Air forces and warfare Books
Penguin Books Ltd The Hurricane Girls
Book SynopsisCelebrating the lives of the magnificent women, the ATA girls, who courageously flew Spitfires, Tiger Moths, Lancaster Bombers and many other aircraft during World War Two Since the invention of aeroplanes, women have taken to the skies.They have broken records, performed daredevil stunts and faced such sexism and prejudice that they were effectively barred from working as pilots. That changed in the Second World War. Led by firebrand Pauline Gower, an elite group of British women were selected as ferry pilots to fly for the Air Transport Auxiliary. They risked their lives flying munitions and equipment for the boys on the front line. Flying day and night without radio; dodging storms, barrage balloons and anti-aircraft fire; and with only a map, compass and their eyesight to guide them, they navigated the treacherous wartime skies. The Hurricane Girls is the thrilling, moving and inspirational story of the female air Trade ReviewMeet the women who kept the RAF flying during World War ll . . . Nearly 80 years after the war started, the battle over equal work continues and prejudice still hold many girls back from taking up jobs considered to be men's work. But opinions are changing and the women of the ATA remain an inspiration * The Big Issue *
£10.44
Penguin Books Ltd Fighter
Book Synopsis''The most honest attempt yet to tell how the Battle of Britain really was'' Andrew Wilson, ObserverHistory is swamped by patriotic myths about the aerial combat fought between the RAF and the Luftwaffe over the summer of 1940. In his gripping history of the Battle of Britain, Len Deighton drew on a decade of research and his own wartime experiences to puncture these myths and point towards a more objective, and even more inspiring, truth.''Revolutionised thinking about the Battle of Britain in a way that has not been seriously challenged since'' The TimesTrade ReviewRevolutionised thinking about the Battle of Britain in a way that has not been seriously challenged since. -- Robert Dawson Scott * The Times *Must surely rank as the most honest attempt yet to tell how the Battle of Britain really was. -- Andrew Wilson * Observer *The research was so meticulous that his conclusions, chiefly that the Few were very brave but their leaders were daft, could not easily be set aside. Indeed, they are now part of the orthodoxy. * The Independent *The best, most dispassionate story of the battle I have read and I say that even though the book destroyed many of my illusions and, indeed, attacks the validity of some of what I wrote as an eyewitness. -- Drew Middleton * New York Times Book Review *[We learn] that British anti-aircraft fire was ineffective, that some R.A.F. ground personnel fled under fire, that the Admiralty provoked costly skirmishes ...The book resounds with exploded myths. -- Leonard Bushkoff * Washington Post *Deighton has shown himself to be the most protean of British best-sellers. -- John Sutherland * London Review of Books *
£9.49
Hachette Australia 44 Days
Book Synopsis''Brilliantly researched and sympathetically told, 44 DAYS is more than just a fitting tribute to brave but overlooked heroes. It''s also a top read.'' DAILY TELEGRAPHThe epic World War II story of the heroes of Australia''s 75 Squadron - and the 44 days when these brave and barely trained pilots fought alone against the Japanese.In March and April 1942, RAAF 75 Squadron bravely defended Port Moresby for 44 days when Australia truly stood alone against the Japanese. This group of raw young recruits scrambled ceaselessly in their Kittyhawk fighters to an extraordinary and heroic battle, the story of which has been left largely untold.The recruits had almost nothing going for them against the Japanese war machine, except for one extraordinary leader named John Jackson, a balding, tubby Queenslander - at 35 possibly the oldest fighter pilot in the world - who said little, led from the front, and who had absolutely no sense of physical fear.Time and time again this brave group were hurled into battle, against all odds and logic, and succeeded in mauling a far superior enemy - whilst also fighting against the air force hierarchy. After relentless attack, the squadron was almost wiped out by the time relief came, having succeeded in their mission - but also paying a terrible price.Michael Veitch, actor, presenter and critically acclaimed author, brings to life the incredible exploits and tragic sacrifices of this courageous squadron of Australian heroes.Trade ReviewAn entertaining and comprehensive tour . . . Few readers will remain unmoved. * SYDNEY MORNING HERALD on THE FORGOTTEN ISLANDS *A rich and enjoyable island-hopping journey. * SUNDAY HERALD SUN on THE FORGOTTEN ISLANDS *compelling * SYDNEY MORNING HERALD on HEROES OF THE SKIES *Tells the epic Second World War story of Australia's 75 Squadron. * Sunshine Coast Sunday *Brilliantly researched and sympathetically told. A fitting tribute to brave but overlooked heroes. A top read. * Adelaide Advertiser, Sunday Territorian, The Daily Telegraph *Included in Going Out v Staying In * Sunday Herald Sun *Vividly describes the extremely brave men, who with little preparation or material support, flew missions in Kittyhawks against the superior Japanese Zero aircraft. * Readplus *Epic WWII story. * Sunday Herald Sun *Review * Good Reading *heroism abounds in [44 Days] * Weekend Gold Coast Bulletin *profoundly moving and stunningly written * Sunshine Coast Sunday *well crafted, flowing and... an enjoyable read * Flightpath Magazine *This is a book for all those whose passion is military aviation * Australian Defence Magazine *thank you Michael Veitch * Golden Plains Miner *
£13.49
Polity Press Drone Warfare
Book SynopsisChoice Outstanding Academic Title for 2015 One of the most significant and controversial developments in contemporary warfare is the use of unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly referred to as drones.Trade ReviewChoice Outstanding Academic Title for 2015Table of Contents Preface Chapter One: Introduction Chapter Two: The Nuts and Bolts of Drones Chapter Three: Drones and Democracy Chapter Four: Drones and International Law Chapter Five: The Ethics of Drone Warfare Chapter Six: Conclusion: The Way Ahead References
£16.14
The History Press Ltd The Vulcan Story
Book SynopsisThe RAF''s mighty delta-wing Vulcan jet bomber is an enduring image of the Cold War era. A cornerstone of Britain''s nuclear deterrent, it was later adapted for conventional bombing and saw its only active service in the Falklands War. Newly restored with the help of Heritage Lottery Funding, the last airworthy Vulcan B2 XH558 in many ways fills the gap left by Concorde''s retirement.
£10.44
The History Press Ltd The Complete Dambusters
Book SynopsisThe story of all the men who took part in the RAF’s most famous bomber operation, the 1943 Dams Raid
£17.00
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Fieseler Fi 156 Storch
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£9.49
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Douglas TBD Devastator
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£17.09
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Curtiss P40 Warhawk
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£17.09
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Grumman J2f Duck
Book SynopsisThe Grumman J2F Duck formed the backbone of America's over water utility squadrons from 1934 until beyond WWII, setting various aviation records during this service. A single-engine amphibious aircraft (also produced by Columbia Aircraft), the Duck saw service with the US Navy, Marine Corps, Army Air Force, and Coast Guard in a variety of roles including, reconnaissance, air-sea rescue, scouting/observation, and more. This volume is profusely illustrated with scarce archival photographs from diverse collections, including previously unpublished images. Part of the Legends of Warfare series.
£17.09
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Corsair
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£16.14
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Mil Mi24 Attack Helicopter In SovietRussian and
Book SynopsisA detailed technical and operational history of a deadly and long-serving Soviet/Russian gunship and attack helicopter.Trade ReviewThe Mi-24 Hind attack helicopter has always been an intriguing machine because of its aggressive looks and how little was known of its development and subsequent service with Russia and former Eastern Bloc countries. This book documents the doctrine, technical development and concepts of how the Russian military worked with the MIL OKB Design Bureau to develop this formidable rotary wing platform. It is worth mentioning the first-class English translation by David Johnston. It makes for a very easy and comprehensive read. A nice touch is the foreword by the author who gives his account of writing the book and how he came to be involved with the Mi-24. This is something many readers, including me, will identify with, irrespective of which aircraft is of particular interest to you. The overall production of the book, printed on heavy paper stock, is, as expected from Schiffer, excellent. This hardback edition has the solid feel of a textbook. It has the perfect balance of text, illustrations and photographs. From a modellers and aviation historians perspective, it is an essential, very enjoyable, interesting and informative read, and is a must for those interested in helicopters or aircraft in general. It would be a very welcome addition to anyones library and worth every penny. - Sven Atkin, Flightline July 2020
£29.59
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Myasishchev M4 and 3M
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£36.79
Schiffer Publishing Ltd The 406th Fighter Group
Book SynopsisThis is a profusely illustrated history of the 406th Fighter Group in World War II, a P-47 Thunderbolt unit that fought against Germany in the European theater.
£17.09
Schiffer Publishing Ltd P39 Airacobra
Book SynopsisThis new entry in the "Legends of Warfare" series features detailed photographic coverage of all variants of the Airacobra including prototypes, trainer versions, production models C through Q, and the P-400.
£19.54
Schiffer Publishing Ltd The Spray and Pray Squadron
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£30.74
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Great Maritime Patrol Aircraft of the World
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£30.74
Crecy Publishing Harvard Pilots Notes
Book SynopsisAccurate facsimile editions of the original Air Ministry Pilot''s Notes originally issued to aircrew for military aircraft types.Each approximately 60 pages, paper cover, with header card, featuring euro-hook cut-out for display
£7.41
Crecy Publishing Messerschmitt 109 Pilots Notes
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£6.95
Crecy Publishing Battle of Britain Memorial Flight Pilots Notes
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£11.66
Crecy Publishing The Luftwaffe Fighters Battle of Britain The
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£10.40
Crecy Publishing The Luftwaffes Blitz
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£10.40
Crecy Publishing American Aircraft Development of WWII
Book SynopsisThe years of World War II saw the greatest single leap in US military aircraft technology and design, from the relatively fragile pre-war designs to the very edge of the supersonic era. Many remarkable aircraft came and went in quick succession with some missions and types disappearing altogether. Indeed, there were scores of little known or minimally documented aircraft projects which significantly advanced technology of aeronautics, propulsion, aircraft systems, avionics and weapons, whilst never achieving full-rate production and deployment. Focusing almost exclusively on official programs and aircraft that actually entered development, American Aircraft Development of WWII, Special Types 1939-1945 opens with the ''state of the art'' designs at the beginning of the war, to the advances during the conflict itself. These so-called ''special types'' are far less widely known than fighter and bomber designs, but no less important, and include armed photo reconnaissance aircraft, catapult launched seaplanes, autogyros, tactical haulers and armed drones. Other designs covered include ''one-off'' experimental aircraft, rocket boost, floats and skis added to landplanes, fighters with second seats added for training, engine testbeds, ''oddball'' experiments and more besides. Illustrated through-out with 3-view drawings and rare photographs, many of little-known and unusual aircraft and missiles, American Aircraft Development of WWII, Special Types 1939-1945 tells the stories of engineering teams and test pilots struggling against short schedules and tight resources to develop new aircraft that pushed the bounds of technology. This book is a fitting testament to the epic and sometimes life-threatening accomplishments which were every bit as vital to the war effort as actual combat operations themselves.
£23.76
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Messerschmitt Bf 109 F G K Series
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£25.59
Crecy Publishing Evader
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£6.99
Fighting High Ltd Slybirds
Book SynopsisThe 353rd Fighter Group, the `Slybirds’, participated in the major WWII aerial battles. 450 photographs provide a unique window on this historic group.Trade ReviewA real boon for modellers is the Markings, Nose Art and Famous Aircraft section, with its splendid views of various P-47s and P-51s. This is a classy book indeed. * Airfix Model World *The basic story and detailed information is interesting reading, while the number of archive photos, and mix of both colour and black and white images will be a delight to modellers and 8th Air Force historians alike. Heartily recommended. * Military Model Scene *As well as being of interest to general readers, this is a very useful book for modellers seeking detailed archive pictures. * Flypast Magazine *This superb book by 353rd FG historian Graham Cross is packed with 450 photographs covering the highs and lows of life serving with a fighter group from both the air and groundcrew perspective. * Editor - Model Boat World *In one book you will get photos of the main US aircrafts and their pilots, what should come handy in our [military modelling] hobby. Moreover, it might be important to read in order to understand some things connected to 353rd fighter group. * DetailScaleView *Every now and then a book comes along that is so good in every aspect - content, photo reproduction, editing, production values - that it can't possibly be matched...That benchmark may have just been surpassed. * Flightpath Magazine *The book gives a comprehensive look at the 353rd Group, and a unique look at the men and machines which made up this formidable fighting force, Highly recommended. * Britmodeller.com *Packed with nearly 450 photos, the majority of which are previously unpublished, unseen wartime colour photographs and detailed captions, this book is a visual and informative feast providing a unique window on a Fighter Group at war. Essential for any student of the air war over Europe. * Classic Wings *An amazing photographic tribute to the 353rd fighter group of the USAF. Magnificent. * Books Monthly *The photo selection is little short of outstanding…succeeds in representing all aspects of life on a US Army Air Forces fighter station in the latter stages of the war. *Winner of the November 2017 Book of the Month award* * Aeroplane Magazine *A very nicely produced book which will be enjoyed by USAAF enthusiasts with its unique collection of images and information. * Air Modeller *A magnificent book on the distinguished career of a ground attack and bomber escort unit. * Aviation News *
£23.96
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Manfred von Richthofen
Book SynopsisIt is more than a hundred years since the First World War fighter ace Manfred von Richthofen was killed in combat on the Western Front. By then, due to a strange twist of fate, his name was becoming as well known in Britain, France and the USA as it was in Germany. Following the outbreak of war in 1914, von Richthofen initially served as a calvary reconnaissance officer. Such a role was soon diminished by the stagnation of trench warfare, and so von Richthofen volunteered for aircrew duties. From June to August 1915 he flew as an observer over the Eastern Front, before transferring to the Western Front. From there he progressed to pilot training. Von Richthofen's first confirmed victory occurred on 17 September 1916, by which time he had transferred from two-seater reconnaissance aircraft to single-seater fighters. After achieving his sixteenth kill', the up and coming fighter ace was awarded the Pour le Mérite in January 1917, this being highest military honour in Germany at the t
£21.25
Pen & Sword Books Ltd How Strategic Airpower has Changed the World
Book SynopsisIn this book, the history and utility of land- and carrier-based strategic airpower is brought to life by the gallant exploits and photographs of B-17 aircraft Quittin' Time and of its Navigator, Fred Julian in the Second World War, and by the unforgiving and unswerving dedication of Sharkey Ward and his Sea Harrier team in the Falklands war. The overarching message is that the strategic airpower lessons of the past eight decades underpin the urgent need for the UK government to invest more wisely in its Fleet so that the latter may work effectively in conjunction with the US Navy on the global mission to deter those that would harm us, and to maintain the freedom of passage of all shipping throughout the global commons. The authors show how a maritime deterrence strategy in a challenging world is critically underpinned by strategic air power at sea and on land.
£18.70
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The Flying Adventures of Charles Green
Book SynopsisThe action-packed flying career of aeronaut Charles Green (1785-1870), a working-class Londoner in the infancy of aviation, who defied death in a career of 35 years and over 500 balloon flights to make a unique contribution to world aeronautical history. His decision, in 1821, to use domestic coal-gas to inflate balloons ran completely contrary to perceived wisdom, but his success in doing so revolutionised flying for the remainder of the Georgian and Victorian eras. His innovation set the direction of aeronautics for the next 80 years - until the Wright brothers changed its course again. Inventor, innovative balloon constructor, shrewd businessman, flamboyant showman and a skilled and courageous pilot, he was the first to put into practice the concept of public air travel. Charles liked a tipple' in the air - but never compromised safety - and made sure his passengers enjoyed his in-flight champagne hospitality. This earned him not only the status of a national treasure whose very na
£18.70
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The Tokyo Sixteen
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£21.25
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Wings Over Italy
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£22.50
Amberley Publishing US Naval Aviation in the 1980s Marine Corps Naval
Book SynopsisThe latest in Adrian Symonds popular series exploring the day-to-day operations of the US military aviation in the 1980s.
£14.39
Amberley Publishing TallyHo
Book SynopsisHave the squadron leaders over southern England in that long autumn of 1940, and their supporting flight commanders who led the squadrons into battle, had been neglected in the history books? Patrick Eriksson thinks so.Trade Review'Although tightly packed with information, the book is by no means an academic work, remaining highly readable. It is a welcome addition to the literature on the Battle of Britain.' -- History of War Magazine'Although Tally-Ho might be a little too detailed for the average enthusiast, it really is a most interesting book, especially for the true connoisseur of aerial warfare.' -- Military History Matters Magazine'It is a work of almost unbelievable depth of research by a former South African professor of geology, whose insight is quite remarkable.' -- Country Life Magazine
£21.25
Amberley Publishing PACAF and Alaskan Air Command in the 1980s
Book SynopsisA lavishly illustrated history of this fascinating part of the United States military in the 1980s. Take a step inside the day-to-day operations of PACAF and AAC in the 1980s.
£14.39
Amberley Publishing MAC in the 1980s
Book SynopsisStunning photographs illustrate this fascinating account of Military Airlift Command in the United States Air Force.
£14.39
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Kamikaze
Book SynopsisDescribes the roots of the Kamikaze' or suicide for the Emperor' concept. Covers the suicidal exploits of the Japanese pilots. Assesses the damage caused by Kamikaze action. Examines the counter measures taken by the Allies. A fascinating study of this little understood phenomenon.
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Bomber Command Pilot From the Battle of Britain
Book SynopsisJohn Sherwood was commissioned into the RAF on leaving school in 1936, joining a bomber squadron in 1940.
£21.25
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Night Fighter Navigator
Book SynopsisOne of the top scoring night fighter navigators of WWII
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Howard Hughes and the Spruce Goose
Book SynopsisA comprehensive historical account of the production of Howard Hughes's famed HK-I Hercules one of the most expensive failures in aviation history.
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd JG 26
Book SynopsisAll aviation and World War II buffs will want this book. Library Journal
£15.29
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Lawrence of Arabias Secret Air Force
Book SynopsisThe first account of this top-secret units desert war.
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd A Fighter Command Station at War
Book SynopsisThe most comprehensive visual history of this key RAF fighter station throughout the Second World War.
£14.39
Pen & Sword Books Battle of Britain Target London
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£29.99
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The V1 Flying Bomb Campaign 19441945
Book SynopsisIn this new study, Jan Gore assesses the success of the V1 campaign. The background to the development of the V1 will be examined, from the initial references to a mystery weapon to the gradual realisation by the British that the Germans were planning both a flying bomb (V1) and a long range rocket (V2).Once the first V1 sites were identified, the British began a strategic bombing campaign, later joined by the Americans. However, as the Normandy landings became imminent in June 1944, Hitler realised he had nothing to lose by delaying his vengeance attacks. A week after D-Day, the first V1s began to reach England. The attacks swiftly intensified.It was a very different campaign from those before. The pilotless planes could be produced cheaply and there was no need to put expensively-trained pilots at risk. The planes could be launched by day or night, whatever the weather. They were true terror weapons, as the first-hand accounts of those who lived through the attacks make clear; there
£18.00
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Flight Craft Special 2 The FockeWulf Fw 190
Book SynopsisThis latest edition to the popular Flight Craft series focuses on the short-nose variants of the famous Focke-Wulf Fw 190.
£17.09
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Air Battle for Burma
Book SynopsisA new angle on the increasingly popular Burma Theatre.
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Voices in Flight The Wellington Bomber
Book SynopsisEntertaining, hair-raising and sometimes incredibly poignant, these stories fuse to give an authentic sense of the times in which this aircraft flew.
£14.39
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Forgotten Heroes of the Battle of Britain
Book SynopsisThe author explores the lives and contribution made by a five of The Few who stories are less well known.
£21.25
