Special Operations Patrol Vehicles: Afghanistan and Iraq Book Review
By Rachel E. Veres
| Date of Review | July 2012 | Title | Special Operations Patrol Vehicles: Afghanistan and Iraq |
|---|---|---|---|
| Author | Leigh Neville | Publisher | Osprey Publishing |
| Published | 2012 | ISBN | 9781849081870 |
| Format | 48 pages, softbound | MSRP (USD) | $17.95 |
Review
Special Operations Patrol Vehicles chronicles the evolution of patrol vehicles used by Special Operations Forces (SOF) during Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. Author Leigh Neville superbly illustrates the different factors influencing both design and use in each theater of operation – as well as obstacles faced when blending agility and armament.
For instance, as part of the Afghan counterinsurgency campaign, the 75th Ranger Regiment received the Pandur Armored Ground Military System (AGMS) in 2005. Because of the mountainous terrain and dirt roads, the Pandur AGMS provided the Rangers with a relatively quiet, armored transport with crucial off-road versatility. US Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) purchased 11 for Special Mission Units in 2006.
In-theater photographs offer the reader a rare glimpse into the tense atmosphere our service-members encounter while deployed to the hostile regions. Illustrator Richard Chasmore provides wonderful artwork displaying the intricate details of specific SOF vehicles mentioned in each section.
Highly recommended for both the average and avid military history reader.
My sincere thanks to Osprey Publishing for this review sample!