Battle for the Skies: The History of the Royal Air Force--Strike Hard, Strike Sure

Often lost amidst the justifiable pride in the American Air Force are the accomplishments of the Royal Air Force of Great Britain. In Strike Hard, Strike Sure, one of seven tapes in the Battle for the Skies series, viewers watch the R.A.F. bomber develop from a rickety-looking biplane into the modern Tornado of today. WWII aircraft such as the Blenheim, the Lancaster and the Mosquito are covered in detail, combining historical wartime footage with contemporary flights of restored bombers to give viewers a cockpit view of the these giants of the air. The advent of the Cold War saw the R.A.F. developing long-range bombers in the V-Force (Valiant, Vulcan and Victor), many of which survived into the Gulf War era. Aviation buffs will thoroughly enjoy the interviews with retired R.A.F. officers, the scenes of production of these aircraft, and the final test of many of them as they engage the enemy in battle. The R.A.F. recently celebrated its 80th anniversary; there could hardly be a more fitting tribute to the men and women of Britain's air force than this handsome and well-prepared series of videos. Other titles in the series include: The Sky's the Limit, A Vicious Sting and Under Distant Skies (series price: $99.95 [$149.95 w/PPR]). Recommended. Aud: P. (J. Carlson)