The aerial clashes between the iconic Corsair and Zero-sen translated
into a contest of speed and altitude for the former, versus the latter's
outstanding agility and range.
Whilst the F4U Corsair eventually proved to be a superior fighter in
Pacific operations, its introduction into combat in this theatre
initially demonstrated its weaknesses. Indeed, the 'Saint Valentine's
Day Massacre' debacle showcased exemplary Zero-sen fighter tactics, and
American losses were of sufficient magnitude that further daylight
missions toward Bougainville were discontinued until Allied fighter
tactics could be improved. As a result, for the next two months the
Corsair's combat results were much subdued. Indeed, the F4U only became
a superb fighter when both its pilots and their commanders worked out
how to deploy the gull-wing design effectively. Optimum circumstances
for effective engagement did not always occur, and the Zero-sen remained
effective against the Corsair until February 1944 in the South Pacific,
after which all IJNAF fighter units vacated Rabaul. This book closely
examines these two different fighters in the Solomons/Rabaul theatre,
and the unique geographic conditions which shaped their deployment and
effectiveness. It contains rare photographs and digital artwork that
accurately showcases and aligns combats of both types in-theatre with
unprecedented accuracy. Both sides vastly over-claimed. With full access
to IJNAF and US Navy/US Marine Corps records, these numbers will be
presented accurately.
