The story of the Supermarine Spitfire has been told across many years and the debate about it is enduring, yet the Spitfire remains a true icon. For aviation enthusiasts, for historians, for modellers, the word Spitfire conjures many stories and affections. This book presents the Spitfire enthusiast with an up-to-date history of the Spitfire not just in its design and application in war, but also as a flying memorial and as an aero modellers vital focus.The text examines recently revealed forgotten aspects of the Spitfire story; by combining the elements of design, the story of a weapon of war and a revered scale model, this book frames an essential chapter in aviation history. Packed with original and contemporary images and information, and displaying unique Spitfire model collections, the narrative bridges an important gap and is a worthy addition to the FlightCraft series.

The famous Messerschmitt Bf 109 single-seat fighter was one of the most important warplanes of the Second World War. Originally designed during the 1930s, and a contemporary of the equally-legendary Supermarine Spitfire, it was vitally important to Germanys Luftwaffe and was flown in combat by the highest-scoring fighter pilots in history.It was in service throughout the Second World War and was built in a number of significant versions that proved to be worthy adversaries of the very best of the Allied warplanes that it flew against. Bf 109s operated in all the major areas of conflict where German forces were engaged in combat and, in modified form, the type even had a post-war career in several countries that extended well into the 1950s.

The story of the Supermarine Spitfire has been told across many years and the debate about it is enduring, yet the Spitfire remains a true icon. For aviation enthusiasts, for historians, for modellers, the word Spitfire conjures many stories and affections. This book presents the Spitfire enthusiast with an up-to-date history of the Spitfire - not just in its design and application in war, but also as a flying memorial and as an aero modellers' vital focus. The text examines recently revealed forgotten aspects of the Spitfire story; by combining the elements of design, the story of a weapon of war and a revered scale model, this book frames an essential chapter in aviation history. Packed with original and contemporary images and information, and displaying unique Spitfire model collections, the narrative bridges an important gap and is a worthy addition to the FlightCraft series.

This high-interest volume introduces readers to the exciting world of World War II aircraft. Through detailed diagrams of cockpits, engines, and weapons systems, readers are given a bird’s-eye view inside an impressive collection of World War II aircraft, including the United States’ P-51D Mustang, which shot down more enemy aircraft than any other Allied fighter plane. Also included are such heavy hitters as Japan’s Zero fighter, Germany’s Messerschmitt Bf 109E, and fearsome bomber aircraft like Britain’s Lancaster bomber and the U.S.’s B-29 Superfortress.

1:72, 1:48 and 1:32 individual markings for 8 various Spitfires, each depicted on beautifully drawn 4-view color profiles The selection contains profiles of the following aircraft: - Spitfire Mk Vb (R6923) coded QJ-S of No. 92 Squadron RAF, flown by F/O Alan Wright, Biggin Hill, April 1941, - Spitfire Mk Vb (W3579) coded OU-Q of No. 485 Squadron RNZAF, flown by W/C Edgar Norman Ryder, Dunkirk, 31 October 1941, - Spitfire Mk Vb (AB276) coded RY-K of No. 313 (Czechoslovak) Squadron RAF, flown by F/L V‡clav H‡jek, Hornchurch, April 1942, - Spitfire Mk Vb (P8742) coded WX-A of No. 302 (Polish) Squadron RAF, Harrowbeer, April 1942, - Spitfire Mk Vb (BM579) coded FN-B of No. 331 (Norwegian) Squadron RAF, flown by F/L Rolf Arne Berg, Manston, early July 1942, - Spitfire Mk Vb (EN908) coded GW-Y of No. 340 (French) Squadron RAF (Le groupe de chasse 'ële-de-France'), flown by Capt. Francois de Labouchere, Hornchurch, August 1942, - Spitfire Mk Vb (EP829) coded T-N of No. 249 (Gold Coast) Squadron RAF, flown by its CO S/L John Joseph Lynch Jnr., Krendi, late April 1943, - Spitfire Mk Vb Trop (ER187) coded WZ-C of 309th Fighter Squadron USAAF, flown by its CO Maj. Frank A. Hill, La Senia, May 1943. About Topcolors: This is a series of highly illustrated books on the key machines of World War II and their combat use. Perfect for modelers and filled with color artwork profiles, each volume details the camouflage, markings, insignia, modifications and variants of the best of the war. With extra features such as decals and masking foil.

The history of the Flight began with the formation of the Historic Aircraft Flight in July 1957, it was later to become known as The Battle of Britain Memorial Flight. Countless displays and fly-pasts have enthralled audiences and enthusiasts all over Britain and in many parts of Europe, when the traditional Avro Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane can be seen in their wartime colors and the growl of all six Merlin engines stirs many nostalgic memories.This book is written with the wholehearted support of the Flight's Commanding Officer and the author has access to archive material. The book includes a Foreword from the OC BBMF, a complete history of the unit, chapters on each of the types operated, including the DC-3 Dakota and de Havilland Chipmunk and present-day operations. Photos include superb images from the BBMF archives, the author's collection that includes historic black and white shots from the early days, air-to-air color, personalities and behind-the-scenes images.This is the ultimate souvenir of the celebration of the BBMF's 50th Anniversary.REVIEWS "...clearly the definitive history of this unit. It is a very easy and enjoyable read that is more than just a history of the Flight's activities. It is a history of "a national tribute to all who have served, and continue to continue to serve"Air Power History Spring 2009

One of the early pioneering companies of aviation in Great Britain, during the early part of the 20th. century. This is a comprehensive study of this British manufacturer