Jump Jet

byMichael Pryce

The Secret History of the Harrier

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Victory in the Falklands War made the Harrier’s name as a world-beating British icon, as capable of giving the enemy a bloody nose as it was of thrilling the crowds at airshows with displays of aerial ballet. Its failure seemed inconceivable.

But that’s not the real story of the Harrier. Though derided as a novelty, the Harrier’s designer, Ralph Hooper, knew that the naysayers were wrong. Hooper’s masterpiece was born of instinct and feel.

Yet, in the end, neither Hooper’s genius nor American support were enough to beat the odds.

This is the real story of a British flying legend, and of the man who made it.

About Michael Pryce

Michael Pryce studied the history of technology, completed a PhD and ended up working on aircraft projects, from the famous Harrier jump jet to electric ‘flying taxis.’ Mike was an independent science and technology advisor to the UK Government, work that led to ‘Team Tempest’ – the future of fighter design. In between aviation projects he helped build Amazon when it was a company selling books. Despite his plane mania he ditched a visit to Top Gun to become a parent, so he thinks he has his priorities straight.
Details
  • Imprint: Michael Joseph
  • ISBN: 9780241738078
  • Length: 400 pages
  • Price: £22.00
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