P-40E Warhawk vs A6M2 Zero-sen : East Indies and Darwin 1942 Paperback / softback

by Peter Ingman

Illustrated by Jim Laurier, Gareth Hector

Part of the Duel series

Paperback / softback

Only a few left - usually despatched within 24 hours

Description

The P-40E Warhawk is often viewed as one of the less successful American fighter designs of World War II, but in 1942 the aircraft was all that was available to the USAAC in-theatre.

Units equipped with the aircraft were duly forced into combat against the deadly A6M2 Zero-sen, which had already earned itself a near-mythical reputation following its exploits over China and Pearl Harbor.

During an eight-month period in 1942, an extended air campaign was fought out between the two fighters for air superiority over the Javanese and then northern Australian skies.

During this time, the P-40Es and the Zero-sens regularly clashed without interference from other fighter types.

In respect to losses, the Japanese â€˜wonâ€™ these engagements, for many more P-40Es were shot down than Zero-sens.

However, the American Warhawks provided a potent deterrent that forced the IJNAF to attack from high altitudes, where crewsâ€™ bombing efficiency was much poorer. Fully illustrated throughout, and supported by rare and previously unpublished photographs, this book draws on both American and Japanese sources to tell the full story of the clashes between these iconic two fighters in Darwin and the East Indies.