Allied Air Operations 1939–1940

A detailed account of Allied Air Forces during WWII offers intriguing details about strategic operations—the perfect book for aviation enthusiasts.

While much has been written about the Battle of Britain, the air war over France and the Low Countries from September 1939 to June 1940 has been largely neglected—until now. As expert aviation author Jerry Murland reveals in this fascinating book, there may have been little ground action until May 1940 but the war in the air was very real.

The Allied air forces on the mainland of Europe were poorly equipped compared to their adversaries. In spite of this, when the German invasion began, the Low Countries of Holland and Belgium fought back tenaciously. With the development of the Spitfire, Blenheim and Wellington still in progress, The Royal Air Force had only four squadrons of Hurricanes among a force of outdated bi-planes, which made them only slightly more prepared than the French. Yet the gallantry and tenacity of Allied Air Forces of Britain, France and the Low Countries was inspiring, as Murland reveals in this riveting account.

“Murland gets into detail seldom found in other accounts.” -Journal of Military History

“ . . .a useful and comprehensive reference for those interested in the war in the air in the early months of World War II in Europe.” -The NYMAS Review

“This book is best suited for those curious about the Battle of France.” -Air & Space Power History