A compelling account of a remarkable aircraft and its pilots The Spitfire symbolised Britain's fight against the Luftwaffe in World War Two. Its power, combined with well-trained and aggressive pilots, saw it dominate the skies. Fighter Command pilots in 1938 were delighted with the Spitfire. By the Battle of Britain the RAF was ready to forge the Spitfire legend. There were 19 squadrons during the summer of 1940; it was only later the numbers swelled. At times the combat initiative was lost to Bf 109s and Fw 190s, but with better training and increased performance Spitfire clawed its way back. By 1944 it was employed as fighter-bomber in various theatres of war; many pilots thought strapping bombs below this aircraft verged on insult but with aerial targets in short supply this as the most effective way of reaching the enemy. Spitfire saw action up to 1948 and there are still around 50 airworthy today. AUTHOR: Ken Delve joined the RAF as a navigator and in a 20-year flying career served with many squadrons (Canberra and Tornado). On leaving the RAF he became Editor of FlyPast magazine and subsequently Editor-in-Chief with Key Publishing with responsibility for eight aviation magazines. He is now a training consultant in the Middle East. His books include 'Bomber Command', 'D-Day: The Air Battle' and 'Night Fighter'. SELLING POINTS: ? Contrasts the Spitfire's performance and firepower with its German counterparts ? Based on official sources and first-hand accounts ? Featuring official reports alongside technical and tactical developments ? Extensive research from a noted aviation historian and expert in the field ? With a foreword by Alfred Price 16 mono, 30 b/w illustrations
