P-51B/C Mustang: Northwest Europe 1943-44

The book "Mustang: The Story of the American Fighter" tells the story of the P-51B/C Mustang fighter plane used by the US Army Air Forces in World War II. It highlights the plane's advantages over German fighters, such as its high altitude, rate of climb, and top speed, and how it was used to defend massed heavy bomber formations from deadly Luftwaffe fighters. The book is packed with first-hand accounts, expert recreations of combat conditions, and heavily illustrated with photographs, artwork, and 3D ribbon diagrams.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 17 February 2022
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This new volume takes readers on a thrilling journey into the cockpit of the P-51B/C, as Mustang-equipped fighter groups of the 'Mighty Eighth Air Force' valiantly defend massive heavy bomber formations from the deadly Luftwaffe fighters tasked with protecting the Third Reich. Luftwaffe Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring himself acknowledged that the arrival of long-range Mustangs over Berlin marked the end of the Jagdwaffe's ability to defeat American daylight bombing. However, the Mustang was far more than just an escort; it was a formidable hunter capable of outperforming nearly every German fighter when introduced into combat.

In December 1943, P-51Bs and P-51Cs entered the European theater with significant advantages over their German counterparts, the Bf 109s and Fw 190s. These advantages included their ability to reach higher altitudes, achieve faster rates of climb, and attain greater top speeds. Initially deployed for close bomber escort, Mustangs were quickly unleashed to challenge German fighters before they could assemble to engage the bombers in large formations. Thanks to the Mustang's superior performance, USAAF pilots successfully thwarted the Luftwaffe's tried-and-true tactic of destroying B-17s and B-24s.

The boldness and aggression displayed by P-51B/C pilots in aerial combat resulted in a rapidly mounting toll on their German counterparts in the West during the early months of 1944. Their contributions to Allied air superiority over northern France on D-Day were immense. This volume, brimming with firsthand accounts and expert recreations, vividly captures the combat conditions and flying realities for Mustang pilots, including renowned aces such as Don Blakeslee and Don Gentile, as well as lesser-known aviators. It is extensively illustrated with photographs, artwork, and innovative 3D ribbon diagrams, offering a realistic overview of the most dynamic dogfights.

The Mustang's impact on the war was profound, and its legacy continues to inspire generations of aviators. Its ability to outmaneuver and outperform German fighters at high altitudes played a crucial role in breaking the back of the Luftwaffe and paving the way for Allied victory in World War II. This new volume is a testament to the bravery and skill of the Mustang pilots who fought for freedom and democracy, and it serves as a reminder of the enduring significance of the iconic aircraft in military history.

Weight: 262g
Dimension: 185 x 247 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781472850041