Typhoon

Typhoon by Mike Sutton takes readers on a gripping journey into the heart of modern aerial combat. This riveting narrative offers an unprecedented first-hand account of the RAF's premier Typhoon squadron's operations against ISIS, as told by the Wing Commander who led these daring missions. Unpacking the intense realities of warfare, this book details both the technological marvels and the human elements that define contemporary military engagement.

The Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4 stands as a testament to cutting-edge aviation technology, capable of soaring to heights over ten miles and reaching speeds nearing twice the speed of sound—faster than the time it takes to boil a kettle. Additionally, this sophisticated aircraft can deliver a devastating bombload with unerring precision that surpasses the capabilities of an entire squadron of World War II Lancasters.

Mike Sutton's career in the RAF reached its zenith when he assumed command of the highly esteemed 1 (Fighter) Squadron. However, his leadership was truly tested when he was tasked with leading his squadron into combat against a relentless foe determined to establish a stronghold across Syria and Iraq. Their mission was clear: to halt the advance of ISIS and thwart their plans to spread terror across the globe.

The Typhoon's deployment in this high-stakes environment required navigating some of the world's most perilous skies. Each mission meant facing the constant threat of ground fire, anti-aircraft artillery, and advanced surface-to-air missiles. The realities of war meant that the possibility of being shot down and ending up behind enemy lines was an ever-present danger.

Typhoon delivers the first in-depth account of the RAF's protracted war against ISIS—a conflict where any error could result in catastrophic outcomes. The stakes were undeniably high, as the potential for loss of innocent lives weighed heavily on every operation. Tracing the storied history of 1 Squadron, which fought valiantly in the trenches of the First World War, through the Battle of Britain, and during the Falklands War, this powerfully narrated story brings to light their latest chapter in combat.

Through an intensely demanding deployment against a merciless enemy, Mike Sutton's compelling recounting of modern warfare is both gripping and dramatic. Typhoon not only showcases the superior technology of the RAF's elite aircraft but also honours the courage and resilience of the pilots who flew them. This book is a must-read for anyone intrigued by military history, aviation technology, or the human spirit in battle.