A detailed look at the deadly battle between US Navy F9F Panther jet
fighter-bombers and communist anti-aircraft artillery (AAA) defenses
that proliferated throughout the Korean War.
The F9F Panther was one of the many fighters converted for ground-attack
duties, following an established US tradition. Originally designed as a
jet fighter, in April 1951 it became the first jet to launch from a
carrier with bombs loaded, using them to destroy a crucial railway
bridge at Songjin. The Panther's four 20 mm guns were considered to be
very effective for flak suppression and these aircraft were used as
escorts for propeller-driven AD Skyraider and F4U Corsair attack
aircraft. However, later in 1951, flak damage to Panthers increased as
the Chinese established better AAA weapons to defend key transport
routes. The communist AAA crews had heavy guns of 37 mm caliber and
above. Gunners could use optical height finders, predictors and in many
cases radar control. They learned to conceal their weapons in civilian
buildings, use wires to bring aircraft down, and set up false targets as
flak traps.
Both opponents' tactics and gunnery are explored in depth in this study
of the F9F Panthers and of their adversaries. Containing full-color
illustrations including cockpit scenes and armament views, this
innovative volume also includes a detailed analysis of the US Navy
Panthers' loss rates and their causes.
