AMERICAN SECRET PUSHER FIGHTERS OF WORLD WAR II
by Gerald H. Balzer
American Secret Pusher Fighters of World War II analyzes the state of military aircraft procurement just prior to the start of World War II. It provides insight into the difficulties encountered by America's air services in dealing with an isolationist Congress and a limited mindset in the Army, which was seemingly indifferent to the aeronautical progress being made in Europe by the British and Germans. The book then focuses on the three winners of the 1940 fighter competition – the Vultee XP-54, the Curtiss XP-55, and the Northrop XP-56. These radical designs ("Pusher" referred to having the engine in the back) used non-strategic materials and were developed in secret. At the time, the aerodynamics of these aircraft far outpaced engine development. In addition, this book details the technical difficulties of mating an advanced aircraft design with inadequate engine development.
"As you might guess, Specialty Press has another winner in this one. We are indeed fortunate that this publisher can be counted upon to produce high quality books time and time again. This one is no exception and is not only an excellent research tool for the modeler and enthusiast, but a great read as well. Highly recommended." -Modeling Madness, reviewed by Scott Van Aken, December 2008
"In conclusion, I am very impressed with this book. The wealth of rare photos and drawings alone are worth having a copy. I would definitely recommend this book to both aircraft historians as well as model builders." -Internet Modeler, reviewed by Gerry Nilles, December 2008
10 x 10"
182 pages
385 b/w and color photos
Hardcover
ISBN 10: 1580071252
ISBN 13: 9781580071253
ID #: SP125
Price: $42.95
|
