Pacific Profiles Volume Eight: Ijn Floatplanes in the South Pacific 1942-1944

Volume Eight of the Pacific Profiles series provides accurate profiles and histories of Imperial Japanese Navy floatplanes in the South Pacific theatre, including the A6M2-N Rufe, E8N2 Dave, E13A1 Jake, F1M2 Pete, E9W Slim, and E7K Alf. The markings, camouflage, and tail code systems of these floatplanes are illustrated, with brief histories of each unit and maps and diagrams to explain command structures. The author is a renowned expert on Japanese aerial warfare in the Pacific.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 120 pages
Publication date: 01 July 2022
Publisher: Avonmore Books

Imperial Japanese Navy floatplanes that served in the South Pacific theater, particularly in New Guinea and the Solomons, are profiled in Volume Eight of the Pacific Profiles series. The book offers the most comprehensive and accurate profiles and histories of these aircraft to date. The six floatplane types deployed in the theater are covered in detail, including the A6M2-N Rufe, E8N2 Dave, E13A1 Jake, F1M2 Pete, E9W Slim, and E7K Alf.

Floatplane operations began in January 1942 with the invasion of Rabaul, and Rufes were often mistaken for Zeros due to their widespread presence in the Solomons. Petes frequently engaged Allied fighters, while other types were primarily used for reconnaissance and occasional bombing missions, sometimes even at night. By late 1943, most floatplane activity had ceased, leaving only a few stay-behinds operating from Rabaul and Kavieng.

The book is illustrated unit by unit, showcasing the various types of markings, camouflage, and tail code systems that appeared on floatplanes assigned to sea tenders, shore, ship, and submarine-based units. Each of the 76 profiles includes evidence from color photos, Combined Fleet orders, POW interrogations, technical reports, and post-war wreck surveys. Brief histories of each unit describe their role in the theater and outline the ever-changing markings systems as dictated by Tokyo. Numerous maps and diagrams assist the reader in understanding command structures such as the R-Area Air Force and the 11th Seaplane Tender Division.

This book represents a significant milestone in the study of Japanese aerial warfare in the Pacific, as it presents the most accurate profiles of these aircraft to date. The author, who is widely regarded as an expert in this field, has contributed extensively to the understanding of Japanese military aviation during World War II.

In conclusion, Volume Eight of the Pacific Profiles series is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Japanese aerial warfare in the Pacific. The book offers a comprehensive and accurate portrayal of the floatplane types deployed in the theater, their markings, camouflage, and operational history. It is a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and enthusiasts alike.

Weight: 370g
Dimension: 175 x 249 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780645246940