This book is the first in a comprehensive two-part study of the development and operational history of the Junkers Ju 88, exploring the many variants of this famous and long-serving Luftwaffe multi-role aircraft. The text is fabulously supported by several hundred rare photographs, manufacturer's handbook data, scale line drawings and specially commissioned colour artwork. The Ju 88 was probably the finest bomber to serve in the Luftwaffe bomber force, but its design, construction and speed meant that it was adaptable as a night-fighter, heavy fighter, torpedo-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft. This high-performance aircraft entered service in limited numbers during the campaign over Poland in 1939, but subsequently flew with distinction on every battle front on which the Luftwaffe operated throughout World War 2, from the early Blitzkrieg campaigns of 1939/40 through to the Mediterranean and the vast Russian theatre. It was known widely as a feared night fighter, representing the pinnacle of German aeronautical design technology. The Ju 88 served in numbers with the air forces of Finland, Italy, Hungary, Romania, Spain and France and its appeal as a combat aircraft; especially to modellers, is due to its widely dispersed service. Its variants, including the Ju 188 and Ju 288 which are also covered, and the wide array of armament and equipment with which it was fitted as well as its various markings and camouflage schemes.