0530, landed:  2150 and 2236.
  Area covered: CG 5757 - CG 7877 - CG 7771 - CG 4467 and CG 4139 - CF 9597 - CF 9575 - CF 6355 not being covered.
  1339 convoy in CF 9311.  Strong air escort, clear weather.  Course (estimated by wake):  N.W.  Composition:  about 39 merchant ships.
  Situation at sea: Boats, as Group "Borkum", in patrol line from CF 2945 to CF 3556.
   
10.1. Air situation: Reconnaissance by 3 Ju 290.
  First Ju 290 entered reconnaissance area 0425, left 0931.
 
 
 
- 203 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
       
   
  Second Ju 290 entered reconnaissance area 1241, left 1950.
  Third Ju 290 entered reconnaissance area 2040, left 2249 after being fired upon by one of our own boats.
  Area covered:  CF 9365 - CF 8345 - CF 5821 - CF 5293 - CF 5133 - CF 3188 - CF 3465 - CF 2975 - CF 5337 - CF 3663 - CF 3936 - CF 3946 - CG 4145.
  Convoy not found.
  Convoy was not picked up by patrol line by 0100/11/1.
  Situation at sea: As air reconnaissance was unsuccessful and no further information was available, it was assumed that the convoy had made a detour to the west.  At 0100 Group "Borkum" was ordered to form a new patrol line from CF 2447 to 2357 at high speed.  This might catch the convoy on the evening of 11.1. if it had been diverted to the W.
   
11.1. Air situation: Reconnaissance by 2 Ju 290, take-off 1302 and 1310, landed 1809 and 0149.  First Ju 290 broke off because of engine trouble, second Ju 290 broke off in CF 2253 because radar had failed.
  Area covered: CF 3471 - CF 2558 - CF 2252 - CF 2399.
  Convoy not found.
  Situation at sea: While Group "Borkum" was proceeding W., the most westerly boat of the line sighted the convoy at 1819 in CF 2452.  The remaining boats were directed against the convoy.  Except for the sighting of one destroyer, no further reports were received.  It must be assumed that the boats, which were approaching from the east individually at considerable distance from one another, passed the convoy.
       
Conclusion:  The fact that the boats picked up the convoy shows that it must have passed through both reconnaissance areas on 10.1. unnoticed.  It was afterwards discovered that the Hohentwiel (Translator's note:  type of Radar set) aerials in the aircraft fitted with radar had been wrongly adjusted by the manufacturing firm and the range of the set had thereby been greatly reduced.  This was the reason why these aircraft did not detect the convoy.
According to dead reckoning the convoy made 6.8 knots from 9.1. and steered a practically straight course between
 
 
 
- 204 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
the sighting on 9.1. and 11.1.  It could not have skirted the area reconnoitered, as it would otherwise have had to make 9 knots, a speed impossible with this collection of ships.  The operation failed:
a) because owing to an undetected failure in the Radar set air reconnaissance did not find the convoy in spite of the full use made of the few available aircraft.
b) because, for this reason, the boats were in unfavorable positions and too far one from the other, so that even when one boat made contact the others could not get there.
       
Additional review of Operation:
   
8.1. Radar reconnaissance with 1 Ju 290 Convoy not found.
9.1        "                   "              "   2     " Convoy found.
10.1. 1 Ju 290    Set failed Nothing found
  1 Ju 290 (morning)   Set failed       "           "
  1 Ju 290 (evening)      "      "       "           "
11.1. Radar reconnaissance with 2 Ju 290 (of which one had engine trouble). Nothing found.
     
  Total:  8 Ju 290s.  
The results of this reconnaissance show that, apart from the unnoticed failure of the radar set, forces for individual operations were too weak.  At least twice the number of aircraft are necessary.  Besides extending the reconnaissance area, this would have the advantage that if one aircraft's radar set failed the other would be able to carry on and the continuity of the reconnaissance would not be interrupted.  It is not possible to shorten the period of reconnaissance in order to concentrate the aircraft, as there must be time enough left to improve the positions of the U-boats.
   As the operation of U-boats within range of our air reconnaissance depends entirely on the results of this reconnaissance, we cannot leave anything to luck as far as finding the convoys goes.  It is necessary to get more operational reconnaissance aircraft.
       
       
                                                                                        (Signed):  GODT.
                                                                             Chief of Operations Department.
                                                                                              for B.d.U.
       
       
   
Distribution
 Copy No.
GAF Headquarters Staff Ia Training (Robinson)   1 - 4
also for G.O.C. Flying Training Baltic   5
Fliegerkorps X, Angers   6
                     
 
 
 
- 205 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
   
Distribution
   Copy No.
F.O. U-boats West   7
F.O. U-boats Norway   8
F.O. U-boat training   9-10
1 U-Flotilla   11
2 U-Flotilla   12
3 U-Flotilla   13
5        "   14
6        "   15
7        "   16
9        "   17
10     "   18
11     "   19
12     "   20
13     "   21
27     "   22
Naval War Academy   23
War Log   24-27
G.A.F. Academy, Gaston, near Berlin for Admiral Gladisch   28
Spare   29-30
     
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
Charts
   Borkum - Gelitzug = "Borkum" convoy.
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
- 206 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     
Appendix 2.
       
   
Supreme Command of the Navy.  
Naval War Staff (2nd Division)/B.d.U. Op.
12 January 1944.
Most Secret
Copy No. 8
   
Operations Order "Trinidad"
for "U 218"
       
   (Subsidiary operations "San Juan", Porto Rico and "Port Castries", St. Lucia).
       
I. Task:  The Northern Entrance to the Gulf of Paria, the harbors or roads of San Juan and Port Castries to be extensively fouled with mines.
       
II. Enemy situation:
  a) Trinidad:  There is a comparatively large amount of convoy traffic to and from Trinidad (main harbor Port of Spain).  About 40 ships enter and leave each week.  Fast independently-routed ships may also be expected in the Caribbean traffic.  Ocean convoys, which sail regularly, consist almost exclusively of tankers.  Usually 4 tankers escorted by 3 destroyers.  Convoy traffic from Trinidad to the Florida Straits runs to a 4-day schedule in both directions.  About every 10 days convoys leave Trinidad presumably for Rio de Janeiro or Bahia and vice-versa.
     Ships usually leave and enter Port of Spain in the morning.  Convoys proceed through the Dragon Sound after leaving the port.
  b) San Juan:  It is assumed that there is lively traffic between this and other American and West Indian ports.  Traffic was only observed by day.  Otherwise there is no information.
  c) Port Castries:  Nothing definite known.  Traffic is suspected along the coast.  The port is used as a supply and maintenance base.
    U 161 (Achilles) sank a passenger freighter of 8,000 GRT and a freighter of 5,000 GRT in March 1942 in the inner harbor.
       
III. Anti-submarine activity:
  a) Trinidad:  Lively air patrol from Trinidad up to 400 miles out to sea by aircraft of various types.  Sea patrol off the coast.  Small air ships may be expected.  The 51st Airship Squadron was first identified in the middle of May. According to prisoners of war there was an aircraft carrier in Trinidad harbor in the Summer of 1943.
 
 
 
- 207 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    Experience of C.O.'s:  Reconnaissance daily by airship or flying boat.  Radar locations on 133 Cm. and 280 Cm.  Medium air activity in the whole of the Caribbean with and without Radar.  When boat has been observed, strong air activity.  Strong air activity in the passages.  There are 2 enemy minefields E. and W. of the minefield gap (see tracing).   These observations (operation October 1943) are to be regarded as the latest information.
  b) San Juan:  Slight sea patrol.  No information on air activity.  When boat had been discovered night air activity with Radar on 148 Cm., then constant night air activity.   Continuous location at night on 275, 280, and 285 Cm., probably shore stations in Mona Passage.   Boat not picked up.
  c) Port Castries:  Air activity as for the Caribbean as a whole.  Night air activity 0330 - 0530.  U 66 (Markworth) reported in July 1942:  Lively aircraft traffic in the south of St. Lucia, large new camps on shore, apparently air training camp.  In the St. Vincent - St. Lucia Passage strong searchlight with a range of 8 - 10 miles, working at irregular intervals.  A patrol vessel at the narrowest part of the entrance to Port Castries.  Entrance lit by searchlights at irregular intervals.  Net barrage or boom defence probable.
    U 161 (Achilles) reported in March 1942:  No patrol observed.  Air patrol by several Consolidated and Martin flying boats one hour before first light.
       
IV. Mining material:
  1) 15 or 12 SMA (Translator's note:  Submarine - laid shaft mine) with 400 meters mooring rope, time setting 80 days, delay clock 3 hours, clockwork arming switch 36 hours, depth setting minus 15 meters, one period actuation.  Mines may only be laid at depths 50 - 35 meters.  Minimum distance apart 400 meters.  Mines may only be laid in a seaway up to 6.
  2)  4 MTA (Translator's note:  Torpedo mines).  Required water depth:  minimum 8 meters, maximum 20 meters.  Running depth:  6 meters, running range: 7,000 meters can be set to the nearest 200 meters, running speed:  18 knots, limits of accuracy: +/- 400 meters deviation in length, 1.5%, deviation in bearing from set track, safety distance 115 meters (depending on deviation of firing accuracy).
  3)  5 EMS, setting 6 days.
       
V. Execution:
  1)  Boat to sail as soon as at war readiness.
 
 
 
- 208 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  2) Order of operation:
    a) Trinidad all SMA
    b) Port Castries 2 MTA
    c) San Juan 2 MTA
    d) EMS to be used at own discretion when leaving operations area allocated in the Caribbean (Note current).
 
To a)
The are near the enemy passage gap is to be extensively fouled (no set minefield).  Advantage is to be taken of the new moon period as far as possible.  Attention should be paid to the ebb stream, with a strong set to the north and the flood stream, with a less strong set to the south. 
 
To b)
and c)  The mines are to be fired into the harbors or roads as far as possible, taking depths and running range into account.  Advantage is to be taken of a favorable phase of the moon (for direction and strength of current see tracing).
  3) Time of laying is left to the C.O.  First-hand observation of traffic and courses before laying is of great importance to success.
  4) The tracings attached will serve as a guide for the operation.
  5) The C.O. may act at his discretion on the basis of the enemy situation observed.
  6) For lights extinguished and ports closed see Standing War Order No. 491, Section D.
       
VI. No restriction on torpedo operations.
       
VII. In the case of operation Trinidad a report is to be made as soon as possible, but at a distance away of at least 150 miles, by short signal.
      AFKP will mean:  fouling with mines carries out off Trinidad.
  Execution of operations Port Castries and San Juan are to be reported by code-word by short signal when favorable occasion arises.
      Code-word "Cosima" will be for Port Castries
             "           "Saaleck"   "     "    "  San Juan
       
VIII. If the enemy situation does not permit the operations to be carried out, move off and report by radio message.
       
IX. When mines have been laid boat will be given further orders by radio.
       
       
                                                                 (Signed):  GODT.
                                                    Chief of Operations Department,
                                                                      for B.d.U.
       
       
       
 
 
 
- 209 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
57.                                                                             (CHART)
Operation gegen KMS 40 am 25/26.1.1944 = Operations against KMS 4 on 25 and 26.1.1944
       
Gruppe "Rügen" = Group "Rügen"
       
   Luftauflärung am 25.1 = Air reconnaissance on 25.1
       
58.      
Luftauflärung am 27.1. Morgens = Air reconnaissance on 27.1. in the morning
       
                "            "      "     Mittags   = Air reconnaissance on 27.1 at midday
       
                "            "      "     Nachts    = Air reconnaissance on 27.1 at night.
       
   Nachträglich nach B-Dienst Festgestellter Geleitkurs = Convoy's course as known afterwards from Radio Intelligence.
       
Verm.  Geleitzugstandort für 27.1.2400 = Convoy's estimated position at 2400/27/1.  
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
       
       
- 210 -