Osprey Elite 135 : German Air Forces 1914-1918

The Imperial German Army Air Service of World War I grew from just 500 men in 1914 to 80,000 in 1918, inventing in the process a new form of warfare. The exploits of the first fighter 'aces' have been widely celebrated, and have tended to overshadow the other, equally important branches of the fighting air forces, the reconnaissance and ground attack units, and the airships and strategic bombers. This concise but fact-packed guide to both the Army and Naval Air Services - their command, organization, strength, training, support services and operations - offers a more balanced picture, while giving the heroes of the Jagdstaffeln their full due. Uniforms and flying clothing are described in detail, and illustrated with rare photographs and meticulous colour plates. Text by Ian Sumner with illustrations by Graham Sumner.

Contents

• Origins of the Army Air Service
• Chronology 1914-18
• Field Units
• Strategic Bombing
• Observation Balloons
• Anti-Aircraft Defence
• Command, Training and Support
• The Naval Air Service
• Conclusion
• Select Bibliography
• The Plates