Sky Spies
Three Decades of Airborne Reconnaissance
Thronborough, Anthony M.
First Edition
Airborne reconnaissonce is now at the leading edge of airframe technology and combines the latest stabilised optical systems and highfy sensitive signals-receiving apparatus - a far cry from its humble plate-camera beginnings.
In the modern information-hungry battle-field environment, the electronic snoopers carry amazingly sophisticated systems designed for specific missions. Sensors include ultra-high-resolution cameras, electro-optic, infra-red and electromagnetic devices that can now produce 'near-real-time' reconnaissance. Data is converted and conveyed within minutes.
This detailed and informative new book examines one of the most fascinating areas of modern air power through an assessment of the surveillance aircraft that operate worldwide and the remarkable range of sensors they carry. Airframe development is charted from the period of greatest intelligence gathering during the Cold War right through to the latest 'live war' deployment in the 1991 Gulf War.
Also covered are actual reconnaissance missions, including the famous SR-71 Blackbird operations, as well as the combat aircraft developments that now accompany pilot rescue
operations and the little-covered world of helicopter reconnaissance. One of many revelations is the fact that aircraft frequently continue in service because nothing better has succeeded them: updated systems prolong their
useful lives almost indefinitely.
As well as a detailed record of the hardware in service with today's air forces, this book represents a fascinating overview of where reconnaissance has come from and how pilots, crew and behind-the-scenes analysts perform their top-secret roles.
Hardcover with dust jacket
160 Seiten / pages
many photos
very good condition
London - 1993 - Arms & Armour Press
Art.Nr. 23797
