005 F6F HELLCAT Philippines 1944

1-939005

Using maps, contemporary photographs, and technical diagrams, the volume examines the highly effective tactics used to prevail against large enemy formations, and reveals the training that underpinned the success enjoyed by the Naval Aviators and their Hellcats. Describes key combat actions through 3D ribbon diagrams that provide a step-by-step depiction of the main dogfights featured in the book, as well as action reports from famous aces and previously unknown pilots.

Joining combat in the Pacific in late 1943, the Hellcat squadrons soon demonstrated their ascendancy over their Japanese opponents, culminating in the great Marianas Turkey Shoot during the Battle of the Philippine Sea in June 1944. The fighter proved to be a dream for pilots to fly, allowing both novice and veteran Naval Aviators alike to prevail in large-scale aerial combats. From October 1944 to January 1945, the Fast Carriers supported General MacArthur's invasion of the Philippines.