American secret pusher fighters of World War II; XP-54, XP-55, and XP-56.

9781580071253

American secret pusher fighters of World War II; XP-54, XP-55, and XP-56.

Balzer, Gerald H.

Specialty Press

2008

182 pages

$39.95

Hardcover

UG1242

Balzer, a retired aeronautical engineer, had unlimited access into Northrop's records to write this historical account of the XP-54, XP-55 and XP-56 "pusher fighters" which served as prototypes for the legendary World War II aircraft as the P-51 and P-47. This book uses over 350 rare photographs to document the design and development of these tactical fighters in the 1930s, explaining how these rear- propeller powerplants were instrumental in breaking contemporary speed records and yet were viewed as "problem children" during the testing process. Detailed schematics and blueprints of the original designs will be of considerable interest to aviation enthusiasts. Oversize: 10.5x10.5".

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