WWII caught Australia off guard as it did several countries. As part of the Commonwealth, it sent men to Europe where they were then sent to North Africa to fight. However, back home, things were not as well off as was hoped. It was felt that the Japanese would become a threat, but not as soon as it happened.

In mid-1940 Australia realized that it would need to beef up its aviation program. Part of that program was maritime recon and attack. As such, it put in a small order for what was then the best option, the Catalina flying boat. These aircraft were forward deployed to Port Moresby before the war as well as Kavieng, Rabaul, and Tulagi. It was quickly realized that this was the aircraft that was needed and more were ordered.

Once the war started, the aircraft was used in night attack and even torpedo attacks were tried, but these missions were not really successful. Eventually, with even more Catalinas trickling in, the Catalina found its niche in recon, air-sea rescue and most of all in setting mines. Other missions were long range transport of important passengers and equipment.

This book covers the complete story of the aircraft in RAAF and civil service. Not only are unit diaries used, but also personal pilot and crew accounts. The book has dozens of period photos and some great full color profiles. It is a book I very much enjoyed reading and I know you will as well.

July 2026

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