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Harrier 809

Britain’s Legendary Jump Jet and the Untold Story of the Falklands War
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( 930 ratings, 68 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Harrier 809 by Rowland White chronicles the extraordinary and gripping true story of the British Royal Navy's Sea Harrier squadron during the Falklands War. The book captures the intense and daring missions, exploring the pilots' bravery and the strategic complexities behind their efforts.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

This book may appeal to you if you enjoy gripping, meticulously researched military history and stories of heroism in high-stakes conflicts. It offers an in-depth look at the Falklands War through the experiences of the brave aviators who flew the iconic Harrier jets.

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Eight thousand miles from home, its fate hinges on just twenty Sea Harriers against the two hundred-strong might of the Argentine Air Force.

The odds against them are overwhelming.
The MoD's own estimates suggest that half the Harriers will be lost in the opening days of the conflict.

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

From Rowland White, one of the leading voices in aviation non-fiction and the bestselling author of Vulcan 607, comes Harrier 809, the gripping and untold story of the Falklands War and the legendary 809 Squadron. This book is a thrilling read for those captivated by the history and heroics of aerial combat, particularly fans of Spitfire.

April 1982. Argentina invades the Falkland Islands, sparking a tense and high-stakes conflict between Argentina and Britain. In a rapid response, Britain dispatches a formidable naval task force to reclaim the islands, setting the stage for a dramatic confrontation eight thousand miles from home. Central to Britain's hope of success are just twenty Sea Harriers, poised against the overwhelming might of the Argentine Air Force's two hundred-strong fleet. The odds are daunting, with the Ministry of Defence estimating that Britain could lose half of its Harriers in the early days of the conflict.

With the stakes incredibly high, there is no room for error. To bolster their chances, 809 Naval Air Squadron is swiftly reformed, trained, and sent south to join the fray. The narrative follows these brave pilots who, in a breathtakingly short timeframe, go from reassembly to combat readiness. Their mission: to undertake a perilous journey to the Southern Atlantic and engage in what will become one of the most intense air battles in modern history.

Harrier 809 offers readers an exceptional account of courage, innovation, and resilience. White masterfully paints a vivid picture of aerial warfare, bringing to life the drama and sacrifice experienced by this small but fiercely determined group of pilots. Never since World War II had so much been expected of so few, and their extraordinary efforts played a pivotal role in the outcome of the Falklands War.

James Holland, author of Normandy '44, praises the book, calling it "Utterly brilliant- a fantastically exciting book... This really does read like the best kind of thriller. His best book yet."

Harrier 809 is not just a historical recount but a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the relentless pursuit of victory against all odds. It is a must-read for enthusiasts of military history and for those seeking an exhilarating narrative of bravery and tactical ingenuity.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

Harrier 809 by Rowland White has been celebrated for its thrilling and insightful account of the Sea Harrier squadron's role in the Falklands War. Reviewers praise the book's fast-paced and engaging narrative, comparing it to a military adventure novel, yet underscoring its basis in true events. The book is lauded for its deep research, vivid personal accounts, and White's talent for bringing the broader context of the war to life, making it a compelling read for military aviation enthusiasts and historians alike.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780552176354

Publisher: Transworld Publishers Ltd

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 13 May 2021

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Corgi Books

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 32.0mm

Width: 127.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 368g

Pages: 512

About the Author

Rowland White is the author of five critically acclaimed works of aviation history- Vulcan 607, Phoenix Squadron, Storm Front, Into the Black, and most recently Harrier 809, as well as a compendium of aviation, The Big Book of Flight. Born and brought up in Cambridge, he studied Modern History at Liverpool University. In 2014 he launched Project Cancelled to produce apparel inspired by the best in aviation, space and other cool stuff. Find it at projectcancelled.com For more information on Rowland White and his books visit his website at rowlandwhite.com or find him on Twitter at @rowlandwhite

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