P-39 Airacobra

This new entry in the "Legends of Warfare" series features detailed photographic coverage of all variants of the Airacobra including prototypes, trainer versions, production models C through Q, and the P-400. With a midengined configuration, sturdy tricycle landing gear, and nose-mounted 37 mm cannon, the Bell P-39 was a thoughtful and innovative design. However, the plane lacked the all-out performance of some other key fighters available to Allied fliers (e.g., Spitfire, Hellcat, Mustang), particularly at altitude. Largely rejected by British and American combat squadrons, the Airacobra was much better received in the Soviet Union, where the Red Air Force successfully deployed large quantities of the type against the Luftwaffe. This new entry in the Legends of Warfare series features detailed photographic coverage of all variants of the Airacobra, including prototypes, trainer versions, production models C through Q, and the P-400. AUTHOR: David Doyle is the author of over 200 books, and his military vehicle books are noted for their thorough coverage of historic equipment and his celebrated ability to locate scarce vintage imagery. SELLING POINTS: . Includes more than 200 sharp, high-quality vintage images . Photos feature a huge diversity of paint and camouflage schemes from the US, British Commonwealth, and Soviet air arms . A great gift for modelers, gamers, and aviation enthusiasts 240 colour and b/w photos