New from Air World and author William Wolf is Skyhookers: An Illustrated History of Hook-on Aircraft and Their Dirigible Motherships.

From the First World War’s Zeppelins to the Second World War’s large bombers, military aircraft were vulnerable to fast, manoeuvrable interceptors. To address this, fighter escorts were used, but their limited range often left bombers exposed. A solution was the use of Composite aircraft, where larger bombers carried smaller, short-range fighters, which could be launched and retrieved as needed.

Zeppelins, particularly vulnerable to interceptors, were ideal for this concept. During the First World War, Germany briefly experimented with carrying parasite aircraft, while the British conducted post-war trials using airships like His Majesty’s Airship R-23 and R-33, carrying fighters such as the Sopwith Camel and de Havilland DH.53 Humming Bird. However, successful hook-on/retrievals were only achieved with the Humming Bird.

The US Navy and Army further developed this concept. In 1918, the Navy launched a Curtiss JN ‘Jenny’ from a C-1 Blimp, and in 1924, the Army successfully flew a Sperry Messenger from a TC-Class airship. The US perfected the carry/launch/retrieval method for airship defence and scouting, notably with the USS Los Angeles, which carried aircraft on a ‘trapeze’ device. The Akron and Macon airships, with internal storage for aircraft, further advanced this technique, making them some of the most remarkable aircraft of their time.

The 200 page book is currently available in hardcover and Kindle editions.

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New this month from Eduard is a ProfiPACK edition P-40E Warhawk model kit in 1/48 scale.

The P-40E was one of the best U.S. fighters available at the WW2’s outset, featuring six .50-caliber machine guns in the wings and bomb racks for up to 1,000-2,000 pounds of ordnance. It offered a top speed near 350-360 mph, a service ceiling of about 29,000 feet, and rugged durability that allowed it to excel in low-to-medium altitude combat despite limitations against higher-performing foes. The P-40E served extensively across theaters including the Pacific, North Africa, and Russia for air superiority, escort, and ground-attack roles before being phased out for more advanced designs.

The new kit (82241) includes Eduard plastic parts, pre-painted PE parts, painting masks and Eduard decals with marking options for six aircraft representing Warhawks in USAAF, RAF and RNZAF service.

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A 1978 Cessna 172N with a reported 3730 hours has been spotted for sale. The listing states (in part):

Powering the aircraft is the dependable Lycoming O-320 engine, renowned for its long-lasting performance and ease of maintenance. Pilots will appreciate the aircraft’s straightforward avionics, including instruments that provide essential flight data with clarity and precision. The interior is designed for comfort, accommodating up to four passengers, with clear visibility from large windows that enhance the flying experience. McFarlane and BAS seat belts contribute to enhanced safety, while the aircraft’s overall ergonomics ensure an enjoyable journey.

The aircraft is located in Throckmorton, TX. Offers are currently being accepted. Click here to check out the eBay listing, which includes a number of additional photos.

New from Osprey and author Martin Streetly is Heinkel He 219 Units, an illustrated study of the famous Heinkel He 219 – the Luftwaffe’s only purpose-built nightfighter – and its role in the bitterly contested nocturnal defense of the Reich.

Originally conceived as a high-performance reconnaissance aircraft, the Heinkel He 219 went on to become the Luftwaffe’s only purpose-built nightfighter. Despite its many sterling qualities (including ejector seats for its two crew members), the type’s production was bedevilled by political manoeuvring and consequently it was only used in strength by one unit – the Luftwaffe’s elite Nachtjagdgeschwader 1.

In this volume, respected historian Martin Streetly examines the development of the He 219, from its origins through to its implementation against the RAF’s ever-more destructive night offensive. First-hand accounts from Nachtjagdverband crew shed light on the He 219’s successes and failures in battle, while archive photos and newly commissioned artwork demonstrate the unique design and technology of this near-legendary aircraft.

The 96 page publication is now available in paperback and Kindle editions.

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MiniArt has released a new series of renderings for their upcoming new tool Fw 190D-9 (Mimetall) Advanced Kit in 1/48 scale.

The offering (48048) is described as highly detailed with accurate Mimetall production configuration, PE parts, detailed cockpit and surface features and decals with multiple marking options.

As previously reported, MiniArt announced this advanced kit around the same time as their basic kit (48040). As of this writing no release date has been announced for either kit. Click below to check out more of the new renderings of the advanced version.

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A 2002 Kitfox Model 5 has been spotted for sale. The listing states (in part):

This 2002 Kitfox Model 5 Experimental Airplane has been maintained by the owner and has a current annual. First flight 10/06/2002. Engine has 373 hours. All log books are current. Continental engine 4 cylinder125hp with dual fuel tanks 13.5 gallons x 2 for the long haul. Has a new Catto wood core carbon fiber propeller with a nickel leading edge. New tires. Foldable wings for compact storage or trailering. These planes are hard to find for sale especially in this nice condition.

The aircraft is located in Mansura, Louisiana and is currently available for bidding. Click here to check out the eBay listing, which includes a number of additional photos.

Coming later this year from Osprey Publishing and author Jeremy Walsh is Mosquito Units in the Far East, an illustrated history of the remarkable DH 98 Mosquito, from its unusual design and construction through to its pivotal actions the Far East.

The RAF and RAAF’s de Havilland DH 98 Mosquito played an important role in forcing the Japanese retreat from Burma and the Far East. Combining innovative composite-wood construction, world-class performance and beautifully balanced handling, the ‘Mossie’ excelled in intruder/strike and long-range photo-reconnaissance roles, despite its vulnerability to the hot, humid climate and challenging weather conditions. Moreover, Mosquito crews undertook their missions with great skill and determination, whether skimming the jungle to attack supply lines, supporting ground attack of artillery emplacements, denying airspace to the Japanese or identifying the enemy’s command centres.

In this new study, Mosquito specialist Jeremy Walsh reviews the aircraft’s background, its operational history across both RAF and RAAF squadrons in the Far East and its contribution to Allied success in this often ‘forgotten’ theatre. Accounts from aircrew bring first-hand perspectives to the story, while archive photographs and 21 newly commissioned aircraft profiles detail the aerodynamic efficiency and revolutionary nature of the Mosquito’s design.

The 96 page publication is currently available for pre-order in paperback and Kindle editions. Release is scheduled for September 22.

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IBG Models is preparing to release a new tool IBG Models 1/48 PZL M18 Dromader model kit in 1/48 scale.

The PZL M-18 Dromader is a Polish single-engine, low-wing utility aircraft designed in the late 1960s and early 1970s by PZL-Mielec, with its first flight taking place in 1976. Originally developed as an agricultural aircraft for crop spraying and fertilizing, it was engineered to be exceptionally robust, capable of operating from short and unprepared airstrips. Powered by a strong radial piston engine and equipped with a large central hopper, the Dromader can carry significant loads of liquid or chemicals, which made it one of the largest and most capable aircraft in its class.

Thanks to its strength, simplicity, and versatility, the Dromader was widely adapted for roles beyond agriculture, most notably aerial firefighting, but also forest protection, pest control, and utility transport. Hundreds of aircraft were produced and exported to dozens of countries across Europe, the Americas, Africa, and Australia. The type earned a reputation for reliability in demanding conditions, including high temperatures and mountainous terrain, and remains in limited service today, particularly in firefighting roles, often upgraded with modern avionics and mission-specific equipment.

The offering will reportedly be released in two boxings representing Greek Firefighter (48004) and Polish Crop Duster (48002) versions. Additional details are scarce, but a series of Crop Duster renderings have been released, additional examples of which can be seen after the break (along with box art).

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A 1973 Cessna 150L has been spotted for sale. The listing states (in part):

This 1973 Cessna 150L is a beautifully designed and meticulously maintained lightweight two-seat aircraft, renowned for its reliability and efficiency. Known for its exceptional handling and low operating costs, it is well suited for flight training or personal use. The airframe total time is 5,896.8 hours, with the Continental O-200 engine also showing 5,896.8 hours total time and 2,130.5 hours since major overhaul. Featuring a useful load ideal for short- to medium-range flights, this aircraft benefits from sturdy all-metal construction for long-term durability. The cockpit offers clear, straightforward instrumentation with excellent visibility, enhancing pilot confidence and safety. Improved fuel capacity over earlier models extends range, and its reputation for ease of operation and maintenance makes this Cessna 150L an excellent opportunity for both beginner and experienced aviators seeking a proven, classic aircraft.

The aircraft is located in Tacoma, WA with offers currently being accepted. Click here to check out the eBay listing, which includes additional photos.

Set for release later this year from Osprey Publishing is F4F Wildcat vs A6M2-N “Rufe”: Solomon Islands 1942–43, author Michael John Claringbould’s illustrated study of engagements between the F4F Wildcat and 6M2-N ‘Rufe’ during the Solomon Islands campaign.

A number of unique confrontations took place between floatplanes and land-based fighters during the fierce aerial battles fought above the Solomon Islands throughout 1942–43. Whilst the most famous Battle of Guadalcanal ‘slugfests’ saw US Marine Corps/US Navy F4F Wildcats engage the Zero-sens of the Imperial Japanese Naval Air Force, the pugnacious Wildcats also came up against the A6M2-N ‘Rufe’ floatplane – termed the ‘Zero on floats’ by American pilots. Such encounters have gone under-explored and misrepresented in Western histories, with the elusive capabilities of the ‘Rufe’ and its role combatting raids against Guadalcanal receiving only scant attention.

In this revelatory study, Pacific War expert Michael John Claringbould uncovers an aspect of the Pacific air war that has, until now, remained largely unknown. Operational documents, combat reports and first-hand accounts from both Wildcat and ‘Rufe’ pilots are combined to help align adversaries, in some cases one-on-one, for the first time in print, while archive photographs, formation diagrams and newly commissioned artwork brings the action to life.

The 80 page publication is currently available for pre-order in paperback and Kindle editions with release set for August 25.

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