Air forces and warfare Books

Book SynopsisA consolidation of all the recorded images of the Red Baron, gathered here in an effort to tell his extraordinary story in pictures.

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Book SynopsisDiscover the enthralling story of the HMS Queen Elizabeth, the Royal Navy''s largest ever aircraft carrier and SUBJECT OF THE MAJOR NEW BBC DOCUMENTARY SERIES THE WARSHIP''Fascinating, often funny and sometimes moving . . . Terrill takes us deep into the bowels of Britain''s biggest warship . . . Exhilarating'' THE TIMES________65,000 tons. 280 metres long. A flight deck the size of sixty tennis courts. A giant piece of Sovereign British territory that''s home to up to 50 Aircraft. HMS Queen Elizabeth is the biggest ship in the Royal Navy''s history and one of the most ambitious and exacting engineering projects ever undertaken in the UK.But it''s her ship''s company of 700, alongside an air group of 900 air and ground crew that are Big Lizzie''s beating heart. And How to Build an Aircraft Carrier tells their story.From before the first steel of her hull was cut, Chris Terrill has enjoyed unprecedented access to Queen ETrade ReviewTerrill takes us deep into the bowels of Britain's biggest warship . . . Exhilarating * The Times *Celebrates remarkable feats of engineering. * Telegraph *

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Book SynopsisThe amazing story of one of the 'Few', fighter ace Tom Neil who shot down 13 enemy aircraft during the Battle of Britain.Trade ReviewA thrilling new book... Tom Neil is one of the last surviving heroes who fought the Luftwaffe' * THE DAILY EXPRESS *The best book on the Battle of Britain' -- SIR JOHN GRANDY, Marshal of the RAFAn icon of the battle as well as one of the most successful pilots, he is uniquely qualified to tell a story that is both the ultimate military epic, and also distinctly personal' * MILITARY TIMES *Tom Neil is one of the last of the Few' * BEST OF BRITISH *Table of ContentsForeword, Author's Note, 1. Early Days, 2. 249 Squadron: May 1940, 3. Spitfire Interlude: 1 - 11 June 1940, 4. Operational in a Hurricane: 12 June-14 August 1940, 5. Into Battle From Boscombe Down: 15-31 August 1940, 6. September 1940 at North Weald, 7. An October of 109s, 8. Winter Sets In: November 1940, 9. The Last of the Year: December 1940, Epilogue: What Happened After the Battle of Britain?, Appendix - Log Book, Publisher's Acknowledgements

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Book SynopsisWith a wealth of illustrations, Terry Treadwell tells the story of this famous aircraft - The F-14 Tomcat.

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Book SynopsisThe lavishly illustrated story of the Air National Guard in the 1980s. Take a step inside the day-to-day operations.

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Book SynopsisIn this startling new perspective on the Battle of Britain, Robert Verkaik reveals the surprising truth about the battle's forgotten fighter, the Boulton Paul Defiant.Trade ReviewFrom the corridors of the Air Ministry to the skies over Dunkirk, Robert Verkaik tells the story of the Battle of Britain's unlikeliest hero with verve and phenomenal grasp of detail. He brings the Defiant fighter back into focus as an important part of the victorious RAF in the hour of its greatest trial. -- Mark UrbanIn Defiant, Robert Verkaik has achieved the impossible - resurrecting the reputation of one of World War Two's worst remembered fighter planes. Unwanted, unloved and rushed into service, the Defiant nevertheless turns out to have achieved far more success in combat than has been previously acknowledged. This is mainly down to the brilliance of the officers who commanded the two operational squadrons and whose record Verkaik rightly praises. This book firmly establishes the aircraft's role in those crucial aerial battles of 1940 and elevates the brave aircrews who fought and died in their forgotten Defiants, to rank alongside their comrades in the better remembered Hurricanes and Spitfires. -- David Fairhead, director of SpitfireVerkaik is an excellent guide, making his case with a restrained passion, taking us through the inter-war rearmament before cataloguing the muddled thinking, the political infighting, the inter-service and personality rivalries. His research was clearly a labour of love, leaving no Whitehall paper or airman's letter unturned in his search for the truth, and he never forgets the human dimension behind the losses. -- Simon Humphreys * Mail on Sunday *Defiant is both a stirring testament to the courage of the men who flew them and a welcome new examination of one of the Second World War's most famous conflicts. -- Alexander Larman * Observer *Praise for Jihadi John:An exemplary account . . . The book's most important contribution is to highlight the difficulties faced by the intelligence services . . . a first-class primer on Muslim extremism in Britain. * Sunday Times *Praise for Jihadi John:Verkaik gives a fascinating if frightening picture of the jihadists in our midst. * Mail on Sunday *Praise for Jihadi John:An outstanding pulling together of the fractured career of one of the most notorious terrorist psychopathic killers of this or any other age. The book is exceptional because its author makes no false claims for what he doesn't know and never confuses explanation with explaining away . . . [an] excellent and thought-provoking book. * Evening Standard *Praise for Jihadi John:A riveting and compelling portrait of Mohammed Emwazi on his journey to the heart of darkness.Meticulously researched and rich in human and social as well as military interest, Defiant fills a crucial gap in our understanding of that most perilous time. -- David Kynaston, author of Austerity Britain

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Book SynopsisRoyal Prussian Jagdgeschwader Nr III was the third of Germany''s vaunted fighter wings to be formed during World War 1. Commanded by the Pour le Mérite winner and well-respected ace Hauptmann Bruno Loerzer for its entire existence, it was composed of the celebrated Jasta ''Boelcke'', along with Jagdstaffeln 26, 27 and 36. Equipped largely with the new Fokker triplane, these four units would play an important role in the Kaiserschlacht as part of the 17. Armee. As Germany''s fortunes waned in the summer of 1918, the aces of JG III nonetheless did their best to stem the tides of British, French and later American aircraft they encountered. Aces such as Carl Bolle, Paul Bäumer, Heinrich Bongartz, Hermann Frommherz, Rudolf Klimke and the infamous Hermann Göring all carved their names in the record books flying in this formidable formation. This book examines the tactics, achievements and personalities of one of the deadliest of Germany''s aerial units.Table of ContentsOrigins and Background /Kaiserschlacht /The Tide Turns /September Success Story /Bitter End /Appendices /Colour Plates Commentary /Index

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Book SynopsisLockheed''s SR-71 Blackbird is one of the most iconic and famous jets ever built. Assembled in secret at Lockheed''s Skunk Works, the Blackbird''s vital statistics remain phenomenal, decades later. It holds the airspeed record for a manned jet aircraft, operated at an altitude other aircraft could barely touch, and was a marvel of technical engineering. Drawing on declassified material, leading SR-71 expert Paul Crickmore reveals the history of this fascinating aircraft, accompanied by a range of fantastic illustrations, photographs, and facts about the world''s most secret spy plane.Table of ContentsList of Abbreviations / Introduction / Chronology / A-12 Design and Manufacture / A-12 Oxcart Operations / Tagboard and Senior Bowl, the M-21 and D-21 / Kedlock, the YF-12A / Senior Crown, the SR-71 / Flying the SR-71 / NASA Operations / Surviving Aircraft Histories / Appendices / Index

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Book SynopsisIn many ways, the Heinkel He 177 ''Greif'' (Griffon) was Nazi Germany''s ''lost'' strategic bomber. With some fundamental creases ironed out, and built in large numbers, the He 177 would have offered the Luftwaffe the means with which to carry out long-range, mass bombing attacks against targets of a strategic nature. Although competing interests and personalities served to prevent this from happening, from mid-1943 the aircraft nevertheless saw service over England, the Atlantic, the Mediterranean and in Russia. The He 177 flew to the end of the war, with some machines undertaking extremely hazardous low-level missions against Soviet armour in Poland in late 1944-45. This fascinating book, filled with detailed artwork and contemporary photographs, tells the story of this aircraft, including the political infighting at the top of the Luftwaffe's hierarchy that stymied its development, its radical technical design and its state-of-the-art weaponry.

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Book SynopsisIn 1942, the massive Japanese naval base and airfield at Rabaul was a fortress standing in the Allies' path to Tokyo. It was impossible to seize Rabaul, or starve the 100,000-strong garrison out. Instead the US began an innovative, hard-fought two-year air campaign to draw its teeth, and allow them to bypass the island completely. The struggle decided more than the fate of Rabaul. If successful, the Allies would demonstrate a new form of warfare, where air power, with a judicious use of naval and land forces, would eliminate the need to occupy a ground objective in order to control it. As it turned out, the Siege of Rabaul proved to be more just than a successful demonstration of air power it provided the roadmap for the rest of World War II in the Pacific.Table of ContentsIntroduction Chronology Attackers' Capabilities Defenders' Capabilities Campaign Objectives The Campaign Aftermath and Analysis Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisAfter the huge advances made in the early months of the Pacific war, it was in remote New Guinea where the advance of Imperial Japanese Naval Air Force (IJNAF) A6M Zero-sen fighters was first halted due to a series of offensive and defensive aerial battles ranging from treetop height up to 30,000 ft. Initially, the IJNAF fought Australian Kittyhawks, but by May 1942 they had fought themselves into oblivion, and were relieved by USAAF P-39 and P-400 Airacobras. The battles unfolded over mountainous terrain with treacherous tropical weather. Neither IJNAF or USAAF pilots had been trained for such extreme conditions, incurring many additional losses aside from those that fell in combat. Using specially commissioned artwork and contemporary photographs and testimony, this fascinating study explains how, despite their initial deficit in experience and equipment, the Airacobras managed to square the ledger and defend New Guinea.Table 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 SynopsisBuilt within a 180-day time limit in 1943, the F-80 Shooting Star first saw service in Italy in the final year of World War 2, and consequently was sent to bases in the US, Europe and the Far East after VJ Day. It was the latter groups based in Japan that initially bore the brunt of the early fighting in Korea, engaging MiG-15s in the world's first jet-versus-jet combat. Flown principally by the 8th and 49th Fighter Bomber Wings, the F-80 served until the end of the war, completing an astonishing 98,515 combat sorties, shooting down 17 aircraft (including three of the vastly superior MiG-15s), dropping over 33,000 tons of bombs, and firing over 80,000 air-to-ground rockets. Aside from the fighter-bomber Shooting Stars, the ultra-rare, but heavily used, photo-reconnaissance RF-80A saw extensive use in the frontline in Korea as a replacement for the vulnerable RF-51D. Filled with first-hand accounts and rare colour photographs taken by the veterans themselves, this is Table of ContentsChapter One: PACAF pre-war Chapter Two Into combat from Japan – first 60 days of the war Chapter Three Flying from South Korea – fighting MiGs over the Yalu Chapter Four 8th, 35th and 49th Fighter Bomber Wings take the strain Chapter Five Replaced by the F-86 in the fighter role – only fighter-bombers now Chapter Six: Photo-recce RF-80s at War Appendices Index

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Book SynopsisJapan 1944-45 examines the only time in history that a major war was ended by the use of air power. It shows how the United States used a combination of industrial capability and geography to devastate Japan from the air, and why the Japanese, despite a promising start to their defense, proved unable to prevent the XXIst Air Force from destroying their country. Since the early 1930s air power advocates had claimed that aerial bombardment alone could defeat a nation. Yet by January 1945, while it had been the key to winning ground campaigns, from the German Blitzkrieg to the Allies'' advance across the Pacific, air power had failed to demonstrate their most audacious claim: that strategic bombing, by itself, could win a war.The United States sought to prove it by reducing the Japanese Home Islands'' military and industrial capability through bombing alone until they had to surrender.Table of ContentsIntroduction /Chronology /Attacker's Capabilities /Defender's Capabilities /Campaign Objectives /Order of Battle /The Campaign /Analysis /Conclusion /Bibliography /Index

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Book SynopsisThis is the fascinating history of how the radical delta-wing became the design of choice for early British and American high-performance jets, and of the role legendary aircraft like the Fairey Delta series played in its development.At the dawn of the supersonic jet age, aircraft designers were forced to devise radical new planforms that suited the new power of the jet engine. One of the most successful was the delta wing.Although Gloster produced the delta wing Javelin, and Boulton Paul--its P.111 research aircraft--Fairey and Avro were the champions of the delta in Britain. Meanwhile in America, with the exception of Douglas''s Navy jet fighter programs, Convair largely had the delta wing to itself. These development lines, one on each side of the Atlantic, had essentially the same objective -- to produce high-speed fighter aircraft. In Britain, the Fairey Delta 2 went on to break the World Air Speed Record in spectacular fashion, but it failed to win a proTable of Contents1. Fairey Delta 1 2. Fairey Delta 2 3. Fairey Rocket Fighter and 'Delta 3' 4. Convair XF-92 and XF-92A 5. Convair F-102 and F-106 6. Convair Sea Dart 7. Avro 707 Series Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisA fully illustrated history of how the US Navy destroyed Truk, the greatest Japanese naval and air base in the Pacific, with Operation Hailstone, and how B-29 units and the carriers of the British Pacific Fleet kept the base suppressed until VJ-Day.In early 1944, the island base of Truk was a Japanese Pearl Harbor; a powerful naval and air base that needed to be neutralized before the Allies could fight their way any further towards Tokyo. But Truk was also the most heavily defended naval base outside the Japanese Home Islands and an Allied invasion would be costly. Long-range bombing against Truk intact would be a massacre so a plan was conceived to neutralize it through a series of massive naval raids led by the growing US carrier fleet. Operation Hailstone was one of the most famous operations ever undertaken by American carriers in the Pacific.This book examines the rise and fall of Truk as a Japanese bastion and explains how in two huge raTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION CHRONOLOGY ATTACKER'S CAPABILITIES Long-range air power in 1944 DEFENDER'S CAPABILITIES The ‘Gibraltar of the Pacific’ CAMPAIGN OBJECTIVES Keystone of the Pacific War Allied objectives and plans Japanese objectives and plans THE CAMPAIGN From feared bastion to the Allies’ punchbag Background: 1939-January 1944 Operation Hailstone: February 1944 April Showers: April 1944 Truk Besieged: March 1944–June 1945 Operation Inmate: June 14-15, 1945 AFTERMATH AND ANALYSIS Surviving Aircraft FURTHER READING INDEX

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Book SynopsisA detailed, illustrated exploration of the land, sea and air units that defended Malta, and the repeated Axis attempts to bring the crucial Allied island fortress to its knees.On 11 June 1940, the British crown colony of Malta which dominated the central Mediterranean and all-important sea routes to and from North Africa was bombed for the first time by aircraft of the Italian Regia Aeronautica. The Italians were joined in their efforts by the German Luftwaffe in January 1941. Malta was effectively beleaguered for nearly two and a half years, dependent for survival on naval supply convoys and reliant for defence on often-outnumbered fighter aircraft and anti-aircraft guns. Anthony Rogers provides a retelling of these events, drawing on accounts from both sides. This work features carefully selected photographic images, some previously unpublished. Seven specially commissioned colour maps explore the strategic situation in the Mediterranean in this period, the military sectors Trade ReviewGreat history well told an all-round excellent read. * Gunmart *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION CHRONOLOGY OPPOSING COMMANDERS British Axis OPPOSING FORCES British Axis OPPOSING PLANS THE BATTLE Start of the air war First naval surface engagements Operation ‘Hurry’ Malta Convoys Operation ‘Excess’ and the ‘Illustrious Blitz’ Messerschmitt Bf 109s join battle Spring–summer, 1941 Italian seaborne attack on Grand Harbour Autumn, 1941 Destruction of ‘Maestrale’ Convoy Early U-Boat operations Return of the Luftwaffe Schnellboot operations Spitfires join battle ‘M.W.10’ April, 1942 ‘C3’/‘Herkules’ May, 1942 3.Schnellbootflottille Axis clandestine operations Operation ‘Julius’ Operation ‘Pedestal’ Autumn 1942 and the final Axis offensive SUMMARY THE BATTLEFIELD TODAY ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS BIBLIOGRAPHY INDEX

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Book SynopsisA detailed, illustrated account of the air campaign that accompanied the Red Army''s final push towards Berlin, in which massed Soviet air power defeated the Luftwaffe''s high-tech Me 262 jets and Mistel exploding drones. The last months of World War II on the Eastern Front saw a ferocious fight between two very different air forces. Soviet Air Force (VVS) Commander-in-Chief Alexander Novikov assembled 7,500 aircraft in three powerful air armies to support the final assault on Berlin. The Luftwaffe employed some of its most advanced weapons including the Me 262 jet and Mistel remotely-guided bomb aircraft. Using photos, 3D diagrams, maps and battlescene artwork, William E. Hiestand, a military analyst with a longstanding interest in Soviet military history, explains how Germany''s use of high-tech weaponry and massed Soviet air assaults was not just the culmination of World War II air combat, but also pointed to how the future rivalry with NATO wTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION CHRONOLOGY ATTACKER'S CAPABILITIES – The VVS on the brink of victory – Overall Soviet organization – Aircraft roles and capabilities – VVS Order of Battle, January 1945 – VVS Order of Battle, April 1945 DEFENDER'S CAPABILITIES – The last of the Luftwaffe – Aircraft, roles, and capabilities – Luftwaffe Order of Battle, January 1945 – Luftwaffe Order of Battle, April 1945 CAMPAIGN OBJECTIVES – The road to Berlin THE CAMPAIGN – Air war over Poland and Germany – January 1945: The Vistula–Oder Offensive – January 1945: The East Prussia Offensive – The exploitation – The halt on the Oder – The fight for the Oder: March–April 1945 – Konigsberg: the fall of the fortress – Berlin: The final offensive – The end in the East – The turn to the flanks – February–March 1945 AFTERMATH AND ANALYSIS FURTHER READING INDEX

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Book SynopsisAn illustrated account of the Bf 109E''s evolving role during the fateful first stages of the Battle of Britain.The Luftwaffe's famous Bf 109 Emil saw considerable combat across the first stages of World War 2, but it was 1940's Battle of Britain that truly put it to the test. During the early operations of that clash, in July and August 1940, German pilots had to reckon not only with the RAF but with another enemy the English Channel itself. This evocative new study explores how the Channel's breadth and the short range of Emil combined to force the Luftwaffe's fighter units to evolve their tactics in pursuit of victory. Respected military aviation expert Andy Saunders brings the cockpit of the Bf 109E to life in a volume that draws upon first-hand accounts to tell the story of this landmark battle's fascinating beginnings. Bringing further context to this analysis, archive photos, newly commissioned artworks, and tactical and ribbon diagrams demonstrate how

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Book SynopsisContains full colour, high resolution images of the various items of uniform and equipment. A valuable reference source for historians, re-enactors, modellers and war-gamers.

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Book SynopsisThe Lockheed F-104 Starfighter is probably one of the most photographed jet aircraft of all time. Over 200 colour and historic black and white images are included here.

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Book SynopsisThis book describes the extraordinary combat career of the American-built Vultee Vengeance dive-bomber in both the Royal Air Force and Indian Air Force service during the Burma Campaigns of 1942-45. This single-engine, all-metal aircraft was ordered by the Ministry of Supply during the darkest days of World War II when the lethal German combination of Junkers Ju.87 Stuka and Panzer tank forces had conquered most of Europe in a campaign that lasted a mere few weeks and the invasion of Britain was considered imminent. The RAF had invented the dive-bomber concept in 1917 but had consistently rejected it in the inter-war period with the obsession of heavy bombing predominating official thinking almost exclusively. By the time the Vengeance arrived a still-reluctant RAF was seeking a precision bomber to prevent a repeat of the Japanese Naval attacks in the Indian Ocean and six squadrons were set up to counter this threat. With the Japanese on the borders of Burma and India, these aircraft, no longer required for the original role, proved by far and away the most accurate bomber aircraft operated by the British up to that time. The Allied Armies on the ground, including Orde Wingate's Chindits, clamoured for their continued use and considered them essential, but in vain, and by 1945 all had been replaced. Their achievements have been ignored, falsified or scorned ever since but here, from eyewitness accounts and official records, is their full and true story.

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Book SynopsisThis is the story of the air war over Western Europe, much of it told by the Halifax pilots and air crew who took part. It spans the period between 1942 and 1945 and covers the encounters between the Luftwaffe and the air forces of Britain and the Commonwealth. Many unique experiences are recounted from the day bombing raids that were hurled against Hitler's war machine. The author has sought the experiences of RAF and German fighter pilots, who explain how they stalked their prey and pounced from. This book contains vivid accounts of some of the most heroic actions in the history of air warfare.

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Book SynopsisToday, the Mustang is a living legend and is remembered as probably the finest long-range single-seat piston-engined fighter ever built. Here, in words and images, the esteemed aviation historian Martin Bowman tells the story of an aircraft that continues to provoke enthusiastic praise. We look at the Mustang's involvement in the Second World War and the Korean War, as well as other conflicts and engagements. This new addition to the _Images of War_ series serves as a tribute to an aircraft with a particularly impressive wartime record, the legacy of which is still felt today.

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Book SynopsisThe Battle of Britain from July to September 1940 is one of the finest moments in our Nation's history. While credit rightly goes to 'The Few', victory could never have happened without the inspirational command and leadership of New Zealander Keith Park. He and Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding ensured that Fighter Command was prepared for the Nazi onslaught. Promoted to Air Vice Marshal, Park took over No 11 Group, responsible for the defence of London and South East England in April 1940\. A shrewd tactician and hands-on commander, Park carefully husbanded his limited resources and famously wore down Goering's Luftwaffe, thus forcing Hitler to abandon his invasion plans. Shamefully Dowding and Park were dismissed from their commands in the aftermath of victory due to internal RAF politics. Fortunately, Park's career was far from over and his management of the defence of Malta made significant contribution to victory in the Mediterranean. This balanced and well overdue account hopefully ensures that Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park receives the credit for victory that he so richly deserves.

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Book SynopsisIn 1948, Hawker Aircraft, faced with new jet projects that could not use their existing airfield at Langley, began the process of searching for alternative accommodation for their flight-testing requirements. It would, however, take three hard years before Dunsfold Aerodrome would be made available by a reluctant Air Ministry and the company was able to launch its first jet aircraft design - the Sea Hawk - into series production for the Royal Navy, closely followed by the superlative Hunter. Hawker Aircraft would go on to produce nearly 2,000 Hunters before other projects came to the fore. As Hunter production continued in the late 1950s, the company looked to its successor - the Mach 2 capable air superiority fighter designated P.1121, though this would stall before flight in the wake of serious national financial short-falls. With the loss of its premier project, the company came upon a radical new engine proposal and schemed an aircraft around it capable of vertical take-off and landing. While many decried the proposal, claiming it would never amount to anything, the Harrier would go on to prove the nay-sayers wrong as it came into its own during the Falklands War. Following the Harrier, Hawker Siddeley stepped into the competitive trainer aircraft market with the Hawk for the RAF. After completion of the RAF requirement, Hawk was sold into air arms across the world, including the US Navy, an incredible achievement for a UK design. British Aerospace then brought forth the Harrier GR.5, the UK version of the US AV-8B, a completely upgraded and improved Harrier. One might expect that this prolific output was the result of some massive industrial plant in the Midlands rather than an isolated aerodrome tucked in the rural hinterland of south Surrey. Surrounded for most of its existence by secrecy, due to the nature of its work, Dunsfold has largely escaped the notice of the general public. This work shines a light on the remarkable work carried out there.

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Book SynopsisThe German fighter pilots of the Second World War are among the undoubted heroes of the conflict, their reputation for flying skill, single-minded determination and solitary courage hasn't diminished or been clouded by controversy over the years. Their daring and commitment, often displayed when, towards the end of the war, they were fighting against the odds, matches that of any of the other air forces they fought against. This detailed, highly illustrated reference book, which covers the exploits of the most famous and successful individuals among them, shows just how effective and undaunted they were. All the Luftwaffe day fighter pilots who flew single-seater aircraft and won the Knight's Cross during the war are featured. The entries give information about their early lives and pre-war careers and record how many aircraft they shot down, the type of aircraft involved and where and when the combat took place. Included are accounts of particular actions which led to the award of the Knight's Cross, and the fate of these remarkable pilots later in the war and in the post-war world is described too. Jeremy Dixon's book will be fascinating reading and reference for anyone who is interested in the aviation history of the Second World War.

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Book SynopsisFlight Lieutenant Thomas Tommy' Rose, a First World War fighter ace, was a pioneer of private flying. He installed and managed the UK's first fuel pump for private aviation at Brooklands before becoming Sales Manager for Phillips and Powis Aircraft Ltd. The chief flying instructor at several early flying schools, Tommy became the Chief Test Pilot for Miles Aircraft and was the winner of air races and pageants. He was undoubtedly a pilot who could always be relied on to amaze the onlookers with his fast, accurate stunts and low-level flying. Mentioned in Despatches in 1916 and awarded the DFC in 1918, Tommy was attacked in his aircraft several times, yet his astonishing ability at the controls of his aircraft enabled him to land without serious injury. By the time of the Armistice, Tommy had been credited with eleven kills'. He continued to demonstrate these skills after the war and though this true trailblazer was widely known in his glory days during the early part of the twentieth century, little is remembered about him today. Yet Tommy Rose achieved the most incredible feats of aviation and was considered one of the finest pilots of his era, completing over 11,200 flying hours up to 1949. In the 1930s, Tommy took the Imperial Airways route through East Africa, to set up a new world record on the UK to Cape Town passage, beating Amy Mollison (Johnson) who took the shorter course down the west coast. He also won the King's Cup Air Race in 1935. Tommy flew many of the early RAF fighters from Maurice Farman to the Spitfire Mk.IX, and, from late 1939, when he was appointed Chief Test Pilot for Phillip & Powis Aircraft Ltd at Woodley (forerunners of Miles Aircraft Ltd), he test flew all Miles monoplane training and target towing aircraft, leaving in January 1946. His last position was as General Manager of Universal Flying Services Ltd at Fairoaks Aerodrome in Surrey. The result of decades of research by the author, through this book the life and adventures of one of history's most accomplished and daring aviators can finally be told.

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Book SynopsisThe 1994 crash of Chinook with top Northern Ireland intelligence experts on board into the Mull of Kintyre has remained the source of intense speculation ever since. The book is not only a full account of the incident itself and the subsequent and on-going controversy over blame, but also attempts to solve the mystery about this accident. After the accounts of those who witnessed the crash or communicated with the aircraft on its fateful journey, the book analyses the activities of the crew on the day in question, including the maintenance record and the behaviour of the aircraft. It then deals in sequence with the various investigations; that by the AAIB, the RAF and the FAI held in Paisley in 1996. It then describes the various parliamentary inquiries and their conclusions. Finally, it reviews the evidence for the strength and weaknesses of the various claims about the cause, including allegations that there was something wrong with the aircraft and/or its computer systems. This

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Book SynopsisOn 2 September 1947, Hawker Aircraft Ltd figuratively and literally took to the air with their first jet design, the P.1040\. Conceived in the latter days of the Second World War, and developed in the straitened times of post-war austerity, the aircraft allowed Hawker to explore the new technology before moving on to more ambitious programmes. Rejected by the Royal Air Force, subsequent development of the aircraft allowed the Royal Navy to find in it a useful role at sea. As this project slowly wound its way through the government bureaucracy against a background of national insolvency, Hawker continued their research into more potent forms of jet travel with their first swept wing aircraft, the P.1052, their first rocket powered example, the P.1072, and, finally, the sleek, all swept P.1081\. These essentially research aircraft gave the company the experience and expertise it required to produce a powerful, transonic fighter with which to equip the RAF for the defence of the UK and other friendly nations at a time when the Cold War threatened to engulf the world in a truly global nuclear conflict. That aircraft, the P.1067 Hunter first flew in 1951 and was, at the time, the fastest fighter in the world as evinced by gaining the World Airspeed Record in 1953 prior to entry into RAF service; at a stroke revolutionising the potential of the UK's air arm. Such was the haste with which this occurred that many teething problems remained to be resolved, as detailed here, but eventually the aircraft would become the day fighter of choice for many of the world's air forces and remain in service for decades to come.

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Book SynopsisLeft for Dead at Nijmegen recalls the larger-than-life experiences of an American paratrooper, Gene Metcalfe, who served in the 82nd Airborne during WWII. From his recruitment into the military at Camp Grant to his training with the 501st Paratroop Infantry Regiment at Camp Toccoa, it wasn't until D-Day itself that he first arrived in England to join the 508th PIR. Nannini records Gene's memories of being dropped during Operation Market Garden in Nijmegen, Holland. Gene was listed as KIA and left for dead by his patrol, who presumed the worst when they saw his injuries from a shell explosion.In the climax of the story, Gene is captured by German SS soldiers and, with absolutely no protection, found himself standing before a senior officer, whom Gene recognized as Heinrich Himmler himself, behind enemy lines in a 16th century castle. Gene's subsequent interrogation is fully recounted, from the questioning of his mission to the bizarre appearance of sausages, mustard, marmalade and bread for his "dinner." This would be his last proper meal for eight months.The rest of his story is equally gripping, as he became a POW held outside Munich, being moved between various camps ridden with disease and a severely undernourished population. Eventually, after making an escape attempt and being captured within sight of the snow-capped Swiss mountains, his camp was liberated by American troops in April 1945.Gene's story is both remarkable for his highly unusual encounter, and his subsequent experiences.Trade ReviewThis is an important biography worthy of inclusion in World War II themed collections. The book portrays military sacrifices and the reality of the struggle of POW as reported by a survivor. * authorsreading.com 03/05/2019 *The author has researched and studied this subject in great depth, his knowledge and ability to engage and keep the interest of the reader is accomplished and proficient. * Army Rumour Service 20/06/2019 *Left for Dead at Nijmegen: The True Story of an American Paratrooper is an important work, one that exemplifies the sacrifices made by our military and reveals the reality of the POWs’ struggle to survive under the harshest of situations. It’s most highly recommended. * Readers Favorite Book Reviews 22/01/2019 *… an extraordinary and simply riveting memoir. * Midwest Book Review 12/06/2019 *

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Book Synopsis1939 was a glorious year for Hermann Goering. He spent it entertaining dignitaries visiting the Third Reich, attending galas, going on official visits, giving rousing speeches at factories and military parades, and indulging in his love of fine art, rich cuisine and sumptuous clothes and jewels. Ever vain, pompous and ambitious, in 1939 he attained the summit of his power and popularity when Hitler, speaking to a packed Reich Chancellery on 1 September, named him his successor. Goering's rise was inseparable from that of his Luftwaffe. As commander-in-chief, he basked in the glory of the Condor Legion's victory in Spain in April 1939 and the Luftwaffe's decisive role in the Blitzkrieg of Poland in September. From these encounters, the Luftwaffe emerged as the world's most feared and respected air force-but beyond the trappings of victory, there were deep-seated flaws. Fearing their exposure against a more powerful enemy, Goering did not want Germany to go to war with Great Britain and France. Hermann Goering: From Madrid to Warsaw and Beyond, 1939 is a photographic chronicle of a momentous year in the life of the Luftwaffe's commander-in-chief, showing him at his most happy and self-confident, and equally, at his most anxious about what the future might bring.Table of ContentsDedication; Acknowledgments; Timeline; Introduction: Two Wars that Hermann Goering as Arminius Won; Reich; Balbo; Spain; Steel; Rechlin; Dahlerus; Poland; Berlin; Burgerbrau; Sitzkrieg; Conclusion; Bibliography; About the Author.

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Book SynopsisResistance is futile. You can run, but you’ll only die tired.The AC-130 Gunship was quickly developed in 1968 to provide fire support for ground forces in Vietnam. Twenty-eight C-130 cargo aircraft were converted into AC-130s for night attack operations. The AC-130 was crude, ugly, ad hoc, and detested by many within the USAF…but it worked, and it worked well. Likewise, AC-130 crews were deemed unruly “biker gangs,” but performed magnificently in every major US military operation from 1976 to 1995. Most of these combat operations were cloaked in secrecy, but records once classified for up to twenty years have now been opened. Based on this newly declassified information and hundreds of interviews with SOF veterans, Ghostriders 1976-1995 is the first authoritative historical account of the AC-130 operations, written by an AC-130 Aerial Gunner who participated in every AC-130 combat operation from 1980 through 1994.

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Book SynopsisThe single-engine Junkers Ju 52 first flew in 1930. Designed and built by the Junkers Aircraft Company of Dessau, Germany, the Ju 52 was originally intended as a cargo aircraft. An upgraded model, the Ju 52/3m, was powered by three engines, excelling as an 18-seat airliner. By the late 1930s, hundreds of the safe and reliable Ju 52/3m were serving with airlines in more than 20 countries, including the prewar British Airways. It was used as a bomber by the reestablished Luftwaffe, particularly in the Spanish Civil War. During the Second World War, the Ju 52/3m was the mainstay of the Luftwaffe transport squadrons. Affectionately known as Faithful Old Annie and Iron Annie, the Ju 52/3m was used during the invasions of Norway, the Low Countries, Crete as well as the resupply of Stalingrad and Rommel s Africa Corps. In all, more than 5,000 were built. After the war, production continued in France and Spain. Amazingly, captured Ju 52/3ms were rebuilt postwar and briefly operated as airliners on domestic routes in Great Britain! Today, about 50 Ju 52/3ms survive, with less than ten flying. The Junkers Ju 52/3m is one of the most significant transport airplanes in the history of aviation."Table of ContentsAcknowledgements; Notes on Sources; Author's Note; Abbreviations; Introduction; The Junkers Flugzeug-und Motorenwerke AG and its Predecessors; Hugo Junkers; The First All-metal Aeroplanes; A Shift to Civilian Transport Aeroplanes; Larger and More Capable Transport Aeroplanes; Technical Description; Ju 52/3m Airliner Operations in Germany; Junkers Ju 52/3m Production in Germany; France; Hungary; Spain; Further Development; Junkers Ju 252; Junkers Ju 352 Herkules; Into Luftwaffe Service; Spain; Other Duties; Poland; Denmark and Norway; Blitzkrieg; Operation Seelowe; North Africa-The Initial Phase; Invasion of Yugoslavia and Greece; Crete; Iraqi Diversion; Operation Barbarossa; Demyansk Airlift; Stalingrad; North African Defeat; On the Retreat; Final Defeat; Civilian Operators; Military Operators; Preserved Junkers Ju 52/3ms; Appendices; Lufthansa Ju 52/3ms; Luftwaffe Ju 52/3m units; A.A.C.1 Production List; A.A.C.1 Production List; Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisThe concept of strategic assault of a Nation’s industrial and military base by air was heralded by Britain as far back as the immediate period before the start of WWI. However, stringent post-War economy ensured that the creation of Bomber Command in 1936 witnessed a daunting disparity between the aim of striking at an adversary’s ability to sustain itself on the Field of Battle and the means to do so. The initial three years of WWII left the Command very weak in both human and material terms. The navigational means with which to accurately guide the bombers to targets was almost completely lacking during this period, while the enemy defensive network inflicted serious casualty rates. The punishment handed out was accordingly minimal in effect. The resurgence of the Command’s fortunes coincided with the appointment of Sir Arthur Harris as C-in-C. The advent of the more efficient Lancaster and Halifax designs ensured a greatly increased bomb tonnage could be delivered. Electronic aids such as ‘Gee’, ‘Oboe’ and ‘H2’S’ ensured the task of locating targets was simplified. So it was that by 1944/45 the Third Reich’s industrial base was virtually rendered impotent.Table of Contents1 The Bomber as a Strategic Concept; 2 Girding up for Battle; 3 From Sublime Optimism to Harsh Reality; 4 ‘In the Dark-Literally’ (May-October 1940); 5 A Staccato Offensive? (October 1940-Mid-1941); 6 Descent into Crisis (July-December 1941); 7 ‘Area Bombing’: The Unavoidable Adaptation; (January 1942-December 1942); 8 ‘Pathfinders’: The Way Ahead; 9 ‘Terrible Swift Sword’: Battle of the Ruhr; 10 ‘The Specialists’: No. 617 Squadron (March 1943-April 1944); 11 Operation Gomorrah: A City Put to the Sword; 12 Peenemünde; 13 ‘Battle of Berlin’: A Major Rebuff?; 14 Berlin Diminuendo to Nuremberg’s Ghastly Conclusion; 15 The Transportation Plan: A Necessary Operational Retrenchment?; 16 The Die is Cast (August-December 1944); 17 Irreversible Breach in the Wall: No. 100 Group’s Electronic Magic; 18 ‘The Final Act’; Appendix I: Order of Battle on 15 December 1936; Appendix II: Order of Battle on 26 September 1939; Appendix III: Order of Battle on 4 March 1943; Appendix IV: Order of Battle on 19 April 1945; Bibliography; Index.

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Book SynopsisFor 100 years, the world's oldest independent air force, the RAF, forged a distinguished record in military air operations from the First World War through to recent operations over Iraq and Syria. There is, however, a field of endeavour in which the Royal Air Force has excelled: selling its public image. Of the three armed services, the air force is the one perfectly placed to advertise its wares 'at home' with the facilities to accommodate large audiences, through scintillating flying displays with ever more impressive aircraft and large airfields with readily available facilities. Originally centred on the RAF station at Hendon in North London, the RAF held its first public 'Air Pageant' in 1920. A grand affair, it continued as an annual event until 1937 when it was succeeded by the widespread 'Empire Air Day' held at several RAF stations until war intervened in 1939. The RAF came to true military prominence during the Second World War, particularly the 'Battle of Britain'; this then became the focus of the celebration and commemoration. However, the Battle of Britain Displays constantly contracted, eventually to zero, but for much of their existence were the most impressive air shows around the globe.

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Book SynopsisAircraft Salvage in the Battle of Britain and Blitz will comprise of some 140-150 images of the work of RAF and civilian salvage squads during the Battle of Britain, the Blitz and beyond. The images will depict losses across Britain, both RAF and German, during this period. Each picture will tell its own story, and will be fully captioned with historical detail. The author will be covering a topic that has rarely been examined in this detail. Each section will have a short introduction and the images will include those of shot down aircraft, including relatively intact machines, badly damaged/destroyed wreckages, photographs of pilots and other related illustrations. All images are from the author's unique collection of wartime photographs of Luftwaffe losses, collected from a variety of sources across some thirty-five years of research.

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Book SynopsisThe captivating story of WWII Airman Frank Murphy, who features in new TV miniseries Masters of the Air. THE INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER “In the pursuit of authenticity, of accurate history and undeniable courage, no words matter more than, ‘I was there.’ Read Luck of the Draw and the life of Frank Murphy and ponder this: how did those boys do such things?” Tom Hanks The epic true story of an American hero who flew during WWII, featured in the Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks TV Series, Masters of the Air. Beginning on August 17, 1942, American heavy bomber crews of the Eighth Air Force took off for combat in the hostile skies over occupied Europe. The final price was staggering. 4,300 B-17s and B-24s failed to return; nearly 28,000 men were taken prisoner or interned in a neutral country, and a further 26,000 made the ultimate sacrifice. Luck of the Draw is more than a war story. It’s the incredible, inspiring story of Frank Murphy, one of the few survivors from the 100th Bombardment Group, who cheated death for months in a German POW camp after being shot out of his B-17 Flying Fortress. Now with a new foreword written by his granddaughter Chloe Melas, of NBC, and daughter Elizabeth Murphy.Trade Review“In the pursuit of authenticity, of accurate history and undeniable courage, no words matter more than, ‘I was there.’ Read Luck of the Draw and the life of Frank Murphy and ponder this: how did those boys do such things?” Tom Hanks "Navigator Frank Murphy’s propulsive account of the American bomber war against Nazi Germany is also a powerful and poignant memoir of survival in a German POW compound. The book’s heart-stopping account of the brutal Winter March of the captured Allied airmen across the heart of Hitler’s dying Reich places it with Twelve O’Clock High as a classic of World War II literature." Donald L. Miller, author of Masters of the Air: The American Bomber Boys Who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany "Murphy describes some of the bloodiest air battles of the war as only a person who was actually there can. Luck of the Draw is a riveting and often harrowing must-read for anyone interested in military aviation, the second world war, or just plain real-life adventure." John Orloff, writer, Band of Brothers (HBO) and Masters of the Air (Apple TV+) "Originally published in 2001, this finely wrought memoir captures the fortitude and resilience of the "greatest generation"...Students of military history will appreciate Murphy’s detailed accounts of the Army Air Corp’s training program and a B-17 navigator’s responsibilities, while more casual readers will savor Murphy’s heartfelt tributes to comrades in arms. The result is a winning WWII story." Publishers Weekly "We should be grateful to have this book again, with or without a TV tie-in. A lot of cliches have been spilled about the Greatest Generation, but without ever being the least bit boastful Frank Murphy embodies it...Ultimately, Murphy remembered just about everything, augmented by excellent research." New York Journal of Books“A gripping, inspirational account of incredible bravery, resilience, and sheer will to survive. Frank Murphy was a true American hero who served courageously in the skies over Europe during WWII and who then demonstrated extraordinary fortitude and determination in the face of unimaginable challenges as a prisoner of war. A truly extraordinary story!" General David Petraeus, US Army (Ret.), former Commander of the Surge in Iraq, US Central Command, and NATO and US Forces in Afghanistan, and former Director of the CIA “Ever wonder if you had what it took to stare death in the face and push it aside and go forth into the unknown? That is what these young airmen of the 8th Army Air Force accomplished every time they loaded up for another mission. Frank Murphy has eloquently described the harrowing experiences of a B-17 crew from the loss of crewmembers, confronting his own mortality and ultimately the trauma of incarceration as a prisoner of war. This account is partly to honor his noble brothers of the air but also a reminder to future generations of the heroic young men of the Bomber Command.” Rick Perry, son of B-17 tail gunner 95th BG, 14th Governor of Texas, and 7th Secretary of Energy “Every generation needs a spokesman for its endeavors. In this respect Murphy does the young men of VIII Bomber Command proud.” Roger A. Freeman, author and Eighth Air Force historian “I urge you to read Frank Murphy’s truly memorable story.” Ian L. Hawkins, author and World War II historian

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Book Synopsis'Suddenly, flash bombs to my right, I instantly dive low to avoid being a direct target. We stay down, close above ground before too long life returns in the area and we spot men milling around; Richard and Pitt let them have it, but good. We're down to our last bit of ammunition. Some Russians have frozen in fear, others lift their arm, others still lie flat on the ground. Not a single one remembers to get up and fire.'On 21 June 1941, assigned to Luftwaffe bomber wing Kampfgeschwader 53, the 23-year-old Arnold Döring took off to fly his first mission against the Soviet Union on the Eastern Front. From that day, he kept a diary describing his operations in vivid detail. These diaries, here translated into English for the first time, give a unique perspective on the action on the Eastern Front, from the point of view of a bomber pilot. Döring's accounts not only give technical aspects but are also filled with suspense and excitement with their close descriptions of bombing raids and

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Book SynopsisAt the end of the Spanish Civil War in 1939, the Air Ministry was created and, on 7 October of that year, the Spanish Air Force, or Ej rcito del Aire (EdA), was born. Starting life from the ashes of conflict, it has grown to become on of the most important air forces in Europe. To date, there have not been many books published about the history of the EdA, an oversight this volume seeks to redress. Illustrated with over 200 stunning photographs of bombers, fighters, transport, reconnaissance, attack, liaison and trainer aircraft, along with seaplanes and helicopters, taken over several decades, this book covers the history and aircraft of the EdA from its inception to the present day. The many aircraft detailed include the Fiat Cr.32, Ju 52 and Bf 109 from the early days through to the A400M Atlas, F-18 Hornet and Eurofighter EF2000 currently flown.

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Book SynopsisThe first half of the 20th century saw the birth of the aeroplane and its development as an instrument of war and commerce. Within five decades, contraptions barely able to take to the air had given way to jet-powered aircraft flying near the 'sound barrier', a rate of technological advance unparalleled in any other field. It was the period when Great Britain's aviation industry was established and grew to its zenith, fueled by the demands of two world wars and the growth of the airlines. These requirements generated a plethora of aircraft designs, some of which became house-hold names, while others failed to make the grade. British Aviation: The First Half-Century chronicles the wide variety of aircraft produced in Great Britain before 1950. With over 170 period images, carefully colourised, this book goes through the aircraft of the first half-century, portraying them in their full glory once more.

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Book SynopsisFrom their modest origins with BE.2c and Vickers Victoria biplanes delivering food and ammunition in the Mesopotamian deserts to the massive Globemasters delivering hardware in the same theatre a century later, transport aircraft have played a key role in Britain's wars. It was the Cold War that saw transport aircraft become necessary war-fighting equipment. Operation Corporate in 1982 identified the need for large-capacity strategic transport aircraft, something reinforced by Operation Granby in 1990-91, and led to the acquisition of the Lockheed TriStar and Boeing C-17A Globemaster. When the operations in Afghanistan and Iraq began, the RAF's transport fleet was ready, and with the new model Hercules, and the Airbus Voyager and Atlas, Britain's armed forces have a transport force second to none. First in, last out' is a concise description of the operations of the RAF's transport force. Since 1915, aircraft have supported troops on the ground, carried personnel to and from war zones, evacuated civilians and provided succour to the needy. RAF Transport Command's motto, Ferio Ferendo, translates as I strike by carrying', and that is exactly what transport aircraft have done for over a century. With over 130 photographs, this book describes the evolution of the aircraft that provided the airlift capacity for Britain's armed forces wherever they served, and as the 2021 Operation Pitting showed, transport aircraft are still last out.

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Book SynopsisThe Hellenic Air Force is one of the most powerful in Europe. With 37 helicopters, 343 fixed-wing aircraft including 206 fighter jets, as well as surveillance drones and surface-to-air missile systems in its service, it plays a key role in protecting Greece and its allies in the Mediterranean. In recent years, Greece's fleet of combat aircraft, particularly fighter jets, has been upgraded to ensure the force retains its position within NATO's structure. Alongside combat aircraft, the Hellenic Air Force has a significant domestic role that requires a fleet of water bombers to protect the country and its infrastructure from forest fires. Alongside are helicopters fulfilling search and rescue missions and training aircraft to ensure continuity of service throughout all the Air Force's specialist branches.

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Book SynopsisManufactured by Dassault Aviation solely in France, the Rafale was designed to replace an ageing fleet of aircraft for France's Air Force, as well as to serve the Navy in carrier capacity. Today, Rafale C, D and M variants are in operation fulfilling a variety of roles including fighter, reconnaissance and deterrent. From conducting nuclear alert missions in France and patrolling NATO's eastern fronts, the Rafales of the French Air and Space Force and French Navy play a strategic role in protecting France and its NATO allies. Currently, there are 245 Rafales in service with the armed forces of France, Egypt, Greece, India and Qatar and more than 180 additional examples are expected to be manufactured and delivered to Indonesia, Egypt, Greece and United Arab Emirates by 2030. This book details the current status of all airworthy and operational Rafales around the world, with the active service history provided for many that have taken part in conflicts around the globe or been involved in peace-keeping missions and patrols.

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Book SynopsisCovering the period from the end of World War One to the end of World War Two, this book explores the development of the major stalwart of military aviation: biplanes. Post-World War One, the demand for military aircraft diminished. Even so, new designs emerged, and innovation took place aided by engine and materials research and development. Again, not all aircraft were successfully entered into service. Following on from British Military Biplanes: 1912–19, this book is a unique reference source for aviation historians and enthusiasts.

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Book SynopsisIn 1932, the British Air Ministry issued Specification B.9/32 for a twin-engined day bomber. Key to its design success was the removal of all restrictions on the unladen weight of aircraft, enabling designers to select a powerplant suitable for the designated role of the aircraft. Significant to its success was the development of the revolutionary geodetic construction method, which allowed a traditional fabric-covered skin to clothe an innovative super-strength 'basket woven' aircraft skeleton. The Wellington had the potential to carry nine 500lb bombs or nine 250lb bombs for long-range attack and was declared one of the most advanced aircraft of the day. Throughout its lifespan, 19 different marks were developed, including many sub variants for a variety of roles. The Wellington's contribution to Britain's war effort was remarkable, initially providing the backbone for Bomber Command and remaining in service throughout the entire war. Packed with historic photographs, detailed specifications, eye-witness accounts and manufacturing records, this new book edition of Aeroplane Icons: Vickers Wellington details the history and development of one of World War Two's most iconic bomber aircraft, providing a complete overview of its role in service.

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Book SynopsisThe Hawker Harrier was an incredible aircraft. It was the first operational warplane to dispense with any need for conventional airfields or aircraft carriers, thanks to its vertical take-off and landing capabilities. Designed for Cold War requirements, the Harrier became a remarkably effective ground-attack bomber. Development continued throughout the 1960s and 1970s, and the Harrier matured into a versatile aircraft that proved invaluable with the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy, and also with the United States Marine Corps and many export customers around the world. In the US, the Harrier ultimately became the AV-8B or Super Harrier. By any standards, the Harrier was a huge success, though it found itself the victim of politics and budgets. With over 100 images, this new book edition of Aeroplane Icons: Hawker Harrier details the history of the aircraft, its origins and development, tracing how the P.1127 developed into the Kestrel and the Harrier, and then eventually to the AV-8B. This book highlights why the Harrier enjoys a special place in military aviation history.

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