Bf 110 vs. Lancaster: 1942 - 45 Book Review
By Rachel E. Veres
| Date of Review | November 2013 | Title | Bf 110 vs. Lancaster: 1942 - 45 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Author | Robert Forczyk | Publisher | Osprey Publishing |
| Published | 2013 | ISBN | 9781780963167 |
| Format | 80 pages, softbound | MSRP (USD) | $18.95 |
Review
Osprey's Bf 110 vs. Lancaster pits the WWII Commonwealth heavy bomber against the Luftwaffe's heavy fighter. While darkness initially protected Britain's Lancaster, Germany's Nachtjagd's (night force) – where Bf 110s shined – countered with airborne radar and improved weaponry.
As in other Osprey Duel publications, author Robert Forcyzk discusses each aircraft's design progression and technical parameters following an introduction and brief chronology. A handy comparison chart neatly summarizes each aircraft's specifications.
Forcyzk begins the second half describing the strategic situation detailing trends shaping future duels. Subsequent pages delve into the book's true heart – opposing combatants' training programs and aerial skirmishes from Operation Millennium to April 1945.
Fifty-five historic photographs and artwork by illustrators Jim Laurier and Gareth Hector supplement the author's excellent narrative. However, modelers seeking color& markings inspiration will likely be disappointed; this book contains no profiles.
A statistics and analysis section highlights Lancaster and Bf 110 losses to production ratios.
Aftermath, further reading suggestions and an index complete another fine Osprey book.
Highly recommended.
My sincere thanks to Osprey Publishing for this review sample!