We are now into the final volume of this long running series on the Jagdwaffe and this time, it concentrates on those units whose main task was air defense over northern and central Europe. Starting with just a few units and steadily growing as the threat continued to mass, the Jagdwaffe was never really able to stem the tide of Allied bombers. Not a single mission was completely turned away from its objective due to German fighter defense.

Though initially able to wreak havoc on Allied bomber streams headed into Germany, with the advent of the drop tank, and the ability of escort fighters to accompany US bombing missions, the horrendous US losses finally started to lessen. As the might of Allied airpower increased, the numbers and experience of surviving German fighter pilots decreased. Every foray into the air against the bombers meant more and more inexperienced Luftwaffe crews against an even more deadly enemy; a situation that became even more precarious with the introduction of the P-51 Mustang. It is at that juncture in February 1944 that this edition closes.

We have come to expect the highest in quality research with these editions and it continues with this volume. Besides a look at operations, there is the intrigue of political wrangling and some rather dodgy policy decisions. We are treated to information on several experimental weapons and devices to be used against bombers, most of which proved impractical or just didn't work. There are stories of gifted individuals and of course, the excellent profiles that modelers love to see. As usual, they are all based on photographs that are included in the book so that we can see the basis for the schemes given.

I have thoroughly enjoyed every edition of this series. It is a collection of books that is a 'Must Have' for any enthusiast of the period.

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