Military vehicles Books
Oxford University Press Inc DRONES WENTK P
Book SynopsisDrones quite possibly represent the most transformative military innovation since jet engines and atomic weaponry. No longer do humans have to engage in close military action or be in the same geographical vicinity as the target. Now, through satellite imaging and remote technology, countries such as the United States can destroy small targets halfway around the world with pinpoint accuracy.In the last several years, many of the military advancements have been rivaled by those in the commercial realm. Civilian industries have clamored to acquire drones for everything from monitoring crops to filming Hollywood movies to delivering packages. Not surprisingly, the use of drones has generated a lively debate, but no book thus far has engaged the range of themes surrounding drones. How do drones work? To what extent has the technology proliferated to other nations outside the US? How can they be used on the ground and in maritime environments? How are they being integrated into both militarTable of ContentsTable of Contents 1. Introduction 2. Armed Drone Technology 3. Proliferation of Drones to Other Countries 4. Drones for the Ground and Sea 5. Non-Combat Technology 6. The Future of Drones: Nano and Autonomous Systems, and Science Fiction
£10.44
The History Press Ltd Tirpitz
Book SynopsisThe German battleships Bismarck and Tirpitz had brutally short careers. The Bismarck was sunk by the Home Fleet on her first operational sortie in May 1941. But the Tirpitz, hiding in Norwegian fjords, remained a menace to Allied convoys and tied down the British Home Fleet for three years. Periodic scares that the Tirpitz was ''out'' disrupted naval operations and in 1942 led to the dispersal and destruction of Convoy PQ17. Many attacks on the Tirpitz were made by British X-craft and Chariots, by the Fleet Air Arm and by RAF Bomber Command. From May 1940 over 700 British aircraft tried to bomb, mine or torpedo the Tirpitz on 33 separate missions; she was finally destroyed by Lancaster bombers with 5-ton Tallboy bombs. This is the most comprehensive account of the air attacks on ''the beast'' ever published, which is the result of extensive research of the British and German records by the author, former head of Defence and International Affairs at RMA Sandhurst.
£11.69
The History Press Ltd Fairey Rotodyne
Book SynopsisThe Fairey Rotodyne was a large British compound helicopter designed and built by the Fairey Aviation Company and intended for commercial and military applications. It was considered to be one of the iconic aviation projects of the 1950s/60s and a bright future was planned for the aircraft. Widely accepted to be a revolutionary design, it was economically viable, fast and capable of vertical take-off and landing from city centre heliports. However, despite the proven feasibility of this bold concept, the Rotodyne project was terminated in 1962 due to escalating development costs and unresolved technical issues. This book seeks to fill a gap in aviation literature on the history of the Rotodyne, an aircraft ahead of its time. Winner of Hampshire Libraries Special Collections Award 2010.
£15.29
The History Press Ltd Death by Design
Book SynopsisAt the outbreak of war in 1939 British tank crews were ill-equipped, under trained and badly led. As a consequence the lives of hundreds of crewmen were wasted unnecessarily. This was due not only to the poor design and construction of British tanks, but also to the lack of thought and planning on the part of successive pre-war governments and the War Office. Death by Design explores how and why Britain went from leading the world in tank design at the end of the First World War to lagging far behind the design quality of Russian and German tanks in the Second World War. This book is a much-needed warning to governments and military planners: a nation must always be prepared to defend itself and ensure that its soldiers are equipped with the tools to do so.
£17.00
Anness Publishing Military Motorcycles The World Encyclopedia of
Book SynopsisThe story of the military motorcycle, from the early years of the 20th century to the present day, with an illustrated A-Z of over 160 vehicles from around the world.
£13.50
Schiffer Publishing Ltd Germanys Tiger Tanks
Book Synopsis
£47.99
Schiffer Publishing, Ltd. F4 Phantom II
Book Synopsis
£19.54
Schiffer Publishing, Ltd. Armored Forces of Russia and the Soviet Union
£41.24
Stackpole Books Luftwaffe Fighters and Bombers
Book Synopsis
£999.99
Crecy Publishing De Havilland Mosquito
Book Synopsis
£15.26
Panzerwrecks Limited Panzerwrecks 4
Book Synopsis
£15.29
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Panzer Aces of the Wehrmacht and the WaffenSS
Book SynopsisDuring the war hundreds of German panzer commanders and gunnersaccomplished the feat of personally destroying at least 20 enemy tanks.In this book they are forthe first time all gathered together, with their individual stories examined in detail using officially documented combat actions, kills and awards. and illustrated with over 300 photos.
£22.50
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The Tanks of Operation Barbarossa
Book SynopsisRevealing study of the Soviet and German tanks at the beginning of the war on the Eastern Front.
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Panther German Army Medium Tank
Book SynopsisTechnical details as well as modifications introduced during production and in the field are also examined, providing everything the modeller needs to recreate an accurate representation of these historic vehicles.
£17.09
Pen & Sword Books Ltd C130 Hercules
Book SynopsisThe book serves as not only a tribute to a fantastic aircraft but also as a proud reminder of the part played by a generation of C-130 pilots and their crews.
£16.99
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Bomber Command 19361968
Book SynopsisA unique approach containing all the fundamental information the aviation enthusiast or historian is likely to require.
£16.99
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Schnellboote
Book SynopsisThe history of fast attack craft is a perennial favourite amongst naval enthusiasts. New, affordable paperback edition. Large selection of rare photographs.
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Flight Craft 28 McDonnell Douglas F4 Phantom
Book SynopsisA first for scale modellers everywhere - a book aimed at scale modellers of all levels interested in building the F-4 Phantom II.
£15.29
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Imperial Roman Warships 27 BC193 AD
Book SynopsisThe Roman Empire was not only built by the strength of the legions but also by a Navy that was the most powerful maritime force ever to have existed. It was only the existence of the fleet that secured the trade routes and maintained the communications within the huge Empire. At the height of its power the Roman Navy employed tens of thousands of sailors, marines and craftsmen, coming from every corner of the three continents under the rule of the Caesars. This book reveals the design and development history of Rome''s naval force at the height of its Imperial Power. As well as examining its warships, it reveals the basic navy structure and the tactics that were developed to make the most of Rome''s naval design superiority.Table of ContentsIntroduction /Chronology /Historical background /The organization of the Roman Imperial navy /The ships: Biremes, Triremes, Quadriremes, Liburna, Esareme, Deceris, Actuaria, and Oneraria / Fighting on the sea: Roman naval tactics during the Early Empire /Employment in conquest wars /Campaigns /Glossary /Bibliography /Index
£12.34
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC US Navy F4 Phantom II Units of the Vietnam War
Book SynopsisThe F-4 Phantom II is perhaps the most famous postwar fighter. Primarily used as a land-based fighter-bomber and reconnaissance platform, its legend is owed to its naval origins and the immense contribution its original carrier-based versions made to the U.S. war effort in Vietnam. This title examines the unique aspects of the Phantom that made it so crucial to U.S. Navy pilots during the Vietnam War: its massive engine power, long range, speed, the most powerful airborne search and fire-control radar installed in a fighter at the time, and, of course, its versatility as a ground attack and air-to-air platform. Packed with firsthand accounts, unique profile artwork, and rare photographs, this is the history of one of the most important aircraft to be stationed on carriers off Southeast Asia during the war.Table of ContentsThunder Clouds /Into the Cauldron /Adaptations /Tools and Tactics /Refining the Breed /Appendices /Colour Plates Commentary /Index
£15.29
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC P40E Warhawk vs A6M2 Zerosen
Book SynopsisThe P-40E Warhawk is often viewed as one of the less successful American fighter designs of World War II, but in 1942 the aircraft was all that was available to the USAAC in-theatre. Units equipped with the aircraft were duly forced into combat against the deadly A6M2 Zero-sen, which had already earned itself a near-mythical reputation following its exploits over China and Pearl Harbor. During an eight-month period in 1942, an extended air campaign was fought out between the two fighters for air superiority over the Javanese and then northern Australian skies. During this time, the P-40Es and the Zero-sens regularly clashed without interference from other fighter types. In respect to losses, the Japanese won' these engagements, for many more P-40Es were shot down than Zero-sens. However, the American Warhawks provided a potent deterrent that forced the IJNAF to attack from high altitudes, where crews' bombing efficiency was much poorer.Fully illustrated throughout, and suppoTable of ContentsIntroduction Chronology Design and Development Technical Specifications The Strategic Situation The Combatants Combat Statistics and Analysis Aftermath Further Reading Index
£13.29
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Yokosuka D4Y Judy Units
Book SynopsisIn 1938, the Yokosuka Naval Air Technical Arsenal, acting under the requirements issued by the Kaigun Koku Hombu for a Navy Experimental 13-Shi Carrier Borne specification for a dive-bomber to replace the venerable Val' aboard carriers. The resulting D4Y Suisei (Comet'), codenamed Judy' by the Allies, was initially powered by a licence-built German Daimler-Benz DB 601 inline engine as used in the Bf 109E. Despite making an inauspicious combat debut during the Battle of Midway in June 1942, the Judy' eventually proved to be an important asset for the IJNAF during battles in the latter years of the Pacific War. Its great successes resulted in the sinking of the escort carrier USS Princeton in an early kamikaze attack of the Philippines and the near sinking of the fleet carrier USS Franklin in a dive-bombing attack off Japan. While the Judy had an impressive top-speed, like its predecessor, and many other Japanese military aircraft, it possessed design shortcomings inTable of Contents1. Design and Development 2. Battle of Midway 3. Truk and the Marianas 4. Formosa and the Philippines 5. Kamikazes 6. D4Y2-S Nightfighter Appendices Index
£13.49
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC A6M23 Zerosen
Book SynopsisThis book details the exploits of the highly skilled Naval Aviators charged with achieving air supremacy over New Guinea in their A6M2/3 Zero-sens. The combat record of the Zero-sen in New Guinea has mostly been overstated, with little due being given to the constraining conditions under which the fighter operated. The air combats fought over New Guinea in 1942 between Imperial Japanese Naval Air Force (IJNAF) pilots and their Allied counterparts in P-39 Airacobras and P-40 Warhawks were often trial and error' affairs, with both belligerents being caught out by weather. This study covers the key role played by governing factors including geography and climatic conditions, and examines the modified tactics employed by IJNAF Zero-sen pilots to help them cope in-theatre through the comprehensive analysis of RAAF, USAAF and Japanese operational after action reports. Using first-hand accounts from both famous aviators and previously unknown RAAF and Japanese pilots, and specially coTable of Contents(Subject to confirmation) 1. In Battle 2. Setting the Scene 3. Path to Combat 4. Weapon of war 5. Art of War 6. Combat Aftermath Bibliography Index
£14.39
Pen & Sword Books Ltd MESSERSCHMITT Bf 109
Book SynopsisThe iconic German fighter of the Second World War examined through its service in the latter years of the Second World War.
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Panzer I and II: Blueprint for Blitzkrieg
Book SynopsisThe Panzer I and II played a significant part in the blitzkrieg campaigns that brought Germany such extraordinary success in the early years of the Second World War, and this highly illustrated volume in the TankCraft series is the ideal introduction to them. The Treaty of Versailles forbade Germany to manufacture tanks so the Panzer I had to be developed in strict secrecy, but by the time of the invasion of Poland the Wehrmacht had over 1400 of these light tanks. The Panzer II was an interim design, bridging the gap between the Panzer I and subsequent, far more viable armoured fighting vehicles like the Panzer III and IV. As well as tracing the history of the Panzer I and II, Robert Jackson's book is an excellent source of reference for the modeller, providing details of available kits, together with artworks showing the colour schemes applied to these tanks. Each section of the book is supported by a wealth of wartime photographs as well as diagrams showing the technical changes that were made to these tanks in the course of their careers.
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The Handley Page Victor: Tales from a Crew Chief
Book SynopsisSome aircraft inspire passion, others nostalgia, but others, often the unsung heroes, are more of a connoisseur's choice. The Handley Page Victor easily falls into this last category. In this follow-up to _The Handley Page Victor: The History and Development of a Classic Jet,_ Volumes _I_ and _II,_ Roger Brooks extends his earlier historical narratives, this time offering an action-packed and riveting memoir of a career spanning forty years. The book charts changes as they occurred in the aeronautical industry from the 1950's onwards and, as such, it should appeal to both individuals who were caught up in events at the time as well as students of the era. In addition to the aircraft itself, Roger worked extensively with tankers, refuelling the Victor as it took part in a variety of operations in the fraught Cold War era. He brings all aspects of his career to life across these pages, offering the kind of details that can only be gained by first-hand experience.
£16.99
Pen & Sword Books Ltd British Submarines in Two World Wars
Book SynopsisAlthough the Royal Navy did not invent the submarine, Norman Friedman's new book demonstrates how innovative the service was, to an extent which few will recognise. Its submarines performed well in combat in both world wars, and often in unheralded ways. Few will be aware that in 1914 Britain had the largest submarine fleet in the world, and that at the end of World War I it had some of the largest and most unusual of all submarines - whose origins and design are all detailed. During the First World War they virtually closed the Baltic to German iron ore traffic, and they helped block supplies to the Turkish army fighting at Gallipoli. British submarines were a major element in the North Sea battles, and they helped fight the U-boat menace. These roles led on to British submarine operations in World War II. Readers will be aware of the role of US submarines in strangling Japan, but perhaps not how British submarines in the Mediterranean fought a parallel costly but successful battle to strangle the German army in North Africa. Like their US counterparts, interwar British submariners were designed largely with the demands of a possible Pacific War, although that was not the war they fought. And the author shows how the demands of such a war, which would be fought over vast distances, collided with interwar British Government attempts to limit costs by holding down the size (and numbers) of submarines. It says much about the ingenuity of British submarine designers that they managed to meet their requirements despite enormous pressure on submarine size. As in other books in this series, the author demonstrates how a combination of evolving strategic and tactical requirements and evolving technology produced successive types of design. The Royal Navy was always painfully aware of the threat enemy submarines posed, and British submariners contributed heavily to the development of British anti-submarine tactics and technology, beginning with largely unknown efforts before the outbreak of World War I. Between the Wars British submariners exploited the new technology of sonar (Asdic), both to find and attack enemies and to avoid being attacked themselves. As a result, they pioneered submarine silencing, with important advantages to the US Navy as it observed the British. And it was a British submarine that pioneered the vital postwar use of submarines as anti-submarine weapons, sinking a U-boat while both were submerged. This feat was unique. Heavily illustrated with photos and original plans, this new volume from Norman Friedman, incorporating so much original analysis, will be eagerly awaited by naval historians and enthusiasts everywhere.
£40.00
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Tank Destroyer: Achilles and M10, British Army
Book SynopsisIn this heavily illustrated volume in the TankCraft series Dennis Oliver focuses on the Achilles - the British variant of the American M10 - which was one of the most important Allied tank destroyers of the Second World War. It played a key role in the armoured battles fought on the Western Front, in particular in France, the Low Countries, Germany and Italy. Built on an adapted Sherman chassis, with sloped armour, an open-topped turret and powerful 17-pounder gun, it was designed to counter the threat posed by the formidable panzers deployed by the German army towards the end of the conflict, in particular the Panther and Tiger tanks. The book covers the design and operational history of the Achilles in close detail, using rare archive photographs and meticulously researched colour illustrations, as well as a detailed, authoritative text. A key section displays available model kits and aftermarket products, complemented by a gallery of beautifully constructed and painted models in various scales. Technical details as well as modifications introduced during production and in the field are also examined providing everything the modeller needs to recreate an accurate representation of these historic armoured fighting vehicles.
£999.99
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Torpedo Bombers, 1900-1950: An Illustrated
Book SynopsisThe torpedo-bomber was a very short-lived weapon system, operational for scarcely half a century from just prior WWI to the 1960s. Yet during its brief existence it transformed naval warfare, extending the ship-killing range of ships and coastal defences to hundreds of miles. The Royal Navy and Fleet Air Arm led the way, recording the first sinking of a ship by aerial torpedo in August 1915 but all major navies eagerly developed their own torpedo bomber forces. The torpedo-bomber reached its zenith in WWII, particularly from 1940-42, with notable successes at the Battle of Taranto, the sinking of the Bismarck and Pearl Harbor. It was the weapon of choice for both the US and Japanese in the big Pacific battles such as Midway. In the latter stages of the war, increasingly effective anti-aircraft fire and interceptor aircraft started to render it obsolete, a process completed post-war by long-range anti-ship missiles. Jean-Denis Lepage traces the development of torpedo bombers worldwide, describing their tactics, operational history and the aircraft themselves, including such well-loved types as the Swordfish, Beaufighter and Avenger. Over 300 aircraft are beautifully illustrated.
£999.99
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Hurricanes in Action Worldwide!
Book SynopsisThe Hawker Hurricane was the RAF's most valuable fighter asset in the Second World War, yet even today is relatively under-appreciated by the general public. Yet from the early months of the war it was the single engine fighter most often encountered by the Luftwaffe and during the Battle of Britain it made 80% of the successful interdictions of enemy formations. As this superbly researched book written by a leading authority on the air war reveals, this was only the start of the Hurricane's war service. Its reliability and versatility ensured that variants saw action in more war theatres worldwide than any other fighter. Indeed, as the RAF's Official History recalls Everywhere the Ubiquitous Hurricane was to be seen'. This book follows the Hurri' to Russia, Malta, North Africa and as far afield as Burma, Sumatra and Java. Seaborne versions fought in the Battle of the Atlantic and defended the Mediterranean convoys. In the ground attack role Hurricane fighter bombers made countless sweeps over occupied Europe. Pilots' first-hand accounts supplement the text. Readers are left in no doubt as to the massive contribution that the Hurricane made to ultimate victory.
£18.70
Casemate Publishers Luftwaffe Victory Markings 1939-45
Book SynopsisThis book provides an overview of the victory markings painted on the fins and rudders of the planes of the German day fighter and night fighter aircraft between 1939 and 1945, and demonstrates how these were applied in reality through the profiles of nineteen pilots, including some of the most emblematic pilots of the Luftwaffe: Hans Troitzsch, Johannes Gentzen, Frank Liesendahl, Wilhelm Balthasar, Otto Bertram, Joachim Müncheberg, Karl-Heinz Koch, Kurt “Kuddel” Ubben, Felix-Maria Brandis, "Fiffi" Stahlschmidt, Franz-Josef Beerenbrock, Heinrich Setz, Walter "Gulle" Oesau, Max-Hellmuth Ostermann, Heinrich Bartels, "Fritz" Dinger, Martin Drewes, Egmont zur Lippe-Weissenfeld and Ludwig Meister.
£28.00
Casemate Publishers Dodge Wc54 Ambulance
Book SynopsisIn 1940, the U.S. Army began to standardize the production of vehicles it required to fight a modern war face=Calibri>– including support and medical vehicles. The first deliveries of the ¾-ton Dodge WC54 ambulance arrived in 1942. Built by Chrysler, and utilising the same chassis and engine as the entire Dodge WC series, the WC54 ambulance has specific features specific to use for the rescue and transport of injured soldiers. In all, more than 26,000 Dodge WC54 vehicles would be built during the war.Used by the U.S. military and its allies, it remained in service after the war in a number of countries including France. The Dodge WC54 ambulance is an iconic vehicle from this period, and remains highly sought after by collectors face=Calibri>– it is still possible to find ambulances in varying states of repair available for sale.Based upon his own painstaking restoration of a WC54, the author presents in detail every element of this vehicle face=Calibri>– chassis, cabin, electrical circuitry, accessories, and markings. It explains the adaptations made to the body, mechanics, and markings of the ambulance during the war, and shows the differences between the Dodge WC54s used by the U.S. military and those of the French army. Abundantly illustrated with more than 450 photos, this book is a perfect reference for all enthusiasts of military vehicles.Trade ReviewTruck modelers and enthusiasts will love it. Variants. Mechanics. Markings regulations. Even Dodge spare parts packaging. They’re all here. Recommended! * CyberModeler 02/11/2022 *A neat book on the Dodge WC54 ambulance. * Indy AMPS *Table of ContentsForeword Introduction 1. Chassis 2. Body 3. Electrical wiring and heating 4. Accessories 5. Markings and identification 6. Post-war and reconstruction Bibliography Index
£23.99
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC M10 Tank Destroyer vs StuG III Assault Gun:
Book SynopsisThe Allies’ M10 Tank Destroyer and the Germans’ Sturmgeschütz (StuG) lll were the unsung workhorses of the northwest European battlefields of 1944–45. While their mission was not principally fighting one another, their widespread use ensured their frequent encounters, from the Normandy Bocage, to the rubble-strewn streets of Aachen. The StuG lll was the quintessential assault gun, a low-slung, heavily armoured, turret-less vehicle intended to provide direct fire support for infantry formations, whilst the M10 3in Gun Motor Carriage was originally developed as a tank destroyer. However, by 1944 the 3in gun proved ineffectual against the most thickly armored German tanks, and was consequently relegated to infantry support too. Widely deployed in roles their designers had not envisaged, these two armoured fighting vehicles clashed repeatedly during the 11-month campaign, which saw the Allies advance from Normandy to the heart of the Reich. Fully illustrated with specially commissioned artwork, this is the story of their confrontation at the height of World War ll.Table of ContentsIntroduction /Chronology /Design and Development /Technical Specifications /The Combatants /The Strategic Situation /Combat /Statistics and Analysis /Further Reading /Index
£15.19
Bloomsbury Publishing PLC Albatros D.I–D.II
Book SynopsisIn 1916 German aerial domination had been lost to the French and British fighters. German fighter pilots requested an aircraft that was more powerful and more heavily armed, and the Albatros design bureau set to work on what was to become an iconic aircraft design. By April 1916, they had developed the Albatros D.I, that featured the usual Albatros semi-monocoque wooden construction with a 160hp Mercedes engine and two forward-firing machine guns. Alongside the development of the D.I, Albatros had also designed and built a second machine that was similar to the D.I – the Albatros D.II. Although there were several external differences between the two aircraft, it is important to note that these machines evolved simultaneously and that the D.II was not the result of post-combat feedback from D.I pilots. With the inclusion of these aircraft into their reorganized air force, Germany was able to regain control of the skies by autumn 1916. Along with the later designs they inspired, the Albatros D.I and D.II were instrumental in allowing the Germans to prosecute their domination through ‘Bloody April’ and well into the summer months that followed.Trade ReviewA real treat for the eyes of fans. - RID As a modeler, this book would probably provide all the information that I need to make an accurate model of a D.I or D.II. As an aviation enthusiast, I really appreciated the details of the development and operation of the aircraft. The book is well recommended. - IPMS/USA With Albatros D.I-D.II Osprey continues this excellent series with an anxiously awaited topic. It is a solid resource and offers a wealth of ideas for modelers. I heartily recommend it to enthusiasts of the Albatros and WW I fighters. - AeroscaleTable of ContentsIntroduction/ Design and Development/ Technical Specifications and Variants/ Operational History/ Conclusion/ Bibliography and Further Reading
£999.99
Fonthill Media Ltd Ultimate Piston Fighters of the Luftwaffe
Book SynopsisThe development of aviation engines in Germany was revolutionary during closing stages of the Second World War. In 1945, the Daimler Benz, Jumo and BMW engines in service, equipped with power boosting systems, generated 2,000 hp. There were prototypes that could generate 3,000 hp and BMW/Argus projects could reach 4,000 hp. To benefit from their extreme performances, Blohm und Voss, Daimler Benz, Dornier, Focke Wulf, Heinkel, Henschel, Messerschmitt and Skoda designed an impressive series of fighters that never left the drawing board. The reason was the decision taken by the Oberkommando der Luftwaffe to mass manufacture the iconic and revolutionary Messerschmitt Me 262 jet fighter. This lost generation of projects were quickly forgotten and after years of research have been recovered and presented in The Ultimate Piston Fighters of the Luftwaffe. Profusely illustrated with technical drawings and fascinating data and information on the Luftwaffe's most radical fighter projects, The Ultimate Piston Fighters of the Luftwaffe chronicles these revolutionary designs that might have changed the course of the war. A fascinating book for the military historian, modellers and those interested in aviation, this shows how advanced German scientists were towards the end of the Second World War and how the beloved Spitfire and Mustang would have been instantly superseded by radical Nazi fighters.
£19.12
Fonthill Media Ltd Gotha Aircraft: From the London Bomber to the
Book SynopsisThe Gothaer Waggonfabrik (GWF), originally a German rail vehicle manufacturer, entered the aircraft industry in 1913. The driving force behind this major change in production in this small Thuringian duchy in central Germany was a member of the British royal family. Gotha aircraft managed to make a name for themselves internationally. As with ‘Fokker’ regarding fighter aircraft, the name ‘Gotha’ is synonymous with German bomber aircraft of the Great War. Even successful seaplanes and the world’s first asymmetric aircraft were a part of GWF’s production at this time, and lasted until the post-war Treaty of Versailles forced the abandonment of aircraft production. Aircraft could not be built in Gotha again until 1933. GWF did get development contracts for the Luftwaffe, but they were essentially incidental side issues and not of the lucrative mass construction variety. In 1939 a world altitude record on the sports aircraft Gotha Go 150, provided GWF with a small though internationally significant highlight. During the war the GWF developed cargo gliders and, under licence, built the Messerschmitt Bf 110. In 1945 Gotha was supposed to undertake batch production of the flying wing jet fighter, Horten Ho 229, and even designed its more radical successor. In 1954 the aircraft construction finally ended and once again, the production consisted of gliders and one last proprietary design was created.
£999.99
Fonthill Media Ltd How to Kill a Panther Tank: Unpublished
Book SynopsisUsing only original official period documents from the Second World War this book tries to provide the reader with the same information on the Panzer V Panther tank that was available to British and Commonwealth senior officers and tank crews during the war. As soon as intelligence reports confirmed the existence of the Panther tank the hunt was on to find reliable information on how to knock out this new German tank. Most people believe that the only way to stop a Panther was to penetrate its armour with an armour piercing A.P. round. Luckily the British 17 pdr anti-tank gun could do that but the British were also looking how to knock them out by using other weapons. They tested using high explosive artillery rounds and 20 mm air attack aircraft canon rounds to penetrate and damage the tank's rear engine deck and puncture the vehicle's radiators. Loss of water would cause the engine to overheat and stop working. Tank radiators were large and spares were not carried on the tank. If the Panther could not be recovered back to a maintenance depot the crew would have to abandon the tank and disable it by setting off internal explosive charges.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements; Glossary; Introduction; 1 The Panther Tank Prototypes; 2 Panzer V Ausf. D Panther Tank (Sd.Kfz.171); 3 Panzer V Ausf. A Panther Tank (Sd.Kfz.171); 4 Panzer V Ausf. G Panther Tank (Sd.Kfz.171); 5 The Soviet Panther Tank Report; 6 Panther Armour-Thickness Poster; 7 Pamphlet on Attack on Panther PzKw V and Tiger PzKw VI; 8 US Army Pamphlet: How to Kill a Panther; 9 Performance Trials and Workshop Report; 10 Preliminary Report on Armour Quality and Vulnerability of the Panther Tank; 11 Panther, Brief Notes on Fighting Qualities: DTD Fighting Equipment Division; 12 Report of Comprehensive Firing Trials Against the German Panther PzKw V; 13 Authorised Battlefield Modifications; 14 Air Attack Trials; 15 British Anti-Tank Weapons; 16 British Battle Reports; 17 The Armour Report; 18 Panzerketten: German Tank Track Classification System; 19 The Bucket; 20 Surviving Panther Tanks.
£21.25
Fonthill Media Ltd Confessions of a Phantom Pilot
Book Synopsis'The Confessions of a Phantom Pilot' is the true story of a young RAF pilot who gets his dream to fly the old dirty workhorse fighter of the Cold War. From the first flight where he thought the jet was trying to kill him, through to his final trip of leading eight aeroplanes on a front line fighter squadron, you will relive his thoughts, feelings and anxieties as he stumbles his way through each flight relying on a bit of skill and a lot of blind luck. In essence, it is a love letter to the Phantom from a star-struck boy who felt like he was way out of his depth at the beginning of their affair. You will share stories of the outrageous drinking culture that was a major part of Cold War front-line operations, and marvel at how he didn't do himself some serious damage either in or out of the cockpit. This is how it feels to be a front-line fighter pilot - the triumphs and the disasters are all laid out here in a completely open and honest way as the author looks back with a certain sense of nostalgia and mild embarrassment. What a blast though!
£21.25
Crecy Publishing Military Aircraft Markings 2022
Book SynopsisFirst published in the 1970s, Military Aircraft Markings has become an indispensable annual publication for aircraft enthusiasts, historians and students of military aviation. At the heart of Military Aircraft Markings is the most complete listing of all the aircraft of the UK Armed Forces; the Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, Army and associated units. For each entry the military serial, aircraft type, unit/operator and usual base are given. Further listings cover Ireland''s military aircraft and historic aircraft in military markings. Other sections of Military Aircraft Markings include American military aircraft based in Europe, overseas military aircraft which may be seen in the UK, unit markings and a unit serial number/letter de-code. In addition, the book provides a comprehensive listing of visiting aircraft from overseas air forces that may be seen during the air display season, together with a new full colour photo section. Also included are details of the UK''s main military air bases, a maintenance unit cross-reference and detailed RAF Squadron markings. This new 2022 edition of Military Aircraft Markings has been fully revised and updated by one of Britain''s leading authorities on military aviation. This is the must-have companion for all those interested in UK military aviation.
£11.66
Key Publishing Ltd Avro Vulcan B.Mk2: A Place in History, 1960-84
Book SynopsisIn 1955, the Vulcan B.Mk2 was proposed and a new wing modification was designed to take advantage of the more powerful Olympus engines and a new stand-off missile known as Blue Steel. The new wing was known as the Phase 2C development. Avro were given a contract for an aerodynamic prototype on 10 July 1956, with the first prototype VX777 making its first flight with the new wing on 31 August 1957. This led to a number of significant changes to the B.Mk2 electrical systems, flying controls and structure. The Avro Vulcan was originally designed as a high-altitude medium bomber, but the operating requirement changed when it was required to fly at a low level. Thanks to the Vulcan's inherently low aspect wing and structure, it proved more suitable to this role than the high aspect wings of the Vickers Valliant and Handley Page Victor. This fully illustrated volume looks at the development and history of the Vulcan B Mk2.
£14.39
Key Publishing Ltd B-17G Flying Fortress
Book SynopsisThe B-17 Flying Fortress was conceived by the well-known US aviation designer and manufacturer Boeing during the 1930s, principally as a defensive weapon. Owing to the high levels of publicity it received during its service, it duly became a symbol of the Allied war effort. Indeed, the B-17 became one of the most important US aircraft of the war, and it played a major part in the Allied bombing campaign against Nazi Germany. Eventually, over 12,700 B-17s of all versions were built, with initial service test aircraft being delivered in 1937 and manufacture continuing until 1945, in several major series-produced variants and a host of related models and conversions. With over 150 photographs, this book specifically looks at the B-17G, which was the last major production version and played a significant part in the US strategic bombing campaign over Europe during the final years of World War Two.
£14.39
Key Publishing Ltd Halifax: From Front-Line Bomber to Post-War
Book SynopsisOne of the three British four-engine heavy bombers that took the fight to Germany, the Handley Page Halifax contributed in no small way to the destruction and ultimate surrender of the Third Reich. However, in its early years from service entry in March 1941, little good could be said about the Halifax. All round it was a poor design from Britain's most famous builder of big bombers. In fact, it was so bad that 'Bomber' Harris wanted it withdrawn from service and production switched in favour of the Lancaster. However, there was simply no time or money to switch to building a new machine. Instead, Handley Page designers struggled to improve the aircraft and it was a good two years before they succeeded. The new Halifax was worth waiting for. By late 1944, Halifax losses dropped below those of the Lancaster, even though the former often outnumbered the latter on some of the big raids. Those who flew and maintained the Halifax were largely loyal to the type, particularly the Canadians, who operated 15 squadrons. Its early difficulties overcome, the design was found ideal for other tasks - towing gliders, carrying troops, stuffing the fuselage full of electronics to spook the enemy, anti-submarine patrollers, spy dropping and, in the post-war world, flying early civil air routes around Europe and helping to sustain Berlin against the Russians. This new book edition of Aeroplane Icons: Halifax reviews the lows and highs of the mighty Halifax and recounts its contribution to the Allied success in winning World War Two.
£15.29
Key Publishing Ltd Contact!: Early Naval Aviation
Book SynopsisThe development of US naval aviation was much in doubt, especially during its formative years between 1910 and 1913. The lack of interest and allocation of money for aviation changed in 1916, when it became clear that the United States could be drawn into the war in Europe. Yet, the naval and marine air sections were woefully unprepared for warfare when the United States declared war against the Central Powers and had to rely on its European allies to provide bombers and pursuit aircraft throughout the war. There was initially tension between the Navy and Marine Corps as the naval hierarchy saw no need to provide land-based aircraft as the duty of aviation was to patrol and for antisubmarine operations by using seaplanes and flying boats. Negotiations brought forth the concept of the Northern Bombing Group, a land-based unit equipped primarily with British and Italian aircraft. This historical narrative encompasses the formation and development of the US Navy and Marine Corps air services from 1911 to 1918. It includes pre-war and wartime training, aircraft development, operations, and personalities such as the Navy's Theodore "Spuds" Ellyson and Marine Alfred A. Cunningham. Both pioneers continuously fought to maintain and grow their service's air arms. Their tenacity would, within seven years, lead to the organization of wartime scouting, pursuit, and bombing units.
£24.00
Key Publishing Ltd Tactical Air Command
Book SynopsisTAC was the largest of the USAF’s major Cold War combatant commands. Formed in 1946 and headquartered at Langley AFB, Virginia, it operated a huge range of aircraft over the following 46 years until it was inactivated in 1992. In 1946, it was equipped with mainly World War Two aircraft types including P-47s and P-51s. It soon ushered into service jet aircraft operations with the P-80 and F-86. Within a few years, TAC was operating a wide range of tactical fighters, ground attack fighters, light bombers, tactical missiles, photographic reconnaissance and special mission aircraft (reconnaissance, special operations, and electronic warfare). TAC played a significant part in the Korean War, the Cuban missile crisis and later the wars in SE Asia and the Gulf in 1991. It came to operate a large number of tactical fighter and attack aircraft including the F-84, F-100 and F-105. As the 1960s progressed, they were joined by the A-7, F-111 and F-4 and, in the 1980s, supplemented by A-10s, F-15s and F-16s through to the end of the Cold War. In the run-up to any war with the USSR, Tactical Air Command was expected to deploy its combat airpower to USAF Commands in Europe and/or the Pacific. That deployment capability struggled during the 1970s. However, from 1978 to 1984, the strength and capability of TAC was transformed by its new commander, General Wilbur ‘Bill’ Creech. He organised, equipped and prepared his units (including ANG and AFRES elements) to deploy from the continental US to the frontline in Europe. Ready to fight and familiarized with their area of operations they could have joined the war immediately, drawing on pre-positioned weapons stocks. As the Soviet threat diminished towards the end of the 1980s, all TAC’s preparations, planning and capabilities were tested for real following the Iraqi invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. Suddenly sent to Middle East in the countries surrounding Iraq, those well tested plans saw TAC aircraft form a major part of all coalition air forces that took part in Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. In 1992, in a major USAF reorganisation TAC became Air Combat Command.
£15.29
Key Publishing Ltd Meteor
Book Synopsis
£15.29
Key Publishing Ltd Cold War Warriors: (Warplanes On The Brink Of
Book Synopsis
£999.99
Key Publishing Ltd Luftwaffe Bombers of World War Two
£17.09
Key Publishing Ltd British Air Power Yearbook 2023
Book Synopsis
£8.99
