Ju 87 Stuka vs Royal Navy Carriers: Mediterranean

The Ju 87 Stuka was used by the Luftwaffe and Regia Aeronautica to target British aircraft carriers during World War II. This book examines the duel between the Stuka and the carriers, including the attacks on Ark Royal and Illustrious, and includes personal accounts from Stuka crews and pilots.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 22 July 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The Ju 87 dive-bombers, initially designed for precise bombing missions against land targets and Allied naval vessels, were deployed by both the Luftwaffe and the Regia Aeronautica against the Allied forces. These formidable and immense vessels, despite their gun protection and fighter squadrons, proved irresistible targets to determined and experienced Stuka aces as they sought to halt British naval intervention in campaigns in Norway, Malta, and Crete. By 1941, the Ju 87 had earned a fearsome reputation among the British after its operations in France, particularly at Dunkirk, and in the Balkans. For the Luftwaffe, it remained an aircraft in which they held great confidence, despite its defeat in the Battle of Britain during the summer of 1940. This book delves into the key characteristics and limitations of both aircraft and carriers by examining various compelling episodes, including the dramatic attacks on Ark Royal by Stukageschwader 1 off Norway in April 1940, the strikes by the Luftwaffe's St.G 1, St.G 2, and the Regia Aeronauticas 237° Squadriglia against Illustrious in Malta harbor. In addition to outstanding photography and artwork, this volume also features numerous personal accounts from Stuka crews, pilots of carrier-borne fighters opposing them, and sailors aboard the various carriers targeted.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 185 x 248 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472840837