We all know that IsraDecals produces what are among the best decals in the world. One of the things that makes them so good is the superlative research that goes into producing them, ensuring the highest accuracy for the modeler.

This same outlook on things goes into their books.

The latest is 101: The First Fighter Squadron, the initial book in what is hoped is a series on the various IDF/AF squadrons.

The book is divided into ten different sections. Each of these basically covers an aircraft type that was operated by the squadron, and also covers specific events, such as the war of independence, the 6 day war, Yom Kippur war and so on. An incredible number of people helped to make this book by providing private collection photos and interviews, making for a book that is most complete and as accurate as one can make it. It is first hand research like that which really makes these types of books.

The number of quality photos  is a major plus and there are quite a lot of them that I've never seen published anywhere before. As with many, the early years with the S-199s, Spitfires and Mustangs are a favorite of mine and this era is given considerable coverage. The book then moves on to the first jets operated by 101 Squadron; the Mystere IV and then on to what was to be a decades long association with the Dassault Mirage and variants like the Nesher and the Kfir. It is with the Mirage that the greatest success was achieved with many 101 Squadron pilots achieving ace status while flying this aircraft. I was quite surprised to read that the top Israeli ace had 17 kills to his credit, an amazing number for those flying jets and besting those flying during the Korean War.

I also found it quite interesting to read about the debacle concerning the introduction of the Kfir into service. I had no idea that things were as bad as what they were, especially as the Kfir was not considered an air combat jet, but a ground attack airplane. It truly was a major mistake to assign this aircraft to an air combat unit who had no experience or training in ground attack. Fortunately when the F-16 came into service, the 101st was chosen to fly the F-16C/D variants and now is still operating the F-16C and doing very well with it.

In the back of the book are four pages of full color profiles drawn by a number of different artists. This is followed by a listing of 101 Squadron jet age kills as well as those aircraft lost in combat and major accidents.

This is not a book that one rushes through. There is just too much information to take in all at once and it is best read when one has the time to sit back and savor the material and photos provided. The usual 'there I was' stories are a real highlight of the book and add immeasurably to the enjoyment of the experience. It is a book that will be very difficult to top and one that I can offer my highest recommendation.

Thanks to IsraDecal Publications for the review book. You can get yours direct from the hyperlink to the left or from your favorite bookseller. If you don't see it, ask them to order it for you.

July 2007

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