The book, American Warplanes, chronicles the development of American Warplanes throughout the first three-quarters of the 20th century.  Since the combat aircraft of the various air arms of the United States represent a military capability, which no other nation can match, it is often used as a yardstick by which the air forces of other countries are measured.  "American Warplanes" documents over 200 combat aircraft, from the Wright Flyers of the early 1900s to the AV-8B serving in the United States Marine Corps.  Each of the aircraft reviewed include the following: 1) Detailed three-view illustration and 2) One or more photographs usually in color & often appearing in a book for the first time.  In addition, many of the more significant aircraft are depicted with color profile drawings, which highlight camouflage schemes & unit markings.  Each aircraft reviewed also includes the following technical information: 1) Origin; 2) Type; 3) Engine; 4) Dimensions; 5) Weights; 6) Performance; 7) Armament; 8) History and 9) Users.  The "American Warplanes" introduction sets the main body of the book against a backdrop of design and industrial development and international conflict, describing how "American's" pioneering spirit first propelled man and machine into the air and now promises more exciting designs and record-breaking achievements for the future.  In addition to a concise authoritative narrative, "American Warplanes" includes the following features: 1) Over 400 photographs, most in color & many extremely rare pictures: 2) More than 75 highly detailed full color profile drawings and 3) Over 200 three-view line drawings.  This book is 208 pages and is in excellent condition.  The author is Bill Gunston.  Edition published in 1986.