Now with #17 in what has proven to be a very popular series, this latest in the 'Duel' offerings pits two famous opponents of WWI against each other; the Fokker D.VII and SPAD XIII. Unlike many of the past issues, these two are actually well matched with both planes seeing considerable action in the last year of the war. Like most opponents, these planes are somewhat different in terms of their attributes, but both were able to be quite effective in the proper hands.

The Spad XIII was a rugged aircraft with the ability to provide good diving speed. Unusual for a fighter in that it was a two bay biplane, but this not only gave it a longer wing span, but also added to its durability. The Fokker, was probably the better aircraft in a turning fight. It had a good engine and thanks to its cantilever wing was not burdened by the drag of wing bracing wires. However, even the D.VII's abilities were not enough to overcome the sheer numbers that the US, French and British were able to put up against them. What is interesting, and I'm sure many of you know this, is that the D.VII was so well thought of, that it was specifically banned from German service in the Armistice. That did not stop production from continuing in Holland were Fokker moved right after the war and these planes were still in front line service with other nations well into the 1920s. The SPAD also had a good post-war career, though not with as many countries as the Fokker.

In this book, the author, Jon Guttman, discusses the development of both aircraft as well as their technical specifications and  deployments to the front. Pilot training and tactics are also part of the story and one will find quite a few 'I was there' stories to add some spice to the book. As part of the appendices, there is a section on stats and analysis as well as a listing of those aces on both sides whose scores included a number of the opposing aircraft.

In all, a superlative inclusion to this series. It is a book that I thoroughly enjoyed reading and is one that I know you will find a delight as well.

July 2009

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