Eagles of Destiny Volume 1

To say that the Pakistan Air Force has an eventful history would not be an overstatement. From its very inception it was involved in the support of ground troops in Kashmir while trying to stand on its own feet in the immediate aftermath of the partition of British India. Two major wars ensued in which it performed well against the numerically superior Indian Air Force. 

The Eagles of Destiny mini-series covers the early years of Royal Pakistan Air Force, initially while still being led by seconded Royal Air Force personnel and operating under a British model, through to being led by Pakistani officers and its transformation into a first-rate tactical force based on the American approach to air operations. The acquisition of assets under British leadership and later via the American Mutual Defence Assistance Program are examined in depth as are the resulting changes in operational concepts. The major wars with India during 1965 and 1971 are also covered in detail, including the intervening period, where an American arms embargo brought in drastic changes and a flare for improvisation. 

The Eagles of Destiny mini-series is based on extensive research conducted over more than 20 years, including interviewing a large number of officers, many of whom shaped the events along with access to numerous British, American and Pakistani archives. 

Eagles of Destiny Volume 1 tells the story of Pakistan Air Force up to 1956, and is illustrated by dozens of unique photographs, some never published before, along with specially commissioned maps and colour artworks.

"Another fine volume in the series tackles the beginnings of the Pakistan Air Force, from RAF days in India to independent service of a new nation." The Historical Miniatures Gaming Society

"The authors cover the 'royal' part of the Air Force's history from inception to 1956 or so. The book is punctuated by a number of interviews as well as a rundown on the force's equipment. As usual, there are great photos, maps, charts and color illustrations that Helion books are known. A most interesting read that I'm sure you will also enjoy." ModelingMadness.com

"These two volumes were, without doubt, two of my favourite titles in the Helion and Company Asia@War series where, once again, the Series Editors’ have combined the written talents of well-informed and connected authors with a host of previously unpublished imagery sourced from personal collections and archives and a superb selection of colour side profiles, maps and tables to produce two high quality reference books on this enigmatic Asian Air Arm. Two more extremely valuable jewels in the Helion Crown! Thoroughly recommended to anyone with an interest in the early development and growth of the Pakistan Air Force during its first two-plus decades of existence or the Indo-Pakistan conflicts of 1965 & 1971." Asian Air Arms Newsletter 38, 2023

"...well written, solidly researched with detailed citation, and filled with historical facts and personal anecdotes." The Journal of the Air Force Historical Foundation