Typhoon Wings of 2nd TAF 1943–45

Osprey Combat Aircraft #86

by Chris Thomas

The Typhoon was the RAF's chosen heavyweight fighter-bomber to support the British and Canadian Armies during the invasion of northwest Europe in World War II (1939-1945). A specialist in the aircraft (his father flew them in WWII), author Chris Thomas has done much research on the Typhoon's operations with 2nd TAF during this crucial period of the war. His research reveals for the first time the extent, and chronology, of the struggle to equip 18 RAF and RCAF squadrons in time for D-Day, and how this feat was only narrowly achieved. These 18 squadrons (later increased to 20) were organised into highly mobile, self-supporting wings that provided devastating close support for the British and Canadian armies in their advance across northwest Europe.

Thomas' book analyzes the tactics employed by the Typhoon squadrons during these epic events, supported by the words of the pilots themselves. These battles were by no means one-sided, with the Typhoons' nemesis - the highly effective German flak units - exacting a terrible toll on 2nd TAF units. Indeed, some 400 aircraft and 150 pilots were lost during the Normandy campaign alone. Losses such as these led Air Chief Marshal Sir Harry Broadhurst, Air Officer Commanding 83 Group (which controlled more than half of 2nd TAF's Typhoon squadrons), to remark 'I suppose that flying one of these aircraft was the most dangerous task the Air Force has ever asked anybody to do'. Along with photographs and diagrams, the book includes artwork by the author as well, making for a comprehensive and authoritative guide.

96 pages, Paperback

First published September 9, 2006

About the author

Son of a Typhoon pilot, Chris Thomas is arguably Britain’s best authority on the Typhoon/Tempest family, having served as Air Britain’s specialist on the type for over two decades.

Reviews

[Robert Hepple · Rating 4 out of 5]

Published in 2010, 'Typhoon Wings of the 2nd 1943-45' is number 86 in the popular 'Osprey Combat Aircraft' aviation titles, and focusses on the operational record of this troubled yet charismatic fighter-bomber of WW2 fame. Well written in the limited space available for the subject, and quite balanced in viewpoint in my opinion.

[Steven Peterson · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice Osprey introduction to the United Kingdom's fighter-bomber in World War II. The plane had a major role to play on D-Day and thereafter. The plane took a pounding and around 150 pilots were lost as a result over time. A nice accounting of this plane. . . .