Fighters Over Malta: Gladiators and Hurricanes 1940-1942

During World War II, RAF and Commonwealth pilots defended Malta against Axis forces with Gladiators and Hurricanes. Many pilots were inexperienced and paid the ultimate price, but personal diaries and journals provide a tribute to their courage, aspirations, and fears. Flt Lt James Pickering AFC's experiences with 261 Squadron also enhance the early period of air defense.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 512 pages
\n Publication date: 26 July 2018
\n Publisher: Fonthill Media
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Brian Cull's definitive work, "Fighters over Malta: Gladiators and Hurricanes 1940-1942," offers a comprehensive account of the valiant RAF and Commonwealth pilots who flew Gladiators and Hurricanes in defense of Malta between June 1940 and April 1942. These pilots faced immense challenges as they defended this vital outpost of the British Empire in the heart of Axis-dominated territory.

Most of the Hurricanes that served in Malta were flown from the decks of aircraft carriers or from bases in North Africa. A few fighter pilots arrived by Sunderland flying boats or other aircraft in transit from the UK via Gibraltar. Many of these pilots were inexperienced and paid a heavy price, particularly when the elite Messerschmitt pilots of 7/JG26 arrived in Sicily in early 1941 and later in the year when more from JG53 made their presence felt.

Several important personal diaries and journals have come to light, providing valuable insights into the atmospheric background, thoughts, and hopes of the Hurricane pilots who defended Malta. While not all of the diarists survived, their impressions serve as a fitting tribute to their courage, aspirations, and fears.

Flt Lt (then Sgt Plt) James Pickering AFC, who flew Hurricanes with 261 Squadron, played a significant role in the early period of air defense of Malta. His personal experiences and anecdotes add depth and color to the narrative, providing a firsthand account of the challenges and triumphs of those who fought in the skies over Malta.

Cull's work is a valuable addition to the literature on World War II, offering a detailed and insightful perspective on the air defense of Malta. It sheds light on the bravery and sacrifice of the pilots who defended this small island against overwhelming odds, and serves as a reminder of the importance of their contributions to the war effort.

\n Weight: 990g\n
Dimension: 221 x 166 x 43 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781781556634\n \n