While it is true to say that the Venom carried out more operational ground attack sorties than any other RAF aircraft since the Second World War, its history has hitherto been sadly neglected or misreported.
Scott Lemieux Knihy
The de Havilland Vampire was the second of the RAF's first-generation post- WWII jets. It began as an interceptor but was soon re-tasked in the day fighter/ground attack roles with the 2nd Tactical Air Force in Germany from 1948-54 and with the RAF's Middle and Far East Forces. It formed the backbone of the RAF's night-fighter force between 1952-67.
David Watkins has produced an extensive look at the Jet Provost and Strikemaster after years of painstaking research assisted by veterans and historians. From Jet Provost to Strikemaster is a work of narrative and technical detail which will satisfy the most avid aviation fans.
As a versatile and undemanding aircraft, the Jet Provost established itself as the basic trainer for the RAF from the late 1950s until its retirement in September 1993. In Jet Provost Boys, David Watkins explores the history of this magnificent flying machine through the vivid memories of former air crew from the RAF and foreign air forces.