Allied Wings is now being published in a larger A4 format from the earlier editions. This time, we go into yellow wings territory with the last of the Curtiss Navy fighters, the F11C and derivatives.

The F11C was very much like the previous Curtiss Hawks and relied on basically the same wings/airframe, but with a larger engine. Fixed landing gear was still part of the package and while not any sort of major improvement over previous aircraft, it was easy to fly and quite reliable, something that one really needs in a naval fighter.

The type was converted to an attack aircraft as the BFC by adding racks under the wings and a rudimentary canopy. It soldiered on until the start of the Pacific war, though by that time those left were in training units or used as hacks as fighter development had left the F11C far behind. The airframe was further modified by the addition of retractable landing gear, using Grumman's design and this became the BF2C. This aircraft was not a success at all and was actually one that was dangerous to fly. Thanks to the multitude of problems and wrecks, its service life was but a year or so before it was removed from service and stored prior to being broken up for component parts.

This book covers the complete history and operational used of these aircraft, including squadron service and use by other units once past fleet use. It is a book that is a perfect reference as it includes information on all known planes by manufacturer's serial, and even includes the fate of these aircraft with known codes used. Included are a large number of superb period photos of the men and machines as well as excellent color profiles based on some of these images. A role of honor for the men who flew these aircraft and specific information on each of them is included. Standard USN cowling/band coloring information is also provided.

Overall a book that is superb and one that any enthusiast or modeler who has an interest in the type must have on their shelves. I know you will be as pleased as I with this edition.

June 2011

Review book courtesy of www.raf-in-combat.com. Visit them for other great titles

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