This superb large-format reference book is the ultimate illustrated guide to the equipment used by the U.S. Army during World War II. No other single source provides so much accurate and authentic detail on weapons, vehicles, ammunition and other combat equipment, together with an authoritative explanation of the development and introduction processes. The facts and figures are profusely illustrated with over 700 photographs and drawings, and set in context in the Introduction by military equipment expert Ian V. Hogg. During World War II, various military agencies produced catalogues to fill in the gaps left by the official U.S. War Department manuals. This led to inconsistent technical data appearing in different sources. In order to standardise the information and properly catalogue all the equipment, the U.S. Ordnance Department began putting together the master guide now published as The American Arsenal, covering every piece of equipment in use and being produced. Every figure, date, specification and description was authenticated by reference to Ordnance Committee Minutes and similar authorities. The vast amount of technical information included makes this an invaluable reference work.