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

16 - 31 December 1944

PG30361

     
     
 
16.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KT 28
U 485
-
 AM 79
U 864
-
 AO 16
U 1053
-
 Op(AK 65)
 
195
-
 KT 28
486
-
 BE 33
869
-
 AF 72
1055
-
 AF 79
 
196
-
 KU 10
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
870
-
 Op(BD 61)
1172
-
 AO 16
 
244
-
 AF 72
650
-
 AM 32
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1200
-
 AE 99
 
248
-
 AM 27
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
877
-
 AL 23
1202
-
 AM 75
 
278
-
 AF 76
722
-
 BE 32
905
-
 AF 79
1209
-
 BF 11
 
296
-
 AE 86
772
-
 Op(BF 26)
978
-
 AN 24
1223
-
 AF 47
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
773
-
 BE 32
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1227
-
 CG 11
 
312
-
 AF 81
775
-
 Op(AM 36)
991
-
 AM 24
1228
-
 AK 87
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
806
-
 Op(BB 79)
1003
-
 AN 31
1230
-
 Op(CB 31)
 
325
-
 AF 79
825
-
 AO 47
1009
-
 AF 77
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
396
-
 AF 81
843
-
 KA 77
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1232
-
 Op(AK 71)
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)      
1233
-
 AN 23
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
863
-
 Op(MQ 40)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 296 - 396 - 722 - 773 - 978 - 991 - 1003 - 1200 - 1202 - 1223 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  U 1003 - Stavanger;  U 978 - 1233 - Bergen.
  Sailed:  U 739 - Trondheim.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None
  c) U-boat sightings:  None.
     Enemy units were located in:  AL 6890 - AM 4830 - BF 4539 - 1210 - CF 3140 - CG 4260 - DH 3312.
  d)  High priority Radio Intercept Reports:
     Intelligence from radio telegraphy traffic on 15.12. off the west coast of England:
    1) Unidentified unit reported:  "Have wreck of English steamer "Fort Maison Neuve". . . . " remainder not intelligible.
    2) Unidentified unit made a message on 15.12. to Mac Duff and N.O.I.C. Aberdeen:  1306 "Britannica" proceeding under own steam.  Speed 3 1/2 knots.  3 ships escorting to Moray Firth berth.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - c) None.
  d) 1) Agent's report: On 7.12. at 1130 24 steamers entered Casablanca from Gibraltar, 14 escorts.  12 escorts proceeded to Safi.  According to statements made by military, the convoy was
       
- 779 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      made up of 40 ships and had been attacked at 0830 by submarines.  2 ships were sunk.  Despite the escort's fierce anti-submarine measures, the submarines could not be pinned down.  (This report appears to be unreliable, as the loss of U 1227 must be assumed).
    2) Information report No. 200 was radioed to all boats:
      After "Morstein" had sunk a steamer belonging to a small convoy in AM 5397 and had torpedoed another vessel, he was hunted by small submarine chasers and later by destroyers.  When further units took up the pursuit, he did not move away to the west into deep water, but made for land to the southwest.
      As expected, the pursuers continued to search to the west, and the submarine avoided a hot pursuit with depth-charges, for over 300 charges were dropped on the estimated position of the submarine to the west.
      Deductions:
      When being hunted, consider what defensive tactics the enemy will anticipate.  Then do the contrary.  Often precisely unconventional tactics lead to the best results.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
17.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KT 34
U 485
-
 BF 11
U 862
-
 Op(JH 50)
U 1055
-
 AF 75
 
195
-
 KT 37
486
-
 BF 11
863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1172
-
 AO 16
 
196
-
 KU 10
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
864
-
 AO 16
1200
-
 AF 77
 
244
-
 AF 47
650
-
 AM 33
869
-
 AF 47
1202
-
 AM 72
 
248
-
 AM 01
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
870
-
 Op(BD 64)
1209
-
 BF 12
 
278
-
 AF 76
722
-
 BU 31
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1223
-
 AF 72
 
296
-
 AE 91
739
-
 AF 56
877
-
 AL 16
1227
-
 CG 14
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
905
-
 AF 75
1228
-
 AK 67
 
312
-
 AF 81
773
-
 BE 31
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1230
-
 Op(CA 32)
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
775
-
 Op(AM 36)
991
-
 AM 31
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
325
-
 AF 75
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
1009
-
 AM 32
1232
-
 Op(AJ 67)
 
396
-
 AF 82
825
-
 AO 41
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1233
-
 AN 24
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
843
-
 AL 34
1053
-
 Op(AK 69)      
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)                  
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 296 - 396 - 722 - 773 - 991 - 1200 - 1202 - 1223 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  - . -
       
- 780 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  Sailed:  (U 1233 - Bergen).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
     Colombo announced:
     0011 British steamer (VR 50 Y) reported submarine and torpedo track sighted in 150 46' N., 820 10' E.  (MT 2830).
    Enemy units were located in:  AF 7320 - AM 1160 - 8740 - 1460 - AN 1360 - BF 7217 - 7440 - 1230 - CF 1230.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 396 reported that she was 30 hours off the rendezvous for the run-in to Trondheim.
    2) The present operational situation in the west renders weather reports less urgently necessary.  So U 870 is proceeding farther into the original operational area (Gibraltar) and will continue to make weather reports until the night of 20/21-12.
  c)  None.
  d) 1) The short report made by U 978 shows that the boat picked up small convoys and single ships each day.  Despite constant appearance of search groups, anti-submarine measures were comparatively ineffective.  Shallow water and the poor listening conditions there are the best protection against anti-submarine measures, boat was never picked up.  Commanding Officer's opinion of operational area:  Very favorable operational area with good prospects.
    2) Short report made by U 1003 showed the boat had merely been in AM 5360/90 and 6140/70.  As a convoy was picked up only once (submarine did not close in because of darkness), there is a possibility that shipping passed the submarine while hugging the coast to the south.
       
- 781 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      F.d.U. West had been requested to check up most carefully why the boat did not push on S.E. to the point where convoy routes converge, or south to the shipping routes notified by radio.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
18.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KK 78
U 485
-
 BF 12
U 863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
U 1055
-
 AF 74
 
195
-
 KT 35
486
-
 BF 15
864
-
 AO 16
1172
-
 AO 16
 
196
-
 KL 72
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
869
-
 AL 69
1200
-
 AF 78
 
244
-
 AE 69
650
-
 AM 26
870
-
 Op(BE 47)
1202
-
 AM 72
 
248
-
 AM 46
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1209
-
 BF 16
 
278
-
 AF 78
722
-
 AL 99
877
-
 AL 18
1223
-
 AF 73
 
296
-
 AE 68
739
-
 AF 58
905
-
 AF 74
1227
-
 CF 33
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1228
-
 AK 03
 
312
-
 AF 76
773
-
 AL 99
991
-
 AN 32
1230
-
 Op(BA 98)
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
775
-
 Op(AM 36)
1009
-
 AM 31
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
325
-
 AF 74
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1232
-
 Op(AJ 67)
 
396
-
 AF 58
825
-
 AO 16
1053
-
 Op(AL 69)
1233
-
 AN 87
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
843
-
 KL 28            
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 296 - 396 - 722 - 773 - 991 - 1200 - 1202 - 1223 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 907 - 1017 - 1051 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
     15th Group:  0924 oil patch sighted in AM 9755.
     At 1922 Colombo passed the submarine sighting report made by the American steamer "KE 2 JN", who had sighted a submarine in MQ 4438 at 1855.
     At 1740 the American steamer "WW 2 BB" reported from MT 5163 that she had sighted a torpedo track, and at 1945 "No damage, no further contact".
    Enemy units were located in:  AM 7190 - 7198 - AN 8764 - 1690 - BE 6330 - BF 2670 - 2520 - 4270.
       
- 782 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d) High priority Radio Intercept:  At 1737 Plymouth broadcast that "Ostrehaven" (not listed) was damaged 1 1/2 miles south of "Beer Head" (BF 2353), she has survivors from "Isbjoern" on board.  Four other vessels were ordered to render assistance.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) On 17.12. at 2300 Channel Isles reported continued firing of star shell in BF 2656.  On 18.12. from 2300-0047 noises of heavy diesel engine heard in BF 3541.
    2) U 278 arrived at Bergen to repair main periscope, hydroplane motor and lead.
    3) U 1232 was instructed to continue cruise.  Boat has been given a free hand in the whole Newfoundland area, according to own choice to operate against shipping concentration points.
    4) U 877 relieved U 870 as meteorological boat and manned BD 2657 to a depth of 200 miles.  Despite repeated call-ups on all radio services the boat has not replied.
  c)  U 181 was requested to meet U 843 to refuel her as U 196 was not available.  She suggested a rendezvous at dusk on 20.12. in KL 6555.  Despite instructions to take over as much fuel as possible, it will probably be necessary to carry out a second refueling in mid-Atlantic.  U 843 has been instructed to report how much more fuel she requires, if she cannot make Bergen after being supplied by U 181.  Boat is to proceed at most economical cruising speed as another refueling in mid-Atlantic would greatly endanger the boat.
  d) 1) At present U 680 - 322 - 772 are off Cherbourg, 3 more boats (U 485 - 1209 - 486) are on their way there.  No special attack areas will be allocated.  Cherbourg is the focal point for all boats, as the greatest chance of picking up and attacking shipping is in this area.  Submarines are to utilize the experience gained by the boats who were stationed here earlier when they operate against shipping concentrations that they themselves observe.
    2) About 2300 on 18.12. there was an attack on Gdynia, which involved violation of Swedish territory.  The Gulf of Danzig was also mined again.  Damage to submarines:  Submarine depot ship "Waldemar Kophamel" was sunk.  Casualties among the crew.  Assembly ship "Leverkusen" sunk, U 2512 (type XXI boat, intended for operational use, was about to begin tactical exercises) was badly damaged.
 
 
 
- 783 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      Although the attack was comparatively light, there was major damage, as harbor was overfull at the time.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
19.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U181
-
 KM 44
U 485
-
 BF 15
U 863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
U 1051
-
 AO 47
 
195
-
 KU 13
486
-
 BF 16
864
-
 AO 16
1053
-
 Op(AK 69)
 
196
-
 KU 10
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
869
-
 AE 68
1055
-
 AF 77
 
244
-
 AE 68
650
-
 AM 25
870
-
 BD 64
1172
-
 AO 16
 
248
-
 AM 46
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1200
-
 AF 79
 
278
-
 AF 21
722
-
 AL 96
877
-
 AL 42
1202
-
 AM 47
 
296
-
 AE 69
739
-
 AF 81
905
-
 AF 77
1223
-
 AF 76
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
907
-
 AO 47
1227
-
 BE 86
 
312
-
 AF 78
773
-
 AL 96
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1228
-
 AL 17
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
775
-
 Op(AM 36)
991
-
 AF 77
1230
-
 Op(BA 99)
 
325
-
 AF 77
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
1009
-
 AM 33
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
396
-
 AF 91
825
-
 AO 41
1017
-
 AO 47
1232
-
 AJ 83
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
843
-
 KL 53
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1233
-
 AN 24
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 278 - 296 - 396 - 722 - 773 - 991 - 1200 - 1202 - 1223 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  U 396 - Trondheim.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
     
15th Group: 0637 probable submarine location by plane "348 W 15", preparations made to attack, position not specified, 0642 patrol continued.
  1352 a plane based on Iceland cancelled submarine sighting.  Search resumed.
  0230 probable submarine location with preparations for attack by a plane based on the Azores, position unspecified.
Azores: 0245 surfaced boat, course 2800, speed 10 knots, spotted by plane based on Azores, position unspecified (probably U 870 in CF 21).
       
- 784 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     Enemy units were located in:  AK 3940 - AM 7770 - 6120 - BF 4290 - 3160 - 2770 - BD 6549.
  d) At 1930 Portishead repeated Admiralty instructions for English steamer "Letitia" (13,595 GRT) to continue to Southampton via Falmouth.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 775 reported from AF 79 that she was coming in.  Boat had to turn back from operational area east of Cape Wrath because of engine trouble.  Sunk, one AJ-class destroyer.
    2) U 739, intended for attacks against carriers off Scapa Flow, had to return to Trondheim because her port Diesel had broken down.
    3) Because of repeated location and sighting reports from planes based on the Azores, U 870 has been instructed to send no more weather reports.
    4) U 877, who was to have manned the southern weather report area, has not reported today either.  Thus U 248 has not been directed to the Channel operational area, and if necessary will be used as substitute for U 877.
  c)  None.
  d) 1) According to an enemy radio broadcast report early on 18.12., U 1209 ran onto rocks off Wolf Rock Lighthouse.  Boat then surfaced and the crew took to rubber dinghies.  The boat must be assumed lost, as according to dead reckoning she was in this area.  Although the crew apparently had sufficient time to destroy confidential books, the key-word will be altered at 1200 on 21.12.  Besides this, U 181 and U 843 have instructions to make their rendezvous with greatest caution.
    2) Channel Isles reported bright glare of fire in BF 3521 between 1730 and 1735, no further observation was possible because of mist.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 775 1 destroyer.  
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
 
- 785 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
20.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KL 66
U 486
-
 BF 24
U 863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
U 1051
-
 AO 48
 
195
-
 KK 95
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
864
-
 AO 16
1053
-
 Op(AK 69)
 
196
-
 KL 72
650
-
 AM 29
869
-
 AE 67
1055
-
 AM 32
 
244
-
 AE 68
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
870
-
 CF 21
1172
-
 AO 16
 
248
-
 AM 49
722
-
 AL 92
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1200
-
 AF 87
 
278
-
 AN 24
739
-
 AF 57
877
-
 AL 45
1223
-
 AF 79
 
296
-
 AE 69
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
905
-
 AF 32
1227
-
 BE 82
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
773
-
 AL 92
907
-
 AO 48
1228
-
 AL 23
 
312
-
 AN 21
775
-
 AF 79
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1230
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
991
-
 AF 77
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
325
-
 AM 32
825
-
 AO 16
1009
-
 AM 26
1232
-
 AJ 86
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
843
-
 KL 56
1017
-
 AO 48
1233
-
 AN 24
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1202
-
 AM 44
 
485
-
 BF 16                  
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 278 - 296 - 722 - 739 - 773 - 775 - 991 - 1200 - 1202 - 1223 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  (U 278 - Bergen).
  Sailed:  U 285 - 1233 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
     
19th Group:
1950
 plane (LKX 73) reported, "Am over enemy submarine, course 800, speed 4 knots (position unintelligible), have contact with Gonio buoy".
 
0619
 probable submarine location with preparation for attack.  Position unintelligible.
 
0645
 "Am over enemy submarine (position unspecified), course 850, 2 knots.  Have contact with Gonio buoy, first picked up when 4 miles off.  Submarine remained submerged so long that no successful attack could be made".  (Direction finder station Husum got a bearing on a plane of 2530 at 0657).
     Enemy units were located in:  AL 2637 - AM 9750 - AN 1510 - BE 2238 - BF 2768 - BD 5141.
  d)  At 1335 Alderney reported loud explosions at sea in a northerly direction, nothing seen.  Visibility 12 miles.  At 1512 more heavy explosions somewhere to the east (possibly on land).
       
- 786 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 248 has been instructed to continue cruising as far as BF 14 for the present and if she had already reached it, to remain there.  It was intended that the boat should operate in the Channel, but if no message is received from U 877 during the coming night, she will have to be used as southerly meteorological boat.
    2) U 650, with experienced commander, has been allocated the Channel as operational area, with focal point off Cherbourg and Seine Bay.
    3) According to dead reckoning U 1230 must have landed the agent during this new moon period (15.12.) and should now be in the operational area off Halifax.
  c)  As no report has been received, it is assumed that U 181 refueled U 843 yesterday at dusk.
  d)  General in command of G.A.F. in Norway has requested that 2 submarines shall be stationed permanently in the northern part of the North Sea so that they can pick up and report approaching enemy air forces out to attack Norwegian supply lines, so that own fighters can be sent out in good time.  The request has been refused on the following grounds:
    1) We recognize the need to pick up approaching aircraft in good time, so that own fighters ca cover the Norwegian supplies.
    2) But it is not feasible to use submarines for this task.  Boats in the areas mentioned cannot remain on the surface; even when they come up for a short time, they are certain to be picked up by enemy planes, attacked and forced to submerge.  Thus, they cannot send off their reports.  Even if the submarines managed to remain on the surface they would have to beat off enemy planes and, as all previous experiences have shown, would soon be destroyed.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
       
 
 
 
- 787 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
21.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KM 63
U 486
-
 Op(BF 26)
U 863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
U 1051
-
 AO 48
 
195
-
 KL 71
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
864
-
 AO 16
1053
-
 Op(AK 69)
 
196
-
 KL 72
650
-
 Op(AM 43)
869
-
 AE 83
1055
-
 AM 31
 
244
-
 AE 91
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
870
-
 CF 23
1172
-
 AO 16
 
248
-
 AM 76
722
-
 AM 45
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1200
-
 AN 23
 
285
-
 AF 87
739
-
 AF 91
877
-
 AL 45
1202
-
 AM 01
 
296
-
 AF 47
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
905
-
 AM 31
1223
-
 AN 23
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
775
-
 AN 23
907
-
 AO 48
1227
-
 BE 57
 
312
-
 AN 26
773
-
 AM 45
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1228
-
 AL 31
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
991
-
 AF 78
1230
-
 Op(BB 75)
 
325
-
 AM 31
825
-
 AO 16
1009
-
 AM 26
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
843
-
 KM 64
1017
-
 AO 48
1232
-
 BC 31
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1233
-
 AF 87
 
485
-
 Op(BF 25)                  
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 296 - 722 - 739 - 773 - 775 - 991 - 1200 - 1202 - 1223 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  U 793 - Trondheim;  (U 1233 - Bergen).
  Sailed:  U 735 - 1235 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  None.
     Enemy units were located in:  AF 7936 - AM 7929 - 6830 - BE 2436 - BF 4714 - 2671 - CF 2236 - CG 2971.
     0619 submarine location by plane of 19th Group.
     0645 plane was over enemy submarine in unspecified, but probably the same, position, course 850, speed 2 knots.  "Have contact with Gonio buoy.  First picked up at a range of 4 miles.  Submarine remained submerged so long that no successful attack could be made".
  d) Sea Commandant, Channel Isles, reported:  Brisk activity during the night of 19/20.12. in BF 2660, 3540, 3510:  Surface vessels and aircraft, gun flashes, searchlights, light and anti-aircraft fire from the sea, a fire observed.  Fierce anti-submarine search assumed.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 244 has turned back because of trouble with her Schnorchel and telemotor system.  She reported that she was making for Bergen.
       
- 788 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) As weather reports from U 877 can no longer be expected, U 248 has been given a new approach point BE 11.  She is already off the S.W. tip of Ireland according to dead reckoning and is intended for operations in the Channel.  As U 1053 has announced that she is returning on 28.12., U 1009 is making for AL 19.  Both boats will make a short weather report three times daily after they have passed 180 West.
    3) U 1233 is returning for the second time because of Schnorchel trouble and is running in to Bergen.
  c)  None.
  d) Because of the fierce anti-submarine activity observed recently in the sea area off the Channel Isles, the request made by Sea Commandant Channel Isles for permission to fire at the submarine chasers on radar data has been sanctioned even though submarines are presumably in the neighborhood.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
22.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KM 15
U 486
-
 Op(BF 26)
U 863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
U 1051
-
 AO 41
 
195
-
 KL 49
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
864
-
 AO 16
1053
-
 Op(AK 69)
 
196
-
 KL 49
650
-
 AM 56
869
-
 AE 85
1055
-
 AM 24
 
244
-
 AE 83
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
870
-
 CF 26
1172
-
 AO 16
 
248
-
 AM 79
722
-
 AM 72
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1200
-
 AN 28
 
285
-
 AF 79
735
-
 AO 72
877
-
 AL 45
1202
-
 AM 18
 
296
-
 AF 72
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
905
-
 AM 24
1223
-
 AN 28
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
773
-
 AM 72
907
-
 AO 41
1227
-
 BE 54
 
312
-
 Op(AN 16)
775
-
 AN 24
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1228
-
 AL 32
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
991
-
 AF 79
1230
-
 Op(BB 75)
 
325
-
 AM 24
825
-
 AO 16
1009
-
 AM 25
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
843
-
 KL 82
1017
-
 AO 41
1232
-
 BC 24
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1235
-
 AO 72
 
485
-
 Op(BF 26)                  
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 296 - 722 - 773 - 775 - 991 - 1200 - 1202 - 1223 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  U 775 - Bergen.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
       
- 789 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) U-boat sightings:
   
18th Group:
0110
 "Am investigating suspicious object, wake or eddy" (position unspecified, then 4 unreadable groups were sent).
 
0300
 plane reported nothing found.
    Enemy units were located in:  AE 7696 - AF 7272 - 7691 - 7698 - 7667 - 7696 - AK 3641 - AL 9714 - 7170 - AM 4780.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 1232 has been allocated BB 75 as attack area with focal point off Halifax, as the lateness of the season will spoil the chances of operating off St. Johns or in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.  Three submarines should now be off Halifax (U 806, 1230 and 1231).  Full shipping movements will be radioed.  Also to U 870 (Gibraltar).
    2) U 1223 has reported that she is making for Cristiansand, boat had been operating in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
  c) None.
  d) The following radio message was sent to the boats in East Asia:
    U 196 left Djakarta at the end of November heading west.  She was ordered to return on 1.12. and has been asked to give her position on several occasions, but she has not replied.  She was probably sunk by a submarine shortly after she left port.
    Attention of all boats is again drawn to the great danger from submarines, especially off narrow channels and harbors.  The greatest caution is necessary.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
23.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KA 87
U 486
-
 Op(BF 35)
U 864
-
 AO 16
U 1051
-
 AO 16
 
195
-
 KL 52
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
869
-
 AE 85
1053
-
 Op(AK 69)
 
196
-
 KU 20
650
-
 AM 49
870
-
 CF 37
1055
-
 AM 26
 
244
-
 AN 23
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
871
-
 op(MQ 40)
1172
-
 AM 36
 
       
- 790 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
248
-
 AM 78
722
-
 AM 01
877
-
 AL 45
1200
-
 AN 29
 
285
-
 AF 78
735
-
 AO 47
905
-
 AM 26
1202
-
 AM 18
 
296
-
 AF 76
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
907
-
 AO 16
1223
-
 AN 31
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
773
-
 AM 01
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1227
-
 BE 43
 
312
-
 Op(AN 13)
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
991
-
 AF 79
1228
-
 AE 87
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
825
-
 AO 16
1009
-
 AM 16
1230
-
 Op(BB 75)
 
325
-
 AM 26
843
-
 KL 75
1017
-
 AO 16
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)
1018
-
 AO 16
1232
-
 BC 19
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1235
-
 AO 47
 
485
-
 Op(BF 26)                  
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 244 - 296 - 722 - 773 - 991 - 1200 - 1202 - 1223 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  U 244 - Bergen.
  Sailed:  U 682 - Kiel;  U 313 - Trondheim;  (U 1172 - Kristiansand).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  None.
    Enemy units were located in:  BF 2810 - 2420.
  d)  0942 unidentified ship was torpedoed off Cherbourg, or struck a mine.  40 survivors were landed at Cherbourg.  (Only a submarine success is possible).
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 296 reported that she was making for Stavanger.
    2) U 248 and U 1004 are manning BD 5664 and AK 6164 respectively, to a depth of 200 miles for the purpose of making weather reports.  No message received from U 877.
  c)  None.
  d) A correction to Operational Order Channel No. 2 was radioed to the boats:
    Delete paragraph "Advantages" in Serial Order 30 and substitute the following remark in pencil:
    "During the night of 19/20 and of 21/22 December the island garrison observed strong enemy anti-submarine activity north of Alderney (pursuit with depth charges).  It was not always possible to shell these units on radar data.
       
- 791 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     Thus:  Do not re-charge off the Channel Isles, especially north of Alderney except in very grave emergency".
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
24.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KA 83
U 486
-
 Op(BF 35)
U 863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
U 1051
-
 AO 16
 
195
-
 KL 26
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
864
-
 AO 16
1053
-
 Op(AK 69)
 
196
-
 KU 20
650
-
 AM 76
869
-
 AE 87
1055
-
 AM 27
 
248
-
 AL 99
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
870
-
 CF 38
1172
-
 AN 31
 
285
-
 AF 77
682
-
 AO 72
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1200
-
 AN 29
 
296
-
 AN 23
722
-
 AM 18
877
-
 AL 45
1202
-
 AM 25
 
297
-
 Op(AM 15)
735
-
 AO 44
905
-
 AM 27
1223
-
 AN 35
 
312
-
 Op(AM 15)
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
907
-
 AO 16
1227
-
 BE 19
 
313
-
 AF 59
773
-
 AM 18
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1228
-
 AE 85
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
991
-
 AF 79
1230
-
 Op(BB 75)
 
325
-
 AM 27
825
-
 AO 16
1009
-
 AM 17
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
843
-
 KK 98
1017
-
 AO 16
1232
-
 BC 42
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1235
-
 AO 44
 
485
-
 Op(BF 26)                  
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 296 - 722 - 773 - 991 - 1200 - 1202 - 1223 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  U 1223 - Kristiansand.
  Sailed:  U 1233 - 278 - Bergen;  (U 1235 - 735 - Horten).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
     
19th Group: At 1034 probable submarine location with preparations for attack, only periscope sighted, position unintelligible (probably Channel area).
  At 1037 and 1044 the same plane sighted a periscope in unintelligible position.
  At 1425 submarine location with preparations for attack in AM 9885 (U 400).
    Enemy units were located in:  AM 2430 - 5170 - 2490 - 2595 - BE 4460.
       
- 792 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d) 1) Radio Intercept Intelligence:  At 1150 on 23.12. unidentified unit reported to Cherbourg that a ship had been hit within 3 minutes near Buoy H 10 (convoy route H, Isle of Wight - Cherbourg).  (See also War Diary for 23.12. paragraph III c).
    2) On 24.12. at 1757 an unidentified ship was torpedoed according to Radio Intercept Intelligence (probably Channel area).
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - c) None.
  d) 1) According to a short report from U 1223 the boat found a whole lot of enemy targets (convoys and single ships) in BA 38, also in BB 18.  Commander assessed the operational area as promising, as shipping is regular and there is little anti-submarine activity.
    2) Information Report No. 203 was radioed to all boats:
     
i) According to an English broadcast a German submarine ran on rocks south-west of England near "Wolf-Rock" and sank.  The report is considered reliable.
ii) Only by painfully exact navigation can such accidents and losses be avoided.  Navigation off enemy coasts is more difficult than navigation in the Baltic.
iii) As astronomical fixes must not be taken in enemy coastal waters, the fullest use must be made of terrestrial navigation; very precise dead reckoning, taking into account the current as shown in the current atlas; and sounding (line of soundings).
      Basic principle:  If exact position is not known, always assume that the boat is in the most unfavorable position possible, and in navigationally dangerous waters proceed with appropriate caution.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
25.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KA 61
U 482
-
 Op(AM 64)
U 843
-
 KU 72
U 1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
 
195
-
 KL 33
485
-
 Op(BF 35)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)
1051
-
 AO 16
 
196
-
 KU 26
486
-
 Op(BF 35)
863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1053
-
 Op(AK 66)
 
248
-
 AL 98
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
864
-
 AO 16
1055
-
 AM 29
 
278
-
 AF 87
650
-
 AM 79
869
-
 AL 31
1172
-
 AN 31
 
       
- 793 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
285
-
 AN 11
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
870
-
 CF 38
1200
-
 AN 29
 
296
-
 AN 31
682
-
 AO 44
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1202
-
 AM 24
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
722
-
 AM 16
877
-
 AL 45
1227
-
 BE 12
 
312
-
 Op(AN 15)
735
-
 AO 16
905
-
 AM 29
1228
-
 AE 83
 
313
-
 AF 58
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
907
-
 AO 16
1230
-
 Op(BB 75)
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
773
-
 AM 16
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
325
-
 AM 29
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
991
-
 AN 23
1232
-
 BC 48
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
825
-
 AO 16
1009
-
 AL 03
1233
-
 AF 87
             
1017
-
 AO 16
1235
-
 AO 16
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 296 - 722 - 773 - 991 - 1200 - 1202 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  U 296 - Stavanger.
  Sailed:  U 315 - Trondheim.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
   
1) 15th Group: Submarine location at 1535.
    1615 "Over surfaced submarine.  Have contact with Gonio buoy.  Course 2200, speed 7 knots.  Longitude 060 15' West, latitude not intelligible."
    1902 location of supposed submarine in unintelligible position, preparations for attack.
2) 19th Group: 1125 "Over diving submarine, course 450, 4 knots, in 510 19' North, longitude not intelligible."
3) Shore radio station reported unidentified radar target at 2110, 3450, 1 1/2 miles from Cap de la Hague.
4) At 0818 report of sighting a periscope by an unidentified steamer near Ceylon (Japanese submarine).
     English units were located in:  CG 7380 - AO 4165 - AM 9770 - 7750 - BE 2890 - 2420.
  d)  At 1830 on 23.12. midget submarines near an unidentified buoy off the Scheldt Estuary.
     Unidentified vessel was not able to attack the midget submarine because the water was too shallow.
       
- 794 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 991 (leaving English or Bristol Channel) reported that she was entering Bergen after operating for 10 weeks, as she had trouble with her Schnorchel and anti-aircraft armament.  No details about the operation are yet available.
    2) U 195 has reported that she will enter Djakarta on 25.12.
  c)  None.
  d) 1) The short torpedo report made by U 123 shows that on 14.10. she torpedoed a steamer in BA 3598 as well as the destroyer already reported.  Sinking was most likely, as noises were audible in the submarine.  The report shows that the boat sighted 3 convoys and 3 single ships in the St. Lawrence River and had hydrophone bearings on vessels 7 to 10 times.  The boat was able to fire on only one convoy and one single ship.  If she had been a type XXI boat (high speed), she would definitely have overtaken all the vessels sighted, and would very probably have overtaken the targets on which hydrophone bearings had been obtained.  Also the chances of attacking the convoy could have been handled in quite different manner.  A type XXI boat would have scored a much greater success under these conditions.
    2) Submarine base Penang asked the latest date for non-Schnorchel boats from East Asia area to start their homeward journey, to be able still to proceed through the Iceland Passage despite the advanced season (daylight).
      B.d.U. replied:  The end of August is the latest date for non-Schnorchel boats to pass the Iceland Passage with a daily run of 120 - 125 miles, i.e. they must leave Djakarta at the latest by the middle of January, large boats with higher daily run can leave later.
      B.d.U. assumes that U 181, 510 and 532 will leave by the 15th of January.
      According to this, U 537 and U 183 will not be joining them.  A decision on the use of U 183 until she begins her return journey will be taken when she has completed a change of battery.
      The 3 boats singled out for return are to do everything to be ready to leave by 15.1., even if this entails delay for the other boats.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 1223 1 steamer 5,000 GRT.  
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
    
 
 
 
- 795 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
26.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KL 74
U 485
-
 Op(BF 35)
U 863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
U 1051
-
 AO 16
 
195
-
 KA 77
486
-
 Op(BF 35)
864
-
 AO 16
1053
-
 Op(AK 03)
 
196
-
 KU 26
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
869
-
 AL 24
1055
-
 AM 43
 
248
-
 AL 97
650
-
 BE 33
870
-
 CF 62
1172
-
 AN 28
 
278
-
 AN 27
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1200
-
 AN 29
 
285
-
 AM 32
682
-
 AO 16
877
-
 AL 45
1202
-
 AM 31
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
722
-
 AM 23
905
-
 AM 43
1227
-
 AL 84
 
312
-
 Op(AN 15)
735
-
 AO 16
907
-
 AO 16
1228
-
 AE 83
 
313
-
 AF 81
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1230
-
 Op(BB 75)
 
315
-
 AF 59
773
-
 AM 23
991
-
 AN 28
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
1009
-
 AL 37
1232
-
 BC 47
 
325
-
 AM 01
825
-
 AO 16
1017
-
 AO 16
1233
-
 AF 76
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
843
-
 KT 39
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1235
-
 AO 16
 
485
-
 Op(AM 64)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 680 - 722 - 773 - 991 - 1200 - 1303 - 1227 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  U 682 - Horten;  U 991 - 1227 - Bergen.
  Sailed:  U 764 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
     
19th Group:
1311
 probable periscope in BF 2385.
 
2159
 and 2206 submarine location and preparations for attack, course 3100, 4 knots.  Plane reported to Plymouth that it had contacted a radio beacon buoy at the first sighting.
     At 2022 Colombo broadcast a submarine sighting report in LD 55.
     Enemy units were located in:  AL 9560 - 3390 - 9490 - 3490 - AM 5530 - BE 2160 - 3690.
  d)  According to Radio Intercept Intelligence 2 ships were torpedoed at 1414 on 26.12. on the Isle of Wight - Cherbourg route.  Further reports of many badly wounded men and survivors.  Casquets also reported a drifting life boat from steamer "Leonville" (11,509 GRT), it was empty.  (Translator's note:  Penciled note on original suggests that name should be "Leopoldville").
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
       
- 796 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) 1) U 1020, 297 and 312 who are off Scapa Flow and U 28 and 313, who are on their way there have had their operational orders changed.  Attack on any target is now sanctioned, instead of only on cruisers and above, provided that the submarines have not been detected.
      The order was given as U 120 and 297 had already spent 20 days in the operational area and had apparently not been detected.  Hence it must be assumed that the submarines have not yet been able to attack any large targets.
    2) U 1228 reported from AF 8718 that she was making for port of destination.  The short report from U 991, who is returning home, shows that she spent 10 days in the Channel.  On 27.11. she fired a spread of three in BF 3525 at a 14,000 GRT passenger ship traveling alone with one destroyer, 3 explosions were heard, nothing observed, 2 hits assumed.  When returning on 15.12. sank a Liberty ship in AM 8883, she was in a convoy running into port.
  c)  None.
  d)  U 1227 entered Bergen without sending arrival report as radio had broken down.  Boat had not spent long in the operational area off Gibraltar, as she had been damaged by depth-charges in CG 9595.  B.d.U. had been very worried about the boat, as, according to an agent's report she had been sunk.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 991 1 ship
7,000 GRT
 
  1 ship
14,000 GRT
  torpedoed.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
27.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KL 55
U 482
-
 Op(AM 64)
U 843
-
 KT 61
U 1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
 
195
-
 KB 16
485
-
 Op(BF 35)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)
1051
-
 AO 16
 
196
-
 KU 20
486
-
 Op(BF 35)
863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1053
-
 Op(AK 38)
 
248
-
 AL 98
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
864
-
 AO 16
1055
-
 AM 46
 
278
-
 AN 21
650
-
 BF 11
869
-
 AL 24
1172
-
 AN 23
 
285
-
 AM 33
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
870
-
 CF 66
1200
-
 AN 29
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
722
-
 AM 24
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1202
-
 AM 12
 
312
-
 Op(AN 15)
735
-
 AO 16
877
-
 AL 45
1228
-
 AF 87
 
313
-
 AF 76
764
-
 AF 87
905
-
 AM 46
1230
-
 Op(BB 75)
 
315
-
 AF 58
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
907
-
 AO 16
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
773
-
 AM 24
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1232
-
 BB 93
 
325
-
 AM 42
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
1009
-
 AL 28
1233
-
 AF 73
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
825
-
 AO 16
1017
-
 AO 16
1235
-
 AO 16
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 680 - 722 - 773 - 1200 - 1202 - 1228.
       
- 797 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  (U 1227 - Bergen to Flensburg);  U 825 - 864 - Horten.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
     
19th Group:
1030
 suspicious object, probably a Schnorchel in 500 12' North, longitude West not intelligible.
 
2124
 probable submarine location with preparations for attack in BF 2367.
     Patrol plane (ECAP 10) in the sector patrolled by 18th Group made the following message twice at 1231:  "Am over surfaced submarine (position not intelligible).  Submarine dived for so long that effective attack is not possible".  The same radio message was repeated at 1530 by Cleeth to Reykjavik (possibly U 979).
    Enemy units were located in:  AM 4490, AF 7160 and CG 8286.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  As it may be assumed that conditions in the St. Lawrence River are growing steadily more difficult because of the advanced season (in previous years shipping was icebound from the end of November), U 1231 has been given a free hand off Halifax if possible.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
- 1 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
28.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KL 37
U 482
-
 Op(AM 64)
U 843
-
 KT 54
U 1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
 
195
-
 KB 25
485
-
 Op(BF 35)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)
1051
-
 AO 16
 
196
-
 KU 20
486
-
 Op(BF 35)
863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1053
-
 AK 03
 
248
-
 BE 13
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
864
-
 AN 33
1055
-
 AM 49
 
278
-
 AN 26
650
-
 BF 12
869
-
 AL 35
1172
-
 AF 79
 
285
-
 AM 24
680
-
 Op(BF 35)
870
-
 CG 47
1200
-
 AN 29
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
722
-
 AM 31
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1202
-
 AE 91
 
312
-
 Op(AN 15)
735
-
 AO 16
877
-
 AL 45
1228
-
 AN 23
 
313
-
 AF 76
764
-
 AF 79
905
-
 AM 49
1230
-
 Op(BB 75)
 
315
-
 AF 81
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
907
-
 AO 16
1231
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
322
-
 Op(BF 35)
773
-
 AM 31
979
-
 Op(AE 47)
1232
-
 BB 92
 
325
-
 AM 45
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
1009
-
 AL 28
1233
-
 AF 72
 
400
-
 Op(BF 22)
825
-
 AO 16
1017
-
 AO 16
1235
-
 AO 16
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 680 - 722 - 773 - 1053 - 1200 - 1202 - 1228.
  Entered Port:  U 1228 - Bergen;  U 195 - Djakarta;  (U 825 - 864 - Kristiansand).
  Sailed:  (U 907 - 1235 - 1017 - 1051 - Horten).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  
     
19th Group:
0720
 ASV location, probably submarine, in 530 06' North, 120 10' West (AM 7382).
 
0717
 surfaced submarine in AM 7367, course south, speed 10 knots.
 
1103
 "Am over enemy submarine in 530 29' North 110 24' West (AM 8111):  Have contact with Gonio buoy".
     Scottish area:  1140 very urgent tactical radio message, which suggests an encounter with the enemy.  This is the first case in this area for a long time, probably one of the submarines operating there has been detected.  The first boat has already spent 22 days in the area.
     Enemy units were located:  AL 6673 - 3370 - AM 7180 - CF 5643 - CG 8926.
  d) 1) At 1538 British merchant vessel sent alarm signal "SSS" (submarine warning) followed by
       
- 799 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      message:  Have struck a mine off Buoy "J" (there is a Buoy"J" off Cherbourg and Ostend).  There followed very urgent radio traffic in the Portsmouth area in which 11 units took part.
    2) At 1720 the submarine chaser group "Ozium" asked "Olivant":  "Do you know whether that was another torpedo?"  Reply:  "I don't think so, it may be an engine room explosion.
    3) So far, 2 lifeboats and 2 rafts from "Leopoldville" have been salvaged by Channel Isles.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 1230 reported position in BD 1755, returning, diving capacity limited.  No report on the operational area.
    2) U 1055 has been given the area off Milford as operational area.  She is to proceed there via either AM 8883 (as U 991 reported convoy traffic here), either via swept channel (AM 8934 and 9487) or very close inshore.  Operational area lies between the English declared area and the English coast.  Focal point about 6 miles west of St. Ann's Head.  If this area is not suitable for operations, or if no traffic is observed, the boat may go into the Irish Sea if she thinks fit.
    3) U 325 and U 905 have been allocated the area off Cherbourg as attack area.
    4) U 313 is to go to Scapa Flow and man the area west of AN 1539.  She makes the fifth boat in the area.
    5) As U 1009 has not yet begun to send weather reports, U 1053 will continue to send them on her return journey.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
29.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KL 33
U 485
-
 Op(BF 35)
U 862
-
 Op(JH 50)
U 1051
-
 AN 33
 
248
-
 Op(BE 12)
486
-
 Op(BF 35)
863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1053
-
 AL 18
 
278
-
 Op(AN 16)
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
864
-
 AN 36
1055
-
 AM 43
 
285
-
 AM 25
650
-
 BF 16
869
-
 AL 16
1172
-
 AF 78
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
680
-
 BF 25
870
-
 CG 72
1200
-
 AN 29
 
312
-
 Op(AN 15)
722
-
 AM 32
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1202
-
 AF 77
 
313
-
 AF 78
764
-
 AF 78
905
-
 AM 76
1230
-
 BD 17
 
315
-
 AF 81
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
907
-
 AN 33
1231
-
 Op(BB 50)
 
       
- 800 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
322
-
 BF 31
773
-
 AM 32
979
-
 AE 47
1232
-
 BB 86
 
325
-
 AM 72
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
1009
-
 AL 27
1233
-
 AF 47
 
400
-
 BF 22
825
-
 AN 36
1017
-
 AN 33
1235
-
 AN 33
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
843
-
 KT 48
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 322 - 400 - 680 - 722 - 773 - 979 - 1053 - 1200 - 1202 - 1230.
  Entered Port:  U 722 - Bergen;  U 907 - 1017 - 1051 - 1235 - Kristiansand.
  Sailed:  (U 825 - 864 - 1017 - 1051 - Kristiansand).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None
  c) U-boat sightings:
     
15th Group:
1055
 Schnorchel sighted in AM 7634 (U 325, 905, 1055 proceeding to the Channel).
18th Group:
0519
 probable Schnorchel sighted in AN 1682 (U 1020 and 278?).
19th Group:
0213
 submarine course 3000, speed 4 knots, sighted in BF 2632.
 
0213
 plane reported preparations for attack on submarine in BF 2633.
 
0425
 Schnorchel sighted in BF 2397 (probably same submarine).
     Enemy units were located in:  AL 9850 - AM 6410 - 5510 - BE 4130 - CD 6295.
  d) 1) Traffic was intercepted for the first time between 5 English submarines in the Yarmouth area and MTBs which were heard exchanging signal strengths.
    2) According to intercepted R/T traffic the Portsmouth destroyer group received important radio messages at 0905. 1335 brisk tactical R/T traffic dealing with carrying out of attacks.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 1202 reported situation in the Bristol Channel and Irish Sea:  Northern route.
       
- 801 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      (declared area) used by outward-bound convoys, coastal waters up to 10 miles used by single ships.  (Surfaced) to run through.  (Words in brackets guessed).
      Brisk traffic - convoys and single ships - strong day and night air patrols (longish piece of unreadable text).  Destroyers have little Asdic.
      Sunk:  4 steamers totaling 26,000 GRT in AM 9577 and 9255.  (Followed by longish, unreadable text, probably announcing that she was making for Bergen).
      Although this report was very corrupt, it shows that the boat found satisfactory conditions for attack in the operational area, (first operation in the Irish Sea).
      The report from U 1202 gives the following picture of the operations carried out in the Channel by the first 5 boats from home waters.
      U 978 and 991 returned from the Channel, U 1202 from the Bristol Channel.  All 3 boats scored good successes.
      U 1006 was lost on her outward journey (according to agent's report she struck a mine south of Ireland, but it is possible that she was sunk by a group of submarine chasers in the Shetland Channel).  B.d.U. is worried about U 1200, but if she goes steady on provisions she may yet make port.
    2) U 1230 reported that she dropped the agents on 30.11. as ordered.  Her diving capacity has been limited since 26.11., as part of the packing of the battery access hatch has been crushed in.
    3) U 864 reported after she had parted company with escort that her Schnorchel was not working properly.  She touched bottom when she tried to enter Farsund.  She intends to take on a pilot to enter Farsund.
    4) U 1055 (operating off Milford) has been told that return via the North Channel appears more favorable than the approach route (possibility of a longer stay in the operational area, favorable depths of water, no special defences are anticipated, great chances of success).
  c) The short report from U 219 shows that, according to orders, the boat was in EH 7586 at 2200 on 28.9 to refuel U 1062, who was homeward bound.  There was a large oil patch at the rendezvous.
 
 
 
- 802 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     Earlier, at 1600, a hydrophone bearing had been obtained on a Diesel, later heavy explosions were heard.  It is therefore probable that U 1062 was surprised and sunk by carrier-borne aircraft when lying surfaced by day at the rendezvous.
     Forty minutes after U 219 had surfaced she was attacked by a plane, probably a "Blackburn Suka" (a carrier-borne dive bomber).  The plane was shot down.  On the following day planes were sighted several times.  Submarine supposed that there was a group of carriers with a formation of submarine chasers in the center of the western part of EH.
  d) 1) Front-line Training Group Sub-station at Horten was attacked on 28.12. at 1945 by about 200 enemy planes.  On the previous day the harbor contained 8 serviceable boats, 1 boat in the dock.  Immediately before the attack 6 boats left port.  U 735 sank after a direct hit from a bomb.  Total loss.  So far 27 bodies have been recovered, 11 men are missing.
      U 682 was badly damaged by a hit near the bow.  It is doubtful whether she can be repaired.  Mines were laid in the harbor and the roads, no damage to the offices.
    2) London radio reported that the hospital ship "Amsterdam" had been sunk off Cherbourg - only possible by a submarine.
    3) The loss of U 877 (IXC boat) must now be assumed.  She left Cristiansand on 26.11. and entered the Atlantic by the Iceland Passage to act as meteorological boat in BD 26.  But, to date, she has not transmitted the weather reports as ordered.  There is no clue to cause of loss, place and date.  It must be assumed that she was sunk by aircraft at the beginning of December in the Iceland Passage.
    4) U 196, one of the "Monsun" boats (translator's note:  based on Penang), was lost off Djakarta.  The boat left on 30.11. to refuel U 510 and U 843 in the southern part of the Indian Ocean to enable them to return to home waters.  As U 510 had not left port, U 196 was recalled on the same day.  As she did not return, it was at first assumed that U 196 had not heard the radio message.  To clarify the position B.d.U. repeatedly asked U 196 to make a position report, but nothing has been received to date.  It is assumed that the cause of loss was an attack by enemy submarine off Djakarta on 30.11/1.12.
    5) U 869 has been allocated CA 53 as new approach position (off Philadelphia).
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 1202 4 ships 26,000 GRT.
U 219 1 plane  
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
 
- 803 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
30.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KA 16
U 485
-
 Op(BF 35)
U 863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
U 1051
-
 AN 36
 
248
-
 Op(BE 44)
486
-
 Op(BF 35)
864
-
 AN 35
1053
-
 AL 19
 
278
-
 Op(AN 16)
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
869
-
 AL 16
1055
-
 AM 87
 
285
-
 AM 27
650
-
 BF 24
870
-
 CG 76
1172
-
 AF 77
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
680
-
 BF 24
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1200
-
 AN 29
 
312
-
 Op(AN 15)
764
-
 AF 77
905
-
 AM 79
1202
-
 AF 78
 
313
-
 AN 12
772
-
 Op(BF 35)
907
-
 AN 36
1230
-
 BD 13
 
315
-
 AF 75
773
-
 AF 77
979
-
 AE 71
1231
-
 Op(BB 81)
 
322
-
 BF 26
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
1009
-
 AL 01
1232
-
 BB 85
 
325
-
 AM 76
825
-
 AN 35
1017
-
 AN 36
1233
-
 AE 69
 
400
-
 BF 21
843
-
 KT 93
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1235
-
 AN 36
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)            
 
  On Return Passage:  
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
     
15th Group:
0910
 suspicious object in BF 2429.
18th Group:
2245
 submarine location with preparations for attack in 580 27' North, longitude West not intelligible.
19th Group:
1010
 suspicious object in BF 2244.
 
1017
 submarine location in BF 3147.
 
1027
 submarine periscope in BF 3147.
     Patrol plane of formation "899" reported:  1733 probable submarine location with preparations for attack in AM 7698.
     Portsmouth broadcast:  0343 on 30.12. submarine reported in 490 North, 030 West, minutes not intercepted.
  d) 1) According to Radio Intercept Intelligence, brisk anti-submarine measures are being taken in the sea area round Scotland (probably off Scapa Flow).  One formation was ordered to
       
- 804 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      search in square "A", then in square "B".  (At present, 5 boats - U 278, 297, 312, 313, 1020 - to combat carriers).
    2) Channel Isles reported:  2300 very loud explosion with high column of fire S.W. Guernsey, at long range.
    3) High priority Radio Intercept Intelligence:  On 10.12. Seaforth broadcast a message from Commander-in-Chief Western Approaches for all ships in the Bristol Channel and Irish Sea:  Westbound single ships in the Bristol Channel en route for Milford Haven of harbors in the north must proceed immediately to Mumbles (AM 9941) or Barry Roads (AM 9958).
      Presumably one of the (German) submarines operating there has been observed.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) As two submarines from Northern Waters have arrived off Scapa Flow (U 278, 312) and 2 more are on the way (U 313, 315), the two Atlantic boats (U 297, 1020) at present there are being withdrawn.
      U 297 has been told to make for AM 3850 (Loch Ewe).
      U 1020 is proceeding to the South and has a free hand in the Firth of Moray (AN 1756).  IF this area is not favorable, boat is to operate off Aberdeen and Peterhead.
      Stations off Scapa Flow for boats from Northern Waters:
      U 278 and U 315 operational area S.E. of AN 1641,
      U 312 - 313 S.W. of AN 1539.
    2) As U 1230 has trouble in diving, she has been given permission to use the Straits of Denmark.  As this route is definitely patrolled very little, she will be able to proceed mainly surfaced.
    3) Channel:  According to dead reckoning based on fuel supplies the following will have to return:
     
After
27.12
 - U 680.  
"
29.12
 - U 322.  
"
30.12
 - U 400 (Bristol Channel).
"
31.12
 - U 772.  
 
 
 
- 805 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      Still in operational area:  U 650, U 485, U 486.
      En route:  U 325 and U 905.  U 285 is at present in AM 27, has been given AM 78 as fresh approach point, as operation is not yet fixed.
  c)  None.
  d) 1) B.d.U. is worried about U 869 and U 1009, as neither boat has yet made her passage report despite several requests.
    2) Information Radio Message No. 205 was radioed to all boats:
      A check on the few boats lost while cruising during the last few months shows that the percentage of IXC boats is greater than VIIC.
      The cause is not known, but it may be that the boats were lost through a break-down in the Schnorchel installation, or were forced to surface because of Schnorchel trouble and were then destroyed.
      Commanders of IXC boats must therefore pay very particular attention to careful training of the crew in the use of the Schnorchel, and to most careful operation and servicing.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
31.December 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 181
-
 KA 13
U 485
-
 Op(BF 35)
U 863
-
 Op(MQ 40)
U 1053
-
 AL 18
 
248
-
 Op(BD 63)
486
-
 Op(BF 35)
869
-
 AL 15
1055
-
 AM 88
 
278
-
 Op(AN 16)
537
-
 Op(JH 10)
870
-
 Op(CG 84)
1058
-
 AO 72
 
285
-
 AM 01
650
-
 Op(BF 25)
871
-
 Op(MQ 40)
1172
-
 AE 99
 
297
-
 Op(AN 15)
680
-
 BF 16
905
-
 BF 11
1200
-
 AN 29
 
302
-
 Op(AN 15)
764
-
 AE 99
907
-
 AN 32
1202
-
 AF 82
 
313
-
 Op(AN 13)
772
-
 BF 26
979
-
 AE 72
1208
-
 AO 72
 
315
-
 AF 75
773
-
 AF 79
1009
-
 AL 19
1230
-
 AK 88
 
322
-
 BF 25
806
-
 Op(BB 75)
1014
-
 AO 72
1231
-
 Op(BB 73)
 
325
-
 AM 79
825
-
 AN 23
1017
-
 AN 43
1232
-
 BB 84
 
400
-
 BF 13
843
-
 KS 94
1020
-
 Op(AN 16)
1235
-
 AN 36
 
482
-
 Op(AM 64)
862
-
 Op(JH 50)
1051
-
 AN 43
1233
-
 AE 68
 
  On Return Passage:  U 181 - 322 - 400 - 680 - 772 - 773 - 843 - 979 - 1053 - 1200 - 1202 - 1230.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  (U 907 - 1235 - Kristiansand).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
- 806 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)- b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:
     
15th Group:
1100
 periscope sighted in 510 25' North, longitude West nit intelligible.
 
1240
 Schnorchel sighted in AM 8772.
 
1346
 suspicious object in 500 47' North, longitude West not intelligible.
 
All sightings were made by planes of formation "899".
18th Group:
1300
 submarine in 590 23' North, longitude unintelligible.
 
1140
 suspicious object in AN 1817 upper edge, middle.
     Patrol plane belonging to formation "133" reported:
     1715 submarine in 500 54' North, longitude West unintelligible, course 3500, speed 6 knots (possibly U 482).  No attack possible as boat crash dived.
     Colombo broadcast the sighting of a submarine by an American steamer:  "0255 sighted what appeared to be a submarine to starboard in LC 1330".
     Enemy unit located in:  BF 1520.
  d) 1) Radio Intercept Intelligence:
      At 0330 an English unit in the Scapa Flow zone made an urgent operational radio message (contact with the enemy or danger of mines?) and it was mentioned in further urgent traffic from Scapa with tug "Freebooter" and other units.
      Presumably increased antisubmarine measures in area AN 16/17 (see also War Diary for 30.12. paragraph III d).
    2) Agent's report on 28.12:  A deep-laid minefield 30 miles S.E. of Fastnet Rock (southern Ireland).  Minelayer "Ployer" laid further mines off southern Ireland.  "Apollo" is probably returning to northern Ireland.  Boats have been warned.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 1009 (northern meteorological boat) made passage report from AK 62(?), until now she
       
- 807 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      was not audible when she transmitted radio messages via her aft jumping wire; forward wire unserviceable, not repaired until 31.12. because of the weather.  B.d.U. was very worried about her.  As she has now reported, U 1053 will cease to make weather reports.
    2) U 1202 reported that she was making for Bergen.  Direction finder apparatus, lead and anti-aircraft armament out of order.  Boat is in the inner leads in AN 2427.
      Boat repeated her situation report:  Sunk:  4 steamers totaling 26,000 GRT.
    3) U 297 has been allocated Loch Ewe as operational area and has been given full report on the situation there.  If she finds no traffic there, she may free lance.
      U 1020 has been given a full report of shipping off the east coast of Scotland.
  c) None.
  d) During the morning of 31.12. heavy air attack on ship yards in Hamburg.  Damage to submarines:
     
U 2532 (type XXI) total loss,
U 2537 sunk by the stern.
U 2530 (J.D.) direct hit, stern burnt out.
U 2515 (J.D.) on slipway, hit in fore compartment, fore compartment burnt out.
    Accommodation ship "Veendam" swamped and beached, superstructure burnt out, fire extinguished.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
       
                                                                 (Signed):  GODT.
                                                         For Officer in charge of U-boats,
                                                                Chief of Operations Division.
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
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Supreme Command of the Navy  
Second Division of Naval War Staff/B.d.U. Ops.  
Ref. No. 611.  
 
Staff H.Q. "Koralle".
 
5 January 1945.
   
 
 
Submarine situation on 1 January 1945
       
I. In commission on 1 December 1944:
411
  Commissioned:                   Type VIIC
2
    XVII
1
    XXI
19
  
    XXIII
7
 +)
29
     
440
  +) U 2339 was commissioned in November, but is taken into the December figure  
     
  Paid off:  Operational submarine U 547
                   School boats U 3, 6, 29
4
       
  Losses on operations: U 196, 365, 387, 479, 737, 877, 1200, 1209  
               in home waters U 416, 735, 2342
11
       
  In commission on 1 January 1945:  
425
       
         
II. Losses in December 1944:
 
  Atlantic:
 
 
Type VIIC:  
 U 1200, 1209
2
   
IXC:  
 U 877
1
   
IXD2:  
 U 196
1
           
  Northern Waters:        
 
Type VIIC:  
 U 737 (rammed), 365, 387
3
         
  Gulf of Finland:  
 
 
Type VIIC:  
 U 479
1
           
  Home Waters:        
 
  Type VIIC:  
U 416 (Schoolboat) rammed
1
      U 735 (operational boat)  
      sunk during air attack on Horten  
   
XXIII:  
 U 2342 (on trials) sunk on
      striking mine
3
       
11
       
       
III. Distribution of boats:
    
 
II
VII
VIIC
VIID
VIIF
IXB
IXC
IXD1
    
Combat
  -  
-
101
1
1
-
33
1
    
Trials
-
-
78
-
-
-
9
-
    
School
26
1
65
-
-
2
  -
-
    
 
26
1
244
1
1
2
42
1
    
 
 
 
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IXD2
XB
XVII
XXI
XXIII
Total
Foreign
Combat
6
1
-
-
-
144
2
Trials
4
1
5
58
27
182
-
School
-
-
-
4
1
99
3
 
10
2
5
62
28
425
5
 
     
 
 
During December 1944:    
following joined operational boats   +
14
(+ 11)
total increased by   +
14
(+ 13)
operational boats increased by   +
4
(+ 5)
number on trials increased by +)   +
12
(+ 9)
reduction in the number of school boats   -
2
(- 1)
       
  +) 1 type XXI and 1 type XXIII boat (U 2501 and 2339) transferred from trials to Warship Construction Acquaintance Detachment.
       
IV. Distribution of operational boats on 31 December 1944:
 
Atlantic
105
Northern Waters  
20
Torpedo supply boats  
1
Convoy protection off coast of Norway  
3
Gulf of Finland  
15
   
144
       
V. In the Atlantic during December 1944:
 
Daily average at sea  
51
of these in operational area  
17
en route  
34
of these, returning  
10
       
       
                                                                 (Signed):  GODT.
                                                                       For B.d.U.
                                                         Chief of Operational Division.
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
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