MOSQUITO ACES OF WORLD WAR II (Osprey Aircraft of the Aces No. 69)

Andrew Thomas. 

* Comprehensive histories of the elite fighter pilots, and the aircraft that they flew

*A unique source of information researched by recognized experts, and brought to life by first-hand accounts from the combat veterans themselves

*Concise, authoritative text is supported by at least 30 specially commissioned original color artworks, scale plans, and the best archival protography from around the world

The all-wooden Mosquito entered service with Fighter Command in early 1942 and was soon helping to counter the Baedeker raids on Britain's cathedral cities. By the time of the Luftwaffe's 'baby' Blitz on Britain, it was at the very heart of the country's night defenses. The fighter was later at the forefront of countering the V-1 flying bombs by night in 1944 thanks to its high speed and effective air intercept radar. Flown by specialized nightfighter squadrons, the Mosquito was equipped with ever-improving airborne radar as a standard fit; this ability to 'see' the enemy at night combined with speed and devastating hitting power of four cannons, rendered it one of the finest nightfighters deployed by any side during the war. The aircraft also saw service as a figher-bomber with both Coastal Command and the 2nd Tactical Air Force. In total some 59 pilots became aces flying the Mosquito. Soft cover, 96 pages.