Swordfish

Affectionately nicknamed the 'Stringbag', the Fairey Swordfish was an aircraft that earned its stripes. It was the only torpedo-bomber Britain had in significant numbers at the start of World War Two, and it would prove so much more. Designed with one role in mind, the Swordfish evolved into one of the most versatile aircraft. Despite initial criticism, its slow speed became one of its greatest assets, especially in anti-submarine work. Between April 1940 and December 1944, Swordfish claimed 21 U-boats sunk. The attack on the Italian harbour at Taranto that crippled the Italian Navy displayed what the aircraft was capable of and that it was clearly not to be underestimated. The bravery of the aircrews was on show during the legendary attacks on the Bismarck and, again, on the ill-fated Channel Dash. With more than 100 images, this new book edition tells the story of an aircraft initially doubted when it entered service in 1936, respected by World War Two and considered a legend by the time peace was declared.