Aircraft and aviation Books

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisBased on forty years of detailed research, the Phoenix Project is a unique history of the wartime German Luftwaffe. Going far beyond a simple description of famous air battles and operations the overall work draws extensively on original documents, secondary sources and contemporary accounts to place the Luftwaffe within its proper historical context, gather together its many disparate components and provide a hitherto unpublished balance to its diverse activities. In addition to the lead role of the combat air forces the history provides a proper emphasis to the largely unsung work of the Anti-Aircraft Artillery, Luftwaffe ground forces, Signals Service and the Medical Services. It also examines in detail the vital work of the huge training organisation and the organisation and role of a continent-wide ground organisation.All theatres are covered thus placing a much needed emphasis on the Luftwaffe's momentous struggle in the East, a theatre of operations that was always more urgent and more vital to the Wehrmacht. Throughout this work Luftwaffe activities are set within the wider role of overall military operations and Luftwaffe activity is therefore placed back within its proper context in the overall European conflict.Volume 1: The Phoenix Reborn covers a particularly neglected area, specifically the post-war Reichswehr and the years of secrecy leading up to the unveiling of the Luftwaffe in 1935. Much of the key developmental work was completed at this time and the first volume examines the evolution of the uniquely German concept of operativer Luftkrieg, the work of the clandestine air staff and the key roles played by the German Transport Ministry and the Flight Centre Lipetsk in the technical development of military aircraft and the training of military aviators. It shows how Goring and Hitler essentially inherited an air arm in waiting a product of covert military professional endeavour over a period of fifteen years.The structure of the Phoenix Project is totally unique. Five major themes run throughout the history's constituent volumes (A) Strategy and Command, (B) Ministerial Activity, (C) Technology and Production, (D) Infrastructure and Training, and (E) Operations. These divisions enable the reader to pursue particular areas of interest throughout the overall work or to look at the inter-relationships between the various aspects of Luftwaffe activity.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis book covers the complete and long overdue history of the Hunting/BAC Jet Provost and Strikemaster, which for thirty-eight years trained generations of pilots and pioneered the RAF’s all-through flying training programme. Here, David Watkins has produced an extensive look at these aircraft after years of painstaking research assisted by veterans and historians. Having accessed the archives of the Warton Collection, he has amassed a range of rare photography to accompany the extraordinary history of these jets. From Jet Provost to Strikemaster is a work of narrative and technical detail which will satisfy the most avid aviation fans.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Gloster Javelin was the UK's first line of night and all-weather air defence both at home and in RAF Germany. In the 1950s, when it replaced the Meteor and Venom, this revolutionary bomber/interceptor became the focus of many great stories told here in terrific detail. With an unorthodox aerodynamic design, the Javelin initially had major production issues, which involved a tendency for engines to self-destruct under certain conditions. Despite this and the criticism it faced - its nicknames included 'Flying Flat-Iron' and 'Harmonious Dragmaster' - the aircraft still receives much affection from its former aircrew.Starting from the first deliveries of Javelins in 1956 until the final withdrawal from RAF squadron use in 1968, Javelin Boys describes adventures in Cyprus, Singapore during the Indonesian Confrontation and Zambia during the Rhodesian declaration of UDI. In this period a total of 434 Javelins were built, with their use spanning across eighteen different squadrons.Steve Bond has interviewed a number of veterans, all with captivating tales of their time on the aircraft.Alongside their anecdotes is a detailed history of this unusual aircraft, accompanied by photography never seen before in print. This book is bound to appeal to all aviation fans.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBritain has a wealth of museums of all sizes, all with incredible exhibits, yet the ''big'' collections tend to get the limelight. All over the UK are amazing aircraft collections, containing aircraft of world, national or regional importance, many of which the curators of the national institutions would love to have.With region-by-region coverage, the backgrounds of the formative museums of Great Britain are highlighted along with the pedigrees of their most significant exhibits. Included are such icons as the de Havilland Aircraft Museum - home of the Mosquito; the Brooklands, Museum - headquarters of Sopwith, Hawker and Vickers; the Helicopter Museum - the world''s largest rotorcraft collection and Solent Sky - shrine to flying-boats and the Spitfire. Across Britain are many local collections that helped to pioneer this country''s incredible aviation heritage and the role of enthusiasts is highlighted with a profile of the first of them all - the Northern Aircraft Preservation Society and its lineage. Among the ''regionals'' are the Dumfries and Galloway, Solway, North East, Newark, Norfolk and Suffolk, Yorkshire and Berkshire museums. Smaller collections have incredible stories to tell, for example the Martlesham Heath Control Tower Museum - the home of British flight test; the RAF Air Defence Radar Museum - devoted to the vital ''magic eye'' of the Battle of Britain, the Glenn Miller Museum - at the airfield from which the band leader departed to his doom and Fort Paul Armouries - dominated by the enormous Beverley airlifter. Over 150 museums and their most important exhibits are profiled with over 250 photographs, both archive and in full colour. Like the other titles in the series, Britain''s Local Aviation Treasures is a unique reference for anyone interested in Britain''s aviation heritage and it provides inspiration for a tour of discovery of the ''unknown'' gems of the UK

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisBritain has a wealth of museums of all sizes, all with incredible exhibits, yet the ''big'' collections tend to get the limelight. All over the UK are amazing aircraft collections, containing aircraft of world, national or regional importance, many of which the curators of the national institutions would love to have. With region-by-region coverage, the backgrounds of the formative museums of Great Britain are highlighted along with the pedigrees of their most significant exhibits. Included are such icons as the de Havilland Aircraft Museum - home of the Mosquito; the Brooklands, Museum - headquarters of Sopwith, Hawker and Vickers; the Helicopter Museum - the world''s largest rotorcraft collection and Solent Sky - shrine to flying-boats and the Spitfire. Across Britain are many local collections that helped to pioneer this country''s incredible aviation heritage and the role of enthusiasts is highlighted with a profile of the first of them all - the Northern Aircraft Preservation Society and its lineage. Among the ''regionals'' are the Dumfries and Galloway, Solway, North East, Newark, Norfolk and Suffolk, Yorkshire and Berkshire museums. Smaller collections have incredible stories to tell, for example the Martlesham Heath Control Tower Museum - the home of British flight test; the RAF Air Defence Radar Museum - devoted to the vital ''magic eye'' of the Battle of Britain, the Glenn Miller Museum - at the airfield from which the band leader departed to his doom and Fort Paul Armouries - dominated by the enormous Beverley airlifter. Over 150 museums and their most important exhibits are profiled with over 250 photographs, both archive and in full colour. Like the other titles in the series, Britain''s Local Aviation Treasures is a unique reference for anyone interested in Britain''s aviation heritage and it provides inspiration for a tour of discovery of the ''unknown'' gems of the UK.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis is a welcome revised and enhanced second edition of this comprehensive, accurate and honest account of the fascinating TSR2 story, tracing the project''s development from its origins in the 1950''s.Aimed at aviation historians and those interested in the history of military technology, the book examines the TSR2 project in detail, eliminating the many myths and misconceptions that have surrounded the aircraft for decades. Although much has been written about the TSR2''s history, a great deal of misinformation has been published on this subject which this book dismisses presenting the reader with a complete and realistic overview of the entire project.This book deals with the facts and not the emotion, speculation and fantasy which has plagued the subject for so long. It presents a detailed, factual and very readable account of the development and subsequent demise of TSR2 project. For this new edition an additional chapter concerning the F-111K, extracts from the TSR2 Crew Manual and other declassified technical TSR2 documentation, has been provided by Tony Buttler, the author of our respected British Secret Projects series who has researched this era of British military aviation for many years.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe new 2019 edition of this best-selling annual publication builds on the long history and heritage of the title. First published in 1950, this is remarkably the 70thedition ofCivil Aircraft Markings. When it was first published all those years ago, the book quickly achieved the status it still retains as the go-to publication for up to date information on the rapidly changing world of civil aviation.The book provides the most complete listing available of all the aircraft currently on the UK Civil Aircraft Register; around 20,000 entries are detailed in this section alone ranging from historic bi-planes to the latest airliners and also includes balloons, gliders, microlights and helicopters. Additionally,Civil Aircraft Markings, contains the latest civil aircraft registers of Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Civil aircraft commonly visiting the UK from other states round the world are also listed. The book also provides the common airline flight codes, radio frequencies for major UK airfields and the complete British Aircraft Preservation Council (BAPC) register.The 2019 edition has been fully revised and updated as usual and has a new and enhanced photographic section. Compiled by one of the UK''s most widely respected aviation authors, this classic aviation reference title continues to flourish and its publication is eagerly awaited every Spring by a legion of civil aviation enthusiasts for whom it istheessential companion to the enjoyment of their hobby.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDesigned by a team led by Roy Chadwick, the man responsible for the legendary Lancaster, the Vulcan was created to carry Britain''s nuclear deterrent in the 1950s and 60s. Avro''s delta-winged colossus became the backbone of the V-Force until the very end of the 1960s when the deterrent role passed to the Navy''s Polaris submarine fleet. The Vulcan remained in RAF service as a tactical low-level bomber armed with conventional and nuclear weapons, and was only retired following the introduction of the Panavia Tornado.This is both a comprehensive work of reference and an authoritative history. It covers the origins of the Vulcan and delta-winged flight, details of every major production variant, reproduces extracts from the Vulcan''s original Aircrew Manual and has appendices on both squadron disposal and the fate of every Vulcan built. Also included is a wealth of information and anecdotes from former Vulcan air and ground crews, describing from first-hand experience what it was like to live with the mighty Vulcan.The narrative is complimented with many photographs, scale drawings and colour profiles making this book the definitive history of this superb aircraft and an essential addition to the libraries of aviation historians and modellers. Additional photographs have been added to this new edition.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis brings the story of the US airlifter from the early 1960s to today''s transport giants and tomorrow''s stealth assault aircraft; revealing numerous designs which never saw the light of day, examining the thinking behind them and giving insights into why they did, or did not, succeed. This untold story of aviation history also has a major bearing on the development of civil aviation.The book, and its companion volume, American Secret Projects 2, covers airlifter designs from WWII to the start of the 1960s, and has been made possible by the authors being given unprecedented access to major aerospace company archives, uncovering scores of design proposals which have never previously been revealed. As well as describing how airlifters were progressively developed to meet ever-more demanding military transport requirements, the book looks at their other roles, from nuclear test-beds to Space-Shuttle carriers.Describing over 100 unknown, or little known, designs, including all the competitors to the C-5 and entries for the Tri-Service V/STOL transport competition, the book has over 400 illustrations, the majority of which have never previously been published, detailing some of the largest and most incredible aircraft ever conceived.

Read more less

Book SynopsisOne of the most interesting strands in aviation history has been the development of wing-in-ground effect (WIG) vehicles, or as they are more commonly known by their Russian name, ekranoplans.Beginning with a brief outline of the concept from the theory to viable technical solutions, the book gives a historical survey of the development of WIG research and construction in Russia. A large part of the book focuses on a type-by-type description of specific designs of ekranoplans developed in the Soviet Union and Russia in the course of half a century. Special emphasis is given to the activities of Rostislav Alekseyev, who has played an enormous role in the development of this new technology. Ekranoplans developed by several other major design bureaux, notably those led by Sukhoi, Bartini and Beriyev, are also considered.Economic and political transformations following the break-up of the Soviet Union led to the emergence of privately owned design bureaux and firms that are now pursuing the development of WIG craft in Russia, given the lack of interest on the part of the military and the state in this branch of transport technology. This new edition has been fully updated and highlights projects that are under development. Packed with photos, artworks and drawings, the book includes examples of similar technology being developed in countries outside of Russia, including the USA, Germany and China.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe new 2020 edition of this best-selling annual publication builds on the long history and heritage of the title. First published in 1950, this new edition is the 71st outing of Civil Aircraft Markings. When it was first published all those years ago, the book quickly achieved the status it still retains as the go-to publication for up-to-date information on the rapidly changing world of civil aviation.The book provides the most complete listing available of all the aircraft currently on the UK Civil Aircraft Register; around 20,000 entries are detailed in this section alone ranging from historic bi-planes to the latest airliners and also includes balloons, gliders, microlights and helicopters. Additionally, Civil Aircraft Markings, contains the latest civil aircraft registers of Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Civil aircraft commonly visiting the UK from other states round the world are also listed. It also provides the common airline flight codes, radio frequencies for major UK airfields and the complete British Aircraft Preservation Council (BAPC) register.The 2020 edition has been fully revised and updated as usual and has a new and enhanced photographic section. Compiled by one of the UK''s most widely respected aviation authors, this classic aviation reference title continues to flourish and its publication is eagerly awaited every Spring by a legion of civil aviation enthusiasts for whom it is the essential companion to the enjoyment of their hobby.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBritain established the world''s first aircraft factory in 1909 after the Short brothers met up with the American Wright brothers and struck a deal. The industry expanded rapidly to rise to the challenge of World War One with such thoroughbreds as the Camel and the SE.5. The post-conflict slump proved to be difficult but classics such as the Moths, the Hart family and the Gladiator maintained Britain''s leadership. Another war loomed and iconic types such as the Hurricane, Lancaster, Mosquito, Spitfire and the Meteor jet appeared.With the return of peace over 20 major manufacturers faced inevitable contraction. The misguided Bristol Brabazon airliner was a dead end but the superb de Havilland Comet and Vickers Viscount led the field. Canberras, Hunters, Lightnings and the V-bombers met the Cold War confrontation.For the first time here is a readable, highly illustrated, examination of the entire industry; its heritage and the changes it faces in the 21st century, both technical and political. The life and times of the 40 ''big names'' from Airbus to Westland: aircraft, designers, factories, failures and successes, mergers and closures are all explained, supported by statistical tables and copious illustrations. Here is a celebration of a world class industry that remains at the cutting edge of excellence.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Tiger Moth is one of the major aviation success stories in the history of British aviation. Developed by Geoffrey de Havilland and flown for the first time on October 26 1931, the biplane became the most important elementary trainer used by Commonwealth forces. More than 1,000 Tiger Moths were delivered before WWII, and subsequently around 4,000 were built in the UK with an extra 2,000 being manufactured in Canada, Australia and New Zealand.Following the end of WWII, pilots could buy and modify a Tiger Moth for recreational use or agricultural crop spraying and use it relatively cheaply. This, combined with its popularity within the aero club movement, provided employment for the Tiger Moths until the late fifties when the more modern closed cockpit aircraft began to force them into retirement.This new paperback edition provides a comprehensive account of the aircraft origins and its development as a trainer of Commonwealth pilots in times of peace and war. It also looks at some of the other roles which this versatile little aeroplane performed such as a crop duster, glider tug, aerial advertiser, bomber, coastal patrol plane and aerial ambulance. Technical narrative and drawings, handling ability and performance as seen through the eyes of the pilots to make The Tiger Moth Story the most comprehensive book of the aircraft.

Read more less

Book SynopsisBy the turn of the century China had reaffirmed its position as one of the world''s leading military powers. With much importance attached to fleet renewal; the People''s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and the Naval Aviation are fielding new types, emphasis shifting from local derivatives of Russian or western types to indigenously developed aircraft and helicopters. The book focuses on the current PLAAF/PLANAF order of battle and describes the most advanced aircraft types currently in service or due to enter service.Among the many aircraft reviewed in this volume are the Chengdu J-10 single-engined fourth-generation fighter in service since 2003, fifth-generation fighters like the twin-engined, tail-first Chengdu J-20, and the smaller Shenyang J-31 fifth-generation light fighter. Deliveries of Xian H-6K missile carriers, the Chinese version of the Tupolev Tu-16 bomber, are continuing, the H-6N with in-flight refuelling capability, entering service in 2019. Transport aviation is not forgotten either. China has also been building an aircraft carrier fleet equipped with the Shenyang J-15 Flying Shark shipboard fighter derived from the Sukhoi Su-33.The latest addition to the Chinese Army Aviation''s arsenal is the Harbin Z-20 medium utility helicopter which looks like the Sikorsky S-70 Black Hawk. Numbers of the CAIC Z-10 attack helicopter and the lighter Harbin Z-19 attack helicopter are also now operational. Unmanned aerial vehicles are also reviewed in this comprehensive survey.

Read more less

Book SynopsisCivil Aircraft Markings is the long-established and best-selling civil aviation book in the world.At the core of CAM is the most complete listing available of all aircraft currently on the UK Register of Civil Aircraft - around 20,000 individual aircraft are detailed in this section alone, from historic biplanes to modern airliners, as well as everything in between - including microlights, helicopters, light aircraft, balloons and gliders. For each aircraft listed the registration marks, exact aircraft make and model, and the owner or operator is given, together with space for user notes.In addition, CAM lists other civil aircraft commonly visiting the UK from overseas, which may be seen at British airports, and the latest civil aircraft registers of Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man. Furthermore, CAM also lists the common Airline Flight Codes, radio frequencies for major UK civilian airfields and the complete British Aircraft Preservation Council (BAPC) register.Fully revised and updated by one of the UK''s most widely respected aviation authors, CAM 2021 has become an aviation ''Wisden'', an indispensable annual publication with a place on the bookshelves of any civil aviation professional, enthusiast and historian.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe United States Air Force was formed in September 1947 and has been the world''s most powerful air force for 75 years (in 2022). From the First World War through to the end of the Second World War in 1945, US military aviation underwent dramatic changes - coming of age in the skies above Nazi-occupied Europe. And fom 1947 to the present day, the USAF has been the defender of the Free World, facing and defeating threats from around the world with courage, honour, technical innovation and raw combat prowess. In USAF - 75 Years of the World''s Most Powerful Air Force, David Baker charts the progrss of the Air Force from 1947 to today. This is a reprint of Baker''s 2017 bookazine.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisSupermarine Aviation built the Spitfire but it had previously made its name building a range of seaplanes and flying boats - particularly racers such as the S.6 (from which the Spitfire was developed). Historian Ralph Pegram, who has spent years researching the company and its aircraft, has unearthed dozens of previously unknown designs created by the company and in this bookazine illustrated with his own line drawings he explores the company''s top secret seaplane and floatplane designs - some straightforward, others bizarre-looking by today''s standards. Vol. 2 will look at fighters and bombers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe West was stunned when the Soviet Union dropped its first atomic bomb in August 1949 and a year later the Korean War showcased Russia's incredible technological progress in the form of the MiG-15 - a fighter capable of besting anything the RAF had to offer at that time. In the wake of the Second World War, funding for the RAF's Fighter Command had fallen away dramatically but now there was an urgent need for new jet fighters to meet the threat of Russian bombers head-on. Britain's top aircraft manufacturers, including Hawker, English Electric, Fairey, Vickers Supermarine, De Havilland, Armstrong Whitworth and Saunders-Roe, set to work on designing powerful supersonic aircraft with all-new guided missile systems capable of meeting a Soviet assault and shooting down high-flying enemy aircraft before they could unleash a devastating nuclear firestorm on British soil.The result was some of the largest, heaviest and most powerful fighter designs the world had ever seen - and a heated debate about whether the behemoths should be built at all as guided weapons became ever more advanced. This is the story of Britain's secret cold war fighter jet designs, fully illustrated with a host of drawings, illustrations and photographs.

Read more less

Book SynopsisAs British and American forces closed in from the west, the Russians pushed in hard from the east, and the RAF and USAAF bombed Germany every night and day, the beleaguered Luftwaffe went all-out in a last effort to defend the Fatherland during the last months of the Second World War.Spitfires Over Berlin tells the story of the desperate battles that took place over the Western Front from January 1 to May 8, 1945.True stories of aerial combat, courage and daring from all sides of the conflict illustrate the dramatic tale of the war's closing chapter - from the battle between the Spitfire XIV pilots of 350 Squadron and Fw 190s over the western fringes of Berlin to the murder of a downed P-51 Mustang pilot by civilians and carefully planned ramming attacks on American bombers.Also featured are the dogfight' between a Piper L-4H Grasshopper and a Fieseler Storch, what led a disgraced Luftwaffe pilot to fly the lethal BP 20 Natter rocket-powered interceptor, the French aces who flew for the Soviets, the fate of the US pilots who shot down a flight of Mistel combinations and much more.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisRAF Second World War Fighters in Profile features more than 280 highly detailed profiles of 15 different aircraft types flown by the Royal Air Force between 1939 and 1945. Full specifications and histories are included for British and Commonwealth fighters operated on all fronts during the conflict, from the iconic Supermarine Spitfire to US lend-lease types such as the Bell P-39 Airacobra and Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, and everything in between.Written and illustrated throughout by renowned aviation artist Chris Sandham-Bailey, this book offers exquisitely drawn profile views and scale plans of aircraft such as Hawker''s Hurricane, Typhoon and Tempest, plus the Westland Whirlwind, Boulton Paul Defiant and more. Covering all of the RAF''s high-performance wartime machines, this is indispensable reading for enthusiasts and modellers alike.

Read more less

Book SynopsisProgress on the English Electric Canberra was the main topic of a report written by W E W Teddy' Petter on June 17, 1948, but a final paragraph headed High Speed Fighter' said, Requirements for a high speed fighter are being sent to us ... There would probably be two or three prototypes attached to a successful design and a reasonable chance of production orders. Supersonic speeds would be required for short periods.' This marked the beginning of the effort leading to production of the legendary Lightning fighter. English Electric Lightning Genesis and Projects examines how that effort evolved focusing on the procurement process and the factors that drove decisions about the aircraft configuration and its weapon system. In particular, author Tony Wilson looks at how other procurement programmes influenced choices about the Lightning for good or ill.Between English Electric project numbers P1 and P34 there were 15 project numbers associated with the Lightning. Some refer to development steps in the aircraft's core programme but others were studies to extend the aircraft's capabilities. These designs are explored too along with proposed developments that were never given P' numbers.

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Battle of Britain Memorial Flight (BBMF)is a standing reminder of the heroism and sacrifice of countless British and Commonwealth aircrew who flew and fought during the Second World War.Formed at RAF Biggin Hill on July 11, 1957, as the Historic Aircraft Flight, today the BBMF's incredible collection of aircraft includes six Spitfires, two Hurricanes, one of only two airworthy Avro Lancaster bombers in the world, a Douglas C-47 Dakota and two de Havilland Chipmunks.The Flight's Second World War aircraft have survived against the odds to exist in flying condition today and this publication charts each of their careers over the last seven decades or more.Author and illustrator Chris Sandham-Bailey has meticulously reproduced every known paint scheme worn by each of the aircraft - as well as gathering together an unrivalled collection of photographs to show how the appearance of the aircraft has changed.Never before have all of the BBMF aircraft liveries from the war's end to the present day been catalogued and illustrated in one publication. Here you can see them both as Chris' aircraft profile artworks and in rare photographs. This publication is a must for anyone with an interest in the BBMF aircraft and their histories.

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe latest jet fighters deceive, evade, confuse, lock-on to their targets and kill them without being seen, heard or detected. Pilots can increasingly put themselves outside their cockpit, peering far beyond visual range, leaving the aircraft to keep them out of harm's way while they manage the mission. In Fifth Generation Fighters, author David Baker explains how netcentric warfare and sensor fusion takes the fight into the very heart of the weapons systems computer, tracking up to 100 hostiles and downing many beyond visual range. He also looks at how future fighters will connect to satellites, control swarms of unmanned combat air vehicles and plan the end-game for an air battle that has yet to begin. The clock is ticking a fifth generation fighter war is coming!

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Soviet Union's first successful atomic bomb detonation in August 1949 was a wakeup call for US Navy planners. The possibility of a single Soviet aircraft wiping out an entire convoy of merchant ships with a nuclear weapon had suddenly become very real. With military budgets having shrunk prior to the Korean War, it was simply not possible to provide a US Navy escort for every convoy. But what if those vessels could be provided with an effective means of self-defence an aircraft able to function as both a helicopter and a fighter, launching from and landing on the small deck of a Liberty Ship? It was a risky concept but aviation technology was now advancing at an unprecedented pace and the American aircraft manufacturers were ready to meet the challenge head on.The result was the US Navy's Convoy Fighter competition of November 1950 a contest to produce a turboprop-powered tailsitter' single-seat aircraft able to operate from a largely unmodified merchant vessel. A host of designs were submitted by the likes of Convair, Lockheed, Martin and Northrop, among them some of the strangest and most outlandish concept aircraft ever committed to paper. And two were actually built in prototype form: the Convair XFY-1 Pogo' and the Lockheed XFV-1.In American Interceptor: US Navy Convoy Fighter Projects, author and illustrator Jared A. Zichek focuses on the paper projects', the unbuilt studies submitted to the Navy. Lavishly illustrated throughout, the book showcases these fascinating artifacts of what might have been, from a golden age of aerospace history unlikely to be equalled or exceeded.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhile the general history of Somerset's major aerospace manufacturer is well documented, many of Westland's lesser-known and often more adventurous products, projects and technologies most certainly are not. This new volume from authors Jeremy Graham, a former member of the company's Future Projects team and head of avionics and systems technology, and Dr Ron Smith, former head of Westland Future Projects and light attack helicopter chief design engineer, presents a highly detailed and fully illustrated exploration of the company's many innovative programmes and projects using documents, photos and illustrations from the official Westland now Leonardo archive.Fixed wing types, from the blended-wing Westland Dreadnought to Lysander, Whirlwind, Welkin and Wyvern-based projects and on to a variety of 1950s jet fighter designs, receive extensive coverage but Westland's greatest achievements have been in the field of rotary wing aircraft and it is here that the book provides unparalleled

Read more less

Book SynopsisChosen in 1941 to replace the Bf 109 as the Luftwaffe's standard front-line fighter, Messerschmitt's innovative Me 309 embodied a wealth of hard-won experience from the Battle of Britain. Its sturdy tricycle undercarriage would make landings safer, its capacious wings could accommodate much heavier weaponry, its retractable radiator would make it aerodynamically clean, its pressure cabin would allow high-altitude operations and its ejection seat would help preserve the Luftwaffe's most precious asset its pilots.All of this was made possible by a fuselage specifically tailored to accommodate Germany's newest and most powerful fighter engines: Daimler-Benz's DB 603 and Junkers' Jumo 213. Production of up to 800 Me 309s a month had been planned by May 1942 more than all other German fighter types combined. Yet the type's advancement from prototype to full series production was reduced to a crawl, not by technical difficulties but by political in-fighting, deception and manipulation behi

Read more less

Book SynopsisWalk into any of the myriad aircraft museums dotted across the world and you can appreciate the wonderfully restored and preserved exhibits on display. But what about the many gems lovingly brought back to life and hiding away in people’s garages, sheds, barns and gardens? With Gavin Hoffen’s book you become a privileged spectator into a dedicated but often secretive world – to protect their security, names, projects and locations have been limited to the very basics. This is the nostalgic domain of the amateur restorer, hobbyist, and ‘cockpiteer’, of which since purchasing his first military cockpit in 2010, Gavin is one. Here you will find complete coverage of 23 projects worldwide with background histories of the aircraft and full-colour photos of the restoration – be it of cockpit, fuselage, or full aircraft. From Spitfire to Chipmunk, Vulcan to Buccaneer, Piper Aztec to B-52, this is a fascinating insight into an obsession with the romance that aviation once was. A must-see for every aircraft aficionado, and an inspiration for future preservers.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe English Electric Canberra first came into production in the late 1940s and has since played a hugely significant part in world events. In Canberra Boys, Andrew Brookes takes us through its rich history with the help of those who operated this magnificent machine. This book provides a detailed and fascinating history of an outstanding aircraft alongside illuminating anecdotes from the men who served with this illustrious aircraft.

Read more less

Book SynopsisFollowing the critically acclaimed publication eight years ago of Buccaneer Boys, long-serving Buccaneer navigator Air Commodore Graham Pitchfork has now followed up the great success of the book with more true tales from those who flew the last all-British bomber. Thirty Buccaneer ‘Boys’, drawn from the Fleet Air Arm, the Royal Air Force and the South African Air Force, outline their experiences in the maritime role, operations overland, including the first Gulf War, and operations by the South Africans in the Border Wars. In addition to the aircrew, air engineer officers and ground crew have also contributed. The reader is left in no doubt that the ‘Buccaneer Boys’ knew how to work hard and to play hard. The skill, professionalism and excitement of operating and servicing this iconic British aircraft shines throughout every page. This book is lavishly illustrated with 100 black and white photographs and two-colour plate sections of 40 photographs, many never previously published.

Read more less

Book SynopsisTo date there has been a paucity of books on this remarkable aircraft. Among its claims to fame are the following: the only RAF bomber to serve in its original role from first day of war to last, and in every theatre; the first type to bomb Germany; the first type to bomb Berlin; the first type to drop the 4,000lb 'Cookie' bomb; and so on. A serious study is well overdue, drawing not just on official documentation but relying greatly on personal accounts and anecdotes from the veterans who were there, both air and ground crew. And here it is. Through his diligent research over many years, author Steve Bond has produced an outstanding work. His coverage of operations will include, inter alia, the early bombing campaigns, the switch to main force activity, the use of OTU aircraft and crews on operations, the protection of Atlantic and Mediterranean convoys, service with the FAA and the French and the Wellington's continued use as bomber and transport aircraft.

Read more less

Book SynopsisThe Folland Gnat was used by the RAF mainly in the advanced training role, in the 1960s and 70s, where it proved to be an ideal lead-in trainer for high-performance aircraft such as the iconic Lightning, the first RAF supersonic fighter. It was also the aircraft used by the famous Yellowjacks formation aerobatic team, formed in 1964, the forerunner of the world-famous Red Arrows team which was equipped with the Gnat for over a decade before being replaced by the Hawk in 1980. Lesser known, the Gnat was also used as a lightweight fighter by both the Indian and Finnish air forces. In the case of India, the Gnat, later called the ‘Ajeet’ (Midge), saw combat experience in the Indo-Pakistani wars, most notably in the Battle of Boyra. Today, over 60 years since the aircraft first flew, several Gnats continue to be operated from North Weald Airfield in Essex by the Heritage Aircraft Trust under the brand, the Gnat Display Team. This book relates the history of the aircraft and includes many fascinating and untold stories by those who flew the aircraft, many of them well-known and distinguished aviators including those from the Indian and Finnish air forces. There is also a focus on the civilian life of the Gnat in the 21st century with accounts from those who continue to fly the aircraft with the Heritage Aircraft Trust. Gnat Boys is set to become one of the most sought-after books about aviation covering a very special era in aviation history, a must read for everyone with an interest in stories of human trial and endeavour.

Read more less

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

Read more less

Book SynopsisSliding out of the shadows of World War Two, the de Havilland Vampire – accompanied by the distinctive whine of its Goblin engine – quickly proved itself an effective alternative to piston-powered fighters. After entering operational service with the RAF (as the service’s first single-engined jet) in 1946, the Vampire – sought by air forces the world over – held a number of notable records: the first fighter to exceed 500 mph, the first to set a world altitude record of almost 60,000 ft, the first jet to take off and land from an aircraft carrier, and the first jet to cross the Atlantic Ocean. Not bad for something built partly of wood. Throughout these pages, the “Vampire Boys” bring to life the trials and tribulations of operating a first-generation jet across the globe. Through their insightful anecdotes and exceptional experiences, the reader can follow squadrons across the dusty deserts of Iraq to exercises in West Germany. First-hand tales of training, aerial handling, incidents and accidents (including the much-maligned spin characteristics) and squadron life – accompanied by unique images – bring together a portrait of a pioneering time in aviation advancement, right up to the present day with the T.11 still flying from Coventry Airport.

Read more less