Aircraft for the Few

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{detailed description}Did you know that the wings of one of the finest bombers to be built during the Second World War were originally meant to fold like a butterfly's to fit into existing hangars? Or that plans existed for No. 617 Squadron (later to become famous as 'The Dambusters') to be formed before the war even began? Or that the Defiant was originally intended for quite a different use from that for which it was employed? Using much previously unpublished material drawn from records not widely available to the general public, Michael Bowyer has put together probably the most comprehensive account yet of the origins and operations of the RAF aircraft that played a part in the Battle of Britain, from the well-known and much glamorized Supermarine Spitfire to the 'flying porcupine' Short Sunderland and the lumbering, underpowered Fairey Battle. Together with other RAF front line types they kept the enemy at bay for three-and-a-half months, and every example that is known to have seen operational squadron use during that period is listed here - producing a unique record.
Aircraft types are presented in their respective categories, With equal weight being given for the first time to the vital contribution made to the conflict by Coastal Command's Ansons, Blenheims, Whitleys and others. They patrolled the seas from Brittany to the Arctic while Blenheims, Hampdens, Wellingtons and Whitleys of Bomber Command attacked a wide range of targets, and Hurricanes and Spitfires of Fighter Command defended the skies over Britain. AlI this activity is recorded here in immense detail and will give hours of pleasure to anyone interested in the history of wartime aviation.
{Author / Publisher / Date}by Michael J. F. Bowyer
published by PSL 1991 1st edn. 256pp profusely illustrated, index, appendices 14x22
{condition}minor handling marks, small inscription, otherwise very good, in edge worn d/j
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