Iconic Supersonic Aircraft of World War Two

By Tim Ripley

For nearly 50 years after World War Two, the United States, the United Kingdom, France and the Soviet Union waged the Cold War, locked in a state of political and military tension. Speed was centre of both countries' Cold War strategies. This race for superior velocity would change the face of military and commercial aviation across the globe.

In the name of national defence, the military, aerospace industry, and government and university research organisations of countries involved worked together to an extent previously unknown.

In 1953, the North American F-100 Super Sabre became the first airplane capable of supersonic speeds in level flight. In 1959, the Soviet Union shocked the world with the speed of its MiG-21 Fishbed, which went on to become the most produced supersonic jet in aviation history. Driven by the unexpected Soviet success, the US produced the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, first flown in 1964, which flew higher and faster than any Soviet fighter or missile. Not to be forgotten, the UK produced its iconic supersonic interceptor, the English Electric Lightning, which boasted a blistering climb rate and unique vertical engines. Similarly legendary, the Dassault Mirage family became the backbone of French military aviation.

From sketches on the drawing board to dominating the skies, Tim Ripley explores the history of the Cold War's most iconic supersonic aircraft.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1836323476
• ISBN13: 9781836323471
• Release Date: January 1
• Publisher: Key Publishing
• Length: 128 Pages