This book covers the Me-262 Bomber and recon units of World War II. The Me-262 is well known as the world’s first operational combat jet. Equally well known is the story of how Hitler insisted that the 262 be used as a bomber rather than to defend against Allied bomber raids.

The book is broken up into six chapters. Chapter one covers how the decision to make the 262 a bomber came about. Chapter two covers the changeover of KG 51 from Me-410s to the 262 and initial combat outings with the 262. Combat operations are covered in chapter three. Of special interest were the intensive operations against the bridge over the Waal which went on for three weeks. Chapter four covers recon operations. The first 262 recon group was formed in June of 1944. With the jet able to roam virtually at will over Allied lines, the 262 recon units played a very important role in the preparations for the counter offensive in the Ardennes! Chapter five covers the activities of both the bomber and recon units as the Nazi front lines continued its march back towards home, with both types continuing to bomb and photograph Allied troop movements all the way back to the Rhine. The final chapter covers operations during the final months of the war in Europe. As engines, spare parts, fuel, and even pilots began to run low, the men and planes of KG 51 continued to fight until no planes were left serviceable by early May, 1945. For all of its advancements and the dedication of its pilots and ground crew, the Me-262 in all of its configurations was too little, too late!

This is an interesting book of what may be, to many, the lesser known operations of the Me-262. The authors have put together a very good book that tells the story of these units. Coupled with the over 80 photos of the men and machines, as well as 24 gorgeous color profiles, it makes for a nice addition to your library. I can recommend this book to the modeler, historian and WWII aviation buff alike!

My thanks to Osprey Publishing and IPMS/USA for the opportunity to review this book.