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

16 - 31 October 1944

PG30357

     
     
 
Appendix to War Log of 10.10.44
         
Transfer of English supply traffic from the North Channel to the Western Channel.
Situation 10.10.44
         
        When France was occupied in 1940, the enemy was forced to re-route his supply traffic from the western entrance to the Channel up to the North Channel.  It was to be expected that, as soon as France was retaken, he would endeavor to cut out the restrictions imposed by the long supply route through the North Channel and steer the convoys immediately to the Western Channel again.  He would also attempt repair of French Channel ports as well as to ports on the west coast of England, the Channel and the east coast.  The following are signs that this re-transfer of English convoy traffic from the North Channel to the Bristol Channel has started, although it is not clear if only part convoys follow this shorter route at present.
         
  1) Radio Intelligence X Reports (Decyphered English radio messages):
    Radio Intelligence X Reports show that traffic was already making straight for the Channel by about 15.9.  From this time on radio messages from Admiral Liverpool to convoys were first made from Lands End.  On 20.9. HX 307 received a radio message from Commander-in-Chief Plymouth (not decyphered), which was repeated for information to Newhaven, Dover, and Nore Commands.  Ships of HX 308 were to pass Sandhead Buoy (AN 7986).  On 11.10. 4 ships in convoy HX 310 were given new ports of destination Southampton and Southend.
         
  2) Bearings of English units:
    Direction finder bearing of English units for the month of September showed a concentration off the North Channel, which may be attributed to submarine hunts for our own U-boats operating there, and concentrations S.W. of Ireland and off the Bristol Channel.  The route previously used from the North Channel via the Great Circle to the Newfoundland Bank, which appeared quite clearly in the radio direction finder plot, is now no longer shown up.
         
  3) Prisoner-of-war statements and agents' reports:
     According to statements by prisoners of war and several agents' reports troops are said to have been brought over from the U.S.A. straight to France since June of this year.   According to prisoners of war American 20th Infantry Division embarked in New York on 27.8. and disembarked at St. Vaast (near Cherbourg) on 7.9.  This was the first unit known to have been brought straight from the U.S.A. to France.
   
 
 
- 675 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  4) Sightings of convoys by our own U-boats on the western Channel route:
    a) U 953 (Werner) encountered searching groups on 13.9. in BE 2925 and heard a convoy in her hydrophones.
    b) U 963 (Boddenberg) was passed on 16.9. in BE 1734 first by destroyers and then by 2 steamers.
    c) U 1227 (Altmeier) sighted a convoy on a W. course on 4.10 in BE 1885 to BD 3932.
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
 
 
 
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
       
- 676 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
Supreme Command of the Navy
Staff Headquarters Koralle.
Naval War Staff (2nd Div.) B.d.U. Op.
6 October 1944
Reg. Most Secret 459 S.O. only ING.  
   
Most Secret 10 Copies
  Copy No. 9.
       
State of U-boats as of 1 October 1944
       
I. In commission on 1 September 1944:
402*
  Commissioned type VIIC
5
    XXI
8
    XXIII
6
     
  Recommissioned for training, U 1102
20
     
422
     
  Paid off:
 
          Training boats: U 4, 21, 276
 
          Boats on trials: U 1054, 1166  
          Operational boats: U 1000
6
    
     
 
  Losses: Operations
16
    Home
None
22
  In commission on October 1 1944:    
400
           
  Plus foreign boats: Operational
 
2
    Home
 
4
     
 
II. Losses in September 1944:
 
  Atlantic, North Sea and Indian Ocean:
 
 
Type
VIIC:  
 U 413, 445, 736, 743, 925
5
   
IXC:  
 U 154, 867
2
   
IXD:  
 U 180, 859
2
  Mediterranean:  
 
 
Type
VIIC:  
U 407
1
  Northern Waters:        
 
Type
VIIC:  
 U 394
1
  Black Sea:      
 
Type
II:  
 U 19, 20, 23
3
  In Salmis harbor: destroyed by air attack    
 
Type
VIIC:  
 U 565, 596
2
         
16
       
       
III. Distribution of boats:
    
 
II
VII
VIIC
VIID
VIIF
IX
IXC
IXD1
IXD2
Operational
  -  
-
96
1
3
-
32
1
7
Trials
-
-
104
-
-
-
17
-
5
School
28
2
  64
-
-
2
  -
-
-
 
28
2
264
1
3
2
49
1
12
       
    
 
XB
XVII
XXI
XXIII
Total
foreign
Operational
1
-
-
-
141
2
Trials
1
4
19
13
163
-
School
-
-
-
-
96
4
 
2
4
19
13
400
6
 
 
 
- 677 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    
In September 1944:    
Became operational   +
7
(+ 20)
Total number decreased by   -
2
(-16)
Number of operational boats decreased by   -
10
(- 17)
Number of boats on trials increased by   +
10
(- 0)
Number of school boats decreased by   -
2
(+ 1)
       
IV. Distribution of operational boats as of 1 October 1944:
    
Atlantic
82
Mediterranean  
0
Northern Waters  
30
Group "Mitte"  
13
Torpedo supply  
2
Gulf of Finland  
14
   
141
       
V. In the Atlantic during September 1944:
    
Daily average at sea  
68
of which in operations area  
16
On passage  
49
of these, on return passage.  
32
       
    *402 boats only, not 403 as previously calculated, were in commission on 1 September.  U 2323 must be deducted.
       
       
                                                                      (signed):  GODT.
       
       
       
 
 
 
       
       
       
       
       
- 678 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
Appendix to German Naval Staff (2nd Division)/B.d.U. Op.
Most Secret S.O. only 459/44
       
   
U 413 Experienced boat.  New commanding officer.  No report.  Lost in the Channel.
   
U 445 Experienced boat.  No report.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 736 Second patrol.  No report.  Probably lost in the Channel.
   
U 743 First patrol.  No report.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 925 First patrol.  No report.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 154 Second patrol.  Last report on 28.6. W. of Portugal.  Nothing known of loss.
   
U 867 First patrol.  Last report on 18.9. W. of Norway.  Air attack, during which boat was probably lost.
   
U 180 Experienced boat.  New Commanding Officer.  No report.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 859 First patrol.  Old Commanding Officer.  No report.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 407 Experienced boat.  Last report 12.9. E. Mediterranean.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 394 Second patrol.  Last report 2.9. from Northern Waters concerning return passage.  Cause of loss unknown.
   
U 19) Experienced boats.  Last report 10.9. stating that they intended to scuttle off the coast of Turkey in the evening of 10.9.
U 20)
U 23)
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
       
- 679 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
16.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 155
-
 AN 34
U 300
-
 AE 85
U 773
-
 AN 31
U 1062
-
 CD 31
 
170
-
 DH 42
382
-
 AF 72
802
-
 AL 01
1199
-
 Op(AN 17)
 
195
-
 FT 17
483
-
 AM 28
863
-
 GZ 37
1200
-
 AF 76
 
219
-
 FT 41
484
-
 AF 87
871
-
 ER 55
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
245
-
 AF 58
518
-
 AE 68
978
-
 AM 32
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
246
-
 AF 77
534
-
 AN 23
985
-
 AF 76
1226
-
 AE 83
 
247
-
 AE 69
541
-
 AK 87
991
-
 AN 31
1227
-
 CF 66
 
260
-
 AF 87
546
-
 AL 01
1003
-
 AF 79
1228
-
 AF 48
 
262
-
 AE 69
673
-
 AF 72
1004
-
 AM 32
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
267
-
 AE 67
714
-
 AF 87
1006
-
 AM 36
1230
-
 AF 76
 
281
-
 AE 68
722
-
 AN 36
1009
-
 AO 16
1231
-
 AN 31
 
  On Return Passage:  U 155 - 170 - 245 - 247 - 260 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 382 - 484 - 518 - 534 - 541 - 546 - 673 - 714 - 802 - 985 - 1004 - 1062.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  (U 953 - Bergen to Flensburg);  (U 722 - Kristiansand).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) Enemy units were located in:  AF 4710 - AM 9470 - 4630 - 5520 - AN 1450 - BE 6834 - BE 2540 - 2310 - 5547 - BF 2520 - 6579.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) One boat reported her position from BC 70.  Signature corrupt.  It must be U 541, however, and she must have started on her return passage later than expected.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
   
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
17.October 1944.
   
 
 
I.
U 155
-
 AN 36
U 300
-
 AE 84
U 773
-
 AN 43
U 1062
-
 BD 74
 
170
-
 DH 15
382
-
 AF 76
802
-
 AL 27
1199
-
 Op(AN 17)
 
195
-
 FT 45
483
-
 AM 02
863
-
 GZ 63
1200
-
 AN 23
 
219
-
 FT 48
484
-
 AN 24
871
-
 ER 83
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
245
-
 AF 58
518
-
 AE 69
978
-
 AM 33
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
246
-
 AM 32
534
-
 AN 28
985
-
 AF 79
1226
-
 AE 67
 
247
-
 AF 47
541
-
 BC 75
991
-
 AN 29
1227
-
 CF 47
     
 
- 680 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
 
260
-
 AF 87
546
-
 AL 27
1003
-
 AF 78
1228
-
 AF 47
 
262
-
 AF 47
673
-
 AF 76
1004
-
 AN 11
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
267
-
 AE 68
714
-
 AN 24
1006
-
 AM 33
1230
-
 AF 73
 
281
-
 AE 69
722
-
 AN 34
1009
-
 AO 16
1231
-
 AN 29
 
  On Return Passage:  U 155 - 170 - 245 - 247 - 260 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 382 - 484 - 518 - 534 - 541 - 546 - 673 - 714 - 802 - 985 - 1004 - 1062 - 1200.
  Entered Port:  (U 991 - 1231 - 1200 - Bergen);  U 256 - 260 - Bergen;  U 155 - Kristiansand.
  Sailed:  U 857 - Flensburg to Hamburg;  U 548 - 763 - 804 - 218 - Flensburg to Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c)  Enemy units were located in:  AL 3761 - AM 5410 - 7434 - 3320 - BE 4280.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  U 256 entered Bergen unannounced.  She had already been presumed lost, as she left Brest for Norway on 3.9. and did not report (see War Log of 11.10).  She has not yet reported why it took her so long to proceed from Brest to Bergen.  (Normal passage about 30 days).  
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
18.October 1944.
 
 
   
I.
U 170
-
 CF 87
U 382
-
 AE 79
U 773
-
 AN 28
U 1009
-
 AO 16
 
195
-
 FT 57
483
-
 Op(AM 53)
802
-
 AL 24
1062
-
 BD 48
 
219
-
 FT 61
484
-
 AN 24
863
-
 JJ 45
1199
-
 Op(AN 17)
 
245
-
 AF 87
518
-
 AN 34
871
-
 ER 97
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
246
-
 AM 32
534
-
 AN 31
987
-
 AM 33
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
247
-
 AF 72
541
-
 BC 73
991
-
 AN 24
1226
-
 AE 83
 
262
-
 AF 71
546
-
 AL 26
985
-
 AN 23
1227
-
 CG 72
 
267
-
 AE 69
673
-
 AF 79
1003
-
 AF 77
1228
-
 AF 47
 
281
-
 AF 47
714
-
 AN 24
1004
-
 AE 77
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
300
-
 AE 76
722
-
 AN 31
1006
-
 AM 35
1230
-
 AF 72
                   
1231
-
 AN 24
     
 
- 681 -
 
     
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 245 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 382 - 484 - 518 - 534 - 541 - 546 - 673 - 714 - 802 - 985 - 1004 - 1062.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  (U 991 - 1231 - Bergen);  U 155 - 309 - Kristiansand to Flensburg;  U 853 - Flensburg to Königsberg.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:  
     
No. 18 Group:
0830
 Surfaced U-boat, position unresolved, course 2200, 8 knots.
 
0005
 U-boat warning in unresolved position.
    2) Enemy units were located in:  AE 9660 - AF 5650 - 2980 - AM 6170 - AN 2170 - BE 6226 - 3992 - BF 1710 - 1250 - 2610.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) On 17.10. U 1004 sank a destroyer of the A-J class, belonging to a searching group, with T5 in AN 1316 on her return passage.  Boat reports strong anti-submarine activity by night, but no air activity in the Faroes - Shetlands Passage.
    2) U 300 has been allocated the area off Reykjavik as operations area.  She has been given detailed information on the situation by radio.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:
    U 1004                1 destroyer.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
19.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 CF 81
U 382
-
 AF 79
U 778
-
 AN 23
U 1009
-
 AO 16
 
195
-
 FT 86
483
-
 Op(AM 53)
802
-
 AL 33
1062
-
 BD 48
 
219
-
 FT 89
484
-
 AM 24
863
-
 JJ 22
1199
-
 Op(AN 17)
 
245
-
 AN 23
518
-
 AN 35
871
-
 ER 35
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
246
-
 AM 33
534
-
 AN 34
978
-
 AM 26
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
       
- 682 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
247
-
 AF 75
541
-
 BC 58
985
-
 AN 23
1226
-
 AE 85
 
262
-
 AF 72
546
-
 AL 33
991
-
 AN 87
1227
-
 CG 73
 
267
-
 AF 47
673
-
 AN 23
1003
-
 AN 11
1228
-
 AE 69
 
281
-
 AF 71
714
-
 AN 39
1004
-
 AN 12
1230
-
 AF 47
 
300
-
 AE 75
722
-
 AN 28
1006
-
 AM 26
1231
-
 AN 87
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 245 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 382 - 484 - 518 - 534 - 541 - 546 - 673 - 714 - 802 - 985 - 1004 - 1062.
  Entered Port:  U 382 - 673 - Bergen.
  Sailed:  U 1200 - Bergen;  U 398 - 260 - Bergen to Flensburg.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
No. 18 Group:
0609
 U-boat location in unresolved position.
 
1330
 U-boat location in AN 2624 (U 1199 on her way back?).
    2) Aircraft of No. 15 Group reported a suspicious oil patch at 1855, position not resolved.
    3) Enemy units were located in:  AM 7820 - 7440 - BE 3370 - 6330 - BF 7160 - 1890 - 2845.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 246 - 978 - 1006 have been ordered to make their report in accordance with Channel Operations Order Serial No. 36 IV (state of boat and crew) in AM 70, so that Operations Control can decide whether a Channel operation is possible.
    2) As there is no weather boat in the North Atlantic at present and weather reports are urgently required, U 170, 541, 1062, on their return passage will report the weather once a day *while passing through AK-AL.  If special anti-submarine activity is observed, the reports can be broken off.
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
* (MS note):  It would be interesting if it could be established even once that a submarine hunt had ever occurred in consequence of a radio message made on a secondary wave.   I have the impression that Operations Control make no distinction between main and secondary waves in radio.
                                           Naval War Staff (4th Div.) Va.
       
- 683 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
20.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 CF 54
U 483
-
 Op(AM 53)
U 863
-
 KY 80
U 1199
-
 Op(AN 17)
 
195
-
 GF 11
484
-
 AN 24
871
-
 FC 63
1200
-
 AF 87
 
219
-
 GF 14
518
-
 AN 36
978
-
 AM 27
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
245
-
 AN 28
534
-
 AN 35
985
-
 AN 31
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
246
-
 AM 26
541
-
 BC 56
991
-
 AF 79
1226
-
 AE 85
 
247
-
 AF 76
546
-
 AL 32
1003
-
 AM 32
1227
-
 CG 76
 
262
-
 AF 75
714
-
 AN 31
1004
-
 AF 78
1228
-
 AE 68
 
267
-
 AF 71
722
-
 AN 23
1006
-
 AM 27
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
281
-
 AF 72
773
-
 AF 79
1009
-
 AO 16
1230
-
 AF 47
 
300
-
 AE 74
802
-
 AL 32
1062
-
 BD 48
1231
-
 AF 84
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 245 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 484 - 518 - 534 - 541 - 546 - 714 - 802 - 985 - 1004 - 1062.
  Entered Port:  - . -
  Sailed:  U 806 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c)  Enemy units were located in:  AM 2570 - 3540 - 5190 - 5320 - 8920 - 7550 - 3820.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  U 802 reported her position from AK 39.  Grave concern was already felt for this boat, as she has been at sea since 16.7.  She had so far attempted 7 times to make a radio message, without result*.  There is still no report of the situation in her operations area (St. Lawrence River).
  c) - d) None.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
*   (MS note):  This is probably due less to the communications service as to the fact that the boat did not choose the right frequency, as in the ordinary way complaints of this kind are not received.
                                           Naval War Staff (4th Div.) Va.
       
- 684 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
21.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 CF 54
U 483
-
 Op(AM 61)
U 863
-
 KY 80
U 1199
-
 AN 26
 
181
-
 KA 38
484
-
 AN 24
871
-
 FD 47
1200
-
 AF 79
 
195
-
 GF 15
518
-
 AN 35
978
-
 AM 29
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
219
-
 GF 18
534
-
 AB 35
985
-
 AN 31
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
245
-
 AN 31
541
-
 BC 61
991
-
 AF 76
1226
-
 AE 87
 
246
-
 AM 25
546
-
 AE 88
1003
-
 AM 33
1227
-
 Op(CG 87)
 
247
-
 AF 79
714
-
 AN 34
1004
-
 AF 79
1228
-
 AE 67
 
262
-
 AF 79
722
-
 AF 79
1006
-
 AM 29
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
267
-
 AF 72
773
-
 AF 76
1009
-
 AO 16
1230
-
 AE 69
 
281
-
 AF 75
802
-
 AK 39
1062
-
 BD 45
1231
-
 AF 76
 
300
-
 AD 86
806
-
 AO 48            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 245 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 484 - 518 - 534 - 541 - 546 - 714 - 802 - 985 - 1004 - 1062 - 1199.
  Entered Port:  (U 155 - 309 - Flensburg).
  Sailed:  U 1202 - Kiel;  U 396 - Trondheim;  (U 260 - 398 - 758 - 953 - Kristiansand to Flensburg).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
No. 15 Group: 2343 ASV location, position unresolved.
No. 16 Group: 2100 U-boat location, position unresolved, cancelled 2120.
  2226 U-boat location, position unresolved.
No. 18 Group: 2201 U-boat location in 580 14' N., longitude unresolved.
  2250 U-boat location in 580 09' N., longitude unresolved.
Same aircraft: (2312 U-boat location in 580 05' N., longitude unresolved.
  (0121 U-boat location in 580 42' N., longitude unresolved.
  0256 U-boat location in 580 15' N., longitude unresolved.
  0406 U-boat location in 580 48' N., longitude unresolved.
       
- 685 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    2) Enemy units were located in:  AM 2790 - AN 8555 - 7350 - BE 3255 - 3450 - 3190 - BF 6752 - 6780 - 1290 - 1840 - 1990.
    3) Defence Unit "219" has appeared in co-operation with No. 15 Group.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) - c) None.
  d)  Naval Attache Stockholm reports:
    The Swedish evening press of 20.10. quotes a report from London, according to which U-boat warfare has revived on the Canadian coast, after not a single Allied vessel had been sunk there since September.  The opinion was that these were "Suicide U-boats", i.e. German U-boats which had been driven out of their bases by the invasion.  As they have no opportunity to supply or repair any more, they are said to be making pirate patrols, determined to do as much damage as possible before they are sunk or captured.  An earlier Allied press report spoke of a 4-day U-boat attack on a convoy off the Canadian coast, during which one ship was sunk.  It can be assumed from both reports that the sinkings were made by the boats stationed in that area at the time.  No reports have yet been received from the boats themselves.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
     
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
22.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 CF 51
U 396
-
 AF 82
U 806
-
 AO 41
U 1199
-
 AN 21
 
181
-
 KA 52
483
-
 Op(AM 61)
863
-
 Op(KY 60)
1200
-
 AF 76
 
195
-
 GF 51
484
-
 AN 24
871
-
 FD 75
1202
-
 AO 72
 
219
-
 GF 54
518
-
 AN 35
978
-
 AM 43
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
245
-
 AN 34
534
-
 AN 36
985
-
 AN 34
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
246
-
 AM 27
541
-
 BO 31
991
-
 AF 75
1226
-
 AE 87
 
247
-
 AN 23
546
-
 AE 85
1003
-
 AM 24
1227
-
 Op(CG 87)
 
262
-
 AF 79
714
-
 AN 35
1004
-
 AN 23
1228
-
 AE 91
 
267
-
 AF 75
722
-
 AF 76
1006
-
 AM 43
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
281
-
 AF 76
773
-
 AF 75
1009
-
 AO 16
1230
-
 AE 68
 
300
-
 Op(AD 83)
802
-
 AK 38
1062
-
 BD 51
1231
-
 AF 72
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 484 - 518 - 534 - 541 - 546 - 714 - 802 - 985 - 1004 - 1062 - 1199.
  Entered Port:  U 518 - Farsund;  (U 806 - Horten).
  Sailed:  (U 1009 - Horten).
       
- 686 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
No. 18 Group: 0604 U-boat location in 610 20' N., longitude not resolved.
  0954 U-boat location in 57 0 40' N., longitude not resolved.
  1105 U-boat location in unresolved position.
  1114 cancelled.
    2) Enemy units were located in:  AL 9860 - AM 8916 - 9550 - 7450 - 1210.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 1226 reported that her schnorchel was not working properly, had to be raised by tackle.  Boat is to act as weather boat.
    2) U 1003's operations area is the North Channel, concentrating in AM 6170.  It has been made clear to her that major successes can only be achieved there, but that the approach will be made as difficult as possible by the enemy.  She is only to take notice of anti-submarine activity if depth-charges are dropped close to her and not to be put off by hydrophone bearings or deterrent depth-charges.
    3) U 246 - 978 - 1006 are to report the state of the boat and crew in about AM 75, so that Operations Control can decide on their further operation.  It has been pointed out to them that when boats were operating in the Channel there was strong anti-submarine activity, but there were also excellent prospects of success.  After the boats left, anti-submarine activity relaxed.  Therefore, if there is still as much traffic, great successes should be possible.  They are to take this into account when making their reports.
  c)  None.
       
- 687 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  d) 1) U 985 struck one of our own mines at 1158 in AN 3513.  She was unable to dive and out of control, and has meanwhile been taken to Strandfjord by submarine chasers.  It should be noted here that navigation is very difficult on the S.W. coast of Norway as it is often not possible to take a fix, owing to strong air activity, and there are difficult currents.  Steps have been taken to improve the radio beacon and "Elektrasonne" systems.
      U 985 is to be towed to Kristiansand on 23.10.
    2) U 518 reported at 0524/18/10 that she was 24 hours off the escort rendezvous for Kristiansand.  Grave concern was felt, as the escort did not pick her up on the 19th, 20th or 21st.  An air/sea rescue aircraft sent out to search for her sighted drifting rubber dinghies and life-belts.   She entered Farsund on the afternoon of 22.10., however.  Reason for delay has not yet been reported.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
23.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 CF 24
U 396
-
 AF 82
U 863
-
 Op(KZ 40)
U 1200
-
 AF 75
 
181
-
 KA 45
483
-
 Op(AM 61)
871
-
 FD 79
1202
-
 AO 44
 
195
-
 GF 58
484
-
 AN 24
978
-
 AM 45
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
219
-
 GF 83
534
-
 AN 36
985
-
 AN 35
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
245
-
 AN 35
541
-
 BC 36
991
-
 AF 74
1226
-
 AL 24
 
246
-
 AM 01
546
-
 AE 86
1003
-
 AM 26
1227
-
 Op(CG 83)
 
247
-
 AN 28
714
-
 AN 36
1004
-
 AN 23
1228
-
 AE 83
 
262
-
 AN 23
722
-
 AF 75
1006
-
 AM 45
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
267
-
 AF 75
773
-
 AF 75
1009
-
 AN 33
1230
-
 AE 83
 
281
-
 AF 76
802
-
 AL 15
1062
-
 BD 51
1231
-
 AF 48
 
300
-
 Op(AD 59)
806
-
 AO 16
1199
-
 AN 22      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 245 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 484 - 534 - 541 - 546 - 714 - 802 - 985 - 1004 - 1062 - 1199.
  Entered Port:  U 1004 - Bergen;  U 985 - Flekkefjord;  (U 1009 - Kristiansand).
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) 0918 air attack on U 1004 in AN 2419 (unsuccessful).
  b)  None.
       
- 688 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
No. 18 Group: 0900 U-boat diving in AN 2443, course 2400, 12 knots (U 1004).
  0227 Presumed U-boat in AN 2364.
      English merchant ship reported sighting a periscope at 1050 in KE 8791.  This could be U 863 if she has not been operating in the Cape area.
    2) Enemy units were located in:  AM 9480 - BF 1720.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 802 made a situation report on the St. Lawrence River operations area.  Boat encountered no traffic, medium anti-submarine activity and patrol.  One destroyer sunk.
    2) U 1226 has been allocated AK, southern half, as attack and weather reporting area.  She is to try and get her schnorchel in working order; at all events she must keep her schnorchel mast movable, so that she can return with the mast fixed upright when her supplies are exhausted.
  c) None.
  d) U 985 reported further details of her mine hit: 1327/22/10 mine hit at 40 meters depth in 580 08' N., 60 22.5' E. (AN 3513).  Boat out of control, unable to dive.  No. 1 diving tank, watertight stern burst, rudder lost, after hydroplane out of order, port tail shaft jammed.  Starboard shaft bent, No. 5 tube damaged, crack in pressure hull between pressure hull bulkhead and No. 1 frame.  In-rush of water through No. 1 and No. 3 tube.  No casualties.  1830 towed in by UJ 1706 from AN 3512 left top.
    She drifted into the minefield owing to a strong current and the fact that her compass was out of order for a time.  0630/22/10 perfect fix.  Drifted 11 miles in 6 hours.
       
V. Reports of Success:
  U 802                1 destroyer.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
 
- 689 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
24.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 CF 13
U 396
-
 AF 87
U 806
-
 AO 16
U 1200
-
 AF 77
 
181
-
 LZ 68
483
-
 Op(AM 61)
863
-
 Op(KZ 40)
1202
-
 AO 16
 
195
-
 GF 94
484
-
 AN 24
871
-
 FL 15
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
219
-
 GF 98
534
-
 AN 36
978
-
 AM 44
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
245
-
 AN 36
541
-
 BD 11
991
-
 AF 77
1226
-
 AL 25
 
246
-
 AM 19
546
-
 AE 83
1003
-
 AM 25
1227
-
 Op(CG 89)
 
247
-
 AN 31
714
-
 AN 36
1006
-
 AM 45
1228
-
 AE 85
 
262
-
 AN 28
722
-
 AF 78
1009
-
 AN 36
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
267
-
 AF 79
773
-
 AF 77
1062
-
 BD 51
1230
-
 AE 83
 
281
-
 AF 79
802
-
 AL 14
1199
-
 AN 23
1231
-
 AF 47
 
300
-
 Op(AE 47)                  
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 245 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 484 - 534 - 541 - 546 - 714 - 802 - 1062 - 1199.
  Entered Port:  U 714 - 518 - 534 - 245 - Kristiansand;  (U 260 - 398 - 758 - 953 - Flensburg).
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c)  Enemy units were located in:  AN 7690 - AL 9860.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 680 left Bergen 25.10 and put in again on the same day.  Periscope flange leaking badly.
    2) U 871 is to steer for a sea area round the Gulf of Aden, proceeding there via the Mozambique Straits.  Freedom of action in the whole area.
  c)  None
  d) 1) U 673 was rammed by U 382 while transferring from Bergen to Stavanger.  Pressure hull cracked at the level of the main engine bulkhead.  Whole crew taken over.  Boat beached in Nerstrandfjord, 45 down by the stern, foreship out of the water, forward hatch and conning tower hatch open.  Confidential documents still on board.  Boat is being guarded by a small submarine chaser.  She will probably be a total loss, as her main engine is underwater.
    2) U 181 left Djakarta 19.10.  Boat will make straight for home as transport boat.  Torpedo equipment: 2 electric torpedoes.
       
- 690 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
    3) Naval Chief Command Norway asked if it would be possible to detach about 10 boats to lessen the danger from aircraft carriers on the north Norwegian coast.  Convoys can no longer be adequately escorted as enemy air and submarine activity has increased and there is constant danger from carrier-borne aircraft.  The proposal was turned down, as, according to experience so far, U-boats have not met with success against carriers.  The reply was made by Naval War Staff (1st Division).  (Previous reference Naval Chief Command Norway's Most Secret 01845 FI).
    4) Naval War Staff (1st Division) asked if U-boat operations could be expected in the Gulf of Bothnia and on what scale.  B.d.U.'s views:
     
a) Operations of U-boats in the Gulf of Bothnia are possible at any time.
b) Owing to lack of boats, the main operation is now in the Gulf of Finland.  As no increase of boats is likely in the immediate future, only 1-2 boats could be used at present.
c) Operation in the Gulf of Bothnia is a dangerous undertaking, as the enemy may close the approaches at any time.  As the enemy will also probably choose a safe coastal route as soon as U-boats appear in this area, prospects of success do not appear to justify an operation.  (Previous reference:  Naval War Staff (1st Division) I North, Most Secret 31946/44).
    5) Naval Chief of Command Norway requested that 5 boats be detached to cover the transfer of troops.  Boats would first of all guard transports returning via the sea routes and then cover the Arctic Straits against bombardment from the sea.  For the present these boats will not be detached, as there are no targets for them to attack and their reconnaissance value is too small.  Furthermore, there are a number of boats at sea within a wider radius which can be called upon if necessary.  (Previous reference:  Naval Chief Command Norway Most Secret S.O. only 1323 FI of 23.10).
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
25.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 LZ 28
U 396
-
 AF 73
U 871
-
 FL 43
U 1202
-
 AO 16
 
181
-
 BE 78
483
-
 Op(AM 53)
978
-
 AM 47
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
195
-
 GP 23
484
-
 AN 24
991
-
 AE 99
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
219
-
 GP 23
541
-
 AK 76
1003
-
 AM 27
1226
-
 AL 18
 
246
-
 AM 41
546
-
 AE 91
1006
-
 AM 47
1227
-
 Op(CG 94)
 
       
- 691 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
 
247
-
 AN 31
722
-
 AF 77
1009
-
 AN 36
1228
-
 AE 87
 
262
-
 AN 31
773
-
 AE 9
1062
-
 BD 84
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
267
-
 AN 24
802
-
 AL 21
1199
-
 AN 23
1230
-
 AE 85
 
281
-
 AN 23
806
-
 AO 16
1200
-
 AF 77
1231
-
 AE 69
 
300
-
 Op(AE 47)
863
-
 Op(KE 80)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 484 - 541 - 546 - 802 - 1062 - 1199.
  Entered Port:  (U 398 - 260 - 758 - 953 - Flensburg).
  Sailed:  (U 534 - 245 - 714 - 518 - Kristiansand to Flensburg).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - d) None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b)  U 978 reported from about AM 75, as ordered:  Boat and crew fit for Channel operation.  Average day's run from Bergen about 55 miles.  Boat was ordered to make for Seine Bay.
  c)  None.
  d) The following radioed to all boats:
    1) During the last few days there have been several air attacks on our own convoys in the Skagerrak and Kattegat.  When proceeding in convoy therefore flak guns are to be manned and ready to fire.  If attacked, remain on the surface and fight or dive according to what sea area you are in and the general situation.
    2) New paragraph II to Standing War Order No. 421:
      Atlantic boats approaching the Norwegian coast.
     
1) All boats returning from the Atlantic will put into a Norwegian port.  Large boats and a few medium-sized boats will be repaired in Germany and will usually put into Kristiansand-South.  Medium-sized boats will be repaired in Norway in as far as there is dockyard space available.  They will ordinarily enter Bergen or Trondheim.
2) Boats putting into Kristiansand-South will be picked up by escort at point Krista (580 01.3' N., 60 40.5' E.).
       
- 692 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
     
  If necessary the convoy will not proceed direct to Kristiansand-South but put into Farsund first.  In this case the boat is to report "Have entered Farsund", if necessary by radio.  Point Krista is situated inside a minefield gap which is flanked to the N.W. by the minefield W. and N.W. of Lister (see Standing War Order No. 421 paragraph II 2), and in the S.E. by minefields in the Skagerrak declared area (see Standing War Order 411 paragraph B I).  These minefields reach as far as the right lower edge of square AN 3528.  As the minefield gap is so narrow, boats which have direction finder gear out of order or which for some other reason cannot obtain fixes, are not to steer for point Krista, but put into Stavanger.  They will then be transferred from there to Kristiansand-South.  A fresh report is necessary off Stavanger.
3) In order to avoid a lot of short signals from boats coming in at a time, escorts will be provided whenever several U-boats are expected off one port.  Boats will be informed of these arrangements for the next few days.  On these days boats need not report.  If no escort has been previously announced, boats will report by short signal when they are 48 or at least 36 hours off the escort rendezvous.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
26.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 BE 78
U 394
-
 AF 48
U 871
-
 FL 54
U 1202
-
 AO 16
 
181
-
 LZ 75
483
-
 Op(AM 53)
978
-
 AL 93
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
195
-
 GP 35
484
-
 AN 24
991
-
 AM 32
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
219
-
 GP 38
541
-
 AK 85
1003
-
 AM 02
1226
-
 AL 19
 
246
-
 AL 66
546
-
 AE 68
1006
-
 AL 96
1227
-
 Op(CG 94)
 
247
-
 AN 35
722
-
 AN 11
1009
-
 AN 36
1228
-
 AL 32
 
262
-
 AN 34
773
-
 AM 32
1062
-
 BD 84
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
267
-
 AN 23
802
-
 AL 22
1199
-
 AN 24
1230
-
 AE 85
 
281
-
 AN 28
806
-
 AO 16
1200
-
 AM 32
1231
-
 AE 68
 
300
-
 Op(AE 47)
863
-
 Op(KE 80)            
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 247 - 267 - 262 - 281 - 484 - 541 - 546 - 802 - 1062 - 1199.
  Entered Port:  (U 382 - 985 - Kristiansand).
  Sailed:  U 1202 - Horten;  U 680 - Bergen;  (U 1004 - Bergen to Stavanger).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
- 693 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)- b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
No. 18 Group: 2020 U-boat location, position unresolved.
  2230 U-boat location in AN 3862.
    2) Enemy units were located in:  AF 7960 - BE 3145.
    3) According to a Radio Intelligence report 16 Allied independently-routed ships were instructed on 24.10 to look out for survivors from a ship sunk between 320 30' and 350 30' (no latitude and longitude given, presumably latitude N.).
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 246 was heavily depth-charged in BE 33 and has to return.  There are thus only 2 boats on their way to the Channel (U 978 - 1006).  U 991 has therefore been ordered to make for AM 79.
    2) U 541 reported her position from AE 66.  Thus the short signal of 16.10. (position report from BC 70) with the corrupt signature, was most probably not from U 541, as this boat would then have had to have made a day's run of over 200 miles for the last 11 days.  It may have been another boat (U 1229?) reporting her return passage.
  c)  None.
  d) Naval Attache Tokyo reports Most Secret E 088:
    1) After going into the question thoroughly with the Japanese Navy, consulting stations in the Southern Area, I advise against giving up Penang.  For the present, however, in view of the Nicobar Islands operations and the fact that the defences of Penang cannot be strengthened, boats should only put into Penang for the present in urgent cases and they should approach and leave the other ports via the Sunda or Lombok Straits.  
      (M.S. note):  Preparations are being made to transfer the main radio station in the Southern Area from Penang to Djakarta.
                                                                                      Naval War Staff (4th Div.) Va.
    2) The Japanese Navy requests that boats will report on entering the 600-mile radius and when they
       
- 694 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      expect to arrive off the Sunda or Lombok Straits.  This report must be made as soon as possible, owing to the danger of being D/F'd and boats must afterwards alter course.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
27.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 BE 75
U 396
-
 AF 47
U 863
-
 Op(KE 80)
U 1202
-
 AO 16
 
181
-
 KK 32
483
-
 Op(AM 53)
871
-
 FL 82
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
195
-
 GQ 17
484
-
 AN 24
978
-
 AM 78
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
219
-
 GQ 44
541
-
 AE 66
991
-
 AM 33
1226
-
 AK 03
 
246
-
 AM 77
546
-
 AE 69
1003
-
 Op(AM 53)
1227
-
 Op(CG 94)
 
247
-
 AN 35
680
-
 AF 87
1006
-
 AM 78
1228
-
 AL 31
 
262
-
 AN 35
722
-
 AM 32
1009
-
 AN 36
1229
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
267
-
 AN 28
773
-
 AM 31
1062
-
 BD 19
1230
-
 AE 87
 
281
-
 AN 31
802
-
 AE 79
1199
-
 AN 24
1231
-
 AE 67
 
300
-
 Op(AE 47)
806
-
 AN 36
1200
-
 AM 32      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 246 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 484 - 541 - 546 - 802 - 1062 - 1199.
  Entered Port:   - . -
  Sailed:  (U 1202 - 806 - Horten);  (U 1009 - Kristiansand to Horten);  (U 382 - Kristiansand to Flensburg).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
Port Lyauthey: 1148 U-boat location in 390 30' N., longitude not resolved (U 1227?).
No. 18 Group: 0115 U-boat location in 570 08' N., longitude not resolved.
    2) Enemy units located in:  BE 6490 - 6610 - BF 5160 - CG 1636.
    3) According to a Radio Intelligence report, Defence Unit "244" has again appeared in communication with Liverpool (anti-submarine unit?).
    4) Freetown repeated an S.O.S. from an unidentified steamer at 0400/22/10 from FF 6915.  U 871 is in the same latitude, according to dead reckoning.
       
- 695 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) U 1231 and U 1228 made passage reports into the North Atlantic.
    2) U 1229 should be on her return passage, according to her fuel supplies, as she has already been 3 months at sea.  Boat has been ordered to report her position and the situation.
  c)  None.
  d)  U 1060 was attacked by about 15 carrier-borne aircraft at 1100/27/10, escorted by M 433.  M-boat sank.  U 1060 received a direct hit in the conning tower.  Beached off Fleina.  Commanding Officer and 11 men killed.  Of the crew of U 957, (paid off), which were in U 1060, the Commanding Officer, First and Second Watchkeeping Officers and 25 men were saved.  About 61 men still missing.  (For orders given in this connection see War Log of 28.10.).
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
28.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 BE 49
U 396
-
 AF 47
U 863
-
 Op(KE)
U 1202
-
 AN 33
 
181
-
 KK 26
483
-
 Op(AM 53)
871
-
 FF 50
1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
195
-
 GQ 46
484
-
 AN 24
978
-
 BE 53
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
219
-
 GQ 49
541
-
 AF 47
991
-
 AM 24
1226
-
 AK 62
 
246
-
 AM 74
546
-
 AE 69
1003
-
 Op(AM 53)
1227
-
 Op(CG 94)
 
247
-
 AN 35
680
-
 AF 76
1006
-
 BE 33
1228
-
 AL 15
 
262
-
 AN 35
722
-
 AM 31
1009
-
 AN 33
1229
-
 AK
 
267
-
 AN 31
773
-
 AM 33
1062
-
 AK 62
1230
-
 AL 31
 
281
-
 AN 31
802
-
 AE 84
1199
-
 AN 24
1231
-
 AE 91
 
300
-
 Op(AE 47)
806
-
 AN 33
1200
-
 AM 33      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 246 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 281 - 484 - 541 - 546 - 802 - 1062 - 1199 - 1229.
  Entered Port:  U 281 - Farsund;  (U 1009 - Horten);  (U 806 - 1202 - Kristiansand).
  Sailed:  U 1053 - 1232 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
       
- 696 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
No. 18 Group: 2233 U-boat location in 610 18' N., longitude not resolved.
  2236 cancelled
  0020 cancellation of a presumed U-boat location.
    2) Colombo repeated a U-boat sighting report from an aircraft:  1057 surfaced U-boat, position not resolved.  1100 in same position, course 2950, 2 knots.  No successful attack as boat crash-dived.
    3) Enemy units were located in:  AM 9760 - 9430 - 7630.
  d) None.
       
IV. Current operations:
  a) None.
  b) 1) U 680 has been ordered to make for AM 36 as her operations area, contrary to her sailing orders.
    2) U 1006 was reminded of the order to report the boat's condition before entering her operations area.  As no reply was received, she was given instructions to make for the Seine Bay or for AM 9817 (N.W. entrance to the Bristol Channel) at her own discretion.
  c) None.
  d) 1) Latest reports show that bomb damage to U 1060 is not as extensive as supposed at first.  Pressure hull intact, engines in working order.  Personnel losses are comparatively high because the bomb dropped through the conning tower hatch.  Salvage is in progress, it is intended to bring her in to Trondheim.
    2) Because of these repeated attacks by enemy carrier-borne aircraft on convoys in the inner leads, orders have been given that, with immediate effect, all schnorchel boats able to dive are no longer to cover long distances under escort in the inner leads, but are to proceed alone and away from the Norwegian coast in accordance with Standing War Order No. 421 (War Log of 25.10.).   Short distances (e.g. Bergen - Stavanger, home ports - Kristiansand, etc.) will be covered with escort as hitherto.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
 
 
 
- 697 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
29.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 BE 43
U 483
-
 Op(AM 53)
U 871
-
 FF 88
U 1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
181
-
 KK 43
484
-
 AN 24
978
-
 BF 11
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
195
-
 GQ 58
541
-
 AF 58
991
-
 AM 25
1226
-
 AK 64
 
219
-
 GQ 85
546
-
 AF 47
1003
-
 Op(AM 53)
1227
-
 Op(CG 94)
 
246
-
 AL 93
680
-
 AF 75
1006
-
 BE 33
1228
-
 AK 38
 
247
-
 AN 35
722
-
 AM 33
1053
-
 AO 71
1229
-
 AK 38
 
262
-
 AN 35
773
-
 AM 24
1062
-
 AK 03
1230
-
 AL 31
 
267
-
 AN 31
802
-
 AE 85
1199
-
 AN 24
1231
-
 AE 83
 
300
-
 Op(AE 47)
806
-
 AN 36
1200
-
 AM 24
1232
-
 AO 71
 
396
-
 AE 69
863
-
 Op(KE)
1202
-
 AO 36      
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 246 - 247 - 262 - 267 - 484 - 541 - 546 - 802 - 1062 - 1199 - 1229.
  Entered Port:  U 267 - Stavanger.
  Sailed:  - . -
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) 2235/28/10 enemy formation (probably one aircraft carrier and 4 escort vessels) sighted and located about 150 miles S.W. of Bodoe.
    2) 1215/29/10 7 warships in AF 7410, including 1 large vessel, course not observed.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
No. 18 Group: 1810 U-boat location in AF 8749.
  0210 U-boat diving in AF 8721, course south, speed 10 knots.
  0217 U-boat location in AF 8758.
  0240 U-boat location in AF 8719.
  0247 U-boat location in AF 8721.
  0300 surfaced U-boat in AF 8719 course 500, speed 10 knots.  Boat returned fire.  
    All these U-boat sightings presumably refer to U 1061.
      Aircraft of No. 15 Group reported at 1030:  Suspicious object, possibly periscope, in unresolved position (probably 54 or 560 N.
    2) Enemy units were located in:  AK 8323 - AL 5833 - 1960 - AN 2736 - 2150 - BE 9158.
  d)  None.
       
- 698 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
IV. Current Operations:
  a) None.
  b)  U 267 entered Stavanger unannounced as her radio was out of order.
  c)  None.
  d) 1) All VIIC boats entering shallow water are to destroy their superfluous Secret and Most Secret material.  The issue of Secret and Most Secret material to VIIC boats leaving port will be restricted to the most essential documents, as most of the boats are to operate in shallow water areas.
    2) U 1060, beached off Fleina, was attacked in the morning by 2 liberators.  Apparently she received several direct hits, is down by the stern and flooded.
      After the attack on U 1060 on 27.10., on her way in convoy from Bergen via Trondheim to Narvik, was ordered to leave the convoy at once and continue her passage independently, away from the coast, in accordance with Standing War Order No. 421.  In the morning the boat was warned of carrier-borne aircraft.  According to a Radio Intelligence report she had already been picked up by an aircraft at 1810 in AF 8749.  For further Radio Intelligence reports see paragraph III c).  At 0312 U 1061 reported an air attack in AF 8785 and at 0524 in AE 8792.  Boat was unable to dive after the first attack and is making for Malöy at maximum speed.
    3) Night attack on Bergen by 4-engined bombers from 0150 to 0230 in 10 waves, concentrating on U-boat shelters.  4 hits each with 1,000 kg. bomb on the 3.5 meter roof of the shelter.  Penetrations up to 30 cms., also two slight hits.  No damage inside the shelters.  Bombs dropped from low altitude.  The undefended dockyard is a total loss.  No damage to U-boats, some slight postponement of war-readiness dates.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
30.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 BE 18
U 483
-
 Op(AM 53)
U 871
-
 FN 16
U 1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
181
-
 KJ 66
484
-
 AN 24
978
-
 BF 15
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
195
-
 GQ 91
541
-
 AF 72
991
-
 AM 18
1226
-
 AK 58
 
219
-
 GQ 97
546
-
 AF 72
1003
-
 Op(AM 53)
1227
-
 Op(CG 94)
 
246
-
 AL 68
680
-
 AF 77
1006
-
 BF 14
1228
-
 AK 39
 
247
-
 AN 35
722
-
 AM 26
1053
-
 AO 44
1229
-
 AL 16
 
262
-
 AN 35
773
-
 AM 25
1062
-
 AL 25
1230
-
 AL 31
 
300
-
 Op(AE 47)
802
-
 AE 83
1199
-
 AN 24
1231
-
 AE 85
 
396
-
 AE 68
806
-
 AN 36
1200
-
 AM 26
1232
-
 AO 44
       
863
-
 Op(KE)
1202
-
 AN 36      
 
       
- 699 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 246 - 247 - 262 - 484 - 541 - 546 - 802 - 1062 - 1199 - 1229.
  Entered Port:  (U 281 - Kristiansand).
  Sailed:  (U 806 - 1202 - Kristiansand).
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
No. 18 Group: 0135 U-boat location in AF 8487.
  0358 2 U-boats in AF 8742, boats dived, attack not possible (U 54, U 546?).
    2) Enemy units were located in:  AE 7910 - 9880 - AN 2638 - 2218 - BE 8860.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) If U 1006 does not intend to operate in the Seine area, she will have an operations area between the latitudes and longitudes of AM 9898 and AM 9487, concentrating off Milford Haven and Pembroke.  Approach via swept channel in accordance with Standing War Order 481 C II 2b.  It is intended to send U 991, on her way out, to the same area.  It is possible that the main shipping route lies through the center of the St. Georges Channel, as U 262 and U 714 have seen no traffic in the coastal area off Cape Land's End to Trevose Head, and U 758 has seen nothing off the south coast of Ireland.  An operation off Milford is therefore considered very promising, especially as there has not been a single U-boat in this area for 3 years.  Details of traffic situation have been radioed.
  c)  None.
  d) U 1061 entered Malöy.  She is heavily damaged.  Attempts will be made to repair her as she is particularly valuable.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
       
31.October 1944.
 
 
 
I.
U 170
-
 BE 12
U 541
-
 AF 73
U 978
-
 BF 16
U 1221
-
 Op(BB 70)
 
181
-
 KJ 82
546
-
 AF 73
991
-
 AM 01
1223
-
 Op(BB 10)
 
195
-
 GQ 92
680
-
 AE 99
1003
-
 Op(AM 53)
1226
-
 AK 58
 
219
-
 GZ 22
722
-
 AM 25
1006
-
 BF 15
1227
-
 Op(CG 94)
 
246
-
 AL 65
773
-
 AM 27
1053
-
 AO 16
1228
-
 AK 61
 
262
-
 AN 35
802
-
 AE 91
1062
-
 AL 22
1229
-
 AL 23
 
300
-
 Op(AE 47)
806
-
 AN 31
1199
-
 AN 24
1230
-
 AL 24
 
396
-
 AE 67
863
-
 Op(KE)
1200
-
 AM 27
1231
-
 AE 85
 
483
-
 Op(AM 53)
871
-
 FN 51
1202
-
 AN 31
1232
-
 AO 16
 
       
- 700 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
  On Return Passage:  U 170 - 181 - 246 - 262 - 541 - 546 - 802 - 1062 - 1199 - 1229.
  Entered Port:  (U 1232 - 1053 - Horten);  (U 382 - Larvik).
  Sailed:  U 775 - 870 - Kiel.
       
II. Air Reconnaissance:  None.
       
III. Reports on the Enemy:
  a) - b) None.
  c) 1) U-boat sightings:
     
No. 15 Group: 1333 U-boat location in 610 55' N., longitude not resolved.
No. 19 Group: 0904 am investigating suspicious object, U-boat conning tower?  Position not resolved.
      An unidentified unit reported to Halifax:  1930 submerged U-boat in unresolved position (U 1220 - U 1223?).
    2) Enemy units were located in:  AE 3740 - AL 9670 - AM 2310 - 5290 - BF 2160 - 4160.
  d)  None.
       
IV. Current Operations:
  a)  None.
  b) 1) Limits of U 978's operations area in the Channel:  Longitudes of BF 2610 and left edge of BF 3610.
      U 680's operations area is the sea area off North Minch, concentrating in AM 36.
    2) Some concern is felt about U 1226, as she has still not made any weather reports despite several orders.  Her radio may be out of order however.
  c)  None.
  d) 1) U 484 must be regarded as lost.  After leaving Horten on 14.8.44., she was ordered to go to an operations area off the North Channel via the Iceland Passage.  After she had been in this area for about 14 days, she was ordered on 24.9 to start her return passage and to
       
- 701 -
 
 
     

 

     
     
 
      make a situation report, as Operations Control had to have information before sending further boats to the North Channel.  So far this situation report has not been received.  THe boat should have entered port meanwhile, as she has been at sea for 11 weeks.  There is no information as to cause of loss, possibly submarine hunt in the North Channel.
    2) U 247 must be presumed lost.  She left Brest on 26.8. for an operations area south of the Scilly Islands and Land's End.  After all boats had left the Channel, Operations Control had no information on the state of affairs there and the boat was therefore ordered to move off to the West and report the situation.  So far no situation reports, weather reports or position reports ordered have been received.  According to her supplies, she should have entered port by now.  Loss presumably occurred in the Western Channel (probably already on her way out to her operations area) due to anti-submarine activity.  No further information.
    3) The following was radioed to all boats:
      Additional note to Serial Order No. 3 (Capture of enemy cypher material, paragraph 3):
      The capture of Russian cypher material is equally important for the war against Russia.  Every opportunity is therefore to be taken to obtain such material, including boarding of small patrol vessels after they have been worsted, by boats in Northern Waters and the Gulf of Finland.
      Additional note 4):
      Enemy secret documents floating in the water, which have been rendered illegible by oil or for any other reason and therefore appear to have no value, should nevertheless be salvaged, carefully preserved on board and handed in to B.d.U. Op.
       
V. Reports of Success:  None.
       
       
                                                                 (Signed):  GODT.
                                                         Chief of Operations Department
                                                                         for B.d.U.
       
 
 
 
       
       
       
       
- 702 -