To quote Chris Clifford writing on 'Key Model World', "..if you've ever read anything on KG 40 chances are it was penned by Chris Goss ". From 1997's 'Bloody Biscay' to both Classic 'Sea Eagles' volume to Osprey's Fw 200 and Do 217 units, all of this KG 40 material has now been packed into a hefty new 312-page hardback from Chandos.
This is another beautiful unit history from them - as my friend Simon put it, '
a very high quality product indeed and a standout unit history. I found the appendices worth their weight in gold alone. Author Chris Goss has detailed every single combat loss, major damage or accident in the war in intricate detail -over 1000 aircraft alone. Anyway, well done Chris and Rich - worth every little penny and then some.."
A little 'late' perhaps to be 'reviewing' this book - there are literally only a few dozen copies left of the initial 800 print run. Nearly all gone within one month of going on sale. And Chandos doesn't reprint - or at least not until a sufficient number of requests have been received to make it worth their while. (info courtesy of Chandos owner R. Carrick)
Aside from a top-notch product, you have to remember that the subject of the book, KG 40, was a particularly unique Geschwader in the history of the Luftwaffe; a maritime multi-role strike wing that flew reconnaissance, conventional and guided bombing missions along with maritime strike/fighter sorties across its FIVE Gruppen. KG 40..
- was the only formation to operate five different types of aircraft operationally.
- was the only unit flying the Fw 200 Condor in anger - a pre-war civil airliner that should have been retired in 1942.
- was a rare unit to put the He 177 into service, a type that took three years to reach the front-line to then be withdrawn after less than one year on operations.
- deployed the Do 217 in II./KG 40 on the 'Baedeker Blitz' over the UK during 1942
- operated the Ju 88 C (and 'R') variants in the day fighter role.
Author Chris Goss writes in his postscript;
" ..there is no longer anyone alive who flew in KG 40 but it is my hope that this volume serves as a lasting tribute to the many who fought and died in this Geschwader.." Job done.
Also on this blog;
Overall (including props, radial engine fans) blue-grey low-viz Do 217 E in II./KG 40 during 1942