Lockheed A-12 Book Review
By Rachel E. Veres
| Date of Review | February 2014 | Title | Lockheed A-12 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Author | Paul F. Crickmore | Publisher | Osprey Publishing |
| Published | 2014 | ISBN | 9781472801135 |
| Format | 64 pages, softbound | MSRP (USD) | $18.95 |
Book Review
During early Cold War years, gathering photographic intelligence on Soviet Union activity and its allies relied primarily on manned overflight using Lockheed's U-2, nicknamed "Dragon Lady". Though high-flying and subsonic, U2's were often vulnerable to radar acquisition and SAMs (surface to air missiles).
Subtitled "The CIA's Blackbird and other variants", Osprey's Lockheed A-12 examines the development of U-2's successor – the A-12 – an aircraft incorporating 'stealth' features before the term was even coined.
As in other "Air Vanguard" installments, author Paul Crickmore dedicates the first half to the A-12's design evolution and technical specifications. Projects, variants and A-12 operational history dominate the remaining half.
Fifty historic photographs (including declassified aerial imagery) balance the author's account. Artwork and 4 color profiles by Adam Tooby provide modeling inspiration.
A bibliography, index and list of Osprey titles neatly complete this publication.
Wholeheartedly recommended.
My sincere thanks to Osprey Publishing for this review sample!