Three Wings for the Red Baron: Von Richthofen, Strategy, Tactics, and Airplanes. . - Net Assessment - book review

Aerospace Power Journal, Summer, 2002 by Eric Col. Ash

Three Wings for the Red Baron: Von Richthofen, Strategy, Tactics, and Airplanes by Leon Bennett. White Mane Books, P.O. Box 152, Shippensburg, Pennsylvania 17257-0152, 2000, 240 pages, $39.95.

Leon Bennett's Three Wings for the Red Baron is intriguing and effective. A mix of history, scientific/mathematical analysis, and military studies, it is written for the student of each of these disciplines rather than the aeronautical engineer. Bennett explains the technical material in a manner easily understood but in enough detail to reveal the salient points--specifically, the impact of technology on tactics, organization, and doctrine. His book is a study of triplane technology in the First World War with respect to one of the greatest legends to have used it--Baron Manfred von Richthofen.

Clearly, the triplane was not a superior type of fighting machine--at least in the form built by Spad, Curtiss, or Sopwith--because it was too slow. Yet, the greatest ace of the war chose the Fokker triplane, eventually losing his life in it. Bennett analyzes the Fokker's design and performance, bringing to light some of the potential rationale for Richthofen's decision and exploring the mystery of his death.

The book does not delve deeply into Richthofen's personality but touches on it enough to suggest how it influenced the famous ace's decision making. He was both intellectually and physically strong and capable. Although experienced and a keen tactician in air-to-air combat, he could also overcome miscalculations with talent. This trait may have applied to the triplane decision to some extent, although it turns out that his choice may not have been all that wrong.

The significant story of Richthofen goes beyond dogfights and comparisons of kills. No doubt his impact as a leader on Luftwaffe organization, doctrine, and training was far greater than the effect his kills had on the supply of Allied pilots. This book discusses those areas to a limited extent and is finely tuned to the specifics of early aircraft design in relation to aerial tactics. It reflects significant research and includes hundreds of figures and pictures. Overall, Three Wings for the Red Baron is a great read for airpower enthusiasts and a valuable contribution to the literature on the first air war.