Tony Buttler joined High Duty Alloys in 1974 as a metallurgist and for nearly 20 years was involved in the testing of aluminium and titanium airframe and engine components. After leaving HDA, he earned his Masters degree in Archives and Library Studies at Loughborough University, and in 1996 began his career as an aviation historian. He has since written 30 books and numerous articles, and has become particularly well known for his work on prototypes and secret projects. He lives in Worcestershire, UK.