Warbird Legends

Book excerpt: The Second World War spurred tense focus among industries of the world's powers. In the short span of six years, military aircraft developed from open-cockpit biplanes to fighters that soared to 40,000 feet and toyed with the sound barrier. Represented in this spendid volume are images of the war's 20 greatest aircraft - from the legendary Mustang, Spitfire, Flying Fortress, and Mitsubishi Zero, to lesser-known but equally awe-inspiring warbirds like the Mosquito, Blenheim, and Kingcobra. The award-winning air-to-air photography of John Dibbs captures immaculately restored aircraft and is complemented by a selection of archival, frontline images illustrating the true spirit and humanity of these Flying Legends. John M. Dibbs spent his childhood near old RAF Command Airfields. His natural interest in aviation has led to a diverse portfolio, and this collection represents his favorite images of World War II aircraft.