The Struggle for Malta by Ivan Berryman. (D)

Having been initially intercepted by just three ageing Gloster Gladiators, who gallantly gave both the Germans and Italians the impression of a much bigger resistance in the skies above Malta, the Italian Air Force was suddenly confronted by the more capable Hawker Hurricanes of 261 (F) Sqn, commanded by Sqn Ldr D W Balden. The previously unescorted bombers of the Regia Aeronautica suddenly required the presence of fighters to protect the marauding bombers, as depicted here, where Macchi 200s of 6° Gruppo 1° Stormo, reel around the sky to chase off the Hurricanes from the attacking Savoia Marchetti SM.79s above Grand Harbour in the summer of 1940.

Signed by Air Commodore John Ellacombe CB DFC* (deceased),
Flt Lt Leonard Davies
and
Wing Commander Tom Neil DFC* AFC
and supplied with the original signatures of :
Squadron Leader Cyril Bam Bamberger (deceased),
Squadron Leader Keith Lawrence DFC,
Squadron Leader P G Leggett,
Squadron Leader Harry Moon
and
Flight Lieutenant ARF Thompson DFC (deceased).

Presentation edition of 2 prints.

Image size 16 inches x 12 inches (41cm x 31cm)