US Air Forces in Europe: The 1980s

The US Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) rapidly expanded its presence in the 1980s, deploying intermediate-range nuclear weapons and state-of-the-art aircraft like the F-15 Eagle, A-10 tank busters, and F-16 Fighting Falcons. This book explores the aircraft and bases of USAFE, including the support provided by other arms of the USAF, such as the SR-71, U-2, and B-52 bombers, and Tactical Air Command's role in reinforcing USAFE in time of war.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2022
Publisher: Key Publishing Ltd

The United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) experienced a significant expansion in the 1980s, marking a pivotal decade in the Cold War. This period was particularly contentious due to the deployment of a new generation of intermediate-range nuclear weapons by both sides. As tensions between the East and West escalated, a wave of advanced aircraft arrived at bases across Western Europe. The USAFE was equipped with state-of-the-art F-15 Eagle air superiority fighters, followed by the formidable A-10 tank busters and versatile F-16 Fighting Falcons. This book, adorned with over 180 captivating images, delves into the aircraft and bases of the USAFE during the 1980s. It also highlights the indispensable support provided by other branches of the USAF, including the Military Airlift Command's transport and tanker fleet. The role of Strategic Air Command's iconic SR-71s, U-2s, and massive B-52 bombers is outlined, as well as the role of Tactical Air Command, which would have swiftly reinforced USAFE in the event of war.

Weight: 282g
Dimension: 169 x 243 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802820355