The Merlin- The Engine that Won the Second World War Softback

The Rolls Royce Merlin is the most recognisable aero engine in the world. It powered the Battle of Britain aircraft, the Spitfire and Hurricane, as they defended the shores of Britain against the Luftwaffe, foiling Hitler's plans to invade in summer 1940. It is the engine that powered the Lancaster and Halifax of Bomber Command as they went on their nightly missions of destruction to the German heartland. The Merlin was the power plant of the Mustang escort fighter that protected the US Air Force B-17 Flying Fortress and B-29 Super Fortress bombers on their daylight raids to the enemy. The 'wooden wonder' the Mosquito was also powered by the Merlin, its pinpoint bombing accuracy and reconnaissance work proved vital to the war effort. The Merlin has rightfully been described as the most significant aircraft piston engine in history. Retired military pilot Gordon Wilson tells the story of the development of the engine and its operational use during the war. This is the softback version of the 2018 publication.