Short Sunderland: The 'Flying Porcupines' in the Second World War

The Sunderland was a four-engine flying boat developed by Short Brothers for the Air Ministry in 1933. It was capable of operating from the Empire's outposts and was known for its ability to engage six or more enemy fighters simultaneously, earning it the nickname "Flying Porcupine" from the Luftwaffe. The book covers the development and operations of the Sunderland during and after the Second World War, including its maid of all work role over the eastern Mediterranean, recce missions for the Royal Navy, evacuations from Yugoslavia, Greece, and Crete, and attacks on enemy submarines.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 12 April 2022
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

In 1933, the Air Ministry issued a specification for a versatile four-engine flying boat capable of operating from the remote outposts of the Empire. The remarkable outcome was the Short Sunderland, built by Short Brothers. This book delves into the development and operational history of the Short Sunderland, encompassing its role during and after the Second World War. The Sunderland's exceptional ability to engage six or more enemy fighters simultaneously earned it the affectionate nickname of the "Flying Porcupine" by the Luftwaffe. The aircraft's diverse range of duties over the eastern Mediterranean is extensively covered, including reconnaissance missions for the Royal Navy, evacuation operations from Yugoslavia, Greece, and Crete, as well as attacks on enemy submarines. Furthermore, the book provides detailed accounts of the operations of the Canadian, Australian, and Norwegian squadrons within Coastal Command, along with the contributions of the South Africans and New Zealanders outside of Coastal Command. Additionally, the author includes insights into post-war operations, such as the Berlin Airlift. Supplementary appendices feature comprehensive lists of Sunderlands, accompanied by brief histories, and a record of all successful attacks on enemy submarines.

Weight: 416g
Dimension: 232 x 156 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399014540