Jagdgeschwader 400: Germany’s Elite Rocket Fighters

Aviation Elite Units #37

by Stephen Ransom, Hans-Hermann Cammann, Jim Laurier (Illustrator)

The Jagdgeschwader 400 group was formed for the sole purpose of flying one of the world's most revolutionary aircraft - the rocket-powered Me 163. Although the Me 163 scored relatively few kills, giving it a success rate much lower than the Me 262, it still had a massive psychological impact upon the Allies, and the technology and experiences gained in the Me 163 went on to influence the jet fighters of modern times.

The introduction of jet-powered aircraft demanded massive changes in training, equipment, servicing and tactics, all of which are described and examined in this essential analysis of the story of the Me 163 in frontline service with Erprobungskommando 16 and Jagdgeschwader 400.

128 pages, Paperback

First published November 9, 2006

Reviews

[Steven Peterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fascinating Osprey book on the German "rocket fighter" in World War II. The cover illustration indicates how strange the structure of this fighter was compared with others of the era. Characteristics that set it apart from other fighters? It was swept-winged, had a rocket engine, was tailless. A major figure in the development of this plane was Alexander Lippisch. Early work on this plane began in 1937-1938. Flight testing was well underway by 1943. The book describes the development of this weapon, how units were organized, its record. There are useful appendices as well.

This work is a bit longer than the usual Osprey volume. Consequently, there is more detail than normal--to the good. A fine entry in the series "Aviation Elite Units."