Description

This is an account of the air conflict during the Middle East war of 1948-49; it also traces the roots of civil and military aviation in the Middle East back to the early days of the 20th century, and includes the region’s involvement in both World Wars. This book is the result of extensive collaboration between three authors of differing backgrounds and sympathies.Brian Cull represents the “British” point of view, as well as that of the many dozens of American, Canadian, South African and British volunteers who flocked to Israel’s aid. Shlono Aloni, an Israeli historian, naturally reflects his country’s attitude and position. David Nicolle, however, has been a staunch supporter of the Arab cause since the early 1960s, and lived in Jordan from 1983 to 1987. The authors have produced an account which, by combining their various specializations and differing viewpoints, is as accurate and unbiased as possible. Although certain information has been made available to the respective authors from official sources, sadly few of the Arab agencies approached responded favourably, if at all. Therefore, “Spitfires Over Israel” should be regarded as an authoritative account rather than an authenticated history. The book includes extracts from interviews/correspondence with a number of American, Canadian, South African, British and Israeli volunteer pilots; and extracts from interviews/correspondence with former Egyptian Air Force personnel and with former RAF pilots who found themselves involved in the 1948-49 conflict