Two comments on the Battle of Australia Article

Hi Ray,

As a “comment” to your article on the “Battle for Australia”, I have added a few lines on the little-known overflight of Geelong, Melbourne, Hobart, Auckland, Wellington and Suva by a “collapsible” Japanese” Glen” float-plane in February 1942 – ie launched from a mother-submarine in Bass Strait. If you choose to include it, it you might wish to use the photograph below of a E14Y Japanese Glen float-plane being launched from a “mother submarine” – see below:

Regards, Ernie Chamberlain

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I’d like to comment further on your article on the “Battle for Australia,” I would like to highlight an intriguing but little-known episode from World War II. In February 1942, a Japanese “Glen” floatplane conducted an overflight of several cities, including Geelong, Melbourne, Hobart, Auckland, Wellington, and Suva. This reconnaissance mission is notable due to the unique deployment method: the aircraft was launched from a Japanese I-25 submarine stationed in Bass Strait.

The “Glen” floatplane, designed for such covert operations, was stored in a disassembled state within a watertight hangar on the deck of the submarine. Upon reaching the designated area, the aircraft was quickly assembled and launched, demonstrating the reach and audacity of Japanese reconnaissance efforts during the war.

This operation underscores the strategic importance placed on gathering intelligence and the innovative tactics employed by the Japanese Navy. It also serves as a reminder of the broader scope of wartime activities in the Pacific region, extending beyond the well-documented battles and engagements. Understanding these lesser-known events can provide a more comprehensive view of the complexities and global nature of World War II.

Thanks

Dave Watson