Aircraft and aviation Books

Book SynopsisIllustrated with detailed artworks of modern military aircraft and their markings with exhaustive captions and specifications, Technical Guide: Modern Military Aircraft is an extensively researched review of the military aircraft deployed by the world’s air forces in recent conflicts in the Balkans, the Caucasus, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria and elsewhere. Organised alphabetically by manufacturer, this book includes every type of aircraft in use in the world today, from the F-22 Raptor through the Dassault Mirage 2000 to the MiG-29 and Su-33. The book includes multirole fighters, ground attack aircraft, high-level bombers, reconnaissance aircraft, carrier aircraft, and unmanned drones. The guide is illustrated with profile artworks, three-views, and special cutaway artworks of the more famous aircraft in service, such as the F-15E Strike Eagle, Sukhoi Su-27 and Eurofighter Typhoon. Illustrated with more than 110 artworks, Technical Guide: Modern Military Aircraft is an essential reference guide for modellers and enthusiasts with an interest in modern military aircraft.Table of ContentsContents to include: Fifth Generation Fighters Su-57 J-20 F-35 F-22 4.5 Generation Fighters Su-30 Su-35 Su-33 and J-15 J-11 & J-16 J-10 MiG-29K and MiG-29M/MiG-35 Typhoon F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet EA-18G Growler F-16 Fighting Falcon Mitsubishi F-2 F-15 Eagle and Advanced Eagle LCA Tejas JF-17 Saab JAS 39 Gripen Rafale Fourth Generation Fighters F-CK-1 Ching-Kuo MiG-29 Su-27 MiG-31 Mirage 2000 F-14 Tomcat (Iranian) F-5 Tiger II Bombers Tu-160 Tu-22M3 Tu-95MS B-1B Lancer B-2 Spirit B-52H Stratofortress H-6 Strike/Attack Aircraft Su-34 Xian JH-7 Tornado Jaguar A-10 Thunderbolt II AV-8B Harrier II Su-25 Su-24 AMX L-159 ALCA FA-50 Golden Eagle Transport and Reconnaissance Airbus A400M C-130J Hercules C-17 Globemaster III Y-9 Y-20 Airbus C295 Leonardo C-27J Spartan Mitsubishi C-2 Embraer C-390 Beriev A-50 and KJ-2000 737 AEW&C Saab Erieye E-2D Hawkeye

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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 SynopsisJohn Tye’s job at British Airways was supposed to be only temporary, a way for him to pass the summer before starting university. Instead, it would kickstart a forty-six-year career in aviation and take him all over the world.Told in an irrepressible and infectious style, Life of a Concorde Pilot is the story of how, despite a somewhat turbulent start to life in a Middlesex orphanage, John would go on to fly the world’s only supersonic airliner.A true insight to the life of an airline pilot, with many amusing anecdotes along the way, it follows his ups and downs from his career on the ground at BA to flying with Dan Air and then back to BA, through to Covid and his reluctant retirement at the end of 2022. Full of the fascinating details only a pilot can give, this is a memorable journey to the edge of space and beyond.Trade Review'Nicely written and well illustrated, John Tye’s autobiography blends private life and professional flying career – including a fascinating, detailed account of flying Concorde – in fine style.' Philip Whiteman, Editor, *Pilot *magazine

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Book SynopsisArranged by type, German Fighter Aircraft of World War II offers a highly illustrated guide to the most important fighters used by the Luftwaffe during the conflict. It features such classics as the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and Bf 110, the Heinkel He 100D-1 and the Focke-Wulf Fw 187 and Fw 190, as well as curiosities such as the Arado Ar 68F-1, Henschel Hs 123 and Heinkel He 51B biplanes. Late war innovations, such as the jet and rocket powered Me 262, Me 163 and Heinkel He 162, are also included. Most types are represented in numerous variants and with examples drawn from different theatres of the war. The book includes all the major fighters that served in the invasion of Poland, the defeat of France, the Battle of Britain, Operation Barbarossa, the war in the Mediterranean, the fighting on the Eastern Front and the Defence of the Reich. Each featured profile includes authentic markings and colour schemes, while every separate model is accompanied by detailed specifications. Packed with 110 full-colour artworks, German Fighter Aircraft of World War II is a key reference guide for military modellers and World War II enthusiasts.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Biplanes Arado Ar 66 Arado Ar 68 Heinkel He 50 Heinkel He 51 2. Single-Seat Monoplanes Heinkel He 100 Heinkel He 112 Messerschmitt Bf 109 Focke Wulf Fw 190 Focke Wulf Ta 152 Focke Wulf Ta 154 Dornier Do 335 Pfeil Blohm & Voss BV 40 3. Heavy Fighters Messerschmitt Bf 110 Focke-Wulf Fw 187 Falke Dornier Do 17Z night fighter Dornier Do 215 night fighter Dornier Do 217 night fighter Junkers Ju 88 night fighter Heinkel He 219 Uhu Messerschmitt Me 210 Messerschmitt Me 410 4. Jet and Rocket Fighters Messerschmitt Me 163 Komet Messerschmitt Me 262 Heinkel He 162 Salamander Bachem Ba 349 Natter Appendices Aircraft compared, variants, production numbers, losses Index

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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 SynopsisIllustrated with detailed artworks of World War II-era German aircraft and their markings with exhaustive captions and specifications, Luftwaffe Squadrons 1939–45: Identification Guide is the definitive study of the equipment and organisation of the Luftwaffe’s combat units. Organised by theatre of operations and the many campaigns fought by the Luftwaffe, the book describes in depth the various units that were fighting on the front at key points in the war and describes the models of aircraft in service with each unit along with their individual and squadron markings. With information boxes accompanying the full-colour artworks, Luftwaffe Squadrons 1939–45 is an essential reference guide for modellers and any enthusiast with an interest in the aircraft of the German war machine.Table of ContentsThe Early Years: First Battles Mediterranean Theatre War on the Eastern Front Maritime Operations The Defence of the Reich The Final Months Glossary Index

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Book SynopsisIllustrated with colourful artworks of carrier aircraft and their markings, Allied Carrier Aircraft of World War II is a detailed guide to all the aircraft deployed by the Allied navies from 1939 to 1945. Organised chronologically by type and nationality, this book includes fighters, fighter-bombers, torpedo bombers, dive-bombers, reconnaissance aircraft, floatplanes and flying boats. All the best-known types are featured, such as the Grumman F4F Wildcat, Douglas TBD Devastator and Douglas SBD Dauntless that fought at the battle of Midway in 1942, as well as the Fairey Swordfish torpedo bomber that proved so effective at the Battle of Taranto in 1940 and helped sink the German battleship Bismarck in 1941. 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 Blackburn Skua torpedo bomber, Curtiss SB2 Helldiver dive-bomber and the Vought F4U Corsair heavy fighter. Illustrated with more than 100 artworks, Allied Carrier Aircraft of World War II is an essential reference guide for modellers and enthusiasts of military aircraft of World War II.Table of ContentsIntroduction Fighters and Fighter-Bombers US: Brewster Buffalo Grumman Martlet Grumman F4F WildcatSeversky P-35 Vought F4U Corsair Curtiss P-36 Hawk Curtiss P-40F Warhawk Grumman F6F Hellcat Grumman F7F Tigercat P-47 Thunderbolt (USS Manila) Ryan FR Fireball UK: Fairey Fulmar Blackburn Roc Gloster Sea Gladiator Gloster Gladiator II Hawker Hurricane I (HMS Glorious) Hawker Sea Hurricane Fairey Firefly Supermarine Seafire De Havilland Sea Hornet De Havilland Sea Mosquito Torpedo Bombers and Dive-Bombers US: Vought SB2U Vindicator Northrop BT-1 Douglas TBD-1 Devastator Douglas SBD Dauntless Curtiss SB2C Helldiver Consolidated TBY Sea Wolf Grumman TBF Avenger UK: Blackburn Skua Fairey Swordfish Fairey Albacore Fairey Barracuda Blackburn Firebrand France: Loire-Nieuport LN.401 Latécoere 299 Reconnaissance Aircraft and Flying Boats Brewster SB2A Buccaneer Sikorsky HNS helicopter Curtiss SO3C Seamew Consolidated PBY Catalina Martin PBM Mariner Appendix Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisOrganised chronologically by type, German Bomber Aircraft of World War II offers a highly-illustrated guide to the main types of aircraft used by the German Luftwaffe during World War II. The book offers a comprehensive survey of German aircraft, from the Junkers Ju 87A Stuka dive-bomber and Dornier Do 17Z-2 that participated in the invasion of Poland, to the more sophisticated Arado Ar 234B-2, Heinkel He 177 and Junkers Ju 88S-1 of the final months of the war. All the major and many minor types are featured, including dive-bombers, two-seater bombers, ground attack aircraft, night bombers, strategic bombers and maritime bombers. This includes both well-known models, such as classic Heinkel He 111 and Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor, to the lesser-known Blohm und Voss Bv 141A ground attack aircraft and Heinkel He 111H-2 designed to launch V-1 flying bombs. 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 Bomber Aircraft of World War II is a key reference guide for military modellers and World War II enthusiasts.Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. Bombers Heinkel 111 Junkers Ju 86 Dornier Do 17 and Do 215 Junkers Ju 88 Dornier Do 217 Heinkel He 177 Messerschmitt Me 264 Junker Ju 188 Arado Ar 234 Blitz 2. Ground-attack Aircraft and Reconnaissance Aircraft Junkers Ju 87 Henschel Hs 123 Fieseler Fi 156 Storch Focke-Wulf Fw 189 Uhu Henschel Hs 129 Henschel Hs 132 3. Transports and Gliders Junkers Ju 52 DFS 230 Junkers Ju 290 Arado Ar 232 Messerschmitt Me 323 Gigant 4. Seaplanes and Maritime Aircraft Heinkel He 60 Heinkel He 59 Dornier Do 18 Dornier Do 24 Blohm und Voss Ha 139 Focke-Wulf Fw 200 Condor Arado Ar 95 Arado Ar 196 Dornier Do 26 Fieseler Fi 167 Blohm und Voss BV 138 Blohm und Voss BV 141 Blohm und Voss BV 222 Blohm und Voss BV 238 Heinkel He 114 Heinkel He 115 5. Helicopters Flettner Fl 265 Focke-Achgelis Fa 223 Drache Flettner Fl 282 Kolibri Focke-Achgelis Fa 330 Bachstelze Glossary and Abbreviations Index

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Book SynopsisThe start of Space Shuttle operations in 1981 marked a new era in spaceflight ? with the five orbiters launching numerous satellites, interplanetary probes and the Hubble Space Telescope. But Shuttle was only partially reusable, its external fuel tank being expendable and its solid rocket boosters having to be recovered from the ocean and refurbished. Putting a satellite into orbit using a rocket was even more wasteful ? with boosters such as Ariane being one-shot only. The costs were literally astronomical.So when rocket scientist Alan Bond met propulsion and systems specialist Bob Parkinson at the British Interplanetary Society in 1982 during a lecture on Ariane 5, they got to talking about alternatives to the expendable rocket and concluded that the solution was? an aerospaceplane.The concept was deceptively simple ? a vehicle able to take off from a conventional runway, fly up into space, complete its mission, then fly back down and land. Bond and Parkinson believed it could be done and HOTOL ? HOrizontal Take-Off and Landing ? was born.By 1985 both British Aerospace and Rolls-Royce were backing the project. A television news broadcast in 1987 made HOTOL famous overnight, with the whole nation now aware of its existence. The Government agreed to provide yet more financial backing and the work ramped up into high gear, with some of Britain?s best engineers engaged in making this remarkable vehicle a reality.Just a year later, Minister of State of Trade and Industry Kenneth Clarke, under pressure from Margaret Thatcher, withdrew funding ? signalling the beginning of the end of HOTOL. Decades later, Elon Musk and SpaceX would finally corner the market in reusable space transportation with the Falcon 9 and Falcon Heavy, putting an end to any hope of a HOTOL revival.HOTOL: Spaceplane of the Future by Dan Sharp covers the full story of HOTOL?s development in detail from beginning to end drawing on both the BAE Systems archive and the personal archives of the project?s creators. It includes hundreds of previously unseen diagrams and illustrations, ranging from full colour brochures and publicity material ? both used and unused ? to schematics of all of HOTOL?s numerous configurations.

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Book SynopsisThe piston engines that powered Second World War fighters, the men who designed them, and the secret intelligence work carried out by both Britain and Germany would determine the outcome of the first global air war. Advanced jet engines may have been in development but every militarily significant air battle was fought by piston-engined fighters.Whoever designed the most powerful piston engines would win air superiority and with it the ability to dictate the course of the war as a whole. This is the neverbefore- told story of a high-tech race, hidden behind the closed doors of design offices and intelligence agencies, to create the war's best fighter engine. Using the fruits of extensive research in archives around the world together with the previously unpublished memoirs of fighter engine designers, author Calum E. Douglas tells the story of a desperate contest between the world's best engineers the Secret Horsepower Race.

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Book SynopsisAllied Fighters 1939–45 offers an highly-illustrated guide to Allied fighter aircraft that fought in Europe during World War II. Featuring all the main models flown by the Allied air forces from 1939 to 1945, the book offers a wealth of detail, including unit markings, organization, numbers of aircraft flown by campaign and exhaustive specifications for each model.The book is arranged first by country and then chronologically by campaign so that every aspect of the air war in Europe is covered. The guide features fighters from throughout World War II, including early models, such as the Morane Saulnier MS.406C.1, Hawker Hurricane Mk I and Fokker D XXI, and the most advanced fighters of the period, such as the Lavochkin La-7, P-51K Mustang and Gloster Meteor Mk I.The book also covers aircraft that were used for air-to-air combat (Supermarine Spitfire), ground attack (P-47 Thunderbolt), bomber escort (P-51B Mustang), night defence (Bristol Beaufighter) and photographic reconnaissance (P-38 Lightning).Packed with more than 200 profiles and dozens of archive photographs of every major Allied fighter aircraft, Allied Fighters 1939–45 is a core reference volume for modellers and World War II aviation enthusiasts.Table of Contents1. Polish Air Force 2. Norway/Netherlands/Belgium 3. Armee de l’Air 4. RAF Advanced Air Striking Force 5. RAF Fighter Command 6. RAF Desert Air Force 7. Soviet V-VS 8. RAF Fighter Command 9. RAF 1st Tactical Air Force 10. RAF 2nd Tactical Air Force 11. US 8th Air Force 12. US 9th Air Force 13. US 12th Air Force 14. US 15th Air Force 15. RAF Fighter Command 16. RAF Coastal Command and FAA 17. Soviet V-VS 18. Minor airforces (Brazil, Italian co-belligerent, Greece etc) Appendices Orders of battle, glossary, terminology, total production numbers. Index

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Book SynopsisHawker Aircraft Ltd at Kingston was arguably the most successful and long-lasting manufacturer of military aircraft in Great Britain and Europe. In its various evolved manifestations Hawker Aircraft, Hawker Siddeley Aviation, British Aerospace its output of war winning aircraft, mainly fighters, was unsurpassed. From the Hart and Hurricane through the Hunter, Harrier and Hawk, the company consistently produced aircraft that the UK fighting services wanted. But some designs, for whatever reason, failed to reach flight or were declined by the services.With their sometimes advanced aerodynamics and technology, these aircraft could have had successful service careers but instead were abandoned, their stories failing to reach mainstream consciousness. Having not received their just dues, the present book seeks to redress this omission. The reasons for failure are many and varied, often financial or political, but in each case the reasons behind the failure of the design are examined.In a

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Book SynopsisReveals the important lessons Captain Chesley Sully Sullenberger learned through childhood, in his military service, and in his work as a commercial airline pilot.

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Book SynopsisWith its iconic bubble canopy and advanced helmet-mounted displays, the F-16 Fighting Falcon is one of the supreme Fourth Generation air-superiority fighters in the world today. First flown by the US Air Force in the mid 1980s, Lockheed Martin have since delivered about 4,600 F-16s to over 25 countries and more than 3,000 F-16 fighters are currently operational worldwide. The Fighting Falcon is highly adaptable and has proven itself in air-to-air combat and air-to-surface attack in a variety of conflicts over the last 40 years. The F-16’s versatility and durability has meant it can be adapted to a number of roles, including air superiority, reconnaissance and ground attack. In an air combat role, the F-16’s maneuverability and combat radius exceed that of all potential threat fighter aircraft. USAF F-16 multirole fighters were deployed to the Persian Gulf in 1991 in support of Operation Desert Storm, where more sorties were flown than with any other aircraft. These fighters were used to attack airfields, Scud missiles sites and a key military infrastructure. Other allied air forces, such as Israel, have heavily adapted the F-16 for their own use, and the Israeli F-16I Soufa (Storm) has proved itself in numerous combat situations in the 21st century. Today, constant technology and weapons’ upgrades mean the F-16 is planned to serve through to 2060. Packed with 100 vivid artworks and photographs, F-16 Fighting Falcon is a compact reference guide for lovers of this iconic aircraft and aviation enthusiasts.Table of ContentsContents: Introduction: A Lightweight Fighter The F-16 fighting falcon was built under an unusual agreement creating a consortium between the United States and four NATO countries: Belgium, Denmark, the Netherlands and Norway. These countries jointly produced with the United States an initial 348 F-16s for their air forces. 1: F-16A/B The F-16A, a single-seat model, first flew in December 1976. The first operational F- 16A was delivered in January 1979 to the 388th Tactical Fighter Wing at Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The F-16B, a two-seat model, has tandem cockpits that are about the same size as the one in the A model. 2: F-16C/D All F-16s delivered since November 1981 have built-in structural and wiring provisions and systems architecture that permit expansion of the multirole flexibility to perform precision strike, night attack and beyond-visual-range interception missions. This improvement program led to the F-16C and F-16D aircraft, which are the single- and two-place counterparts to the F-16A/B, and incorporate the latest cockpit control and display technology. FEATURE: F-16I Sufa (Storm) The F-16I is a two-seat variant of the Block 52 developed for the Israeli Defense Force. Israel issued a requirement in September 1997 and selected the F-16 in preference to the F-15I in July 1999. An initial contract was signed on 14 January 2000 for a total procurement of 102 aircraft. The F-16I, which is called Sufa (Storm) by the IDF/AF, first flew on 23 December 2003, and deliveries to the IDF/AF began on 19 February 2004. 3: F-16N – US Navy model The F-16N was an adversary aircraft operated by the United States Navy. It is based on the standard F-16C/D Block 30. The F-16N has a strengthened wing and is capable of carrying an Air Combat Maneuvering Instrumentation (ACMI) pod on the starboard wingtip. Although the single-seat F-16Ns and twin-seat (T)F-16Ns are based on the early-production small-inlet Block 30 F-16C/D airframe, they retain the APG-66 radar of the F-16A/B. In addition, the aircraft’s 20mm cannon has been removed, as has the ASPJ, and they carry no missiles. 4: F-16E/F Desert Falcon F-16E (single seat) and F-16F (two seat). The F-16E/F designation now belongs to a version developed especially for the United Arab Emirates Air Force, and is sometimes unofficially called the ‘Desert Falcon’. 5: Export Models: F-16IN Super Viper & F-16V Viper Lockheed Martin has described the F-16IN as ‘the most advanced and capable F-16 ever.’ Based closely on the F-16E/F Block 60 supplied to the UAE, the features on the F-16IN include Conformal fuel tanks (CFTs); AN/APG-80 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, GE F110-132A engine; electronic warfare suite and infra-red searching (IRST); advanced all-color glass cockpit; and a helmet-mounted cueing system. The F-16V is dubbed the ‘Viper’, which is intended to better operate with fifth- generation fighters, and should not be confused with Lockheed's F-16IN Block 70/72 ‘Super Viper. The F-16V is being delivered to the Royal Bahraini Air Force, Hellenic Air Force, Republic of Korea Air Force, Turkish Air Force and Slovak Air Force. 6: Special Mission Variants A-16 – The A-16 began as a late-1980s GD project to develop a close air support (CAS) version of the basic F-16 by adding armor and strengthening the wings for a heavier weapons load, including a 30 mm cannon and 7.62 mm Minigun pods. F/A-16 – The new systems for this "F/A-16" Block 30 included a digital terrain- mapping system and Global Positioning System (GPS) integration for improved navigational and weapons delivery accuracy, as well as an Automatic Target Handoff System (ATHS) to allow direct digital target/mission data exchange between the pilot and ground units. F-16A(R) – About two dozen F-16As of the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) were supplied with indigenous Oude Delft Orpheus low-altitude tactical reconnaissance pods transferred from its retiring RF-104G. Designated F-16A(R), the first example flew on 27 January 1983, and they entered service with the RNLAF's 306 Squadron in October 1984. RF-16A/C – The designation RF-16A is used, though, by the Royal Danish Air Force. In early 1994, 10 Danish F-16A were redesignated as RF-16A tactical recce aircraft, replacing the RF-35 Drakens withdrawn at the end of 1993. FEATURE: Mitsubishi F-2 – The basis of the F-2's design is the F-16 Agile Falcon, an unsuccessful offer by General Dynamics to provide a low-cost alternative for the Advanced Tactical Fighter (ATF) competition. Production started in 1996 and the first aircraft entered service in 2000.

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Book SynopsisAircraft of World War II details the design and specifications of 75 of the most important warplanes used during the conflict, from the venerable Fairey Swordfish biplane, through legendary aircraft such as the Supermarine Spitfire and Douglas C-47 Dakota, to the Messerschmitt Me-262, the first operational jet fighter. Presenting the information in an innovative format, the book features three-view colour artworks of each aircraft along with informed text giving a detailed account of the aircraft’s development. Examining each featured aircraft over two spreads, full technical information is provided for each type, including maximum speed, range and powerplant. Arranged by country, expertly written and attractively presented, Aircraft of World War II is an accessible guide for any aviation enthusiast.Table of ContentsIntroduction France Italy Japan Poland Soviet Union United Kingdom United States Index

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Book SynopsisThe history and development of Northrop's Flying Wings, from the innovative XB-35A to the B-2A Spirit.

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Book SynopsisThis riveting work of investigative reporting and history exposes classified government projects to build gravity-defying aircraft--which have an uncanny resemblance to flying saucers.The atomic bomb was not the only project to occupy government scientists in the 1940s. Antigravity technology, originally spearheaded by scientists in Nazi Germany, was another high priority, one that still may be in effect today. Now for the first time, a reporter with an unprecedented access to key sources in the intelligence and military communities reveals suppressed evidence that tells the story of a quest for a discovery that could prove as powerful as the A-bomb.The Hunt for Zero Point explores the scientific speculation that a 'zero point' of gravity exists in the universe and can be replicated here on Earth. The pressure to be the first nation to harness gravity is immense, as it means having the ability to build military planes of unlimited speed and range, along with the most deadly weaponry the world has ever seen. The ideal shape for a gravity-defying vehicle happens to be a perfect disk, making antigravity tests a possible explanation for the numerous UFO sightings of the past 50 years.Chronicling the origins of antigravity research in the world's most advanced research facility, which was operated by the Third Reich during World War II, The Hunt for Zero Point traces U.S. involvement in the project, beginning with the recruitment of former Nazi scientists after the war. Drawn from interviews with those involved with the research and who visited labs in Europe and the United States, The Hunt for Zero Point journeys to the heart of the twentieth century's most puzzling unexplained phenomena.

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Book SynopsisA stunningly illustrated tribute to all things aeroplane, Aviation celebrates the ingenuity of aeroplanes, biplanes, monoplanes and helicopters past, present and future.From the first hot air balloon flight by the Montgolfier brothers, through to the the legendary Wright Flyer and the revolutionary Concorde, this beautifully illustrated book by the award-winning artist Dieter Braun is the perfect gift for lovers of all things plane.

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Book SynopsisThe definitive account of the rise and fall of the iconic Concorde plane from British Airways'' former Chief Concorde Pilot''A remarkable story'' DAILY EXPRESS''A stonking good read'' FLYER_________What''s it like to fly faster than a bullet?Could you really glimpse the edge of space?Why will we never see Concorde''s like again?Mike Bannister was British Airways'' Chief Concorde Pilot. One of the few in that legendary aircraft''s quarter-century of flight to fully understand both the plane''s intricate engineering and what it took to fly her at supersonic speeds.In this definitive account of the rise and fall of the world''s greatest aircraft, Bannister explores its origins, development, service, highs, lows and, finally, the terrible crash which ended its flying life.Part celebration, part history, part detective story and part courtroom drama, it''s almost as riveting as flying in ConcordTrade ReviewExcellent, revealing. Well-related at both the personal and the technical levels * Aeroplane *

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Book SynopsisNimrod Boys is a complementary book to Nimrod Rise and Fall from acclaimed author Tony Blackman. It is a collection of over twenty first-hand accounts of operating the Hawker Siddeley Nimrod – an aircraft which served at the forefront of the Cold War. As the first jet-powered maritime aircraft, it could reach critical points for rescues or for operational requirements in rapid time. Its outstanding navigation and electronics systems also allowed the Nimrod to be a first-class machine in anti-submarine warfare. The book focuses on the Nimrod’s UK-based and worldwide operations. With detailed accounts of the Nimrod’s role during the Falklands Campaign and in later conflicts such as the First Gulf War to modern-day anti-drug smuggling operations in the Caribbean. There are also descriptions of the Nimrod’s achievements in the International Fincastle Competition – where RAF squadrons competed against counterparts from Australia, Canada and New Zealand. With a variety of perspectives on Nimrod crew life, including from a female air electronic operator, readers will find dramatic, engaging and occasionally humorous stories. One flight test observer also reflects on the cancelled Nimrod MR4 project. Nimrod Boys written by Tony Blackman with Joe Kennedy and with a foreword by AVM Andrew Roberts is more than worthy addition to the celebrated Boys series.

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Book SynopsisTrade ReviewThe Boeing 727 was one of the best and most popular jetliners in history. Advanced, reliable and powerful it brought the safety and speed to isolated communities around the world and contributed to decrease the ticket prices for its high efficiency. This beautiful book by Schiffer at last describes in detail the 727 long and fascinating story, courtesy of Author Dan Dorseif. He is a captain in service with one of the major US airlines and had free access to the huge Boeing historical archive. Through interviews, beautiful images (more than 600!), drawings and the wonderful Hennings profiles, this story is brought to life till to the point that the reader can hear the thundering sound and sniff the JT8Ds smokes! Mr Dorseif interviewed many engineers and salesmen of Boeing that give details and facets of the trijet unknown to the public The chapters thoroughly described the technical details of the -100 and -200 versions, the service with the main airlines and the long way that started from the stillborn 727-300 to the 7N7 and then the real 757. Many stories connected with the liners are told too, like the dramatic 1975 Da Nang evacuation by a World jet, directly in the line of fire of the North Vietnamese artillery or the 1985 TWA plane hijacked in Rome. A final chapter on the modelling is also included, detailing how to reproduce a beautiful Alitalia 727-200 Advanced and two -100, in the old 60s American and United liveries. A must have for any aviation enthusiast. -- Marco De Montis, Google Books

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Book SynopsisBeat the boredom and take time out from screens with this pocket-sized book packed with facts, photos and fantastic spots for hours of fun!Kids will have fun collecting points around the airport with more than 140 things to find. From tail fins to baggage trolleys, travellators to fuel trucks, they'll learn all about aeroplanes and air travel. And once they've scored 1000 points, super-spotters can claim their official i-SPY certificate and badge.With more than 30 i-SPY books to collect, there's something for everyone!For even more fun at the airport check out the i-SPY At the Airport Activity Book (ISBN 9780008392888).Trade Review“A fun, interactive way to encourage curious children to learn about the world around them.” – Parents In touch

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Book SynopsisHundreds of thousands of classified documents were captured from Germany's aircraft manufacturers and aviation ministry at the end of the Second World War, including details of secret project' aircraft designs created by firms such as Focke-Wulf, Messerschmitt, Heinkel, Dornier and Blohm & Voss. Ongoing new research in archives around the world has revealed many previously unknown plans and proposals for aircraft that were radical, revolutionary or just plain weird. In this latest volume in his series on German wartime aircraft development, author Dan Sharp reveals a wealth of new discoveries including never-before-seen drawings and designs.Secret Projects of the Luftwaffe examines Focke-Wulf's designs for enormous fighters built around bomber engines, aviation minister Erhard Milch's unusual rival to the Heinkel He 219 night fighter and Messerschmitt's alternative version of the push-pull twin engine Dornier Do 335. Also revealed are the long-buried secret history of the Blohm & Voss BV 40's repurposing as a suicide bomber, how an American-born car designer came up with the idea for Focke-Wulf's Ta 154 night fighter and the competition that would see Focke-Wulf, Dornier and Blohm & Voss go head-to-head with plans to design the Luftwaffe's last all-new piston engine fighter in 1944-45.Hundreds of original and previously unseen documents have been used to compile this unrivalled look at some of Germany's least-known Second World War project designs, featuring a host of period drawings and illustrations.

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Book SynopsisKnown as Fat Albert', Lockheed's ubiquitous C-130 Hercules was a product of combat experiences gained during the Korean War, a conflict that highlighted the need for a rugged transport aircraft designed with a do-anything, go-anywhere ethos in mind. First flown in August 1954, the C-130, powered by four turboprop engines mounted underneath a high wing which allowed for effortless loading via a rear ramp, soon proved its worth as a highly versatile aircraft. The easily configured cargo area helped the C-130 stand out from the crowd, and soon variants began to appear, with the first being a ski-equipped resupply aircraft. It was this type of tasking the C-130 excelled at, and soon air movement staff was developing new ways to deploy cargo. This included low-level drops, proving invaluable in aiding isolated disaster-struck areas. Other variants included air-to-air tankers, electronic reconnaissance platforms and weather reconnaissance aircraft. Now produced by Lockheed Martin, the C-

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Book SynopsisAn illustrated study of the legendary Spitfire and the evolving tactics behind its early defence of Britain''s shores.The Spitfire endures as one of the most iconic aircraft of World War II. Nevertheless, its initial skirmishes and battles yielded as many challenges as successes, with German forces soon outpacing pre-war RAF tactics and exploiting the Spitfire''s modest endurance to their advantage. This new study offers an engaging account of the celebrated fighter''s early encounters with the Luftwaffe from 1939?40, chronicling the rapid strategic evolution of Spitfire units from the Phoney War through to the Battle of France and the Dunkirk evacuation. Aviation expert Tony Holmes shines a new light on the fledgling exploits of this world-famous aircraft. Enhanced by newly commissioned maps, ribbon diagrams and full-colour artworks, as well as a host of archive photos, this fascinating exploration brings depth and insight to its journey through the Spitfire''s early years.

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Book SynopsisThis book examines the last generation of high-performance British propeller-driven fighters, types such as the Firecrest, late mark Spitfires and Seafires, Spiteful and Seafang, Sea Fury, late mark Tempests, Hornet and Sea Hornet, M.B.5 and Wyvern. From about 1942 onwards these extraordinary and very complex aeroplanes brought British piston fighter development to its zenith, but then in a very short space of time the new jet engine wiped this generation away. Perhaps it would not have been possible to take piston power any further anyway but the turboprop might have been a longer-term alternative, though in the end the only British type with this form of powerplant would be the Westland Wyvern naval strike fighter.Chapters look at the engines involved including the Rolls-Royce Merlin 130 series, Griffon and Eagle, Napier Sabre and Bristol Centaurus, propellor developments (contra-rotating) and then take each fighter type in turn. The coverage described their development and testing and includes quotes and passes from flight test reports.Additional appendices look at some British one-off designs and testbed programmes, then the only fighter types flown abroad powered by these engine types (the Australian CA-15 and Argentine IAe 30) and finally two similiar unbuilt projects proposed by Sweden (the J 27 Mustang lookalike) and Switzerland (the N-6). Illustrated with over 300 photos, many previously unpublished, this is a must for enthusiasts of World War II aviation and the history of the British fighter.

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Book SynopsisThis fully revised edition of The Concorde Story, is a complete history of Concorde, seen through the eyes of former Concorde pilot Christopher Orlebar. This new edition includes the after-story of the aircraft, including a list of where surviving Concorde Aircraft can be viewed around the world. Drawing on his own experience, the author reveals what it was like to be a Concorde pilot, and gives us a unique pilot's-eye-view of a typical transatlantic flight, including details of the training involved and life on the flight deck. It is from the privileged perspective of an insider that Christopher Orlebar describes Concorde's 'Grand Finale' and final flight to Filton, reflecting on the history and achievement of Concorde and those who worked on her.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements · Foreword · Preface · The Background · The Formative Phase · Agreement with France · Taking Shape · The Other Supersonic Transports · A Stormy Beginning · The Turn of the Tide · The Flight - Acceleration · The Flight - Deceleration · Training of the Concorde Pilot · The Future · 21 Years in Service · Sub-Orbital Travel · Tragedy at Gonesse · Concorde’s return to service · Outlook · Gonesse Revisited · Reflections · Grand Finale · Appendices · Index

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Book SynopsisThe Lockheed C-141 Starlifter was a new-build design by Lockheed and proved adaptable to many roles, from carrying outsized cargo to dropping paratroops. The C-141 was used in difficult environmental conditions, such as the heat and extreme humidity of Vietnam, the deserts of the Middle East, and the frozen ice pack of Antarctica. Modification programs enabled the C-141 to make full use of its capabilities, by adding in-flight refueling plus extending the length of the fuselage. The plane was a valued and appreciated USAF asset in numerous missions, from disaster aid and humanitarian relief to doing their part in Operation Desert Shield/Storm, and in the war on terror. The aircraft were eventually retired en masse in 2006 simply as a result of wear and tear. This book covers in detail all aspects such as interior/exterior configurations, cargo capabilities, missions, and modifications made throughout its service life.

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Book SynopsisWhat happened to MH370? How did Amelia Earhart disappear? When have quick-thinking pilots averted catastrophe and kept hundreds of people alive? And what, if any, are the lessons we have learned from these accidents? Aviation journalist and air safety investigator Christine Negroni uses science, performance psychology, extensive interviews with pilots, and the accounts of crash survivors to answer these questions, and more. Alternately terrifying and inspiring - Negroni might just cure your fear of flying, and will definitely make you a more informed passenger.Trade ReviewA lively dissection of history-making accidents * The Times *Fascinating . . . For all the horror stories in The Crash Detectives, the reasonable reader will leave the book more sanguine about modern commercial airline travel than before. * Wall Street Journal *Negroni is an experienced, well-respected US journalist who has spent most of her career following the airline industry; her knowledge and enthusiasm are evident throughout. * Mail on Sunday *Christine Negroni is a talented aviation journalist who clearly understands the critically important part the human factor plays in aviation safety. She "gets it". * Captain 'Sully', The Miracle on the Hudson *The evolution of air safety is rooted in catastrophe. Christine Negroni pulls back the curtain on the people, the places, and the tragedies that have shaped this process over the decades - an unflinching look at a system that most of us take for granted. -- Patrick Smith, bestselling author of COCKPIT CONFIDENTIALMysteries are always fascinating; aviation mysteries are especially so because they involve ordinary people. In The Crash Detectives, Christine Negroni combines her investigative reporting skills with an understanding of the complexities of air accident investigations to bring to life some of history's most intriguing and heartbreaking cases, reminding us that even in the 21st century, aviation still holds elements of the unknown. * Bob Woodruff, ABC News *

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Book SynopsisIf you are one of the millions of airline passengers who take to the air daily and have no idea how an aeroplane flies or how it is flown - but would like to find out - then this is the book for you. It is written by an airline pilot who knows from first-hand experience those questions that are asked most frequently. He knows that for many it is an interest born of curiosity, and in some cases, caused by fear. In this revised third edition Julien Evans explains, in straightforward everyday language, about the airframe and the engines, the flight deck and the controls, how the aeroplane is flown and the routines followed. In fact it explains everything the average passenger may wish to know. An informative guide to understanding how an aeroplane flies and how it is flown. Will be of great interest to aviation enthusiasts, frequent flyers and anyone interested in airliner operations. In straightforward language it covers the airframe, the engines, the flight deck, the controls and much, much more. Fully illustrated with colour photographs and diagrams throughout. Julien Evans, now retired, had a 36-year career of airline flying as well as an instructor and examiner.Trade Review'balanced, informative, comprehensive, totally accurate and , most importantly, interesting'. Pilot Magazine.balanced, informative, comprehensive, totally accurate and , most importantly, interesting. * Pilot Magazine *

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Book SynopsisModern Military Aircraft is a fascinating guide to the most important military aircraft developed since World War II. This highly illustrated book features a wide range of aircraft that served in the Korean War, the Vietnam War, the Cold War, conflicts in the Middle East and the Falklands. Types of aircraft range from front line fighters to reconnaissance aircraft to bombers to interceptors and helicopters. Spanning such famous planes as the Lockheed Blackbird and the MiG-21, Modern Military Aircraft also includes lesser-known examples such as the South African Atlas Cheetah and the EH101 Merlin helicopter. Arranged by countries, each of the 75 featured aircraft is presented with outstanding fully annotated three-view colour artworks, development and service history, specification tables and colour and black-&-white photographs. With a wealth of information and splendidly presented, this book is a must for aviation enthusiasts.Table of ContentsIntroduction Czech Republic/Slovakia France Italy International Israel Japan South Africa Sweden Taiwan United Kingdom United States USSR/Russia Index

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Book SynopsisThe best-known and most important manufacturer of plastic model kits in the UK, Airfix has been at the forefront of the industry since 1955 when the first Airfix aircraft kit appeared in UK branches of Woolworth's. The kits were made to a constant scale and covered a wide variety of subjects, from aircraft to birds and from tanks to dinosaurs. In 1981 the famous London-based company closed down and only the kits survived intact. For the next twenty-five years Airfix was run by Palitoy and later Humbrol, but suffered from a lack of investment. In 2006, Hornby Hobbies Ltd, the train and Scalextric manufacturer, bought the ailing company and transformed it. Money and resources were ploughed into the range, and today Airfix releases around twenty new kits per year, designed to an incredibly high standard. The old kits of the 1950s and 1960s are gradually being replaced by new state-of-the-art tooling, all bearing that most prestigious name - Airfix. Published to coincide with the sixtieth anniversary of the first Airfix aircraft kit, Sixty Years of Airfix Models, tells the full story, year by year, of the company and its products.

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Book SynopsisTable of ContentsTable of ContentsAcknowledgments viiPreface xi1. Chasing the Sun 1Helio Progenitors2. Dawn of the “Tennis Court Airplane” 27Early Helio Prototypes3. Geared for Success 49Main Production Models and Variants, 1954–19744. Litterbugs and Black Ops 86Military Versions of the Helio Courier5. Above and Beyond 106Turbo-Charged Helios and Concept Aircraft6. Twilight of the Courier 147The Last Production Helio Courier Modelsand Concept Aircraft, 1983–19857. Couriers of the Word 160JAARS Helio Operations8. Epilogue 171Plans for Future Helio ProductionAppendix 1: Data Specification Sheets 173Appendix 2: Helio Aircraft Models and Production Totals 215Notes 217Bibliography 221Index 225

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Book SynopsisAn illustrated study of the ongoing career of the iconic B-52, chronicling its frontline service after Operation Desert Storm in 1991.First flown in 1955, the B-52 has become an icon of deterrence and the long reach of American air power. The aircraft was conceived as a long-range nuclear bomber, but its versatility saw it used as a heavy-weight bomb truck' in Vietnam and a launcher of stand-off air-to-ground missiles during Operation Desert Storm. Following the First Gulf War, B-52s have continued to see combat, undertaking close air support missions during patrols above Al-Qaeda insurgents and Taliban forces in Afghanistan from 200103 for example, and have upheld their reputation as America's Big Stick' by acting as a deterrent in situations such as the Chinese friction with Taiwan in 2023.In this illustrated volume, combat aircraft expert Peter E Davies draws on fresh research and first-hand accounts to tell the story of the later career of this iconic and enduring aircraft, examining its service from Operation Desert Storm onwards. Twenty-two newly commissioned profile artworks complement a variety of photographs from both official and private collections, demonstrating the colour schemes, nose art and new weapons that have become features of late-20th and 21st-century B-52 units.

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Book SynopsisThe Avro Vulcan is one of the most striking aircraft ever made its enormous wing stretching back from an improbably thick leading edge marked by cavernous wing root engine intakes. Perhaps even more incredible, its first flight was made just over ten years after the introduction of the piston-engined Lancaster during the Second World War. Within a decade, technology had taken a giant leap from straight-winged slow-moving conventional bombers to this vast delta designed to carry a nuclear payload. But what led to such a radical configuration and what was the technology that enabled such an ambitious design? What possessed Avro to offer the Air Ministry such a futuristic aircraft and what prompted the Ministry to approve its development and entry into service? Formula 1 racing team aerodynamicist and Vulcan to the Sky trustee Stephen Liddle presents a full history of the Vulcan's development and assesses the technological and engineering breakthroughs which underpinned the construction of this unparalleled aircraft.

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