This is the second in a six-volume history of air-to-air missiles (AAM). In the first volume (see my review on this website), the author Bill Norton laid down the basic terminology and operating concepts used in designing and employing these weapons. In this second volume, He begins a generational examination of the weapons by their countries of origin. The book is divided into three sections. In the first, the efforts of Germany, Great Britain, and the United States during the latter part of WWII are covered. Although no guided AAM was fielded before the war ended, their progress in propulsion and guidance systems laid the groundwork for what would happen in the post war period. Germany certainly got close with their X-4 missile, guided by wire controls that trailed the missile after launch.

The title says it all. This book is a comprehensive look at air campaign over Guadalcanal from November to December 1942. The text is organized into eleven chapters, conclusion three appendices, sources/acknowledgements and an index of names, ships, and military units.

This is volume 2 of this series, Vol. 1 of which focused on the process of how the current Royal Army has evolved since WW II. The subject of this volume is the current and possible future structure and equipment of this army.