Sopwith Triplane Aces of World War I.

Franks, Norman. Sopwith Triplane Aces of World War I. Osprey Publishing, Midland House, West Way, Botley, Oxford OX2 0PH, UK 96 pp. Ill. $19.95.

For many people, the Fokker DR.1 triplane is an icon of WW I aviation. Certainly, this pugnacious little fighter has its place, helped, no doubt, by its association with the equally legendary Baron von Richtofen, the war's top ace. However, it is not widely recognized that the DR.1 actually developed from German interest in a lesser-known British triplane fighter that first appeared in late 1916, the Sopwith triplane, or "Tripe," as it was often called.

An elegant little aircraft, whose lines harkened back to the earlier Pup single-seater from the same manufacturer, the Tripe offered splendid maneuverability and excellent cockpit visibility. It was somewhat underpowered, however, and carried only one Vickers .30-caliber machine gun, although a few were given an additional Vickers, as well as a more powerful engine.

An acknowledged authority on WW I aviation, Norman Franks has written a wonderful account of the Tripe's single year operating with the Royal Naval Air Service, and reveals that the French also operated the Sopwith, claiming several victories over their German opponents. Following the now-established format of the series, this book includes great photography and a folio of color profiles that show off the Tripe's lines and surprisingly varied markings.

This book is one of the best in Osprey's WW I ace lineup.

By Cdr. Peter B. Mersky, USNR (Ret.)