Osprey Aviation Elite 12 : Jagdgeschwader 27 'Afrika'

Synonymous with the Afrika Korps and the campaign in North Africa, JG 27 provided Rommel's army with fighter protection for virtually the whole 'roller coaster ride that was the war in the Western Desert from 1941-43. Formed in Germany on 1 October 1939 (with Adolf Galland as CO of I.Gruppe), JG 27 saw considerable action both during the Battles of France and Britain, downing 146 aircraft in the latter campaign alone. Sent to North Africa in April 1941, the geschwader had an immediate impact on the campaign, which had up until then been dominated by the Allies. Text by John Weal with illustrations by John Weal.

Contents

• Origins and Sitzkrieg
• Battles of France and Britain
• Marita and Barbarossa
• Africa : The Finest Hour
• The Mediterranean, Aegean and Balkans
• The Final Battles
• Appendices
• Index