Osprey Elite 136

WWII Airborne Warfare Tactics

by Gordon L Rottman

illustrated by Peter Dennis

Reviewed by Rodger Kelly

available online from Squadron.com

As a trained military parachutist, I jumped at the chance of reviewing this recent addition to Osprey's Elite Series when it was offered to me by our Editor. 

After reading it, I think that it has been mis-titled.  Whilst it does enlighten you on the tactics used by airborne forces, both allied and axis in WWII, it informs you of a whole lot more to do with airborne operations than just the tactics employed. 

A glance at the relevant chapters on the contents page confirms this: 

• Introduction
   
  • The special opportunities and demands of airborne operations.
  • Designations of airborne forces: United States – Great Britain – German – Soviet Union – Japan.
     
• Origins
   
  • Airlifted troops – parachute troops.
     
• Early Doctrine
   
• Early Organisation
   
  • Units and sub units – regiments and brigades – divisions.
     
• Delivery To The Battlefield
   
  • Transport aircraft – gliders – parachutes.

·        Weapons and Equipment

• Small arms and crew served weapons – support weapons
• Equipment:  communications – mobility – engineers.
   
• Later Doctrine
   
  • Operations involving Germany – Western Allies – Soviet Union.
     
• Evolving Organisation
   
  • Evolution of airborne operations divisions, corps and armies:
    • Germany – Great Britain – United States – Soviet Union – Japan.
       
• Execution of Airborne Operations
   
  • Contingency plans – selecting DZs/LZs – planning and marshalling – pathfinders – the drop – engagement.
     
• An Assessment of Airborne Operations

The author, Gordon L Rottman is eminently qualified to write on the subject.  A retired member of the US Army, he was a member of the Special Forces, served with the 5th Special Forces Group in Vietnam in 1969–70 and subsequently in airborne infantry being involved in long-range patrol and intelligence. 

The book is illustrated with 57 black and white photographs and by eight pages of colour paintings (by Peter Dennis).  It consists of 64 pages printed on glossy paper between thin cardboard covers and is 248 x 184mm in size. 

I found this book from Osprey to be a great read.  It provided enough information to give me an overall understanding of WWII airborne operations as well as a background on its concept and the equipment used in its execution. 

Recommended.

Review Copyright © 2006 by Rodger Kelly
This Page Created on 17 August, 2006
Last updated 17 August, 2006

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