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

16 - 31 October 1942

PG30312b

     
     
 
16.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 179
-
 Op(GR)
U 443
-
 Op(AK 30)
U 602
-
 Op(AK 30)
 
67
-
 Op(EE 71)
181
-
 FE 42
454
-
 Op(AK 40)
604
-
 BF 46
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
183
-
 AJ 22
455
-
 BC 51
607
-
 Op(AK)
 
69
-
 Op(BB 58)
201
-
 DF 73
459
-
 DT 22
609
-
 Op(AL 70)
 
71
-
 Op(AL 90)
202
-
 DF 92
461
-
 BF 67
610
-
 Op(AK 03)
 
84
-
 Op(AL 40)
203
-
 BF 50
463
-
 BD 57
615
-
 Op(AK)
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
216
-
 Op(AK)
504
-
 Op(GR)
618
-
 Op(AK)
 
89
-
 Op(AL 40)
217
-
 BF 55
505
-
 CD 96
620
-
 BD 25
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
221
-
 AK 91
506
-
 DT 78
621
-
 Op(AK 30)
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
254
-
 Op(AK)
509
-
 BF 50
624
-
 AE 69
 
116
-
 BF 50
257
-
 BF 73
510
-
 BF 49
627
-
 AO
 
118
-
 BF 60
258
-
 Op(AK)
513
-
 BD 60
658
-
 Op(AL 70)
 
125
-
 Op(ET)
260
-
 BD 28
514
-
 Op(LP 24)
659
-
 BF 47
 
126
-
 FG 37
301
-
 Op(AK 30)
516
-
 Op(EO)
661
-
 Op(AK 50)
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
332
-
 Op(EO)
517
-
 BE 43
662
-
 Op(AK)
 
129
-
 DQ 14
333
-
 DH 79
518
-
 AJ 16
704
-
 Op(AL 40)
 
132
-
 Op(AL 70)
353
-
 Op(AK)
520
-
 AK 24
706
-
 Op(AK 03)
 
134
-
 BF 91
356
-
 Op(AK)
521
-
 AL 30
753
-
 Op(AK 30)
 
154
-
 BE 92
381
-
 Op(AK 63)
522
-
 AE 86
757
-
 BD 60
 
156
-
 FE 54
382
-
 BD 27
552
-
 Op(ET)
D 3
-
 AL 92
 
159
-
 Op(GR)
402
-
 Op(AL 40)
558
-
 BF 52
D 5
-
 Op(ET)
 
160
-
 Op(EE)
409
-
 BF 47
563
-
 Op(AK 30)      
 
161
-
 FG 64
410
-
 Op(AK)
571
-
 Op(AL 40)      
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
436
-
 AL 23
572
-
 BE 96      
 
174
-
 CE 92
437
-
 Op(AK)
575
-
 Op(AK 30)      
 
175
-
 DF 59
438
-
 Op(AL 70)
590
-
 Op(ET)      
 
177
-
 DF 59
441
-
 Op(AK 30)
597
-
 Op(AK 50)      
 
178
-
 FU 97
442
-
 Op(AK)
599
-
 Op(AK)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 116 - 118 - 156 - 175 - 201 - 217 - 221 - 254 - 257 - 333 - 382 - 455 - 459 - 461 - 506 - 513 - 517 - 558 - 757 - D 3.
  Entered Port:  U 258 - 217 - Brest;  U 118 - Lorient.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoys Nos. 59 and 60 see paragraph IVa.
    2) From patrol line of Group Panther U 602 - 563 - 610 - 301 and 575 report large numbers of aircraft.  Line seems to have been observed and will be shifted.
    3) U 160 sighted convoy of 14 ships at 2100 in ED 9954, course 900, speed 8 knots.  Sea and air patrol.  Boat attacked and scored one hit apiece on 4,000 and 6,000 tonner.  Sinking not confirmed on account of defence measures.  Hunt still in progress.
    4) U 333 sighted unknown submarine in DH 1392.  Italian according to dead reckoning.
    5) U 129 sank Norwegian ship "Trafalgar" (5,542 GRT) on 16.10. in DQ 1153, carrying mixed cargo from Buenos Aires to New York.
    6) U 69 sighted small convoy in BB 5686 with small escort, course
       
- 38 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      3100, low speed.
    7) Position reports:
      U 107:  Since 12.10. from ET 4645 - 8251 - EU 7341 - ET 6641 nothing sighted.  Frequent bad visibility caused by rain.
      U 128:  Up to the present ET 56, now ET 70, no shipping sighted.
    8) U 441 leaving large oil tracks caused by leaking emergency end seals and slide valves of ventilators.  Boat ordered to blow starboard main ballast tank and report operational readiness.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  AK 69 - ED 96 - EC 64 - EO 14.
    U-boat attacks:  ED 99 and BB 5511 on English steamer "Carbon".  
    English aircraft reported submarines in AK 3644 - AE 7774 - AK 5999 and 4 others in unknown positions, one depth charge attack.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 59:
      At 1000 U 258 sighted a part of convoy consisting of 5 steamers in AK 5999, course 900.  It was immediately forced to submerge by aircraft, and reported last position of convoy on hydrophones AK 9124 at 1300.  Contact finally lost on account of air patrol.  Towards 2200 U 571 came on convoy again in AK 6977.  Sighted 2 destroyers and 5 steamers on course 900, was damaged by bombs and depth charges and could not report sighting until 13 hours later.  Before U 258 sighted convoy again in the morning, another submarine sighted westbound convoy in AL 4799.  Groups "Wotan" and "Leopard" were ordered to break off operations on Convoy No. 59 and operate on fresh reports.  Reasons for this were as follows:
     
I. No contact for six hours and
II. entry of enemy into area of continuous air patrol.
      With this operation on Convoy No. 59 was over.  Boats making contact by accident should make the most of any opportunity that offered... for complete survey see paragraph VI.
    2) Convoy No. 60:
      At 1002 U 704 reported enemy in sight AL 4799 on westerly course, speed 12 knots.  Boat lay in southern half of Group "Panther" patrol line.  16 boats of Group "Panther" as well as boats of Group "Leopard" and "Wotan" were ordered to operate.  The rest of the "Panther" boats were formed into Group "Puma" and detailed to new patrol line.  (See IVb)  At 1043 U 609 sighted convoy in AL 7136.  Retained contact until 1345 in AL 7156.  General course of convoy 2200, with temporary alterations of course to the south.  Speed 8 - 10 knots according to dead reckoning.
      U 704 attacked at 1330 in AL 7129 and scored 2 hits on 5,000 ton ship.  Sinking certain.  Convoy consisted of about 20 steamers.  Visibility worsened during course of the morning
 
 
 
- 39 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      south 2, and rain to the point of fog.  During submerged attack in fog U 609 was depth-charged at 13 meters.  Damage received forced boat to commence return passage.  Convoy remained uncontacted on account of continuous bad visibility.  Boats operating independently on convoy courses between 200 and 2500, speed 8 - 10 knots.  Operation continues.
  b) 1) Group "Puma" with U 621 - 436 - 602 - 753 - 575 - 301 - 563 - 443 took up patrol line between AK 6247 - 6977 at cruising speed.
    2) U 436 took up position in patrol line instead of U 441 which fell out, and thus has therefore joined Group "Puma".
    3) U 610 position BD 57 for refueling.
  c) None.
  d) 1) According to 1/Sk1 IK 2055/42 2 boats have been detailed to escort "M.S. Tannenfels".  U 105 position CD 95 at midday on 21.10. and U 382 after completing refueling in BD 57 to proceed on southerly course with 210 miles day's run to meet ship.
    2) U 216 was on return passage and last reported short weather signal on 6.10. from BD 8286.  Since then neither weather nor sighting report received.  Loss of boat must be reckoned with since boat is already 3 days overdue in port.
    3) U 597 operated with Group "Leopard" on Convoy No. 58.  Reported same at 1145/12/10 in AK 3999.  Last radio message stated boat had lost contact 1200.  Since then no reply has been received in spite of repeated calls.  Loss must be reckoned with.
       
V. Reports of Success:
 
U 160 2 ships
torpedoed
U 129 1 ship
5,542 GRT
U 704 1 ship
5,000 GRT.
       
VI. General:
  General Survey of Convoy No. 59:
    Operation on SC convoy was strongly effected by 2 factors,
  1) Scattered position of boats at time of first sighting,
  2)  Bad weather from the W during first 2 days.
  Contact at first was kept by U 221 above, which in 2 night attacks in bad weather sank a total of 8 ships.  In spite of the fact that calmer weather set in on the 3rd day, and all boats of the patrol line came within range of the convoy, no further success was scored during the operation.
    Radio messages from the boats show reasons for this:
  1) Increased escort, A/S units and single destroyers, probably transferred from ON-convoy which was hunted in vain.
  2)  Outstanding performance of radar apparatus probable.  It is striking that boats were not able to shadow for any length of
 
 
 
- 40 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     time without being forced to submerge.  At times they were not even able to make first contact report.  Successes scored by U 221, 607 and 618 during 1st and 2nd night were made in heavy sea, and therefore under difficult conditions for successful operation of enemy radar apparatus.
  3)  Great differences in estimated positions from the various boats due to bad weather and visibility.
  4)  Early appearance of air escort already in AK 80 although this convoy passage must be a small catastrophe for the enemy (11 ships lost out of 19), the course of the operation was a disappointment for our boats also.  Here again is clearly shown how much more difficult convoy battles have become, and how immensely important and decisive is the development of our own weapons (combined radar and radar intercept equipment, heavier flak armament, improved torpedoes) for the future prosecution of submarine warfare.
    Results:  11 ships sunk, one submarine (U 661) probably lost, and one submarine (U 607) damaged.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
17.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 179
-
 Op(GR)
U 442
-
 Op(AK 60)
U 599
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
67
-
 Op(EE)
181
-
 FE 57
443
-
 Op(AK 03)
602
-
 Op(AK)
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
183
-
 AJ 16
454
-
 Op(AK 90)
604
-
 BF 47
 
69
-
 Op(BB)
201
-
 DF 55
455
-
 BC 65
607
-
 AK 98
 
71
-
 Op(AK 90)
202
-
 DF 69
459
-
 DT 76
609
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
84
-
 Op(AK 90)
203
-
 BF 46
461
-
 BF 50
610
-
 AK 68
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
216
-
 Op(AK 60)
504
-
 Op(GR)
615
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
89
-
 Op(AK 90)
221
-
 Op(AK 90)
505
-
 DF 23
618
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
254
-
 BD 32
506
-
 DS 96
620
-
 BD 54
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
257
-
 BF 91
509
-
 BF 49
621
-
 Op(AK 37)
 
125
-
 Op(ET)
258
-
 Op(AK 60)
510
-
 BF 47
624
-
 AE 91
 
126
-
 FG 66
260
-
 BD 57
513
-
 BE 44
627
-
 AN 36
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
301
-
 Op(AK)
514
-
 Op(EP)
658
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
129
-
 DQ 42
332
-
 Op(EE)
516
-
 Op(EO)
659
-
 BE 95
 
132
-
 Op(AK 90)
333
-
 CF 89
517
-
 BE 56
661
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
134
-
 BF 82
353
-
 Op(AK 60)
518
-
 AJ 17
662
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
154
-
 CF 21
356
-
 OP(AK 60)
520
-
 AK 13
704
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
156
-
 FE 16
381
-
 Op(AK 90)
521
-
 AK 24
706
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
159
-
 Op(GR)
382
-
 BD 57
522
-
 AE 87
753
-
 Op(AK 03)
 
160
-
 Op(EE)
402
-
 Op(AK 90)
552
-
 Op(ET)
757
-
 BE 44
 
161
-
 FH 47
409
-
 BE 83
563
-
 Op(AK)
D 3
-
 AL 99
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
410
-
 Op(AK)
571
-
 Op(AK 90)
D 5
-
 Op(ET)
 
174
-
 DG 23
463
-
 BD 57
572
-
 BE 98      
 
175
-
 DF 62
436
-
 AL 17
575
-
 Op(AK 39)      
 
177
-
 FD 35
437
-
 Op(AK 40)
590
-
 Op(ET)      
 
178
-
 GG 24
438
-
 Op(AK 90)            
       
441
-
 Op(AK)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 156 - 175 - 201 - 202 - 221 - 254 - 257 - 333 - 382 - 455 - 459 - 461 - 506 - 513 - 517 - 757 - D 3.
  Entered Port:  U 461 - St Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 163 - 508 - Lorient;  U 519 - 224 - 383 - 412 - Kiel;  U 606 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
- 41 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 60 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 183 sighted nothing while proceeding through Iceland Passage and southern tip of Greenland as far as AJ 46.
    3) U 160 continued hunt for convoy reported on previous day.  At 1130 it lay in EE 7858, course 900, speed 8 knots.  U 67 continued to operate and for a time also U 332 but latter soon had to break off engagement on account of a temporary attack of giddiness of its Commander.  Boats were continually forced to submerge by strong air patrol and lost contact towards evening.  U 160 presumed convoy had broken up into single groups and at 1702 sighted 2 large steamers in EO 1236.  No successes were scored.
  b)  None.
  c) Submarine sightings:  EO 12 - EE 78 - ED 95 - ED 52 and 1 submarine in a convoy.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 60:
    In spite of the fact that a large number of boats must have been in the area where convoy was supposed to be, convoy itself remained uncontacted.  At 1512 U 258 sighted destroyer in BD 3258.  U 356 came upon corvette in AK 9769 and in the same area U 381 sighted a destroyer.  At 152- U 71 was contacted, crossed over by a destroyer, and heard east bound convoy.  Gave chase without success.  In course of the evening weather worsened to S.W. 10-11, variable visibility, fierce showers of rain and hail.  Boats reported they could only make slow speed in present sea.  At 0336 U 618 came upon single ship, type "Waroonga" (9,365 GRT) escorted by destroyer and on westerly course.  Boat attacked and torpedoed ship in roughly BD 3441.  Sinking was heard.  Command conjectured convoy would be between BD 21 - AK 89 - BD 29 and 34 by dawn.  Apart from a number of patrol vessels in BD 2330 at 0400 on S.W. course according to hydrophone bearings, boats sighted nothing further.  Operation continues.
     No further refueling is planned for former Group "Wotan" following boats therefore broke off engagement:  U 216 - 410 - 258 - 618 and 356.
  b) 1) U 441 blew main ballast tank and is again at full operational readiness.  Boat joined Group "Puma" and lengthened patrol line to AK 6139 on the N.
    2) Following attack areas occupied:
      U 518 squares AH 95 and 96 with focal points AH 9586 and 9594.
      U 183 square AH 98 and 99 with focal point AH 9830.
      Operation view for next new period in BB 10 and 40.
       
- 42 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c)  U 609 took over radar intercept escort for U 254.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 618 1 ship 9,365 GRT sunk.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
18.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 179
-
 Op(GR)
U 441
-
 Op(AK)
U 590
-
 Op(ET)
 
67
-
 Op(EO)
181
-
 FE 94
442
-
 Op(BD)
599
-
 BD-Op
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
183
-
 AJ 71
443
-
 Op(AK 60)
602
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
69
-
 Op(BB)
201
-
 DF 37
454
-
 Op(BB 20)
604
-
 BE 96
 
71
-
 Op(AK)
202
-
 DG 18
455
-
 BD 47
606
-
 AF 87
 
84
-
 Op(BD 20)
203
-
 BF 47
459
-
 ET 72
607
-
 BE 11
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
216
-
 AL 77
463
-
 BD 57
609
-
 BE 21
 
89
-
 Op(BD 20)
221
-
 BE 12
504
-
 Op(GR)
610
-
 AL 97
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
224
-
 AO
505
-
 DF 27
615
-
 Op(BD)
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
254
-
 BE 14
506
-
 DS 93
618
-
 BD 26
 
125
-
 ET 41
257
-
 BF 68
508
-
 BF 55
620
-
 BD 57
 
126
-
 FH 73
258
-
 Op(BD)
509
-
 BF 71
621
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
260
-
 BD 57
510
-
 BE 92
624
-
 AE 86
 
129
-
 DP 69
301
-
 Op(AK 60)
513
-
 BE 54
627
-
 AN 28
 
132
-
 Op(BD)
332
-
 Op(EE)
514
-
 Op(EP)
658
-
 Op(BD 20)
 
134
-
 BF 73
333
-
 CF 67
516
-
 Op(EO)
659
-
 CG 17
 
154
-
 CE 39
353
-
 Op(BD)
517
-
 BE 66
661
-
 Op(BD 20)
 
156
-
 ET 79
356
-
 BD 23
518
-
 AJ 47
662
-
 Op(BD)
 
159
-
 Op(GR)
381
-
 Op(BD)
519
-
 AO
704
-
 Op(BD 20)
 
160
-
 Op(EO)
382
-
 BD 57
520
-
 AD 97
706
-
 Op(BD 20)
 
161
-
 FH 73
383
-
 AO
521
-
 AK 24
753
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
163
-
 BF 55
402
-
 Op(BD)
522
-
 AE 86
757
-
 BE 46
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
409
-
 BE 87
552
-
 AL 22
D 3
-
 BE 37
 
174
-
 DG 51
410
-
 BD 32
563
-
 Op(ET)
D 5
-
 Op(ET)
 
175
-
 DG 14
412
-
 AO
571
-
 Op(BD)      
 
177
-
 FE 41
436
-
 Op(AK 60)
572
-
 CF 39      
 
178
-
 GG 69
437
-
 Op(BD)
575
-
 Op(AK 60)      
       
438
-
 Op(BD 20)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 125 - 156 - 175 - 201 - 216 - 221 - 254 - 257 - 258 - 333 - 356 - 382 - 410 - 455 - 459 - 506 - 513 - 517 - 607 - 618 - 757 - D 3.
  Entered Port:  U 257 - La Pallice.
  Sailed:  U 462 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 60 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 160 and U 67 have broken off unsuccessful operation and during full moon period are operating apart in waters east of Trinidad.
    3) U 658 reported single ship in BD 2373 on course 2100.  Received orders to sink it unless it was recognized as Irish or Swedish.
       
- 43 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    4) Further U 620 sighted ship sailing independently in BD 7791 course 700, speed 15 knots.  As ship was 15 miles inside Route A and one of our own ships was expected, boat was ordered not to attack.
    5) Situation report Capetown Area:
      U 68:  Worst weather possible since 10.10.  On penetrating to the east as far as KY 62 came upon heavy westbound traffic proceeding through own minefield on account of weather.  Heavy air activity.
      U 172:  Nothing sighted in GR 40-42 and 89, apart from one freighter.  2 shots missed.  Air patrol.  Boat presumed traffic stoppage.
      U 504:  Sank "Empire Jaguar" (5,186 GRT) in JJ 1313 on 17.10., course 2300, heavily armed.  Otherwise nothing sighted.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  ED 75, GR 25 from British steamer "Bentinnes"
    U-boat attack in BD 2654.
    SOS report from American steamer "Ozark", 2689 GRT in AD 9232.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 60:
    In continuous stormy weather boats continued search independently.  Organized search on sector system or the like pointless, as positions of boats too uncertain.  U 89 sighted smoke clouds at 1130 in BD 2221, probably hove to.  By morning no further contact with enemy was made.
  b)  New positions for U 509 and U 510 CF 84 southward passage and operation on "SL" convoy in view.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 504 1 ship 5,186 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
19.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 179
-
 Op(GR)
U 441
-
 Op(AK 60)
U 575
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
67
-
 Op(EO)
181
-
 FM 23
442
-
 Op(AK)
590
-
 Op(ET)
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
183
-
 Op(AH 90)
443
-
 Op(AK 60)
599
-
 Op(BD)
 
69
-
 Op(BB 56)
201
-
 DF 35
454
-
 Op(AK)
602
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
71
-
 Op(BD 20)
202
-
 DG 13
455
-
 BD 57
604
-
 BE 97
 
       
- 44 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
84
-
 Op(BD)
203
-
 BE 96
559
-
 DT 47
606
-
 AF 72
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
216
-
 BE 14
462
-
 BF 67
607
-
 BF 19
 
89
-
 Op(AK)
221
-
 BE 27
463
-
 BD 57
609
-
 BE 28
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
224
-
 AN 36
504
-
 Op(KY)
610
-
 BD 25
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
254
-
 BE 43
505
-
 DF 44
615
-
 Op(BD 20)
 
125
-
 ES 36
258
-
 BD 53
506
-
 DS 69
618
-
 BD 39
 
126
-
 FH 88
260
-
 BD 57
508
-
 BF 46
620
-
 BD 57
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
301
-
 Op(AK 60)
509
-
 BE 92
621
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
129
-
 DP 94
332
-
 Op(EE)
510
-
 CF 26
624
-
 AF 85
 
132
-
 Op(BB 20)
333
-
 CF 38
513
-
 BF 56
627
-
 AN 28
 
134
-
 BF 74
353
-
 Op(BD 20)
514
-
 Op(EP)
658
-
 Op(BD)
 
154
-
 CE 53
356
-
 BD 26
516
-
 Op(EO)
659
-
 CF 65
 
156
-
 ET 75
381
-
 Op(BD 20)
517
-
 BF 58
661
-
 Op(BD 20)
 
159
-
 GQ 95-Op
382
-
 BD 57
518
-
 Op(AH 96)
662
-
 Op(BD 20)
 
160
-
 Op(EO)
383
-
 AN 36
519
-
 AN 36
704
-
 Op(BD 20)
 
161
-
 FH 89
402
-
 Op(BD 20)
520
-
 BD 57
706
-
 Op(AK)
 
163
-
 BF 46
409
-
 CF 25
521
-
 AK 13
753
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
410
-
 BE 17
522
-
 AF 87
757
-
 BE 56
 
174
-
 DG 83
412
-
 AN 36
552
-
 Op(ET)
D 3
-
 BE 66
 
175
-
 CE 79
436
-
 Op(AK 60)
563
-
 Op(AK 60)
D 5
-
 Op(ET)
 
177
-
 FE 73
437
-
 Op(BD 20)
571
-
 AK 86      
 
178
-
 GH 76
438
-
 Op(AK)
572
-
 CF 61      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 125 - 156 - 175 - 201 - 202 - 216 - 221 - 254 - 258 - 333 - 356 - 382 - 410 - 454 - 459 - 506 - 513 - 517 - 607 - 609 - 618 - 757 - D 3.
  Entered Port:  U 517 - Lorient.
  Sailed:  U 440 - Brest.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 60 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 332 sank English ship "Rothley" in EE 6702, general course 2900.
    3) U 409 was attacked by "Catalina" without identification marks in CF 2794.  Machine-guns defence; no damage.
    4) U 258 sighted steamer with black and white camouflage in BD 3986, course east and later S.W. boat had to break off chase on account of fuel supply.
    5) U 610, en route for refuel in BD 2862, sank American ship "Steel Navigator" (5,719 GRT) course 2600, speed 11 knots.
  b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:  GR 53, from steamer "Nester".
    2) English aircraft attacked submarine in CF 2796.
    3) U-boat attacks:  "Steel Navigator" in BD 2562 (SOS).  American ship "Stephan A. Douglas" 6,800 GRT in GR 7530
  d)  None.
       
- 45 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 60:
     Boats received orders to continue search on S.W. course and economic speed.  Boats short of fuel to make for refueling point (U 437 - 662 - 442 - U 353).  At 1405 U 381 sighted fast single ship in BD 2556 on S.W. course.  As convoy had not been contacted by dusk Command decided to break off operation.  U 661 and U 705 were refueled, U 599 and U 615 commence return passage as soon as fuel supply made this necessary.  Until then they have freedom of action.
    The rest of the boats were formed into Group "Veilchen" and took up new patrol line from AJ 8181 to BC 2279 order of succession as follows:  U 71 - 438 - 84 - 89 - 704 - 381 - 658 - 402 - 571 - 454 and U 132.  Boats expected to be in position early on 24.10.  See paragraph IV for general survey.
  b) 1) U 520 and 521 received orders to go close inshore while passing south tip of Greenland, as traffic was to be expected there.
    2) New position for U 522 BB 63 (St. Johns).
    3) For clearing up of traffic situation off Freetown boats detailed to take up attack positions in following sector with apex ET 20:  U 87 and U 552 sector 80 - 300, U 128 and 107 the sector to the south and U 590 sector to the north of it, up to the coast from time to time.
      U D 5 freedom of action.
  c)  U 154 in position CD 9255 at 1400/21/10 for rendezvous with returning "Tannenfels".  Note to follow.
  d)  Boat's attention is drawn to the fact that enemy is using submarines with surface silhouette similar to that of a German as decoy.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 332 1 ship
4,996 GRT
U 610 1 ship
5,719 GRT.
       
VI. General:
  General Survey of Convoy No. 60:
  1) Operation on ON-convoy turned out total failure on account of bad weather.  The fog which gathered 3 hours after first sighting lead to loss of contact and bad damage to U 609 which was engaged on submerged attack when fog came down.
    Continuous fog and heavy westerly storm with wind up to strength 11 made organized search impossible and hindered a successful operation on the part of 25 boats.
     U 353 was probably lost in this action.  It is probable that on the night of 17.10 boat suddenly found itself among the convoy in the fog (radio intercept report: submarine in convoy) and was destroyed.  
    With unusually bad visibility conditions in the Atlantic and the extensive equipping if enemy escort with (F.U.M.C.) equipment of our own boats with combined radar and radar intercept is more urgent than ever.
     Results:  1 ship sunk
               1 boat (U 353) lost.
  2)  Situation Survey to German Naval Staff, see Appendix.
 
 
 
- 46 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
20.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 179
-
 Op(GR)
U 440
-
 BF 55
U 575
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
67
-
 Op(EO)
181
-
 FM 62
441
-
 Op(AK 60)
590
-
 Op(ET)
 
68
-
 Op(GP)
183
-
 Op(AH)
442
-
 BD 52
599
-
 BD 24
 
69
-
 Op(BB)
201
-
 CE 76
443
-
 Op(AK 69)
602
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
71
-
 BD 13
202
-
 CE 85
454
-
 BD 16
604
-
 CF 53
 
84
-
 BD 16
203
-
 CF 34
455
-
 BD 59
606
-
 AF 47
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
216
-
 BE 27
459
-
 DS 66
607
-
 BE 51
 
89
-
 BD 16
221
-
 BE 29
462
-
 BF 57
609
-
 BE 61
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
224
-
 AN 31
463
-
 BD 57
610
-
 BD 52
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
254
-
 BE 51
504
-
 Op(GR)
615
-
 BD 16
 
125
-
 EJ 95
258
-
 BD 66
505
-
 DE 92
618
-
 BE 42
 
126
-
 FP 20
260
-
 BD 57
506
-
 DS 66
620
-
 BD 57
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
301
-
 Op(AK 60)
508
-
 BF 47
621
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
129
-
 EE 22
332
-
 Op(EE)
509
-
 CF 32
624
-
 AE 79
 
132
-
 BD 16
333
-
 BE 99
510
-
 CF 52
627
-
 AF 79
 
134
-
 CG 14
353
-
 BD 20
513
-
 Op(EP 31)
658
-
 BD 24
 
154
-
 CF 49
356
-
 BD 55
514
-
 Op(EP)
659
-
 CF 58
 
156
-
 ET 41
381
-
 BD 24
516
-
 Op(EO)
661
-
 BD 20
 
159
-
 Op(GQ)
382
-
 BD 57
518
-
 Op(AH)
662
-
 BD 57
 
160
-
 Op(EO)
383
-
 AN 31
519
-
 AN 31
704
-
 BD 16
 
161
-
 FP 20
402
-
 BD 27
520
-
 AD 90
706
-
 BD 27
 
163
-
 BF 47
409
-
 CF 54
521
-
 AD 97
753
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
410
-
 BE 17
522
-
 AL 21
757
-
 BE 65
 
174
-
 DS 36
412
-
 AN 37
552
-
 Op(ET)
D 3
-
 BF 54
 
175
-
 CE 96
436
-
 Op(AK 60)
563
-
 Op(AK 60)
D 5
-
 Op(ET)
 
177
-
 FE 88
437
-
 BD 54
571
-
 BD 13      
 
178
-
 GQ 32
438
-
 BD 16
572
-
 CF 58      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 125 - 156 - 175 - 201 - 202 - 216 - 221 - 254 - 258 - 333 - 356 - 410 - 455 - 459 - 506 - 513 - 607 - 609 - 618 - 757 - D 3 - 382.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 608 - St. Nazaire;  U 664 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 514 shot missed a freighter, course 2900, in EF 9452.  Gun fight broken off on account of defence and bright moonlight.
    2) U 658 made submerged attacks on ship reported on 18.10. which proved fruitless on account of seaway, and lost contact in fog during night.
    3) U 69 fired stern shot which missed, at English ship "Rose Castle" in BB 6497, course 950.  Strong suspicion of pistol failure.  Boat reported further experiences of aircraft radar.  Return passage on account of fuel supply.
    4) U 618 reported slight stationary patrol in BE 5491.
    5) At 1046 U 437 reported a destroyer on southerly course in BD 4395.  As it was possible that messages from Supply Group "Wolfbauer" had been D/F'd and destroyer was operating on same, U 463 received orders to refuel only boats with shortest supply, and to suggest new rendezvous 100 miles to the west.
       
- 47 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  EE 85, BB 8587.
    SSS reports from steamer "Rose Castle" in BB 6730.  
    English aircraft reported submarines in BE 8398, BE 6476.  Further aircraft attacked submarines in BE 2797 and probably scored 6 hits.  Aircraft's own tail plane ripped away by depth charge explosion.  According to dead reckoning this could have been U 216.  Boat was asked for position report.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) New position for U 508 and U 163 is EU 99.
    2) It is planned to commence southerly passage with following boats first in deep, then in wide formation in order to cut off north-bound SL convoy.  Refuel and employment in the south planned later.
      U 409 will therefore take up patrol line from CF 8885 - 8985 with U 659 and 572:  U 510 - CF 8831, U 604 - 8913, U 203, 134 and 509 - CF 8528 to 8625.  From 23.10. 0800, course 1800, 170 miles.  It is planned to replace U 510 and U 509 by 440 and U 752 on arrival.
    3) U 178 received freedom of action in whole area mentioned under IV d).  Search for shipping off the important ports.
  c) 1) U 154 received more details concerning rendezvous with "Tannenfels".  According to this boat was to be in following positions 1400, 21.10 - CD 9255, 22.10. - CD 9755, 23.10. - DF 2555.  Transmitter of important radio messages to be made about 300 miles west of rendezvous.
    2) U 609 took over radar intercept escort for U 254.
  d)  Eastwards boundary now running from point 400 South and 400 East across southern tip of Madagascar to the west as far as African coast.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
21.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 179
-
 Op(GR)
U 440
-
 BF 46
U 575
-
 AK 60
 
67
-
 Op(EO)
181
-
 FN 48
441
-
 Op(AK 60)
590
-
 Op(ET)
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
183
-
 Op(AH)
442
-
 BD 57
599
-
 Op(BD 53)
 
69
-
 BB 69
201
-
 CE 83
443
-
 Op(AK 60)
602
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
71
-
 BD 11
202
-
 CE 92
454
-
 BD 14
604
-
 CF 59
 
84
-
 BD 11
203
-
 CF 56
455
-
 BE 42
606
-
 AE 68
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
216
-
 BE 53
459
-
 DS 66
607
-
 BE 64
 
89
-
 BD 11
221
-
 BF 91
462
-
 BF 48
609
-
 BF 58
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
224
-
 AF 87
463
-
 BD 57
610
-
 BD 57
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
254
-
 BE 64
504
-
 Op(GR)
615
-
 Op(BD
 
125
-
 EJ 65
258
-
 BE 45
505
-
 DQ 93
618
-
 BE 55
 
       
- 48 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
126
-
 Op(FP)
260
-
 BD 57
506
-
 DS 66
620
-
 BD 57
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
301
-
 Op(AK 60)
508
-
 BE 88
621
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
129
-
 EE 43
332
-
 Op(EE)
509
-
 CF 38
624
-
 AL 31
 
132
-
 BD 18
333
-
 BF 75
510
-
 CF 82
627
-
 AF 72
 
134
-
 CF 65
353
-
 BD
513
-
 BF 44
658
-
 BD 19
 
154
-
 CD 92
356
-
 BD 57
514
-
 EF 67
659
-
 BE 80
 
156
-
 ES 36
381
-
 BD 15
516
-
 Op(EO)
661
-
 BD
 
159
-
 GQ 92-Op
382
-
 BD 57
518
-
 Op(AH)
662
-
 BD 57
 
160
-
 Op(EO)
383
-
 AN 23
519
-
 AF 87
664
-
 AO
 
161
-
 Op(FP)
402
-
 BD 15
520
-
 AD 90
704
-
 BD 14
 
163
-
 BE 96
409
-
 CF 85
521
-
 AD 90
706
-
 BD 54
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
410
-
 BE 66
522
-
 AL 18
753
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
174
-
 DS 66
412
-
 AF 87
552
-
 Op(ET 81)
757
-
 BF 47
 
175
-
 CF 49
436
-
 Op(AK 60)
563
-
 Op(AK 60)
D 3
-
 BF 61
 
177
-
 FM 25
437
-
 BD 57
571
-
 BD 11
D 5
-
 Op(ET)
 
178
-
 GQ 38
438
-
 BD 11
572
-
 CF 80
608
-
 BF 91
 
  On Return Passage:  U 125 - 156 - 175 - 201 - 216 - 221 - 254 - 258 - 333 - 356 - 382 - 410 - 459 - 506 - 513 - 514 - 607 - 609 - 618 - 757 - D 3.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 103 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) UD 3 reported destroyer in BF 5551.  Boat in position entering Route "Kernleder".
    2) U 333 avoided spread in BF 8438 at 1809.
  b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:  BB 1647, BC 48.
    2) American steamer "Mathew Lukenbach" 5,848 GRT sent SOS from BB 7643.
    3) English aircraft reported submarines in AL 1824 and AF 7561.  Latter attacked with depth charges.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) In order to control ON-convoy Group "Puma" received orders to take up new patrol line from AK 9261 - 9975 at cruising speed in previous order of succession.  Line must be established by 23.10. 0800 hours.
    2) New position for U 624 is AK 93.
    3) During full moon period U 129 operating apart, was off Trinidad.  U 505 proceeding southwards to EF 90 and then making long legs, to waters off Trinidad.
    4) U 175 southward passage after meeting with U 506 and 559.
    5) After return of U 517 following experiences were communicated to boats:  special convoy assembly point BB 1730.  Escort still very
       
- 49 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      inexperienced.  Listening and Asdic conditions made very bad by heavy density of layering.  From time to time heavy continuous air activity.
    6) Boats on return passage are warned of increased danger from submarines in Bay of Biscay.
  c) 1) U 410 reports radar intercept escort taken over for U 258.
    2) U 174 supplied U 506 on return passage with 15 cbm, fuel oil, and U 459 with spare parts for radar intercept equipment.
  d) 1) U 352 operated with Group "Leopard" on Convoy No. 58 and finally Group "Wotan" on Convoy No. 59.   Boat reported this at 0500/16 in AK 9112.  After breaking off engagement boat was detailed to westbound Convoy (No. 60).
      No further position reports were received.  According to a radio intercept report at 1851/17/10 a unit sent SSS, and sighted submarine in convoy.  It is possible that this was U 353 and was destroyed.  Loss must be reckoned with.
    2) U 661 operated with Group "Wotan" on Convoy No. 59.  According to last radio message it was fired on with machine guns by a corvette and destroyed in AK 4975.  According to radio intercept report of 15.10. a further ship in the convoy was torpedoed, as yet unclaimed by any of our boats.  Possibly this was U 661, which was finally destroyed.  Loss is probable.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
22.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 179
-
 Op(GR)
U 442
-
 BD 57
U 602
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
67
-
 Op(EO)
181
-
 FN 79
443
-
 Op(AK 60)
604
-
 Op(CF 80)
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
183
-
 Op(AH 90)
454
-
 BC 32
606
-
 AE 83
 
69
-
 BC 48
201
-
 CE 65
455
-
 BE 54
607
-
 BE 66
 
71
-
 AJ 98
202
-
 CF 37
459
-
 DS 66
608
-
 BF 82
 
84
-
 BC 32
203
-
 CF 80
462
-
 BE 97
609
-
 BF 64
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
216
-
 BE 66
463
-
 BD 57
610
-
 BD 57
 
89
-
 AJ 98
221
-
 BF 64
504
-
 Op(GR)
615
-
 Op(BD)
 
103
-
 BF 55
224
-
 AF 76
505
-
 BF 32
618
-
 BE 64
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
254
-
 BF 66
506
-
 DT 41
620
-
 BD 57
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
258
-
 BE 46
508
-
 CF 24
621
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
125
-
 DJ 35
260
-
 BD 57
509
-
 CF 59
624
-
 AL 18
 
126
-
 Op(FP)
301
-
 Op(AK 60)
510
-
 CF 80
627
-
 AF 47
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
332
-
 Op(EE)
513
-
 BF 61
658
-
 BC 36
 
129
-
 Op(BE)
333
-
 BF 85
514
-
 BF 38
659
-
 CF 80
 
132
-
 BC 36
356
-
 BD 57
516
-
 Op(EO)
662
-
 BD 57
 
134
-
 CF 80
381
-
 BC 32
518
-
 Op(AH 90)
664
-
 AN 36
 
154
-
 CD 97
382
-
 BD 57
519
-
 AF 73
704
-
 BC 32
 
156
-
 BJ 96
383
-
 AF 76
520
-
 AD 95
706
-
 BD 57
 
159
-
 GQ 68
402
-
 BC 32
521
-
 AD 95
753
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
160
-
 Op(EO)
409
-
 CF 80
522
-
 AL 41
757
-
 BF 49
 
161
-
 Op(EP)
410
-
 BE 54
552
-
 Op(ET)
D 3
-
 BF 61
 
163
-
 CF 25
412
-
 AF 76
563
-
 Op(AK 60)
D 5
-
 Op(ET)
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
436
-
 Op(AK 60)
571
-
 AJ 31      
 
174
-
 DS 66
437
-
 BD 57
572
-
 CF 80      
 
175
-
 CF 52
438
-
 AJ 98
575
-
 Op(AK 60)      
 
       
- 50 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
177
-
 FM 61
440
-
 BF 47
590
-
 Op(ET)      
 
178
-
 GQ 68
441
-
 Op(AK 60)
599
-
 BD 65      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 69 - 125 - 156 - 175 - 201 - 202 - 216 - 221 - 254 - 258 - 333 - 356 - 382 - 410 - 455 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 599 - 607 - 610 - 618 - 757 - D 3.
  Entered Port:  U 254 - Brest;  D 3 - 513 - Lorient;  U 609 - 221 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 98 - St. Nazaire;  U 752 - La Pallice;  U 184 - 413 - 613 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 61 see paragraph IVa.
    2) Position reports:
      U 516:  from 16. 18.10. operated on Convoy U 160.  No contact made.  On 21. and 22.10. patrolled between EF 83 and 85, sighting nothing.
      U 87: since 12.10. no shipping in ET 55, 56 and 84.  No air, slight sea patrol.  Much bad visibility on account of rain.
      U 552:  nothing sighted since 24.9.  Boat making long legs in allocated sector en route for Freetown.
      U 106 set apart from BA 35 and 38 on account of bright moon, in BB 50.  Nothing sighted in BA.  Heavy defence since 16.10.  On 11.10. sank one steamer of 5,000 GRT in S.W. bound convoy in BB 5438.
    3) U 462 reported single ship in CF 3312 on S.W. course in CF 3312, speed 12 - 15 knots.
    4) U 410 sighted darkened ship in BE 6735.
    5) U 621 sank single ship of 5,600 GRT course 900, 8 knots.  Ship of "Empire" class.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat attack:  SOS and sinking report from unknown steamer in EE 6444.  Further attack in BB 3371.  Torpedo report from unknown steamer, probably in Convoy No 61 (U 443).
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 61:
     U 443 reported convoy in BD 3255 at 1630 on course 2200.  Group "Puma" and U 615 received orders to operate on it.  U 443 only to attack when another had made contact.  3 single funnel steamers were sighted and later 5 - 10 steamers with weak escort, course 2000.
    As no refuel was possible for Group "Puma" U 575 and U 753 could not carry out order to operate.  Therefore remaining in previous Op. area.  Towards 1830 U 443 reported intention to attack in BD 3274.  As command
       
- 51 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    was not clear as to speed of convoy, although it was apparently very high, boat received order only to attack if speed was over 11 knots.  Reasons for this were as follows:
    1) If convoy speed was high then chances were, no second boat would be able to get in an attack and
    2) The possibility of prolonged shadowing by a single boat extremely small.
    Finally boat reported convoy's speed as 12 knots.  After that no report from U 443.  It was planned to continue operation until daylight and then to detail boats which had been refueled in time to U 463, and thereby in a favorable position, to operate on convoy.
    U 443 reported at 0800 that it had attacked convoy at 2200 in BD 3544 and scored hit on ship, class "Clan Mac Arthur" (10,500 GRT), and observed explosion and fire break out on 8,000 ton tanker.  Was finally depth charged for a number of hours.  Convoy last seen steering course 2100, speed 12 knots.  Boat pressed after.  Operation continues.
  b) New position for U 440 - CF 86.
  c) U 514 took over engineer officer from U 505.
  d) U 154 received order stating if no meeting with "Tannenfels" by morning of 24.10. to report "No" by short signal.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 106 1 ship
5,000 GRT
U 621 1 ship
5,600 GRT
U 443 2 ships
18,500 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
23.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 178
-
 Op(GQ 68)
U 440
-
 BE 59
U 590
-
 Op(ET)
 
67
-
 Op(EO)
179
-
 Op(GR)
441
-
 Op(BD 30)
599
-
 BE 46
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
181
-
 FU 26
442
-
 BD 57
602
-
 Op(BD 30)
 
69
-
 BC 59
183
-
 Op(AH 90)
443
-
 Op(BD 35)
604
-
 Op(CF 89)
 
71
-
 AJ 83
184
-
 AO
454
-
 BC 22
606
-
 AE 84
 
84
-
 AJ 97
201
-
 CF 39
455
-
 BF 64
607
-
 BF 65
 
87
-
 ET 53
202
-
 CF 33
459
-
 DT 12
608
-
 BE 72
 
89
-
 AJ 89
203
-
 Op(CF 85)
462
-
 CF 37
610
-
 BD 57
 
98
-
 BF 67
216
-
 BF 45
463
-
 BD 57
613
-
 AO
 
103
-
 BF 49
224
-
 AF 47
504
-
 Op(GR)
615
-
 Op(BD)
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
258
-
 BE 64
505
-
 EF 35
618
-
 Op(BE 69)
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
260
-
 BD 57
506
-
 DT 12
620
-
 BD 57
 
125
-
 DT 89
301
-
 Op(BD)
508
-
 CF 42
621
-
 Op(AK)
 
126
-
 Op(EP)
332
-
 Op(EE)
509
-
 Op(CF 85)
624
-
 AL 41
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
333
-
 BF 93
510
-
 Op(CF 88)
627
-
 AE 68
 
129
-
 Op(EE)
356
-
 BD 57
514
-
 EF 35
658
-
 BC 31
 
132
-
 BC 34
381
-
 AJ 97
516
-
 Op(EF)
659
-
 Op(CF 89)
 
134
-
 Op(CF 86)
382
-
 BD 57
518
-
 Op(AH 90)
662
-
 BD 57
 
154
-
 CF 25
383
-
 AF 48
519
-
 AF 47
664
-
 AN 31
 
156
-
 EJ 68
402
-
 AJ 97
520
-
 AJ 24
704
-
 AJ 97
 
159
-
 GQ 69
409
-
 Op(CF 88)
521
-
 AJ 22
706
-
 BD 57
 
160
-
 Op(EO)
410
-
 BE 65
522
-
 AK 68
752
-
 BF 92
 
161
-
 Op(FP)
412
-
 AF 47
552
-
 Op(ET)
753
-
 Op(BD 30)
 
163
-
 CF 43
413
-
 AO
563
-
 Op(AL)
757
-
 BF 91
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
436
-
 Op(AK 97)
571
-
 BC 22
D 5
-
 Op(ET)
 
       
- 52 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
174
-
 DS 96
437
-
 BD 57
572
-
 Op(CF 89)      
 
175
-
 CF 36
438
-
 AJ 86
575
-
 Op(AK)      
 
177
-
 FN 71                  
 
  On Return Passage:  U 69 - 125 - 156 - 175 - 201 - 202 - 216 - 258 - 333 - 356 - 382 - 410 - 455 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 599 - 607 - 610 - 618 - 757.
  Entered Port:  U 607 - St. Nazaire;  U 333 - La Pallice.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 61 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 87 fired 3 spread which missed at unknown 4,000 tonner in ET 5241, possibly dummy warship, course 1000, low speed.  Probable pistol failure.
    3) U D 5 sighted no traffic in western sector of ET, commenced return passage on account of fuel supply.
    4) U D 5 reported heavy air patrol by sea planes and land-based aircraft in CF 6181.
    5) U 615 sank English ship "Empire Star (12,656 GRT) in BD 3984, on S course, speed 14 knots.
    6) U 441 sighted independent ship in AK 6577 on 22.10.  By attack at dusk (Trans. note: or dawn, not indicated) 2 spread fired, which missed also 2 single shots.  Another submarine in the vicinity, behaving very suspiciously.  
    7) U 129 sank American ship "Reuben Tipton" in EE 5627, carrying mixed cargo from Capetown to Trinidad, course 2900 degrees.  In FE 5654 2 shots missed at ballaster on W. course.
    8) U 332 lay in the same area as U 129 and also operated on "Reuben Tipton".
    9) Situation U 161:  On 20.10. in FP 2362 nothing sighted.  U 126 also operating there.  On morning of 23.10. torpedoed destroyer of "Balch" class, hit below bridge.  Nothing further observed on account of defence.  Cabinda harbor greatly enlarged.  At present 5 steamers along jetty.  Probable formation of enemy convoy since arrival of 2 destroyers.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  ED 94 - CF 61 - and another in unknown position.
    SOS sent by "Reuben Tipton" (6,870 GRT) in EE 6440 and "Empire Star" (12,656 GRT in BD 6311).
    Submarine warning for EH 3895.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 61:
     Boats of Group "Puma" which lay in favorable position for operation on convoy received orders to report position.  Other boats being supplied at the time in the vicinity should, if possible, also attack
       
- 53 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    convoy by day, and those not yet supplied if they had enough fuel.  According to reports following boats were operating on convoy:  U 443, 620, 260, 662, 706 and 301.  At 1735 U 706 sighted a number of smoke clouds in BD 5885 and a short time later, convoy in BD 5879 on course 2400 and speed 12 knots.  Weather:  NW 3 - 4, medium swell, visibility over 10 miles.  At 2215 U 706 attacked unsuccessfully in BD 8244.  Convoy consisted of 21 steamers and 4 - 6 escort vessels.  At 0456 U 260 made contact in BD 8458, U 301 towards 0800.  At this time convoy lay in BD 8712, general course steered up to date was 2100.  It was not out of the question that the convoy had separated into one fast group with speed of 15 knots and a slower one with speed of 10 - 11 knots.  At the time we were in contact with the slower group.  Operation continues.
  b) 1) Patrol line of Group "Puma" had to be moved 50 miles to the west on account of the boat's belated arrival and now lay in order of succession as follows:  U 624 - 441 - 621 - 436 - 602 - 575 - 753 - 563 and 443.  U 624 was a fresh arrival.  With exception of U 443 patrol line should be established by evening of 24.10.  For lengthening of same U 606 and 627 to take up position in AK 67.
    2) New position for U 752 and U 103 is CF 86.  Southward passage and operations on SL-convoys in view.
    3) U 516 on passage through DS 30 for refueling from U 462.
    4) U 163 and U 508 received orders to operate in waters off Porto Delgada with focal point off that port, on account of frequent use made of it by enemy merchant ships:  Period of about 3 days, though if traffic situation proves favorable for longer.  Attention drawn to presence of neutral shipping.
  c)  None.
  d) U 154 picked up returning "Tannenfels" according to plan at arranged meeting place CD 9755 at 1400 on 22.10 and sent message from DF 1229 as ordered by German Naval Staff.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 615 1 ship
12,696 GRT
  sunk
U 129 1 ship
6,870
   sunk
U 161 1 destroyer
torpedoed
   sinking probable.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
24.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 175
-
 BE 99
U 437
-
 DD 63
U 571
-
 Op(BC 20)
 
67
-
 Op(EO)
177
-
 FN 79
438
-
 Op(AJ 80)
572
-
 Op(DH 51)
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
178
-
 Op(GQ)
440
-
 BE 85
575
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
69
-
 BC 68
179
-
 Op(GR)
441
-
 Op(AK)
590
-
 Op(ET)
 
71
-
 Op(AJ 80)
181
-
 FU 65
442
-
 BD 57
599
-
 BE 55
 
84
-
 Op(AJ 80)
183
-
 Op(AH 90)
443
-
 BD 50
602
-
 AK 95
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
184
-
 AN 36
454
-
 Op(BC 20)
604
-
 Op(DH 27)
 
89
-
 Op(AJ 80)
201
-
 BE 99
455
-
 BE 66
606
-
 AE 79
 
98
-
 BF 81
202
-
 BE 99
459
-
 DG 91
608
-
 BE 93
 
103
-
 BF 47
203
-
 Op(DH 16)
462
-
 CF 55
610
-
 BD 57
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
216
-
 BF 54
463
-
 BD 57
613
-
 AN 36
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
224
-
 AE 68
504
-
 Op(GR)
615
-
 BD 30
 
125
-
 DT 57
258
-
 BF 47
505
-
 EF 90
618
-
 BF 48
 
126
-
 Op(FP)
260
-
 BD 87
506
-
 DG 91
620
-
 BD 88
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
301
-
 Op(BD)
508
-
 Op(CE 60)
621
-
 Op(AL 90)
 
       
- 54 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
129
-
 Op(EE)
332
-
 EE-Op
509
-
 Op(DH)
624
-
 AK 69
 
132
-
 Op(BC 20)
356
-
 BD 57
510
-
 Op(DH 19)
627
-
 AE 83
 
134
-
 Op(DH 24)
381
-
 Op(AJ 80)
514
-
 DR 75
658
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
154
-
 DF 20
382
-
 BD 68
516
-
 BF 68
659
-
 DH 43
 
156
-
 EJ 38
383
-
 AE 68
518
-
 Op(AH 99)
662
-
 BD 88
 
159
-
 Op(GQ)
402
-
 Op(AJ 80)
519
-
 AE 68
664
-
 AF 87
 
160
-
 Op(EO)
409
-
 DH 43
520
-
 AJ 18
704
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
161
-
 Op(FP)
410
-
 BF 47
521
-
 AJ 28
706
-
 BD 87
 
163
-
 Op(CE 60)
412
-
 AE 68
522
-
 AK 58
752
-
 BF 82
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
413
-
 AN 33
552
-
 ET-Op
753
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
174
-
 EH 36
436
-
 AK 98
563
-
 Op(AK 99)
757
-
 BF 64
                   
D 5
-
 ES 63
 
  On Return Passage:  U 69 - 156 - 175 - 201 - 202 - 216 - 258 - 356 - 382 - 410 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 516 - 599 - 610 - 615 - 618 - 757 - D 5 - 125 - 455.
  Entered Port:  U 757 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 92 - Brest;  U 511 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 61 see paragraph IVa.
    2) Situation U 67:  No shipping sighted in EE 80.  Boat operated on traffic between EF 82 and EE 65 since 22.10.
    3) U 518 fired 4 spread miss on destroyer, which was probably picked up on hydrophones and out maneuvered.
    4) U 606 sighted 2 single destroyer masts in AK 0377, and presumed an A/S patrol.
    5) U 516 sank steamer "Holmpark" 5,780 GRT in EF 8331, bound from Capetown to Trinidad in ballast, course 3000, speed 10 knots.
    6) U 161 during night attack on vessels on course 320 in FH 9593 on 24.10. was forced off by destroyer.  Destroyer was apparently operating on 200 meter line, and boat presumed traffic to be proceeding close inshore.
    7) U 132 in patrol line of Group "Veilchen" reported bearing increasing in signal strength in BC 2275, and later a number of bearings over whole scale.  Boat heard pistons and turbines passing overhead on two occasions.  Retired in S.E. direction.  As no convoy lay in the vicinity according to own dead reckoning estimations Group "Veilchen" received orders to continue patrol.  U 132 was left free to pursue.
  b)  None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  BD 7872, EE 89, BB 52, and one unknown position.
    Sightings by aircraft:  BF 5965 (depth charge attack, probably 2 hits) and AF 72.
  d)  None.
       
- 55 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 61:
     Contact was maintained with short interruptions.  3 further boats joined operations, U 508, 163 from CE 69 and U 154 from DF 20.  According to dead reckoning boats ought to establish contact in 30- 36 hours.  In course of day following boats made contact with convoy:  U 260 - 662 - 620 - 706.  U 433 lay far astern and commended patrol.  Convoy proceeding in extended formation, speed 3 - 4 knots, 2 destroyers ahead and stern.  U 260 while avoiding a ship proceeding independently in BD 59 (possibly one of our own) was forced to submerge by destroyer.  U 620 attempted to attack in BD 8982 but was contacted by long-range escort ahead and heavily depth charged.  Convoy steered course of roughly 2250 sharply zigzagging, speed 10 - 11 knots.  At 1600 position CE 1123 and at 0130 CD 3397.  One after another submarines were forced off, and towards 0200 contact was finally lost and not regained by morning.  No successes were scored.  Operation continues.  Boats operating on this convoy were formed into Group "Südwärts".
  b) 1) New attack areas for U 520 and U 521 - BB 30 and 60 and BC 10 and 40, left third.  Focal point for U 521 Conception Bay and U 520 off coast BB 6620.
    2) Group "Streitaxt" at 1600 on 25.10. lay in order of succession as follows:  U 510 - 203 - 409 - 509 - 659 - 134 - 604 and 572.  Reconnaissance line from DH 4714 to 5726, course 1800, day's run 170 miles.
  c)  Following completed refueling from U 463:  U 620 - 382 - 260 and 662.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 516 1 ship 5,780 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
25.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 175
-
 BF 75
U 438
-
 Op(AJ 80)
U 572
-
 DH 81
 
67
-
 Op(EE)
177
-
 FU 28
440
-
 CF 34
575
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
178
-
 Op(GQ)
441
-
 Op(AK 90)
590
-
 Op(ET)
 
69
-
 BD 48
179
-
 Op(GR)
442
-
 BD 57
599
-
 BF 64
 
71
-
 Op(AJ 80)
181
-
 FV 74
443
-
 BD 34
602
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
84
-
 Op(AJ 80)
183
-
 Op(AH 90)
454
-
 Op(BC 20)
604
-
 DH 57
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
184
-
 AN 31
455
-
 BF 45
606
-
 AK 62
 
89
-
 Op(AJ 80)
201
-
 BF 72
459
-
 DG 61
608
-
 BF 91
 
92
-
 BF 15
202
-
 BF 52
462
-
 CF 73
610
-
 BD 66
 
98
-
 BF 72
203
-
 DH 49
463
-
 BD 57
613
-
 AN 31
 
103
-
 BE 92
216
-
 BF
504
-
 Op(GR)
615
-
 BE 43
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
224
-
 AE 86
505
-
 EF 86
618
-
 BF 57
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
258
-
 BF 49
506
-
 DG 62
620
-
 CD 38
 
125
-
 DT 19
260
-
 CD 38
508
-
 CE 81
621
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
126
-
 Op(FP)
301
-
 CD 31
509
-
 DH 57
624
-
 Op(AK 59)
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
332
-
 Op(EE)
510
-
 DH 49
627
-
 AF 85
 
129
-
 Op(EE)
356
-
 BD 57
511
-
 BF 55
658
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
132
-
 Op(BC)
381
-
 Op(AJ 80)
514
-
 DR 57
659
-
 DH 81
 
       
- 56 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
134
-
 DH 58
382
-
 BE 47
516
-
 EF 66
662
-
 CD 39
 
154
-
 CB 86
383
-
 AE 83
518
-
 Op(AH 90)
664
-
 AF 76
 
156
-
 DT 97
402
-
 Op(AJ 80)
519
-
 AE 83
704
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
159
-
 Op(GQ)
409
-
 DH 73
520
-
 AJ 47
706
-
 BD 78
 
160
-
 Op(EO)
410
-
 BF 57
521
-
 AJ 54
752
-
 BF 73
 
161
-
 Op(FP)
412
-
 AE 83
522
-
 AK 73
753
-
 Op(AK 90)
 
163
-
 CE 49
413
-
 Kristiansand
552
-
 Op(ET)
D 5
-
 ES 32
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
436
-
 Op(AK 90)
563
-
 Op(AK 90)      
 
174
-
 EH 66
437
-
 BD 57
571
-
 Op(BC 21)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 69 - 125 - 175 - 201 - 202 - 216 - 258 - 356 - 382 - 410 - 455 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 516 - 599 - 610 - 615 - 618 - D 5.
  Entered Port:  U 202 - Brest.
  Sailed:  U 218 - Brest;  U 108 - Lorient.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Situation reports:
      U 590 in ET 2187 - no shipping.
      U 156 on look out for E.W.-bound traffic in ES 26.
      U 172 nothing sighted from GR 27 via 81, 42, 12 to GJ 81 - 88.  Port Nolloth empty.
      U 68 fired 2 spread which missed for reason not apparent on freighter of 5,000 GRT on course of 55.  In very good visibility west of Capetown to GJ 72 nothing sighted.
      U 174 plans operating in FE 11 and finally ET 73.
    2) Convoy No. 61 see paragraph IVa.
    3) U 383 sank Icelander of 1,500 GRT in AE 8449 on 24.10.
  b)  None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  BB 34 - BA 36 - EO 51 - EO 1147 - EO 8410.
    Aircraft reported submarine in BF 5534.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 61:
    As up to date no contact had been made with enemy, boats were asked for reports of last position of convoy.  According to this U 662 had contact at 0130 in CD 3397 and U 301 at 0200 in CD 3379.  Working on this last position boats received orders to steer on searching courses between 180 and 2200 in following sequence:  U 620 - 662 - 260 - 301 - 154.  Presumed speed of convoy 8 - 11 knots.  Convoy remained uncontacted however.  Plan to continue operation until daylight and if no contact made by then, to break off.
       
- 57 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) 1) Group "Veilchen" was warned of expected passage of east bound convoy.  U 704 sighted sea plane inside patrol area in AJ 8811.  U 132 reported destroyer in BC 2239, which later turned out to be ship sailing independently on general course 200.
    2) According to Radio Intercept report on ON(S) convoy should be in position AL 2814 at 2100 on 22.10 course 2400, speed 6 knots.  It is possible that destroyer masts sighted on previous day belonged to this convoy.  For the purpose of contacting same, Group "Puma" including the two boats short of fuel U 575 and U 753 received orders to take up patrol line between AK 5517 and 8379 with all speed.  U 606 to operate independently.  Plan was to pick up convoy by this patrol line.  As however, 2 of the boats U 436 and 563 were not able to take up position immediately, Group proceeded on reconnaissance line at 2400 and took up patrol line between AK 4687 and 8459 as from 1100/26/10.  U 436 and 563 were also able to reach this line.  Convoy was expected to pass shortly after dawn.  U 606 joined patrol line to the north.
    3) Group "Streitaxt":
      U 510 sighted passenger steamer in DH 4573 on northerly course, speed 16 knots ("California" class).  Boat pursued steamer as far as DH 1181 without success and then returned to patrol line.  U 659 was forced to submerge by two destroyers and was depth charged.
      At 2115 U 203 reported 3 steamers on easterly course in DH 4788.  As the sighting was exactly on a level with patrol line the whole of Group "Streitaxt" was put on to it.  U 203 attacked enemy in DH 4791, consisting of one tanker and 2 destroyers, and was forced to submerge by destroyer.  Broke off pursuit later on account of damaged diesels.  Group was ordered to continue operations as long as possibility of success existed.  Boats which broke off pursuit were for the time being to take up 0800 position of reconnaissance line as patrol line.
  c)  Following refueled from U 463:  U 610 - 442 - 437 and 356.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 383 1 ship 1,500 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
26.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BA)
U 174
-
 ER 33
U 437
-
 BD 57
U 571
-
 Op(BC 20)
 
67
-
 Op(EE)
175
-
 BF 82
438
-
 Op(AJ 80)
572
-
 DH 81
 
68
-
 Op(GH)
177
-
 FU 92
440
-
 CF 56
575
-
 Op(AK 50)
 
69
-
 BD 57
178
-
 Op(GQ)
441
-
 Op(AK 50)
590
-
 Op(ET)
 
71
-
 Op(AJ)
179
-
 Op(GR)
442
-
 BD 57
599
-
 BE 66
 
84
-
 Op(AJ 80)
181
-
 GG 34
443
-
 Op(AK 80)
602
-
 Op(AK 80)
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
183
-
 Op(AH 90)
454
-
 Op(BC 20)
604
-
 DH 81
 
89
-
 Op(AJ 80)
184
-
 AN 24
455
-
 BF 57
606
-
 Op(AK)
 
92
-
 BF 49
201
-
 BF 52
459
-
 DG 32
608
-
 BE 56
 
98
-
 BF 68
203
-
 DH 71
462
-
 DG 32
610
-
 BE 45
 
103
-
 CF 61
216
-
 BF
463
-
 BD 57
613
-
 AN 23
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
218
-
 BF 54
504
-
 Op(GR)
615
-
 BE 55
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
224
-
 AE 85
505
-
 Op(EF)
618
-
 BF 64
 
108
-
 BF 55
258
-
 BF 91
506
-
 DG 32
620
-
 Op(CD 90)
 
125
-
 DT 12
260
-
 Op(CD)
508
-
 Op(CD)
621
-
 Op(AK 50)
 
126
-
 Op(FP)
301
-
 Op(CD)
509
-
 DH 72
624
-
 Op(AK 50)
 
       
- 58 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
332
-
 Op(EE)
510
-
 DH 11
627
-
 AE 79
 
129
-
 Op(EE)
356
-
 BD 67
511
-
 BF 46
658
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
132
-
 Op(BC)
381
-
 Op(AJ)
514
-
 DR 37
659
-
 DH 73
 
134
-
 DH 74
382
-
 BE 49
516
-
 EG 42
662
-
 Op(CD)
 
154
-
 Op(CD)
383
-
 AE 85
518
-
 Op(AH 90)
664
-
 AF 48
 
156
-
 ES 26
402
-
 Op(AJ 80)
519
-
 AE 84
704
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
159
-
 Op(GQ)
409
-
 DH 72
520
-
 AJ 74
706
-
 BD 81
 
160
-
 Op(EE)
410
-
 BF 58
521
-
 AJ 73
752
-
 BF 74
 
161
-
 Op(FP)
412
-
 AE 85
522
-
 AK 74
753
-
 Op(AK 80)
 
163
-
 Op(CD)
413
-
 AN 36
552
-
 Op(ET)
D 5
-
 EJ 94
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
436
-
 Op(AK)
563
-
 Op(AK)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 125 - 156 - 175 - 201 - 216 - 258 - 301 - 356 - 382 - 410 - 455 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 516 - 599 - 610 - 615 - 618 - 753 - D 5.
  Entered Port:  U 201 - Brest
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 61 see final survey paragraph VI.
    2) Convoy No. 62 see paragraph IVa.
    3) U 260 reported armed 2-funneller on course 700 and speed 13 knots in CD 6857 Route A.  As some of our own ships lay in the vicinity and there was a possibility of 2-funnel camouflage, order was given to break off pursuit.
    4) In BE 4929 U 608 sighted American battleship with destroyer escort course 2400, medium speed.  Contact was almost immediately lost apparently.
    5) U 606 reports English periscope in AK 4664 (boat operating on Convoy No. 61).
    6) With short signal U 224 reported enemy in sight in AK 3622 was probably forced to submerge at once since no further message was received.
    7) In BB 6396 U 520 came on brightly illuminated ship sailing independently, course 800, speed 8 knots.  As it could only have been Irish ship boat ordered not to attack if ship could be distinguished as enemy in spite illumination.
    8) On 23.10. U 504 sank City of Johannesburg" 5,662 GRT in KZ 1972, course 2800.
      On 26.10. 3 mast passenger freighter 12,000 GRT course 2300, speed 14 knots.
    9) Situation U 167:  Sighted patrol vessel in EU 4832 on 23.10. and Spanish ship in 4720 on course 300.
      On 24.10. dummy warship in ET 6920 on course 1100, speed 12 knots was observed during attack.  
      In middle and southern third of ET 60 as well as EU 4748 nothing sighted.  Return passage.
  b)  None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  Submarine sighted in GA 36 (not one of our own)
     Aircraft reported submarines in BF 5530 and BF 7211.
       
- 59 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Convoy No. 62:
     U 436 reported convoy in AK 8116 at 2100 on N.E. course.  Boat was roughly in center position of Group "Puma" patrol line.  With wind N.W. 7 and medium swell, it was possible that all boats of the group would have come up by daylight.  Contact was maintained with interruptions at irregular intervals.  At 0252 convoy was in AK 5849 and at 0752 in AK 5942.  Convoy was proceeding in double line abreast with 5 destroyers in semi-circle ahead.  16 vessels sighted, speed 8 - 9 knots according to D/R.  U 443 and U 575 asked for bearings.  U 621 was only boat to maintain contact.  No attack was made.  Operation continues.  U 224 and 384 also to operate on convoy providing they had no enemy contact of their own.
  b) 1) U 103 and 440 commenced southward passage via DT 60 and ET.
    2) Group "Streitaxt" proceeded in former sequence at 0800/27/10 from narrow patrol line between DH 7428 to 8419, S. course, day's run 170 miles.
    3) New position for U 383 - 627 - 224 and 412 - AK 64.  Join up with Group "Puma" in view.
    4) Op. area for U 174 a 400 mile wide strip along Brazilian coast.  Western boundary 390 W., southern 100 S.  Attention drawn to convergence of Capetown - Trinidad traffic in FE 50.
    5) Group "Südwärts" broke off operations against Convoy No. 61.  U 301 commenced return passage without refueling. Position for U 508 - 163 and 154 ED 98.  U 620 in waters of Huelva.  (See War Diary of 27.10)  U 260 and 662 operating off Ponta Delgada, (Trans. note:  Horta Delgada?)  U 260 in the west and U 662 in the east.
  c) 1) U 506 and U 69 completed refueling from U 462 and 463.
    2) Refueling arranged for in DS for U 504 and U 159 operating in Capetown area (about 30 - 40 cbm).
  d)  In order to provide wing protection for 3 returning ships, which are due to cross line of longitude 220 W. early on the 29th at one day's distance following positions to be temporarily occupied:  U 92 - BE 55, U 218 - BE 65, U 752 - BE 87; U 356 and 664 return passage on 440 N.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 504 2 ships 17,669 GRT.
       
VI. General:
  Final survey of Convoy No. 61:
    Convoy was sighted at 1630/22/10 by U 443 in BD 3255.  Contact was lost at 2200 after attack had been made.  Convoy was sighted by U 706 (refueling from sub. tanker U 462) on 23.10. in BD 5879 on same course as convoy sighted and reported on previous day.  Could not have been identical one, as to get to second position convoy must have traveled at a speed of 15 knots.  It must therefore be presumed they were two different convoys i.e.
 
 
 
- 60 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  a)  Convoy sighted by U 443 ON 139
  b)  Convoy     "        "    U 706 convoy with unknown destiny.
  This conclusion was confirmed by Radio Intercept report of 25.10. according to which position of ON 139 should have been BD 5633 at 1600/23/10.  Comparison of two positions BD 3255 and BD 5633 gives estimated speed of 9 knots, which ties up with speed reported by U 443 and speed of an ON convoy.
  Comparison between positions of convoy under b) and that of an OS convoy (reliable statement made by navigation officer of "Laconia" sunk by U 156) on OS convoy route shows striking conformity of an American-bound convoy diverging so far to the south (apart from 2 very fast TA convoys) and on the other, conformed so closely to route of OS convoy, one was forced to conclude this to be an OS convoy (route AM 4437, BD 8159, DF 6927).  According to this, on loss of contact, searching operations should have been ordered on southerly direction.  As only 4 boats were available for this total sector of search was 180 - 2200 and precluded and search in westerly direction.
  That the convoy was not found was no proof that this was not an OS convoy. A small evasive action to east or west, a decrease of speed for just a few hours would have sufficed to bring about total loss of contact with the number of submarines so small.  It is concluded as before that this was a south-bound convoy.
  Results of the operation were unsatisfactory.  In spite of favorable weather conditions and clear visibility no hit was scored.  The very calm sea made it more difficult and it was to be concluded that the 4 boats, all of them on their first war cruise, were not equal to a submerged attack under a smooth surface and the attendant good locating conditions.
  Loss of contact is all the more regrettable since neither air nor sea patrol had to be reckoned with, and a further 3 other boats U 508, U 154 and U 163 were expected to make contact on the 26th.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
27.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BA)
U 174
-
 ER 39
U 438
-
 Op(AJ 80)
U 572
-
 DH 84-Op
 
67
-
 Op(EE)
175
-
 BF 55
440
-
 CF 86
575
-
 Op(AK 80)
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
177
-
 FV 77
441
-
 Op(AK 40)
590
-
 Op(ET)
 
69
-
 BD 68
178
-
 Op(JJ)
442
-
 BC 38
599
-
 BF 48
 
71
-
 Op(AJ 80)
179
-
 Op(GR)
443
-
 Op(AK 80)
602
-
 Op(AK 80
 
84
-
 Op(AJ 80)
181
-
 CG 63
454
-
 BC 20
604
-
 Op(DM 70)
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
183
-
 Op(AH 90)
455
-
 BF 58
606
-
 Op(AK 55)
 
89
-
 Op(AK 80)
184
-
 AN 24
459
-
 DG 33
608
-
 BE 72
 
92
-
 BF 47
203
-
 Op(DH 70)
462
-
 DG 35
610
-
 BE 54
 
98
-
 BE 59
216
-
 BF
463
-
 BD 57
613
-
 AF 76
 
103
-
 CF 83
218
-
 BF 46
564
-
 Op(KZ)
615
-
 BE 64
 
106
-
 Op(BD)
224
-
 AK 36
505
-
 Op(EE)
618
-
 BF 64
 
107
-
 Op(ET)
258
-
 BF 68
506
-
 DG 33
620
-
 CE 71
 
108
-
 BF 48
260
-
 CD 47
508
-
 DF 21
621
-
 Op(AK)
 
125
-
 DG 38
301
-
 CD 66
509
-
 Op(DH 70)
624
-
 Op(AK 40)
 
126
-
 Op(FP)
332
-
 Op(EE)
510
-
 Op(DH)
627
-
 AL 14
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
356
-
 BE 47
511
-
 BF 47
658
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
129
-
 Op(EE)
381
-
 Op(AJ 80)
514
-
 DR 33
659
-
 Op(DH 70)
 
132
-
 Op(BC 20)
382
-
 BE 59
516
-
 EG 25
662
-
 Op(CD)
 
134
-
 Op(DH 70)
383
-
 AK 30
518
-
 Op(AH 90)
664
-
 AE 59
 
154
-
 DF 88
402
-
 Op(AJ 80)
519
-
 AL 22
704
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
156
-
 Op(ES)
409
-
 Op(DH 70)
520
-
 Op(BB)
706
-
 BD 57
 
159
-
 Op(GQ)
410
-
 BF 64
521
-
 AJ 78
752
-
 BE 98
 
       
- 61 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
160
-
 Op(EE)
412
-
 AL 22
522
-
 AJ 97
753
-
 Op(AK 80)
 
161
-
 Op(FH)
413
-
 AN 36
552
-
 Op(ET)
D 5
-
 EJ 57
 
163
-
 CD 79
436
-
 Op(AK 56)
563
-
 Op(AK 86)      
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
437
-
 BC 39
571
-
 Op(BC 20)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 69 - 107 - 125 - 156 - 175 - 216 - 258 - 301 - 382 - 410 - 455 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 516 - 599 - 610 - 615 - 618 - 706 - 753 - D 5.
  Entered Port:  U 175 - Lorient;  U 258 - La Pallice;  U 618 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 653 - 564 - Brest;  U 185 - 263 - Kiel;  U 184 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy Nos. 62 and 63 see paragraph IVa.
    2) At 0325/27 U 627 sighted convoy in AL 2559 on E. course and low speed.  By comparison with enemy report from U 224 on 26.7. and an earlier intercept radio report this would seem to be an SC-convoy, one part bound for Reykjavik (compare report from U 224 on 27.10.  Boat pursued same as far as AK 3467 and was then forced off).
    3) U 134 chased single ship on general N.E. course in DH 7650, which was later reported as sunk in DH 8574 by U 604 (7,705 ton tanker).
    4) During attack on freighter of 5,000 GRT course 3000, speed 10 knots, U 67 was rammed.  Beforehand boat scored two hits and sank the ship entirely during the night.  One pistol failure and one electric torpedo explosion while underway.  One sailor killed by explosion caused while opening upper deck container.  Moved off in order to repair damage.
    5) U 154 sighted probable enemy submarine in DF 1374 on westerly course (could have been friendly).
    6) U 128 sighted nothing in EO 70 and in 73 - 81 over period of several days.
      Also no traffic sighted by U 160 from EO 25 via EE 68, 59, 55 and 72, and U 590 in sector off Freetown. On return passage on account of fuel supply.
      27.7 active air patrol in ET 29 upper half.
    7) U 183 reported on emergency transmitter:  for 10 days stationed off northern exit to Belle-Isle-Straits - completely dead area.  Straits presumably mined.
  b)  None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  AK 65, DC 1198, EH 9560, AK 6728, DD 4597.
     English aircraft reported submarine in AL 1499 and AL 2527.
    SSS report from British tanker "Anglo Maersk" (7,705 GRT) in DH 8443 (U 604).
    2 further torpedoing reports from unknown positions, probably Convoy No. 62.
  d)  None.
       
- 62 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 62:
      U 224 and 383 reported also operating on convoy.  Total number of boats was therefore 11, 2 of which had to commence return passage during the day on account of fuel shortage (U 575 and U 753).  Contact was maintained by U 436.  Convoy steering on general easterly course.  The bearings which were continuously transmitted by boat were unfortunately not heard by others lying in the vicinity, probably on account of the bad weather (N.W. 7).  The following boats requested bearings:  U 443 - 441 - 624 - 563 - 602.  Only U 602 and U 383 made contact, in AK 5695 and AK 5960 respectively.  In spite of bad weather 2 boats made successful attacks.  The first submerged attack made by U 436 in AK 5952 was foiled by a sharp zigzag.  In a second attack boat fired 5 single shots and observed 4 hits.  2 steamers sank at once, on an ammunition ship.  Position AK 6725.  U 621 reported 2 probable hits in AK 6733.  A number of other boats were observed by destroyers first and forced off.  Convoy steered AK 5838 - 5928 - 6724 - 6499 and at 0800 according to D/R lay in AK 6582.  Large differences in D/R estimations among the boats were unavoidable on account of bad weather.  Operation continues.
    2) Convoy No. 63:
      At 0928 U 409 reported mastheads in DH 7530 and shortly afterwards convoy on N.E. course with low to medium speed.  Weather:  N.N.W. 2, good visibility, brief showers of rain.  Group "Streitaxt" on reconnaissance line to southward was ordered to operate.  U 409 shadowed until 1708 and was then relieved by U 203, which continued to report convoy positions with short irregular interruptions.  Apart from this U 659 made contact at 2305 and U 509 at 0750.  3 other boats were operating on tanker reported by U 134 and sunk by U 604, and would not arrive until day of 28.10.  U 409 intended to attack in DH 7269, but was apparently forced to retire.  In DH 4987 U 203 fired 4 spread miss on 3 steamers overlapping one another.  On account of bright moonlight he decided not to renew attack until daylight.  Convoy was probably SL, proceeding close inshore on general course of 300, and embraced a number of ships possibly destined for Gibraltar.  Positions were:  1440 : DH 7294, 2302 : 4987 and 0700 : 7694.  Pursuit of convoy continues.
  b) 1) U 442 and 437 joined Group "Veilchen" and occupy positions BC 2528 and 2567 in order to lengthen patrol line.
    2) Position for U 98 : AK 92, for U 108 : ED 99.
    3) U 511 commenced southward passage via D 770.  Operation off Brazilian coast in view.
    4) U 462 en route for DS 58 as next refueling place.
    5) U 67 detailed to EE 68 as attack area.
    6) Contrary to previous order U 620 to operate in new operations area off Lisbon and southwards.  Attention drawn to special focal points of traffic.
  c)  U 462 supplied following boats with fuel:  U 459 : 26 cbm; U 506 : 30 cbm; U 125 : 37 cbm.  Own reserves 610 cbm fuel oil and 184 days' provisions.
 
 
 
- 63 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d)  U 216 has not reported in spite of repeated calls.  According to D/R and last position report it should have entered port 2 days ago.  According to Radio Intercept report of 20.10. an English aircraft attacked a submarine in BE 2797 and scored 6 probable hits.  This could only have been U 216 as there was no other boat in the vicinity.  Loss must be reckoned with.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 67 1 ship
5,000 GRT
  sunk
U 621 2 hits
probable
    
U 436 4 ships
25,000 GRT
   sunk
U 604 1 ship
7,705 GRT
   sunk.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
28.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BA)
U 177
-
 GG 34
U 442
-
 Op(BC 20)
U 599
-
 BF 54
 
67
-
 Op(EE 66)
178
-
 Op(JJ)
443
-
 Op(AK 62)
602
-
 Op(AK 68)
 
68
-
 Op(GH)
179
-
 Op(GR)
454
-
 Op(BC 20)
604
-
 Op(DH 58)
 
69
-
 BE 48
181
-
 GH 49
455
-
 BF 64
606
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
71
-
 Op(AJ 80)
183
-
 Op(AH 99)
459
-
 CF 81
608
-
 BD 92
 
84
-
 Op(AJ 80)
185
-
 AO
462
-
 DG 62
610
-
 BE 64
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
203
-
 Op(DH 45)
463
-
 BD 57
613
-
 AF 47
 
89
-
 Op(AJ 80)
218
-
 BF 44
504
-
 Op
615
-
 BF 47
 
92
-
 BE 68
224
-
 Op(AK 63)
505
-
 Op(EE)
620
-
 CE 57
 
98
-
 BE 42
260
-
 CE 57
506
-
 CF 58
621
-
 Op(AK 63)
 
103
-
 CF 88
263
-
 AO
508
-
 DF 18
624
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
301
-
 CE 42
509
-
 Op(DH 54)
627
-
 AL 20
 
107
-
 ET 19
332
-
 Op(EE)
510
-
 Op(DH 40)
653
-
 BF 55
 
108
-
 BF 93
356
-
 BE 49
511
-
 BE 92
658
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
125
-
 DG 38
381
-
 Op(AJ 80)
514
-
 DR 96
659
-
 Op(DH 40)
 
126
-
 Op(EP)
382
-
 BE 68
516
-
 DR 98
662
-
 CE 71
 
128
-
 Op(EU 81)
383
-
 Op(AK 65)
518
-
 Op(AH 90)
664
-
 AE 67
 
129
-
 Op(EE)
402
-
 Op(AJ 80)
519
-
 AM 10
704
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
132
-
 Op(BC 20)
409
-
 Op(DH 58)
520
-
 Op(BD 60)
706
-
 BD 57
 
134
-
 Op(DH 55)
410
-
 BF
521
-
 Op(BB)
752
-
 BE 89
 
154
-
 DF 15
412
-
 AL 18
522
-
 BC 24
753
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
156
-
 Op(ES)
413
-
 AN 29
552
-
 Op(ET)
D 5
-
 EJ 43
 
159
-
 Op(GQ)
436
-
 Op(AK 65)
563
-
 Op(AK 65)      
 
160
-
 Op(EE 72)
437
-
 Op(BC 37)
564
-
 BF 54      
 
161
-
 Op(FH)
438
-
 Op(AJ 80)
571
-
 Op(BC 20)      
 
163
-
 DE 36
440
-
 DH 13
572
-
 Op(DH 40)      
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
441
-
 Op(AK 65)
575
-
 BD 23      
 
174
-
 ER 68      
590
-
 Op(ET)      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 107 - 69 - 125 - 156 - 301 - 382 - 455 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 516 - 599 - 610 - 615 - 706 - 753 - D 5.
  Entered Port:  U 566 - Brest
  Sailed:  U 410 - 455 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy Nos. 62 and 63 see paragraph IVa.
       
- 64 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) On 23.10. U 126 sighted Portuguese ship entering port off Banana and on 25.10. a 2 funnel steamer flying flag close inshore.  During day boat operated within sight of the coast and at night at mouth of estuary.
    3) U 159 sighted nothing since 18.10. from GQ 60 - JJ 21.  Plans passage to KZ 41 and GR 57 by new moon.  Heavy north and southwest storms since 13.10.
  b) - d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 62:
      Contact was maintained with interruptions.  1130 U 602 reported convoy in AK 6569, course 700, speed 8 - 9 knots.  Weather N.N.W. 6, changing visibility.  In course of day following boats came up to convoy:  U 443 - 606 - 624 - 441 - 436.  At 1630 in AK 6663 air patrol was reported for first time, and occasionally carrier-borne aircraft.  After this boats were often forced to retire and submerge.  Individual reports from boats.  At 0806 U 563 fired spread which missed in AK 6582 and was forced to submerge by destroyer.  Operated later on single ship in direction of convoy.  U 606 sank steamer of 6,000 GRT and scored further hit on 12,000 tonner.  Explosion and large large tongue of flame observed.  Ship burned for 2 hours and then probably sank.  After burning of tanker U 624 was forced to submerge by destroyer.  At 1509 convoy lay in AK 6627 and finally steered easterly course.  Last of all U 624 reported same at 0554 in AL 5443.  After this contact was lost and by morning had not been regained.  It is intended to break off operation next day on account of vicinity of coast and strong air patrol.
    2) Convoy No. 63:
      Contact was maintained by U 203 who reported convoy in DH 4691 at 0947 on course 450.  Some 11 - 15 steamers were sighted.  Following boats came up to convoy:  U 409 - 1252;  U 659 - 1414;  U 509 - 1703.  Contact was temporarily lost on account of gusts of rain and bad visibility.  Boats were ordered to continue search on N. and N.E. courses.  At 2259 U 510 reported flares over convoy in DH 5155.  U 604 managed to re-establish contact by this, but incorrectly omitted to report same.  Boat was forced off about 0430.  At this time convoy was steering on N.E. course in DH 5131, speed 7 knots.  Weather N.W. 5 - 6, showers, medium visibility.  Varying D/R estimations from boats gave rise to suspicion that convoy had split up into a number of smaller groups, but this was not confirmed.  During day U 203 made several attempts to attack but was not successful.  With U 103 and U 440, which had approached convoy from the north, total number of boats operating were now 10.  Operation continues.  According to Radio Intercept reports just received, boats seem to have achieved some success.  No reports have yet been received.
    3) U 552 in previous position of U 107 off Freetown (S. sector).  U 552 detailed to operation area N. of 410 N. and W. of 590 30' W focal point off Halifax.  Attention drawn to traffic situation.  
      According to report from Commander of U 217, operations by 1 - 2 boats off Curacao and Aruba during new moon period promise success.  U 129 will therefore take up position in EC 96 with waning moon, focal points off Curacao.  Free to fire on oil installations.  If no
 
 
 
- 65 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      traffic met with, there operation in Aruba area on cargo traffic from Maracaibo.  U 154 operating in same area.  Route via Mona Passage.
  c)  None.
  d) U 599 has not yet made message concerning entry into port which is now several days overdue.  According to Radio Intercept report of 24.10. a submarine was attacked by English aircraft in BE 5965 and bombed.  Aircraft presumed 2 hits.  According to dead reckoning this must have been U 599.  Loss must be reckoned with.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 606                2 ships                18,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
29.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BA)
U 174
-
 ER 86
U 442
-
 Op(BC 20)
U 590
-
 ET 12
 
67
-
 Op(EE)
177
-
 GH 41
443
-
 Op(AL 51)
602
-
 Op(AL 47)
 
68
-
 Op(GH)
178
-
 Op(JJ)
454
-
 Op(BC 20)
604
-
 Op(DH 20)
 
69
-
 BE 84
179
-
 Op(GR)
459
-
 CF 55
606
-
 Op(AL 52)
 
71
-
 Op(AJ 80)
181
-
 CH 85
462
-
 DG 86
608
-
 BD 83
 
84
-
 Op(AJ 80)
183
-
 Op(AH 90)
463
-
 BD 57
610
-
 BE 69
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
185
-
 AN 36
504
-
 Op(KZ)
613
-
 AE 83
 
89
-
 Op(AJ 80)
203
-
 Op(DH 28)
505
-
 Op(EE)
615
-
 BF 92
 
92
-
 BE 92
218
-
 BE 65
506
-
 CF 53
620
-
 CE 87
 
98
-
 BD 36
224
-
 Op(AL 55)
508
-
 DE 66
621
-
 AL 81
 
103
-
 Op(DH 24)
260
-
 CE 67
509
-
 Op(DH 16)
624
-
 Op(AL 54)
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
263
-
 AN 36
510
-
 Op(DH 16)
627
-
 Op(AL 40)
 
107
-
 ES 33
301
-
 CE 28
511
-
 CF 31
653
-
 BF 46
 
108
-
 BE 94
332
-
 Op(EF)
514
-
 DG 48
658
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
125
-
 CF 84
356
-
 BE 85
516
-
 DS 71
659
-
 Op(DH 29)
 
126
-
 Op(FP)
381
-
 Op(AJ 80)
518
-
 Op(AH 90)
662
-
 CE 67
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
382
-
 BF 47
519
-
 AM 10
664
-
 AE 85
 
129
-
 Op(EE)
383
-
 Op(AL 54)
520
-
 Op(BB)
704
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
132
-
 Op(BC 20)
402
-
 Op(AJ 80)
521
-
 Op(BB)
706
-
 BD 57
 
134
-
 Op(DH 20)
409
-
 Op(DH 19)
522
-
 BC 42
752
-
 BE 87
 
154
-
 DE 66
412
-
 AL 50
552
-
 Op(ET)
753
-
 BD 26
 
156
-
 Op(ES)
413
-
 AF 87
563
-
 Op(AL 51)
D 5
-
 EJ 11
 
159
-
 Op(JJ 21)
436
-
 Op(AL 54)
564
-
 BF 46      
 
160
-
 Op(EE)
437
-
 Op(BC 20)
566
-
 BF 55      
 
161
-
 Op(FH)
438
-
 Op(AJ 80)
571
-
 Op(BC 20)      
 
163
-
 DE 62
440
-
 Op(DH 54)
572
-
 Op(DH 20)      
 
172
-
 Op(GR)
441
-
 Op(AL 54)
575
-
 BD 29      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 69 - 107 - 125 - 156 - 301 - 356 - 382 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 516 - 575 - 590 - 602 - 610 - 615 - 621 - 706 - 753 - D 5.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 130 - Lorient;  U 465 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
- 66 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoy Nos. 62 and 63 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 437 stationary in S. position of Group "Veilchen" patrol line, sighted convoy at 1914 in BC 2591, on S.W. course.  As an operation of group to the southwest did not seem worth while on account of vicinity of coast, it was ordered to remain on patrol line.  U 437 was left free to pursue convoy.
    3) U 575 reported single ship in BD 2932 on N.E. course and sank same about 0100.  Short signals report 5,000 GRT.
    4) Destroyers were sighted by:  U 752 in BF 87 on course 2200.  U 463 in BD 8313 on course 2700, U 624 in AL 5481 on course 900.
    5) U 87 commenced return passage on account of short fuel supply.  Sighted dummy warship reported on 28.10. again.  Nothing in ET 53.
    6) steamer "Ross" 4,978 GRT on return passage sank British ship "Primrose Hill"  7,600 GRT in DS 9835, course 1500, carrying aircraft from England to Freetown.
    7) U 129 sank American ship "Westkebar" 5,620 GRT in ET 6413 carrying Manganese ore from Tokoradi to New York.  According to statement of Captain 5 - 6 ships leave Tokoradi every day for England or N. America via Freetown.  Captain receives no sailing orders.
    8) U 159 sank steamer "Ross" 4,978 GRT on 29.10. in JJ 2511 and steamer "La Place" 7,327 GRT in JJ 2795 on course 1800.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  BB 66, JJ 43, AL 5410, AL 4529.
    Submarine warning:  JJ 1857.
    Torpedoing report: English ship "La Place" in JJ 27.
    U-boat attack:  ED 2583.
    SSS report from British freighter in AL 4529.  
    According to a broadcast a German submarine is supposed to have been sunk by gun fire by a Brazilian steamer "Pio Branco" off San-Vicente about 2 months ago.  No conformation of this.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 62:
      As for the present no further contact reports were received, operation to be broken off at daylight.  Boats then still in favorable position for attack to make the most of opportunity.  U 441 - 563 - 443 to commence return passage on account of fuel supply.  Rest of the boats to make for AK 90.  At 0830 U 624 lost sight of convoy in AL 5459, course 700, speed 5 knots.  Pursuit impossible on account of weather.  Boat fired 5 single shots, scoring one hit on tanker of "Vestfold" type, and one probable hit on 5,000 ton tanker.  Loss of "Vestfold" probable on account of fire.  At 0620 sank straggler of 4,000 GRT.  U 443 maintained contact until 1600 in AL 5462.  Attack no longer possible on account of heavy sea and shortage of fuel.  On route for new position U 436 sighted single ship and sank it in AL 5482.  Tonnage estimated at
       
- 67 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      7,000 or 8,000 GRT.  Operation on Convoy No. 62 then over.  It showed that boats were capable of fighting quite well in fairly heavy weather and had an easier time with the escort.  Successes confirm this.  A total of 9 ships were sunk, making 68,500 GRT and 3 further hits scored.  12 boats were engaged, two of which U 412 and U 627 never came in contact.
      No boat was damaged and none were lost.  Loss of U 412 and U 627 certainly did not occur on account of convoy.
    2) Convoy No. 63:
      After contact had been lost at 0500, U 134 reported convoy again in DH 2762 at 1300.  U 103, 509, 510 and 603 came up to the convoy during course of day with aid of bearings.  Contact was maintained throughout next day and night in spite of bad weather conditions.  N.W. wind and sea 6, visibility variable with heavy showers of rain.  General course of enemy remained 20 - 250.  Rate of progress 6 knots.  U 604 reported at most 11 ships in convoy.  Reported:
     
1) 1110 - U 203 - freighter of 6,000 GRT sunk.
2) 1033 - U 509 - 2 freighters of 7,000 and 6,500 GRT sunk on 27.10. and 2 freighters of 7,000 and 5,000 GRT sunk on 28.10.
3) 0624/30 - U 509 - 2 ships of 10,000 and 8,000 GRT sunk.
      Operation continues as contact is being maintained with convoy in DH 2315.
  b) 1) U 183 occupying same area as U 522 (see Diary of 28.10) Boat free to penetrate St. Lawrence River during new moon period.
    2) As no traffic seen in area off Banana up to date; U 161 and 126 commenced northward passage to operate in waters off Takoradi and Lagos.
    3) Patrol line of Group "Veilchen" removed 40 miles to the S.E. lay new in old sequence from AJ 8461 - BC 2917.
    4) Waiting positions occupied temporarily (see Diary of 26.10.) U 108 - BE 87;  U 564 - BE 55;  U 653 - BE 65.  The following will be relieved:  U 752 on 30.10., 2000, U 92 at 12/1/11;  U 218 at 0800/31/10.
  c) 1) U 706 completed refuel from U 463.
    2) U 621 took over radar intercept for U 602.
  d) U 179 the first IX D 2 boat, was ordered to operate off Capetown.  Last report received from FD 10 on 18.10., after which in spite of repeated calls no further report was received.  A Radio Intercept report states that on 21.9. a German submarine was sighted off Ascension.  Boat was probably sunk off Capetown as according to broadcast some of the crew of a German submarine landed there.  All other boats operating there have reported up to date so this could only be the crew of U 179.  Loss of boat must be reckoned with.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 575 1 ship
5,000 GRT
  U D 5 1 ship
7,600 GRT
U 129 1 ship
5,620 GRT
   U 159 2 ships
12,290 GRT.
U 624 1 ship
14,000 GRT
       
 
 
 
- 68 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    
U 624 1 ship
torpedoed.
U 224 1 ship
4,000 GRT
U 436 1 ship
7,500 GRT
U 203 1 ship
6,000 GRT
U 509 6 ships
45,500 GRT
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
30.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BA)
U 163
-
 DE 83
U 440
-
 Op(DH 20)
U 566
-
 BF 46
 
67
-
 Op(EE)
172
-
 Op(GR)
441
-
 AL 50
571
-
 Op(BC 20)
 
68
-
 Op(GR)
174
-
 FC 25
442
-
 Op(BC 20)
572
-
 Op(DA)
 
69
-
 BE 86
177
-
 GH 49
443
-
 AL 50
575
-
 BD 64
 
71
-
 Op(AJ 80)
178
-
 Op(GR)
454
-
 Op(BC 20)
590
-
 EJ 98
 
84
-
 Op(AJ 80)
181
-
 Op(GR)
459
-
 CF 34
602
-
 AL 85
 
87
-
 Op(ET)
183
-
 Op(BB 30)
462
-
 DS 36
604
-
 Op(CF)
 
89
-
 Op(AJ 80)
185
-
 AN 29
463
-
 BD 53
606
-
 AL 47
 
92
-
 BE 55
218
-
 BE 65
504
-
 Op(KZ)
608
-
 BD 76
 
98
-
 Op(AL)
224
-
 AL 44
465
-
 AO
610
-
 BF 48
 
103
-
 Op(DH)
260
-
 Op(CE)
505
-
 Op(EE)
613
-
 AE 84
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
263
-
 AN 31
506
-
 CF 35
615
-
 BF 93
 
107
-
 EJ 97
301
-
 CE 34
508
-
 DE 91
620
-
 CE 69
 
108
-
 BE 98
332
-
 Op(EE)
509
-
 Op(CF)
621
-
 AL 85
 
125
-
 CF 59
356
-
 BE 94
510
-
 Op(DH)
624
-
 AL 48
 
126
-
 Op(FH)
381
-
 Op(AJ 80)
511
-
 CF 29
627
-
 AL 50
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
382
-
 BF 58
514
-
 DG 24
653
-
 BF 44
 
129
-
 Op(EE)
383
-
 AL 71
516
-
 DS 49
658
-
 Op(AJ)
 
130
-
 BF 55
402
-
 Op(AJ 80)
518
-
 Op(AH 90)
659
-
 Op(DH 20)
 
132
-
 Op(BC 20)
409
-
 Op(DH)
519
-
 AM
662
-
 CE 69-Op
 
134
-
 Op(CG)
412
-
 AL 50
520
-
 Op(BB)
664
-
 BE 66
 
203
-
 Op(DH 20)
413
-
 AF 87
521
-
 Op(BB)
704
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
154
-
 BE 67
436
-
 AL 48
522
-
 BC 44
706
-
 BD 50
 
156
-
 Op(ES)
437
-
 Op(BC)
552
-
 Op(ET)
752
-
 BE 87
 
159
-
 Op(JJ)
438
-
 Op(AJ 80)
563
-
 AL 81
753
-
 BD 64
 
160
-
 Op(EE)      
564
-
 BF 44
D 5
-
 DS 68
 
161
-
 Op(FH)                  
 
  On Return Passage:  U 68 - 69 - 87 - 107 - 125 - 156 - 301 - 356 - 382 - 441 - 443 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 516 - 563 - 575 - 590 - 602 - 610 - 615 - 621 - 706 - 753 - D 5.
  Entered Port:  U 615 - La Pallice
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoys Nos. 63 and 64 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 161 was sighted by aircraft in FH 9141 and forced to submerge.  In doing so heard convoy on course 2900, speed 8 knots.  2 spread which missed at steamer in FH 5826, course 3250.  Phosphorescence gave boat away during attack, and it received flares and depth charges.
    3) U 174 sank British ship "Marylyn" 4,555 GRT in FC 5125, course 3200.
    4) U 518 has sighted nothing off N. exit of Belle Isle Straits up to date.
       
- 69 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    5) U 437 searched convoy courses between 220 - 2400 convoy was not found.  Boat returned to patrol line.  
    6) In reply to question U 402 reported amount of fog in past 6 days as 25%.
  b) None.
  c) U-boat sightings:  BC 42, BB 69, BC 21.
    SOS sent by unknown ship in CF 9857.  
    American aircraft attacked submarine with depth charges in unknown position and saw oil bubbles appear on surface.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 63:
      With northwesterly wind decreasing and sea strength 4, conditions for attack were unusually good.  U 509 and U 604 shadowed convoy for whole day, in the course of which they managed to bring up all the rest of the boats except U 134, U 572 and U 440.  They all got in an attack.
     
1) U 409 1 freighter
8,000 GRT
  sunk
2) U 659 2 freighters
17,000 GRT
  sunk
3) U 203 1 freighter (Corinaldo)
7,131 GRT
   sunk
4) U 604 1 passenger steamer
11,000 GRT
   sunk
    1 freighter
5,000 GRT
  sunk
5) U 510 1 freighter
6,000 GRT
  sunk
6) U 409 1 freighter
6,500 GRT
  sunk
    1 possible hit
 
7) U 103 1 tanker
9,000 GRT
  sunk
    1 tanker
6,000 GRT
  sunk
8) U 659 1 freighter
6,000 GRT
   sunk.
      U 203 was ordered to commence return passage, and U 659 left free to return, as boat was badly damaged by depth charges.
      Boats still operating as follows:  U 103 - 409 - 510 - 604 - 134 - 440 - 509 - 572.
    2) Convoy No. 64:
      At 1624 U 522 sighted convoy in BB 6822 on course 800 and speed 7 knots.  Boats ordered to give shadowing reports every two hours.  U 520 and U 521 operating with full speed against enemy.  Group "Veilchen" remained on patrol line for time being as only slight move to the west was possible on account of fog.  According to radio intercept convoy probably steering via BB 6659 and then on course 45.  U 522 was forced off by destroyer at 2140, but attacked and torpedoed it.  At 1710 convoy lay in BB 6924 and at 0503 in BC 4411 by hydrophone bearing.  Apart from U 521 which was forced to submerge by destroyer in BC 4185 and picked up a number of steamers while doing so, no contact was made during night.  Operation continues.
  b) 1) U 224 - 436 - 624 - 606 - 383 and U 98 took up patrol line in above order between AK 6531 and AK 6983 at cruising speed.  Boats form
 
 
 
- 70 -
 
 
     

 

 

     
     
 
      Group "Natter".
    2) After leaving waiting position, position for U 92 and U 218 - AK 93.  U 752 proceeding via ET to DT 60.  Boat left left to operate on Convoy No. 63.
    3) U 128 and 552 given freedom of action in waters off Freetown.
    4) U 177 and U 181 - 2 IXD2 boats fresh from home given freedom of action in area off Capetown and eastwards to 170 30' E.
  c) 1) U 753 completed refuel from U 463.
    2) Boats belonging to Group "Veilchen" which are short of fuel to be supplied in BD 50.
    3) In answer to question regarding operational readiness and possible operation off Dakar, U 500 reported full mechanical readiness, but provision for only 2 - 3 weeks.
      U 87 no longer serviceable and on return voyage.
    4) U 156 has small inaccessible leak in pressure hull in region of battery room.  Boat only able to dive to shallow depth.  On return passage.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 174 1 ship
4,555 GRT
  U 103 2 ships
15,000 GRT
U 409 1 ship
6,000 GRT
  U 659 1 ship
6,000 GRT
U 659 2 ships
17,000 GRT
  U 522 1 destroyer
torpedoed.
U 203 1 ship
7,131 GRT
     
U 604 2 ships
16,000 GRT
     
U 510 1 ship
6,000 GRT
     
U 409 1 ship
6,500 GRT
     
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
31.October 1942.
 
 
 
I.
U 43
-
 Op(BB)
U 161
-
 FH 54
U 438
-
 Op(AJ 80)
U 564
-
 BE 64
 
67
-
 Op(EE)
163
-
 DE 84
440
-
 Op(CG 73)
566
-
 BF 44
 
68
-
 GQ 92
172
-
 Op(GR)
441
-
 BE 12
571
-
 Op(BC 20)
 
69
-
 BE 95
174
-
 Op(FC)
442
-
 Op(BC 20)
572
-
 CF 90
 
71
-
 Op(AJ 80)
177
-
 Op(GH)
443
-
 AL 98
575
-
 BD 67
 
84
-
 Op(AJ 80)
178
-
 Op(GR)
454
-
 Op(BC 20)
590
-
 EJ 85
 
87
-
 ES 36
181
-
 Op(GR)
459
-
 CF 33
602
-
 BE 15
 
89
-
 Op(AJ 80)
183
-
 Op(BB)
462
-
 DS 38
604
-
 Op(CF 94)
 
92
-
 BE 55
185
-
 AF 87
463
-
 BD 67
606
-
 Op(AK 69)
 
98
-
 AK 96
203
-
 Op(CF 90)
465
-
 AN 36
608
-
 BC 99
 
103
-
 Op(CF 96)
218
-
 BE 65
504
-
 Op(KZ)
610
-
 BF 67
 
106
-
 Op(BB)
224
-
 Op(AK 60)
505
-
 Op(EE)
613
-
 AL 26
 
107
-
 EJ 81
260
-
 Op(CE 69)
506
-
 BE 97
620
-
 CF 57
 
108
-
 BE 87
263
-
 AF 87
508
-
 BE 88
621
-
 BE 15
 
117
-
 AK 32
301
-
 CF 12
509
-
 Op(CF 93)
624
-
 Op(AK 60)
 
125
-
 CF 61
332
-
 Op(EE)
510
-
 Op(CG 74)
627
-
 AL 50
 
126
-
 FH 54
356
-
 BE 96
511
-
 CF 54
653
-
 BE 65
 
128
-
 Op(ET)
381
-
 Op(AJ 80)
514
-
 DG 23
658
-
 Op(BC 22)
 
       
- 71 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
129
-
 Op(EE)
382
-
 BF 58
516
-
 DS 29
659
-
 Op(CF 94)
 
130
-
 BF 49
383
-
 Op(AK 60)
518
-
 Op(AH)
662
-
 Op(CE)
 
132
-
 Op(BC 20)
402
-
 Op(BC 20)
519
-
 AL 03
664
-
 AL 27
 
134
-
 Op(CG 48)
409
-
 Op(CF 93)
520
-
 Op(BB)
704
-
 Op(AJ 80)
 
154
-
 DE 81
412
-
 AL 50
521
-
 Op(BB)
706
-
 BD 68
 
156
-
 Op(EJ 72)
413
-
 AF 73
522
-
 Op(BC 44)
752
-
 CF 26
 
159
-
 Op(JJ)
436
-
 Op(AK 60)
552
-
 Op(ET)
753
-
 BD 68
 
160
-
 Op(EE 49)
437
-
 Op(BC 29)
563
-
 BE 13
D 5
-
 DS 62
 
  On Return Passage:  U 68 - 69 - 87 - 107 - 125 - 156 - 172 - 301 - 441 - 443 - 459 - 506 - 514 - 663 - 575 - 590 - 602 - 610 - 621 - 706 - 753 - D 5 - 516.
  Entered Port:  U 595 - 86 - Brest.
  Sailed:  U 610 - 382 - St. Nazaire.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Convoys Nos. 63 and 64 see paragraph IVa.
    2) U 443 sighted 2 large steamers and 1 destroyer in AL 9825, course S.W. speed 14 knots.  Boat on return passage.
    3) U 43 in BA 30 for 17 days and operated on 2 convoys without success.  Sea escort in cooperation with air on larger scale.
    4) U 504 sank "Empire Guiger" 8,000 GRT on 31.10. in KP 9787, course 900.  Ship carrying war material from Durban to Egypt.  Also steamer "Reynolds" 5,113 GRT in KP 9843 on way from Durban to India.  Tanker sighted in KZ 2672 on 29.10. on course 700.  Also 2 destroyers in KZ 2633 course 2200.  On 31.10. passenger freighter on course 900, hunted in vain.
    5) U 172 on return passage sank British ship "Aldintong Court" 4,891 in GP 3211, course 620 bound from Philadelphia to Capetown via Trinidad.  Course steered up- till then FD 3578 - FU 4963 - GP 2442 and from their according to instructions received on 30.10. course 620 until within 50 miles of coast, and then southerly course to Capetown.
  b)  Friendly aircraft sighted 2 aircraft carriers at 1115 with 1 cruiser and 3 destroyers on course 1800.
  c) U-boat sightings:  EO 4310.
     English aircraft sighted submarine in AL 3376 and another in unknown position.
    SSS report from English steamer "Aldington Court" in GP 32.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Convoy No. 63:
      On morning of 31.10. convoy lay in CF 96 with NNE course and speed 7 knots.  Convoy appeared to pass Gibraltar and continued northwards.  With wind dropping from west and sea strength 3 - 4 contact was maintained by U 604 and U 509.  By the afternoon six boats of the group had come up to the convoy.  In the morning U 509 and U 604 had reported that all that remained of convoy was 4 - 5 ships.  In the afternoon.
       
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      U 604 reported there were certainly 12.  It therefore looked as though two groups had joined up in the afternoon while up to date very little had been reported about escort, and also no air patrol seemed to be present, suddenly from 1800 onwards all boats were driven off by heavy air activity and large destroyer escort.  A number of boats reported aircraft contacts.
      As rest of convoy route lay more and more within range of enemy air support, operation was broken off at daylight on 1.11. in CF 69.  For further operation of boats see Diary of 1.11. paragraph IV 5)...
      In a tough four day battle with convoy under favorable weather conditions and not too strong an escort 7 boats out of strong groups of 10 attacked successfully and sank a total of 18 ships together 133,131 GRT without a single loss.
    2) Convoy No. 64:
      No further report was received of convoy.  U 183 ordered to attack if given favorable opportunity.  Group "Veilchen" was established in closer formation between AJ 7938 and BC 2814, as course of enemy was known by radio intercept report and it was intended to prevent its running through patrol lines unnoticed in bad visibility.
  b) 1) U 753 given freedom of action in northern section of BD until fuel supply gives out.
    2) U 117 after completion of special duty (minelaying off Reykjavik - group north) to rejoin Atlantic boats.  Proceeding to BD 50 at cruising speed.  Supplying of Group "Veilchen" in view.
    3) Boats off Trinidad impressed with necessity of operating closer to focal point during new moon period.  From time to time boats to penetrate to the S.W. as far as coast.
    4) U 664 and 613 joined Group "Natter" and occupy position AK 6286 and 6254, lengthening patrol line.
    5) New position for U 566 - AK 93, U 130 commenced southward passage via DT 60.
    6) U 518 advised to try and reach BA during new moon period.  If no traffic there as well as in BB 10 - 40, boat to operate off Halifax.
    7) On account of situation report U 43 left free to remove to BB.
  c) U 519 completed secondary duty 1 (Met Buoy Rockall).  U D 5 completed refueling from U 462.
  d) U 412 and U 627 were both detailed to operate on Convoy no. 63, but neither made contact.  After close of operation no reports were received in spite of many calls.  It is possible that U 412 was destroyed by English aircraft on the outward journey, since it had not reported since sailing.  Radio intercept report concerning aircraft attack received.  On 27.10 U 627 reported convoy in AL 2559 at 0325 on easterly course and gave chase after which no further report was received.  Loss of both must be reckoned with.
 
 
 
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V. Reports of Success:
    
U 504 2 ships
13,113 GRT
  sunk
U 172 1 ship
4,891 GRT
  sunk.
       
VI. General:
  a) Submarine operation on aircraft carrier formation picked up by friendly air reconnaissance (strip reconnaissance for homeward bound blockade runners) was not carried out as further shadowing and reconnaissance aircraft absolutely necessary for the operation were not available.  The insufficient number of FW 200 at our disposal were no longer suitable for the task as they are too easily shot down by enemy fighter aircraft.
    The want of aircraft was all the more regrettable since it would have been possible to put 12 submarines which lay in the area CF against the formation.  Operation was not carried out as it was better to work with Group "Streitaxt" (10 boats) on convoy bound for England, instead of operating at a distance of 360 miles on the basis of a single doubtful reconnaissance report.  The presence of HE 177's would have made continuous shadowing and reconnaissance possible and lead to submarine operation under cover of current enemy operation.
    The fact that on the grounds of insufficient air support it is not possible to shadow such an important warship formation in our own outer foreshore, let alone attack it, is extremely regrettable.  Making the most of this weakness the English can sail their heavy forces and convoys westwards of 130 W without danger, and operate with submarine chaser units (destroyers, A/S units, sub decoy ships and patrol vessels) in this area, even as far as 90 W.  Out own submarines are not able to operate in this area on account of strong enemy radar-equipped air patrol.  Here once more an urgent demand:  bringing into operation of HE 177's as soon as possible along Atlantic coast.
  b) Operations of submarines off Freetown, Trinidad, and Cape Town in second half of October brought little success.  This is probably due to removal or alteration of single ship traffic between these ports.  In detail as follows.
    Freetown:
    In period 1 - 11.10. a total of 7 ships, mostly entering Freetown were sighted or sunk, and since 12.10. no further sightings reported even though 5 boats were on patrol in this sector.  This is the more extraordinary since a number of agent reports speak of unusually large troop and cargo transports, and the occupation of Liberia by the U.S.A.  It is to be concluded that the English have at last managed to include this big port to a large extent in their convoy system, which, after the large number of sinkings from July 1942 onwards was only to be expected.  Attacks on convoys off Freetown are extremely difficult on account of sea and air patrol, which prevent ant near approach to convoys on account of shallow depth and unusually calm sea.
    Further occupation of this area will depend on sinking successes of the 2 boats still stationed there.
 
 
 
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    Trinidad:  The heavy, mostly incoming traffic of September and beginning of October has considerably decreased since 11.10.  Between 1.10. and 11.10., 12 ships were sunk or sighted E. of harbor and since 12.10. only 7 ships and one convoy.  Attack on convoy was not possible on account of strong air escort and full moon.  Very heavy traffic along Guiana coast has stopped, and routing of single ship traffic removed further out to sea.  After receipt of a few routing instructions (Radio Intercept Service) via EP 90 and EE 50 boats were transferred to this area as from 13.10. and here they succeeded in picking up 7 ships.
    Capetown:
     After sudden big success between 8.10. and 13.10. traffic seemed to dry up.  Heavy storms and bad visibility in period up till about 20.10. were the cause of absence of further sinkings and reason for present uncertainty on traffic situation.  The boats were given freedom of action, a measure which in most cases, had led to success when experienced Commanders were concerned.  From course instructions to incoming ships a sector containing maximum convergence of traffic leaving Capetown (GR 4650, GQ 6390, GQ 3780) was detailed to boats.
     U 68 and 172 operated in sector 240 - 3400 without sighting anything, so that they finally concluded traffic to be routed along African coast N. of Capetown.  Boats lying S.E. of the port sank a total of 6 ships between 25 and 31.10. and sighted 2 others.  Unusual fact was that courses of these steamers in JJ 10 and 20 lay to S. and S.W.
  c) Operations of U 161 and U 128 off mouth of Congo, Banana, Loange, Cabrinda and Point Noire brought no success.  It was established because a number of reports from German Intelligence Section H.Q. concerning troop and cargo transports to these ports.  These reports of heavy traffic were not confirmed by boats, so on 29.10. both were ordered to take up new position in waters off Lagos and Takoradi.
       
       
                                                                    (Signed):  DÖNITZ.
       
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Submarine Situation on 19.10.
       
1) Convoys in North Atlantic:
  a) By means of a long patrol line, we succeeded in picking up 2 westbound convoys which were not sailing far outside the long known route along the Great Circle.  An east-bound convoy also used this well-known route.  There are therefore no fresh reasons for assuming a spreading of convoy routes.
  b)  Successes against west-bound convoys were hindered by unusually bad weather.  After initial successes on east-bound convoys, boats for the first time were hindered to a large extent by radar-equipped destroyers in temporary good weather.  This specially underlines the necessity of getting an effective torpedo as countermeasure against destroyers as soon as possible.
  c)  Enemy air activity was observed in areas where is had up to the present not been met with.  Improved A.A. weapons are on the way.  At the same time Air Forces which can fight in convoy areas must still be pressed for.  Interference from aircraft is the greatest danger to successful submarine warfare.
  d) The extremely bad weather conditions prevailing at the time in the Atlantic were most unusual.  The heaviest storms in the N. Atlantic are in the months of December and January while October is on the whole a comparatively favorable month.  A removal of now current operations should have been planned and started back in September.  Under ordinary weather conditions this would have been wrong and will still be wrong in the future as the development of the weather cannot possibly be forecast so long ahead.  The possibility alone that at some future date bad weather was to be expected would never justify the decision to leave the N. Atlantic, the are of heaviest traffic.
    Apart from which, a removal of operations to the south is not possible for the following reasons:
    1) In the adjacent southerly areas used by convoys (Gibraltar-England) convoy attack promises no successes on account of enemy air activity.
    2) In the more distant areas (Canaries-Cape Verde) or combined operation in other areas (for example, Freetown, Trinidad) the sufficient refueling and supply possibilities for type VII boats are lacking, without which they cannot operate.  Taking into account the long outward and return passage the economy of such an operation is certainly not greater than that in the Atlantic.
    3) The infrequent SL convoys at 10 day intervals only justify submarine operation when, failing the convoy, boats can be refueled and detailed to waters off Freetown.
  e) It has also been tested whether the situation can be improved by reinforced attacks against east-bound convoys which can be fought during overpowering westerly weather conditions.
    Better weather conditions speak for this, and the possibility of easier tracking down of convoys.
     But these advantages do not outweigh the disadvantages, namely:
    1) The dead approach as far as Newfoundland Bank.
    2) The fact that in general each boat can only make one convoy
 
 
 
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      operation on account of fuel limitations, whereas if the first attack is made in the E. boats will then be able to make an attack first on W. bound and then E. bound convoys without refueling and under any circumstances.
       
2) St. Lawrence River and Belle Isle Straits have brought further successes.  New boats are on the way.
       
3) North coast of East America:  On 20.10. U 608 sailed for mining operations off New York.
       
4) Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean Sea:
  For time being no operations in view.  When occasion offers during new moon period, one of the Trinidad boats will be sent to Aruba-Curacao area where conditions are not unfavorable according to report of a recently returned boat.
       
5) Trinidad:
    Continued to pick up spasmodic traffic.  2 fresh boats have arrived.  2 further boats are on the way.
       
6) North-south convoy route:
    SL-convoy was picked up by a group in process of building up off the Azores consisting of 2 large and 6-8 medium sized boats.  Refuel in view for medium sized boats and later operations off Freetown.  These boats are also prepared for eventuality of operations against Dakar.  According to press reports and observations made by boats (2 American battleships and transport traffic) this is not an improbability.
       
7) Gulf of Guinea:
    Boats detailed to this area have just arrived.  It remains to be seen whether their successes will confirm reports concerning unloading of troops and material.  If this is the case, it will mean an easing up on the N. African front, which is ostensibly supplied from here.
       
8) Capetown:
    Initial successes scored here.  Along with exploitation of strategic unrest of the enemy and the possible splitting up of defence forces one must keep one's eye on the fact whether the sinking successes justify the operation, since in opinion B.d.U. sinking successes must be valued above all else.
  The decrease after beginning can be at least partially explained by the disproportionately bad weather for the time of the year.
       
9) Of the two boats destined for the E. coast of Africa, the loss of U 179 (Sobe) must be reckoned with.  The second boat is still in Capetown area.  The new operational boundaries include all the S. African ports.  Promises of success judged to be favorable.
       
10) Of 6 boats destined for the Mediterranean 2 fell out prematurely.  Passing through Gibraltar Straits presented no difficulty, 2 further boats in view for the next new moon period.
 
 
 
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12.10.42.
       
New York Minelaying orders for U 608.
       
I. Task:
  a) Extensive mining of area "Ambrose".  If this is impossible, mining to be carried out in "Alternative area Ambrose".  If no success with latter in spite of repeated attempts, mining to be completed in "Outer area New York" (See sketch).
  b) Enemy traffic is to be observed beforehand, so that mines can be laid inside specified area where greatest success can be expected.  If observation is impossible of provides no information, mining to be carried out around "Ambrose Lightship" and S.W. of it.
  c) The commander is, under all circumstances to try with tenacity and energy to lay the mines as far in as possible where they promise most success, i.e. in "Ambrose" area.  The alternative or outer areas are only to be mined when all attempts on the inner one have been smashed and further attempts to mine seem hopeless.
       
II. Geographical boundaries:
  a) Area "Ambrose" lays within following degrees:
    400 27' N.  730 55' W.  40 30' N.  730 49' W.  
    400 28' N.  730 45' W.  40 23' N.  730 54' W.
  b) "Alternative area Ambrose" is bound on east and south by circumference of circle whose center is by light bell buoy 2A (400 30' N.  730 56' W.) and on the N.W. by a line from Long Beach (730 41' W.) and from point on Jersey coast (400 23' N.).
  c) "Outer area New York" lies between circles drawn from light bell buoy 2A with radius of 13 and 22 miles respectively.
       
III. Mine Material:  10 TM C mines.
  Settings - Period of effectiveness 60 days, period of delay 2 days, sensitivity 10 meters, 5 mines set to go off first run over 5 at fourth.  5 mines with red field, 5 with blue field.  Mines set to fall to depth between 20 - 33 meters, minimum range 1,000 meters.
       
IV. a) Map D 455 to be employed.
  b) Black and green painted wreck buoy marked 3" in position 400 25.4' N.  730 52.1 W.
  c) See Standing Operational Orders 492 paragraph 2; 495 paragraph 2 "Operational Intelligence for Navigators"  687 - 42: 688 - 42.
  d) See Appendix.
       
V. Reports to be made as soon as possible after mining completed, by short signal, but at least 50 miles from mined area.
  Following code to be used:
    LT IQ = Mining of "Ambrose Area" completed.
  LT GO = Mining of "Alternative area Ambrose" completed.
    LT JR = Mining of "Outer area New York" completed.
       
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