The X-Planes X-1 to X-45

This new, totally revised and updated version of ‘The X-Planes’ is the result of the author’s lifelong interest in what many consider to be the world’s most exotic aircraft family. Previous editions, the last of which was published in 1988 and covered up to the X-31, are regarded as icons of aviation publishing.

Having sold in large numbers, they hand market. Are now actively sought after in the second-encompassing everything from the rudimentary yet world-famous Bell X-1 supersonic research aircraft from 1947 to the very latest manifestations of the X-designation, which include JSF and various space test vehicles, the book contains a detailed and authoritative account of every single X-designated aircraft.

Many documents were specially declassified for previous editions, and this is also the case with this new version.

In fact, there is considerable new, and newly declassified information on the earlier X-Planes in this volume. Each aircraft is described fully with coverage of history, specifications, propulsion systems and disposition in a logical, readable format. Complementing the text are over 900 photographs, many of which are previously unpublished; indeed many of the images from previous editions of the book have been changed.

Included in the photo coverage are rare cockpit illustrations of every manned X-Plane to progress beyond the drawing board stage. Each X-Plane is also illustrated by an accurate and detailed multi-view drawing.

These also provide colour scheme information and scale data. Also included here are extensive appendices, an index and miscellaneous tables which, among other things, present detailed individual flight logs of the majority of manned aircraft described.