Dive into the thrilling world of military aviation with 'Topgun: The US Navy Fighter Weapons School Fifty Years of Excellence' by Brad Elward. This beautifully illustrated hardback book, measuring 228 x 228 mm and comprising 144 pages, offers an in-depth history of the legendary TOPGUN program, which has shaped fighter pilot training for over five decades. Discover how TOPGUN, established in late 1968 at Naval Air Station Miramar, California, transformed Navy combat tactics during the Vietnam War. Before its inception, Navy F-4 Phantom II pilots faced a challenging kill ratio; however, after the program's implementation, this soaring standard evolved into a remarkable 12.5:1. As the benchmark for Navy fighter tactics, TOPGUN’s exceptional training and innovative strategies have made it a revered institution worldwide. In this book, you’ll learn detailed insights into aircraft flown at TOPGUN, including the A-4 Skyhawk, F-5E/F Tiger II, F-14A Tomcat, and the F/A-18 Super Hornet, amongst others. An essential read for aviation enthusiasts, military history buffs, and anyone interested in the evolution of fighter tactics, this book celebrates the dedication and excellence of the US Navy's elite training program. With stock readily available in NZ, enjoy seamless shipping without unexpected import charges, custom duties, or taxes. Get your copy today and explore the unparalleled history of TOPGUN!

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 228 x 228 mm
Pages: 144
Bind: hardback
Author: Brad Elward Publisher: Schiffer Books
Publication Date: 28-07-2020

This book provides a unique, illustrated history of the US Navy Fighter Weapons School's 50-year history. Currently located at Naval Air Station Fallon, Nevada, TOPGUN was formed in late 1968 at Naval Air Station Miramar, California, to create a graduate-level course in fighter tactics for Navy pilots deploying to Vietnam. Before TOPGUN, Navy F-4 Phantom II fighter crews in Vietnam managed only a 2.5:1 kill ratio versus Soviet-built MiG-17 and MiG-21 fighters: after TOPGUN formed, the community tallied a 12.5:1 kill ratio. Since then, TOPGUN has become the standard-bearer of Navy fighter and strike fighter tactics and training and is recognized worldwide as a center of excellence. TOPGUN's tactics and pilot training are explained, as well as changes and developments throughout the years to the present day. All aircraft flown at TOPGUN since its founding are also shown, including A-4 Skyhawk, T-38A/B Talon, F-5E/F Tiger II, F-16N Viper, F-14A Tomcat, F/A-18 Hornet, F-16A/B Falcon, and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.