The Vought F4U Corsair in the War Against Japan

Tim Hillier-Graves

By mid-1944, the Allies, especially the US, began preparing for a potential invasion of Japan. Churchill expected the Royal Navy to support the US Navy in achieving aerial dominance. The Admiralty focused on strengthening its carrier forces, forming the 15th Naval Fighter Wing. However, a key question arose: which aircraft would the Wing use? The Supermarine Seafire lacked the necessary range for Pacific operations, while Hellcats were in short supply. This left the Vought F4U Corsair as the best option. Although initially dismissed due to its poor safety record on carriers, the Corsair was transferred to the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm. The 15th Naval Fighter Wing, made up of Nos. 1830, 1831, & 1833 squadrons, became the first to deploy the Corsair at sea. Despite early losses, British & Commonwealth pilots demonstrated its effectiveness, eventually convincing even the skeptical US Navy of its capabilities.

Author(s): Hillier-Graves, Tim
Binding: Hardback
Date of Publication: 25/09/2025
Pagination: 224 pages
Series: N/A
Imprint: Air World
Published By: Air World
Book Classification: Air forces & warfare
Dimensions: 246x172
Weight:
ISBN13\EAN\SKU: 9781036128104