No 617 'Dambusters' Squadron

No 617 'Dambuster' Sqn is unique in the annals of RAF history, for it is the only unit to have been formed for a specific combat operation-the famous Dams Raid of May 1943. An elite unit within Bomber Command, No 617 Sqn was made up of very experienced crews posted in from other squadrons. Led by a series of highly decorated master bombers, the unit pioneered new bombing and target marking techniques, using several new and unique weapons such as Tallboy and Grandslam. At the same time its crews flew as 'guinea pigs' in trials of new equipment and aircraft. More than once No 617 Sqn suffered exceptionally heavy losses, but the unit ended the war with an impressive list of battle honours, considered by many as second to none within Bomber Command. Book jacket.

Alex Bateman is a born and bred Londoner whose interest in the wartime No 617 Sqn and Bomber Command began as a child. Since his early teens he has been researching the men and aircraft of Bomber Command, and has written numerous articles and contributed to television programs, museum displays and other books. This is his first title for Osprey. The author lives in London, England.