PDF Curtiss F9C Sparrowhawk (Naval Fighters) by Richard Hoffman in History

Review

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Airborne aircraft carrier planesBy James D. CrabtreeI was fascinated by the idea of airplanes flying to and from airships ever since I saw the Sperry Messenger on display at the U.S. Air Force Museum in the 1980s. The F9C was the result of reasearch and work that went into perfecting the hookup and launch of small planes to and from airships. Although the concept of the airship and its planes at scouts for the Navy seemed valid at the time; the vulnerability to attack from aircraft-carrier-launched planes was proven time and again. Indeed; the few airships available in the 1920s and 1930s succumbed to a number of peacetime misshaps which doomed the system from the start. Still; a great-looking plane and a well-written; if short; book. Includes information on the redicovery of the Sparrowhawks lost with the Macon and other parasite fighter concepts tries by the USAF. Well-illustrated with photos and artwork.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Lots of info on a little known chapter in Naval aviationBy J. MurphyGreat text and photos on this obscure and pretty much forgotten and now unknown story of rigid airships carrying planes to extend their search capabilities and range; and then retrieving the planes and storing them inside the hull.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Great little book.By Fly guyGreat little book about an even greater little airplane. Book addresses a novel concept developed in the 30's utilizing a seldom used or thought of weapons system.