The RAF's only delta-winged fighter - the Gloster Javelin was also Britain's first true All-Weather Fighter. Based in the UK and in Germany, the RAF's Javelin squadrons formed the front line of Britain's air defences in the late 1950s and early 1960s. During this time Javelin crews pioneered the operational use of guided missiles and air-to-air refuelling by fighter aircraft. In the Far East, Javelins were involved in operations during the Indonesian Confrontation and the aircraft was also deployed to Zambia during the Rhodesian UDI Crisis. In this history, which is richly illustrated with many previously unpublished photographs, Michael Napier blends official records with personal accounts to describe the operational history of this iconic jet fighter. AUTHOR: The elder son of an army officer, Michael Napier joined the RAF in 1978 and served with 14 Squadron as a Tornado pilot in the late 1980s and again in the early 1990s. These two tours engendered a deep interest in 14 Squadron's distinguished history. He was appointed as Honorary Secretary of the 14 Squadron Association in 2003 and since then has carried out extensive research into the Squadron's heritage. SELLING POINTS: ? An engaging study of the Gloster Javelin, Britain's first true All- Weather Fighter. ? A richly illustrated volume, featuring many previously unpublished photographs. ? Offers an interesting blend of official records and personal accounts, bringing the eventful history of the Javelin to life. 250 illustrations
