SIX AIR FORCES OVER THE ATLANTIC

SIX AIR FORCES OVER THE ATLANTIC.
by Joseph T Molyson jr.

There are plenty of reading options when it comes to the Battle of the Atlantic. Here the author, a retired US Air Force Colonel, takes a look at this crucial phase of the second world war more from the role of the air forces.
He starts by taking us to the pre-war period and especially the rebuilding of Germany's military capabilities in the air and on and below the sea.
As we now know the Germans had increased in size and strength across its armed forces far beyond those set by the Treaty of Versailles. 
He remarks how the world's different navies would carry out anti-submarine exercises, yet little thought was given to this role by aircraft. As the war progressed, the realisation was that better tactics and equipment was needed, as well as more escort ships for convoys.

The narrative switches to some of the individual battles as well as including chapters on Enigma, radar, and the evolving tactics and armoury the Allied aircraft needed to both find and attack U-boats. 
Throughout the book, readers will find an excellent array of maps, charts and tables covering everything from convoy routes to the losses suffered by both sides.
On the subject of losses, the author states that around 50% of the near 800 U-boats lost in the war, was the result of aircraft either being involved directly or aiding in the attack. It was certainly a combined effort on the Allied side, partly aided by the constant internal wrangling amongst leading German Commanders.

This has been a fascinating read, and I have learnt much more about the Battle of the Atlantic.
The hardback book is available now, published by Stackpole Books. 
I thank Stackpole for this review copy.


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