This is my first exposure to the Middle East at War series. This paperback book contains the history of the Iraqi Air Force from its inception up to the Arab/Israeli Wars of the 1970s. It contains over 130 photos, maps, 21 color profiles, and various other illustrations.

The book starts out by providing the history of Iraq, even before the genesis of the air force. This historical background is appreciated since the history of the region has an effect on the formation of the military, especially the air force. The start of air power in the region was shown by the British during WWI And immediately afterwards. Training of Iraqi pilots began in 1930 by the British and with that the beginning of the Iraqi Air Force took hold.

The book follows variety of British aircraft that were deployed and the history of their deployment. It is interesting to me that the same warring factions are in existence today and still fighting. The use of the Iraqi Air Force throughout the Second World War are addressed with its mix of British, American and German aircraft. Some aircraft highlighted in photographs are the Gladiators and Bf-110Es of the Air Force.

Following the war, the growth of the Air Force was slow but the really cool Sea Fury was illustrated during this timeframe. The Palestine Crisis saw limited use of the RIrAF. Also discussed is the intelligence coup of the defector in his MiG-21.

Enter the Jet Age and also the helicopter. The Westland Dragonfly, Vampires and Hunters are a part of this era in the development. There are plenty of photos of various variants of the Hunters shown. This was an instrumental aircraft in the RIrAF. The transition to the Russian sphere of influence is illustrated by the inclusion of MiGs and Tupolev bombers. The book ends after the

There is a whole section of color profiles that will add some unique colors to your models as well. Of course, my favorite is the Hawker Sear Fury FB Mk.11. The other aircraft that is interesting is the Hunter K. Mk59 with two Israeli kill markings applied, not something seen everyday.

As a modeler this book is a good history lesson of the county and how the RIrAF played an instrumental part in development. The unique paint schemes are an interesting option for modelers. The profiles are first rate and will prove inspirational. The overall book is very good. I will be adding more to my library. This volume will provide information and inspiration to the modeler.

Highly recommended

Thanks to Casemate and IPMS/USA for the review copy. You can obtain yours by contacting them at www.casematepublishers.com.