picture 189898

The Japanese Type 97 large flying boat (manufacturer name: Kawanishi H3K) was known by the Allied codename “Mavis” (in Japanese: kyū nana shiki ōgata hikōtei - kyū nana daitei in short). During the initial phase of the Aleutian Islands campaign, Mavises from Tōkō Kaigun Kōkūtai provided crucial reconnaissance in the chain and attacked encountered American vessels. The Japanese lost their most valuable air patrol aircraft after withdrawing from the area. (Artwork by Jean-Marie Guillou)