Military Model Scene

Title: British Frigates and Escort Destroyers 1939-45
Author: Angus Konstam
Publisher: Osprey
ISBN: 978-1-4728-5811-5

Number 319 in the New Vanguard series from Osprey, interesting text from author Angus Konstam and some great artwork from illustrator Adam Tooby. A 48-page soft-cover book in the usual style for the series.
Following an introduction that sets the scene the bulk of the book is devoted to the design & development story of the 2 slightly different types of escort vessel. The small destroyers were built in large numbers to act as escort vessels for convoys, while the slightly smaller frigates were designed so they could be built by more civilian ship builders, less experienced with constructing naval vessels. Explaining their capabilities and particular reference to the weaponry they were fitted with, along with sensors to detect their main prey, the U-Boats, and how it developed throughout the war. There is a shorter section on the escorts in action and a list of their specifications.
The various tables list the number and details on the large number of ships built in the different batches and classes. The sheer number built during the war is hard to appreciate in comparison to the modern navy. There is more to the story with lend-lease ships and the even smaller corvettes, but these are left for a later book. Lots of useful references in here, archive photos and some excellent artwork which modellers will like I am sure.
Thanks to Osprey for the review copy.

Robin