This is an A-Z directory of all the major naval aircraft since 1945, including jet-engined fighters and strike aircraft, carrier-borne AEW aircraft, V/STOL aircraft, and helicopters. This title examines the history and evolution of naval aircraft from the immediate post-World War II period to the present, with special reference to Korea, Vietnam, the Falklands War, Libya, Top Gun, and future developments in modern naval combat. It features all the best-known modern planes and helicopters, such as the F/A-18, Fairey Gannet, Grumman A-6 Intruder, Super Etendard, Buccaneer, Westland (Sikorsky) Sea King, and many more. It includes specification boxes which provide at-a-glance information about each aircraft's name, country of origin, first flight, power, armament, size, weight and performance Naval aircraft - aircraft that are able to launch from and land on ships - have played an ever-increasing role in conflict. By the end of World War II, the aircraft carrier had become a mighty warship, and naval aircraft were designed specifically for carrier operations. This illustrated reference book charts the history of naval aviation from the end of World War II to the present day, focusing on the conflicts in which naval aviation played a significant part, such as Korea, Vietnam and the Falklands War. It also discusses 21st-century developments and improvements. An A-Z directory of 55 aircraft, each listed alphabetically by manufacturer, describes the main characteristics of each plane. A useful glossary containing definitions of key aviation terms is included. With its lively narrative and 330 photographs, this authoritative volume provides historians and enthusiasts with key information about the naval aircraft of this key period in history.