This book tells the story of the first fighter aircraft from Sweden’s SAAB. The unconventional, pusher propeller, twin boomed SAAB J-21 and its jet powered development, the J-21R As one who has a fondness for unusual aircraft I am really grateful to finally have a book that covers this aircraft.

The book begins with the development of the aircraft and its related systems. Of special importance was the development of an ejection seat so that the pilot could exit and clear the pusher propeller in an emergency. This is followed by operational histories of its use with the various squadrons. The coverage of the propeller driven J-21 concludes with 25 pages of color photos of the two surviving J-21s presented in a “walk-around” style. In addition to many fine exterior shots, there is extensive photo coverage of the cockpit. Lastly, we are treated to six pages of color profiles of various operational J-21s

Aires has added a set of 1/32 Spitfire resin wheels/tires (with paint masks) to their continually growing line of detail parts. Although labeled for Mk.IX Spitfires, these wheels are appropriate replacements for those found on most marks. The set features the early four-spoke wheels with typical smooth tires. They easily will fit the new Tamiya kits as well as the PCH kits and the earlier offerings from Hasegawa and Revell. Detail is exquisite…the hubs even exhibit the recessed valve stem and the tires have a realistic flat bottom with just the hint of a bulge. All appears to be spot on, as our friends in the UK might say.

When I was given the opportunity to review this book, I thought back to a time when I was growing up in Ohio. Our family lived near Fairborn, Ohio which is home to the U.S. Air Force Museum. My father served in the Air Force and would often take our family to the museum. The one exhibit that always captured my attention was the B-36 on display inside the museum. Having read through “Cold War Peacemaker…” I have certainly have gained in knowledge about the history, design, and use of this mighty aircraft.

Don Pyeatt and Dennis R. Jenkins have done an admirable job in describing for readers the history of the B-36. There are also throughout the 240 pages, both color and black & white photographs of both the exterior and interior of this historic jet. This is something I believe would be of value to most modelers. The book also describes the changes the B-36 brought to Fort Worth, Texas.