Book Description

A detailed and comprehensive illustrated technical history of the I.A.R.80 and I.A.R.81 - Romanian World War II fighter and ground-attack aircraft. This elegant but little-known aircraft was the mainstay of the Romanian air force's fighter arm throughout WW2, involved in fighting against both the Allies and then against the Axis. It was heavily involved in aerial battles against USAAF heavy bombers attacking Romanian oil fields. The different versions of the plane are described and illustrated; all the changes in specification, equipment and performance are recorded. Drawings and data from the original technical manuals, full dimensional details and photographs of the few surviving relics preserved in aviation museums illustrate all aspects of the airframe, inside and out. Color photographs and many pages of color illustrations complete the book's comprehensive coverage. 60 color profiles. Profusely illustrated with photos, including walk-around section showing all aspects of the airframe, and diagrams from official manuals. Includes accurate 1/48th scale plans, and color profiles showing many of the colorful schemes applied to the aircraft.