ALLIED AIR POWER IN WESTERN EUROPE - 1944-1945

Allied Air Power in Western Europe, 1944–1945: 9th US Air Force and 2nd TAF

After taking part in operations in North Africa, Sicily and Italy, the 9th US Air Force was sent to Great Britain at the end of 1943 to become the principal tactical air force of the United States, in preparation for the landings on the Continent. After preparing the assault through an intense bombing campaign targeting German infrastructure and communication networks in France, the 9th AF actively supported Operation Overlord from the morning of 6 June 1944, then accompanied the American troops as they advanced across European territory through to victory.

The Second Tactical Air Force (2 TAF) performed the same role, but in support of British forces. Formed within the RAF from units of Bomber Command and Fighter Command in June, it provided support for British and Canadian forces on the Continent, from the Normandy landings to the end of the conflict.

This volume of approximately 200 pages traces, through more than 350 colour profiles and several dozen period photographs, the history of Allied tactical air power in Europe in 1944–1945, with the various bombing, fighter, transport, reconnaissance and coastal surveillance units (Coastal Command) described in detail, along with their aircraft, insignia and specific codes.