Facing the most formidably concentrated air defences in history, pilots of the F-105D flew against North Vietnamese targets day after day during the 43 months of Operation Rolling Thunder. Despite its limited maneuverability and the lack of self-sealing fuel tanks, which made it susceptible to combat damage, the 'bombers' shot down 27 MiG fighters in 1966 – 67. This book illustrates the importance of the Thunderchief in the Rolling Thunder campaign, including the pioneering suppression of enemy air defences (SEAD) methods developed by the F-105 'Wild Weasel' crews. Discussing the aircraft's strengths and weaknesses and using first-hand narratives, Peter Davies captures the essence of flying the 'Thud' against heavy defences, and describes the development of wartime tactics and the heroic accomplishments of a selection of its aircrew.
| Published | Nov 20 2012 |
|---|---|
| Format | Ebook (PDF) |
| Edition | 1st |
| Extent | 96 |
| ISBN | 9781849082556 |
| Imprint | Osprey Publishing |
| Illustrations | 20 b/w; 80 col |
| Series | Combat Aircraft |
| Short code | COM 84 |
| Publisher | Bloomsbury Publishing |
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