THE NEW ILLUSTRATED GUIDE TO MODERN AIRCRAFT MARKINGS

This book is a magnificently illustrated colour directory featuring the markings of more than 100 of the world's air forces during the early 1990's.

" Solve the problem of canopy glint and you could earn a fortune " observered a British camouflage expert wryly. No matter how effective aircraft camouflage is, the merest reflection from a cockpit canopy can compromise its concealment and give away the machine's position possibly to an enemy pilot and with likely fatal results. For centuries, colour and insignia have been associated with military forces.

( ... ) The arrival of the aeroplane early in this century* called for some kind of distinguishing mark to indicate its operator and nationality. ( ... ) Military markings for aircraft were agreed under the Hague Convention 1907, while the registration of civilian aircraft was instituted internationally in 1919 by the Paris Air Convention.

( ... ) This book considers only the combat aircraft in current service with the world's air forces, although where applicable other types are noted in the context of front - line use.

( ... ) Model - makers should find these references useful, although no attempt has been made to match them to the various specialized model paint ranges as this book is not intended as a modelling guide.

( ... ) The name of the game is to improve aircrew and aircraft survivability and, with this in mind, the subject of colours and insignia will always hold a fascination.