£20.99 www.jagbook.com

An account of the last months of the operational career of the RAF's Jaguar Force by the last squadron commander, Wing Commander John Sullivan. This is primarily a picture book, with images from the UK and 6 Squadron's last overseas deployment to Oman, with little in the way of technical detail - but that makes it all the better, as the squadron and enthusiasts' affection for the Big Cat shines through.

Starting with the move to Coningsby from Coltishall, it concludes with the final deliveries to Cosford some fifteen short months later where emotions ran high. This is very much Sullivan's personal tribute to the Jaguar Force, one of a 'can do' attitude, and the brief text never completely hides his frustration at the way the aircraft's career was brought to a premature end as a cost-cutting exercise. A tad pricey, but well worth it - we even bought our copy! 96 pp, colour.

Fighting Force - The 90th Anniversary of the Royal Air Force by Jamie Hunter

£24.99 Touchstone Books Ltd

Produced in association with the Royal Air Force, this is the official book of the air force on its 90th birthday, providing an insight into its operational squadrons. Many enthusiasts will be familiar to Jamie and his outstanding photography, many of the images in the book being captured on air-to-air sorties flown specifically for the production of this book. Reproduction quality is excellent, and the narrative features many interviews with serving personnel, making it more than just a record of the 'state of the air force'.

Jamie takes us through the training system, then onto front-line squadrons (very much the meat of the book) before looking at the many diverse support elements, such as ISTAR, airlift and tanker assets. If there is one small grumble, it's in the picture selections for the lesser-sung units, especially 32(TR) Squadron and BBMF which are several years old and represent past colour schemes.

Overall this is a fine record of the modern-day RAF and should appeal particularly to those at the age of deciding whether the air force is a career path for them - with such strong imagery it's certain to tempt them into the nearest recruiting office. 190 pp, colour.

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