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The inside story of today’s Dambusters, 617 Squadron RAF, at war in Afghanistan.
In May 1943, 617 Squadron RAF executed one of the most daring operations in military history as bombers mounted a raid against hydro-electric dams in Germany. 617 Squadron became a Second World War legend. Nearly 70 years later, in April 2011, a new generation of elite flyers, now flying supersonic Tornado GR4 bombers, was deployed to Afghanistan – their mission: to provide close air support to troops on the ground.
Tim Bouquet was given unprecedented access to 617’s pre-deployment training and blistering tour in Afghanistan. From dramatic air strikes to the life-and-death search for IEDs and low-flying shows of force designed to drive insurgents from civilian cover, he tracked every mission – and the skill, resilience, banter and exceptional airmanship that saw 617 through.
In May 1943, 617 Squadron RAF executed one of the most daring operations in military history as bombers mounted a raid against hydro-electric dams in Germany. 617 Squadron became a Second World War legend. Nearly 70 years later, in April 2011, a new generation of elite flyers, now flying supersonic Tornado GR4 bombers, was deployed to Afghanistan – their mission: to provide close air support to troops on the ground.
Tim Bouquet was given unprecedented access to 617’s pre-deployment training and blistering tour in Afghanistan. From dramatic air strikes to the life-and-death search for IEDs and low-flying shows of force designed to drive insurgents from civilian cover, he tracked every mission – and the skill, resilience, banter and exceptional airmanship that saw 617 through.
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Reviews
The 617 Squadron of 2011 might not have bombed targets on a daily basis, nor found itself under constant enemy attack, but this book is no less fascinating for that. As a detailed picture of how a modern fast-leg squadron operates and functions, it is utterly compelling.
The legendary Dambuster squadron is still in safe hands. 617 offers a rare and privileged insight into the modern RAF.
Bouquet's clear, informative writing places us alongside these brave professionals and will open up reader's eyes to life in the theatre of war.
A gripping and revealing account of how the modern generation of Dambusters uphold the traditions of courage and sacrifice of their World War II brethren. One cannot fail to be impressed by the bravery, dedication and professionalism displayed by this new breed of aviator.