William Wolf

After the Second World War, the introduction of the six-engine Consolidated-Vultee B-36 Peacemaker bomber, capable of intercontinental ranges of 5,000 miles or more, reignited the long-standing problem of fighter escort. Early-generation US jet fighters consumed enormous amounts of fuel and lacked the endurance to accompany the B-36 over extended distances. Designing a jet fighter with enough fuel capacity for such missions would result in an aircraft far too large and unwieldy to engage smaller, more agile enemy interceptors effectively. In response, during the early Cold War, the United States Air Force explored two experimental methods to extend fighter range. The first was wingtip-to-wingtip towing, in which a fighter would attach itself to the bomber’s wing for fuel support. The second involved carrying a fighter inside the bomber’s bomb bay on a trapeze mechanism, allowing it to be launched and later recovered in flight. Because the B-36 faced developmental delays, the widely available Boeing B-29 Superfortress initially served as the test platform. Boeing ETB-29A bombers were paired with Republic EF-84D Thunderjet fighters, which practiced attaching and detaching from the B-29 wingtips. Following these early trials, the concept of the bomb-bay-mounted ‘parasite’ fighter resurfaced with the diminutive, jet-powered XP-85 Goblin. Designed exclusively as a parasite aircraft, the Goblin could launch from the B-36 to intercept enemy aircraft and later dock again in midair. Despite promising test flights, docking challenges and the Goblin’s underwhelming performance relative to enemy jets led to cancellation. In 1952–53, the FICON (FIghter CONveyor) program tested carrying an RF-84F/K Thunderflash inside the B-36’s trapeze-equipped bomb bay. While escort missions were initially envisioned, the program shifted toward tactical reconnaissance and strike missions. The B-36 would deliver the faster, more agile fighter near a target for reconnaissance or nuclear strike, then recover it afterward. The success of the U-2 spy plane and midair refueling ultimately rendered parasite aircraft experiments obsolete. Packed with over 150 photographs, this book is the first to examine this extraordinary and unusual chapter in Cold War aviation history, highlighting some of the most inventive and unconventional experiments ever attempted.

The Consolidated B-24 Liberator is the ultimate look at the B-17’s iconic stablemate from its origins on the drawing board to its emergence as America’s preeminent blue-collar bomber. It chronicles the life of aviation legend Reuben Fleet, founder of Consolidated Aircraft, alongside the design evolution of one of his greatest creations. Some 19,000 Liberators were built between 1940 and 1945, primarily at Ford and Consolidated in the United States, and the aircraft remains the most mass-produced bomber in history. Drawing on the document and photo collections at the National Museum of the USAF, the Pima Air & Space Museum, the archives of Consolidated Aircraft and the Ford Motor Company, and his own immense collection of published and unpublished material, author Bill Wolf has produced the last word on the design, development, and manufacture of the ever-popular B-24.

From the First World War's Zeppelins to the Second World War's large bombers, military aircraft were vulnerable to fast, manoeuvrable interceptors. To address this, fighter escorts were used, but their limited range often left bombers exposed. A solution was the use of Composite aircraft, where larger bombers carried smaller, short-range fighters, which could be launched and retrieved as needed. Zeppelins, particularly vulnerable to interceptors, were ideal for this concept. During the First World War, Germany briefly experimented with carrying parasite aircraft, while the British conducted post-war trials using airships like His Majesty’s Airship R-23 and R-33, carrying fighters such as the Sopwith Camel and de Havilland DH.53 Humming Bird. However, successful hook-on/retrievals were only achieved with the Humming Bird. The US Navy and Army further developed this concept. In 1918, the Navy launched a Curtiss JN ‘Jenny’ from a C-1 Blimp, and in 1924, the Army successfully flew a Sperry Messenger from a TC-Class airship. The US perfected the carry/launch/retrieval method for airship defence and scouting, notably with the USS Los Angeles, which carried aircraft on a ‘trapeze’ device. The Akron and Macon airships, with internal storage for aircraft, further advanced this technique, making them some of the most remarkable aircraft of their time.

On 1 April 1945, US troops launched the largest amphibious assault of the Pacific War on the heavily-defended island of Okinawa. Supporting the invasion, the USS West Virginia participated in the bombardment of entrenched Japanese defenders. That evening, a Japanese aircraft launched a Yokosuka MXY-7 Ohka, a rocket-powered kamikaze plane. West Virginia was hit by an Ohka, becoming the first ship damaged by such a weapon. Twelve days later, the USS Mannert L. Able became the first ship sunk by an Ohka. The deployment of the Ohka was a desperate measure by Japan as the war turned against them. This manned flying bomb evolved from earlier kamikaze tactics. However, the Germans had also considered similar weapons. As early as 1944, figures close to Hitler, such as Otto Skorzeny and Hanna Reitsch, advocated for kamikaze missions. Hitler authorized the creation of the Leonidas Staffel to prepare for these attacks, leading to the development of the Messerschmitt Me 328 and Fieseler Fi 103R, also known as the Reichenberg. Though the Fi 103R began production in October 1944, the changing dynamics of the war rendered it obsolete by the time it was ready for use. The project was formally abandoned in March 1945. This book details the development of both the Ohka and Reichenberg.

With iconic images depicting it in the skies over Occupied Europe or the Far East, the B-24 Liberator is remembered for its part in the Allies’ bombing campaigns during the Second World War. But there was another part to this famous four-engine aircraft – one that is less well known. While the Douglas C-47 Dakota is deservedly celebrated as the most important twin-engine transport aircraft of the war, the early use of the four-engine Consolidated B-24 Liberator bomber as a passenger carrier is virtually unknown but was as important. Since the B-24 had more interior room than the B-17, it could be more easily be converted into a personnel carrier. These early Liberators operated America’s and Britain’s early diplomatic missions and then were to be extensively flown by the Atlantic Ferry Organization and the Transport Commands on missions that opened the world to air transport as never before. Several B-24s were converted for VIP personal and diplomatic use, which included Harriman’s Moscow and round-the-world diplomatic mission, and those used by Churchill and Eisenhower to ‘get around’. To meet the need for a cargo and personnel transport which had longer transoceanic range and improved high-altitude performance than the C-47, in early 1942 the C-87, a hastily designed B-24 derivative, was placed into production. By installing a built-up floor section that replaced the bomb bay doors, the C-87 could carry six tons of cargo loaded through a cargo door cut into the side of its fuselage or through a special hinged door in its nose. Most C-87s were operated by the US Ferrying Command and Air Transport Command; by the late summer of 1943, they were extensively operating regular routes from the United States to the world’s most remote areas. To meet this increased requirement for air transport, the ATC was forced to turn to four civil commercial airlines for help operating the system. Of the 287 purpose-built C-87s, 24 were transferred to the RAF under Lend-Lease for RAF Ferry and Transport Command. The C-87 would remain as a prime mover until the dedicated C-54 Skymaster four-engine transport came into service. The 218 C-109s were fuel tanker conversions of completed B-24 bombers which had all armament removed and extra fuel tanks added to carry fuel from India for B-29s based in China. Due to the lack of C-47s after D-Day, conventional B-24s were again converted for transporting vital supplies and bulk fuel to troops in France. Once Allied troops broke out of the Normandy beachhead, converted Liberators flew _Trucking_ supply drop operations delivering emergency fuel and supplies to Patton’s fuel-starved armies racing across France. Later these B-24s supplied the ill-fated Operation _Market Garden_ at Arnhem.

Despite being America’s most produced bomber, the Consolidated B-24 Liberator has forever flown in the shadow of its more famous and glamorous B-17 rival. The workmanlike B-24 performed multiple unheralded roles in all theatres beyond its also multiple offensive missions, making it the war’s most versatile heavy bomber. Besides its offensive bombing, anti-submarine, and mining missions, the Liberator performed many little known “inoffensive” duties. Undoubtedly the most colourful of all Liberators were the so-called assembly ships of the Groups of the 2nd Air Division. Their unique paint schemes of stripes, polka dots, and checkerboard, were designed to make them ultra-conspicuous for their task of acting as leaders on which a Group formation could assemble their combat formations more quickly for a combat mission The Consolidated F-7 was a photographic reconnaissance version of the B-24 Liberator. The F-7 saw service in most theatres of the war. The long range of the Liberator also made it well suited to mapping missions during the war and post-war. Beginning in early 1944, to aid the Allied liberation of Europe, Carpetbagger B-24s were utilized to parachute spies, called “Joes” or “Janes”, or provide aerial supply of weapons and other matériel to resistance fighters in occupied Europe. Liberators also participated in the dropping of 2.75 billion propaganda leaflets using various techniques and delivery devices. Electronic Warfare played an important part in Allied global pre-invasion plans to discover the location of enemy radars, and, if possible, destroy them. This interception and analysis of an enemy electronic radiation was the origin of present day ELINT (ELectonicINTelligence). Modified RAF B-24D Airborne Electronic Reconnaissance Liberators, codenamed Ferret, were Radio Counter Measures and Electronic Intelligence aircraft that played a major role in European air opera¬tions. During 1942 the AAF became interested in aerial refueling as a means to bombing Japan. A shorter-range B-17E was selected as the receiver aircraft while the more spacious B-24D acted as the tanker. Although these tests were considered to be successful, the availability of longer-ranging B-29s and bases ever closer to Japan diminished the urgency of wartime aerial refueling. During the war, eighty-three B-24s crashed or made forced landings in Switzerland, sixty in Sweden, and several in Russia, Spain, Portugal, and Turkey. Many of these Liberators landed undamaged or were repaired to be flown by these nations. Of particular interest are the six Liberators that were captured and flown by the Luftwaffe. Packed with a unique collection of photographs. Special Operations Consolidated B-24 Liberators reveals the most unusual and little-known facets of the Second World War’s most versatile bomber.

A photographic history of the B-25 medium bomber: late-war G through J, F-10, and PBJ models (Volume 2 of 2) This second of two volumes on the North American B-25 Mitchell covers the late-WWII G through J, F-10, and PBJ variants of the famed US medium bomber. Among the many topics discussed are the Mitchell versions used by the US Navy and Marine Corps, as well as photo-recon and experimental types. B-25s in foreign wartime service are also shown, including those used in Poland, France, England, and Soviet Russia. A detailed chapter covers all types of armament used in the Mitchell, from guns and cannon of various calibers to ammunition used, including machine gun rounds, rockets, and bombs. A special section of the book features discussions on unique B-25 missions, events, and aircrew during WWII and in the postwar era, such as the April 1942 Doolittle Raid and the B-25 collision with the Empire State Building in July 1945. B-25 appearances in classic feature films such as Thirty Seconds over Tokyo and Catch-22 are also detailed.

A photographic history of the B-25 medium bomber, with many color photos of D model The North American B-25 Mitchell is WWII’s most heralded and versatile medium bomber. This Volume 1 (of 2) gives readers a concise illustrated look at the A through D models, and follows the bomber’s genesis from the formation of the North American Company and its early steps toward the development of the NA-40, the first B-25. The continued evolution of the Mitchell from the A, B, C, and finally to the iconic D models is described in vintage photos. The production at the parent Inglewood, California, plant and then the Kansas City plant is illustrated, as are the important modification centers. The last half of the book covers the D model in many color photos of the interior and exterior, from nose to tail and from wingtip to wingtip. The Wright R-2600 radial engine and Hamilton-Standard propeller are detailed, as are their associated systems. The Mitchell’s markings and insignia changes are featured throughout.

In 1935 the USAAC wanted to build a potential intercontinental bomber, a 'Guardian of the Hemisphere,' and granted Donald Douglas a contract to build the world’s largest bomber. The groundwork for the intercontinental bomber had been laid in the previous two decades by the courageous military and civilian pilots who risked their lives to set new distance and endurance records. After World War I the future Axis and Allied nations built larger aircraft and finally during World War II Germany and Japan became intent on developing intercontinental bomber to retaliate against America. While the XB-19 never flew as an intercontinental bomber or even as a combat bomber; its contributions as a 'Flying Laboratory' significantly influenced the development of the Consolidated B-36 Peacemaker, the world’s first true intercontinental bomber.Since the XB-19 project was top secret and there was only one example built there is little information remaining for researchers. Over the years Bill Wolf has collected the largest quantity of XB-19 material and a number of photographs, including a copy of the original Army Air Force acceptance of the aircraft, first-hand narratives of its first flight, and other USAAC and Douglas Company documents. This book provides a superbly illustrated history of the XB-19 intercontinental bomber and the text is supported by previously unpublished photographs.

Every week the TV news highlights the routine use of drones and guided missiles against terrorist enemies and the recreational use of drones has become commonplace. The Nazi WWII development of guided missiles and bombs is often given credit for America's Cold War success in this realm. However, it was during that war that America, and the Air Force, in particular, also began the development of systems and weapons that laid the foundation for today's technology. 'Off Target' relates in detail the then "Secret" research, development, and combat employment of these early guided bombs, missiles, and drones from 1917 to 1948. Using formerly Secret/Confidential manuals, reports, microfilm print outs, and photos, collected over 40 years, author Wolf, gives the air war historian and enthusiast a detailed look at this unknown topic that progressed from biplane drones to sophisticated post-WWII guided missiles. Among the subjects discussed are Sperry's aerial torpedo and the Kettering "Bug" of WWI to WWII's early rudimentary GB Series Glide Bombs to the more sophisticated VB Series that evolved from radio, heat, light, or television guidance. The Aphrodite/Joseph Kennedy B-17, BQ, TDR, and target drones are discussed as are the SWOD, GLOMB, GORGON, and JB Jet bomb series.

The XB-40 and XB-41 were secret, little-known experimental modifications of the B-17F and B-24D, respectively, into heavily-armed bomber gunships sometimes referred to as “bomber escorters”. They were developed during early World War II in response to the lack of a USAAF long-range fighter aircraft able to escort and protect regular B-17 formations making the round trip from Britain deep into Germany. Using many formerly-classified documents from his large microfilm collection, William Wolf presents their previously-unpublished history. It describes in depth for the first time the politics and development and associated problems of both escorter types.Unfortunately, these “protecters” were found wanting in several ways - after the addition of guns and ammunition they became overweight and tail-heavy causing center of gravity problems and each encountered numerous delays in the development and delivery of their various armament additions and improvements, particularly the Bendix chin turret. In the end, the YB-40 participated in only 14 lackluster operational service test missions during mid-1943 before being withdrawn from service. The XB-41 Liberator never saw operational testing before also being cancelled for its poor performance.The failure of the gunship concept left a huge hole in the capabilities of the Eighth Air Force. Their failure, however, spurred the adoption of the Merlin-powered P-51 Mustang, the outstanding escort fighter that was key to Allied victory in the air war over Europe.

This meticulously researched volume is a must in the library of any aviation buff: the most comprehensive descriptive and illustrated history of military and civilian aircraft and their pilots (men and women) to increase the range and endurance of their aircraft. Beginning with the proof of concept efforts to establish the airplane as a true flying machine from 1900 to WWI, it then delves into civilian and military efforts by country, with the civilian effort mainly for personal achievement and the military for ultimately developing the intercontinental bomber and beyond. Hundreds of daring civilian flights of the 1920s and '30s are described by nation until the start of WWII. The inflight refueling mania of the 1930s and pre- and post-WWII military refueling efforts are covered. Post-WWII civilian aircraft and military fighter distance record attempts are included, as are the efforts of the Cold War and beyond. Also described are airline, seaplane, balloon, glider, hang glider, solar, and human-powered aircraft accounts.

In 1935, the intent of the Army Air Corps was to build a potential intercontinental bomber, a “Guardian of the Hemisphere”; they granted Donald Douglas a contract to build the world’s largest bomber. Over the past 75 years, there have only been a few magazine articles on the gigantic Douglas XB-19 bomber, usually showing it in photos dwarfing the aircraft around it. Since the XB-19 project was top secret and there was only one example, there is little information remaining for researchers. William Wolf presents this enigmatic bomber, a “Flying Laboratory” that was the precursor to America’s first intercontinental bomber, the Continental B-36 Peacemaker. Wolf has used original Douglas and Army Air Force documents and very rare (as few were needed for one bomber) Erection & Maintenance Manuals in this history, which also includes never-seen-before photos and color profiles. This volume is a must for the aviation historian, enthusiast, and modeler.

Of all the Allied bombers of WWII, the Douglas A-20 Havoc is probably the least well known, but was a major contributor to the air war effort, flying yeoman and unheralded missions not only for the USAAF, but also for the Royal Air Forces of Britain, South Africa, and Australia; the Vichy and Free French Air Forces; and most importantly, for the Soviet Army and Navy Air Forces, where more A-20s flew than with the USAAF. This is the sixth in the “Ultimate Look” series and presents the same meticulous depth of research as the other books, using a multitude of original sources, technical manuals, and photographs. It includes an in-depth look into the history of the Douglas Company, its founder, Donald Douglas, and its legendary designer, Ed Heinemann. This book is truly the definitive look at the Havoc.

In his fifth book in The Ultimate Look series, Dr. Wolf again brings the same degree of meticulous research to describe this unappreciated and misunderstood B-26 medium bomber. This massive, comprehensive volume is the first to give the reader a definitive description of this neglected bomber, its development, testing, and manufacture. The role of the enigmatic aviation icon Glenn L. Martin is described in the development of the American aviation industry and the Marauder. The author made extensive use of the massive document and photo collections of the Marauder Archives at Akron and Tucson, and the Air Force collection at the NMUSAF. Martin Company design and production information and flight and test evaluations, along with original Company Flight, Parts, and Maintenance Manuals, and rare archival microfilm of original material were also used. The author was given unprecedented access to the family records of B-26 designer Peyton Magruder. The text is complemented by archival photos and drawings, and new color photos of the Marauders at the NMUSAF, Fantasy of Flight, and MAPS Museum.

Following his first two massive volumes describing the day-by-day history of the 5th Fighter Command and associated tactical, strategic, and grand strategy, William Wolf completes the trilogy with this volume. The aces of the 5FC are now personalized, and their fighters described, and Japanese aces are portrayed for the first time. American and Japanese pilot training and their importance to the outcome of the war is discussed and compared. Details of the 5FC Groups and Squadrons are revealed, as are those of the Japanese Naval and Army Air Forces. The details of the aircraft of the two combatants are compared, and the vulnerability of Japanese aircraft is discussed. The flying of the six aircraft types of the 5th Fighter Command is first described from Pilot Flight Manuals, then by the aces who flew them. Japanese and American combat maneuvers and tactics are described. The crucial importance of logistics and the construction of airfields are also discussed, along with maintenance and repair. Finally, the air war is presented from the Japanese viewpoint, including the causes for the defeat of its air forces.

In Volume 2, of a planned three-volume set, the author continues his definitive history of the 5th Fighter Command combining grand world strategy and Pacific strategy with subsequent land and air campaigns. This book describes the 5FC as it continues on the offensive after the reduction of Rabaul in November 1943 and then decimates Japanese air power over western New Guinea, and on its approach to the Philippines. The final destruction of Japanese air and ground forces during the Philippines’ Campaigns until V-J Day concludes this ultimate chronicle of the Fifth Fighter Command making this history a must for every World War II aviation enthusiast. Volume three will cover: 5FC vs. Japan: Aces, Units, Aircraft, and Tactics.

Since end of WWII the major role played by the 5th Fighter Command in winning the war in the Pacific has been almost totally neglected. Wolf puts the air campaigns into strategic and tactical context, then breaks down every daily air battle into Fighter Groups and Squadrons using unit Narrative Combat Reports. Daily battles are then described by flights, elements, and individual pilots using over 9,000 newly released documents. Vol.1 describes the 5FC precursors in the Philippines, Java, and Australia and continues through Papua and New Guinea, and ends with the reduction of Rabaul in Nov.1943.