Synopsis

The World's Great Fighters describes the development of the fighter throughout the twentieth century, exploring the background and service record of the world's most important fighter types. During World War I the fighter essentially fought its battles over the front lines in western and eastern Europe. After the war's end, development of the slow yet nimble biplane fighter continued, as engine and design technology gradually improved. By the mid 1930s improved engineering and design techniques led to the emergence of sleek, powerful monoplane fighters with bigger and more reliable engines. Enclosed cockpits and retractable undercarriages improved comfort and speed, and these new aircraft, such as the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and Hawker Hurricane, proved their effectiveness in the early campaigns of World War II. The war saw certain fighter types gain undying fame-the Spitfire, the Mustang, and the Zero-in aerial battles across the world.

From the beginning of the Cold War until the late 1980s, the United States and Soviet Union remained at the forefront of fighter development with the production of such famous aircraft as the F-4 Phantom, MiG-21, F-14 Tomcat, F-16 Fighting Falcon, and MiG-29 'Fulcrum'. Competition in fighter design came only from Europe, which developed the Hawker Hunter, Mirage III, Panavia Tornado, and Eurofighter Typhoon. Today the US has a clear lead in the development and production of stealthy air-superiority fighters like the highly advanced F-22 Raptor.

Magnificently illustrated throughout with photographs and full-color artworks, The World's Great Fighters details the development, unique features, and operational capabilities of the major fighter types. Each artwork is accompanied by the relevant technical specifications for the aircraft, including armament, powerplant, performance, and dimensions. The book provides a mass of information on one of the most important types of weapon of the last 100 years.