Author Tommy H. Thomason lays out an incredible US Navy aircraft history, with fascinating detail of powerful jets and related hardware. This educational read is nothing short of phenomenal for those interested in the relentless effort given to create and sustain the most powerful sea strike force ever built. Thomason delivers a treasure trove of information about the capabilities of America’s Navy birds. He also expands upon drones, armament, aircraft carrier design, and other productions like cockpit configurations already operational or planned for the future. Trials and tribulations experienced to sustain protection are clearly presented. The book’s hardback layout is easy to read, even though the content almost reaches an anatomical level of delivery. Jam packed with color photographs, author diagrams, and artistic concepts, the reader gets a well researched technical manual that finally helped me understand why it all costs so much. The complex procurement process considers contrasting needs of the Navy and Air Force, and weighs in on competition between the big contractors in search of funding and survival. Air superiority must be maintained, and future concepts are introduced. An example is a pilotless stealthy flying wing, similar to the B2 that is projected to be operational by 2025; the craft will launch from and return to an aircraft carrier to rearm and strike again. I give this book my highest recommendation, and suggest it for military history buffs or anyone inspired by airplane development or the US Navy. Strike From The Sea would be a fine text for the dedicated classroom.

Back to the Top