Germany's nightfighter force was virtually non-existent at the start of the war, mainly due to Reichmashall Herman Goring's boast that bombs would never fall on Germany. By mid 1940 the folly of this statement had been revealed and the first Luftwaffe nightfighter wing was formed. Their effectiveness was greatly enhanced by the creation of a radar chain stretching from Denmark to Switzerland. By 1942 the Luftwaffe was equiped with some 389 fighters fitted with advanced airbourne radar which helped to destroy hundreds of RAF bombers. This detailed text explains the conflict and tactics flown and includes interviews with some of the leading aces. Scale drawings of the all the major nightfighters used are presented, including the Bf110, Ju88, Do 17/217 and Hs 219.

Illustrated by: John Weal