I've been reading all about the air campaign in the 1948-49 War of Independence and have uncovered a number of really fascinating websites, each of which adds something more to the story. I've taught the causes and consequences of the Arab Israeli conflict many times but haven't really looked into the aerial side of things before. I started out with a focus in the RAF involvement but this soon expanded to take in the Israelis and Egyptians, with even the Syrians getting involved despite having no air force to speak of. The involvement of numerous foreign and often non-Jewish 'volunteers' is particularly interesting, the collective title of Machal being given to the foreign pilots who flew for the IAF.
Anyway, here's the links to some of the most useful and interesting pages:
All well worth a look!
There is an excellent documentary on the foreign volunteers that flew for Israel in 1948. I think it might be availible on youtube but not sure.
ReplyDeleteI stumbled across the Desert Spitfires WaW ages ago, not sure how. I thought it might be a fascinating conflict to game, and it seems like you're proving me right!
ReplyDeleteThanks Chris...I'll check it out!
ReplyDeleteWhen I've got it up and running I'll bring it to the club.
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