Exploring the history and development of the dirigible airship from its humble beginnings in the late eighteenth century, through to its current role as military command posts among other uses, this book is a comprehensive account of the dirigible airship. Starting out as an unreliable experimental aircraft as aeronauts first began to learn the secrets of aerial navigation, the airship was then remodelled in 1900 by Count Zeppelin to become a potent weapon of war then transformed again into a short-lived solution to long-distance passenger air travel. With over 100 technical drawings and contemporary images of dirigible aircraft, Ridley-Kitts here presents a comprehensive and fascinating history of the airship – a must read for those that wish the delve into the development of the aircraft for the first time and for airship specialists alike.

During the First World War the reputation of the British Royal Navy was put on the line in its defence of the country, and, crucially, it was in those years, 1914-19, that the Grand Fleet became the single most potent weapon of war of any nation. In this comprehensive, illustrated history, Ridley-Kitts tells of the creation and development of the Grand Fleet under the drive of the energetic and charismatic Admiral of the Fleet 'Jacky' Fisher, who modernised the navy with the introduction of the revolutionary Dreadnought battleship. This type of vessel in particular made other nations' battleships obsolete, created a powerful weapon for the defence of the British Empire and its trade, and finally defeated the machinations of Kaiser William II. Using unique illustrations rendered by the author, the story of the Grand Fleet is told in accessible narrative style, with outstanding technical detail that will satisfy naval enthusiasts.