Robert Forczyk covers the evolution of armored warfare in North Africa from the early Anglo-Italian engagements in 1940 to the British victory over the German Afrikakorps in Operation Crusader in 1941.

The war in the North African desert was purely mechanized warfare and in many ways the most technologically advanced theater of World War II. It was also the only theater where for three years British and Commonwealth, and later American forces, came into permanent contact with Axis forces.

The best-selling World War II author Robert Forczyk explores the first half of the campaign's history, from the initial Italian attack and the arrival of Rommel's Panzergruppe Afrika to the British Operation Crusader campaign that led to the relief of Tobruk. He examines the armored forces, equipment, doctrine, training, logistical support, and operations employed by the Allied and Axis forces during the period, with a particular focus on the brigade and regimental level.

The book is fully illustrated with photographs, profile artwork and maps, and includes detailed tables and appendices analyzing data on tanks, tank deliveries to the theater, and orders of battle, offering a fresh study of armored warfare in the desert.