RAF Harrier Ground Attack: Falklands

Brief Summary

RAF Harrier Ground Attack: Falklands by Jerry Pook offers a riveting account of the daring and complex air operations conducted during the Falklands War. The book delves into Pook's firsthand experiences as a pilot in No. 1(F) Squadron RAF, where he executed various missions such as air interdiction, armed reconnaissance, close-air-support, and airfield attacks. The narrative highlights the challenges of carrying out these missions using Harrier aircraft, especially given the limited navigation aids and the absence of advanced weaponry known as Smart weapons at the time. Pook emphasizes the necessity of low-level attack strategies and recounts the difficulties faced by the RAF pilots, including their contentious relationship with their naval counterparts and the perception of their expendability.

Main Themes and Topics

The book primarily explores themes of bravery, adversity, and tactical innovation in aerial warfare. It also addresses inter-service rivalries, particularly between the RAF and the Royal Navy, and the notion of survival amidst intense opposition. Pook sheds light on the operational dynamics of the Falklands War and scrutinizes the strategic decisions that impacted aerial missions. Moreover, the narrative underscores the inadequacies in the equipment and resources available to the RAF pilots, which demanded exceptional skills and courage from those involved.

Writing Style and Tone

Jerry Pook writes with a straightforward, matter-of-fact style that is both engaging and informative. His tone reflects the gravity of the situation during the Falklands War, yet he intersperses it with personal anecdotes and insights that offer readers a glimpse of the human aspects of aerial combat. The book maintains a well-balanced combination of technical detail and personal narrative, making it accessible to both military enthusiasts and general readers interested in historic warfare accounts.

Criticism

While the book is widely appreciated for its authentic portrayal of events and candidness, some readers may find Jerry Pook's critical stance towards the Royal Navy and the depiction of inter-service tensions somewhat one-sided. Additionally, those unfamiliar with military jargon or the specifics of aerial warfare might face challenges when navigating through certain technical sections, despite Pook's efforts to clarify. Nonetheless, these aspects do not significantly detract from the book's overall engagement and historical value.