Heinkel 162 dans le ciel français

[Nick Beale]

Upcoming book (due 16 November) on the He 162 in French service by Philippe Couderchon and François Iglesia


332 A4 Pages
French language
540 photos
20 colour profiles
€44,00


Summary (via Google Translate): Germany, May 6, 1945: JG1, the only Luftwaffe wing equipped with the Heinkel 162 fighter, is forced to surrender … These extraordinary machines and their valuable BMW jet engines are then carefully studied. A few months later, seven of them pass into French hands.
Paris, 1946: The Air Force General Staff dreams of jet fighters but must contend with a meager budget, an aviation industry devastated by the war, and—above all—the political agenda of the Air Ministry.
… the Heinkel 162 would introduce the Air Force to the world of jet propulsion, enabling the initial training of the first French military pilots and the instruction of hundreds of mechanics. These mechanics would go on to give the aircraft a particularly colorful end to its career, while also preserving one of the surviving examples from this saga.
… drawing on previously unpublished documents and insights gained during the restoration of He 162 WNr. 120015. This comprehensive restoration—which included bringing certain systems back to life—now sheds light on the operation and handling of this legendary aircraft, a surprising blend of advanced technology and makeshift ingenuity.
… this 332-page book features over 500 photos and profiles by Yann Le Gal … an appendix … listing the paint colors used during restoration, details of French and German markings, and numerous dimensioned plans. There is also an appendix for flight simulation enthusiasts, containing all known aircraft specifications and the original operating manual.