Japanese Combined Fleet 1941-42: The Ijn at Its Zenith, Pearl Harbor to Midway - Paperback

Japanese Combined Fleet 1941-42: The IJN at Its Zenith, Pearl Harbor to Midway

Launching Osprey's new Fleet series, this is a spectacularly illustrated, concise and comprehensive account of the Imperial Japanese Navy's striking force at the height of its power.

The Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) entered the Pacific War as one of the most formidable navies in the world, and its combat power was concentrated into one force, the Combined Fleet. In the months that followed Pearl Harbor it enjoyed an unrivaled string of victories, shattering American, British, Australian, and Dutch naval forces. This period of expansion and constant victories ended at the Battle of Midway, after which the Combined Fleet was forced onto the defensive.

Expert Analysis of Imperial Japanese Navy Operations

Mark Stille draws on his decades of IJN research to explain what made the Combined Fleet the fighting force that it was. This volume examines the fleet's doctrine, innovative tactics and powerful warships during the crucial period from December 1941 to June 1942. The book details the qualities and importance of IJN leadership, logistics, naval infrastructure, and Japan's shipbuilding capability.

Comprehensive Combat Coverage

The book gives an account and analysis of the IJN's combat performance during these crucial months - not just in the famous carrier battles, but also exploring lesser-known elements such as IJN amphibious forces and land-based aviation. Packed with superb original artwork, explanatory 3D diagrams and maps, this volume provides detailed insight into the Combined Fleet's operations during its period of dominance.