FROM JET PROVOST TO STRIKEMASTER

A companion to Jet Provost Boys (code 94793) by the same author, here is definitive history of the basic and counter-insurgent aircraft at home and overseas in this revised edition. It is a complete and long overdue history of the Hunting/BAC Jet Provost and Strikemaster which for 38 years trained generations of pilots and pioneered the RAF's all-through flying training programme. Originally designed and built in 1951 as a private venture by Percival Aircraft in Luton, the Jet Provost became the primary jet-powered training aircraft for the RAF following a series of experimental courses at RAF Hullavington in 1955. By 1957 there was a contract for the production order of 100 T Mk 3s. The Jet Provost even had a display flying team between 1958 and 1976, but was eventually withdrawn from RAF service in September 1993. The development of the BAC 167 Strikemaster in the 1960s saw a light-attack aircraft designed for counter-insurgency operations, and predominantly used by overseas air forces. Adopted by 13 air forces, both types have seen an array of action, from the Dhofar War to operating as close support and counter-insurgency against well-armed, communist-backed guerrillas. Despite some 723 Jet Provost and Strikemaster airframes produced between 1954 and 1983, these aircraft have been overlooked in contrast to other jet types in the same period until now. David Watkins has accessed the archives of the Warton Collection and amassed a range of rare photography to accompany his extraordinary work of narrative and technical detail to satisfy the most avid aviation fans. 21.6 x 25.4cm, 224 large page softback packed with colour and other photos.