Volume Eight of the Pacific Profiles series presents the most accurate
profiles and histories to date of Imperial Japanese Navy floatplanes
which served in the South Pacific theater, throughout New Guinea and the
Solomons. The markings of the six floatplane types deployed in the
theater are covered: the A6M2-N Rufe, E8N2 Dave, E13A1 Jake, F1M2 Pete,
E9W Slim and E7K Alf.
Floatplane operations commenced in January 1942 with the invasion of
Rabaul. Later Rufes were often misidentified as Zeros with their
presence in the Solomons seemingly ubiquitous. Petes often fought Allied
fighters, with other types focused on reconnaissance and occasional
bombing missions, sometimes at night. Most floatplane activity had
ceased by late 1943, leaving a handful of stay-behinds operating from
Rabaul and Kavieng.
Illustrated, unit by unit, are examples of the varied types of markings,
camouflage, and tail code systems which appeared on floatplanes assigned
to sea tenders, shore, ship and submarine-based units. Each of the 76
profiles cites draws on evidence from color photos, Combined Fleet
orders, POW interrogations, technical reports, and post-war wreck
surveys. Brief histories of every unit includes their role in the
theater and defines the ever-changing markings systems as ordained by
Tokyo. Numerous maps and diagrams help the reader understand command
structures such as the R-Area Air Force and the 11th Seaplane Tender
Division.
Never before have such accurate profiles been presented, most for the
first time. The author is world-renown for his expertise in Japanese
aerial warfare in the Pacific.
