Item:

• Naval Fighters Number 28: Ryan FR-1 Fireball and XF2R-1 Darkshark Airplane Book. 
• By Steve Ginter
• Softcover Book.
• English.
• 72 PAGES, ACCIDENT HISTORIES, 130-B&W PHOTOS, 23-PAGES DRAWINGS
  

Description:

• It was no secret to the U.S. Navy that jet and rocket aircraft were being developed in Europe, and that once fully developed, would be of superior performance than piston engine aircraft. Because of these facts, the Navy initiated investigations into alternative solutions to counter these new jets. By late 1942, the Navy decided upon a composite-powered fighter. In December, ADM John S. McCain released the proposal to nine manufacturers, including Ryan. The Ryan proposal was accepted and a contract for three prototypes and one static test article was placed on 11 February 1943 --Steve Ginter

More:

Explore the fascinating history of two remarkable naval aircraft with this comprehensive technical reference from renowned aviation historian Steve Ginter. This detailed volume examines the Ryan FR-1 Fireball, a hybrid-powered fighter that represented cutting-edge propulsion technology during World War II, and the experimental XF2R-1 Darkshark, an ambitious twin-engine design that pushed the boundaries of naval aviation. Packed with archival photographs, technical drawings, and historical documentation, this book offers serious aircraft enthusiasts and historians an authoritative look at these innovative but ultimately short-lived fighters. Essential reading for anyone studying American naval aviation development.