Purnell's Encyclopedia of Modern Weapons and Warfare is a partwork that began in 1967–1969 Purnell, and was later republished under the Phoebus brand. Notable and editors included Bill Gunston (aviation), Ian V. Hogg (land weapons), John Batchelor (illustrator), and editor Bernard Fitzons, whose expertise ensured the publication's high quality and accuracy.
Covering the twentieth century up to its publication date, the encyclopedia spans 125 volumes organized alphabetically, with varying detail levels from brief paragraphs to extensive technical analyses. Additionally, it featured several posters by John Batchelor and other materials. In 1977, a 24-volume version titled The Illustrated Encyclopedia of 20th Century Weapons and Warfare was released, distributed by Columbia House.
