This authoritative volume is divided into two main sections covering fighters and bombers. Each traces the development of the aircraft from their first appearance, details their role in major conflicts, and analyses how technological improvements have affected their performance. Special feature topics include nightfighters, bombers of the Spanish Civil War, inflight refuelling, the Gulf Wars and fighter pilot equipment in the 21st century. Within each section are comprehensive A-Z directories, together covering a total of 300 aircraft, each accompanied by identification photographs. Detailed specification boxes are featured for every aircraft listed, and a glossary of key aviation terms is included at the back of the book.