Developed by the de Havilland Aircraft Company, the Vampire jet fighter first flew on 20 September 1943. It was the second jet fighter to be operated by the RAF, and the first to be powered by a single jet engine. It quickly proved its worth as an effective fighter, and it achieved many memorable aviation firsts – including being the first jet aircraft to cross the Atlantic Ocean. In this new book edition, the design, development and service of this impressive aircraft are explored, accompanied by an array of beautiful images.