Initially projected as a maritime reconnaissance version of the Lincoln bomber; itself a development of the famous wartime Lancaster which saw post-war service in a General/Maritime Reconnaissance role; (see Flight Craft No 4); the Avro Shackleton; (named after the polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton) was a completely new design; powered by four Rolls Royce Griffon 57 engines driving six blade contra-rotating propellers.Split into three main sections; this latest Flight Craft title; perfectly timed to coincide with the release of the first examples of the eagerly awaited new tool 1/72 scale Airfix kit; offers a concise history of the Shackleton's development and operational career from the prototype and initial entry in to RAF service in 1951; and its use with the South African Air Force; the only other operator of the type. Section 1 chronicles its design; ongoing improvements and development through the three main Marks; in both the Maritime Reconnaissance and Airborne Early Warning roles; until its retirement after four decades of RAF service in 1991; which includes scores of contemporary photographs with detailed captions; many of which have never been seen in print before.This is followed by a 16-page color illustration section featuring profiles and 2-views of the color schemes and markings carried by the type in RAF and SAAF service. The final section lists all the plastic model kits; accessories and decal sheets produced of the Shackleton in all scales. As with the other books in the Flight Craft series; whilst published primarily with the scale aircraft modeler in mind; it is hoped that those readers who might perhaps describe themselves as 'occasional' modelers may also find that this colorful and informative work offers something to provoke their interests too.
#702828 in Books Osprey Publishing 2016-05-24 2016-05-24Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 250.95 x 8.26 x 7.28l; .62 #File Name: 147281143796 pages9781472811431
Review
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. Time runs out for Nazi Germany...By HMS WarspiteThe failure of the German offensive in the Ardennes in December 1945 effectively sealed the fate of Nazi Germany. The final months of fighting in 1945 brought only the death agonies of Germany; as the Allies closed in and as they prepared for the postwar environment. Surprisingly; the German Army; even in its fragmented state in 1945; remained remarkably lethal; Allies casualties over the final months and miles were significant; even if German casualties were far greater."Downfall 1945" is an Osprey Campaign Series book; authored by veteran historian Steven Zaloga; with illustrations by Steve Noon. In just under 100 pages; the author offers a highly readable account of the final campaigns; east and west. The introduction sets the strategic situation and matches the opposing commanders and their plans and forces. The narrative alternates between the Western and Eastern Fronts; as German units crumble and as the Allies close in on Berlin and on the lines that would divide postwar Europe. The text is much enhanced by an excellent selection of period photographs; maps; graphics; and illustrations. Of particular note is the comparison between the respective forces; including the estimate that the armies on all sides were to one degree or another shrinking for lack of replacement manpower. Germany's were of course shrinking fastest. Highly recommended as a concise account of the final defeat of Germany .0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Another great title from ZalogaBy MarkNAnother great title from Zaloga. The final campaigns of the European theater do not receive enough attention so this should be an interesting read for you. Zaloga helped me understand the disposition of Soviet forces in the final weeks and days before the final push on Berlin.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy malia delosantosperfect
