Ki-43 ‘Oscar’ Aces of World War 2

Ki-43 ‘Oscar’ Aces of World War 2

Author: Hiroshi Ichimura

Publisher: Osprey Publishing

Published: 2009-03-31

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9781846034084

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Dubbed the 'Oscar' by the Allies, the Ki-43 Hayabusa was the most prolific Japanese fighter of World War II. Produced in great numbers, it initially proved superior to most US and British fighter types, due to its excellent maneuverability. The light weight and large wing area gave it a small turning radius and a high rate-of-climb which was ideal for pilots in close combat fighting. However, the Ki-43's swiftness and agility came at a price, with the low-wing design meaning that firepower and safety had to be sacrificed. With only two machine guns, a Ki-43 pilot would have to perform a dangerous balancing act between achieving a high rate of kills and their own survival. Surprisingly, more Japanese pilots achieved Ace status flying the Hayabusa than any other plane and despite being steadily outclassed by new fighters, the Ki-43 remained in frontline JAAF service until the war's end. This book expertly charts the experiences of the pilots and discusses the early stages of the war in South-East Asia, China, Burma and New Guinea. Accompanied by detailed appendices and specially commissioned artwork, this is the first volume in English to focus exclusively on the exploits of the Ki-43.


Book Synopsis Ki-43 ‘Oscar’ Aces of World War 2 by : Hiroshi Ichimura

Download or read book Ki-43 ‘Oscar’ Aces of World War 2 written by Hiroshi Ichimura and published by Osprey Publishing. This book was released on 2009-03-31 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Dubbed the 'Oscar' by the Allies, the Ki-43 Hayabusa was the most prolific Japanese fighter of World War II. Produced in great numbers, it initially proved superior to most US and British fighter types, due to its excellent maneuverability. The light weight and large wing area gave it a small turning radius and a high rate-of-climb which was ideal for pilots in close combat fighting. However, the Ki-43's swiftness and agility came at a price, with the low-wing design meaning that firepower and safety had to be sacrificed. With only two machine guns, a Ki-43 pilot would have to perform a dangerous balancing act between achieving a high rate of kills and their own survival. Surprisingly, more Japanese pilots achieved Ace status flying the Hayabusa than any other plane and despite being steadily outclassed by new fighters, the Ki-43 remained in frontline JAAF service until the war's end. This book expertly charts the experiences of the pilots and discusses the early stages of the war in South-East Asia, China, Burma and New Guinea. Accompanied by detailed appendices and specially commissioned artwork, this is the first volume in English to focus exclusively on the exploits of the Ki-43.

Ki-43 ‘Oscar’ Aces of World War 2

Ki-43 ‘Oscar’ Aces of World War 2

Author: Hiroshi Ichimura

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Published: 2012-10-20

Total Pages: 237

ISBN-13: 1782005447

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Dubbed the 'Oscar' by the Allies, the Ki-43 Hayabusa Peregrine was the most prolific Japanese fighter of World War 2. Designed for manoeuverability and speed, the low-wing model meant that firepower and safety had to be sacrificed, with only two machine guns per plane. Despite this, more Japanese pilots achieved Ace status flying the Hayabusa than any other plane. This book expertly charts the experiences of the pilots and discusses the early stages of the war in South-East Asia, China, Burma and New Guinea. Accompanied by detailed appendices and specially commissioned artwork, this is the first volume in English to focus exclusively on the exploits of the Ki-43.


Book Synopsis Ki-43 ‘Oscar’ Aces of World War 2 by : Hiroshi Ichimura

Download or read book Ki-43 ‘Oscar’ Aces of World War 2 written by Hiroshi Ichimura and published by Bloomsbury Publishing. This book was released on 2012-10-20 with total page 237 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Dubbed the 'Oscar' by the Allies, the Ki-43 Hayabusa Peregrine was the most prolific Japanese fighter of World War 2. Designed for manoeuverability and speed, the low-wing model meant that firepower and safety had to be sacrificed, with only two machine guns per plane. Despite this, more Japanese pilots achieved Ace status flying the Hayabusa than any other plane. This book expertly charts the experiences of the pilots and discusses the early stages of the war in South-East Asia, China, Burma and New Guinea. Accompanied by detailed appendices and specially commissioned artwork, this is the first volume in English to focus exclusively on the exploits of the Ki-43.

P-47D Thunderbolt vs Ki-43-II Oscar

P-47D Thunderbolt vs Ki-43-II Oscar

Author: Michael John Claringbould

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Published: 2020-07-23

Total Pages: 81

ISBN-13: 1472840925

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Although New Guinea's Thunderbolt pilots faced several different types of enemy aircraft in capricious tropical conditions, by far their most common adversary was the Nakajima Ki-43-II Hayabusa, codenamed 'Oscar' by the Allies. These two opposing fighters were the products of two radically different design philosophies. The Thunderbolt was heavy, fast and packed a massive punch thanks to its battery of eight 0.50-cal machine guns, while the 'Oscar' was the complete opposite in respect to fighter design philosophy – lightweight, nimble, manoeuvrable and lightly armed. It was, nonetheless, deadly in the hands of an experienced pilot. The Thunderbolt commenced operations in New Guinea with a series of bomber escort missions in mid-1943, and its firepower and superior speed soon saw Fifth Air Force fighter command deploying elite groups of P-47s to Wewak, on the northern coast. Flying from there, they would pick off unwary enemy aircraft during dedicated fighter patrols. The Thunderbolt pilots in New Guinea slowly wore down their Japanese counterparts by continual combat and deadly strafing attacks, but nevertheless, the Ki-43-II remained a worthy opponent deterrent up until Hollandia was abandoned by the IJAAF in April 1944. Fully illustrated throughout with artwork and rare photographs, this fascinating book examines these two vastly different fighters in the New Guinea theatre, and assesses the unique geographic conditions that shaped their deployment and effectiveness.


Book Synopsis P-47D Thunderbolt vs Ki-43-II Oscar by : Michael John Claringbould

Download or read book P-47D Thunderbolt vs Ki-43-II Oscar written by Michael John Claringbould and published by Bloomsbury Publishing. This book was released on 2020-07-23 with total page 81 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Although New Guinea's Thunderbolt pilots faced several different types of enemy aircraft in capricious tropical conditions, by far their most common adversary was the Nakajima Ki-43-II Hayabusa, codenamed 'Oscar' by the Allies. These two opposing fighters were the products of two radically different design philosophies. The Thunderbolt was heavy, fast and packed a massive punch thanks to its battery of eight 0.50-cal machine guns, while the 'Oscar' was the complete opposite in respect to fighter design philosophy – lightweight, nimble, manoeuvrable and lightly armed. It was, nonetheless, deadly in the hands of an experienced pilot. The Thunderbolt commenced operations in New Guinea with a series of bomber escort missions in mid-1943, and its firepower and superior speed soon saw Fifth Air Force fighter command deploying elite groups of P-47s to Wewak, on the northern coast. Flying from there, they would pick off unwary enemy aircraft during dedicated fighter patrols. The Thunderbolt pilots in New Guinea slowly wore down their Japanese counterparts by continual combat and deadly strafing attacks, but nevertheless, the Ki-43-II remained a worthy opponent deterrent up until Hollandia was abandoned by the IJAAF in April 1944. Fully illustrated throughout with artwork and rare photographs, this fascinating book examines these two vastly different fighters in the New Guinea theatre, and assesses the unique geographic conditions that shaped their deployment and effectiveness.

Ki-44 ‘Tojo’ Aces of World War 2

Ki-44 ‘Tojo’ Aces of World War 2

Author: Nicholas Millman

Publisher: Osprey Publishing

Published: 2011-10-18

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13: 9781849084406

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The 100th title of Osprey's celebrated Aircraft of the Aces series covers a subject sure to be of interest to historians of World War II. The Ki-44 'Tojo' was a fast-climbing, heavily armed point-defence interceptor that was used successfully in slashing hit-and-run tactics that caught Allied pilots by surprise. In the air defense role 'Tojos' pioneered the deployment of a unique 40 mm cannon, the firing system which had no cartridges but instead had the propelling charge contained in the base of the projectile. The Ki-44 was to be used by the JAAF in larger numbers in China than anywhere else. This exciting title from author Nicholas Millman brings the Ki-44's role in the Pacific theatre to vivid life, accompanied by full color plates and archival photographs.


Book Synopsis Ki-44 ‘Tojo’ Aces of World War 2 by : Nicholas Millman

Download or read book Ki-44 ‘Tojo’ Aces of World War 2 written by Nicholas Millman and published by Osprey Publishing. This book was released on 2011-10-18 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The 100th title of Osprey's celebrated Aircraft of the Aces series covers a subject sure to be of interest to historians of World War II. The Ki-44 'Tojo' was a fast-climbing, heavily armed point-defence interceptor that was used successfully in slashing hit-and-run tactics that caught Allied pilots by surprise. In the air defense role 'Tojos' pioneered the deployment of a unique 40 mm cannon, the firing system which had no cartridges but instead had the propelling charge contained in the base of the projectile. The Ki-44 was to be used by the JAAF in larger numbers in China than anywhere else. This exciting title from author Nicholas Millman brings the Ki-44's role in the Pacific theatre to vivid life, accompanied by full color plates and archival photographs.

P-40 Warhawk vs Ki-43 Oscar

P-40 Warhawk vs Ki-43 Oscar

Author: Carl Molesworth

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Published: 2012-11-20

Total Pages: 82

ISBN-13: 1782007466

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Known for the distinctive 'sharkmouth' decoration on their noses, P-40 fighters first saw combat in China during World War II. Their most common adversary was the Japanese Nakajima Ki-43, nicknamed 'Oscar.' Carl Molesworth describes and explains the design and development of these two foes, the products of two vastly different philosophies of fighter design. The P-40 was heavily armed and sturdy with armour protection and self-sealing fuel tanks, but paid for this with the loss of speed and a sluggish performance at altitude. The Ki-43 was a rapier to the battleaxe P-40 and the Ki-43 was immensely nimble, though with less firepower and durability. This book examines these two different fighters, and the pilots who flew them over China, with an action-packed text, rare photographs and digital artwork.


Book Synopsis P-40 Warhawk vs Ki-43 Oscar by : Carl Molesworth

Download or read book P-40 Warhawk vs Ki-43 Oscar written by Carl Molesworth and published by Bloomsbury Publishing. This book was released on 2012-11-20 with total page 82 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Known for the distinctive 'sharkmouth' decoration on their noses, P-40 fighters first saw combat in China during World War II. Their most common adversary was the Japanese Nakajima Ki-43, nicknamed 'Oscar.' Carl Molesworth describes and explains the design and development of these two foes, the products of two vastly different philosophies of fighter design. The P-40 was heavily armed and sturdy with armour protection and self-sealing fuel tanks, but paid for this with the loss of speed and a sluggish performance at altitude. The Ki-43 was a rapier to the battleaxe P-40 and the Ki-43 was immensely nimble, though with less firepower and durability. This book examines these two different fighters, and the pilots who flew them over China, with an action-packed text, rare photographs and digital artwork.

B-24 Liberator vs Ki-43 Oscar

B-24 Liberator vs Ki-43 Oscar

Author: Edward M. Young

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Published: 2012-04-20

Total Pages: 82

ISBN-13: 1849087032

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In reviewing reports of air combat from Spain, China and the early stages of the war in Europe, the US Army Air Corps called for heavier armor and armament for its bomber fleet, including the addition of a tail turret. While Japan tried to counter with their own heavy fighters, their inability to produce them in any number meant that they were forced to face the bomber threat with the nimble, but under–armed Ki-43 “Oscar”. While severely outgunned, the Japanese learned to use their greater maneuverability to exploit the small weakness in bomber defenses. This book tells the story of the clash in the skies over the Pacific, as the Japanese fought desperately against the coming tide of the American bomber offensive.


Book Synopsis B-24 Liberator vs Ki-43 Oscar by : Edward M. Young

Download or read book B-24 Liberator vs Ki-43 Oscar written by Edward M. Young and published by Bloomsbury Publishing. This book was released on 2012-04-20 with total page 82 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: In reviewing reports of air combat from Spain, China and the early stages of the war in Europe, the US Army Air Corps called for heavier armor and armament for its bomber fleet, including the addition of a tail turret. While Japan tried to counter with their own heavy fighters, their inability to produce them in any number meant that they were forced to face the bomber threat with the nimble, but under–armed Ki-43 “Oscar”. While severely outgunned, the Japanese learned to use their greater maneuverability to exploit the small weakness in bomber defenses. This book tells the story of the clash in the skies over the Pacific, as the Japanese fought desperately against the coming tide of the American bomber offensive.

Japanese Army Air Force Aces 1937–45

Japanese Army Air Force Aces 1937–45

Author: Henry Sakaida

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Published: 2012-10-20

Total Pages: 176

ISBN-13: 1782005382

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Little has been published in English on the Japanese Army Air Force (JAAF), let alone its most successful fighter pilots no less than 150 of them achieved ace status during eight years of near-constant war, and they are all listed in this volume. From the arid plains of the Mongolian border region to the lush jungles of New Guinea, the JAAF was more than a match for the many opponents it fought against for control of the skies. Indeed, even when the mighty Allied war machine proved almost overwhelming from early 1944 onwards, the elite fighter pilots of the various sentais within the JAAF fought on with near-fanatical loyalty in defence of the Home Islands. Aircraft of the Aces 13 and 22 are also available in a single volume as 'Aces of the Rising Sun 1937-1945'.


Book Synopsis Japanese Army Air Force Aces 1937–45 by : Henry Sakaida

Download or read book Japanese Army Air Force Aces 1937–45 written by Henry Sakaida and published by Bloomsbury Publishing. This book was released on 2012-10-20 with total page 176 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: Little has been published in English on the Japanese Army Air Force (JAAF), let alone its most successful fighter pilots no less than 150 of them achieved ace status during eight years of near-constant war, and they are all listed in this volume. From the arid plains of the Mongolian border region to the lush jungles of New Guinea, the JAAF was more than a match for the many opponents it fought against for control of the skies. Indeed, even when the mighty Allied war machine proved almost overwhelming from early 1944 onwards, the elite fighter pilots of the various sentais within the JAAF fought on with near-fanatical loyalty in defence of the Home Islands. Aircraft of the Aces 13 and 22 are also available in a single volume as 'Aces of the Rising Sun 1937-1945'.

World War II Fighter Planes Spotter's Guide

World War II Fighter Planes Spotter's Guide

Author: Tony Holmes

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Published: 2021-02-04

Total Pages: 289

ISBN-13: 1472848500

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World War II saw pilots from around the world battling in the skies over Europe, Asia and Africa, with victory resting upon their nerve, skill and the capabilities of some of history's most iconic aircraft. In the chaos of battle, it was vital that they could quickly identify friend from foe. But do you know your Hurricane from your Bf 109, or what the legendary P-51 Mustang looks like? Do you know the wingspan of the A6M Zero-sen, or how fast it could fly? THE WORLD WAR II FIGHTER PLANES SPOTTER'S GUIDE answers all of these questions and more, providing essential information on over 90 legendary aircraft, from the celebrated Spitfire to the jet-powered Me 262. Featuring full-colour artwork to aid recognition, as well as all the details you need to assess their performance, this is the perfect pocket guide to the Allied and Axis fighters of World War II.


Book Synopsis World War II Fighter Planes Spotter's Guide by : Tony Holmes

Download or read book World War II Fighter Planes Spotter's Guide written by Tony Holmes and published by Bloomsbury Publishing. This book was released on 2021-02-04 with total page 289 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: World War II saw pilots from around the world battling in the skies over Europe, Asia and Africa, with victory resting upon their nerve, skill and the capabilities of some of history's most iconic aircraft. In the chaos of battle, it was vital that they could quickly identify friend from foe. But do you know your Hurricane from your Bf 109, or what the legendary P-51 Mustang looks like? Do you know the wingspan of the A6M Zero-sen, or how fast it could fly? THE WORLD WAR II FIGHTER PLANES SPOTTER'S GUIDE answers all of these questions and more, providing essential information on over 90 legendary aircraft, from the celebrated Spitfire to the jet-powered Me 262. Featuring full-colour artwork to aid recognition, as well as all the details you need to assess their performance, this is the perfect pocket guide to the Allied and Axis fighters of World War II.

Race of Aces

Race of Aces

Author: John R Bruning

Publisher: Hachette Books

Published: 2020-01-14

Total Pages: 534

ISBN-13: 0316508640

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The astonishing untold story of the WWII airmen who risked it all in the deadly race to become the greatest American fighter pilot. In 1942, America's deadliest fighter pilot, or "ace of aces" -- the legendary Eddie Rickenbacker -- offered a bottle of bourbon to the first U.S. fighter pilot to break his record of twenty-six enemy planes shot down. Seizing on the challenge to motivate his men, General George Kenney promoted what they would come to call the "race of aces" as a way of boosting the spirits of his war-weary command. What developed was a wild three-year sprint for fame and glory, and the chance to be called America's greatest fighter pilot. The story has never been told until now. Based on new research and full of revelations, John Bruning's brilliant, original book tells the story of how five American pilots contended for personal glory in the Pacific while leading Kenney's resurgent air force against the most formidable enemy America ever faced. The pilots -- Richard Bong, Tommy McGuire, Neel Kearby, Charles MacDonald and Gerald Johnson -- riveted the nation as they contended for Rickenbacker's crown. As their scores mounted, they transformed themselves from farm boys and aspiring dentists into artists of the modern dogfight. But as the race reached its climax, some of the pilots began to see how the spotlight warped their sense of duty. They emerged as leaders, beloved by their men as they chose selfless devotion over national accolades. Teeming with action all across the vast Pacific theater, Race of Aces is a fascinating exploration of the boundary between honorable duty, personal glory, and the complex landscape of the human heart. "Brings you into the cockpit of the lethal, fast-paced world of fighter pilots . . . Fascinating." -- Sara Vladic"Extraordinary . . . a must-read." -- US Navy Captain Dan Pedersen"A heart-pounding narrative of the courage, sacrifice, and tragedy of America's elite fighter pilots." -- James M. Scott"Vivid and gripping . . . Confirms Bruning's status as the premier war historian of the air." -- Saul David


Book Synopsis Race of Aces by : John R Bruning

Download or read book Race of Aces written by John R Bruning and published by Hachette Books. This book was released on 2020-01-14 with total page 534 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The astonishing untold story of the WWII airmen who risked it all in the deadly race to become the greatest American fighter pilot. In 1942, America's deadliest fighter pilot, or "ace of aces" -- the legendary Eddie Rickenbacker -- offered a bottle of bourbon to the first U.S. fighter pilot to break his record of twenty-six enemy planes shot down. Seizing on the challenge to motivate his men, General George Kenney promoted what they would come to call the "race of aces" as a way of boosting the spirits of his war-weary command. What developed was a wild three-year sprint for fame and glory, and the chance to be called America's greatest fighter pilot. The story has never been told until now. Based on new research and full of revelations, John Bruning's brilliant, original book tells the story of how five American pilots contended for personal glory in the Pacific while leading Kenney's resurgent air force against the most formidable enemy America ever faced. The pilots -- Richard Bong, Tommy McGuire, Neel Kearby, Charles MacDonald and Gerald Johnson -- riveted the nation as they contended for Rickenbacker's crown. As their scores mounted, they transformed themselves from farm boys and aspiring dentists into artists of the modern dogfight. But as the race reached its climax, some of the pilots began to see how the spotlight warped their sense of duty. They emerged as leaders, beloved by their men as they chose selfless devotion over national accolades. Teeming with action all across the vast Pacific theater, Race of Aces is a fascinating exploration of the boundary between honorable duty, personal glory, and the complex landscape of the human heart. "Brings you into the cockpit of the lethal, fast-paced world of fighter pilots . . . Fascinating." -- Sara Vladic"Extraordinary . . . a must-read." -- US Navy Captain Dan Pedersen"A heart-pounding narrative of the courage, sacrifice, and tragedy of America's elite fighter pilots." -- James M. Scott"Vivid and gripping . . . Confirms Bruning's status as the premier war historian of the air." -- Saul David

MiG-3 Aces of World War 2

MiG-3 Aces of World War 2

Author: Dmitriy Khazanov

Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing

Published: 2013-05-20

Total Pages: 97

ISBN-13: 1849084432

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The MiG-1/3 family of fighters was built to satisfy a Soviet Air Force requirement for an advanced, fast, high-altitude fighter. Entering service in the spring of 1941, the problematic MiG-1 had its handling issues rectified with the hasty production of the MiG-3. Many of these were destroyed on the ground when the Germans launched Operation Barbarossa. Nevertheless, enough examples survived to allow pilots such as Stepan Suprun and Aleksandr Pokryshkin to claim a number of victories in the type. This book tells the complete story of the men who made ace in the first examples of the famous MiG fighter.


Book Synopsis MiG-3 Aces of World War 2 by : Dmitriy Khazanov

Download or read book MiG-3 Aces of World War 2 written by Dmitriy Khazanov and published by Bloomsbury Publishing. This book was released on 2013-05-20 with total page 97 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: The MiG-1/3 family of fighters was built to satisfy a Soviet Air Force requirement for an advanced, fast, high-altitude fighter. Entering service in the spring of 1941, the problematic MiG-1 had its handling issues rectified with the hasty production of the MiG-3. Many of these were destroyed on the ground when the Germans launched Operation Barbarossa. Nevertheless, enough examples survived to allow pilots such as Stepan Suprun and Aleksandr Pokryshkin to claim a number of victories in the type. This book tells the complete story of the men who made ace in the first examples of the famous MiG fighter.