An event that transformed naval warfare practically overnight is the Battle of the Coral Sea. Prior to this initial engagement of aircraft carrier forces, it was the naval rifle that was the king of the oceans. However, technology had changed things and now it was the dive bomber and torpedo bomber that had risen to ascendency. No longer would battleships maneuver and pound on each other. Now the fleets could be, and usually were separated by a large distance, yet able to wreak havoc on one another.

Still, the main vessel in this exchange, the aircraft carrier, was one that was relatively fragile. Not built to withstand a lot of damage, they were quite vulnerable against the same weapons sent against the enemy fleet. In these engagements, it was imperative that one strike first and strike hard.

In Mark Stille's book on the Coral Sea, we see the wisdom of being aggressive and how missed opportunities could eventually spell disaster for one side and deliverance for another. As is often the case in war, the Japanese missed several prime opportunities to severely set back US naval plans, yet timidity on their side eventually helped the US fleet to put a stop to the rapid advance of Japanese expansion in the early months of the Pacific war.

In this 214th book in Osprey's Campaign series, author Mark Stille takes a look at both sides of the struggle. From the plans of  the Japanese and Americans, to the various commanders who waged the battles and the fleets that took part in the campaign. He then looks at the various highlights of the battle, which took place over several days and the results of the aftermath. This is all superbly illustrated with period photos of the ships and men of both sides of the battle. As usual, the book is further enhanced by the superb illustrations and 3D diagrams of illustrator John White. Since Coral Sea took place in three dimensions, his diagrams really help to illustrate the various attacks.

Though many of you have heard of the Coral Sea battle, this book tells the story in a most enlightening and interesting way. It is a book I very much enjoyed reading and is one I can easily recommend to you.

January 2010

For more on the complete line of Osprey books, visit www.ospreypublishing.com. In the US, it is Osprey Direct at 44-02 23rd St, Suite 219, Long Island City, NY 11101., where you can get a catalogue of available books.

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly, please contact me or see other details in the Note to Contributors.