INTRODUCTION
by Don Kindell
The Eastern Fleet War Diary from 1 April to 18 June 1942 and
December 1942 to December 1943, inclusive has
already been added.
The period 19 June to 30 November is NOT covered in my War Diary
collection. However, I do have the “REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS” from the Office of
the British Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet. You will find much of the
information as was given in the War Diaries and in addition valuable insights
into the decision making of the Eastern Fleet.
The Report of Proceedings from the Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet was
made to the Secretary of the Admiralty on an irregular basis ranging from less
than a fortnight to six weeks, pending on activities in the Command.
Also included is the War Despatch of Vice Admiral G.S. Arbuthnot of 16th June 1942, covering 1 March to 18 April 1942 and two partial War
Diaries for October and November 1942 which only have Part II and the
Appendices.
I apologise for missing pages and
missing issues. Working with the sources directly it is always dismaying to
find pages ripped out of a report or entire issues not being in the bound
volume, leaving one to wonder if they had been misfiled, lost, or stolen.
In this regard, the detailed report for Operation STREAM-LINE-JANE is
not included in the ROP dated 17th October 1942. I have given the applicable
paragraphs from the WAR AT SEA by G.H. Hurford, written in 1945.
Thank you.
CONTENTS
LIST
REPORT OF PROCEEDINGS OF
EASTERN FLEET
29th March to 13th April 1942
13th
April 1942 to 1st May 1942
2nd May to 10th May 1942
10th May to 5th June 1942 - Narrative
5th June to 1st July 1942 - Narrative
1st July to 18th August 1942
18th August to 30th September 1942 - Narrative
10th October to 6th November 1942
War Diary of Eastern Fleet
for the Month of October 1942 - Narrative
Appendix I to War Diary,
October 1942 Operation Demcat
Appendix II to War Diary
October 1942 A/S Operation 30th October – 1st November
Appendix III to War Diary,
October 1942 Madagascar Operations
War Diary (November 1942) -
Part II Narrative
_____
Operations Stream Line
Jane, September 1942
War Despatch, Colombo, 18th June 1942
________________________________________
Background Events
(March)-May 1942
Russian convoys, Raid on St Nazaire, Battle of Sirte Gulf, SE Asia &
SW Pacific occupied, British landings on Madagascar
Office of the British Naval
Commander-in-Chief, Eastern Fleet
18th April 1942
No. 4. S/4682.
The Secretary of the
Admiralty
(copies to: Commander in Chief Ceylon.
Commander in
Chief East Indies
REPORT
OF PROCEEDINGS OF EASTERN FLEET
FROM
29TH MARCH TO 13TH APRIL 1942
Be pleased to lay before Their Lordships the following report of the
operations of the Eastern Fleet from Sunday 29th March to Monday 13th April.
Sunday, 29th March
2. Fleet was disposed as follows;
At Colombo: FORMIDABLE,
DORSETSHIRE (refitting), CORNWALL, ENTERPRISE, DRAGON, CALEDON, PALADIN,
PANTHER, NESTER, HOTSPUR, and EXPRESS.
At Trincomalee: WARSPITE, EMERALD, HERMES, HEEMSKERK, VAMPIRE
At Addu Atoll: RESOLUTION (wearing flag of Vice Admiral, Second in
Command, Eastern Fleet), RAMILLIES, ROYAL SOVEREIGN, INDOMITABLE (wearing flag
of Rear Admiral Boyd), NAPIER, NORMAN, NIZAM,
FORTUNE, FOXHOUND, GRIFFIN, DECOY, and
ISAAC SWEERS
(n.b. a tear and foldover on page in copying obscured paragraph 3
entirely.)
4. It appears to me the enemy’s probable target was an air attack on Colombo and/or
Trincomalee and probably a simultaneous attack on both ports. Possible methods
of attack were:
(a). A moonlight attack
followed by a moonlight landing on the carriers.
(b). A moonlight attack
followed by a dawn landing on the carriers.
(c). A daylight attack.
I considered (b) the most probable as I thought the Japanese would use
to advantage the full moon for attacking their easily distinguishable targets
in spite of the fact that noon of their
previous attacks had been at night. The landing on after dawn would facilitate
the recovery of aircraft.
5. The enemy could approach Ceylon from the
north-east, from the east, or from the south-east, to a position equidistant
200 miles from Colombo and
Trincomalee. I considered an approach from the south-east most probable. This
would enable to enemy to fly off aircraft between 0200 and 0400 and, after
carrying out bombing attacks on Colombo and
Trincomalee, allow the aircraft to return and fly on after the first light
(about 0530); forces could then withdraw at high speed to the eastward. I was
assuming that the Japanese carrier borne bombers could have approximately the
performance of our Albacores.
6. My plan was therefore to concentrate the Battlefleet, carriers, and
all available cruisers and destroyers and to rendezvous on the evening of the
31st March in a position from which the fast division (Force A, consisting of
WARSPITE, INDOMITABLE, FORMIDABLE, CORNWALL, EMERALD, ENTERPRISE, and 6
destroyers) could intercept the enemy during the night of 31st March/1st April
and deliver a night air attack. The remainder (Force B, consisting of
RESOLUTION, REVENGE, RAMILLIES, ROYAL SOVEREIGN, HERMES, DRAGON, CALEDON, and
destroyers) to form a separate force and to manoeuvre so as to be approximately
20 miles to the westward of Force A. If Force A intercepted a superior force, I
intended to withdraw towards Force B.
7. On the supposition that the enemy adopted that I considered to be his
most probably plan, it was certain that he would have air reconnaissance out
ahead on 31st March. The success of my plan depended on my force not being
sighted by enemy air reconnaissance. The selection of a rendezvous was
therefore governed by the foregoing consideration and also by the following
factors:
a). WARSPITE had to proceed
from Trincomalee to Colombo to refuel and
embark myself and staff.
b). The necessity to
conserve fuel in Force B owing to the low endurance of the R Class. I therefore
decided to fix this rendezvous in position 4-40N, 81E at 1600 on 31st March.
8. Although it was considered probable that the enemy would approach Ceylon from a
south-easterly direction it was possible for him to do so from any directions
between north-east and south-west though south. It was therefore desirable to
cover all these possible approaches by long distance air patrols over the whole
sector. The number of Catalina aircraft available was 6 plus one reserve; which
meant that only 3 Catalinas would be on patrol at a time. This limited the
sector which could be covered efficiently and I therefore selected the enemy’s
most probable direction of approach, viz. from the south-east.
Patrols were arranged daily from 31st March onward to cover an approach
section from 110 degrees to 154 degrees to a depth of 420 miles from Colombo. This could
only be maintained for approximately 3 days and would then have to be reduced
in view of the limited number of aircraft available. The lack of adequate long
distance air reconnaissance in this area – a matter I had stressed before
leaving the United Kingdom – was most
apparent. I placed little reliance on the land based air striking force in Ceylon. The Blenheims
were only armed with bombs and were untrained in overseas operations. The 4
Swordfish available had insufficient range to reach the enemy if he kept his
distance.
Monday, 30th March
9. At 1130, I embarked with my staff in WARSPITE (the ship having
arrived the previous evening from Trincomalee). The Forces of the Eastern Fleet
at Colombo, Trincomalee,
and Addu sailed as requisite to rendezvous at 1600 on the following day,
Tuesday, 31st March, in the position selected in my paragraph 7 above.
Tuesday, 31st March
10. At 0100 I received information that an enemy submarine was in
position on an approximate arc 360 miles from Colombo between 90
degrees and 140 degrees. It appeared to me that this patrol had been
established for two purposes.
(i). To provide a
reconnaissance
(ii). To serve as a screen
through which the Ceylon raiding force
would withdraw to the east or south-east on completion of their attack. It is
also suggested an approach from the east or a withdrawal due east from a
position south of Ceylon.
I therefore ordered an Albacore to be flown ashore from FORMIDABLE with
a message requesting the Deputy Command In Chief, Eastern Fleet to provide a
Catalina patrol to the northward in addition to those arranged from 31st March,
to cover this possible approach to Ceylon from 90
degrees.
11. By 1600 all the forces had rendezvoused in the prearranged position
and the fleet shaped a course to the northward. I formed the fleet into two
forces,
(a). fast division (Force
A) consisting of WARSPITE, INDOMITABLE, FORMIDABLE, CORNWALL, EMERALD, ENTERPRISE, NAPIER,
NESTOR, PALADIN, PANTHER, HOTSPUR, and FOXHOUND under my immediate command;
(b). Battleship supporting
force (Force B), consisting of RESOLUTION, REVENGE, RAMILLIES, ROYAL SOVEREIGN,
HERMES, DRAGON, CALEDON, HEEMSKERCK, GRIFFIN, DECOY, NORMAN, FORTUNE, ISAAC
SWEERS, ARROW, VAMPIRE, and SCOUT under the Vice Admiral, Second in Command.
12. My movements for the night were governed by the following factors:
(i). The necessity to avoid
the enemy’s possible daylight air search area until after dark in order to
achieve surprise.
(ii). The need to be at a convenient
distance from the position which it was considered likely the enemy would
select to fly off his aircraft, either for a moonlight attack and moonlight
return to the carriers or as was considered probably, a moonlight attack
followed by a dawn land on. This position equi-distant from Colombo and Trincomalee
was about 5-20N, 82-55E, and was about 120 miles from the fleet’s position at
1800.
13. I decided on the following plan; to take Force A to the northward
until dark and then alter to 80 degrees, 15 knots, continue on that course
until about 0230 when I should be in the vicinity of the enemy’s established
fly off position. At the same time to carry out a continuous night ASV search
ahead and to the southward of Force A. If nothing was sighted or located by
0230, to turn back to the southwest and withdraw outside the enemy’s air search
area.Force B to act as a supporting force to Force A, keeping 20 miles to the
westward and conforming to Force A’s movements throughout the night,
rendezvousing at 0800 the following morning.
This procedure was carried out on the night of 31st March/1st April and
nothing was seen or located.
Wednesday, 1st April
14. DORSETSHIRE rejoined Force A, p.m., having stopped her refit at Colombo in order to
take part in this operation.
For four hours during the day a wide diverging air search was carried
out to the east and southeast to supplement the Catalina patrols being carried
out from Ceylon. These daylight
air searches and all ASV searches ahead of the Fleet were carried out on each
succeeding day at sea.
15. No further information having been received as to enemy movements, I
decided in accordance with my previous plan to repeat the sweep to the
north-east which had been carried out on the previous night.
16. The following factors affected my choice of the actual sweep.
(i). To keep outside the
furthest on of enemy air search area until dark.
(ii). To sweep to the
north-east to keep clear, as far as possible, of the waters though which I had
swept the previous night.
As nothing was sighted by early morning, I withdrew again to the
south-west and rendezvoused with Force B at daylight.
Thursday, 2nd April
17. During the day, Forces A and B had manoeuvred in an arc about 50
miles to the westward of those waters in which they steamed in daylight on the
two previous days in order to keep clear of any enemy submarines that might
have sighted the Forces. Throughout the day, several unconfirmed echoes were
reported by destroyers in the screen. Opportunity was taken to
oil 5 of the destroyers, 3 from the oiler APPLELEAF which had previously been
ordered to the vicinity before I left Colombo; and two from
8” cruisers.
18. My next concern was my future course of action and the following are
the main factors, which decided it:
(i). The fleet had now been
operating 3 days and 2 nights off the south of Ceylon and probability of
location by enemy submarines was increasing.
(ii). No further
information had arrived which indicated that an air attack on Ceylon was likely to develop
in the immediate future. The possible reasons for this were:
(a) the enemy’s timing had
been upset
(b) our deductions of his
plans had been incorrect from the start
(c) he had received news of
our fleet concentration. This latter reason appeared probable and I considered
would influence the enemy in delaying his attack until we were compelled to
return to harbour to refuel.
(iii). The R Class
battleships were rapidly running out of fresh water. RESOLUTION would soon be
compelled to use salt water in her 15” hydraulic system. The Vice Admiral,
Second in Command, had informed me at the beginning of the operation that 3
days was the limit of the endurance of R class battleships for this reason.
These ships still had ample fuel to remain at sea for a further period and it
was unpleasant to me to find that the supply of fresh water was now the factor
which limited their endurance at sea. This was in part due to the failure of a
water tanker to arrive at Addu Atoll before Force B sailed.
(iv). It was very desirable
for me to have an early conference with my Flag and Commanding Officers to
explain my police and intentions.
On the above factors, I decided not to repeat the big sweep the
north-east for the third time, but to continue my sweep to a much smaller one
to the east. As nothing was seen by 2100, I abandoned the operation and shaped
course south west to Addu Atoll.
Friday, 3rd April
19. At 0520 I detached FORTUNE to rescue survivors from S.S. GLEN SHEIL,
torpedoed in position 00-48S, 78-35E at 0230. FORTUNE picked up 88 survivors
and proceeded direct to Addu Atoll where she arrived at 1130 on the 4th April.
20. At this time, I felt convinced that something must have occurred to
delay the Japanese attack or alternatively that their objective had been
inaccurately appreciated. I therefore detached DORSETSHIRE and CORNWALL at 0940 to Colombo. The former to
resume her interrupted refit and the latter to act as escort to the Australian
troop convoy S U 4. I also detached HERMES with her attendant destroyer VAMPIRE
to Trincomalee to prepare for Operation IRONCLAD. I left the decision where she
as to land her Swordfish at China Bay to the
Commander in Chief, East Indies.
21. During the day, 3 destroyers were oiled from the battleships. At
1820, Force A proceeded ahead at 19 knots for Addu Atoll, Force B following
astern at 14 knots.
Saturday, 4th April
22. Air A/S search was carried out over the approaches to Addu Atoll and
Force A entered the harbour at 1200. Force B arrived at 1500.
23. At 1630, I received a report from a Catalina southeast of Ceylon that a large
enemy force was in position 00-40N, 83-10E at 1605F, course 315 degrees.
Shortly afterwards this report was confirmed by a message from 222 Group which
gave the course as 330 degrees. This positioned the force 155 degrees from
Dondra Head, 360 miles, the distance from Addu Atoll being 85 degrees 600
miles. There was no indication as to the composition of the force.
24. The condition of my fleet at Addu Atoll at this time was as follows:
owing to the limited number of oilers available, the vessels comprising Force A
had taken about half their fuel and Force B had not yet commenced. In addition,
the R Class battleships were very short of water which had to be taken in
before they could sail. This meant that Force A (except EMERALD and ENTERPRISE) could proceed
to sea immediately. EMERALD and ENTERPRISE would be ready
to sail by midnight and Force B
could not leave until 0700 on the 5th at the earliest.
25. It appeared that the enemy’s probably plan was as follows: All the
evidence supported my original appreciation that the enemy would attack Colombo (and possibly
Trincomalee) with carrier borne aircraft either before dawn or shortly
afterwards and would return to the carriers in a position about 150 miles
south-east to south of Ceylon. On completion,
the whole force would then withdraw to the east. The enemy’s reported position
made it apparent that this attack was to be made on the morning of Sunday 5th.
26. My possible courses of action were as follows:
(i). Force A, less EMERALD
and ENTERPRISE, to proceed immediately at best speed to the area south of
Ceylon, to be joined there by DORSETSHIRE and CORNWALL from Colombo and attack
any enemy force located.
(ii). Delay the sailing of
Force A until EMERALD and ENTERPRISE had completed
refueling and sail about midnight. Force B to
sail on the morning of the 5th and follow astern to act as a supporting force.
(iii). Delay the sailing of
Force A until both forces could leave together on the morning of the 5th.
(iv). Forces A and B to
remain at Addu Atoll and leave the Air Force to deal with the enemy attack.
27. My choice of plan was governed by the following considerations:
(a). First and foremost,
the total defense of the Indian Ocean and its vital
lines of communications depend on the existence of the Eastern Fleet. The
longer this fleet remains “a fleet in being”, the longer it will limit and
check the enemy’s advances against Ceylon and further
west. This major policy of retaining “a fleet in being”, already approved by
Their Lordships, was, in my opinion paramount.
(b). The only hope of
dealing the enemy an effective blow was by means of a carrier borne air
striking force preferably at night. To operate the carriers escorted by WARSPITE
out of supporting distance of the R Class battleships would offer the enemy an
opportunity to cripple our only offensive weapon.. I considered it a cardinal
point in any operation that Force A should not proceed outside supporting
distance from Force B unless it could be presumed that enemy capital ships
would not be encountered.
(c). No matter which course
of action I adopted the enemy force could not be intercepted either before or
during the air attack on Ceylon on the morning
of the 5th. My only hope was that the air striking force from Ceylon might “wing”
some of the enemy’s ships which I could attack later, or that the attack on Ceylon might be
delayed for 24 hours.
28. I therefore decided to adapt course 26 (ii). I sailed Force A,
including EMERALD and ENTERPRISE at midnight and ordered Force B to proceed as early as
possible the following morning.
29. I instructed the Deputy Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet, to sail
DORSETSHIRE and CORNWALL to rendezvous with Force A at 1600 on the following
day (Sunday 5th), in position 00-58N, 77-36E. This rendezvous was based on
their expected time of departure from Colombo and estimated
as being the earliest possible time at which they could cross my track, taking
into consideration the fact that DORSETSHIRE had resumed her refit and was at
extended notice. I considered that the course to be steered by the cruisers
would take them well clear of any enemy forces operating in the vicinity.
Actually these instructions had been anticipated by the Deputy Commander in
Chief, Eastern Fleet and these two cruisers, at his direction, sailed at 2300
for Addu Atoll. On receipt of my signal the Deputy Commander in Chief amended
his instructions accordingly at 0409/5.
Sunday 5th April
30. Force A sailed at 0015 and proceeded 70 degrees 18 knots towards a
position which would bring it 250 miles south of Ceylon by dawn on the
6th.
31. During the night I received reports from the Catalinas on patrol
from Ceylon of an enemy destroyers in position 4-59N, 82-20E (n.b. handwritten
correction 1-59N vice 4-59N) course 315 degrees, speed 20 knots; 6 enemy
destroyers in position 2-54N, 82-10E course 325 degrees, speed 21 knots; and
0702 1 battleship, 2 cruisers, and 4 other ships 195 degrees Dondra Head 110
miles. This latter message was subsequently amplified to the effect that the
vessels previously reported were definitely hostile and consisted of 2
battleships, 2 cruisers, and destroyers.
32. At about 0625 an air raid on shipping and harbour facilities at Colombo commenced, some
75 aircraft taking part. There were later reported to be mainly Navy O
fighters, armed with one bomb each. This enemy force withdrew from Colombo before 0900 and
was seen by several merchant ships south west of Ceylon probably
returning to the carriers. In several cases these merchant ships were machine
gunner.
33. From 0645, an air A/S patrol was maintained ahead of the Fleet.
INDOMITABLE also sent 4 Fulmars to commence a search to the eastward. This
search covered the area between the arcs 55 degrees to 105 degrees to a depth
of 215 miles. It proved negative except for the sighting of one enemy seaplane
at 0855, 76 degrees 150 miles from Force A. This suggested that the enemy was
carrying out reconnaissance in a south-westerly direction by means of cruiser
aircraft, or a seaplane carrier, in a position 70 miles southwest of the main
enemy force. There was no indication that this aircraft sighted any of our
surface forces or our air search.
34. Between 0720 and 1145 I received reports of battleships in
approximately positions 3-55N, 80-40E steering 290 degrees at 0648, 120 degrees
at 07030, and at 1004 in position 4N, 25E, steering 282 degrees. This suggested
the battleships were marking time whilst the carriers recovered their aircraft.
The estimated position of DORSETSHIRE and CORNWALL at this time
was 150 mils from the enemy and opening.
35. At 1327 a mutilated “Shad” signal was received from Colombo, subsequently
identified at 1406 as from DORSETSHIRE, whose position was estimated as being
37 degrees 90 miles from Force A at 1400, but was not actually established.
36. At 1344 an enemy air formation had been detected by R.D.F. 30
degrees 84 miles from Force A. This had faded after five minutes and it is now
clear that this must have been the attack on the 8” cruisers (which it was
learnt afterwards occurred at about 1400). Wreckage was reported by
reconnaissance aircraft from Force A at 1522 in position 2-08N, 78-08E.
37. A destroyer was detached to search but was recalled when at 1655 a
reconnaissance aircraft from Force A reported an enemy force of 5 “unknowns” in
position 3-38N, 78-18E at 1600. There was then no indication of the course of
speed of this unknown force, but it could be either;
(a). a new force previously
unreported, or
(b). the force previously
and last reported at 1004.
38. It is unfortunately necessary that no relief shadowers were sent off
by the Rear Admiral Aircraft Carriers as soon as this report was received and
that I omitted to obtain confirmation from Rear Admiral Aircraft Carriers that
relief shadowers had been sent. (n.b. in text “shadows” pen and ink corrected
to “shadowers” in both cases.) At 1700 I received a report from Colombo that there were
indications of enemy aircraft carriers steering 230 degrees at 24 knots from an
unknown position at 1400.
39. This was thought to be subsequent to the attack on the cruisers and
my deductions from this enemy move was as follows.
40. If he held on this course he would be at 0400 in a position to
deliver a night air attack on Addu Atoll. This seemed quite a possible course
of action. In any case it was necessary for Force A to keep clear to the
southward and for Force B (estimated to be 135 miles astern in position 0-12N,
75-15E at 1700) to steer southward so that Forces A and B could close for
supporting action at daylight the following morning (6th April). It as also
necessary for Force B to steer to southward to keep clear of the enemy carrier
force should it be proceeding to attack Addu.
41. At 1726, therefore Force A altered course to 210 degrees at 18 knots
and a signal was made to Vice Admiral, 2nd in Command and to DORSETSHIRE to
steer south, though by this time I entertained grave fears concerning the fate
of the two 8” cruisers. As I had received no signal from them that they were
being attacked I felt it was possible they had escaped and were maintaining W/T
silence.
42. At 1800 I received a signal from Rear Admiral, Aircraft Carriers,
stating that reconnaissance aircraft reported the estimated enemy’s position 20
degrees 120 miles at 1710. This position was very close to the previously
reported 1600 signal. The enemy’s course had not been given in either of these
reports, but the positions fitted in well with the course received in paragraph
38.
43. At 1817 a further signal was received from Rear Admiral, Aircraft
Carriers, adjusting the 1600 position of the enemy force, amplifying it to
include 2 carriers and 3 unknown vessels and giving the course as northwest.
This was the first indication I had of an enemy course to the northwest.
44. I immediately ordered Force A to alter course to 315 degrees and
instructed Vice Admiral, 2nd in Command to conform. These movements had the
object of keeping Force A within night air striking distance of the enemy
force, trusting to an A.S.V. search to locate the enemy, and to being Force B
within supporting distance should it be necessary to retire in that direction.
A dawn rendezvous was arranged with Force B in approximate position 3N, 75E.
45. As no news had been received of DORSETSHIRE and CORNWALL, the
presumption was that they had been sunk.
46. At 1930 a night search with A.S.V. aircraft commenced to cover the
section 345 degrees to 030 degrees to a depth of 180 miles. Nothing was located
by this search.
Monday 6th April
47. From 2100 to 0600 further A.S.V. searches were carried out to cover
the section 20 degrees to 80 degrees to a depth of 200 miles. These searches
also failed to make any contact with the enemy but reported that Force B was
220 degrees 25 miles away from Force A at 0400.
48. At 0615 Force A altered course to 135 degrees and sighted Force B
ten minutes later. By 0720 the fleet was formed up and course altered to 90
degrees.
49. Whilst no further information had been received regarding the
enemy’s movements nothing occurred to diminish the possibility of the enemy’s
being in the vicinity of Addu Atoll, either to attack it by air this morning or
to await the return of the Eastern Fleet.
50. I intended to keep clear of the superior enemy forces by day; to try
to get in a position to attack them by night air striking force on their
possible return from the Addu area, and also to rescue the survivors from
DORSETSHIRE and CORNWALL. I therefore
steered east and at 1115 course was altered to southward in the direction of
the wreckage reported the previous evening.
51. At 1300, ENTERPRISE with PALADIN
and PANTHER were detached to search for survivors in the vicinity of the
wreckage position. Air search was provided to assist; further fighter escort
was sent to cover the operation. These ships were successful in picking up a
total of 1122 survivors and rejoined the fleet at noon the following
day in Veimandu Channel. At 1800, when about 50 miles from the wreckage
position course was reversed and the fleet retired to the northwest. All round
air searches were carried out to a depth of 200 miles; nothing was seen.
52. At about 1400 a signal was received from CinC Ceylon estimating that
a strong Japanese fleet was still somewhere between Addu Atoll and Colombo. I therefore
decided to keep clear of Addu area, at any rate until after daylight on the
7th.
Tuesday 7th April
53. At 0200 fleet altered to the west, course 270 degrees.
54. At 0428 A.S.V. aircraft located two submarines in positions 2-08N,
75-16E and 2-46N, 75-10E; i.e. to the southward of the course of the fleet.
This indicated the possibility of an enemy submarine patrol having been
established to cover the eastern approaches to Addu. I therefore decided to
pass through the Veimandu Channel to the west of the Maldives and make an
unexpected approach to Addu Atoll from the west. At 0700 the course of the
fleet was altered to 210 degrees.
55. At 1600 ENTERPRISE, PALADIN, and
PANTHER rejoined with survivors from DORSETSHIRE and CORNWALL on board, and
medical stores were transferred from WARSPITE to PALADIN for treatment of the
wounded. ENTERPRISE and PALADIN
were detached to proceed direct to Addu.
56. At 2100 course was altered to 160 degrees.
Wednesday 8th April
57. At 0700 aircraft were flown off from the carriers to carry out an
all round search to a depth of 175 miles. This proved negative, and at 1100 the
fleet arrived at Addu Atoll and entered harbour. Refuelling commenced, Force B
being refueled first.
58. I held a conference on board with my Flag and Commanding Officers in
the afternoon.
59. Having discussed the situation I decided to send Force B to
Kilindini and proceed to Bombay with Force A.
This later decision coincided with Their Lordships views as later in the day I
received Their Lordships instructions that Force A was not to proceed to Colombo for the
present. Further, by proceeding to Bombay I should be
afforded an opportunity of meeting with Commander in Chief India and of
discussing the situation with him.
Thursday 9th April
60. Force B sailed from Addu Atoll at 0200 for Kilindini where it was
due to arrived on 15th April and Force A sailed at 0600 for Bombay shaping
course to pass to the westward of the Maldives.
Friday 10th April
61. At 1000 PALADIN closed WARSPITE to transfer Staff Officers for
passage to Colombo where they were
to inform the Deputy Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet of my views and make
preliminary arrangements to transfer my administrative staff and secretariat to
Kilindini.
Monday 13th April
62. PALADIN rejoined Force A from Colombo at 0705 being
back the Staff Officers who had been transferred to her on the 10th and also
Rear Admiral V.H. Danckwerts, CMG (my Chief of Staff ashore)
63. Force A arrived Bombay at 1040,
anchored and commenced oiling
(signed)
J.
F. Somerville
ADMIRAL
____________________
Office of the British Naval
Commander-in-Chief, Eastern Fleet
2nd May 1942
No. 16. S/4682.
The Secretary of the
Admiralty
(copies to: Commander in Chief Ceylon.
Commander in Chief East Indies
REPORT
OF PROCEEDINGS OF EASTERN FLEET
FROM
13TH
APRIL 1942 TO 1ST MAY 1942
Be pleased to lay before Their
Lordships the following report of the operations of the Eastern Fleet from 13th
April to 1st May 1942.
2. Force A consisting of WARSPITE (Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet),
INDOMITABLE (Rear Admiral Aircraft Carriers, Eastern Fleet), FORMIDABLE,
NEWCASTLE (Rear Admiral Commanding, 4th Cruiser Squadron), EMERALD, ENTERPRISE,
HEEMSKERCK, NAPIER, NIZAM, NORMAN, PALADIN, PANTHER, FOXHOUND, and DECOY
arrived at Bombay at 1040 on Monday 13th April.
3. At 1630 I proceeded to Government House, Bombay in company with Rear
Admirals Boyd, Tennant, and Danckwerts (my Deputy Chief of Staff who had
arrived from Colombo in PALADIN) in order to meet General Wavell (Commander in
Chief, India), Air Marshall Peirse (Air Officer Commanding in Chief, India) and
Lieutenant General Haigh (Commander Southern Army).
4. At Wavell’s request I outlined the present state of the Easter Fleet
and the extent to which I was able to contribute to the defence of India and Ceylon against enemy
seaborne attack.
5. General Wavell pointed out that after received the Chief of Staff’s
message No. C.O.S. (India) 42 he had
formed the opinion that the Eastern Fleet would be capable of dealing
effectively with any Japanese seaborne threat directed against Southern India and Ceylon. He had, in
consequence, disposed the majority of his available forces, i.e. 4 divisions,
in the northeast, retaining only one division, and that partially trained and
equipped, for the defence of Southern India.
6. This showed very cleared the need for General Wavell to have on his
staff a naval officer capable of advising him as to the correct value to be
attached to a description of forces as given in the Chiefs of Staff message
referred to above. It also suggested that in future, such messages should
convey more clearly the effective as opposed to the numerical strength of naval
forces operating in this area.
7. Referring to the situation in Burma the General
emphasized that lack of air support was responsible to a considerable degree
for the loss of morale in our troops in that area. He commented on the
unfortunate impression produced by the constant reference in BBC communiqués to
“hundreds of bombers attacking targets in Germany” when our
troops find themselves without air support. In this connection I must confess
that the majority of senior officers in the Eastern Fleet are skeptical of
results achieved by these attacks on Germany, who can
presumably “take it” as well as the United Kingdom.
8. Air Marshall Peirse stated that one squadron of Beauforts from the Middle East, armed with
torpedoes, might be expected to reinforce the Ceylon Striking Force during the
next month. I understand however from officers who have recently served in the
Eastern Mediterranean that the results achieved by this squadron in that
theatre leave a great deal to be desired and that in consequence this
reinforcement is more nominal than real.
9. The Air Marshall stressed the
need for long range air reconnaissance over the Bay of Bengal. Employment of
Catalinas for this purpose was obviously uneconomical since it lay within the
capability of long range land based aircraft, whereas Catalinas are essential
for reconnaissance in the Indian Ocean.
10. I suggested that if a mere handful of long range bombers were flown
out now to India and operated successively from aerodromes between Calcutta and
Ceylon, this might well lead the enemy to suppose that we had received substantial
air reinforcements and in consequence act as a strong deterrent against raids
by surface vessels such as those recently carried out in the Bay of Bengal. The
Air Marshall agreed and at a subsequent meeting held on the following day this
proposal was incorporated in a message send by the Commander in Chief, India, Commander in
Chief, Eastern Fleet, and Air Officer Commanding in Chief, India, addressed to
the Chiefs of Staff Committee.
11. Referring to United States air
reinforcements, the Air Marshall stated that these were allotted to China and in any case
would not be efficient operationally till August.
12. His Excellency the Governor of Bombay, who also attended this
meeting, stated that enemy air attacks were unlikely to promote civil unrest.
Failure of labour to continue after bombing was the most immediate threat and
could not be controlled locally. It appears that, throughout India, this state of
affairs exists.
13. The Commander in Chief, India, and Air
Officer Commanding in Chief, India, returned to Delhi after these
meetings and on arrival there the Commander in Chief, India sent to the
Chiefs of Staff a message embodying the conclusions of the meetings.
14. On the 16th April, I received Message No. 0Z/1915/4th April from the
Chiefs of Staff regarding the proposals referred to in my 0314 of 29th March
concerning the Naval Strategy we should adopt in the Eastern Theatre. These
proposals were to the effect that in order to compel the enemy to draw in his
forces we should concentrate a large force of British and United States
Carried, 8” and destroyers in the Pacific, leaving our battleships in the
background until air supremacy at sea had been won.
15. This proposal had not commended itself to the Chiefs of Staff on the
grounds that to undertake offensive strategy, nothing less than a superior
balanced fleet of carriers, capital ships, cruisers and destroyers adequate to
deal with the Japanese Fleet, would suffice.
16. I forwarded to Their Lordships my views on this matter in my message
1001/18th April in which I pointed out that the Japanese had successfully
employed an unbalanced fleet in recent operations off Ceylon. I consider
that provided surprise is achieved and we can effect a superior concentration
of carriers at the selected moment, inferiority in battleships for a small
operation is not necessarily of great consequence.
17. In any case I consider it a pity to pour cold water on this welcome
indication of a desire on the part of the United States authorities to
act offensively in cooperation with us.
18. On 16th April I also received Chiefs of Staff Message No. C.O.S.
(India) 49, regarding the policy to be adapted for the defence of Ceylon and
the provision of bases in addition to Colombo for the Eastern Fleet, i.e.
Kilindini and a base in the North Arabian Sea. In connection with the latter, I
am having Beyt (n.b. handwritten insert “?and? or Salaya”) surveyed as a
possible suitable alternative to Elphinstone Inlet.
19. On the 18th April I received the Chief’s of Staff message giving a
digest of a telegram from the Prime Minister to President Roosevelt concerning
proposed reinforcements to the Eastern Fleet. On the 20th April, General Wavell
showed me a copy of the message to him from the Prime Minister giving the
actual reinforcements These I note with much regret are considerably less than
those proposed by the Prime Minister in his message to President Roosevelt.
20. Force A remained at Bombay for 7 days and
opportunity was taken to rest the ships companies after their recent prolonged
period at sea and to give as much leave as possible. Leave was given until 2330
for ratings and until 2400 for Chiefs and Petty Officers. Ships boats generally
proved inadequate to compete with the number of libertymen and I therefore
asked the Commodore, Royal Indian Navy, to hire two tenders with approximate
capacity for 400 each for transport of libertymen. These tenders proved of the
greatest value. Entertainment was provided for the men at the Services and Town
Hall Canteens, organized by the Hospitality Committee under the Chairmanship of
Sir John Abercrombie, also at the Prince of Wales Missions to Seaman Canteen
run by the Reverend Tanner. Their Excellencies the Governor and Lady Lumley
were also most kind and hospital for officers and men. A number of officers
dined and slept at Government House on four afternoons. I sent suitable letters
of thanks to all concerned for their great kindness to us.
21. On the 15th April WARSPITE dragged at half ebb and was brought up by
letting go a second anchor. The weighted and anchored again at slack water. I
was informed that the last occasion of a ship of a ship dragging in Bombay Harbour was on a
comparatively recent visit of S.S. AQUITANIA and it appears probable that the
dragging was due to the deep draft of the vessels concerned. WARSPITE was
drawing 35 feet forward and there was very little water under her bottom.
22. On the morning of 16th April, at the request of His Excellency the
Governor an air display of fighters and Albacores was given over Bombay.
23. There were considerable delays in fuelling the fleet. Oilers were
not allowed to move without pilots, who were obtained with difficulty and no
movements took place at night. Further, aviation spirit could not be obtained
and it was not till the arrival of BROOMDALE on 18th April that the carriers
were able to complete with petrol.
24. During the stay of Force A at Bombay three A/S
vessels maintained a patrol in the approaches to the harbour. Air patrols were
also maintained during the day. In spite of the protection afforded and the
navigational difficulties of the harbour I am by no means satisfied that Bombay can be regarded
as safe against submarine attack. Short of very considerable A/S defences being
installed it is difficult to suggest that anything that can be done to improve
matters in this respect.
25. On Sunday 19th April, General Wavell embarked in WARSPITE at my
invitation to take passage to Ceylon. This gave me
an opportunity, whilst on passage, to discuss with him our many joint problems.
26. Force A consisting of
WARSPITE, INDOMITABLE, FORMIDABLE, NEWCASTLE, EMERALD, ENTERPRISE, HEEMSKERCK,
PALADIN, PANTHER, NORMAN, FOXHOUND, and DECOY left Bombay at 0100 on Monday
20th April. NAPIER and NIZAM were left behind for docking and repair (expected
dates of completion – NAPIER on 1st May, NIZAM, end of May.
27. During the day air training and gunnery exercises were carried out
and a night encounter exercise. In case Force A had been located during the
day, an alteration of course was made to the southwest after dark until early
morning when course was altered to southeast, and at daylight mean line of
advance south was resumed.
28. On Tuesday 21st April course was continued to the south throughout
the day so as to pass to the westward of the Laccadives in order to keep clear
of coastal shipping and possible submarine areas. Fleet training and exercises
continued throughout the day. I decided to proceed southeast through the
Channel between Kavaratti and Suhelli Par during the night. Before dark, one
aircraft was sent on ahead of the fleet to search this channel area for
possible submarines.
29. On Wednesday, 22nd April, fleet training continued and an approach
exercise was carried out with the 4th Cruiser Squadron. SCOUT joined during the
forenoon from Cochin.
30. Force A arrived off Colombo at daylight on
Thursday 23rd April and aircraft, which were to be disembarked in connection
with the readjustment of initial equipment aircraft in both carriers, were
flown ashore. WARSPITE entered harbour and secured at 0830.
31. At 1000 a conference was held ashore attended by Commander in Chief,
India, Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet, Air Officer Commanding in Chief,
India, Commander in Chief, Ceylon, General Officer Commanding, Ceylon, Air
Officer Commanding, Ceylon, and my Deputy Chief of Staff, to consider the
defences of Ceylon and other matters of joint concern to all three services.
32. As stated in my 0907/23rd April a difference of opinion arose
concerning the allocation of Catalinas for Operation IRONCLAD. It is certainly
regrettable that these aircraft which are essential for reconnaissance in the Indian Ocean where land
aerodromes are not available should have to be employed in lieu of land based
aircraft in Ceylon where aerodromes
are available.
33. At subsequent meetings the general organisation and administration
of the Eastern Fleet and East Indies Station were discussed and it was agreed
that so long as the Indian Ocean remained the main theatre
of operations for the Eastern Fleet, it would be appropriate and convenient to
make the following changes.
(a). Chief of Staff to
Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet to become Deputy Commander in Chief, Eastern
Fleet, headquarters at Kilindini
(b). Commander in Chief, East Indies to be replaced
by a Flag Officer at Ceylon
(c). The Title of Flag
Officer Commanding Royal Indian Navy to be changed to Flag Officer India with a
second Flag Officer as Deputy and in charge of operations.
(d). Control of trade on
the Indian coast and defence of the Persian Gulf to be taken
over by the Flag Officer India.
Proposals to this effect were made in my 1443 and 1728 of 28th April.
34. Other meetings were also held between my staff and that of Commander
in Chief, East Indies, to decide a number of
administration problems which had arisen consequent on Colombo being no longer
suitable as a main base for the Eastern Fleet. Time did not permit of all these
matters being so fully considered as I could have wished. No doubt Their
Lordships will fully appreciate the difficulties which have arisen as the
result of the new situation created in the Indian Ocean where we are
forced to temporarily abandon Ceylon as a fleet base
and rely on undefended ports in East Africa and in the
islands in the West Indian Ocean, none of which
have proper administrative staffs. A considerable amount of administration now
undertaken by Commander in Chief, East Indies will of necessity, have to be
transferred to Kilindini and the building up of a new organisation will be a lengthy
process and result in inevitable delays.
35. Thanks to the expeditious arrangements made at Colombo, Force A was
refueled by nightfall. I intended to sail Force A and ALAUNIA (with Eastern
Fleet secretariat and administrative and Special Intelligence Staffs aboard)
for Kilindini before daylight, but owning to very heavy rain, low visibility,
and congested berthing arrangements, it was necessary to postpone departure
until 0700.
36. Prior to leaving Colombo, WARSPITE
landed 400 rifles and bayonets for the use of the military in Ceylon, at the
personal request of General Wavell, and at my direction. This has been reported
separately.
37. After leaving, Force A shaped course to a rendezvous to the
southwest of Colombo, where it was
intended to fly on all the new initial equipment aircraft for both carriers (a
total of 25 aircraft). Unfortunately, during the forenoon the aircraft failed
to locate the carriers owing to bad visibility and heavy rain squalls. They
returned to the shore aerodromes and another attempt was made early in the
afternoon, but failed again. By this time the shore aerodromes had apparently
become unserviceable due to the very heavy rainfall. No further laying was
possible and all hope of embarking aircraft on this day was abandoned at 1800. It
was decided to steam to the westward and return at daylight to the rendezvous
with the intention of embarking the aircraft during the morning.
38. As ALAUNIA’s maximum speed was about 13 ½ knots she was detached,
with EMERALD as escort, to proceed ahead of the fleet to Seychelles. It was hoped
that Force A, having embarked aircraft, would be able to overtake ALAUNIA in
the neighbourhood of the Maldives.
39. During the night the force steamed to the westward and reversed
course, and at daylight on Saturday, 25th April approached the aircraft
rendezvous. The majority of the aircraft arrive dint he forenoon and finally
the last three were flown on at 1300. Course was then shaped to the southwest
for the Veimandu Channel at 18 knots.
40. On 26th April some fleet training and exercises were carried out
throughout the day. Force A passed through the Veimandu Channel at 1300 and
shaped course for the Seychelles. An air search
was sent out to the southward to locate EMERALD and ALAUNIA, estimated to have
passed through the One and a Half Degree Channel during the forenoon. They were
located shortly before dark, 40 miles to the southward. Force A’s course was
adjusted to make a rendezvous with EMERALD and ALAUNIA at daylight the
following day.
41. At 1830, INDOMITABLE, with PALADIN and PANTHER, was detached to
proceed in advance to the Seychelles to refuel and
then proceed for Operation IRONCLAD.
42. On 27th April after sending out one aircraft to locate EMERALD and
ALAUNIA a rendezvous was effected in the forenoon and the whole force proceeded
for the Seychelles; speed of advance 12 ½ knots.
43. During the day air and fleet training was continued.
44. On 28th April, fleet training was continued throughout the day.
During the afternoon DECOY was oiled from WARSPITE
45. At times there was insufficient wind for FORMIDABLE to operate owing
to her limited speed, due to damage to the starboard engine. After dark special
exercises were carried out to investigate the best use of parachute flares
dropped from aircraft to illuminate the target on a bright moonlight night.
46. On 29th April Fleet and air training continued throughout the day
and in the afternoon WARSPITE carried out a 15” throw off firing at NEWCASTLE.
47. On 30th April, the Force arrived off Seychelles (Dennis Island) at
daylight.As it was not possible to refuel all the ships in one day, I decided
that in preference to remaining in the anchorage overnight to split the force
into two groups and refuel on group on the 30th during daylight and the second
group the following day during daylight; group II to make a detour while group
I was refuelling.
I also decided that all four destroyers should accompany whichever group
was fuelling in order to provide A/S patrols to seaward by two ships throughout
the fuelling operations. In addition, arrangements were made to maintain an
outer air A/S patrol throughout both fuelling operations.
48. The necessity for providing these anti submarine precautions from
units of the fleet in an important fuelling base again emphasizes the necessity
for pressing on with the provision of local anti submarine defences at all
operational bases.
49. Group II (NEWCASTLE and FORMIDABLE) was detached to the westward to
rendezvous with me the following morning off the southern approach, thence to
proceed to Port Victoria to oil on the 1st of May. The remainder of the ships
forming group I, with all four destroyers, proceeded by the northern passage to
Port Victoria, and arrived at 1030. Oiler was commenced from 4 oilers.
50. HEEMSKERCK had developed serious defects to her rudder pintle
bearing. Arrangements were made for her to sail independently on 1st May to Durban for repairs to
be carried out in South Africa.
51. H.M.S. RANCHI was in port having onboard the military base defence
survey part under Lieutenant Colonel Kelly now working on the Seychelles. This party
recently completed their survey of Mauritius.
52. I visited His Excellency the Governor in the afternoon.
53. Fuelling was completed by 1800 and Group 1 (less HEEMSKERCK) sailed
via the southern exit.
54. Whilst at Port Victoria opportunity was taken to dispatch a number
of important outstanding messages by cable. In this connection I had received
on the 29th April messages from the First Sea Lord, Commander in Chief, India,
Commander in Chief, Ceylon, and Deputy Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet,
regarding C.O.S. M.E. 261 and M.E. 263, which latter two messages I had not
received.
Immediately prior to
sailing C.O.S. M.E. 261 was received and my replies timed 1812/30 and 1905/30
April I was able to send into Port Victoria by destroyer, returning to screen
group II, for dispatch by cable.
55. On 1st May NEWCASTLE and FORMIDABLE rendezvoused at daylight and
were then detached with all destroyers to proceed to Port Victoria to fuel and
rejoin in the evening.
56. During the day, WARSPITE, EMERALD, and ENTERPRISE made a detour
to the southwest and returned to the rendezvous at 2100, where NEWCASTLE, FORMIDABLE,
and destroyers rejoined.
(n.b.
the last page of this issue is missing.)
____________________
Office of the
British Naval Commander – in – Chief, Eastern Fleet
11th May 1942
No. 27. S/4682.
The Secretary of
the Admiralty (two copies)
(copies to: Commander in Chief Ceylon.
Commander in Chief East Indies
REPORT
OF PROCEEDINGS OF EASTERN FLEET
FROM
2nd MAY TO 10th MAY 1942
Be pleased to lay before Their
Lordships the following report of the operations of the Eastern Fleet from 2nd
May to 10th May 1942, when covering
Operation IRONCLAD.
2. After leaving the Seychelles area on the 2nd May, Force A, comprising
WARSPITE (Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet), FORMIDABLE, NEWCASTLE (Rear
Admiral Commanding, Fourth Cruiser Squadron), EMERALD, ENTERPRISE, NESTOR,
NORMAN, FOXHOUND, DECOY reached a position (12S, 59-50E) about 650 east of
Diego Suarez at 0900/
3. During the forenoon of 3rd May an air search to a depth of 190 miles
was carried out by aircraft from FORMIDABLE over the sector East to South from
this position to search the area between Saya de Mlaha Bank and north of
Nazareth Bank, for any possible Japanese forces attempting the capture or
occupation of Diego Suarez.
4. This search was supplemented by Catalina patrols which had been
established as follows:
(a). 30th April-6th May
Between position 009-05S and 11-40S on longitude 75-20E.
(b). 3rd-9th May
Between 004-25S and 007-00S on longitude 060-55E.
5. All aircraft from FORMIDABLE returned by 1330 having sighted nothing.
6. The limited number of serviceable Albacores in FORMIDABLE made it
necessary to carry out air searches with some degree of economy. The Fulmars
which were embarked at Colombo and which should have been available to
supplement the Albacores were unserviceable for long distance reconnaissance
owing to compasses not having been swung, T/T and beacon receivers not
effective, etc.
7. During the day course was shaped to the northwest. At 1700 course was
altered to northwest to rendezvous with Force B the following forenoon.
8. During the day four destroyers were oiled from WARSPITE and NEWCASTLE (two each).
9. On the 4th Force B under Vice Admiral 2nd in Command, comprising
RESOLUTION, DRAGON, CALEDON, GRIFFIN, HOTSPUR, FORTUNE having fuelled at the
Seychelles on the 2nd of May joined Force A as previously arranged in position
111S 56E at 0830. During the forenoon course was shaped to the southeast. An
air search was sent out to a maximum depth to cover the sector
North-East-South. In the late afternoon, course was altered to northwest, so as
to reach a position 220 miles 070 degrees from Diego Suarez by 0700 on 5th May
(D1 for Operation IRONCLAD).
10. My entire lack of information concerning the plan on which the
operation was to be conducted proved a serious embarrassment and forms the
subject of a separate communication to Their Lordships.
11. At 0700 on the 5th May the fleet passed through the pre-arranged
position on a southerly course. An air search covered the sector
northeast-southeast-southwest, but aircraft were ordered to keep outside 100
miles of the coast of Madagascar in order to
avoid appearing on the R.D.F. screens of Force F; this search found nothing.
12. I had instructed by force that Vichy French ships or aircraft might
be hostile, but were not to be treated as such unless they committed a hostile
act. Any aircraft approaching the fleet was to be ridden off by fighters but
not engaged unless it committed a hostile act.
13. Throughout the day I received only four short reports from the
Senior Officer Force F. IN addition I intercepted a considerable number of
corrupt French wireless messages. This meager information gave me a rough idea
of what was occurring but gave me no clear picture of the situation at any
time.
14. At 1430 course was altered to the northwest and back to southeast at
0130 so as to reach a position 110 miles 080 degrees from Diego Suarez by
daylight the following morning. At 1630 I sent a signal (my 1227Z/5th) to
Senior Officer, Force F, repeated to Admiralty, stating my intention to be in
position 090 degrees Cape Amber 130 miles (12S, 50 ½ E at 1100 on the 6th and,
after carrying out an air search to the eastward, proceed with my whole fleet
to Kilindini, provided Senior Officer F had no further requirements for my
force. This intention was based on the supposition that Diego Suarez would be
available for Force F to enter on the 6th May.
15. However, late at night a report was intercepted which indicated that
the port would not be open until 7th May, and I there reconsidered my intention
to proceed with my whole force to Kilindini a.m. on the 6th May.
16. During the forenoon of the 6th May course was shaped to the
northwest. An air search was sent out to cover the section northeast-southeast
to a depth of 105 miles. This search found nothing.
17. At noon I reviewed the
situation regarding the future operations of Force A and B. The following
factors governed my choice of action.
(a). I had had no reply to
my signal 1227Z/5, not had anything further transpired as to when Diego Suarez
would be available for Force F to enter. I still presumed it would be the 7th
May.
(b). RESOLUTION, EMERALD,
ENTERPRISE, DRAGON, and CALEDON and most of the destroyers could not remain at
sea more than a further three days without refuelling and certain of these
ships also required water, RESOLUTION in particular had only two days water
remaining. The remaining ships of Force A had sufficient fuel to remain at sea
for a further four days.
18. I therefore detached Force B, with EMERALD and ENTERPRISE, under Vice
Admiral, 2nd in Command, to proceed to Kilindini at their best speed, and with
WARSPITE, FORMIDABLE, and NEWCASTLE and four
destroyers remained in the vicinity to reinforce Force F if required and to
continue air searched in the directions of possible approach of Japanese
forces.
I informed the Admiralty and Senior Officer, Force F, of this decision
in my signal 0800Z/6th.
19. At noon Force A altered
course to southeast, and at 1700 course was reversed to the northwest, and
reverse again at 0230.
Heavy rain and bad visibility prevented air searches from being carried
out in the afternoon.
20. At 0700 on the 7th May Force A was in position 10-50S, 50-20E,
course southeast
An air search was sent out at 0700 to cover the sector East to South to
a depth of 120 miles, but found nothing.
21. During the night reported had been received from Senior Officer,
Force F that the daylights attacks on Antsirana and Oranjia on the 6th had
failed, and that a night assault was to be carried out on both objectives,
assisted by H.M.S. ANTHONY entering harbour and landing 80 Royal Marines at
Antsirana.
22. Intercepted reports received during the forenoon confirmed that the
night attack on Antsirana had been successful and that a bombardment of Oranjia
and Pentland had been staged for 1000. Later there were indications that the
remaining French defences might surrender during the day, that the bombardment
would be cancelled and that Force F ships would be able to enter Diego Suarez
later today or tomorrow.
23. I decided to remain in the vicinity of 11S, 51E until the position
ashore was clarified, and at 1300 another air search was sent out to cover the
sector northeast to south to search the lines of approach of a possible
Japanese force from the northeast or east. The search returned at 1700, having
seen nothing.
24. Intercepted reports received in the forenoon indicated that a
submarine, presumably French, had been sunk off Courier Bay. Four, possibly
six submarines, were known to be in the Madagascar area of which
two had been accounted for.
25. During the early afternoon reports were received from S.O. (F) that
the Oranjia stronghold had surrendered and that a protocol was being drawn up
with the French authorities. Intercepted reports also indicated that the
aerodrome to the south of the harbour had been occupied by our forces and that
all resistance had ceased in Diego Suarez
26. There now appeared to be no further object in Force A remaining in
the vicinity and at 1700 I decided to proceed to Kilindini and I informed the
Admiralty and S.O. Force F of this decision in my signal 1301Z/7
27. On the 8th unsettled weather limited the amount of fleet training
and exercise that could be carried out during the day. After dark a night
encounter exercise was carried out with NEWCASTLE.
28. A D/F bearing from Aden indicated the
presence of a submarine (possibly Japanese) in the Mombasa-Mozambique area.
29. Saturday 9th May – heavy
rain squalls and poor visibility throughout the day curtailed fleet and air
training.
30. Sunday 10th May – Force A
entered Kilindini harbour at 1300.
It was now necessary
for ships of Force A to remain in harbour for five days at 8 hours’ notice for
steam in order to carry out essential maintenance work.
(signed)
J.F.
Somerville
ADMIRAL
____________________
Office of the British Naval
Commander-in-Chief, Eastern Fleet
12th June 1942
No. 39. S/4682.
The Secretary of the
Admiralty (two copies)
(copies to: Commander in Chief Ceylon.
Commander in Chief East Indies
REPORT
OF PROCEEDINGS OF EASTERN FLEET
10th
May to 5th
June 1942
NARRATIVE
KILINDINI
On arrival on the 10th May the situation at Kilindini was a follows:
Much preliminary work, including berthing arrangements, had been
completed by Vice Admiral, Second in Command (Vice Admiral A.U. Willis, CB,
DSO) and the Flag Officer East Africa and Zanzibar (Rear Admiral
A.D. Read), but available personnel and material were very scarce. The base
staff was adequate only for the administration and functioning of a minor base
and convoy assembly port.
Defences
2. Apart from the existing defence guns (two 6” and two 12 pounders)
there were no additional guns yet in position. Sites for future A.A. guns had
been selected.
EREBUS had been ordered
from Trincomalee and arrived on the 16th May to augment the coast defence of
Kilindini
KIRRIEMOOR completed laying
the entrance A/B boom on 13th May and thereafter and harbour was closed between
sunset and sunrise.
Offices and Accommodation
3. Offices and accommodation had been requisitioned as follows:
Commander in Chief’s and
Deputy Commander in Chief’s Headquarters – Indian Girls’ School.
“Y” Organisation – Alladina Visram School
Billets and accommodation
in the various hotels had been taken up for officers and men
With my personal staff, I
took up residence at Government House, which had been placed at my disposal by
His Excellency the Governor in order to be in close touch with my deputy and
shore based staff.
Communications
4. W/T communications were still
in an elementary stage, all the work being undertaken by H.M. Ships. ADAMANT
was remote controlled from my Headquarters by arrangements which have done
credit to Mr. Heath Robinson. She proceeded to take over as rapidly as possible
all communications. W/T receiving bays were set up at my headquarters.
Internal communications were
almost non existent and there was a serious shortage of telephone instruments
and wire.
Water Transport
5. Other than that supplied by
ships no water transport was available. The lack of boats, especially in
WARSPITE, and the unsuitability of those that were available imposed a heavy
handicap on the business of the fleet.
Personnel
6. Personnel for all the shore services was quite inadequate,
particularly cypherers, coders, telephonists, clerks, and chauffeurs. A large
number of men had be to lent from the fleet and a number of women of the
F.A.N.Y. obtained for these purposes.
Recreation
7. The recreation facilities at
Kilindini are very poor. I ordered a committee to be formed to review and
report on action required to improve these facilities and also requested an
immediate grant of 5,000 pounds to enable an immediate start to be made with
certain improvement schemes, such as additional canteen, reading rooms,
possibly an open air cinema and provision of additional playing fields. On
sailing on May 29th, the Captain of the Fleet remained at Kilindini to take
action on these essential matters. In anticipation of Their Lordship’s
approval, I gave orders that the work was to be progressed.
Evacuation and
Accommodation
8. Evacuation of non essential civilians from Mombasa Island had been
ordered when the military situation in the Indian Ocean indicated that
this was necessary as a measure of defence and to safeguard the civilian
population. This order was subsequently countermanded by the Colonial Office.
The influx of naval and air personnel has now made it necessary to bring
into force an evacuation scheme in order to free accommodation and space for
naval purposes. I am pressing on local authorities and have asked Admiralty to
support proposals to commence evacuation of non essential civilians at an early
date.
Visit to His Excellency the
Governor of Kenya
9. On the 11th I proceeded to Nairobi by air to visit
His Excellency the Governor of Kenya, the General Officer Commanding and
certain members of the Legislative Council. I explained to His Excellency and
the General Officer Commanding the general naval situation in the Indian Ocean and the need to
develop with all dispatch the harbour of Kilindini and the Island of Mombasa as a naval
base. I was glad to note a general desire to cooperate to the fullest extent
possible.
During my passage to and from Nairobi I was able to
observe the majority of animals usually found in Noah’s ark and noted that in
his efforts to keep his eyes on the aircraft whilst proceeding at full speed
the wildebeests frequently carries out the evolution of A/T.
I returned to Kilindini on the 12th May.
Command of the Base
10. Rear Admiral C.G. Stuart, DSO, DSC, took over from Rear Admiral A.D.
Read on the 12th May.
Operations BRUTUS and
JULIUS
11. Preparations were put in hand to prepare such ships as were already
available for Operation BRUTUS and a plan was drawn up should this operation be
ordered.
It soon became evident that the aircraft required for a special loading
of carriers would not be available in time for this operation. In fact it was
doubtful whether sufficient aircraft would be available to complete the I.E. of
fighters.
On May 21st instructions were received that Operation BRUTUS was
cancelled and JULIUS would taken place.
Arrangements were made accordingly to sail the force required for this
operation to the Mediterranean in two equal groups.
Rear Admiral Commanding 4th Cruiser Squadron, at the special request of
the Commander in Chief, Mediterranean, sailed with
Group 2.
Operation IRONCLAD
12,
(a) On the 17th May I
received information in Admiralty’s 2240/16th May that further operations in Madagascar were to be
abandoned. This was a disappointment as until the whole of the island is in our
hands, it must remain a dangerous and wearing commitment until such time as the
Eastern Fleet is in position to dispute Japanese attempts to seize the island.
(b). ON the 21st May I
received a signal from the Senior Officer, Force F dispersing his forces in
accordance with instructions received from the Admiralty. This left Diego
Suarez with RAMILLIES, three L class destroyers, and three corvettes.
(c ). In view of the lack of A/S craft and the
number of major units at Kilindini I proposed that two of the corvettes should
be sailed for Kilindini, and this was approved by Admiralty message 0844/22nd
May.
(d). I had assumed that
Operation IRONCLAD would include the provision of the requisite under water
defences or failing this I should have received instructions to prepare such
defences for laying as soon as the port as occupied. The message received from
Senior Officer, Force F, disposing of the force, cast some doubt on whether
such defences were in place.
(e). On May 22nd, Senior
Officer Force F’s message timed 0911/22nd May confirmed these suspicions that
no nets had accompanied the IRONCLAD force.
(f). At that time there
were no nets available and it was only with the arrival of S.S. COMLIBANK on
the 26th May that indicator nets were forthcoming. There were still components
missing for an A/S boom.
(g). GUARDIAN had been
ordered to load as soon as COMLIBANK was discharged with the intention of
subsequently laying nets at Seychelles, Diego Suarez, and docking at Durban.
(h). Meanwhile arrangements
were made for MANCHESTER CITY and JAY to
proceed to Diego Suarez to lay a controlled minefield; it was expected they
would arrive about 30th May.
(i). After completion of
laying nets at Kilindini, Manza, and Seychelles, the KIRRIEMOOR
had been ordered to lay nets at Diego Suarez in August.
Exercises
13. During the week (18th/22nd
May), the Vice Admiral Second in Command took all available forces to sea and
carried out a valuable series of exercises. Zanzibar and Manza were
visited in the course of these exercises.
Air
14. The organisation of the Commodore, Naval Air Stations, was in the
process of forming when I arrived at Kilindini, subsequent to its move from Colombo.
The need for this organisation to function at maximum efficiency is an
outstanding request. I therefore made proposals concerning future command and
as an immediate measure appointed Captain M.S. Slattery of DANAE as Chief Staff
Officer to the Commodore, Naval Air Stations, and transferred Captain H. Nalder
from EREBUS to DANAE.
Bases of the Eastern Fleet
15.
(a). On the 9th May I
received the Admiralty’s message 1942/8th May requesting my views as regards my
proposed policy regarding main fleet bases, assumed that Colombo should be
first priority. My reply was contained in my 1313/9, which gave my objections
to Colombo as a main fleet
base and recommended that Kilindini should be developed for that purpose. I
further recommended that Seychelles, Diego Suarez, Salaya, Mauritius, Diego Garcia,
and Addu Atoll be developed in that order of priority as refuelling and
operating bases.
(b). Admiralty, in their
1419/16th May, indicated that control of the Bay of Bengal could not be
exercised from Kilindini and proposed the alternative bases of Trincomalee,
Colombo, and Addu Atoll.
(c). In My 0931/20 I
recapitulated my fleet policy and the consequent use for bases, in particular
with a view to exercising some control over the Eastern Indian Ocean.
(d). On the 24th May a
further message from the Admiralty, timed 0053/24th May asked for my remarks on
the relative defenses required at Trincomalee and Colombo, in view of the fact
that Colombo could not accommodate the whole of Force A satisfactorily.
(e). I replied in my
1815/24 that Colombo should take priority over Trincomalee since Colombo is
less likely to receive a surprise sea borne or land based attack and is less
susceptible to air attack. I again made it clear that at Colombo congestion made
it undesirable that the whole of force A should be there at one time.
(f). Admiralty message
0144/26th May referred to the desirability of deterring the Japanese from
operating in the Bay of Bengal with minor forces and insisted that the berthing
of Force A in the Ceylon area was essential.
(g). In a message timed 1345/26
the problem of control of the Bay of Bengal was compared to
the situation in northern waters at home at present.
(h). In my 0614/28 I once
again recapitulated my fleet policy which amounted to the policy of the
maintenance of a “fleet in being”; at the same time using the fleet as
opportunity occurred to strike the enemy’s weak points. The base problem was
again explained and the comparison with the North Sea analysed.
General Developments
(i) In the meantime the
surveying of Salaya proceeds; A/S protection for Kilindini and Manza are under
way, and that for Seychilles and Diego Suarez are being prepared.
(ii). Previous approved
developments at Mauritius are proceeding and it is my intention on arrival at
Colombo to investigate the arrangements required for the rapid development of
Addu Atoll when the strength of the Eastern Fleet justifies work being done.
Command and Staff
16.
(a) It was soon apparent,
with my untrained fleet and collection of unorganized bases, that if I was to
ensure the best possible use being made of our meager resources, the
strengthening of my staff, particularly administrative, was imperative, and
proposals made in my 1632/17, to which no reply had been received when I left
Kilindini.
(b) I feel perhaps it is
not fully appreciated at home the enormity of the task of creating bases for
and administering this and the future Eastern Fleet.
(c). In the Home and
Mediterranean Stations, particularly the former with the Admiralty close at
hand, each command and each main base has more amenities and staffs than all
the harbours and bases in the Indian Ocean put together.Furthermore, these have
been built up over a period of time and I suggest are now out of proportion to
the forces they have to operate and administer. To be frank I feel that whilst
my brother Commanders in Chief are riding comfortably in their Rolls Royce, I
am pushing a broken down Ford with a flat tire.
Force A
17.
(a). On the 20th May I was
informed that the Commander in Chief, United States Fleet, suggested the
possibility of Japanese attacks on the western bases, and requested some
diversion in the Eastern Indian Ocean or the detachment of a carrier to the
southwest Pacific area.
(b). The Admiralty in the
meantime enquired whether I should have sufficient screening destroyers to
proceed with part of the fleet to Colombo, to which reply was made that a
minimum of five destroyers was required. My views on this operation were given
in my 0901/21 May.
(c). Admiralty informed me
in their 1146/23rd May that Commander in Chief, United States Fleet, hoped the
movement to Colombo would take place. Arrangements were put in hand for the
force to sail as soon as destroyers became available, about the 28th May.
(d). Four of these
destroyers, DUNCAN, DECOY, ANTHONY, and ACTIVE were in such poor state of
repair that it was improbable they could make the passage to Colombo without
breaking down. I requested the three L class at Diego Suarez might be put at my
disposal, but pointed out that it would be necessary for them to proceed to Seychelles without relief
unless the movement of Force A was delayed unduly. To this the Admiralty agreed
in their message 1613/25th May.
(e). JAN VAN GALEN, who
should have made the fifth destroyer, was, for some reason still unexplained,
late in sailing from South Africa.
18.
(i). On 29th May, WARSPITE
(Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet), ILLUSTRIOUS (Rear Admiral Aircraft
Carriers, Eastern Fleet), FORMIDABLE, GAMBIA, DUNCAN, and ACTIVE
sailed from Kilindini and proceeded eastward at 18 knots, so as to pass 100
miles north of the Seychelles Islands. DECOY and
ANTHONY, who should have accompanied Force A were unable to sail owing to
defects. VAN GALEN, whose arrived at Kilindini had been delayed, was ordered to
proceed to Colombo independently.
(ii). After dark further
trials were carried out to investigate the best method of employing parachute
flares for illuminating ships sighted at night outside starshell range on
moonlight nights. On completion of these exercises, GAMBIA was stated five
miles ahead of the main force for the night.
(iii). At 0200 the Senior
Officer, Force F signal 2314/20 was received reported an unidentified twin
float monoplane had flown over Diego Suarez at 2215 on the 29th May. I
appreciated that this aircraft could have been either
(a). French, operating from
a Vichy port in Madagascar
(b). from a Japanese
submarine
(c). from a German raider.
I considered (a) to be the
most probably, but did not inform Senior Officer Force F, to this effect as I
assumed that he would take whatever action was possible with the very limited
resources at his disposal.
(iv). On 30th May air and
gunnery practices were carried out a.m., including a dawn A.L.T. on the
Battlefleet.
(v). At noon ILLUSTRIOUS
and FORMIDABLE under the command of the Rear Admiral, Aircraft Carriers, parted
company and proceed to the northward for independent air training and exercises
against WARSPITE and GAMBIA. The carriers were instructed to rejoin me at
daylight on 1st June. Exercises were continued p.m., including a dusk A.L.T. on
WARSPITE. A night A.L.T. had been intended but the air striking force failed to
locate the Battlefleet.
(vi). At 0030 Senior
Officer Force F signal 2038 was received reporting that RAMILLIES had been hit
by two torpedoes in Diego Suarez harbour. A further signal (S.O.F.’s 2117/30)
was received at 0745, stating that the damage to RAMILLIES including flooding
in the flower deck compartments in the neighbourhood of A turret. It was
reported that the tanker BRITISH LOYALTY had been torpedoed 40 minutes after
RAMILLIES was hit, at 2038.
(vii). The A/S craft at
Diego Suarez at the time consisted of two corvettes, GENISTA and THYME. Three L
class destroyers LAFOREY, LIGHTNING, and LOOKOUT, the only destroyers at Diego
Suarez, had left that port to join Force A to the north of the Seychelles at 0900 on 1st
June. Without these destroyers it would have been necessary for Force A to
proceed to Colombo unscreened as
neither DUNCAN nor ACTIVE were
fit to undertake this passage.
Under the circumstance I
decided to dispose with the escort and detached DUNCAN and ACTIVE to
proceed at once to Diego Suarez. These ships arrived at daylight on the 1st
June.
Captain (D) 19th Destroyer
Flotilla, in LAFOREY informed me that he had detached LOOKOUT to return to
Diego Suarez. I instructed Captain D 19 to recall LOOKOUT as I considered it
was undesirable still further to reduce Force A’s escort during the passage
eastward of the Seychelles.
(viii). In addition to the
arrangements already made for laying a controlled minefield, indicator nets,
and anti submarine boom at Diego Suarez (vide paragraph 12), the following
action was taken by the Deputy Command in Chief, Eastern Fleet, in consultation
with the Vice Admiral, Second in Command, Eastern Fleet, at Kilindini
(a). Fleet Constructor
Officer, Captain Pengelly was sent to RAMILLIES by the quickest route.
(b) DECOY with six portable
pumps on board was ordered to sail from Kilindini p.m. 31st May for Diego
Suarez at best speed.
(c). A/S minesweepers
CROMER, ROMNEY, and CROMARTY, escorting tug THAMES with four portable pumps
onboard, were ordered to sail from Kilindini 31st may for Diego Suarez at best
speed.
(d). CYCLAMEN was ordered
to sail from Durban p.m. 30th May
for Diego Suarez at best speed.
(e). FOXHOUND was ordered
to sail from Durban 31st May for
Diego Suarez at best speed.
(ix). During 31st May
gunnery and air exercises were continued. The latter included:
(a). fighter escorted air
striking from (18 T.S.R.s) which carried out a day A.L.T. on WARSPITE and GAMBIA. This was the
first large scale air exercise to be carried out by the Eastern Fleet in which
the air striking forces had been escorted by fighters.
(b). Dawn A.L.T.
(c). Night A.L.T. on
WARSPITE
(x). On 1st June at 0700, a
Walrus was catapulted from WARSPITE to proceed to Seychelles with important
despatches for onward transmission.
At 0900 ILLUSTRIOUS and
FORMIDABLE rejoined, and LAFOREY, LIGHTNING, and LOOKOUT rendezvoused with
Force A.
During the afternoon GAMBIA opened out to
60 miles to northward to act as a target for air exercises. She was ordered to
rejoin at 0900 on the 3rd June.
An air search was carried
out p.m. ahead of the fleet to a depth of 120 miles over the sector 75 degrees
to 130 degrees. Nothing was seen.
(xi). Whilst listening in
to a fighter direction exercise on 2nd June, I noted that Black Leader’s high
pitched voice did not lend itself to R/T transmission. I signaled to
ILLUSTRIOUS “Consider Black Leader would benefit by some capstan drill.” The
promptness with which my attention was at once invited by ILLUSTRIOUS to St.
Matthew, Chapter XIX, Verse 12 indicated a knowledge of the Holy Writ which is
most commendable. This may (or possibly may not) be of interest to the Chaplain
of the Fleet.
(xii). On the 3rd June GAMBIA rejoined Force
A at 0900, and course was altered to the northeast of the Kardiva Channel.
(xiii). At daylight on 4th
June course was altered to eastward and the force passed through Kardiva
Channel at noon.
Air
Exercises
(xiv). Prior arrangements
had been made with the Commander in Chief, Ceylon, for the Ceylon air force to
carry out search, shadow, and striking force attack on Force A during its
approach to Colombo from the Kardiva Channel on the 4th and 5th June.
The times of passing
through the channel and arrived at Colombo were passed to
the Air Officer Commanding.
A Catalina sighted and
reported Force A at 1420 on 4th June, but was subsequently engaged by Force A
fighters and considered shot down.
One Catalina crossed the
Mean Line of Advance of Force A several times during the night (once only 3 ½
miles astern), but never sighted although A.S.V. fitted.
Daylight on the 5th was at
0600, but no Catalina came within sighting distance of Force A. A Catalina W/T
report was intercepted reporting the force 30 miles to the northward. This
later turned out to have been made by a Catalina sighting a “cruiser” and
reporting it as the whole force without first verifying the presence of the
remaining ships in it.
No cruiser was in that
vicinity and the vessel sighted was probably a merchant ship.
During the forenoon of 5th
June the fighter umbrella of Force A was picked up on one of the Ceylon R.D.F.
screens when 60 miles away and the approximate position of the Force deduced.
Apart from this however,
Force A remained unlocated until proceeding down the swept channel when the
Blenheim Squadron after manoeurving without range, passed overhead in close
formation. It was not until m y arrival in harbour that I learned that this fly
(or as one of my staff put it “totter”) past was intended to represent a medium
level bombing attack.
I am informed that these
very ineffective results were due to this being an “exercise” as opposed to a
“test”. It appears to me however that the training of the Ceylon Air Force has
not yet reached the stage when it can be regarded as providing adequate waning
and a formidable deterrent to seaborne air attack.
(xv). Force A entered Colombo harbour at 1500
on 5th June.
Signed
J.F.
Somerville
ADMIRAL
Background Events
June-October 1942
Malta, Atlantic & Russian convoy battles, Raid on Dieppe, Battles of
Midway, Alamein, and for Guadalcanal
Office of the British Naval
Commander-in- Chief, Eastern Fleet
2nd July 1942
No. 42. S/4682.
PROCEEDINGS
OF EASTERN FLEET
5th
June to 1st
July 1942
NARRATIVE
Force A arrived at Colombo at 1500 on the 5th June 1942. It had been my
intention that Force A should remain there for three days only (viz. from the
5th to the 8th). This period had to be extended to seven days since it was
found the boilers of all three of the L Class destroyers were overdue to
cleaning, LAFOREY required docking, and VAN GALEN had defects to be made good.
2. During this stay at Colombo a number of
conferences were held to discuss matters affecting the three services in the Indian Ocean, together with
purely Naval Operational and Administrative matters.
3. On 6th June a conference was held, attended by the Commander in
Chief, Ceylon, the Commander in Chief, East Indies, the Air Officer Commanding,
Ceylon, Rear Admiral Read (designate Flag Officer, Ceylon), Major General
Morris (Chief of General Staff, India) and other officers connected with the
defence of Ceylon. The following matters were discussed:
(a). Defence of Colombo and
Trincomalee against seaborne air attack
(i). I referred to the results
of the exercises carried out on the 5th June when the Ceylon air forces failed
to attack Force A until after it had entered the swept channel. I felt that
until the efficiency of the Ceylon air force, by virtue of more suitable
aircraft and extended training, had reached a much higher standard, it would
not be possible to ensure that the Fleet would be safeguarded against surprise
attack whilst at Colombo or Trincomalee.
(ii). It was explained that
as this was an exercise and not a test it did not represent the best that could
be achieved and mistakes had been made which would not occur under more
realistic conditions. As will be shown subsequently further exercises which
were considered as “tests” did not indicate much improvement.
(iii). The Brigadier in
charge of A/A defences gave a detailed description of the gun density available
at both Colombo and
Trincomalee; this appeared to be satisfactory. The situation in regard to the
warning system is less satisfactory since it appeared for high targets warning
was limited to 40/60 miles and for low targets to 20 miles.
(iv). I explained to the
Chief of General Staff, India, my views on the need for land operated aircraft
to protect our shipping and to attack enemy surface vessels or aircraft in the
Bay of Bengal and to carry out long range reconnaissance over the Bay of Bengal
and the Ceylon area. I emphasized strongly the need to release Catalinas as
soon as long range land machines are available for their proper role of
reconnaissance and shadowing over the large areas of the Indian Ocean in which
land machines could not operate owing to lack of aerodromes.
(b). Priority of Bases
(i). The action taken to
implement the priority laid down by the Admiralty for the defence of naval
bases in the Indian Ocean was discussed. The Pioneer
Section of the M.N.B.D.O. was on the point of leaving Colombo for the Seychelles in order to
move the existing 6” guns to better counter bombardment sites and also to mount
two 4” close range defence guns. As this work would only take about three weeks
it was decided that it should proceed and that work should then commence at
Addu Atoll, which is now to be given first priority.
(ii). Arrangements were
made for work on the aerodrome at Addu to be commenced as soon as possible with
labour to be supplied by India. The
dilapidation of the booms at Addu due to weather is a matter of concern as
little can be done to effect repairs until the monsoon ceases in September.
(iii). The work to be
carried out on the proposed fuelling base at Salaya was discussed and it was
agreed that this should be reduced to minimum required to render this anchorage
safe as a temporary fleet fuelling base.
(c). Y Organisation
(i). The transfer of the
remainder of the Y organisation from Colombo to Kilindini
was discussed and arrangements made which it was hoped would provide the
necessary liaison and intelligence at New Delhi.
(d). Naval Administration
(i). It was decided that
when the appointment of Commander in Chief, East Indies, lapses the naval bases
would be administered by the following authorities under the Commander in
Chief, Eastern Fleet.
All bases in Ceylon – Addu Atoll by the Flag Officer Ceylon
East African
Bases. All other bases
In the West Indian
Ocean, including
Diego Suarez by the Flag Officer, East Africa and Zanzibar
(ii). Command
The following changes in sub command will also take
place.
(a). Flag Officer, Ceylon, to be
responsible for:
(i) all naval matters
respecting Ceylon and Addu Atoll
(ii). Royal Naval
establishments and Royal Naval Air Stations in Ceylon and India
(iii). The Ceylon Escort
Group
(iv). Control and routeing
of Indian and Ceylon coastal
shipping
(v). Liaison with Flag
Officer Command, Royal Indian Navy, for matters affecting Ceylon, Addu Atoll and
for coastal shipping.
(b). The Flag Officer, East Africa and Zanzibar, to operate and
administer the local defence forces at Kilindini
(c ). The Flag Officer Commanding, Royal Indian Navy, to
remain as at present
(d). Rear Admiral A.F.E.
Palliser, DSC, to take up appointment as Flag Liaison Officer, Delhi. To act as
representative and as Naval Adviser to the Viceroy and to the Commander in
Chief, India, and to be a
member of the Commander in Chief, India’s, Joint
Planning Committee.
(e). The Senior Naval
Officer, Persian Gulf, to become an independent command and operate and
administer all H.M. ships and establishments of the Persian Gulf, referring to
me on matters of higher policy. Matters concerning the Government of India, hitherto
referred to the Commander in Chief, East Indies, to be referred to the Flag
Liaison Officer, Delhi; (vide my 0845/10th June)/
Japanese Raider and
Submarine Attacks in the Mozambique – Madagascar Area
4. During the period 5th to 12th June at least three enemy submarines
were operating in the Mozambique Channel and two enemy raiders had been
concerned in the sinking of S.S. ELYSIA when 400 miles northeast of Durban.
5. These attacks suggested the raiders would endeavour to intercept
ships that were diverted from the Mozambique Channel as the result
of the submarine operations.
6. In view of the difficulty of controlling this situation from Colombo the Deputy
Commander in Chief was ordered to take charge of the area between Durban and the
Equator, and to make use of all available ships, together with INDOMITABLE if
necessary, in order to deal with the situation.
7. This situation clearly indicated the advisability of shipping control
and protection of shipping on the east coast of Africa being exercised
from Kilindini, which is well placed for the purpose.
8. Owing to the absence of ten destroyers in the Eastern Mediterranean,
the defects of many of those remaining, and the lack of A/S vessels as escorts
it was impracticable even to consider putting trade into convoy for the passage
through this area. Signals received from the Deputy Command in Chief indicated
that he was taking all possible measures under the circumstances. In order to
assist him, I requested the Air Officer, Ceylon to dispatch three Catalinas to
Kilindini was soon as possible to operate under the orders of the Deputy
Commander in Chief.
9. I was concerned to find that of the 15 British and 9 Dutch Catalinas
now in Ceylon only three were available to proceed to Kilindini, owing to 17
being either unserviceable or shortly due to major inspections. The remaining
four were required to maintain patrol eastward of Ceylon and patrol when
Addu whilst the base was being used by Force A.
10. The dispositions adopted by the Deputy Commander in Chief indicated
he strongly suspected the Japanese raiders would move north to attack the dense
shipping route between Madagascar and Aden. Although I did
not consider this probable, I did not interfere with his dispositions, since
the information available was scanty and it was quite possible the Deputy
Commander in Chief might be in possession of information which supported his
views. I informed the Deputy, however, that it was most desirable INDOMITABLE
should complete her repairs as soon as she could be released for this purpose.
11. As S.S. QUEEN MARY was ready to leave Simonstown for Suez on the
10th June with 9000 troops aboard I informed the Deputy Commander in Chief and
the Commander in Chief, South Africa, that she should be routed to the eastward
of Madagascar and escorted from the Cape area by an 8” or modern 6” cruiser
until clear to the northward of the raider danger area, MAURITIUS and
subsequently DEVONSHIRE to be used for this purpose. I also informed the Deputy
Command in Chief that in addition to an old 6” cruiser and A.M.C. escort,
convoy W S 19 should have a modern 6” inch as additional escort.
Diversion of East African
coast Trade
12. On the 10th June, the Deputy Commander in Chief pointed out that the
present concentrated lines of unescorted shipping in the Mozambique
Channel area could not be maintained and he proposed:
(i). To adopt evasive
routeing over the whole width of the navigable channel.
(ii). To route all escorted
troop convoys to the east of Madagascar.
(iii). To route all large
fast ships unescorted to the east of Madagascar and accept the
raider risk involved.
With these proposals I agreed.
Test of Ceylon Air Defences (12th and 13th June)
13. Force A, comprising WARSPITE (Flag of Commander in Chief, Eastern
Fleet), ILLUSTRIOUS (Flag Rear Admiral Commanding Aircraft Carriers, Eastern
Fleet), FORMIDABLE, GAMBIA, LAFOREY (Captain (D) 19th Destroyer Flotilla),
LIGHTNING, LOOKOUT, VAN GALEN, and accompanied by SCOUT, proceeded to sea a.m.
on the 12th June for reconnaissance of the Chagos Archipelago and the area in
that vicinity.
14. When 35 miles west of Colombo Force A was used as a target for
attack by Ceylon air forces, fighters from ILLUSTRIOUS and FORMIDABLE being
sent up to intercept these attacks.
15. In the first attack a squadron of Hurricanes in close formation flew
over the fleet at a low altitude. This attack had been planned as a low level
bombing attack, but the formation, having sighted the fleet through a patch of
fog, dived but then found themselves a considerable distance from the fleet;
nevertheless they continued their low level approach to their targets. This was
the first time this squadron had tried out this method of attack on ships.
16. Secondly, a high level attack by Blenheims was well sychronrised
with a torpedo attack by two pairs of Beauforts flying very low. The Beauforts,
which were not intercepted by Force A fighters, approached well, but were not
steady on release, this also being at too great a range.
17. The Swordfish taking part failed to attack as they considered they
had all been intercepted and shot down by Force A fighters.
18. Except in the case of the Swordfish, interception by Force A
fighters was not really effective. This was due in part to difficulty in
identification owing to failure of I.F.F. and also to prevalence of land echoes
which confused all attempts at distant interception. It is clear that out
fighter interception technique, especially when dealing with sychronrised
attacks and with fighters operating from two or more carriers, still fails to
reach the standard required. Reliable I.F.F. is an outstanding requisite.
19. On completion of these attacks course was shaped as requisite for
the second exercise due to commence at 0001 on the 13th June, which was intended
to be a “test” of the ability of the Ceylon air forces to locate and attack an
enemy force and to intercept enemy aircraft before they could attack the
harbour at Colombo and other objectives.
20. Ceylon air forces had
been informed that Force A would be approximately 90 miles to the westward of Colombo at 0001,
steering to the south east. A Catalina sent out to locate and shadow Force A
unfortunately found and shadowed two merchant ships, reported these as Force A.
As a result the Blenheims and Swordfish striking forces were despatched to the
wrong position and failed to attack Force A.
21. Three Beauforts carried out independent searches and two were
successful in locating and attacking Force A at 0645. Neither of these
Beauforts were intercepted by Force A fighter umbrella, which was directed
wrongly on to some of Force A’s own aircraft returning from their attack on Ceylon.
22. Striking forces consisting of 11 Albacores and 14 Swordfish from
FORMIDABLE and ILLUSTRIOUS were flown off before daylight at 0500, and carried
out dawn attacks on Colombo Harbour and on
Ratmalana and Race Course aerodromes. From subsequent reports it appears that
none of these striking forces were intercepted by Ceylon fighters until
after completing their attacks.
23. At 0610 four Fulmars from ILLUSTRIOUS were flown off to carry out a
separate attack on the Seaplane base at Kogalla. This strike was intercepted by
one fighter before it reached its objective.
24. The ease with which all the air striking forces were able to reach
their objectives and deliver their attacks with practically no air opposition
indicated clearly to me that the R.D.F. and fighter interception measures in
Ceylon left a great deal to be desired.
25. I subsequently learnt that R.D.F. cover against attack from low
flying aircraft in this sector of Ceylon had not then
been installed.
26. Force A Albacores and Swordfish formations returning to the carriers
failed to comply with the correct recognition procedure of approaching their
own fleet in line astern. This matter is of great importance and apparently
receives insufficient emphasis in the initial training of Fleet Air Arm
Squadrons.
27. At 0715 whilst boosting Martlet aircraft by the American method,
ILLUSTRIOUS parted a towing strop and one Martlet was slightly damaged tipping
up on its nose. A new strop was fitted , and after one more successful launch,
this strop parted and the aircraft taxied over the bow into the sea and sank
immediately. It is regretted the pilot Sub-Lieutenant
(A) J. Walker, RNVR, was unable to get clear.
28. On Sunday 14th June, the force continued course to the south and at
0900 on the 15th when in a position about 100 miles to the eastward of Chagos,
an air search was carried out over the whole of the Chagos Archipelago for
possible enemy supply ships. No ships were found.
29. Course was then altered to northward and Force A arrived at Addu
Atoll 0800 on Tuesday 16th June, to refuel.
Defences at Addu
30. The state of defences and general progress of work is as follows:
(i). The recent monsoon
weather has damaged and removed most of the indicator nets outside the booms in
the southern (Gan) and southeastern (Wilingili) channels, and displaced those
inside the two northern entrances (Kudukanda and Mandukanda). The A/S boom in
Wilingili is probably intact, but that in Gan Channel requires considerable
repair.
(ii). The controlled
minefields and their loops in all entrances are, however, in full operation.
(iii). As recent experience
at Sydney has shown midget submarines are unlikely to be detected by indicator
loops in depths exceeding 10 fathoms (Admiralty Message 1639/13), the
controlled minefield laid in all the entrances to Addu cannot be regarded as
any safeguard against midget submarines.
(iv). Taking into account
the above factors it would be quite possible for midget submarines to enter the
anchorage without difficulty through either of the northern entrances
(Kudukanda and Mandukanda), or with some difficulty through Gan Channel.
(v). Under these conditions
the anchorage is far from secure against underwater attack.
(vi). Work on the A/s
defences cannot be restarted until the monsoon weather is over in September,
and then, not only must the defences be repaired, but they must be improved as
necessary to provide defence against midget submarines. Until then the use of
the anchorage must be restricted to short daylight visits for refuelling.
(b). Gan Island Aerodrome
(i). I visited the
prospective site of this aerodrome which at present consists of a natural clearing
about a mile long and 800 yards wide in the middle of a coconut plantation.
(ii) The only work done on
this aerodrome until work was stopped last April was to peg and mark the centre
of what is to be the main East/West runway and the shorter Northeast/Southwest
runway.
(iii). Although the natural
clearing exists there is still a very considerable amount of scrub and
undergrowth over the whole area. The sub-soil also appears to be very soft and
spongy, which will necessitate special construction of the runways.
(iv). I understand that
after the necessary excavators have been landed it will take about 1000 Indian
labourers three months to clear and level this space to make it an aerodrome.
(v). There already exists
in the island sufficient tentage and dismantled huts which could be used to
accommodate the majority of these labourers, but the water supply will have to
be augmented by tankers or distilling plant.
(c). Port War Signal Station and 6 inch Battery
During my visit to Gan I also inspected the Port War Signal Station and
the 6 inch battery. The guns and mountings have been well maintained but the
control appears to be nearly related to the Ming Dynasty.
31. Force A sailed at 1800 on 16th June and shaped course for Colombo.
Test of Ceylon Air Defences (17th and 18th June)
32. On the 17th June an exercise commenced to test out the air defences
of Ceylon in their
ability.
(i). To attack an enemy
carrier force before it could launch its air attack.
(ii). To intercept enemy
aircraft before they could attack ships in Colombo harbour and
other objectives.
33. Owing to the very limited number of Catalina aircraft available to
search for and shadow Force A, unrealistic restriction had to be placed on this
exercise.
34. At 1725 a sleeve towing Swordfish from FORMIDABLE had to force land
in the sea owing to engine trouble. The crew was saved by GAMBIA.
35. At 1727 a Ceylon Catalina was sighted above the horizon to the
southward. Had it not been for the dislocation caused by FORMIDABLE’s Swordfish
just having crashed in the sea fighters would normally have been sent up at
once from FORMIDABLE to intercept this Catalina.
36. As it was the Catalina remained in sight of the fleet for 14 minutes
before withdrawing to the eastward out of sight to make its first sighting
report at 1820.
37. At a subsequent conference the Air Officer Commanding, Ceylon, fully agreed
that as soon as Catalinas sight an enemy force they should at once withdraw out
of sight and then make their report.
38. The Catalina in question again closed at 1915 to about 10 miles. It
was not sighted but was picked up on Force A’s R.D.F. screens. Owing to aerial
trouble the Catalina was not able to transmit any further reports of Force A
and returned to base.
39. At 2002, GAMBIA, whilst on the
A/S screen, in position 4-90N, 76-39E (n.b. coordinates as recorded in ROP)
reported investigating contact, and at 2032 LAFOREY dropped a depth charge
pattern on what appeared a submarine contact. The contact was lost later and it
is probable it was a whale.
40. At 0600 on 18th June Force A’s air striking force of 14 Swordfish
and 14 Albacores was flown off at first light (as has been the normal Japanese
practice) to deliver daylight attacks on Colombo Harbour.
41. For safety reasons the harbour balloon barrage had previously been
“dulled.”
42. At 0625 a SWORDFISH returned to the fleet and reported another
Swordfish having force landed in the sea eight miles away. LIGHTNING was
despatched to the spot and rescued the crew. This rescue was greatly helped by
the crew using their marine distress signal from their dinghy.
43. Out of the 26 aircraft attacking Colombo harbour it
appears that 10 were definitely intercepted by fighters before delivering their
attacks on the harbour, which is an improvement on previous tests.
44. Two Beauforts delivered single handed attacks on Force A, one at
0712 and the other at 0835. These attacks were both made on FORMIDABLE and once
again their torpedo release was unsteady and at too long a range, also from bad
tactical positions. The approach, however, was excellent.
45. Six Swordfish attacked Force A at 0951. This squadron had expected
to sight Force A on an easterly course, but shortly before their attack course
had been altered to the west to land on Force A’s striking forces, with the
result that the Swordfish were placed astern and down wind. In addition they
were intercepted by four Martlets. This attack was therefore unsuccessful.
46. A single Blenheim shadower was intercepted by Force A fighters at 0905
at a distance of 14 miles.
47. The exercise was terminated at 1015 and Force A entered Colombo harbour at 1600.
Second Period at Colombo (18th to 23rd June)
48. Force A remained at Colombo from 18th to
23rd June.
49. At 0800 on the 18th June, Rear Admiral A.D. Read hoisted his flag as
Flag Officer, Ceylon, when the East Indies’ Command
lapsed. Vice Admiral G.S. Arbuthnot, KCB, DSO, struck his flag as Commander in
Chief, East Indies, at sunset and left Colombo for the United Kingdom the following
day.
50. From the 18th the control and routing of trade in the East Indies
Station was taken over by the Commander in chief, Eastern Fleet, except Indian
and Ceylonese coastal trade which is being controlled by the Flag Officer, Ceylon.
H.M.S. LOOKOUT
51. Examination by divers showed the LOOKOUT’s rudder required immediate
repair. This ship was therefore docked and repairs put in hand. This involved
her being delayed to an extent which precluded her from accompanying Force A
when that Force sailed from Colombo on 23rd June.
Conference with the
Commander in Chief, India, Commander in Chief, Ceylon, etc.
52. During the forenoon of 19th June a conference was held on shore at
which the following were present:
Commander in
Chief, India
Commander in Chief, Eastern
Fleet
Air Officers Commanding
in Chief, India
General, the Honourable
Sir H. Alexander
Commander in
Chief, Ceylon
General Officer
Commanding, Ceylon
Air Officer Commanding,
Ceylon
(a). FUTURE OPERATIONS
(i). The Commander in
Chief, India, outlined briefly plans for future offensive operations which
would entail combined operations, and asked that details of these might be
studied by the services concerned. Two plans were under consideration, but
neither had advanced sufficiently to make a detailed discussion profitable at
present.
(ii). Weather and other
fundamental factors were discussed, including the use of seaborne air forces to
support military operations. In this connection, I pointed out that recent
operations in the Pacific have indicated clearly that aircraft carriers cannot
be expected to operate effectively against strong land based air forces. These
valuable and useful fleet units must be reserved for their proper role and
enemy land base air forces neutralized by out own land based air forces.
(iii). I also stressed the
need for a full scale synchronized diversion by U.S.A. forces in order to
counter, to some extend, the advantage the Japanese enjoy of operating on
interior lines.
(b). Defence of Bay of Bengal
It is agreed that land
aircraft operating on the East Coast of India were an urgent requirement. The
Air Officer Commanding in Chief, India, stated that is
was hoped the necessary aerodromes for these aircraft would be completed in
three months. I referred to the present weakness of the Ceylon air
reconnaissance and striking forces and the need for these to be augmented and
the Warning System improved before the Fleet can be assured of a reasonable
degree of protection whilst at Colombo or Trincomalee.
(c). Control of Catalina
Squadrons
(i). I expressed the
opinion that it was very desirable the operational control of these squadrons
should be vested in one authority and that the Air Officer Commanding, Ceylon,
who was closely in touch with the general and naval situations, appeared to be
the most suitable. The Catalinas were very mobile and should be moved from
place to place to meet the needs of the situation.
(ii). Both the Commander in
Chief, India, and the Air Officer Commanding in Chief, India, demurred at these
Catalinas which are earmarked primarily for Madras, being operated by any
authority other than the Air Officer Commanding Chief, India. They admitted,
however, it would be wrong to retain Catalinas at Madras when there was
no immediate threat in the Bay of Bengal and submarine
or raider activity required observation and counter action. Agreement on this
point was not reached.
Mining Operations
53. In view of the possibility of offensive operations I decided to
cancel MANXMAN’s minelaying programme since it was obvious that these
minefields would prove an embarrassment to us. Furthermore, the most recent
P.R.U. and submarine reports indicated that the merchant ship movements north
of Rangoon are not
considerable enough to justify the risk involved and possible disclosure of the special plan for carrying this
operation.
Visit of Ceylonese Minister
and Commander in
Chief, Ceylon, to H.M.S. FORMIDABLE
54. In the afternoon I entertained the Minister and the Speaker of the
House of Assembly to tea onboard H.M.S. FORMIDABLE and afterwards took them
round the ship. They were accompanied by the Commander in Chief, Ceylon, who informed
me subsequently that his visit had been most successful and would undoubtedly
stimulate the Ministers to increased war efforts. The ignorance displayed by
the Ministers on naval matters was abysmal. Questions were asked whether
merchant ships and tugs were cruisers and destroyers, and it was difficult to
persuade one of these gentlemen that a lighter propelled by two of his
countrymen in loin clothes was not a submarine. The proceedings were enlivened
by an air raid warning Red which proved to be false but which afforded
excellent opportunity for the display of subsequent heroics.
Meeting with the Air
Officer Commanding, Ceylon, regarding recent air exercises
55. On 20th June a meeting was held on shore to discuss in detail the
results of the tests and exercises carried out between the Ceylon air forces and
Force A. It is gratifying to record that throughout the discussion, it was
clear both the Royal Air Force and the Royal Navy appreciated in full that the
object of these tests is to improve the organisation and techniques of attack
and defence on both sides and to secure this the fullest degree of cooperation
and mutual assistance is essential.
Ceylon Defences
56. In the afternoon I visited the Fighter Direction Station and was
favourably impressed with the lay out, organisation, and knowledge displayed by
the Squadron Leader in Charge. On the other hand, the R/T communication with
fighters appeared to be little better than our own and well before the standard
of German R/T which I learned (n.b. pen
and ink correction of word “learned” to “heard”) over two years ago at
Dover.
57. I also inspected a G.L. II set installed at a A/A/ heavy gun battery
manned by Royal Marines. Everything was, as might be expected, in first class
order and the Sergeant’s vegetable garden in full production.
Katukurunda Aerodrome
58. In the afternoon I visited Katukurunda Aerodrome which is be turned
over to the Royal Navy to accommodate three disembarked squadrons. Work to the
extend the runway is in progress but the accommodation will not be completed
for another two months. The main objection lies in it distance from Colombo, which
precluded squadrons being disembarked unless the Fleet is at 8 hours’ notice or
longer, owing to the time taken to recover the personnel, i.e. approximately 80
per squadron. It is most desirable, however, that squadrons should be
disembarked when possible as the excessive heat in the carriers hangers has an
adverse effect on personnel and to some extent their work.
Operations in the Mediterranean
59. A signal from the Rear Admiral Commanding, 4th Cruiser Squadron,
gave me details of the damage sustained by H.M.S. NEWCASTLE and also informed
me of the loss of H.M.S. HERMIONE. This fine little ship had served me well in
Force H and during her short visit to Kilindini. I was glad to note the spirit
of the officers and men under the inspiring leadership of her Captain (Captain
G.N. Oliver (n.b. pen and ink correction
CBE crossed out), DSO) was as outstanding as ever.
60. I must again refer to the paucity of my information concerning
current naval events. Although I had detached two cruisers and ten destroyers
to assist with the Eastern Mediterranean convoy my only
information concerning the operation was restricted to “Natels” – sometimes
corrupt – and the B.B.C. I still have no idea of what really happened, how many
of the Western convoy reached Malta or how the
enemy attacks were detected and met.
61. In this connexion I would like to point out that the first
intimation I received of the retention at Freetown of RODNEY and NELSON was
from the Commander in Chief, South Atlantic. On the 20th
June, however, I received Their Lordships’ messages informing me of the delay
in these two ships joining my Flag and of the temporary withdrawal of
INDOMITABLE from the Eastern Fleet.
Requirements of Land Based
Aircraft in India and Ceylon
62. On the 21st June, in reply to an enquiry from the Admiralty I gave
what I considered to be the minimum requirements of land based aircraft on the
East Coast of India and in Ceylon.
Operation SCHOONER
63. In connexion with the movement of two Australian Brigade Groups from
Ceylon to Australia (Convoy SCHOONER),
I arranged for GAMBIA to escort the
convoy from Colombo to 83 degrees
East, 20 degrees South. Onward escort to Australian has been arranged by the
Australian Commonwealth Board, employing U.S.S. PHOENIX and one of H.M.
Australian ships.
Subsequent proceedings of
Force A (23rd June to 1st July)
64. Force A, consisting of WARSPITE (Flag of Commander in Chief, Eastern
Fleet), FORMIDABLE, GAMBIA, LAFOREY
(Captain (D) 19th Destroyer Flotilla), LIGHTNING, and VAN GALEN sailed at 0900
from Colombo.
65. When 40 miles west of Colombo, a sychronrised
attack was carried out by Ceylon air forces on
Force A. Two pairs of Beauforts attacked simultaneously, one pair from each
side, and at the same time a squadron of Blenheims approached unobserved and
carried out a high level bombing attack.
66. Albacores from FORMIDABLE had earlier carried out an A.S.V.
exercises on TRUANT to the northward and were returning to their carriers
during the approach of the Ceylon striking
forces. This caused some confusion on the R.D.F. screen. Nevertheless, the poor
results obtained by the R.D.F. in failing to detect the approach of the Ceylon
striking forces was not satisfactory, and immediate endeavour is being made to
improve matters, particularly to speed up the passing of reports of raids from
outlying ships to the Flagship.
67. At 1100 three Sea Hurricanes were flown in FORMIDABLE for passage to
Kilindini and for embarkation in INDOMITABLE. A further three were later flown
on board ILLUSTRIOUS at 1800.
68. ILLUSTRIOUS had been delayed in harbour by her bottom line having
fouled the propeller. It was hoped ILLUSTRIOUS would get clean by 1500 and at
1330 Force A turned towards Colombo until 1600 when
ILLUSTRIOUS reported that she would not be ready until after 1700 at the
earliest. Force A was then turned to the southeast and course shaped for the
One and a Half Degree Channel, and ILLUSTRIOUS instructed to join at dawn the
following morning.
69. ILLUSTRIOUS rejoined at 0700 on 24th June. At 0830 one Fulmar
crashed on deck landing on ILLUSTRIOUS.
Force A passed through the One and a Half Degree Channel during the
night 24/25th June, and course was shaped for the Seychelles.
70. At 1130 on the 25th a Swordfish from ILLUSTRIOUS crashed whilst
carrying out dive bombing practice at a towed target. On pulling out of the
dive the aircraft’s port main plane appeared to break away and she dived into
the sea and sank immediately. It is regretted the crew, consisting of
Lieutenant (A) A.S.D. Macaulay, DSC, RN, (pilot), Sub Lieutenant (A) R.A.
Bailey, DSC, RN (observer), and E. Roberts, Leading Steward, D/LX 21387
(Passenger), was lost
71. At 1230 despatches were transferred by LIGHTNING from WARSPITE to GAMBIA for
transmission on her return to Colombo. GAMBIA was
detached at 1400, 50 miles to the northward to act as a target ship for night
shadowing air exercises and was instructed to proceed at dawn on 26th back to
Colombo, where she was required for escort duty of convoy SCHOONER, due to
leave Colombo for Australia about 10th July.
72. On 26th June during air exercises one Martlet from ILLUSTRIOUS
forced landed in the sea at 1110. The pilot was saved by LIGHTNING.
Later at 1530 a Fulmar was damaged whilst landing on FORMIDABLE.
73. At 1620 on 27th June ILLUSTRIOUS and FORMIDABLE under Rear Admiral
Aircraft Carriers, parted company to the northward with orders to rejoin Force
A again at 0900 on 29th in position 002-50 South 53 East. WARSPITE and the
three destroyers continued on to the Seychelles area where they
arrived at Port Victoria at 1100 on 28th June. FOXHOUND was already in port to
join Force A.
Refuelling was commenced at once and completed by 1800. Throughout the
visit two destroyers and one Walrus aircraft maintained A/S patrols to seaward.
A Catalina aircraft also carried out a long range patrol around the islands.
74. In order to afford some A/S protection to the several tankers now
normally kept at Port Victoria, and also ships which call there to refuel, I
decided to transfer to Seychelles two A/S trawlers from the 3rd Trawler Group
(4 vessels) now at Ceylon, where the A/S defence is not so weak as at
Seychelles. The Flag Officer, Ceylon, was directed
by signal to arrange according.
75. His Excellency the Governor, Lieutenant Colonel Lukis of M.N.D.B.O.
and Lieutenant Colonel Newington (Officer Commanding Troops), and the Naval
Officer in Charge, Seychelles, lunched with
me onboard.
76. Discussing the prevalence of Venereal Disease in Mahe – about 80% of
the inhabitants are affected – Lieutenant Colonel Newington informed me that he
had successfully dealt with the situation by classing any of the Mahellas who
contacted the disease as untouchables, which ensured ostracism by their fellow
tribesman. This is in marked contrast to the “’Ard cheese mate” with which the
lower deck greets a new recruit to the C.D.A. mess.
77. In the afternoon I visited the new gun sites on the northeast side
of St Anne’s Island where it is intended to
remount the existing two, 6 inch fixed defence battery at present in unsuitable
sites on Mahe Island.
78. The Royal Marine Pioneer Section of the M.N.B.D.O., under Lieutenant
Colonel Lukis, RM, working from the S.S. CLAN FORBES, has only been at
Seychelles for a fortnight but in this time, besides mounting an additional gun
at Mahe for close range defence of the harbour, they have made excellent
progress in the construction of a road over the most difficult country from the
beach to the new gun sites at St Anne’s. The rock is so hard that steel drills
will only penetrate two inches before blunting. Diamond drills appear to be
essential and I hope to obtain some from South Africa. I was most
favourably impressed by the resource, initiative, and fine spirit displayed by
the Pioneer Section under the able leadership of Lieutenant Colonel Lukis.
79. Providing the work is allowed to proceed the guns should be mounted
in six weeks and in view of the importance of affording protection to the
tankers stationed at Seychelles, I gave
instructions that the work was to proceed. This slight delay involving moving
the Pioneers to Addu Atoll will not affect progress at the latter to any
material extent.
80. WARSPITE and four destroyers sailed at 1830 on 28th and at 0900 on
29th ILLUSTRIOUS and FORMIDABLE rejoined at the pre arranged rendezvous. Course
was then shaped direct to Kilindini.
81. During this passage full opportunity had been taken to carry out air
night search and attack exercises, and frequent fighter direction exercises
have resulted in an improvement in this respect.
82. Force A arrived at Kilindini at 1700 on 1st July.
(SIGNED)
J.F.
Somerville
ADMIRAL
P.S. Enclosed are photographs which show the congestion of shipping in
the small harbour at Colombo. It will be
observed that only one battleship and one carrier were in harbour when the
photographs were taken. The added congestion when the whole of the
reconstituted Force A is berthed there will be apparent. (n.b. these photographs not in my file)
____________________
Office of the British Naval
Commander – in – Chief, Eastern Fleet
19th August 1942
No. 57S/4682.
PROCEEDINGS
OF EASTERN FLEET
1st
July to 18th August 1942
Be pleased to lay before Their Lordships the following report of the
proceedings of Force A in the Eastern Fleet from 1st July to 18th August 1942.
Eastern Fleet State
2. The withdrawal of H.M.S. INDOMITABLE and the 19th Destroyer Flotilla
on 9th July, and the heavy escort commitments on the Middle East and Indian
Ocean supply routes, together with the shortage of destroyers had led me to
inform the Admiralty of the weak state of the Eastern Fleet (my message times
1453/3). In effect the striking force available for the Eastern Fleet amounted
to H.M.S. WARSPITE, two carriers, one or two cruisers, and possibly five
destroyers.
Operation STAB
3. On the 21st July (n.b. see
paragraph 4, date should read 12th) a signal was received from the First
Sea Lord intimating B.A.D. Washington had been informed by Admiral King that he
was anxious for the British Fleet to undertake a diversion in the Indian Ocean
to hold down enemy air forces while the American Fleet was operating in the
Pacific in early August. In my replay I informed Their Lordships that the only
operations which it would be feasible for me to undertake at the end of July or
early August were carrier borne raids on Port Blair or Sabang. Admiral Helfrich
however has advised that an attack on Sabang was unlikely to be productive as
the jungle lends itself to effective dispersal of aircraft. At Port Blair the
main target would be flying boats which would best be attacked by fighters
involving a very close approach of the carriers to the objective. I therefore
suggested that a diversion rather than an actual raid by Force A towards the
Andamans would prove more profitable.
4. On the 16th Chiefs of Staff telegraphed in the same sense as the
First Sea Lord’s warning telegram of 12th July, but the date was now deferred
to approximately 10th August.
5. In this telegram, the Commander in Chief, India, was requested
to consider a deception plan in conjunction with myself and I was further
requested to consider a diversionary feint in the area Java, Sumatra, or Andamans
and to report my intentions, the date to be concerted with Commander in
Chief, India. I was
furthermore warned that it would not be justifiable to employ Eastern Fleet
carriers on an operation in which they would be open to attack by shore based
bombers.
6. The Commander in Chief, India in his 1530/16
doubted whether any good plan was possible which would be effective by 10th
August, but he signaled suggestions which included simulating an attack on the
Burmese coast.
7. After considering Chief Of Staff’s No. C.O.S. (India) 66 (O.Z. 741 –
16/7) I informed the Admiralty that as the operation was to contain enemy air
forces I assumed that is was required to synchronise with the American
operation unless they wished it otherwise and laid my plans accordingly. These,
as set out in my message timed 0926/17, were briefly to suggest a landing in
the Andamans by sailing three dummy convoys from Trincomalee, Madras,
Vizagapatam, or Calcutta, Force A covering the convoys to the eastward. W/T to
be used to ensure that the movement was observed and an endeavour then to be
made to suggest postponement of operation due to some accidental cause.
8. The Chiefs of Staff replied to the Commander in Chief, India to the effect
that his plan was not worth the risks and efforts involved in the present
circumstances and unless he could concert with me in preparing a more
satisfactory alternative plan to help the forthcoming Molucca-Pacific operation
it would not be worth attempting.
9. Late on the 18th July, I received a personal telegram from the First
Sea Lord informing me that he had just seen Admiral King who informed him that
the American Solomon operation might commence as early as the 1st August and it
would be most useful if the contemplated operation in the Indian Ocean could
synchronise with this commencement.
10. In the meantime, all available ships of the Eastern Fleet at
Kilindini had been out exercising under the command of the Vice Admiral Second
in Command since the 15th July and in view of the previous date, 10th August,
being given as commencement of the operation they were still at sea when the
telegram was received.
11. Instructions were given for the Fleet to return to Kilindini as soon
as possible and they entered harbour on the morning tide of 20th July after
completing five days of concentrated practice.
12. Submarine Warfare in the Mozambique Channel
I had under careful analysis the Japanese U boat operations in the Mozambique
Channel and the outcome suggested that
(a). attacks were in the
nature of waves lasting about ten days with an inactive period in between.
(b). During this inactive
period U boats proceeded to the south or south-east of Madagascar and probably
replenished.
13. I had had under contemplation two forms of counter-attack
(a). to send a force of
cruisers and carriers to an area south of Madagascar during the next
replenishment period.
(b). to send a force of
destroyers to operate in the Mozambique Channel, in conjunction
with Catalina aircraft at the anticipated date of recommencement of attack.
14. I reported this to the Admiralty in my 1945/14th July. In reply the
Admiralty in their 2232/17 suggested that the carrier force should be split and
that half should be employed in rounding up the possible supply ship and the
other half carry out the proposed diversionary operation.
They emphasized that if this could not be done we should be unable to
take any action against the supply ship until early in September on Force A’s
return.
15. I replied in my 1013/18 that to reduce Force A to below the strength
of the already low limit of one battleship, two carriers, two cruisers, and
five destroyers would suggest to the Americans that we were no cooperating to
the best of our ability. In any case the extent to which the operation could be
pressed with so small a force would be greatly restricted. I emphasized in my
reply that it was open to question whether the proposed operation would in fact
have the desired effect on Japanese air dispositions and if it were possible to
forego the diversion we could concentrate on dealing with this serious
submarine menace to our Middle East and Indian
communications. I appreciated however that for political reasons and in order
to be reassured of American reciprocal action if the Indian Ocean was seriously
threatened, it would be undesirable to show reluctance in meeting their present
request
16. The Admiralty in their 1337/19 subsequently agreed that the whole of
Force a should proceed for the diversionary operation in the Bay of Bengal.
17. I decided to carry out the alternative operation in the Mozambique
Channel using the only two destroyers that could be made available.
18. This plan was based on destroyers and Catalina aircraft working
together from Mayotta Island ready to
operate in the threatened area as a combined air and striking force.
19. H.M.S. ALBATROSS was sailed to act as parent ship for four Catalinas
and with H.M. ships GRIFFIN and FOXHOUND as
the striking force.
Sailing of Force A for
Operation STAB
20. Force A, comprising WARSPITE (Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet),
ILLUSTRIOUS (Rear Admiral Aircraft Carriers, Eastern Fleet), FORMIDABLE,
BIRMINGHAM (Rear Admiral Commanding, Fourth Cruiser Squadron), MAURITIUS, and
only four available destroyers (NORMAN, NIZAM, INCONSTANT, and VAN GALEN)
sailed at 0800 on 21st July to Colombo via the Seychelles
21. NAPIER (Commodore (D)) had been employed with FOXHOUND escorting H.M.S.
QUEEN ELIZABETH from Aden to Kilindini
and entered harbour shortly after Force A had sailed. She sailed later the same
day and joined me at sea two days later.
22. At noon on 23rd July,
the destroyers under Commodore (D) were detached to refuel at the Seychelles. During that
night the remainder of Force A stood to the northward, cruisers having been
detached to carry out a shadowing exercise on the heavy ships. The destroyers
carried out a dummy torpedo attack on the Battlefleet on rejoining at 0700 on
24th July.
23. At 0845 on 25th July a Fulmar crashed in the sea on taking off from
FORMIDABLE. The crew was picked up by NIZAM.
24. After Force A had passed through the One and a Half Degree Channel
at 0200 on the 27th course was altered for Colombo.
Air Exercises with Ceylon Air Force
25. I had previously informed the Commander in Chief, Ceylon that during the
approach from the Maldive Islands to Colombo, Force A would
be available as a target for the Royal Air Forces of Ceylon if desired.
26. On the evening of the 27th July at 1950, an R.D.F. contact was made
with a shadowing Catalina and a signal from her was intercepted reporting the
position, course, and speed of Force A with reasonable accuracy. Apparently the
Catalinas A.S.V. then broke down and at 2040 she closed Force A to 8 miles and
was sighted before she turned away again.
27. During the remainder of the night the Catalina failed to establish
further contact with Force A. There was a bright moon, but also intermittent
clouds. From 0440 until full daylight at 0630 two formations approached Force
A, but never closer than about 14 miles and returned to base without delivering
any attack.
28. At 0650 a formation of six Blenheims closed Force A and was sighted
but did not deliver any attack. At 0725 a Squadron of twelve Hurricanes, flying
very los, approached Force A and delivered a low bombing attack on the
carriers.
29. I regret to report that during this attack one Hurricane flew too
low, struck the port forward wireless mast of FORMIDABLE, crashed into the sea,
and sank immediately. The pilot was not recovered.
30. No further attacks were made on Force A and the force entered Colombo at 0900F on the
28th July.
31. After arrival in harbour, the Air Officer Commanding Ceylon and his
staff officers came on board to discuss the exercise. I was informed that
failure to supplement the Catalina search was due to a desire to avoid
weakening the striking force by using aircraft for this purpose. I pointed out
that this was the third occasion on which no attack had been delivered owing to
defective reconnaissance. It is to be hoped that the fundamental principle of
ensuring contact even at the expense of striking power will be taken to heart
though admittedly that has been stressed by me on all previous exercises.
32. On the following day I discussed with the Air Officer Commanding
that arrangements for operational control of the Catalina squadrons in
accordance with instructions issued by the Chiefs of Staff Committee.
The Air Officer Commanding appeared to welcome the new organisation
which placed these aircraft under my orders since he had experienced difficulty
in the past through trying to serve too many masters.
33. I also discussed this matter with the Commander in Chief, Ceylon and explained
the necessity for reducing the routine patrols to the eastward of Ceylon in order to
release Catalinas for more urgent duties elsewhere. In a letter to General
Wavell forwarding a copy of the directive I intend to issue to the Air Officer
Commanding Ceylon, I stressed similarly the need to reduce patrols to the
eastward of Madras when there were
no indications of enemy activity in the Malayan area or Bay of Bengal.
Operation ANAKIM
34. On the 29th and 30th July I had conference with Admiral Palliser and
General Winterton (Chief of Staff to General Alexander) and discussed
arrangements for the projected Operation ANAKIM (Commander in Chief India’s
telegrams 17438/C.23/7 timed 1330 23rd July and 1825 24th July refer).
Operation STAB
35. The general outline of Operation STAB was communicated to Their
Lordships in my message 0457Z of 27th July. The operation can be summarized as
follows:
(i). Object of Operation
To carry out a feint in the Bay of Bengal in order to
contain Japanese air and surface forces.
(ii). Intention
To carry out a diversion in the Bay of Bengal to suggest a
seaborne attack on the Andamans by the following means.
36. Three dummy convoys with local escorts to sail in daylight at
0400Z/1st August in the direction of the Andamans from the following ports:
(a). From Vizagapatam
Force V – escort H.M.I.S.
JUMNA (Senior Officer Force V) and H.M.S. SCOUT
Convoy: H.T. BLACKHEATH, S.S. TRADER CRANFIELD, and S.S.
MAHOUT
(b). From Madras
Force M – escort
H.M.S. MANXMAN (Senior Officer Force M), H.M.S. ASTER, and H.M.I.S. SONAVATI
Convoy: S.S. TASMANIA, HOPERANGE,
CLAN MCIVER, YUENSANG, and CUSTODIAN
(c ). From
Trincomalee
Force T – escort H.M.I.S.
HINDUSTAN (Senior Officer Force T), and H.M.S. MARGUERITE
Convoy: R.F.A.s APPLELEAF, BROOMDALE, SHENKING, and MARIT
MAERSK.
37. Convoys to proceed at best speed and reverse their course after dark
at 1700Z 1st August and return to their ports at best speed to arrive there
before dusk on 2nd August.
38. Force A to sail from Colombo at 0400Z on the 31st July so as to be
eastward of Trincomalee by the time Force T was due to sail on the 1st August.
Thereafter, Force A to cover Force T from the eastward during the 1st and 2nd
August. Subsequent movements of Force A to depend on the situation, the force
finally returning to Colombo about the 4th
August.
39. Wireless Diversion. During the night of 1st/2nd August whilst forces
are at sea, a wireless diversion (Operation SPARK) to be carried out to
simulate the following events.
(a). An imaginary collision
to occur in Convoy M.
(b). One of the damaged
ships to make in plain language W/T signal reported she had been in collision
and is unable to proceed on operation. One of the escort to order her to keep
silence and later to report to Command in Chief that Force M was unable to
proceed. Commander in Chief to postpone the operation and order all forces to
return to their ports.
(c ). Shore Wireless
Stations to carry out their normal W/T procedure.
I informed Their Lordships of this wireless diversion in my message
0342/30th July.
40. Catalina Patrols were to be established well to the eastward to
cover the three convoys during the short period they were at sea and Force A
whilst operating in the Bay of Bengal.
41. Convoy Fighter Escorts
Forces V, M, and T to be escorted while within 50 miles of their ports
on their journey out of the 1st August and on their return on 2nd August. A/S
air patrols also to be provided if available.
(Note: Owing to unserviceability of aerodromes to serve Force V the air
escort and long range reconnaissance for this force had to be abandoned.)
42. Preliminary Movements
The preliminary movements of Forces V and M towards their departure
ports were well advanced by the time I reached Colombo, but H.M. Ships
WELSHMAN and SCOUT had been retained to received my orders. Six ships of Force
T sailed from Colombo on the 28th and
29th so that all forces would be ready to leave their departure ports at the
prearranged time on 1st August.
43. Enemy reports in the Bay of Bengal
At 2200F on the 30th July, I received the following enemy report from
R.N.N. Submarine O 23 on patrol in the Malacca Straits:
“Two cruisers TAKAO
class four destroyers 005-32N, 098=50E. Course 340 Speed 14 knots. Torpedoes
missed. T.O.O. 2352Z/28”
44. At 2230 I received a QQ report from H.T. BLACKHEATH passage from Madras to Vizagapatam in position
16-22N, 82-32E at 2156F/29. Shortly afterwards an SS report was received from
the American merchant ship STEEL TRAVELLER in position 22 miles north
Sacramento Shoal (about 35 miles to the northward of BLACKHEATH’s position).
45. It seemed unlikely that the enemy cruiser force, moving northwards
close to the Thailand coast, was a sign of enemy reaction to the “planted”
rumours in India that seaborne forces wear being prepared to attack the
Andamans. A more probable reason to account for this movement was a possible
raid on shipping in the northern part of the Bay of Bengal or a visit to Rangoon to coincide
with the establishment of the new Burmese puppet government.
46. Force T and M were provided with air cover, both by the long range
reconnaissance Catalina patrols and local fighter escort, and in addition would
have Force A covering them to the eastward, but Force V would be without air
cover and too far away to be covered by Force A. I therefore decided to cancel
the sailing of Force V, but that all preparations for its departure were to
continue.
47. Submarine Patrols
Submarine O 23 was due to leave patrol in the Malacca Straits on the 31st July
and return to Colombo. In view of the
enemy forces reported previously by her and the forthcoming Operation STAB, O
23 was ordered to remain on patrol until 3rd August.
48. Shipping the Bay of Bengal
All independent shipping on the east coast of India was ordered to
proceed to the nearest ports.
49. Force A
In view of the enemy cruisers reported in the Malacca Straits on 29th
July, I decided to proceed with Force A from Colombo on the
afternoon of the 30ths. This would enable operational STAB to be carried out on
the prearranged date and also admit of intercepting the Japanese force should
it venture to the southern part of the Bay of Bengal.
50. The Force comprising WARSPITE (Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet),
ILLUSTRIOUS (Rear Admiral Aircraft Carriers, Eastern Fleet), FORMIDABLE,
BIRMINGHAM (Rear Admiral Commanding, Fourth Cruiser Squadron, MAURITIUS,
HEEMSKERCK, NAPIER (Commodore (D)), NORMAN, NIZAM, INCONSTANT, and VAN GALEN
sailed from Colombo at 1700F on 30th July.
51. Course was shaped to keep out of sight of land and to be in a
position 35 miles to eastward of Trincomalee by 1000F on 1st August.
52. Two air searches were sent out from Force A on 31st July. The first
at 0800 to cover the section 050 degrees to 080 degrees ahead of the fleet to a
depth of 150 miles; and the second at 1500 to search the sector 000 degrees to
110 degrees to a depth of 160 miles. Nothing was seen in either search.
53. Since no further information of the enemy cruiser force had been
received, I decided at 1100F on the 31st to postpone the sailing of Force M
until 4 hours later, i.e. 1400F 1st August and ordered a Catalina patrol to the
north eastward of this force whilst at sea so as to give warning of approach of
any possible enemy forces.
54. For T sailed from Trincomalee at the prearranged time, 0900F on 1st
August. At that time Force A was 40 miles northeast of Trincomalee, course
south west. At 1000 course was altered to northeast, parallel to that of Force
T, and throughout the day, Force A maintained a covering position to the north
east of Force T.An air reconnaissance was flown off at 0830 to cover the
section 340 degrees to 000 degrees to 130 degrees to a depth of 150 miles. This
search saw nothing.
55. At 1040 on the 1st August when Force A was in position 9N, 21-42E
(40 miles northeast of Trincomalee), course northeast, an R.D.F. contact was
obtained on an aircraft bearing 100 degrees 73 miles. This was at first through
to be one of the reconnaissance aircraft returning, but the absence of I.F.F.
indication being the unfortunately the rule rather than the exception. This
aircraft was tracked around the fleet and passed astern at 1130 on a bearing
220 degrees 24 miles thence proceeded to the north-westward and finally faded
on bearing 060 degrees at 60 miles at 1215. The aircraft was sighted by
FORMIDABLE and identified by two officers and an air lookout as a Catalina and
reported as such. FORMIDABLE did not send out fighters to investigate. Although
the prearranged programme of the Catalina reconnaissance did not suggest one of
these aircraft should be acting in this manner, the possibility was accepted in
view of the lack of training of many of the newly arrived Catalina crews.
Subsequent investigations and a warning of the presence of British forces broadcast
from Tokyo established
this was an enemy aircraft.
56. At noon a fighter
umbrella of two Martlets was maintained by the ILLUSTRIOUS. One Martlet crashed
into the barrier on deck landing. The need to economise on the fighter umbrella
was governed by the necessity of conserving the Martlets. Had the aircraft
referred to in paragraph 55 not been wrongly identified as a Catalina, I am
convinced that it could have been intercepted by Martlets that were ranged at
readiness in both carriers.
57. A further air search was sent out at 1500 to cover the sector from
000 degrees to 110 degrees to a depth of 150 miles but nothing was seen.
58. At 1800 one of the Fulmar search aircraft made an emergency landing
on ILLUSTRIOUS, but crashed on desk due to a fractured oil pipe spraying the
pilot’s windscreen, and was badly damaged.
59. At 1830 all the search aircraft except two Fulmars had returned to
their carriers. The two missing aircraft reported to FORMIDABLE by wireless
that they were lost and requested D/F bearings. I at once ordered wireless
silence to be broken to home these aircraft. The fleet was turned at 1840 to
close one of the aircraft when bearing had been definitely established by D/F
and R.D.F.Searchlights were burned at dusk to assist returning aircraft and at
1920 Very’s lights were sighted to the southwest. A few minutes later one of
the aircraft was sighted and closed the carriers. Unfortunately, the aircraft
by this time so short of petrol that it had to force land in the sea. The crew
were picked up by NORMAN.
60. By 2000 Force A, which had become somewhat dispersed during reversal
of course and whilst locating the crew of the aircraft, was reformed and course
altered to the north west. Unfortunately
nothing further was heard or seen of the other missing Fulmar with the
exception of one report that a light had been seen to the eastward. A night
search for the survivors of this aircraft was considered, but as they would
have left the convoy uncovered to the northeast, I decided it was preferable to
return to this area at dawn and carry out a daytime air search. I therefore
continued to the north-west and at 0100/2nd August in position 11-30N, 82-15E,
course was reversed to the south-east and at daylight course was altered to
south.
61. The wireless diversion (Operation SPARK) was carried out as
previously arranged during the night at 2300 and appears to have been fully
effective.
62. At 0630/2nd August a thorough air search was sent out to look for survivors
of the Fulmar which had been lost the previous evening.Whilst this attack was
continuing, Force A was manoeuvred in the area in which it was estimated that
the survivors might have landed. No survivors were located and it must be
presumed with regret that the crew, Sub Lieutenant (A) D.N. Elwood, RNVR, and
Sub Lieutenant (A) C. Christelis, RNVR, were lost. Catalinas which would be
operating through this area were requested to keep a good lookout for survivors.
63. At 1030 despatches were transferred by NORMAN from WARSPITE
to ILLUSTRIOUS and thence sent by aircraft to Trincomalee for onward
transmission. At 1100 FORMIDABLE flew off two Martlets as Fighter Umbrella. At
1112 ILLUSTRIOUS and FORMIDABLE reported R.D.F. contact on an aircraft bearing
055 degrees 55 miles. FORMIDABLE directed two Martlets onto this aircraft. When
the fighters sighted the enemy flying boat at 10, 000 feet they first thought
it was a Catalina, but on approaching closely identified it as a Japanese
flying boat Navy Type 97, and promptly shot it down in approximate position
9-26N, 83-16E. The flying boat, which appeared to be taken completely by
surprise, gave no return fire and after the second burst of fire from the
Martlets, caught fire, disintegrated and fell in flames. There were no survivors.
64. In the meantime at 1115 a further two Martlets each were flown off
by FORMIDABLE and ILLUSTRIOUS. One of these Martlets from FORMIDABLE crashed
into the sea on taking off. The pilot was rescued by HEEMSKERCK.
65. A fighter umbrella of two Martlets was maintained for the rest of
the day by ILLUSTRIOUS. At 1530 one of these Martlets appeared to have an
engine failure and crashed into the sea whilst approaching to land on. The
Pilot, Petty Officer (Air) Shaw was lost.
66. At about 1100 I received information from the Flag Officer, Ceylon
that Air Headquarters Bengal considered there were indications of naval
activity south of the Andamans at 2300 G.M.T. on 31st July, that pointed to the
possibility of an attack on Madras at dawn on the 3d April and that the
information on which this was based was from a most secret source. Flag Officer, Ceylon, had also
informed Admiralty and the Deputy Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet.
67. There was nothing in Air Headquarters Bengal signal to indicate what
was the nature of the naval activity which had been reported nor the
reliability of the source. I immediately requested Flag Officer, Ceylon to obtain
amplification of this report.
Although a dawn attack by this Japanese naval force on Madras on 3rd August
was possible, I considered the following factors would make it very improbable.
(a). Force A, probably
having been sighted by the Japanese flying boat a.m. 1st August.
(b). Force A, breaking
wireless silence to endeavour to recover aircraft on the evening of 1st August.
(c ). The wireless
diversion (Operation SPARK), carried out on the night of 1st/2nd August.
Nevertheless I felt that I could not disregard Air Headquarters Bengal
report and I therefore decided to proceed at once to Trincomalee and refuel
destroyers in preparation for an extension of the present operation. I informed
Their Lordships of my intentions in my signal 1215Z/2nd August. Course was
altered at 1215 to the westward and speed increased to reach Trincomalee before
dark.
66. Force A entered Trincomalee at 1915 and refuelling of destroyers
commenced at once and as completed at 2200 when it had been intended that Force
A should sail again.
69. Additional Catalina patrols had been arranged to cover the
approaches to Madras from the east
and south-east, from p.m. 2nd August until daylight 3rd August.
70. I was not until I arrived at Trincomalee at 1900 on 2nd August that
I received a message from Air Headquarters India (Flag Officer Ceylon’s 0744/2)
stated that they did not agree with the deductions nor authorize the message
from Air Headquarters Bengal. After discussion with Rear Admiral Commanding,
Aircraft Carriers and Rear Admiral Commanding Fourth Cruiser Squadron, I
decided that there was no real basis for this report and in view of FORMIDABLE
and BIRMINGHAM being required
at an early date to return to Kilindini for Operation STREAMLINE JANE I decided
Force A should return to Colombo.
71. I informed Their Lordships of my revised intentions in my message
1649Z/2 in which I also requested ARMINDIA to take steps to ensure that reports
such as Air Headquarters Bengal’s, which I obviously could not ignore, are not
transmitted in future.
72. Force A sailed accordingly from Trincomalee at 0600/3rd August and
shaped course for Colombo keeping out of
sight of land.
During the day a safety patrol of one aircraft was maintained 30 miles
ahead of the Fleet. This patrol was carried out by Walrus aircraft from
cruisers during the afternoon but had to be cancelled owing to rising wind and
sea. A fighter umbrella of two Martlets was maintained throughout the day.
73. At 1030 MANXMAN, who was returning from Madras to Colombo, as about 30
miles southwest of Force A. An aircraft was sent to order her to rejoin Force
A, which she did at 1300.
74. At 1430 ILLUSTRIOUS obtained as R.D.F. contact on an aircraft
bearing 60 degrees and at 1440 WARSPITE obtained a doubtful contact on the same
bearing at 50 miles. Both contacts faded ten minutes later. At that time Force
A was in position approximately 6-40N, 82-10E. The R.D.F. contact may have been
a Japanese flying boat, but more probably an aircraft operating from China Bay
as no Catalina were know to be in that area. The uncertainty and short duration
of the contacts rendered fighter interception impracticable.
Air Exercise with Ceylon Air Forces
75. Before leaving Trincomalee I had proposed to Air Officer Commanding,
Ceylon that
opportunity should be taken to exercise that Fighter Direction of shore based
fighters from H.M. ships and any other air exercises he might wish to carry out.
76. From 1645 to 1800 successful fighter direction exercise was carried
out using two Fulmars from ILLUSTRIOUS as the “enemy raids.” R/T communication
was obtained quickly and no difficulty experienced in directing the Hurricanes
on to their target. From 1800 till dusk these two Fulmars took over the duties
of fighter umbrella.
77. The next air exercise was a night shadowing exercise and a night
torpedo and bombing attack on the fleet.
78. At 1850 ILLUSTRIOUS reported an aircraft in sight bearing 190
degrees and directed the fighter umbrella of two Fulmars to investigate. This
aircraft which was clearly in sight from WARSPITE was a flying boat just
visible above the horizon and though it presented characteristics of a
Catalina, it could not definitely be identified as such.ILLUSTRIOUS directed
the Fulmars on to the target, a warning being given by R/T that the aircraft
was possibly friendly. Unfortunately the designation “Bandit” i.e. enemy
aircraft, as opposed to “Bogey” i.e. unidentified aircraft, was employed by the
Fighter Directing Officer. For this and other reasons which are being
investigated by a Board of Enquiry one of the Fulmars opened fire on this
flying boat, which proved to be a Catalina. Fire was ceased directly the pilot
realized his mistake but I regret to report that one airman was killed and two
injured and the Catalina’s rudder damaged. The Fulmars returned to ILLUSTRIOUS
and from subsequent signals it appeared that the Catalina was still airborne
and returning to her base. As a safety measure MAURITIUS and MANXMAN
were detached to search the area in case the Catalina was forced to land, but
were recalled when it was clear from R.D.F. bearings that the Catalina was
proceeding to Koggala.
The result of the Board of Enquiry will form the subject of a separate
report.
79. During the night of 3rd/4th August the shore based reconnaissance
aircraft were unable to locate Force A and in consequence no attacks were
delivered. From 0530 to 0645 on the 4th August another fighter direction exercise
with shore based aircraft was successfully carried out.
80. Force A entered Colombo at 0900 on 4th
August.
81. BIRMINGHAM (Rear Admiral
Commanding, Fourth Cruiser Squadron), FORMIDABLE, MANXMAN, NORMAN, and NIZAM
refueled immediately and sailed again at 1800 for Kilindini, destroyers to
refuel on passage at Seychelles. This force was
due to Kilindini on the 11th August in order to prepare for Operation
STREAMLINE JANE.
82. After the departure of NORMAN and NIZAM with BIRMINGHAM and FORMIDABLE,
the remainder of Force A was left with only NAPIER, INCONSTANT, and VAN GALEN,
all of which required docking.
FORTUNE and ACTIVE were already at Colombo and due to
complete their periodic refit on 7th August.
83. I wished to returned to Kilindini at an early date in order to
supervise the planning of Operation STREAMLINE JANE and also because I
considered it undesirable to have Force A separated in an area adjacent to
possible enemy action.
The 10th August was the earliest date by which four destroyers would be
available.
84. On 7th August I received a request from General Hartley (acting on
behalf of General Wavell) that I should keep Force A at Colombo during the
period of the Congress Meetings at Bombay from 7th to
20th August in case the Japanese staged an offensive operation in the Bay of Bengal with a view to
influencing Congress. I informed General Hartley that his proposal was open to
the objection that it would afford the enemy an opportunity to attack this
small detachment of the Eastern Fleet with superior forces and I intended
sailing for Kilindini as soon as my destroyers were ready. I pointed out that
the whereabouts of Force A would probably not be known to the Japanese until
approximately the 20th August and that I was staging wireless diversions to
convey the impression that Force A was still operating in the Ceylon area.
In reply to my message, General Hartley stated that he fully appreciated
the situation.
85. On the evening of the 7th August a message was received from Delhi stating that a
P.R.U. of the Andamans disclosed a Japanese aircraft carrier of about 10, 000
tons and a small cruiser or destroyer at Port Cornwallis.
Although the composition of the force did not suggest that any offensive
operations were meditated, Catalina patrols were organized to cover the
approaches to Madras and Ceylon.
86. A further report from Delhi received early a.m. on the 8th August
stated the examination of the photographs showed the vessel to be similar to
the KAGA MARU and that the aircraft she carried appeared to be fighter float
planes, one of the latter being observed taxiing on the water. This clearly
indicated defensive as opposed to offensive action and the Catalina patrols
were therefore cancelled.
87. This in conjunction with information that an additional bomber
squadron had been sent to Sabang suggests that Operation STAB more than
achieved its object in containing Japanese forces in the western Malayan
barrier.
88. Arising out of the establishment of the Catalina patrols in
connection with this incident, both Air Officer Commanding, Ceylon, and I agree it
would be of advantage in future if the Air Officer Commanding Ceylon was made
responsible for bringing these into effect. I informed Commander in
Chief, India, and Air
Officer Commanding in Chief, India of these views
and in reply the Air Officer Commander in Chief has stated he will send a
representative to discuss this matter on my arrival at Kilindini.
89. I have reason to believe that whilst the Commander in Chief, India is somewhat reluctant
to forego control of any aircraft operating on the coasts of India, the Air
Officer Commanding in Chief appreciates the need for centralized control and
proper coordination in order to promote efficient operating coupled with
economy of effort.
90. Force A, comprising WARSPITE (Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet),
ILLUSTRIOUS (Rear Admiral Aircraft Carriers, Eastern Fleet), MAURITIUS, NAPIER
(Commodore (D)), INCONSTANT, ACTIVE, and FORTUNE at 1000 on 10th August. VAN
GALEN remained in dock and followed as soon as her repairs were completed.
91. Before sailing, 250 officers and men of the King’s African Rifles
were embarked for passage to Kilindini. This was done at the request of the
Commander in Chief, Ceylon, who stated
these men had been absent from their wives for a long period, and finding the
native ladies of Ceylon inadequate,
their condition gave rise to some concern. In view of their high reputation as
fighting men I was satisfied that their powers in other aspects could be
accepted and merited attention.
Whilst on passage I asked ILLUSTRIOUS if her contingent of 150 could be
persuaded to give one of their native dances on her flight deck – the
conventional lion hunt with the Captain’s Persian cat was quarry was
suggested.. I was informed that this could not be arranged, the reason being
explained subsequently. It was to the effect that in these tribal dances it is
the practice to chant disparagements of neighbouring tribes, frequent reference
being made to a portion of female anatomy. Since the men in ILLUSTRIOUS were of
different tribes, a free fight would inevitably have resulted. The fact that a
similar form of disparagement is used by the Maltese is of interest and
suggests that these great travelers the Phoenicians either had, or else contracted,
somewhat bad manners.
92. Exercises with Ceylon Air Forces
Opportunity was again taken to use
Force A as a target for squadron training for Swordfish, Blenheims, and
Hurricane bombers from the Ceylon Air Forces.
The Blenheims and Hurricanes carried out a well executed and well
sychronrised attack. The Beauforts did not take part as they were engaged in
torpedo practices off Trincomalee. Subsequently, Force A was shadowed by a
Catalina and though the technique of the latter on occasion left something to
be desired I was glad to observe a progressive improvement in the overseas work
of the Air Forces base on Ceylon.
93. At daylight on 11th August an air search was made of the Kardiva
Channel and adjacent atolls, and later that forenoon Force A passed through the
channel. Course was then shaped for the Seychelles.
94. Force A arrived at Port Victoria, Seychelles at 0930 on 15th August
to refuel destroyers and HEEMSKERCK. Throughout this operation AS surface and
air patrols were maintained to seaward. The Force sailed again at 1500 and
shaped course to Kilindini
95. By previous arrangement, RESOLUTION (Vice Admiral Commanding, Third
Battle Squadron), ROYAL SOVEREIGN, VALIANT (recently arrived from the Cape),
DAUNTLESS, and six available destroyers NORMAN, NIZAM, GRIFFIN, FOXHOUND,
DECOY, and BLACKMORE under the command of the Vice Admiral Commanding, Third
Battle Squadron, Second in Command Eastern Fleet sailed from Kilindini on 16th
August for tactical exercises with Force A on 17th August. For these exercises
Force A was placed under the charge of Rear Admiral Commanding Aircraft
carriers.
96. Exercises were carried out throughout the 17th August and at 0900 on
18th August the combined forces entered Kilindini.
ILLUSTRIOUS and destroyer
escort were detached to land Fleet Air Arm Squadrons at Tanga.
(signed)
J.F.
Somerville
ADMIRAL
____________________
Office of the British Naval
Commander-in-Chief, Eastern Fleet
17th October 1942
No. 1000/E.F./4682.
REPORT
OF PROCEEDINGS OF EASTERN FLEET
FOR
PERIOD 18th August to 30th September 1942
NARRATIVE
(a). GENERAL
After the completion of the exercises at sea with Force B, the combined
forces A and B, comprising WARSPITE (Flag of Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet),
VALIANT, RESOLUTION (Flag of Vice Admiral, Second in Command, Eastern Fleet,
ROYAL SOVEREIGN, ILLUSTRIOUS (Flag of Rear Admiral Aircraft Carriers, Eastern
Fleet), MAURITIUS, HEEMSKERCK, and destroyers NAPIER, NORMAN, NIZAM, GRIFFIN,
DECOY, INCONSTANT, FORTUNE, FOXHOUND, ACTIVE, and BLACKMORE arrived at
Kilindini on the 18th August.
ILLUSTRIOUS with two destroyers proceeded to Tanga to disembark
aircraft, and entered Kilindini Harbour the following
day.
2. BIRMINGHAM (Flag of Rear Admiral Commanding, Fourth Cruiser
Squadron), FORMIDABLE, MANXMAN, and other units which were to take part in the
forthcoming operations against Madagascar, had arrived in port a week earlier
so that preliminary planning and training could proceed.
Reduction of Eastern Fleet
Aircraft Carriers
3. On 18th August, I received instructions from Their Lordships to send
either FORMIDABLE or ILLUSTRIOUS to the United Kingdom where an
additional aircraft carrier was urgently required (Admiralty Message
0327/18/8). I decided to send FORMIDABLE, but as her present Commanding
Officer, Rear Admiral A.T. Bisset, as about to be relieved, Their Lordships
approval my proposal that Captain A.G. Talbot, DSO from ILLUSTRIOUS and Admiral
BIsset should exchange ships.
FORMIDABLE sailed on 24th August so as to reach Freetown by 8th
September.
Operations Against Madagascar
4. On 18th August, in accordance with directions contained in Chiefs of
Staff No. E A 8 of 11th August, Lieutenant General Sir W. Platt, KCB, DSO, and
Command in Chief, Eastern Fleet issued a Joint Direction of the Joint
commanders, Rear Admiral W.G. Tennant, CB, MVO, and Major General R.G. Sturges,
RM for the following operations against Madagascar.
(i). The capture of Majunga
(Operation STREAM)
(ii). Advance from Majunga
and capture of Antananarivo (Operation
LINE)
(iii). Capture of Tamatave
(Operation JANE)
5. Training of the naval units and naval aircraft, to take part in the
combined operations, proceeded uninterruptedly for the next two weeks.
6. On the 26th August the 29th Brigade in S.S.’s EMPIRE PRIDE, DILWARA,
and DUNERA, escorted by DAUNTLESS arrived at Kilindini from Diego Suarez. In
addition the followed M.T. and Store ships were assembled at Kilindini,
CHARLTON HALL, KOLA, OCEAN VIKING, GASCONY, and ADVISER.
7. East Africa Coast Defence
Exercises
To test out the defences of East Africa against seaborne “Japanese”
invasion and, also, to provide “cover” and a dress rehearsal for the
forthcoming Madagascar operations, a large scale defence exercise (TOUCHSTONE)
was arranged by the General Officer Commanding East Africa and myself to take
placed between 28th August and 1st September.
8. Besides testing out internal security and civil air defence measures,
the exercise included the following operations carried out on the 30th August.
(i). A landing by the 29th
Brigade at Kilindini with naval and Fleet Air Arm support (from ILLUSTRIOUS at
sea).
(ii). Landings at Tanga,
Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar by Royal Marines and naval landing parties from a
naval force under the command of the Vice Admiral Second in Command, Eastern
Fleet, comprising RESOLUTION (Flag of Vice Admiral Second in Command, Eastern
Fleet), WARSPITE, VALIANT, GAMBIA, ENTERPRISE, HEEMSKERCK, and destroyers
NAPIER, NEPAL, GRIFFIN, DECOY, INCONSTANT, FORTUNE, FOXHOUND, VAN GALEN, and
TJERK HIDDES.
9. These various exercises provided excellent training for all concerned
and gave the forces due to take part in the operations against Madagascar a good
opportunity to test out the landing and assault organisation. The 29th Brigade,
who had been at Diego Suarez since operation IRONCLAD, were afforded
opportunity to refresh their combined operations landing training.
10. I was very favourably impressed with the “sea sense” of the
personnel of this brigade. The naval crews of landing craft demonstrated a high
degree of skill in the handing of their craft under fair weather conditions.
11. These exercises also afforded “good cover” for the training which
had been going on at Kilindini in connection with the Madagascar operations.
Operation STREAMLINE JANE
12. On 1st September the naval units to take part in these operations
commenced to leave Kilindini. MANXMAN left the same day for Diego Suarez.
13. On 3rd September, the slow M.T. convoy of three ships, escorted by
EREBUS, INCONSTANT, ACTIVE, and SIGFRA sailed for the rendezvous off Majunga.
Later that day another M.T. convoy of six ships escorted by DAUNTLESS, CROMER,
CROMARTY, ROMNEY, MASTIFF, and LURCHER sailed for the same rendezvous by a
different route.
14. On the 4th September, GAMBIA, FOXHOUND, and
HOTSPUR sailed for Diego Suarez to provide escort for the main troop and M.T.
convoy which was to take the22nd South African Brigade from Diego Suarez to
Majunga.
15. On 5th September, the main troop convoy carrying the 29th Brigade
and escorted by ENTERPRISE, ALBATROSS,
FORTUNE, ARROW, and BLACKMORE sailed from Kilindini for the Majunga rendezvous.
16. On the 6th September, BIRMINGHAM (Flag of Rear
Admiral Commanding, Fourth Cruiser Squadron), Senior Officer Force M,
ILLUSTRIOUS, HEEMSKERCK, NAPIER, VAN GALEN, and TJERK HIDDES sailed for the
Majunga rendezvous.
17. The remaining details of these operations are the subject of a
separate report, which includes the arrangements made to promulgate false
destinations for the convoys referred to above.
(b) JAPANESE U BOAT
ACTIVITY IN THE GULF OF ADEN
18. The first reliable evidence that Japanese U boats were taking an
interest in the Gulf of Aden was received on the 23rd July when a Japanese
unit, probably a U boat, was plotted by D/F in position 400 miles East South
East of Guardafui. This same unit was again plotted on the following day in
position 700 (n.b. “miles”) South East of Guardafui. Both fixes were classed as
“reliable”.
19. On the 24th and 25th August, a U boat was reported by shore patrols
close inshore off Singara, 20 miles east of Berbera. On the 28th August, strong
W/T signals from a Japanese unit, identified as the Senior officer of the 8th
Submarine Squadron, was heard by Aden W/T bearing 195 degrees.
20. At 0855Z/1/9, S.S. PALMA sighted a submarine in position 11-23N,
51-31E (30 miles southeast of Cape Guardafui). The U boat
attempted to intercept but PALMA increased speed
to 10 knots and shook her off. At 2315 what was probably the same submarine
torpedoed and sank S.S. GASCON in position 13-01N, 50-41E. As the result of
this sinking important shipping bound northbound through the Guardafui Channel
was diverted east of Socotra.
21,The shortage of A/S vessels in all areas and the fact that Operation
STREAMLINE JANE was running concurrently with this submarine activity prevented
any reinforcements of A/S vessels being sent to the Gulf of Aden. A signal was
made on the 3rd September asking 222 Group, Ceylon, to send three
Catalina aircraft from Ceylon to the Gulf of Aden. These aircraft
arrived at Aden on 7th September 1942. It was
intended that these aircraft should be employed as A/S escorts to important
convoys or ships, or in organized A/S hunts in conjunction with surface A/S
forces. It was also decided that three ships of the 14th Minesweeping Flotilla
now attached to Operation STREAMLINE JANE should be sailed fro the Gulf of Aden
as soon as they could be spared from the Operation. These ships sailed on the
27th September.
22. On the 3rd September, the British tanker BRITISH GENIUS bound for Aden was
unsuccessfully attacked at dawn in position 13-34 North, 50-05 East and again
at dusk in position 13-00 North, 48-03 East by what appears to have been an
extremely persistent U boat.
23. On the 6th September a U boat was sighted and unsuccessfully bombed
by an aircraft on patrol in position 14-08 North, 49-46 East. It seemed that
this U boat then proceeded East by South and was responsible for the sinking of
S.S. HARESFIELD 30 miles north of Socotra on 10th
September.
24. On 6th September, Commodore in Charge, Durban, and Commodore in
Charge, Aden were informed (Command in Chief, Eastern Fleet’s 1607/6) that
provided some air cover could be provided in the locality, it was intended to continue
routeing independent ships and probably convoys through the Guardafui Channel,
in order to avoid accentuating the corner which would result if all ships from
the south were routed east of Socotra and to avoid the consequent bunching
which would be bound to occur in an area remote from our patrols.
25. It was suggested that in order to facilitate the work of air and
surface patrols numbered routes should be established for important ships and
that these routes should differentiate between traffic from the south, traffic
from the Persian Gulf, India, and Ceylon and outward bound traffic from the
Gulf of Aden and Red Sea.
26. The following routes were finally adopted:
Shipping to and from the Persian Gulf, Karachi, and Bombay was confined to
a narrow lane close to the northern shore of the Gulf of Aden and over which
air cover could be provided from coastal aerodromes.
Shipping to and from Ceylon
and the south was confined to a similar lane close to the southern shore and
extending to the east point of Socotra.
27. On 16th September the S.S. OCEAN HONOUR was sunk by torpedo and
gunfire by a submarine in position 12-48 South, 50-50 East.
28. From all available information it appears probably that three U
boats were operating in the Gulf of Aden during September, one of these was
identified as of the I / 1-4 class. These U boats appear to have been disposed,
one in the jaws of the Gulf of Aden, one in the
throat of the Gulf of Aden, and the other off the
Arabian coast between 160 degrees north and 220 degrees north. Of these the
first was the only one who had any success.
(C ). JAPANESE U BOAT
ACTIVITY IN THE PERSIAN GULF
29. On 28th September GERALDTON reported having carried out two attacks
on a strong asdic contact off Cape Ras al Hadd.
30. On 29th September, GERALDTON signaled that she had picked up a
message from the tanker BARDAPUR to the effect that at 0930Z/29 she “came
across a ship down at stern in position 24-50 North, 58-10 East. Lifeboats are
in the water.”
GERALDTON closed the position, and having spoken to EMPIRE FORREST who
had passed through the position given above and had seen no boats or wreckage,
returned to protect her convoy.
31. SEABELLE on passage from Karachi also closed
this position from the north east but saw nothing.
32. Although no aircraft were available to an organized search, an
aircraft on air escort who was passing close to this position was told to keep
a good look out, but saw nothing unusual.
On the 1st and 2nd October, INVESTIGATOR carried out a search in the
area, but this was also unsuccessful.
33. P.M. on the 29th, SOLVRA carried out 3 A/S attacks on suspected U
boats in position 25-59 North, 56-53 East, reporting clear echoes and
hydrophone effects but no visible results of the attack.
34. Such was and still is the slender evidence of commencement of enemy
submarine activity in the Persian Gulf.
35. The following immediate action was taken to counter the possible
submarine threat.
(a). Independent ships
bound for the Persian Gulf who was not already north of latitude 22-30 North or
west of longitude 62 East were ordered to pass within 60 miles of Ras al Hadd
and within 40 miles of Muscat in order to facilitate the work of air patrols
operating from coastal aerodromes. Naval Control Service Officers were ordered
to route ships accordingly.
(b) Senior Naval Officer, Persian Gulf, was ordered to
cease providing escorts to Aden and to disperse
Aden convoys off Ras
al Hadd, in order to allow more escorts for Bombay convoys.
(c ). Senior Officer, Persian Gulf, was ordered to
press on with the approved convoy plans and to provide air escort when this was
possible.
(d). 222 Group Ceylon was asked to
have four Catalinas in readiness to proceed to the Persian Gulf should the
submarine threat materialize.
36. The BARDAPUR was on passage to Kilindini, E T A 13th October and it
is intended to hold a full enquiry on her arrival.
(d). INAUGURATION OF
CONVOYS IN ARABIAN SEA
37. During the last week in July it was realized that Japanese submarine
activities were not being repeated in the Mozambique for a third
cycle and W/T bearings gave indications of units North of the Equator towards Socotra. It then became
evident that converted submarine attack might be planned either in the Gulf of Oman or Aden and that in all
probability as Axis attack would develop upon our Middle East traffic,
notably the oil supplies from Persian Gulf to Middle East.
38. It had always been the intention when forming the Ceylon Escort
Group to run convoys between Bombay, Ceylon, and Calcutta until such time
as it might be necessary to transfer the organisation bodily to the Arabian Sea area. At the
beginning of August it became apparent that this transfer might soon be
necessary and although some two or three months remained before the monsoon was
ease and allow submarines more fruitful conditions, it was decided that initial
stages with attendant difficulties ought to be tackled without delay. Force A
was then absent from Kilindini and the Deputy Commander in Chief, Eastern
Fleet’s 0953/2nd August gave the stages in which it was proposed to effect the
measures.
39. Bearing in mind that troop convoys would still take priority and be
no fewer in number than hitherto, the following were the proposed stages to be
aimed at in the inauguration of the commercial convoys:
Stage I Outward from Persian Gulf only;
dispersing when clear and including tankers and other important ships at
discretion of the Senior Naval Officer, Persian Gulf.
Stage II Convoys to run
throughout distance between Bombay and Persian Gulf. Traffic to Aden and elsewhere
dispersing as in Stage I.
Stage III Convoys to be
run through to Aden as soon was
weather moderated; also tankers and important ships from south to be included
in Bombay to Persian Gulf convoys.
40. It was realized that the number of escorts would not, at first,
permit a complete convoy system. It was therefore necessary for the system to
give as much appearance of being complete as possible, and for the senior
officers on the spot to use their initiate and judgment in forming escorting
groups or letting ships go unescorted.
41. Attention was immediately drawn to two important features:
(a). Flag Officer
Commanding Royal Indian Navy pointed out that Bombay could not
accommodate the assemblage. Other alternatives such as Gulf of Kutch and Cochin are still under
examination.
(b). Senior Naval Officer, Persian Gulf, drew attention
to the importance of his Hormuz patrol as a stopper to render the ports and waters
inside the Gulf secure.
42. Meanwhile the Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet had had opportunity
of discussion with the Flag Officer , Ceylon, and approved
the plans generally in his 0328/7th August wherein the Commander in Chief
directed
(a). No further Bay of Bengal convoys should
be run after those in connection with Operation STAB.
(b). 3 A/S craft to be
reallocated from Kilindini to Persian Gulf.
(c). Acceptance of Flag
Officer Commanding Royal Indian Navy’s offer of 3 additional vessels to augment
these from Ceylon Escort Group
43. Steps were immediately taken to arrange for the Persian Gulf assembly port
facilities and necessary staff to organize the outward bound convoys. TO avoid
immobilizing the cruiser used as longstop in the Hormuz patrol scheme it was
decided to allocate an Armed Merchant Cruiser until a base ship could be fitted
out. H.M.S. ALAUNIA was detailed to go on completion of her escort duties with
W S 21 P G and she relieved CAPETOWN 12th September as Senior Naval Officer,
Hormuz.
44. 3 A/S whalers left Kilindini 25th August arrived Hormuz about 4th
September. HIRIVATI, RAGNAGIRI, and INVESTIGATOR lent by Flag Officer
Commanding Royal Indian Navy were operation in early September and H.M.S.
GERALDTON was allocated to Persian Gulf division
arriving Bombay end of August.
45. It was also intended to allocate 3 Cromers to Gulf of Aden. As, however,
these ships were to play an important role in Operation STREAMLINE JANE, it was
not possible to free them until the third week in September, meanwhile,
Commander in Chief Mediterranean sent HERO and TETCOTT.
46. On the 27th August, Senior Naval Officer Persian Gulf reported that
Stage I could be started any time after the arrival of whalers.
47. Appearance of submarines in the Gulf of Aden precipitated
the plan.
48. The first outward convoy sailed from Hormuz on the 9th September and
was a combined Bombay-Aden convoy splitting in 23-07 North, 61-18 East. Stage
III was partially anticipated and it was possible to give Aden portion escort
throughout (TULIP) as well as Bombay portion. PA PB
2 followed on 13th September also with escorts throughout the PA PB 3 on 20th
September.
49. Meanwhile SUTLEJ had been retained for
escort of BA 31 to Aden sailing on 29th
August. She was thus ready for AP 2 which left Aden on 14th
September.
Intermediate AP convoys one (a) and one (b) were sailed on 4th and 10th
September comprising miscellaneous tankers and others with local escort in the Gulf of Aden only. BP convoy
programmes continued uninterrupted.
50. Bandar Abbas has been used as convoy assembly point protection being
afforded by Hormuz patrol. This port was chosen in preference to Elphinstone
Inlet on account of greater space, easier access, and less intense heat than at
the latter.
(e). CONVOYS
51. Convoy commitments, which are shown in detail in Appendix II, were
heavy throughout August and September, easing off slightly towards the end of
September.
52. DEVONSHIRE sailed from Kilindini on
2nd August to join W S 20 as relief for FROBISHER and to escort the Bombay section to its
destination, subsequently sailing from Bombay to Colombo on the 10th
August. Whilst at Colombo opportunity was
taken to dock and refit. The refit period fixed extended until the 29th August
owing to the delays in the sailing of U S 17 with whom DEVONSHIRE had
originally expected to rendezvous on about 25th August. DEVONSHIRE sailed from Colombo on 4th
September arriving in Durban with U S 17 on
23rd September after 19 days at sea.
53. MAURITIUS. During the
early part of August, MAURITIUS was operating
with Force A and returned in company to Kilindini on 18th August. She left
Kilindini on 26th August to intercept ADMIRAL PIERRE (see Appendix I) and on
4th September left Mauritius to rendezvous with convoy U S 16 on 13th September
escorting them to Colombo where it was intended that she should clean boilers
and give three days leave to each watch of the ship’s company. Owing to defects
in FROBISHER this plan had to be cancelled and MAURITIUS continued to
act as escort to Convoy U S 16 to Aden.
54. FROBISHER, with the Aden portion of W S
20 arrived at Aden on the 6th
August, leaving that port on the 20th as ocean escort for the first Aden-Persian Gulf convoy.
FROBISHER parted company with this convoy before the latter entered the Gulf of Aden , and proceeded
to Colombo arriving there
on the 29th for docking and refit. Refit was continued throughout September.
55. HAWKINS who had left the Clyde with convoy W S
21 escorted it throughout until relieved by ENTERPRISE north of Madagascar, thence
proceeded to Kilindini, where she arrived on the 12th September.
56. GAMBIA escorting STIRLING CASTLE arrived at Mauritius on the 1st
August, having fuelled she then proceeded with STIRLING CASTLE towards Australia being relieved
by an Australian escort on the 6th August. She then returned to Kilindini via Mauritius, Rodriguez –
where she embarked three escapees who had sailed from Jana to Rodriguez in an
open boat – and Diego Suarez arriving at Kilindini on 16th August. Subsequent
to her arrival at Kilindini she has been employed in connection with operations
in Madagascar.
57. CARADOC, after passage from the United Kingdom sailed from
Capetown with Cable Ship J.W. MACKAY escorting her to East London on the 14th
August, she then proceeded to Durban to act as
escort to convoy C M 31 sailing from Durban on 16th August,
parting company from the convoy so as to arrived at Diego Suarez a.m. 24th
August. She remained at Diego Suarez as Senior Naval Officer afloat until
relieved by DAUNTLESS when she returned to Kilindini. CARADOC left Kilindini on
27th September escorting convoy C M 32 B to Bombay, whence she
will proceed to the Persian Gulf for relief of CAPETOWN.
58. ENTERPRISE sailed from
Kilindini for Durban on 5th August
routed through the Mozambique Channel, arriving at
Duran on the 9th to form, with ALAUNIA, the escort to W S 21 P G, sailing with
that convoy from Durban on the 20th.
Owing to her small endurance, ENTERPRISE parted company
with the convoy after passing latitude 10 degrees South, and proceeded in
company with CYCLAMEN and DUNCAN arriving at
Kilindini on the 22nd August.
She was next required to escort convoy K R 3 which left Kilindini in
connection with Operation STREAMLINE JANE on the 5th September, arriving at
Diego Suarez on the 7th. She relieved HAWKINS as escort of W S 21 north of Madagascar, thence
proceeding with the Bombay portion to its
destination arriving Bombay on 16th
September. She left Bombay on 27th
September with convoy B A 32 due to arrive at Aden on the 6th
October.
59. RANCHI arrived at Bombay on 8th August
with C M 30 leaving on the 13th for Colombo. She sailed
from Colombo on the 24th
with military personnel on a “round the islands” trip adhering the following
programme.
Arrived Port Departed
---- Colombo 24th August
26th August Addu 27th August
28th August Diego Garcia 29th August
1st September Rodriguez 1st September
2nd September Mauritius ____
RANCHI sailed from Mauritius on the 3rd
September and proceeded to Durban to act as
escort to C M 32 leaving Durban on the 19th.
She was ordered to part company from the convoy to attempt to intercept
MARECHAL GALLIENI (this was unsuccessful) and she then returned to Durban, thence
proceeding to Capetown leaving that port on the 29th September as escort to W S
22 and will proceed with the Aden portion to its
destination.
60. ALAUNIA arrived at Durban on the 6th
August in readiness to form, with ENTERPRISE, the escort of
W S 21 P G sailing from Durban on the 18th
August. She arrived at Bombay with the Bombay portion on the
3rd September and after fitting out she proceeded to Khur Kuwai as the base
ship for the Hormuz A/S patrol.
61. CHITRAL arrived Kilindini from Diego Suarez with the R.F.A.s
EASEDALE and BACCHUS on 4th August and sailed from Kilindini for Addu Atoll
with military personnel on 13th August. She sailed from Addu Atoll on 19th
August for Kilindini thence rendezvousing with C M 31 to escort the Aden portion to its
destination, arriving at Aden on Monday 31st.
CHITRAL sailed from Kilindini in company with CROMER, CROMARTY, and
ROMNEY and S.S. KHEDIVE ISMAIL to rendezvous with C M 32 and proceed with them
to Aden. It was
subsequently decided that she should part company from this convoy before
entering Guardafui Channel, returning to relieve HAWKINS as escort to C M 32 A
arriving Aden 7th October.
62. WORCESTERSHIRE on passage with W S 20 was unable to maintain speed
of the convoy and was detached to return to Durban, arriving on
5th August. She sailed from Durban on 16th August
forming, with CARADOC, the escort to C M 31, continuing with the convoy to Bombay for docking
arrival.
WORCESTERSHIRE sailed from Kilindini on the 21st September escorting
convoy K R 4, due Colombo on 8th October.
She was detached from this convoy arrival of A/S escort provided by the Flag
Officer, Ceylon to the westward
of the 1 ½ Degree Channel, and was ordered to proceed to Durban in readiness to
escort C M 33.
63. CORFU on passage with convoy B A
29 arrived Aden on 6th August
sailing on arrival at that port for Kilindini. Arriving on the 11th August, CORFU left Kilindini
on the following day for the Cape and United Kingdom.
(f). GUNNERY
64. At the end of September the Chief Secretary to the Governor’s
Conference was informed of the intention to use an area immediately to the
south of Wasin Island (latitude 4-40 South) for bombardment practices. The
target area is largely sea, but there are a few small islands or rocks which
will be used as gunnery targets; the range is by no means ideal, but it
fulfills requirements and can be put into use without preparation. The Chief
Secretary had been requested to state, at the earliest moment, if there are any
objections.
(g). COMMUNICATIONS
August
65. On the departure of Force A from Colombo, arrangements
were made for dummy message traffic by W/T to be spread over the next eight
days (the period Congress was sitting) in accordance with a plan designed to
convey the following impression chronologically:
(1). British naval
forces were operating in the Bay of Bengal with the
possible object of an attack on Japanese occupied territory.
(2). That Force A after
leaving Colombo area was proceeding to Addu Atoll to fuel arriving on Wednesday
12th August.
(3). That after leaving
Addu Atoll, Force A was proceeding to an unknown destination.
66. Traffic linking Force A with Madras, Vizagapatam, and
Trincomalee suggesting that this might be an attempt to carry out a raid to the
East.
References CINC E.F.
1112/7/8, 1114/7/8, 1116/7/8, 2116/8/8
September
67. In an endeavour to improve the poor communications to ships in the Mozambique
Channel arrangements were concerted with C in C, S.A. to introduce a
new W/T service especially to cover that area. To avoid confusion it was
decided to delay the inception of the new service until 1st October when Operation
STREAMLINE JANE would have been completed, but it was in fact started on 27th
September for the benefit of ships taking part in Operation ROSE.
(h). INTELLIGENCE
68.
25th August – 6th September: Commander T.P. Wisden, Deputy Chief of
Intelligence Staff proceeded to Lourenco Marques to interview
personnel in repatriation ships.
4th September: Lieutenant Commander Dawson and Lieutenant J.G. Snow,
U.S.N. arrived for duty as U.S. Naval Liaison Officers, Kilindini.
15th September: Major J.G. FIgese arrived Kilindini from New Delhi for duty as
Liaison Officer with my staff.
28th September: Lieutenant Colonel J.C. Westall, R.M. relieved Commander
C.J.M. Lang, R.N. (retired) as Senior Naval Intelligence Officer, New Delhi.
(j). R.D.F.
69. I.F.F. Trials in Aircraft
The preliminary investigation by the representatives specially sent out,
from the Admiralty Signal Establishment and Ministry of Aircraft Production,
showed that one of the causes of the failure of Fleet Air Arm I.F.F. to operate
was the lack of knowledge of maintenance and correct handling for setting up.
This was due largely to lack of instructions and test equipment.
70. Aircraft I.F.F. serials had not been modified when the Mark II N
I.F.F. was fitted. Instructions to do so have no been received officially on
this station.
71. Trials in H.M.S. ILLUSTRIOUS subsequently showed that the I.F.F.
aerials in Naval aircraft are screened from forward when the aircraft is
approaching the Interrogator.
72. Comprehensive trials are continuing with each type of aircraft to
investigate the best position of the I.F.F. aerials.
(K).DEVELOPMENT OF BASES
73. Colombo:
The following additional defences have been provided: One A/S fixed beam
type 134 at both breakwater entrances. One 2 pounder anti tank gun go cover
both breakwater entrances.
74. Trincomalee
The laying of moorings in connection with the new mooring plan, the
development of the base installations, repair of air raid damage, etc,
continued
75. Addu Atoll
Work on the Gan Island aerodrome
continues. The indicator net in Gan Channel has now entirely disappeared.
Arrangements are now in hand to obtain the services of a Base Hospital Ship to
accommodate the M.N.B.D.O. tented hospital unit.Following an change of signals
between Admiralty and Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet, the following
decisions have been arrived at:
(a). Existing defences to
be retained.
(b). Wilingili Channel boom
to be completed when other commitments allow.
(c ). Gan Boom to be
retained unless it becomes a danger to navigation.
(d). No further boom
defences to be undertaken.
76. Kilindini
The laying of the indicator loops, under the supervision of the
Commanding Officer, MANCHESTER CITY, was completed on the 16th August. The
performance of the loops appears to be highly satisfactory and no damage has
yet been caused by the passage of heavy ships in their vicinity.
The laying of H.D.A.’s was also completed but the performance of the
southerly H.D.A. is unsatisfactory and the set was recovered for replacement.
During the process of recovery the tripod was damaged and some delay has been
caused while a new tripod is being fabricated.
The improvised A/S A/B boom in the Mbyuni vicinity was completed at the
end of the month. This boom is fitted with small mesh A/S nets and is
considered by the B.D.O. (East Africa) to be fifty
per cent proof against entry by midget submarines.
Work on the A/T boom is progressing, some delay has been caused by the
breakdowns of B.D.V.’s and the lack of mooring clumps.
It is anticipated that it will be completed early in October. Two lines
of nets have been laid, except in the gate which will be kept as a single line
until the performance of the gate under the prevailing tidal conditions has
been tested.
Unloading of boom equipment from TREVORIAN and the loading of KIRRIEMOOR
with equipment required at Diego Suarez continues.
The mounting of searchlights to cover the entrance is completed.
77. Manza Bay
Surveying of the area which is to contain the C.M. control station was completed
and it has been agreed that the work should be undertaken by the Army in
connection with the erection of accommodation for coast artillery personnel. MANCHESTER CITY and JAY are
engaged in laying the controlled minefields. It is expected that the construction
of the control station will be completed shortly.
78. Mauritius
The bottom net at Grand Port has been laid
by BRITTANY as reported in
Naval Officer in Charge, Mauritius’ 0627/16th
August.
Local developments, preparation of the Stevenson Dock, and the Plaisance
aerodrome are continuing.
Dutch submarine O 24 on passage from South Africa to Colombo was diverted
during September to Grand Port to test the
controlled minefields, the perturbations of which had been reported as being
still unsatisfactory. The report on result of this test has not yet been
received.
79. Seychelles
ETHIOPIAN, who is employed in laying the A/T boom in St Anne’s Channel,
reports that the moorings are tending to drag on the flat coral bottom.
Arrangements have therefore been made for her to return to Kilindini as soon as
she has cleared her holds (about October 15th), in order to load additional
moorings as well as A/S equipment required for the Cerf Passage boom. BARFOUND,
who is required at Kilindini, will accompany her.
80. Diego Garcia
No further developments.
81. Diego Suarez
The visit of the Chief of Staff to Commander in Chief, South Atlantic, provided an
opportunity for general discussion on the responsibility of Commander in Chief,
South Atlantic vis-a-vis Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet
in regard to developments at Diego Suarez. It was agreed that dockyard
developments, bringing forward of repair facilities and salvage operations
should be the responsibility of the Commodore, Durban, under the
direction of Commander in Chief, South Atlantic. Six Civil
Engineers from Mauritius were sent to
Diego Suarez on 11th August.
Application was made to Admiralty for relief of the officers and
personnel who were detailed for the base staff on completion of Operation
IRONCLAD.
It is anticipated that BRITTANY will be sent
shortly to lay the bottom net in Oringia Pass.
82. Majunga
Following the capture of this town on September 10th, an indicator net
was laid by BRITTANY across the
harbour in a position due west of Ile Verte. The position of this baffle was
determined to a large extent by the fact that they were no more indicator nets
available on the station.
83. Port F
Dredging operations and preparation of the aerodrome and other general
developments are continuing. The question of using the Gulf of Kutch as a convoy
assembly port for Persian Gulf shipping, and making use
where possible of the facilities being provided for Port F, is under discussion
with Flag Officer Commanding Royal Indian Navy.
84. Khor Kuwai
The preparation of a base at Khor Kuwai in connection with the proposed
Persian Gulf Convoy System was commenced in August. Application was made to the
Admiralty for a Naval Officer in Charge and for his staff and to Port Sea
Transport Officer India for an accommodation vessel and supply ship. As a
temporary measure, pending the arrival of the base staff and accommodation
ship, it is intended to station H.M.S. ALAUNIA at Khor Kuwai to fulfill both
these requirements. SS. ADRIA has been taken up as the accommodation ship and
S.S. VALENTIJN as the supply ship and both are now being converted in India. Commodore,
Royal Indian navy, had reported that the former will not be ready until
November.
85. Bandar Abbas
The defence of Bandar Abbas when it comes into use as convoy assembly
point for Persian Gulf convoys is under consideration and Admiralty have been
asked for their view.
(L). BATTLESHIP REFITS
86. REVENGE continued at Durban throughout the
whole period under review.
ROYAL SOVEREIGN left Kilindini on the 1st September for her repair yard
in the U.S.A. It was decided
to dock her at Durban to improve
considerably her speed and endurance; this was done between 7th and 14th
September.
(M). DESTROYERS
87. On receipt of Admiralty approval for docking destroyers in the United Kingdom, A.M. 1740/10th
August, it was decided to send DUNCAN, DECOY,
ANTHONY, and GRIFFIN at once and to
send ARROW and ACTIVE on after completion of the Madagascar operations if
they were still required. Accordingly, DUNCAN, DECOY, and GRIFFIN were sailed
from Kilindini on the 1st of September escorting ROYAL SOVEREIGN to southward
and ANTHONY who had been repairing at the Cape, was retained
at Durban.
88. From September 5th onwards all destroyers except EXPRESS and
CATTERICK were employed with the operations in Madagascar. EXPRESS had
been completing repairs until 11th September when she sailed for Durban where she was
retained to act as escort for C M 32 which sailed on 19th September. The ship
had 10 days at sea escorting a slow convoy and arrived at Kilindini with 100
tons of fuel remaining. This was done with cruising turbines at a speed of 12
knots which represents a distance of 2880 miles steamed through the water at 1.
3 tons per hour.
89. CATTERICK arrived with convoy W S 21 and, after boiler cleaning at Durban, sailed for
Kilindini on the 9th escorting V.S.S. HONG SIANG.
90. ARROW and ACTIVE were released from Madagascar on 22nd
September and sailed for the Cape and Freetown where ROYAL
SOVEREIGN was waiting to onward escort across the Atlantic. They boiler
cleaned at Durban and East London, respectively.
91. NIZAM and HOTSPUR acted as escort for ILLUSTRIOUS who proceeded to Durban for docking on
her release from Madagascar operations on
the 19th of September.
(N).D/G
92. The following degaussing ranges were in operation at the beginning
of August.
Place Deep Shallow
Bombay 1 1
Colombo 1 1
Durban (now being Laid) 1 1
At Trincomalee the
positions for deep and shallow ranges had been selected and given Admiralty
Approval but the project was abandoned.
A proportion of the gear for these ranges was on the station and
Admiralty Approval was given for its diversion to Kilindini. The remaining gear
for Kilindini was to be sent out from the United Kingdom.
93. H.M.S. BUSHWOOD after disembarking deep and shallow ranges at Durban had on board
two ranges and recording stations which could be laid together or at separate
places, and as either deep of shallow ranges.
94. The German advance in Libya and, to a
lesser extent, that in South Russia, could both
result in a magnetic mining attack on the head of the Persian Gulf traffic both
against the supply routes and the Middle East Armies. If such an attack
developed the minesweeping flotillas in the Persian Gulf would have to
be considerably increased, and , in order to achieve the degree of immunity
from the magnetic mine these minesweepers would have to be constantly ranged.
95. It was decided therefore that a shallow degaussing range should be
laid at the head of the Persian Gulf where it would
be meet the needs of the minesweeping forces.
96. A proposal to lay this shallow range in the Shatt al Arab for
Khoorsamshar was sent to the Admiralty. This proposal was approved and BUSHWOOD
was sailed from Kilindini on 12th August for the Persian Gulf to carry out
this work.
97. The degaussing gear which will remain on completion of the work in
the Persian Gulf will be shipped to Trincomalee in due course.
_____________________
Office of the British Naval
Commander-in-Chief, Eastern Fleet
7th November 1942
No. 66. S/4682.
PROCEEDINGS
OF EASTERN FLEET
10th
October to 6th November 1942
The following report of proceedings of the Commander in Chief, Eastern
Fleet for the period 10th October to 6th November is forwarded for Their
Lordship’s information.
2. This report is supplementary to the War Diary covering the Eastern
Fleet and East Indies Station which is forwarded monthly from my shore
headquarters.
3. Operation CANNIBAL
At the end of September, Rear Admiral A.F.E. Palliser, DSC (Flag Liaison
Officer, Delhi) visited
Kilindini to discuss the situation in connexion with the proposed Operation
CANNIBAL.
4. U Boat Activity off Capetown
Commencing on the 7th October, there was an outbreak of U boat activity
to the westward of Capetown, during which 13 ships were sunk.
5. At that time the disposition of the sixteen Eastern Fleet destroyers
was as follows:
4 at Simonstown
ARROW and ACTIVE about to sail for Freetown
NIZAM and
FOXHOUND due to commence refits. Both ships well overdue to boiler clean, and
NIZAM limited to 22 knots by shaft defects.
3 at Durban
HOTSPUR refit completed. NORMAN with boiler
defects until 16th October, DERWENT in dock with ILLUSTRIOUS, due to undock
14th October.
Two of these destroyers
were required to leave Durban on 15th October
to escort ILLUSTRIOUS to Kilindini.
3 at Madagascar
NAPIER, INCONSTANT, and
BLACKMORE. All required for escort duties in connection with departure of 29th
Brigade; and all well overdue to boiler clean.
6 at Kilindini
CATTERICK and EXPRESS
employed on capital ship escort duties in that area.
FORTUNE and NEPAL ready to leave
Kilindini 11th October to escort WARSPITE to Durban to dock.
FORTUNE well overdue to boiler clean.
VAN GALEN and TJERK HIDDES
about to sail to Australia.
6. On 10th October, I informed Their Lordships that the refits of
FOXHOUND and NIZAM could be deferred and that HOTSPUR could be spared to
proceed to the Cape at once. (my 0835/10th
October). This I followed with a proposal that if the continued immobilization
of Force A could be accepted, a further five destroyers (EXPRESS, CATTERICK, NEPAL, and later
FORTUNE and INCONSTANT after boiler cleaning) could be sent to the Cape (my 1309/10th
October). This was approved on 13th October (Admiralty message 0026/13) and
EXPRESS and CATTERICK sailed accordingly.
7. Visit to Diego Suarez
On 11th October I sailed from Kilindini in WARSPITE escorted by NEPAL and FORTUNE and
arrived at Diego Suarez p.m. 13th October.
8. After arrival, I was visited by Captain E.F.B. Law, RN, the Naval
Officer in Charge and later by the General Officer Commanding in Chief, East
African Command, Lieutenant General Sir William Platt, KCB, DSO, and Brigadier
W.A. Ebsworth who remained to dinner.
9. The General Officer Commanding referred to the steps being taken to
occupy the remainder of Madagascar, and the
irritating number of road blocks and obstructions erected by the French who it
was clear had no intention of fighting. He hoped that, within a short period,
resistance would disintegrate. Apparently the object of the French officers in
continuing any apparent resistance to our occupation is to ensure continuance
of their pensions which would be forfeit by surrendering except in face of
heavy odds.
10. Referring to the landing of the 22nd August at Majunga during
Operation STREAM, the General Officer Commanding emphasized the need for better
organisation, forethought and initiative in dealing with the landing and
deployment of troops following up the assault. The governing factor in
selecting beaches and piers was easy access to a main road. There must be
complete understanding on this point between the Naval officers responsible for
landing men and equipment above the high water mark and the Military officers responsible
for the transfer from the beach to the nearest high road.
11. On the 14th October I landed at 0630 in company with my Chief of
Staff and other officers and was conducted around the dockyard, civil machine
shops, dry dock and oil fuel tanks by the Naval Officer in Charge. It was
satisfactory to see the good progress that had been made in restoring and
adding to these facilities, but both dockyard and machine shops will suffered
from looting of tools, etc on first occupation by the Navy and Army in
Operation IRONCLAD.
12. At the dry dock which should be ready for service by the beginning
of November, the smell of burning hides es the German ship WARTENFELS was most
offensive. It is hoped that the residue will be dealt with in the course of the
next few days.
13. The steps taken to repair damaged and sabotaged dockyard machines,
pumps, and generators appeared to be effective and original, and reflect credit
on those concerned. Captain Law, the Naval Officer in Charge, appeared to be
competent and undeterred by difficulties. He is ably assisted by Lieutenant
Command T.H.B. Pounds, RN, the Captain of the Dockyard.
14. Later in the forenoon I visited the battlefield of Operation
IRONCLAD in company with Brigadier R.E. Hobday, DSO, and the Brigade Major.
From a description of what occurred I gather the impression that although the
initial landing and assault were carried out with excellent judgment and
technique, the subsequent advance did not reach so high a standard; in fact it
seems that the 29th Brigade were admirable amphibians, but only average mixed
infantry with armour and light artillery.
15. The special intelligence party appear to have achieved very little
and it is difficult to understand how the French intention to fight was not
appreciated more accurately. Had this been done I feel sure that surprise after
the landing had taken place would not have been comprised by the dispatch of a
captured French officer to the Fortress Commander with a request for
capitulation.
Failure to obtain any precise information concerning the Joffre Line
seems quite inexplicable in view of the years that his had been constructed.
16. Satisfactory features of this operation were undoubtedly the
penetration of the heavily mined Courier Bay, surprise achieved by the assault
forces at the beaches, ANTHONY’s dramatic dash into the harbour and the
excellent work of the Marine Detachment from RAMILLIES which ANTHONY landed.
17. Opportunity was given to a large
number of the King’s African Rifles to visit WARSPITE. This was much
appreciated.
18. Diego Suarez at this time of year is burnt up and, owing to the
strong South East Trade which blows continuously, enveloped in red dust. This
continuous high wind is a serious handicap to communication afloat and coupled
with the entire lack of amenities ashore makes this harbour unsuitable for
prolonged used by a fleet or squadron. I understand that service at Diego
Suarez was regarded by the French as punishment and I am not surprised.
Shipment of Landing Craft
to India and Embarkation of 29th Brigade from Madagascar
19. After the completion of Operations STREAM – LINE – JANE all merchant
shipping used in those operations had been released except ships required to
transport the 29th Brigade to Indian and the 5th Commando to Durban. The majority
of the landing craft had been shipped to Durban and Kilindini
for onward shipment to Bombay and the balance
shipped direct from Madagascar.
20. Arrangements were in hand to completion the embarkation of the 29th
Brigade (three personnel ships) and the 5th Commando (one ship) at Tamatave on
18th October and have A/S and ocean escorts available.
21. On 13th October I received General Officer Commanding in Chief, East
Africa signal (1100/12th October) to the War Office proposing that instead of
going to India direct, the 29th Brigade should go to Durban for two months to
recuperate from malaria.
22. In reply to an enquiry from Their Lordships I stated that I did not
consider it desirable for this convoy to proceed to Kilindini without A/S
escort (Admiral Message 1348 of 14th October and my 1714 of 14th October). On
15th October instructions were received (Admiralty Message 1407/15) that the
29th Brigade was to be sent to Durban.
Visit to Durban
23. I sailed from Diego Suarez in WARSPITE p.m. 14th October escorted by
NEPAL and FORTUNE for
Durban via the Mozambique
Channel and arrived at Durban at noon on the 18th.
On the 19th October I exchanged calls with local military and civil
authorities.
Visit to Pretoria
24. On the 20th October, accompanied by my Chief of Staff (Commodore
R.A.B. Edwards) and two staff officers, I flew to Pretoria.
I stayed for two days with the British High Commissioner, the Right
Honourable Lord Harlech, GCMG, and during that time met a number of South African
Ministers and Authorities including the following.
The Honourable F.C.
Sturrock, M.P. (Minister of Railways and Harbours)
Colonel the Honourable
D. Reits, M.P. (Minister for Native Affairs)
The Honourable J.H.
Hofmeyer, M.P. (Minster of Finance)
Major the Honourable
P.V.G. van der Byl, M.C., M.P. (Minister without Portfolio)
Lieutenant General Sir
Pierre van Ryenweld, KBE, DSO, M.C. (Chief of the General Staff)
Mr. Louis Esselin.
25. I spent the whole of one forenoon explaining to General Ryneweld the
policy which had governed the movements and dispositions of the Eastern Fleet
since March and in particular all the circumstances attending the loss of
DORSETSHIRE, CORNWALL, and HERMES. They expressed their appreciation and said
that my statement would be of value to them in countering the action of
opposition parties directed against out war effort. According to the General,
one third of the population in the Union dislike the
British and one third of that one third are actually hostile and would welcome
our defeat.
26. I informed Mr. Sturrock, who is acting Minister of Defence, and the
General of my intention to discuss with the Commander in Chief, South Atlantic matters
concerning the gun defences at Durban and the
organisation of local South African air forces to admit of quick reinforcement
of areas threatened by submarine attack. I feel both were most receptive and
anxious to profit by any advise tendered to them on matters on which they
lacked experience. The General is entirely loyal to Field Marshall Smuts, but
is credited with being critical of the British. He can also be abrupt and off
hand. On this occasion however, nothing of this nature could be observed and he
was most cordial and friendly on all occasions.
27. Mr. Sturrock was evidently the most impressed by the reception
accorded him during his recent visit to the United Kingdom. Although he
was friendly and cooperative when I first me him in March at Capetown I noted a
marked increase in his appreciation of what the Navy has done and was doing to
win the war. He recognized most fully the vital importance of Durban to the Eastern
Fleet and never hesitated to transfer skilled labour from the railway workshops
to the docks in order to meet our requirements. The association of ports and railways
has certainly provided a flexible organisation of great value in war time and
in a country where ships repairs are normally a minor consideration. Mr.
Sturrock particularly appreciated the interviews he had with the First Lord of
the Admiralty and made frequent reference to these meetings. This appears to
dispose of the contention that the men of Somerset and Scotland are unable to
exchange view without the aid of a interpreter.
28. I ascertained that the move of the 29th Brigade from Madagascar without prior
advice from the Union Government had caused some irritation. The South African
authorities are very willing to cooperate but they like to be asked such
movements as a matter of form and are inclined to be touchy if this appeared to
be ignored or if too much is taken for granted.
29. Mr. Louis Esselin appears to occupy a curious position. His
apparently acts as the Field Marshal’s watch dog and from what I could gather
the Ministers take good care to keep him fully informed. If they do not he finds
out for himself and then there is trouble. Nevertheless I could find nowhere
any suggestion that he abuses his position or takes advantage of it in any way.
His one aim in life appears to be service to Smuts.
30. Mrs. Smuts was ill in bed and unable to see me when I called at
“Irene” which bears little resemblance to Chequers. The mixture of dilapidated
early Victorian furniture and Royal photographs slung at all angles on the
walls was completed by a dust covered illuminated address from the City of London
peeping out under an ancient torn and dog eared copy of the Illustrated London
News. It looked a real home and they all go to bed at 2130.
31. Lord Harlech, my Chief of Staff, and I were entertained at tea by
the Governor General and Lady Duncan at Government House. Sir Patrick seems to
be a very sick man and I doubt he will be able to continue in Office much
longer. Lady Duncan escorted us round the really beautiful gardens and provoked
lively memories of Miss Ruth Draper. It is an odd fact that that a garden
always was, or will be, so much better than it is at the time of inspection.
Visit to Capetown
32. I left Pretoria, accompanied by
two staff officers (my Chief of Staff having returned to Durban) in the
General’s Ventura which he had
placed at my disposal. These are fine aircraft in my respects but for A/S
patrols have too high a cruising speed. The additional tanks fitted the
Trans-Atlantic passage are not suitable for normal operations and are being
replaced. With extra tankage the radius of the Ventura approaches that
of the Catalina, but at the expense of bomb or depth charge load. The landing
speed is higher and not less than 1200 yards clear run is required.
33. During my stay at the Cape from 22nd to
27th October, I had numerous conferences with the Commander in Chief, South Atlantic and the staff
of the combined headquarters at Capetown. I also visited ships of the Eastern
Fleet undergoing refit at Simonstown.
Catalina Bases in South Africa
34. Shortly after the U boat attack commenced off Capetown on the 7th
October, I ordered 3 Catalinas to be sent to Durban and then
onwards to Saldanha Bay as soon as
arrangements could be made to operate them from there.
35. I visited Saldanha with Admiral Tait and inspected the Catalina
arrangements. Two Catalinas had already arrived and a third was expected
shortly. One conclusion was that 3 Catalinas could be operated from Saldanha
normally and 5 in emergency, and that 2 Catalinas should be send to Durban in order to
keep the number of operational aircraft at Saldanha to 3. I made arrangements
accordingly to be done.
36. The shore staff for one of the additional Catalina squadrons
allocated to the Indian Ocean was due to arrived at Durban during the
first week of November. When this squadron organisation is set up, the
maintenance of Catalina in South Africa will be greatly
facilitated. Up till now there have been no Royal Air Force maintenance
facilities for Catalinas on that station. The Catalinas for this Durban squadron were
expected to arrive by the end of November.
37. Return to Durban
On the 27th November (n.b. should
read October), accompanied by my two staff officers, I left Capetown by air
and flew to Johannesburg where I
entrained and arrived at Durban the following
day. Weather conditions were unsuitable for flying to Durban.
38. Docking of WARSPITE
WARSPITE docked on the 24th October and undocked on the 31st October.
During the period the flagship was at Durban useful and
instructive conferences were held by my staff with the Commodore Durban on
general matters connected with the Eastern Fleet and with the Captain
Superintendent and dockyard officers on docking and refits, stores and general
supply questions.
39. I should like to take the opportunity of bringing to the notice of Their
Lordships the extremely good work of the Superintending Naval Store Officer at Durban, Mr. R.
Henderson. This officer, after almost three years at Singapore, from which he
escaped shortly before the capitulation, had reach Freetown on his way home
when he was sent back to Durban to organize a
supply base for the Eastern Fleet. He started from scratch with an inadequate
staff and in six months has produced a most efficient working organisation. It
is apparent that he had not spared himself and that he is personally
responsible for the excellent work achieved.
40. I also wish to refer to the whole hearted cooperation displayed by
the Harbour and Dock Authorities. I have already mentioned the interest
displayed by the Minister Mr. Sturrock, but wish to include the name of Colonel
Cheadle, the Director of the Port, whose determination to ensure everything
possible is done to assist our war effort is beyond all praise.
COUNTER U BOAT MEASURES IN SOUTH AFRICA
41. In accordance with the arrangements already made and communicated to
Their Lordships (my 1309 of 10th October), 8 out of the 12 Eastern Fleet
destroyers had already been lent to the Commander in Chief, South Africa. Of
these two had now commenced refit at Simonstown leaving six for operational use.
Information now pointed to the U boat menace probably moving from the Capetown
area to the Durban – Mozambique area.
At that time, there were at
Durban the remaining 4 Eastern Fleet destroyers (NAPIER, HOTSPUR, BLACKMORE,
and DERWENT – the last names lent from the Mediterranean Fleet) and in view of
the exceptionally heavy requirements to escort monsters, semi monsters and W E
23 in and out of Durban early November, I lent a further two destroyers
(DERWENT and BLACKMORE) to the Commander in Chief, South Atlantic until W S 23
had left Durban. The result of this further loan will be to delay the departure
of REVENGE from Durban to Kilindini
until about mid November. This I communicated to Their Lordships in my signal
1235 of 29th October. In addition, on the 2nd of November, the JASMINE was
sailed from Kilindini to reinforce the A/S force at Durban.
42. On 31st October and 1st
November two ships were sunk about 80 to 100 miles East and North East of
Durban.
43. On 1st November BIRMINGHAM arrived from
Simonstown. On 2nd November, I sailed from Durban in WARSPITE
with BIRMINGHAM in company and
escorted by NAPIER and HOTSPUR. As soon as clear of the harbour, this force
proceeded at high speed close inshore up the coast with outer and inner air
escort. When clear of the Durban area, course
was altered away from land and set for Kilindini through the Mozambique
Channel.
44. During the forenoon of
6th November, the force passed through the Pemba Channel where the disembarked
squadrons from ILLUSTRIOUS at Tanga carried out A.R.T., dive bombing, and
fighter attacks on the ships of the force.
45. WARSPITE and the
destroyers arrived at Kilindini at 1500 and BIRMINGHAM at 1730, she
having remained outside to carry out a 6: sub caliber firing.
(signed)
J.F.
Somerville
ADMIRAL
P.S. Enclosed are extracts
from a Durban newspaper
consequent on the recent announcement of the composition of the Eastern Fleet. (n.b. Extracts are not included in my file)
____________________
SECRET
PART II
WAR DIARY OF EASTERN FLEET FOR THE MONTH OF
OCTOBER 1942
NARRATIVE
(a) U BOAT ACTIVITIES
1. Gulf of Aden
Several reports were received that U boats had been sighted in the Gulf of Aden and along the
Arabian coast, but no ships were attacked, although convoys passed within 20
miles of the positions reported, and it must be considered unlikely that any U
boats were in fact present.
2. Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman
Two reports, one from the S.S. EMPIRE BOWMAN off Ras al Hadd on the 18th
October, who reported two dull blows amidships which might have been caused by
torpedoes which failed to explode; and one from the Norwegian tanker HAVFRU,
also off Ras al Hadd, who reported being hit by a torpedo which failed to
exploded and being missed by a second, indicting that U boats might be
operating in the vicinity.
Definite confirmation came on the 22nd October when the S.S. OCEAN
VINTAGE was torpedoed in the same area.
3. Arabian Sea
M.V. GLENAFRIC reported being unsuccessfully attacked by a U boat 240 miles
south west by south of Karachi on 4th October.
This may possibly have been the same U boat which attacked S.S. ERNEBANK west
of Bombay on the 27th
September.
4. Indian Ocean
S.S. CABERITA reported being shelled by U boat 300 miles west of Addu
Atoll on the 11th October. She sustained no damage and was eventually able to
shake off her pursuer.
5. Colombo area
S.S. CAMILA was attacked at close range by gun fire and was set on fire.
The ship was abandoned and finally drifted ashore in the vicinity of Cape Comorin.
6. Trincomalee area
S.S. POINT CLEAR was unsuccessfully attacked on the 1st October in
position 07-32 North, 76-11 East. The U boat was seen from the air on the 11th
October and on the 13th she torpedoed, but failed to sink the S.S. MARTABAN
close to the Little Basses.
7. Bay of Bengal
S.S. MIKOYAN was torpedoed and sunk off Gopalpore on the 3rd October and
S.S. MANON 100 miles north of Madras on the 8th
October.
8. East African Coast
Four sighting reports were received during the course of the month, but
no ships were attacked, and it is not considered that U boats were operating
off this coast.
9. ADJACENT THEATRES
German U boat, thought to number 6, opened a severe offensive against
Merchant Shipping off the Cape. Between the 7th and 13th
October, some 15 ships totaling 100, 000 tons were sunk. Further attacks
occurred during the fourth week of the month. To counter this offensive, the
Eastern Fleet destroyers ARROW and ACTIVE already on their way to the Atlantic to assist in the
escort of ROYAL SOVEREIGN from Freetown to the United States, were held at
Capetown. They were joined at once by NIZAM and FOXHOUND who arrived at the Cape on 6th October
to commence refit at Simonstown on the 7th. Subsequent further destroyers were
sent to reinforce Commander in Chief, South Atlantic, as they became
available.
EXPRESS and CATTERICK left
Kilindini on 13th October and arrived at Simonstown on the 20th where they came
under the orders of Commander in Chief, South Atlantic.
NEPAL and FORTUNE
escorted WARSPITE to Diego Suarez and thence to Durban where they
arrived on 18th October. NEPAL was at once
sailed for the Cape, but FORTUNE was taken in
hand for boiler cleaning before becoming available.
NAPIER, BLACKMORE, and
INCONSTANT left Tamatave, Madagascar on 18th October
escorting MD 1 to Durban. On arrival at Durban all ships so
far as defects would permit operated under the orders of Commander in Chief
South Atlantic.
HOTSPUR and DERWENT
operated from Durban in the early
part of the month but left on 15th escorting ILLUSTRIOUS to Kilindini where
they arrived on 20th. On 24th these ships escorted RESOLUTION to Durban arriving a.m.
29th and again becoming available to A/S operations.
On 23rd October, Commander in Chief, South Atlantic formed the
South Atlantic Escort Force consisting of 8 Eastern Fleet destroyers, 2
corvette, and one Free French minesweeper.
(b). CONVOYS
10. Northern Indian Ocean
During the month, 24 convoys were run in the Arabian Sea and Persian Gulf made up as follows:
From Bombay to Persian Gulf 6
From Aden to Persian Gulf 7
From Persian Gulf outwards 11
Escorts for these convoys were drawn from Persian Gulf division now
consisting of 9 escort vessels assisted by vessels from Ceylon Escort Group and
Aden force augmented
by 2 Hunt class destroyers from Mediterranean.
12. Total number of ships convoyed in Arabian Sea and on West
Coast of India but excluding those to and from Persian Gulf was 12 only. No
B A convoys were run. Normal West Coast of India sailing continued with air
escort and part time surface A/S escort in focal areas.
13. Figures in paragraph 11 show that about 50% of trade entered Persian Gulf is still
unescorted through lack of suitable assembly port to which ships from overseas
can be directed. The question of using the head of the Gulf of Kutch as an assembly
port has been under discussion with Flag Officer Commanding Royal Indian Navy,
and has been and has been agreed to accepting its total lack of defences.
14. Bandar Abbas in the Gulf of Hormuz continues as
assembly port for outgoing traffic from Persian Gulf; the largest
convoy to sail contained 21 ships. The possibility of using some other port,
such as Bahrein or Sitrah, further up the Gulf and consequently less accessible
to the enemy has again been under discussion, and discarded chiefly on the
grounds of bad weather and hazardous navigation.
15. Remainder of Indian Ocean
W S 22 (14 ships) passed
through the station escorted from Durban by H.M.S. DEVONSHIRE and H.M.S. RANCHI
to latitude of Seychelles whence Mid East section (6 ships) continued with
H.M.S. RANCHI as escort to Aden. H.M.S. HAWKINS relieved H.M.S. DEVONSHIRE
escorting Indian section (8 ships) to Bombay. Convoy was
routed east of Madagascar and west of Seychelles.
C M 33 left Durban 21st October
with troops transshipped from W S convoys for Mid East. Escort was provided
throughout to Aden by H.M.S.
WORCESTERSHIRE who herself carried her full capacity of naval personnel to Suez. Convoy passed
through Mozambique Channel.
AQUITANIA and NIEUW
AMSTERDAM passed through the station from Cape to Suez with troops.
Ships were unescorted and passed east of Madagascar. ILE DE FRANCE left Durban 21st October
proceeding direct to Australia.
(c). GUNNERY
18. The sleeve towing service at Colombo is again
working after being held up by lack of wire.
19. A site for the A.A. Dome Teacher has been selected at Kilindini and
work on building has started.
(d). AIR
20. Persian Gulf
A detachment of three Catalinas from Ceylon and Madras carried out A/S
operations and convoy escorts in the Gulf of Hormuz during the
month. The necessary reliefs were provided from Ceylon
21. East and South Africa
A detachment of three Catalinas from Mombasa was ordered to Durban to be at the
disposal of Commander in Chief South Atlantic. The first
aircraft force landed in Portuguese territory 55 miles North East of Lourenco
Marques on 13th October. Two additional aircraft were flown from Mombasa to Durban on 14th October
and 15th October. A third aircraft was
flown from Pamanzi to Durban on 18th
October.
This detachment of three aircraft was later moved from Durban to Saldahna Bay and are now
operating there.
To maintain the Saldahna Bay detachment at
full strength, it is intended to establish a detachment of two Catalinas at Durban to provide
reliefs. The first of these aircraft is now on passage to Durban and is due
there on 5th November.
22. Ceylon
All available Catalinas in East Africa having been
moved to South Africa, a detachment
of 3 Catalinas from Ceylon was moved to Mombasa on 13th
October. These aircraft took part in Operation DEMCAT, operating from the Seychelles. They were
recalled to Ceylon from the Seychelles on 31st
October.
To replace this detachment with A.S.V. fitted Catalinas, a further three
aircraft were ordered from Ceylon to Mombasa.
On passage, they were diverted to a submarine hunt near Addu Atoll.
During operations from Addu Atoll, one aircraft was damaged, the other two were
ordered to Mombasa on conclusion of the hunt, the first one arriving 3rd
November, the second aircraft being due Mombasa 5th November.
Additional Catalinas from Ceylon also took part
in the submarine hunt near Addu Atoll; but no details of further operations in
the vicinity of Ceylon are available.
(e). COMMUNICATIONS
23. Kilindini
W/T Stations now fully equipped and base ship for W/T duties is not
longer necessary.
24. Cables
Cable ship RECORDER relayed existing cables from Kilindini Harbour to new site at Fort Jesus.New cable station
at Post Officer now 90% complete and will be operating by end of November.
Cable ship RECORDER also tested and repaired:
(i). Mombasa – Zanzibar Cable at 5-11S,
39-23E
(ii). Zanzibar Dar es Salaam cable
(iii). Zanzibar – Durban cable (position
not yet located)
25. Madagascar
STREAM LINE JANE. At very short notice and with very limited supplies
available of both material and personnel it was necessary to equip the
communication organisation from Kilindini. H.M.S. ALBATROSS was converted to
Headquarters Ship of the Senior Naval Officer (L) with very primitive
arrangements. Results during STREAM LINE JANE were very satisfactory and
reflects credit on W/T staff of ALBATROSS and others who assisted with the
planning.
On conclusion of STREAM LINE JANE, Base W/T ships were left at Majunga
and Tamatave. By making use of French equipment ashore and increasing the
equipment at Diego Suarez, it is no longer necessary to retain a ship at any
port in Madagascar for W/T duties.
26. Persian Gulf
A breakdown in communications in the Persian Gulf was reported on
21st September 1942. This break
down was investigated at a court of enquiry and the Board’s findings reveals
that the R/T apparatus was both old, over worked, and badly maintained.
Communications will soon be improved when new transmitters for Plan R are
installed.
27. General Communications
Preliminary survey for Plan R are now in hand and work has already
commenced at Aden and Persian
Gulf Stations.
(f). R.D.F.
28. I.F.F. trials in aircraft have been completed and improved results
have been obtained. 80% efficiency expected. Report is being forwarded.
(g). DEVELOPMENT OF BASES
29. Colombo
Local developments are continuing
30. Trincomalee
Mine loops M 1, M 2, and M 3 were damaged and are out of action, leaving
only M 4 in working order.
Minor modifications to the Capital Ship berthing plan were agreed upon
in order to provide a taking off and alighting area for Catalina aircraft.
31. Addu Atoll
Cable ship JOHN MACKEY commenced the diversion of the Seychelles, Colombo cable.
Difficulty is being experienced in the laying the shore end.
Aerodrome and other developments continue.
32. Kilindini
A/T boom completed and a third H.D.A. laid
Exercises to test the detecting devices and local defence organisation are
being carried out.
33. Manza Bay
Controlled minefield completed and navigational beacons erected.
34. Mauritius
Local developments at Grand Port and Port Louis were continued.
35. Seychelles
H.M.S. ETHIOPIAN having partially completed the A/T Boom, is now at
Kilindini loading the A/S Boom for Cerf Passage.
36. Diego Garcia
No further development
37. PORT F
Future policy in regard to the use of Port F as an operational base and Gulf of Kutch as a convoy
assembly point is under discussion.
Development of aerodrome is progressing.
38. Diego Suarez
Three mines from the controlled minefield were accidently cut by
WARSPITE’s paravanes on 14th October.
B.D.O. East Africa visited Diego Suarez
during the month to investigate storage of boom equipment, etc.
Salvage of BRITISH LOYALTY and French Warships and submarines sunk
during Operation IRONCLAD is in hand.
39. Majunga
Following a decision to use Tamatave as a main supply port for Madagascar, the base staff
at Majunga had been removed and naval interests are now watched by a Resident
Naval Officer.
40. Tamatave
B.D.O. East Africa visited Tamatave during
the month, and has advised on the proposed Boom Defences. Recommendations have
been signaled to the Admiralty.
(h). INTELLIGENCE
41. Paymaster Lieutenant Commander W.R. Michell, RN, Mr. E.T. Biggs, Mr.
D.J. Cheke ex Tokyo arrived
Kilindini 12th October for duty with Chief of Intelligence Staff.
42. Lieutenant R. Hawkins, RNVR (Sp) arrived Kilindini 21st October
prior to taking up duties as Staff Officer (Intelligence) Diego Suarez.
43. A plot of ground, with house, at Nyali, was taken over on 20th
October for C.S.D.i.C. Camp, and is in the process of being cleared by the
military.
(i) MINESWEEPING
44. There has been no enemy minelaying
45. The following LL S/A M/S Vessels have arrived on their respective
stations:
SUNBURST, MOONSHINE,
HATSUSE, DUSK, 171st M/S Group at Kilindini from United Kingdom.
EARL KITCHENER part of
the 170th Group at Colombo from United Kingdom
KARMOY and OKSOY part
of the 177th Group at Khorrsmshahr from Bombay, where they
were fitted out as LL S/A sweepers.
46. Arrangements have been made for units of the Sixth Trawler Group,
stationed at Diego Suarez, to refit at Mauritius.SLUNA had been refitted and
returned to her station. HILDASAY is now refitting at Mauritius, due to
complete about November 20th.
47. The following Bathursts have arrived on the East Indies Station.
GERALDTON
LAUNCESTON
WOLLONGONG
BURNIE
And the following are on passage from Fremantle.
MARYBOROUGH
IPSWICH
CAIRNS
APPENDIX
I TO WAR DIARY, OCTOBER 1942
OPERATION
DEMCAT
1. At 2100 G M T 31st October (n.b.
pen and ink correction to 21st October), S.S. KARAGOLA reported sighting a
suspicious vessel of 20, 000 tons, apparently almost stationary, 9 miles
distant. Identification was difficult owing to the presence of rain squalls,
but from the description it appeared she was similar to the NIPPON YUSEN KAISHA
Pacific passenger ships. The Merchant shipping plot did not show any large allied
ships in this area.
2. Although, owing to weather conditions pertaining to the time of
sighting, the reliability of this report was doubted, it was decided that, as
three cruisers were then at Kilindini with no immediate task, they should be
send to search for this suspicious vessel and for enemy supply ships or raiders
who might use the area for refuelling submarines engaged in operations in the
Gulf of Aden and the Gulf of Oman.
3. Force D, comprising H.M. ships DEVONSHIRE, ENTERPRISE, and MAURITIUS,
were sailed accordingly to carry out a search, in cooperation with R.A.F.
flying boats, of a rectangular area lying between the Equator and Lat. 6-40
North and between meridians 59-10 East and 67-00 East. The four quarters of
this rectangular to be searched.
27th October southwest quarter in conjunction with two
Catalinas base at Seychelles
28th October northeast quarter in conjunction with two
Catalinas based at Addu Atoll
29th October northwest quarter in conjunction with two
Catalinas based at Seychelles
30th October southwest quarter in conjunction with two
Catalinas base at Addu Atoll
4. The cruisers were spaced 65 miles apart and were ordered to carry out
a parallel track search, commencing at 0800 daily. Catalinas commenced creeping
line ahead search at dawn daily to prudent limit of endurance. Thereafter the
cruisers were free to employ their own aircraft to assist the search as they
thought expedient
5. DEVONSHIRE and MAURITIUS sailed from
Kilindini Saturday, 24th October, direct to their initial positions for the
search. H.M.S. ENTERPRISE, in view of her low endurance, was sailed first to
the Seychelles to fuel and
then to her initial position for the search. No suspicious vessels were
encountered until the 30th October when a Catalina aircraft reported sighting
an enemy submarine on the surface at 0210/30 in position 1-36 North, 67-39
East. The submarine submerged shortly after being sighted.
6. The Catalina was ordered to carry out a square search for submarine
in area of 30 miles radius from position 1-35 North, 67-30 East to prudent
limit of endurance. The subsequent hunt for this U boat is described in
Appendix II.
7. The cruisers concluded operations at P.M. 30th October, H.M.S.
DEVONSHIRE proceeding directly to Kilindini, H.M.S. ENTERPRISE and H.M.S. MAURITIUS proceeding to Seychelles for fuelling
and thence to Kilindini.
8. In order to assist in the quick identification of suspicious
shipping, the following procedure was brought into force for this operation.
“When no information is held
of a ship met or the identification procedure has not been successful, W/T
silence can be broken to ask the shore plot for corroboration, the following
system of checkmate signals is to be used.:
Warship
Makes a quick signal in
Naval Code prefixed Emergency and consisting of the word “Check” only.
Example:EMERGENCY
To: C in C EF From:
DEVONSHIRE
Check
(Naval Code).T.O.O.
This signal should be
followed by another giving in the highest grade Cypher the name of the ship
under suspicion, her position, course she was steering when first sighted and
details of what she purports to be doing.
The first signal will give
the necessary warning to enable all required information to be prepared for the
expected question.
Shore
Plot.
Replies to the second signal
from the Warship with the word “MATE” followed by one of the following
indications:
(a). “CORRECT” (ship named
can be in your area)
(b). “UNKNOWN” (no
information held whatever)
(c ). “ELSEWHERE (ship
named know to be elsewhere).
This system has since been promulgated by signal Commander in Chief,
Eastern Fleet 1004Z/15/10
APPENDIX
II
TO
WAR DIARY OCTOBER 1942
A/S
OPERATION 30TH OCTOBER – 1ST NOVEMBER
1. At 0210Z/30 Catalina engaged in Operation DEMCAT sighted a submarine
on the surface in position 1-36 North, 67-39 East. This submarine dived shortly
after being sighted. It was considered that this submarine was the same as had
been bombed and reported possibly damaged by aircraft of Ras al Hadd at 0530 on
25th October and which had been fixed by D.F. on 27th October in position 15
deg. North, 62 deg. East and again on 28th October in position 12 deg. North,
64 deg. East.
2. If this was indeed the same submarine, there appeared to be a chance
of intercepting her as she passed eastwards between the Maldive Island and the Chagos
Archipelago.
3. Commander in Chief Eastern Fleet instructed Flag Officer, Ceylon,
that A.S.V. Catalinas then on passage from Ceylon to Mombasa and any available
A/S at or near Addu Atoll, were to be used to make an organized hunt for this U
boat, instructions for which hunt being issued by Flag Officer, Ceylon.
4. FRITILLARY and HOXA then at Addu Atoll were ordered to raise steam
with all dispatch. CAIRNS then on passage
from Diego Garcia to Seychelles was placed
under orders of Flag Officer, Ceylon and diverted
towards Addu Atoll. LISMORE, acting as A/S escort for HAWKINS and KUTSANG, on
passage from Colombo to Addu Atoll
was ordered to be detached at dusk on the 30th October to join in the hunt.
KUTSANG and HAWKINS proceeding to Addu Atoll where they were ordered to remain
until the submarine had been destroyers or was reckoned to be clear of the
area.
5. HOXA was ordered to proceed to maintain a patrol in the 1 ½ Degree
Channel. FRITILLARY, LISMORE, and CAIRNS were ordered to form a patrol covering
as far as possible the probably line of advance of the submarine to the south
westward of Addu Atoll, from which positions they would be suitably placed to
hunt the submarine should she be detected by Catalinas’ cross over patrols
further to the westward of them. Catalina and surface patrols were adjusted
daily to conform with the estimated advance of the U boat. The search proved
unsuccessful and was abandoned at 1130Z on the 1st November. The chances of
intercepting and destroying the U boat were materially reduced by the inability
to provide high percentage A.S.V. patrols on the nights of 30th and 31st
October. This, combined with the poor visibility encountered gives good reason
by the U boat may have passed through the Addu-Chagos passage unobserved.
6. HAWKINS and KUTSANG, with LISMORE as local escort, were sailed from
Addu to Seychelles on Monday, 2nd
November.
APPENDIX
III TO WAR DIARY, OCTOBER 1942
MADAGASCAR OPERATIONS
Early in the month, the Army were firmly established in Madagascar, their Ports
and communications were secure, and the majority part of the Naval task had
been completed. There was little to be done beyond escorting the relieve East
African troops from Kilindini. Senior Officer, Force M (Rear Admiral W.G.
Tennant, CB, MVO) accordingly turned over his duties as Naval Senior Officer to
Commodore S.H.T. Arliss, RN (whose broad pennant was flying in NAPIER), and
sailed in BIRMINGHAM on the 5th October to Kilindini. GAMBIA also returned
to Kilindini in company with BIRMINGHAM. She was
required to act as ocean escort the convoy conveying East African troops to
Tamatave. MANXMAN left Diego Suarez on the 4th October and returned to East Africa to prepare for
a special operation. The Naval forces remaining at Madagascar then consisted
of:
(a). EREBUS and two A/S
whalers at Majunga
(b). ALBATROSS at Tamatave
with one corvette and one A/S trawler
(c ). DAUNTLESS as
guardship at Diego Suarez.
(d). NAPIER, INCONSTANT,
and BLACKMORE providing A/S escort for important ships wherever required.
2. On October 11th, EMPIRE PRIDE and EASTERN PRINCE, escorted by GAMBIA, sailed from
Kilindini with the 3rd/4th K.A.R.’s and certain reinforcements for the Diego
Suarez garrison. HEEMSKERCK, VAN GALAN, and TJERK HIDDES provided additional
escort from Kilindini during daylight of the first day. On the arrival of the
East African troops at Tamatave, the 29th Independent Brigade and the 5th
Commando were to embark in the transports already at Madagascar, the former to India and the latter
to return to the United Kingdom. The health of
the 29th Brigade had, however, seriously deteriorate during the operations on
the unhealthy malarial coast, and it was necessary to consider the postponement
of their arrival in India to enable them
to have a period for recuperation in South Africa. As many as 55
new malarial cases were being reported daily. It was decided to send the troops
to Durban, but their M.T.
and landing craft to India. Accordingly
convoy M D 1 consisting of DUNERA, DILWARA, and EMPIRE PRIDE, was formed and
loaded at Tamatave. EASTERN PRINCE was excluded owing to engine room defects.
This convoy escorted by DAUNTLESS, NAPIER, INCONSTANT, and BLACKMORE left
Tamatave on 18th October. BLACKMORE (a Hunt Class Destroyer) was so overdue to
boiler cleaning, that her endurance was seriously impaired, and it was
considered necessary to oil her on the way to Durban. Accordingly,
BRITISH ENERGY was sailed from Diego Suarez to Tulear, and BLACKMORE was
detached from the convoy was necessary.
3. All the M.T. and Store ships used to transport the Military Force to
Madagascar in September had been released to trade before the end of the month,
with the exception of GASCONY and OCEAN VIKING (who were required to carry M.T.
for the 29th Brigade to India), and ADVISER who was engaged in carrying
military stores from Majunga to Tamatave. The last named ship was finally
released to trade at the end of October when she embarked the first commercial
cargo for export from Madagascar ports since the
inception of the blockade.
4. With the departure of M D 1, the Naval Forces remaining in Madagascan
waters consisted of EREBUS at Majunga, ALBATROSS at Tamatave (but due to
proceed to Diego Suarez to take over duties of guardship and Senior Naval
Officer (Afloat) and eight corvettes, whalers, or trawlers for A/S purposed,
one of which was docking at Mauritius. These forces were further reduced
towards the end of the month when EREBUS sailed for Durban and the A/S
trawler LURCHER sailed for Kilindini to make good defects.
_____________________________________
Background Events
November 1942-January 1943
Landings in French North Africa ('Torch'), Final battles for
Guadalcanal & Stalingrad, 'Cockleshell heroes', Battle of Barents
Sea
WAR
DIARY
(NOVEMBER
1942)
PART
II
NARRATIVE
(a). CURRENT OPERATIONS
1. Special Operations (Encounter between BENGAL and Japanese
raiders (see Appendix I)
2. OPERATIONS AT REUNION ISLAND
F.S. LEOPARD, acting under the orders of the French National Committee,
was diverted whilst on passage from the Cape to Australia to Reunion Island to rally
inhabitants to the Fighting French Cause. After refuelling at Port Louis, Mauritius, she proceeded
to St Denis, where it was intended to land Marines to capture the Island. The landing
took place on the 28th November, but the Governor retired to the mountains with
a force of 400 men. After occupying the northern portion of the Island, LEOPARD was
faced with the problems of dealing with these local defence forces and asked
for British assistance. This, however, was unnecessary when, on the morning of
the 30th, the Island authorities accepted the
Fighting French terms.
H.M.S. HAWKINS had been diverted to Diego Suarez to be available to
transfer troops from Madagascar to Reunion. She was due to
Diego Suarez on the 1st December.
3. CLOSE OF THE MADAGASCAR OPERATIONS
All naval forces, excepting those required for local defence, were
withdrawn from Madagascar early in the
month. FREESIA left on the 2nd November to return to Kilindini and ALBATROSS,
after exchanging the garrison at Mayotta, proceed to Tamatave and there
embarked the group personnel of 795 and 796 Squadrons who had been detached to
cooperate with the Military during the Madagascar Campaign. Aircraft of 795 and
796 Squadrons flew back to East Africa, arriving at
Tanga on the 10th. ALBATROSS reached Tanga on the 13th.
4. ANTI SUBMARINE REINFORCEMENTS FOR COMMANDER IN CHIEF, SOUTH ATLANTIC
In addition to the destroyers, SONDRA and 209 Flying Boat Squadron who
had been lent to the South Atlantic Station in October, the following A/S
forces joined Commander in Chief, South Atlantic from the
Eastern Fleet:
(a). NIGELLA on completion
of her refit at East London on the 1st November.
(b). JASMINE who had sailed
from Kilindini on the 2nd November and arrived at Durban on the 8th
November.
(c ). FREESIA, who left
Kilindini, escorted RESOURCE on the 23rd November was due at Durban on the 1st
December.
(d). One Catalina who was
flown from Mombasa on the 5th November to Durban was to be available as
replacement for aircraft then operating from Saldahna Bay.
5. EREBUS
On the 2nd November, EREBUS arrived at Durban where she came
under the administration of Rear Admiral Training Establishments. She is
intended to act as Turret Drill Ship in South Africa, and will be maintained
at three weeks’ notice for operations.
6. DOCKING, REPAIRS, and MOVEMENT OF HEAVY UNITS
The docking and repairs of heavy ships continued at Durban throughout the
month:
(a). WARSPITE completed a
week’s docking on the 2nd November.
(b). REVENGE completed
three months’ repairs on the 13th November.
(c ). RESOLUTION completed
a short refit and docking on the 20th November.
Movements of heavy ships were controlled by the availability of the few
destroyers remaining in the Eastern Fleet. They returned to Kilindini as soon
as possible after the completion of docking and refits at Durban
Throughout the month there was very little opportunity for exercises at
sea in the vicinity of Kilindini owing to the lack of destroyer escorts.
ILLUSTRIOUS went out on two occasions and WARSPITE, VALIANT, and REVENGE once
each.On passage from Durban each ship had intensive exercises when approaching
Kilindini, the programme for each were arranged to improve weapon training, and
also to give aircraft disembarked from ILLUSTRIOUS exercise in searching,
tracking, and attacking. Runner Torpedo practices dropped from aircraft were a
feature of this month.
6. DOCKING AND REFITS OF CRUISERS
CERES on completion of
three months’ repairs at Simonstown on 14th November proceeded to Durban and thence to
Kilindini.
DRAGON, who left Durban on the 31st
October, proceeded to the United Kingdom for re
construction.
DURBAN, who had an
escorted convoy, W S 33 from the United Kingdom, arrived at Durban on the 6th
November with defects to condensers and boiler room fans. Through the remainder
of the month, she was undergoing repairs.
FROBISHER completed five
weeks’ work on her turbines on the 21st November. This work was necessary owing
to certain blades on all L P turbines having stripped during passage from Colombo to Kilindini.
Subsequent speed trials were satisfactory.
7. REINFORCEMENT OF AUSTRALIAN MINESWEEPING VESSELS
The following minesweepers left Australia to join the
Eastern Fleet:
(a). MARYBOROUGH and IPSWICH on the 3rd
November
(b). BENGAL on the 5th
November
(c ). TOOWOOMBA and
CESSNOCK on the 21st November.
In each case, these vessels accompanied an oiler as far as Diego Garcia.
8. TRANSFER OF SPRINGTIDE FROM INDIA TO EAST AFRICA
SPRINGTIDE left Colombo on 16th
November for Kilindini, where she was required to be available for the
deperming of Easter Fleet ships. Her arrival coincided with the laying of the
D/G range at Kilindini.
9. REFITS AT MAURITIUS
HILDASAY left Mauritius on the 20th
November, having completed a month’s refit. Her place was taken by PLADDA.
(b). U BOAT ACTIVITY
10. GULF OF ADEN
Apart from one doubtful sighting report of a U boat and a report from
S.S. NIZAM that she had been missed by a torpedo, there have been no signs of U
boat activity in the Gulf of Aden. It is probable that the
NIZAM was misled by fish.
11. PERSIAN GULF AND GULF OF OMAN
Strong rumours have been reported of a U boat landing arms and agents in
the vicinity of Jask in the last week of September or in October. Although no
confirmation has been received, the possibility of this being true by
strengthened by various other reports of light signals having been seen in the
area. Arrangements have been made for strengthening the internal security
ashore and the area is being patrolled from the sea as frequently as
practicable.
A U/B was sighted by aircraft in the vicinity of Ras el Hadd on the 25th
and 29th November, but no attacks have been made on shipping.
12. ARABIAN SEA
Two reports have been received of U/B sightings. One by a ferry pilot
near Karachi and one off
Kadibandar. Both these reports were discounted as being improbable.
S.S. CHANFIELD was torpedoed and sunk off Allepy on 23rd November.
13. INDIAN OCEAN
A Japanese unit, probably a U/B, was plotted by D/F to be some 570 miles
S.W. of Ceylon on 23rd November.
S.S. TILAWA was torpedoed and sunk on the night 22nd/23rd November in
position 07-36N, 61-08E. H.M.S. BIRMINGHAM, on passage from Bombay to Kilindini,
was diverted to search for survivors. She rescued 670 and returned to Bombay. H.M.S.
CARTHAGE was ordered to the position to search for the 280 still unaccounted,
but only succeeded in rescuing 4. H.M.S. CARTHAGE was ordered to return to
Kilindini.
A Japanese unit, using the o/m frequency, was plotted by D/F to be in
position 9 degrees S and 97 degrees E on the 29th October.
14. CEYLON AREA
S.S. HILDA MOLLER reported having been missed by a torpedo in position
about 60 miles south of Ceylon on 13th
November.
On 23rd and 25th November Japanese units (probably U/Bs) were plotted by
D/F to be somewhere in the vicinity.
15. BAY OF BENGAL
The S.S. EMPIRE DEFIANCE reported being missed by 2 torpedoes on 11th
November in the vicinity of Madras.
On 16th November a patrol vessel sighted a U boat off Madras but was unable
to keep in contact with it and failed to regain contact in subsequent searches.
The S.S. EMPIRE MIST reported sighting a U/boat on the 18th November in
a position 100 miles to the northward of Trincomalee.
A Japanese unit, possibly a U Boat, was fixed by D/F to be in
approximately 9 degrees N , 95 degrees E on the 18th November.
16. EAST AFRICA AREA
No Japanese U boats were reported in the area during the month.
The S.S. LOUISE MOLLER was sunk on the 13th November and the S.S. PIERCE
BUTLER on the 20th both to the eastward of Durban, just on the
station boundary. It is considered that the U Boat or boats were German.
(C ). CONVOYS
16.
ALAUNIA
After acting as Base Ship
for Khor Kuwai since 16th September
1942, ALAUNIA sailed on 4th November as ocean escort to convoy P B 10 to Bombay to give leave
to ship’s company and to embark stores. She sailed from Bombay on 22nd
November to arrived in Bandar Abbas on 25th November to take over the duties of
the Base Ship as before.
CARTHAGE
Arrived from the United Kingdom as escort to
convoy W S 23, arriving at Durban on 5th
November. After four days at Durban, she sailed
direct with the Aden portion of W S
23, arriving at Aden on 23rd
November. She was then ordered to return to Kilindini but the journey was
diverted to assist in the search for survivors from the torpedoed TILAWA.
Search was abandoned on 27th November and CARTHAGE reached
Kilindini on 1st December.
CHITRAL
Since the beginning of
November, CHITRAL had been docking and boiler cleaning at Bombay. On 18th
November she was sailed to Durban, arriving on
29th November preparatory to acting as ocean escort to Convoy W S 24 (Slow) on
4th December.
DAUNTLESS
Having left Madagascar on the 18th
October as ocean escort for convoy M D 1, DAUNTLESS arrived at Durban on 9th November
and sailed four days later as escort for W S 23. She was relieved by H.M.S.
HAWKINS four days out and returned to Durban to act as
escort for C M 35 (Slow) which sailed on 21st November.
DAUNTLESS was relieved on C
M 35 by A.M.C. RANPURA when north of Madagascar and proceeded
to Kilindini with DUNERA and SONTAY in company, arriving at the latter port on
23rd November. She subsequently sailed with SONTAY and Greek destroyer KANARIS
on 27th November for Aden where she
should arrive on 6th December.
DEVONSHIRE
Returned to Kilindini from
Operation DEMCAT arriving on 3rd November. She was next required to rendezvous
with MAURETANIA on passage from Suez to Fremantle
and to Sydney, and sailed
from Kilindini on 16th November arriving Colombo in company with
MAURETANIA on 23rd November, leaving again on 25th, and
expecting to arrived at Fremantle on 3rd December.
ENTERPRISE
On completion of Operation
DEMCAT, ENTERPRISE proceeded to Seychelles arriving on 1st
November. She left again on the following day and arrived Kilindini on 4th
November. Three days later she was required to escort convoy M C 1 consisting
of ALAMANZORA and ORDUNA to Diego Suarez and thence to Durban. ENTERPRISE and convoy
arrived Durban on 16th
November and on 21st November, ENTERPRISE sailed for
Simonstown and the United Kingdom.
FROBISHER
During the month of
November, FROBISHER had been at Kilindini carrying out repairs to her turbines.
After completion of successful trials FROBISHER sailed from Kilindini on 30th
November for Durban where she will
remain until 4th December when she will be required to act as escort for W S 24
(fast section) to a latitude of Diego Suarez.
GAMBIA
Until 13th November, GAMBIA was at Bombay boiler cleaning
and docking. On 13th November, she sailed for Colombo arriving 16th
November and sailing on 24th November to rendezvous with convoy O W 1 on 29th
November in position 22-30 South, 95-05 East. She will escort this convoy to
the vicinity of Addu Atoll where she will be relieved by two vessels from the Ceylon escort group. GAMBIA will proceed to
Addu Atoll to refuel and probably sailed direct to Kilindini.
HAWKINS
Left Kilindini acting
escort to the KUTSANG on 28th October and proceeded thence with KUTSANG to Addu
Atoll, Seychilles. Arrived 6th. Sailed from Seychelles on the 7th for Mauritius arriving on the
9th and having fuelled left the same day to R/v with and take over escort of W
S 23 from DAUNTLESS. On 16th, she was relieved as escort to W S 23 by MAURITIUS and arrived
Kilindini 18th leaving again for Bombay on the 30th.
MAURITIUS
On conclusion of Operation
DEMCAT, MAURITIUS returned to Seychelles to fuel,
sailing for Kilindini from the Pemba Channel on 1st November arriving Kilindini
on the 4th. MAURITIUS sailed from
Kilindini on 14th November to rendezvous with W S 23 and escort the Bombay section to its
destination. After arrival at Bombay on 3rd December, she will be required to
act as ocean escort to B A 34 to the longitude of %% degrees East returning
thence to Diego Suarez preparatory to relieving FROBISHER as escort to W S 24
(Fast).
RANCHI
Arrived Kilindini from the
Northward on 3rd November and remained there until 14th November when she was
required to sail as ocean escort for Convoy K A 4 SALWEEN and TAKLIWA, to Aden
arriving Aden 20th November where she will remain until required to escort
personnel and Convoy A B 4 Bombay about 2nd December
RANPURA
Completed boiler cleaning
at Bombay on 6th November
and sailed with B A 33 to Aden on that day.
After turning over the convoy to local escorts, RANPURA proceeded to Kilindini
arriving on the 20th November. She sailed again from Kilindini with C M 35 with
personnel from Middle East and arrived at Aden on 29th
November. She will remain at Aden until required
as escort to M C 2 which convoy has not yet been constituted.
WORCESTERSHIRE
Arrived Aden on 3rd November
with convoy C M 33 and sailed the same day for Suez with naval
personnel. She returned to Aden on 12th
November and sailed the following day for Kilindini arriving at the latter port
on 18th November. She sailed from Kilindini on 26th November as ocean escort to
C M 35 (B) and should arrived Bombay on 4th
December.
(d). GUNNERY
17. Sleeve target facilities are now available at Durban
18. MAURITIUS carried out the
first bombardment on the Wasin Island range on 11th
November. No major difficulties were encountered.
(e). AIR
19. R.A.F. BOATS UNDER THE STRATEGIC CONTROL OF C IN C EASTERN FLEET
5th November One Catalina flown from Mombasa to Durban as relief for
the detachment of 3 Catalinas operating from Saldanha Bay. This aircraft
was brought into operational use at Durban in view of the
spread northwards of the submarine campaign.
15th November The 3 Catalinas from Saldanha Bay were flown to Durban as a result of
the intensification of the submarine campaign in the Durban area and the
slacking off in the Cape area.
24th November Air Headquarters, East Africa formed at Nairobi absorbing207
Group
1-30th November The two Catalinas flown from Ceylon to Mombasa to replaced the
aircraft send to South Africa, stood by as a
strike and standby striking force at Mombasa, but did not
carry out any operational flying.
1-30th November A detachment of 3 Catalinas from Ceylon was maintained
in the Persian Gulf, operating from Bahrein.
20. TRAINING OF DISEMBARKED AIRCRAFT
ILLUSTRIOUS squadrons were shore based for most of the month, 810 and
806 at R.N.A.S. Tanga for torpedo attack and reconnaissance training
respectively and 881 at Mackinnon Road.
Some Martlets of 881 Squadron were sent to Nakuru and Naruki for a
week’s exercises with the R.A.F. The exercise proved of value to both Fleet Air
Arm and R.A.F.
(f). BASES
21. CEYLON
Local developments are continuing. The layout of the Indicator loops and
H.D.A.’s at Trincomalee are under consideration.
22. ADDU ATOLL
Work has now reached a stage when the skilled labour of the M.N.B.D.O.
can be dispensed with. The unit is therefore to be replaced as soon as less
skilled labour is available.
WUSUEH, which was earmarked for Addu Atoll as a hospital carrier, has
been diverted to other uses as required by Armindia. OPHIR will take her place
temporarily.
The laying of the shore end of the diversion of the Colombo Seychelles
cable has been abandoned for the time being.
23. KILINDINI
Unloading of TREVORIAN, and loading of ETHIOPIAN continued. This was
much delayed by various caused, including a fracture of TREVORIAN’s foremast.
ETHIOPIAN sailed fro Seychelles 29th November
DEVON CITY arrived 11th
and sailed for Diego Suarez 25th.
24. MAURITIUS
Works and developments are continuing.
25. SEYCHELLES
ETHIOPIAN sailed from Kilindini on 29th November for Seychelles with A/S Boom
for Cerf Passage and extra moorings for St Anne’s Boom.
26. DIEGO GARCIA
No further development. The indicator nets have nearly disappeared.
27. DIEGO SUAREZ
Developments continue
Three H.D.A.’s were landed by DEVON CITY. It has been
approved to site these in Oranjia Pass.
Proposals for anchorage and A/T baffles have been approved by the
Admiralty
28. PORT F
Development is progressing.
When present works are complete, it is not intended that Port F shall
remain in instant readiness for use, but in a state from which it can be
brought into use without undue delay if required.
The notice at which Gulf of Kutch shall be kept
as a convoy assembly port is at present under discussion with Flag Officer
Commanding Royal Indian Navy.
(g). INTELLIGENCE
29. Captain H.R. Sandwith arrived Kilindini 26th November on a Y
Intelligence visit.
30. Paymaster Lieutenant Commander W.R. Michell proceeded to Cairo 7th November
for instruction in interrogation of Prisoners of War.
31. Major J.S. Figess (Army Liaison Officer (I) to Commander in Chief,
Eastern Fleet) proceeded to Delhi 26th November.
(h). MINESWEEPING
32. There has been no enemy minelaying.
33. M.H.T. TEWERA, the third vessel of the 170th M/S Group at Colombo has arrived on
station from the United Kingdom. MAGNOLIA, the
fourth of the group, is on passage from the united Kingdom.
34. During November the following BATHURSTs have arrived on their
respective stations from Australia:
H.M.A.S. MARYBOROUGH at Colombo
H.M.A.S. IPSWICH at
Kilindini
H.M.A.S. CAIRNS at
Kilindini
35. The following BATHURSTs are on passage from Australia to join the
Eastern Fleet
TOOWOOMBA
CESSNOCK
(h). COMMUNICATIONS
(N.B. both minesweeping and communications are assigned “H” for their
paragraphs)
36. KILINDINI
V/S New signal tower at Base
has been completed and is in operation, but flashing facilities are not yet
complete due to lack of transformers.
W/T High speed equipment has
been installed and now high speed traffic is exchanged between Admiralty,
Simonstown, and Colombo. All apparatus
is ex- tempore and station still awaits proper equipment for U.K. Admiralty
have signaled part if already shipped.
Considerable increase of traffic has been taken on the Admiralty fixed
service which is intended for C.O.I.S. Arrangements have been made to C.O.I.S.
traffic to be passed over cable and wireless link to Nairobi and forward by
train to Kilindini. As yet this route has not been used.
CABLES Cable ship RECORDER has reacquired Durban-Zanzibar
cable in the vicinity of Lourenco Marques, and now moved
north to make two repairs off Mozambique. Shit should be
completed by mid December
37. MADAGASCAR
MAJUNGA Has been reduced to the status of a
Resident Naval Officer, and accordingly only one W/T rating remains. Type 52
E.R.T. has been left for emergency communications.
TAMATAVE Trials have been carried out with the
high power L/F transmitter on 20 k.c.’s Good reception by a submarine on the
surface at a distance of 3000 miles has been reported. Further trials are
taking placed with a view of providing a high power L/F broadcast to cover the Indian Ocean. British Joint
Communication Board have agreed that this transmitter is available for naval
use.
38. PERSIAN GULF
W/T and L/F breakdowns are still being reported. Cable ships JOHN W.
MACKAY and STORE NORDISKE have been sailed for Muscat to lay new
cables and effect repairs.
New W/T transmitters have been shipped to the Persian Gulf and
improvements should be effected early in January.
39. ADDU ATOLL
Cable ship JOHN W. MACKAY laid the diversion cable from Addu Atoll to
the north (152 miles). Northern end has been anchored, southern end has been
buoyed. Many difficulties have been reported in connection with the proposed
diversion on the Seychelles – Colombo cable, and
Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet signaled that in view of the revised function
of Addu Atoll, that it was considered that the diversion should be abandoned.
40. RECEPTION OF RUGBY
During Operation DEMCAT (in approximate position 6 degrees North, 60
degrees East) three cruisers were operating and an analysis of signals read
from Rugby was made. It is of interest to note that modern
Cruiser with up to date receivers experiences little difficulty in receiving Rugby throughout the
24 hours, a County Class cruisers
received about 60% and an old Class Cruiser with poor receivers has
considerable difficulty in receiving Rugby. Steps are
being taken to provide all Cruisers with a really good receiver for reception
of Rugby.
41. LOURENCO MARQUES
Trials have been carried out between Kilindini – Simonstown – Durban and the Consul
General at Lourenco Marques. To date only Durban and Lourenco
Marques have established communication.
Further trials are in progress.
42. PERSONNEL
W.R.N.S. personnel are now arriving at Kilindini and relieving ratings,
but due to lack of accommodations , numbers released are as yet few.
43. TRAINING
V/S and W/T instruction is now being carried out in class room ashore.
Plans have been made to build a small school to train fleet personnel and
ratings awaiting passage.
44. PLAN R
Preliminary survey of Aden and Persian Gulf has been
completed and all proposals have been forwarded to the Admiralty.
Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet has approved for the work to be put in
hand.
____________________________
OPERATIONS
STREAM LINE JANE
SEPTEMBER
1942
Taken from the WAR AT SEA,
Volume III, January-December 1942
Historical Section,
Tactical and Staff Duties Division
Naval Staff, Admiralty
1945
(Paragraph) 892 : Operations in Madagascar (September
1942).
When Diego Suarez was occupied May (paras. 676-685) certain Allied
leaders, including Field Marshall Smits, favoured the immediate extension of
our hold upon the island of Madagascar. Complete
occupation, was, however, deferred for various reasons, among which was the
hope that after the fall of Diego Suarez the French authorities in the rest of
the island might adhere voluntarily to the Allies This hope was not realized,
and operations for complete occupation were carried out in September, the
authority of the Chiefs of Staff to proceed having been given on August 3
(C.O.S. No. (EA) 6, 1300Z/3/8). Our forces landed at three points on the west
coast early on September 10 – at Nossi Be Island, at Majunga, and at Morondava.
At the same time, units of the military forces at Diego Suarez began an advance
southwards, but were much delayed by damaged bridges. Progress elsewhere was
rapid, and on September 16 the Vichy Governor General, M. Annet, asked for
armistice terms. Next day the Vichy delegation
refused these terms, and fighting continued. On September 18, Tamatave
surrendered to a naval force; on the 21st, Brickaville was occupied, and on the
23rd, British forces entered Tannarive, capital of Madagascar. On the 29th
the occupation of Tulear and Fort Dauphin deprived the Vichy forces of the
control of the last ports in the island.
Rear Admiral, 4th Cruiser Squadron, Rear Admiral W.G. Tennant, as Senior
Officer, Force M, was in charge of the operations under the direction of the C
in C, Eastern Fleet, Admiral Sir James Somerville. Three convoys sailed
separately from Kilindini and one from Diego Suarez, making rendezvous with the
Rear Admiral, in the cruiser BIRMINGHAM, the aircraft carrier ILLUSTRIOUS, and
the Dutch cruiser HEEMSKERCK with destroyer escort about 90 miles south of
Mayotte Island at noon on September 9.
893. Assault on Majunga (Operation STREAM) (September 10)
The main objective was Majunga. Landings were made at Red Beach, west of Ampajoni Village and Green Beach, south of
Majunga town. The former operation captured the airfield and reported the coast
road clear by 0605C/ on September 10. The latter operation after come
opposition from Sengalese troops, captured the barracks at 0633C and received
the surrender of the Commandant. The post office, bank, and wireless station
were in our hands by 0722C and an hour later the Red and Green Beach battalions had
made contact. One company landed at Katsepe Point at 0570C with opposition and
were unable to find any gun positions. A section of commandos were also landed
at Montego Bay beach. By 0900C, the inner harbour had been swept
and entered, and destroyers were ordered in to oil. At 1600C H.M.S. BRITTANY started laying
indicator nets. By 1100C, the landing armoured cars of the 22nd East African
Brigade had left the beach, and by 1330C, were 50 miles along the road to Tananarive (Antanarino).
894. Capture of Nossi Bi (Operation ESME) September 10)
At 0300C on September 10, the fast minelayer MANXMAN with Naval boarding
parties, Royal Marines from the CARADOC, and two platoons of the Pretorian
Highlanders, entered the harbour at Hellville, Nossi Be Island, as a
diversionary operation (ESME) to the main attack. Mooring head and stern, the
MANXMAN bombarded areas known or believed to contain machine guns commanding
the pier head, firing 172 rounds of 4” high explosives at 500 yards. The pier
was then swept for two minutes with all short range weapons and military
mortars and there were some enemy casualties. During these bombardments,
boarding parties captured tugs and power boats. A diversionary bombardment was
then begun, under cover of which the Pretoria Highlanders, pulled by Royal
Marines in cutters, landed on the pier head and captured Hellville base, with
only one casualty. Machine guns were found on the pier, but their crews had
either retired or were dazed by the bombardment.
895. Diversion at Morondava (Operation TAMPER) (September 10)
Another diversionary operation (TAMPER) was carried out at Morondava,
20-17S, 44-17E, about 380 miles south of Majunga, by commandoes landed from the
destroyer NAPIER. The landing was here was delayed until daylight, about 0700C,
owing to heavy surf, but despite this there was no opposition and all
objectives were soon in our possession, the French administrator was captured
and the commando forces proceeded inland.
The campaign thus
opened with somewhat surprising ease and celerity, but in view of the General
Officer Commanding in Chief, East Africa, it was only
the overwhelming speed and efficiency of the landing which prevented heavy
casualties. The General expressed the grateful appreciation of all ranks for
the “efficiency with which the Royal Navy brought the landing parties to the right
place at the right time.”
896. Landing at Tamatave (Operation JANE) (September 18)
Following the rejection of the armistice terms on September 17,
Tamatave, the principal port of Madagascar, was taken by
seaborne expedition on September 18. Force M, anchored there at 0500. The
Governor was called upon to surrender; he refused, and fired at a boat carrying
out envoys. A minimum naval bombardment was therefore carried out before
landing, cruisers and destroyers opening fire at 0751 with 4 in. and short
range armament on military objectives. The French did not reply and hoisted the
white flag at 0754. No air bombardment was carried out and no damage or
casualties were apparently inflicted. By midday the town was
under Allied control. Most of the garrison had left on the 17th for Tananarive. By the
afternoon of the 18th the airfield was ready for use, and harbour obstructions
had been removed. Most cranes, however, had been immobilized by the French some
time before. Military companies moved off to attack Brickaville, 50 miles south
of Tamatave, which was occupied on the 21st.
897. Tamatave Occupied (Operation LINE) (September 23)
The advance of the military forces on Tananarive, the capital
was not seriously opposed but was delayed by damaged bridges and road blocks.
In the north, a small military force was landed by the MANXMAN at Maromandia on
the morning of September 14, and the town was captured at noon next day by a Royal Marine detachment landed
upriver south of the town.
British forces entered Tananarive on September 23
(Operation LINE). No serious opposition was encountered, the Vichy plan being
apparently to withdraw and continue resistance in the south.
898. Landing at Tulear (Operation ROSE) (September 29)
On September 29, Tulear, on the southwest coast, was occupied without
opposition. Force M appeared off the port in the early morning, the local
commander accepted wireless ultimatum, and the ships did not bombard. At
0624/29, the C in C, Eastern Fleet, informed the Admiralty that occupation was
then taking place. The landing was made by one company of the Pretoria Regiment
and a detachment of Royal Marines. Within an hour, the wireless station was
taken intact, and within two hours the town and barracks were occupied. One
officer and 34 other ranks were made prisoners. No other troops were found in
the neighbourhood.
The S.S. MARECHAL GALLIENI had left on September 10, and was intercepted
on September 23 by the destroyer NIZAM (after sighting by the South African Air
Force) about 130 miles from Lourenco Marques, and taken to Durban, where she was
requisitioned by the Union Government. On September 29, the NIZAM, patrolled
off Lourenco Marques, intercepted the S.S. AMIRAL PIERRE after
sighting by the South African Air Force. The crew scuttled their ship after
first sighting and she sank on the morning of the 30th in 26-04S, 34-54E. She
was formerly the Greek S.S. YIANNIS and had been seized by the Vichy
Authorities in Madagascar.
Fort Dauphin was
reconnoitered at dawn on September 29 by the fast minelayer MANXMAN. Civilian
officials were friendly and the naval landing party experienced no opposition.
The ship left the same day after reembarking the party.
Military operations in Madagascar continued until
November 5, when armistice terms were agreed upon.
_____________________________
SECRET
Colombo, 18th June 1942
No. 804/E.I. 260
WAR
DESPATCH
Sir,
I have the honour to request you to lay before the Lords Commissioners
of the Admiralty the following report on general matters of interest concerning
activities in my late command. The period covered is from my last dispatch of
the 28th February 1942, No. 297/E.I. 260, up to this morning, when my flag was
hauled down on the lapsing of my appointment as Commander in Chief, East Indies
Station.
2. During the period under review affairs on the station were dominate
by the advance of the Japanese forces. Singapore having
capitulated on the 15th February, Java and Sumatra fell earl in
March and Burma was overrun in
May. The Andaman Islands were occupied by the enemy, unopposed, in
March. There were sporadic attacks on Allied shipping by Japanese surface
ships, submarines, and aircraft, and by the latter on the ports of Colombo, Trincomalee,
and Vizagapatam.
Commands
3. Information was received early in March that Vice Admiral Sir James
F. Somerville, KCB, KBE, DSO, had been appointed as Commander in Chief, Eastern
Fleet and that Vice Admiral Sir Geoffrey Layton, KCB, DSO, was appointed Commander in
Chief, Ceylon in supreme
command of the Island’s defences and of the
civil government as from the 5th March. It was proposed that I should assume
the temporary command of the Eastern Fleet pending Admiral Somerville’s
arrival, but in view of the short period that would elapse and to avoid a double
transfer, it was agreed that Admiral Layton should retain command of the
Eastern Fleet as well as being the Commander in Chief, Ceylon. Admiral
Somerville assumed command of the Eastern Fleet on the 26th March.
The organisation then envisaged was, that the ships of the East Indies
Squadron (except for those employed on escort duties and as local defence
craft) would be absorbed into the Eastern Fleet; the Commander in Chief,
Eastern Fleet, would be afloat, with headquarters at Colombo, and I , while retaining
command of the Station –that is, the shore bases and their Naval defences – and
controlling shipping on the station, would also act as Deputy Commander in
Chief, Eastern Fleet, at Colombo.
However, after the events of early April that are dealt with below,
Admiral Somerville considered it necessary to move his headquarters from
Colombo to Kilindini; and as this made it impossible to me to continue as
Deputy Commander in Chief and as the diminished East Indies Command no longer
justified the appointment of a Commander in Chief Admiral Somerville and I
joined in proposing to Their Lordships the termination of my appointment. This
was approved in Admiralty message 2028 of the 6th May.
Burma
4. I was informed at the beginning of February that the Japanese were
effected a considerable infiltration to the northward along the west coast of
Burma by small parties of troops moving in sampans through the numerous creeks.
Such local naval defence vessels as were in Burma were of too
deep draught to effectively to counter these moves, and it was necessary to
play the enemy at his own game. By reason of their training by far the most
suitable men for this employment were those of the Mobile Naval Base contingent
then in Ceylon, recuperating
from their work on the defences off Addu Atoll. I therefore sent 100 Marines
from this force to Burma, to operate
under the orders of General Officer Commanding, informing Their Lordships of my
intention to do so in my signal 1516 of the 2nd February.
All that I have heard points to the valuable work done by this small
force (known as Force Viper) under the command of Acting Major D. Johnson,
Royal Marines.
The survivors returned to Colombo at the end of
May.
5. At the same time that I decided to send the Royal Marine detachment
to Burma, I formed the
opinion that is was essential the local Naval operations should be under the
direct command of a Naval Officer of skill, resolution, and enterprise. Very
opportunely, Captain C.F. Hammill, R.N. was already well on his way to relieve
Commodore C.M. Graham, C.B., as Senior Naval Officer, Persian Gulf.; and
knowing that Commodore Graham possessed the desired qualities in a high degree,
I informed Their Lordships in the same signal of my intention to send Commodore
Graham by air to Burma forthwith; and His Excellency the Governor of Burma
concurring. I appointed him Commodore Burma Coast. Captain P.N.
WALTER, R.N., HMS CENTURION, assumed the duties Senior Naval Officer Persian
Gulf temporarily until Captain Hammill’s arrival, which was not long delayed.
6. Commodore Graham’s detailed report as been forwarded to Their
Lordships over my minute No. 775/E.I. 152 of the 17th June. The brief story is
one of retreat before an enemy superior in numbers and weapons and vastly
superior in air power. Rangoon was early
endangered, and troop convoys destined thither were some time backing and
filling between Calcutta and Rangoon according to
whether the General Officer Commanding in Burma considered the
ships could be received or not. On the 22nd February I was informed that the
Commander in Chief, India, had assumed command in Burma and on the 27th March I
was informed by General Wavell of his intention to hold Rangoon as long as
possible. The convoys therefore disembarked at Rangoon, which nevertheless
had to be evacuated a few days later. The next port to be attacked as Akyab.
This also General Wavell intended to hold as long as possible, but in view of
the complete command of the air possessed by the Japanese and the possibility
of a seaborne attack in force, he offered to accept the immediate withdrawal of
the two R.I.N. sloops INDUS and SUTLEJ, from the anti infiltration patrol if I
considered it advisable (signal times 1005 of 25th March). I replied in a
signal 0030 of the 26th March to the effect that while I appreciated the offer,
if the Army intended to hold Akyab, it must be my policy to render all possible
assistance.; and that as the INDUS and SUTLEJ were indispensible to an
effective anti infiltration patrol, I desired that both should remain, subject
to withdrawal at the discretion of the Commodore, Burma Coast, if the air
attack became so intensive as to make their further retention equivalent to
their loss.
I regret that on the 6th April, during a heavy air raid, H.M.I.S. INDUS
received three direct hits while under way in Akyab Harbour and sank in 35
minutes. Fortunately, there was no loss of life.
The evacuation of Akyab was finally ordered on the 3rd May and the
remaining units of the Burma R.N.V.R. withdrew to Calcutta where they were
re organized for further service as a separate unit under the operational and
administrative control of the Flag Officer, Royal Indian Navy.
The appointment of Commodore, Burma Coast, lapsed
on the 31st May.
7. The almost total lack of support that the Navy had been able to
render throughout the Burma campaign has
been of a matter of deep concern to me. Commodore Graham did everything in his
power with the meager forces at his disposal, but nothing effective could have
been done unless we had sufficient submarines seriously to interrupt the
enemy’s lines of sea communications. It was certainly out of the question to
attempt to use surface vessels for the purpose.
Bases
8. In order of importance of the various bases on the Station changed
from time to time according to the shifts in the situation.
9. Addu Atoll. As stated in my previous dispatch, Addu Atoll had been
brought to the stage where an Indian Army garrison was installed and the base
was in operation as a defended port. Further instructions were then received
from Their Lordships, very materially increasing the scale of the defences, and
I was directed in a signal from Their Lordships 0243 of the 18th March, that
work was to be pressed on with, so that Addu Atoll might be used as the Main Fleet
Base as soon as possible. But a combined reconnaissance had shown that these
further developments (without which, in the then state of affairs, the base was
too open to attack for prolonged use by the Fleet) would be attended by very
serious difficulties and would necessarily have to be regard as “long term
projects.” I therefore formed the opinion, which I represented to Their
Lordships and the Commanders in Chief, Eastern Fleet and Ceylon, that since
both material and labour were limited, it would be better to use them to
complete the Ceylon defences before
embarking on the second stage of the development of Addu Atoll. The later
withdrawal of the Eastern Fleet to East Africa strengthened
the argument for a “go slow” policy, since Addu Atoll was dangerously open to
occupation and use by the Japanese. The Naval Officer in Charge and Defence
Commander were therefore directed that further developments were to cease and
that they were to concentrate on maintaining the existing defences and on
improving the general health and recreational conditions (Admiralty message
1414 of the 16th April). The Naval Officer in Charge was also told to prepare a
denial scheme in case of need.
Finally, following a conference between the Commander in Chief, Eastern
Fleet, representatives of the Commander in Chief, India, Air Officer Commanding
in Chief, India, and myself, it was agreed that India should commence the
construction of piers, roads, bridges, and an aerodrome on Gan Island (all of
which should, it is estimated to be completed by September 1942) and that anti
motor boat defences and anti torpedo nets should be provided as soon as
practicable.
I take this opportunity of acknowledging the unfailing assistance given
by His Highness the Sultan and his Government. His Highness placed all the
resources of the Maldives, in men and
material, at our disposal and refused to accept payment. A request that the island of Gan might be
evacuated was acceded to without demur. His Highness also gave generous
assistance to the crew of the torpedoed United States S.S. WASHINGTONIAN,
landed at Male.
10. Diego Garcia
By March, the defences of Diego Garcia had reached a stage at which the
coastal defences had been installed by the Mobile Naval Base units and an
indicator net laid in the harbour entrance. A survey carried out by H.M.I.S.
CLIVE has shown that the anchorage cannot be used by heavy ships and further
work has been undertaken.
The coast defences are manned by Mauritian troops whose equipment,
training, and physique have each left much to be desired.
11. Mauritius
A combined reconnaissance has been completed but the report has not yet
been received. Controlled minefields have been laid at Grand Port by H.M.S. MANCHESTER CITY and certain
constructional projects (water supply by pipe line to Grand Port, etc) have been
put in hand. Further development of this base is not at present contemplated.
12. Seychelles
Work has proceeded on the improvement of oiling facilities and the
installation of coast defences.
13. Diego Suarez
Pending Their Lordships’ final decision as to its use, Diego Suarez is
to be used as a repair base to the limit of the existing facilities and as a
port for fuel, refuge, and convoy assembly.
14. Salaya
It was desired by the Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet, to have a base
for operations in the North Arabian Sea. The area
around Salaya, Beyt and Okha seemed the most promising, and the report of a
reconnaissance party sent to examine these three ports showed Salaya to be the
best. Work is in hand on an extension of the railway, the construction of a
road, and a certain amount of dredging, but it is not intended to go beyond the
essentials for an operating base.
15. Ceylon
Developments in Ceylon were markedly
affected by our impaired naval position and by the air raids on Colombo and
Trincomalee. The former led the Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet, to abandon
temporarily the use of either Colombo or Trincomalee as a Fleet base, the
latter had a restricted and temporary effect only at Colombo, but Trincomalee,
apart from material damage done to the buildings and the loss by fire of one
oil tank, there was a serious defection of labour, which has at no time since
returned in any numbers to the Dockyard area.
Labour battalions are being imported into the area, and it is hoped that
it will be possible with their aid to press forward the development of
Trincomalee as a Main Fleet Base (Admiralty Signal of the 11th June.
16. Kilindini
In view of the vulnerability of Ceylon, the Commander
in Chief, Eastern Fleet, decided to adopt Kilindini as a temporary Main Fleet
base and repair base for the Eastern Fleet. H.M. Ships GUARDIAN and KIRRIEMOOR
have therefore been withdrawn from Addu Atoll and are now engaged in laying
underwater defences there. Improvised defences have been laid at Kilindini and
in the entrance to Manza Bay.
Naval Air Arm
17. Naval air stores and personnel intended for Malaya arrived in Ceylon. As I had
previously urged on Their Lordships that the storage and repair bases should be
in Ceylon and south India instead of in Malaya, so, now that Ceylon was in the
front line, I considered the storage and repair bases should be in East Africa and small
stations for I.R. aircraft only established in Ceylon and South India.
Commodore F. Elliott, OBE, who had been appointed Commodore in Charge of
Air Stations, Eastern Theatre, transferred from Ceylon to Kilindini
with most of his personnel and stores.
Stations for I.R. aircraft have been established in Ceylon and at Cochin and Coimbatore, in South India.
18. Arrangements had been urged with the Government of India for the
Hindustan Aircraft Company of Bangalore to undertake Naval work as their first
priority; but in May I was surprised to receive a letter from the Air Officer,
Commanding in Chief, India, stating that it had been decided by the Government
of India that no Naval work could be done by this Company. It was fortunate
that I had already found that the Company’s output was so small that this
arbitrary decision really meant very little loss.
19. Disembarked and reserved Naval Aircraft under R.A.F. operational
control, played their part in the defence of Ceylon against the
Japanese air strikes, though with loss to themselves. Fulmars were lost in
action on both the 5th and 9th April; and on the former day, six Swordfish on
passage from China Bay to Ratmalana
were caught by the Japanese and all shot done.
Stores
20. Vast quantities of Naval stores intended for both Ceylon and Malaya were received
in Ceylon. Their
Lordships directed in Their Message 1209 of 14th April, the transfer of stores
to East Africa and this was taken in hand at once, priority being
given to stores special to the older and slower units of the Fleet (Force B)
and items most difficult to replace. Considerable quantities necessarily remain
in Ceylon and the maximum
dispersal has been given to these.
21,The difficulties of handling these quantities of stores were
materially increased by the lack of information about them. Ships carrying
stores were often necessarily diverted and off loaded at the most convenient
port, not the port of destination, and quantities of stores remain at ports
such as Karachi, waiting to be
identified and removed. This is in hand.
Personnel
22. Survivors from H.M. Ships PRINCE OF WALES and REPULSE and other
ships, personnel evacuated from Malaya, drafts for Malaya, and drafts for
the East Indies all arrived in Ceylon together, and
their accommodation formed a considerable problem. When the numbers had been
reduced to more manageable proportions, I approved the requisitioning of two
schools for conversion to barracks, St Joseph’s College for
men and St Thomas’s for officers.
The presence in Ceylon turned out fortunately, as when native labour decamped
after the air raids of the 5th and 9th April, Naval ratings were available to
man tugs and lighters in Colombo Harbour, while at Trincomalee they took over
practically all the duties in the Dockyard and port. Had they not been
available all work in Colombo harbour would
have been stopped for weeks and Trincomalee Dockyard would still be out of
commission.
In view of the certainty that native labour will disperse after any
further attack, it is considered that the number of Naval ratings in Ceylon must be
maintained at a level which will enable the Navy to take over essential harbour
craft in emergency.
23. A less satisfactory aspect was the low state of discipline of many
of the men. For various reasons the vast majority were young, half trained
ratings; under proper leadership they would have done well enough, but
practically the only officers were R.N.R. (T 124) or Straits Settlements
R.N.V.R. and Petty Officers were lacking. Every effort was made to get these
young men to sea, as reliefs, to complete complements, or, in some cases in
exchange for men who would benefit by a spell on shore, and the numbers were
gradually reduced. However, from the first to last they caused me much concern.
24. The Commander in Chief, Ceylon issued an order
on the 14th March, directing the evacuation from Ceylon of all non
residents (this included all Service wives) and advising the evacuation of
other European women and children. The order excepted those on essential war
work.
Shipping
25. When Singapore fell and Java
was attacked, Colombo became the
terminal port for Eastern trade and the focal point for all convoys in the
Eastern Theatre. The port facilities were naturally quite inadequate for this
unexpected aggregation of shipping and I was caused much anxiety by the slow
turn around of the ships and the vulnerable target presented by the crowded
port and examination anchorage.(There were regularly between 100 and 110 ships
in a harbour whose official berthing capacity was 45). Fortunately the Japanese
abstained from submarine attack and sufficient warning was received of the
aircraft attack which developed to allow of a highly successful dispersal.
26. I have mentioned the anxiety I felt about the slow turn around. At
first, the Ministry of War Transport’s representative at Colombo was a local
business man, a Mr. D. Doig. The control of shipping at Colombo, however, had
grown beyond the capacity of a part time representative with local ties and
little authority; it called fro the unremitting attention of first class man,
preferably from outside Ceylon, who would stand no nonsense: and I considered,
for a linking of the harbour services with land transport, as had been found
necessary at home. I had some correspondence on the subject with Sir Thomas
Ainscough, the Ministry of War Transport’s representative in India, who later
visited Colombo when I had a
full discussion with him. I think Sir Thomas agreed with me in the main, and
though he was not willing to go as far as I wished, a full time independent
representative (Mr. Maclellan) was appointed. The Port Commission was also
strengthened by some fresh appointments. I am satisfied that all concerned are
doing their best to speed up the turn round of shipping in the port, but I hope
that better results will be achieved in the near future.
27. In February, March, and the first week of April, there were
submarine attacks on our shipping in an area bounded roughly by the Equator, 12
degrees North, 68 degrees East and 82 degrees East. Early in April, strong
Japanese naval forces attacked shipping in the Bay of Bengal with carrier
borne aircraft and gunfire, sinking 23 ships and raiding the port of Vizagapatam, Colombo, and
Trincomalee. As a result of this (and the threat to Calcutta from Japanese
aircraft operating from Burma, which had already led to a limitation to 30 of
the number of ships allowed at Calcutta at any one time.), movements of
shipping in the Bay of Bengal practically ceased for a time, being confined to
essential colliers, tankers, and ships with war stores. Escorted convoys
between Bombay and Colombo were instituted
and outward bound shipping from Bombay and Colombo was (whenever
possible) escorted for 300 or 400 miles before dispersal. By the end of May,
the position in the Bay of Bengal seemed more secure, and up
to 18 ships at a time were allowed to be at sea in that area. This allowed the
number of ships using Calcutta to be increased
to 50 a month.
28. The increased commitments for convoy escorts referred to above were
a heavy drain on my small resources, and I was obliged to ask the Flag Officer Commanding,
Royal Indian Navy, for the use of H.M.I.S. SONAVATI, a Local Naval Defence Ship
with a good speed and endurance. I believe there are political objections to
the use of requisitioned Indian owned ships outside Indian waters, and I am
grateful to the Flag Officer Commanding for agreeing that I might have this
useful ship, which I kept fully employed.
29. Early in June there were a number of successful attacks, by raiders
and submarines, on our shipping in the Mozambique Channel. This I had
expected, my view (which I expressed to the Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet)
being that we must expect attacks on shipping so long as our objective in the
Madagascar operations was confined to capturing Diego Suarez. I found it
somewhat difficult to control shipping in the Mozambique
Channel from Colombo, and requested
Vice Admiral Danckwerts, at Kilindini, to assume control, which he did.
Air Raids on Ceylon
30. Towards the end of March evidence was received of a probable enemy
attack on Ceylon, and on the 30th March a dispersal of shipping was effected,
all ships which had no immediate prospect of working cargo being sent to
various anchorages around the south coast of India, to be recalled when the
threat was less imminent. On the afternoon of the 4th April, an early attack
being expected, a further 25 ships were sailed from Colombo to the
westward, with orders to return the following afternoon. H.N.M.S. COLOMBIA with three
Dutch submarines which were unfit for operational service was also sailed to
Mannar, on the northwest coast of Ceylon.
The attack duly developed on the morning of Sunday, 5th April, when Colombo was raided by
some 70 Japanese carrier borne aircraft, mostly two seater dive bombers. A
heavy and accurate attack was directed on the harbour and examination
anchorage, and there ca be no doubt that the policy of dispersal saved what
would have been a serious loss of tonnage, and in all probability, the loss of
Colombo as a port until the wrecks had been removed. H.M.S. HECTOR, then in the
process of conversion back to trade, was hit, set on fire, and is probably a
total loss. H.M.S. TENEDOS – unable to move from defects – was hit and sunk but
may be salvable. H.M.S. LUCIA was hit, but the hole was patched up locally: a
permanent repair has since been effected at Bombay. The only
merchant ship hit was the S.S. BENLEDI, which was set on fire. As the BENLEDI
was laden with explosives, this might have been disastrous; fortunately the
fire was extinguished by gallant work on the part of the ship’s officers and
officers from the nearby tanker BRITISH SERGEANT. In this attack (a full report
on which has been forwarded to Their Lordships in my submission No. 663/E.I.
2705 of the 20th April 1942) a satisfactory number of Japanese aircraft were
knocked down.
31. H.M. Ships DORSETSHIRE and CORNWALL which had been
sailed from Colombo on the 4th
April to rejoin the Eastern Fleet, were sighted by a Japanese fighter, attacked
by dive bombers, and sunk on the 5th April,
230 miles southwest of Dondra Head.
32. On the morning of the 9th April an attack was launched on
Trincomalee. This also had been expected and shipping dispersed. The enemy’s
bombing was accurate and a considerable amount of structural damage was done to
the Dockyard; a quantity of Naval Air Stores was also lost at the R.A.F.
Station, China Bay. H.M.S. EREBUS
was hit, but no seriously, and the S.S. SAGAING was hit, set on fire, and had
to be beached. One Japanese aircraft crashed into an oil tank, setting it
afire. The Armament Depot had some narrow escapes but suffered no damage.
33. Most unfortunately, two Japanese aircraft which had been
reconnoitering Colombo, on their
return flight sighted and reported H.M. Ships HERMES and HOLLYHOCK and H.M.A.S.
VAMPIRE which, with tankers BRITISH SERGEANT and ATHELSTANE had been sailed
from Trincomalee before the attack and were then 70 miles south of it. The
enemy’s sighting report was intercepted and H.M.S. HERMES ordered to return to
Trincomalee immediately. The R.A.F. were asked to send immediate fighter support
from China Bay and available
fighter support were despatched from Ratmalana. For various reasons – air raid
damage to communications and a false RED alarm at Trincomalee – no aircraft
arrived in time to help HERMES, which had to face alone a most determined
attack by some 60 or 70 aircraft and was sunk after a 15 minute engagement. The
enemy then turned on to the other ships, the HOLLYHOCK, VAMPIRE, and the two
tankers, sinking them also. The Hospital ship VITA, on passage from Trincomalee
to Colombo, was in the
vicinity and was able to save over 600 officers and men. Others were rescued by
local craft or swam ashore, receiving great assistance (which I acknowledged to
the Government Agent) from locally organized relief parties.
A report on the loss of these ships was forwarded to the Commander in
Chief, Eastern Fleet, in my letter of 22nd April, No. E.I. 3181. The
circumstances under which the HOLLYHOCK was at sea without her full H.A.
armament have been reported separately. I have also written to Their Lordships
‘ favourable notice the gallant conduct of Surgeon Lieutenant J.A. Smart, MB,
BC, RNVR of H.M.S. HERMES
34. As the enemy carriers were 180 to 200 miles from the HERMES it is
deduced that the Japanese had held a complete strike force in reserve. Time
would hardly have allowed for bombing up and refuelling the force which had
attacked Trincomalee. However, although our fighters were not in time to assist
the HERMES, the comparative handful which was all we had could not have availed
much against the numbers employed by the Japanese.
35. The other ships which had been dispersed from Trincomalee (including
H.M.S. TEVIOTBANK, R.F.A. PEARLEAF, and loaded Armament Store Issuing Ships)
were not detected.
Effects of the Raids
35. These events had a marked effect both on the local situation and the
general Naval Strategy.
(a). Locally, there was a general exodus of labour from Colombo and
Trincomalee, severely hampering all work in the harbours. Trincomalee suffered
particularly severely, all domestic labour leaving and both the food supply and
sanitary services breaking down. At the time of writing labour has not returned
to the Dockyard area at Trincomalee, and although other areas are less
affected, the general return of Indian labour to India has set a difficult
problem since the Ceylonese themselves do not as a race engage in manual
labour. In an attempt at a solution, labour battalions are being formed in Ceylon and others
drafted from India.
At Colombo, the
difficulties in the harbour were acute for a time. As already stated,
sufficient Naval personnel were available to take over essential harbour craft.
A Docks Operating Company arrived from Rangoon, and this, with
a battalion of Australian stevedores and a partial return of native labour, gradually
enabled the harbour to get into full operation again.
The Navy was able to make a particularly useful contribution in the form
of motor landing craft, eight of which I ordered to be towed from Colombo from
Addu Atoll by the Boom Defence Vessels BARONIA, BARSTOKE, GRAAF VLANDEREN, and
PRINCE DE LIEGE. It was a somewhat risking proceeding, but the monsoon had not
broken and I through it well worth trying. One motor landing craft sank in tow,
with, I regret with the loss of a life. The others arrived safely, and the
addition to the harbour’s resources of seven self propelled, weight carrying
craft, with crews was of incalculable benefit.
It is regrettable that both seaman and soldiers employed in the harbour
were guilty of looting on a considerable scale. There were not the only
offenders, but I was sorry to see really good work so marred.
(b). On the naval side, the Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet, decided
that, in view of the Naval superiority possessed by the Japanese (and , in
particular, their superiority, both in numbers and performance, in Naval
aircraft), Ceylon must be abandoned as a Fleet base until sufficient shore
based aircraft were available to replete an attack. He therefore signaled his
intention (signal timed 0716 of the 8th April) to divide the Fleet into two
forces, of which Force B, consisting of the R class battleships, C and D class
cruisers, and six destroyers would operated on the West African coast, and
Force A, the (faster) remainder of the Fleet, would operate in the western
Indian Ocean. Their Lordships, in a signal timed 1414 of the 16th April,
confirmed that the Government’s policy was to defend Ceylon but agreed that
the primary object was to maintain The Eastern Fleet in being. They added that Colombo was to be the main
Fleet base as soon as Ceylon was secure.
37. In addition, the Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet, suggested
(signal 1023 of 9th and 0320 of 10th April) that I should move to Bombay. I had myself
less fear of a Japanese invasion, and in view of the completion confusion into
which merchant shipping would be thrown during and after an unprepared move of
my headquarters and the disastrous effect such a move would have on Ceylonese
morale, I thought it would better from all aspects that I should remain in Ceylon.
At the same time, I agreed that it would be wise to prepare for a move should
it become necessary. I also gave it as my opinion that the alternative
headquarters should not be in Bombay owing to the
danger of civil disorder if the Japanese landed in India: Kilindini , I
suggested would be better. Admiral Somerville agreed and directed (signal times
0415 of the 14th April) that his staff at Colombo should be
transferred to Kilindini as soon as convenient.
Somerville arrived at Colombo with Force A on
the 23rd April, when we discussed the matter with the result related in
paragraph 3.
Arrangements were therefore made for the gradual transfer to Kilindini
of Rear Admiral V.H. Danckwerts, CMG, Chief of Staff (Ashore) to the Commander
in Chief, Eastern Fleet, and the Eastern Fleet Staff and of my operational
Staff and the warship and merchant plots.
Admiral Danckwerts assumed duty as Deputy Commander in Chief, Eastern
Fleet, on the 27th May and the control of shipping on the station passed into
his hands at 1200 GMT on the 14th June. (As stated in paragraph 29, he had
already taken over in the Mozambique Channel area).
Rear Admiral A.D. Read had come from the United Kingdom to take up an
Appointment as Flag Officer in Charge Addu Atoll, which had not materialized.
He had acted temporarily as Flag Officer in Charge, East Africa and Zanzibar and had just
been relieved by Rear Admiral G.G. Stuart, DSO, DSC. He was then available for
and was appointed as Flag Officer, Ceylon, taking over
certain of my responsibilities (under the Commander in Chief, Eastern Fleet)
and the bulk of my administrative and clerical staff.
Persian Gulf
38. There is little about which to inform Their Lordships regarding the Persian Gulf. The supercession
of Commodore Graham by Commodore Hammill had been referred to before. I
remained very conscious of the weaknesses in the defences of this vital area,
but I was forced to agree that in the circumstances obtaining a marked increase
in the numbers of aircraft could hardly be hoped for. However, steps have been
taken to prepare landing grounds so that aircraft may operate without delay
when the time comes. I have obtained a promise from the Commander in Chief, Middle East to station a
battalion at Bahrain, for the
protection of the refinery there from airborne or submarine borne commando
raids. The Naval forces in the Gulf were strengthened by the dispatch there of
H.M.S. DANAE (later relived by H.M.S. CERES) and I also sent the Senior Naval
Officer H.N.M.S. SOEMBA and H.M.S. PANGKOR, an asdic fitted auxiliary. I had
intended sending a second auxiliary warship, H.M.S. KEDAH, but she has been
delayed by defects.
The Andaman islands
39. H.M.S. ABDIEL had been sent at the end of January to mine Port Blair
and other anchorages in the Andaman Islands. The fact was
published in the usual way, but in March, H.M.I.S. SOPHIE MARIE attempting to
use a close channel was mined and sank. The circumstance were investigated by
the Flag Officer Commanding, Royal Indian Navy.
40. It had been my view, and that of Admiral Layton that the Andamans
should not be evacuated: their strategic importance was too great, and we felt
that the Japanese should at least be made to fight for them. The Commander in
Chief, India, however,
considered that the only garrison he could spare was too weak to offer ay real
opposition and could be better employed elsewhere, and the Andamans were
therefore evacuated and in due course occupied by the Japanese who lost on time
in basing Naval Forces and aircraft there. Shipping was not available to
evacuate the civil population.
South Preparis Channel
41. The South Preparis Channel was mined in March by H.M.S. TEVIOTBANK.
Marmagoa
42. There were continual alarms from Marmagoa of the movements of
mysterious submarines and of behavior by German ships interned there suggestive
of an early departure, but nothing concrete developed.
A proposal was mooted at one time, that the Navy should “cut out” these
enemy ships. I was strongly opposed to this, considering that any such attempt
must be a combined operation, by the Navy against the ships and by the Army
against the town, to cut off the retreat of the crews.
Cocos Islands
43. The Cocos Islands remained in our hands –
rather to my surprise – forming a valuable communications link and halting
place for aircraft on passage between Australia and Ceylon. Maintenance
was of some complexity and I had on occasion to supply a warship to take stores
for the garrison of Ceylon Garrison Artillery, the Cable Company’s staff, and
the civil population.
At the beginning of May a section of the garrison staged an armed mutiny
which was suppressed. I provided H.M.I.S. SUTLEJ to take a relief part and
bring back the mutineers for trial.
Diego Suarez
44. Diego Suarez was attacked by our forces on the 5th May and
capitulated on the 7th May.
H.M.S. Centurion
45. I received in Admiralty message times 0050 of the 6th May Their
Lordships’ directions to prepare H.M.S. CENTURION for service in the
Mediterranean. Sufficient officers and men to complete her complement were
available at Bombay, and she sailed
from Bombay for the Mediterranean on the 19th
May.
Appointments in Ceylon
46. Until recent months, on officer had filled the appointment of
Captain in Charge, Ceylon combining the
charge of the ports of Colombo and Trincomalee
with the duties of Captain Superintendent of Admiralty establishments. I had
for some time felt this was too much for only one man: the enormous increase in
the importance of Ceylon after the loss of our Far Eastern Bases made this
quite plain’ and I took the first opportunity to divide the appointment into
three. Thus, on H.M.S. HECTOR paying off, I obtained Their Lordships’ approval
for her Commanding Officer, Acting Captain F. Howard, DSC, RN (retired), to be
appointed Captain Superintendent. Captain Howard had previous experience of
this type of appointment and the effect was at once noticeable. Captain P.H.G.
James, RN, whose ship (H.M.S. CAPETOWN) was refitting at Bombay, was brought to
Ceylon as Naval Officer in Charge, Trincomalee, temporarily and Their Lordships
appointed Captain J.O.N. Wood, RN (retired) to succeed him. Rear Admiral A.F.E.
Palliser, DSC, was later appointed as Flag Officer in Charge, Trincomalee, and
Fortress Commander; and on Admiral Palliser’s reappointment as Liaison Flag
Officer at Delhi, Captain F.S.
Bell, CB, RN, succeeded him as Naval Officer in Charge.
From 5th April, therefore, Acting Captain C.A. Merriman, RN (retired),
formerly Captain in Charge, Ceylon
(n.b.
page 16 of this report is missing)
Conclusion
50. The period covered in the above narrative has been one of adversity
for British arms, both by land, sea, and air. Lack of power to strike back has
on occasion produced a certain feeling of frustration, but the right spirit
prevails in the naval forces which it has been my privilege to command. Given
the ships, I have every confidence that the Eastern Fleet under Sir James
Somerville will be ready to seize the golden moment when it comes, as it most
surely will.
51. I attach as an appendix the names of certain officers and others –
other than those who have been reported in connection with particular
operations and incidents – whom I wish to commend to the special notice of
Their Lordships.
I
have the honor to be,
Sir,
Your
obedient servant.
(signed)
G.S.
ARBUTHNOT
Vice
Admiral
