COMBAT IN THE STRATOSPHERE: Extreme Altitude Aircraft in Action During WW2

1-243370

Explores the development and use of aircraft designed specifically for high-altitude operations in World War II. Looks at the German Junkers Ju 86P that were able to fly over 40,000 feet, which ushered in a new era of aerial combat. Others included the Vickers Wellington Mk.VI, Vickers Windsor, Boeing B-29 Superfortress, Junkers Ju 388, Heinkel He 274, and Henschel Hs 130. With pressurized cabins, such aircraft offered obvious tactical advantages: bombers and reconnaissance aircraft could operate safely above the maximum ceiling of the opposing side's fighters, prompting intense development - especially by the British and Germans - of pressurized interceptors to meet the threat they posed. Also focuses on the men who flew these revolutionary aircraft, both in the testing phase and in combat, and the physical challenges these airmen faced. Contains 32 mono illustrations.