Military vehicles Books

Book SynopsisThe Vulcan, the second of the three V bombers built to guard the UK during the Cold War, has become an aviation icon like the Spitfire, its delta shape instantly recognisable as is the howling noise it makes when the engines are opened for take-off. Vulcan Boys is the first Vulcan book recounted completely first hand by the operators themselves. It tells the story of the aircraft from its design conception through the Cold War when it played out its most important job as Britains nuclear deterrent; before unbelievably, at the end of its service life, also playing a significant role, with its bombs and missiles, in liberating the Falkland Islands for which it gained much celebrity. The individual accounts detail how hours at a time were spent on readiness, waiting to be scrambled to defend their country in the event of a third world war. In addition how their aggressive skills were honed by carrying out Lone Ranger sorties flying to the States and westward around the world, and taking part in Giant Voice and Red Flag, competitive exercises against the United States Strategic Air Command. The attacks in the Falklands using Shrike missiles are described accurately and in great detail for the first time including the landing at Rio de Janeiro alongside a vivid account of Black Buck 2. Vulcan Boys is a fascinating and completely authentic read reminding us of the Cold War, how it was fought and the considerable effort required to prevent all-out nuclear war.Trade ReviewAn extremely interesting read. Those who remember the splendid RAF Vulcan displays at airshows will revel in this. Vulcan Boys comes highly recommended. * Aeroplane *Packed with fascinating, and at times hilarious anecdotes. * Airfix Model World *Vulcan Boys would be an excellent addition to any aviation library. The work reads well and provides valuable insights. Highly recommended. * 20th Century Aviation Magazine *

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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.

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Book SynopsisWhen the German army launched Operation Barbarossa - the invasion of the Soviet Union - on June 22, 1941, it was expecting to face and easily defeat outdated and obsolete tanks and for the most part it did, but it also received a nasty shock when it came up against the T-34. With its powerful gun and sloped armour, the T-34 was more than a match for the best German tanks at that time and the Germans regarded it with awe. German Field Marshal von Kleist, who commanded the latter stages of Barbarossa, called it the finest tank in the world'. Using original wartime documents author and historian Peter Samsonov, creator of the Tank Archives blog, explains how the Soviets came to develop what was arguably the war's most revolutionary tank design.

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Book SynopsisThis series of books provides details of all USN warships from 1893 to the present day. Every class and individual ship has an entry providing details of the procurement, dimensions and characteristics, and a summary of each ship's history and development. Profusely illustrated with photos. An essential manual for all US Navy enthusiasts and historians.This is volume four, part one - Torpedo Boats and Destroyers (1901-1918).

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Book SynopsisThis book compiles the color profiles, scale plans, and photo details of the single variant of the MiG-21R. Scale plans are in 1/72 scale, plus drawings from technical manuals. Also contains photos of the details in black and white.

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Book SynopsisWith the United States producing almost 90,000 AFVs during World War II, American tanks made up the bulk of those deployed by the western Allies, and were even supplied through the lend-lease scheme to the Soviet army on the Eastern Front. American Tanks of World War II explores the tanks, self-propelled guns, halftracks and armoured cars deployed by American forces, from the Torch landings in Algeria to the hard fighting in Normandy and the bitter Ardennes offensive. Organised chronologically by type, the entries include the M3 Stuart, the first American-crewed tank to engage the enemy in tank combat in the war; the ubiquitous M4 Sherman, which proved cheap and reliable and was built in great numbers and in many variants; the M22 Locust light tank, designed to be air-dropped in support of airborne units; and the M26 Pershing, a heavy tank that arrived late in the war and was capable of beating the best tanks Germany had to offer. There are also chapters on the many motor gun carriages used by US forces, including the M8 HMC and T12 halftrack, both designed to provide close support for infantry. Illustrated with expert colour profile artworks for each entry and completed with technical specifications, American Tanks of World War II is a detailed reference guide for modellers and enthusiasts with an interest in World War II AFV technology.Table of ContentsContents includes: Introduction Light Tanks Marmon-Herrington CTLS-4TA T1 ‘Cunningham’ M2 Light Tank M3 Stuart Light Tank M3A1 Satan M5 Stuart M22 Locust M24 Chaffee Canal Defence Light (CDL) Medium Tanks M2 series M3 Lee-Grant M4 Sherman – M4, M4A1, M4A2, M4A3, M4A4, M4A5, and M4A6 Sherman Crocodile USMC Improvised M4A2 Flail Tank Assault Tank M4A3E2 Jumbo M7 (T7 Project) T23 Prototype Heavy Tanks M6 Heavy Tank Heavy Tank M6A2E1 T14 Heavy Tank M26 Pershing T26E4 ‘Super Pershing’ Tank Destroyers and Assault Guns M18 Hellcat M10 GMC Wolverine M36 GMC Jackson Howitzer Motor Carriage M7 Priest Howitzer Motor Carriage M8 Halftracks and Armoured Cars M2 Halftrack T28E1 AA variant M3 Halftrack T30 75mm (2.95in) HMC (Howitzer Motor Carriage) T12 75mm (2.95in) HMC (Howitzer Motor Carriage) M13 AA adaption M16 AA adaption M1 armoured car M8 Greyhound armoured car M3 Scout Car Amphibious Landing Vehicles LVT-1 Alligator LVT-2 Water Buffalo LVT-3 Bushmaster LVT-4 Water Buffalo LVT(A)-1 GMC DUKW Glossary and Abbreviations Index

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Book SynopsisLaunching Osprey''s new Fleet series, this is a spectacularly illustrated, concise and comprehensive account of the Imperial Japanese Navy''s striking force at the height of its power.The Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) entered the Pacific War as one of the most formidable navies in the world, and its combat power was concentrated into one force, the Combined Fleet. In the months that followed Pearl Harbor it enjoyed an unrivaled string of victories, shattering American, British, Australian, and Dutch naval forces. This period of expansion and constant victories ended at the Battle of Midway, after which the Combined Fleet was forced onto the defensive. In this book, Mark Stille draws on his decades of IJN research to explain what made the Combined Fleet the fighting force that it was. Packed with superb original artwork, explanatory 3D diagrams and maps, it examines the fleet''s doctrine, innovative tactics and powerful warships. It also details the qualities and importance of ITable of ContentsTHE FLEET’S PURPOSE Background to War Pre-War Plans Early War Strategy FLEET FIGHTING POWER The Ships Technical Factors HOW THE FLEET OPERATED Organization Command and Control Doctrine Intelligence and Deception Logistics and Facilities COMBAT AND ANALYSIS The Fleet in Combat Analysis FURTHER READING INDEX

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Book SynopsisWith a new world order emerging in the early 21st century, Chinese ground forces have been consistently improved and geared towards quality for costly main battle tanks, while still maintaining a huge number of cheaper AFVs. With 7,450 vehicles, China has today by far the largest number of armoured fighting vehicles of any army in the world. ModernChinese Tanks explores the main battle tanks, armoured fighting vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, self-propelled guns and missile-launching platforms in service since 1945, with an emphasis on the latest technology deployed by the PLA. Organised historically by type, the entries include the Type 98 and 90 tanks, the Type 80/85/88 held in reserve, and the Type 99 used by elite battalions. In addition, there is the YW-306 self-propelled rocket launcher and the PLA PL0 100mm assault gun. Illustrated with expert colour profile artworks for each entry and completed with technical specifications, ModernChinese Tanks is a detailed reference guide for modellers and enthusiasts with an interest in modern military technology.Table of ContentsIntroduction Main Battle Tanks Type 58 Type 59 Type 62 Type 63 Type 69 Type 80 Type 85 Type 88 Type 90 Type 96 Type 99 VT-4 export model ZTQ-15 Armoured Personnel Carriers and Infantry Fighting Vehicles Type 77 Type 89 APC Type 90/92 APC (WZ551) WZ551 APC Type 85 /YW-309 IFV ZDS-90 IFV YW-306 self-propelled rocket launcher ZBD-97 ZBD-2000 ZBD-04 IFV ZBD 09 Snow Leopard Self-Propelled Guns Type 83 Self-propelled howitzer PTL-02 tank destroyer PZG-88 SPAAG Type 80 SPAAG Type 95 SPAAG PGZ-07 SPAAG Yitian ADS Type 70-I Type 83 PLZ-45 PLZ 52 Type 89 tank destroyer PLL-09 assault gun PLZ-05 PLZ-07 Glossary and Abbreviations PLA Ground Forces Data Index

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Book SynopsisAn illustration-packed new account of the powerful Royal Navy fleet that fought alongside the US Navy throughout the last year of the Pacific War.The British Pacific Fleet was the Royal Navy''s primary contribution to the direct defeat of Japan in 1945, and is among the most powerful fleets Britain has ever sent into action. With naval supremacy in home waters achieved by 1944, many of the best and most modern ships in the Royal Navy could be sent to the Pacific, including battleships, submarines, light forces, replenishment groups, and shore establishment. However, the main striking force was the fast carrier force.Illustrated throughout with dramatic new artwork, 3D diagrams, maps and archive photos, this book explains how the Royal Navy joined the Pacific carrier war, and how the fleet adopted the US Navy''s ruthlessly effective fast carrier doctrine. With ships optimized for short-range operations in the Atlantic and Mediterranean, the BPF had to rapidly adapt to the long-raTable of Contents(Subject to Confirmation) THE FLEET'S PURPOSE FLEET FIGHTING POWER The Ships Technical Factors HOW THE FLEET OPERATED Doctrine, Command, and Communication Intelligence and Deception Logistics and Facilities COMBAT AND ANALYSIS The Fleet in Combat Analysis FURTHER READING

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Book SynopsisThis is a terrific history of the Seventh Fleet's vital service to the United States in the Vietnam War... remarkably researched and interpreted- Admiral Jonathan W. Greenert, Chief of Naval Operations, 20112015 and Commander Seventh Fleet, 20042006Combines a crisp text by the leading authority on the subject, with well-chosen contemporary photographs, new maps, and excellent art work an excellent introduction to a complex conflict, and the operational lessons learnt.- Professor Andrew Lambert, Laughton Professor of Naval History, King's College LondonA superbly illustrated examination of how the US Navy''s most powerful fleet fought the Vietnam War, covering all of its elements from aircraft carriers and heavy cruisers to minesweepers and oilers.The US Navy''s Seventh Fleet was at the forefront of America''s campaign in Vietnam for a decade, from the Gulf of Tonkin Incident that began it all to the final evacuation of South Vietnam. Its mission was highly strategiTrade ReviewThis is a terrific history of the Seventh Fleet’s vital service to the United States in the Vietnam War. Remarkably researched and interpreted, it is a testament to the spectrum of naval warfare missions, from carrier operations, naval gunfire support, mine warfare, and special operations that the fleet provided the national command authority. Then, as now, the Seventh Fleet was the tip of the spear focused on supporting U.S. strategic and national security interests in the Indo-Pacific region. -- Admiral Jonathan W. Greenert, Chief of Naval Operations, 2011–2015 and Commander Seventh Fleet, 2004–2006Combines a crisp text by the leading authority on the subject, with well-chosen contemporary photographs, new maps, and excellent art work… an excellent introduction to a complex conflict, and the operational lessons learnt. - Professor Andrew Lambert, Laughton Professor of Naval History, King’s College LondonThis is the real story behind the US Navy's Vietnam War * Ships Monthly *Table of ContentsTHE FLEET'S PURPOSE FLEET FIGHTING POWER The Ships Technical Factors HOW THE FLEET OPERATED Doctrine, Command, and Communication Intelligence and Deception Logistics and Facilities COMBAT AND ANALYSIS The Fleet in Combat Analysis FURTHER READING

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Book SynopsisThis book is the latest contribution to a unique series in a common format documenting in great detail the warships of the major naval powers during the age of sail. To date, four volumes have covered the British Navy, two have been devoted to the French Navy and one each to the Dutch and Russian Navies. This volume on the Spanish Navy, for much of its history the third largest in the world, fills the final gap in the ranks of the major maritime powers. This book is the first comprehensive listing of these ships in English and covers the development of all the naval vessels owned or deployed by Spain during the period of the Bourbon monarchy from 1700 to 1860 (including the period of French control during the Napoleonic Wars), but it also sets the scene for that period by summarising the origins of Spanish naval development under the preceding Habsburg regime. As with previous volumes in the series, the main chapters list all the naval vessels from 1700 onwards (including those 16th century ships which survived into the new regime in 1700) by type, with the first chapters listing the ships of the line (nav os in Spanish terminology) and frigates in descending order of firepower, and subsequent chapters covering minor and ancillary vessels. Where available, a brief service history of each individual ship is given. A comprehensive introductory section includes a group of background essays designed to provide the reader with a deep understanding of how Spanish naval forces operated, and the context within which they were organised. Certain to become the standard English-language reference work, its publication is of the utmost importance to every naval historian and general reader interested in the navies of the sailing era.

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Book SynopsisAn insight into the design, construction and operation of the US Navy's supersonic, all-weather multi-role combat jet, Supported by more than 270 photographs and technical illustrations, the Haynes McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet and Super Hornet Manual lifts the panels on the most sophisticated fleet defender of all time to review its design, construction and operation, including revealing personal insights by US Navy and Royal Canadian Air Force personnel of flying and maintaining the mighty Hornet/Super Hornet. The US-designed and built McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet carrier-borne, multi-role fighter is one of the most important Fourth Generation fighters in the world. Its twin-engine, twin-tails (canted outwards) and leading edge root extensions make it one of the most recognisable fighters in operation. The latest version is the enlarged Super Hornet. Author Steve Davies lifts the panels on this 'king' of the US Navy's Fleet Defenders to review its design, construction and operation, including detailed personal insights by USN personnel of flying and maintaining the mighty Hornet/Super Hornet., Author: Steve Davies is a freelance aviation journalist and photographer. He is an authority on US military aviation and the author of a range of titles including the Haynes Boeing F-15 Eagle, F-16 Falcon and Boeing B-52 Manual, and the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird Manual (with Paul F. Crickmore). Steve lives in Cambridge.

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Book SynopsisThe story of an iconic Harley-Davidson motorcycle, the WLA, used by Allied forces during WWII, is told for the first time.

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Book SynopsisThis is a detailed visual guide of the M60 tank; 340 photos both show the vehicle's design details and help readers visualize the tank's operational history.

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Book SynopsisGermany's legendary Atlantic surface war was fought by Naval Group West. Superbly illustrated, this unpacks the details of how it operated and fought.Having spent the 1930s on an ambitious but confused bid to build a new battle fleet, Germany began World War II woefully unprepared. Under Marinegruppenkommando West, its heavy ships and raiders were tasked with challenging Allied dominance of the Atlantic. In this book, Kriegsmarine specialist Lawrence Paterson explores how Naval Group West took on the challenge. He reassesses the qualities of the fleet, and how the confusion over their original role meant that ships like the Bismarck were less than ideal for raiding. Operating as far afield as the Indian Ocean also relied on an elaborate tanker and supply network, as well as Germany's superb signals intelligence. He also explains the complex Kriegsmarine command structure during the 1930s and early war, how responsibility for the ships veered between Naval Group West, the Naval Staff, and type commanders, and how the conquest of France transformed the command. He also explains how the Luftwaffe failed the surface fleet, both in scouting at sea and defending them in port.With superb artwork, 3D diagrams, maps and archive photos, this book explores and assesses Germany's commerce war, from the Graf Spee's cruise to the ill-fated exploits of Bismarck, and the final high-risk retreat from Brest, the Channel Dash.

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Book SynopsisA photo-history of this pivotal and iconic World War Two bomber

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Book SynopsisAlthough many modelers can master the basic techniques of construction, it is with the painting and finishing of their kits that many begin to struggle. It is this skill that gives the model its distinctive look and feel and separates the good model form the truly great one. This title will present a detailed, step-by-step approach to addressing the difficulties involved in creating realistic, colorful finishes to armor and aviation models using a variety of different media and techniques. The book swill be aimed at both the beginner and the intermediate modeler looking to improve their skills and, through clear text and photography will give a chapter-by chapter guide to the subject. Each stage will deal with a particular element of the painting and finishing process, whether it be creating camouflage schemes or dealing with markings and decals, to build into a comprehensive study of the subject. Relevant tools and materials will be included in sidebars, whilst a Gallery feature will

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Book SynopsisRare photographs from SS sources illustrating the armored formations which took part in this titanic struggle. Includes rare images of the Panther in action.

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Book SynopsisThe 'ShipCraft' series provides in-depth information about building and modifying model kits of famous warship types. Lavishly illustrated, each book takes the modeller through a brief history of the subject class, highlighting differences between sisterships and changes in their appearance over their careers. This includes paint schemes and camouflage, featuring colour profiles and highly-detailed line drawings and scale plans. The modelling section reviews the strengths and weaknesses of available kits, lists commercial accessory sets for super-detailing of the ships, and provides hints on modifying and improving the basic kit. This is followed by an extensive photographic survey of selected high-quality models in a variety of scales, and the book concludes with a section on research references - books, monographs, large-scale plans and relevant websites. This volume is devoted to the famous ships of Admiral Hipper's First Scouting Group. Slower but more robust than their British equivalents, German battlecruisers enjoyed a reputation for absorbing punishment, and although Lutzow was sunk at Jutland, Seydlitz and the rest of the Scouting Group survived heavy damage.This book concentrates on the seven completed ships but coverage extends to the 'proto-battlecruiser' Blucher and the ships building or designed by the end of the war.

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Book Synopsis''General Leclerc'' was the nom de guerre adopted by the Gaullist officer Philippe de Hautcloque, to protect his family in occupied France. He became France''s foremost fighting commander, and his armored division (the ''2e DB'') its most famous formation. Starting as a small scratch force of mostly African troops organised and led by Leclerc in French Equatorial Africa, it achieved early success raiding Italian and German positions in co-operation with Britain's Long Range Desert Group. Following the Allied victory in North Africa it was expanded and reorganised as a US Army-style armoured division, with American tanks and other armoured vehicles. Shipped to the UK, in spring 1944, it was assigned to Patton''s US Third Army, landing in time for the Normandy breakout and being given the honour of liberating Paris in August 1944. Combining a thorough analysis of their combat and organisation with detailed colour plates of their uniforms and equipment, this is the fascinating stoTrade ReviewA very interesting account with top notch artwork illustrating the colourful vehicle markings and uniforms of the division's units * Tracklink *Table of Contents* Introduction: Philippe de Hautecloque becomes 'Francois Leclerc' * Gaullist mission to French Equatorial Africa, August 1940 * The Colonne Leclerc – seizure of French West Africa – raids on Italians in southern Libya – capture of strategic Kouffra Oasis, March 1941 * Co-operation with LRDG – link-up with Eighth Army, 1942 * Brigade-strength 'L Force' in Tunisia, February-May 1943 * Formation of division, May-August 1943 - equipment by US Army * Assignment to Patton's Third Army in UK, spring 1944 * August 1944: Operation 'Cobra', and liberation of Paris * Alsace/Lorraine – capture of Strasbourg, November 1944 * Into Bavaria, April 1945 * Occupation duties, and stand down, 1946.

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Book SynopsisComplete history of the patrols of a key U-boat and its notorious commander.

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Book SynopsisFor over 40 years NATO and Warsaw Pact aircraft faced each other across the Iron Curtain, or fought in proxy wars around the world. Illustrated with detailed artworks of combat aircraft and their markings, Aircraft of the Cold War 1945–1991: Identification Guide is a comprehensive study of the planes in service with NATO and the Warsaw Pact and their respective units from the end of World War II until the reunification of Germany. Arranged chronologically by theatre, the book gives a complete organizational breakdown of the units of both sides, including the units and aircraft used in the proxy wars fought in Korea, Vietnam, the Middle East and elsewhere as well as the ‘frontline’ in Germany. Packed with 250 colour profiles of every major type of combat aircraft from the era, Aircraft of the Cold War 1945–1991 is an essential reference guide for modellers, military historians and aircraft enthusiasts.Table of ContentsChapter 1 Europe Chapter 2 Air Power at Sea Chapter 3 Strategic Bombers and Air Defence Chapter 4 Strategic Reconnaissance Chapter 5 The Middle East Chapter 6 Africa Chapter 7 Southern Asia Chapter 8 The Far East Chapter 9 Latin America Appendices Index

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Book SynopsisIn November 2011, Geoff Dyer fulfilled a childhood dream of spending time on an aircraft carrier. Dyer's stay on the USS George Bush, on active service in the Arabian Gulf, proved even more intense, memorable, and frequently hilarious, than he could ever have hoped. In Dyer's hands, the warship becomes a microcosm for a stocktaking of modern Western life: religion, drugs, chauvinism, farting, gyms, steaks, prayer, parental death, relationships and how to have a beach party with 5000 people on a giant floating hunk of steel. Piercingly perceptive and gloriously funny, this is a unique book about work, war and entering other worlds.Trade ReviewReading Dyer is akin to the sudden elation and optimism you feel when you make a new friend, someone as silly as you but cleverer too, in whose company you know you will travel through life more vagrantly, intensely, joyfully * * Daily Telegraph * *Stuffed with wonderful anecdotes * * Independent * *One advantage of Dyer's attention to the minutiae of this strange world is the continual surprise of his descriptive powers; he approaches on-board rituals with an art critic's eye that sometimes renders Steele-Perkins's powerfully constructed photographs redundant * * Observer * *A hilarious account of life on board an aircraft carrier is filled with delights...If this is the new reality, I hunger for more * * Telegraph * *Quite possibly the best living writer in Britain * * Daily Telegraph * *I hope one day to meet the demented genius who decided to put Geoff Dyer aboard an American aircraft carrier. The result sounds in places as if Sterne en route to his sentimental journey had paused for a week's stint on HMS Victory . . . In the end one is forced to call it "a Dyer book," which luckily for him and us is a high compliment -- John Jeremiah Sullivan, author of PULPHEADA great day is any day you get to read Geoff Dyer, and this book is no exception. Witty, empathetic, and insatiably curious, Dyer is the perfect guide to the floating world of an American aircraft carrier. With Another Great Day at Sea he makes a perfect night landing on the "postage stamp, with élan to spare" -- Sam LipsyteAnother Great Day at Sea, Geoff Dyer's chronicle of his two weeks in residence aboard the USS George H. W. Bush, is a tale of routine, lyricism and terror, of long hours and hard work, and of camaraderie and conviction, which are a form of faith. Original, humane, and very funny, Another Great Day is another great book by an incomparable writer -- Brenda WineappleDyer stows himself away on an American aircraft carrier, fortunately, with all his hilarious tics in place. A rare kind of non-fiction, with sentences that keep on giving long after your eye has sailed on -- Steve MartinGeoff Dyer has managed to do again what he does best: insert himself into an exotic and demanding environment (sometimes, his own flat, but here, the violent wonders of an aircraft carrier) and file a report that mixes empathetic appreciation with dips into brilliant comic deflation. Welcome aboard the edifying and sometimes hilarious ship Dyer -- Billy CollinsThere is no contemporary writer I admire more than Dyer, and in no book of his does he address his animating idea - The Only Way Not to Waste Time Is to Waste It - more overtly, urgently, emphatically and eloquently -- David Shields, author of REALITY HUNGEROne of my favourite of all contemporary writers -- Alain de BottonI have read Geoff Dyer on World War I, jazz, photography, the Bienalle, and D. H. Lawrence, among many other subjects. It's as though his mind is slave to some unpredictable Internet browser inaccessible to the rest of us. His new book - an inimitably close study of life on an American aircraft carrier -is one of his best, funniest, and most humane yet. Geoff Dyer remains an unconventionally great writer - perhaps the most bafflingly great writer at work in the English language today -- Tom Bissell

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Book SynopsisA prolific sub-contractor building airframes during the First World War, Boulton & Paul entered thefield of design and manufacture in 1917 with the formation of an Aeronautical and Research Divisionunder John Dudley North. Never destined to be one of the big players, they produced a relativelymodest output of prototype aircraft and then in 1937 a series of bombers and a small batch ofcivilian two seaters. The relatively unsuccessful Defiant was their best known aircraft.However, hidden from public view was a prolific output of proposals, trials and inventions. Frombiplane fighters through the novel turret fighters and into the supersonic age with VTOL lift-fan jets,Boulton Paul were always at the forefront of development.Based upon over 60 years of research, this book recounts many of these radical and innovativeprojects using development layouts, final schemes, drawings and photographs of mock-ups, modelsand prototype airframes. Many projects are recreated in CAD and other drawings by the authorpreviously an apprentice and a technical engineer with the company and archivist of the BoultonPaul Association.This book sheds much new light on the activities of a hitherto often overlooked company which wasin many respects at the forefront of aeronautical innovation in Britain for several decades.

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Book SynopsisUsing first-hand accounts and many previously unpublished images, this highly illustrated new book provides a detailed analysis of Germany''s Panzergrenadier in World War II.Throughout history, infantry has been the main attacking force deployed by armies around the world, but positioning substantial infantry forces has always required precious time to assemble the troops to launch an attack or form defensive positions. Transportation of men and their equipment has been a major issue through the ages, and one that was only partly alleviated by the establishment of railway systems in the 19th century and motor vehicles in the early 20th century. With the development of the German Panzerwaffe, military planners realized both the enormous potential of the tank as a breakthrough weapon, but also the issues faced by support units following the attacking force including the infantry. A tank assault moved rapidly forwards and this required a motorized infantryTrade ReviewAnother great addition to this series of books from Thomas Anderson and Osprey. * Military Model Scene *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1. 1936 – A New Infantry 2. The Schützenpanzerwagen 3. 1939 – Poland 4. 1940 – France 5. 1941 – New Challenges 6. 1941 – Variants 7. 1942 – Armoured Infantry 8. 1943 – In Combat 9. 1944 – Defending the Reich 10. Weaponry Index

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Book SynopsisAustria-Hungary did not have an overseas empire; its empire lay within its own boundaries and the primary purpose of its navy until the beginning of the twentieth century was the defense of its coastline. As its merchant marine dramatically grew, admirals believed that the navy should take a more proactive policy of defense. The 1890s saw the beginning of a series of naval building programs that would create a well-balanced modern fleet. Cruisers were constructed for the protection of overseas trade and for “showing the flag” but the decisive projection of Austria-Hungary's commitment to control the Adriatic was the construction of a force of modern battleships. Despite the naval arms race throughout Europe at the time, the navy had difficulty obtaining funds for new ships. The difficulties experienced in battleship funding and construction mirrored the political difficulties and ethnic rivalries within the empire. Nevertheless by August of 1914, the Austro-Hungarian had a fleet of battleships. This book details the five classes of Austro-Hungarian battleships in service during World War I.Table of ContentsIntroduction · Monarch Class · Habsburg Class · Erzherzog Karl Class · Radetzky Class · Tegetthoff Class · Ersatz Monarch Class · Bibliography

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive and unparalled examination of German air raids over the UK during 1916.

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Book SynopsisA history of the enduring Essex-class ships, the US Navy''s finest and most numerous fleet carrier during World War II, which were modernized repeatedly and served with distinction.The Essex class was the USN's war-winning ship class of the Pacific War. Of the 24 ships completed, 14 saw action, making the Essex class the largest class of fleet aircraft carriers ever built. These ships had a fine balance of striking power, protection, and speed and were modernized during and after the war. There were five distinct programs carried out, adding not only angled flight decks for jet operations, but repeated upgrades to sensors, weapons, and equipment.Essex-class carriers were used in a number of roles and provided the vast majority of US Navy air power in the Korean War, and a sizeable proportion of air power in the Vietnam conflict. However, as the super carriers began to enter service in the early 1960s, the Essex class was relegated to secondary roles a single Essex carrier servedTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT - Essex-class carrier modernization - Essex-class modernization programs - ASW carriers - Amphibious assault carriers - Essex-class weapons - Essex-class radars and sonars THE ESSEX CLASS IN WAR AND PEACE 1945–1991 - Essex-class carriers and the Korean War - Essex-class carriers and the Vietnam conflict ESSEX-CLASS COLD WAR CAREERS CONCLUSION BIBLIOGRAPHY INDEX

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Book SynopsisThis meticulously crafted book showcases a captivating collection of 40 vivid color profiles featuring the iconic Supermarine Spitfire IX, a legendary aircraft that played a pivotal role in World War II. Each profile has been meticulously created, offering an unparalleled level of detail and precision. These profiles are specially commissioned, ensuring an extraordinary visual experience for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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Book SynopsisGraphic first-hand account of tank warfare on the Eastern Front.

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Book SynopsisThis volume examines the history and development of the Ju 188 twin-engined aircraft, the Luftwaffe's attempt to enhance and improve its peerless Ju 88.The Junkers Ju 188 was the epitome of mid-war German twin-engined aircraft design, representing the enhancement of an earlier type and incorporating increased performance and technological sophistication. As part of the 1939 Bomber B' programme, it was intended as a replacement for the Ju 88 and He 111 medium bombers, taking advantage of uprated Jumo and BMW engines and incorporating a radically redesigned cockpit area with all-round visibility for high-speed bombing, torpedo-bomber carrying, FuG 200 radar, and camera-equipped reconnaissance operations. What emerged, from the autumn of 1943, was a sophisticated bomber and reconnaissance aircraftand intended nightfighter. After operational trials, the Ju 188 equipped three bomber Geschwader and several long-range reconnaissance Staffeln in the East and Italy, conductTrade ReviewThe Ju 188 is often overlooked as a modelling subject by all but the Luftwaffe aficionado; however this book provides enough interest to help the type get the recognition it should have. A well-proportioned book that is readable without being over technical or over demanding on the reader. -- Gary Hatcher * Scale Aircraft Modelling *The author writes well and with authority, supplemented with good-quality photos and an impressive set of 24 full-colour side profiles of the variants. This is not just about ‘Ju188 units’ – there is good coverage of the design, development and aircraft components too. Action accounts are drawn from both German and British sources, with some especially informative accounts of night interceptions and tactics: by this late in the war, survival was better at night than day (but not by very much). Nicely done – recommended. -- Chis Jarvis * Miniature Wargames *Table of ContentsChapter 1 Design and Development Chapter 2 Enter the 'E' Chapter 3 Service Debut Chapter 4 From the Arctic to Africa Chapter 5 Reactive Development Chapter Target England Chapter 7 Ebbing Tide Appendices Index

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Book SynopsisThis illustrated title explores the design, evolution, and deployment of the Arado Ar 234, the world''s first truly operational jet bomber and first reconnaissance jet.When the revolutionary twin jet-powered Arado Ar 234 first appeared in the skies over north-west Europe in the summer of 1944, it represented the state-of-the-art in terms of aeronautical and technical development. The Ar 234 was a formidable aircraft--powered by Jumo 004Bs, the same engine used by the Me 262, and with a maximum speed of 735 km/h and range of 1600 km/h, it was very difficult for the Allies to catch. Here was a machine that with its superior speed could operate with impunity as both a bomber and in the reconnaissance role. As such, the aircraft became the world''s first reconnaissance jet, undertaking secret, high-speed, high-altitude observation missions for the German High Command over the Allied beachheads in Normandy and other Allied strongholds. Astonishingly, in September 1Table of Contents1. A New Bomber 2. Reconnaissance - 1944 3. Bomber Debut 4. Reconnaissance - 19452 Remagen and Retreat Appendices Colour Plates Commentary Bibliography and Sources Index

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Book SynopsisThe XB-40 and XB-41 were secret, little-known experimental modifications of the B-17F and B-24D, respectively, into heavily-armed bomber gunships sometimes referred to as bomber escorters. They were developed during early World War II in response to the lack of a USAAF long-range fighter aircraft able to escort and protect regular B-17 formations making the round trip from Britain deep into Germany. Using many formerly-classified documents from his large microfilm collection, William Wolf presents their previously-unpublished history. It describes in depth for the first time the politics and development and associated problems of both escorter types. Unfortunately, these protecters were found wanting in several ways - after the addition of guns and ammunition they became overweight and tail-heavy causing center of gravity problems and each encountered numerous delays in the development and delivery of their various armament additions and improvements, particularly the Bendix chin turTable of Contents1. Bomber Escorter Concept 2. XB-40/YB-40 Bomber Escorter 3. XB-41 Bomber Escorter 4. Other Bomber Escorters Further Reading Index

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Book SynopsisThe adventures of some sixty pilots and ground crewmen who flew or worked on the Spitfire during World War 2

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Book SynopsisDue to the specific nature of the Marine Corps'' mission, the Marines has a acute need for amphibious vehicles. From the Vietnam War through today, the USMC has relied on four primary types of tracked amphibians: the T46E1/M76 Otter, M116 Husky, LVTP5, and LVTP7/AAV7A1. This new book provides a useful photographic overview of all these vehicles. More than 300 black-and-white and color photos make this a valuable resource for modelers, artists, and restoration experts.

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Book SynopsisCovers all Cold War Soviet/WP, US, British, French and German main battle tanks.

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Book SynopsisHistory of the Ship told through the accounts of those who served on her.

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Book SynopsisOn 20 April 1941, a group of distinguished Americans headed by the US Ambassador to the United Kingdom, John Winant, and which included Major General Henry 'Hap' Arnold, Chief of the US Army Air Corps, visited the de Havilland Aircraft Company's airfield at Hatfield, England. In this highly illustrated work, the author explores the full story of why the Americans wanted Mosquitoes, how they went about obtaining them, and their noted success and popularity with USAAF units.On 20 April 1941, a group of distinguished Americans headed by the US Ambassador to the United Kingdom, John Winant, and which included Major General Henry 'Hap' Arnold, Chief of the US Army Air Corps, visited the de Havilland Aircraft Company's airfield at Hatfield, England. AUTHOR: The son of an RAF pilot, Tony Fairbairn's childhood was spent on a variety of airfields around the world, which fired an early enthusiasm for aviation journalism and photography. While still at school in Singapore in the early 1960s he

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Book SynopsisProviding everything the modeller needs to recreate an accurate representation of these historic vehicles.

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Book SynopsisA classic reference work in a new and affordable softcover format. More than 800 beautifully executed colour ship profiles. A unique and incomparable collection of camouflage schemes.

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Book SynopsisThis volume covers the many variations of Royal Navy wartime escort destroyers, both the purpose-built Hunt' class and the conversions from older fleet destroyers.

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Book SynopsisCovers the many operational roles that the Mosquito flewDramatic first-hand accountsThe only rebuilt wartime Mosquito is likely to be flying at the time of publication

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