by Angus Konstam.
Softcover (7.25×9.75 inches). 96 pages. 2026.
Subtitle: The Joint Allied Command Lost at Java Sea
The ABDA (American, British, Dutch, and Australian) command of warships at the opening of WWII in the Pacific Theater seemed reasonable enough, but the reality that confronted them showed how badly outgunned they were.
The usual Fleet examination of ships, crew, and commanders distinguishes the aging and hand-me-down nature of the ABDA ships versus the more modern Imperial Japanese Navy ships. The disparity in airpower was even greater despite some stopgap shipments. The lack of Allied logistical support was even more telling.
Although the Battle of Balikpapan was a bit of an ABDA success, the rest of the campaign proved catastrophic for the Allied war effort. Few of the ABDA ships escaped to Australia, the result of overwhelming airpower and seapower. Some Allied opportunities were missed that might have made a difference, or at least imposed a delay in the conquest of all the Dutch colonies. The vaunted Japanese launched a lot of torpedoes in various surface actions, but few actually hit a ship. Even fewer Allied torpedoes hit a Japanese ship.
A good OOB is included, although you’ll need to look elsewhere for specific ship specifications.
The booklet contains 34 black and white photos, three black and white illustrations, three color maps, two color illustrations, four color diagrams, and three color two-page action illustrations.
The Japanese victory is well explained within the neat prose of the booklet. The odds were mighty long for an Allied rebuff of the Japanese forces, but for those who wish to learn what might have been, here’s a great place to start.
Enjoyed it.
— Reviewed by Russ Lockwood
