FAIREY SWORDFISH

FAIREY SWORDFISH 
by Matthew Willis


Published in 2022, Naval Aviation historian Matthew Willis reveals the great role played by the 'Stringbag' during the second world war and beyond.
In 1940 the plan was to take the Swordfish out of service with the Fleet Air Arm, yet it would go on to see action that year in Norway, before continuing in the Mediterranean taking part in the attack on the Italian fleet at Taranto. The battles against the U-boats & the hunt & sinking of the German Battleship, the Bismarck would also see the Swordfish continue to play a role. It was interesting to learn that some also saw limited action against the Japanese in the Indian Ocean.

Despite being somewhat slower & quieter than many of its later replacements, the Swordfish proved that it could be adapted for other roles than just a torpedo bomber. Flying from aircraft carriers, it was used for reconnaissance, spotting & attacking German convoys & U-boats.
The last would be built in 1944 proving the early wartime doubters wrong.
Eighty years later, it is a real treat to see one still flying on the airshow circuit. 

This glossy publication is packed with many great & rare photos, as well as some wonderful illustrated profiles featuring the Swordfish in many colour schemes. 
I found Matthew's account to be highly readable & fascinating throughout. He has clearly done some incredible research & also deserves praise for keeping the narrative focused on the Swordfish & the theatres of war that it was involved in.
A quality read that I'm delighted to add to my aviation shelves.

This paperback edition is published by Tempest Books and is available from their website www.mortonsbooks.co.uk.
I thank them for this review copy.


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