Aircraft of World War II

Book excerpt: From the start of World War II, in 1939, to its conclusion six years later, military aircraft developed from prewar biplanes such as the Gloster Gladiator, to classic aircraft--the Messerschmitt Me 109 and the P-51 Mustang--and on to the age of jet warplanes--the Arado Ar 234 and the Gloster Meteor. 600 color and archival photographs perfectly showcase the length and design of each entry. Presented here in mesmerizing detail, these artifacts from the world's first major air battles will fascinate both WWII and military aircraft buffs alike.