Search results for ""Key Publishing Ltd""

The Ka-50 (NATO reporting name: Hokum A) helicopter made its maiden flight 40 years ago on 17 June 1982. After undergoing extensive tests and tweaks, the helicopter was ready for full-scale production almost 10 years later. However, by then Russia had entered an economic crisis, and the money had run out. Only in 2011, almost another 20 years later, did deliveries of the redesigned Ka-52 begin to military units. The Ka-52 Hokum B has a unique co-axial rotor design, with a two-person crew seated side by side in ejection seats, and an extremely powerful weapons and self-defence suite. Along with the original Ka-52s, a ship-borne Ka-52K variant has been developed for the Russian Navy and an improved KA-52M ( modernised') version is being tested. From February 2022, Ka-52s were used by Russian forces in their invasion of Ukraine. With over 200 photographs, this book explores the history of the Ka-50 and Ka-52, their development, setbacks and successes, designs, armament and combat capabilities, presenting a holistic overview of these helicopters.

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Following on from Class 47s: Inverness to Penzance: 1982-85, this volume picks up the story and runs to the end of the summer 1986 timetable. It was a period of change, as the first 47s to be withdrawn started to fall by the wayside in the spring of 1986, since seriously damaged crash victims were no longer likely to be rebuilt. The first non-crash-damaged locos were withdrawn - sacrificed to provide a spares pool for the others. It was also a time of change with regard to how trains were heated, as steam heat became rare south of Hadrian's Wall. Christmas 1985 was a watershed as the relief trains were now routinely electrically heated, with the latest ETH conversions emerging from Crewe Works from November 1985. In 1986, regular trips to Scotland were required to sample the delights of steam heat. Further changes came in summer 1986 as InterCity started to operate some routes in Kent, and Dover Western Docks was now on the map. With over 200 images, this volume provides a visual journey of the Class 47s in 1985-86.

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The 1944 Allied invasion of France was a combined effort, with land- and sea-based forces supported by a huge aerial task force, which included legendary aircraft such as the Spitfire, Mosquito, Dakota and Mustang. The force comprised the RAF, its commonwealth allies and the USAAF, which resulted in an eclectic mix of gliders, heavy bombers, fighters, ground-attack aircraft and transport aeroplanes. Illustrated with over 170 colour images of modern-day surviving and restored aircraft, this book features many of the aircraft types that were involved in the operations surrounding the Normandy invasion, including the aircraft the flew on D-Day itself. 170 illustrations

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Two of the RAF's most memorable aircraft are the English Electric Lightning and the McDonnell Phantom. The Lightning, which flew with nine RAF squadrons before being retired in 1988, is fondly remembered for is astonishing rate of climb, while the Phantom, which flew with three Royal Navy squadrons and 15 RAF squadrons, started out in the ground-attack and reconnaissance roles but became more predominant in the tactical fighter role before being finally retired in 1992. Illustrated with more than 180 photographs, this book covers in great detail the Lightning and Phantom fighter aircraft and the part they played in the latter stages of the Cold War. 180 illustrations

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Germany, divided after World War II into two separate countries, was reunified on October 3, 1990. For the country's rail system, the complex task of unifying two networks with very different rolling stock and systems had just begun. New lines and stations were built to physically unite the network and new trains were introduced to transform services. Many rural regional lines closed as car ownership in the former East Germany increased dramatically. Amazingly, however, none of the former East German narrow-gauge lines that were still steam-operated in 1990 have shut; most still offer daily services while other long-closed narrow-gauge lines have been rebuilt and reopened by enthusiast groups. This book, written by the Modern Railways magazine's Europe Editor and illustrated with over 130 pictures, most of which have never been published before, traces the development of the unified German rail network and new national operator Deutsche Bahn (DB AG). It also looks at the wider rail industry in Germany and the introduction of market reforms leading to one of the most dynamic rail markets anywhere, with over 300 rail freight operators, open access intercity competition and more than 100 regional passenger concession contracts replacing the original two state railway companies. Looking to the future, the book examines plans for new high-speed lines and a national regular-interval timetable from 2030. 130 illustrations

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Despite the substantial decline of coal mining in the UK over the last three decades, until recently, coal was still a vital energy source for the nation's power stations. During 2013 and 2014, coal accounted for 36 per cent of all UK rail freight, but that amount plummeted in 2015 due to the doubling of the top-up carbon tax, a measure implemented to encourage power stations to use greener fuels. With the government's phase-out of all coal-fired power stations by 2025, many have already closed. South Wales is one of the last places in the UK where coal is still mined and despatched by rail for domestic consumption. Aberthaw power station was the principal customer for this coal until 2017, when they turned to imported coal. This measure was taken to reduce toxic nitrogen emissions at the plant and was the beginning of the end for the power station, which finally closed in late 2019. Coal is still mined in South Wales and is supplied by rail to Tata steel in Port Talbot, to British Steel's Scunthorpe works, to Breedon cement works in Derbyshire and to Immingham for export. However, the future of the industry remains uncertain as we move away from fossil fuels towards more eco-friendly forms of energy. This book looks at the last of the coaling operations in South Wales, from 2013 to early 2020, and features over 190 colour images of coal trains running to and from the mine sites along the scenic South Wales Valleys and the picturesque stretch of coastline that the Vale of Glamorgan line takes to Aberthaw.

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As traditional locomotive haulage declined in the UK and many enthusiasts' favourite classes were withdrawn or taken off passenger work, British Rail fans began to broaden their horizons in the 1980s and look at the railway networks of other countries. For many, their first ports of call were the nearer continental European countries, with Germany proving particularly popular as it still featured locomotive haulage over much of its network, even on the smaller branch lines. Ireland also proved popular as their services were almost exclusively loco-hauled. As more enthusiasts traveled abroad and information and number lists became more available, foreign rail holidays became ever more popular, with worldwide favorites including the USA, with its long history of diesel traction and iconic locomotives, and India, with its extensive system and thousands of locomotives. As locomotive haulage declines in the rest of the world, British 'bashers' are becoming ever more adventurous with most countries, even North Korea, regularly featuring organised visits for enthusiasts. Today, British enthusiasts are found participating in their hobby all over the world and this book, featuring over 160 colour photographs, summarises some of the more popular destinations and locomotives that they travel abroad for. 160 colour illustrations

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The North American Mustang is one of the most well-studied aircraft. However, much of what is commonly understood about it, particularly its early, Allison-powered variants, is not entirely correct. This book examines the history of the aircraft afresh, within the orbit of tactical doctrine, strategy and even politics, as well as the changing nature of World War II. The Allison Mustang proved to be no worse than the best aircraft of the war in the roles where it found its niche and, through this new study, it is hoped that the significance of this vital aircraft can finally be appreciated. 140 illustrations

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This book shows the important role played by the nation's railways in the nuclear industry and how the need to secure that service through the turbulence of privatisation led to the creation of the nation's most diverse railway company, Direct Rail Services. 1945 marked the beginning of the Labour government that would nationalise the railways and witnessed the start of British nuclear weapon development, which led to a civil nuclear industry. By the 1990s both industries were heading for privatisation, though neither would truly be free from government control. This book provides a brief history of British nuclear power and technology, and goes on to illustrate the transport of spent nuclear fuel from around the world to the Sellafield reprocessing plant. In the twenty-first century the decommissioning of reactors and defence establishments across England added to the loads travelling by rail to the national Low Level Waste Repository. The railways also transported chemicals for the nuclear industry, construction materials and - at least in part - the industry's workers too. Direct Rail Services took over this traffic and became a major player in the rail freight business, with a significant role in the nation's passenger market. The book illustrates this transformation and explains why it happens.

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In World War Two, allied armies were issued with identification guides to the enemy armour they might encounter on the battlefield. These black & white printed books were a vital aide for soldiers dealing with the confusion of fighting and the difficulty of identification at distance or in all weathers. The German tanks were often lethal to become entangled with and known to be formidable pieces of military engineering. The German army deployed a wide variety of tanks in many different variants and forms of camouflage. The likes of the Tiger have become famous and continue to be fascinating examples of World War Two firepower. This book features a unique collection of colour illustrations, showing in detail the vehicles' development and differences in design. The artwork is accompanied by descriptions and technical information about each tank, written by respected expect Craig Moore, making this an essential handbook for anyone interested in the German armed forces and World War Two armour.

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Founded in 1999 in Athens, Aegean Airlines is the largest airline in Greece today, with a fleet of 53 narrow-body airliners. Since the airline commenced operations, its fleet has been modernised several times. Its ATR-42/72 regional propliners were all retired by 2004, while its BAe-146s and Boeing 737-300 and 400 narrow-body jetliners were replaced by Airbus A319s, A320s and A321s. Starting in 2020, the airline has begun replacing its A320ceo and A321ceo aircraft with the modern A320neo and A321neo. This fleet modernisation has not just increased the level of safety but has also increased the profit of the airline. Financial issues for Greece’s other airlines left a vacuum for Aegean Airlines to take over, becoming the successor to most flights operating to Europe and the Middle East. The death of Olympic Airlines also helped Aegean to expand its operations and turn into one of the largest and most successful airlines in Greece. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic delivered a blow to the airline, as it did many around the world. however, with the gradual end to restrictions imposed on air travel around the world, the airline’s operations have returned to profitability. This book covers the history and current fate of the airline’s aircraft and looks at Aegean Airlines’ climb to the top of Greece’s aviation industry.

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Covering the period from the establishment of the Royal Flying Corps in 1912 to the end of World War One, this book explores the development of the major stalwart of military aviation: biplanes. Throughout this period, the birth of the British aviation industry took place with names such as de Havilland, Bristol, Handley-Page and many others emerging and eventually becoming synonymous with British aviation. World War One spurred innovation and development with the need to maintain or restore competitive advantage in air warfare. During this period, in addition to those aircraft that became household names, many prototype and experimental aircraft were constructed for military purposes, but did not enter service, either at all or in meaningful numbers. Nevertheless, the science of aviation was advanced. This book is a unique reference source for aviation historians and enthusiasts.

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The F-104 Starfighter was one of the most fascinating aircraft of the Cold War era in Europe. Several European air forces operated the aircraft, with Germany alone having 916 Starfighters in its inventory. The General Electric J-79 engine howl was unique and filled the European skies for many years. This book covers Starfighter pilot training in the US, weapons training in Italy and Portugal, NATO competitions, technical specifications and the controversial accident issues in the 1960s. With over 220 images, many unpublished outside Germany, this book, the second volume of two covering the Starfighter in German service, provides a dynamic look at this versatile multi-purpose aircraft in service with the Luftwaffe and Naval Air Wings.

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Founded in 1910 by Alliott Verdon Roe, A.V. Roe and Company Limited built its first military aircraft two years later. By 1914, the company was literally flying when it designed the first of many iconic aircraft in the shape of the Avro 504, which sold in colossal numbers and was the key factor in keeping the company in the aviation industry after the end of the First World War, while many others fell by the wayside. In 1936, Avro became part of the new Hawker Siddeley group and within two years was operating a new factory at Chadderton, where, together with Newton Heath, all focus was on building the Anson, Blenheim and later the Manchester. Following production of just 200 Manchesters, attention turned to one of the greatest bombers of the Second World War, the Lancaster, of which over 7,300 were built. This caused further expansion at Avro's main Woodford base, part use of Ringway and a shadow' factory at Yeadon under Avro control throughout the war years. Although an obvious contraction of orders took place during the post-war years, Avro was, thanks to its earlier successes, a big player in the British aviation industry and would continue to produce an iconic range of military aircraft. The last hurrah was the delightful 748 which just scrapes into this publication as the final example of an aircraft solely designed by Avro, while some still remain in service today. Of the company's big three, examples of the 504, Lancaster and Vulcan also remain airworthy as testimony to what they achieved, the men who flew them and the great aircraft manufacturer that designed and built them. Many more are extent in museums across the world. This company profile is one of several that will have to be divided into two parts, one military and one civilian, although there will be some crossover, as many types served in both capacities. Avro deserves two entries in the series, and this book gives a good grounding to the huge and diverse range of aircraft that this once proud manufacturer produced.

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It may be hard to imagine in 2012, but Great Britain was once filled with a plethora of aircraft manufacturers. One hundred years ago, the seeds of many of them were being sown, as the demand for aircraft gained pace following the outbreak of the First World War. Not all survived following the armistice and the subject of this book, Supermarine, only kept going by the skin of its teeth and certainly did not settle into a profitable aircraft manufacturing business until the mid to late 1920s. However, with the genius mind of Reginald Joseph Mitchell on board, the company could do no wrong and without doubt, the company's most famous and well-known product was the Spitfire. The colossal orders received for the fighter set the company on a steady post-war course which, once again, was a period that saw other companies fall by the wayside. Following Mitchell's demise, we must not forget the man who carried the baton, Joe Smith, who developed the Spitfire and Seafire into a machine that remained in production for ten years, ultimately ending its service career in Korea. Smith did not just ride on that back of Mitchell's designs and was responsible for the Spiteful, Seafang and the Attacker to name but a few. This book gives readers an insight into the aircraft produced by Supermarine, and those that did not quite make it, as well as a history of the aircraft company itself.

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Illustrated with 180 photographs, this book looks at the much-loved West Highland line, which runs from Glasgow to Fort William, along with the Mallaig Extension from Fort William to Mallaig and the Oban line divergence at Crianlarich. The variety of transport covered includes scheduled services, railtours, seasonal steam and the recently introduced Highland Explorer Class 153s, which have been specially rebuilt at Kilmarnock to cater for cyclists and passengers with bulky luggage.

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Published annually for 60 years, this popular publication is a must for all bus enthusiasts. Edited by Alan Millar - former editor of Buses magazine - the 132-page special is packed with features celebrating all that's great about Britain's best-loved mode of public transport.

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Containing over 170 photographs, this book illustrates a new era of modern traction in and out of the capital at the start of the 2020s, covering all four corners of London and up to a 30-mile radius outside to give a wonderful blend of both urban and rural imagery. It covers every mainline Passenger operator that run services in and out of London and aims to give an up-to-date account of the most recent changes to both, liveries, operator and motive power. This is illustrated with 180 high quality images, most of which have never been published before, capturing the ever-changing rail scene and cityscape in and around London. With the Department for Transport's quest for newer, more reliable, modernised trains that are fully accessible, this work captures the final days of much life-expired rolling stock, livery transitions under new franchise arrangements and the introduction of the next generation of trains. This book is the ultimate enthusiast's compilation of the new era of trains in and out of London and covers an extensive range of traction some of which is now, or will soon be, confined to the history books.

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In 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.

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A must have for any aviation enthusiast, this quiz book will cover all aspects of the military, commercial, general aviation and historic aerospace sectors. Written by two highly experienced aviation journalists, it will test skills of both the novice plane lover and the tenured enthusiast through tailored questions that vary in difficulty to suit all those with a passion for international aviation. Covering everything from across the aerospace domain - from past, present and future aircraft, equipment (such as missiles) and airport/air base recognition to testing knowledge of airport codes, military air arm insignias and airliner liveries - this quiz book will appeal to all.

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The 125, with its various prefixes, was first conceived in the 1960s. Initially the response was lukewarm, but as the benefits of individual jet travel began to become apparent, particularly in North America, the orders began to arrive. This mid-cabin size business jet had a huge appeal to the corporate business market, and its list of operators read like something out of the Forbes 500. It was also sold widely to the military market and was the first western aircraft ever to achieve full certification in the former Soviet Union. This fully illustrated book looks at the development and history of this hugely popular jet.

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The 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.

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The Falkland Islands is a remote British territory, about 8,000 miles from the UK mainland and just over 400 miles from the coast of Argentina. The ownership of the islands had long been disputed, but it reached a boiling point in March 1982, when a group of individuals raised the Argentine flag on South Georgia. Foreseeing a large-scale response from British forces, the Argentine government quickly ordered Operation Rosario, and, on 2 April 1982, undertook an amphibious invasion of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands. Retaking the islands posed a logistical nightmare for the British task force. Fortunately, halfway between Britain and the Falklands there was a small forward operating airfield on Ascension Island. At the time, many of the British aircraft did not have air-to-air refuelling capabilities and lacked the range to reach the South Atlantic. Nonetheless, a full-scale British invasion was planned, and, within just 74 days, the Argentine forces surrendered. This book features an informative history of the significant British aircraft types in service with the Royal Navy, RAF and Army Air Corps during the conflict. It covers some of the most iconic British aircraft ever built, including an eclectic mix of helicopters, the Avro Vulcan, Handley Page Victor and British Aerospace Sea Harrier. With over 150 high-quality images, this book showcases surviving aircraft and looks at where they are now, 40 years after the conflict.

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This third volume to cover the Class 66 takes a look at the Freightliner-operated Class 66/5/6/9 locos that were delivered during the early to mid 2000s. This was at a time when most of the current locos in use with Freightliner on the national network were becoming very tired and evermore unreliable. Freightliner followed on from the example set by EWS with the Class 66/0, and very soon they started to order small batches of locos, which led to their current total of over 100 locos, although some have since been exported to Poland, sold to other operators and a few have been taken on from DRS. The Class 66/5/9 took over the duties usually handled by Classes 47 and 57, whereas the Class 66/6 is a re-geared version capable of hauling heavier loads such as coal or aggregates. They have now been in service for over 20 years and have proved very reliable and capable locos. This volume covers the locos from their early days up to the present time at various locations around the, especially looking at those in the South.

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Whether you are just entering the hobby or re-acquainting yourself with it, this book provides simple step-by-step advice on how to get started on a build - regardless of whether it is a ship, tank, aircraft or spaceship - along with guidance on tools and equipment. The wealth of handy tips on basic modelling techniques includes eliminating seams, painting and applying decals. This useful guide also covers more advanced methods, such as scratch-building and repairing/replacing parts, along with helpful hints on finding and using reference material, plus it dispels a few modelling myths along the way. Released initially as a 12-part series in Airfix Model World magazine, this is the first time these Back to Basics articles have been drawn together into a single volume, for every modeller's convenience.

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In 2021, as the Jeep celebrates its 80th anniversary, there is no doubt that itis one of the world's most famous automobiles. The utility 4x4 machine was designed to help win a war - something that it did with aplomb - and a legend was born, spawning both evolved models that remain in production to this day and numerous imitators around the globe. The Jeep also led to the establishment of four-wheeling as a form of recreation, something else that has spread around the globe. The idea of preserving wartime Jeeps as classic vehicles with a tangible link to World War Two became established during the 1970s and, over 50 years, has become ever more popular and led to the formation of organizations such as the MVPA. This book looks at the history of military Jeeps made by Willys and Ford in the US, as well as the likes of Hotchkiss and NEKAF in Europe. Illustrated with over 220 photographs, this book provides an up-to-date view of Jeeps within the military vehicle preservation scene.

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"Turkish Airlines' origins go back to 1933, when the Turkish government established the State Airlines Administration with a fleet of just five aircraft and a staff of 24 people. Initially, the route network only included domestic destinations, but it was soon followed by flights to Nicosia (which has a large Turkish population), Beirut (the financial heart of the Middle East) and Cairo (the political epicentre of the region). In 1956, the airline was restructured and transformed into the current Turkish Airlines. From that moment, the airline started a rapid international expansion. At first, many destinations in Germany were served because of the large number of Turkish workers in that country, but other major European cities were soon added to the network. Of course, the airline has faced many challenges, such as the deregulation of air transport in Turkey, the devaluations of the Turkish currency and domestic political unrest. Geopolitical factors such as the tensions with Russia and the war in Syria may also have caused some issues for the airline's management. With 150 images, this book charts Turkish Airlines' history, showing how it has become one of the largest airlines in the world."

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Colombian military aviation is one of the most powerful in Latin America and comprises aviation divisions from four branches: the Fuerza A rea Colombiana (FAC, Colombian Air Force), Armada Nacional de la Rep blica de Colombia (ARC, Colombian National Navy), Ej rcito Nacional de Colombia (EJC, Colombian National Army) and Polic a Nacional de Colombia (PNC, National Police of Colombia). While the FAC has been operating for more than a century, and remains the main aviation force, the other three have become very powerful and efficient forces over the past 40 years. The PNC is the biggest force of its type in the world. Colombia has struggled for decades with internal conflicts involving guerrilla groups and drug traffickers. In recent years, the threat posed by Venezuela has forced its aviation units to develop fighting capabilities from largely asymmetric warfare to facing a more conventional enemy. With over 180 images, this book provides a look at the history, organisation, deployment, missions and aircraft of all four of Colombia's aviation forces.

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British Midland Airways existed under different identities for over 70 years, during which time it grew from a flying training school into a scheduled transatlantic airline operating wide-bodied Airbus aircraft. With the prime routes dominated by British Airways and its predecessors, it had to diversify, and one product of this was its 'instant-airline' concept, which saw its Boeing 707 aircraft flying in the liveries of many African and Middle Eastern companies. Later in its life, British Midland Airways felt confident enough to go 'head to head' with British Airways on the UK domestic trunk routes. The acquisition of a major financial stake by Lufthansa in 2009 led to membership of the prestigious Star Alliance partnership, but even the German national airline could not find a way to stem accumulating losses, and, in 2011, the carrier was absorbed into British Airways. With over 140 images, this book charts the rise and fall of British Midland Airways.

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Following on from London Bus Routes One By One: 1-100, this volume takes a look at the next hundred routes in Transport for London's spectrum, from 101 to 200. Spread out across the city and with a wealth of bus types from different operators, these busy services are caught amid 2021's gradual changeover from diesel and hybrid buses to pure electric and hydrogen operation. All the routes have been subject to considerable change over the years they have been in existence, from extensions and re-routings to withdrawals and re-use of the same number, and later to operator changes in accordance with competitive tendering. Illustrated with over 180 up-to-date colour photographs, this volume continues to build a snapshot of the fascinating modern London bus scene.

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The 1990s brought with it many important developments for the aviation world. The dissolution of the USSR and Yugoslavia led to a rise of new countries and airlines. The aircraft faced changes as well. The early jetliners found themselves hauling cargo in many cases, and the new wide-bodies became the normal mode of passenger transport for long-haul travel, along with the creation of a whole new generation of types for short-haul. However, in parts of the world the old piston-powered props could be found plodding on, albeit in declining numbers. With over 300 color photographs and extended, informative captions, this book reflects the many ways in which the air transport industry changed during the decade. Taking the reader on a visual journey across the globe, this book explores some of the most popular airliners of the time, including Boeing, Airbus, and McDonnell Douglas, and how their aircraft developed throughout the decade.

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