Messerschmitt Bf-108 Taifun

Published on
April 3, 2013
Review Author(s)
Book Author(s)
Jan Forsgren
ISBN
978-83-61421-67-2
Other Publication Information
Softcover, 160 pages, b&w and color photos, color profiles
MSRP
$27.00
Product / Stock #
Yellow Series #6132
Cover

The latest issue in MMP’s ever-expanding “Yellow” series covers the Messerschmitt Bf-108 “Taifun.” This is certainly one of the most comprehensive treatments of the Bf-108 I have ever come across. The Bf-108 is often relegated to a small mention in Bf-109 books when describing the development history of that aircraft. Now we have a volume dedicated specifically to the “Taifun.”

In a manner similar to other titles in this series, this book covers the design development of the Bf-108, followed by a brief history of its production and service. This is followed by several pages of technical data. and finally, many pages of detail photos. Scale plan views of all variants are included in both 1/72nd (within the text) and 1/48th (separate, loose insert) scales.

The first 70 (out of 160) pages of this book are a mixture of text and photos describing the development and Luftwaffe usage of the Bf-108. The first few chapters cover its design and development. Next up are 15 pages dedicated to Luftwaffe service. Scattered throughout each of these chapters are many photos and some beautifully-done color profiles. In many cases, photos of the profile subject are on the adjoining pages. This is followed by several more chapters covering all technical aspects of the aircraft, covering not only the Bf-108 A, B and D variants, but also the Nord 1000 series (effectively, re-engined “Taifuns”) series of French aircraft built after the Liberation of France.

The next 38 pages are filled with text, photos, and more very nice profiles all describing the Bf-108 in foreign service. This aircraft was supplied to Germany’s allies; it also served in the RAF and was even operated by the US (at the Berlin embassy prior to the War). Many captured examples were also pressed into service, primarily by the British. A lot of interesting schemes for the modeler are included in this section, most (again) backed up by photos. Following this is a small chapter on survivors – that is, Bf-108s (and Nord 1000s) that are still around today.

The last 46 pages of the book, delineated by light green colored pages, are filled with detail photos covering every aspect of the “Taifun.” There is a mixture of contemporary and modern photos (from Warbirds) in here, as well as some drawings from technical manuals. This is just what the detail-oriented modeler would want – clear, close-up photos of landing gear, engine, cockpit, etc.

MMP’s Bf-108 book is another worthwhile addition to your library, provided you are interested in the subject matter. There are tons of clear photos that will provide excellent detailing information, and the color profiles will certainly provide some modeling inspiration. Whole-heartedly recommended!

Thanks to MMP Books for the review copy, and to IPMS for allowing me to review it.

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