121 F9F PANTHER vs COMMUNIST AAA: Korea 1950-53

1-978121

Both opponents' tactics and gunnery are explored in depth in this study that contains full-color illustrations, including cockpit scenes and armament views. Also includes a detailed analysis of the US Navy Panthers' loss rates and their causes.

The F9F Panther, originally designed as a jet fighter, in April 1951 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.