Author:
Peter Davies
Illustrator: Jim Laurier
About this book
Facing the most formidably concentrated air
defences in history, pilots of the F-105D flew against North
Vietnamese targets day after day during the 43 months of Operation
Rolling Thunder. Despite its limited maneuverability and the lack
of self-sealing fuel tanks, which made it susceptible to combat
damage, the ‘bombers’ shot down 27 MiG fighters in 1966 – 67. This
book illustrates the importance of the Thunderchief in the Rolling
Thunder campaign, including the pioneering suppression of enemy air
defences (SEAD) methods developed by the F-105 ‘Wild Weasel’ crews.
Discussing the aircraft’s strengths and weaknesses and using
first-hand narratives, Peter Davies captures the essence of flying
the ‘Thud’ against heavy defences, and describes the development of
wartime tactics and the heroic accomplishments of a selection of
its aircrew.
Contents
- Chapter 1 - 1953-65. A brief account of
the design philosophy, early service and first deployments to
Vietnam from August 1964 for attacks on Laos.
- Chapter 2 - Thai Home.Takhli and Korat
Royal Thai air bases become the home of the 355th and 388th
Tactical Fighter Wings and the launch pads for most of the attacks
during Rolling Thunder from 2 March 1965.
- Chapter 3 - 1966-67. The height of
Rolling Thunder. Vietnamese defences are much improved and F-105
losses mount.
- Chapter 4 - MiG killers. Despite its
designated bomber role the F-105 downs 27 MiG fighters, mainly with
its internal gun, including two for one pilot in a single
mission.
- Chapter 5 - Wild Weasels. ‘Iron Hand’
missions against North Vietnam’s defences begin in July 1965. The
hunter-killer F-100
- F-105 team concept is developed for
attacking SAM sites.
Paperback; February 2010; 96
pages; ISBN: 9781846034923
