Search results for ""author matthew willis""

An illustrated history of the Fleet Air Arm's between-the-wars torpedo/spotter/reconnaissance biplane, featuring many previously unpublished photographs and artwork.

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The North American Mustang is one of the most well-studied aircraft, the subject of many hundreds or thousands of books and articles. However, much of what is commonly understood about the Mustang, particularly its early Allison-powered variants, is not entirely correct, nor entirely complete. The published record is strewn with myths and misconceptions, which have persisted across decades.The common perception of the Allison Mustang is that of a flawed and ineffective aircraft, merely a prelude to the definitive' Merlin-engined versions: an aircraft scorned and rejected by the RAF and USAAF, relegated to less important tasks by both. This orthodoxy ignores the Allison Mustang's contribution in service and influence on design.By placing the creation, evolution and use of the aircraft in as full a context as possible, the truth behind many of these commonly accepted ideas emerges. Mustang: The Untold Story examines the history of the aircraft afresh, within the orbit of tactical doctrin

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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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Drawing on rare, historical photography and specially commissioned artwork, Matthew Willis explores the heroic feats of the few Royal Navy’s obsolescent biplanes that stood between the state-of-the-art Axis warships and their objectives. Focusing on the technical specifications of both opponents, using original records, and detailed armament and cockpit views, this book explores the key attributes and drawbacks of the disadvantaged Royal Navy torpedo-bombers against the mighty Regia Marina and Kriegsmarine destroyers and raiders, covering a wide range of sea battles, from the more famous attacks such as the strike on the Bismarck, the tragic events of the Channel Dash or the clash with the Italian battle fleet at Taranto, to less covered sea battles such as the Battle of Matapan. Despite their powerful weaponry and heavy armour protection, the Axis warships proved vulnerable to a skillfully and audaciously flown torpedo-bomber, thanks to innovative commanders exploiting every possible advantage. Including rare personal recollections from the airmen who flew the torpedo-bombers and historical accounts from the Axis warship crews, this book describes each and every facet of this dramatic duel.

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