This new book from Mushroom Models Publications is on the Potez 63 family of twin engine aircraft. In 1940, this aircraft was the most numerous modern design that was available to the French Air Force and built in rather large numbers. In addition to being used by the French, export versions were used by Yugoslavia and Greece with others being provided to the Romanian and Hungarian Air Forces. Captured versions were used by the Luftwaffe as trainers while some were also flown by the RAF.

The Potez 63 had a somewhat long development period and typical of the French military industry of the time, were often near complete and waiting things like engines and propellers. This latter situation caused some of the earliest planes to be flown with two bladed props that were not totally suited to the type. One could also call the Potez 63 a multi-role airframe as the 630 and 631 were fighters differing from each other in engines used. The 633s were bombers while the 637 was a recon plane. The 637 was not really that effective and was later replaced by the vastly superior 63-11 with its redesigned, all clear nose section.T

The author provides a full history of these aircraft including both development and operational use by the various services. There is a lot more to the story than people think and the historical section covers nearly half the book. This is then followed by a details section that uses period tech manuals and photographs to show the different parts of the airframe, including those sections that are different from type to type. Finally, there are many pages of superb color profiles showing the type in all variations and in use by all services. This is additionally enhanced throughout the book by 1/72 line drawings of the different versions as well as an excellent selection of period photographs. As a bonus, a very large fold-out is included that has 1/72 plans on one side and a huge cutaway of a Potez 63-11 on the other.

Those of you who are interested in these aircraft or aviation in general simply must add this volume to your shelves. You will not find a more complete reference like it.

November 2008

Please visit Mushroom Models Publications at their website listed below if you cannot find them locally.

Many thanks to Mushroom Model Publications for providing the review copy. Your support is appreciated.

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