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

1 - 15 April 1944

PG30344

     
     
 
1.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LP 26
U 255
-
 AK 93
U 518
-
 Op(EB 90)
U 744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
66
-
 Op(EV 84)
262
-
 Op(AL 01)
532
-
 LY 37
766
-
 AM 15
 
68
-
 BF 71
267
-
 Op(BC 68)
537
-
 CG 12
801
-
 EG 60
 
92
-
 Op(BD 40)
302
-
 Op(BD 81)
541
-
 DD 82
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
123
-
 EH 11
311
-
 Op(AL 85)
543
-
 BF 75
821
-
 Op(AL 52)
 
129
-
 CF 64
333
-
 Op(AL 92)
546
-
 AK 91
843
-
 FD 84
 
154
-
 DP 54
358
-
 Op(AL 58)
548
-
 AE 83
851
-
 DF 86
 
155
-
 DT 12
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CB 55
852
-
 GQ 35
 
170
-
 Op(BB)
437
-
 BF 49
552
-
 Op(AK 20)
856
-
 Op(CB 26)
 
178
-
 FL 86
448
-
 Op(AK 55)
608
-
 BF 57
961
-
 AE 68
 
181
-
 DH 77
471
-
 CG 95
618
-
 CG 22
962
-
 Op(AK 92)
 
188
-
 GZ 34
473
-
 AE 69
621
-
 AL 52
970
-
 Op(AL 51)
 
190
-
 DH 19
488
-
 EG 83
667
-
 Op(BC 93)
986
-
 Op(AL 14)
 
196
-
 DH 42
505
-
 ES 7170
672
-
 Op(AL 16)
993
-
 AE 68
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
510
-
 LE 72
740
-
 AE 69
1059
-
 ER 19
 
218
-
 Op(DO 87)
515
-
 BF 57
741
-
 Op(AL 42)
1062
-
 KT 42
 
  On Return Passage:  U 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 255 - 437 - 510 - 532 - 546 - 608 - 618 - 621.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 736 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) Situation report from U 66:
    1) Between main ports Sekondi and Lagos substantially convoy traffic.  Irregular, along 200 meter line.
    2) Single ship traffic now widely spaced.  Close inshore small fast sea patrol without air activity, except occasionally, isolated sea patrol at night.
    3) Midday along 200 meter line reconnaissance by Wellingtons.  Up to 150 miles away medium air activity during the day.  Wellingtons and brightly painted Lerwicks.
    4) From main port of Lagos southeastwards around Cape Formoso to Duala medium single ship traffic escorted and unescorted, no air activity.  Outward journey course 1150 to 200 meter line, then around cape, returning on course 3100 from EW 7120.
    5) Since observation no traffic in stated area for 14 days.
    6) Since last sinking 2 groups of anti-submarine units sighted.  During day 2 torpedo boats, at night heavily smoking patrol vessel with air support, both equipped with Radar, completely untrained.
       
- 211 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      Convoys also diverging to the South.  Defence strengthening, but on the whole not tenacious enough.
    7) Up to 6 ships in Lagos weekly.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Submarine sightings:  EC 9563 (U 518?), DJ 1358 (U 214?) and one boat in uncertain position.
    2) 14 ASV locations in unspecified positions of which a number were immediately cancelled.
    3) English unit "Lea" made password "Maria" to Gibraltar (meaning unknown).
    4) Enemy units located in:  AM 4376 - 4990 - 5710 - 7250 - AL 9830 - BD 2850.
    5) Guardship 178 was located in AM 7350.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) U 766 reported successful passage through Shetland-Faroes and occupation of attack area BD 30.
  b) None.
  c) 1) U 552 - 448 to rendezvous in AK 2485 on 2.4. and U 843 - U 178 in FL 5115 on 4.4., for taking over key-word orders.
    2) U 262 and U 741 both report failure to rendezvous.  (Extremely bad weather, wind strength 10).  Boats returning afresh to previous rendezvous.
  d)  Warning message No. 101:
     The break-down of radar apparatus is frequently due to bad maintenance.  Therefore:
     As far as conditions allow, set to be operated at least 1/2 hour daily in order to test working order and to dry out installation.  In case of full operation not being feasible (on patrol for example), set to be switched on with lowered reflector, so as to prevent outward radiation.  Outside installation then to be examined separately with set switched off.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
 
- 212 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
2.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LE 94
U 255
-
 AK 96
U 532
-
 LY 60
U 741
-
 Op(AL 42)
 
66
-
 EV 77
262
-
 Op(AL 42)
537
-
 CG 14
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
68
-
 BE 96
267
-
 Op(BC 67)
541
-
 DD 72
766
-
 AL 35
 
92
-
 Op(BD 73)
302
-
 Op(BC 75)
543
-
 BF 77
802
-
 Op(BE 70)
 
123
-
 DS 75
311
-
 Op(AL 84)
546
-
 AK 92
821
-
 Op(AL 57)
 
129
-
 CF 62
333
-
 AL 85
548
-
 AE 82
843
-
 FL 12
 
154
-
 DP 37
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CB 55
851
-
 DR 31
 
155
-
 DT 18
437
-
 BF 58
552
-
 Op(AK 20)
852
-
 GQ 63
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
448
-
 Op(AK 20)
608
-
 BF 54
856
-
 Op(CB 26)
 
178
-
 FL 58
471
-
 CG 95
618
-
 BF 79
961
-
 AE 59
 
181
-
 DH 84
473
-
 AE 68
621
-
 AL 54
962
-
 Op(AK 69)
 
188
-
 GZ 23
488
-
 EG 80
667
-
 Op(BC 92)
970
-
 Op(AL 42)
 
190
-
 DH 45
505
-
 DG 99
672
-
 Op(AL 15)
986
-
 Op(AL 13)
 
196
-
 DH 48
510
-
 LE 59
736
-
 AF 79
993
-
 AE 59
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
515
-
 BF 73
740
-
 AE 68
1062
-
 KT 27
 
218
-
 Op(ED 10)
518
-
 Op(EL 20)            
 
  On Return Passage:  
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 986 attacked by aircraft in AL 2148 at 0517.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boat sighting at 1515 in unspecified position, boat steering 650, 10 knots.
    2) One ASV location at 2350 in CG 8835, cancelled at 0015.
      5 ASV locations in unspecified positions, all cancelled.
    3) American merchant ship sent SOS, stranded in AM 9849, damage to rudder, urgently in need of help.
    4) Enemy units located in AL 8273, AM 4890 - 0290 - 4984, CG 8623.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Operational strength of Group "Landwirt" on 1.4.44:
     
At 6 hours' notice:
11 boats
At 10 hours' notice:
5 boats
 
16 boats.
       
- 213 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      Outward bound and available in coastal area inside 5 days:  5 IXC boats.
      Ready by 15.4. in western ports:  3 VIIC boats.
      Apart from which U 993, 766, 961, 970 and 821 are on return passage in order to reinforce Group "Landwirt".
    2) U 667 - 267 - 302 in BC 60, 70, 80 and 90 as attack areas.
  b) - c) None.
  d) Following boats must be presumed lost (in March).
    1) U 358
      Boat sailed from St. Nazaire on 14.2.44, made last report on 23.2. giving routine "passing" report, and should then have operated in attack areas BE 40, AL 70 and AL 10.
      On 31.3. was to have met U 311 but did not arrive; no reply to demands for fuel and position report on 28.3. and 2.4.
    2) U 1059
      Boat sailed from Kiel carrying torpedoes to Penang.  Last report passing report from AL 1556.
      Boat should have refueled from U 488 on 23.3. but did not arrive.  No reply in answer to demand for position report on 30.3. Loss en route for South Atlantic.
    3) U 801
      Sailed from Lorient on 26.2.44.  Last report on 17.3. from EH 3811 concerning attack by 2 flying boats.  Slight damage, 9 seaman unfit for duty, 5 badly wounded, Commander slightly wounded.
      Boat then proceeded to refueling point with U 488, but did not arrive.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
3.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LF 42
U 218
-
 Op(ED 10)
U 515
-
 BF 75
U 740
-
 AE 67
 
66
-
 EU 98
255
-
 BD 33
518
-
 Op(EC 90)
741
-
 Op(AL 45)
 
68
-
 BE 95
262
-
 Op(AL 19)
532
-
 LY 60
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
92
-
 Op(BC 40)
267
-
 Op(BC 83)
537
-
 CF 65
766
-
 AL 28
 
       
- 214 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
123
-
 DS 57
302
-
 Op(BC 77)
541
-
 DC 93
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
129
-
 CF 59
311
-
 Op(AL 84)
543
-
 BE 99
821
-
 AL 72
 
154
-
 DP 36
333
-
 AL 87
546
-
 AK 99
843
-
 FL 16
 
155
-
 DS 66
392
-
 CG 98
548
-
 AE 84
851
-
 DR 38
 
170
-
 Op(BB)
437
-
 BF 64
550
-
 CB 55
852
-
 GR 44
 
178
-
 FL 54
448
-
 Op(AK 20)
552
-
 AK 33
856
-
 Op(CB 26)
 
181
-
 DT 31
471
-
 CG 95
608
-
 BF 64
961
-
 AE 83
 
188
-
 GQ 96
473
-
 AE 67
618
-
 BF 84
962
-
 Op(AK)
 
190
-
 DH 47
488
-
 Op(EG 80)
621
-
 AL 48
970
-
 AL 44
 
196
-
 DG 96
505
-
 DT 13
667
-
 Op(BC 94)
986
-
 Op(AL 13)
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
510
-
 LE 65
672
-
 Op(AL 15)
993
-
 AE 83
             
736
-
 AF 76
1062
-
 KT 23
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 255 - 333 - 437 - 510 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 608 - 618 - 621 - 766 - 821 - 961 - 970 - 993.
  Entered Port:  U 437 - 608 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 342 - 765 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat confirmed in ED 9582 (U 518?).
    2) ASV locations:
      Gibraltar aircraft "JKPJ" reported 9 ASV locations during night, and "RFPF" 5 locations, all of which were cancelled a short time later.
      The mounting number of locations give the impression that the enemy, disturbed by the boats confirmed as having passed through the Straits, are setting a particularly alert Gibraltar patrol.
    3) English steamer reported "something suspicious" in LC 9460 (none of our own boats in the vicinity).
    4) English units located in BE 2780 and CF 3380.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) Only one IXC boat and 10 VIIC boats in North Atlantic.  The limited supply of boats from home is the reason for this, caused by the setting up of readiness Group "Mitte" in Norwegian area and "Landwirt" in Western France.  Of boats stationed in Atlantic in the next few days, 3 will be returning on
       
- 215 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      account of fuel supply, and 3 further boats in the next few weeks.
      By the middle of April therefore about 8 boats only will be stationed in the North Atlantic.
      Strength will be up again at the end of the month as Group "Mitte" will have been disposed and supply of boats from home will be normal again.
      Type VIIC boats will not sail from Western France till the end of the month.
    2) U 741 to occupy attack area AK 60/90 for weather reports instead of returning U 962.
    3) U 448 detailed to southern third of AL as attack area.  U 672 will take over this boat's weather report area (AK 30).
      U 986 - 262 (Boats returning soon on account of fuel shortage) to proceed southwards as to occupy southern third of AL as attack area until commencement of return passage.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U 546 and U 962 failed to meet for handing over of key-word orders.  Meeting cancelled as both boats now on return passage on account of fuel shortage.
    2) U 505 and U 123 to rendezvous at daylight on 5.4. in DS 6135 for handing over of key-word orders.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
4.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U JT 24
-
 LF 64
U 218
-
 Op(ED 10)
U 515
-
 BF 74
U 741
-
 Op(AK 63)
 
66
-
 EU 88
255
-
 BD 39
518
-
 ED 90
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
68
-
 CF 35
262
-
 Op(AL 42)
532
-
 LY 60
765
-
 AF 79
 
92
-
 Op(BD 45)
267
-
 Op(BC 50/90)
537
-
 CF 67
766
-
 AL 51
 
123
-
 DS 53
302
-
 Op(BC 50/90)
541
-
 Op(DC)
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
129
-
 CF 86
311
-
 Op(AL 75)
543
-
 CG 11
821
-
 AL 74
 
154
-
 DQ 13
333
-
 AL 78
546
-
 AK 99
843
-
 FL 51
 
155
-
 DS 67
342
-
 AF 79
548
-
 AF 79
851
-
 DR 65
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
392
-
 CG 98
550
-
 CB 55
852
-
 GR 96
 
178
-
 FL 51
448
-
 Op(AK 28)
552
-
 AK 31
856
-
 Op(CB 26)
 
181
-
 DT 26
471
-
 CG 95
618
-
 BF 88
961
-
 AE 85
 
188
-
 GQ 67
473
-
 AE 83
621
-
 AL 44
962
-
 BD 32
 
190
-
 DG 95
488
-
 Op(EG 80)
667
-
 Op(BC 50/90)
970
-
 AK 65
 
196
-
 DG 98
505
-
 DT 17
672
-
 Op(AK 03)
986
-
 Op(AL 14)
 
214
-
 Op(DJ 22)
510
-
 LF 46
736
-
 AF 72
993
-
 AE 85
             
740
-
 AE 83
1062
-
 KK 74
 
       
- 216 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 255 - 333 - 510 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 618 - 621 - 766 - 821 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 993.
  Entered Port:  U JT 24 - Penang.
  Sailed:  U 859 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 852 (Monsun boat) reports:
      Steamer sunk FF 4938 on 13.3. was "Grieche Peleus" (4,675 GRT).
      On 1.4. in GR 5699 sank empty transport type "Tosari" 7,000 GRT on course 1100, speed 8 knots.  Heavy traffic, defence unpracticed.
      From FW 2836 on 200 meter line and off Swakopmund nothing sighted, no air activity.
      Air activity confirmed only in ES 57 and FE 63.  Boat to operate inshore in Capetown area.  Transfer to Indian Ocean as Commander sees fit.
    2) At 1700 U 267 sighted 5 smoke clouds in BC 9546, probably on easterly course.  Boat was not able to go in pursuit as engines only capable of 9 knots maximum speed for 10 hours.
    3) Corrupt report of situation received from U 518 in operations area Caribbean.  On 2.4. tanker of 7,000 GRT sunk with T 5 in DO 8211, escort of 2 destroyers.  On return passage.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) No U-boat sightings or ASV contacts.
    2) Enemy units located in:  AM 4550, CH 5332, CN 3493.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  U 302 - 267 - 667 on slow passage east and to remain in eastern half of BD.  Boats free to maneuver in this area.
  b)  U 218 moved away from Casablanca on account of moon.  Boat laid SMA-mines.  No MTA's laid on account of defence.  On 9.4. boat rendezvoused with U 68 in DH 2465 to hand over key-word orders.
       
- 217 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c)  Meeting points for handing over of key-word orders:
    1) U 970 with U 741, U 488 in AK 6545 on 6.4.
    2) U 505 not able to make meeting point on 5.4. with U 123; this will therefore take place on 7.4. in DG 8675.
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    
U 852 1 ship 7,000 GRT
U 518 1 ship 7,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
5.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 EU 76
U 255
-
 BD 63
U 518
-
 ED 96
U 744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
68
-
 CF 61
262
-
 Op(AL 40)
532
-
 LY 60
765
-
 AF 76
 
92
-
 Op(BD 40)
267
-
 Op(BDC 96)
537
-
 CF 83
766
-
 AF 45
 
123
-
 DS 61
302
-
 Op(BD 71)
541
-
 Op(DC)
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
129
-
 CF 87
311
-
 Op(AL 70)
543
-
 CF 36
821
-
 BD 32
 
154
-
 DQ 23
333
-
 BD 32
546
-
 BD 32
843
-
 FL 51
 
155
-
 DS 85
342
-
 AF 76
548
-
 AL 22
851
-
 DR 91
 
170
-
 Op(DB 60)
392
-
 CG 95
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
852
-
 KY 63
 
178
-
 FL 19
448
-
 Op(AK 63)
552
-
 AL 11
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
181
-
 DT 19
471
-
 CG 95
618
-
 BF 86
859
-
 AO 44
 
188
-
 GQ 53
473
-
 AE 85
621
-
 AK 93
961
-
 AE 87
 
190
-
 DT 13
488
-
 EG 80
667
-
 Op(BC 50)
962
-
 BD 35
 
196
-
 DT 15
505
-
 DS 61
672
-
 Op(AK 37)
970
-
 AK 63
 
214
-
 DH 34
510
-
 LF 64
736
-
 AF 47
986
-
 Op(AL 18)
 
218
-
 Op(ED 11)
515
-
 BE 99
740
-
 AE 85
993
-
 AL 31
             
741
-
 Op(AK 63)
1062
-
 KK 49
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 255 - 333 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 618 - 621 - 766 - 821 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 993.
  Entered Port:  U 510 - Penang.
  Sailed:  U 385 - Bergen.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) At 0843/5/4 U 962 sighted fast single ship in BD 3371 on easterly course.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) No U-boat sightings.
    2) One ASV location in BF 4950.  Unspecified ASV locations:  10 locations by aircraft of 19 Group, of which 5 were cancelled.  One location by Azores aircraft, which finally
       
- 218 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      reported having given up attack, and one ASV location was cancelled by Gibraltar aircraft.
    3) Enemy units located in:  AK 9920 - AM 6410 - 3980 - BE 3470.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) 1) U 548 relieved U 672 as weather boat.  U 672 then occupied AL 40 as operations area.
    2) U 473 detailed to operations area AL 40 - 60.  Free extensions to the east depending on moon and defence measures.  U 473 picket boat.
  b) U 218 laid remaining SMA's and MTA's off San Juan (Puerto Rico) and is on return passage.
  c) All boats on return passage to send short signals or radio messages between 16 and 220 West to counterfeit the "passing" report from outward-bound boats.  The unequivocal southward trend of outward-bound boats must be concealed from the enemy.
  d) 1) U JT 24 reported entering Penang on 3.4.
    2) Following message addressed to all boats:
      Experimental Message No. 102:
      The inclusion of details concerning phosphorescence in the routine weather report in War Diary is absolutely necessary.  Attention is drawn to No. 501, paragraph 5 c) of Standing Operational Orders.  The details are required for scientific research and aid submarine warfare.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
6.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 EU 74
U 255
-
 BD 69
U 518
-
 DO 69
U 744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
68
-
 CF 64
262
-
 Op(AL 50)
532
-
 LY 60
765
-
 AF 72
 
92
-
 Op(BD 75)
267
-
 Op(BC 96)
537
-
 CF 88
766
-
 AL 47
 
123
-
 DS 32
302
-
 Op(BD 71)
541
-
 Op(DC 70)
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
129
-
 DH 14
311
-
 Op(AL 70)
543
-
 CG 15
821
-
 BD 39
 
154
-
 DF 77
333
-
 BD 38
546
-
 BD 38
843
-
 FL 58
 
155
-
 EH 31
342
-
 AF 72
548
-
 AL 21
851
-
 EG 32
 
170
-
 Op(DB 60)
385
-
 AF 79
550
-
 Op(BC 50)
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
178
-
 FL 12
392
-
 CG 95
552
-
 AL 12
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
181
-
 DT 44
448
-
 Op(AK 65)
618
-
 BF 57
859
-
 AN 35
 
188
-
 GQ 27
471
-
 CG 95
621
-
 AK 96
961
-
 AL 31
 
190
-
 DT 16
473
-
 AL 33
667
-
 Op(BC 92)
962
-
 BD 38
 
196
-
 DT 41
488
-
 EG 80
672
-
 Op(AK 38)
970
-
 AK 65
 
214
-
 DH 34
505
-
 DG 83
736
-
 AE 69
986
-
 Op(AL 42)
 
218
-
 DO 69
515
-
 CF 39
740
-
 AL 33
993
-
 AL 22
             
741
-
 Op(AK 67)
1062
-
 KK 53
 
       
- 219 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 188 - 218 - 255 - 333 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 618 - 621 - 766 - 821 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 993 - 178.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) Retrospective situation report from U 518 in operations area Caribbean:
      On 3.3. single shot which missed at 4,000 ton freighter.  Ran underneath.
      Area Aruba-Curacao medium northward bound traffic with air escort, and from there to Panama Canal medium heavy tanker traffic, zig-zagging around 70 and 2500.  Slight air patrol.
      No shipping observed in EL 23 and 31.  Average listening range 15 miles.
      Slight sea and air patrol in Mona Passage.  EC 90 medium unpracticed sea patrol, slight air patrol.  EL 22 unpracticed submarine chaser units, continuous day and night air patrol with Naxos.
      15 - 17.3. EB 89 hunted by sea and air patrol, no land contacts confirmed.  Average speed of sea patrol 22 knots.
      When boat returns an inquiry must be made as to why no successes were achieved when traffic was reported as fairly heavy.
    2) At 2337 U 618 was attacked by aircraft in BF 9157, and reported a minute later boat entering port.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Aircraft of 19 Group reported 2 submarines in unspecified position, course 2600, speed 15 knots.
    2) ASV location from 2 submarines in BF 9146 at 0359 hours.
    3) Enemy units located in AL 8450 - BD 3580 - 3930, BE 3210, CG 8390.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) For further strengthening of Group "Landwirt" U 473 and U 740 ordered to commence return passage.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
       
- 220 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
7.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 ET 92
U 255
-
 BE 48
U 518
-
 DP 13
U 744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
68
-
 CF 83
262
-
 Op(AL 81)
532
-
 LY 60
765
-
 AF 47
 
92
-
 Op(BD 73)
267
-
 Op(BD 72)
537
-
 DH 15
766
-
 AK 96
 
123
-
 DG 86
302
-
 Op(BD 73)
541
-
 Op(DB)
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
129
-
 DG 39
311
-
 Op(AL 87)
543
-
 CF 63
821
-
 BD 63
 
154
-
 DG 79
333
-
 BD 63
546
-
 BD 66
843
-
 FL 96
 
155
-
 EH 38
342
-
 AE 47
548
-
 AL 12
851
-
 EG 39
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
385
-
 AF 76
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
178
-
 FD 84
392
-
 CG 98
552
-
 AL 22
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
181
-
 DS 92
448
-
 Op(AL 65)
618
-
 BF 91
859
-
 AN 28
 
188
-
 GQ 13
471
-
 CG 95
621
-
 BD 32
961
-
 AL 24
 
190
-
 DT 51
473
-
 AL 26
667
-
 Op(BD 71)
962
-
 BD 66
 
196
-
 DS 69
488
-
 Op(EG)
672
-
 Op(AK 35)
970
-
 AK 65
 
214
-
 DH 26
505
-
 DG 86
736
-
 AE 68
986
-
 Op(AL 45)
 
218
-
 DP 46
515
-
 CF 62
740
-
 Op(AL 30)
993
-
 AL 23
             
741
-
 Op(AK 67)
1062
-
 KK 31
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 218 - 255 - 333 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 618 - 621 - 766 - 821 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 993.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) U 333 depth-charged in BD 6679 by submarine chaser unit.  While being hunted humming noise (like bumble bee) rising and falling, no buoy in the vicinity.  Boat presumed new radar apparatus or T 5 defence.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) 2 U-boat sightings in unspecified positions (one possibly in Mediterranean).
    2) ASV location in CG 8813, 3 others by aircraft in Gibraltar area, all 3 finally cancelled.
    3) At 0020 5 aircraft of 19 Group received uncyphered message from Plymouth, presumably operational orders.  Up to 0500 several signals exchanged between aircraft and Plymouth.  One of these aircraft D/F'd in BF 9171 and another in BE 5898.
    4) Enemy units located in:  AN 5110, BF 1310, CG 7530.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  U 541 handed over key-word orders to U 170 on 10.4. in DC 4955.
       
- 221 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
8.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 ET 82
U 255
-
 BE 57
U 518
-
 DE 71
U 744
-
 Op(AE 47)
 
68
-
 CF 89
262
-
 Op(AL 85)
532
-
 LY 68
765
-
 AE 68
 
92
-
 Op(BD 46)
267
-
 Op(BD 73)
537
-
 DH 17
766
-
 AK 99
 
123
-
 DG 83
302
-
 Op(BD 81)
541
-
 Op(DB)
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
129
-
 DG 64
311
-
 Op(AL 88)
543
-
 CF 65
821
-
 BE 64
 
154
-
 DF 65
333
-
 BE 75
546
-
 BE 48
843
-
 FL 99
 
155
-
 EH 66
342
-
 AE 68
548
-
 AL 13
851
-
 EH 42
 
170
-
 Op(DB)
385
-
 AF 72
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
178
-
 FD 54
392
-
 CG 95
552
-
 AE 79
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
181
-
 DS 98
448
-
 AK 68
618
-
 BF 64
859
-
 AF 79
 
188
-
 GG 86
471
-
 CG 98
621
-
 BD 38
961
-
 AL 27
 
190
-
 DT 58
473
-
 AL 29
667
-
 Op(BD 72)
962
-
 BE 49
 
196
-
 DS 95
488
-
 Op(EG)
672
-
 Op(AK 33)
970
-
 AK 92
 
214
-
 DH 25
505
-
 DT 11
736
-
 AE 83
986
-
 Op(AL 72)
 
218
-
 DP 27
515
-
 CF 68
740
-
 AL 28
993
-
 AL 18
             
741
-
 Op(AK 67)
1062
-
 LY 68
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 218 - 255 - 333 - 448 - 473 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 618 - 621 - 740 - 766 - 821 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 993.
  Entered Port:  U 618 - St Nazaire.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) At 1730 U 802 sighted eastbound convoy (HX 286) in CB 2366.  No further report as no boats in the vicinity.
    2) U 843 held up Spanish ship on 6.3. in DH 7324 and Portuguese ship in DT 8823 on 12.3.  Before meeting with U 843 on 4.4. in FL 5115 U 178 was attacked by aircraft with gunfire.  (Aircraft possibly being ferried from South America to Africa without bomb load).  On 8.4. "Nebraska" in FL 9171, course southeast (presumably sunk as boat gave no exact report.  Ship unknown, inquiry in progress).
      Boat has operation along Cape coast in view.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) No U-boat sightings.
       
- 222 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) ASV locations:
      5 locations in Gibraltar area, exact positions unspecified, all cancelled.
      One location in unspecified position by aircraft in Azores.
    3) Operational radio traffic between units and escort in connection with passing of convoy (UGS 37).
    4) English pilot in distress in BF 91.
    5) Enemy units located in AF 4950 - AL 7860 - 9920 - AM 8190 - BE 6444 - 7190 - BF 2160.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) Operations area U 550 extended to the west, U 856 and U 802 to the northeast.
  b) None.
  c) U 488 detailed to waiting position DR 50, and U 129 - 66 - 515 - 537 - 68 position in this square for refueling.
  d) U 471 reported break-through into Mediterranean and hence comes under command of Flag Officer, Mediterranean.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
9.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 ET 49
U 255
-
 BF 57
U 532
-
 LY 63
U 765
-
 AE 67
 
68
-
 DH 24
262
-
 Op(AL 50)
537
-
 DG 63
766
-
 BE 54
 
92
-
 Op(BD 42)
267
-
 Op(BD 82)
541
-
 Op(DC 74)
802
-
 Op(CB 23)
 
123
-
 DG 68
302
-
 Op(BD 55)
543
-
 CF 68
821
-
 BE 65
 
129
-
 DG 58
311
-
 Op(AL 90)
546
-
 BE 73
843
-
 FL 91
 
154
-
 DF 94
333
-
 BE 76
548
-
 AL 14
851
-
 EH 49
 
155
-
 EJ 48
342
-
 AE 67
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
170
-
 Op(DC 76)
385
-
 AF 47
552
-
 AE 84
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
178
-
 FD 19
392
-
 CG 95
621
-
 BE 44
859
-
 AF 76
 
181
-
 EH 35
448
-
 AK 95
667
-
 Op(BD 81)
961
-
 AL 27
 
188
-
 GG 81
473
-
 AL 42
672
-
 Op(AK 31)
962
-
 BE 58
 
190
-
 DT 91
488
-
 Op(EG)
736
-
 AE 85
970
-
 AK 95
 
196
-
 EH 23
505
-
 DT 19
740
-
 AL 47
986
-
 Op(AL 50)
 
214
-
 DH 24
515
-
 CF 91
741
-
 Op(AK 67)
993
-
 AL 19
 
218
-
 DP 23
518
-
 DE 48
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
1062
-
 LY 63
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 218 - 255 - 333 - 448 - 473 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 621 - 740 - 766 - 821 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 993.
       
- 223 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) At 0928 U 802 fired FAT 2 spread on freighter in convoy reported on 8.4. and single FAT on another freighter, both 10,000 GRT.  3 explosions heard while diving.
      Convoy consisted of 50 large steamers with weak surface escort, strong air activity during day, none at night, course 800, speed 10 knots.
      Boat commenced return passage on account of food supplies.  3.7 cm. out of order.
    2) U 543 heard small convoy passing overhead in CF 9458 on N. course and was depth-charged.  Noise buoy with rising and falling tone.  Nothing sighted.
    3) At 0304 U 821 attacked by aircraft in BF 4860.
  b) None.
  c) 1) At 0300 and 0304 aircraft of 19 Group reported surfaced submarine in unspecified position (U 821), course 800.  According to English cross bearing aircraft in position BF 4338 at 0355.
    2) 1 ASV location in unspecified position.
    3) Guardship"377" located at 1610 in BE 2440/50.
    4) Enemy units located in BE 4950 - 3410 - 5260 - 5330 - 3530 - 3390 - 2990.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - b) None.
  c) U 170 was observed before meeting with U 541 and considered execution of same dangerous.  U 170 was sent key-word orders by radio message and given freedom of action in previous area.
  d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 802                1 ship               10,000 GRT.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
- 224 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
10.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 ET 44
U 255
-
 BF 58
U 532
-
 LY 12
U 765
-
 AE 83
 
68
-
 DH 49
262
-
 Op(AL 90)
537
-
 DG 83
766
-
 BE 56
 
92
-
 Op(BD 49)
267
-
 Op(BD 60)
541
-
 Op(DC 49)
802
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
123
-
 DH 44
302
-
 Op(BD 60)
543
-
 CF 94
821
-
 BF 48
 
129
-
 DG 84
311
-
 Op(AL 90)
546
-
 BE 57
843
-
 FT 11
 
154
-
 DF 93
333
-
 BE 82
548
-
 Op(AK 36)
851
-
 EH 85
 
155
-
 EJ 84
342
-
 AE 83
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
170
-
 Op(DC 79)
385
-
 AE 69
552
-
 AE 85
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
178
-
 FD 11
392
-
 CG 95
621
-
 BE 46
859
-
 AF 79
 
181
-
 EH 65
448
-
 BD 38
667
-
 Op(BD 80)
961
-
 AL 27
 
188
-
 GG 45
473
-
 AL 74
672
-
 Op(AK 35)
962
-
 BE 67
 
190
-
 DT 96
488
-
 Op(EG 28)
736
-
 AE 87
970
-
 BD 31
 
196
-
 EH 37
505
-
 DS 63
740
-
 AL 64
986
-
 Op(AL 50)
 
214
-
 DH 23
515
-
 CF 97
741
-
 Op(AK 91)
993
-
 AL 44
 
218
-
 DE 75
518
-
 DE 51
744
-
 Op(AE 47)
1062
-
 LY 12
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 218 - 255 - 333 - 448 - 473 - 518 - 546 - 552 - 621 - 740 - 766 - 821 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 993.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) At 0320/11/4 American steamer in LB 8390 sent SSS.  Torpedoes fired, no hits, fired on submarine, request air support.
    2) SOS from Gibraltar aircraft in CG 8524.
    3) Enemy units located in AM 7230 - 7210 - 7560 - BE 3762, CG 9747.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  With immediate effect upper half of BE clear for passage of boats homeward bound, as enemy will become aware of it if we avoid area for too long and concentrate defence forces elsewhere.
  c) 1) U 214 reported meeting place with U 68 compromised.  Both boats ordered to continue onward and return passages respectively.
       
- 225 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) U 843 ordered to cancel operations off Capetown and proceed to refuel from Japanese submarine in LY 70.
  d) Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
11.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 ES 62
U 218
-
 DH 57
U 518
-
 DE 25
U 765
-
 AE 82
 
68
-
 DH 45
255
-
 BF 65
532
-
 LP 81
766
-
 BE 65
 
92
-
 Op(ED 73)
262
-
 Op(AL 90)
537
-
 DG 88
802
-
 BB 98
 
123
-
 DH 18
267
-
 Op(BD 65)
541
-
 Op(DC 70)
821
-
 BF 58
 
129
-
 DS 23
302
-
 Op(BD 30)
543
-
 DH 16
843
-
 FT 19
 
154
-
 DG 48
311
-
 Op(AL 90)
546
-
 BE 83
851
-
 ER 39
 
155
-
 EJ 89
333
-
 BE 86
548
-
 Op(AK 30)
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
170
-
 Op(DC 40)
342
-
 AE 82
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
178
-
 ER 96
385
-
 AE 68
552
-
 AE 83
859
-
 AF 76
 
188
-
 GF 39
448
-
 BD 38
621
-
 BE 55
961
-
 AL 27
 
181
-
 EH 92
473
-
 AL 74
667
-
 Op(BD 77)
962
-
 BE 68
 
190
-
 EJ 33
488
-
 EG 22
672
-
 Op(AK 36)
970
-
 BD 39
 
196
-
 EH 65
505
-
 DT 48
736
-
 AE 79
986
-
 Op(AL 85)
 
214
-
 CF 95
515
-
 DH 24
740
-
 AL 82
993
-
 AL 71
             
741
-
 Op(AK 94)
1062
-
 LP 81
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 214 - 255 - 218 - 333 - 448 - 473 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 621 - 740 - 766 - 802 - 821 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 993.
  Entered Port:  U 255 - St. Nazaire.
  Sailed:  U 853 - 860 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  Air escort for U 255 entering port.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  None.
  b)  Convoy of U 255 was attacked during morning by 15 Mosquitoes.  10 Ju 88's were providing air escort and shot down 4 Mosquitoes, and one escort vessel shot down one more.  Own losses 3 Ju 88's.
     12 Ju 88's started on air rescue search at 1230.  Made contact with 6 - 8 Mosquitoes, 3 of which were shot down and one further possible.  3 of our own aircraft lost and 1 Ju 88 crashed to earth in a spin for unknown reasons.  2 of the crews were saved.  Submarine undamaged.
  c) 1) No U-boat sightings.
    2) 4 ASV locations in unspecified positions, one cancelled.
       
- 226 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    3) Enemy units located in:  AM 3982, BE 9159 - 8929 - 3111 - 3261 - 9156 - 8626, BF 4740.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  Equipping of boats at sea with new key-word order "Bellatrix Alpha" completed, with exception of returning boats U 214, 333, 621.  As these boats are due to enter port within next days, they will not receive new orders.  Important messages for these boats will be uncyphered as before.
    Introduction of key-word order "Bellatrix Alpha" ordered for 1200/13.4.
  c) U 548 has relieved U 672 as weather boat. U 672 occupying AL 40 - 60 as attack area until fuel supply used up.
  d)  U 744 and U 392 must be presumed lost.
    U 744 sailed from Brest on 24.2.  On 2.3. sank 3 small tankers with 3,000 GRT in BE 5221 and on 3.3. made last message concerning wavelength.  Finally boat was to have operated in Reykjavik area.  Loss possibly due to aircraft while on northward passage (intercept report).  No reply to demands for position report on 5. and 10.4.  
    U 392 sailed from Brest on 29.2. en route for the Mediterranean.  No report received after sailing.  Position and cause of loss unknown.  Sighting and attacking report from English aircraft in Gibraltar area.  But as boat did not send any passing report, loss in the Bay of Biscay is also possible.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
12.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 ES 26
U 262
-
 AL 94
U 541
-
 Op(DB 90)
U 821
-
 BF 28
 
68
-
 DH 19
267
-
 Op(BD 60)
543
-
 DH 18
843
-
 FT 55
 
92
-
 Op(BD 73)
302
-
 Op(BD 30)
546
-
 BE 55
851
-
 ES 44
 
123
-
 DH 13
311
-
 Op(AL 90)
548
-
 Op(AK 28)
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
129
-
 DS 24
333
-
 BF 95
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
853
-
 AO 35
 
154
-
 DG 57
342
-
 AE 87
552
-
 AE 67
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
155
-
 ES 35
385
-
 AE 91
621
-
 BE 56
859
-
 AE 72
 
170
-
 Op(DC 10)
448
-
 BE 17
667
-
 Op(BD 95)
860
-
 AO 35
 
178
-
 ER 65
473
-
 AL 78
672
-
 Op(AK 38)
961
-
 AL 27
 
181
-
 EH 98
488
-
 Op(DR 86)
736
-
 AL 22
962
-
 BE 47
 
188
-
 GF 34
505
-
 DT 82
740
-
 AL 97
970
-
 BE 17
 
190
-
 EK 17
515
-
 DH 19
741
-
 Op(AK 94)
986
-
 AL 97
 
196
-
 EH 92
518
-
 CC 97
765
-
 AL 84
993
-
 AL 78
 
214
-
 CF 97
532
-
 LP 52
766
-
 BE 66
1062
-
 LP 52
 
218
-
 DE 52
537
-
 DG 23
802
-
 CC 23      
 
       
- 227 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 214 - 218 - 262 - 333 - 448 - 473 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 621 - 740 - 766 - 802 - 821 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 986 - 993.
  Entered Port:  U 821 - Brest.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) On 11.4.  U 621 came on anti-submarine unit in BE 81.  T 5 fired at destroyer which missed, explosion heard after 13 minutes.  Bumble bee noise reported by Cremen rising and falling tone.  No depth charges probably on account of deception device (Bolde).
    2) At 1217 U 740 attacked by aircraft in BE 2499.  Up to date no further report.
  b)  None.
  c) 1) U-boat sighting by aircraft of 19 Group at 1220 in unspecified position (U 740?) course south, speed 5 knots (see III a) 2)).
    2) ASV locations reported from BF 7236, BF 5891, BF 6781, all aircraft reported a short while later attack abandoned.  3 ASV locations in unspecified positions.
    3) Aircraft of 19 Group sent urgent message in 3-letter groups.
    4) American steamer sent SSS report from DD 4155. Am being hunted and fired on unmercifully.
    5) Enemy units located in:  AF 7878, AM 3470 - 6430 - 2430 - 7690 - AN 2250 - 1190 - BE 5360 - 4830 - 3240.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  U 342 detailed to position AK 30 as weather boat.  U 548 relieved after first message.  Operation south of Newfoundland in view for U 548.
  b)  None.
  c) U 188 requests delivery of "Borkum" and "Naxos" in ER 52 on 26.4. , as it is not possible to get to supply area "Studt" on account of provision and fuel supplies.
       
- 228 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d)  None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
13.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 ES 21
U 218
-
 DE 26
U 532
-
 LP 26
U 766
-
 BF 47
 
68
-
 DH 45
262
-
 BE 22
537
-
 DS 24
802
-
 CC 32
 
92
-
 Op(BD 46)
267
-
 Op(BD 60)
541
-
 Op(BD 90)
843
-
 FT 91
 
123
-
 CF 97
302
-
 Op(BD 30)
543
-
 DH 44
851
-
 ES 73
 
129
-
 DS 18
311
-
 Op(AL 90)
546
-
 BE 64
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
154
-
 DG 56
333
-
 BE 96
548
-
 Op(AK 39)
853
-
 AO 48
 
155
-
 ET 17
342
-
 AE 79
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
170
-
 Op(DC 10)
385
-
 AE 86
552
-
 AE 68
859
-
 AF 47
 
178
-
 ER 38
448
-
 BE 19
621
-
 BE 81
860
-
 AN 35
 
181
-
 ER 39
473
-
 BE 13
667
-
 Op(BD 95)
961
-
 AL 27
 
188
-
 DG 33
488
-
 Op(DR 83)
672
-
 Op(AL 40)
962
-
 BF 48
 
190
-
 EK 44
505
-
 DT 94
736
-
 AL 25
970
-
 BE 19
 
196
-
 ER 93
515
-
 DH 41
740
-
 BE 24
986
-
 BE 22
 
214
-
 CF 98
518
-
 CG 96
741
-
 Op(AK 91)
993
-
 BE 13
             
765
-
 AL 33
1062
-
 LP 26
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 214 - 218 - 262 - 333 - 448 - 473 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 621 - 740 - 766 - 802 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 986 - 993.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 1222 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) English unit "Celandine" reported surfaced submarine at 0147, position 700, 7 miles off Lizard Point (BF 2513), and escort ship "Delphinium" reported submarine 2700, 4 miles off Lizard at 0255.  (None of our own boats in the vicinity).
    2) ASV locations in BF 4827 (U 962?).  4 ASV locations in unspecified positions, which were finally cancelled.
    3) Radio control ship "182" located in area BE 70/80.
    4) Enemy units located in AM 6890 - BE 7160.
  d)  None.
       
- 229 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) Operations and attack areas:
    1) U 155 area between lines of longitude EW 86 and EV 65.
      U 190 adjacent area to westward as far as longitude of EV 71 and
      U 505 adjacent area as far as longitude ET 51.  Boats to operate inshore or further off according to moon and defence situation.
    2) U 736 = AL 70 - 90 (as U 311)
      U 765 = AL 40 - 60 (as 672).
  c) 1) Meeting place for refueling of U 129 and U 537 from U 488 - DR 9525.  U 129 scheduled to arrive at daylight on 16.4. and U 537 on 17.4. at same time.
      U 66 - 515 - 543 and U 68 to proceed towards this area, to refuel on arrival in about 7 days.
    2) U 736 reported that new key-word orders "Bellatrix Alpha" introduced on 13.4. - 1200 hours not in order.
      Boat ordered to rendezvous with U 765 in AL 2999 on 16.4. to clear up difficulty.
  d) 1) U 843 has not reported in spite of 3 calls.   As it is possible that boat was D/F'd after last radio message on 8.4. in GR 5310 and attacked, all boats in South Atlantic were ordered to proceed surfaced only during the night for at least 2 days after transmission of message.
    2) Experimental Message No. 106:
      On meeting with sub-chaser unit U 413 confirmed by observation of convoy radio telegraphy wave that boat was first picked up at a range of 6,000 meters by means of Naxos.  After releasing Aphrodites, bearings reported by destroyers no longer concurred with visual bearings, Aphrodite therefore seems to be effective against Naxos locations also.
      Boat was able to approach to a range of 2,000 meters in destroyer's wake 3 times without being detected.  Location commenced only when deviating 3 - 40 to either side.  Either destroyers have a
 
 
 
- 230 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      location screen right astern or are less observant in this sector. . . .
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
14.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 EJ 75
U 262
-
 BE 29
U 541
-
 Op(DB 90)
U 843
-
 FT 99
 
68
-
 DG 69
267
-
 Op(BD 60)
543
-
 DG 68
851
-
 ES 79
 
92
-
 Op(BD 42)
302
-
 Op(BD 30)
546
-
 BE 65
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
123
-
 CF 95
311
-
 Op(AL 90)
548
-
 Op(AK 35)
853
-
 AO 47
 
129
-
 DS 44
333
-
 BF 72
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
154
-
 DG 64
342
-
 AL 33
552
-
 AF 57
859
-
 AE 69
 
155
-
 ET 27
385
-
 AE 85
621
-
 BE 68
860
-
 AN 31
 
170
-
 Op(DC 10)
448
-
 BE 27
667
-
 Op(BD 95)
961
-
 AL 27
 
178
-
 EH 98
473
-
 BE 28
672
-
 Op(AL 40)
962
-
 BF 49
 
181
-
 ES 44
488
-
 Op(DR 94)
736
-
 AL 27
970
-
 BE 28
 
188
-
 FS 82
505
-
 EJ 32
740
-
 BE 53
986
-
 BE 29
 
190
-
 EK 72
515
-
 DG 69
741
-
 Op(AK 91)
993
-
 BE 28
 
196
-
 ES 17
518
-
 CD 71
765
-
 AL 37
1062
-
 LE 97
 
214
-
 CG 71
532
-
 LE 97
766
-
 BF 57
1222
-
 AO 47
 
218
-
 DE 31
537
-
 DS 43
802
-
 BC 88      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 214 - 218 - 262 - 333 - 448 - 473 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 621 - 740 - 766 - 802 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 986 - 993.
  Entered Port:  U 853 - Kiel.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) No U-boat sightings.
    2) 2 ASV locations in unspecified positions made by Gibraltar aircraft.  2 further locations by aircraft of 19 Group.  All contacts cancelled later.
    3) Radio control ship "182" located in BE 5723.
    4) Enemy units located in:  AK 3730, AM 7270 - 5240 - 7526 - BE 2780, CJ 1953.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
       
- 231 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  b) Meeting of U 765 and 736 cancelled as U 736 reported "Bellatrix Alpha" in order.  Boats to occupy attack areas as ordered.
  c)  None.
  d)  Group "Landwirt" now comprises 17 boats plus 2 others without deep-diving experience.  As 6 other boats are shortly to enter port a total sum of 23 can be reckoned with.  Naval High Command has ordered following:
    1) Further building-up of "Landwirt" boats.  No boats to sail at present.  Reserve of at least 25 boats aimed at.
    2) 6 hour operational readiness to be reduced to 3 day war readiness for boats entering port after long patrol; emergency repairs as soon as possible, but leave periods for crew as usual.
    3) Such dockyard repairs for all boats which will not endanger the 6 hour operational readiness.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
15.April 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 66
-
 EH 93
U 218
-
 CD 74
U 532
-
 LE 92
U 765
-
 AL 02
 
68
-
 DG 95
262
-
 BE 37
537
-
 DS 47
766
-
 BF 55
 
92
-
 Op(BD 73
267
-
 Op(BD 60)
541
-
 Op(DB 90)
802
-
 BC 97
 
123
-
 CF 93
302
-
 Op(BD 30)
543
-
 DG 94
851
-
 FD 27
 
129
-
 DR 93
311
-
 Op(AL 90)
546
-
 BE 66
852
-
 Op(GR)
 
154
-
 DG 73
333
-
 BF 73
548
-
 Op(AK 35)
856
-
 Op(CB 20)
 
155
-
 ET 55
342
-
 AL 16
550
-
 Op(CB 50)
859
-
 AE 68
 
170
-
 Op(DC 10)
385
-
 AE 87
552
-
 AF 72
860
-
 AF 79
 
178
-
 EH 69
448
-
 BE 53
621
-
 BF 47
962
-
 BF 57
 
181
-
 ES 72
473
-
 BE 53
667
-
 Op(BD 95)
970
-
 BE 53
 
188
-
 FS 54
488
-
 Op(DR 95)
672
-
 Op(AL 50)
986
-
 BE 37
 
196
-
 ES 44
505
-
 EJ 39
736
-
 AL 29
993
-
 BE 53
 
190
-
 EK 79
515
-
 DG 92
740
-
 BE 62
1062
-
 LE 92
 
214
-
 CF 48
518
-
 CD 46
741
-
 Op(AK 94)
1222
-
 AN 36
 
  On Return Passage:  U 66 - 123 - 154 - 178 - 188 - 214 - 218 - 262 - 333 - 448 - 473 - 518 - 532 - 546 - 552 - 621 - 740 - 766 - 802 - 961 - 962 - 970 - 986 - 993.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 1) U 385 sent passing report from AL 2353.  During day of 13.4. boat fired T 5 at escort
       
- 232 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      of Iceland convoy in AE 8720.  Explosion after 13 minutes, unexplained.  On 15.4. fired 3 spread at ship of "Empress" class (16,000 - 20,000 GRT) in AL 2328.   Presumed 2 torpedo and boiler explosions.  Nevertheless boat continued at a speed of 18 knots on course 1350.
    2) At 0102 U 766 was attacked by aircraft while entering port.  Boat entered St. Nazaire at 0800.
  b) None.
  c) 1) Aircraft of 19 Group reported ASV location at 0050, and finally that he was in position over surfaced submarine, course 60, speed 12 knots (U 766).  A further submarine sighting in unspecified position.
    2) Enemy units located in:  AM 5560 - BE 6478 - 4780 - 4933 - 5391 - 5669.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) U 181 proposed FD 1855 as meeting place for transfer of former engineer to U 188 on return passage at 2100/22.4. Both boats instructed to carry out meeting on following day if original plan delayed.
  c) None.
  d) The following boats must be presumed lost:
    U 961: Boat left Bergen on 25.3. and made no further report.  Requests for position report on 10, 11, and 15.4. were not answered.   No information available regarding cause of loss.
    U 843:  Boat sailed from Lorient on 19.2. en route for Indian Ocean.  On 9.4. boat reported sinking steamer "Nebraska". Question on same day regarding tonnage of steamer was not answered. Further requests for position report on 12 and 15.4. also unanswered.  No information regarding cause of loss. (Boat reported later - see diary of 19.4. paragraph III a) 2)).
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
 
- 233 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
U-boat Situation on 1 April 1944
       
I.
In service on 1 March 1944:  
442
  
Losses in March:  Front  
16
  
                                in raids on Toulon  
2
  
                                home waters  
2
  
Out of service:  (U 103)  
1
  
Transferred to Japan (U 1224)  
1
  
   
420
  
   
 
Commissioned during March  
24
  
In service on 1 April 1944  
444
  
   
 
In addition, foreign boats:  Front  
3
 *
                                               home waters  
6
  
Transferred to Japan up to date  
1
  
   
 
*  UIT 22 lost in March.  
 
       
II.
Losses in March:    
Atlantic:
Type VII
 U 91 - 257 - 358 - 575 - 625 - 653 - 603 - 709 - 976 =
9
  Type VIIf U 1059 =
1
  Type IX U 801 - 845 =
2
       
Mediterranean:
Type VII
 U 450, 380, 410 =
3
Arctic: Type VII U 366 - 472 - 973 =
3
Home waters: Type VII U 1013 - 1102 =      
2
     
20
       
III. Distribution of submarines:
   
 
II
VII
VIIb/c
VIId
VIIf
IXb/c
IXD1
IXD2
Xb
XIV
XVII
Total
Foreign
Front:
6
-
114
2
3
33
-
6
1
1
-
166
3
Trials:
-
-
  150  
-
-
28
-
9
2
1
2
192
-
Training:
32
3
     48   
-
-
  3
-
-
-
-
-
  86
6
 
  38  
3
312
2
3
64
-
15
3
2
2
444
9
For losses in detail see appendix.        
 
 
 
- 234 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  In March 1944:                                                                    In previous month
 
fresh to front
+
18
(+16)
total number increased
+
2
(-4)
number of front boats increased
+/-
0
(-5)
number on trials increased
+
3
(+1)
number in training diminished
-
1
(+/-0)
       
IV. Distribution of front boats on 1 April 1944:
       
 
Atlantic
103
(107)
Mediterranean
17
(18)
Arctic                       Arctic operation
28
(30)
                                  Group "Mitte"
11
(3)
                                  Supplying torpedoes
1
(2)
Black Sea                            
6
(6)
 
166
  
       
V. In the Atlantic during March:
       
 
Daily average at sea 68 (68)
in operations area 24 (31)
on passage 44 (37)
on return passage 11 (13)
       
VI. Sailed in March:
       
 
From home waters:  for Atlantic
5
                                    for Arctic
0
                                    for Group "Mitte"
17
   
From Norway:          for Atlantic
7
   
From France:            for Atlantic
22
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
 
 
- 235 -
     
     

 

     
     
 
  Appendix to Naval War Staff 2nd Division/C-in-C (U-boats) Ops.
  Most Secret 149.  S.O.'s only of 5 April. 1944.
 
  To III.  Losses in detail:
   
 
U 91 Experienced boat.  Last report on 19.2. western Channel.  Probably lost on convoy.
   
U 257 Experienced boat.  Last report on 22.2. middle of North Atlantic  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 358 Experienced boat.  Last report on 23.2. passing report 160 West.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 575 Experienced boat.  Last report on 13.3. middle of North Atlantic.  Loss perhaps due to aircraft.
   
U 625 Experienced boat, new Commander.  Loss on 10.3. west of Ireland by aircraft.
   
U 653 Experienced boat.  Last report on 11.3. southwest of Ireland.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 603 Experienced boat.  New Commander.  Last report on 18.2. S.W. of Ireland.  Possibly lost on convoy.
   
U 709 Experienced boat, new Commander.  Last report on 19.2. S.W. of Ireland.  Possibly lost on convoy.
   
U 976 Experienced boat.  Sunk by aircraft on 25.3. in Bay of Biscay.
   
U 1059 First Patrol.  Last report on 25.2. south of Ireland.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 801 Second patrol.  Last report on 17.3. west of Cape Verde.  Loss probably due to aircraft.
   
U 845 First patrol.  Last report on 10.3. S.W. of Ireland.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 450 Experienced boat.  Last report on 3.3 no position given.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 380 Sunk on 11.3. by aircraft in Toulon.
   
U 410    "       "    "       "       "        "        "
   
U 366 First patrol.  Last report on 3.3. Arctic.  Probably lost on convoy.
   
U 472 First patrol.  Last report on 4.3. Arctic.  Probably lost on convoy.
   
U 973 First patrol.  No report.  Probably lost on convoy.
 
 
- 236 -