The study of the Luftwaffe during World War II is still of enormous interest to aviation enthusiasts and modelers. While much has been published on the subject, this, the first of two volumes, will assert a strong claim to be the definitive study of that most complex and fascinating subject, the Luftwaffe's colors and markings. Ken Merrick has researched this area for 20 years and has uncovered much new information which is published here for the first time. The detailed text provides evidence to challenge a number of previously accepted theories. This volume will contain over 300 photographs, many in color, as well as diagrams and artwork. The research has included contact and liaison with the companies that made the actual paint applied to Luftwaffe aircraft, and the book will include color paint chips specially prepared from these original formulas. For modelers in particular, this degree of accuracy wil be invaluable. Among the topics covered in this volume are paint composition, civil registrations, factory registration marks, unit codes and badges, the balkenkreuz and the hakenkreuz. Aircraft featured include day fighters, those used in training, liaison and reconnaissance units and helicopters. The second volume, which is in preparation, will deal with other major categories of aircraft, including bombers and night fighters. Detailed appendices cover other areas such as paint specifications and werk nummer.