For their
next 'Squadrons' book, RAF-in-Combat has chosen another aircraft that saw
limited service though following models were much more widespread. This is on
the Halifax I, the initial production of the bomber that had a run of about 85
aircraft. However, this was enough to fully equip two squadrons and provide the
needed replacements and aircraft that are used for crew training. The big
difference between the Mk.I over the next in the line was less powerful Merlin X
engines and the lack of an upper fuselage turret. The plane had beam guns but
the RAF found them to be pretty much a useless addition.
The two squadrons that were equipped with the initial Halifax were 35
Squadron in late 1941. They operated the type for about a year before getting in
Mk.II replacement aircraft. The other was 76 Squadron which flew them for about
seven months before the last one was retired in early 1942. After that, the few
remaining planes (about 35 of them) were either used as flight trainers or
instructional airframes trainers with the last flyable plane being out of
service by sometime in 1943.
In
addition to some excellent histories of the units involved, which includes
details on operations carried out by the units, there is a listing of aircraft
lost to enemy action or accidents, crew members who lost their lives and a brief
history of each of the airframes that were built, including codes worn by the
aircraft.
Overall, it is a superbly researched and presented book that
gives the background and unit operations of the type.
In addition to all the great photos, we have the usual large color profiles
we have come to expect in this series. Available both in paper and
electronically for those that prefer that medium. A
book I found fascinating and one that is bound to be a valuable reference
resource in the years to come.
February 2015
Review book courtesy of
www.raf-in-combat.com. Visit them for
other great titles. You can get this one
at this link.
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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