The battle to protect and defend America’s interests around the globe is increasingly being waged from the air. High-tech aircraft employ sophisticated weapons and reconnaissance systems to pinpoint targets and flush out the enemy. This illustrated reference provides detailed information on all the major aircraft in the U.S. military arsenal. It covers the history and capabilities of fighters, bombers, and support craft, describing their mission profiles, armaments and weapons systems, tail codes, and combat history. Striking photos show the aircraft in action, including images from the buildup of the Gulf War!