The narrative explores the development of Myasishchev's M-50 and M-52 prototypes, highlighting their significance as supersonic strategic bombers in the late 1950s. It delves into the engineering challenges, design innovations, and the geopolitical context that influenced their creation. The book provides insights into the technological advancements of the era and the impact these aircraft had on military aviation and strategy during the Cold War.
This unique book provides an in-depth look at an active-duty Russian supersonic bomber, offering insights that are not available in any other English-language publication. It explores the aircraft's design, capabilities, and operational history, making it an essential resource for aviation enthusiasts and military history buffs. The detailed analysis sheds light on the strategic significance of this powerful bomber within modern warfare.
The book explores the development and operational history of the M-4 "Bison," a high-speed strategic bomber created by the Myasishchev design bureau in response to NATO threats. Notable for its innovative design features, including a bicycle landing gear and powerful jet engines, the Bison served as a crucial nuclear deterrent for 40 years. The narrative also covers the evolution of its variants, particularly the 3M, which was adapted for space transport as the VM-T Atlant. The text highlights both the challenges faced and the bomber's significant impact during its service.
By the turn of the century China had reaffirmed its position as one of the world's leading military powers. With much importance attached to fleet renewal; the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and the Naval Aviation are fielding new types, emphasis shifting from local derivatives of Russian or western types to indigenously developed aircraft and helicopters. The book focuses on the current PLAAF/PLANAF order of battle and describes the most advanced aircraft types currently in service or due to enter service. Among the many aircraft reviewed in this volume are the Chengdu J-10 single-engined fourth-generation fighter in service since 2003, fifth-generation fighters like the twin-engined, tail-first Chengdu J-20, and the smaller Shenyang J-31 fifth-generation light fighter. Deliveries of Xian H-6K missile carriers, the Chinese version of the Tupolev Tu-16 bomber, are continuing, the H-6N with in-flight refuelling capability, entering service in 2019. Transport aviation is not forgotten either. China has also been building an aircraft carrier fleet equipped with the Shenyang J-15 Flying Shark shipboard fighter derived from the Sukhoi Su-33. The latest addition to the Chinese Army Aviation's arsenal is the Harbin Z-20 medium utility helicopter which looks like the Sikorsky S-70 Black Hawk. Numbers of the CAIC Z-10 attack helicopter and the lighter Harbin Z-19 attack helicopter are also now operational. Unmanned aerial vehicles are also reviewed in this comprehensive survey
The Su-9, Su-11, and Su-15: Unsung Soviet Cold War Heroes
The narrative details the evolution of the Sukhoi Design Bureau after its 1949 closure, focusing on its development of fast interceptors in response to NATO threats. Key aircraft include the Su-9, Su-11, and the more advanced Su-15, which played a significant role in Soviet air defense despite its controversial history involving the downing of South Korean airliners. The book thoroughly covers all known variants and their operational details, complemented by rare and unpublished photographs, providing an in-depth look at this pivotal chapter in aviation history.
Focusing on the Antonov design bureau's innovations, the book details the evolution of its heavy transport aircraft, starting with the An-22, which debuted in the 1960s as the heaviest transport plane. It highlights the An-124, renowned for its impressive payload capacity and versatility in military and humanitarian missions. The unique An-225 "Mriya," initially designed for the Buran space shuttle, also plays a key role in the narrative, showcasing its adaptability in cargo transport. The book features numerous photographs, color illustrations, and line drawings.
A fascinating addition to the Flight Craft series, this time focussing on the Mil' Mi-6 and Mi-26 heavy lift choppers, and providing a comprehensive survey of all kits currently available to model-makers on the market.