Specialty Press

British Secret Projects: Hypersonics, Ramjets & Missiles

by  Chris Gibson and Tony Buttler

Reviewed By  Paul Bradley, IPMS# 35554

MSRP: $44.95 ISBN 10: 1857802586 ISBN 13: 9781858702580 Review copy courtesy of Specialty Press (www.specialtypress.com) This is the fourth of the British Secret Projects series and is a fascinating look at the interrelated fields mentioned in the title, where Britain was a world leader in research, if not development. There are many little-known projects covered here, and some familiar ones too. All are interlinked into a story of changing threats, rapidly developing technologies, and the stark economic and political realities that characterized post-war Britain. The chapters of the book outline different areas of specialization, from test vehicles, to the various types of guided weapons, and to some of the fantastic hypersonic vehicles that were projected to revolutionize travel and warfare. For example, there is a late-fifties design for a passenger ramjet that would take passengers to the edge of space and fly them from London to Sydney in 3 hours. Of course, it was not built, being beyond the then-current capabilities of the aviation industry, but it does show the promise of the time and what the people of that period thought would be possible in their near future. What is ironic is that just in the last month, a British company has proposed the same type of vehicle with the same performance specifications and the promise of three-hour trips from London to Sydney…! The book, while well written, is of necessity rather technical, and very comprehensive at that, and I found myself struggling at times. It is certainly not a good bedtime read…unless you are an insomnia sufferer! But you cannot beat the amount of detail set out and this should become a "must have" reference for these topics. While not strictly speaking a modelling book, this is a sterling reference for the "what if" modeller, and there are a multitude of photos - mostly black and white but some color - and drawings to help there. Of course, if you already have the first three of the series, this one is a must to round out the collection, but it's not really a casual purchase. If you have an interest in the specializations covered in the book though, this is a book I can highly recommend. The book is obtainable from Specialty Press in the US. Call 1(800) 895 4585 for details and to order (Add $6.95 for shipping), or visit their website at www.specialtypress.com. Our sincere thanks to Specialty Press for the review sample.

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