Avro Lancaster: The Definitive Record

The first edition of this definitive record of World War II's greatest heavy bomber was published in 1997. In the three or so years following publication much new information has come to light, sourced largely by enthusiastic readers of Harry Holmes' classic work. The most significant improvement to this new edition is the large addition to the Lancaster Identities chapter in which squadron codes are linked to an aircraft's serial production number. Amongst the material included are two interesting Roy Chadwick (designer) Lancaster variants - a high altitude bomber and a high-speed version. In addition to the outline story and history of the aircraft, much peripheral information is included - Chief Test Pilots' instructions, Victoria Cross awards for Lancaster operations and a letter from Barnes Wallis to Roy Chadwick are examples. Operational and production records include a listing of the units that operated Lancasters; their raids in which the airplane participated; losses due to enemy action or crashes; the order of battle - namely RAF Bomber Command aircraft, and the Lancaster's wartime record. Also of interest will be the later period of the aircraft's life when it was used for civilian purposes, as test -beds for development flying and the airplane's service record overseas. A history of each individual Lancaster, surviving aircraft - plus a great deal more in-depth information and rare photographs make this book an invaluable reference.