A classic aircraft from the 1950s and 1960s was the Republic F-84F. This aircraft started out as a swept wing version of the 'plank wing' F-84E, but evolved into an airframe that had very little in common with the earlier versions. Sort of like the deal with the Super Hornet and earlier F-18A-D versions.

Needless to say, this aircraft was chosen by NATO as their standard fighter-bomber and when the new Luftwaffe was reformed, it was natural that this aircraft be added into the inventory. Training of Luftwaffe pilots, many from the second world war, was undertaken in the US where there are open spaces and good flying weather, then pilots were sent home to practice in the local environs. I found it interesting that even in the 1950s and 1960s, the Luftwaffe had sergeant pilots, something few air arms still had.

Air Doc's dual German/English books have set a very high standard for books of this type. It not only provides an excellent historical reference, but an equally outstanding photo reference and this one is no exception. The book logically divides itself into sections with the historical background followed by many pages of large, crisp photographs, most of them in full color. The book opens with a history of the development of the Thunderstreak with histories of all the units that flew it. I have to admit to being surprised that there were not more, but if you think about it, the Luftwaffe was also flying the Sabre at this time.

In addition to the excellent photos, there are superb profiles, many of which are used in the companion decal sheet. Air Doc generally does decals for its book subjects. Most of us get our interest piqued by reading these and want to do a model.  A page of weapons and a section on the ejection seat, make this a very useful reference for the modeler.  Overall it is a superlative book that is well written, well designed and a delight to read. One I can recommend to you without hesitation.

April 2009

My thanks to AirDoc for the review book. You can find these at your local hobby shop and if not, ask them to order them for you. You can also order direct by e-mailing them at www.airdoc.eu

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