A History of the Mediterranean Air War 1940-1945 : Volume 1

Dive into 'A History of the Mediterranean Air War 1940-1945: Volume 1', a meticulous account of the aerial battles that shaped a pivotal era of warfare. Authored by Christopher Shores and published by Grub Street, this essential volume unveils a wealth of previously unpublished information, making it a must-have for history enthusiasts and military aviation collectors alike. This book explores not only the operations of fighter aircraft but also extends to bombers, reconnaissance missions, and maritime units, offering readers a comprehensive view of the Mediterranean theater from 1940 to 1945.

Comprising 416 pages filled with detailed narratives and analyses, this volume sets the stage for an expansive series that promises to chronicle all facets of the air war in Southern Europe. From the intense battles over Sicily and Italy to vital operations in the Aegean and the Balkans, Shores meticulously documents each phase. Readers will appreciate the daily operational accounts while separate chapters provide deeper insights into night bombing raids, base area air defense, and naval cooperation.

The inclusion of maps and photographs enriches the narrative, allowing readers to visualize the strategic complexities of this compelling theater. 'A History of the Mediterranean Air War 1940-1945: Volume 1' not only connects the dots for aviation history buffs but also serves as a cornerstone for understanding the interwoven stories of war in both the Mediterranean and other global theatres. Ideal for military historians and aviation aficionados, this comprehensive account is both an engaging read and a valuable reference point for further exploration of WWII aerial operations.

Author: Christopher Shores Publisher: Grub Street


Pages: 416


It is now more than 40 years since Fighters over the Desert was published, and nearly as long since this was followed by Fighters over Tunisia . Both volumes have long been out of print and collectors’ items, but, despite much prompting, Christopher Shores has resolutely refused to permit their reprinting until he amassed so much more information. He has also long nursed a desire to expand the coverage to encompass the operations of the other types of aircraft involved in this interesting and important theatre of war - the bombers, reconnaissance aircraft and maritime units. Further, it is his intention to extend the period covered to include the later operations over Sicily, Italy, the Aegean area, the Balkans and Southern Europe. \n This then represents the first volume of a seminal series dealing with all these aspects and areas, which will also tie in with the earlier Grub Street volumes which he and his collaborators have produced. Thus a full coverage of all aspects of aerial operations throughout the whole of the Mediterranean area will be the ultimate result. Further, these volumes will link appropriately and directly with his other works of this nature, dealing both with the Far East and the war in Europe. Readers will then be able to follow the wartime careers of units and personnel involved from volume to volume throughout the war. \n Operations directly over the main battlefronts will be dealt with as previously, on a daily basis. However, to allow a clearer view to be obtained of operations elsewhere in the theatre, or of a different nature, separate chapters will deal specifically with the night bombers, the air defence of the base areas, and the naval co-operation activities. \n Wide use of maps will be made throughout this and subsequent volumes together with a considerable number of photographs integrated into the text. Long awaited by many, if any work can be said to be comprehensive and definitive, this is it.