An illustrated study of the conflicts between B-29s conducting night attacks on Japan and the Japanese night fighters defending the Eastern Islands from 1944-45. The American military's strategic strike with B-29s against Japan succeeded when the XX Bomber Command shifted from precise high-altitude daylight bombing to low-level nighttime bombing. This tactic required the Superfortresses to attack their targets individually, without formation or fighter escorts for protection. Nevertheless, the Japanese night fighters proved unable to stop the B-29s.

In this study, Mark Lardas examines the capabilities of the aircraft involved, revealing the conditions under which the two sides fought. He assesses the advanced technology of both sides and how it influenced the outcome of the battle. Maps, tactical diagrams, photographs, and specially commissioned artwork bring the action to life as individual American bombers and Japanese night fighters face off in a classic military duel.