Saab 35 Draken Book Review
By David L. Veres
| Date of Review | January 2022 | Title | Saab 35 Draken |
|---|---|---|---|
| Author | Mikael Forslund | Publisher | Mushroom Model Publications |
| Published | 2021 | ISBN | 9788365958860 |
| Format | 208 pages, softbound | MSRP (USD) | $39.00 |
Review
“When I first wrote the detailed history of this distinctive Swedish fighter some years ago, I found I was continually being carried away by sheer enthusiasm and, instead of objective reporting, was writing what sounded like a piece of advertising copy.”
That’s Bill Gunston waxing enthusiastic over the Saab 35 Draken in his classic Fighters of the Fifties (Specialty Press, 1981).
“Even today,” Britain’s renowned aviation journalist continued, “the ability to make automatic all-weather interceptions at Mach 2, drop 9,000 lb of bombs, or fly any kind of electronic-warfare or recon mission, and then vanish into the obscurity of farmland where there is no evident airfield, is not exactly common.”
Little has changed in four decades. And the distinctive, “double delta” Draken, long retired from active service with four air forces, still remains an “exceptional” and “bold” design.
Now historian Mikael Forslund definitively dissects this amazing aircraft in an eponymous account from MMP Books.
Coverage chronicles every version and facet of Saab’s remarkable warplane.
Chronologically arranged chapters trace airframe, armament, warpaint, and operational details with Swedish, Danish, Finnish, and Austrian militaries. And tables with remarks recap subtypes by serials, codes, units, and service dates – including machines with private civilian operators.
Modelers will especially welcome Forslund’s precise notes on colors, insignia, and codes.
Dozens of color, B&W, interior, and detail shots augment the account. Dozens more color profile and plan views provide potent project potential. And 1:72-scale line drawings help fact-check Draken kits.
Extended, explanatory captions also accompany images. Tech-manual excerpts further season the study. And a handy diagram charts Draken evolution.
What a brilliant book. I loved every pithy page. And it carries my highest recommendation.
Building Hasegawa’s 1/48 Saab Draken? Tackling Airfix’s classic 1/72 kit? Or even Lindberg’s ancient effort? Grab this vital volume.
Rabidly recommended!
With thanks to Casemate for the review copy.