France went to war in 1939 with an astounding collection of aircraft. Some were woefully obsolete, some looked like aerodynamics was an afterthought and some were as modern and sleek as one could wish for. The Breguet 693 was one of the latter.

prior to World War II, the attack aircraft was one that several nations had developed. Some, like the British, decided that single engine light bombers, such as the Fairy Battle would do the job. In the US, it was a twin engine aircraft like the Northrop A-17 that was thought to be the key, though it was the A-20 that was eventually used. In France, a twin engine aircraft was also thought to be the best way to do things and hence the Breguet 693.

Starting with the Breguet 690, which first flew in 1936, the type was eventually upgraded to the 693 and finally to the 695, though few of the latter were built. Unfortunately for the French, the type was not effective during the German invasion of 1940, as much from lacking air cover and heavy anti-aircraft fire as anything else.

In this book by Arnaud Prudhomme, we are given a full history of the type from the prototype 690 to the Pratt & Whitney powered 695, a type that finally overcame the rather spotty reputation of the Gnome Rhone 14 engines that were used to power earlier types. This includes the aircraft's service during the Battle of France and use by Vichy French air forces. The book also includes use of the aircraft by the Italians and Germans as well as a complete unit listing. There are sections on prototypes and planned aircraft in addition to one on camouflage and markings.

Though it is entirely in French, one is often surprised by how much information can be gleaned by non-French speaking people. But what really makes this a great book are the photographs and the profiles. The book is literally chock full of outstanding images and superbly drawn full color profiles.

If you have an interest in this aircraft, you will find no better collection of images than this one. It is a book I enjoyed and I know you will as well.

November 2011

Review book courtesy of  Casemate Publishing, where you can order your copy of this and many other superb books.

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