English Electric Lightning
By Chris Banyai-Riepl
Britain's First and Last Supersonic Interceptor
Author: Tim McLelland
Publisher: Classic Publications
ISBN: 978-1-906537-03-6
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 224
The English Electric Lightning is one of the most fascinating aircraft to come out of Britain. Its over-under twin engine design, interesting swept wing shape, and impressive performance places it high on the list of aircraft favorites for many aviation aficionados. This latest title from Classic Publications provides a thorough examination of the Lightning, from its inception to its retirement.
The book follows the Lightning story chronologically, beginning with the basic design and development. Understanding the requirements of the time helps explain how the Lightning came to be, and this introduction to this process is well done. Following this is a chapter on the lineage of the Lightning, which rounds out the basic introduction.
With the background information out of the way, the rest of the book covers the operational record of the Lightning. Rather than following a dry chronological approach, the book breaks this operational record down into Lightning Flying, Lightning Life, Lightning Mishaps, and Lightning Twilight. This is an interesting way to describe the Lightning career, and it makes for a great read. This book is also amply illustrated with some excellent photos, including some great color shots.
While there have been many books written on the Lightning, this one is one of the better ones. It is comprehensive, well written, and amply illustrated. If you are looking for a good all around reference on the English Electric Lightning, don't pass this one up. My thanks to Specialty Press for the review copy.