Those who are familiar with JaPo books know two things about them. First is they are superbly researched and are often the best that has been published on that particular subject. The second is that they sell out rather quickly once produced. I'm sorry to have missed the first two books in this series.

This is their third book on the Luftwaffe over Czech Territory in 1945 and covers the Messerschmitt Me-262 as operated by both KG and KG(J) units. The book provided an initial background of the aircraft and goes into detail on the development and deployment of the various units that were slated the fly this new jet. The research into this background information is quite extensive and relies on extant documentation from the Luftwaffe, unit records and even log books of pilots who flew with these units.

The concentration of this book is on those who were flying from Czech territory. This was one of the last refuges of somewhat safe flying in the last months of the war so it was natural that what little training was done for the 262 was scheduled to be done here. It is also where some of the operational units were based. The book provided a day by day reconstruction of unit operations as well as aircraft transfers and losses. As I mentioned, it goes into considerable detail that will probably never be equaled on this subject.

As well done as the historical section is, the part that really struck me was the section on specific aircraft. JaPo has gathered every bit of information and all extant photos of eleven aircraft which operated with KG 51, KG(J) 54, KG(J)6 as well as two seat and single seat training aircraft. This includes complete details on the camouflage and markings of these planes as well as their final fate. Fortunately for us, there are a considerable number of photos of these planes, some in color. One was used by Watson's Wizzers and another is extant in original condition in Australia, where a considerable number of photographs were taken of this plane just for this publication.

All of this is additionally enhanced by superlative full page color four views of the planes in question. JaPo has had AviPrint produce decal sheets in 1/72 and 1/48 specifically for this edition and you can buy the book with or without these decals. The sheet includes some insignia and the unique markings with any tail bands the responsibility of the modeler to paint. Shown is the 1/48 sheet with the 1/72 version identical to it.

This is a book that takes time to read. The information is quite extensive and it took me several weeks to read through it. Perhaps not for the light reader, but if you are interested in the details, then this is very much a book that you must have. I give it my highest recommendation and suggest that you get yours while the getting is good as it won't be out there for long.

March 2011

Review book courtesy of JaPo. Visit them at www.japo.eu and ask for this one at your favorite book seller

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly, please contact me or see other details in the Note to Contributors.

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