The premier Soviet interceptor of the late 1950s and early 1960s was the MiG-19. This was the Soviet Union's first supersonic aircraft and was forced through the air by two honking Mikulin RD-9B turbojets, each producing nearly 7,000 lbs of thrust, a considerable amount for the day.

A radar equipped interceptor was envisioned to be built at the same time as the day fighter and so the RP-1 Izumrud radar system was developed for this aircraft. It consisted of a range antenna in the intake splitter and a bearing/azimuth antenna in the upper intake, forming a 'lip'. Original aircraft were cannon equipped, but like fighters in the west, it was determined that missiles would replace guns and later were armed with four K-13a missiles (of dubious abilities).

As with all aircraft, the plane was modified with better systems through its life and this resulted in several different variants.

The 4+ books all provide what the modeler or enthusiast needs in this area and this edition on the MiG-19P series is not different. It provides a good background history, superb photos and excellent drawings to help differentiate between one modification and the next.

This includes a goodly selection of profiles, photos of extant aircraft (some in color) and information on armament and other systems. Not only are Soviet built aircraft covered, but also those built by the Chinese, who were probably amongst the last to operate the type.

Overall, this is a superb reference and one that you really need to have on your shelves.

Review copy courtesy of 4+. In the US, contact 4+ N.A., 855  Bebout Road, Venetia PA  15367

E-mail: x4plus@fyi.net TEL/FAX: 724 941 8755. To see the full line visit www.4pluspublications.com

October 2006

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