Air forces and warfare Books

Book SynopsisThe story of the Consolidated B-36 is unique in American aviation history. The aircraft was an interesting blend of concepts proven during the Second World War combined with budding 1950s high-tech systems. The program survived near-cancellation on six separate occasions during an extremely protracted development process. It was also the symbol of a bitter inter-service rivalry between the newly-formed US Air Force and the well-established US Navy over which of which of the two organizations would control the delivery of atomic weapons during the early years of the Cold War. Entering service in 1948, the B-36 was a remarkable design. It was the largest mass-produced piston-engine aircraft ever built, having the longest wingspan of any combat aircraft in history. Importantly, in terms of the developing Cold War at least, the B-36 was the first bomber capable of delivering any of the weapons in America's nuclear arsenal without modification. To achieve this part of its role, the Peacemaker had an operational range of 10,000 miles, being capable of intercontinental flight without refuelling. It is difficult to imagine a modern aircraft remaining airborne for two days without refuelling - but such missions were relatively routine for the B-36 crews. Whilst there were, at the time of its service, questions around its flight speed, the Peacemaker flew so high that this was considered of little concern - few fighters of its era could reach the same altitudes, and operational surface-to-air missiles were still in the future. The B-36, despite its seemingly conventional appearance, pushed the state-of-the-art technology further than any other aircraft of its era. Its sheer size brought with it structural challenges, while its high-altitude capabilities led to engine cooling and associated problems. However, all of these were finally overcome, and the B-36 served well as the first Big Stick' of the Cold War.

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Book SynopsisA fascinating insight into a very topical aircraft design.

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Book Synopsis'A brilliant tour-de-force' - Times Literary SupplementBomber Command is acclaimed historian Sir Max Hastings' compelling account of one of the most controversial struggles of the Second World War.RAF Bomber Command’s offensive against the cities of Germany was one of the epic campaigns of the Second World War. More than 56,000 British and Commonwealth aircrew and 600,000 Germans died in the course of the RAF’s attempt to win the war by bombing. The struggle began in 1939 with a few primitive Whitleys, Hampdens and Wellingtons, and ended six years later with 1,600 Lancasters, Halifaxes and Mosquitoes razing whole cities in a single night.Max Hastings traced the developments of area bombing using a wealth of documents, letters, diaries and interviews with key surviving witnesses. Bomber Command is, in turn, a fascinating, meticulously-researched, and vivid assessment of the RAF's integral role in the Second World War.Trade ReviewProbably the most brilliant use of anecdotal material that has so far come out of the Second World War . . . A brilliant tour-de-force. * Times Literary Supplement *This is the most critical book yet written about Bomber Command . . . it is also far and away the best * The Economist *Table of ContentsSection - i: List of Illustrations Section - ii: Foreward Section - iii: Prologue: Norfolk and Heligoland Bight, 18 December 1939 Chapter - 1: In the Beginning, Trenchard: British Bomber Policy, 1917-40 Chapter - 2: 82 Squadron, Norfolk, 1940-41 Chapter - 3: 10 Squadron, Yorkshire, 1940-41 Chapter - 4: Crisis of Confidence, 1941-42 Chapter - 5: The Coming of Area Bombing Chapter - 6: 50 Squadron, Lincolnshire, 1942 Chapter - 7: Protests and Policy, 1942-43 Chapter - 8: 76 Squadron, Yorkshire, 1943 Chapter - 9: The Other Side of the Hill: Germany 1940-44 Chapter - 10: Bomber Command Headquarters, Buckinghamshire, 1943-44 Chapter - 11: Conflict and Compromise, 1943-44 Chapter - 12: Pathfinders: 97 Squadron, Lincolnshire, 1944 Chapter - 13: 'A Quiet Trip All Round': Darmstadt, 11/12 September 1944 Chapter - 14: Saturation Chapter - 15: The Balance Sheet Section - iv: Appendix A: Bomber Command sorties dispatched and aircraft missing and written off, 1939-45 Section - v: Appendix B: Specifications and performance of the principal aircraft of Bomber Command and Luftwaffe night-fighters, 1939-45 Section - vi: Appendix C: Letter to Sir Norman Bottomley from Sir Arthur Harris Section - vii: Appendix D: British and German production of selected armanents, 1940-44 Section - viii: Appendix E: Schedule of German Cities subjected to area attack by Bomber Command, 1942-45 Section - ix: Appendix F: Comparative Allied and German aircraft production, 1939-45 Section - x: Bibliography and a note on sources Section - xi: Notes and references Section - xii: Glossary od ranks, abbreviations and codenames Acknowledgements - xiii: Acknowledgements Index - xiv: Index

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Book SynopsisThe United States built the best strategic bombers of World War II, and by the end of the conflict America’s bombers dominated the skies in both Europe and the Pacific. American Bomber Aircraft of World War II is a detailed guide to all the bombers deployed by the USAAF and US Navy from 1941 to 1945. Organised chronologically, this book includes all the great types of the era, such as the B-17 Flying Fortress, which led the daylight bombing campaign against German industrial targets; the B-24 Liberator, which carried out the famous raid on the Ploesti oil refinery in Romania in 1943; the rugged Grumman TBF Avenger torpedo bomber, flown by US Navy pilots at the Battle Midway in that key turning point in the Pacific War; and the B-29 Superfortress, the aircraft most responsible for degrading Japan’s ability to wage war with their constant aerial attacks throughout 1944 and 1945. The guide is illustrated with profile artworks and three-views, as well as two-page dynamic artworks of some of the more famous aircraft in service, such as the highly- adaptable B-25 Mitchell, which served in every theatre in a variety of roles, the Douglas Dauntless SBD naval scout plane, and the Martin B-26 Marauder, one of the fastest medium bombers of its era. Illustrated with more than 100 authentic artworks with accurate markings and camouflage, American Bomber Aircraft of World War II is an essential reference guide for modellers and military aviation enthusiasts.Table of ContentsIntroductionBOMBERS: Strategic Bombers Douglas B-18 Bolo Boeing B-17 B-17C B-17D B-17E B-17F B-17G Consolidated B-24 Liberator B-24A, B-24C B-24D B-24F, B-24G B-24H B-24J North American B-25 Mitchell B-25C B-25G B-25H B-25J PBJ-1H Boeing B-29 Superfortress Consolidated B-32 DominatorTactical Bombers Vultee A-31 Vengeance Martin 166 B-10 Martin 167 Maryland Martin 187 Baltimore Curtiss A-12 Shrike Douglas DB-7/A-20 Havoc Douglas A-26 Invader Martin B-26 Marauder: B-26A–G modelsNaval Bombers Northrop BT-1 Brewster SB2A Buccaneer Grumman TBF Avenger Curtiss SBC Helldiver Curtiss SB2C Helldiver Lockheed Hudson/Ventura Vought SB2U Vindicator Douglas SBD Dauntless Douglas TBD Devastator Douglas AD-1 Skyraider Consolidated TBY Seawolf Martin AM-1 MaulerTransports & Flying Boats DC-3/Douglas C-47 Skytrain Curtiss C-46 Commando Martin PBM Mariner Grumman J2F-4 Duck PBY Catlina Vought OS2U Kingfisher Curtiss SO3C-1 SeamewIndex

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Book SynopsisJulian Zuromski was on the verge of becoming a fighter pilot when Hitler invaded Poland in 1939. He witnessed the Luftwaffe's bombings and the joint German-Soviet invasion of Poland, eventually escaping to Romania. After being imprisoned, he fled to France, where he fought in the Battle of France before escaping to Great Britain after France's surrender. There, he joined the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. Zuromski served as an instructor at RAF Dumfries and later flew operational patrols, claiming his first aerial victory in 1942 while flying a Spitfire with 308 Squadron. He went on to achieve two more victories, including the destruction of a Focke-Wulf Fw 190 with 66 Squadron in 1943. On that same day, Zuromski was shot down, captured, and sent to Dulag Luft, where he wrote anti-Bolshevik propaganda, later being moved to a special camp in Berlin. Zuromski escaped captivity during an Allied bombing raid, eventually making his way to Poland and reuniting with his fiancée. Although suspected of collaboration due to his wartime activities, he was exonerated and later served in the Royal Pakistan Air Force. This book also explores the fate of Zuromski's father, a victim of the Katyn massacre, and the contributions of other Polish pilots in WWII.

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Book SynopsisIn 1918, the RAF was established as the world''s first independent air force. To mark the 100th anniversary of its creation, Penguin are publishing the Centenary Collection, a series of six classic books highlighting the skill, heroism and esprit de corps that have characterised the Royal Air Force throughout its first century.The Last Enemy is Richard Hillary''s extraordinary account of his experience as a Spitfire pilot in the Second World War. Hillary was shot down during the Battle of Britain, leading to months in hospital as part of Archibald McIndoe''s ''Guinea Pig Club'', undergoing pioneering plastic surgery to rebuild his face and hands. The Last Enemy was first published in 1942, just seven months before Hilary''s untimely death in a second crash and has gone on to be hailed as one of the classic texts of World War II.The Centenary Collection:1. The Last Enemy by Richard Hillary2. Tumult in the ClouTrade ReviewOne of the classic books of World War Two * London Review of Books *The Last Enemy rapidly acquired the aura of a book that says something vital, whose importance goes beyond what it literally describes -- Sebastian FaulksRivetingly well told...It will speak to anyone who cares for the romance and tragedy of a lost hero. -- Godfrey Smith * Sunday Times *Elegantly affecting memoir -- David Horspool * The Times *This slim volume of Hilary's seems to have a weight which makes it sink into the depths of one's memory * Arthur Koestler *

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Book SynopsisA key component in any armed force, helicopters operate in a range of roles not only previously filled by aircraft but also many that are completely new. Thanks to their ability to go anywhere and operate from locations as diverse as landing pads hacked out of the rainforest or the pitching deck of a frigate, the helicopter adds a flexibility unknown to armed forces in the past. Be it antisubmarine operations by a Merlin, fire support from an Apache, stores delivered by a Puma, evacuation of the wounded by a casevac Chinook or rescue by a Sea King, helicopters offer the Royal Navy, British Army and Royal Air Force capabilities unheard of in the history of conflict. From its beginnings as a curiosity with little operational use, Britain's armed forces soon embraced the helicopter with the Whirlwind for the Royal Navy and RAF and the Skeeter for the Army Air Corps. Finding these helicopters limited, it was the advent of the turboshaft that revolutionized the helicopter, with the Belvedere, Wessex, Wasp and Scout bringing new capabilities. The next generation, the Puma, Lynx, Sea King and Chinook, all designed for turboshaft power, made the helicopter an essential machine for all the armed forces and have proven their worth to Britain's forces since the 1970s. In Britain's Military Helicopters, Chris Gibson describes the evolution of the helicopter in British service, from their beginnings with the Sikorsky R-4B test flown by Fleet Air Arm pilots in the USA to the latest Wildcat and Apache Guardian. Lavishly illustrated throughout, this book includes original photographs and images from archives, many of which are previously unpublished. 140 illustrations

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Book SynopsisIllustrated with detailed artworks of Japanese aircraft and their markings, Japanese Aircraft of World War II is a detailed guide to all the aircraft deployed by the Japanese military from the Second Sino-Japanese War to the surrender in the Pacific in August 1945. Organised alphabetically by manufacturer, this book includes every type of aircraft, from fighters to seaplanes, bombers, reconnaissance aircraft, torpedo bombers and carrier aircraft. All the best-known types are featured, such as the Mitsubishi G4M ‘Betty’, Nakajima B6N2 Tenzan, Aichi B7A2 Ryusei torpedo bomber and the world- famous Mitsubishi A6M ‘Zero’ fighter. The entries are accompanied by exhaustive captions and specifications. The guide is illustrated with profile artworks, three-views, and special cutaway artworks of the more famous aircraft in service, such as the Aichi D3A1 ‘Val’, Mitsubishi A6M2 Reisen, and Nakajima Ki.27 ‘Nate’. Illustrated with more than 120 artworks, Japanese Aircraft of World War II is an essential reference guide for modellers and enthusiasts with an interest in military aircraft of World War II.Table of ContentsMitsubishi G3M (July 1935) Mitsubishi Ki-15 (May 1937) Mitsubishi Ki-21 (Dec 1936) Mitsubishi Ki-30 (Feb 1937) Mitsubishi Ki-51 (June 1939) Kawasaki Ki-48 (July 1939) Nakajima Ki-49 (Aug 1939) Mitsubishi Ki-46 (Aug 1939) Mitsubishi G4M (Oct 1939) Mitsubishi Ki-67 (Dec 1942) Nakajima Ki-27 (Oct 1936) Nakajima Ki-43 (Jan 1939) Nakajima Ki-44 (Aug 1940) Kawasaki Ki-45 (May 1941) Nakajima J1N (May 1941) Kawasaki Ki-61 (Dec 1941) Mitsubishi J2M Raiden (Dec 1942) Kawanishi N1K-J (Dec 1942) Nakajima Ki-84 (March 1943) Kawasaki Ki-100 (Feb 1945) Aichi D1A (1934) Mitsubishi A5M (February 1935) Nakajima B5N (January 1937) Aichi D3A (January 1938) Mitsubishi A6M (April 1939) Yokosuka D4Y (December 1940) Nakajima B6N (March 1941) Aichi B7A (May 1942) Mitsubishi F1M (June 1936) Kawanishi H6K (July 1936) Kawanishi H8K (Jan 1941) Aichi E13A ‘Jake’ Nakajima A6M2-N (Dec 1941) Aichi M6A (Nov 1943) Yokosuka MXY7 (October 1944) Mitsubishi J8M (July 1945) Nakajima Kikka (August 1945)

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Book SynopsisAviation has revolutionised warfare over the last 100 years, and this new pocket guide gives the reader the essential details of 70 iconic aircraft, including the Sopwith Camel, the Spitfire, the Messerschmitt Bf 109, the P-51 Mustang and the F-4 Phantom. Drawing on Osprey’s comprehensive aviation archive, the Plane Spotter’s Guide uses detailed profile artwork to illustrate and aid recognition, as well as specification boxes to provide all the technical details.Table of ContentsSopwith Pup /Albatros D III /Nieuport 17 /SPAD VII /Sopwith Camel /RAF SE 5/5a /Fokker Dr I /Fokker D VII /Polikarpov 1-16 /Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress /Bristol Blenheim /Consolidated PBY Catalina /Messerschmitt Bf 109 /Gloster Gladiator /Hawker Hurricane /Junkers Ju 87 /Supermarine Spitfire /Short Sunderland /Messerschmitt Bf 110 /Fiat CR.42 Falco /Junkers Ju 88 /Mitsubishi A6M Zero-sen /Curtiss P-40 Warhawk /North American B-25 Mitchell /Grumman F4F Wildcat /Douglas SBD Dauntless /Bristol Beaufighter /de Havilland Mosquito /Ilyushin Il-2 Shturmovik /Nakajima Ki-43 Hayabusa /Martin B-26 Marauder /Lockheed P-38 Lightning /Focke-Wulf Fw 190 /Hawker Typhoon /Consolidated B-24 Liberator /Republic P-47 Thunderbolt /Kawasaki Ki-61 Hien /Macchi C.202 Folgore /North American P-51 Mustang /Curtiss SB2C Helldiver /Grumman TBF/TBM Avenger /Vought F4U Corsair /Avro Lancaster /Lavochkin La-5/7 /Boeing B-29 Superfortress /Grumman F6F Hellcat /Messerschmitt Me 262 /Yakovlev Yak-3 /Mikoyan MiG-15 /North American F-86 Sabre /Grumman F9F Panther /Martin B-57 Canberra /North American F-100 Super Sabre /Boeing B-52 Stratofortress /Douglas A-4 Skyhawk /Handley Page Victor /Avro Vulcan /Vought F-8 Crusader /Republic F-105 Thunderchief /Mikoyan MiG-21 /McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II /Dassault Mirage III /Lockheed SR-71 /Grumman F-14 Tomcat /McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle/Strike Eagle /General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon /McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet /Lockheed F-117 Nighthawk /McDonnell Douglas AV-8B Harrier II /Rockwell B-1B Lancer

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Book SynopsisThis is an important book on one of the most controversial campaigns of the Second World War. 'When we came out above ground there was rubble everywhere, asphalt on the roads had melted in the heat. My only thought was to get out of this hellhole.â Ivar Corneliussen, Waffen-SS trooper

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Book SynopsisDrawing on a superb collection of rare and unpublished photographs the 5th SS Division Wiking 1941 - 1945 is the 5th book in the Waffen-SS Images of War Series by Ian Baxter. The book tells the dramatic story of the 5th SS Panzer Division�Wiking at War. �The men of the division were recruited from foreign volunteers in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, the Netherlands and Belgium under the command of German officers. Not all were collaborators - the choice they were all too often presented with was join up or be locked up - or worse. During the course of the war, the division served on the Eastern Front in 1941. It surrendered in May 1945 to the American forces in Austria.

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Book SynopsisAmerican Aircraft of World War II features 52 of the most important American military aircraft, from fighters to bombers, transports, reconnaissance aircraft and more. Packed with over 250 illustrations, each entry includes a description of the model's development and history, a profile view, key features and specifications.

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Book SynopsisNicknamed the Flying Porcupine due to its heavy armoury of 14 guns, the Sunderland was the RAF's staple maritime patrol aircraft during World War II. It saw action with the RAAF, RNZAF and RNCAF. In this detailed text, crews explain their combat experience.

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Book SynopsisBy the beginning of 1941 there was a fully fledged Polish Air Force operating alongside the RAF. With 14 Squadrons it was larger than any other of the Air Force from Nazi-occupied Europe that had joined the Allies. Over 17,000 men and women passed through the ranks of the Polish Air Force while it was stationed in the UK.They shot down 745 enemy aircraft, with a further 175 unconfirmed. They dropped thousands of bombs and laid hundreds of mines, flying 102,486 sorties notching up a total of 290,895 operation flying hours. They achieved this at a cost of 1,973 killed and 1,388 wounded. They won 342 British gallantry awards.

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Book SynopsisDeep in the beautiful Worcestershire countryside lie a number of secret places that played a special part in protecting a generation from the onslaught of a world war. Travellers passing through leafy Worcestershire lanes may catch a glimpse of a structure that seems out of place against the backdrop of fields and hills – the dish of a gigantic radio telescope. How did such an incongruous structure arrive in the middle of nowhere, and what does it do? This book answers the question, and recounts the dramatic history of two 'Top Secret' wartime airfields, and how their activities were inextricably linked to the 'boffins' of the Malvern Telecommunications Research Establishment. It tells the story of brilliant inventions, wartime courage and sacrifice, tragic air crashes, and ordinary and extraordinary people, pushing themselves and their machines to the limit and beyond. Crafted using personal recollections – the book reveals the truly extraordinary wartime commitment and camaraderie that fuelled extraordinary endeavour and achievement.

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Book SynopsisThe Russian Air Force is the world’s second largest military air arm, capable of deploying more than 4,000 military aircraft, including 1,522 helicopters, 497 trainers, 873 fighters, 424 transports, and more. Illustrated throughout with detailed artworks with authentic markings and exhaustive specifications, Technical Guide: Modern Russian Military Aircraft is a compact guide to the military aircraft deployed by the Russian Air Force from the end of the Cold War to the present. Organised by type, this book includes every significant aircraft used by the Russian military over the last 30 years, from the latest Sukhoi Su-57 stealth fighter and Kamov Ka-50 ‘Black Shark’ attack helicopter to the evergreen Sukhoi Su-25 close air-support aircraft and the venerable Ilyushin Il-76 airlifter transport. The guide is illustrated with profile artworks, three-views, and dynamic view artworks of the more famous aircraft still in service, such as the Sukhoi Su-27 ‘Flanker’, Mikoyan MiG-29 multirole fighter and Tupolev Tu-160 heavy bomber. Illustrated with more than 110 detailed artworks, Technical Guide: Modern Russian Military Aircraft is an essential reference guide for modellers and aviation enthusiasts with a passion for modern military aircraft.Table of ContentsContents include: Fighters & Attack Aircraft Mikoyan MiG-29 Mikoyan MiG-29K Mikoyan MiG-29M and MiG-35 Mikoyan MiG-31 Sukhoi Su-24M Sukhoi Su-25 Sukhoi Su-27 Sukhoi Su-30 Sukhoi Su-33 Sukhoi Su-34 Sukhoi Su-35 Sukhoi Su-57 Sukhoi Checkmate Long-Range Bombers Tupolev Tu-22 Tupolev Tu-95MS Tupolev Tu-160 Transport & Reconnaissance Antonov An-124 Antonov An-140 Antonov An-148 Beriev Be-200 Ilyushin Il-76 and Il-78 Ilyushin Il-112 Beriev Be-12 Beriev A-50 and A-100 Ilyushin Il-20 and Il-22 Ilyushin Il-38 Ilyushin Il-80 Ilyushin Il-82 Tupolev Tu-142 Tupolev Tu-214 Trainers Tupolev Tu-134 Yakovlev Yak-130 Yakovlev Yak-152 Helicopters Kamov Ka-27 Kamov Ka-29 Kamov Ka-31 Kamov Ka-52 Kamov Ka-226 Kazan Ansat Mil Mi-8 Mil Mi-14 Mil Mi-24 and Mi-35 family Mil Mi-26 Mil Mi-28 Mil Mi-38

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Book SynopsisOrganised chronologically by type, German Aircraft of World War I offers a highly-illustrated guide to the main types of aircraft used by the German Air Force during World War I. The book offers a comprehensive survey of German aircraft, from the Albatros B.1 and Fokker E.II of the early years, to the more sophisticated Fokker D.VII and Junkers CL.1 of the final months of the war. All the major and many minor types are featured, including monoplanes, biplanes, single-seater fighters, two-seater fighters, bombers, ground attack aircraft, night bombers, giant bombers and floatplanes. This includes both well-known and lesser- known models, such as the LVG and Pfalz single-seater fighters, the Gotha and Zeppelin Staaken large bombers, AEG ground attack aircraft, and the Albatross, Halberstadt and Brandenburg two-seater biplanes. Each featured profile includes authentic markings and colour schemes, while every separate model is accompanied by exhaustive specifications. Packed with 110 full-colour artworks with detailed specifications, German Aircraft of World War I is a key reference guide for military modellers and World War I enthusiasts.Table of ContentsContents: Introduction Single Seat Fighters D types Albatros D.I Albatros D.II Albatros D.III Albatros D.V & Va Fokker D.I, D.II, D.IV Fokker D.III Fokker D.V Fokker D.VI Fokker D.VII Halberstadt D.II, D.III, D.V Junkers D.I Roland D.II & D.IIa Roland D-VIa & D-Vib Pfalz D.III & IIIa Pfalz D.VIII Pfalz D.XII Siemens-Schuckert D.I Siemens-Schuckert D.III Siemens-Schuckert D.IV Dr & F types Fokker Dr.I E types (Eindecker – armed monoplanes) Fokker E-I Fokker E-II Fokker E-III Fokker E-IV Fokker E-V/D-VIII Pfalz E-types (E-I & E-II) Two-seater Reconnaissance and General Purpose A & B types Albatros B-types Aviatik B-types Fokker A-series Fokker B-series Taube C types (armed two seat biplanes) AEG C-types Albatros C-III Albatros later C-types Aviatik C-types DFW C-types Halberstadt C-types LFG Roland C.II and C.III 'Walfisch' LVG C.II and C.IV LVG C.V and C.VI Rumpler C.I Rumpler C.III and C.IV Ground Attack and Escort Fighters CL types (close support & two seat fighters) Halberstadt CL.II and CL.IV Hannover CL-II Hannover CL-III and CL-IIIa Junkers CL.I J types (ground attack) Albatros J.I and II Junkers J.I Bombers and Seaplanes G & K types (Grossflugzeuge – large bombers, originally Kampfflugzeuge – battleplane) AEG G.I - IV Friedrichshafen G.III & IV Gotha G.I (the Gotha UWD is a seaplane version) Gotha G.II-V Rumpler G series R types (Riesenflugzeuge – giant bombers) Siemens-Schuckert R-series Zeppelin-Staaken R-series W types and other seaplanes (Wasser – floatplane) Gotha WD series Hansa-Brandenburg W.12 (1917) (fighter) Hansa-Brandenburg W.19 (reconnaissance) Hansa-Brandenburg W.29 (1918) (fighter) (includes AEG J.I) Airships Zeppelin and Schutte-Lanz dirigibles

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Book SynopsisAn illustrated history and A-Z of bombers with 750 photographs, in a newly updated edition.

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Book Synopsis''Utterly brilliant: a fantastically exciting book... This really does read like the best kind of thriller. His best book yet''James Holland, author of Normandy ''44April 1982. Argentina invades the Falkland Islands.In response, Britain despatches a naval task force. Eight thousand miles from home, its fate hinges on just twenty Sea Harriers against the two hundred-strong might of the Argentine Air Force.The odds against them are overwhelming.The MoD''s own estimates suggest that half the Harriers will be lost in the opening days of the conflict. They need backup. Within three weeks 809 Naval Air Squadron is reformed, trained and heading south, ready for war.Not since World War Two had so much been expected of such a small band of pilots.Trade ReviewA story of skill, courage and imagination that resembles a miniature Battle of Britain ... a military adventure, written with expertise, a tale of initiative, skill and courage, of pushing beyond the rules ... A thrilling account * The Spectator *Harrier 809 is a truly insightful study of this iconic British aircraft at war, and a tremendous account of the personal experiences of those who flew it in battle. By turns exciting, moving and enlightening; Rowland White has crafted yet another brilliant account of aerial warfare.Rowland White has scored again. Harrier 809 reads like a fast-paced military adventure novel only better because every word is true. White has brought us an up-close, inside-the-cockpit saga of a band of heroes in the Falklands air war. Riveting. * Robert Gandt *Set against the broader context of the Falklands War, Harrier 809 brings the squadron’s story to life in fine and highly readable style. * Garth Ennis *Deeply researched and written with Rowland White's trademark brio, Harrier 809 is the thrilling story of the ‘forgotten' Sea Harrier squadron of the Falklands War, one that arrived late to the party yet played a key role in Britain’s unlikely victory. A superb book. * Saul David *This is utterly brilliant: a fantastically exciting book about those amazing Harrier jets in the Falklands War but so much more besides. White has a richly drawn cast of unforgettable characters ... this really does read like the best kind of thriller. His best book yet. * James Holland *Utterly thrilling and totally absorbing. White conveys brilliantly the spirit of a great aircraft - and the men who flew it * Patrick Bishop *Rowland White has done it again! A compelling, fast-paced narrative that thrusts us into a fascinating cockpit-view of the Falklands War. Harrier 809 provides a true window into a conflict that shaped the modern path of Argentina and the United Kingdom; a "must read" for serious military aviation enthusiasts and historians alike! * Dan Hampton *A compelling narrative, brought to life through vivid personal accounts and told in the author's usual lucid style * Soldier *White writes narrative history like a novelist ... a story of politics, invention, determination and courage. * Navy News *You do get what's on the rather stylish tin; it is a pacy and thrilling read...Taken with his Vulcan 607, to which this book is essentially a sequel, Rowland White has written a fine popular history of the air war for the Falklands * The Times *

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Book SynopsisThis historical directory of bombers includes detailed information about every craft with over 300 identification photographs from around the world.

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive and vivid history of the North American Mustang, one of the most important aircraft of the last century.

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Book SynopsisBomber Command's campaign started on the very first day of the Second World War and ended within a few hours of the final victory in Europe five and a half years later. It was an attempt to win the war in Europe by strategic bombing on such an enormous scale that historians have only recently begun to piece together the finer details of the individual raids. There have been many books about Bomber Command, but Martin Middlebrook, the aviation historian, and his research colleague, Chris Everitt, were the first to compile a complete review of all the raids and the background stories to this fascinating campaign. They undertook the gargantuan task not only of documenting every Bomber Command operation but also of obtaining information from local archives in Germany, Italy and the occupied countries, on the effects of the raids. Little of this material had been published previously, and never before had the two sides of Bomber Command's war been brought together in this way. The Bomber Command War Diaries has become the standard basic work of reference on this extraordinary campaign. This edition includes retrospective observations and a new appendix.

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Book Synopsis''Awesome!'' ANDY McNAB ''You must read this book'' Colonel TIM COLLINS OBE ''Extraordinary'' Sir RANULPH FIENNES Forget what you thought you knew. Discover the REAL story of how the SAS was created.From ex-SAS Commander Tom Petch, this is the never-before-told story of how the world''s preeminent Special Forces came into existence. Flashing between dramatic accounts from the frontlines and power negotiations in Westminster, it''s an adventure that reaches from the trenches of the Western Front to piracy in the deserts of North Africa, to the final assault on Germany.Drawing on hidden archives and told with captivating drama, it focuses on two characters largely overlooked in the traditional narrative - Dudley Clarke the mastermind, and William Fraser the frontline operator. Without them there would never have been an SAS.''Gripping and fascinating... Packed with unforgettable characters and thrilling adventures'' WILL IREDALE, bestTrade ReviewAwesome! The true story of the men who invented Special Forces warfare is even more compelling than the mythology * ANDY McNAB *We rightly value the SAS as a precious national jewel. However its is rarely seen in its full splendour, embedded in our national sceptre of strategic operations - in which the UK excels. To marvel at this phenomenon you must read this book. Well written, entertaining - with breathtaking depth of research telling a genuinely new story of an old tale -- Colonel Tim Collins OBEA genuinely fresh and insightful account of the origins of the SAS. Combining extraordinary depth of research with an understanding born of first-hand experience, this is the page-turning and revelatory story of how a small group of men tried to change the way that war was fought and, in doing so, led to the formation of the world's first special force * Sir Ranulph Fiennes *I thought I knew this story. I didn't. Tom Petch's account of the creation of the Special Forces is more complex, more compelling and more inspiring than the versions we've previously heard. And the fate of the men who have been written out of history - until now - gives it a profoundly poignant conclusion * John Nichol, bestselling author of TORNADO *Gripping and fascinating in equal measure... A highly readable, fast-paced and enjoyable account of the SAS, packed with unforgettable characters and thrilling adventures * Will Iredale, bestselling author of The Pathfinders *A fascinating study of a complex and innovative man -- Gavin Mortimer * Aspects of History *The mystique and exploits, past and present, of the SAS continues to be a source of fascination to the public. This excellent book by an author who served in the regiment strips away the myth from the reality, reveals new information, and presents a lucid account of the making of this elite and lethal force. * Kim Sengupta, World Affairs Editor, The Independent *I can honestly say that this book is the best there is on that subject * Mars and Minerva, The SAS Regimental Association *

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Book SynopsisOn the night of 19/20 September 1944, a force of 227 Avro Lancasters and ten de Havilland Mosquitoes was despatched to attack the German towns of Mönchengladbach and Rheydt. The Master Bomber for the raid was none other than Wing Commander Guy Penrose Gibson VC, DSO & Bar, DFC & Bar. Along with his navigator, Squadron Leader James Warwick DFC, Gibson was flying Mosquito KB627 of 627 Squadron from RAF Coningsby, where he was serving as the Base Operations Officer. By this stage of the Second World War, Gibson was arguably one of the most famous of all the Allied aviators. Aged just 26, few in the country, if not across the Allied world as a whole, would not have heard his name or seen a picture of his face. It was his leadership of the daring Dambusters Raid, Operation Chastise, in May 1944 that firmly propelled him into the public's eye and ultimately led to his award of the Victoria Cross. Gibson need not have been flying that fateful night. Following his involvement in the attac

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Book SynopsisA compact but comprehensive guide to the iconic fighter planes that fought during World War II, which features full color profile artwork throughout.World War II saw pilots from around the world battling in the skies over Europe, Asia and Africa, with victory resting upon their nerve, skill and the capabilities of some of history''s most iconic aircraft. In the chaos of battle, it was vital that they could quickly identify friend from foe. But do you know your Hurricane from your Bf 109, or what the legendary P-51 Mustang looks like? Do you know the wingspan of the A6M Zero-sen, or how fast it could fly?THE WORLD WAR II FIGHTER PLANES SPOTTER''S GUIDE answers all of these questions and more, providing essential information on over 90 legendary aircraft, from the celebrated Spitfire to the jet-powered Me 262. Featuring full-colour artwork to aid recognition, as well as all the details you need to assess their performance, this is the perfect pockeTable of ContentsCovering 86 fighter planes of World War II.

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Book SynopsisThe McDonnell Douglas F-15 Eagle is the undisputed king of fighter aircraft, scoring around 105 kills for zero losses in air-to-air combat. Designed as a pure air superiority machine, the Eagle has since become one of the best fighter-bombers in its class: the Strike Eagle. Since it entered service in 1976, around 1600 F-15s have been built for six air forces around the world. Fast and agile, the Eagle has been the defensive tip of the spear for the Free World. The Israelis blooded the Eagle in the Middle East when they first took delivery in 1979. Since then both fighter and strike versions have been in almost constant action, through Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom and beyond in the war against terror

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Book SynopsisThe inside story of the most expensive and controversial military program in history, as told by those who lived it. The F-35 has changed allied combat warfare. But by the time it’s completed, it will cost more than the Manhattan Project and the B-2 Stealth Bomber. It has been subject to the most aggressive cyberattacks in history from China, Russia, North Korea, and others. Its stealth technology required nearly 9 million lines of code; NASA’s Curiosity Mars rover required 2.5 million. And it was this close to failure.F-35 is the only inside look at the most advanced aircraft in the world and the historic project that built it, as told by those who were intimately involved in its design, testing, and production. Based on the authors' personal experience and over 100+ interviews, F-35 pulls back the curtain on one of the most heavily criticized government programs in history from start to finish: the dramatic flights that won Lockheed Martin the contract over Boeing; the debates and decisions over capabilities; feats of software, hardware, and aeronautical engineering that made it possible; how the project survived the Nunn-McCurdy breach; the conflicts among all three branches of the U.S. military, between the eight other allied nation partners, and against spy elements from enemies. For readers of Skunk Works by Ben Rich and The Making of the Atomic Bomb by Richard Rhodes, F-35 will pique the interest of airplane enthusiasts, defense industry insiders, military history aficionados, political junkies, and general nonfiction readers. Trade Review“During the Cold War, the F-16, which I flew, dominated the skies over Europe. Many nations anchored their fleets on its capabilities. Europe's security now requires the capabilities of the F-35, which will dominate not only the air domain, but support information dominance across all domains, including our ground forces. Building that coalition was a strategic imperative. This book tells that story.”—General Phil Breedlove, former Commander, U.S. Air Forces, Europe; Supreme Allied Commander, Europe "A carrier without jets is nothing! The RN/RAF F35 partnership is an operational necessity, but the RN/USMC F35 partnership is strategic, and a game changer.”—Admiral Sir George Zambellas, First Sea Lord 2013-16 “A fascinating tale of the birth of the Joint Strike Fighter. From the halls of Congress to the office of the Secretary of Defense, the fight to terminate fielding of the Lightning II was relentless. And yet because of the visionary leadership and tenacity of a few, we fly this magnificent airplane today…Bravo!”—General James F. Amos, USMC (ret) 35th Commandant of the Marine Corps “The F-35 is a tale of many innovations and firsts because of the commitment of many talented individuals and the creation of true partnerships across industry and nations. The significant impact the F-35 has had on reshaping air power and transforming air dominance operations is unmatched. We have overcome the challenges of that journey and I am proud to be part of the global F-35 team.”—Greg Ulmer, Executive Vice President, Lockheed Martin Aeronautics; former Lockheed Martin Executive Vice President and General Manager, F-35 “The long-standing Pacific alliance of the United States and Australia has been taken to a new level with the F-35 partnership. The F-35 has proven to be a powerful catalyst for change in whole Australian Defence Force. It has been a long and challenging journey, well told in this book, but the result has been well worth the wait." —Air Marshal Geoff Brown, former Australian Chief of Air Force "Remarkably, few authors have attempted yet to write the definitive history of this most puzzling and historically significant program. Fortunately, a new book, entitled F-35: The Inside Story of the Lightning II, has arrived, seeking to lend an insiderʼs context and insight into the three-decade history of what is often described as the most expensive weapon system in history." —Aviation Week “The future of fighter aviation in the first decades of the 21st century will be centered around the F-35's ability to rule the sky. This compelling history, as told by many of the key participants, is a tribute to the inspired leadership, dedication, and genius of thousands that made the seemingly impossible dream of the Joint Strike Fighter come true.”—Jon Beesley, F-35 Chief Test Pilot “This book captures the heroic efforts that brought forth 5th Generation fighter technology to the world.”—Alan B. Norman, F-35 Chief Test Pilot

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Book SynopsisIllustrated with detailed artworks of combat aircraft and their markings, Aircraft of World War I: The Essential Aircraft Identification Guide is a comprehensive study of the aircraft that fought in the Great War of 1914–18. Arranged chronologically by theatre of war and campaign, this book offers a complete organizational breakdown of the units on all the fronts, including the Eastern and Italian Fronts. Each campaign includes a compact history of the role and impact of aircraft on the course of the conflict, as well as orders of battle, lists of commanders and campaign aces such as Manfred von Richtofen, Eddie Rickenbacker, Albert Ball and many more. Every type of aircraft is featured, including the numerous variations and types of well- known models, such as the Fokker Dr.I, the Sopwith Camel and the SPAD SVII, through to lesser-known aircraft, such as the Rumpler C.1, and the Amstrong Whitworth FK8. Each aircraft profile is accompanied by exhaustive specifications, as well as details of individual and unit markings. Packed with more than 200 colour profiles of every major type of combat aircraft from the era, Aircraft of World War I 1914–1918 is an essential reference guide for modellers, military historians and aircraft enthusiasts.Table of ContentsChapter 1 Opening Moves Chapter 2 Air Combat Turns Deadly Chapter 3 Strategic Bombing Chapter 4 Maritime Aviation Chapter 5 The Eastern Front Chapter 6 The Italian Front Chapter 7 The Middle East Chapter 8 Air Combat Comes of Age Index

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Book SynopsisArguably two of the finest fighters built during the course of World War II, the Me 262 and P-51 Mustang heralded new dawns in aircraft performance. Making its operational debut in the summer of 1944, and powered by the Jumo 004 jet engine, the Me 262 outclassed Allied planes in terms of speed and firepower ratio, offering a formidable punch with four 30 mm MK 108 nose-mounted cannons. However, in the P-51, fitted with the Rolls-Royce (Packard) Merlin engine and drop tanks, the USAAF finally had a fighter that had the legs' to escort its heavy bombers deep into Reich airspace and back. If flown to its strengths, the P-51 was more than capable of taking on the feared Me 262 on an equal footing, despite the differences in power and top speed. Indeed, the Mustang proved to be the Luftwaffe fighter arm's nemesis. When the P-51D sortied over Germany from the summer of 1944 onwards, it shredded through the ill-trained and depleted Gruppen of the Luftwaffe's defence wings.This bTable of ContentsIntroduction /Chronology /Design and Development /Technical Specifications/ The Strategic Situation /The Combatants /Combat /Statistics and Analysis /Aftermath /Further Reading /Index

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Book SynopsisInitially designed as a fast medium bomber, the Junkers Ju 88 was also used as a Zerstörer heavy fighter by the Luftwaffe. It saw its combat debut over Poland in 1939, and heavy fighter variants saw action on every front up to VE Day. The ultimate Ju 88 fighter variant was the G-model of 1944, which boasted a FuG 220 or 227 radar, an astounding array of cannon and machine gun armament and advanced Junkers Jumo or BMW engines. A dedicated nightfighter, the first Ju 88G-1s entered service with the Nachtjagd in the summer of 1944, replacing Ju 88C/Rs as well as some Bf 110Gs. Despite suffering heavy losses in the final months of the war, Ju 88Gs also inflicted serious casualties on Bomber Command throughout the war.From patrolling over the Bay of Biscay, to the Arctic circle opposing Allied convoys and, most successfully, as radar-equipped nightfighters engaging RAF heavy bombers during defence of the Reich operations from late 1941, this is the story of tTable of ContentsChapter One: Early Beginnings Chapter Two: Radarless Nightfighters Chapter Three: Bloody Bay of Biscay Chapter Four: Arctic Operations Chapter Five: Ju 88G – Ultimate Nightfighter Appendices Index

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Book SynopsisPart of the bestselling hardback pocket-book series, The Lancaster Bomber Pocket Manual collates authentic period sources, including pilot''s notes and other Air Ministry publications, to provide a unique guide to this awe-inspiring aircraft.The Avro Lancaster was the RAF''s most famous and successful heavy bomber of the Second World War. Used predominantly at night, ''Lancs'' dropped 608,612 tons of bombs in 156,000 sorties in the period 1942-1945. Some of these missions were incredibly daring notably the ''dambusters'' raid of 617 squadron on the Ruhr valley dams in May 1943.The success of such operations was testament both to the rugged, reliable qualities of this amazing aircraft and the bravery and skill of the pilots, navigators, bombardiers, flight engineers and gunners that crewed it. They relied on their training and experience, supplemented by various pamphlets and manuals that were produced throughout the war.Supplemented with illustTrade Review...provides a fascinating insight… * Britain at War Magazine *

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Book SynopsisResearched from original-language primary sources, this is a uniquely well-informed and multi-faceted history of the World War I air campaign of Bloody April.Researched from original German-, French-, and English-language sources, and written by an authority on both air and ground military operations, author, Dr James S Corum examines how Bloody April caused Allied forces to reassess their approach to the use of airpower. Considering well-known problems such as technology and training doctrine, but also how the artillery-aircraft combination ideally had to work in late-WW I ground offensives, Dr Corum analyses what each side got wrong and why. He describes little-known parts of the April campaigns, such as both sides'' use of strategic bombing with heavy aircraft, and considers the German use of advanced high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft with oxygen and heated suits while detailing the exploits of the infamous ''Red Baron'', Manfred von Richthofen.Lessons from Bloody April Trade ReviewInteresting stuff. * The Armourer Magzine *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION CHRONOLOGY ATTACKER’S CAPABILITIES The Entente air services in 1917 The French Service Aéronautique in the Nivelle Offensive The Royal Flying Corps Senior commanders Army air commanders British RFC brigade commanders DEFENDER’S CAPABILITIES The Luftstreitkräfte: German Imperial Air Service Luftstreitkräfte organization in the 1917 campaign German aircraft Senior commanders German Army aviation commanders AIRPOWER IN 1917 The eyes of the big guns Aircraft and the artillery Fixed balloons and the artillery The artillery flyers Lessons from the Verdun and Somme campaigns Lessons from the Somme: July–November, 1916 Air services and aircraft production Aircraft attrition – the problem of quality control Training for the air services Fighter tactics Squadron tactics CAMPAIGN OBJECTIVES The Nivelle Offensive The strategic situation in early 1917 THE CAMPAIGN Bloody April March 1917: Germans withdraw to the Siegfriedstellung Preparing the Nivelle Offensive Air operations prior to the offensive The French front Attacking the balloons The air campaign prior to the British attack The Arras sector: the RFC’s bombing campaign The attack at Vimy Ridge and Arras, 9–14 April The British offensive continues, 10 April–4 May Arras Front, 11 April–4 May Battle on the Chemin des Dames Front Chemin des Dames Front, 18 April–4 May The French Army mutinies Losses and lessons for the air campaigns of April 1917 AFTERMATH AND ANALYSIS BIBLIOGRAPHY INDEX

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Book SynopsisIn Going Solo, the world''s favourite storyteller, Roald Dahl, tells of life as a fighter pilot in Africa.''They did not think for one moment that they would find anything but a burnt-out fuselage and a charred skeleton, and they were astounded when they came upon my still-breathing body lying in the sand nearby.''In 1938 Roald Dahl was fresh out of school and bound for his first job in Africa, hoping to find adventure far from home. However, he got far more excitement than he bargained for when the outbreak of the Second World War led him to join the RAF. His account of his experiences in Africa, crashing a plane in the Western Desert, rescue and recovery from his horrific injuries in Alexandria, flying a Hurricane as Greece fell to the Germans, and many other daring deeds, recreates a world as bizarre and unnerving as any he wrote about in his fiction.''Very nearly as grotesque as his fiction. The same compulsive blend of wide-eyed innocTrade ReviewHis account of life as a fighter pilot in the Western Desert and in Greece has the thrilling intensity and the occasional grotesqueness of his fiction * Sunday Times *Very nearly as grotesque as his fiction. The same compulsive blend of wide-eyed innocence and fascination with danger and horror * Evening Standard *A non-stop demonstration of expert raconteurship * The New York Times Book Review *

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Book SynopsisThe legendary Supermarine Spitfire was designed solely as an air protection interceptor, to engage and destroy enemy bombers attempting to attack targets in the British Isles. This book describes the design and development of this outstanding combat aircraft, and includes eyewitness accounts from pilots who flew it during the Battle of Britain.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.

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Book SynopsisInitially projected as a maritime reconnaissance version of the Lincoln bomber, itself a development of the famous wartime Lancaster which saw post-war service in a General/Maritime Reconnaissance role, (see Flight Craft No 4), the Avro Shackleton, (named after the polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton) was a completely new design, powered by four Rolls Royce Griffon 57 engines driving six blade contra-rotating propellers.Split into three main sections, this latest Flight Craft title, perfectly timed to coincide with the release of the first examples of the eagerly awaited new tool 1/72 scale Airfix kit, offers a concise history of the Shackleton's development and operational career from the prototype and initial entry in to RAF service in 1951, and its use with the South African Air Force, the only other operator of the type. Section 1 chronicles its design, ongoing improvements and development through the three main Marks, in both the Maritime Reconnaissance and Airborne Early Warning

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Book SynopsisIf one aircraft was to represent the First World War, it could be the distinctive red Fokker Triplane of Manfred von Richthofen. With an astonishing eighty aerial victories, the Red Baron became a legend in his own, short, lifetime. Regarded as one of the most widely known fighter pilots of all time, von Richthofen is also considered to be the First World War's 'ace-of-aces'. While much is known about this German aristocrat, what this book accomplishes is a pictorial portrait of von Richthofen as has never been seen before. Through a unique collection of photographs, the life of this famous airman is laid bare. From early family photographs through to the First World War, and his initial service as a cavalry reconnaissance officer on both the Eastern and Western fronts, his flying career, and the aircraft he flew, this extensive collection provides an unrivalled window into the life of history's most celebrated fighter pilot. By 1918, von Richthofen was regarded as a national hero in Germany and respected by his enemies. However, his remarkable career came to an abrupt conclusion on 21 April 1918\. Just as the German Spring Offensive was faltering, von Richthofen's aerial armada took to the sky to engage the Sopwith Camels of 209 Squadron which had taken off to undertake an offensive patrol over the Somme. In the ensuing dogfight, von Richtofen pursued one of the Camels along the valley of the River Somme. As he crossed the Allied line he came under fire - both from the ground and from the air. Von Richtofen was fatally wounded by a single bullet which damaged his heart and lungs. Just which Allied pilot, or indeed soldier, fired the fatal shot remains in contention. Images of the stripped wreckage of his famous Fokker Triplane add a solemn, and all too graphic, coda to the life of the Red Baron.

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