During the early days of WWII in Europe, the US realized that it was inevitably going to be involved. This meant not only modern aircraft, especially fighters, but innovative ones as well. It was time to stretch out technology to see what could be developed. As such, the USAAC put forth proposals to all of the airframe manufacturers in the US to come up with designs. Unlike today where there are really only three aircraft companies, back in the late 1930s, there were literally dozens. Designs were accepted from three companies; Vultee, Curtiss-Wright, and Northrop. This book is the story of the planes that came from these companies, the XP-54, XP-55 and XP-56.

Interestingly, all three designs were pusher aircraft. This is a bit unusual as there have been few successful aircraft that have used this particular design. Also of some interest is that these companies were not currently involved in production of large numbers of aircraft, though Vultee could be considered an exception as they were producing the disappointing 'Vengeance' dive bomber.

The author has scoured the archives for as many photos of these planes as he could find to help illustrate their story. Within these pages are probably more images of these most interesting aircraft in one place than has ever been found before. The complete background, design and flight of these planes is covered in considerable detail. Especially well detailed is the XP-56 as the author is an ex-Northrop employee and so it is understandable that he'd devote more space to this aircraft. My personal interest is the XP-55, which is now restored and on display at the Air Museum in Kalamazoo, Michigan. This is because it did much of its test flying from Scott AFB, just a few miles away.

Unfortunately, all aircraft had protracted development and thanks as much to their radical design or unreliable prototype engines, suffered accidents. By the time mid-1944 came around, it was obvious that they would not make production, nor have any impact on the war effort and so the programs were left to wither on the vine, so to speak. Fortunately for us, two of these planes are still extant. In addition to the aforementioned XP-55, there is one XP-56 awaiting restoration with the NASM. Due to its magnesium construction, it may be many years before that happens, but it would be great to see it on display.

As you might guess, Specialty Press has another winner in this one. We are indeed fortunate that this publisher can be counted upon to produce high quality books time and time again. This one is no exception and is not only an excellent research tool for the modeler and enthusiast, but a great read as well. Highly recommended.

December 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

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