Secret U.S. Proposals of the Cold War: Radical Concepts in Factory Models and Engineering Drawings - Tapa dura

1945 to 1975 is considered the zenith of modern U.S. aviation development. This Cold War era saw countless proposals for radical and unorthodox military aircraft being presented to aerospace upper management in model or drawing form. Although the once vibrant industry of in house factory model making has ceased to exist, the rare, valuable, and historic models that remain today bear witness to that bygone era.

Secret U.S. Proposals of the Cold War gives these unique aviation artifacts new recognition through the use of original and archival photography and explains the background story and mission requirements for these radical aircraft. Included are many unique proposals and engineering models built or commissioned by American aerospace companies. Originally conceived as working tools, these valuable models now serve as poignant three dimensional reminders of a vanished era of American aviation supremacy.

As the son of a World War II B-25 pilot, author Jim Keeshen's earliest memories were of seeing his father in the cockpit of a DC-3 at the airport across the street from their home. His Dad was flying Texaco executives in Venezuela at the time, but at age 5, Keeshen relocated with his family to Ontario, California. Weekends soon found father and son at nearby Chino Airport where they flew early radio control models together in the 1950s. Hence, Keeshen's passion for building and collecting model airplanes was firmly established. He earned his FAA pilot's license and took aerobatic training as well. Jim worked for more than 25 years in the field of animation, his other life's passion. Keeshen's writings have been published in many newspapers and magazines, and he has also written two children's books.