Published by Osprey , 2015, softcover, illustrated, index, 64 pages, condition: new.
The 1st Battalion, The Rhodesian Light Infantry (RLI), was one of the most innovative and successful counter-insurgency units in modern history, developing and perfecting a range of tactics and operational concepts that have since become standard practise in modern military forces. Formed in 1961 and then re-formed in 1964 as a commando battalion after the dissolution of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, the RLI was an all-white unit that incorporated foreign soldiers from South Africa, The UK, USA, Canada and Europe into its ranks. It was a key weapon in independent Rhodesia's struggle against the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA) and Zimbabwe People's Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA) during the bloody Rhodesian Bush War. This comprehensive study explores the unit's dramatic history, revealing the RLI's fearsome airborne and combat capacity, which gave the unit, at times, near total tactical superiority against its opponents.
Excellent overview of the Rhodesian Light Infantry, the rapid reaction force of Rhodesia during its long fight against Marxist guerrillas. The RLI never enjoyed the technological advantages that the U.S. Army of the time could claim, nor was it lavishly funded and equipped as some European regiments were. However, the RLI managed to consistently find and defeat the "terrs" by using the most suitable equipment available and tactical innovations, such as the Fireforce concept. Splendidly illustrated with photos and original artwork, Grant's book touches on virtually all aspects of life in the Rhodesian Light Infantry, including weaponry, uniforms and clothing, manning (volunteers at first, then conscripts), billeting, pay, etc.
Like most Osprey books, this volume serves as an excellent book in its own right or a reference when reading about the history of this forgotten conflict.
