Even for nonmilitary buffs, the power and massive lines of aircraft carriers inspire awe. Now readers can get a close-up look at these behemoths in this lavishly illustrated volume. It tells the story of the development of these immense vessels, describes their technological and military history, and profiles the carriers-and the planes that fly from them-that roam the oceans today. With more than 150 black-and-white and color pictures, including images of early prototypes, this is an invaluable reference.