Spitfire Pocket Manual

Developed in 1938 from a Schneider trophy-winning design by the aeronautical engineer and designer R. J Mitchell, the Supermarine Spitfire went on to become the definitive Allied fighter of the Second World War, and ranks amongst the most famous aircraft of all time. Numerous manuals were produced for pilots and ground crew, dealing with all aspects of the Spitfire from engine specs to cockpit layout.

This handbook collects together the most useful of these publications, reproducing them as they would have appeared when originally issued to officers of the RAF and other Allied air forces. It is split into key sections including a general history of Supermarine and the Spitfire type & variants, pilot's notes, flying instructions, emergencies and fighting tactics. The text is supplemented with illustrative plans, diagrams and photographs and an extract from the log book of Spitfire pilot Flight Lieutenant David Crook for July - September 1940.

Such information gives a real insight into the design and operation of this classic fighter, from day-to-day maintenance to dogfighting tactics. Published in an attractive and authentic wartime format, the "Spitfire Pocket Book" perhaps represents the closest thing to actually flying this exceptional aircraft.