Corsair Aces of World War 2
The speed with which the Corsair was rushed into service as a land-based fighter obliged the pilots to learn on the job.
The aircraft soon proved to be superior to the Japanese Zero and played a major part in the destruction of Japan's elite air forces in the South Pacific. Later, in an effort to counter the Kamikaze threat, the Corsair was once again hurriedly pressed into service; this time in its originally intended role as a shipboard fighter. This versatile aircraft saw service with the US Navy and Marines, the British Fleet Air Arm and the RNZAF.
Within these pages, real 4FU pilots recount their experiences flying what they call the best all-round fighter in the Pacific theatre.
Mark Styling is better known to readers of the Aircraft of the Aces and Combat Aircraft series as the profile artist for such titles as Hellcat Aces of World War 2, Japanese Army Air Force Aces 1937–45 and P–61 Units of World War 2. A full-time commercial artist, Mark works from his home in the East London suburb of Hackney.
John Weal is a prolific aviation illustrator. He has written and illustrated several volumes for Osprey Publishing's Aircraft of the Aces and Combat Aircraft series.
Mike Chappell retired in 1974 as RSM of the 1st Battalion The Wessex Regiment (Rifle Volunteers), after seeing service in Malaya, Cyprus, Swaziland, Libya, Germany, Ulster and home garrisons. He began painting military subjects in 1968 and has gained worldwide popularity as a military illustrator.