French Tanks of World War II (2): Cavalry Tanks and AFVs

Description

The sequel to French Tanks of World War II (1), this title focuses primarily on France's cavalry armored vehicles, including the light reconnaissance tanks such as the AMR and AMC families, the famous Somua S.35 cavalry tanks and the extensive array of armored half-track and armored cars used by the French cavalry. Specific attention is also paid to tanks considered important from a numerical standpoint such as the Hotchkiss H-35/H-39 series. Featuring specially commissioned profile artwork, photographs and illustrations, French Tanks of World War II (2) provides detailed insight into the background and design of these tank types and presents a brief, yet thorough assessment of their performance during the Battle of France.

Steven J. Zaloga received his BA in History from Union College and his MA from Columbia University. He has worked as an analyst in the aerospace industry for over two decades, covering missile systems and the international arms trade, and has served with the Institute for Defense Analyses, a federal think tank. He is the author of numerous books on military technology and military history, with an accent on the US Army in World War II as well as Russia and the former Soviet Union. Ian Palmer is a highly experienced digital artist. A graduate in 3D Design, he currently works as Art Director for a leading UK games developer. Besides his artistic interests he is also a keen musician and motorcyclist.

"This is a very good book. As a reference for history buffs it hits the mark for providing an amazing amount of information." --www.amps-armor.org (August 2014) "This book covers the early initiatives into mechanized cavalry as well as the various tanks used. This includes various Renault tanks, the Souma S 35, the Hotchkiss H 35 and H39 as well as the Panhard AMD 35. A goodly portion of the book covers the performance of French units during the 1940 invasion and is followed by French use of armored tanks after the 1940 Armistice that includes use in the Levant and Indo-China. It also covers use during the Allied invasion in November 1942. All of this is accompanied by superb period photos and the excellent art work of Ian Palmer. In all, it makes for a great primer on French cavalry tanks and AFVs. A book that I very much enjoyed reading and from which I learned a lot. Highly recommended." --Scott van Aken, www.modelingmadness.com (July 2014)