Comments: Softcover, 148 pages, 206 black-and-white photos
ISBN: 978-1-58007-258-8
Price: $44.95
Publisher: Specialty Press
From the publisher: Designed as a fast bomber that could outrun the fighters of the era, the twin-engine Junkers Ju 88 became one of the most versatile aircraft of World War II. Such was the success of the design that its production lines operated constantly from 1936 to 1945, with more than 16,000 being built in dozens of variants — more than any other twin-engine German aircraft of the period.
From an early stage, it was intended that it would be used as a conventional light bomber and dive-bomber. As such, it served in the invasion of Poland, the Norway campaign, the invasion of France, and the Battle of Britain. It went on to operate in North Africa, formed a key part of the air assault on the Eastern Front in Operation Barbarossa, and was vital to the Luftwaffe’s defense of Germany against the onslaught of Allied bombing. It was also adapted for use as a fighter, night fighter, torpedo bomber, reconnaissance aircraft, and even as a Mistel flying bomb, being used effectively against both land targets and shipping.
FSM says: The Ju 88 is seen in all variants from all angles, from in-flight poses to crashed wrecks. Details of the aircraft are visible in all its guises, from maritime bomber to heavy dive-bomber.