Dimensions
163 x 240 x 55mm
British Special Forces in the War Against Terrorism
International terrorism spread across the world in the second half of the twentieth century, its complex causes rooted in political and religious fanaticism. Organisations such as the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine, Black September, the Provisional IRA, the Ulster Volunteer Force, the Japanese Red Army, Hezbollah and others pursued their aims through a relentless tide of worldwide violence and terror. As their names and activities became more frighteningly familiar, there had to be a global response, a way to fight the terrorists on their own terms. The answer lay in the use of Special Forces.
Here is a chronological history of major terrorist actions over the last thirty years, showing how countries under threat responded with the formation of counter-terrorist units within their Special Forces. Here are details of how Special Forces are organised, armed, trained and deployed. Accounts of Special Forces in action include events in Britain, Northern Ireland, Germany, France, North and South America, the Middle East, and other international hotspots. Specific operations that have become classic examples of the swift and effective response are closely examined, including Operation Thunderball, Entebbe 1976; Operation Magic Fire, Mogadishu 1977; and many others.
With its close attention to detail and historical accuracy, this book reveals the substance behind the gloss that usually surrounds counter-terrorist operations. It also highlights the vital role that Special Forces play in helping to contain the pernicious spread of international terrorism.
