U-boat Archive - I-52 - Message Traffic

Transport Mission

28 December 1943	-	I-52 is commissioned
10 March 1944	-	Departed Kure
23 April 1944	-	Departed Singapore
22 June 1944	-	Rendezvoused with U-530
24 June 1944	-	Sunk by aircraft of USS Bogue
30 August 1944	-	Declared lost by Germany

Commander Uno Kameo

Key and notes to translated message forms

With great appreciation to cryptology historian/researcher Mr. Ralph Erskine


	Date of message	US Navy Security Classification	(unknown)

German date/time of transmission/serial # (Serial # was allocated when signal was being sent by shore station. A different serial # was given for each radio circuit (eg. Series 1 or 4, etc))	Group count (number of four letter cipher groups in original German signal)	Cipher indicator group showing which cipher was being used ( eg. Triton (Shark) or Bertok) and the group for obtaining message setting (starting position of rotor for that message)	Allied name assigned to U-boat radio circuit Series’ 1, 2 3, etc. were allied designations for various U-boat radio circuits. The circuits included the Ubootsküstenschaltung (for the Bay of Biscay and the northern approaches to the North Atlantic ), Irland (for U-boats in the north and middle Atlantic ), Amerika (for those in the north western Atlantic, central Atlantic and South American coast), Afrika (for the Indian Ocean ), and Diana and Hubertus. From time to time they were expanded and renamed (eg. Amerika I and II ).

From:

To:

Message text

Text within (( )) are US Navy translator's notes

Offizier ( ) was a form of doubly-enciphered Enigma. Additional plugboard settings were used, which were generally valid for 10 days in a given month.

Disguised Naval grid square reference, disguised using ‘Adressbuch’ (later captured from U 505)

US Time of intercept (GMT)

Frequency

US time and date of decrypt at Op-20-G



	U- I-52 C.O. Foehre, Tanne, Momi, Ginmatsu

	SUNK (XP) DATE POSITION BY WHOM
	KS 24 June 1944 15.16N - 39.55W A/C - VC-69
	from USS Bogue
	REFERENCE OR REMARKS V
	Scheduled to R/V U-530 on 22 June at 15N - 40W.
	24 June - USS Bogue attacked 2 U/B's considerable oil and debris. U-530 reported completing task on 23 June

	Cominch 251600 June '44
	Admiralty 261527 " "

	US Fleet anti-sub Bulletin - Oct '44
	2315/30/G August - declared lost by the Germans.

	RI: USN RI - knew that the R/V was to take place 22 to 24 June and that a Jap sub was enroute Western France.
	(by 10 June RI knew the R/V was to take place)

From:	Naval Attache, Berlin #963 ----I/30 August 1943
To:	Chief of Bureau of Military Affairs, Tokyo

1. The FLIEDER made a rendezvous today, the 30th, as scheduled, with the German ------.

2. Your serial #656. The Germans have asked, through Vice Admiral Wennecker, that our cargo submarines transport as much rubber, tin, and wolfram as space permits. Furthermore, we have agreed with the Germans to give the first of the above submarines the temporary name of "TANNE (MOMI), and the second "KIEFER" (MATSU).

Not available GZ Comment: Vice-Admiral Weddnecker is the German Naval Attache in Tokyo. (GZ/JNA#0261-C-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: The German vessel with which "FLIEDER" (I-8) made rendezvous is not further identified in traffic now available.

No indication of the actual sailing of "TANNE"(MOMI) has appeared in traffic, the last references available, dated 6 March respectively (ATLANTIC RI SUMMARIES, Part I, 281300/Q March, page 3, item 2, and 261300/Q March, page 1, item 3), having referred to articles and equipment to be shipped to Europe on board this submarine.

"KIEFER" (MATSU or I-29) is now returning to Japan from Lorient.

From:	Tokyo #929 2100/1 November 1943
To:	Naval Attache, Berlin
To:	Vice Admiral Abe.

1. In regard to the matter of the MOMI rendezvous, the following arrangements have been made between the Commander of the local submarine force and the Captain of the BOGOTA.

Please see that the Germans are duly informed.

(a) When the manner and time of the rendezvous have been decided they will be communicated to the BOGOTA. We expect it will be on 25 November at 1100 standard time of rendezvous locality. The MOMI will stand by three days and night at the rendezvous point while the BOGOTA searches for her and rendezvous with her. Radio will not be used to facilitate the meeting. If on account of this the rendezvous does not take place, the supply in the Atlantic will be (abandoned?).

(b) Although there was hope that the volume of the supply would be 200 tons, in view of the limitations imposed by the BOGOTA's (capacity?), it will be 150 tons.

(c) If the enemy should chance upon them during the fueling, they are to (proceed to a point?) bearing 250 degrees distant 200 (miles?) and at 1400 on the third day following meet again in the manner outlined in paragraph (a).

(over)



	(d) Both ships will, after they get underway, use Tokyo Communications Office for their communications.
	2. (a) The MOMI rendezvous point (may be?) altered somewhat after due consideration of the prospective weather and sea conditions.
	(b) Only the rendezvous will be effected at the MOMI rendezvous point; after they have sailed westward several days from that point, they will carry out the fueling. Although we tried to arrange it here for an extra margin of fuel to be put aboard to take care of emergencies, the Bogota's fuel supply limit is 150 tons per trip. But the MOMI will consume 160 tons of fuel before reaching the rendezvous point and it will take the BOGOTA eight days to prepare another 150 ton supply. So it becomes necessary to have a second fueling. Consequently, in addition to the position of the MOMI rendezvous point the possibility of a second fueling will be decided after preliminary decisions taken here.
	(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#9629-DI)
	(SUMM.171300/Q April 1944)
	GI-A COMMENT: Previous tentative identifications of the MOMI as the Japanese sub I-52 appear less likely in light of this message, unless MOMI is a cover name applied to certain classes of Japanese submarines engaged in Japan to Europe traffic. A message dated 6 March from Berlin to Tokyo requests Indian Ocean weather material sent to Germany via the MOMI.
	The BOGOTA is the 12300-ton German vessel recently engaged in refuelling submarines in the Indian Ocean area.

NON-CURRENT ITEM

From:	Chief of Bureau of Military #986 2300/1B November 1943
	Affairs, Tokyo
To:	Naval Attache, Berlin

While the MOMI was completing final preparations for its trip to Europe and was coming into the harbor at Penang, it was sunk in a position about thirty miles south of Penang at 0730, 13 November. (It is not known whether she struck a mine or was hit by a torpedo from an enemy submarine.) At present the survivors include a Lieutenant (j.g.) and eleven petty officers and men. (The only member of the European detachment who was aboard was Technical Lieutenant Commander Arima.) MATSU will operate as scheduled. Rear Admiral Koshima and Commander ---- Will be embarked on her. The detachment carried by the MOMI is scheduled to proceed to its post later via the AKIRA when preparations are complete.

GZ-A COMMENT: The sub referred to here as "MOMI" is not the I-52, which now bears that appellation. The "MOMI" in question was probably sunk by HMS TAURUS off Penang on 13 November 1943. One garbled message indicates that it might have been Italian, but no Italian sub has ever been reported lost off Penang during November. More probably it was the Japanese I-34, which left Singapore on 12 November, en route Penang. The exact date of its sinking is not known, but among the survivors were one junior lieutenant and 12 petty officers. The MATSU is the I-29 now returning to the Far East from Europe.

(SUMM 011300Q/June 1944)


PRA 89 158	17 DEC 1943	TOP SECRET ULTRA

KRIEGSMARINE BLN

((FROM: TOKYO))

((TO: BERLIN)) AUSL 3

# 2382 SECRET

REF: OUR 2023 SECRET

FINAL 'TANNE' MANIFEST FROM SHONAN:

1) TIN: 99 TONS FROM RO-539, 2010 BARS AND 26 CUT PIECES, 198 KG.

2) RUBBER: 80 TONS FROM RO 543, 3559 BALES, 63, 100 KG. 3769 PIECES, 16025 KG. LOOSE PELTS: 2408 KG.

2) WOLFRAM ORE: 15 TONS FROM ((RO)) 11143, 200 SACKS; FROM ((RO__ 11184, 100 SACKS.

4) QUININE 4 TONS FROM RO 542, 200 TONS.

5) OPIUM: 2 TONS FROM ((RO)) 5024, 40 CASES. TOTAL WEIGHT 198 TONS, ROUNDED OFF TO ((THE NEAREST)) 10000 KG.

NEW MSG E 2377 SECRET

TO: COMSUBS

MONSUN U/B'S EQUIPPED WITH 'TIBET' DATA BY PENANG.

2205/3/8/45

From:	Tokyo #024 1530/1 December 1943
Action:	Naval Attache, Berlin
To:	Vice-Admiral ABE

1. Although the problem of the relief ship for the MOMI is being considered, due to the war situation not allowing any leeway in available submarines, it is expected that a relief submarine can be despatched around March next year.

2. In reference to the rendezvous point of the MATSU with a German submarine prior to her entry into the Bay of Biscay, due to the situation in Azores and the FREZIA, it is considered necessary to change the rendezvous. Accordingly, make suitable arrangements.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#9074-DI)

GI-2 COMMENT: The relief ship for the MOMI is the I-52. It is not known what submarine was relieved of the task. ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, PART I, 071300/Q April, page 6, item 4. FREZIA is the I-8, which completed a round trip to Europe prior to 7 December 1943. See item above (GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#9018-DI)

ATL.RI SUMM. 091300Q/April, 1944

From:	Vice Chief of Naval General Staff, Tokyo #541 2000/25 January 1944
Action:	Naval Attache, Berlin

1. Locations of Japanese submarine now operating in the Indian Ocean are:

One submarine is in the area to the southwest of Ceylon Island.

One submarine will operate to the southeast of the Gulf of Oman until the first part of February(?).

From two to three submarines will be in the vicinity of Ceylon Island until the middle of February(?)

In the Bay of Bengal there are three submarines. I will inform you hereafter on future dispositions.

2. The I-52, which is relieving the MOMI, is expected to depart from Singapore in the latter part of March. As her cruising range is greater than the MATSU, it will probably be unnecessary for her to refuel enroute.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#8860-DI)

GI-2 COMMENT: From later messages it appears that the cover name MOMI is now being used to refer to the I-52. ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, Part I, 281300/Q March, page 3, item 2. (051300/Q APR.)

FROM:	BUMIL AFFAIRS, TOKYO 1540/7 FEBRUARY 1944
TO:	1 SOUTHERN EXPIDITIONARY FLEET
INFO:	R.N.O. SINGAPORE

SUBMARINE I-52 WILL DEPART KURE THE MIDDLE OF MARCH. WHILE SHE IS DOCKED AT SINGAPORE DESIRE YOU MAKE PREPARATIONS FOR HER DESPATCH TO GERMANY. ARRANGE SPACE FOR CARGO OF: 150 TONS )----), 80 TONS RUBBER, 40 TONS MISCELLANEOUS.

(FRUPAC/JN 090828-DI)

GI-2 COMMENT: THE I-52 IS A TRANSPORT CLASS JAPANESE SUB.

From:	Naval Attache Berlin 1540/6 March 1944
To:	Chief 3rd Section Naval General Staff (Tokyo)

1. Since requests have been made by the German Naval Operations Section to the effect that they wish to have sent by the earliest available transportation the Indian Ocean weather maps, weather reports and other weather reference materials of the Imperial Navy which are needed as operational data, it is requested that they be sent by the MOMI.

2. Regarding the question of the German Navy about enemy tonnage in the Pacific Area since the end of last year, I have frequently been asked about it but have made no answer. I have been repeatedly pressed by the Germans and am troubled about answering on my own responsibility. Please give some answer immediately.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#7880-DI)

GI-2 COMMENT: This message makes it appear probable that MOMI is the Japanese sub, I-52, which was to leave Kure the middle of March for Europe, stopping at Singapore enroute. (ATL.RI SUMM.281300/Q Mar.)

FROM:	CHIEF NAVAL INSPECTOR 1714/18 MARCH 1944
ACTION:	CHIEF OF GENERAL AFFAIRS DEPT. OF NAVAL TECHNICAL BUREAU.

ONE TORPEDO BOAT ENGINE, DAIMER TYPE-501, WHICH WAS FORWARDED AT THE END OF LAST YEAR, IS THE #3 ENGINE FROM AMONG FOUR ------. THE 1ST AND 2ND ENGINES, WHICH WERE RECEIVED HERE AND WERE SCHEDULED TO HAVE BEEN SENT ON THE YANAGI AT THE END OF YEAR BEFORE LAST, ARE BEING USED IN GERMANY FOR THE TIME BEING, AND THEREFORE, THERE IS NO REASON TO EXPECT A SHIPMENT NOW. OF COURSE, IF TRANSPORT IS POSSIBLE, IT IS SAID WE SHALL RECEIVER IMMEDIATELY FROM GERMANY COMPENSATING SUPPLIES IN RETURN. THEY HAVE JUST MANUFACTURED #4 ENGINE TOO, BUT THERE IS NO ROOM TO CARRY THIS ON THE MATSU. THERE BEING NO SPACE ON THE MOMI, FOR THE PRESENT AND THE NEXT FEW MONTHS, IT WILL BE IMPOSSIBLE TO SHIP IT. HOWEVER, IN REGARD TO THE ABILITY TO CONSTRUCT TYPE 5011, IT IS AS I SAID IN PARAGRAPH 5 OF GERMAN SMS 701. IF WE EXPECT TO RECEIVE THEM AT ALL, IT SEEMS THAT WE SHOULD USE THE ABOVE NUNAMATI ENGINES AND NEGOTIATE FOR A CHANGE OF #4 ENGINE INTO TYPE 5011 --------.

WE HAVE RECEIVED FREE FROM THE GERMAN NAVY VITAL PROPELLOR PLANS AND THEY ARE SCHEDULED TO ARRIVE AT THE SAME TIME IN SEPTEMBER.

COMMENT: THE MOMI AND THE MATSU APPEARING HERE ARE NAMES GIVEN TO JAPANESE SUBMARINES MAKING TRIPS TO EUROPE. A THIRD ONE IS CALLED SATSUKI.



	GI-2 COMMENT: MATSU, MENTIONED IN THE ITEM ABOVE, IS THE JAPANESE SUB I-29 WHICH LEFT THE FAR EAST FOR LORIENT IN JANUARY, 1944. THIS IS CONFIRMED BY THE FACT THAT MATSU IS THE JAPANESE WORD FOR "PINE", ONE OF THE GERMAN WORDS FOR WHICH IS "KIEFER". KIEFER WAS THE COVER NAME OF THE SHIP PROVISIONED BY THE BOGOTA IN THE INDIA OCEAN IN JANUARY. (ATL. R.I. SUMMARY, PT 1, 21 JANUARY, PG. 5, ITEMS 2 AND 3) THE MOMI MAY BE EITHER THE JAPANESE SUB WHICH REACHED EUROPE IN AUGUST, 1943 OR THE I-52, WHICH IS LEAVING KURE IN THE MIDDLE OF MARCH FOR EUROPE. THE FORMER POSSIBILITY SEEMS MORE LIKELY.

	(GZ/JN#7630-DI)

From:	Bureau of Military Affair Section 1314/10 April 1944
To:	R.N.O., Singapore
Info:	COMSUBRON 8
Action:	Commanding Officer I-52

Reference (x45339-unident) Serial #041638.

With regard to loading of 45 tons, confer with Germans at most practicable opportunity and do your best.

(FRUPAC/JN-201248June-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: While at Singapore the I-52 (MOMI) was to take on a cargo of 270 tons, including 80 tons of rubber. According to the referenced message, from the I-52, only 245 tons were actually going to be loaded, and in view of this fact the Captain suggested that an additional 45 tons could be loaded, making a total of 290 tons.

SUMMARY, 22 June 1944

From:	Captain of I-52 1638/4 April 1944
To:	COMSUBRON 8

As a result of consultation, the amount of cargo to be transported by (I-52) was decided on as 245 tons from 270 tons ordered. ----blanks----

The project appears to be comparatively easy and in the event that the above is carried out, will be able to load an additional 45 tons for a total of 290 tons. Request docking by --------- date.

(FRUPAC, JN-041228April-DI)

GI-P COMMENT: Sub I-52 was scheduled by a despatch on 7 February to depart Kure the middle of March for Singapore. While docked at Singapore she was to make preparations for a run to Germany with a cargo of 270 tons including 80 tons of rubber. TI of 13 and 14 March suggested she had been assigned to SUBRON 8. She was last placed by TI of 16 March enroute Takao from Sasebo.


	27 April 1944
	JAPANESE

	1. JNA 14. Blockade Running Submarines.

	270014/4. Message in JNA 14 with internal Serial Nr. 153 was intercepted on the Singapore S/M broadcast. No address call made, but presumably intended for blockade-running cargo-carrier S.M.I.-52. Our traffic first suggested this vessel outward-bound for Europe when she appeared as sole addressee likewise in a JNA 14 message intercepted 231529/4.


	(W.T.I./62. 27/4 - 4/5/44, sent to GI-P)


	(ZIP/W.T.I../61, 27th Apr. '44, p.2)

	V. JAPANESE
	1. Codes and Cyphers.
	a. JNA 14. Naval Attache Cypher
	Two messages intercepted on Singapore S/M broadcast, on 23/4 and 27/4 respectively. Traffic was addressed to Blockade-runner I-52 (see para. 2 below). This cypher is very rare and now used chiefly for blockade-runners.
	2. Blockade-Runner enroute to Europe.
	TOI 231529/4: The Blockade-runner I-52 (RO NU E) was shown to have left Malaya on her voyage to Europe, by a JNA 14 message addressed to her on Singapore submarine broadcast. Internal serial no. on first intercept was 011, but retransmission at 231934/4 had internal number 001.
	270014/4: A further JNA 14 message was intercepted with internal serial number 153. This message was repeated twice at 270028 and 270126. No address was made, but traffic was presumably intended for I-52.
	272210/4: On JN 40 message, TOO 271530, was addressed to I-52 (RO NU E). This signal may have been warning her of the presence of allied submarines in her vicinity. All these messages were transmitted on Singapore submarine broadcast.


PPA 11	30 APRIL 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	MR GB

((FROM: TOKYO))

((TO: BERLIN)) COMSUBS, 1ST NAVAL WAR STAFF, QU 3

PENANG WIRES FOR SO ONLY

-- OFFIZIER T --

68 FOR SO ONLY

JAP U/B ASSIGNED FOR REFUELLING DAMAGED BY MINE HIT. IS PROCEEDING TO SHONAN FOR REPAIRS. NO OTHER U/B AT PRESENT AVAILABLE. CONSEQUENTLY REFUELLING IN MAY NOT POSSIBLE BY JAP NAVY. REQUEST DECISION IMMEDIATELY IF ASSIGNMENT OF SCHNEEWIND IS ANTICIPATED, SO THAT HOSES MAY BE TRANSFERRED. WAR READINESS EXPECTED 2 MAY.

NEW MSG. E 1039 SECRET

TANNE LEFT PORT 20/4. CARGO IN TONS:

102 WOLFRAM

120 TIN

55 CRUDE RUBBER

((PAGE ONE OF TWO))


PPA 11	30 APRIL 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	MR GB
((CONTINUED))

3 QUININE

3 OPIUM

FURTHER 9821 KG MOLYBDENUM

58 KG CAFFEIN

NEW MSG. E 1085 SECRET

TO: NAVAL WAR STAFF, QU 3

URSULA RICMERS LEFT SHONAN 29/4 FOR KOBE.

((PAGE TWO OF TWO))

1900/17/2/45

From:	Naval Attache, Berlin #887 2200/02 May 1944
To:	Captains of MATSU and SATSUKI,
	Chief of 1st Section, Naval Section Imperial Headquarters,
	Captain of the MOMI.

The following information has been received by the Operations Section of the German Navy:

An enemy aircraft carrier has appeared in the central Atlantic. It will be necessary for both the MATSU and the SATSUKI to follow closely the sailing directions designated by the German Naval Operations Section. The supplying of the SATSUKI by a German ship will be impossible.

Please transmit this message to the MOMI.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#0974-C-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: Sailing directions for the MATSU (I-29) are contained in the preceding message; those for the SATSUKI #2 (RO-501) are in ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 101300/Q April, page 1, item 1. THe estimated position for these subs as of 5 May are: I-29, 35N - 37W; RO-501, 23N - 34W.

There are indications that "MOMI" may be a word used to designate all the Japanese blockade-running submarines, rather than a particular sub. Thus it would compare with "YANAGI" and "AKIRA". The sub referred to as the "MOMI" in this message may be the I-52, believed to be in the Singapore area preparing to leave for Europe.

From:	Berlin (Naval Attache) #889 2100/3 May 1944
To:	Tokyo (Navy Vice Minister and Vice Chief of Naval German Staff)

1. Technical Commander Shoji has been eliminated from passengers of the MATSU referred to in Berlin Serial #828.

2. The following four men, who are to be despatched to Japan from the German army and foreign office and were scheduled to sail on the Akira, were unable to do so because of a last minute breakdown of the engines. As a result of their requesting help from the Japanese Navy through the German Navy, they have been put aboard the MATSU. Professor Hammitzch - with the rank corresponding to a second lieutenant; Herr Schuffner - corresponding to a second lieutenant; Herr Barth - foreign office liaison all of them are fluent in Japanese and will serve in the embassy and the army attache's offices in Japan).

3. Please let me know the names of the officers of the MOMI which has departed for Europe, also the total number of the crew, and the names of the passengers.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#1229-C-DI)

(Over)



	GI-A COMMENT: The MATSU (Japanese I-29) is inbound from Lorient to the Far East, its estimated position as of 9 May being approximately 22N 37W. Japanese personnel aboard the MATSU are mentioned in GZ/JNA#1233, the following item.
	The last AKIRA sub known to have departed Europe for the Orient was the UIT-22 which sailed sometime during January and was reported lost by the German Naval Attache in Tokyo in a message dated 7 April 1944.
	Identity of the MOMI is uncertain although it is probably of Japanese nationality. The I-52 appears to be the most likely identification, TI having indicated her departure from Singapore about 7 May.



	7 May 1944

	I-52 has left Singapore, probably for Europe as she has made other trips. She has a diplomatic official on board. Singapore broadcast a despatch in diplomatic code addressed only to this sub.
	(FRUPAC-072104-TI)

	GI-P COMMENT: The I-52 was reported by TI to be in the Singapore area on 27 April.


	7 MAY 1944

	SUBMARINE I-52 has departed Singapore probably for Europe as she has made other such trips. She has a diplomatic official on board. Singapore broadcast a despatch in diplomatic code addressed only to this submarine.
	(FRUPAC-072104-TI) (BR)

	GI-P COMMENT: I-52, new submarine, departed Empire mid March, scheduled to arrive Singapore 21 March where she was to dock and prepare for run to Germany, relieving the unidentified blockade-running submarine "MOMI". I-52 last appeared on 21 April when TI indicated she was still at Singapore.


	10 MAY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP EJC
1259/10/304/486/512	58	ZWQK VSJB	SERIES 3,4,5

--OFFIZIER M--

1) JAPANESE SUB 'TANNE'((MOMI)) EN ROUTE TO WESTERN FRANCE, WILL BE IN GREEN EQ 98 (SOUTH SQ) ((PROBABLY KJ 93: 20.39 S - 77.27 E 'B')) 11/5, ACCORDING TO DEAD RECKONING. DO NOT IMPEED.

2) FOR PENANG: DESCRIBE APPEARANCE OF THE SUB BY RADIO ON AFRICA 2.


		0425/11

-- FINAL REVISION OF SQUARE --


	10 MAY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP EJC

1259/10/304/465/512	58	JZWQK VSJB	SERIES 3, 4, AND 5

PARA 1: GREEN 96 (SOUTH SQ) ((#JA 93: 36.51 S - 47.27 E 'B')).

		JSA
		1345/18 RP


PPA 71	11 MAY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	EM GB

((FROM: TOKYO)) E 1186 SECRET

((TO: BERLIN))

((NOT TRANSLATED. LIST OF MISSING FROM "ROSSBACH". CONTINUED FROM PPA 70.))

NEW MSG. E 1151 SECRET

TO: COMSUBS, NAVAL WAR STAFF, QU 3

REF: E 1089 SECRET (( ))

FINAL MANIFEST OF "TANNE":

TUNGSTEN	71	TONS	FROM	RO	549
	21	"	"	POS	11143
	10	"	"	POS	11180
TIN	120	"	"	RO	539
RUBBER	55	"	"	RO	543
QUININE	3	"	"	RO	533
OPIUM	3	"	"	POS	5024
MOLYBDENUM	9.8	"	"	POS	7618
CAFFEIN	58	KG	"	POS	8235.


		1400/3/4/45

From:	Berlin, Naval Attache #924 2100/11 May 1944
To:	Tokyo, Chief of Office of Naval Communications
	Chief of Bureau of Military Affairs
Info:	Captains of MATSU and MOMI

The following report was received from the SATSUKI:

On the 6th we passed through point 30 North and 37 West. We did not require replenishment at point "P". The vicinity was strictly patrolled, and although we received depth charge attacks for 3 days, we suffered no damage.

To: Chief of Naval Communications: Please relay this message to MOMI.

(GZ/Jap/Nav.Att.#1470-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: SATSUKI (#2) is the RO-501, and ex-German sub now en route the Far East. The position given in the message was Point "V" on its course. Point "P" was an alternative refueling position, not definitely located but possibly about 15N - 33W. The main refueling position is Point "R", probably in the Indian Ocean. See, ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 101300/Q April, pages 1 & 2, items 1 & 2.

MATSU is the Japanese I-29,also en route the Far East, but behind the RO-501. MOMI is believed to be the I-52, outbound to Europe from Singapore, probably in the Indian Ocean.

((CONTINUATION)) ((PAGE TWO OF TWO))


PPA91	14 MAY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA

((FROM: TOKYO))

((TO: BERLIN)) COMSUBS, INFO: 1ST SKL

E-1215 SECRET

RDO DELHI REPORTS THAT ON 3/5 SW OF SOKOTRA A U/B WAS ATTACKED BY BOMBERS WITH D/C'S AND SUNK NO JAPANESE U/B IN THAT AREA.

NEW MSG. E-1229 SECRET

IN REPLY TO QUERY FROM COMSUBS VIA AFRICA 2. PENANG REPORTS: U/B TYPE "TANNE" (I-29) 1500 TONS, HAS FORWARD CATAPULT, A/C HANGAR BUILT ONTO FORWARD SIDE OF CONNING TOWER, 14 CM, GUN AFT.

NEW MSG. E-1228 SECRET

TO: COMSUBS, 131 SKL, Q-3

REF: SKL 245 SECRET (( ))

QUERY IN E-1095 SECRET (( )) WAS MADE IN ORDER TO ESTABLISH DEFINITELY WHETHER TECHNICALLY THERE ARE OBJECTIONS AGAINST CARRYING FUEL OIL IN TORPEDO TUBES, WHICH ARE THEN TO BE MADE READY TO FIRE AGAIN. NOTHING DECIDED AS YET.

((PAGE ONE OF TWO))

((CONTINUATION)) ((PAGE TWO OF TWO))


PPA91	14 MAY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	PD MLN

NEW MSG. 1223 SECRET

COMSUBS, 1ST SKL, QU3

REF: E 1197 SECRET (( ))

AFTER MAKING ARRANGEMENTS WITH JAP NAVY, PAHLS ((U-IT-24)) IS TO UNDERGO REPAIRS IN KURE, TO AVOID OCCUPYING DOCK SPACE FOR SO LONG A TIME IN THE SOUTHERN AREA.

1900/4/4

From:	Naval Attache, Berlin #927 2000/12 May 1944
To:	Chief of Bureau Military Affairs, Tokyo
Info:	Chief Hydrographic Office

I have been repeatedly asked by the German Navy as to when they will receive the data on weather conditions in the Indian Ocean area, mentioned in Berlin Serial #714. Will it be consigned to the forthcoming MOMI shipments? If not please let me know the probability of its transportation thereafter.

(GZ/JNA#1652-C-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: On 6 March the Naval Attache in Berlin sent a request by the German Naval Operations Section that data on weather conditions in the Indian Ocean be sent by the MOMI. ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 281300/Q March, page 3, item 2. The MOMI, believed to be the I-52, is now enroute to Europe.

(SUMM. 171300/Q May'44)


PPA08	18 MAY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	PD ASW

KRIEGSMARINE BERLIN

((FROM: TOKYO)) 076 CONF

((TO: BERLIN))

REF MATT 1

A) 1) DESPATCH ((AUSF)) 04 ((SENT)) WITH COURIER MAIL 9 NAV SPECIAL SERVICE FOR OKW ON THE 'OSORNO'.

B) THE FOLLOWING HAVE BEEN SENT OFF TO DATE:

COURIER MAIL 01:1) DESPATCH FLIEDER ((I-8)), 2) LOST.

02:1) LOST 2) KIEFER ((I-29)).

03:1) KIEFER, 2) LOST.

04:1) 'OSORNO' 2) LOST.

05:1) KIEFER, 2) LOST.

06:1) AND 2) LOST, 3) TANNE ((I-52)).

07:ONLY 1) U-IT-25 ((STRIEGLER))

08:1) U-IT-23 ((EX-STREIGLER)), 2) LOST BECAUSE OF ENEMY ACTION.

C) SENT WITH COURIER MAIL 02: B NR 099 SECRET, REPORT ON A/C CARRIER TRAINING AND 0112 SECRET, OFFICIAL OPINIONS. REQUEST CONFIRMATION. PACKED WITH NAV SPECIAL SERVICE MAIL 4 ADDRESSED TO OKW.


	14 MAY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	EM EHB

0441/14/572	80	SXNH CMJU	SERIES 5

MSG 1301/13 (NO SER NO ASSIGNED AS YET) RECEIVED BADLY GARBLED, COMPLETED.

CONTENTS:

--- OFFIZIER G ---

FROM: PENANG

THE JAPANESE U/B 'TANNE' (I-29) HAS THE FOLLOWING APPEARANCE: 2500 TONS, CATAPULT FORWARD, A/C CHAMBER BUILT ON FORWARD EDGE OF TOWER. 14 CM GUN AFT.

[Penned note with arrow pointing to I-29 above: I-52?]


			0445/14

From:	Chief of General Affairs Dept. #541 2230/27May 1944
	of Naval Technical Bureau,Tokyo
Action:	Naval Attache, Berlin Tokyo

Reference your Serial #954.

1. Four civilian technicians have already departed Singapore on the "MOMI" in the first part of April. They are scheduled to arrive at your place the first part of June.

2. There is no objection to the selection of companies they will enter as per your dispatch and you may have them take over at the proper time. Please arrange to make their stay as short as possible.

(Jap.Nav.Att.#2871-DI) (CARDED ONLY)


	30 MAY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP EJC

1214/30/380/218	96	ILCO CXJP	SERIES 3 & 2

--- OFFIZIER Y ---

JAPANESE SUBMARINE 'TANNE' WITH CARGO IMPORTANT TO WAR IS ENROUTE TO WESTERN FRANCE. APPEARANCE: A/C CHAMBER BUILT ON FORWARD EDGE OF TOWER, CATAPULT FORWARD, 14 CM GUN AFT, 2500 TONS. SEE 'WEYER' UNDER JAPANESE SUBMARINES I 1 TO I 8. ROUTE OF CRUISE FROM 31/5 TO BEGINNING OF JULY APPROXIMATELY FROM SQ GREEN CO ((POSSIBLY FS)) VIA THE LARGE SQ WEST OF BLUE DO (POSSIBLY EJ; LARGE SQ WEST: EN)) TO SQ GREEN AN (POSSIBLY DF OR BD)). DO NOT MOLEST.


			0650/31

-- FINAL REVISION OF SQUARES --


	30 MAY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP EJC

1214/30/380/281	96	ILCO CXJP	SERIES 2 & 3

TO:	U-530 (LANGE 1))

--- OFFIZIER V ---

GREEN CO ((#FO: 5.42 S TO 13.48 S - 07.06 E TO 01.00 W))

BLUE DO ((#EJ AS PREVIOUSLY DECYPHERED))

GREEN AN ((#DG))

		JSA
		1501/18 RP

From:	Naval Attache, Berlin #002 1930/1 June 1944
Action:	Chief of Bureau Military Affairs, Tokyo
To:	Chief of Bureau of Military Affairs, Navy Department
Info:	Chief of Third Section of Naval General Staff

I should like the following information on the MOMI, as we are making preparations here:

1. Names of important officers

Number of crew

2. Names of passengers (specialists)

3. Name and quantity of the principal cargo.

GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#3244-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: The MOMI (I-52) is believed to have a diplomatic official and four civilian technicians aboard as passengers. Nothing is known of its cargo.

SUMM. 061300/Q JUNE 1944

From:	Berlin #014 1700/5 June 1944
Action:	Navy Minister
	Chief of Naval General Staff
	Chief of Bureau of Military Affairs
	Chief of 3rd Section of Naval General Staff, Tokyo

The second section of German Naval Operations (Submarine Operations) has, needless to say, all direct responsibility for the protection of Japanese submarines while they are operating in the Atlantic. However, this section has contacted up through the attache to the effect that, in view of the European war situation and the present status of the MATSU, MOMI, etc., they believe it would be suitable at this time to make public the following details on the voyage of the Japanese submarines, for the sake of protecting the MOMI and as a guide to future operations.

1. Text of announcement:

Part of the Imperial Navy's submarine force has sailed to a German base and has completed important operations.

2. Time of announcement:

15 June at 2000 (Tokyo time). Tokyo and Berlin will announce it simultaneously.

3. Comments, etc.:

Together with the above announcement, Germany will release photographs on the exchange of Japanese and German sailors, and additional comments on such points as the military discipline of the Japanese crews during their stay in Berlin, etc.



	Opinions:
	The Submarine OPerations Section is at present considering various ways of protecting the MOMI, and the above announcement will give the enemy as well as our own people the impression that the Japanese submarines have already departed European waters.
	These facts are considered necessary and suitable to the occasion, in view of the present status of the SATSUKI, MATSU, and MOMI. Inasmuch as I expect to give the text of this announcement the strict security which I have always exercised heretofore, I believe that it will be permissible for the announcement to be made as the operations section desires. May I have an immediate reply as to your opinion.
	(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#3349-DI)

	GI-A COMMENT: THe MOMI (I-52) is now in the Atlantic enroute to Western France where she should arrive about mid July. Both MATSU (I-29) and SATSUKI #2 (RO-501) are in the South Atlantic enroute Japan.

From:	Tokyo #580 8 June 1944
To:	Berlin
To:	Captain of MOMI

Allied armies landed in Northern France (between Cherbourg and Le Harve) on 6 June and have established a beachhead in the area around Caen.

(GZ/JNA#3709-C-DI)

From:	Berlin #C54 1900I/9 June 1944
Action:	Chief of Office of Naval Communications, Tokyo
From:	Naval Attache, Berlin
Action:	Chief of Navy Ministry Communications Section
Info:	Captains of the MATSU, MOMI and SATSUKI

On the 4th, the MOMI passed the equator.

The MATSU sent a message to the effect that it hoped to pass position 15 South latitude, 24 West longitude on the 9th.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#3730-DI)

From:	Japanese Naval Attache Berlin 1900/9 June 1944
To :	Inazuma, Tokyo
Info:	Captains of MATSU, MOMI and SATSUKI

Signals have been received to the effect that MOMI crossed the equator on the 4th and that MATSU passed 15 degrees south 20 degrees west on the 9th.

(COLOMBO/JN-111246-21324-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: The MOMI is the I-52, now enroute Europe.

PAGE ONE OF TWO
	9 JUNE 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	HK EHB

1447/9/367	134	WEEI EYZZ	SERIES 3

TO:	U-530 (LANGE 1))

--- OFFIZIER P ---

1) CHANGE IN SAILING ORDER: R/V ON 22/6 AFTER SUNDOWN, APPROACH SUBMERGED, SURFACE AT 2115Z.

2) R/V BEARS 283.5 DEGREES FROM REFERENCE POINT 4* AT A DISTANCE OF 118 MILES.

3) IN CASE YOU HAVE NOT MET BY 2400B, 'TANNE' WILL MOVE UP AND DOWN AT R/V AND WILL RUN AT HIGH SPEED FOR THE 1ST 10 MINUTES OF EVERY HOUR. YOU MUST LISTEN ((IN HYDROPHONE)) AND HEAD FOR IT. SUBMERGE AT DAWN. SAME PROCEDURE ON 23/6 AND 24/6 IF YOU HAVE NOT MET. DO NOT REPORT BEFORE THEN.

((CONTINUED IN 2000/9))


	----CORRECTION----
	9 JUNE 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	HK EHB

1447/9/367	134	WEEI EYZZ	SERIES 3

TO:	U-530 (LANGE 1))

--- OFFIZIER P ---

((PARA 2 SHOULD READ: FROM R/V REFERENCE POINT 4 BEARS 283.5 DEGREES, DISTANCE 118 MILES.))


			1950V/10 MR

PAGE TWO OF TWO
	9 JUNE 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	HK EHB

1447/9/367	134	WEEI EYZZ	SERIES 3

* NO DEFINITE INFO ON REFERENCE POINT 4, BUT THERE IS A POSSIBILITY THAT ONE OF THE POINTS MENTIONED IN SAILING ORDERS FOR I-29 (MATSU) OR RO-501 (SATSUKI #2) MAY BE MEANT. SEE ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART 1, 101300/Q APRIL, PAGE 1 ITEM 1; 051300/Q MAY, PAGE 8 ITEM 3; 111300/Q MAY, PAGE 4, ITEM 6. POSSIBLE POINTS BASED ON THESE ORDERS: 14.40N - 32.40W; 1630N - 32.30W; 20.00N - 40.00W.


	TOI 0133Z	6790 KCS	1300/10

PAGE ONE OF TWO
	9 JUNE 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	HK EHB

2000/9/369	117	VVEA UTKY	SERIES 3

((CONTINUED FROM 1447/9))

TO:	U-530 (LANGE 1))

--- OFFIZIER W ---

4) MAKE COMPLETION REPORT AFTER MOVING OFF 150 MILES. FURTHER HEADING IS BLUE OT 43 ((POSSIBLY EK: DAKAR AREA))

5) 'TANNE' CONTINUE CRUISE VIA BLUE IT 62 ((POSSIBLY CD 59: 37.57N - 39.42W '8')) AND GREEN DX 92 ((POSSIBLY BD 89: 43.21N - 30.15W 'B')) FURTHER AS PER SAILING ORDER PARA 5.

6) IN CASE THE INVASION SITUATION REQUIRES PROCEEDING TO 11TH U-FLOT, 'TANNE' WILL RECEIVE ORDER TO PROCEED VIA GREEN ZZ 83 (POSSIBLY AE 80: 62.15N - 14.08W 'C')) AND 63 ((AE60: 64.57N - 07.23W 'C')).

PAGE TWO OF TWO
	9 JUNE 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	HK EHB

2000/9/369	117	VVEA UTKY	SERIES 3

ANNOUNCEMENT AS PER WAR ORDER 424. MAKE SURE THAT YOU ARE PROVIDED WITH CONVOY OFFICER ((BEGLEITOFFIZER, LITTERALLY: ACCOMPANYING OFFICER)).


	TOI 1838Z	5209 KCS	1320/10

From:	Berlin #055 2000/9 June 1944
To :	Chief of Office of Naval Communications, Tokyo
From:	Naval Attache in Germany
To:	Captain of MOMI

I. Anglo-American armies have been landing on the coast of France between Le Harve and Cherbourg since 6 June and at present both sides are engaged in fierce fighting. Your port of destination is still Lorient, but depending on the situation, it may have to be changed to Norway.

II. Rendezvous point is 15 N., 40 W.; time of rendezvous is 22 June at 2115 (at dusk) time is G.M.T., as are those which follow). Your ship will surface, and proceed back and forth along the parallel of latitude with the rendezvous point as center and await the German submarine. In case the rendezvous is unsuccessful, you will carry out the above operation at high speed during the first ten minutes of every hour from 0000 to dawn on 23 June. The German submarine will be submerged during this time and will pick you up with its hydrophone and attempt a rendezvous. If the rendezvous is unsuccessful the first day, it will be attempted in the same manner until the dawn of the second day. If it is still unsuccessful, report by radio.

III. Route after rendezvous: You will proceed north along longitude 40 W., and from position 38 N., 40 W., you will head for 43 N., 30 W. From there on you will proceed to the coast of Spain, following the instructions of the liaison officer.



	IV. The German submarine is of the SATSUKI class, but has no main battery. A 3.7-centimeter gun and two twin-mount 2-centimeter guns are on the bridge. If necessary, recognition signals will be exchanged in accordance with the prescribed recognition signal table. Aboard the German ship is a liaison officer and the latest type radar search receiver with two operators. Its approximate position on 6 June was 35 N., 23 W.
	V. Take special precaution against enemy planes. Always travel submerged during the day. Recently an enemy aircraft carrier appeared in vicinity of position 15 N., 30 W. and was sunk by two German submarines.
	VI. In the event that you do make the trip to Norway and should run short of fuel, it would be very difficult for Germany to supply you, so they hope you will avoid this unless it becomes absolutely necessary.
	(GZ/JNA#3922-DI)
	GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is believed to be the I-52. The rendezvous with a German submarine to take aboard radar equipment and a liaison officer is in accordance with the procedure followed by the I-8 (FREZIA) and the I-29 (MATSU) which have previously made the voyage to Europe. The aircraft carrier referred to is evidently the BLOCK ISLAND.



	BULLETIN #109 ULTRA EXTRACT 0642/11 AUG 1944

	Position in Indian Ocean thought to be as follows:
	SD and SF arrived Penang.
	SQ unfixed, may be in Socotra area.
	SH returning to Penang, now being hunted to West of Seychelles.
	ST proceeding to Socotra area, now south of Port Elizabeth.
	SS proceeding to Socotra area, now 650 miles WSW of Capetown.
	K on passage to Europe 750 miles SE Durban
	E on passage to Europe vicinity 28S, 77E.
	Japanese U-boat was fixed by D/F in vicinity 03S 87E, 10 August
	FRUEF COMMENT: Probably I-8 but as blockade runner call sign was used, remote possibility RO-501, which may not have been sunk after all.

	GI-A COMMENT:
	SD = U-181 (Freiwald)
	SF = U-196 (Kentrat)
	SQ = U-859 (Jebsen)
	SH = U-198 (Waldogg)
	ST = U-862 (Timm)
	SS = U-861 (Oesten)
	K = U-1062 (Albrecht II)
	E = U-532 (Junker)
	RO-501 = SATSUKI #2

From:	Naval Attache, Germany #056 2030/9 June 1944
To :	Chief of Office of Naval Communications, Tokyo

We have understood that the MOMI is the I-52 and that it has no airplane hangar, but carries a fourteen centimeter gun on the forward deck. However, the Germans have a dispatch to the effect that the MOMI has an airplane hangar forward and the (gun?) is aft. Please advise us at once which is correct. Also, as these are details about docking, please inform us about (-----) (-----) (-----) (-----).

GZ/JNA#4137-DI

GI-A COMMENT: GZ/JNA#4005 reported in ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, 151300/Q June 1944 reports that the I-52 does not have an airplane hangar

From:	Tokyo #588 1800/10 June 1944
To :	Berlin

To Financial Commissioner Yamoto from the Head of the Foreign Affairs Department of the Ministry of Finance.

1. The gold being sent by MOMI on her present voyage is for the replenishing of the gold fund special account, and details are as follows:

a. Number of gold bars: 146 (49 boxes).

b. Total weight of bullion: 2,000,229 grammes O.

c. Purity of bullion: 2,000,003 grammes 5.

d. Fineness: over 995 fine.

e. Inherent value 7,700,128 yen 64 (if one gramme be taken a 4 yen 80 sen, 9,600,016 yen 80).

2. Please arrange to handle the matter as on previous occasions.

GZ/JNA#5315-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is the I-52, en route from the Far East.

Note: 2,000,229 grammes is 4405.7 pounds or 2000 killograms of gold worth about $60,000,000 USD as of July 2008

From:	Chief of Bureau Military Affairs, Tokyo #596 2050/12 June 1944
To :	Naval Attache, Berlin

In answer to your Serial #2.

I.	Commanding Officer	-	Commander Uno Kameo
	Navigator	-	Lieutenant Ootama Saharu
	Navigator	-	Lt. Hakoyama Tokutaroo
	Chief Engineer	-	Lt. Comdr. Matsura Shinichi
Besides the above, these are seven of the rank of warrant officer and above, and eighty-four enlisted men.
II.	Following technicians are passengers:
	Technician	-	Maesa Toshi (ordnance engineer)
	Ship's Clerk	-	Sunagata Eamasa
	First Class Petty Officer	-	Okoyama Ryooitsu
	First Class Petty Officer	-	Okada Hidetaka
	First Class Petty Officer	-	Kiyota Kichitaro
	First Class Petty Officer	-	Kumamoto Masatosho
	Mizuno Ichiroo	-	Engineer of the Japan Optical Works
	Ukei Yasuji	-	Business machine expert of the Aichi Clock Company
	Okada Seiichi	-	Expert on the Fuji Communications Machine

	Nagao Seijitsu	-	Radar expert
	Nagino Ichitaroo	-	A director of the Tokyo Gauge Company, and a gyro expert
	Waraya Takeshi	-	Ordnance Engineer, and expert of the Tokyo Mitsubishi Instrument Company
	Gamoo Satonobu	-	Ordnance Engineer, and expert of the Tokyo Mitsubishi Instrument Company
	Moriwaki Fujio	-	German language typist and translator
III.	Cargo:
	Gold bullion bars	-	146 bars weighing two tons packed in forty-nine metal boxes
	Tin, molybdenum and tungsten	-	Total of 228 tons
	Opium	-	2.88 tons
	Quinine	-	Three tons
	Raw rubber	-	Fifty-four tons
There are also some code books and other documents requested by the Army

GZ/JNA#4242-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: This is the report on the crew passengers and cargo of the I-52 (MOMI), en route Europe, which was requested in Berlin Serial #2 (ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, Part I, 061300/Q June, page 1, item 1).

From:	Tokyo #593 1600/12 June 1944
To :	Berlin

Details of the MOMI are as follows:

Normal 2,583 tons

Fully loaded 3,158 tons

Overall length 108.7 meters

Maximum beam 9.3 meters

Draught:

Normal

Bow 5.1 meters

Stern 5.2 meters

Fully loaded

Bow 5.8 meters

Stern 6.2 meters

On the foredeck:

One four centimeter gun

On the afterdeck:

One twenty-five millimeter machine gun

It does not have an airplane hanger.

(GZ/JNA#4005-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is the I-52, now in mid Atlantic en route Europe.

From:	Berlin #089 1100/12 June 1944
To :	Captains of the MATSU, MOMI and SATSUKI, Tokyo Imperial Headquarters.

War situation in northern France on 15 June.

The Allied Army of England, Canada and the United States of about 2----------- is gaining a foothold in the area of Caen and Bayeux between Cherbourg and Le Harve with strong naval preparations and under an airplane umbrella. The Germans, with a striking force (reserve) under the command of Field Marshal Romel, are in the midst of a fierce attack. Losses have been heavy on both sides. Since the defenses of Le Harve and Cherbourg are very strong, at the moment there is violent fighting. From what can be seen at the present although the enemy is continuing strong attacks (-----------?), the enemy still have forty to forty-five divisions in England, and taking advantage of the shift in the initiative may open new offenses at other points along the channel. Submarine captains should keep careful watch for two or three weeks.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#4415-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: The MOMI (I-52) is the only one of the three Japanese subs, to which this message is addressed, now enroute Europe and should be near the refueling rendezvous with an unidentified German submarine at 15 N., 40 W. (ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, PART I, 141300/Q June, page 1, item 1).

SUMMARY 20 June, 1944

From:	Berlin #105 2000/16 June 1944
To :	Tokyo

We are relaying the following message to you:

From:	Captain of MOMI
To :	KOF (Unident) Naval Attache, Germany

On 11 June we were in position 10 North, 31 West. We have enough fuel left for 12,000 miles at 11 knots and provisions for 3 months.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#4469-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: In a message from Berlin to MOMI (I-52), MATSU (I-29_ and SATUKI (RO-501), dated 1100/16 June (GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#4415-DI), reported ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, Part I, 201300/Q June, page 1 item 1, the submarine captains were advised of the situation in Western France with the possibility of new Allied offensives along the coast. Orders were given to maintain careful watch for two or three weeks.

An earlier message from Berlin to the MONI, dated 9 June (GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#3922-DI), stated the port of destination might be changed to Norway and, to avoid any fuel shortage in such an event, the refuelling rendezvous with a German submarine scheduled for 2115Z/22 June, in position 15 N., 40 W., should be successfully concluded.

CARD ONLY

From:	Chief of Bureau of Communications, Tokyo #617 1200/19 June 1944
To :	Naval Attache, Germany

Request relay of following message:

From:

Commander, Subron Eight.

Serial #181518.

Action: #2 SATSUKI, Captain of MOMI

Number Ten Communications Unit;s frequency to #2 SATSUKI and MOMI will be 16,260 kilocycles instead of 16,200 kilocycles and night frequencies will remain the same.

GZ COMMENT: 16,200 might be 16,800.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#4438-DI)

From:	Berlin (Cmbrk) #710 Parts 1-11 complete 22 June 1944
To :	Tokyo (Rikugunsyo Gunmykyokutyo) Chief, Military Affairs Bureau, War Office)

Committee wire #600.

Answer to your wire #536a.

1. The German Navy has recently taken under consideration plans for loading the MOMI with airplane parts. Here in Germany we have presented to the Navy our list of #4, and we would like to have you open the negotiations suggested in your wire and send us instructions.

2. The freight hold of the MOMI will take about 35 tons (The MATSU held 35 tons.) In your negotiations regarding the loading of this craft, we would like to have you stress "(a)" of #4. On the MATSU the Army had an allotment of only 4.7 tons (the former wire was wrong). Therefore we would like to have you work to obtain an assignment of at least 14 to 15 tons.

3. Along with your negotiations, we here will contact the Naval Authorities regarding the order of importance of this freight, please inform us.

4. Our proposed order of loading (emergency order of loading)

(A) Articles to be placed in the tube compartment.

(1) Documents and drawings (urgent articles) 500 kilograms.



	(2) Two each of the 103 and 108 types of 30 mm. machine guns for use on planes, 1,000 kilograms.
	(3) Two sets of the Lotofe 7 "D" bomb sight 180 kilograms.
	(4) "FUG" "25" type of wireless plotting device (five sets), "101" (ten sets), "213" (two sets) 900 kilograms.
	(5) Wireless condenser ("0"?) 1200 kilograms.
	(6) Vacuum tubes for wireless 520 kilograms.
	(7) Luminous paint and luminous materials 200 kilograms.
	(8) Parts for electric fuses for use in aerial machine-guns. (Enough for 50,000 rounds) 70 kilograms.
	(9) Atabrine. 1,000 kilograms.
	(10) Hemoglobin and coloring matter 60 kilograms.
	(11) Balsam 120 kilograms.
	(12) Spark plugs and electric generators 1,350 kilograms.
	(13) (----) oxide 500 kilograms.
	(14) Steel balls and precision steel balls, 470 kilograms.
	(15) Lithium chloride 500 kilograms.
	(16) One 20 mm. machine-cannon type "151" (electric action) for mounting on planes 500 kilograms.
	(17) Fifteen sets of "Wiserzburg" type electric transformer apparatus (but we are not including those



	designated "RO" 3,000 kilograms.
	(18) Bosch jet nozzle and pipe for use in motors 3,400 kilograms.
	(19) "B"2 type of (enclosed?) speedometer 470 kilograms.
	(20) Tool used in making machine guns from "Rheinmetal" 20 kilograms.
	(21) Industrial micro-measuring instrument 4 kilograms.
	(22) Drawings for all the above, etc. 150 kilograms.
	(23) Insulating material "Tororitsuto"b 1200 kilograms.
	(24) Two sets of all wave receivers 40 kilograms.
	(25) Hobbing tool for gears 3 kilograms.
	(26) Iron cartridge case (rolling machine?) 1450 kilograms.
	(27) Bosch jet and pile for use in motors 3290 kilograms.
	Total for the above 20597c kilograms.
	(B) Beside the items given under (A), above we have some things of large dimensions and we are planning to construct a water-tight compartment on deck (The Navy is now making plans for this).
	(1) The weight of the Wuerzberg type electric transformer apparatus (other then that given under (A) above) is not known.
	(2) The "Jumo" 213 "A" type aviation motor 1700 kilograms.



	(3) One set of high-angle fire control apparatus (with remote control) 227 (0?) kilograms.
	(C) Things to be stored in keel compartment (articles immersed in sea-water).
	As there is considerable room in this (part?) of this ship we are negotiating here and have reached an agreement that the Army should receive a space allotment of from 5 to 6 tons. However because of the specific gravity, we can stow a considerable quantity of optical glass only. So please negotiate for space for storing this glass. When the allotment of weight has been decided upon please inform us.
	(1) Optical glass 26 tons.
	(2) Special steel for use in airplanes 500 tons.b
	(3) A large amount of aluminum.
	5. Ammunition.
	As the magazine is small it will be difficult to take more than will actually be needed for the protection of the ship so please understand that we are loading as small an amount as possible. We would like to stow part of the ammunition and weapons in the torpedo compartment.
	(1) For experimental use in the 103 and 108 type 30 mm. machine-gun to be used in planes. 61,500 rounds, 2100 kilograms.



	(2) Sample of new type ammunition for the 151 type, 20 mm, machine-cannon for use on airplanes 3,000 rounds - 780 kilograms.
	(3) Ammunition for the 151 type 20 mm. machine gun (electric type) for use in airplanes (6,000 rounds - 1700 (kilograms?).
	(4) Ammunition for the 151 type 20 mm. machine cannon for use in airplanes (----) 100,000 rounds 11750 kilograms.
	a - Not available.
	b - As given in text.
	c - This total does not agree with items given in text.
	d - Text gives 5-60 tons.
	e - These amounts appear excessive, but the text is, on the whole good.
	(Jap.Mil.Att.#7641-DI)

From:	Naval Attache, Berlin #152 2200/28 June 1944
To :	Chief of Bureau of Military Affairs, Tokyo

On 27 June the Germans had a despatch to the effect that the MOMI had safely made her rendezvous with the German submarine and that the liaison officer and the others were received on board. All hands on the MOMI were in good health.

(GZ/JNA#5077-C-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: The MOMI (I-52), enroute Europe, was to meet the German submarine at 15 N 40 W on 22 June at 2115Z. See ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART L, 14130/Q June, page 1, item 1.


	23 JUNE 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	MR ASW

0525/23	PPB96	126 DIPLOGERMA MARIENATTTACHE TOKIO

FROM:	DGR

TO:	PMA

NAV ATTACHE 949 GKDOS

COVER NAME FOR JAPANESE U/B 'TANNE' ((I-52)) IS CHANGED TO 'FOEHRE' EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY.

((REST OF TEXT A SEPARATE MESSAGE. CONCERNS PERSONNEL PROPOSED FOR OFFICER'S TRAINING.))


		17395 KCS	1135/22

From:	TOKYO #659 2040/28 June 1944
To :	Berlin

Your Serial #135.

A mistake was made in encoding. Please change the 288 tons of opium to read: 2.88 tons of opium.

(GZ/JNA#5007-C-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: The mistake was made in Tokyo's Serial #596 (ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART L, 181300/Q June, page 1, item 1), which reported the cargo of the I-52 (MOMI)


	29 JUNE 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP C

1723/29/270	84	KFEJ UAQZ	SERIES 2

--OFFIZIER C--

JAPANESE SUBMARINE 'FOEHRE'* IS ENROUTE TO WESTERN FRANCE VIA SQ GREEN MK SOUTHERN HALF ((BD: AREA AROUND 44N - 32W)). POSITION AT PRESENT APPROXIMATELY SQ GREEN IQ 23 ((DR 20: 25.21 N - 40.09 W 'C')), WITH NORTH COURSE. APPEARANCE: LENGTH 108 METRES, CLOSED (GESCHLOSSENER)) TOWER, 1 14 CM GUN FORWARD, 1 2.5 CM TWIN-MOUNT AFT. COUNT ON MEETING. DO NOT IMPEED.

((*PROBABLY ERROR FOR "TANNE" (I-52). BOTH "FOEHRE" AND "TANNE" DENOTE TYPES OF FIR.))


	TOI 1701 Z	12225 KCS	1505/29


	1 JULY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	EM EHB

1037/1	PPB26	118 DIPLOGERMA MARIENATTTACHE TOKIO

((MND 2415 GKDOS))

SUBJECT: CORRECTIONS TO RDO INSTRUCTIONS 'FLIEDER'. LAST REF: CHIEF OF NAV COMMUN DIV ((MND)) 28A 1060/44 GKDOS OF 28/3/44.

1) IN PARA 6, NEXT TO LAST SECTION, AFTER THE SENTENCE ENDING 'EINGESETZT' AND BEFORE THE PARANTHESIS BEGINNING WITH 'NACHRICHTEN' INSERT THE FOLLOWING SENTENCES: THE COMMUNICATIONS MUST, THEREFORE, BE DECIPHERED BY ALL JAPANESE STATIONS WHICH ARE GUARDING THIS CIRCUIT FOR RECEPTION AND WHICH POSSESS THE CIPHER AIDS IDENTIFIED AT THE HEAD OF THE MSG BY THE NUMBER GROUPS. ADDRESS AND SIGNATURE ARE FOUND ONLY IN THE ENCIPHERED TEXT.

2) IN PARA 8B REPLACE THE WORD 'TANNE' BY 'FOEHRE'.

(CONTINUED) ((IN 1175/1/PPB27))


	TOI ?	14300 KCS	1618/30


	1 JULY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	EM EHB

1115/1	PPB27 90	DIPLOGERMA MARINEATTACHE TOKIO

((CONTINUED FROM 1037/1/PPB26: CORRECTIONS TO RDO INSTRUCTIONS 'FLIEDER'))

MND 2315 GKDOS

3) AT THE END OF PARA 8 B ADD THE FOLLOWING NEW SENTENCES: IF ALL THE JAPANESE U/B'S PROVIDED FOR ARE NOT OUT IN THE SEA AREA IN QUESTION, THE JAPANESE NAVY CAN ASSIGN CALL SIGNS INTENDED FOR OTHER U/B'S TO THOSE AT SEA FOR THE PURPOSE OF DISGUISING ((THE ACTUAL NUMBER)) INSOFAR AS THESE ((OTHER)) U/B'S ARE NOT YET OR ARE NO LONGER AT SEA. THE JAPANESE NAVY WILL ALWAYS INFORM THE GERMAN AUTHORITIES (OKM 4SKL 2BA) AT ONCE OF SUCH ASSIGNMENTS IF OCCASION ARISES.

CORRECT RADIO INSTRUCTIONS


	TOI ?	14300 KCS	0625/30

NON-CURENT ITEM

From:	Berlin #812 7 July 1944
To :	Tokyo (Chief of Military Affairs Bureau, War Office)
Action:	Captains of the MOMI, MATSU, and SATSUKI

We are shipping the scientific glass from Kiel this time. As this will be shipped unpacked there is danger that the different qualities and kinds will become confused. Therefore (-----) we are sending a list containing a breakdown, giving the basic numbers, quality, class, weight and (production?) numbers. (Each piece of glass will be marked with a black stamp.)

Please sort out this glass by using the transportation numbers contained in this list.

We are sending this list on the #79 ("H" 4th trip) 880, and the #86 ("MOMI).

(Jap.Mil.Att.#D-6516-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: MOMI (I-52) GENMATSU) was sunk in the Atlantic probably in June, while enroute Europe. #79 ("H") and 880 have not been identified, although the latter number may refer to a German sub. No sub is known to have made 3 previous trips between Europe and the Far East. The I-29 (MATSU), which left Europe about 16 April and was sunk west of Manila about 25 July, carried some scientific equipment, including glass. See ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 221300/Q July, page 1, item 1.


	7 JULY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP C

2258/7/354	55	OXKB UMML	SERIES 3



TO:	LANGE ( (530) )

CONTENT OF YOUR S/S SENT JUST OFF 36 METERS 27/6 WAS ERONEOUSLY REPEATED ON AFRICA 3. CONTENTS: COMPLETED TASK 23/6 COMMUNICATION TRANSMITTED UNSUCCESSFULLY ONCE BEFORE.


	TOI 2131 Z	10525 KCS	2215/7

From:	Naval Attache in Germany #196 _ _ _ _ /7 July 1944
To :	Office of Naval Communications, Tokyo
Action:	Captains of the MOMI, MATSU, and SATSUKI

I. Although Cherbourg has fallen, there is no change in the situation in Northern France. In England there are about thirty more divisions which may constitute a second landing force. The Germans believe that the second landing will be made along the coast between Le Harve and Calais and are prepared for it.

II. There has been tremendous progress made in long range direction finders in England. There are countless stations in England, Africa, and India working in cooperation with each other, and a vessel that uses its radio in the Atlantic or Indian Ocean will most certainly be located by these direction finders.

III. The port of destination for the MOMI is still as originally planned.

IV. Handle this dispatch as German Serial #193, and relay it to the MATSU and SATSUKI.

(GZ/JNA#5608-C-DI)



	GI-A COMMENT: The port of destination for the MOMI (Japanese I-52) as originally planned was Lorient. The MOMI was scheduled to rendezvous with a German submarine on 22 June at 15 N, 40W to effect transfer to the Japanese submarine of a German liaison officer. At 0034Z and again at 0256Z on 24 June, the USS BOGUE attacked two U-boats in the area 18.16 N, 39.55 W with apparent damage to the submarines, considerable oil and debris appearing on the surface.
	A message from Berlin to Tokyo stated, however, the Germans had a dispatch on 27 June to the effect that MOMI had safely made rendezvous with the German submarine and the liaison officer and all others received on board (ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, Part I, 011300/Q July, page 1, item 1).
	The MATSU (I-29) and SATSUKI #2 (RO-501) are presumably in the Indian Ocean at present, enroute Penang.

From:	Naval Attache in Germany #194 0900/10 July 1944
To:	Tokyo

I. At present the MOMI is scheduled to enter Lorient Harbor around the end of July. In view of the present situation, all preparations are being made to shorten as much as possible the time she will be at anchor there.

II. There is fairly general disruption of lines of communication because of operations in northern France, and railroad transportation between there and Paris is at a standstill. We do not yet have a clear view of the situation.

III. In view of the aforementioned situation, transportation of supplies and personnel must be carried out as soon as all arrangements are completed. Since traveling to Paris necessitates the use of automobile in an area of operations in extreme disorder and requires various makeshift arrangements on the part of personnel, we must know immediately whether there are any persons to be sent back to Japan on this trip of the MOMI other than those to whom orders have already been sent.

(GZ/JNA#5936-C-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: Available traffic does not identify any passengers scheduled for return to Japan on board the MOMI.

From:	Naval Attache in Germany #197 1130/10 July 1944
To:	Vice Chief of Naval General Staff

Previously when I discussed with the Director of Naval Communications, Rear Admiral Stummel, the question of closer cooperation in communication intelligence activities he, in his usual friendly manner, stated that it was the desire of the German Navy to cooperate whole-heartedly and completely in this matter. Now I have begun concrete liaison with the Chief of Naval Communications Intelligence who immediately agreed to my following proposals:

A. To place Japanese personnel in the German Communications Intelligence Organization.

B. To forward to Japan on the next trip of the MOMI all types of communication intelligence material now in the possession of the German Navy.

As to proposal (A) he stated that unless the Japanese that were sent had suitable language qualifications, nothing could be accomplished. As to (B) he asked what problems we were especially interested in.

After the code clerk on the MOMI arrives, I intend to order (my) present special secretary (to the German CI organizations). I would like to know as soon as possible the views and desires of the central authorities concerning this matter.

In the course of my conference, I learned that this organization

(over)



	is divided into an evaluation (Auswertung) section and a cryptoanalysis section with a total personnel of about 800. The English and American countermeasures are very vigilant (secure), especially since Italy's "stab in the back" of last year when the communications intelligence situation was realized by the enemy. At present, although they are bending every effort, the results are not satisfactory. It is said that this is especially true where American communications are concerned.
	The Germans are especially desirous of Japanese cooperation in obtaining the following:
	(a) All types of British and American material, including captured documents.
	(b) Absolutely all available information on the dispositions of the British and American Fleets.
	They would also like to have the (forms?) of all types of Japanese Naval traffic so that they can distinguish them from British and American traffic.
	In view of the present situation and future (developments), I believe that it is most important for close Japanese-German cooperation in this matter.
	(GZ/JNA#6022-C-DI)
	(SUMM. 141300/Q July '44)


	12 JULY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP C

1837/12/185/22/304	81	JAZA LIHJ	SERIES 1,3 LOCAL

--OFFIZIER T--

JAPANESE U/B 'FOEHRE' WITH CARGO ESSENTIAL TO WAR IS ENROUTE TO WESTERN FRANCE, AT PRESNET IN ABOUT SQ GREEN MY SOUTH HALF ((BD SOUTH HALF: 42.54 N TO 46.6 N - 38.30 W TO 25.00 W)). APPEARANCE: LENGTH 108 METERS, CLOSED ((GESCHLOSSENER)) TOWER, 1 14 CM GUN FORWARD, 1 2.5 CM TWIN-MOUNT AFT. COUNT ON MEETING. DO NOT IMPEDE.

NOTE: SEE 1723/29 JUNE


	TOI 1730 Z	C8855 KCS	0200/14

From:	Naval Chief Inspector, Germany #219 1040/13 July 1944
To:	Chief of General Affairs Department of the Naval Technical Bureau, Tokyo

Scheduled as cargo to be loaded at Kiel on the MOMI and the German submarine are special steel for the army and mercury (for civilian use) now being negotiated for in Italy. Since it has not arrived on time, for the present, we have received a release (for it) from the German Ministry of Economics and will take steps later to repay them. Inasmuch as conditions in Italy will change and there may be a lack of supplied there, as well as future difficulty in receiving goods quickly, we should like to buy the 300 tons of mercury which the Germans have released. Request immediate instructions.

Weight	-	300 tons
Amount	-	8,700 flasks
Price per flask	-	625 marks

(GZ/JNA#6244-C-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is the I-52, now enroute to Europe. The identity of the German submarine is not known.

(SUMM. 161300Q July 1944)


	18 JULY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP C

1730/18/G77	136	NJWZ BJXG	SERIES GREY 6

FROM:	COMSUBS OP SO ONLY
TO:	COMSUBS WEST, GROUP WEST

FOR SO ONLY.

-- OFFIZIER Z --

1) COMINCH HAS ORDERED LORIENT AS ENTRY PORT FOR 'FOEHRE' ((TANNE)) SINCE THE BOAT WILL PROBABLY RECEIVE SCHNORCHEL INSTALLATION UNDER SHELTER BERTH PROTECTION IS NECESSARY. SHELTER BERTH IS AVAILABLE ONLY IN LORIENT.

2) COMSUBS ((WEST)) WILL SEND MP SUGGESTION FOR PICK UP AND LANE FOR RELAY BY RADIO AFTER CONSULTATION WITH GROUP WEST.

3) IN ACCORDANCE WITH SUGGESTION OF GROUP WEST G1009 6527 A1M FOR SO ONLY, PARA 3, (TO COMSUBS ONLY), FOR PURPOSES OF DECEPTION, MEASURES FOR ENTERING LA PALLICE OR BORDEAUX WILL APPLY.


	TOI 1718 Z	7845 KCS	1210/20

From:	Naval Attache in Germany #253 1900/19 July 1944
To:	Navy Vice-Minister and Vice-Chief of Naval General Staff, Tokyo

The following officers are to be sent on temporary duty to the place on the west coast of France (planned as Lorient) to take care of affairs relating to the MOMI.

For about two weeks, from 21 July: Commander Fujimasa, adviser; Lieutenant Commander Tama -----, inspector; Sakai, civilian. For about five weeks, from 21 July: Lieutenant Commander Tomonaga, technical inspector; Commander Shimozato, technician; Lieutenant Commander Kobayashi (medical corps), surgeon; Yamamoto and Adachi, civilians.

(GZ/JMA#6890-DI)

From:	Naval Attache in Germany #254 2000/19 July 1944
To:	Tokyo

Further negotiations on procurement, and technical instruction of the acoustic torpedo (provisional name "T-5 Torpedo").

I. We are arranging for the transfer of two actual torpedoes at the first opportunity at Penang. In case this is impossible, we shall send at least two torpedoes on the next trip of MOMI.

II. Two sets of manufacturing plans have been collected and assembled in their entirety, but since there are such a large number of them and not all are necessary, we shall have our naval torpedo and electrical inspector make a proper selection, of which we shall load one set on the MOMI and the other on the next German submarine transport.

III. With regard to technical instruction on the special construction of this torpedo, Germany desires at least two electrical technicians to be sent for three months (if impossible, then three weeks) training, after which they would return to Japan.

(Over)



	IV. Regarding the matter of Germany's ability to cooperate to the satisfaction of the Japanese Navy, she is making strenuous efforts and with good faith. Her attitude has been to spare no effort in offering us all sorts of manufacturing and technical help in permitting Japan to put this torpedo into practical use.
	V. As to the effective life (Lebendauer) of this torpedo, there is no indication yet of its having been captured by the enemy. Consequently, since the enemy does not know the details of this torpedo, they will not have taken any defensive countermeasures. Moreover, Germany is constantly adding electrical improvements. Even if the enemy does take countermeasures, it will be very difficult to make them effective. The German Navy is making utmost efforts to preserve the secrecy of this torpedo, and they are determined to put it into practical use.
	(GZ/JNA#7033-C-DI)


	21 JULY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP N

1216/21/G41	73	XQBF UUIQ	SERIES GREY 6

FROM:	COMSUBS OP GKDOS
TO:	COMSUBS WEST

-- OFFIZIER Y --

1) SEND INSTRUCTIONS AT ONCE FOR 'FOEHRE' ((TANNE)) AS PER NR G97 ((1730)) OF 18/7. FOEHRE IS EXPECTED BY DEAD RECKONING TO BE IN GREEN LB 93 ((BE 90: 44.15 N- 13.45 W 'C') BEGINNING TOMORROW.

2) TRANSMIT BY RADIO HOMING PORT FOR STEFFENS ((719)) AS ((HE)) MAY ALREADY BE ON RETURN CRUISE IN BAY OF BISCAY.


	TOI 1044 Z	7845 KCS	1405/22

PAGE ONE OF TWO
	21 JULY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP N

1216/21/G49	163	DDFQ QUHO	SERIES GREY 6

FROM:	COMSUBS WEST
TO:	GROUP WEST OPS STAFF

-FOR SO ONLY TO BE DECIPHERED BY OFFICER ONLY-

-ALL OTHER STATIONS DESTROY IMMEDIATELY-

REF YOUR CKDOS 6543 FOR SO ONLY OF 20/7 -PRIORITY-

--OFFIZIER J--

FOLLOWING MSG IS INTENDED FOR COMSUBS:

WITH AGREEMENT OF GROUP WEST ((THE FOLLOWING)) SUGGESTION IS SUBMITTED FOR FOEHRE ((TANNEN))

1) FOEHRE IS TO HEAD FOR POINT 'LIEBE' ((46.32.5 N - 04.51.8 W)) WITH NE COURSE, APPROZIMATELY VIA BF 74 (44.15 N - 10.54 W 'B')).

2) PICK-UP BY STRONG ESCORT SUPPLIED BY FOIC WESTERN DEFENSES AT POINT 'LEBEN' ((47.36.5 N - 03.39 W)

3) FOLLOWING HARPE'S ((129)) EXPERIENCES, COMPLETE BATTERY CHARGING AT APPROXIMATELY LONG OF 6 DEG W. PROCEED ((CONTINUED))


	TOI 1044 Z	7845 KCS	1405/22


	21 JULY 1944	TOP SECRET ULTRA	GP N

1635/21/G49	163	DCFQ QUHO	SERIES GREY 6

((CONTINUATION))

SUBMERGED FROM THERE, WITHOUT SURFACING UNTIL 65 METER LINE ((IS REACHED)) SURFACE HERE FOR THE FIRST TIME, AND CRUISE ON SURFACE TO ESCORT PICK-UP POINT.


	TOI 1549 Z	7845 KCS	1409/22

From:	Germany #282 2000/27 July 1944
To:	Tokyo

This message is to be handled as German Serial #280.

To:: Captain of MOMI

I. Estimating that you will enter port on 25 July at the earliest, the assistant attache Fujimura as well as other necessary personnel and the German authorities in charge are waiting in Paris.

For the sake of security and because of the danger of enemy bombing, transportation is by automobile only and at night.

II. Enemy propaganda has exaggerated the recent plot to assassinate Chancellor Hitler. The matter has been partially cleared up by swift and resolute measures and on the whole the nation is calm.

III. There have been no important changes in the situation in northern France; The German army is putting up a good defense. In addition, all arrangements have been completed for your arrival in port.

In view of the changing situation, the danger of enemy bombing, the need for security, etc., try to make your stay in port as short as possible.

I hope that you arrive safely.

(GZ/JNA#7691-C-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is the I-52, believed sunk on about 24 June.

GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is the I-52, thought to have been sunk on 24 June. It was scheduled to rendezvous with a German U-boat on 22 June at 15 N, 40 W. On 24 June, the USS BOGUE attacked 2 submarines in the area 15.16 N, 39.55 W, considerable oil and debris appearing on the surface. After that date there has been no evidence of any transmission from the MOMI, apart from the above item. The original destination, Lorient, has not been changed in any traffic here available.

1 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA GP C

0325/1/0 17 70 AXFE    OJAL SERIES ORANGE 1

FROM: COMSUBS WEST GKDOS 2177

TO: 3RD U-FLOT, FOR OBLT (MA)* PIPLACK

2ND U-FLOT WIRED ((THE FOLLOWING)) UNDER GKDOS 1149:

REF YOUR TELETYPE MSG OF 29/1:

REQUEST RELEASE OF COASTAL A/A UNITS, AS THEY ARE ABSOLUTELY REQUIRED BY FOEHRE ((TANNE)) OWING TO OVERBURDENING OF ((4---- UNCLEAR; FSHB, POSSIBLY GARBELED ABBREVIATION FOR SOME TYPE OF A/A))

*COASTAL ARTILLERY. SEE 1012/1.

0228Z 3601 KCS 1350/2

From: Naval Attache in Germany          #284                                   2030/31 July 1944

To: Chief, Bureau of Military Affairs, Navy Department

I. We were in communication with the MOMI yesterday, the thirteenth. It is estimated that she will arrive on or about 3 August. The reception party has departed Paris for the port of landing.

II. The number of persons scheduled as passengers, including those ordered to return to Japan, the German technicians, secretary Komuro, etc., already amounts to about seventeen. However, the Army has unexpectedly proposed the priority passage of Colonel Kootani together with about ten technical officers (two of whom have higher priorities that Colonel Kootani). What was decided regarding this matter in consultations with the Army in Tokyo? Please inform me immediately.

III. Though the train carrying the reception party was attacked between Berlin and Paris by enemy aircraft and guerillas, it repulsed the assaults. Passage between Paris and the port will be effected by automobile at night. A special escort unit of some ten men has been assigned to the party.

(GZ/JNA#8518-C-DI)

(over)

GI-A COMMENT:   MOMI is the I-52, formerly thought to have been sunk on 24 June. It was scheduled to rendezvous with a German U-boat on 22 June at 15 N, 40 W. On 24 June, the USS BOGUE attacked two submarines in the area 15.16 N, 39.55 W, considerable oil and debris appearing on the surface. There is no evidence that the I-52 made a report after that date until the message reported in the item above. The port of arrival is probably Lorient.

2 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA GP    N

1629/2/G85 42 QQZW    JSVI SERIES GREY 6

FROM: 2ND SKL/BDU OP GKDOS 00220

TO: COMSUBS WEST

                                              OP-PRIORITY-

ESCORT FOR FOEHRE ((TANNE, I-52)) TONIGHT AS GIVEN IN COMSUBS' WEST GKDOS 1033/44, FOR SO ONLY, A 1.

TOI 1447 Z 7845 KCS 0430/3

3 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA MR    EJC

0051/3/096 100 SXCU    AXTU SERIES GRAY 6

FROM: 2ND SKL BDU OP FS 00258 GKDOS

TO: COMSUBS WEST

INFO: COMSUBS WEST, OKM NAV ATTACHE

OP-PRIORITY

--OFFIZIER I--

REF 2ND UFLOT GKDOS 33/44 FOR SO ONLY:

1) IN CASE 'FOEHRE' ((TANNE)) AGAIN FAILS TO ARRIVE TONIGHT IT WILL RECEIVE ESCORT AGAIN 0430B/4/8.

2) NO CRUISE TO THE BALTIC SEA FOR THE PRESENT.

3) COMSUBS WEST WILL ARRANGE TO CARRY OUT POINT 1 ((ABOVE)), IF THAT IS NECESSARY, WITHOUT FURTHER ORDERS.

0045 Z 4540 KCS 0750/4

4 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA GP   C

0046/4/83 30 ORAL    DRQA SERIES LOCAL

FROM: COMSUBS WEST

TO: HAUBER ((170))

ESCORT WILL BE AT POINT LEBEN ((47.36.05N - 03.39.00W)) AT 0430B, ESCORT PLANS TO PICK UP 'FOEHRE' (TANNE)) ALSO.

TOI 2334 Z 4180 KCS 0043/5

From: Naval Attache in Germany          #307                                   2100/6 August 1944

To: Captain of the MOMI

Info: Chief of 1st Section Naval Staff

        Although the German escort vessels waited for you on August 1st, 2nd, and 4th at the rendezvous point outside of Lorient Harbor as per instructions of 23 July (rendezvous point Leben BF 6170, rendezvous time 0430), they did not meet you. They are now waiting at Lorient. Was there not some error?

        Please inform us again of your expected date of arrival at the rendezvous point.

(GZ/JNA#8771-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is the Japanese I-52, thought to have been sunk on 24 June, although Berlin reported communications with her on 30 July (ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, PART I, 041200 Q August, page 1, item 1). There has been no other evidence of any transmission from I-52 since 24 June.

PPA 27 6 AUG 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA

((FROM: TOKIO)) E 1825 SECRET

((TO: BERLIN))

REF NAV ATT DIV 1159 SECRET

ACCORDING TO JAP NAVY STATEMENT, JAPS REPORTED IN E 344 SECRET ARE ((OR WHERE)) ON 'FOEHRE' ((I-52)) WITH THE EXCEPTION OF KPT LT (ING) KOSAKA, WHO STAYED BEHIND.

NEW MSG E 1654 CONF

TO: HOME STAFF, FOREIGN BRANCH

((PERSONNEL MATTER))

NEW MSG E 3825

REF QU 3/4052 SECRET, PARA 1

QUERY: SHOULD PHRASE READ "FOR PURPOSE OF RELIEVING"

TOI 2334 Z 4180 KCS 0043/5

From: Bureau of Military Affairs, Tokyo    #773                           1800/06 August 1944

To: Naval Attache in Germany

I. As we have had a communication from Germany to the effect that the name of the MOMI ((I-52)) has been changed to GINMATSU, we shall use this name henceforth.

II. We have no concrete agreement here on the transport of army goods and personnel, but there has been for some time an arrangement to cooperate on general principles. There is a similar proposal regarding the arrival of the GINMATSU this time. Personnel are not numerous (no one has been designated by Colonel Kootani), but you will be able to know what goods can be transported after considering the order of their priority with the enormous list that the Navy has presented. (This list as well as the communication from the Army should be included in your report.) Since the number of items is so great that we cannot make any decision here, we are replying to the effect that you should give instructions for making suitable arrangements there. Although the limitation will be extremely difficult from the standpoint of transportation, we want you to consider the Army matters and cooperate in suitable transportation. If German operations plan the dispatch of substantial numbers of submarines to the Indian Ocean area, we would like you to consider transportation on them. In regard to non-departmental passengers, please restrict them in view of the war situation to those who are absolutely requisite to the direct strengthening of the war effort.

III. Please include in future dispatches items that should be loaded on the GINMATSU.

(GZ/JNA#8820-DI)

From: Bureau of Military Affairs, Tokyo    #775                           2000/07 August 1944

To: Naval Attache in Germany

Conditions are such that it would be best to shorten the time spent in port. Furthermore, although the matter seems highly unreasonable since in addition to there being a great amount of difficulty connected with supplying and transporting the below-mentioned articles it will be necessary to alter loading plans, regardless of the many problems entailed, we should like you to strive to bring things to a successful conclusion in view of the grave character of the change in the present aspect of the war. Since the Germans also are furnished with the circumstances of this matter, state our intentions to them at your discretion. Also, in case the Army has additional articles to be loaded, please give (their proposals) appropriate consideration.

For First Section, Navy Technical Bureau

Purchase Number
Article
Quantity

12690 "GA" type 13-milimeter machine gun mount, modification WL-131 3 sets

12657 Rocket apparatus for use in accelerating take-offs (R-apparatus only) 2

12695 Parts for pressure-cabin, and one set of plans

(over)

12662 Set of plans for Rheinmetall 13-millimeter free machine gun 1

For Second Section, Navy Technical Bureau

Purchase Number
Article
Quantity

02949 Bild Company transit 1

02883 Mikoshi? firing apparatus 1

02164A Oscillograph (Ascania) 1

02110B Submarine radar and damping? antenna designated Fumo-61 1

02112 Radar search receiver equipment Total? 2 sets

02116C Wurzburg-62 4

Ordinary welder for the above, made by AEG 1

No-instructions Drop transmitter FUG 302 2

02171B KDB equipment 1

Captured Rotterdam equipment or Rotterdam 1

Captured Rosenthal or Fishpond 1

02561 Enigma (new type) 6 sets

02851A Condensers 2000

12693A FUG 102 2 sets

021-- Crankshaft grinding jig plans 3

02104 Sample of minesweeping cable and KG cans? 2 sets

Fuses for same 1 set

Acoustic minesweeping buoy for same 1

Simple type magnetic mine for ---------- submarines 1 set

(Cont'd)

From: Bureau of Military Affairs, Tokyo    #776                           2000/07 August 1944

To: Naval Attache in Germany (Part I)

The MATSU departed Singapore 22 July. On the twenty-fifth, while on her way to Japan, she reported a surfaced enemy submarine about 300 miles west of Manila. All her passengers had proceeded to Tokyo from Singapore by plane, but her cargo had been left aboard. Though it is indeed regrettable, we can no longer hope for her safety in view of developments up to now. Despite the fact that we received, through your great efforts and the understanding cooperation of the Germans, many articles which were to strengthen the nation's capacity to prosecute the war, our inability to utilize them owing to the loss of the ill-fated ship is truly unfortunate and will have a great effect throughout the Imperial Army and Navy. We are at present investigating full measures (to be taken) in this matter, but for the time being should like you to arrange to have the following articles put aboard the GINMATSU.

(GZ/JNA#8818-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: Four remaining parts of this message are not yet available.

MATSU, cover name for the Japanese I-29, departed Europe about 16 April and arrived Singapore 14 July. A message listing her cargo was reported in ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 2212300/Q July, page 1, item 1.

We should like to receive as many vacuum tubes and high frequency ----------- as possible for the radar equipment mentioned above plus explanation manuals of their details. Also this equipment again if possible: 1 set of radar for airplanes (Hohentwiel), 2 sets of radar for night fighters (FU 212?), 2 sets of IFF equipment (FU 25A), 2 sets of 9 centimeter? radar (Berlin), 3 groups of radio telephone equipment for airplanes (FUG 15), 2 sets of anti-jamming equipment for Hurzburg, and 1 set of captured Medow and its magnetron and klystron.

(GZ/JNA#8818-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: The first part of this message appeared in ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 091300/Q August, page 1, item 2. The articles listed above are intended to be sent to the Far East aboard the I-52 (cover-name GINMATSU, or MOMI), believed sunk. See ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 101300/Q August, page 1, item 1, and 081300/Q August, page 3, item 3.

From: Naval Attache, Berlin                #314                           2150/9 August 1944

To: CCB, Tokyo

1. "GINMATSU" rendezvoused safely with the German submarine on June 23rd (report of June 27th from the German submarine), and since then the Operations Department of the German Navy have been sending route instructions by direct wireless to the liaison officer (from political considerations the original plan was altered and she was instructed to cut across the Bay of Biscay instead of coming through Spanish Territorial waters). The arrangement was that she was to report 3 or 4 days before reaching the rendezvous, but this was not done. On July 30th she suddenly sent out the pre-arranged signal QWF (meaning that she was 36 hours from an indicated point on her route). Accordingly, on 1 August at 0430 and at 2315, a German escort ship stood by at the agreed spot outside Lorient Harbor, but did not meet her. In the meantime a similar agreed signal was received continuously throughout the forenoon of August 1 and also in the afternoon (one a collated message), and accordingly, on 2 August, a ship again stood by but failed to rendezvous. At this point the German Navy sent a message to GINMATSU on 3 August, saying that an escort ship would stand by at the rendezvous on the 4th at 0430, and that if they failed to rendezvous she was to report the reason. The escort ship went out as agreed, but again failed to meet her. Considering this might be due to an error of calculation, on 5 August I sent a message direct to

(over)

the Captain (my #307) for the information of the Head of the 1st Section of Imperial Naval Headquarters, again giving him route instructions and the rendezvous date. Up to the present, however, there has been no reply, and I have begun to entertain doubts as to the safety of the ship.

        It is of course possible that QWF was a fake message by the enemy; but the action taken by the enemy does not tally with this. Furthermore when attacking submarines in the Bay of Biscay it has always been the practice of the enemy to send a signal before and after, which signals the German Navy can decypher, but no such signals have been sent recently. They therefore do not think she was attacked in the Bay of Biscay. Consequently, it is impossible to guess what has happened to her; but as nothing has been heard from her up to the present the German Navy has given up all hope of her. I am of the opinion that it is possible that the Captain is trying to make a detour north on his own initiative and without sending a wireless signal. I have accordingly instructed him to go to Norway (my #313), and I have asked the German Navy to try and get news of her and to take all other possible steps.

2. The party that went to her port of arrival in order to look after GINMATSU, as in my #253, stood by in Lorient; but things being as I have described, and also all submarine units having withdrawn to headquarters at Angers owing to the rapidity of developments in northern France, and then owing to the impossibility of getting to Lorient, they all came back to Paris and returned to Berlin yesterday, the 8th. Their journey both ways was most difficult; for instance, four hours after they went

(continued next card)

through Nantes enemy armoured units dashed into the city, and they were many times in danger; but they all got back safely.

(GC&CS/JNA-120109-111-115-119-123-OP-20-G-DI)

GI-A COMMENT:   GINMATSU, formerly designated as MOMI, is the cover name for the Japanese submarine I-52. Of the 4 messages addressed to the GINMATSU by the Japanese Naval Attache which were mentioned in the message reported above, serial #313 (GZ/JNA#8968-DI) appeared in ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, PART I, 101300/Q August, page 1, item 1; serial #306 (GZ/JNA#8771-DI) appeared in SUMMARY of 081300/Q August, page 3 item 3; and serial #284 (GZ/JNA#8518-DI) in SUMMARY of 041300/Q August, page 1, item 1. The fourth, serial #253 (GZ/JNA#6890-DI) dated 191900 19 July, listed the names of the JApanese officers and officials to be sent to Lorient to receive the GINMATSU. On 16 June, the Captain of GINMATSU reported from position 10.00 N - 31.00 W. to have sufficient fuel left for 12,000 miles at 11 knots and provisions for 3 months (GZ/JNA#4469-DI) ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, PART I, 211300/Q June, page 1, item 1).

From: Naval Attache, in Germany                 #313                          2100/08 August 1944

To: Captain of MOMI

Info: Bureau of Military Affairs

Though we have no communication from you, we pray for your safety. As it has become dangerous in view of the rapidly developing war situation to enter Lorient or other ports along the French coast, proceed to either Trondheim or Bergen in Norway. If convenient, inform us as soon as possible of your condition. We have completed discussions with the German Navy. This dispatch is to be handled as Serial #312.

(GZ/Jap.Nav.Att.#8968-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is the I-52, believed sunk. ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 081300/Q August, page 3 item 3. She was to have put into Lorient, where German escort vessels waited in vain for her on 1st, 2nd, and 4th of August.

From: Naval Attache, in Germany                 #328                          2000/14 August 1944

To: Bureau of Military Affairs

Info: Secretariat(?), Chief of General Affairs Section of Navy Technical Bureau, Chief of General Affairs Section of Bureau of Aeronautics.

In the event that it becomes necessary to acknowledge the loss of the GINMATSU, I should like to negotiate with the German Navy for transportation to Japan, aboard the German submarines which operate in the Indian Ocean, of the several officials listed below who were scheduled to return on the next trip of the GINMATSU. (They will return at the rate of one to two persons at a time, one to two ships per month.) Consequently, I request that after considering the above facts that you confer with the persons concerned in the army, etc., and advise me of the order of priority in their return to Japan.

I. Navy

1. Paymaster Commander Inaba

2. Technical Commander Shooji

    (special course on the construction of the MK-163)

3. Technical Lieutenant Commander Tomonaga

      (research in submarine mass production)

4. Technical Commander Kuroda

       (he may be able to stand the long voyage, having recovered from his illness)

                                                                                                                  (over)

(continued)

5. Technical Lieutenant Tarutani

       (special course in the "TL" power plant)

6. Technical expert Yamato

       (Specialist in electric apparatus of acoustic torpedo)

7. Unofficial expert Nakai

       (chemical expert for the "R" power plant)

II. Army (those ordered in your despatch to return to Japan immediately)

8. Major Suematsu

9. Technical expert Kawakitka

10. Colonel Kootani

11. Technical expert Suzuki

12. Major Kingoshita

13. Major Kigoshi

14. Colonel Uchiai

15. Major Kobayashi, aeronautics expert?

16. Major Yoshinari, aeronautics expert?

17. ----- Ogawa, ordnance expert?

III. Foreign office

18. Komuro, (Commerce Ministry)

                                                                                                                 (over)

(continued)

IV. German Technicians

19. One Messerschmitt expert

        (specialist chiefly in airplane and rocket plane designs)

20. One person, same as above

21. Same (Specialist in construction of the fuselage of rocket planes)

22. One Junkers expert

        (specialist in handling assembly of "TF" power plant)

23. One BMW expert

      (specialist in construction of the above)

24. One Heinkel expert

        (assistant to technician Schmidt in Japan)

25. One Daimler-Benz expert.

        (Specialist on the NW-501

26. One Siemens expert

        (Specialist in torpedo control)

                   Total: 26 persons.

(GZ/JNA#9566-DI)

From: Naval Attache, Germany                 #352                          1830/24 August 1944

To: Navy Vice-Minister

Vice Chief of Navy General Staff

Chief of the Bureau of Military Affairs

Chief of 3rd Section, Navy General Staff

Info: Chief of the Navy Technical Bureau

I have received the following formal note from the C-in-C of the (German) Navy:

"The acoustic torpedoes which you requested some time ago are being delivered at Penang. Please let us know on what date and to whom they are to be transferred. Instructions in this regard are to be sent from here to the German Navy detachment at Penang."

The above was reported in German Serial #254. in view of the lack of news regarding the GINMATSU, negotiations should be made for the transfer to take place in Penang at once. Please send us a prompt reply.

(GZ/JNA#0157-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: Message serial #245 (GZ/JNA#7033-DI), ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, PART I, 231300/Q July, page 2 item 3) stated that arrangements were being made for delivery of two acoustic (T-5) torpedoes, apparently by German submarine, at Penang at the first opportunity. It further stated that if this were impossible, two such torpedoes would be sent, along with manufacturing plans, on the return trip of GINMATSU (I-52), now presumed sunk.

21 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA EM EJC

1819/21/G30 25 OLAG    QQKL SERIES GREY 6

FROM: COMSUBS

TO: COMSUBS WEST

SEND THE NAMES AND GRADES OF THE MEN EMBARKED ABOARD 'FOEHRE' ((TANNE)).

TOI 1731Z 8075 KCS 2008/21

From: Naval Attache, Germany                 #355                         2200/25 August 1944

To: Chief of 3rd Section, Navy General Staff

Chief of the Special Duty Section

We have received from the German Navy the latest data from the Radio Intelligence Section on British and American naval communications, which we had intended to send on GINMATSU (I-52). We shall send it immediately on the next appropriate transportation; but if there are any matters that the Imperial Navy considers of immediate necessity, I can send extracts by dispatch, if you will so inform me. Contents of data are as follows:

I. British Navy

        Call signs (shore stations, ships, convoys), frequencies, communication circuits, communication (areas?), communication abbreviations and special abbreviations, (-------) British and American merchant ship call signs, outline of British and American Naval (joint) communications, etc.

II. American Navy

        Call signs (shore stations, ships, convoys), frequencies, communications circuits, communications divisions, communication abbreviations and special abbreviations, etc. American Army field radio cipher machine (it cannot be heard by ear).

The two preceding paragraphs apply principally to the Atlantic and Mediterranean areas. Data on the Pacific and Indian Ocean areas is not abundant.                   (GZ/JNA#0186-DI)

25 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA MR    V

1532/25 PPA 72       180 KRIEGSMARINE BERLIN

FROM: JZ2

E 2052 GKDOS

TO: COMSUBS

HAS 'FOEHRE' (('TANNE')) ARRIVED? IF NOT, WHEN IS SHE EXPECTED TO MAKE PORT?

14072 KCS 1100/16

-COMMENT-

28 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA EM   C

1945/28/G12 29 AYCB    GGUF                  SERIES GREY 6

((THIS CONCERNS TRANSFER OF PERSONNEL FROM LANGE I--U530 TO 'FORHRE' EFFECTED 23 JUNE. SEE 0049/27 JUNE; 1032/29 AUG/G33.))



0945/30 GP

28 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA EM   EJC

1701/28/G8 59 AZUI    KXDA SERIES GREY 6

FROM: COMSUBS

TO: LORIENT

THERE ARE 35 TO 40 TONS OF GOODS IN STORAGE AT THE 2ND U-FLOT WHICH WERE NEVER LOADED ON 'KIEFER' ((MATSU)) AND 'FOEHRE' ((TANNE)). MOSTLY CONFIDENTIAL AND SECRET DOCUMENTS AND DRAWINGS. MAKE CERTAIN THAT THE THINGS ARE DESTROYED IN GOOD TIME.

TOI 1516Z 8035 KCS 0722/29

28 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA EM   EJC

1945/28/G12 29 AYCB    GGUF SERIES GREY 6

FROM: COM ADM U/B'S

TO: 2ND U-FLOT

REPORT NAMES OF THE SAILORS EMBARKED ON 'FOEHRE' ((TANNE)).

TOI 1901Z 6675 KCS 0721/29

PPB 03 26 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA MR     V

((FROM: BERLIN))

TO: NAVAL ATTACHE TOKYO

--OFFIZIER M--

COMSUBS 5707 SECRET

1) REF E 2052 SECRET ((PPA 72, 25 AUG)).

'FOEHRE' WAS LOST EN ROUTE, PRESUMABLY IN BISCAY.

2) REF E 2048 SECRET ((PPA 71, 25 AUG)), PARA 2: APPROVED. PENANG RECEIVED APPROVAL VIA AFRICA 3.

NEW MSG

FROM COMSUBS          FOR PENANG

TRANSFER OF U-181 ((FREIWALD)) TO SHONAN BY SCHNEEWIND ((183)) IS APPROVED.

14300 KCS 2332/16/12

29 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA EM   ASW

2326/29 PPB16       111 JDIPLOGERMA MARINE ATTACHE TOKIO

FROM: IAJ

TO: JZ2

NAV ATT 8962 GEH

REF YOUR E 1815 GEH*

COMPASS 16 ALSO LOST ON 'FORHRE' (TANNE)). FOR SETTLING ACCOUNTS, REQUEST STATEMENTS BY TELEGRAPH, SIMILAR TO YOUR E 332/44 GKDOS*. FORWARD DATE ON EXTENT OF SUPPLIES AND DATE OF DELIVERY. ((AMONG)) GOODS TO BE DELIVERED ((WERE)):

3 G7A TORPEDOES, PRESUMABLY COMPLETE WITH WAR-HEAD AND WAR-HEAD PISTOL. 3 G7E TORPEDOES ((WITH)) WAR-HEAD PISTOL. 5 TMB'S PRESUMABLY READY FOR BATTLE, 5 TMC MINES, PRESUMABLY READY FOR BATTLE. INSOFAR AS IS REMEMBERED HERE, DELIVERY WAS MADE ON 3 OCTOBER 1942**.

* NOT YET AVAILABLE

** APPARENTLY ERROR FOR 1943

TOI? 14300 KCS 0230/17/9

29 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA MR    V

1032/29/G33 59 KZOG    TYHC SERIES GRAY 6

FROM: U-BASE LORIENT

TO: COM ADM U/B'S

REF G12 ((1945/28/G12)) ACCORDING TO CREW LIST OF U-530 ((LANGE I)) CONSECUTIVE NR 58 KPTLT SCHAEFER, NR 59 OB FUNKMAAT SCHULZE AND NR 50 OB FUNKMAAT BEHRENDT WERE EMBARKED FOR ((TRANSFER TO)) ROEHRE ((TANNE)).

1206Z 8080 KCS 2050/29

NON-CURRENT ITEM

From: Naval Attache in Germany             #370                         1050/4 September 1944

To: Chief of Bureau of Military Affairs

Chief of Third Section of Naval General Staff

Navy Minister

Chief of Naval General Staff             EXTRACT

German Serial #36

III. I acknowledged that I was finally forced to conclude that the SATUSKI #2 had been lost and further that I was unable to think otherwise of the GINMATSU. The Empire had had great hopes for them, but now it will require German submarines for cooperation in the transport of personnel and goods. If these were assigned to the Indian Ocean operations defense sector, I suggested, it would be advantageous from the point of view of both Germany and Japan. The Admiral agreed and said that three transport submarines were scheduled to be completed by the end of this week but due to air attacks they had been delayed. He added that we could depend on the allocation of six submarines to the Indian Ocean theatre as before.

(GZ/JNA#8585-D-DI)

(SUMM. 241300/Q Nov. 1944)

GI-A COMMENT: FOr further reference to the Japanese submarines SATUSKI 2 (RO-501) and the GINMATSU (I-52 formerly designated as MOMI) see ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 011300/Q September, page 4, item 4; 181300/Q July, page 1, item 1; 281300/Q August, pages 1 and 2, items 1 and 2; 191300/Q August, page 1, item 1; 141300/Q August, page 1 item 1.

30 AUGUST 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA MR    V

2315/30/G31 26 BTZJ    GRVU SERIES GRAY 6

FROM: COMSUBS

TO: U-BASE LORIENT

FOEHRE ((TANNE) IS DECLARED MISSING, ONE STAR, AS OF 25/7.

2204Z 5885 KCS 1904/31

PPB 60 12 SEPTEMBER 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA EM    GB

((FROM: BERLIN)) WT 1407 SECRET

((TO: TOKYO))

CONTINUED FROM PPB 59

---OFFIZIER N---

AT 1213/30/7 PLAIN TEXT SHORT SIGNAL RECEIVED:

QWF        AM 36 HOURS OFF HEADING POINT.

NO SIGNATURE. AFTER THAT RDO INSTRUCTIONS "FLIEDER" WERE SENT OFF; ASSUME THAT "FOEHRE" DID NOT RECEIVE ORDER UNDER 2A.

CONVOY AT 0430/1/8 AT PICK-UP POINT.

THIS WAS TRANSMITTED TO "FOEHRE" ON 31/7. BETWEEN 1148 AND 1239 ON 31/7 RENEWED SIGNAL RECEIVED WITHOUT SIGNATURE AS ON DAY BEFORE. SINCE IT WAS POSSIBLY NEW REPORT FROM "FOEHRE", ESCORT STOOD BY AT PICK-UP POINT ALSO AT 0430/2/8 AND 2315/2/8. AS IT WAS FURTHER POSSIBLE THAT "FOEHRE" MEANT NOT 36 BUT 96 HOURS, ESCORT WAS REPEATED ON 3/8 AND 4/8 AT 0430 AND 2315 HOURS. "FOEHRE" HAD INSTRUCTIONS TO SEND NEW SIGNAL ALSO IF ESCORT WAS NOT CONTACTED HERE. ON 5/8 "FOEHRE WAS ASKED FOR POSITION REPORT. REPORT HOWEVER, WAS NOT RECEIVED. ON CAUSE, PLACE AND DATE OF HER LOSS THERE ARE NO CLUES. ASSUMED SHE WAS POSSIBLY SUNK BY A/C OR MINE. CURIOUS KIND OF RDO SHORT SIGNAL REMAINS UNEXPLAINED.

                                                       1420/2/5/45

4 SEPTEMBER 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA MR    CCN

2357/4 PPB32      1232 DIPLOGERMA MARINE ATTACHE TOKIO

QU 3/4937 GKDOS

REF YOUR E 1921 GKDOS ((NOT AVAILABLE))

A) LOADED ON KIEFER ((I-29)): 1234, 1260, 4112, 4118, 4136, 4148, 4174, 6122.

B) INTENDED FOR KIEFER, BUT LEFT BEHIND IN LORIENT FOR FOEHRE ((TANNE)): 1234, 4173, 5195.

C) LOADED ON BLOCKADE RUNNERS, AND THEN UNLOADED. STORED IN SHELTERS AT BORDEAUX (AS FAR AS CAN BE ASCERTAINED, DESTROYED DURING EVACUATION OF BORDEAUX): 1240, 1254, 4066, 4183, 4100, 4110, AND 6057.

14300 KCS 1655/20

10 SEPTEMBER 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA EM EJC

1856/10/G96 81 CGHN    RNWU SERIES GREY 6

TO: U-BASE LORIENT

1) IN CONNECTION WITH THE ORDERED DESTRUCTION OF GOODS FOR 'FOEHRE' ((TANNE)) 'KIEFER' ((MATSU)) ARE STORED THERE YOU ARE ESPECIALLY DIRECTED TO DESTROY BOXES (14) MARKED 532/29/34, 41/8. THEY CONTAIN 70 ENIGMA CIPHER MACHINES.

2) REPORT DESTRUCTION OF ALL THE GOODS.

TOI 1725Z 8875 KCS 2200/10

From: Chief Naval Inspector in Germany   #519                     1300/03 Oct. 1944

To: (Chief of Bureau of Military Preparations?)

The Germans have notified us of the destruction by blowing up or burning of all the following purchases collected at Lorient for loading in GINMATSU, (including goods left over from former occasions).

02(0?)03 Six and (a half?) pairs of field TelePrompTer

02543 Aircraft D/F sets; 18 receivers

02852 Parts for G.H.G. sets (left behind by Submarine I-8)

02561A 70 Enigma cipher machines

02845B 1 Ausfahr head for S. set (Department Note: the Ausfahr (extensible) head is the oscillator unit of S-Geraet, the German echo-ranging gear)

02881 1 20 millimeter single-mount machine gun and one set of accessories (left behind by MATSU)

02881 5200 rounds of ammunition for above

02171B Three sets of K.D.B. fittings

02855 (Parts?) of control telephone (left behind by MATSU)

02892C 660 samples of ammunition of various kinds

02167 One photographic lens

02081 Sixty-six carbon rods

02364 One H.A. gun (less the barrel loaded in MATSU)

                        (continued on other side)

         (continued from preceding page)

02168 Gauges:

797 Micrometers

6249 Screw taps

120 Micrometers

57 Gauge-blocks

100 (Lichte?) engravers

5 Attachments

15 Frames

02744 114 Ball-bearings

02913 One set of specimen parts of feed and condensate pumps

02892B Sixty samples of fuses

02002 1,000 kg. of cork (----) drawings of torpedo fire control gear and one set of parts for same

02102 One magnetic mine

02104 All the minesweeping (gear?) left behind from MATSU

02095C 15 kg.

02098B 5.5 kg.

02095J 100 kg.

02097H 500,000 lengths

02096I 150,000 lengths

020961 50 kg.

02094T 2 kg.

02094V 4 kg.

0209F 2 kg.

                        (continued on next page)

         (continued from preceding page)

02095F 3 kg.

02095J 10 kg.

02095L 10 kg.

02095Z 5 kg.

02097D 1 kg.

02094F 5 kg.

02094X 0.5 kg.

02094Z 5 kg.

02095D 0.25 kg.

02095O 2.25 kg.

02096A 0.3 kg.

02096K 10 kg.

02097F 2 kg.

02097H 1 kg.

02097Q 0.5 kg.

02844 One ultra-short wave transmitter

02599A 1257 (bars?) of aluminum and 581 flasks of mercury handled by Naval office in Italy; one teleprinter and parts sent for Ministry of Foreign Affairs

12441 90 sets of Oerlikon machine gun tools and accessories: thirty magazines

12657 One set of rocket-type take-off accelerators and accessories (left over by MATSU)

                        (continued on other side)

         (continued from preceding page)

12437 One non-ferrous metal searchlight gear

12636 Three serial cameras

12578 1,000 kg. of Kauritleim

12306 Two boxes of steel balls

12513 One cam shaft testing machine

12684 Three superchargers

12580 1,000 kg. of (Kalte Haerter?)

12644A 5,000 rounds of ammunition for 13 millimeter machine

12645A Dittto

12646A Ditto

12623B 17,000 pieces of Neophan glass

12624B 11,000 pieces of Neophan glass

(GZ/JNA#5668-DI)

PAGE 1 OF 2 2 NOVEMBER 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA GP V

1343/2 PPA43   134 KRIEGSMARINE BERLIN

((FROM: TOKYO)) 0152GEN

((TO: BERLIN))

REF MATT 9966 GEH ((NOT AVAILABLE, REFERRED TO IN 9966G2, PPB15 27 OCT)).

KAIGUN FILM WAS ABOARD 'FOEHRE' (TANNE)) FILM HAS BEEN PROCURRED AGAIN AND WILL BE SENT WITH JUNKER ((532)).

NEW MSG 0173GEN

BOSE, WHO IS NOW IN TOKYO, REQUESTS INFO AS TO WHERE INDIAN TROOPS, WHO TO HIS KNOWLEDGE WERE FIGHTING ON THE ATLANTIC OR MEDITERRANEAN COAST, WERE WITHDRAWN, AND WHERE THEY HAVE NOW BEEN PUT INTO ACTION.

NEW MSG 073

((PERSONNEL: KORV KPT KENTRAT   REQUESTS PERMISSION FOR TELEPHONE CONVERSATION WITH WIFE)).

NEW MSG 074 TO: MATT

BERLIN ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE OF ADMIRAL GLADISCH REQUESTED.

PAGE 2 OF 2 2 NOVEMBER 1944 TOP SECRET ULTRA GP V

1343/2 PPA43       134 KRIEGSMARINE BERLIN

((CONTINUATION))

NEW MSG 075    TO: MATT

REQUEST INFO AS TO WHETHER STRIPE INSIGNIA FOR FREGATTENKAPITAN HAS BEEN CHANGED

0645/3/12

12 Dec. '44

Details of I-52 (from D.I.)

1. Displacement:

        Normal   2583 tons

        Fully loaded   3158 tons

    Overall length   108.7 meters

        Max. Beam 9.3 meters

    Draft

        Normal:

            Bow    5.1 meters

          Stern 5.2 meters

        Fully loaded:

            Bow    5.8 meters

            Stern    6.2 meters

    Armament

        Forward (1) 14 cm. gun

        Aft     (1) 25 mm. m/g.

    No plane hangar.

2. Cargo on current trip - 270 tons

3. Added to SUBRON 11 in 1943 war organizations, as of Dec. 14, 1943.

4. Captured Navy Ministry Orders shows -

        a. The I-52 class was added to 1st class sub list, after the I-16 class, and the I-52 entered as the first of that class.

           Date -- 20 Aug. 1942.

5. Another captured Navy Ministry Order -

     I-52 assigned to Kure as home yard. Date -- 10 Nov. 1942.

CONCLUSION: Looks like a new ship.

        (Memo to Cdr. Roeder /s/ DeMaria)

From: Chief Naval Inspector in Germany   #807                     1030/18 Dec. 1944

To: Tokyo EXTRACT

We have endeavored to return to Germany as many as possible of the goods loaded in the four "YANAGI" ships, and the "AKIRA" No. 4 whose departure from Bordeaux was suspended, as previously reported, also of the considerable number of purchases which could not be shipped by them, and which remained behind in warehouses there, except for those which it was thought possible to load in German submarines and on the "GINMATSU". However, while this transfer was as yet incomplete owing to the work of discharge not proceeding and in addition the transport in France being extremely congested, the enemy's second front developed rapidly. (We finished sending back to Germany about 130 machine tools and (the steel plates, steel billets and panels?). In fact the following goods were left behind in Bordeaux at the time of the enemy army's penetration into the port, but according to later reports from the Germans three German submarines which were being equipped in the port at the time, left hurriedly for Japan, taking with them a considerable amount of mercury lead and optical glass from the goods left behind as ballast. Apart from this it appears a considerable amount may be loaded on board, but as details are obscure, please let us know on arrival the names, numbers, and quantities of goods shipped. The rest are presumed to have fallen into enemy hands or to have been blown up. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(Continued on next page)

34 "TT" 24, 10, and 42, fuel pumps

27 Mitsui 1596 Schwingmetall plates

852 15 tons borax

1746 2 boxes ball bearings about 90 kilos

12804 37 boxes steel balls about 5 tons

12800 8 boxes ball bearings about 1.5 tons

1833 2 boxes steel balls about 300 kgs.

0133 several hundred tons (steel plates, steel billets, panels?)

Kaigai Tuushoo 3629/3630 7 sets gauges etc.

579 one universal measuring machine

3563 one automatic screw-cutting lathe

518 9 boxes gauges, etc.

3045 one gauge grinder

2251 98 grinding stones

5000 one box assorted tools etc.

(Continued on next page)

(Continued from preceding page)

I. Goods remaining in warehouses and not loaded on "YAMAGI" or "AKIRA". . . . . . . . . . .

II. Goods discharged from "AKIRA" (No. 4)

02840 "B" 6 vacuum tubes type RS 383

02838 A 12 "DT" equipment transmitter valves, type L.S. 180

02489 C One (boiler water or bilge water?) self recording gauge

02885 120 specimen vacuum tubes

02751 2 boxes mine fuses

02833 One box tools for ultra short wave W/T set.

12451B 210 bomb sights and 12 sets of parts

Negotiated by attache in Italy quantity of lead and mercury

MITSU 12800 183500 rollers

70004 One box mixed lubricating oils

K3899 12 bundles wire rope

III. Goods discharged from the 4 "YANAGI" ships

02338 7 boxes, valves, compressors, and steel tubes for cartridge case making machine

02751 5 mines type IMB 3 for laying by aircraft

02914 800 meters piping for fuel injection pump

12448 5 parts for aerial camers

ILLIES "TC" 5260 injection pump and nozzle 52 boxes each

(Continued on next page)

(Continued from preceding page)

348674 two boxes (Beche?) hammer spare parts

1969 one box cutters

(Becker?) 2717 one (    ) machine

1250 one box cutters

Mitsubisi Aerial cameras for Japanese Air Force 14 boxes

Ascania 244 one lens testing apparatus

Yamamoto 423 30 gauges etc.

(Fuuundoo?) 0373 20 gauges etc.

(Schering?) about 19 tons potassium bromide 1180

Schmidt 6 boxes KZ 705 testing equipment

(GZ/JNA#5456-DI)

GI-A COMMENT: The deleted portions of this message enumerated only cargo numbers and amounts of various undescribed articles.

The four YANAGI's or surface blockade runners, mentioned were probably the ELSA ESSBURGER, FUSIJAMA, HIMALAYA and TANNENFELS, whose sailings for the Far East, scheduled for December, 1943 and January 1944, were cancelled due to the excessive losses suffered by Germany.

The AKIRA #4 was the ex-Italian submarine, designated as U-IT-24 which was destroyed by the Germans at the U-base in Bordeaux during August 1944.

The GINMATSU (Japanese I-52) was sunk while returning from Europe to the Orient. The three German submarines which left Bordeaux in late August, 1944, are unidentified.

From: Chief Inspector in Germany       #948        1500/06 February 1945

To: Chief of Bureau of Supplies and Accounts

Chief of Accounts Department, Naval Technical Bureau

Chief of Accounts Department, Bureau of Aeronautics

The documents which we had originally scheduled for consignment aboard the GINMATSU were sent to the (port of departure?), but since they could not be sent, they are again in our custody. In view of the urgency of recent events, we found it necessary to dispose of all papers up to January 1945 by burning them. Please note the fact that we have disposed of them.

(GZ/JNA#7366-DI)



	GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is the I-52, thought to have been sunk on 24 June. It was scheduled to rendezvous with a German U-boat on 22 June at 15 N, 40 W. On 24 June, the USS BOGUE attacked 2 submarines in the area 15.16 N, 39.55 W, considerable oil and debris appearing on the surface. After that date there has been no evidence of any transmission from the MOMI, apart from the above item. The original destination, Lorient, has not been changed in any traffic here available.



	GI-A COMMENT: MOMI is the I-52, formerly thought to have been sunk on 24 June. It was scheduled to rendezvous with a German U-boat on 22 June at 15 N, 40 W. On 24 June, the USS BOGUE attacked two submarines in the area 15.16 N, 39.55 W, considerable oil and debris appearing on the surface. There is no evidence that the I-52 made a report after that date until the message reported in the item above. The port of arrival is probably Lorient.



	We should like to receive as many vacuum tubes and high frequency ----------- as possible for the radar equipment mentioned above plus explanation manuals of their details. Also this equipment again if possible: 1 set of radar for airplanes (Hohentwiel), 2 sets of radar for night fighters (FU 212?), 2 sets of IFF equipment (FU 25A), 2 sets of 9 centimeter? radar (Berlin), 3 groups of radio telephone equipment for airplanes (FUG 15), 2 sets of anti-jamming equipment for Hurzburg, and 1 set of captured Medow and its magnetron and klystron.
	(GZ/JNA#8818-DI)
	GI-A COMMENT: The first part of this message appeared in ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 091300/Q August, page 1, item 2. The articles listed above are intended to be sent to the Far East aboard the I-52 (cover-name GINMATSU, or MOMI), believed sunk. See ATLANTIC R.I. SUMMARY, PART I, 101300/Q August, page 1, item 1, and 081300/Q August, page 3, item 3.



	the Captain (my #307) for the information of the Head of the 1st Section of Imperial Naval Headquarters, again giving him route instructions and the rendezvous date. Up to the present, however, there has been no reply, and I have begun to entertain doubts as to the safety of the ship.
	It is of course possible that QWF was a fake message by the enemy; but the action taken by the enemy does not tally with this. Furthermore when attacking submarines in the Bay of Biscay it has always been the practice of the enemy to send a signal before and after, which signals the German Navy can decypher, but no such signals have been sent recently. They therefore do not think she was attacked in the Bay of Biscay. Consequently, it is impossible to guess what has happened to her; but as nothing has been heard from her up to the present the German Navy has given up all hope of her. I am of the opinion that it is possible that the Captain is trying to make a detour north on his own initiative and without sending a wireless signal. I have accordingly instructed him to go to Norway (my #313), and I have asked the German Navy to try and get news of her and to take all other possible steps.
	2. The party that went to her port of arrival in order to look after GINMATSU, as in my #253, stood by in Lorient; but things being as I have described, and also all submarine units having withdrawn to headquarters at Angers owing to the rapidity of developments in northern France, and then owing to the impossibility of getting to Lorient, they all came back to Paris and returned to Berlin yesterday, the 8th. Their journey both ways was most difficult; for instance, four hours after they went

	(continued next card)



	through Nantes enemy armoured units dashed into the city, and they were many times in danger; but they all got back safely.
	(GC&CS/JNA-120109-111-115-119-123-OP-20-G-DI)
	GI-A COMMENT: GINMATSU, formerly designated as MOMI, is the cover name for the Japanese submarine I-52. Of the 4 messages addressed to the GINMATSU by the Japanese Naval Attache which were mentioned in the message reported above, serial #313 (GZ/JNA#8968-DI) appeared in ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, PART I, 101300/Q August, page 1, item 1; serial #306 (GZ/JNA#8771-DI) appeared in SUMMARY of 081300/Q August, page 3 item 3; and serial #284 (GZ/JNA#8518-DI) in SUMMARY of 041300/Q August, page 1, item 1. The fourth, serial #253 (GZ/JNA#6890-DI) dated 191900 19 July, listed the names of the JApanese officers and officials to be sent to Lorient to receive the GINMATSU. On 16 June, the Captain of GINMATSU reported from position 10.00 N - 31.00 W. to have sufficient fuel left for 12,000 miles at 11 knots and provisions for 3 months (GZ/JNA#4469-DI) ATLANTIC RI SUMMARY, PART I, 211300/Q June, page 1, item 1).



	(continued)
	5. Technical Lieutenant Tarutani
	(special course in the "TL" power plant)
	6. Technical expert Yamato
	(Specialist in electric apparatus of acoustic torpedo)
	7. Unofficial expert Nakai
	(chemical expert for the "R" power plant)
	II. Army (those ordered in your despatch to return to Japan immediately)
	8. Major Suematsu
	9. Technical expert Kawakitka
	10. Colonel Kootani
	11. Technical expert Suzuki
	12. Major Kingoshita
	13. Major Kigoshi
	14. Colonel Uchiai
	15. Major Kobayashi, aeronautics expert?
	16. Major Yoshinari, aeronautics expert?
	17. ----- Ogawa, ordnance expert?
	III. Foreign office
	18. Komuro, (Commerce Ministry)

	(over)



	(continued)
	IV. German Technicians
	19. One Messerschmitt expert
	(specialist chiefly in airplane and rocket plane designs)
	20. One person, same as above
	21. Same (Specialist in construction of the fuselage of rocket planes)
	22. One Junkers expert
	(specialist in handling assembly of "TF" power plant)
	23. One BMW expert
	(specialist in construction of the above)
	24. One Heinkel expert
	(assistant to technician Schmidt in Japan)
	25. One Daimler-Benz expert.
	(Specialist on the NW-501
	26. One Siemens expert
	(Specialist in torpedo control)
	Total: 26 persons.

	(GZ/JNA#9566-DI)



	12 Dec. '44
	Details of I-52 (from D.I.)
	1. Displacement:
	Normal 2583 tons
	Fully loaded 3158 tons
	Overall length 108.7 meters
	Max. Beam 9.3 meters
	Draft
	Normal:
	Bow 5.1 meters
	Stern 5.2 meters
	Fully loaded:
	Bow 5.8 meters
	Stern 6.2 meters
	Armament
	Forward (1) 14 cm. gun
	Aft (1) 25 mm. m/g.
	No plane hangar.
	2. Cargo on current trip - 270 tons
	3. Added to SUBRON 11 in 1943 war organizations, as of Dec. 14, 1943.
	4. Captured Navy Ministry Orders shows -
	a. The I-52 class was added to 1st class sub list, after the I-16 class, and the I-52 entered as the first of that class.
	Date -- 20 Aug. 1942.
	5. Another captured Navy Ministry Order -
	I-52 assigned to Kure as home yard. Date -- 10 Nov. 1942.
	CONCLUSION: Looks like a new ship.
	(Memo to Cdr. Roeder /s/ DeMaria)