Military aircraft markings 2005

The new abc Military Aircraft Markings has been fully revised to include the huge number of changes that have affected military aircraft serials over the past year.

The past decade has witnessed a dramatic shift in the focus of Britain's military air power, gone is the threat posed from the Warsaw Pact, to be replaced by peace keeping and peace implementation roles in a number of theatres throughout the world.

The past 12 months have been a period of change for the RAF and, more generally, for Britain's military aviation.

Whilst significant commitments remain, most notably in the South Atlantic and in the on-going war against terrorism, the budgetary constraints under which the Ministry of Defence operates has resulted in a further reexamination of the nation's requirements.

As a result, there will be a considerable reduction in the size of the RAF over the next few years, with squadrons disbanding and at least one base - Coltishall in Norfolk - closing as the Jaguar force is taken out of service.

Elsewhere, the last Sea Harriers are scheduled to be withdrawn during 2005. Not all is negative however, as the long-awaited Eurofighter - christened the Typhoon for RAF service - gradually starts to enter service.

Reflecting the continuing debate about Britain's defence capabilities is Military Aircraft Markings with its comprehensive listing of all of Britain's military aircraft and helicopters.

Apart from the RAF, this handy guide also includes information on the aircraft of the Royal Navy, the Army Air Corps, the USAF in Britain and Europe, the Irish Air Corps, Western European air forces and much else.

With such rapid change affecting not just Britain's forces, but those of other nations as well, this new edition is essential for the enthusiast wishing to keep up to date.