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

16 - 31 January 1943

PG30316

     
     
 
16.January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
CF 65
U 201
-
Op(AL 40)
U 404
-
Op(AL 10)
U 525
-
Op(AL 10)
 
66
-
DJ
202
-
BE 99
413
-
Op(AJ 80)
558
-
CF 25
 
69
-
Op(AL 40)
214
-
Op(EC)
414
-
AE 79
571
-
Op(DG 10)
 
71
-
Op(AL 40)
217
-
Op(EO)
436
-
Op(DG 10)
572
-
Op(AL 40)
 
87
-
CF 52
218
-
DH 13
438
-
Op(AL 84)
575
-
Op(DG 10)
 
96
-
Op(BC 20)
223
-
AN 20
440
-
BD 77
584
-
Op(AL 10)
 
105
-
Op(ED)
226
-
Op(AL 40)
441
-
AK 47
594
-
Op(BC 20)
 
109
-
CE 65
257
-
Op(AL 10)
442
-
Op(CE 80)
598
-
Op(BC 20)
 
117
-
ED 77
258
-
BE 98
444
-
Op(AL 10)
606
-
Op(AL 40)
 
123
-
Op(BC 20)
260
-
BD 77
455
-
BD 85
607
-
Op(AL 40)
 
124
-
EF 97
264
-
BE 96
456
-
AF 41
613
-
BE 25
 
125
-
Op(CE 80)
266
-
Op(BC 20)
459
-
FE 75
614
-
AE 83
 
134
-
BE 98
267
-
AF 76
463
-
DG 35
618
-
BF 73
 
160
-
DH 47
268
-
AL 21
466
-
AN 20
620
-
Op(DG 10)
 
164
-
Op(FB)
303
-
Op(AL 70)
506
-
FM 58
624
-
BF 13
 
167
-
BF 64
333
-
Op(AL 10)
507
-
Op(FB)
631
-
Op(AL 10)
 
175
-
Op(ET)
337
-
Op(AJ 80)
509
-
FM 19
632
-
Op(AL 10)
 
176
-
Op(ER)
358
-
AN 28
511
-
Op(DG 10)
662
-
Op(BC 20)
 
177
-
DH 72
381
-
Op(DG 10)
514
-
Op(CE 80)
704
-
Op(AL 70)
 
181
-
BF 74
383
-
Op(AL 40)
516
-
FE 49
706
-
BD 77
 
182
-
ES 68
384
-
Op(AK)
518
-
CG 12
707
-
AN 20
 
186
-
Op(AL 40)
402
-
BF 80
521
-
DH 18
752
-
BE 28
 
187
-
AF 79
403
-
Op(AL 10)
522
-
Op(CE 80)
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 109 - 124 - 134 - 167 - 177 - 181 - 441 - 455 - 463 - 618.
  Entered Port:  U 167 - Lorient.
  Sailed:  U 510 - 156 - Lorient;  U 609 - 465 - St. Nazaire;  U 553 - 262 - La Pallice.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 214 sighted 8 tankers putting out in EC 92 easterly course, speed 12 knots.  Betrayed by splash of torpedo discharge during daylight attack.  No contact.
  b)  None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  AL 1413, AL 1442.  
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) New position U 87, 558, 258, 202 and 264 = DF 33.  Intended detachment in group "Delphin".
      U 614 and 456 proceed to AL 17.
    2) Groups "Falke" and "Habicht" received orders to steer on a course of 3300 at a speed of 6 knots on 1100, and to occupy the position lines "Falke" from AD 8835 to AK 6362;  "Habicht" from AL 4171 to 7229 at 0430 on 17.1 as patrol channels.
       
- 28 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      U 414 and 268 exchange positions owing to reversed times of arrival.  This move to the N.W. follows a Radio Intelligence report, according to which the last ONS convoy apparently deviated far to the N. as far as the new patrolled area.
    3) As, according to Radio Intelligence report (special) the convoy New York/Gibraltar has been delayed for 6 days.  Group "Delphin" received orders to proceed on a course of 2850 at a speed of 6 knots by day and to remain in patrol channels at night.  Intention: Perfect patrol of occupied channels and area gain for actions.
    4) As it may be presumed with certainty that the expected HX and SC (convoy) passed imperceived, the boats of Group "Jaguar" are allocated the following operation areas until planned arrival of next convoys:  In AJ:  U 337 = 7655, U 413 = 7963, U 598 = 8491, U 594 = 8792, U 96 = 8887, U 123 = 8982, - In BC:  U 266 = 2126, U 662 = 2257.  This should ensure a further if not infallible patrol of this area used by the enemy for Greenland and Iceland convoys.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
17. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
CF 91
U 202
-
CG 11
U 413
-
Op(AJ 79)
U 525
-
Op(AK 30)
 
66
-
DJ
214
-
Op(EC)
414
-
Op(AD 80)
553
-
BF 91
 
69
-
Op(AK 30)
217
-
Op(EO)
436
-
Op(DG 10)
558
-
CF 53
 
71
-
Op(AK 30)
218
-
DH 41
438
-
Op(AL 40)
571
-
Op(DG 10)
 
87
-
CF 49
223
-
AF 79
440
-
BD 77
572
-
Op(AK 30)
 
96
-
Op(AJ 20)
226
-
Op(AL 40)
441
-
AL 78
575
-
Op(DG 10)
 
105
-
Op(ED)
257
-
Op(AK 30)
442
-
Op(CE 70)
584
-
Op(AK 30)
 
109
-
CF 43
258
-
CF 33
444
-
Op(AK 30)
594
-
Op(AJ 87)
 
117
-
BD 77
260
-
BD 77
455
-
BD 94
598
-
Op(AJ 84)
 
123
-
Op(AJ 89)
262
-
BF 91
456
-
AE 91
606
-
Op(AK 60)
 
124
-
EF 59
264
-
BE 98
459
-
FM 11
607
-
AK 60
 
125
-
Op(CE 70)
266
-
Op(BC 21)
463
-
CF 79
609
-
BF 58
 
134
-
BF 71
267
-
AF 71
465
-
BF 58
613
-
AL 88
 
156
-
BF 54
268
-
Op(AD 80)
466
-
AF 79
614
-
AE 85
 
160
-
DH 77
303
-
Op(AL 40)
506
-
FM 94
618
-
BF 58
 
164
-
Op(FB)
333
-
Op(AK 30)
507
-
Op(FB)
620
-
Op(DG 10)
 
175
-
Op(ET)
337
-
Op(AJ 76)
509
-
FM 54
624
-
AL 72
 
176
-
Op(ER)
358
-
AF 79
510
-
BF 54
632
-
Op(AD 80)
 
177
-
DH 43
381
-
Op(DG 10)
511
-
Op(CE 70)
631
-
Op(AK 30)
 
181
-
BF 91
383
-
Op(AL 40)
514
-
Op(CE 70)
662
-
Op(BC 22)
 
182
-
ES 99
384
-
Op(AK 30)
516
-
FE 87
704
-
Op(AL 40)
 
186
-
Op(AL 40)
402
-
BF 70
518
-
CG 17
706
-
BD 77
 
187
-
HF 71
403
-
Op(AK 30)
521
-
DG 66
707
-
AF 79
 
201
-
Op(AK 30)
404
-
Op(AK 30)
522
-
Op(CE 70)
752
-
AL 88
 
  On Return Passage:  U 109 - 124 - 134 - 177 - 181 - 441 - 455 - 463 - 618.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
- 29 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Escort report from U 268 and operation of Group "Falke" see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 66 sighted 2 heavy cruisers and 4 destroyers on a course of 650 in DH 7297, speed 20 knots.  Contact lost short time afterwards.
    3) U 105 Situation: Nothing sighted for 8 days, apart from a destroyer, in area of Tobago Passage.  Regular traffic to Port of Spain is therefore unlikely through this way.  Boat sank a freighter in ED 5956.  Night aerial activity experienced once without radar in ED 8653.  Otherwise nothing confirmed.  Return passage owing to fuel situation.
  b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:  BF 9211, ER 4910, EO 5586, AL 1178, AD 8928, BB 8816.
    2) U-boat attack in AD 8917.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) As it is presumed that the boats belonging to Group "Falke" and "Habicht" are W. of the expected convoys, both groups proceeded on an easterly course with a speed of 6 knots at 1300.
    U 414 and 631 were attacked several times in the course of the afternoon by enemy wheeled aircraft and search groups.  As up to dusk the convoy had not been found, both groups turned on a course of 2700 with speed of 6 knots at 1900.  In this way the convoy was to be prevented from passing through imperceived by night.  At 2136 U 268 reported (T.O.O. 1600) a large convoy on a northwesterly course in AD 8947.  Boat attacked and sank large tanker.  Subsequently forced to submerge for 6 hours by aircraft and destroyers.  According to boats estimate this was connected with a HX convoy.  As U 268 was about 55 miles astern and contact was lost - also as Group "Falke" could not have reached the convoy until the next day in an area of heavy enemy air protection it was not detailed for action.  Instead the boats U 614 and 456 coming from the east and in approximately AE 70 were assigned for this task.  "Falke" and "Habicht" also U 268 proceeded further to the W. and on 18.1 at dawn return back from reached AD 8735 to AK 1262 also AK 1371 to AL 2129 to 900 at a speed of 6 knots.
     U 632 fired 2 misses at an escort vessel in AD 8974.  U 631 sighted unidentified craft on westerly course in AK 3267.  No further contact with the enemy.  Whether this refers to an escort craft has not been ascertained.
  b) 1) New position for U 402, 609, 465, 553 and 262 = AJ 90.  A reinforcement of Group "Jaguar" is intended with this boat.
    2) U 66 proceeds to EH 90 on completion of special duties.
 
 
 
- 30 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    3) U 706 has taken on supplies from U 117 and occupies BC 2318, depth 40 seamiles as action area.
    4) Group "Delphin" remains at 2030 in the patrol channels reached up to now, convoy has not yet been intercepted.
  c)  Further supplying from U 117 was not possible up to now owing to bad weather conditions.  U 260 and U 440 still expect replenishment of supplies.  Latter received ordered to return owing to the small amount on the tanker.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 105 - 1 sailing ship
    U 268 - 1 ship 14,000 GRT (presumed by B.d.U.)
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
18. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
DH 13
U 202
-
CF 52
U 413
-
Op(AJ 79)
U 525
-
Op(AK 30)
 
66
-
DH 84
214
-
Op(EC)
414
-
Op(AD 80)
553
-
BF 49
 
69
-
Op(AK 30)
217
-
Op(EO)
436
-
Op(DG 10)
558
-
CF 29
 
71
-
Op(AK 30)
218
-
Op(DG 60)
438
-
Op(AK 60)
571
-
Op(DG 10)
 
87
-
CE 92
223
-
AF 71
440
-
BD 78
572
-
Op(AK 30)
 
96
-
Op(AJ 80)
226
-
Op(AK 60)
441
-
BE 29
575
-
Op(DG 10)
 
105
-
EE 58
257
-
Op(AK 30)
442
-
Op(CE 70)
584
-
Op(AK 30)
 
109
-
CF 29
258
-
BE 87
444
-
Op(AK 30)
594
-
Op(AJ 87)
 
117
-
BD 77
260
-
BD 77
455
-
BE 71
598
-
Op(AJ 84)
 
123
-
Op(AJ 89)
262
-
BF 82
456
-
AE 85
606
-
Op(AK 60)
 
124
-
EF 62
264
-
CF 36
459
-
FM 14
607
-
Op(AK 60)
 
125
-
Op(CE 70)
266
-
Op(BC 21)
463
-
CF 49
609
-
BF 49
 
134
-
BF 92
267
-
AE 68
465
-
BF 49
613
-
Op(AL 47)
 
156
-
BF 48
268
-
Op(AD 80)
466
-
AF 71
614
-
AE 78
 
160
-
DT 28
303
-
Op(AK 60)
506
-
FT 33
618
-
BF 64
 
164
-
Op(FB)
333
-
Op(AK 30)
507
-
Op(FB)
620
-
Op(DG 10)
 
175
-
Op(ET)
337
-
Op(AJ 76)
509
-
FM 94
624
-
Op(AK 60)
 
176
-
Op(ER)
358
-
AF 79
510
-
BF 48
631
-
Op(AK 30)
 
177
-
DH 21
381
-
Op(DG 10)
511
-
Op(CE 70)
632
-
Op(AD 80)
 
181
-
BF 93
383
-
Op(AK 60)
514
-
Op(CE 70)
662
-
Op(BC 22)
 
182
-
FE 15
384
-
Op(AK 80)
516
-
FM 19
704
-
Op(AK 60)
 
186
-
Op(AK 60)
402
-
BE 92
518
-
CF 22
706
-
Op(BC 23)
 
187
-
AE 69
403
-
Op(AK 30)
521
-
Op(DG 60)
707
-
AF 48
 
201
-
Op(AK 30)
404
-
Op(AK 30)
522
-
Op(CE 70)
752
-
Op(AL 70)
 
  On Return Passage:  U 105 - 109 - 124 - 134 - 177 - 181 - 441 - 455 - 463 - 618.
  Entered Port:  U 618 - St. Nazaire;  U 181 - Bordeaux.
  Sailed:  U 454 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 175 has been in west - northwest sector off Freetown since 8.1.
       
- 31 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b)  None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  BB 6467, EO 5586, AL 1178, AD 8928, AL 2189.
    U-boat attack in AD 8917.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) From 1030 groups "Falke" and Habicht" approached the convoy at 1030 at a speed of 4 knots in bad weather conditions and remained in position line reached at 1400 as patrol lines.  U 594 and 226 were attacked in the afternoon by "Consolidated" (Trans:  flying boat?) and wheeled aircraft.
      At sunset both groups again proceeded at a speed of 6 knots to the W. and slow up at 1130 in patrol lines from AD 7926 to AK 6142 also AK 6181 to AK 9317.  If the convoy has not yet passed the lines, a one to one and a half days postponement must have taken place.  It is intended to remain in patrol lines during the day and if the convoy is then not intercepted to be redisposed in another area.
    2) U 614 and 456 who were both detailed to operate on the HX convoy broke off operations at dawn and steered a course for AL 94 at economical cruising speed.
    3) Group "Delphin" proceeded on a course of 2850, with a speed of 6 knots at 1100 and remained as patrol from CE 7162 to DF 3669 at 2030.  Passage further to the W. is not intended.  The passing of the convoy can still be expected.
    4) In order to intercept another convoy expected on 20.1 and yet another on 21.1 Group "Jaguar" is to take up the following patrol lines from AJ 7915 to BC 2135.  Order:  U 337 - 413 - 598 - 594 - 96 - 266 - 123 - 706 and 622.
    5) U 43 is to occupy DG 64 and 67 as operations area until an intended reconnaissance line is disposed to the S.
    6) In contrast to the disposition in AJ 9 intended previously, the following boats from Western France receive AJ 97 as new position.  U 553, 609, 465, 262 and 402.
  c) - d) None.
 
 
 
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
- 32 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
19. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
DH 17
U 214
-
Op(EC)
U 414
-
Op(AD 80)
U 525
-
Op(AK 30)
 
66
-
DH 12
217
-
Op(EO)
436
-
Op(DF 30)
553
-
BE 60
 
69
-
Op(AK 30)
218
-
DG 60
438
-
Op(AK 60)
558
-
CF 29
 
71
-
Op(AK 30)
223
-
AE 65
440
-
BD 88
571
-
Op(DF 30)
 
87
-
CE 89
226
-
Op(AK 60)
441
-
BE 62
572
-
Op(AK 30)
 
96
-
Op(AJ 80)
257
-
Op(AK 30)
442
-
Op(CE 70)
575
-
Op(DF 30)
 
105
-
EE 64
258
-
CF 28
444
-
Op(AK 30)
584
-
Op(AK 30)
 
109
-
CF 29
260
-
BD 77
454
-
BF 67
594
-
Op(AJ 70)
 
117
-
BD 77
262
-
BF 42
455
-
BE 73
598
-
Op(AJ 80)
 
123
-
Op(AJ 80)
264
-
CF 53
456
-
AL 34
606
-
Op(AK 60)
 
124
-
EG 11
266
-
Op(AJ 80)
459
-
FM 58
607
-
Op(AK 61)
 
125
-
Op(CE 70)
267
-
AE 83
463
-
CF 28
609
-
BE 69
 
134
-
BF 68
268
-
Op(AD 80)
465
-
BE 60
613
-
Op(AK 60)
 
156
-
BE 96
303
-
Op(AK 60)
466
-
AE 65
614
-
Op(AL 30)
 
160
-
DT 59
333
-
Op(AK 30)
506
-
FU 18
620
-
Op(DF 30)
 
164
-
Op(FB)
337
-
OP(AJ 70)
507
-
Op(FB)
624
-
Op(AK 60)
 
175
-
Op(ET)
358
-
AF 72
509
-
FT 33
631
-
Op(AK 30)
 
176
-
Op(ER)
381
-
Op(DF 30)
510
-
BE 93
632
-
Op(AD 30)
 
177
-
CF 67
383
-
Op(AK 60)
511
-
Op(CE 70)
662
-
Op(BC 20)
 
182
-
FE 51
384
-
Op(AK 30)
514
-
Op(CE 70)
704
-
Op(AK 60)
 
186
-
Op(AK 60)
402
-
BE 55
516
-
FM 55
706
-
Op(AJ 80)
 
187
-
AE 67
403
-
Op(AK 30)
518
-
CF 27
707
-
AE 69
 
201
-
Op(AK 30)
404
-
Op(AK 30)
521
-
DG 60
752
-
Op(AK 93)
 
202
-
CF 49
413
-
Op(AJ 70)
522
-
Op(CE 70)
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 105 - 109 - 124 - 134 - 177 - 440 - 441 - 455 - 463.
  Entered Port:  U 134 - La Pallice.
  Sailed:  U 504 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings in EP 44.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) As the expected convoy was not found during the day, its appearance must no longer be anticipated. The groups "Falke" and Habicht" will be relieved of their duties and each redistributed according to their fuel supply.
      U 414, 268, 403, 525, 69, 201, 606, 226, 186, 383, 303, 438, 607, 624, 704, 613, 752 received orders to take up reconnaissance lines from AJ 3141 to AK 4691 at 1300 on 22.1. course 2100.  Passage speed 5 knots.  The boats form the group "Haudegen".
      Boats with less fuel will be disposed in reconnaissance lines from AL 4447 to BE 2136.  Order:  U 187 - 267 - 632 - 631 - 444 - 384 - 404 - 456 - 333 - 614 - 584 - 257 - 71 - 572 - 402 - 465 - 553 - 609 and 262.  Southwestward bound convoy
       
- 33 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      is expected on 24.1.  Boats arriving early in position are to submerge during the day in order to avoid interception by English air reconnaissance.  For remarks on the ordered disposition see paragraph IV.
    2) According to a Radio Intelligence report received a north bound convoy close to the Newfoundland coast is expected sooner than was first presumed.  Group "Jaguar", therefore received orders to take up position in new reconnaissance lines from AJ 7561 to AJ 8827 at 0000 on 20.1.  From 1200 on 20.1. to proceed at a speed of 4 knots on a reconnaissance line, course 2000.  The strip from AJ 7565 to AJ 8818 is to be narrowed owing to the temporary breakdown of U 96.
    3) New positions for U 707, 358, 223 and 466 is AK 38:  for U 267 and U 187, AL 44.  The last two boats must have reached the ordered grid by 0000 on 24.1 owing to the waited convoy.
    4) U 43, 521, 218 and 518 proceed at economical cruising speed to DU 72.  U 66 is to occupy grid DU 72 and 73 as temporary operations area after execution of the special duties.  According to agents reports there is strong north-south traffic in this area.  For this reason the boats are not taking up the intended reconnaissance channels to the S.
  c)  U 109 has taken the Warrant Quartermaster from U 558 on board and continues the return passage.
  d)  U 507 reported convoy in FB 5643 on 13.1.  It received orders to attack.  In spite of repeated requests boat has not reported since then.  It must be presumed to have been sunk by the convoy escort, and considered lost.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
VI. General:
  1. The following operations in the North Atlantic have not been successful:
     
Date
Convoy to be intercepted
Group
No. of Boats.
31.7.1942
ON
"Falke"
13
8.1.1943
ONS
"Falke"
14
12/13.1.1943
HX, SC.
"Jaguar"
  6
16.1.1943
ONS
"Falke-Hadicht"
27
     Altogether only one convoy (HX) was intercepted for a short period on 17.1.1943 and an operation was not possible.
  2.  The non-interception of the last ONS is a further confirmation of the conjecture that the English have begun to spread out their convoys and possibly deflected their routes considerably to the N.  This evasive movement can at the most only be out-maneuvered by a long disposition in the area S.E. of Cape Farewell.  It is possible here to fight to the S.W. and N.E. with some chance of success and to bring pressure to bear on ON, ONS, HX and SC convoys.
 
 
 
- 34 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  3.  The next operations possible are on HX, SC (convoys) on 20/21.1 and ON (convoy) on 24.1.  It is possible to operate on all these convoys with the number of boats now available.  (See under IV paragraph B 1).  It is not, however, possible to reinforce the group "Jaguar" (North of Newfoundland Bank) within the time limit.  The group will be entirely disposed to the W., according to the information obtained by the decyphering section on the positions of the lost HX convoy.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
20. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
DH 44
U 217
-
Op(EO)
U 436
-
Op(DF 30)
U 553
-
BF 61
 
66
-
DU 43
218
-
DH 77
438
-
AK 56
558
-
CF 29
 
69
-
AK 29
223
-
AE 83
440
-
BD 98
571
-
Op(DF 80)
 
71
-
AK 39
226
-
AK 52
441
-
BF 40
572
-
AK 39
 
87
-
DG 13
257
-
AK 39
442
-
Op(CE 70)
575
-
Op(DF 30)
 
96
-
AJ 85
258
-
CF 28
444
-
AK 26
584
-
AK 39
 
105
-
EE 36
260
-
BD 77
454
-
BF 81
594
-
Op(AJ 70)
 
109
-
CF 29
262
-
BE 65
455
-
BE 83
598
-
Op(AJ 70)
 
117
-
DD 75
264
-
CF 57
456
-
AL 28
606
-
AK 29
 
123
-
Op(AJ 80)
266
-
Op(AJ 80)
459
-
FM 94
607
-
AK 52
 
124
-
DR 72
267
-
AE 87
463
-
CF 28
609
-
BE 65
 
125
-
Op(CE 70)
268
-
AK 12
465
-
BE 60
613
-
AK 67
 
156
-
BE 98
303
-
AK 56
466
-
AE 83
614
-
Op(AL 80)
 
160
-
DT 89
333
-
AK 37
504
-
BF 54
620
-
Op(DF 30)
 
164
-
Op(FB)
337
-
Op(AJ 70)
506
-
FU 54
624
-
AK 67
 
175
-
Op(ET)
358
-
AE 69
509
-
FU 18
631
-
AK 24
 
176
-
Op(ER)
381
-
Op(DF 30)
510
-
BE 97
632
-
AK 24
 
177
-
CF 62
383
-
AK 56
511
-
Op(CE 70)
662
-
Op(AJ 80)
 
182
-
FE 83
384
-
AK 35
514
-
Op(CE 70)
704
-
AK 56
 
186
-
AK 53
402
-
BE 25
516
-
FM 94
706
-
Op(AJ 80)
 
187
-
AE 85
403
-
AK 12
518
-
CE 57
707
-
AE 67
 
201
-
AK 29
404
-
AK 37
521
-
DG 99
752
-
AK 67
 
202
-
CE 96
413
-
Op(AJ 70)
522
-
Op(CE 70)
 
 
214
-
Op(EC)
414
-
AD 78
525
-
AK 16
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 105 - 109 - 124 - 177 - 440 - 441 - 455 - 463.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 108 - Lorient;  U 608 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 176 searched from 9 - 12.1 in the lower half of ER 80 with long legs on the Equator to the E. and also on the way to FD 25.
    2) U 182 sank ship type "Clan Macnat" of 6,000 GRT in EJ 8994 on 15.1  Course 2800, speed 10 knots. (Pencil note:  Br. S.S. Ocean Courage).
    3) U 177 sighted unidentified U-boat in BF 7692.  According to dead reckoning not one of ours.
  b)  None.
  c) U-boat sighting in ET 26.
  d)  None.
       
- 35 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) Group "Jaguar" remains in the position reached at 2100 from AJ 7822 to AJ 8796 (Patrol channel).
    2) U 87 and 202 are to join Group "Delphin" to extend their patrol channels, and occupy the positions DF 3933 and DF 3969.  U 454 joins Group "Landsknecht" and occupies position BE 2244, which must be reached by 0800 on 24.1.
  c)  U 553 handed over a Nautical Year Book to U 465.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 182 - 1 ship 6,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
21. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
DH 75
U 214
-
Op(EC)
U 414
-
AD 98
U 525
-
AJ 33
 
66
-
Op(DU)
217
-
Op(EO)
436
-
Op(CE 70)
553
-
BE 26
 
69
-
AJ 33
218
-
DT 35
438
-
AK 51
558
-
CF 49
 
71
-
AK 66
223
-
AE 85
440
-
BE 75
707
-
AE 85
 
87
-
DG 17
226
-
AK 19
441
-
BF 55
571
-
Op(DF 30)
 
96
-
Op(AJ 88)
257
-
AK 66
442
-
Op(CE 70)
572
-
AL 44
 
105
-
DQ 75
258
-
CF 28
444
-
AK 03
575
-
Op(DF 30)
 
108
-
BF 55
260
-
BD 77
454
-
BF 47
584
-
AK 60
 
109
-
BE 97
262
-
BE 29
455
-
BE 92
594
-
Op(AJ 70)
 
117
-
BD 77
264
-
CF 72
456
-
AL 52
598
-
Op(AJ 70)
 
123
-
Op(AJ 80)
266
-
Op(AJ 70)
459
-
FT 33
606
-
AJ 39
 
124
-
DR 46
267
-
AL 33
463
-
CF 28
607
-
AJ 39
 
125
-
Op(CE 70)
268
-
AD 98
465
-
BE 20
608
-
BF 67
 
156
-
CF 36
303
-
AK 43
466
-
AE 84
609
-
BE 29
 
160
-
EJ 37
333
-
AK 63
504
-
BF 48
613
-
AK 54
 
164
-
Op(FB)
337
-
Op(AJ 70)
506
-
FU 86
614
-
AL 51
 
175
-
Op(ET)
358
-
AE 91
509
-
FU 49
620
-
Op(DF 30)
 
176
-
Op(FD 25)
381
-
Op(DF 30)
510
-
CF 35
624
-
AK 54
 
177
-
CG 11
383
-
AK 43
511
-
Op(CE 70)
631
-
AK 39
 
182
-
FE 56
384
-
AK 03
514
-
Op(CE 70)
632
-
AK 37
 
186
-
AK 43
402
-
AL 88
516
-
FU 11
662
-
Op(AJ 80)
 
187
-
AL 32
403
-
AJ 33
518
-
CF 87
704
-
AK 46
 
201
-
AJ 36
404
-
AK 63
521
-
DT 26
706
-
Op(AJ 80)
 
202
-
CE 97
413
-
AJ 70
522
-
Op(CE 70)
752
-
AK 54
 
  On Return Passage:  U 105 - 109 - 124 - 177 - 440 - 441 - 455 - 463.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 265 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
       
- 36 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) U-boat sightings:  ED 9590.
     Warning of U-boats:  for ET 2627.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  In order to intercept the north-south bound convoys and isolated traffic 5 boats are to be disposed in a 30 sea mile wide strip as far as 120 sea miles W. of Cape Blanco in N/S strips of equal width.  Order from the west:  U 518, 43, 218, 521, 66.  Warfare against the traffic is considered of utmost importance to the African Front.
  c) 1) Replenishment of supplies from U 459 is to take place early on 29.1 in CG 5455.
      U 506 will take on 140 cubic meters, U 509 and 516 100 cubic meters each.  Fuel replenishment of U 160 (still behind) follows later.
    2) Meeting of U 463 and 258 for the handing over of an Fu.M.B. Cable has taken place.
    3) In a S.W. wind, strength 10 and heavy sea the supplying of U 260 (intended for the last 10 days) is still impossible.
  d)  U 96 is not absolutely ready for action owing to breakdown of forward hydroplane.  The boat is ordered to return to Bergen owing to inability to submerge entirely.  Further use as training ship is proposed.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
22. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
DT 36
U 217
-
Op(EO)
U 436
-
Op(CE 70)
U 553
-
Op(AL 90)
 
66
-
DU
218
-
DU 44
438
-
Op(AK 40)
707
-
AE 79
 
69
-
Op(AJ 30)
223
-
AE 79
440
-
BE 84
558
-
CE 96
 
71
-
Op(AL 72)
226
-
Op(AJ 30)
441
-
BF 52
571
-
Op(DF 30)
 
87
-
Op(DF 30)
257
-
Op(AL 48)
442
-
Op(CE 70)
572
-
Op(AL 81)
 
96
-
Op(AJ 80)
258
-
CF 54
444
-
Op(AL 44)
575
-
Op(DF 30)
 
105
-
DQ 54
260
-
BD 77
454
-
BE 53
584
-
Op(AL 48)
 
108
-
BF 48
262
-
BE 20
706
-
Op(AJ 80)
594
-
Op(AJ 70)
 
109
-
BE 95
264
-
CE 98
455
-
BF 72
598
-
Op(AJ 70)
 
117
-
CD 34
265
-
AO
456
-
AL 57
606
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
123
-
Op(AJ 80)
266
-
Op(AJ 70)
459
-
FU 42
607
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
124
-
DR 24
267
-
AM 35
463
-
CF 31
608
-
BF 57
 
125
-
Op(CE 70)
268
-
Op(AJ 30)
465
-
BE 22
609
-
BE 22
 
156
-
CF 30
303
-
Op(AK 40)
466
-
AL 22
613
-
Op(AK 40)
 
160
-
EJ 67
333
-
Op(AL 48)
504
-
BF 71
614
-
Op(AL 57)
 
164
-
Op(FB)
337
-
Op(AJ 70)
506
-
CG 14
620
-
Op(DF 30)
 
175
-
Op(EU)
358
-
AE 85
509
-
FU 85
624
-
Op(AK 40)
 
176
-
Op(FD 20)
381
-
Op(DF 30)
510
-
CF 28
631
-
Op(AL 44)
 
177
-
BF 68
383
-
Op(AJ 30)
511
-
Op(CE 70)
632
-
AK 63
 
182
-
FE 94
384
-
Op(AL 44)
514
-
Op(CE 70)
662
-
Op(AJ 80)
 
186
-
Op(AJ 30)
402
-
AL 80
516
-
FU 19
704
-
Op(AK 40)
 
187
-
AL 34
403
-
Op(AJ 30)
518
-
DH 18
752
-
Op(AK 40)
 
       
- 37 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
 
 
201
-
Op(AJ 30)
404
-
Op(AL 48)
521
-
DT 63
 
 
202
-
DG 21
413
-
Op(AJ 70)
522
-
Op(CE 70)
 
 
214
-
Op(EC)
414
-
Op(AJ 30)
525
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 105 - 109 - 124 - 177 - 440 - 441 - 455 - 463.
  Entered Port:  U 177 - Bordeaux;  U 441 - Brest.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) For reports on U 69 and U 96 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 358 encountered a convoy in AE 8575 on a course of 3100, speed 8 knots and sank a freighter of 3,500 GRT.  Contact was apparently lost in bad visibility and rain, and could not be reestablished until the afternoon.  Boat therefore continued passage to ordered position.
    3) U 66 has only encountered Spanish coastal sailing vessels within the 40 sea mile line of DU 57 since 20.1.
    4) U 175 sank "Benjamin Smith" (7,000 GRT), course 900, speed 12 knots in EU 8531.  Return passage owing to fuel situation.
  b) - d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  U 69 a boat belonging to Group "Haudegen" heard several spreading noises with north-easterly deviations since 0600 on 22.1.  According to fix at 0800 last bearing lay in AJ 3449.  The boat is following this up in the direction of 200 in good visibility.  The boats U 525, U 201, north and south of U 69 have also received instructions to steer on searching course, as the presence of an HX convoy must be presumed.  This must have passed the patrol channels of Group "Jaguar" unobserved and proceeded at a very high speed.
     U 96 on the return passage, reported a convoy in AK 7422 at 1315 and after several hours confirmed an isolated search group on a southerly course.  As such an isolated group is unlikely in this area, the possible presence of a convoy must be presumed.  Whether it is an HX or an SC convoy remains to be seen.  In any case on receipt of U 96's message Group "Haudegen" (not U 69, 525 and 201) were ordered to proceed to the S.W. at a speed of 10 knots and ordered to take up position in reconnaissance channels from AK 4313 to 8394 for 1200 on 23.1.  Course 2350, speed 6 knots.  U 96 continues return passage.
       
- 38 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     U 69, 525 and 201 pursued until darkness fell without establishing contact. They are now proceeding on a course of 2100, cruising speed to the S. to reinforce Group "Jaguar".  According to a Radio Intelligence report (special) received, the course of the awaited convoy leads through the middle of the channels occupied by Group "Delphin".  As its arrival can take place from today, Group "Delphin" is to proceed on a course of 900, speed 8 knots at 2030, as reconnaissance channel.  On 23.1 at 1000 to turn back on a course of 2800, speed 4 knots.  The boats U 264, 258 and 558 coming up, are making for approximately the center of the channel.
  c) U 66 has carried out a special task.  (landing of an agent on the African Coast).  Two sailors did not return to the boat after the successful landing.  Heavy surf since then.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 358 - 1 ship  3,500 GRT
    U 175 - 1 ship  7,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
23. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
Op(DU)
U 217
-
Op(EE)
U 414
-
Op(AJ 30)
U 553
-
Op(AL 80)
 
66
-
Op(DU 70)
218
-
Op(DU 70)
436
-
Op(CE 70)
558
-
DG 23
 
69
-
Op(AL 32)
223
-
AL 14
438
-
Op(AK 40)
571
-
Op(DG 10)
 
71
-
Op(AL 80)
226
-
Op(AJ 30)
440
-
BE 94
572
-
Op(AL 80)
 
87
-
Op(DG 10)
257
-
Op(AL 80)
442
-
Op(CE 70)
575
-
Op(DG 10)
 
96
-
AK 72
258
-
CF 72
444
-
Op(AL 48)
584
-
Op(AL 80)
 
105
-
DQ 28
260
-
CD 38
454
-
BE 25
594
-
Op(AL 80)
 
108
-
BE 93
262
-
Op(BE 20)
455
-
BF 67
598
-
Op(AJ 70)
 
109
-
BF 61
264
-
DG 22
456
-
Op(AL 80)
606
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
117
-
CD 30
265
-
AN 36
459
-
FU 54
607
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
123
-
Op(AJ 80)
266
-
Op(AJ 70)
463
-
BE 94
608
-
BF 47
 
124
-
DQ 74
267
-
AL 29
465
-
Op(AL 80)
609
-
Op(AL 40)
 
125
-
Op(CE 70)
268
-
Op(AJ 30)
466
-
AL 14
613
-
Op(AK 40)
 
156
-
CF 59
303
-
Op(AK 40)
504
-
BE 98
614
-
Op(AL 80)
 
160
-
EJ 99
333
-
Op(AL 80)
506
-
CG 19
620
-
Op(DG 10)
 
164
-
Op(FB)
337
-
Op(AJ 70)
509
-
CG 11
624
-
Op(AK 40)
 
175
-
Op(EU 81)
358
-
AE 79
510
-
GF 54
631
-
Op(AL 40)
 
176
-
Op(FD)
381
-
Op(DG 10)
511
-
Op(CE 70)
632
-
Op(AL 40)
 
182
-
FM 22
383
-
Op(AJ 30)
514
-
Op(CE 70)
662
-
Op(AJ 80)
 
186
-
Op(AJ 30)
384
-
Op(AL 40)
516
-
FU 54
704
-
Op(AK 40)
 
187
-
AL 29
402
-
Op(AL 80)
518
-
DH 49
706
-
Op(AJ 80)
 
201
-
Op(AJ 30)
403
-
Op(AJ 30)
521
-
Op(DU 70)
707
-
AL 14
 
202
-
Op(DG 18)
404
-
Op(AL 70)
522
-
Op(CE 70)
752
-
Op(AK 40)
 
214
-
Op(ED)
413
-
Op(AJ 70)
525
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 105 - 109 - 124 - 175 - 440 - 455 - 463 - 662.
  Entered Port:  U 109 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 526 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  3 aircraft in AL 90 and 60 to intercept an expected ON convoy.
       
- 39 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 214 situation:  19 days in the Caribbean, submerged by day.  No traffic in EC 90 at night, tanker escorts from Aruba only at dawn.  It is only possible to stay there a short time owing to the strong current.
      U-boat chaser activity at night in EC 60 large craft radar small craft then attacked.  Continue to search for traffic from DP 75 via EO 52 to EE 60.
    2) FOr report on Convoy No. 3 see paragraph IVa.
  b)  Operations without success.
  c)  U-boat sightings in AJ 94, ED 5650, EC 7816.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  Convoy No. 3:  The following W/T with T.O.O. 0850 was received from U 413 at 1142:  Contact with escort in AJ 7267.  As according to the text of this message other message must have been already sent, and also U 598 had not reported contact at 1500 from AJ 4971, the boats of Group "Jaguar" are requested to send a short situation summary.  It can be seen from the messages received that U 413 sighted a convoy on a course of 200 at 1714 on 22.1. in AJ 7855, and that it reported the same at 2240 in AJ 7592 and at 0545 in AJ 7291.  Also the boat sank a straggler of 5,000 GRT in AJ 7592.  Unfortunately these W/T messages were not picked up by the control station owing to interference presumably caused by the northern lights, and this had a particularly adverse effect on the operations decided for Groups "Jaguar" and Haudegen".  As it is likely that at the moment there is no contact, the group "Haudegen" will be at once disposed on receipt of the first situation report, on a course of 3000, speed 9 knots.  Disposition of a patrol channel is planned for the forenoon of 24.1, if no contact has been established by then.  Group "Jaguar" received ordered to continue the search, U 525, 69 and 201 are to operate at cruising speed on the information contained in U 413's report.  U 268 reporting from N.W. of the Group "Haudegen" and 358 on the outward passage in A 30 are to be diverted to AJ 25.  A W/T received from U 413 at 0117 reports that the boat lost contact at 0900 in AJ 7267.  Last course doubtful, NE, speed 9 knots.  Convoy drawn out, about 20 ships.  Weather: variable visibility, wind N.N.W., freshening to 10-11.  It does not appear from the number of ships involved to be the expected SC convoy.  The operation continues.
  b) 1) Group "Delphin" turned back at 2030 on an easterly course, speed 7 knots.  After addition of U 264 and 558, the group was disposed at 1030 on 24.1 as in the following order:  U 514, 125, 522, 511, 442, 436, 575, 381, 571, 620, 87, 202, 264 and 558, in patrol channels from CE 8156 to DG 1937.  The convoy may still be expected.
    2) New position for U 156, 510 and 504 is DT 60.  Operations intended either in DU or further south.
    3) U 175 received instructions to return via DU 70.  It is to
 
 
 
- 40-
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      search for further traffic there, and not leave the position to replenish supplies until there is only 20 cu. mtrs. of fuel left.
  c) Owing to the return of U 462, U 105 and 124 received orders to remain in DF 50 using as little fuel as possible until the arrival of the next tanker (about 9.2).
  d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 598 - 1 ship  5,000 GRT
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
24. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
Op(DU 70)
U 226
-
OP(AK 50)
U 444
-
Op(AL 40)
U 594
-
Op(AJ 40)
 
66
-
Op(DU 70)
257
-
Op(AL 80)
454
-
Op(BE 20)
598
-
Op(AJ 40)
 
69
-
AJ 29
258
-
CE 98
455
-
BF 64
606
-
Op(AK 40)
 
71
-
Op(AL 80)
260
-
CE 14
456
-
Op(AL 80)
607
-
Op(AK 50)
 
87
-
Op(DG 10)
262
-
Op(BE 20)
459
-
FU 85
608
-
BE 68
 
96
-
AK 54
264
-
Op(DG 10)
463
-
BF 75
609
-
Op(AL 90)
 
105
-
DQ 31
265
-
AN 31
465
-
Op(AL 90)
613
-
Op(AK 80)
 
108
-
BE 98
266
-
Op(AJ 40)
466
-
AL 15
614
-
Op(AL 80)
 
117
-
CD 36
267
-
Op(AJ 40)
504
-
CF 38
620
-
Op(DG 10)
 
123
-
Op(AJ 40)
268
-
Op(AJ 34)
506
-
GG 54
624
-
Op(AK 50)
 
124
-
DF 72
303
-
Op(AK 80)
509
-
GG 18
631
-
Op(AL 40)
 
125
-
Op(CE 80)
333
-
Op(AL 80)
510
-
CF 84
632
-
Op(AL 40)
 
156
-
CF 86
337
-
Op(AJ 40)
511
-
Op(CE 80)
662
-
BD 42
 
160
-
ET 17
358
-
AL 12
514
-
Op(CE 80)
704
-
Op(AK 80)
 
164
-
Op(FB)
381
-
Op(DG 10)
516
-
FU 86
706
-
Op(AJ 40)
 
175
-
EU 71
383
-
Op(AK 50)
518
-
DH 76
707
-
AK 38
 
176
-
Op(FD)
384
-
Op(AL 40)
521
-
Op(DU 70)
752
-
Op(AK 81)
 
182
-
FM 61
402
-
Op(AL 80)
522
-
Op(CE 80)
   
 
186
-
Op(AK 50)
403
-
Op(AJ 33)
525
-
AJ 52
   
 
187
-
Op(AL 40)
404
-
Op(AL 70)
526
-
AO
   
 
201
-
AJ 24
413
-
Op(AJ 40)
553
-
Op(AL 90)
   
 
202
-
OP(DG 10)
414
-
Op(AJ 30)
558
-
DG 27
   
 
214
-
Op(DP 75)
436
-
Op(CE 80)
571
-
Op(DG 10)
   
 
217
-
ED 24
438
-
Op(AK 50)
572
-
Op(AL 80)
   
 
218
- Op(DU 70)
440
- BE 93
575
- Op(DG 10)      
 
223
-
AK 39
442
-
Op(CE 80)
584
-
Op(Al 80)
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 105 - 117 - 123 - 124 - 175 - 217 - 260 - 440 - 455 - 463 - 662 - 706.
  Entered Port:  U 455 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 89 - Brest;  U 135 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
    Convoy No. 3, see paragraph IVa.
  a) 1) U 105 sank a tanker of 10,000 GRT which was lying for no apparent reason with engines stopped about 60 sea miles S. of the isolated traffic route confirmed by Radio Intelligence report (special) in DQ 2347.  It was carrying Benzene.  (Note in pencil:"The British Viligence" which had been hit by U 514 on January 3rd and abandoned.
       
- 41 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      A flying boat was sighted at 2115 circling over the sinking area.
    2) U 217 situation:  From 26 - 29.12 and 10 - 23.1. only passenger steamer on a course of 3300 encountered from EO 52 to EP 48 on the 200 meter line and a hydrophone bearing in EO 5252 with southerly deflection.  Systematic aerial activity by "Consolidated" type flying boat as far as 200 sea miles from the Guiana Coast.
    3) U 609 in position in southern section of Group "Landsknecht" 's patrol channel, sighted an isolated vessel on a course of 2250 at 1834 in AL 9786.  The boat received orders to pursue the steamer.  U 609's area was divided between the two boats occupying adjacent positions.  After losing contact U 609 returned to its position.  Further U 262 reported following a large 3-funnel vessel on a course of 2200.  Both messages probably refer to the same ship.  No further reports has been received from U 262.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat warning for EU 7341.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 3:
   

Wireless conditions are still bad and make escort duties impossible for Group "Jaguar".  According to U 594 report U 706 fired a quadruple miss at a destroyer on 23.1. and U 598 sighted a suspicious looking isolated vessel in AJ 7972 and smoke trails in AJ 7974.  U 706 and U 123 searched in the direction of 200, also 600 and began their return passage in the course of 24.1. owing to fuel shortage.  Group "Haudegen" received orders to take up position in patrol channels with 15 boats at 1100 on 24.1 from ÄA 0389 (pencil note:  AD? 3989) to AK 4178.  With a cruising speed of 8 knots the convoy should reach the channels at about 1130.  Owing to heavy north-westerly storms the boats could only cover a distance of 4 sea miles and were unable to occupy the channels at the time decided upon.  As, however, U 266 confirmed with certainty a broad hydrophone bearing in 800 at 0130 from AJ 2745 and a strong noise band of 2100 - 2650 from AJ 2746, it may be presumed that the convoy is further astern than previously supposed and the boats must have occupied the channels before it passed through.  Group "Jaguar" and U 525 and 201 are operating on the hydrophone bearing obtained by U 266.  No further messages were received up till morning.  The operation continues.

  b) 1) Group "Delphin" proceeded on a westerly course, speed 4 knots at 1100 from its previous patrol channel and remained in a position from CE 8144 to DG 1918 reached at 1900.  U 258 joined the group and occupied the position DG 1972 to extend the channel.  A west and eastbound convoy are expected.
    2) New position for U 608 is AK 95.  Deployment on convoy intended.
 
 
 
       
- 42 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c)  U 260 replenished supplies from U 117 and began return passage.
  d)  U 164 operated off the Brazilian Coast and sank a steamer after examination of the cargo on 2.1. in FB 3815 (Pencil note:  Swedish Brazaland).  In spite of repeated requests the boat has not since reported.  According to an earlier W/T message, U 164 had a leak in the pressure tanks, that was effectively mended.  It is likely that the leak sprang up again on a deep dive and caused the destruction of the boat.  (Pencil note:  U 164 was sunk on Jan. 6th)
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 105 - 1 ship  10,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
25. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
Op(DU 40)
U 217
-
EF 88
U 414
-
Op(AJ 31)
U 553
-
Op(AL 90)
 
66
-
Op(DU 70)
218
-
Op(DN 70)
436
-
Op(CE 80)
558
-
Op(DG 10)
 
69
-
Op(AJ 20)
223
-
AK 01
438
-
Op(AK 40)
571
-
Op(DG 10)
 
71
-
Op(AL 80)
226
-
Op(AJ 30)
440
-
BF 72
572
-
Op(AL 80)
 
87
-
Op(DG 10)
257
-
Op(AL 80)
442
-
Op(CE 80)
575
-
Op(CE 80)
 
89
-
BF 84
258
-
DG 22
444
-
Op(AL 40)
584
-
Op(AL 80)
 
96
-
AK 39
260
-
CE 21
454
-
Op(BE 20)
594
-
Op(AJ 53)
 
105
-
DQ 57
262
-
Op(BE 21)
456
-
Op(AL 80)
598
-
Op(AJ 50)
 
108
-
CF 23
264
-
Op(DG 10)
459
-
GG 11
606
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
117
-
CD 13
265
-
AN 28
463
-
BF 73
607
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
123
-
AJ 91
266
-
Op(AJ 20)
465
-
Op(AL 90)
608
-
BE 56
 
124
-
DF 50
267
-
Op(AL 40)
466
-
AK 27
609
-
Op(AL 90)
 
125
-
Op(CE 80)
268
-
Op(AJ 20)
504
-
CF 64
613
-
Op(AK 40)
 
135
-
BF 67
303
-
OP(AK 41)
506
-
GG 12
614
-
Op(AL 80)
 
156
-
DH 16
333
-
Op(AL 80)
509
-
GG 43
620
-
Op(DG 10)
 
160
-
ET 48
337
-
Op(AJ 52)
510
-
DH 15
624
-
Op(AK 40)
 
175
-
ET 59
358
-
AL 34
511
-
Op(CE 80)
631
-
Op(AL 40)
 
176
-
Op(FD)
381
-
Op(DG 10)
514
-
Op(CE 80)
632
-
Op(AL 40)
 
182
-
FM 92
383
-
Op(AJ 60)
516
-
GG 12
662
-
BD 51
 
186
-
Op(AJ 30)
384
-
Op(AL 40)
518
-
DN 14
704
-
Op(AK 40)
 
187
-
Op(AL 40)
402
-
Op(AL 80)
521
-
Op(DN 70)
706
-
AJ 83
 
201
-
Op(AJ 50)
403
-
Op(AJ 30)
522
-
Op(CE 80)
707
-
AK 27
 
202
-
Op(DG 10)
404
-
Op(AL 70)
525
-
Op(AJ 52)
752
-
Op(AK 40)
 
214
-
Op(EE)
413
-
Op(AJ 50)
526
-
AN 36
 
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 105 - 117 - 123 - 124 - 175 - 217 - 260 - 440 - 463 - 662 - 706.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 118 - Brest.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 3 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 223 pursued an isolated vessel of 6,000 GRT on a course of 800 with a speed of 16 knots in AK 0137 without success.
    3) U 624 sank an isolated vessel of 6,000 GRT on a course of 950 in AK 4557.
       
- 43 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    4) U 575 (in patrol channel of group "Delphin") sank a large 10,000 ton vessel on a course of 1200, speed 12 knots in DG 1326.
      According to P.O.W. reports the ship belonged to the expected convoy which put out of New York for Casablanca on 13.1 and which dispersed owing to bad weather on 22.1.  It can, therefore, be presumed that still further isolated vessels will pass the patrol channels.  "Delphin" boats have received directions to report every ship sighted isolated.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  None.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 3:
    Boat of the "Haudegen" group reported on request, that owing to persistent N.W. storms their passage speed still only amounts to 4 knots.  This means that the channels previously ordered cannot be occupied before 0800 on 26.1.  In order to intercept the convoy with certainty, Group "Haudegen" received orders to take up position in new patrol channels from AD 9533 to AK 4183.  Further, boats are directed to operate at their own discretion and without orders from Command on receipt of convoy contact messages.  U 266 presumes convoy to be in AJ 2755 as two perfect hydrophone observations were obtained at 0300 on 25.1. in this area.  No further messages received.  Group "Jaguar" maintains an independent search from NE to E.  Several boats are so low in fuel that they will have to start the return passage within 24 hours.  Lack of sufficient tankers is now uncomfortably noticeable.  The operation continues.
  b) 1) Owing to U 384's necessary return, the Channel occupied by Group "Landsknecht" will be narrowed by one position on 1200 on 26.1 and will then extend from AL 4447 to BE 2138.  According to present reckoning the arrival of the expected convoy cannot be expected until after today as the leaving times of the ON convoys has probably been postponed for 2 or 3 days.
    2) U 214 which was originally to have searched for traffic in DP 70, has received orders to proceed with small steps via DQ 70 to DR 55 and to operate there according to fuel supply.  The grid mentioned is approximately the intersection point of the Trinidad/North Africa tanker convoy route and according to Radio Intelligence Report (special) a confirmed straggler route.
  c) Owing to the temporary breakdown of U 462 the replenishment of supplies by U 124 and U 105, in DF 50, must be carried out by a type IXc boat.  U 504 received orders to proceed to DP 3755 and carry out replenishment of supplies.  Later replenishment of this boat by U 118 is intended.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 624 - 1 ship  6,000 GRT
  U 575 - 1 ship  10,000 GRT.
 
 
 
- 44 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
26. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
Op(DU 70)
U 214
-
Op(EE)
U 413
-
Op(AJ 26)
U 526
-
AN 31
 
66
-
Op(DU 70)
217
-
EF 81
414
-
Op(AD 90)
553
-
Op(AL 90)
 
69
-
Op(AD 90)
218
-
Op(DU 70)
436
-
Op(CE 80)
558
-
Op(DG 10)
 
71
-
Op(AL 80)
223
-
AK 19
438
-
Op(AJ 30)
571
-
Op(DG 10)
 
87
-
Op(GD 10)
226
-
Op(AJ 30)
440
-
BF 52
572
-
Op(AL 80)
 
89
-
BF 45
257
-
Op(AL 80)
442
-
Op(CE 80)
575
-
Op(DG 10)
 
96
-
AK 35
258
-
Op(DG 10)
444
-
OP(AL 40)
584
-
Op(AL 80)
 
105
-
DQ 52
260
-
BD 97
454
-
Op(BE 20)
594
-
Op(AJ 20)
 
108
-
CF 28
262
-
OP(BE 20)
456
-
Op(AL 80)
598
-
Op(AJ 28)
 
117
-
BD 86
264
-
Op(DG 10)
459
-
GG 14
606
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
118
-
BF 54
265
-
Bergen
463
-
BF 64
607
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
123
-
AK 72
266
-
Op(AJ 37)
465
-
Op(AL 90)
608
-
BE 51
 
124
-
DF 50
267
-
Op(AL 40)
466
-
AK 43
609
-
Op(AL 90)
 
125
-
Op(CF 80)
268
-
Op(AD 90)
504
-
CF 57
613
-
Op(AK 40)
 
135
-
BF 49
303
-
Op(AJ 30)
506
-
GG 50
614
-
Op(AL 80)
 
156
-
DH 46
333
-
Op(AL 80)
509
-
GG 50
620
-
Op(DG 10)
 
160
-
ET 79
337
-
Op(AJ 20)
510
-
DH 45
624
-
Op(AJ 90)
 
175
-
ET 51
358
-
AK 25
511
-
Op(CE 80)
631
-
Op(AL 40)
 
176
-
ES 84
381
-
Op(DG 10)
514
-
Op(CE 80)
632
-
Op(AL 40)
 
182
-
FN 77
383
-
Op(AJ 30)
516
-
GG 19
662
-
BD 67
 
186
-
Op(AJ 30)
384
-
Op(AL 40)
518
-
DU 41
704
-
Op(AK 40)
 
187
-
Op(AL 40)
402
-
Op(AL 80)
521
-
Op(DU 70)
706
-
AK 77
 
201
-
Op(AJ 26)
403
-
Op(AJ 30)
522
-
Op(CE 80)
707
-
AK 17
 
202
-
Op(DG 10)
404
-
Op(AL 70)
525
-
Op(AJ 20)
752
-
Op(AK 40)
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 105 - 117 - 123 - 124 - 175 - 176 - 217 - 260 - 384 - 440 - 444 - 463 - 662 - 706.
  Entered Port:  U 440 - Brest;  U 463 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 3 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 358 sank a fully loaded tanker of type "Nordatlantic" of 10,000 GRT, on a course of 900, speed 11 knots in AK 2550.
    3) U 594 encountered wreck of tanker "Kollbjoerg-Oslo" in AJ 3284 while operating on Convoy No. 3, and sank it.
  b)  None.
  c) U-boat sighting:  AJ 3850, AJ 3451, EG 8599.
     A sunk ship still sticking out of the water in FB 9119.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) As no contact messages were received up to nightfall, the convoy must according to dead reckoning, have passed the channels.  U 384, 525, 707, 223 and 466 were to allocate
       
- 45 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     to the Group "Haudegen" and if there was not contact, ordered to proceed to the S.W. at 0800 on 27th.  If however, the convoy was still W. of the group it would have been intercepted during the night.  Disposition in about AK 50 and 80 was intended for Group "Jaguar" until the low fuel supply was exhausted.  None of these orders were put into effect as the group had been operating on destroyer sightings and hydrophone bearings of several boats, since 1900. The relevant W/T messages could not be picked up by the control station until 2400.  Subsequently U 266 and U 383 sighted a destroyer on an eastward course in AJ 3450 at 1800.  U 466 reported a broad listening band from 260 to 290 from AJ 35 at 2120 and at 0237 destroyer and steamer noises were confirmed with certainty.  According to further hydrophone bearings the boats must be on either side of the convoy.  Both groups are operating at high speed.  Direct sighting reports were, however, not received up to morning.  The large number of boats coming up from all sides ensures the interception of the convoy at dawn.
  b) 1) U 444 has begun the return passage owing to fuel shortage.  Patrol channels occupied by Group "Landsknecht" are therefore shortened by one position to the southeast.
    2) U 156, U 510 and U 108 are detained in area DH 40 and 10 in order to intercept the isolated vessels on the dissolution of the expected convoy.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 358 - 1 ship  10,000 GRT
        594 - 1 ship  8,259 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
27. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
Op(DU 70)
U 202
-
Op(DG 10)
U 403
-
Op(AJ 30)
U 525
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
66
-
Op(DU 70)
214
-
DP 97
404
-
Op(AL 70)
526
-
AN 20
 
69
-
Op(AJ 90)
217
-
EF 52
413
-
Op(AJ 13)
553
-
Op(AL 90)
 
71
-
Op(AL 80)
218
-
Op(DU 70)
414
-
Op(AD 91)
558
-
Op(DG 10)
 
87
-
Op(DG 10)
223
-
Op(AJ 30)
436
-
Op(CE 80)
571
-
Op(DG 10)
 
89
-
BE 66
226
-
Op(AJ 31)
438
-
Op(AJ 30)
572
-
Op(AL 80)
 
96
-
AE 79
257
-
Op(AL 80)
442
-
Op(CE 80)
575
-
Op(CE 80)
 
105
-
DQ 31
258
-
Op(DG 10)
444
-
AL 85
584
-
Op(AL 80)
 
108
-
CF 57
260
-
BE 78
454
-
Op(BE 20)
594
-
Op(AJ 32)
 
117
-
BD 68
262
-
Op(BE 20)
456
-
Op(AL 70)
598
-
AJ 38
 
118
-
BF 49
264
-
Op(DG 10)
459
-
GG 18
606
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
123
-
AK 87
265
-
Bergen
465
-
Op(AL 80)
607
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
124
-
DF 50
266
-
Op(AJ 32)
466
-
Op(AJ 32)
608
-
BD 33
 
125
-
Op(CE 80)
267
-
Op(AL 40)
504
-
CF 75
609
-
Op(AL 90)
 
135
-
BE 47
268
-
Op(AD 90)
506
-
GG 50
613
-
Op(AK 40)
 
156
-
DH 66
303
-
Op(AJ 30)
509
-
GG 50
614
-
Op(AL 80)
 
160
-
FE 28
333
-
Op(AL 70)
510
-
DH 75
620
-
Op(DG 10)
 
175
-
ET 15
337
-
Op(AJ 13)
511
-
Op(CE 80)
624
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
176
-
ES 46
358
-
Op(AK 15)
514
-
Op(CE 80)
631
-
Op(AL 40)
 
182
-
FU 18
381
-
Op(DG 10)
516
-
GG 50
632
-
Op(AL 40)
 
186
-
Op(AJ 30)
383
-
Op(AJ 30)
518
-
Op(DU 70)
662
-
BD 68
 
187
-
Op(AL 40)
384
-
AL 85
521
-
Op(DU 70)
704
-
Op(AK 40)
 
       
- 46 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
201
-
Op(AJ 30)
402
-
Op(AL 80)
522
-
Op(CE 80)
706
-
BD 13
 
   
   
   
707
-
Op(AJ 30)
 
   
   
   
752
-
Op(AK 40)
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 105 - 117 - 123 - 124 - 175 - 176 - 217 - 260 - 384 - 444 - 598 - 662 - 706.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
   For report on Convoy No. 3 see paragraph IVa.
  a) 1) U 442 and 514 each sighted a steamer on an easterly course in CE 8487 and CE 8157, in the patrol channels of Group "Delphin".  The latter was left sinking by U 514 in CE 8198 (American ship "Charles C. Pinkney" of 6,800 GRT).  Speed 14 knots, zig-zagging strongly.  Ship was heavily armed.
    2) U 105 sank new American motor ship "Cape Indecision" of 8,000 GRT carrying aircraft parts and casked benzene from Charleston to Africa. General course 1250, speed 15 knots. Position of the sinking lies about 40 miles north of the straggler route confirmed by Radio Intelligence reports.
    3) U 607 sank a tanker wreck in AJ 30 with 2 finishing shots.
  b)  None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  BB 6522, FB 99.
     U-boat attacked by torpedo aircraft in AF 8717 (U 376).
    There was a report of torpedoing from an unidentified American steamer in CE 8198 (U 514).
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 3:
    In spite of the fact that the boats operated from all quarters on the last reliable hydrophone bearings and destroyer sightings there were therefore the most favorable conditions possible for the interception of the convoy, but no contact was established.  In general from messages received one has the impression that for the most part the inexperienced boats were chasing phantoms owing to certain listeners lacking practice.  This is also confirmed by a message from U 201, who, after hydrophone search lasting hours, discovered the source of the bearing to be an extensive school of whales.  In any case there is the possibility that the two destroyers sighted were merely a decoy and the convoy passed to the N. or S.  As the hydrophone bearing from U 266 on 25.1 was, however, the only information, and was reported as reliable, this possibility must be exploited and the channels moved to the N.  The operation was broken off at nightfall.  Group "Jaguar" received orders to proceed to BD 60 at economical cruising speed.
       
- 47 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     Group "Haudegen" is to be reformed and is to take up position in the following order at 1200 on 30.1 in patrol channels from AJ 2442 to AK 7132:  U 233 - 358 - 466 - 707 - 186 - 268 - 69 - 414 - 201 - 403 - 525 - 606 - 607 - 226 - 383 - 303 - 438 - 624 - 704 - 613 and 752.  A N.E. bound convoy is expected to pass at 30.1.
  b) 1) According to recently acquired information from Special Radio Intelligence reports, the Trinidad-Gibraltar convoy, coming from the Caribbean steers a course first, north of Cape Blanco along the African coast.
      The boats operating in DU 70 are therefore too far to the S. and have received orders (in order to intercept regular traffic on this route) to proceed to the N. of the present operations area with a daily reckoning of 150 sea miles, via the first position of DU 4351 to 5185 and further via the second position from DU 2231 to 2365.  Subsequently the following operations areas are to be occupied at a depth of 15 sea miles:  U 518 = DH 9595, U 43 = 9912, U 218 = 9566, U 521 = 9672, U 66 = 9687.  Convoy traffic may be expected in a NE/SW direction.  The boats form the Group "Rochen".
    2) As a result of the sightings reported by U 514 and 442 the Group "Delphin" is to be split up to the N. and S. and will then be in patrol channels from CE 5774 to DG 4342.  The boats received orders to cover as much sea as possible to the E. from 0600 to dawn in order to reach the anticipated isolated traffic.
    3) New positions for U 608, 89 and U 135 = AJ 89.  A new disposition of another patrol channel with the boats of Group "Landsknecht" still having adequate fuel supplies, is planned for the 5.2 in this area.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 514 - 1 ship  6,800 GRT
        105 - 1 ship  8,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
28. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
Op(DU 70)
U 202
-
Op(DG 10)
U 403
-
Op(AK 10)
U 525
-
Op(AK 10)
 
66
-
Op(DU 70)
214
-
DQ 74
404
-
Op(AL 70)
526
-
Bergen
 
69
-
Op(AK 10)
217
-
EF 23
413
-
Op(AK 10)
553
-
Op(AL 90)
 
71
-
Op(AL 80)
218
-
Op(DU 70)
414
-
Op(AK 10)
558
-
Op(DG 10)
 
87
-
Op(DG 10)
223
-
Op(AJ 33)
436
-
Op(CE 80)
571
-
Op(DG 10)
 
89
-
BE 64
226
-
Op(AK 17)
438
-
Op(AK 10)
572
-
Op(AL 80)
 
96
-
AE 82
257
-
Op(AL 80)
442
-
Op(CE 87)
575
-
Op(CE 80)
 
105
-
DF 77
258
-
Op(DG 10)
444
-
AL 98
584
-
Op(AL 80)
 
108
-
CF 84
260
-
BE 76
454
-
Op(BE 20)
594
-
AK 17
 
117
-
BD 60
262
-
Op(BE 20)
456
-
Op(AL 70)
598
-
AK 17
 
118
-
CG 24
264
-
Op(DG 10)
459
-
GG 50
606
-
Op(AK 10)
 
123
-
BD 22
265
-
AF 79
465
-
Op(AL 80)
607
-
Op(AJ 39)
 
124
-
DF 37
266
-
AJ 18
466
-
Op(AJ 32)
608
-
AK 99
 
125
-
Op(CE 80)
267
-
Op(AL 40)
504
-
DG 98
609
-
Op(AL 90)
 
       
- 48 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
135
-
BE 68
268
-
Op(AK 10)
506
-
GG 50
613
-
Op(AK 10)
 
156
-
Op(DH 40)
303
-
Op(AK 10)
509
-
GG 50
614
-
Op(AL 80)
 
160
-
FE 59
333
-
Op(AL 70)
510
-
Op(DA 40)
620
-
Op(DG 10)
 
175
-
EK 74
337
-
Op(AK 10)
511
-
Op(CE 80)
624
-
Op(AK 10)
 
176
-
ES 15
358
-
Op(AJ 36)
514
-
Op(CE 50)
631
-
Op(AL 40)
 
182
-
FU 46
381
-
Op(DG 10)
516
-
GG 50
632
-
Op(AL 40)
 
186
-
Op(AK 10)
383
-
Op(AK 10)
518
-
Op(DU 70)
662
-
BD 60
 
187
-
Op(AL 40)
384
-
AL 98
521
-
Op(DU 70)
704
-
Op(AJ 36)
 
201
-
Op(AK 10)
402
-
Op(AL 80)
522
-
Op(CE 80)
706
-
BD 25
 
   
   
   
707
-
Op(AK 10)
 
   
   
   
752
-
Op(AK 10)
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 105 - 117 - 123 - 124 - 175 - 176 - 217 - 260 - 266 - 337
  Entered Port:  U 526 - Bergen.
  Sailed:  U 653 - 439 - Brest;  U 332 - 753 - La Pallice;  U 468 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  U 442 sank the ship reported on 27.1 in CE 8763.  Confirmed as American ship "J. W. Gaves" carrying 36 tanks, 6 railway tank cars and 15 lorries.
  b)  None.
  c)  U-boat sightings:  In AE 4741 (possibly attack by aircraft).
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) As the expected ON convoy was also not intercepted this time, Command has decided to dispose the boats with a plentiful supply of fuel and several boats recently arrived, E. of Newfoundland.  Group "Landsknecht" is disbanded.
      U 187, 267, 456, 553, 609, 262, 614, 402, 465 and 454 are to proceed at economical cruising speed to BC 21.
      The boats with less fuel are to be disposed in the present area and receive the following grids as operations area.
      U 632 = AL 47, U 257 = AL 71, U 71 = AL 75, U 572 = AL 87.
      U 631 and 333 are to return.  U 404 and 584 are to undertake special duties.  They are to make a surprise appearance off the coast near the Scilly Islands - U 404 in BF 7510 and 584 in BF 2190.  There, they are to carry out short, sudden attacks on the convoy traffic (every two days) (see operations order Lands End).
    2) The impression is gained from U-boat situation reports received, that the enemy is aware of the disposition of the Group "Delphin".  It appears from a Special Radio Intelligence Report that the anticipated convoy went round the channels to the N. and a new disposition is therefore necessary.  The group is to occupy a patrol channel from CF 7397 to DH 5879
       
- 49 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      at economical cruising speed in the following order:  U 125 - 522 - 511 - 442 - 436 - 575 - 381 - 571 - 620 - 87 - 202 - 264 - 558 and 258.  In conjunction with Group "Rochen" therefore, the entire area between the Azores, the Canaries and the African Mainland will be to some extent patrolled.  Normally, apart from North American supplies, also those from Trinidad and West Africa to Gibraltar are expected in this area.
    3) U 156 and 510 continue the uninterrupted southward passage to EJ 70.  U 108 joins Group "Rochen" and occupies U 518's position.  The latter (having more fuel than U 108) is also proceeding southwards to position EJ 70)
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
29. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
DU 19
U 217
-
DQ 91
U 332
-
BF 91
U 571
-
DG 25
 
66
-
DU 28
218
-
DU 27
436
-
CE 88
572
-
Op(AL 87)
 
69
-
AJ 37
223
-
AJ 31
438
-
AK 41
575
-
DG 22
 
71
-
Op(AL 75)
226
-
AJ 63
439
-
BF 54
584
-
AL 85
 
87
-
DG 25
257
-
Op(AL 72)
442
-
CE 89
594
-
AK 51
 
89
-
BE 52
258
-
DQ 52
444
-
BE 26
598
-
AK 54
 
96
-
AE 68
260
-
BE 82
454
-
BE 13
606
-
AJ 63
 
105
-
DQ 33
262
-
BE 62
456
-
AL 71
607
-
AJ 63
 
108
-
DH 15
264
-
DG 28
459
-
CG 50
608
-
AK 89
 
117
-
BD 68
265
-
AF 72
465
-
AL 87
609
-
BE 12
 
118
-
CG 81
266
-
AK 54
466
-
AJ 26
613
-
AK 44
 
123
-
BD 32
267
-
AK 69
468
-
AO
614
-
AL 71
 
124
-
DF 37
268
-
AJ 34
504
-
DG 21
620
-
DG 25
 
125
-
CE 82
303
-
AK 41
506
-
GG 50
624
-
AK 41
 
135
-
BE 56
333
-
AL 85
509
-
GG 50
631
-
AL 81
 
156
-
DH 45
337
-
AK 54
510
-
DH 44
632
-
Op(AL 47)
 
160
-
FE 98
358
-
AJ 34
511
-
CE 85
653
-
BF 54
 
175
-
EK 40
381
-
DG 21
514
-
CE 58
662
-
BD 68
 
176
-
EJ 74
383
-
AJ 63
516
-
GG 50
704
-
AK 41
 
182
-
FU 85
384
-
BE 25
518
-
DU 19
706
-
BD 61
 
186
-
AJ 34
402
-
AL 87
521
-
DU 27
707
-
AJ 34
 
187
-
AK 69
403
-
AJ 37
522
-
CE 82
752
-
AK 41
 
201
-
AJ 37
404
-
AL 81
525
-
AJ 37
753
-
BF 91
 
202
-
DG 28
413
-
AK 54
553
-
AL 87
   
 
214
-
DQ 73
414
-
AJ 37
558
-
DG 52
   
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 105 - 117 - 123 - 124 - 175 - 176 - 217 - 260 - 266 - 333 - 337 - 384 - 413 - 444 - 466 - 594 - 598 - 631 - 662 - 706.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 381 sighted sea plane in CE 9748 while en route to new "Delphin" patrol channels.
  b) - d) None.
       
- 50 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) With the return of U 466 20 boats of Group "Haudegen" are now distributed in the patrol channels ordered earlier, from AJ 2442 to AK 7132.
    2) To occupy as temporary operations areas:  U 594 = AK 49, U 413 = AK 81.  Both boats reported their fuel situation and should be able to remain in the ordered areas for 5 - 7 days.  In this way the area S.E. of the "Haudegen" channels will be simultaneously patrolled.
    3) Position for U 118 is DH 21 after execution of the special duties.  The supplying of the "Delphin" boats is intended here.
    4) Owing to the necessary return passage of U 460 of the second needed tanker - the supply situation is at the moment very unfavorable.  Fuel delivery to U 664 to U 117 could not be carried out in the bad weather conditions.  U 466 on return passage with about 70 cubic meters of fuel is to be used as a tanker and has arrived in AK 86 with U 266.  Further U 598 and U 175 received orders to carry out return passage if possible without fuel replenishment.  The supplying of U 706 awash in BD 67 is to take place from the outward bound U 439.  
      All boats are again reminded to proceed at economical cruising speed during bad weather and in the operations area.
  c)  Owing to the return of a blockade breaker Route Anton is to be closed as follows:  From 1.2 to 13.2 inclusive between 50 S., 150 N.  From 8.2 to 17.2 between 150 N. and 300 N.  From 14.2 entire northern section N. of 300 N.  Apart from this the eastern boundary of route Anton is transferred 200 sea miles to the E. between 30 S. and 130 N.
     This is only in connection with the present closing of the route.
  d)  U 337 has up to now operated in the Group "Jaguar".  It last reported a short weather report from AE 83 on 3.1.  Subsequently the boats were again requested to report on 24.1., but no reply was received.  Information of the loss - place and time is not available.  As in spite of repeated requests no position report has been received, the loss of this boat must be presumed.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
 
- 51 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
30. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
DU 21
U 214
-
Op(DQ 59)
U 413
-
AK 81
U 553
-
AK 99
 
66
-
DU 23
217
-
DQ 69
414
-
Op(AJ 20)
558
-
DG 64
 
69
-
Op(AJ 20)
218
-
DU 22
436
-
CE 98
571
-
DG 34
 
71
-
Op(AL 75)
223
-
Op(AJ 20)
438
-
Op(AJ 60)
572
-
Op(AL 87)
 
87
-
DG 37
226
-
Op(AJ 60)
439
-
BF 48
575
-
DG 31
 
89
-
BE 43
257
-
Op(AL 71)
442
-
CE 98
584
-
AL 86
 
96
-
AF 72
258
-
DG 64
444
-
BE 38
594
-
Op(AK 49)
 
105
-
DF 76
260
-
BE 92
454
-
BE 11
598
-
AK 82
 
108
-
DH 55
262
-
BD 33
456
-
AK 91
606
-
Op(AJ 60)
 
117
-
BD 68
264
-
DG 61
459
-
CG 50
607
-
AJ 60
 
118
-
CG 81
265
-
AF 59
465
-
AK 99
608
-
AK 87
 
123
-
BE 14
266
-
AK 86
466
-
AK 46
609
-
BD 33
 
124
-
DF 37
267
-
AK 91
468
-
AO 36
613
-
Op(AK 40)
 
125
-
CE 92
268
-
Op(AJ 20)
504
-
DG 15
614
-
AK 95
 
135
-
BE 55
303
-
Op(AJ 60)
506
-
GG 50
620
-
DG 37
 
156
-
DH 75
332
-
BF 81
509
-
GG 50
624
-
Op(AJ 60)
 
160
-
FM 26
333
-
AL 97
510
-
DH 74
631
-
AL 97
 
175
-
EK 14
358
-
Op(AJ 20)
511
-
CE 95
632
-
Op(AK 47)
 
176
-
EJ 44
381
-
Op(DG 34)
514
-
Op(CE 60)
653
-
BF 45
 
182
-
FU 97
383
-
Op(AJ 60)
516
-
GG 50
662
-
BD 91
 
186
-
Op(AJ 20)
384
-
BE 37
518
-
DT 99
704
-
Op(AK 40)
 
187
-
AK 83
402
-
AK 99
521
-
DU 22
706
-
BD 67
 
201
-
AJ 60
403
-
Op(AJ 60)
522
-
CE 95
707
-
Op(AJ 20)
 
202
-
DG 61
404
-
AL 97
525
-
Op(AJ 60)
752
-
Op(AK 40)
 
 
 
 
753
-
BF 81
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 117 - 123 - 124 - 175 - 176 - 217 - 260 - 266 - 333 - 337 - 384 - 413 - 444 - 466 - 594 - 598 - 631 - 662 - 706.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) The following area are to be occupied after replenishing supplies from U 459:
     U 506 and 509 are to operate in grid GR with directions to proceed near to Cape Town for the time being, to intercept traffic routes.  U 516 is to operate with Port Elizabeth as center point. If the boats do not find traffic in the areas indicated, U 506 and 509 have freedom of movement to both sides.  U 182 on its first operational trip, and also making for the southern tip of Africa, is to occupy the area Mozambique Channel between 200 and 310 S.  Boats are reminded of circumspect, sparing use of torpedoes.
       
- 52 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) 1) U 459 has filled up the boats detailed for operations in Africa U 506, 509 and 516 in GG 54.  Assembly point for U 160 also detailed for this area is FU 44 on 4.2.
    2) U 117 has supplied U 662, U 333 has handed over "Bolde" (decoy) to U 404.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
31. January 1943.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
Op(DH 90)
U 214
-
Op(DQ 69)
U 413
-
Op(AK 81)
U 529
-
AO
 
66
-
Op(DH 90)
217
-
DR 15
414
-
Op(AJ 20)
553
-
BD 23
 
69
-
Op(AJ 20)
218
-
Op(DH 90)
436
-
Op(DG 30)
558
-
Op(DG 60)
 
71
-
Op(AL 75)
223
-
Op(AJ 20)
438
-
Op(AJ 60)
571
-
Op(DG 30)
 
87
-
Op(DG 80)
226
-
OP(AJ 60)
439
-
BE 69
572
-
Op(AL 87)
 
89
-
BE 17
257
-
Op(AL 71)
442
-
Op(CF 70)
575
-
Op(DG 30)
 
96
-
AN 24
258
-
Op(DG 60)
444
-
BE 66
584
-
AM 78
 
105
-
DF 57
260
-
BF 47
448
-
AO
594
-
Op(AK 49)
 
107
-
BF 54
262
-
BD 33
454
-
BD 32
598
-
AK 97
 
108
-
DH 81
264
-
Op(DG 60)
456
-
AK 85
606
-
Op(AJ 60)
 
117
-
BD 91
265
-
AE 67
459
-
GG 50
607
-
Op(AJ 60)
 
118
-
CG 85
266
-
AK 86
465
-
AK 97
608
-
AK 78
 
123
-
BE 12
267
-
AK 85
466
-
AK 82
609
-
BD 23
 
124
-
BF 37
268
-
Op(AJ 20)
468
-
AN 30
613
-
Op(AK 40)
 
125
-
Op(CF 70)
303
-
Op(AJ 60)
504
-
DF 39
614
-
AK 94
 
135
-
BF 43
332
-
BF 72
506
-
GG 50
620
-
Op(DG 30)
 
156
-
DT 34
333
-
AL 97
509
-
GG 50
624
-
Op(AJ 60)
 
160
-
FL 48
358
-
Op(AJ 20)
510
-
DT 23
631
-
BE 34
 
175
-
DU 74
376
-
AF 79
511
-
Op(CF 70)
632
-
Op(AL 47)
 
176
-
EJ 14
377
-
AF 79
514
-
Op(CE 69)
653
-
BE 66
 
182
-
GG 19
381
-
Op(DG 30)
516
-
GG 50
662
-
BD 91
 
183
-
BF 54
383
-
Op(AJ 60)
518
-
EJ 35
704
-
Op(AK 40)
 
186
-
Op(AJ 28)
384
-
BE 66
519
-
BF 54
706
-
BD 67
 
187
-
AK 84
402
-
AK 98
521
-
Op(DM 90)
707
-
Op(AJ 20)
 
201
-
Op(AJ 60)
403
-
Op(AJ 60)
522
-
Op(CF 70)
752
-
Op(AK 40)
 
202
-
Op(DG 60)
404
-
AL 97
525
-
Op(AJ 60)
753
-
BF 71
 
  On Return Passage:  U 96 - 105 - 117 - 123 - 124 - 175 - 176 - 217 - 260 - 266 - 333 - 384 - 413 - 444 - 466 - 494 - 498 - 631 - 662 - 706.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 460 - 590 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  U 187 reported suspicious looking isolated vessels on a course of 50 in AK 8922.  No contact.  The boat is reminded in this connection that the presence of "Q-boats" in the open sea is unlikely.
  b)  None.
  c)  U-boat sightings:  AM 25.
  d)  None.
       
- 53 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) New position for U 439, 653 and 332 = BD 24, for U 265 = AK 02.  Operations on convoys are intended with these boats.
    2) U 584 has broken off the ordered special duty (attack on convoy traffic in BF 2190) owing to own strong noise interference.  Instead, U 71 with a relatively large amount of fuel - 44 cubic meters - is detailed for this task.
  c) U 376 lost the Warrant Quartermaster overboard.  After relief procured in Hellisoc passage continued.
  d)  U 553 has been requested repeatedly since 28.1 to send position report without, however, an answer being received.  The last W/T message dated 20.1 was from BE 6113.
    Subsequently, the boat was ordered to join "Landsknecht" and disposed in a patrol channel.  When and how U 553 was lost is not known.
     Its loss must be presumed.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
       
       
                                                       (Signed):  Godt.
       
 
 
   
 
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
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26. January 1943.
       
F.O. U-boats
       
Most Secret  !
       
Additional Order "Lands End"
for U . . . . .
       
1) The traffic between the Bristol Channel and the Channel is to be attacked in the area round Lands End during the new moon period.  There have been no U-boat operations here since June 1941, so that a surprise appearance should have good results; for this reason, the boat must at all costs remain unobserved until the initial attack.  Withdrawal to open sea in between each attack according to existing circumstances.
       
2) Passage report to be sent after putting out and after execution of deep diving trial.  A situation report should be sent as soon as observed (by the enemy).
       
3) Mining situation:
  a)  There is a mine-field between Lands End (via the Scillys) and the Bishop's Rock, according to old reports.  If mines are actually in this position there is a gap on the line 50 47' W. through which enemy traffic sails.
  b)  For information on the declared area St. Georges Channel and barrier gaps see Standing Operational Orders No. 481 C II.
  c) Our own mines in the waters round Cornwall are only on the south coast, east of Lizard Head (see Standing Operational Order No. 461 B 5).
       
4)   There is no information of a shipping route free of mines or marked by buoys in the waters round Lands End.
       
5)   Traffic:  Convoys proceeding from Milford Haven to Portsmouth and from Portsmouth to Milford Haven may be expected to sail in a two day cycle.  The convoys putting out of Milford Haven on even days will be in the area Hartland Point at 2000 on the same day and pass Lands End towards 0600 on the following day. Convoys sailing from Portsmouth on uneven days are near St. Albans Head at 2000 on the same day, and pass the Lands End area at 2000 on the following day.  According to this, there is an east-bound convoy at 0600 on every uneven day and a west-bound convoy at 2000 on every even day, in the Lands End area.
       
                                                               For F.O. U-boats
       
                                                                       - Head of Ops. Section -
       
                                                                               GODT
       
Distribution:
 Copy No.  1  U . . . . .
      2  . . . . . U-FLotilla
      3-6  F.O. U-boats
      7-8  Reserve copies.
       
 
 
 
       
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