This volume traces the development of fighters from World War I to the present day and highlights actions in which fighters played a crucial role. Technological improvements and subsequent increased performance are explored together with the development of fighter armament and pilot equipment. Special topics examined include in-flight refuelling and carrier-borne aircraft. The book has two substantial A-Z sections, which form an illustrated guide to over 150 fighter aircraft, and feature technical specifications for every aircraft listed. The first section covers aircraft from the pioneering days of air fighting in World War I through to the early jets in action at the end of World War II. This section includes photographs of classic fighter aircraft such as the Bristol Fighter, Spitfire and P-51 Mustang. The second section focuses on post-World War II, mainly jet, aircraft from 1945 to the present day and includes the MiG-15, Hunter, Harrier and F-14 Tomcat. Each type's history and features are described with detailed specification boxes containing information including country of origin, first flight, power, armaments, size, weight and performance.