The Vulcan, the second of the three V bombers built to guard the UK during the Cold War, has become an aviation icon like the Spitfire, its delta shape instantly recognisable as is the howling noise it makes when the engines are opened for take-off. Vulcan Boys is the first Vulcan book recounted completely first hand by the operators themselves. It tells the story of the aircraft from its design conception through the Cold War when it played out its most important job as Britains nuclear deterrent; before unbelievably, at the end of its service life, also playing a significant role, with its bombs and missiles, in liberating the Falkland Islands for which it gained much celebrity. The individual accounts detail how hours at a time were spent on readiness, waiting to be scrambled to defend their country in the event of a third world war. In addition how their aggressive skills were honed by carrying out Lone Ranger sorties flying to the States and westward around the world, and taking part in Giant Voice and Red Flag, competitive exercises against the United States Strategic Air Command. The attacks in the Falklands using Shrike missiles are described accurately and in great detail for the first time including the landing at Rio de Janeiro alongside a vivid account of Black Buck 2. Vulcan Boys is a fascinating and completely authentic read reminding us of the Cold War, how it was fought and the considerable effort required to prevent all-out nuclear war.

Reviews

An extremely interesting read. Those who remember the splendid RAF Vulcan displays at airshows will revel in this. Vulcan Boys comes highly recommended.

* Aeroplane *

Packed with fascinating, and at times hilarious anecdotes.

* Airfix Model World *

Vulcan Boys would be an excellent addition to any aviation library. The work reads well and provides valuable insights. Highly recommended.

* 20th Century Aviation Magazine *



Book Information
ISBN 9781911621263
Author Tony Blackman
Format Paperback
Page Count 224
Imprint Grub Street Publishing
Publisher Grub Street Publishing