Dominating the seas during World War II, the US aircraft carrier played
a crucial role in every major naval combat of the war.
Development of the Essex class began in 1941, and was the largest class
of carrier ever built. During the Pacific War it formed the backbone of
any fighting force and became renowned for its mighty 'Sunday Punch' -
the impressive offensive power of 36 fighter planes, 36 dive bombers,
and 18 torpedo planes.
The Independence class was a lighter and faster carrier, built after
Pearl Harbor, to bring more ships into action as quickly as possible.
Alongside the Essex class their crews saw a dramatic change in tactical
deployment as they began to form the fast carrier task forces that were
so effective in Pacific operations.
Featuring an annotated cutaway and artwork detailing both the interior
and exterior features of the ships, this book explores the design,
development, and deployment of both the Essex and Independence class of
light carriers. This sequel to US Navy Aircraft Carriers 1922-45: Prewar
classes (New Vanguard 114), provides a detailed exploration of the
carriers that were at the forefront of many actions in World War II,
including the climatic battles of Phillipine Sea and Leyte Gulf in 1944.