"There is no doubt that France, the pioneer of European aviation, led the way for the Allies. In 1914 the French aviation industry was the most advanced in the world, and her contribution was crucial to the establishment and maintenance of air power with which to confront that of the Central Powers. In the early years of the war, France supplied aircraft and engines to her allies, and in the later years of the war put formidable aircraft into the struggle. Furthermore, France enjoyed the prestige of having recognised the military potential of the aircraft very early on." Angelucci, Enzo. Illustrated Encyclopedia of Military Aircraft. Edison: Chartwell Books, 2001. |
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