With the introduction of female pilots to the RAF in 1994, the Tornado
was among the first aircraft to be flown by both men and women. This is
acknowledged in the book with a chapter written by one female pilot.
Another aspect that makes this book different from the rest of the
series is that it covers an aircraft which is still in active service,
currently as a key player in Middle East operations. With focus on the
GR1/GR4 versions of the Tornado (and not the F3 interceptor), readers
will enjoy fascinating insights on what it is like to operate this
multi-role bomber/reconnaissance aircraft against the backdrop of
modern-day scenarios. The book starts in the 1970s with stories from
operators of the Tornado as a Cold War nuclear deterrent and with tales
of later 'hot' wars as seen by operational leaders in both Gulf
conflicts and in Kosovo. There are also stories of Scud hunting in Iraq
and of Red Flag exercises in the US, as well as of a stunning
competition victory over the USAF's Strategic Air Command in their own
backyard. The short-lived anti-shipping role is not neglected. With the
transformation of the Tornado to GR4 standard, the book continues with
chapters covering active service in support of Britain's increasingly
complex international commitments and the employment of new weaponry and
sensors. The various operational training patterns over the years are
discussed by instructors, while there are tales from those who flew
Tornados on exchange, loan and contract service with foreign air forces.
Finally the book highlights the essential part played by ground crew in
the Tornado story, with chapters by front-line engineers and an army
ground liaison officer. All in all, through the eyes of the men and
women who have operated this extraordinary aircraft, the volume presents
an entertaining and illuminating series of tales and anecdotes. These
light and informative stories come from those who were proud to serve on
and loved to operate the impressively versatile Tornado.
