The first book in English to examine the crucial role played by aviation in the Soviet-Afghan War.

The invasion of Afghanistan by the Soviet Union was conducted both on the ground and in the air. From large-scale bombing raids that devastated the rebellious mountain valleys to the Mi-24 helicopters and Su-25 aircraft that accompanied every major military operation, control of the air was a critical strategic advantage. Essential for every aspect of operations, Mi-8 helicopters transported supplies to remote outposts and carried the bodies of fallen soldiers on their final journey.

This, however, was not an entirely one-sided conflict. Even before Afghan insurgents began acquiring portable anti-aircraft missiles such as the controversial American Stinger, they adapted aggressively and imaginatively. They learned new camouflage and deception techniques, created ambushes against low-altitude attacks, and conducted daring raids on airfields to destroy aircraft on the ground.

Analyzing previously unknown information in the West, such as the combat testing of Yak-38 Forger aircraft, Soviet affairs expert Mark Galeotti examines the relative roles of the insurgents, the Kabul government, and Soviet operations in Afghanistan, drawing from Western and Russian sources and including post-action analyses from the Soviet army. Using maps, battle scenes, and detailed 'Bird's Eye Views', he provides a comprehensive picture of the air war and describes how, perhaps, the Soviet air power made the difference between defeat for Moscow and the subsequent suffocation from which they decided to withdraw.

Pages: 96, Year of Publication: 2023, Dimensions: 18.4x18.4cm