This illustrated title explores the design, evolution, and deployment
of the Arado Ar 234, the world's first truly operational jet bomber and
first reconnaissance jet.
When the revolutionary twin jet-powered Arado Ar 234 first appeared in
the skies over north-west Europe in the summer of 1944, it represented
the state-of-the-art in terms of aeronautical and technical development.
The Ar 234 was a formidable aircraft--powered by Jumo 004Bs, the same
engine used by the Me 262, and with a maximum speed of 735 km/h and
range of 1600 km/h, it was very difficult for the Allies to catch. Here
was a machine that with its superior speed could operate with impunity
as both a bomber and in the reconnaissance role.
As such, the aircraft became the world's first reconnaissance jet,
undertaking secret, high-speed, high-altitude observation missions for
the German High Command over the Allied beachheads in Normandy and other
Allied strongholds. Astonishingly, in September 1944 and as late as
1945, lone Ar 234s conducted reconnaissance flights over British ports
and the Mediterranean. The aircraft was equally efficient as a jet
bomber--although the Ar 234B-2 bomber variant carried no defensive gun
armament, it was able to deliver 1000 kg of bombs at high-speed and at
either low- or high-level with considerable and devastating accuracy.
This highly detailed title from renowned aviation historian Robert
Forsyth explores the history of this incredible aircraft, from its
development in the early 1940s to its deployment in both reconnaissance
and bomber roles throughout the rest of the war. The masterful text is
supported by stunning, specially commissioned artwork.
