Air forces and warfare Books

Book Synopsis'Teutonic Titans: Hindenburg, Ludendorff, and the Kaiser's Military Elite' covers the era 1847-1955-heavily illustrated with over 500 images of German Emperor Wilhelm II's First World War marshals and generals, emphasizing their lives, careers, battles, and campaigns. The book covers both Western and Eastern Fronts, as well as the Balkans, Baltics, Middle, and Far East. It is also heavily detailed with maps, cartoons, graphics, and photographs, plus descriptions of strategies, tactics, weapons, statistics on all losses, and results. Period cartoons add to the vast array of photographic sources worldwide: United States National Archives and Library of Congress, Washington and College Park, Maryland; Imperial War Museum London: Bundesarchiv, Bonn, and also His Majesty's own albums at Doorn House, Holland, many of them previously unpublished. German Crown Prince Wilhelm and Bavarian Crown Prince Rupprecht, all German Chiefs of General Staff and War Ministers are detailed as well, plus all top Allied leaders and commanders: Woodrow Wilson, John J. Pershing; David Lloyd George, King George V, Sir Douglas Haig, and Sir John French among them; Tsar Nicholas II, Grand Duke Michael, and more; Frenchmen Henri Petain, Joffre, Foch, and Weygand; as well as those of Serbia, Italy, Greece, Rumania, and Bulgaria.Table of ContentsPreface; Acknowledgments; Timeline of Events; 1 Stage, 1847-1914; 2 East, 1914-18; 3 Middle East, 1914-18; 4 Balkan States, 1916-18; 5 Baltic States, 1916-18; 6 West, 1914-18; 7 Armistice and Revolution, 1918-20; 8 Weimar Republic, 1921-31; 9 Nazis, 1932-34; 10 Scepters, 1935-36; 11 Swastikas, 1937-45; 12 Imperial & Royal Exits, 1951-55; Bibliography.

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Book Synopsis'The Confessions of a Phantom Pilot' is the true story of a young RAF pilot who gets his dream to fly the old dirty workhorse fighter of the Cold War. From the first flight where he thought the jet was trying to kill him, through to his final trip of leading eight aeroplanes on a front line fighter squadron, you will relive his thoughts, feelings and anxieties as he stumbles his way through each flight relying on a bit of skill and a lot of blind luck. In essence, it is a love letter to the Phantom from a star-struck boy who felt like he was way out of his depth at the beginning of their affair. You will share stories of the outrageous drinking culture that was a major part of Cold War front-line operations, and marvel at how he didn't do himself some serious damage either in or out of the cockpit. This is how it feels to be a front-line fighter pilot - the triumphs and the disasters are all laid out here in a completely open and honest way as the author looks back with a certain sense of nostalgia and mild embarrassment. What a blast though!

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Book SynopsisIt is a recognized fact that, had the war gone badly for the Allies on the India/Burma front, and had the Japanese succeeded in invading the Indian Continent, the outcome of the war would have been entirely different. Yet despite this, the campaign on the Burma front is offered surprisingly scant coverage in the majority of photo-history books. This new book, from respected military historian and author Norman Franks, attempts to redress the balance, noting the importance of this particular aerial conflict within the wider context of the Second World War. Franks takes as his focus the pilots, aircraft and landscapes that characterized the campaign. Photographs acquired during the course of an intensive research period are consolidated into a volume that is sure to make for a popular addition to the established Images of War series. Many unpublished photographs feature, each one offering a new insight into the conflict as it unfolded over Burmese skies. The archive offers a wealth of dynamic images of RAF Hurricanes and Spitfires in flight, with shots of both the aircraft and the pilots employed during this challenging conflict. To fly and fight in Burma, pilots really had to be at the top of their game. The Japanese enemy certainly weren't the only problem to contend with; weather, poor food, incredible heat and all its attendant maladies, jungle diseases, tigers, elephants, fevers...The Japanese were the real enemy but the British pilots had so much more to deal with. And they did it for years. In Britain, a pilot could look forward to a break from operations every six months or so on average. In Burma, pilots first employed in 1941 were still flying operations in 1944. The collection represents a determination on the author's part to record the part played by these resilient and skilled RAF fighter pilots, the contribution that they paid in supporting General Slim's 14th Army and the part they ultimately played in defeating the Japanese attempts to break through into India. These efforts, all paramount and imperative to success, are celebrated here in words and images in a volume sure to appeal to Spitfire and Hurricane enthusiasts, as well as the more general reader.

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Book SynopsisInsights into the organisation, equipment, men, machines, technology and tactics of the RAF's bomber offensive 1939 - 1945, Night and day in the Second World War RAF Bomber Command pounded away at the infrastructure of Germany to bring the Reich to its knees., Author Jonathan Falconer describes the Command's complex organisation and the science, technology and engineering behind every raid: how were bomber airfields built? How were bomber crews trained? What aircraft did they fly and what weapons did they use? How was the Command organised? Who decided what to bomb? How was a raid planned, executed, and its effectiveness analysed? How were the 47,000 'missing' aircrew traced? How were damaged bombers repaired?, Author: Jonathan Falconer is the author of more than 35 books and has published widely on the history of the RAF and Bomber Command including the Haynes de Havilland Mosquito Manual (with Brian Rivas), Short Stirling Manual, Handley Page Halifax Manual and RAF 100: The Royal Air Force in 100 Technical Innovations. He lives in Wiltshire.

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Book SynopsisFirst published in the 1970s, Military Aircraft Markings has become an indispensable annual publication for aircraft enthusiasts, historians and students of military aviation. At the heart of Military Aircraft Markings is the most complete listing of all the aircraft of the UK Armed Forces; the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Army and associated units. For each entry the military serial, aircraft type, unit/operator and usual base are given. Further listings cover Ireland''s military aircraft and historic aircraft in military markings. Other sections of Military Aircraft Markings include American military aircraft based in Europe, overseas military aircraft which may be seen in the UK, unit markings and a unit serial number/letter de-code. In addition, the book provides a comprehensive listing of visiting aircraft from overseas air forces that may be seen during the air display season, together with a new full colour photo section. Also included are details of the UK''s main military air bases, a maintenance unit cross-reference and detailed RAF Squadron markings. This new 2022 edition of Military Aircraft Markings has been fully revised and updated by one of Britain''s leading authorities on military aviation. This is the must-have companion for all those interested in UK military aviation.

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Book SynopsisThe B-17 Flying Fortress was conceived by the well-known US aviation designer and manufacturer Boeing during the 1930s, principally as a defensive weapon. Owing to the high levels of publicity it received during its service, it duly became a symbol of the Allied war effort. Indeed, the B-17 became one of the most important US aircraft of the war, and it played a major part in the Allied bombing campaign against Nazi Germany. Eventually, over 12,700 B-17s of all versions were built, with initial service test aircraft being delivered in 1937 and manufacture continuing until 1945, in several major series-produced variants and a host of related models and conversions. With over 150 photographs, this book specifically looks at the B-17G, which was the last major production version and played a significant part in the US strategic bombing campaign over Europe during the final years of World War Two.

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Book SynopsisEven if the North American Aviation B-25 Mitchell had only participated in the Doolittle Raid, it would have cemented its place in history - but it did so much more. Whether flying dangerous low-level strafing missions across the South Pacific from New Guinea to the shores of the Japanese Home Islands or battling nature and deadly German flak over the Brenner Pass in northern Italy, the Mitchell established a reputation for being the best medium bomber used by the Allies during the war. The Mitchell was easy to fly for an inexperienced wartime-trained pilot, and a well-trained pilot could get it off a carrier deck, fully loaded. The aircraft was resilient and could suffer damage from enemy fire, be it from Zeros over Rabaul or 88mm flak sited in the mountains along the Brenner Pass, and bring the crews home - even in bombers so badly damaged that they never flew again. With over 115 images, this book tells the story of the creation of an aviation classic and the brave crews who made its reputation.

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Book SynopsisOne of the three British four-engine heavy bombers that took the fight to Germany, the Handley Page Halifax contributed in no small way to the destruction and ultimate surrender of the Third Reich. However, in its early years from service entry in March 1941, little good could be said about the Halifax. All round it was a poor design from Britain's most famous builder of big bombers. In fact, it was so bad that 'Bomber' Harris wanted it withdrawn from service and production switched in favour of the Lancaster. However, there was simply no time or money to switch to building a new machine. Instead, Handley Page designers struggled to improve the aircraft and it was a good two years before they succeeded. The new Halifax was worth waiting for. By late 1944, Halifax losses dropped below those of the Lancaster, even though the former often outnumbered the latter on some of the big raids. Those who flew and maintained the Halifax were largely loyal to the type, particularly the Canadians, who operated 15 squadrons. Its early difficulties overcome, the design was found ideal for other tasks - towing gliders, carrying troops, stuffing the fuselage full of electronics to spook the enemy, anti-submarine patrollers, spy dropping and, in the post-war world, flying early civil air routes around Europe and helping to sustain Berlin against the Russians. This new book edition of Aeroplane Icons: Halifax reviews the lows and highs of the mighty Halifax and recounts its contribution to the Allied success in winning World War Two.

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Book SynopsisFighter aircraft truly came of age during the World War Two era and many of these machines passed into legend: Spitfire, Hurricane, Mustang, Thunderbolt. Even today, these names evoke visions of daring manoeuvres and ace pilots. Of course, flying a fighter often offered a simple choice - kill or be killed. In the second half of the 1930s, the British government escalated its aircraft design and manufacturing programmes. The Hawker Hurricane and Supermarine Spitfire were instrumental in the Battle of Britain, halting the seemingly invincible German war machine. Britain continued to produce standout fighters, including the Hawker Typhoon and Tempest, Bristol Beaufighter and de Havilland Mosquito. They all made their contribution to the war effort and Allied success. Following the attack on Pearl Harbor, the US had no shortage of recruits. However, the US had less time to build up its reserves since all resources had been focused on supplying aircraft to European countries. Despite this, some manufacturers were well placed to start production on some of the most famous American aircraft of the war: the Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, Lockheed P-38 Lightning, Republic P-47 Thunderbolt and North American P-51 Mustang. This new book edition of Aeroplane Collectors' Archive: British Fighters of World War 2 and Aeroplane Special Aviation Archive: US Fighters of World War II showcases these famous fighters and the role they played in Allied victory in World War Two.

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Book SynopsisThe development of US naval aviation was much in doubt, especially during its formative years between 1910 and 1913. The lack of interest and allocation of money for aviation changed in 1916, when it became clear that the United States could be drawn into the war in Europe. Yet, the naval and marine air sections were woefully unprepared for warfare when the United States declared war against the Central Powers and had to rely on its European allies to provide bombers and pursuit aircraft throughout the war. There was initially tension between the Navy and Marine Corps as the naval hierarchy saw no need to provide land-based aircraft as the duty of aviation was to patrol and for antisubmarine operations by using seaplanes and flying boats. Negotiations brought forth the concept of the Northern Bombing Group, a land-based unit equipped primarily with British and Italian aircraft. This historical narrative encompasses the formation and development of the US Navy and Marine Corps air services from 1911 to 1918. It includes pre-war and wartime training, aircraft development, operations, and personalities such as the Navy's Theodore "Spuds" Ellyson and Marine Alfred A. Cunningham. Both pioneers continuously fought to maintain and grow their service's air arms. Their tenacity would, within seven years, lead to the organization of wartime scouting, pursuit, and bombing units.

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Book SynopsisTAC was the largest of the USAF’s major Cold War combatant commands. Formed in 1946 and headquartered at Langley AFB, Virginia, it operated a huge range of aircraft over the following 46 years until it was inactivated in 1992. In 1946, it was equipped with mainly World War Two aircraft types including P-47s and P-51s. It soon ushered into service jet aircraft operations with the P-80 and F-86. Within a few years, TAC was operating a wide range of tactical fighters, ground attack fighters, light bombers, tactical missiles, photographic reconnaissance and special mission aircraft (reconnaissance, special operations, and electronic warfare). TAC played a significant part in the Korean War, the Cuban missile crisis and later the wars in SE Asia and the Gulf in 1991. It came to operate a large number of tactical fighter and attack aircraft including the F-84, F-100 and F-105. As the 1960s progressed, they were joined by the A-7, F-111 and F-4 and, in the 1980s, supplemented by A-10s, F-15s and F-16s through to the end of the Cold War. In the run-up to any war with the USSR, Tactical Air Command was expected to deploy its combat airpower to USAF Commands in Europe and/or the Pacific. That deployment capability struggled during the 1970s. However, from 1978 to 1984, the strength and capability of TAC was transformed by its new commander, General Wilbur ‘Bill’ Creech. He organised, equipped and prepared his units (including ANG and AFRES elements) to deploy from the continental US to the frontline in Europe. Ready to fight and familiarized with their area of operations they could have joined the war immediately, drawing on pre-positioned weapons stocks. As the Soviet threat diminished towards the end of the 1980s, all TAC’s preparations, planning and capabilities were tested for real following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. Suddenly sent to Middle East in the countries surrounding Iraq, those well tested plans saw TAC aircraft form a major part of all coalition air forces that took part in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In 1992, in a major USAF reorganisation TAC became Air Combat Command.

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Book SynopsisThe history of the Iranian Air Force, currently known as the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF), can be divided into two phases before the Islamic Revolution (197879) and after it. The origins of the force lie in the Imperial Iranian Air Force (IIAF), which became operation with its first fully trained pilots in 1925. Until World War Two, the IIAF inventory consisted of entirely od European aircraft, however, following the British and Soviet invasion of Iran, the IIAF's bases were occupied and all aircraft destroyed. In this book, Babak Taghvaee examines the inventory of the IIAF during both world wars.

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Book SynopsisThe South African Air Force (SAAF) was established in 1920 and went on to see action in World War Two and the Korean War. After this, it was involved in providing infantry support during the (at the time) low-intensity Border War (19661990) in Angola, South-West Africa and Rhodesia. However, as this war progressed, the intensity of operations increased until the SAAF were compelled to fly fighter missions against Angola. In this book, Gerry van Tonder examines the period between 193980, during which the SAAF introduced the jet-engined Gloster Meteor into service in a bid to maintain air superiority against neighbouring nations and beyond.

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Book SynopsisA detailed exploration of the inter-war use of air power in Soviet Central Asia, drawing from Russian-language sources and photographic archives.The utilization of air power by the Communist regime in Russia during the revolutionary period and civil war to control its territories in Central Asia is an intriguing aspect of military history often overlooked in Western narratives. The region, which bordered Iran, Afghanistan, and China, and included the ancient cities of Samarkand and Bukhara, held strategic significance for both the Russian Empire and the subsequent USSR. Attempts to impose Russian or communist ideologies on the indigenous tribal populations clashed with deeply rooted Islamic traditions, leading to resistance movements such as the Basmachi uprising.The Basmachi insurgency, viewed as defenders of traditional tribal values by the local populace, was perceived as mere banditry by the Russian and Soviet authorities. Policing such vast and challenging terrain, where environmental conditions posed significant hazards alongside armed opposition, necessitated innovative approaches. Consequently, the Soviets turned to air power as a means of controlling these remote regions.Despite inventive tactics, the aircraft employed by the Soviets in Central Asia during the inter-war period were often outdated, worn-out, or repurposed from other theaters of operation. This reliance on obsolete or marginal aircraft highlights the resource constraints faced by the Soviet military during this tumultuous period.Soviet Military Aviation in Central Asia: 1917?41 offers a detailed exploration of the inter-war use of air power in Soviet Central Asia, drawing from Russian-language sources and photographic archives. The book provides insights into the challenges faced by the Soviet military in maintaining control over the region, accompanied by rare photographs and unique color artworks depicting the aircraft utilized during this era. Through this lens, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of military strategy and conflict in Central Asia during the early twentieth century.

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Book SynopsisThe formation of the Pathfinder Force in August 1942 produced a steady but certain change in the fortunes of Bomber Command. Its effectiveness against targets during the early years of the war had been very difficult to gauge. When examined in detail afterwards, aerial photographs showed that only one third of the aircraft were successfully reaching their target area and less than this were actually placing their bombs with target accuracy. It was known during the large-scale bombing of Coventry in the autumn of 1940 that the Germans had used an elite force of pathfinder aircraft, armed with incendiaries, who had acted as target finders for the main force of German bombers. What was now needed for the RAF were some similar specialist squadrons, with crews handpicked for their discipline, courage, high morale and, in particular, skills in a wider than normal range of flying jobs. Sidney Bufton, Deputy Director of Bomber Operations, developed the concept of a new Target Finding Force, and his tenacity in putting pressure upon senior Air Ministry staff to implement his ideas and bring Bomber Command out of the doldrums paid off. The new force was finally accepted and the choice of Don Bennett as its first Commander was inspired. Bennett was restless, imaginative, and receptive to change. He never accepted second best and he became a legend to all who served under him. Pathfinder Squadrons were equipped with the best available aircraft, which included the famous Lancaster bomber and later, increasingly, the Mosquito which was a hugely versatile and successful fighter bomber. Would be aircrew for the RAF came as volunteers from all parts of the world including Canada, America, Australia and New Zealand. To join a Pathfinder Squadron was a rare privilege but with it went a huge leap in the likelihood of being shot down. Pathfinder aircrew and aircraft had to lead the way for their following Bomber Force in hazardous raid after raid. They flew at night but it took a full 25 minutes to run the gauntlet of the Berlin defences from end to end at full stretch. They were highly vulnerable to the wall of flak thrown up by German city defenders, as well as to attacks by night-fighters. By the end of the war some 56,000 crewmen of Bomber Command had lost their lives. Martyn Chorlton has written a gripping account of the RAF's Pathfinder Squadrons, recalling the challenges faced in the smoke-filled skies over occupied Europe. It is also a tribute to the brave young men whose exploits, lives and, in all too many cases, deaths have left a powerful torch to bear for all who care about freedom. The book carries a moving foreward by Michael Wadsworth, Chaplain to the Pathfinders Association.

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Book SynopsisLuftwaffe over Scotland is the first complete history of the air attacks mounted against Scotland by Nazi Germany during World War Two and undertakes a detailed examination of the strategy, tactics and politics involved on both sides, together with a technical critique of the weaponry employed by both attackers and defenders. Extensive figures on Scottish civilian casualties have been included, together with a full list of all Scottish locations that were bombed and details of German aircraft losses. From the relentless hit-and-run attacks up the east coast of Scotland to the calamities of Clydebank and Greenock, Luftwaffe over Scotland not only offers a detailed analysis of exactly what happened, but also provides fresh new evidence and claims regarding many aspects of the war in Scotland - some of them specifically at odds with the more traditional British portrayals of World War Two. Some of the controversial issues raised include Why was there no 'Phoney War' in Scotland? Did the Battle of Britain begin over Orkney in April, 1940? Why were more people killed in Glasgow than at the target of Clydebank? Why were the Greenock raids such a disastrous failure for the Luftwaffe?Why did Hitler personally ensure Aberdeen became Scotland's last raided city? Why was the last air battle in Europe fought off the Aberdeenshire coast? Luftwaffe over Scotland draws on a wide variety of sources, such as official archives, articles, letters and personal testimonies, including information about German Luftwaffe operations, to paint the first full and accurate picture of the dramatic and often brutal air attacks that took place in almost every village, town and city in Scotland during World War Two. From a detailed analysis of the attacking German forces, to an explanation of the strengths and weaknesses of the air defences around Scotland, this is an important and long-overdue contribution to the full understanding of this dramatic period in the history of the modern Scottish nation.Trade Review'...contains significant new information and fresh analysis of the main Luftwaffe air raids, including many previously unpublished photographs.' The Scots Magazine '...descriptions of attacks and targets make fascinating reading with easy-to-follow lists of the Luftwaffe's key Scottish targets... ...shows a depth of knowledge that's as impressive as some of Britain's best-known military warfare writers. ...easy to understand and breaks up the subject into sections and with superb images that deliver a concise and detailed account of a very important, and largely ignored, part of the German war on Britain.' The Knocknews and Regional Adertiser 'It is truly a must-read.' Irvine Herald '...an excellent book which sets out an engaging, measured and carefully researchedaccount of the air war over Scotland during World War II. ...Les Taylor is to be chronological treatment of his subject. ...succeeds in throwing new and unexpected light on the subject.' Undiscovered Scotland '...is a long-overdue publication that goes a long way to help our understanding of the German bombing campaign over Scotland during World War Two and answers some important questions. ... The book includes some previously unpublished photographs, plenty of clear, detailed full page maps, Bibliography, good index, and 144 pages. Without a doubt to be kept handy on your bookshelf. Highly recommended.' Wargames Illustrated

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Book SynopsisThis title completes the latest from Eddie Doylerush''s covering high ground aircraft crashes in Wales, following on his previous successful books No Landing Place (1985), Fallen Eagles (1990) and No Landing Place 2 (1999). During the last war many Allied and Axis aircraft came to grief over Wales. With high mountains often wreathed in mist across Wales, many pilots lost their bearings and met their aircraft met their fate on these peaks. The area covered by this volume is roughly that south of the latitude of Brecon, which from East to West includes the Black Mountains, Brecon Beacons, the Black Mountain, south of Llandovery and the Presceli Hills in the west. Only one Luftwaffe aircraft landed in this area, a Heinkel 111 which struck barrage balloon cables at Newport, with only the pilot, Oblt. Harry Wappler surviving. He later escaped from prison camp and stole a RAF aircraft. His remarkable story is told by historian Hugh Trivett. Elsewhere, a Dornier 217 was shot down by RAF fighters off Port Eynon during the last major raid on Swansea in February 1943. Years later historian and diver, Steve Jones, found pieces of the wreckage on the beach at low water and followed the trail into deep water where he located the main site. He traced relatives of the pilot and visited them in Germany. These and many other fascinating stories are told in the book and many interesting crash sites are visited. The book incorporates appendices which include a full list of the high ground military losses and memorials to those who perished, as well as a bibliography.

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Book SynopsisThe former test pilot Eric ''Winkle'' Brown is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as having flown more types of aircraft than any other pilot in the world. Ever. This achievement is all the more remarkable given that only pilot-in-command flights count and that marks or variants of a basic type of aircraft are not included - so the 14 marks of Spitfire that he has flown, for example, count as just one of the 490 aircraft types in his Log Books.This extraordinary record is reflected in the fact that Captain Brown is also the most decorated Fleet Air Arm and British test pilot and has a string of other records to his name, including the world''s first landing of a jet aircraft on an aircraft carrier. He was lucky enough to be a test pilot through the most extraordinary period in aviation history and now has opened up the pages of his Flying Log Books to reveal his experience of some of the most famous, rare, exotic and unusual aircraft ever built.From the infamous Mitsubishi Zero-Sen, to the US Navy''s piston-engine Grumman F8F- 2 Bearcat; from the supersonic research de Havilland Swallow to dangerous experimental types such as the General Aircraft GAL/56, Eric ''Winkle'' Brown knows their virtues and vices first hand. From rarities such as the North American Savage, designed to take-off from an aircraft carrier with a nuclear bomb, to icons such as the Lancaster, Flying Fortress, Mustang and Seafire, Eric ''Winkle'' Brown has tested their qualities and takes the reader into the cockpits of these exciting aircraft, sharing the joys and hazards of flying 53 of the most weird and wonderful aircraft to ever fly.

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Book SynopsisThe Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor was conceived for peace but turned to a warlike purpose savaging convoys bringing vital supplies to Britain. The aircraft Churchill called the scourge of the Atlantic became synonymous with the struggle to supply the Allies by sea. As a truly long-range reconnaissance bomber, the Condor acted as the eyes and ears of the Kriegsmarine, while packing a powerful punch itself. As the Allies stepped up their efforts to address the vulnerability of their convoys to aerial reconnaissance and attack, however, the Fw 200's weaknesses became ever more apparent.Naval aviation author Matthew Willis tackles the career of the feared aircraft, from its beginnings as a cutting-edge airliner, through its early development into a military transport and a maritime bomber and spyplane', including the addition of ever more armament and technology such as radar and the carriage of radio-controlled glider bombs. From the expanses of the Atlantic, via the freezing Arctic seas to the heat and dust of North Africa, the operational history of the Fw 200 is examined

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Book SynopsisThe Gloster Javelin was the UK's first line of night and all-weather air defence both at home and in RAF Germany. In the 1950s, when it replaced the Meteor and Venom, this revolutionary bomber interceptor became integral to many great stories told here in terrific detail. With an unorthodox aerodynamic design, the Javelin initially had major production issues, which included a tendency for engines to self-destruct under certain conditions. Despite this and the criticism it faced - its nicknames included 'Flying Flat-Iron' and 'Harmonious Dragmaster' - the aircraft still receives much affection from its former aircrew. Starting from the first deliveries of Javelins in 1956 until the final withdrawal from RAF squadron use in 1968, Javelin Boys describes adventures in Cyprus, Singapore during the Indonesian Confrontation and Zambia during the Rhodesian declaration of UDI. In this period a total of 434 Javelins were built, with their use spanning across eighteen different squadrons. Steve Bond has interviewed a number of veterans, all with captivating tales of their time on the aircraft. Alongside their anecdotes is a detailed history of this unusual aircraft, accompanied by photography. This book is bound to appeal to all aviation fans.Trade ReviewPRAISE FOR JAVELIN BOYS "With insightful text and an interesting array of photos, Javelin Boys is highly recommended. It both entertains and informs, a tricky balance to strike, but one achieved with aplomb here." Aeroplane (Book of the Month - December 2017) "A superb publication...the central presentation of a wide range of colour photos illuminates the whole book and indeed the story of the aircraft... An enthralling read that I thoroughly recommend." RAF Historical Society Journal "This book has it all; the derring-do, professionalism and dedication of those that flew and serviced the difficult, but ultimately successful delta design." Airfix Model World "Fascinating, funny and at times tragic anecdotes from former ground and aircrew personnel." Flypast

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Book SynopsisWorld War Two Spitfire pilot Owen Hardy was probably the last New Zealand ace to tell his story. He left home at 18 bent on joining the RAF and by 1942, aged only 20, he was at Biggin Hill with 72 Squadron under Brian Kingcome. D-Day found him flying over the Normandy beaches with 485 (New Zealand) Squadron. That he survived the war unharmed owed as much to luck as it did to his ability as a fighter pilot. Unable, though, to settle in civilian life afterwards in New Zealand, he returned to the RAF for the second phase of a remarkable career. Converting to jets, Hardy went on to command 71 Squadron, leading a Vampire aerobatic team with considerable success across Europe – dodging MiGs at the same time! But adapting to peacetime service wasn’t easy. Previously stimulated by the wartime environment and still passionate about flying, he was less enamoured with staff jobs; and this despite working on the introduction of a new, state-of-the-art missile system, Bloodhound. Then a fateful decision, to turn down command of a Javelin squadron and follow his mentor, led finally to disillusionment. Hardy pulls no punches in this forthright and refreshingly honest autobiography. In retelling his eye-opening story, editor Black Robertson shines a light on what it was like not just to fly in combat, but also on the changing face of a post-war RAF which arguably undervalued some of its heroes. From the heat of North Africa to the uncertainties of the Cold War, it’s a unique and enthralling tale.

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Book SynopsisThe US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was created in response to terrorist attacks that were carried out against the United States on September 11, 2001. Its agencies were tasked with analyzing threats and intelligence, guarding borders and airports, protecting critical infrastructure, and coordinating the nation's response to future emergencies. The Department's aviation assets comprise those of the US Coast Guard and the US Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations (AMO). Today the DHS is responsible for over 200 aircraft operated by the world's largest Coast Guard, and around 240 are flown by the AMO, which is the world's largest aviation and maritime law enforcement organization. Since the creation of the DHS much work has been done within both organizations to integrate, consolidate, and update their varied fleets of fixed wing, rotary wing and remotely piloted unmanned aircraft. This title is fully illustrated with over 120 color photographs and provides insight into the department's creation and the history, aircraft, and operations of the Coast Guard and AMO.

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Book SynopsisFollowing a brief war in Slovenia, and months of skirmishes and minor fighting in Croatia, during the autumn of 1991 the crisis in Yugoslavia culminated in an all-out war. The task of the Yugoslav Air Force and Air Defense (JRV i PVO) was to support friendly forces, foremost in regards of unblocking dozens of garrisons of the Yugoslav National Army (JNA), which the Croats were besieging.Decades of ideological pressure during the Communist era and the ideology of brotherhood and unity of the ethnic and religious communities in the multinational Yugoslavia created an independent political factor within the federal armed forces. However, in the fall of 1991, the top brass of the armed forces lacked a clear and realizable plan. Following several bitter battles, and extensive negotiations, the Croatian authorities have left many of the besieged JNA units to go. However, the Serbs in Croatia, supported by the federal armed forces, then continued to fight for the control over the areas under their control, until the war culminated in major showdowns for Dubrovnik and Vukovar.The official truce between Croatia and what was left of Yugoslavia by the time was set for 3 January 1992. However, it was followed by a series of incidents, causing deaths on both sides. Moreover, while the JNA peacefully withdrew from Macedonia, in February of the same year, new tensions erupted between the three dominant ethnic- and religious groups of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Indeed, a war erupted in that former republic of Yugoslavia only a month later with the forces loyal to the official government in Sarajevo, dominated by Muslims, and those of the Bosnian Croats, fought not only the JNA, but also the local Serbs. On 4 May 1992, the presidency in Beograd decided to withdraw the JNA from Bosnia and Herzegovina within 15 days, and to reform what was left of Yugoslavia as a new state. For the JRV i PVO, this was a particularly traumatic experience: out of a force including 860 fixed- and rotor-wing aircraft before the war, it was meanwhile down to about 770, but had to cram these into air bases of what was only 40% of the former state. Moreover, and before soon, writing was on the wall for the entire service, which was to be reformed as the air force of the Former Yugoslavia.Based on author?s unique approach to local archives and first-hand sources, and illustrated by over 120 photographs and color profiles, the Yugoslav Air Force in Battles for Slovenia, Croatia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina is the first ever authoritative account on combat operations of the former Yugoslav Air Force in the conflict that shaped the modern-day southern Europe, and an indispensable source of reference on contemporary military history of this part of the World.

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Book SynopsisThis book is a biography of Dr. Earl H. Wood. Dr. Wood  was one of Mayo Clinic’s most prominent researchers, best known for his ground-breaking work on the G-suit during World War II.  In 1942, Earl was recruited by Mayo Clinic to conduct research on gravitational physiology on their human centrifuge. Using themselves as experimental subjects, he and fellow scientists investigated the effects of acceleration and the cause of gravitational loss of consciousness. The result was a vastly improved G-suit, which allowed Allied pilots to outmaneuver Japanese and German planes and win the air battles of World War II. Following the war, Earl continued his research, pioneering cardiac catheterization on patients with heart disease. The oximeter, which he developed to detect pulse, was enhanced to measure blood oxygen saturation levels; it is now used in every hospital and clinic in the world and is of critical importance in monitoring cardio-pulmonary status during the COVID–19 pandemic. In the 1970s, Earl and his team developed computer-based X-ray techniques, paving the way for modern CAT and MRI scanners. Dr. Wood's innovations put him in the forefront of aviation and medical science in the 20th century, and highlight one  the major contributions made by Mayo Clinic to the Allied victory in World War II  

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Book SynopsisThe Lublin R-XIII was the Polish army cooperation plane, designed in the early-1930s in the Plage i Laśkiewicz factory in Lublin. Since 1927, they started working on their own prototypes. Those were designed by J. Rudlicki and his team of more than a dozen people including engineers Marian Bartolewski, Jerzy Dąbrowski, Antoni Uszacki, Janusz Lange, Jerzy Teisseyre, Witold Grabowski, Jaworski and others. The factory’s first own product was a reconnaissance bomber Lublin R-VIII built in 1928. Its airliner variant, the R-IX, was constructed in a short while. In 1930, they produced a pilot series of 5 Lublin R-VIIIs, 3 of which were converted to seaplanes in 1932. At the beginning of 1929, they performed a test flight of a liaison aircraft prototype designated R-X; a pilot series composed of 5 examples was built in 1931. Prototypes of the Lublin R-IX airliner (1929) and Lublin R-XI airliner (1930) as well as its improved variant, the R-XVI, failed to meet the requirements of LOT Polish Airlines so the production was not started. However, 5 examples of an air ambulance variant R-XVI were built in 1933-1934. In 1931, they created the R-XII sport aircraft that was not put to use.Trade ReviewAnother excellent Monograph from Kagero, which should interest the aviation historian and modeller alike. […] fascinating for providing detail coverage of a Polish aircraft, and the company behind it, which is less well known. * Military Model Scene *An excellent one stop source of information for armchair historians and model-makers alike, highly recommended. * Scale Military Modelling International Magazine *…the quality and accuracy of the account cannot be doubted […] digital renders provide cutaways of the interior, radio, engine and fuselage cross-section, plus eight full-colour profiles. * Airfix Model World 01/09/2021 *

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Book SynopsisThis book compiles the 4-view color profiles, scale plans, and photo details of the single variant of the Messerschmitt Bf 108B-2. Scale plans in 1/72 and 1/48 scales plus drawings from wartime technical manuals. Also included are photos of the details in B&W and color.

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Book SynopsisScale plans in 1/32, 1/48, 1/72 scale of the Polish PZL P.24 A/C aircraft12 pages of A3 size scale plans of PZL P.24 A/C versions.

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Book SynopsisSR-71 covers every aspect of the spyplane’s development, manufacture, and active service, all from the insider’s perspective of one its pilots. Features over 200 incredible photos. Flying to a coffee table near you comes the new paperback edition of this authoritative and illustrated history of the most mind-bending military aircraft ever flown! Developed by the renowned Lockheed Skunk Works, the SR-71 was an awesome aircraft in every respect, setting world records for altitude and speed: an absolute altitude record of 85,069 feet on July 28, 1974, and an absolute speed record of 2,193.2 miles per hour on the same day.Written by a former Blackbird pilot, SR-71 covers every aspect of the aircraft's development, manufacture, and active service, all lavishly illustrated with more than 200 photos. The SR-71 remained in service with the U.S. Air Force from 1964 to 1998, when it was withdrawn from

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Book SynopsisOf the RAF's trio of four-engined heavy bombers in World War 2, the mighty Short Stirling was the first to enter service in August 1940. From its first raid in February 1941, the Stirling was at the forefront of the British night bombing offensive against Germany before unacceptably high losses forced its relegation to second-line duties later in the war.In its modified form as the Mark IV the Stirling fulfilled vital roles with the RAF as a paratroop transport and glider tug on D-Day, at Arnhem and on the Rhine crossing as well as flying countless Special Duties operations over Occupied Europe and Norway. Its last gasp was in 1948-49 when a handful of Mk Vs were acquired by the Royal Egyptian Air Force to bomb Israel in the First ArabIsraeli War.Containing numerous first-hand combat accounts from the crews that flew the bomber and detailed profile artwork, Short Stirling Units of World War 2 uncovers the history of one of the RAF''s greatest World War 2 bombe

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