Discover the captivating memoir 'Bolts From The Blue', an illuminating autobiography by Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Johns. This brand new paperback, measuring 156 x 234 mm and comprising 320 pages, offers an intimate look into the life of one of the Royal Air Force's most distinguished leaders. Delve into Sir Richard’s transformative experiences as he navigated his illustrious career, from training at RAF College Cranwell to commanding fast-jet operations in high-stakes environments like Aden and Oman. As a veteran fast-jet pilot on the legendary Javelin night-fighters and a skilled fighter-recce Hunter, his insights into operational aviation will enthrall both aviation enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The autobiography provides a thorough analysis of the critical roles he played during major conflicts, including the Gulf War and the Balkans War. Having served at the pinnacle of military strategy as the Chief of Air Staff, Sir Richard’s reflections on the operational capabilities of the RAF and his candid thoughts on the balancing act between financial management and military efficacy are a rare find in literature. His expert commentary on the evolution of Allied air power over the past fifty years is both thought-provoking and essential for anyone interested in military history, aerospace, and national defense.

Experience the dynamic storytelling of 'Bolts From The Blue' and gain a unique perspective of the RAF from a leader who was at the forefront of key military decisions, making this book an essential addition to your collection. Plus, enjoy the convenience of combined shipping. Proudly stocked in New Zealand, this book comes with no unexpected import charges, custom duties, or taxes, ensuring a smooth purchase experience for our customers in New Zealand.

CONDITION: Brand New
Dimensions: 156 x 234 mm
Pages: 320
Bind: paperback
Publisher: Grub Street
Publication Date: 30-04-2021

Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Johns reflects on his illustrious career in this fascinating autobiography. During his time in the RAF, Sir Richard attended RAF College Cranwell, served as an operational fast-jet pilot on Javelin night-fighters and then fighter-reece Hunters operating from Aden and Oman. He also commanded the Harrier Force in Germany. As a qualified flying instructor, he taught the Prince of Wales to fly to wings standard. During the 1990s, Sir Richard held a succession of senior national and NATO appointments and played an important role throughout conflicts such as the first Gulf War and the Balkans war. It was in 1997 that he received his appointment as chief of the Air Staff where he was responsible for the operational efficiency and morale of the Royal Air Force. During his last three years of service, the air chief marshal was fully involved in the decision-making process of the Strategic Defence Review, the commitment of RAF aircraft to operations over and within Kosovo and continuing air operations over north and south Iraq. His distinguished career gave him the privilege of a rare, if not singular, perspective of the RAF, its sister services and national defence matters, witnessing a steady decline in the combat power of the UK’s armed forces as financial management took precedence over identifying strategic priorities and maintaining the vital skill-set of service personnel. His views are forensic and forthright, balanced and thought-provoking and this autobiography should be essential reading for anyone interested in the development of Allied air power over the last fifty years.

We are happy to combine shipping. Smartfox is a NZ owned business located in Auckland. This product is in stock in NZ which means no unexpected import charges, custom duty or tax.