Hampden Special

A fascinating overview of one of the ‘forgotten bombers’ of World War Two, the Handley Page HP.52 Hampden, which taught Bomber Command vital lessons in the early years of the conflict.

This history of the Handley Page HP.52 Hampden should be essential reading for fans of Rowland White, Donald L. Miller, and John Nichol.

Nicknamed the ‘Flying Suitcase’ by its aircrews due to its cramped conditions, the Hampden was one of the newest medium bombers in production for the RAF at the outset of the Second World War. Despite its speed and manoeuvrability, it quickly became evident that the aircraft could not withstand the onslaught of Luftwaffe fighters. Rather than immediately retiring the Hampden, Bomber Command deployed it in numerous early nighttime bombing raids, including the first night raid on Berlin and the first 1,000-bomber raid on Cologne. In addition to its nighttime operations, the Hampden also played a crucial role as a torpedo bomber for Coastal Command, providing essential protection for beleaguered convoys during the war’s early years.

Chaz Bowyer, renowned aviation historian, charts the flight path of this often-overlooked bomber—from its inception and bruising encounters with the enemy to its most successful operations and eventual replacement by heavy bombers like the Lancaster as the war began to turn in the Allies’ favour. He vividly captures what it was like to serve aboard these ‘Flying Suitcases’ and highlights the heroic actions of some of its most notable crewmembers, including those who earned the Victoria Cross.

Hampden Special draws upon numerous first-hand accounts from pilots and crews, operational histories, and technical data to restore the Hampden’s rightful place in the history of World War Two aviation.