P-38 Lightning Vol. 2: Lockheed's P-38J to P-38M in World War II (Schiffer 9780764358227)

Category Aviation Books, Subcategory WW2 US Aircraft, ISBN/Box 9780764358227, Series Legends of Warfare, Publisher/Brand Schiffer, Author David Doyle, Format 23 x 23 cm, No. Pages 144, Version Hard cover, Language English

This second of two volumes continues the P-38 story by focusing on the later, mass-produced models of this historic fighter—P-38J through P-38M. Each type is examined through carefully researched archival photos, as well as photographs of currently preserved examples. Known to the enemy during World War II as the "Fork-tailed devil," the pilots of the Lockheed P-38 Lightning were charged with the responsibility of escorting American bombers deep over heavily defended Europe during the early years of the air campaign against Nazi Germany. In the Pacific, the Lightning's long range was put to good use flying over vast expanses of ocean. Detailed text and captions illustrate not only the design and construction of the later-war Lightnings, but also their combat use in WWII. Large, clear photos, coupled with descriptive and informative captions, put the reader on the airfield and in the sky with this historic aircraft.