The Burning Blue

In The Burning Blue by Mike Carlton, traces the daring, technical and deeply human story of the Royal Australian Navy’s Fleet Air Arm across the twentieth century. This is vivid military history, rich with first-hand voices, that brings naval aviation to life — from fragile wood-and-canvas fighters to carrier decks and helicopters in modern war.

Lewis follows Australian naval aviators through World War I dogfights over France and Flanders, the cold danger of the North Sea and Arctic, and the heat and dust of the Mediterranean. He then carries readers to Korea aboard HMAS Sydney, and into Vietnam’s “first helicopter war”, where rainforest, rice paddies and contested landing zones changed everything.

Just as compelling are the people behind the cockpit: observers, engineers, maintainers and families, and the ever-present risks of peacetime flying — especially night carrier landings.

Perfect for readers of Australian history, naval aviation, World War I and World War II, and anyone drawn to true stories of skill under pressure. Add it to your shelf and discover the lives lived in the burning blue.