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South Pacific Air War Volume 3. Coral Sea & Aftermath May-June 1942

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This third volume details aerial warfare in the South Pacific during May and June 1942, focusing on the Battle of the Coral Sea. It can be enjoyed independently or as part of a trilogy covering the first half of the Pacific War. In early May, Japan initiated Operation MO to capture Tulagi and Port Moresby, leading to a historic clash between opposing fleet carriers. The battle resulted in the loss of the USS Lexington and the withdrawal of the USS Yorktown. While traditionally viewed as an Allied victory that thwarted Japan's plans for Port Moresby, the authors argue that Japan's invasion capacity remained largely intact, and postponing the invasion was a significant miscalculation. Following the Coral Sea battle, a fierce aerial campaign ensued between land-based air forces, resembling a slugfest between Lae and Port Moresby, just an hour apart by air. The Allies launched offensives with B-17, B-25, and B-26 bombers from Australia, while P-39 Airacobra fighters defended Port Moresby, suffering heavy losses. Japanese forces, utilizing Betty and Nell bombers, targeted Moresby and its harbor, protected by the skilled Zero fighters of the Tainan Kokutai. This campaign is presented in unprecedented detail, combining Allied and Japanese accounts. The authors, Michael Claringbould and Peter Ingman, bring unique expertise to this critical chapter of military history.