Montgomery: Friends Within Foes Without, Relationships in and Around 21st Army Group - Malcolm Pill

This review has been published in British Army Review. 

Title: Montgomery: Friends Within Foes Without, Relationships in and Around 21st Army Group
Author: Malcolm Pill
ISBN: 978-1-912690-53-4
Publisher: Unicorn Publishing
Year: 2019
Hardcover
Pages: 303
Photos: 30

Montgomery has proven to be, along with Patton for the Americans, perhaps the most controversial of the British senior commanders of the Second World War.  That he was a brilliant commander (with an ego to match) has been analyzed in multiple biographies and studies; Pill however, has approached his study of Montgomery strictly from the perspective of his personal and command relationships with his immediate staff and, externally, with those leaders of the British, Canadian and American forces germane to his command relationships. Pill’s is a story of personality, style and expectations as opposed to operational or tactical scrutiny. 

Pill’s multifaceted approach reveals a great deal about the inner thoughts of Montgomery: what he saw as important, how he viewed the execution of the war, what were the events and experiences that shaped both his and those with whom he interacted, perspectives and what influenced his decision making. While he has drawn upon a multitude of sources, it is the personal diaries and letters (he was a prodigious chronicler) of Montgomery and his confreres where Pill is able to shed light on the inner thoughts of the man. Unlike memoires which, written in the immediacy of the moment, are a much better source for glimpses into the honest thinking of the authors.

The author has divided his narrative into a series of sub-sections that fall broadly into Montgomery’s dealings with subordinates within 21st Army Gp, allies (and external commands) and operations within which he was involved. Pill’s engaging account casts a critical light not upon Montgomery’s capabilities as a tactician and operational planner, but upon his confidence and competence as a leader and commander. Much of the controversy, Pill conclusively proves, that Montgomery was involved with, was of his own making and not the result of external circumstance. Montgomery’s experience as commander of the 8th Army in North Africa and his subsequent endearment to the British nation as the ‘victor over Rommel’, ultimately led him to fall victim to that all too common occurrence of ‘believing his own press’. As Pill observes, this loss of humility resulted in an inflated sense of self that was toxic to relations with those not under his direct command. Montgomery’s inability to acknowledge the competencies and effectiveness of others outside of his immediate control was his Achilles heel and undermined much of the cooperation and support that he might otherwise have enjoyed.

This is a unique and fascinating account of the man and the commander that was Montgomery. The reader is left with the impression that, once the war ended, he struggled to find his place. Certainly his relations with a majority of his subordinate commanders remained good in the years following the war but the fact that he had burned so many bridges within the British command community and on the international stage precluded his being considered for many positions that he would otherwise have been eminently qualified for. Pill has done his research and his book serves as an excellent example and warning for those leaders who come after.

I Will Run Wild: The Pacific War from Pearl Harbour to Midway - Thomas McKelvey Cleaver

This review has been submitted to the RCAF Journal.

Title: I Will Run Wild: The Pacific War from Pearl Harbour to Midway
Author: Thomas McKelvey Cleaver
ISBN: 978-1-4728-4133-9
Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Year: 2020
Hardcover
Pages: 320
Photos/Maps: 68/5

The title of this book is drawn from the Commander of the Japanese Navy, Adm Yamamoto’s, comment when advised that war with the United States was inevitable: “For the first six months I will run wild. After that I can promise nothing”. Indeed the Japanese did, repeatedly defeating the Far East forces of the UK, Holland, the Commonwealth and the US. Cleaver’s is a fastidiously researched account of those months; with a particular emphasis upon the US experience. 

Conventional wisdom suggests that this period was one of predominant success for the forces of Imperial Japan; however, as the author demonstrates, the angel of fortune flies on wings made up of a combination of opportunity, competency and luck. As Cleaver’s narrative unfolds, repeated examples are presented where this assertion is proven: 

1.    The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbour crippling the US Pacific Fleet while missing both its carriers as well as the maintenance and fuel storage reserves of the harbour;
2.       The Japanese codes (that had been broken by the US in early 1942) being changed on 27 May, 1942; seven days before the attack on Midway but too late to prevent the US from knowing the order of battle and the anticipated attack date;
3.       The US relief fleet for the garrison at Wake Island (under attack by land and sea forces of Japan) being turned back 24 hrs before their anticipated engagement with the Japanese (who were not aware of their presence and were not at all prepared for a sea engagement); and
4.       A Japanese Zero ditched during an attack on the Aleutian Islands being found completely by chance by a lost Catalina , intact, because the pilots who had been escorting the crippled aircraft did not want to destroy it from the air (despite standing orders to do so) for fear of possibly injuring their friend and fellow pilot. Up to this point the US had not been able to capture a Zero; the Japanese considered it a loss no less serious than the Battle of Midway itself. 

As with his other books, Cleaver draws heavily upon first-hand accounts from a myriad of sources and ranks, adding a poignancy to his narrative and a very human face to the fighting. His style skillfully captures the breadth of the geographic canvas that was the Pacific Theatre of Operation; concurrently presenting it in a style accessible to both the avid historian and the casual reader. 

An eminently comprehensible and informative work that presents the reader with all of the hubris, drama and humanity from a myriad of perspectives. A recommended addition to those seeking a deeper appreciation of the challenges of the Pacific War.

The Battle of The Peaks and Longstop Hill, Tunisia, April-May 1943 - Ian Mitchell

This review has been submitted to British Army Review.

Title: The Battle of The Peaks and Longstop Hill, Tunisia, April-May 1943 

Author: Ian Mitchell
ISBN: 978-1-911628-93-4
Publisher: Helion
Year: 2019
Hardcover
Pages: 352
Photos/Maps: 26/15 

With the passage of time, historical recollection tends to focus upon key events and battles (Kursk, El Alamein, D-Day etc) while the smaller ones recede into the reminiscences of those who were there; ultimately to be lost. This is not to suggest that these battles are any less important or key to those soldiers who fought and died in them. It is for this fact that books, such as the authors, are so important in keeping the memory alive of these events for future generations. 

The Peaks and Long Stop Hill were key engagements in the overall Allied strategy of driving the Afrika Korps into an untenable operational position; ultimately resulting in its surrender. A relatively small engagement involving combined infantry and armoured units, the book relates the challenges of operations against dug in, experienced Afrika Korps troops occupying the high ground. Presented in articulate and engaging prose, the author approaches the narrative of the operations holistically, incorporating the efforts of the logisticians and support troops as well as the combat troops involved. It is refreshing to see this emphasis as, all too often, exclusive attention is given to the combat and little or none to the support elements. This provides the reader a deeper appreciation of the difficulties associated with combined arms operations and planning in relatively austere environments. 

Mitchell endeavours to situate the operation in the wider context of the Battle for Africa which had been raging for over two years by this point. This ‘big hand/small map’ inclusion is important in that it shines a light upon the importance of evicting the Germans from their positions in forwarding the Allied strategy. Provided along with the narrative are a series of modern day colour pictures of the region which provide excellent perspective of the operational environment. Additionally, a series of very high quality maps serve to track each of the significant elements of the battles as they unfolded. Combined with the numerous first hand accounts included in the text from all ranks and both sides, these provide the reader with a much better appreciation of what the troops endured and overcame. 

The detail and analysis provided by the author of the individual unit and Brigades actions is very noteworthy as his discussion of the German defensive efforts. The narrative structure of the book and presentation of the planning methodologies (and what influenced the decision making) is really quite superb. Mitchell closes his work with a comprehensive listing of his source material as well as the locations from which he was able to obtain them. Helion, as always, has provided an absolutely first rate publication. This is an excellent work of research and presentation and a very worthy addition to anyone’s library.

The Reckoning: The Defeat of Army Group South, 1944 - Prit Buttar

This review was submitted to Soldier Magazine. 

Title: The Reckoning: The Defeat of Army Group South, 1944
Author: Prit Buttar
ISBN: 978-1-4728-3791-2
Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Year: 2020
Hardcover
Pages: 496
Photos/Maps: 34/29 

The Reckoning continues Buttar’s outstanding series on the titanic struggle on the Eastern Front in WW2. A consummate master at the art of bridging historical analysis with riveting prose, the author addresses not only the events leading up to the defeat of the Axis in the South, but also the misconceptions surrounding the capabilities of Germany’s Allies and their Soviet adversaries. Conventional wisdom has not given these groups enough credit regarding their effectiveness and development; Buttar’s work goes a long way in addressing this. A comprehensive bibliography and notes section rounds out this book. Very highly recommended.

  

Adopting Mission Command: Developing Leaders for a Superior Command Culture - Donald E. Vandergriff

This review was submitted to Soldier magazine. 

Title: Adopting Mission Command: Developing Leaders for a Superior Command Culture 

Author: Donald E. Vandergriff
ISBN: 978-1-6824-7105-0
Publisher: Naval Institute Press
Year: 2019
Hardcover
Pages: 309
Photos: 9 

Mission Command (MC) has profound implications to military officers’ assigned positions of authority and task. The author suggests however, that teaching methodologies presently in use work to undermine the concept of MC by emphasizing process as opposed to outcomes. Students of the military arts therefore focus upon the anticipated textbook solution as opposed to taking risk and thinking non-traditionally. Vandergriff provides the readers with practical suggestions on how to address these issues both from a student and an instructor perspective. His work is both informative and timely and founded upon proven developmental practices; it also incorporates historical examples as proof of concept. Recommended.

Armoured Warfare in the Battle for Budapest - Norbert Szamveber

 This review has been submitted to Military History Online

Title: Armoured Warfare in the Battle for Budapest
Author: Norbert Szamveber
ISBN: 978-615-5583-09-4
Publisher: Peko Books
Year: 2018
Hardcover
Pages: 879
Photos/Maps: 0/48 

As 1944 drew to a close, the Soviet forces encompassing the 2nd and 3rd Ukrainian Fronts, were driving on Budapest in an effort to knock Hungary out of the war. Commencing their offensive in October, 1944, the Russians ran into motivated and prepared Axis forces (primarily German and Hungarian), whose efforts ground down the anticipated quick drive into Hungary into a grinding slug match that lasted for more than three months before Budapest was finally surrounded. The Panzer and panzergrenadier units drew upon their deep experience to fight an effective delaying combat. The author is a historian and author of great repute in this period of the Second World War and has drafted a number of books relating specifically to Hungarian participation and armoured combat. This contribution traces the first phase of the Soviet Budapest operations; drawing upon mainly archival sources and primary source material from Russian, German and Hungarian sources.

The work itself is a daunting tome and not for the faint of heart. The 65 days of the campaign leading up to the encirclement of Budapest, is divided into into four distinct phases. Each day of the campaign is presented in an identical manner. The ten (average) pages of text explaining the events of the day each commences with the weather and temperature. Interspersed within the discussion are recollections drawn from diaries and letters relating individual experiences from the different adversaries. The challenge for the reader is the author’s emphasis on the tactical and operational focus of his narrative. A stupendous amount of information is presented but it is difficult to view it in context as there is no opportunity provided to take a strategic perspective of the front. Coloured maps are provided together at the rear of the book but none provide the ‘big picture’. The maps relate to tactical encounters described within the narrative and are of excellent quality but would have been of better utility co-located with the discussion itself. Additionally, nowhere in the narrative is there a connection made to a specific map; and certainly the lack of an overall front map is a drawback. The author also makes use of a plethora of sources and his footnotes denote a variety of primary and secondary references. Interestingly however, he provides no overall bibliography or index at the back of the book. 

Despite the above observations, this is a book of noteworthy quality and depth. The research behind the narrative is among the most comprehensive in English relating to this campaign. Following the completion of the daily entries, the author presents over seventy pages of tables on equipment, personal and armoured fighting vehicle stats. He also presents five essays on various elements of the campaign including command and control, units, and equipment of the opposing forces. These are not a dry rendition of statistics but are in fact the author’s analysis of these critical elements of the campaign.

Peko has published a book of very high quality; any student or historian interested in the Eastern Front would be well served to expand their library with a copy of this work. Szamveber has done his subject great honour with this history. 

RAF on the Offensive: The Rebirth of Tactical Air Power 1940-1941 - Greg Baughen

This review has been submitted to Soldier Magazine.

Title: RAF on the Offensive: The Rebirth of Tactical Air Power 1940-1941
Author: Greg Baughen
ISBN: 978-1-526-73515-7
Publisher: Pen and Sword Press
Year: 2018
Hardcover
Pages: 304
Photos/Maps: 39/4

Baughen’s book follows a two track narrative; one, the development of the technology, doctrine and tactics around close air support and the second, and more surprising, the challenges in adjusting the engrained paradigm of the primacy of the bomber amongst the RAF leadership. This engaging and balanced work dispels the myth of united and visionary RAF leadership readily adapting to the lessons of the Battles of France and Britain, revealing instead a deeply divided and political entity, intent on maintaining its independence from the Army and Navy. The reasons behind and the development of a highly effective close air support capability, rounds out this excellent study.

The Splintered Empires: The Eastern Front 1917-1921 - Prit Buttar

This review has been submitted to Strategy and Tactics Magazine.

Title: The Splintered Empires: The Eastern Front 1917-1921
Author: Prit Buttar
ISBN: 978-1-4728-1985-7
Publisher: Osprey Publishing
Year: 2017
Hardcover
Pages: 480
Photos/Maps: 34/14

With this book, the last in his WW1 Eastern Front series, Buttar closes the circle on a little appreciated, understood and studied facet of the First World War. Like his other works, the author draws upon his in-depth research and knowledge of the period to present a comprehensive picture of the convoluted paroxysms that wracked the Empires of Eastern Europe; resulting in the emergence of multiple nascent nations each struggling for survival and territory. For many Western readers, WW1 ended in November, 1918 with the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front. For those in the East; however, a further three years of conflict remained as nationalism, racism and political strife convulsed the region.

Buttar is the consummate historian, seamlessly transitioning from a strategic perspective, encompassing the broad spectrum of international players, to recollections from soldiers, citizens and statesmen that adds both depth and a personal element to the narrative. The author is adroit at selecting diary entries and letter passages that provide insight into the fear, confusion, despair, hope and rage that permeated throughout these societies as they collapsed into anarchy. This is particularly applicable to the Russian and Austro-Hungarian officers as discipline and professionalism collapsed in the face of societal turmoil.

This period is particularly confusing and complex; Buttar is able to tease apart the densely interwoven threads and present them in a cogent, logical fashion while not losing touch with the human element of the period. Traditionally, the smaller nations in the East received short shrift from historians focussed upon the collapse of the Great Powers; in this work, Buttar looks at each of the emerging nation states in turn and discusses their efforts to navigate the complex international waters around them. Thus Finland, each of the Baltic States, Poland and Ukraine are the subjects of chapters in their own right.

Additionally, Buttar addresses a number of elusive questions that have been left unclear in a number of previous accounts of the Eastern Front. Germany, for example had anticipated 45 essentially fresh divisions being freed up for transfer to the West for participation in the final German offensive. Ultimately, only 32 divisions were made available. The why of this centres upon the hubris and misguided national decisions of the Central Powers in their occupation policies and treatment of the Eastern regions. What of the forces of the Austro-Hungarian Empire? Why were they not available for transfer to the west; this also is addressed.

Overall, this is another outstanding book from this author. Encompassing not only the final years of the First World War but also the myriad of ‘successor wars’ that ravaged the region, Splintered Empires is a superb synopsis of the period. The bibliography and notes sections are comprehensive and add additional depth to the narrative. Osprey has published a high quality book that is a fabulous addition to anyone’s library.     

At War’s Summit: The Red Army and the Struggle for the Caucasus Mountains in World War II - Alexander Statiev

This review has been submitted to the RCAF Journal

Title: At War’s Summit: The Red Army and the Struggle for the Caucasus Mountains in World War II
Author: Alexander Statiev
ISBN: 978-1-108-42462-2
Publisher: Cambridge UP
Year: 2018
Hardcover
Pages: 440
Photos/Maps: 22/19

In June, 1942 the Axis powers launched Fall Blau, the southern drive to capture the Caucasus region of the Soviet Union, thereby securing the oil fields for Germany and depriving the Soviets of the southern resupply link with the West. Dividing the southern forces into Army Group’s A and B, the Axis powers initially enjoyed great success with Gp B driving towards Stalingrad and Gp A thrusting into the Transcaucasus region towards Baku. Ultimately however, the Axis overextended themselves and the Soviets were able to break the German advance at Stalingrad. Overshadowed by the disaster in Stalingrad, the efforts of Army Gp A and, more specifically, the fighting amongst the unforgiving peaks on the Transcaucus Mountain range, have been generally relegated to the back pages of history. Statiev’s book is an effort to not only rectify that shortfall but to also shed light on the numerous lessons to be gleaned from combat in the brutal high altitude mountain environment. 

While Statiev does discuss, by way of comparison, the development of mountain troops in both Russia and Germany, his focus is primarily upon the Russian perspective throughout the book. He ensures that the reader has a sound appreciation of the history of mountain operations in Russia by drawing attention to a series of past conflicts in which Russian forces were fighting in mountainous regions. He is able to convincingly prove that a plethora of information was available to the Russians regarding the unique challenges posed by altitude operations and the means to overcome them. His discussion of the popularity of the climbing during the interwar period in both Germany and Russia reinforces the fact that both countries had ample expertise to draw upon. 

Statiev comprehensive discussion/analysis of the German 49^th Mountain Corps thrust into the Caucasus Mountains in an effort to cut off the coastal region, and the Russian efforts to resist them, is remarkably engaging and educating, reflecting a writing style that captures the imagination while retaining a scholarly quality. The Russians retained all of the advantages of numbers, short lines of communication and unchallenged control of the skies. The systemic failure of the Russian leadership to properly lead, equip and train its soldiers to meet the challenges of both the Germans and the environment is all the more appalling as a result. Their approach of ‘quantity over quality’ reflects an absolute arrogance and desperation with respect to the lives of their soldiers. 

The Germans, for their part, once again gambled on the quality of their elite mountain forces to overcome their massive shortfall in numbers. The fact that they came as close as they did is indicative of the specialist nature of mountain warfare and the superiority of their leadership and training. The author’s discussion of these battles, and the unique challenges for support forces, provides the reader with a clear appreciation the successes and failures of the respective adversaries. 

Another element of the combat in this region that Statiev draws attention to is the fact that the peoples living here were not supporters of the Russian/Soviet regime. Support for the Germans was much more forthcoming then for the Russians. Efforts on behalf of both the Germans and Russians to build relationships with these groups are interesting as both sides appreciated the benefits of local knowledge and support. However, from Statiev’s research, it is evident that the Russians had ignored their opportunities until it was almost too late and that this resulted in them having a far greater challenge than the Germans in this respect. 

Statiev closes his work with a discussion of the attitude with which the Russian leadership viewed the nature of the military as a profession. Looking across the spectrum of military operations and drawing liberally from available primary sources, he reveals that, throughout the war, the Russians continuously fell back on their numbers at the expense of training. This was, to a certain extent, a result of necessity, and the gap definitely closed as the war progressed. Nevertheless, the Germans consistently were able to inflict significantly more casualties on the Russians then they took. 

The standard of this publication by the Cambridge UP is of the highest quality. Detailed maps are provided throughout that illustrate the battlefields discussed. The author provides generous endnotes and a comprehensive bibliography for further research. For those seeking fresh information about the Eastern Front, this work, highlighting a regional conflict that has heretofore received scant attention, this is an excellent source.

Haig’s Enemy: Crown Prince Rupprecht and Germany’s War on the Western Front - Jonathan Boff

This review has been submitted to Australian Army Journal

Title: Haig’s Enemy: Crown Prince Rupprecht and Germany’s War on the Western Front
Author: Jonathan Boff
ISBN: 978-0-19-967046-8
Publisher: Oxford University Press
Year: 2018
Hardcover
Pages: 373
Photos/Maps: 11/14 

Rupprecht, Crown Prince of Bavaria and one of the most senior Western Front Central Power commanders throughout WW1, has largely been forgotten with the passage of time; however, as Boff’s comprehensive study has shown, he was a key figure in the Central Power Alliance. Boff has undertaken to present an analysis of Rupprecht as commander, Crown Prince, husband and father. His conclusions, both balanced and nuanced, suggest that while he cannot be considered one of the ‘Great Captains” of history, he was, as a commander, insightful, competent and intelligent. He was also, as the Crown Prince of the second most powerful region of the German Federation (Bavaria), a product of his period and upbringing with all of the flaws and strengths that position entailed.  

The central theme of the book is obviously Rupprecht and his part during the War; however, Boff does an excellent job of continuously situating Rupprecht’s roles and actions within the broader spectrum of German Federation politics, the international environment and the flow of the War itself. The author is particularly adept at maintaining a clear and concise narrative that seamlessly weaves these disparate themes together in a easily comprehensible way. 

I particularly appreciated his analysis of the strengths and weaknesses of the German Army and its command structure. Conventional opinion holds that the German Army of the time was a machine to be feared, emulated and respected; however, as Boff conclusively proves, while elements of this were in fact true, the actual reality of the effectiveness of the Army was far more nuanced. Command and control was riven with political appointees, regional cliques and swung broadly between meritocracy as a promotion foundation and favouritism. Decentralized execution of command, while periodically evident, became increasingly rare as operations turned against the Germans. Structures became rigid and honesty in self evaluation (as a military) became the exception and not the norm. 

Boff’s book was very enjoyable and educational to read. His writing style is engaging and his research thorough and balanced. A consummate historian, he has presented his work fairly and drawn conclusions that are well supported by primary source material. His narrative, while thoughtful and complete, avoids the pitfalls of excessive verbosity and leaves the reader with a number of insightful observations that resonate even today. The one conclusion that caused me to pause, however, was his position that, following the failure of the Battle of the Marne in 1914, Germany (and the Central Powers) were destined to lose the war as they were not able to accomplish the foundational goal of a quick and decisive victory in the West.

The book is a very high quality publication. Maps are centrally located at the front of the narrative making reference to them easy and photos, while not of the highest quality, distributed throughout. The work includes a copious number of endnotes and a comprehensive bibliography. I thoroughly enjoyed and appreciated this book and strongly recommend it.

MiG Alley: The US Air Force in Korea 1950-53 - Thomas McKelvey Cleaver

This review has been submitted to Strategy 

and Tactics Magazine.

Title: MiG Alley: The US Air Force in Korea 1950-53
Author: Thomas McKelvey Cleaver
ISBN: 978-1-4728-3608-3
Publisher: Osprey Publishing 
Year: 2019
 Hardcover
Pages: 326

Conventional wisdom relating to the Korean War has the UN Forces (read US Air Force) maintaining an incredible kill ratio vs the MiG 15’s of the Koreans and Chinese. Drawing upon primary source material, the author has shown conclusively that, rather than the 14:1 kill/loss rate normally quoted, in reality the air campaign was far closer with rates approaching 1:1 during the first half of the war and 1.3/1 in the latter years. 

Cleaver has undertaken an excellent review of the air war, citing from interviews, intelligence reports and mission assessments from both sides in a (successful) effort to overturn traditional perceptions. The flow of the narrative follows the timeline of the conflict and the reader is therefore able to trace the development of tactics, doctrine and aircraft and the impact that it had as the war progressed. 

Cleaver incorporates within the narrative, a clear and concise discussion of the capabilities of the primary combat aircraft of the adversaries: MiG-15 for the North and the F-86 Sabre for the UN. In the course of his assessments, he is able to prove that, from a technical perspective, the MIG-15 was an equal match for the F-86 and overall, a far superior aircraft to F-51D, F-80 and the navy F9F Panther. His suggestion that the discriminating factor for success became the expertise of the pilots at the controls and the development of doctrine that drew upon the advantages each airframe had over the other, is well supported by primary source analysis. For example, with its multiple cannon and advantage in rate of climb and dive speeds the MiG was best suited as a hit and run platform that could do devastating damage with only one or two strikes; whereas the Sabre, with its 6 x .50 guns and close in maneuverability, was ideal in a more traditional dog-fighting role. 

The author has focussed a great deal of the book on a balanced evaluation of flight documents and after action reports; his analyses the strengths and weaknesses of the pilots (Soviet, Chinese, Commonwealth and American) is fascinating as is his investigation of bias and hubris amongst them. Cleaver adroitly encapsulates the Air War in Korea within the broader spectrum of the international struggle developing between East and West. Thus it was that the nations involved went to great lengths to conceal/manipulate losses and victories as a means of propaganda.

His conclusions are of particular interest as they are not standard in nature. Rather than simply look at win/loss rates and the fact that the ‘North Korean’ air force was not able to operate south of the 38^th parallel, he draws far more nuanced deductions. He posits, for example, that the goal of the North was to prevent UN forces from being able to bomb Northern Korea with impunity. In this respect they were successful in that B-29 losses were such that daylight bombing was suspended and fighter bomber efforts were limited. In fact, as Cleaver points out, the air interdiction campaign of the UN was never able to isolate the North Koreans and Chinese on the battlefield.

A fascinating book and well worthy of a read for those who wish to achieve a deeper understanding of the strengths and limitations of air campaigns. Cleaver has undertaken a comprehensive analyses of his subject, well supported by primary source material, that he presents in a logical and easily understood manner. He has also added a very human dimension to his work with the inclusion of personal anecdotes from participants on both sides of the conflict. Strongly recommended.

Three Before Breakfast - Alan Coles

Title: Three Before Breakfast

Author: Alan Coles
ISBN: 085937-1689
Publisher: Kenneth Mason
Year: 1979
Hardcover
Pages: 192
Photos/Maps: 17/3 

This relatively short treatise on the events surrounding the destruction of the HMS Aboukir, Hogue and Cressy by U-9 (of the Imperial German Navy) on the morning of 22 September, 1914, resulting in the loss of over 1,500 RN Officers and Seamen, is worthy of note for a number of reasons. Firstly, it hearkened the dawn of revolutionary new method of warfare that was to fundamentally impact the naval operational environment no less so then the introduction of the Dreadnought Battleship; second, the RN’s psychological and professional preparations for the war were proven to be woefully inadequate and third, there was a marked lack of appreciation on the potential of the U-Boat by all sides despite its noteworthy success. 

Coles comprehensive research and writing style bring renewed life to this forgotten, epic tale. He was able to interview actual participants in the battle and his dramatic detail makes for a compelling account, replete with a tenseness and authenticity that adds great depth to this harrowing narrative. The author’s journalistic background is evident throughout; no more so than in his ability to bring dimension to the key characters. All facets of the human experience are well represented: bravery, cowardice, fear and professionalism. Coles excellent expose has shed light upon a pivotal moment in the history naval warfare.

The World of the Battleship - Edited by Bruce Taylor

This review has been submitted to Military History Online. 

Title: The World of the Battleship
Author: Edited by Bruce Taylor
ISBN: 978-1-84832-178-6
Publisher: Seaforth Publishing
Year: 2018
Hardcover
Pages: 440
Photos: 100’s

The Battleship was, for decades, a symbol of beauty and raw power; epitomizing the authority of the State for which it sailed. Despite the fact that advances in technology has heralded the close of the Battleship era, it remains for many the quintessential example of the height of tangible State supremacy and influence. The World of the Battleship is a culmination of hundreds of hours of research and coordination to bring together a history of specific vessels spanning the period of 1882-1992 and twenty-one different navies. 

Each section of the book is drafted by a naval historian of the particular navy or region who focuses upon one ship that best represents the cream of that force. Replete with rare and fascinating photographs, the narrative describes the history, operational life and passing of these warships. The stories are presented in a thoughtful and engaging manner; focussing more upon the life of the ship and the crews experiences as opposed to exclusively the technical elements of ship design. Any engineering information is presented to provide context and background, rather than be the focus of the narrative. 

During the period covered by this book, Battleships were used by governments as a visible extension of their power and thus were an overt political, diplomatic as well as military tool. As such, the authors have incorporated into their studies, examples of the influence wielded and the perilous path the national governments trod as they tried to balance the enormous cost versus benefits of these ships. 

Attention is also paid the lives and interactions of the crews. Given that many of these ships had crew compliments in excess of a thousand crewmen, discipline, ethnicity, political machinations and professionalism (amongst others) all played very significant roles in the moral, effectiveness and confidence of these crews and ships. The authors draw upon examples to illustrate how these crews and their ships reflected the strengths and weaknesses of the States themselves. Often times, naval officers represented the cream of society and the lower decker’s those from ‘lower economic’ element’s. These communities were interdependent as the complexity of the ships demanded absolute focus and attention. Poor leadership, excessive discipline or even the quality of the food all had far greater impacts in the closed world of the ship that they would elsewhere. Instances of mutiny are addressed and discussed, as are catastrophic technical failures; each representing still relevant lessons to the modern reader. 

The community and comradeship of the crews on board these ships is emphasized as the true indicator of the strength of the Battleship. This loyalty served as the effective foundation of the ship. Ultimately the ship was a tool, but the care and attention needed for it to perform effectively and the common danger and hardship experienced, required a well-trained and motivated crew. 

This is an excellent book. It is of the highest quality in terms of publication and research. Each author presents a comprehensive bibliography about the national navy discussed, at the end of each section. It is a worthwhile addition to anyone’s library. 

Mobile Warfare for Africa – On the Successful Conduct of Wars in Africa and Beyond - Lessons Learned from the South African Border War - Roland de Vries, Camille Burger, Willem Steenkamp

This review has been submitted to The Canadian Army Journal 

Title: Mobile Warfare for Africa – On the Successful Conduct of Wars in Africa and Beyond - Lessons Learned from the South African Border War
Author: Roland de Vries, Camille Burger, Willem Steenkamp
ISBN: 978-1-912174-08-9
Publisher: Helion &Company
Year: 2017
Softcover
Pages: 388
Photos/Maps: 73/42

‘Si vis pacem para bellum – If you want peace, prepare for war’. This was the foundation upon which the South African Defence Force (SADF) was developed in order to counter the threats manifesting themselves throughout Southern Africa. The authors of this work (originally published in 1987 and reproduced in 2018) have all been involved in the historical analysis and doctrinal development of the SADF; none more so than Maj-Gen (ret’d) Roland de Vries, widely considered to be the ‘father’ of the SADF’s bush war doctrine. The degree of practical, ‘hands on’ experience translated in this work and the extent to which additional primary sources were tapped, ranging from senior German Afrka Korps Officers, African officers from across the continent and senior British and African Union security officials, affirms the depth of analysis and breadth of experience that has gone into the research for this book.

Above all, this is a teaching and information manual. The SADF was involved with numerous operations involving actions against both conventional militaries as well as asymmetric/guerilla style forces. Their experiences, captured in this book, covered the spectrum from small unit deep penetration operations, brigade level conventional multi-arms engagements, hearts and minds tasks to multi-element interdiction involving combinations of land forces and fixed and rotary wing assets.   

The narrative culminates in a series of case studies that provide context and concrete application of the lessons gleaned from the Bush War. They are all identically structured in order to facilitate understanding, with detailed maps and photographs. Each case study is directly tied to a chapter in the main text in order to deliver a real life example of the concepts being provided; all are stand alone and may be reviewed independently or in conjunction with the larger narrative.

Throughout the book, and in addition to the case studies, the Angolan Bush War (also known as the South African Border War), is referenced by the authors to provide foundational context to their perspectives. Fought between 1966 and 1989, it extended across modern day Angola, Zambia and Namibia and involved kinetic and asymmetric elements of warfare; ranging from low to high intensity clashes. From this laboratory of African conflict came many of the lessons that were applied in other theatres and regions. Drawing upon these lessons, the authors explain in depth, not only the development and application of tactics and doctrine but also how these lessons were applied to the development of equipment and, more specifically, vehicles and weapons systems that best suited the varied African environments.

Helion has again produced a book of the highest quality and the addition of an included but separate ‘atlas’ book enables the reader to follow the case studies and lessons learned with great ease. This book represents the culmination of literally decades of hard learned lessons in the harshest of classrooms, the battlefield. It not only is an engaging and fascinating read but also serves as an outstanding treatise on methods of combat that will stand any professional soldier, historian or casual militarist in good stead regardless of their geographic location, element or experience level. 

Air War in Northern Ireland: Britain’s Air Arms and the ‘Bandit Country’ of South Armagh; Operation Banner 1969-2007 - Steven Taylor

This review has been submitted to Canadian Army Today Magazine

Title: Air War in Northern Ireland: Britain’s Air Arms and the ‘Bandit Country’ of South Armagh; Operation Banner 1969-2007
Author: Steven Taylor
ISBN: 978-1-526-72154-9
Publisher: Pen and Sword

Year: 2018

Hardcover
Pages: 157
Photos/Maps: 1/16 

The British involvement in Northern Ireland has had numerous works written about it ranging from oral and first person accounts to asymmetric warfare techniques that were followed and the political machinations undertaken at the local, national and international level. What has not had much light shed upon it was the role played by the air arm of the British military engaged and how it supported land operations in the field. The author undertakes in this work, to address this historical oversight and to round out the narrative of UK/PIRA (Provisional Irish Republican Army) operations during the time of ‘The Troubles’. 

The book is a relatively fast read. While it provides an excellent overview of the nature and challenges of the air operations, it does not drill down terribly deeply into the methodologies used in planning combined operations, the challenges faced by the various elements as they strove to work together and the means by which doctrine was adjusted to meet the dynamic nature of the IRA’s modus operandi. 

There are; however, a series of themes that flow through the narrative. Each serve to highlight the challenges and benefits encountered by both the UK and IRA in undertaking and responding to the unique operating environment of Northern Ireland. These include: 1. The close proximity of the porous border of the Republic Of Ireland to South Armagh meant that PIRA operatives had a means of escape readily available to them from any pursuit; 2. The international reach and support given to the PIRA from Libya and the United States; and the role played by US law enforcement in disrupting efforts by the PIRA to attain advanced weaponry to counter the air threat; 3. The increasing focus and frustration experienced by the PIRA as they sought a means to overcome the advantages air support provided to the British; 4. The ingenious methods and countermeasures developed by each side to counter advances by the other; 5. The necessity of the PIRA to maintain the support of the population and its impact upon their ability to strike at British air assets. Each of these streams of narrative interweave to provide a broad picture of the complexity of air operations in the region.   

Taylor does provide a more detailed look at the nature of the British air assets and the multitude of roles that they played. While helicopters carried the brunt of the operational load, numerous fixed wing aircraft types provided invaluable reconnaissance and tactical support to ground operations. This discussion is enlightening as it further reinforces the technological advantages and limitations of different air platforms as well as the massive logistical effort required to keep these resources operating. 

The quality of the book from P&S is very good. The map outlining the operational theatre of Northern Ireland is clear and the text very readable. The author has provided a very comprehensive bibliography that provides a significant array of websites, primary source documents and further material for the interested reader. This book is a good starting point from which to examine the nature of air operations in an asymmetric and first world environment.

Red Star Over The Pacific 2nd Edition: China's Rise and the Challenge to U.S. Maritime Strategy - Toshi Yoshihara and James R Holmes

This review has been submitted to Proceedings for consideration. 

Title: Red Star Over The Pacific 2nd Edition: China's Rise and the Challenge to US Maritime Strategy
Author: Toshi Yoshihara and James R Holmes
ISBN: 978-1-682-47218-7
Publisher: Naval Institute Press
Year: 2018
Hardcover
Pages: 366
Photos/Maps: 0/5

The world has watched as, over the last 25 years, China’s naval strength and vision has grown from a coastal to a blue water perspective. Slowly, inexorably, China has undertaken a series of concurrent activities that has seen the extension of the PLAN’s technological capability (via international purchase and domestic development), marked improvement in personnel training and professionalism and an expansion of doctrine in keeping with this broadening of proficiency. Yoshihara and Holmes have expertly summarized these developments in this work. 

The authors have divided the book into a series of defined chapters that serve to shed light on particular aspects of the Chinese historical, doctrinal and operational approach to maritime strategy. Presented in a lucid and accessible manner, each expands upon the knowledge presented in the former to build a comprehensive and well-rounded picture of not only the tangible changes occurring in the region but the psychological and historical underpinnings of these efforts. 

Undertaking an extensive review of Chinese activities and looking in parallel at another nation state that made a concerted effort to challenge the naval status quo (pre-WW1 Germany), the authors have made a very convincing argument that China is following the tenants of Mahan’s “production, distribution and consumption” philosophy as the foundation of their strategic, operational and tactical thinking (a ‘sea denial’ approach). Additionally, and uniquely, they are also incorporating not only Corbett (another renowned Western naval thinker) but also the uniquely Eastern writings of Mao (and his ‘active defence’ approach) and Sun Tzu into their doctrinal development. As presented in the narrative, this provides them with a very broad spectrum of options when looking to expand their influence towards a blue water capability; all the while recognizing what their limitations are and endeavouring to use them in support of their strengths. 

Incorporated into the writers analysis, are primary source material from key military and political figures within the Chinese media, military and leadership. Using this basis, they outline the flexible and developing nature of naval doctrine and capability, national expectations and the vision the Chinese hold vis-à-vis their place within the international community. This analysis is presented opposite a similar look at US national and naval policy for the region; the dichotomy between them is sobering.

Rounding off the narrative, the authors present the readers with a series of options and recommendations regarding the influences that drive the way forward for the Chinese. These suggestions present cogent, balanced and insightful options and opportunities that, given their past actions, may very well foretell the limitations and parameters within which the Chinese may be forced to operate. They also paint a nuanced view of the Chinese strategic and operational options; dispelling some of the Western prejudiced notions surrounding the inevitability of Chinese regional hegemony.

Opposite this, the authors also do the same for the US and her regional Allies in developing strategies to counter the very real threat of China’s Mahanian based expansionist efforts. The writers contend that central to this is a requirement to realign preconceived assumptions underlying the capacity of China to maintain its developmental trajectory and its willingness to forward its regional and international agenda in the face of balanced, determined resistance Additionally, to proactively entertain non-traditional responses to China’s ‘grey-zone’ offensive and to look toward a more ‘holistic’ approach to the use of naval, coast guard and civilian merchant shipping in containing Chinese efforts.

This is an excellent book that truly draws together the myriad of influences: historical, cultural and political, that underpin the Chinese efforts to resume its pre-eminent position on the world stage. The alternatives that they present for the US and other regional players are thoughtful and attainable. Well written, coherent and engaging, this is definitely a book to read for China watchers and policy developers alike.

Knights of the Battle of Britain: Luftwaffe Aircrew Who Were Awarded the Knight’s Cross In 1940 - Chris Goss

This review has been submitted to Soldier

Magazine.

Title: Knights of the Battle of Britain: Luftwaffe Aircrew Who Were Awarded the Knight’s Cross In 1940
Author: Chris Goss
ISBN: 978-1-526-72651-3
Publisher: Frontline Books
Year: 2018
Hardcover
Pages: 212
Photos/Maps: 211/0

The author has put together a compendium of short synopsis of the operational careers of those German aircrew who were awarded the Knight’s Cross (Ritterkreuz) during the first full year of the war. Each recipient has been researched in detail and, in a majority of cases, numerous photos have been provided related to their careers. The book is presented in chronological order by month with a series of useful appendices outlining recipients by role. A quick read, with a high quality publication value from the publisher; the author has undertaken a prodigious amount of research in putting this work together. An interesting read.

Destination Dunkirk: The Story of Gort’s Army - Gregory Blaxland

This review has been submitted to Reveille Magazine.

Title: Destination Dunkirk: The Story of Gort’s Army

Author: Gregory Blaxland

ISBN: 978-1-52673-523-2

Publisher: Pen and Sword Books

Year: 2018

Hardcover

Pages: 436

Photos/Maps: 53/24

The Battle of France and the Low Countries commenced 10 May, 1940, and was an unmitigated success for the German military. In six weeks they had accomplished what their forefathers could not in four years of fighting, the collapse and occupation of France. Much has been written about this campaign with ad-nauseam analysis of what the Germans did right and the Allies (especially the French) did wrong. What has received relatively little in the way of attention was the role played by the British Expedition Force (BEF) who fought alongside the French in country well known to many of the World War 1 veterans now returning as senior Officers and NCO’s. While the British contribution to this campaign (in terms of land forces) was relatively small compared to the French and German armies, they nevertheless occupied key territory linking the French and Belgian armies along the River Dyle in Eastern Belgium. Their war was a short but sharp one; first contact on May 12, leading to evacuation from Dunkirk end May, and the last troops departing on June 17 from Nantes and St Nazarine.

The author was a member of the BEF and was evacuated on May 31^st from Dunkirk. His narrative is based therefore, not only on the official war diaries of the French, British and German units involved but also upon his and his peers’ personal records and recollections. His unique experience, having actually lived what he was writing about, has enabled him to pass on to the reader a perspective replete with anecdotal and documented information couched with a historian’s eye.

This version is a reprint of the original from 1973. The quality of the writing is excellent, conveying a real sense of the shock as the German juggernaut crashed into the unblooded British; driving them irrevocably back. It is noteworthy that the British forces did not collapse as did many of the Belgian and French, but were able to maintain cohesion and discipline as they retreated along roads choked with refugees and allies. Blaxland’s writing further underscores the absolute confusion amongst the Allied Headquarters as they struggled to deal with crisis followed by crisis. This work represents an excellent study in crisis planning and initiative amongst the British leadership while highlighting the utter failures of nerve and coordination amongst the Allies.

Included in the work are many maps outlining the unfolding struggle; while helpful, they are of average quality and would have benefitted from a rework. The author has also included a series of appendices that lay out in detail the formations included in the BEF, an outline of the main weapons systems and their capabilities in a comparison of German, French and British forces and finally a detailed rendition of source material broken out by chapter. Thoughtful, balanced and deeply informative, this is truly a worthwhile rendition of the BEF experience in France and a noble testament to its officers and soldiers.

Great Powers, Grand Strategies: The New Game in the South China Sea - edited by Anders Corr

This review has been submitted to the Australian Naval Review 

Title: Great Powers, Grand Strategies: The New Game in the South China Sea

Author: edited by Anders Corr

ISBN: 978-1-68247-235-4

Publisher: Naval Institute Press

Year: 2018

Hardcover

Pages: 327

Photos/Maps: 0/1

Very few arenas of the globe have the potential for overlapping geopolitical interests as does the South China Sea. Replete in resources, focus for international trade routes, experiencing growing populations and border to numerous island and mainland states; it is a region in dispute. Central to this concentration of competing interests sits China who, for the last twenty years, has been increasingly assertive in its dealings with not only neighbouring claimants within the region but also other Great Powers. Presented in a series of individual essays edited by Corr, Great Powers, Grand Strategies provides a timely and insightful analysis of the many facets of this new region of Great Power politics.

Three of the chapters focus exclusively on the Chinese perspective, two from the US perspective and one for each of the remaining powers: Japan, India and Russia. Notably, the book also addresses the perspective of regional ASEAN and EU concerns. The analysis is robust and the data presented in a comprehensive and informative manner. The information provided by each of the authors provides the reader with concrete examples to explain the actions and concerns of the nation states involved.

Interestingly, while the information provided is extremely insightful and useful in and of itself, the narrative, overall, does leave the reader with a sense of there being a lack of an overarching framework within which the contributor’s chapters would be able to be contextually better understood. Great Powers will generally act according to certain broad characteristics that would be better understood if explained at the outset of the work. These characteristics manifest themselves within different international relations theories. Thus if one had been presented with a synopsis of the Realist or Constructivism schools and their sub-components and were then able to view the actions of the Great Powers through these lenses, it would have gone a long way towards providing the reader with improved context to help explain the ‘why’ behind a Great Powers actions while using the data as tangible examples.  Constructivism postulates that a nation will draw upon its belief systems (identified within historical, cultural or social contexts) rather than material gain, as the foundation of its actions. Realism, on the other hand, suggests that the goal of any nation is the accumulation of power in an effort to eclipse or offset the power of its rivals (perceived or otherwise).  

This observation, notwithstanding, Great Powers, Grand Strategies remains an excellent synopsis of the confluence of international interests and challenges within the South China Sea. The work is timely given the ongoing stresses manifesting themselves as China expands its military and economic influence in the region. I recommend this work to those seeking to understand the potential impacts of the Great Power’s actions, the reasoning behind them and the methodologies that support them.

The Naval War in the Baltic 1939-1945 - Poul Grooss

This review has been submitted to the Canadian Naval Review.

Title: The Naval War in the Baltic 1939-1945

Author: Poul Grooss

ISBN: 978-1-5267-0000-1

Publisher: Seaforth Publishing

Year: 2017

Hardcover

Pages: 400

Photos/Maps: 136/17

When one thinks of the naval elements of World War Two, the two regions that come immediately to mind are the Atlantic and Pacific theatres; and for good reason as they were the scenes of titanic clashes never before experienced in the annals of naval history. However, for the Eastern and Northern Fronts, it was the Baltic that held the attention of the Scandinavian, Soviet and German combatants. It was here that the lifeblood of German iron ore, nickel and other key resources flowed from neutral Sweden, where the Germans trained their u-boat crews, safe from Allied bombers and surface combatants, undertook weapons trials from Peenemunde and where they were able to support and influence allies such as the Baltic States and Finland in their war efforts. For the Soviets, it was the environment to counter German efforts and spread their influence free from the direct influence of the West, the struggle for Leningrad and a theatre that represented an ongoing threat to their northern flank.

Relatively speaking, little is known/remembered in the West about the struggle that unfolded in the expanse of the Baltic; however, Grooss has encapsulated the regional war in a way that clarifies and condenses the conflict into a manageable and easily comprehensible format. This work is the result of a many decades long research project formalized into book form. Originally printed in his native Dutch, the translation into English comes across, at times, as a little wooden. This does not take away however, from the superb level of research and detail that is imparted. Replete with hundreds of rare photographs spread throughout the book and superb regional maps, the work is a pleasure to read.

What is fascinating about the region was the close proximity (relatively speaking) of countries with very different political interests. Grooss does an excellent job of relating the high wire diplomatic acts carried out by Sweden, Finland and Denmark as the war progressed towards its final curtain. The role of Sweden during the war is of particular interest as it acted very much (from a political perspective) as a northern Switzerland; a base for diplomacy and espionage.

An added bonus to his work are the ‘explanatory text-boxes’ that he adds throughout the book to provide greater understanding for a particular subject (such as mines and how they work, or torpedoes and torpedo firing methodologies as examples). Without breaking up the narrative, he is able to explain some of these complex systems, thereby adding depth and breadth to the discussion.

Seafold has produced a book of very high quality; certainly worthy of the comprehensive and detailed account of one of World War Two’s lesser known but significant theatres of the war. Dedicated historians and casual dabblers alike will find elements of this book to their taste. Grooss may add his name to a growing list of regional authors who have done justice to the memory of those who came before. 

Atlas of the Blitzkrieg 1939-41 - Robert Kirchubel

Title: Atlas of the Blitzkrieg 1939-41

Author: Robert Kirchubel

ISBN: 978-1-4728-3499-7

Publisher: Osprey Publishing

Year: 2019

Hardcover

Pages: 217

Kirchubel has been involved in developing detailed maps of various campaigns for many years. This is, however, his first complete set of maps relating to all major operations of WW2 up to the invasion of Crete (2 June 1941). Each map is accompanied by a brief synopsis of the engagements presented. He has broken out his book into a pre-war overview of each of the major players, seven distinct campaigns (Polish, Soviet, Scandinavian, Western, Air War over the UK and Germany, Naval Operations and the Balkan Region), a synopsis of the results of the Campaigns and finally an Annex presenting a visual representation of the occupied territories. The maps are very clear, comprehensive, easily followed and are excellent references for anyone studying a particular campaign; the book itself, of the highest quality. Finally, the author has included an extensive bibliography that gives the reader a myriad of options for further reading. This work should be included as a foundational reference in any student of the Second World Wars library.

A History of the Mediterranean Air War 1940-1945 Vol 4: Sicily and Italy to the Fall of Rome (14 May, 1943 – 5 June, 1944) - Christopher Shores and Giovanni Massimello

This review has been submitted to the RCAF Journal.

Title: A History of the Mediterranean Air War 1940-1945 Vol 4: Sicily and Italy to the Fall of Rome (14 May, 1943 – 5 June, 1944)

Author: Christopher Shores and Giovanni Massimello

ISBN: 978-1-91162-110-2

Publisher: Grub Street

Year: 2018

Hardcover

Pages: 696

Photos/Maps: Many hundreds/5

This book represents the fourth installment of this comprehensive review of the air war in the Mediterranean theatre of operations. The previous books have provided a phenomenal foundation for anyone interested in this period of the war. Building upon that base, Vol 4 moves forward the narrative outside of the North African theatre and into the invasion of Sicily and the Italian mainland. Shores maintains the depth of detail and vast scope of research that he and his colleagues have brought to their previous works.

The structure of the narrative appeals to both the serious historian as well as the casual reader. The period covered by the book is broken into daily installments. A synopsis of the events of that day from both the allied and axis perspective is followed by a detailed breakdown of Allied claims and losses (with as much detail relating to the event as possible) and a similar synopsis of Axis claims and losses. Additional detail is provided by further breaking down the claims sections by nationality. A fascinating element to this kind of side by side presentation of the details is that the reader can compare claims and casualties by each side and appreciate the deltas between the claimed kills and the actual losses. It is indicative of the gradual but inexorable tipping of the balance away from the Axis air forces that German claims from flak as opposed to aircraft combats began to assume a more prominent place.

What sets this book, and the previous books in the series, apart, is the depth of research and detail undertaken by the authors. It is truly remarkable that, even with loss of veterans through the passage of time, so much detail and ‘personal’ elements are still captured. One begins to better appreciate the resilience of the Axis powers even as they are forced out of mainland Africa, to resist the ever increasing power of the Allied air forces. Furthermore, the authors include numerous examples of individual operations that provide a great deal of insight into the tactics and challenges unique to the Mediterranean theatre of operations.

The pictures and narrative also provide a sense of the spirit of the adversaries despite the pressures of combat and loss. One gets a real understanding of the coping abilities and the mental strength of the individuals involved in this war. Also, the African theatre of operations has been described as one of the few ‘Wars Without Hate’ in WW2. The implication being that, with the absence of significant collateral damage targets, there was less of a negative emotional component to the fighting, and a great deal more respect for ones adversaries leading to an ability to appreciate their company once the fighting was over. Be that as it may however, one is also left with a sense of the hostility of the environment within which these forces clashed. A crash caused by combat, mechanical failure or becoming lost over water or over the desert as often as not led to a slow and lonely demise. Very rarely were searches ever undertaken.

Some of the more fascinating aspects of the book include the photo montage and narrative surrounding the sinking of the Italian battleship Roma by Do217’s of KG100 using the PX1400X ‘Fritz X’ radio-guided weapons systems. A detailed account by crewmen of the two aircraft that undertook the strike is included in the book. It makes for absorbing reading and speaks to the advances in air to ground/sea weapons systems. The PX1400X is a little known system that was guided remotely via an onboard camera from its launch aircraft to target. Launched from 7000m, the ‘mothership’ was impervious to anti-aircraft fire. In the case of the Roma, the attackers escaped without a scratch.

Grub Street publishing has once again produced a book of the very highest quality. The printing is a bit small for those of a certain age; however, the layout is clean and clear. The photos have been reproduced with astonishing clarity. Many of these photos are very rare or have never been published before. The variety of aircraft types presented in the book really do emphasize the challenges to the support elements of the different nations. Overall, this work provides the reader within outstanding overarching perspective of the air war in the Mediterranean. It is very strongly recommended for those looking to garner a deeper appreciation of the Mediterranean theatre.