Osprey General (Aviation) : Supercarriers : Naval Aviation in Action

Veteran naval aviation author Tony Holmes and his cameras were given privileged access to two dozen U.S. and Royal Navy aircraft carriers, resulting in this rare and colourful pictorial look at life aboard modern carriers. Live action photography of aircraft like the Hornet, Tomcat, and Sea Harrier include images of the aircraft flying into combat against Iraq during 'Operation Southern Watch' - the only civilian photos taken of the event. In addition, there are images of crewmembers working atop the decks and servicing the aircraft. Firsthand accounts from pilots who fly from and land on carrier decks, as well as from the men and women who work aboard these floating cities and is brought to life by quotes from the various crews. This is accompanied by comprehensive appendices detailing the histories of those units featured in the text, as well as listing the serials of the aircraft flown during the author's visit. A colourful pictorial look at deck life 'up on the roof' of the modern aircraft carrier, featuring 'in action' footage of US and British naval vessels. Colour photography captures the sheer might of the world's most powerful vessels during 'blue water' operations. Each chapter focuses exclusively on one ship, detailing the flying cycles and exercises of the vessel's air wing.

Contents

• WestPac Work-ups
• HMS Invincible Work-ups
• HMS Invincible and Operation Southern Watch
• USS Carl Vinson and Operation Southern Watch
• USS Kitty Hawk and Operation Southern Watch
• HMS Illustrious Work-ups
• Appendices