This story of post-war British aviation pits scientific and technical innovation allied to the personal 'can-do' attitudes of incredibly brave test pilots against a cost-cutting treasury, entrenched bureaucracy and self-serving, inefficient companies. Inevitably the latter prevailed and Britain not only surrendered the lead in military aviation but, with a few notable exceptions, effectively ducked out of the race altogether. A fascinating 'Boys Own' tale of derring-do laid low by the icy grip of austerity Britain.
(Clive Yelf - bwl 102 Autumn 2021 ) |
