058 - Rebuilding Rebaul

Japan's Southern Pacific Air and Sea Command

Even before the Japanese Navy began attacking the Dutch East Indies, it became apparent that air bases located in Japan, Taiwan, and even Singapore were too far from the heart of the action. Outposts would need to be established to help Japan protect both its Navy and Air Force from Australian, British, Dutch, and American attacks. To accomplish this, they constructed a large Air and Sea base at Rabaul in Eastern New Guinea.

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The unique geography and prime location made Rabaul a valued part of Japan’s conquest of the South Pacific. The Japanese Army, Navy, and Air Force would all benefit from the island’s independent features.

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First, Army engineers repaired any airfields damaged by bombing raids. Then, they leveled the airfield for smooth takeoffs and landings. The engineers would also construct additional buildings, such as depots, barracks, and revetments. Once they installed new control towers, the airfield was ready for the Imperial Japanese Air Force and their massive fleet.

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Army engineers also helped the Navy by building seaports for capital ships and escorts. They also constructed specialized seaports for both submarines and floatplanes. Before the Japanese were finished with Rabaul, it would become their most important base, home to no less than half a million Japanese enlisted men.

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