In this work, a predictive machining theory, based on an analytical thermomechanical approach of oblique cutting [17,18], has been applied to the peripheral milling process. That leads to a three dimensional cutting force model for end milling operations which is an alternative approach in comparison with the mechanistic one. In this model, the material characteristics such as strain rate sensitivity, strain hardening and thermal softening are considered and thermomechanical coupling and inertia effects are accounted for. Calculated and experimental results are compared for up-milling.