Military Model Scene

Title: Morane Saulnier MS 406
Author: Bartlomiej Belcarz & Franciszek Strzelczyk
Publisher: Stratus
ISBN: 978-83-67227-38-4

Number 38 in the Polish Wings series from Polish publishers Stratus, distributed by Casemate UK. A 136-page soft-cover book.
Another aircraft that was flown by Polish Air Force pilots, and at a very difficult period. Just before WW2 Poland was looking to add to their fleet of modern fighter aircraft. The book tells us how they chose the French built MS 406 over the American Curtis Hawk, largely due to their differing fuel types. However, the German invasion of Poland, which started WW2 in Europe, meant the first shipment was diverted to Turkey. Polish pilots came to France to fight on, and the text details their training at various bases in France, including at Montpellier and Lyon among others. Then it goes on to add the detail of their combat experience, from various bases, and then a chapter devoted to the camouflage and markings found on those aircraft flown by Polish airmen. The well illustrated text element of the book goes up to page 51 and then it moves to even more incredible archive photos, some showing Polish & French pilots as well as many captured and destroyed examples, often being viewed by victorious German soldiers. Along with these are a lot of first class colour profiles and plan views which show the detail of the colours and markings of these French aircraft, but with Polish aircrew. For example, carrying the Polish national marking on the fuselage sides, but French roundels on the wings and on the tailfin. The book closes with 3-pages of a table, listing all the Polish operated aircraft, along with their pilots, where it is known.
This is another first class addition to this series, with interesting text, and an incredible collection of archive photos they have managed to assemble for the book. Couple these with the artwork and the detailed text on camouflage and markings this is a great reference for modellers, including many possible diorama ideas, and I think a fascinating read for those interested in what happened during this early war period for so many Polish fighters, who on leaving Poland chose to carry on the fight against their invaders alongside their French allies, and some of course who were then forced to leave for England, where they carried on fighting.
Thanks to Casemate UK for the review copy.

Robin