This book is the first bomber one done by 4+ and is dated 2003 so is a reprint. It covers the bomber and trainer versions of the Wellington.

Developed as a replacement for the biplane bombers then in service, the Wellington was chosen along with the Hampden to be the next RAF bomber in the mid 1930s. Probably considered a heavy bomber when first built, it turned into what is arguably the best British medium bomber of the war. Though no longer cutting edge technology when the war started, it was the aircraft that carried the war to the Germans in the opening year.

Though daylight bombing was soon found to produce rather heavy losses, the Wellington and other bombers switched to night raids and had quite a bit of success in that area. The Wellington was also used in other theaters of operation, but mostly from the UK.

The authors have done a superlative job on this one. It starts with a history of the aircraft through its development and then goes into the different bomber and trainer variants. A systems analysis is next which is followed by an extensive chart of production and types. There then follows page after page of crisp, clear photos and profiles. This includes several pages of color, including period photos and close-ups of extant aircraft, the sort of thing that modelers love to see. The book ends with information on camouflage, a load-out chart/diagram and a superbly done set of 1/72 plans. Perfect for those who have the latest Trumpeter 1/48 kit and want to add more detail.

Overall, this is a superb book that is both an interesting read and a great reference. One that I can recommend to you without reservation. Your local stockist or hobby shop should be able to order this for you

Review copy courtesy of 4+. In the US, contact 4+ N.A., 855  Bebout Road, Venetia PA  15367

E-mail: x4plus@fyi.net TEL/FAX: 724 941 8755. To see the full line visit http://www.4pluspublications.com/

November 2006

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