Military Model Scene

Title: RAF Transport Aircraft
Author: Chris Gibson
Publisher: Key Publishing
ISBN: 978-1-80282-185-7

A recent addition to the books available through Pen & Sword are a wide series of subjects from Key Publishing. Among them is this one, on the topic of RAF Transport aircraft over the years. A 96-page soft-cover book.
Spread across 10 chapters, we are taken through the story of RAF transport aircraft from the earliest days, when the flew all sorts of supplies in for British ground forces, such as in Mesopotamia in 1915, and continued to do so into 1916, using Be2C aircraft. Today that is modern day Iraq, and most recently the modern C17 Globemasters were once again airlifting in supplies to British ground forces. From then onwards, throughout WW2 and beyond, the need for movement of troops and other supplies has never ceased. Many aircraft types are described and illustrated, with many bombers later converted to transports. Even more changes post-war, as equipment got heavier and design changes allowed for easier loading of items such as vehicles, and the creation of 'drive-in' designs, with a ramp/clamshell doors, such as Beverley, Argosy and then Hercules, among others. There are smaller types, such as the Pioneer and then Twin Pioneer, Valetta and Andover along with even smaller communication aircraft, such as the Beagle Bassett. Passenger, cargo and in-flight refuelling have all been requirements, even down to VIP transport, such as for the Royal Family and British Prime Ministers. One other change was the post-war withdrawal from Empire, which changed the requirements for the RAF, so clearly illustrated by the change in camouflage colours on the Hercules fleet.
The various strategic and tactical requirements are set out, and even the search for a Stractical aircraft. Even having had an interest in military aircraft all my life, there were still aircraft I didn't recall and factors I hadn't considered, so coupled with about 130 photos to illustrate the text, this is a great value little book.
Thanks to Pen & Sword for our review copy.

Robin