Ad Hoc Publications

Aeroguide Special - TSR.2

by  Anthony Thornborough

Reviewed By  Paul Bradley, IPMS# 35554

MSRP: GBP 12.95 56 pages (8 in colour), over 120 illustrations, ISBN 978 0 946958 474. With the recent Airfix kit and Xtradecal marking sets, the TSR.2 has been prominent on the modeling scene for some time, and interest does not seem to be abating with rumors of a 1/48 kit from Trumpeter flying around! So this new Aeroguide Special from Ad Hoc is certainly of interest and relevance. There have been a number of books in the past about the TSR.2 and one might wonder if there is room for another. Well, having examined a number of them over the years, I can safely say that this is really the first TSR.2 book to approach the subject from the modeler's point of view, and that being so, it is a most welcome addition indeed. This book differs from the new standard Aeroguide, in that the text is much more comprehensive. Indeed, there are chapters devoted to the program history, the airframe, engines, avionics and weapons. Each is illustrated with both color and black and white photos, as well as diagrams from technical manuals. I found the text to be informative while not overly long or technical. Inevitably, the author does include partisan comment on the politics surrounding the program and how you take this will depend on your view of the aircraft! The TSR.2 is not something that Brits of a certain age can be dispassionate about. Suffice to say that those who disagree with the politicians will be "tut-tutting" over their tea! A selection of close-up photos is included, though these are in black and white rather than color as is the norm with the new Aeroguides. A set of 1/72 plans is included; unfortunately, these are bound across the middle rather than fold out. No color profiles are included - this tome does not dwell that much on what might have been! However, what is included will certainly enable the modeler to enhance his Airfix kit (a sadly imperfect offering). For the modeler, this is an ideal primer on the subject and one that, aside from the unfortunately bound plans, I can recommend highly. This book is available from Ad Hoc Publications; please visit their website (www.adhocpublications.com) for pricing details. They are also available through leading booksellers. Our sincere thanks to Roger Chesneau of Ad Hoc for the review sample.

Information, images, and all other items placed electronically on this site are the intellectual property of IPMS/USA ®.