RAF Coastal Command: A Pictorial History

RAF Coastal Command was founded in 1936 to neglect maritime aviation during the inter-war years. It played a key role in the Allied Victory during the Second World War, particularly during the Battle of the Atlantic. It had flown more than a million flying hours, completed 240,000 operations, and destroyed 212 U-boats by the end of the war. Post-war, it saw a significant rundown but still made a contribution to the Berlin Airlift. In 1969, it was absorbed into the newly formed Strike Command.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 128 pages
\n Publication date: 15 November 2020
\n Publisher: Amberley Publishing
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The Royal Air Force (RAF) Coastal Command was established in 1936 as part of a major restructuring that saw the RAF divided into Fighter, Bomber, and Coastal Commands. Prior to this, maritime aviation had been severely neglected due to disagreements between the Royal Navy and the RAF regarding ownership, roles, and investment in maritime air power. As a result, the new Coastal Command quickly gained a reputation as the "Cinderella Service," as it was seen as a lesser priority compared to its counterparts.

However, the Command played a crucial role in the Allied Victory during the Second World War, particularly during the Battle of the Atlantic. Initially starting with modest resources, Coastal Command gradually grew in strength and capability. It was equipped with legendary aircraft such as the Sunderland, Wellington, Catalina, and Liberator, as well as advanced radar technology like the new Mark III ASV (Air-to-surface vessel). This allowed Coastal Command to effectively locate, attack, and destroy an increasing number of German U-boats, which had become a major threat to Allied convoys.

By the end of the war, Coastal Command had flown more than a million flying hours, completed 240,000 operations, and destroyed 212 U-boats. While this was a significant achievement, the Command also suffered a higher loss rate than Bomber Command, with 2,060 aircraft lost and 5,866 personnel killed. Post-war, Coastal Command saw a significant rundown, but it continued to make a contribution to the Berlin Airlift. In the late 1950s, the Command was equipped with the new Shackleton aircraft and shifted its focus to anti-submarine patrols against the Soviet Navy and other fleets of the Warsaw Pact, particularly in the Atlantic.

Coastal Command was absorbed into the newly formed Strike Command in 1969, marking the end of an era. Despite its eventual dissolution, Coastal Command's legacy remains significant. Its contributions to the Battle of the Atlantic and the protection of Allied convoys during the Second World War were instrumental in ensuring the Allied Victory. The Command's dedication to maritime aviation and its innovative technologies and strategies continue to inspire and influence military aviation today.

In conclusion, Coastal Command's history is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Royal Air Force. Despite facing challenges and neglect in the past, the Command played a critical role in the Allied Victory during the Second World War and continued to make valuable contributions to military aviation post-war. Its legacy should be honored and remembered, as it serves as a reminder of the sacrifices and achievements made by those who served in the RAF during this period.

\n Weight: 400g\n
Dimension: 164 x 232 x 12 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781445697680\n \n