SUYATA SYSN003

This is a limited edition hardcover book on the F-15s of the USAF's 48th Fighter Wing, based at RAF Lakenheath, written by Michael Stephan. It brings the story of the F-15C and F-15Es based at the base and includes interviews with the commanders of the 48th Fighter Wing, 492nd Fighter Squadron "Madhatters", 493rd Fighter Squadron "Grim Reapers", 494th Fighter Squadron "Panthers" and the 56th & 57th Rescue Squadron. It also includes the history of the 48th FW and of RAF Lakenheath. It is a luxury book in the best quality, size 277 mm x 247 mm and counts 172 pages. It is illustrated with over 200 top quality photographs. This is a limited edition publication - no reprints - with only 1.500 copies worldwide.

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Grumman F9F-2P Panther (1) 123706 3R/63 ATU-206 Pensacola 1958 Lt Gull Grey/White with Red trim

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Grumman F9F Panther When the US Navy decided to enter the jet age it was no surprise that it turned to Grumman for its first carrier borne jet fighter bomber with a recon option. The first design produced by the company was a mighty beast, more akin to a bomber than a fighter. Unfortunately American jet engine development was concentrating mainly on the turbojet, a slow process as little was really known about manufacturing such a powerplant. Back to the drawing board and Grumman designed a small straight winged single engined machine that would be powered by a centrifugal engine. However, America was going through an 'American stuff only' period therefore an overseas powerplant was put of the question, or was it? The problem would be solved by having the Rolls Royce Nene license manufactured by Pratt & Whitney as the J42. As insurance the Allison J33 was selected to power one batch of aircraft although all were converted to the J42 later. The resulting aircraft would be designated the F9F Panther and would enter squadron service at a fairly steady pace although this quickened once the United States found itself embroiled in the Korean War. The Panther proved itself to be a tough bird although there was the odd mix 'n' match that resulted in a blue tailed fly! The remaining Panthers would finally leave USN service in the early 1960s. The only overseas operator of the type was Argentina who also used them as carrier aircraft. This book is written by Kev Darling and is superbly illustrated by Richard J. Caruana.

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