The Cutting Edge : Half Century of U.S.Fighter Aircraft R and D

This pictorial history, featuring nearly 40 rare aircraft photos, discusses the major trends in the history of jet fighter design and development in the United States since WWII.

With the declining size and experience base of the U.S. military aerospace industry, many worry about the industry's ability to support future military requirements.

The authors examine the successes of the past to help shape research and development policies for the future, and find that contractor experience combined with competition among many firms is crucial for cost-effective design and development of military aircraft.