German Starfighters: The Story in Colour: Introduction and Units

The F-104 Starfighter was a Cold War-era aircraft used by several European air forces, including Germany with 916 units. This book covers its purchase decisions, service introduction, and aircraft production by Lockheed and European manufacturers, with a focus on its operations with the Luftwaffe and Marineflieger combat wings.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2023
Publisher: Key Publishing Ltd

The F-104 Starfighter, a remarkable aircraft that played a significant role during the Cold War era in Europe, stands out as one of the most captivating aircraft of its time. Numerous European air forces operated this remarkable jet, with Germany boasting an impressive inventory of 916 Starfighters. The distinctive sound of the General Electric J-79 engine, which echoed through the European skies for many years, added an extra layer of intrigue to the Starfighter's legacy. This comprehensive book delves into the intricate details surrounding the acquisition decisions, service introduction, and aircraft production by both Lockheed and European manufacturers. It then takes readers on a deep exploration of the entire operational period of the Starfighter, focusing specifically on its deployment with the Luftwaffe and Marineflieger combat wings. The Starfighter's versatility was evident as it served in various roles, including fighter, fighter-bomber, and reconnaissance wings. With an extensive collection of over 240 images, many of which have remained unpublished outside of Germany, this book serves as the first volume of a two-part series that offers a dynamic historical account of the Starfighter's service with the Luftwaffe and Naval Air Wings. The images, many of which are previously unseen, provide a visual feast that enhances the reader's understanding and appreciation of this versatile multi-purpose aircraft. Whether you are a military aviation enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious about the fascinating stories of Cold War aircraft, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to delve deeper into the world of the F-104 Starfighter in German service.

Weight: 284g
Dimension: 169 x 241 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802824742