This book examines the spectrum of modern fighter missions, the physiology and psychology required of the pilots, the weapons and avionics systems, and how these technologies synchronize to make the fighter what it is - a high performance, prestigious military tool at the forefront of power projection. The author takes the reader right through the action, from mission preparation and fighter take-off, through aerial refuelling, air combat, attack and reconnaissance tasking, to aircraft recovery. The book examines how advances in micro-electronics, Stealth and Smart weapons systems are moulding the tactics of the future, and analyzes comparative studies of air combat in the Vietnam war and the Gulf war.