Sunderland Squadrons of World War 2

by Jon Lake

Derived from the C-Class 'Empire' flying boats of the mid-1930s, the Sunderland was RAF Coastal Command's staple maritime patrol aircraft throughout World War 2. A crucial 'player' in the Battle of the Atlantic, it was instrumental in defeating the U-Boat menace which threatened to starve the UK into submission in 1941-42. Heavily armed (it was nicknamed the 'Flying Porcupine' due to its 14 machine guns), the Mk 1 entered service in June 1938, and proved to be an immediate success. Later versions boasted more powerful engines, turret guns, radar and additional fuel capacity. Aside from its global use by the RAF, it also saw employment with the RAAF, RNZAF, RCAF and Free French air force. Some 749 were eventually built, and by 1945 no fewer than 28 squadrons were flying them. This book details the Sunderland's service in all theatres of World War 2, as well as outlining its postwar service.