Aircraft Carriers: The World's Greatest Carriers of the last 100 Years

The first airplane take-off from a ship was made in 1912, and the age of the carrier was born. During World War II, fleet carriers carrying 30-40 aircraft allowed the Japanese and US navies to project air power across the Pacific Ocean, with the Japanese raid on Pearl Harbor presaging a new kind of warfare. Aircraft Carriers features 52 of the most significant flat tops and amphibious assault ships built since the 1920s until the present day, including the USS Yorktown, HMS Invincible, and Nimitz class.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2022
Publisher: Amber Books Ltd

On May 9, 1912, a remarkable feat occurred when the first airplane took off from a ship's deck, marking a significant milestone in aviation history. This historic event took place aboard the HMS Hibernia, a British battleship.

Fast forward to July 1918, and a group of seven Sopwith Camels took off from the converted battlecruiser HMS Furious. These Camels were part of a daring mission to damage the German airbase at Tønder and destroy two zeppelins. This audacious attack not only showcased the potential of aircraft carriers but also heralded the birth of the age of the carrier.

During the interwar years, several classes of aircraft carriers were developed, including the Lexington, Akagi, and Courageous. However, it was during World War II that these carriers truly came into their own. With the ability to carry 30 to 40 aircraft, fleet carriers such as the Japanese Akagi and the US Lexington allowed the Japanese and US navies to project air power across the vast Pacific Ocean. The Japanese raid on Pearl Harbor, which occurred in December 1941, marked a new era of warfare, where aircraft carriers played a pivotal role.

As the war progressed, carriers became the dominant force on the seas. With the sinking of hundreds of ships, including the German battleship Bismarck in 1941, the era of the battleship had come to an end. Carriers ruled the waves, providing a powerful platform for aircraft to launch attacks and support ground troops.

Aircraft Carriers: Features 52 of the Most Significant Flat Tops and Amphibious Assault Ships Built Since the 1920s Until the Present Day is a comprehensive book that delves into the history and development of aircraft carriers. Authored by renowned naval historian John Lambert, this book offers a detailed account of these remarkable ships.

The book begins with a brief introduction that provides an overview of the significance of aircraft carriers in naval warfare. It then proceeds to showcase 52 of the most significant flat tops and amphibious assault ships built since the 1920s until the present day. Each entry includes a brief description of the ships' development and history, a color profile view or cutaway, key features and specifications, and a comprehensive list of aircraft carriers that served during their operational periods.

Packed with more than 200 artworks and photographs, Aircraft Carriers is a visually stunning guide for naval warfare enthusiasts. The book provides a wealth of information and insights into the world of aircraft carriers, from their early development to their role in modern warfare. Whether you are a history buff, a naval enthusiast, or simply someone interested in the evolution of naval technology, this book is a must-read.

In conclusion, Aircraft Carriers: Features 52 of the Most Significant Flat Tops and Amphibious Assault Ships Built Since the 1920s Until the Present Day is a remarkable work that offers a comprehensive and captivating exploration of the world of aircraft carriers. With its stunning artwork, detailed descriptions, and insightful analysis, this book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in naval warfare.

Weight: 1050g
Dimension: 274 x 210 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838861582