Bulgaria is arguably the historically most underrated Axis ally that
actually fought the Allies during World War 2. Despite remaining outside
the main battleground of the war, the Eastern Front, this Balkan country
did take its fair share of warfare, particularly due to the combat
activity of its fighter air force against the armada of US bombers and
their fighter escorts, in 1943 and 1944. Then, following an about-face
in early September 1944, the Bulgarians combatted their former ally, the
Germans. This notable air activity is largely unknown outside Bulgaria,
and is not very much popularized even within the country, despite fully
deserving the utmost attention.
This two-volume book describes and illustrates all the fighter and
fighter trainer aircraft used by the Bulgarian armed forces before,
during, and shortly after WW 2. These aircraft were procured from the
following countries: Germany, Poland and Czechoslovakia. Emphasis is
placed on the most potent German fighter types, the Messerschmitt Bf
109E and G, as well as the top-notch fighter type of France, the
Dewoitine D.520. However, rare, exotic models, including the sole
locally built prototype that fits the definition, the DAR-5, are also
included.
The camouflage and markings, as well as the military coding system of
these large variety of aircraft types are described in great details.
Fully illustrated with many rare photos, most of them seen for the first
time in print. Mutinously detailed colour profiles of many
representative aircraft type are included as well.
Summing up, this lavishly illustrated, full-colour two-volume book,
spanning across over 600 pages, is the reference work of the fighter and
fighter trainer aircraft, as well as the pilots who flew for the Royal
Bulgarian Air Force prior to, during, and shortly after World War 2.
