One of the few
US aircraft that was designed and put into service during WWII (most were
designed prior to Pearl Harbor), the P-61 is probably Northrop's most
recognizable aircraft next to the B-2. Designed strictly as a night fighter, it
was a large, powerful twin engine aircraft that could be flown much like a
single engine fighter. It was innovative in several ways, including an armament
of 8 guns, four of them in a remotely operated upper turret. That turret caused
a number of aerodynamic buffeting problems, especially when the turret was moved
or the guns elevated. These were never completely worked out. Many aircraft flew
without it and many kept it in a fixed, forward firing position.
Jeff Kolln's book covers the complete history of the Black
Widow and the sleek F-15 Reporter than was developed from it as a photo recon
plane. All the different variants are discussed as are experimental types not
put into service. This includes a complete rundown of all the various systems in
the aircraft, including its then-sophisticated radar system. For the operational
history of the plane, all of the units in both Europe and the Pacific are given
coverage, offering some highlights of their operational tour. Not only Army, but
Navy and Marine Black Widows are part of the book. This includes post war use in
some special units. The F-15 Reporter is also provided with extensive coverage.
Once out of the military, many of these planes were used as fire bombers until
parts became a problem.
Somewhat unique to this book, a brief history of each and
every Black Widow flown is part of an extensive appendix section. Included as
well are several pages of color profiles of some of the more interesting
aircraft. All of this makes for a superb book that is both interesting to read
and an excellent reference. A book that I know you will enjoy.
November 2008
Review book courtesy of
Specialty Press
,
where you can order your copy of this and many other superb aviation and
modeling books. Visit their website at the link above or call them at
1-800-895-4585
If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly, please contact
me or see other details in the Note to
Contributors.