Luftwaffe im Focus #17 has arrived and once again, it is a superb edition with interesting stories and previously unpublished photographs. As usual, the articles and images cover the full gamut of Luftwaffe types including fighters, bombers, recce birds, ground attack and even a seaplane or two. There is also a pilot's story and a closer look at a specific aircraft.

In the latter case, it is Helmut Lent's Bf-110 when he was NJG 3. This includes several color profiles. There are some rare full color period images in this edition which includes a fine study of a Klemm 35 operating on the Eastern front. To me, the pick article was the history of the Me-410A-1/U4 aircraft of ZG 26. These planes were equipped with the BK5 50mm cannon and used to intercept bombers. Though a fine idea, it is one that didn't seem to work as well as one hoped and their appearance was rather brief. There are also some unexpected images like the Bf-110 long range tanks turned into outhouses!

As always, the large A4 format allow for some superb and large photographs, something I know we all have come to appreciate. Like the earlier LIF books, this one is dual English/German and is not only interesting by informative as well. There is delight in every page, making this book one that you simply have to get.

June 2010

Review book courtesy of  Luftfahrtverlag-Start  where you can order your copy and get up to date information on costs. American readers can get it at www.squadron.com and at RZM.

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