New Guinea 1942-43: Halting the Last Japanese Advance

96 pages

Dr James Bosbotinis

The first of two books, New Guinea 1942-43 seeks to provide an account of Japanese offensive operations against New Guinea, and Allied (principally US and Australian) defensive efforts, focusing particularly on the roles and contribution of airpower. The authors, Mark Stille and John Rogers, a retired US Navy Commander and Captain respectively, both having intelligence backgrounds, are well-placed to provide such an account. This reviewer has read several of Stille’s previous books, including on the battles of Midway and Leyte Gulf, and the Guadalcanal and Solomons campaign, so was expecting a highly detailed, yet precise and succinct text. This book does not disappoint.

New Guinea 1942-43 follows the established Osprey campaign study format, that is, a context-setting introduction, chronology, chapters covering the capabilities and campaign objectives of the ‘attacker’ and ‘defender’ respectively, with a detailed account of the campaign, and concise ‘Analysis and Conclusion’. The text is accompanied by a selection of photos, useful maps, and the excellent illustrations provided by Jim Laurier. Stille and Rogers ably craft an account that weaves together the overarching strategic picture, multi-domain operational level challenges and drivers, with tactical detail, encompassing such factors as command and control, organisation, the role of coast watchers, signals intelligence, and tactical innovation. This is particularly shown on pages 76 to 84, which considers the build up to and Battle of the Bismarck Sea, which saw the neutralisation of a major Japanese reinforcement convoy to New Guinea from 3 to 5 March 1943. The significance of the battle is highlighted by the authors, stating that it “constituted one of the most devastating air attacks against surface ships during the entire war.” The concluding analysis, although only covering four pages, ably and succinctly evaluates Japanese and then Allied airpower, highlighting key issues. A valuable bibliography is also included, which will be of much interest to those seeking to deepen their knowledge of the New Guinea campaign.

While only 96 pages, New Guinea 1942-43 provides a richly detailed and valuable analysis of Japanese and Allied operations in and around New Guinea in 1942-43 (the second book will look at the Allied counteroffensive). It will appeal to both the lay reader and those with a professional or academic interest in campaign histories; the text, whist highly detailed, is written in an engaging and accessible manner. This book, although considering a historical subject, has contemporary relevance: in their evaluation of Japanese airpower, the authors, for example, state: “After 14 months of the gruelling campaign, the Japanese had still not digested the lesson that to be successful, airpower must be applied in a concerted manner over time, not just in a few decisive attacks.” New Guinea 1942-43 is certainly recommended.