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Pre-order. Available Jan 27 2026
$25.00

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Description

An illustrated study of the famous Heinkel He 219 – the Luftwaffe's only pupose-built nightfighter – and its role in the bitterly contested nocturnal defence of the Reich.

Originally conceived as a high-performance reconnaissance aircraft, the Heinkel He 219 went on to become the Luftwaffe's only purpose-built nightfighter. Despite its many sterling qualities (including ejector seats for its two crew members), the type's production was bedevilled by political manoeuvring and consequently it was only used in strength by one unit – the Luftwaffe's elite Nachtjagdgeschwader 1.

In this volume, respected historian Martin Streetly examines the development of the He 219, from its origins through to its implementation against the RAF's ever-more destructive night offensive. First-hand accounts from Nachtjagdverband crew shed light on the He 219's successes and failures in battle, while archive photos and newly commissioned artwork demonstrate the unique design and technology of this near-legendary aircraft.

Table of Contents

(Subject to confirmation)

1. A concept is born
2. Service use
3. Equipment and variants
4. Success or failure?
Appendices
Index

Product details

Published Jan 27 2026
Format Paperback
Edition 1st
Extent 96
ISBN 9781472867919
Imprint Osprey Publishing
Illustrations Colour artwork plates and maps; black & white and colour photographs and illustrations.
Dimensions 10 x 7 inches
Series Combat Aircraft
Short code COM 159
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

Martin Streetly

Martin Streetly is a full-time author who speciali…

Illustrator

Gareth Hector

Gareth Hector is a digital artist of international…

Illustrator

Janusz Swiatlon

Janusz Swiatlon lives in Krakow, Poland. A veteran…

Resources

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