Land forces and warfare Books

Book SynopsisMeticulously researched, this book examines the evidence for the post-Roman military forces of France and Britain during the ''Dark Ages'', reconstructing their way of life and the battles they fought in compelling detail.The collapse of the former Western Roman Empire during the so called ''Dark Ages'' c. AD 410 was gradual and piecemeal. Out of this vacuum arose regional tribes and leaders determined to take back kingdoms that were theirs and oust any Roman presence for good. However, the Roman guard was tenacious and survived in small pockets that emerged in both Gaul and Britain. These areas of Romano-Celtic resistance held out against the Saxons until at least the mid 6th century in Britain and against the Visigoths and the Merovingian Franks until the late 8th century in France.Drawing on archaeological finds, contemporary sculpture and manuscript illuminations, Dr Raffaele D'Amato presents contemporary evidence for 5th to 9th-century Gallic and British ''Dark Age'' armiesTrade ReviewOverall, a handy book, which wargamers will find particularly helpful. * The Balkan Wargamer *All in all for such a short book this is an insightful look at the history of the military forces, weapons, artefacts, personalities and warfare techniques of this period. * Army Rumour Service *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION Sub-Roman and post-Roman - Sources SELECT CHRONOLOGY POST-ROMAN GAUL Historical background: the Patricii - Armorica - The Arborychi - Southern Gaul Military organization - Armies of the Patricii - Armorica and Brittany - Post-Roman enclaves and cities POST-ROMAN BRITAIN Historical background: the warlords - Ambrosius - Arthur Kingdoms - Bryneichn - Reghed and Cumbria - Elmet - Gododdin - Strathclyde - Gwynedd, Dyfed and Powys - Dumnonia - Other Romano-British enclaves Military organization - Warlord armies - Romano-British kingdoms - Teulu, Gosgordd and Nifer - Size of armies EQUIPMENT, ARMS & CLOTHING Gallo-Roman Patricii armies - Helmets - Body armour - Weapons - Other equipment - Military dress - Germanic equipment Brittany and Armorica - Helmets - Armour and shields - Weapons - Horse equipment - Military dress British warlord armies - Helmets - Body armour - Shields - Military belts - Weapons: Spears - Swords - Daggers and knives - Axes Cavalry warfare and equipment - Standards Post-Roman kingdoms - Helmets - Armour - Shields - Weapons - Cavalry warfare - Military dress SELECT BIBLIOGRAPHY INDEX

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive, illustrated account of the new generation of advanced tanks to emerge during the last 15 years of the Cold War, showcasing major improvements in armor protection, gunsights, and fire-control systems.Focusing on the technology of the period, author Steven J. Zaloga explains how the demands of a potential Cold War battlefield spurred the development of the 20th century's most advanced tanks. He considers the final versions of the Soviet T-72, T-64, and T-80 and assesses their strengths and weaknesses. He also explores how the failure of the US-German MBT-70 project led to America's development of the M1 Abrams tank, and to Germany's all-new Leopard II. The British development of the Challenger tank is also considered, as is the lesser-known Leclerc tank developed by France, the smallest and lightest of any of the western designs. Featuring superbly detailed new illustrations and many photos, this volume pinpoints the key technology of the era, incluTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION THE TANKS, DOCTRINE, AND ORGANIZATION Soviet Union United States Germany UK France TANKS IN BATTLE TECHNICAL ANALYSIS Protection Firepower Combat effectiveness FURTHER READING INDEX

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Book SynopsisGeneral Anders was a significant and controversial figure in the politics of Allied command

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Book SynopsisContains over fifty full-colour drawings of the various uniforms and insignia. Tells the story of a little-known part of the war on the Eastern Front.

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Book SynopsisThe Battle of the Bulge took the Allied armies by surprise in 1944\. It was a result of the extraordinary recovery of Hitler's panzer divisions following crushing defeats on the Eastern and Western fronts. In a daring offensive he hoped his panzers would unhinge the American and British push on the Rhine by charging through the Schnee Eifel, thereby prolonging the war. The consequence was one of the best-known battles of the entire conflict, and Anthony Tucker-Jones's photographic history is the ideal introduction to it. The story is told through a sequence of revealing contemporary photographs and a concise text. They give a sharp insight into the planning and decision-making, the armoured forces involved, the terrain and the appalling mid-winter conditions, the front-line fighting and the experience of the troops involved. The armoured battle, which was critical to the outcome, is the main focus. Through a massive tank offensive the Germans aimed to cut through the US 1st Army to Antwerp and Brussels, in the process trapping three Allied armies. The confusion and near collapse of the Americans as their defences were overrun is vividly recorded in the photographs, as is their resistance and recovery as the German spearheads were slowed, then stopped.

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Book SynopsisDrawing on a superb collection of rare and unpublished photographs the The 7th SS Volunteer Mountain Division Prinz Eugen 1941 - 1945 is the 7th book in the Waffen-SS Images of War Series written by Ian Baxter. The book tells the story of the 7th SS Mountain Division was formed in 1941 from the Volksdeutsche (ethnic German) volunteers and conscripts from the Banat, Independent State of Croatia, Hungary and Romania. It fought a brutal counter insurgency campaign against communist-led Yugoslav Partisan resistance forces in the occupied Serbia and Montenegro. It was given the title Prinz Eugen after Prince Eugene of Savoy, an outstanding military leader of the Habsburg Empire who liberated the Banat and Belgrade from the Ottoman Empire in the Austro Turkish War. It was initially named the SS-Freiwilligen-Division Prinz Eugen (SS-Volunteer Division Prinz Eugen).

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Book SynopsisThe Deutsche Afrika Korps (best known as simply Afrika Korps) built up a well-deserved reputation as a superb fighting machine. While this was founded on the leadership and tactical genius of its legendary commander Erwin Rommel and the fighting skills of its officers and men, another vital element was its equipment in general and armour in particular. This superbly illustrated Images of War book reveals the full range of German armoured vehicles that saw service in North Africa over the two year period 1941 to mid-1943\. As well as the formidable panzers , such as the Tiger and Panther tanks, there were Sturmartillerie equipments, reconnaissance vehicles, half- tracks, armoured cars, Panzerkampwagens and motor cycles. All had their roles to play. While the Allies triumphed in North Africa ultimately, the combination of German design and engineering with superb generalship and fighting spirit, very nearly changed the course of the Second World War in 1942\. Military historians and equipment enthusiasts will find this a fascinating and authoritative book.

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Book SynopsisDesigned with the hard lessons of the North African campaign in mind, including the adoption of a dual-purpose gun capable of firing high-explosive and anti-tank rounds, the Cromwell was one of the most successful of the British cruiser tanks produced during the Second World War. The lack of heavy armour was made up for by the tank's high speed provided by a Rolls-Royce Meteor engine. The Centaur was externally almost identical to the Cromwell, the major difference being the installation of the less powerful Liberty engine. While the Centaur equipped the Royal Marines during the Normandy battles, the Cromwell served until the end of the war and formed the basis for the Comet. In his fifth book in the TankCraft series, author and illustrator Dennis Oliver uses official wartime photographs and comprehensively researched, exquisitely presented colour profiles to tell the story of the penultimate British cruiser tank. In common with all the titles from the TankCraft series, the large full-colour section features available model kits and accessories as well as aftermarket products. In addition to the colour profiles there is a gallery of expertly constructed and painted models. A separate section explains technical details and modifications made during production and in the field, giving the modeller all the information required to recreate an authentic replica of one of the tanks that served from the Normandy beaches to the final battles in Germany.

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Book SynopsisWith rare, often unpublished photographs and full captions Hitler's Heavy Tank Battalions provides a superb record of the Wehrmacht's Schwere Panzerableilung on operations between 1942 and 1945. In addition to the Tiger I and successor Tiger II heavy tanks, these battalions were equipped with Pz.Kpfw III's, Flakpanzer IV, Sd. Kfz 7/1 self-propelled anti-aircraft guns, Sd.Kfz 9 and 10 halftracks, Sd.Kfz 2 and Kettenkrad gun tractors. The Tigers required substantial maintenance and the Berge Panther armoured recovery vehicle played a key role. Heavy tank battalions saw action on the Eastern Front, in Italy and North West Europe before being pushed back to Berlin for the final defensive battles and there are graphic photographs and descriptions of vehicles on operations in all these theatres. While feared by the Allies in the early years, these units suffered increasing attrition from anti-tank artillery, ground attack aircraft and mechanical issues. Modellers and equipment buffs in particular will find this latest Images of War book extremely useful and fascinating.

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Book SynopsisDuring the 1980s and early 1990s the Challenger 1 main battle tank played a central role in Britain's armoured forces and it achieved remarkable success in combat, destroying around 300 Iraqi tanks in the Gulf War. With its advanced Chobham armour and hydropneumatic suspension system, it was one of the most sophisticated and effective armoured vehicles of the time and, in a modified form, it is still in service with the Jordanian army. It is also a popular subject with tank modellers and enthusiasts, which is why this volume in the TankCraft series is of such value. Archive photos of the Challenger 1 in service and extensively researched colour profile illustrations depict the tank throughout its operational life. A large part of the book showcases available model kits and aftermarket products, complemented by a gallery of beautifully constructed and painted models in various scales. Technical details as well as modifications introduced during production and in the field are also examined and provide everything the modeller needs to recreate an accurate representation of the Challenger 1.

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Book SynopsisThe M113 has become as much a recognisable part of the US military machine at war as the Bell UH-1 Iroquois and M16 assault rifle. Earning its stripes in the jungles and highlands of Vietnam, it became the most widely armoured vehicle of the campaign. Such was its prowess that the Viet Cong gave it the nickname Green Dragon on account of its ability to go virtually anywhere. Its ground-breaking aluminium hull gives the M113 a relatively low weight of 12ts, this allows it to be easily transported by air and gives it an amphibious ability. The design was also easy to modify and can carry a range of support and indirect fire weapons. From mortars to ballistic missiles, the M113 spawned a progeny of useful and innovative vehicles. The base M113 is lightly armoured and safe against only the lightest of small arms fire and shell splinter. As a result a range of up-armour packages have been used in the past, from sandbags to complex applique armour. 80,000 M113s of all types have been produced and are in use with over 50 countries, making it one of the most widely used armoured fighting vehicles to be produced. Indeed such was its popularity that the US bought their final M113s in as late as 2007. The M113 was designed and developed by the Food Machinery Corporation (FMC) to replace the heavier and less reliable steel-bodied M59 and M75 armoured personnel carriers. It was specifically designed to be lighter, air-portable and have amphibious capability. Carrying a crew of two, driver and commander, who manned the M113's only weapon, a .50cal machine gun, the M113 would transport 11 soldiers into combat before withdrawing to the rear. Powered initially by a V8 petrol engine the M113 would be continuously up-engined throughout its frontline and subsequent rear support lifespan. Changes included improved suspension, smoke dischargers and externally fitted fuel tanks. Other changes have included armoured commander's turrets and slat armour. This LandCraft title looks at the M113s development where the FMC sought to utilise its chassis into as many roles as possible, from smoke generators to flamethrowers. The book also looks at how the M113 was adapted for use by numerous overseas customers and how these are upgraded to suit local conditions. Finally the title looks at the M113's changing roles in the more sophisticated contemporary battlescape and how it's still providing service in theatres across the world in a variety of roles, both combat and support. For the modeller there is nothing more important than the little things and this image-rich section of Land Crafts M113 title delivers the goods. Filled with crisp photos that show the M113's many details, combined with helpful accompanying text, forms an enviable visual guide for the enthusiast and modeller alike.

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Book SynopsisBy the first weeks of 1945 the Eastern Front had been pushed back to the Carpathian mountain passes in the south and Warsaw on the Vistula River in the centre while in the north the German army was fighting in East Prussia. The Wehrmacht's armoured and mobile formations were now employed exclusively as fire brigades, rushed from one crisis to the next as the Red Army pushed inexorably westward. Critical to the German defence were the army's heavy Panzer battalions whose Tiger tanks, with their 8.8cm guns, were almost invincible on the open plains of central Europe. In his latest book in the TankCraft series Dennis Oliver uses archive photos and extensively researched colour illustrations to examine the Tiger tanks and units of the German Army and Waffen-SS heavy Panzer battalions that struggled to resist the onslaught of Soviet armour during the last days of the conflict which culminated in the battle for Berlin. A key section of his book displays available model kits and aftermarket products, complemented by a gallery of beautifully constructed and painted models in various scales. Technical details as well as modifications introduced during production and in the field are also examined providing everything the modeller needs to recreate an accurate representation of these historic tanks.

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Book SynopsisThe exploits of the 3rd Battalion, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment have long been overshadowed by those of Easy Company, 2nd Battalion. Yet the actions of the 3rd Battalion during the D-Day landings were every bit as incredible. This is the astounding story of how, after suffering many immediate casualties on landing, the surviving paratroopers fought on towards their objective against horrendous odds. Using fascinating first-hand accounts of the soldiers and the French civilians who witnessed the Normandy campaign, and illustrated with black and white photographs and maps throughout, the authors offer a unique and comprehensive account of the experiences of the 3rd Battalion from training through to D-Day and beyond.Table of ContentsForeword by Ed Shames, 3rd BN, 506th PIR ·Acknowledgments . Introduction · 1. “Hit it - 13 weeks of pain” - Creation of the 506th PIR · 2. “Time, gentlemen, please” - The 506th at Ramsbury, UK · 3. “Here’s to your dog tags” - Preparations for D-Day · 4. “Jump into the fight” - Operation Overlord · 5. “God, let me live til morning” - D-Night Part 1 · 6. “For Christ’s sake, let’s go” - D-Night Part 2 · 7. “A real feeling of victory” - D-Day: June 6, 1944 · 8. “No word from 3rd Battalion, 506th PIR” - D-Day + 1 · 9. “A pitiful sight” - D-Day + 2 · 10. “Don’t shoot, we’re Americans” - Regrouping and consolidation · 11. “Still an American paratrooper” - POWs and counterattacks ·12. “I ain’t dead yet” - The battle of Bloody Gully , June 13 1944 · 13. “Things are pretty calm right now” - Operations on the Main Line of Resistance · 14. “Go on Yank, have a drink” - Return to Ramsbury · Bibliography · Index

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Book SynopsisA work on Alexander the Great. It combines analyses of terrain, climate, and supply requirements that account for Alexander's strategic decision in the light of the options open to him.Table of ContentsList of Tables and Maps Acknowledgments Frequently Abbreviated Works Introduction 1. The Macedonian Army and Its Logistic System 2. Greece and Turkey 3. Syria, Lebanon, Israel, Egypt, and Iraq 4. Iran and Afghanistan 5. Uzbekistan, Tadzhikistan, Turkmenistan, Pakistan, and Southern Iran 6. Conclusion Appendix Note on the Maps Maps Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisOVER 100 APPROVED BRITISH ARMY CHALLENGESPacked full of puzzles and challenges, this book will help you develop the vital mind-training skills needed for any team player or budding recruit get ready to tackle logic puzzles, explore mazes and wrestle with problem-solving tests. You'll learn to:Crack codes essential to survival situationsComplete complex navigation challengesPut leadership and teamwork skills to the test with essential lateral thinking techniquesStrengthen crucial cognitive skills through quizzes and word gamesProblem-solve under pressureAnalyse real-life' scenarios, and ask yourself: What would I do in this situation?'Teamwork is at the heart of the British Army, and this is the perfect challenge book to enjoy with family and friends work together or invite some friendly competition!

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Book SynopsisThe historical development of amphibious warfare and illustrated directory of ocean-going vessels, amphibious vessels and landing craft, with 600 photographs, newly updated and extended.

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Book SynopsisPanzers in Normandy Then and Now is a detailed study of the German panzer regiments in Normandy in 1944 as seen from the German side.

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Book SynopsisGives a concise overview of history and development of the French infantry under Napoleon, with detailed discussion of organization, weapons and equipment.

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Book SynopsisCovers tank guns from eight countries (Britain, France, Germany, the Soviet Union, Japan, Italy, Czechoslovakia and the United States).

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Book SynopsisThe epic of Dunkirk has been told many times, but the numerous accounts from surviving soldiers and sailors were often a blur of fear and fighting with the days mingling into each other, leaving what is, at times, a confusing picture. In this book, adopting a day by day approach, the author provides a clear portrayal of the unfolding drama on the perimeter around Dunkirk, in the port itself and along the beaches to La Panne and the Belgian border.Reports from many of the captains of the vessels which took part in the great evacuation were submitted to the Admiralty immediately after the conclusion of Operation Dynamo. With access to these, and supported by the various records maintained by the Army and RAF, the author has been able to finally piece together the movements and actions of the many of the squadrons, units and ships involved.With the Admiralty reports and a mass of other first-hand accounts, many of which have never been published before, the true tale of the heroism of the

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Book SynopsisIn World War II Germany''s doctrine of mobile warfare dominated the battlefield. By trial and error, the Germans were the first to correctly combine the strength in tanks and in mobile infantry and artillery. This integration of mobile units, equipment and tactics underpinned Germany''s successes in the first half of the war. As the war dragged on, the Allies sought to copy German tactics but German armies remained supreme in this type of warfare until their losses had seriously degraded their capabilities. This study traces the development of the different types of unit that came together in the Panzergrenadier branch from the inter-war years through World War II. Using colour plates to display the changes in uniform, equipment and insignia in all theatres of operations throughout the conflict, this is a complete account of Hitler's elite armoured infantry.

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Book SynopsisA highly illustrated study of Operation Lüttich, the German Panzer counteroffensive against the Normandy bridgehead in August 1944 that backfired, leading to a collapse of the German position in northern France.Fully illustrated with stunning full-color artwork, this book tells the story of Operation Lüttich, the failed offensive which ended any prospect of Germany winning the battle of Normandy.Following the successful landings in Normandy on D-Day and consolidation during Operation Cobra, the Wehrmacht was ordered to begin a counteroffensive named Operation Lüttich. The plan was to send a large Panzer force across the First US Army sector, cutting off its spearheads, and finally reach Avranches on the coast. Had this succeeded, it not only would have cut off the First US Army spearheads, but also Patton''s newly deployed Third US Army operating in Brittany. However, thanks to an intercepted radio message, thTable of ContentsOrigins of the campaign/Chronology/Opposing commanders/Opposing armies/Orders of battle/Opposing plans/The campaign/Aftermath/The battlefields today/Further reading/Index

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Book SynopsisA fully illustrated and expertly researched guide to the tanks of Hitler''s formidable war machine.The Panzers that rolled over Europe were Germany''s most famous fighting force, and are some of the most enduring symbols of World War II. However, at the start of the war, Germany''s armor was nothing extraordinary and it was operational encounters such as facing the Soviet T-34 during Operation Barbarossa which prompted their intensive development. Tactical innovation gave them an edge where technological development had not, making Hitler''s tanks a formidable enemy. Hitler''s Tanks details the development and operational history of the light Panzer I and II, developed in the 1930s, the medium tanks that were the backbone of the Panzer Divisions, the Tiger, and the formidable King Tiger, the heaviest tank to see combat in World War II. Drawing on Osprey''s unique and extensive armor archive, Chris McNab skillfully weaves together the story of thTable of ContentsINTRODUCTION 1: The Light Panzers 2: The Panzer III 3: The Panzer IV 4: Panther Medium Tank 5: Tiger I Heavy Tank 6: King Tiger 7: Panzer Crews FURTHER READING INDEX

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Book SynopsisA gripping and detailed study of the brutal urban battle for Budapest, which saw German and Hungarian troops struggling to halt the joint Soviet-Romanian offensive to take the key city on the Danube.The 52-day-long siege of Budapest witnessed some of the most destructive urban fighting of the war. The Transdanubia region was strategically vital to Nazi Germany for its raw materials and industry, and because of the bridgehead it allowed into Austria. As a result, Hitler declared Budapest a fortress city in early December 1944.The battle for the city pitted 90,000 German and Hungarian troops against 170,000 Soviet (2nd and 3rd Ukrainian Fronts) and Romanian attackers. The operations to take the city ran across several phases, from the initial Soviet approach to Budapest commencing in late October 1944, through the encirclement of city first on the Pest side of the Danube, and then on the Buda bank, and on to the savage urban fighting that began in December 1944Trade ReviewA fascinating addition to the Osprey Campaign series that meticulously details a little-known battle. * Classic Military Vehicle Magazine *Table of ContentsORIGINS OF THE CAMPAIGN CHRONOLOGY OPPOSING COMMANDERS Axis Soviet and Romanian OPPOSING FORCES Axis Soviet and Romanian Orders of battle OPPOSING PLANS Axis Soviet and Romanian THE SIEGE OF BUDAPEST The first Soviet attack: 29 October–6 November 1944 Budapest surrounded: 11 November–24 December 1944 Taking Pest: 24 December 1944–18 January 1945 German relief operations: Konrad I–III Buda: 19 January–10 February 1945 Breakout: 11–13 February 1945 AFTERMATH THE BATTLEFIELD TODAY BIBLIOGRAPHY INDEX

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Book SynopsisFeaturing specially commissioned artwork and maps, carefully chosen illustrations and insightful analysis, this book examines the legendary Mongol warriors and their vastly different European opponents. Having conquered much of Central Asia by 1237, the Mongols advanced into the northern Caucasus. The fall of several key centres such as Riazan and Vladimir was followed by Mongol victory at Kiev. Moving west, in 1241 two Mongol armies achieved stunning victories at the battles of Liegnitz in Poland and the Sajo River (Mohi) in Hungary, before suffering their only reverse of the campaign at the fortress of Klis. The Mongol forces regrouped in Hungary to prepare for a further advance into Austria and Germany, but the death of their leader, Ogedei Khan, meant that his generals were required to return to Mongolia to choose a successor. Smaller Mongol forces would return to raid in the years to come, but never again would Western Europe be threatened as it was in 1242.Fully illustrateTrade Reviewan interesting match-up, pitting two very different warriors against each other. -- Dave Watson * The Balkan Wargamer *This is an interesting match-up, pitting two very different warriors against each other. * The Balkan Wargamer *Table of ContentsIntroduction The Opposing Sides Liegnitz, 9 April 1241 Muhi, 1241 Esztergom and Székesfehérvár, 1242 Analysis Aftermath Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisA new illustrated study of the devastating, but little-known, Soviet armored blitzkrieg against the Japanese in the last weeks of World War II, and how it influenced Soviet tank doctrine as the Cold War dawned.Although long overshadowed in the West by the dropping of the atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, the USSR''s lightning strike into Manchuria in August 1945 was one of the most successful and unique campaigns of the era. Soviet forces, led by over 5,500 tanks and self-propelled guns, attacked across huge distances and deserts, marshes, and mountains to smash Japan''s million-strong Kwantung Army in a matter of days.Japanese forces were short of training and equipment, but nevertheless fought fiercely, inflicting 32,000 casualties on the Soviets. Red Army operations were characterized by surprise, speed, and deep penetrations by tank-heavy forces born of the brutal lessons they had learned during years fighting the Wehrmacht. Lessons from the campaiTrade ReviewIt can be confidently said that this text will obtain a very good reputation as a concise summary of the campaign and any enthusiast of the Soviet / Japanese / Chinese campaign ought to obtain a copy. * Military Archive Research *Despite my lifelong interest in the history of WW2, this is a story I knew nothing about beforehand, so I found this one especially fascinating. * Military Model Scene *Table of ContentsINTRODUCTION - Red Blitzkrieg SOVIET ARMORED FORCE EVOLUTION, ORGANIZATION, AND DOCTRINE TECHNICAL FACTORS - Self-propelled guns - Miscellaneous AFVs THE CAMPAIGN - Forces and plans - Across deserts and mountains: The Trans-Baikal Front - Through the fortified hills and forests: The First Far Eastern Front’s attack - Supporting attack: The Second Far Eastern Front - Amphibious operations on the flanks - Surrender and seizing the spoils BATTLE ANALYSIS - Japanese tank, antitank tactics, and operations AFTERMATH FURTHER READING INDEX

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Book SynopsisThis engrossing book pits the legionaries of Imperial Rome against their Germanic and Sarmatian opponents in the 2nd century AD.Shortly after Marcus Aurelius came to power in AD 161, the Roman Empire was racked by a series of military crises. While unrest in Britain and a new war with Parthia were swiftly dealt with, the invasion of Roman territory by the Chatti and Chauci peoples heralded a resurgent threat from the empire's European neighbours. Soon the Marcomanni and the Quadi, as well as the Dacians and the Sarmatian Iazyges, would attack the Romans in a series of savage conflicts that continued until AD 175 and would see the first invasion of Roman Italy since the beginning of the 1st century BC.In this book, the two sides' objectives, weapons and equipment and fighting styles are assessed and compared in the context of three featured battles: Carnuntum (170), where a Roman legion was vanquished and Italy invaded; the Battle on the Ice' (172), where the RTable of ContentsIntroduction The Opposing Sides Carnuntum, AD 170 The Battle on the Ice, AD 172 The Miracle of the Rain, AD 174 Analysis Aftermath Bibliography Index

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Book SynopsisA comprehensive record in words and images of America's main battle tank since 1981.

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Book SynopsisCataphracts were the most heavily armoured shock cavalry on the ancient battlefield, predating the knights of Western Europe by over 1000 years.

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Book SynopsisHighly illustrated introduction to one of the most important German tanks of the Second World War with over 150 archive photographs plus specially commissioned colour profiles.

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Book SynopsisDuring the Cold War, the T-54/55 series of tanks represented the most serious threat to Nato land forces in Europe. Available in huge quantities, it formed the core of the Warsaw Pact armoured warfare doctrine, which envisaged massed tank attacks against the weakest point in Nato's front-line defences. Yet the T-54/55 could be stopped by smaller numbers of tanks which had the benefit of better technology and training, as was demonstrated during the Yom Kippur War of 1973 when Israeli tanks dealt out appalling punishment to T-55s of the Syrian army. Despite these limitations, the T-54/55 was one of the most successful tanks ever produced, and this volume in the TankCraft series by Robert Jackson is the ideal introduction to it. As well as tracing the history of the T-54/55, his book is an excellent source of reference for the modeller, providing details of available kits and photographs of award-winning models, together with artworks showing the colour schemes applied to these tanks. Each section of the book is supported by a wealth of archive photographs.

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Book SynopsisTiger tanks were among the most-feared fighting vehicles of the Second World War and they gained almost legendary status, yet they never fulfilled their potential because they were not produced in sufficient numbers and the tide the war had turned against the German army by the time they were introduced. Often they were deployed in difficult circumstances and in defensive battles, struggling against the odds. Nowhere was this more true than in western Europe during the Allied advance across France and into Germany, and it is the Tigers of this phase of the war that Dennis Oliver portrays in his third volume on the Tiger in the TankCraft series. He uses archive photos and extensively researched colour illustrations to examine the Tiger tanks and units of the German Army and Waffen-SS heavy panzer battalions that struggled to resist the onslaught of Allied armour and air attacks during the last days of the conflict. A key section of his book displays available model kits and aftermarket products, complemented by a gallery of beautifully constructed and painted models in various scales. Technical details as well as modifications introduced during production and in the field are also examined providing everything the modeller needs to recreate an accurate representation of these historic tanks.

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Book SynopsisFrom July 1943 to the Nazis' final defeat in May 1945 the Panther main battle tank and its variants were the mainstay of Germany's armoured forces. This superbly engineered fighting vehicle offered a lethal combination of firepower, mobility and protection. As this classic Images of War series title reveals, the Panther saw non-stop fighting on the Eastern, Western and Italian fronts. Using rare and often unpublished contemporary photographs with full captions and authoritative text, it provides a comprehensive coverage of elite Panther battalions in action. The book traces the development of the Panther, for example into tank hunter (Panzerjager), and also covers the other supporting vehicles that formed part of the Panther battalions' establishment. These included armoured recovery, Bergepanther, halftracks, Sd.kfz.2 Kettenrad, gun tractors and communications vehicles.

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Book SynopsisIn spite of the relatively small numbers involved, the Tiger I and Tiger II tanks of the German Army and Waffen-SS heavy Panzer formations played a central role in resisting the Allied invasion of France in the summer of 1944\. British and American tank crews found to their dismay that the Tigers could survive numerous hits while a single round from one of their 88mm guns was enough to penetrate the strongest armour. In his latest book in the TankCraft series Dennis Oliver uses archive photographs and painstakingly researched, exquisitely presented colour illustrations to examine the part these powerful tanks played in the Normandy battles and also the units that operated them. As with previous titles, a large part of this book showcases available model kits and aftermarket products and accessories, complemented by a gallery of skillfully constructed and painted models. Descriptions of technical details as well as modifications introduced during production and in the field are also provided giving the modeller all the information and knowledge required to recreate authentic miniature representations of the Panthers that fought in the fields and hedgerows of Normandy during the summer of 1944.

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Book SynopsisSent to France in August 1914 the North Irish Horse (NIH) were the first British reservist regiment to see action (at Le Cateau) before fighting as rearguard on the long retreat to the outskirts of Paris. For the next four years they saw action in many of the major battles (Ypres, Somme, Passchendaele, Cambrai) and were involved in the final advance to victory. The book not only describes the Regiments actions by squadron but focusses on the officers and men; their background, motivation and courageous deeds and sacrifices. The author places the Regiments achievement in the context of the overall war and also reflects on the effect that unfolding events (eg the Easter Rising) in Northern Ireland had on the Regiment and its members. The book draws on a wealth of primary source material, much unpublished including war diaries, personal accounts, letters and memoirs. Thus in addition to compiling the first history of the NIH, the author succeeds in painting a valuable picture of The Great War at the fighting end

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Book SynopsisBy 1944 the German army was on the defensive on all fronts and Allied bombing was putting increasing pressure on the nation's industrial output. Since the earliest days of the war the Germans had experimented with mounting anti-tank weapons on obsolete chassis and one of the most successful of these would prove to be the Jagdpanzer 38, more often referred to today as the Hetzer. Small and unimposing the Hetzer's appearance belied its effectiveness. Armed with the powerful 7.5cm L/48 gun, the same weapon fitted to the Jadgpanzer IV, the Hetzer featured armour sloped armour plates of up to 60mm thickness and was capable of a top speed of 42 kilometres per hour. Almost 3,000 examples were assembled and its low cost and ease of production meant that it was Germany's most important tank killer of the late war period. In his latest book in the TankCraft series Dennis Oliver uses archive photos and extensively researched colour illustrations to examine the Hetzer tank destroyers and the units of the German Army and Waffen-SS that operated them during the last months of the Second World war. A key section of his book displays available model kits and aftermarket products, complemented by a gallery of beautifully constructed and painted models in various scales. Technical details as well as modifications introduced during production and in the field are also examined providing everything the modeller needs to recreate an accurate representation of these historic tanks.

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Book SynopsisOne towed artillery gun required a team of six horses and nine men. WW2 German engineers came up with the idea of mounting an artillery gun on top of a tank chassis. This new technology reduced the amount of resources required to deploy one artillery gun. Artillery self-propelled guns only needed a four or five man crew. They could also be made ready to fire more quickly. This book covers the development and use of this new weapon between 1939 and 1945. One type was successfully used in the invasion of France in May 1940. More were used on the Eastern Front against Soviet forces from 1941 until the end of the war in 1945. The 'Desert Fox', Ewin Rommel, needed artillery guns that could keep up with his Panzers in North Africa. Horses could not be used in the desert. He was sent 15 cm howitzers mounted on top of Panzer II tank chassis and captured French Army Lorraine 37L tracked armoured supply vehicles. Rommel's forces in Northern France were equipped with a variety of new artillery self-propelled guns. They were used against the Allies when they invaded the beaches of Normandy on D-Day 6th June 1944.Table of ContentsAcknowledgements; Glossary; 1 German Artillery; 2 15-cm sIG 33 L/12 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen I Ausf B 'Bison' (Sd Kfz 101); 3 10*5-cm leFH 16 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen Mk VI(e); 4 7*5-cm Gebirgshaubitze 36 auf Geschutzwagen Raupenschlepper Ost (RSO/3); 5 10*5-cm leFH 18/1 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen IVb (Sd Kfz 165/1); 6 10*5-cm leFH 16 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen FCM(f); 7 10*5-cm leFH 18/3 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen B2(f); 8 15-cm sFH 13 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen Lorraine Schlepper(f); 9 15-cm sIG 33 (Sf) auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II; 10 15-cm sIG 33 L/11 (Sf) auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf H; 11 10*5-cm leFH 18/2 (Sf) auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II Wespe (Sd Kfz 124); 12 15-cm sIG 33 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen 38(t) Grille (Sd Kfz 138/1); 13 15-cm sFH 18/1 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen III/IV 'Hummel' (Sd Kfz 165); 14 10*5-cm leFH 18/6 auf Waffentrager Geschutzwagen III/IV Heuschrecke IVb 'Grasshopper'; 15 10*5-cm leFH 18/40/2 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen III/IV; 16 10*5-cm leFH-18/4 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen Lorraine Schlepper(f); 17 10*5-cm leFH 18 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen 39H(f); 18 15-cm sIG 33/2 (Sf) auf Jagdpanzer 38(t); 19 10*5-cm leFH* 18/2 (Sf) auf Geschuetzwagfen III/IV 'Hummel-Wespe'; 20 17-cm K72 L/50 und 21-cm M18/1 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen Tiger Grille 17/21; 21 12*2-cm FK (r) auf GW Lorraine Schlepper(f); Bibliography.

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Book SynopsisThe sequel to French Tanks of World War II (1), this title focuses primarily on France’s cavalry armored vehicles, including the light reconnaissance tanks such as the AMR and AMC families, the famous Somua S.35 cavalry tanks and the extensive array of armored half-track and armored cars used by the French cavalry. Specific attention is also paid to tanks considered important from a numerical standpoint such as the Hotchkiss H-35/H-39 series. Featuring specially commissioned profile artwork, photographs and illustrations, French Tanks of World War II (2) provides detailed insight into the background and design of these tank types and presents a brief, yet thorough assessment of their performance during the Battle of France.Table of ContentsIntroduction/ Design and Development/ Operational History/ Conclusion and Analysis`

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Book SynopsisCreated from what was left of the gigantic stockpiles of Soviet armoured fighting vehicles after the end of the Cold War, the Russian armoured forces were reorganized in the early 1990s. Ground forces were involved in a series of conflicts in border states, nationalistic insurrections of minorities following the end of the Soviet Union, and the lifting of its iron fist on these regions. From Chechnya to the Crimea to the Ukraine, Modern Russian Tanks explores the main battle tanks, armoured fighting vehicles, armoured personnel carriers, self- propelled guns and missile-launching platforms in service since 1990. Organised by type and then alphabetically by manufacturer, the entries include the BMD-3, BMPT Terminator, T-90 and T-15 main battle tank, and their variants, as well as the Buk missile system responsible for shooting down the Malaysian Airlines 777 jet over Ukraine in 2014. Illustrated with expert colour profile artworks for each entry and completed with technical specifications, Modern Russian Tanks is a detailed reference guide for modellers and enthusiasts with an interest in modern military technology.Trade ReviewThis new hardback from Amber Books is one of their 'Technical Guide' series, and brings us up to date with images and details of the various types of armoured vehicles in service with the Russian military. As a long time armour enthusiast, and modeller, this is ideal… A very handy new reference. -- Robin Buckland * Military Model Scene *Table of ContentsIntroduction Main Battle Tanks T-10 heavy tank – some kept in storage during the 1990s. PT-76 amphibious light tank – still in service. T-54/55 – up to 2,800 currently in reserve. T-62 – up to 2,500 currently in reserve. T-64 – up to 2,000 currently in reserve T-72 – 1,900 in service. T-80 – 450 in service. T-90 – 350 in service. T-14 Armata – prototypes/pre-production vehicles completed. APCs/Armoured Cars Kamaz Typhoon Mine-resistant ambush-protected truck – 290 in service. Ural Typhoon Mine-resistant ambush-protected truck – 180 in service. Bulat APC – in production. BTR-90 APC – at least 80 in service. BTR-80/82A APC – over 1,200 in service. BTR-70 APC – about 100 in service. BTR-60 APC – over 3,500 in reserve. BRDM-2 Armoured car – 1,000 in service. MT-LB APC – 1,500 in service. Infantry Fighting Vehicles BMD-1 – in service. BMD-2 – in service BMD-3 – over 100 in service BMP-1 – 500 in service. BMP-2 – 3,000 in service. BMP-3 – over 700 in service. VPK-7829 Bumerang – unknown number of prototypes completed. Kurganets-25 – unknown number of prototypes/pre-production vehicles completed. T-15 – unknown number of prototypes/pre-production vehicles completed. Tank Destroyers 9P148 Konkurs – 60 in service 9P149 Shturm-S/SM – over 40 in service. 9P157-2 Khrizantema-S – 30 in service. 9P163M-1 Kornet-T – in production. Self-Propelled Artillery 2S1 Gvozdika 122mm self-propelled Howitzer – over 500 in service. 2S3 Akatsiya 152mm self-propelled Howitzer – over 900 in service. 2S4 Tyulpan 240mm self-propelled gun-mortar – 120 being modernised. 2S5 Giatsint-S 152mm self-propelled Howitzer – over 200 in service. 2S7M Malka 203mm self-propelled Howitzer – about 30 being modernised. 2S19 Msta-S/2S19M1 and 2S19M2 Msta-SM/2S33 Msta-SM2 152mm self-propelled Howitzer – over 450 in service. 2S9 Nona self-propelled 120mm Mortar – still in production. 2S34 Chosta 120mm self-propelled Howitzer – in production. 2S35 Koalitsiya-SV 152mm self-propelled howitzer – prototypes/pre-production vehicles completed. TOS-1 220mm salvo rocket launcher – in service. ZSU-23-4 Shilka – over 100 in service. 9K22 Tunguska – 250 in service/being modernised. 9K35 Strela-10 – over 350 in service. Glossary and Abbreviations Index

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Book SynopsisThe end is in sight but the fight is long: the epic and terrifying conclusion to the greatest conflict in historyGoing into 1944, the Allies knew the tide was turning in their favour. But they still faced a monumental task to get to victory.From the beaches of Normandy on D-Day to those of the Pacific stormed by American marines, from the air drops at Arnhem and the Battle of the Bulge to the final dropping of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, from the sacking of Berlin to the delicate peace that followed, this is a gripping and impeccably researched account of two years that forever changed the world.Filled with both the grand sweep of history, and small, unforgettable details and stories of ordinary soldiers, this is military writing of the very highest calibre, perfect for fans of Jonathan Dimbleby and Ben Macintyre.

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Book SynopsisThe Battle of the Somme has become a byword for sacrifice and senseless slaughter. It had a searing impact on the British mindset that still resonates over a century after it occurred. This largely stems from the events of 1 July 1916, the first day of the battle which cost the British Army over 19,000 dead and nearly another 40,000 wounded, captured and missing, the bloodiest day in the Army''s history.Yet the battle continued for four and a half months and a century of research suggests a far more nuanced picture. Britain was not fighting alone and the French contribution, often overlooked, was clearly very significant. The Somme also saw the very first use of tanks in battle, at Flers-Courcelette on 15 September 1916, an event that changed the course of warfare forever.Moreover, there are now commentators who believe the Somme was a victory, albeit an expensive one. The Somme also had an immense social historical significance, due to both the way it impacted virtually every community in Britain and to the films which held audiences spellbound all over Europe.While a great deal has been written about the Somme, this book is much more than just a history of the battle. It focuses on the equipment and tactics used by both sides and the strategic objectives the battle was designed to achieve. Uniforms, logistics, weapons, all the components of the battleplan are discussed and described in detail in a creative and innovative manner. This new approach to one of the most significant battles in British military history will attract a great degree of interest from a wide range of readers.

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Book SynopsisWith the United States producing almost 90,000 AFVs during World War II, American tanks made up the bulk of those deployed by the western Allies, and were even supplied through the lend-lease scheme to the Soviet army on the Eastern Front. American Tanks of World War II explores the tanks, self-propelled guns, halftracks and armoured cars deployed by American forces, from the Torch landings in Algeria to the hard fighting in Normandy and the bitter Ardennes offensive. Organised chronologically by type, the entries include the M3 Stuart, the first American-crewed tank to engage the enemy in tank combat in the war; the ubiquitous M4 Sherman, which proved cheap and reliable and was built in great numbers and in many variants; the M22 Locust light tank, designed to be air-dropped in support of airborne units; and the M26 Pershing, a heavy tank that arrived late in the war and was capable of beating the best tanks Germany had to offer. There are also chapters on the many motor gun carriages used by US forces, including the M8 HMC and T12 halftrack, both designed to provide close support for infantry. Illustrated with expert colour profile artworks for each entry and completed with technical specifications, American Tanks of World War II is a detailed reference guide for modellers and enthusiasts with an interest in World War II AFV technology.Table of ContentsContents includes: Introduction Light Tanks Marmon-Herrington CTLS-4TA T1 ‘Cunningham’ M2 Light Tank M3 Stuart Light Tank M3A1 Satan M5 Stuart M22 Locust M24 Chaffee Canal Defence Light (CDL) Medium Tanks M2 series M3 Lee-Grant M4 Sherman – M4, M4A1, M4A2, M4A3, M4A4, M4A5, and M4A6 Sherman Crocodile USMC Improvised M4A2 Flail Tank Assault Tank M4A3E2 Jumbo M7 (T7 Project) T23 Prototype Heavy Tanks M6 Heavy Tank Heavy Tank M6A2E1 T14 Heavy Tank M26 Pershing T26E4 ‘Super Pershing’ Tank Destroyers and Assault Guns M18 Hellcat M10 GMC Wolverine M36 GMC Jackson Howitzer Motor Carriage M7 Priest Howitzer Motor Carriage M8 Halftracks and Armoured Cars M2 Halftrack T28E1 AA variant M3 Halftrack T30 75mm (2.95in) HMC (Howitzer Motor Carriage) T12 75mm (2.95in) HMC (Howitzer Motor Carriage) M13 AA adaption M16 AA adaption M1 armoured car M8 Greyhound armoured car M3 Scout Car Amphibious Landing Vehicles LVT-1 Alligator LVT-2 Water Buffalo LVT-3 Bushmaster LVT-4 Water Buffalo LVT(A)-1 GMC DUKW Glossary and Abbreviations Index

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Book SynopsisThe dramatic eruption of the Arab peoples from Arabia after their adoption of the Muslim faith in the 7th century remains one of the most extraordinary events in world history. By the end of that century they ruled a state that stretched from the Atlantic to India, from southern Arabia to Central Asia, covering an area far greater than that of the Roman Empire. Therefore warfare, at least among the nomadic bedouin, was a normal aspect of life. Complemented by numerous illustrations, including eight full page colour plates by Angus McBride, this detailed text by David Nicolle tells the real story of the armies of the Muslim conquest.Table of ContentsIntroduction · The Prophet's First Warriors · The Age of Expansion · The Umayyad Caliphate · The Abbasid Revolution · The Plates

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