Skunk Works - Leo Janos & Ben R. Rich

Skunk Works

By Leo Janos & Ben R. Rich

  • Release Date: 2013-02-26
  • Genre: Military History
Score: 4.5
4.5
From 321 Ratings

Description

This classic history of America's high-stakes quest to dominate the skies is "a gripping technothriller in which the technology is real" (New York Times Book Review).

From the development of the U-2 to the Stealth fighter, Skunk Works is the true story of America's most secret and successful aerospace operation. As recounted by Ben Rich, the operation's brilliant boss for nearly two decades, the chronicle of Lockheed's legendary Skunk Works is a drama of Cold War confrontations and Gulf War air combat, of extraordinary feats of engineering and human achievement against fantastic odds. Here are up-close portraits of the maverick band of scientists and engineers who made the Skunk Works so renowned. Filled with telling personal anecdotes and high adventure, with narratives from the CIA and from Air Force pilots who flew the many classified, risky missions, this book is a riveting portrait of the most spectacular aviation triumphs of the twentieth century.

"Thoroughly engrossing." --Los Angeles Times Book Review

Reviews

  • the best aviation book with plenty of stories!

    5
    By Henry J Listanowsky
    This book was amazing that talked about how the skunk works was ahead of its time with several different perspectives and examples.
  • Skunk Works

    5
    By Funpa 83
    Excellent day to day history of that magical place called “Skunk Works”. Kelly Johnson was always an interesting individual to people interested in Advanced aviation. Rough around the edges, gruff man who knew his stuff. And Ben Rich, Kelly’s right hand man that made things happen with civility. Enjoyed this book. Thanks.
  • Great read!

    5
    By MAJOR BUMMER314
    Absolutely one the most interesting books that I have ever read. So much history of American aviation.
  • Excellent

    5
    By DirtyDan82
    Thoroughly enjoyed it. I only wish he sides in 2015 and therefore could add another 20 years of information to this
  • Phenomenal book

    5
    By 612212
    Absolutely incredible account of Skunk Works. Words can not do it justice but Ben Rich has done exactly that. Gripping stories, could not reccomend it enough.
  • Spell bounded

    5
    By Irish detour
    Once you start reading this book be prepared to do a marathon reading. The author will put you in the most secret and protected installations on earth to see first hand the workings of the worlds most intelligent and innovative people that protect us around the clock and preserve our way of life and the freedom that we all share. You will never look at another airplane the same again.
  • Outstanding!

    5
    By meeko123
    A wonderful history of the Lockheed Skunk Works. Lots of great personal stories and anecdotes - and some truly incredible feats of engineering!
  • Good book

    5
    By Bxfzsffhscbjytevjnbfrd
    Very interesting