Spitfire Aces of Burma and the Pacific (Aircraft of the Aces #87)

Andrew Thomas, Chris Davey (Illustrator)

$25.00

Publication Date: March 19th, 2013

Publisher:

Osprey Publishing

ISBN:

9781846034220

Pages:

Description

The Japanese Army Air Force's invasion of Burma during 1941-42 was at first a huge success against the RAF who struggled to support the Chindit expedition on the ground. Yet the arrival of the Spitfire was to change the fortunes of the RAF and the outcome of the battle. Proving a huge boost to morale, the Spitfire played a large part in defeating the enemy and covering the subsequent Allied advance through Burma, protecting the ground troops and providing vital supplies. The arrival of Spitfire units at this crucial time also had an immediate effect in blunting enemy air raids on Calcutta and along the coast of East Bengal, whilst in Northern Australia, the Spitfire was called upon to defend against surprise raids by the Japanese. Covering the little documented aerial war over Burma, this book tells the stories of the 54 aces who flew against the Japanese, and also those who fought in India and Australia. Full-color artwork reveals the markings and paint schemes of this most-famous of British planes, whilst first-hand accounts and archive photographs bring the aerial battles of Burma, India and Australia to life.

About the Author

Andrew Thomas is one of Britain's most pre-eminent RAF researchers, having published numerous squadron histories. He is presently a serving officer in the RAF.

Praise for Spitfire Aces of Burma and the Pacific (Aircraft of the Aces #87)

“Spitfire Aces of Burma and the Pacific by Andrew Thomas provides a good look at Spitfires and their pilots in some of the less publicized actions of WWII... The book describes 54 aces through the usual Osprey blend of good text, archival photos, and well-rendered color profiles.” —Air Classics (September 2009)

“In addition to the usual superb collection of period photos, there are several pages of color profiles of the aircraft discussed in the book. The appendices include a full listing of men who were successful against the Japanese while flying the Spitfire as well as their tallies. In all, it is a book that should find a lot of interest with Spitfire fans in particular and those whose interest is in this theater of war in general. A great read that I know you will enjoy.” —Scott Van Aken, Modeling Madness (April 2013)

“If you're looking for compact, convenient coverage of Spitfire operations against Imperial Japan, grab Thomas' book.” —David L. Veres, www.cybermodeler.com (May 2013)

“...a comprehensive history of the elite fighter pilots and the aircrafts that they flew. Andrew Thomas is one of Britain's leading RAF researchers...” —Wonderpedia