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by Hugh Harkins (Author)
Curtiss Tomahawk I/II The purpose of this volume is to provide a comprehensive detailed study of the operational and combat operations of the RAF's Curtiss Tomahawk MK.I/IIA fighter aircraft which were employed operationally in the European Theatre, commencing with air defence patrols in May 1941 with No.403 RCAF Squadron. Found wanting in performance at high and medium altitudes, the Tomahawk was very quickly replaced in the fighter/interceptor role by Supermarine Spitfires from the end of May 1941, the same month that No.403 Squadron had become operational on Tomahawks. The main phase of Tomahawk operations in the European Theatre commenced on 16 October 1941 when No.26 Squadron commenced Rhubarb operations over Northern France. Several other squadrons conducted Rhubarbs over France and the Low Countries from late 1941 until January 1942, and No.268 Squadron flew Rhubarbs and fighter escort operations. A brief description of the genesis and development of the Tomahawk fighter is laid down, but the volume is not designed to be a comprehensive monograph on that subject. The volume is copiously supported by a wealth of operational documents including Squadron Composite Rhubarb Reports; Squadron Operational Records and pilot reports, some of which are reproduced verbatim. Operational documents have been tied up against German reports whenever possible.
