I Absolutely LOVED this book. Not only is it full of technical information about the Skunk works operation, but it is presented in a way that even the moderately curious could understand and be drawn in by this book. It is definitely a book for those who have always loved fighter jets and warbirds since their childhood, and it serves as a good window into a very secretive world. This book reveals the technological marvels of it's time and it amazes the reader at the amount of accomplishments the Skunk Works had during their time. It also provides an insight into management ideals that were once used in such an exclusive market. It describes things with different perspectives than the beuracratic norms that have plagued society today and poses some alternatives (in the final chapters) to these short comings. I would recomend this book to anyone who is curious about this world of aviation and engineering and technology. It is also very alluring and is difficult to put down because it is so well written that it doesn't bore you. It's a story about people's lives, more than just numbers and math. If you are thinking about it, stop and buy it!Read full review
As an engineering graduate student, this book got me so fired up about the cutting edge, real world applications of my field. Lockheed's Skunk Works is really where the rubber hits the road; Ben Rich tells the his story of invovlement with the most innovative aircraft of the last 50 years - U-2, SR-71, F-117A, all revolutionary designs incorporating stealth technology, using first-class engineering! This is a real page turner, and must for anyone interested in the history behind America's dominance of air power, reconaisssance, and innovative creation. I would recommend this book to everybody.
If you like anything about planes you will dig this book! Written by Ben Rich himslef. He was head of the Skunk Works while they were developing the first true stealth air fighter, the F-117A. Really stories coming out of that build. Plus a ton of ther stuff about the U-2, the SR-71 and others.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
Reveals the story behind top-secret highly advanced technology that almost miraculously kept us ahead of the world in aviation and surveillance. Just shows how lucky we are to have the geniuses and nerds that passionately work to keep us safe.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
I read a little, I bought this as a gift.for a member of my family... My husband worked for Lockheed for many years.
Verified purchase: Yes | Condition: Pre-owned
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