Mosquito

Author: Sharp & Bowyer
Publisher: Farber & Farber Great Britain
Edition: First
Cover: Hardcover w/Dust Cover
Published: 1967
British
The de Havilland DH.98 Mosquito was a British multirole combat aircraft, with a two-man crew, that served during the Second World War and the postwar era

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Synopsis: This definitive study examines the remarkable de Havilland Mosquito, arguably the most versatile combat aircraft of World War II, capable of performing roles ranging from high-speed reconnaissance to precision bombing and night fighting. The book provides comprehensive coverage of the aircraft's development, production, and operational service with both British and Allied forces throughout the war. The narrative begins with the innovative thinking that led to the Mosquito's conception, including the radical decision to build a high-speed bomber from wood rather than strategic materials like aluminum that were in short supply during wartime. The work details the engineering challenges overcome in creating an aircraft that relied on speed and altitude for protection rather than defensive armament and armor. Technical specifications are thoroughly covered, including the aircraft's construction methods, powerplant selection, and aerodynamic design that enabled exceptional performance across multiple mission types. The book documents the initial skepticism faced by the Mosquito's designers and the test program that eventually proved the aircraft's revolutionary capabilities. Production history is extensively covered, showing how de Havilland's furniture-making experience contributed to innovative wooden construction techniques that enabled rapid manufacturing while conserving strategic materials. The work includes detailed coverage of the various Mosquito variants, from the original reconnaissance models through the fighter-bomber, night fighter, and specialized variants that equipped squadrons worldwide. Operational deployment receives comprehensive treatment, beginning with the aircraft's first reconnaissance missions over Germany and continuing through its service in all major theaters of the war. The book provides extensive coverage of Pathfinder operations, where Mosquitos marked targets for heavy bomber streams, demonstrating exceptional accuracy and survival rates. Combat operations are thoroughly documented, including precision attacks on specific buildings, low-level strikes against enemy installations, and the famous raid on Gestapo headquarters in Oslo. The work includes detailed accounts of night fighter operations, showing how radar-equipped Mosquitos became devastatingly effective against German night bombers. Technical innovations pioneered on the Mosquito are highlighted, including radar installations, navigation systems, and weapons integration that influenced subsequent aircraft development. The book also covers the aircraft's service with Allied air forces, including Canadian, Australian, and other Commonwealth units that operated Mosquitos in various roles. Post-war service and development are examined, showing how Mosquito technology influenced subsequent aircraft design and military aviation doctrine. Statistical analysis demonstrates the aircraft's exceptional performance record, including mission completion rates, survival statistics, and accuracy achievements that established the Mosquito as one of the war's most effective aircraft. The work concludes with an assessment of the Mosquito's lasting impact on aviation technology and military strategy, including its influence on modern precision strike capabilities.

Mosquito, is one of the many primary source materials in the Army Air Corps Museum collection.