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Windsock Datafile 139

AMC DH9A 'Ninak'

by John Alcorn

 

S u m m a r y

Publisher and Title: Windsock Datafile #139 - AMC DH9A “Ninak”
Media: Soft cover, A4 format magazine
Price: £10.85 available online from Albatros Productions' website
Review Type: First Read
Advantages: Interesting narrative, varied collection of period photographs, detailed 1:72 and 1:48 scale drawings, superb colour artwork.
Disadvantages:  
Conclusion: A “one stop shop” publication that caters for the modeller and enthusiast alike.


Reviewed by Rob Baumgartner



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FirstRead

 

Known as the “Ninak”, the DH9A saw limited service during the final year of World War One.

It was the result of mating the 400hp American Liberty engine to the existing DH9. This latter aircraft suffered from poor performance due to its unreliable and underpowered Siddeley Puma engine. Further modifications to the wings and the necessary strengthening of the fuselage, gave the re born “Ninak” the reputation it needed…one of dependability and endurance.

As a result, the DH9A was widely used after the war and helped form the backbone of the fledgling Royal Air Force.

The long overdue Datafile on the subject has finally come to fruition.

This project was initially being worked on by Jack Bruce and Bruce Robinson but the sad passing of these gentlemen soon put a halt to proceedings. John Alcorn has since decided to take up the challenge and with contributions from Harry Woodman and the Aviation Heritage Society in New Zealand, this book represents volume 1 of a 2 volume set.

There are 36 pages between the soft card covers. The informative and concise text is supported by an interesting selection of 65 period black and white images. The A4 format of this publication allows these to be printed to a size which gives maximum benefit to the viewer. There is only one criticism here and that is the photos are not printed in chronological order to match the narrative.

A big feature of the latest Datafiles is the increase in colour artwork. This issue is no exception as we are treated to 8 aircraft profiles from the desk of Ronny Bar. These inspirational pieces cover a variety of schemes and range from the last year of the war to 1927.

The RAFM Bomber Command Hall has a lovely example of a Westland-built DH9A on display. Full advantage has been taken of this with no less than 55 close-up photographs. These are in full colour with various parts of the airframe coming under the spotlight. Areas included are the fuselage, cockpits, controls, strut fittings, wings and tail.

The plans have been drawn and traced by Doug Carrick, with the help of both the author and Alex Alexandrov. They cover 4 pages and are produced in the popular scales of 1:72 and 1:48. The included “cutaways” are an important highlight as these allows the modeller a greater understanding of the subject. A table explains the various internal parts and this is complimented by a 1:24 scale view of the instrument panel.

Rounding out this first volume is an “up to date” list of AMC DH9a model kits which makes this publication an ideal reference source for builders and enthusiasts alike.

Thanks to Albatros Productions for the review sample


Review Copyright © 2010 by Rob Baumgartner
This Page Created on 11 May, 2010
Last updated 11 May, 2010

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