General Books

General Books
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OPERATION LENA AND HITLER'S PLOTS TO BLOW UP BRITAIN
By By Bernard O'Connor

'The couple were found to be carrying forged identity and ration cards, a wireless transmitter and receiver set, a torch with 'Made in Bohemia' on it, a revolver, ammunition, a coding device, graph paper, about £400 and a half eaten German sausage. Given the evidence they were arrested and escorted to London for interrogation'

Many are familiar with the stories of SOE and the activities of agents working across Europe for the Allied cause during WWII but far fewer are aware of the extent of the German activities. This hardback book sets out to describe these activities with the sometimes comical outcomes and the Allied counter espionage activities.

Even before the outbreak of war, the Nazis provided the IRA with assistance for their plan to sabotage the British mainland. Prior to their planned invasion in the summer of 1940, the Nazis were also keen to recruit members of the Welsh and Scottish Nationalist Parties to engage in sabotaging British targets and, over the course of the war, infiltrated dozens of trained agents from countries including Norway, Denmark, Holland, France and Cuba.

The aim was to blow up military, industrial, transport and telecommunication targets, to lower morale among the civilian population and disrupt the war effort. What happened to the myriad plots to blow up Britain? We know that intelligence obtained from decrypted enemy messages via Bletchley Park and double agents like ZIGZAG, SUMMER and TATE alerted MI5 to some of these spies' arrivals, but what about the others? How successful were MI5's efforts to fake acts of sabotage and arrange media coverage to fool the enemy into thinking their agents were still at large and on task? This book tells the complete story of the successes and failures of the Nazi terror offensive on mainland Britain during 1938-1944.

Size 156x234mm, 320 pages, Hardback, ISBN 9781 4456 6963 2

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The Voices
Spying and Radio Warfare During the Cold War

By Gordon Adams, G3LEQ

Many are aware of the spying activity that took place following WWII until the demise of the Soviet Union in 1991. Few though are aware of the radio jamming, broadcasts of encrypted messages or any of the other electronic skulduggery that took place during this time. This book shines a light on these activities that range from the extraordinary to the most mundane but most disruptive imaginable.

Readers of The Voices will find the details of the radio warfare engaged in the Americans, Soviets and British along with a number of other countries and groups from the Middle-East to the Caribbean. You will find details of the author's first experiences of radio jamming that lead to his deep fascination as to what was going happening on the airwaves at this time. There is discussion of the activities of propaganda stations such as Radio Marti, Radio Liberty, Radio Free Europe and many others. The mysterious Numbers Stations, their coded messages and the non-attributable callsigns are explained here. The author talks about where the spies operated from and the radio traffic they generated. There is a chapter on Orford Ness and the still secret Cobra Mist project along with a reflection of the role of Cyprus and the UK's Sovereign bases. There is even detail of the role of the BBC and their World Service during these times.

Produced as a tribute to the late, Gordon Adams, G3LEQ this book is based on series of articles first published in RadCom in 2000-2001 and a fond remembrance of someone whose tireless efforts influenced the RSGB for many years. This book has edited from those articles and expanded with new pictures and small amounts of material omitted from that series.

The Voices book is a truly eye-opening read for those who are unaware of this part of our history. It is simply thoroughly recommended reading for those interested in the Cold War and the radio warfare that took place in the latter part of the 20th Century.

ISBN: 9781 9101 9353 2 Size 174x240mm, 120 pages

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A Mind at Play
By Jimmy Sonni & Rob Goodman

**** SPECIAL RSGB MEMBERS ONLY PRICING - £5.00 OFF THE USUAL RRP****

An acclaimed biography of one of the foremost intellects of the twentieth century: Claude Shannon, the unsung architect of the information age

This is the extraordinary story of the little-known man who influenced every computer built, email sent, video streamed, and webpage loaded. He wrote the seminal text of the digital revolution, which has been called 'the Magna Carta of the Information Age.' His discoveries would lead contemporaries to compare him to Albert Einstein and Isaac Newton. His work anticipated by decades the world we live in today and gave mathematicians and engineers the tools to create the digital technology we rely on.

Claude Shannon's career stretched from the era of room-sized computers powered by gears and string to the age of Apple. His life shows us the beginnings of modern technology: in the 'idea factory' of Bell Labs, in the 'scientists' war' with Nazi Germany, and in the work of Shannon's collaborators and rivals, including Alan Turing. He also constructed customized unicycles, a flame throwing trumpet, outfoxed Vegas casinos and even built juggling robots. With access to Shannon's family and friends, A Mind at Play brings this singular innovator and creative genius to life.

Size: 156x233mm, 384 pages ISBN 9781 4456 8277 8

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The Future of Violence
Robots and Germs, Hackers and Drones: Confronting the New Age of Threat

By Benjamin Wittes & Gabriella Blum

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From drone warfare in the Middle East to digital spying, today's governments have harnessed the power of cutting-edge technology to awesome effect. But what happens when ordinary people have the same tools at their fingertips? Advances in cyber technology, biotechnology and robotics mean that more people than ever before have access to potentially dangerous technologies - from drones to computer networks and biological agents - which could be used to attack states and private citizens alike. The Future of Violence, details the myriad possibilities and enormous risks present in the modern world, and argues that if our national governments can no longer adequately protect us from harm, they will lose their legitimacy. The book also explains how governments, companies and citizens must rethink their efforts to protect our lives and liberty.

The way that technology is changing the threat landscape starkly highlights the importance of public policy in a way we have never seen before. The Future of Violence starts with the exciting "what if" stuff from assassinations by remote control spiders through to drones attacking sporting venues. The book goes onto explore the historical underpinnings that have led us to where we are today. Whilst all the threats discussed may come to pass this book throws a spotlight on the topic and provides a very thought provoking read.

ISBN 9781 4456 6668 6
Size 129x199mm, 336 pages

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The Pentagon's Brain
An Uncensored History of DARPA, America's Top-Secret Military Research Agency

By Annie Jacobsen

**** SPECIAL RSGB MEMBERS ONLY PRICING - 23% OFF ****

This book provides the definitive history of DARPA, the Defense Advanced Research Project Agency. Written by the author of the New York Times bestseller Area 51 it is a compelling read about this clandestine body, the American military and their top-secret projects.

The Pentagon's Brain provides a first ever history of the Defense Department's most secret, most powerful and most controversial military science R&D agency. The author draws on inside sources, exclusive interviews, private documents and declassified memos to paint a picture of DARPA, or "the Pentagon's brain" from its Cold War inception in 1958 to the present. Whilst DARPA existence is public knowledge, what it actually does for its multibillion-dollar living has always been a closely-guarded secret. Starting with its formation during the nuclear arms race this book covers DARPA efforts during the Cold War. The book moves onto sections that cover the Vietnam War, The War on Terror and a wider grouping that covers Star Wars, the Gulf War, Biological Weapons, Cyborgs and much more besides. Finally a section covers up to the current today and the author even offer solid but chilling conjectures on what covert programs DARPA is focused on now. Radar, drones, robots, tanks, supercomputers, nuclear weapons, spacefaring, biotechnology: it's all here, in remarkable detail.

The Pentagon's Brain provides a fascinating 576 page guide to a host of top-secret US military programs and the organisation behind them DARPA. This easy to read and fascinating account is recommended reading for anyone interested in the development of military technology in the last 60 years of DARPA's existence.

Size 140x213mm, 576 pages, ISBN: 9780 3163 7166 7

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A Clear Case of Genius
Room 40's Code-breaking Pioneer

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By Admiral Sir Reginald 'Blinker' Hall

In 1933 the Admiralty banned 'Blinker' Hall from publishing his autobiography and for those that know the story of Room 40 code breaking, a fore runner to Bletchley Park this is not a surprise, but here, for the first time, A Clear Case of Genius presents his story in his own words.

From the chapters that have survived from his autobiography you can now read what the renowned spymaster had to say about the British Naval Intelligence - the pinnacle of the world's secret intelligence services. He explores the function of secret intelligence in wartime, censorship and subterfuge. He even writes about the significance of Churchill in the disastrous Dardanelles (Gallipoli) campaign. There is much about the famous Zimmermann Telegram and its perhaps pivotal role in the USA's entry to the First World War. 'Blinker' Hall was clearly at the centre of the code breaking in WWI and A Clear Case of Genius portrays the inner workings and successes of Room 40.

A Clear Case of Genius is not only the original autobiography but has extensive supporting explanatory text and images from well-known author Philip Vickers. Renowned author and expert, Nigel West also provides a foreword that sets the book in its true historical context.

Presented in a hardback format A Clear Case of Genius provides a unique insight into the thinking of one of Britain's pioneering intelligence leaders and a fascinating insight into code breaking before Bletchley Park came into existence.

Hardback - Size 164x242mm, 224 pages ISBN: 9780750982658

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The Owl is OK
The trials and tribulations of a Radio Ham and a DX-er

by Lee Marsland, G0DBE

For over 30 years Lee Marsland has been a licensed radio amateur. In that time and in 'his own words', there have been plenty of 'trials and tribulations'. Lee brings to this book a light hearted look at how his hobby has become more of a way of life that defines him today.

Lee describes from his first experiences taking the Radio Amateurs Examination run by the City & Guilds through how he gained his Morse certificate, set up his stations, erected towers and even in more recent times encouraged his grandchildren to take and pass their own amateur radio examinations. The book is full of humorous anecdotes from Lee's life including the tale of the title which concerns RSPCA officer taking Lee to task about cruelty to his owl despite it being made of plastic. This book covers a great deal and there is even a chapter titled 'purple rain' which describes the advisability of putting a 57 foot antenna over the wife's washing line. There are the more usual descriptions of Lee's DX activity and the whole book is illustrated with cartons and images.

Lee has written this book in an easy to read style that really brings over his Liverpool heritage. His tale of becoming a radio amateur and its challenges is a great read that provides many a chuckle.

Size: 150 x 229mm, 180 pages, ISBN: 9781 9101 9337 2

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British Military Intelligence
Objects from the Military Intelligence Museum

Nick van Der Bijl

One of the little known museums of the UK is the Military Intelligence Museum at Chicksands in Bedfordshire. This museum provides a huge insight into British intelligence activity since Wellington's time and this new book provides a unique look at its fascinating collection.

Through a mix of objects, medals, photographs and documents held in the Military Intelligence Museum, the book tells the story of British military intelligence across the years, moving from its earliest object of the Waterloo medal awarded to the Duke of Wellington's senior intelligence officer to items recovered from operations in Afghanistan. This fascinating collection includes a Boer War photographic stereoscope and uniforms worn by intelligence officers and other ranks during the First World War. Among the Second World War objects are a very rare highest gallantry medal awarded to a British officer by France, items that belonged to a founder of the Long Range Desert Group, an example of a pigeon coop used to deliver pigeons in Occupied Europe, a chess set used by captured Special Operations Executive operatives in Buchenwald concentration camp and copies of forged rations coupons dropped into Germany as part of Psychological Warfare Executive operations. The end of the war saw the Intelligence Corps heavily involved in arresting war criminals in Germany and Japan; among the objects are handcuffs used by a Field Security Section in Occupied Germany to arrest three high-ranking Nazi officials. During the Cold War, the Intelligence Corps role in collecting intelligence from those organisations hostile to British interests and protecting the Army from espionage, sabotage and terrorism is illustrated by several documents.

There are over 180 photographs and illustrations included and the varied nature of these objects illuminates a feature of British military operations that is rarely discussed, despite having been frequently proven to be crucial to their success. British Military Intelligence provides a great read and is thoroughly recommended to anyone interested in the UK's clandestine history.

Size: 165 x 234mm, 96 pages, ISBN: 9781 4456 6238 1

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The Spies at Gilnahirk
By George Busby, G

Whilst many know about Bletchley Park's role in WWII breaking the Enigma codes, fewer know the hugely important role of the Y service and the many radio amateurs involved in the collection of signals in WWII. This book focuses on the Y service station in Gilnahirk in Northern Ireland and sets out the story of those radio amateurs involved and why Gilnahirk was such an important centre in the Y service operations.

Many who know about the Y Service will know that in WWII many RSGB members became 'Voluntary Interceptors' who collected German signals at home and posted these logs to the mysterious PO Box 25, Barnet, London. For those in Northern Ireland Gilnahirk was the final destination of PO Box 25 which collated the amateur logs along with the logs from the larger military 'Y' listening station, before they were telexed to the codebreakers at Bletchley Park. These operations were carried out here were of the upmost secrecy and its work carried on well beyond WWII despite the closure of Bletchley Park. The unpretentious buildings largely attracted little attention despite a burst of press attention in 1951 when the Ministry of Finance tendered for the construction of a radio station but refused to comment on who it was for. Working in utter secrecy until its eventual closure in 1978, the Gilanhirk site was heavily involved in collecting signals during the Cold war.

The Spies at Gilnahirk provides a fascinating insight into the activities of the Radio Security Service and this little known site at the core of the Enigma story. Recommended reading for anyone interested in WWII codebreaking and the Enigma story.

Size: 215 x 205mm, 144 pages
ISBN: 9781 9106 5708 9

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Boffin
The Early Days of Radar and Radio Astronomy and Quantum Optics

By Prof. Robert Hanbury Brown

Professor Robert Hanbury Brown was one of the most important figures in the development of radar and of observational astronomy that the UK has ever produced. This fascinating autobiography provides a unique account of the history of radar in WWII and the development of radio astronomy in the post war years.

Boffin traces the evolution of radar from the static Home Chain used in the Battle of Britain to the inclusion of the first airborne radars used in aircraft for night-fighting. The book covers his work on the polarisation of radio waves, crucial in determining the optimum configuration of the radar aerials on all the early air-to-surface equipment operated by Coastal Command. Air-to-surface radar played a huge role in the detection of surfaced submarines and the winning of the 'Battle of the Atlantic'. In 1942, Hanbury Brown was seconded to the US Naval Research Laboratory in Washington, and working in conditions of great secrecy, he continued the development of the Eureka and Rebecca airborne radar programme.

Post War Hanbury Brown was involved in the early days in the development of Jodrell Bank. Sir Bernard Lovell commented that without Hanbury Brown it was unlikely that the Jodrell Bank Radio telescope would ever have been built. Boffin describes this period and his later work where Hanbury Brown became perhaps best known for his invention of the optical intensity interferometer. Working with other well-known figures in astronomy such as Cyril Hazard and Richard Twiss he was involved in many great advances. Using an optical interferometer he measured for the first time pulsars and quasars. Working in the Australian outback in the 1960s he designed and built a device with mirrors 23ft in diameter moving on a circular railway 600ft across.

Professor Robert Hanbury Brown was one of the brightest engineers of the time and Boffin provides his personal story and that of the development of Radar in WWII and the development of Radio Astronomy. This book is thoroughly recommended reading for anyone interested Radar, Astronomy and much besides.

Size: 174x240, 144 pages, ISBN: 9781 9101 9309 9

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Haynes Millennium Falcon Manual

RSGB SPECIAL PURCHASE - £10.00 OFF

From the same authors who brought you the Haynes Owner's Workshop Manual for the Imperial Death Star comes the workshop manual for the Millennium Falcon. Using brand-new, full-colour cutaways, together with other art and photographs, this Manual provides the most thorough technical description of the Millennium Falcon available.

This is a Haynes Manual based on the Millennium Falcon, the iconic spaceship piloted by Han Solo and Chewbacca in the iconic Star Wars films. An official Star Wars product, this 124 page Hardback technical manual offers much on what is probably the galaxy's most famous flying junkyard that is this modified YT-1300 Corellian Freighter. This Haynes Manual traces the history of this series of spaceships before focusing on the Millennium Falcon itself. The on-board systems, controls and their operation are described in detail and are supported by photographs, line art, floor plans, exploded diagrams and stunning computer-generated artwork. This fascinating Technical guide details the souped-up propulsion system, weapons, engineering systems and much more.

If you are a Star Wars buff or not, this extra special price for RSGB members the Haynes Owner's Workshop Manual for the Millennium Falcon is not only a great gift but a fantastic treat.

Hardback, Size 270 x 210mm, 124 pages ISBN: 9780 8573 3096 3

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Haynes Thunderbirds Manual - 50th Anniversary Edition
by Sam Denham

Over 30% OFF the rrp for RSGB Members

This new paperback edition of the Haynes Thunderbirds Agents' Technical Manual, published to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first airing of the original Supermarionation series, in September 1965, is an inventive, informative and entertaining guide to the world's foremost rescue organisation.

Those familiar with the traditional "Haynes Manual" will recognise the Haynes approach that features cutaway drawings, detailed diagrams, colour illustrations and photographs. This updated edition features an additional seven cutaways of vehicles used in rescue missions, along with even more diagrams, illustrations and photographs. The Haynes Thunderbirds Manual provides the ultimate insight into the secrets of the fabulous International Rescue team of the Thunderbirds TV series. Intended for International Rescue field agents, the Haynes Thunderbirds Manual includes an introduction by Jeff Tracy, a look at late 21st Century Technology, Mission files, Operational procedures for agents' missions and much more.

Whether you are familiar with Thunderbirds or not, the Haynes Thunderbirds Manual provides the ultimate insight into the secrets of the fabulous International Rescue team and is an excellent read and a treasure trove of detail and trivia. The Haynes Thunderbirds Manual - 50th Anniversary Edition is not only a thoroughly recommended read but it also makes a great gift or treat.

Size: 270 x 210mm, 152 pages, ISBN: 9780 8573 3823 5

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Fort Bridgewoods
From Victorian Fort to WWII Y Station

By Stephen G Small, G4HJE

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This is the story of a Victorian Fort that was obsolete before the last stone was laid yet in the early twentieth century became one of the most secret places in the realm. It was here that the developing science of radio became a vital weapon of espionage and war. Without the painstaking work of the expert civilian intercept operators Bletchley Park may well have failed to break the Enigma code and the vital allied intelligence advantage may have been lost.

Fort Bridgewoods - From Victorian Fort to WWII Y Station sets out this fascinating story from its building to its final closure in 1968. The early role as Fleet protection in the late 19th Century and even its WWI activities are detailed along with the significant characters involved in its history. Readers will find much about the highly secret WWII activity as a 'Y' Station which became one of the most important signal gathering stations in Britain's 'Enigma Code' breaking operation. This book is packed with information and readers will find that the radios and equipment used are covered in detail from the early Marconi equipment to the DST-100 receiver, designed specifically for wireless interception work through to the familiar HRO sets used later in the war and are even details of the Hallicrafters and RCA receivers used.

Whilst the World slipped slowly into the abyss of a Second World War the operators of Fort Bridgewoods skilfully developed the science of signals intelligence and were intercepting both the secret diplomatic and military radio traffic. Without Fort Bridgewoods the vital early 'breaks' of the Enigma code would certainly not have happened. Fort Bridgewoods - From Victorian Fort to WWII Y Station describes all of this and provides an insight into the operational work of this 'Y' station and its part in WWII. If you are interested in the radio interception technology of WWII and its pioneers this book is a revelation.

Size: 174x240, 144 pages, ISBN: 9781 9101 9309 9

Price: £8.99

The Birth of British Radar
The Memoirs of Arnold 'Skip' Wilkins

Edited by Colin Latham and Anne Stobbs

**** SPECIAL OFFER PRICE ONLY £9.99 ****

Arnold "Skip" Wilkins is one of the unsung heroes of the British effort to develop radar. The Birth of British Radar book combines the memoirs of Skip with an authoritative overview of the historical importance of his work.

At the core of The Birth of British Radar are Skip's memoirs of his involvement in the British radar (or, as it was then known, radio direction finding, RDF) programme from its very inception in 1935. Working under the direction of Robert Watson-Watt, it was he who proposed using radio waves, bounced back from an enemy aircraft, to detect its position. Initially working entirely alone, he constructed prototype equipment which he used in the famous Daventry experiment conducted in a field near Weeden, Northants, on 26 February 1935. The success of this led to the establishment of the R&D group at Bawdsey Manor with its team of talented scientists, engineers and technicians. From there he describes the engineering and political developments which occurred to change faint traces into a fully working system which played such a crucial role in defending Britain in the Second World War.

This second edition of The Birth of British Radar has been greatly expanded from the original memoirs with a large array of additional material. Each chapter of the memoirs is set in a historical context with an explanatory note. There is a host of extra material including an interview with Skip, details of how radar grew, post war commemorations and much more. The Birth of British Radar contains mono and colour photos along with details of Skip's post war experiences. The story of this publicity-shy individual who never sought public recognition for his achievement, is fascinating. This book describes the struggles and triumphs from the earliest days of radar, in perhaps one of the most important periods in British electronics development, and is highly recommended.

Size 174x240mm, 128 pages ISBN: 9781 9050 8675 7

Price: £9.99

Haynes Soyuz Owners' Workshop Manual

By Dr David Baker

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Written in the usual Haynes Manual way the hardback Haynes Soyuz Owners' Workshop Manual provides the definitive guide to the very first days of Soviet space programme through to today. With a foreword by Helen Sharman who used the Soyuz to get to the MIR space station where she operated as GB1MIR in 1991 this book provides a fascinating insight into the Russian spaceflight.

The Soyuz spacecraft was a product of the cold war and played a major role in Russia's plans for a manned landing on the Moon. Originally designed in the 1960s the Soyuz has been the mainstay of Russia's space programme for nearly 50 years. The Haynes Soyuz Owners' Workshop Manual provides details of the around 250 that have flown since the first launch in 1968. The various variants are covered along with versions such as the Gunship 7K-VI variant that were never built. Despite much of the programme being secret for years this book provides much detail alongside the compelling story of the Soyuz spacecraft and Russia's manned space stations. The Haynes Soyuz Owners' Workshop Manual also covers much other Soviet space activity including the first flights to Russia's first space station, Salyut 1, in 1971 and the Mir space station in 1986.

The Haynes Soyuz Owners' Workshop Manual is packed with all the usual features you would expect including colour cut-away drawings of the various elements. You will even find details of the rendezvous and docking procedures and the famous "handshake in space" when the US Apollo spacecraft docked with Soyuz. There is much else besides and this lavishly illustrated this book provides as it says on the cover "An insight into Russia's flagship spacecraft, from Moon missions to the International Space Station"

Hardback, Size 270 x 210mm, 172 pages, ISBN: 9780 8573 3405 3

Price: £9.99

Covert Radar and Signals Interception
The Secret Career of Eric Ackermann

By Peter Jackson and David Haysom

Few know the story of Eric Ackermann who became a leading figure in the world of signals and electronic intelligence during WWII and beyond. This book seeks to explain his activities during the war and the subsequent cold war activity.

Covert Radar and Signals Interception explores the various highs and lows of Eric's role at the vanguard of tactical intelligence operations where he saw conflict up close and personal. Winner of the George Medal for conspicuous gallantry Eric had an extraordinary wartime career that included over 4o bomber flights assessing the enemy's radar capabilities data. Searching for, monitoring and destroying of Germany's Wuerzburg, Knickebein and X Band radar systems. A host of secret missions carried out in North Africa, Gibraltar and Italy. His research was passed to the highest levels of wartime government, and was highly prized. The end of the war did not signal the end of Ackermann's role. He was to play a major part in the setting up and implementation of a string of listening stations built along the borders of Soviet Bloc countries. Further work in aeronautics and satellite construction in the United States followed. Despite the might and scale of his achievement, this leading figure is relatively unknown and this book seeks to rectify that as well as provide new insights into intelligence practices and their often far-reaching consequences.

Covert Radar and Signals Interception is a highly illuminating and thoroughly recommended reading

Hardback. Size: 160x240mm, 224 pages ISBN: 9781 7834 6268 1

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Centenary
100 Years Working for Amateur Radio

By Elaine Richards, G4LFM

As part of the Centenary celebrations the RSGB has commissioned and produced this special hardback book looking at 100 years of RSGB History. In its first century, the RSGB has represented the interests of members at national and international level and provided the framework within which the early pioneers and experimenters thrived. Centenary outlines the century of activity of the RSGB and its members.

Centenary is a peek at the history of the RSGB, which is a rich tapestry indeed. The stories gathered together here provide a glimpse of the people behind the organisation and the way they have shaped the history of the Society. It would have been impossible for all the stories, famous names and events from the first 100 years have made it into print. Nevertheless, this collection of events gives a flavour of the RSGB history and the hobby it supports. From the first days and its initial membership of four, through two World Wars to a new Millennium, the RSGB's membership have taken part in propagation experiments, pushed the boundaries of radio and electronic knowledge and shown what international amateur radio relations is all about. Whether it's proving that VHF communications is more than line-of-sight, showing the world how far radio signals can travel or putting satellites into space, radio amateurs have been involved in it all. Centenary brings together some of the best achievements and tells the story of some of the most well known names in amateur radio history.

Packed with over 200 colour and mono photographs this book provides a fascinating insight into the life and times of the RSGB. Produced as a quality hardback book, with a glossy slip cover and glossy paper throughout, to bring out the detail, this book is exceptional. If you would like a part of the RSGB centenary celebration then Centenary will grace any bookshelf.

ISBN: 9781 9050 8689 4, Hardback
Size: 300x225mm (landscape), 144 pages

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Haynes Owner Workshop Manuals Messerschmitt Bf109
By: Paul Blackah & Malcolm Lowe

Produced as a sister volume to the Haynes Workshop Manual for Supermarine Spitfire this book provides the same treatment to the Luftwaffe's Messerschmitt Bf109. This single-seat fighter was the main combat adversary of the RAF's Hurricanes and Spitfires in the Battle of Britain.

This Haynes Owners Workshop Manual covers the history of the Bf109, restoration to flight, the views of owners, pilots and engineers, and operating and servicing insights. Data boxes cover Bf109 facts and figures, plus interviews with Luftwaffe pilots and modern-day owner-pilots. Illustrated with a mix of specially commissioned colour and archive photographs, the Bf109 Manual also includes illustrations from Luftwaffe official wartime servicing manuals, and coverage of restoration projects in the UK and overseas.

Hardback, Size 270 x 210mm, 160 pages, ISBN 9781-8442-5642-6

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The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird
By Dr Douglas Brown, GM8FFH

**** ONLINE ONLY SPECIAL OFFER - ONLY £7.99 ****

John Logie Baird (1888-1946) is remembered as the inventor of television but his work in colour, 3D and holographic television is much less well known. As are his significant contributions to other information sciences and their resulting technologies. The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird sets out this work and adds a perspective not seen before to the story of this great inventor.

The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird details the story of this great man from his early years through, to those where despite ailing health and poverty he did more to advance the early development of television than any other individual. He planted the seed, which has grown into a multinational, trillion dollar video and communications media industry. Baird is often dismissed as the person who invented a crude type of television which was quickly superseded but this book lays these criticisms to rest once and for all. For over a quarter of a century Baird developed monochrome, colour and 3D television, and many of the techniques he pioneered are still used in modern day systems. This book goes into detail about how the systems worked and their later development after John Logie Baird's death. The author has even provided projects that can be made which demonstrate the Baird's technology, including colour broadcasting.

The Three Dimensions of John Logie Baird is fascinating read that provides an excellent reference work on his inventions, an insight into the world of television and shows just how much we owe this great inventor.

Size 174x240mm, 208 pages (mono & colour): ISBN: 9781 9050 8679 5

Price: £7.99

AeroFax Vickers Valiant
By Eric B Morgan

Winter Sale - HALF PRICE for RSGB Members

The Valiant was the shortest lived of the post-war V-bomber force, first flying in 1951 and with production of 104 aircraft ending in 1957, and an official withdrawal in January 1965 after investigation had shown that the main wing spars were suffering from metal fatigue. It operated in four versions, the B.1 bomber, B(PR)1 bomber/photo-reconnaissance, B(K).1 flight refuelling tanker and B.PR(K).1 covering all three roles. Additionally several aircraft were modified for a variety of special roles. The all-black B.2 low level pathfinder bomber was flown as a prototype in 1953. Valiants participated in British atomic bomb tests and made noteworthy long-distance flights, principally operating from Marham and Gaydon. In a change of task shortly before retirement, the aircraft were painted in a camouflage scheme better suited to their new low-level penetration role. In addition to the many photographs and drawings the book also includes a full history of each aircraft built.

Size 215x280mm, 144 pages ISBN: 9781-8578-0134-7

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Island Fever
By Robin Jones

50% OFF the rrp for RSGB Members

If you have ever dreamed of mounting a DXpedition to a far flung part of the world, yet it has never come to pass, this book could easily be a trigger for something closer to home. Packed with potential IOTA activations, low noise enviroments, spots with a large body of salt water on the doorstep, Island Fever is a great book.

Britain is an island nation with hundreds of smaller islands off the mainland shores, each with its own distinct character. Island Fever provides an insight into the some the islands of England and Wales. There are forty chapters in this full colour hard back book covering hundreds of individual islands. Each chapter provides an insight into the islands covered in both text and pictures. From the Marconi's activity on Flat Holm in the Bristol Channel in 1897, through historic Lindisfarne, to the WWII Red Sands forts, this book is packed with interesting stories. The glossy pages host nearly 300 top quality photographs which highlight some of the well known and many lesser known scenic parts of the British Isles that may well tempt you into that DXpedition you have promised yourself.

Hardback, Size 224x 297mm, 160 pages ISBN 9780711034716

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Inside Enigma
The Secrets of the Enigma Machine and other Historic Cipher Machines

By Prof. Tom Perera, W1TP

The breaking of the Enigma Codes in WWII was one of the defining actions of the whole war. Many books have been written about this as one of the best kept secrets of WW2. Few have looked right inside the Enigma cipher machine itself, but Inside Enigma does just that.

Inside Enigma brings to life how the Enigma machines were used, how the messages were encoded and why the Enigma code was virtually unbreakable. With more than 500 pictures this book explains exactly how these machines were constructed and worked.

Written by Enigma expert Professor Tom Perera, W1TP, Inside Enigma provides a history of these fascinating machines from their predecessors through to the cipher machines of the Cold War. The wartime Enigmas used by the German Army and Navy are covered in much depth, as is, the development of coding machines, into the post-war variants such as the Swiss NEMA, Russian Fialka and American M-209. Readers will even find a guide to finding and buying their own Enigma machine and, if that fails, instructions to build their own modern day version. Inside Enigma includes translations of original Enigma operating instructions and much more.

Inside Enigma is a comprehensive and copiously illustrated handbook covering the secrets of the Enigma Machine and the theory and practice of cipher machines in the 20th century.

Size 202x254, paperback, 208 pages, ISBN: 9781 9050 8664 1

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Images Across Space
The Electronic Imaging of Baird Television

By Dr. Douglas Brown

25% OFF the rrp for RSGB Members

Written Dr. Douglas Brown a leading authority on TV Images Across Space provides a unique and fascinating insight into the pioneers of television and in particular to Scottish inventor John Logie Baird. From the initial concept of television though to the patent for 3D TV that far surpasses that offered to modern consumers, this book gives a fascinating insight into the man and his developments.

Lavishly illustrated Images Across Space not only provides the background to the development of TV but the story of the Baird Television Ltd. up to its demise and its continuation as Cinema Television Ltd. There are many previously unpublished photographs that illustrate the level of sophistication practiced by the Baird Television Ltd. and revealing photographs of the Baird cathode-ray tube facility, laboratories in the Crystal Palace and Rotunda outbuilding, equipment installed at Alexandra Palace. The book reveals the implications of the devastating fire that spectacularly razed the Crystal Palace to the ground in 1936, taking with it the Baird facilities and an analysis of the television systems on trial for the BBC at Alexandra Palace. Readers will find this book a mine of fascinating material with even a comprehensive listing of the British patents of Baird and his associates at Baird/Cinema Television.

John Logie Baird is remembered as the inventor of the first working system of television but Images Across Space shows that there was much more to the story. Images Across Space is a rare book of technical detail and an extraordinary story - thoroughly recommended reading.

Size 176x250mm, 192 pages, ISBN 9781-8742-8921-0

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Full Circle
A Dream Denied, A Vision Fulfilled

By Theodore J. Cohen

Solly's dream is for his son Teddy to one day become a concert violinist. Eventually he comes to understand and to endure the heartbreak of knowing that the dream never will be realized. As Solly watches, life takes Teddy from gifted violin student to adult engineer and scientist, leaving no time for the career in music Solly so dearly wants his son to pursue. In the end, there emerges the essence of redemption as Teddy returns to the violin late in life and fulfills his and his father's vision. The story, which is a work of fiction based on real events, will fascinate readers from ages ten to one hundred who are interested in radio, communications, and music and in how it was to grow up in a family whose members trace their heritage to that great wave of immigrants that crashed onto America's shores in the mid- to late 1800s.

Size 204x127, paperback, 216 pages, ISBN: 9781 4490 2914 2

**** NOW 55% OFF THE USUAL RETAIL PRICE ****

Price: £4.99

Perera's Telegraph Collectors Guide
By Prof. Tom Perera, W1TP

This is the third edition of the famous Perera's Telegraph Collectors Guide. Written by the leading expert on Telegraph Keys this book provides the reader with the comprehensive guide to telegraph keys. There is a historical background of telegraph keys and details of the types of keys available from the earliest 1830 varieties through to the present day. Morse code keys, spark & wireless keys, military keys from around the world and radio keys are all covered. There is also a wide range of material covering practice sets, semi-automatic keys (or "Bugs"), electronic keyers, paddles, home-made keys and even novelty items. There are even tips on restoring telegraph keys. The book also provides the latest guide prices for the keys along with a hugely valuable cross reference and comprehensive index of the material.

This book contains:
* Historical background
* Details of key types
* Hundreds of pictures
* Current key prices
* Tips on restoration
* Comprehensive & Cross-Referenced Index

This guide is ideal companion for anyone with an interest in telegraph keys and is a fascinating reference work on telegraph and Morse keys since their very inception

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