This authoritative volume is divided into two main sections covering fighters and bombers. Each traces the development of the aircraft from their first appearance, details their role in major conflicts, and analyses how technological improvements have affected their performance. Special feature topics include nightfighters, bombers of the Spanish Civil War, inflight refuelling, the Gulf Wars and fighter pilot equipment in the 21st century. Within each section are comprehensive A-Z directories, together covering a total of 300 aircraft, each accompanied by identification photographs. Detailed specification boxes are featured for every aircraft listed, and a glossary of key aviation terms is included at the back of the book.

This title features a directory of over 70 aircraft with 330 identification photographs. It includes Shipborne fighters, bombers, flying boats and naval planes, including the Curtiss Helldiver, Mitsubishi Zero-Sen, Supermarine Seafire, Fairey Swordfish, Grumman F6F Hellcat, Mitsubishi Zero and Vought F4U Corsair. It examines the history and evolution of naval aircraft, from the first flights launched from ships and their pioneering role in World War I to the rise of naval airpower during World War II, with special reference to Pearl Harbor, the Doolittle Raid and the Battle of Midway. Naval aircraft - planes that are able to launch from and land on ships - have played an ever-increasing role in wartime conflicts. This fully illustrated reference book charts the early history of naval aviation, from the pioneering days when biplanes were catapulted from converted destroyers through to the 'ace-making' aircraft of World War II. An A-Z directory of over 70 aircraft describes the main characteristics of each plane, with details about its country of origin, first flight, power, armament, size, weight and performance. The book provides enthusiasts with a fascinating portrayal of the naval aircraft of this significant period in history.