This is another book from the excellent Aerofax series and concentrates on the first of Britain's 'V bombers'; the Vickers Valiant. This and other V aircraft were initially developed and designed in the very late 1940s , but thanks to what became a standard for long and drawn out development for aircraft, the type did not enter into service until 1955. There then followed a change in venue from high altitude bombardment to low level operations. This and some structural defects eventually grounded the entire fleet in 1965, a number of aircraft being scrapped where they last landed!

Though in service for a shorter period of time than the other V bombers, (some of which served through the first Gulf War of 1991, the Valiant led the way in many areas. It was the first British plane to drop an atomic bomb and also the first to drop Britain's hydrogen bomb. The aircraft was key in the development of the Blue Steel stand off nuclear cruise missile that was carried by Vulcan and Victor bombers.

Morgan's book goes into great detail on the development, testing and operations of the Valiant. Included are a myriad of cut away drawings, developmental three views and outstanding photographs. A full historical section provides information on squadrons that used the Valiant and there is a section on the history of every Valiant built. Included in the book are several pages of the Valiant in color.

This is by far the finest work ever done on this important British aircraft and if your interest is in British aviation or jet bombers, it is one that should be in your library.

Review book courtesy of , where you can order your copy of this and many other superb aviation and modeling books. (1-800-895-4585)

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