General Discussions
This is the place to discuss general issues related to the U-boat war or the war at sea in WWII.
Re: U-196 found off New Zealand ?
Posted by:
Simon Gunson. NZ
()
Date: November 08, 2008 05:32AM
Beg your pardon John... We're both right. U-196 was tasked to support U-510 by refueling her at sea and then proceed around Australia for one month before proceeding to Japan for fresh batteries.
U-510 developed leaks in her exhaust manifold the same day as U-196's departure. The refuelling mission was cancelled the day of U-196's departure by BdU.
U-196 failed to respond to messages to cancel the refuelling mission and by 19 December 1944 BdU broadcast that she may be missing.
After being informed of U-537's sinking Commander South West Pacific was still advising a third U-boat to patrol off south Australia in December.
U-510 developed leaks in her exhaust manifold the same day as U-196's departure. The refuelling mission was cancelled the day of U-196's departure by BdU.
U-196 failed to respond to messages to cancel the refuelling mission and by 19 December 1944 BdU broadcast that she may be missing.
After being informed of U-537's sinking Commander South West Pacific was still advising a third U-boat to patrol off south Australia in December.