Hurricane

A handy guide to the Hawker Hurricane, a World War II fighter aircraft known for its stable firing platform and rugged survivability, with exciting full-color illustrations, artwork, and contemporary photographs.

Format: Hardback
Length: 136 pages
Publication date: 19 April 2018
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Bursting with captivating full-color illustrations, vibrant color artwork, and contemporary photographs, this is a convenient and comprehensive guide to this iconic World War II fighter. This remarkable aircraft, designed and built to counter the emerging fighter strength of the Axis nations in the lead-up to World War II, made its mark in the air battles over Britain and France in the early years of the war. Loved by its pilots for its stable firing platform and reputation as a rugged survivor, the Hawker Hurricane quickly became the backbone of the RAF, scoring more kills than the more glamorous Spitfire in the Battle of Britain. This compact volume draws on a wealth of research, artwork, and contemporary photographs, as well as images of surviving Hurricanes in flight today, to present a complete guide to this classic fighter aircraft.

The Hawker Hurricane, a legendary World War II fighter, holds a special place in aviation history. Its sleek design and powerful engines made it a formidable opponent on the battlefield. The Hurricane was developed in response to the growing threat posed by the Axis powers, particularly Germany and Japan.

The Hurricane's maiden flight took place in 1937, and it quickly proved its worth in the air battles over Britain and France. Its stable firing platform and rugged construction made it a reliable choice for pilots, and its speed and maneuverability allowed it to outmaneuver enemy aircraft.

One of the Hurricane's most notable achievements was its role in the Battle of Britain. During this intense conflict, the Hurricane played a crucial role in defending Britain against the German Luftwaffe. It was affectionately known as "Hurri" by its pilots and was credited with scoring more kills than the Spitfire, another iconic British fighter.

The Hurricane's design was a testament to the skill and expertise of its engineers. It featured a sturdy frame, a powerful engine, and advanced landing gear, which made it capable of withstanding the rigors of combat. The aircraft was also equipped with a variety of weapons, including machine guns, cannons, and rockets, which gave it a versatile combat capability.

Despite its many successes, the Hurricane faced challenges throughout its service life. The aircraft was expensive to produce and maintain, and it was vulnerable to enemy anti-aircraft fire. However, the Hurricane's durability and reliability made it a valuable asset to the RAF, and it continued to serve in various roles until the end of World War II.

Today, the Hurricane is celebrated as a symbol of British resilience and ingenuity. Many museums and aviation enthusiasts around the world have preserved examples of this iconic fighter aircraft, and it continues to inspire generations of pilots and enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the Hawker Hurricane is a remarkable aircraft that played a crucial role in World War II. Its design, performance, and legacy continue to inspire and captivate people around the world. The Hurricane's contributions to the Battle of Britain and its role in defending Britain against the German Luftwaffe are a testament to the bravery and skill of its pilots and engineers. Despite facing challenges throughout its service life, the Hurricane remains a symbol of British aviation excellence and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit.

Weight: 348g
Dimension: 137 x 198 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472831538