The aerial clashes between the iconic Corsair and Zero-sen translated into a contest of speed and altitude for the former, versus the latter’s outstanding agility and range.
Whilst the F4U Corsair eventually proved to be a superior fighter in Pacific operations, its introduction into combat in this theatre initially demonstrated its weaknesses. Indeed, the ‘Saint Valentine's Day Massacre’ debacle showcased exemplary Zero-sen fighter tactics, and American losses were of sufficient magnitude that further daylight missions toward Bougainville were discontinued until Allied fighter tactics could be improved. As a result, for the next two months the Corsair’s combat results were much subdued. Indeed, the F4U only became a superb fighter when both its pilots and their commanders worked out how to deploy the gull-wing design effectively. Optimum circumstances for effective engagement did not always occur, and the Zero-sen remained effective against the Corsair until February 1944 in the South Pacific, after which all IJNAF fighter units vacated Rabaul.
This book closely examines these two different fighters in the Solomons/Rabaul theatre, and the unique geographic conditions which shaped their deployment and effectiveness. It contains rare photographs and digital artwork that accurately showcases and aligns combats of both types in-theatre with unprecedented accuracy.
Both sides vastly over-claimed. With full access to IJNAF and US Navy/US Marine Corps records, these numbers are presented accurately.
By:
Michael John Claringbould
Illustrated by:
Jim Laurier (Illustrator),
Gareth Hector (Illustrator)
Imprint: Osprey
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions:
Height: 246mm,
Width: 184mm,
Spine: 6mm
Weight: 266g
ISBN: 9781472850614
ISBN 10: 1472850610
Series: Duel
Pages: 80
Publication Date: 05 July 2022
Audience:
General/trade
,
Professional and scholarly
,
ELT Advanced
,
Undergraduate
Format: Paperback
Publisher's Status: Active
Introduction Chronology Design and Development Technical Specifications The Strategic Situation The Combatants Combat Statistics and Analysis Aftermath Further Reading Index To illustrate the unique features of the F4U and A6M5 Model 52 Zero-sen, including armament, cockpit details and basic fighter formations, as well as the location they flew from in-theater. Also included will be an engaging the enemy cockpit artwork and a battlescene spread.
Michael John Claringbould had an extensive career in the Australian Foreign, completing six postings within Asia and the Pacific. He is author of numerous books concerning the USAAF Fifth Air Force and Japanese Pacific air power, including Osprey Duel 87 and Duel 103. Michael lives in Australia. The illustrators for this volume are Gareth Hector (cover and battlescene) and Jim Laurier (armament views, cockpit and engaging the enemy).
