Although not as famous as the Avro Lancaster, the Handley Page Halifax was developed to the same specifications as the Lancaster's predecessor, the Avro Manchester, and suffered from similar engine problems. However, after the early Rolls-Royce Merlin engines were replaced by air-cooled Bristol Hercules radial engines, the bomber's performance and reliability improved significantly. The Halifax accounted for about 40 per cent of the RAF's total heavy bomber fleet throughout the war. It was produced by Handley Page in Cricklewood and Radlett, English Electric in Samlesbury, Rootes Securities in Speke, and other manufacturers throughout the United Kingdom. After the engine change in 1943, the Halifax became a valued and reliable companion to the Lancaster. It was deployed in two large bomber command groups, including Canadian squadrons, and specialised in towing gliders and maritime reconnaissance. Handley Page Halifax: Second World War Strategic Bomber is a comprehensive assessment of the aircraft, covering its design, production, testing and service with the RAF both as a bomber and in other roles.
Group
Books (first-hand)
Author
Birtles, Philip
Title
Handley Page Halifax
Details
English text, 269 bw-illustations. 352 pages.
State
new
Fonthill Media Millview, Toadsmoor GL5 2TB Road, Stroud, Vereinigtes Königreich
