5535 Special Ops: Journal of the Elite Forces & SWAT Units Vol.35
various authors ISBN 962-361-116-1
64 pages, 223 photos

 

This book contains these articles with a special focus on Afghanistan:

1) U.S. Forces in Afghanistan 2001 - 2005 "Operation Enduring Freedom"
After the shocking acts of terrorism on 11 September 2001, Afghanistan's Taliban & al-Qaeda were public enemy number one for the USA. This article traces Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan from the first Special Operations missions, through the overthrow of the Taliban, right up to the most recent months. This account provides a summary of U.S military efforts in Afghanistan, with a focus on their equipment, vehicles and operations. A careful selection of the best available photos from official U.S. service cameramen offers a unique insight onto how the USA has conducted OEF since 2001.

2) Tropic Lightning in Afghanistan
This article continues with the chosen theme of Afghanistan. Since the 25th Infantry Division with its lightning insignia is based in Hawaii, it's appropriate that this unit be referred to as "Tropical Lightning". The unit deployed to Afghanistan in mid-2004, and this article reports on a number of their patrols in the vicinity of Kandahar in the south of the country. Amidst the dry, scorching heat of summer they conduct their operations seeking to root out armed militants and maintain the peace.

3) Battlegroups of the Kabul Multinational Brigade
ISAF is a truly multinational force, and three nations in particular come under the spotlight in this segment. Norway, Belgium and Hungary contribute to the Mink Battlegroup, which is Norwegian led. As these forces patrol and protect western Kabul, their actions and equipment have been captured in this most informative series of photos. Vehicles covered include 4x4s, CV-90 infantry fighting vehicles, BTR-80As and 6x6 Pandurs, amongst others. The photos give a taste of how ISAF is conducting its operations in support of the fledgling democratic government of Afghanistan.

4) Italians in Afghanistan - "Col Moschin" & "Superga"
As the author explains, it's not often that Special Forces allow photo-journalists access to their missions. Here, though, is a fascinating account of the Italian "Col Moschin" Special Forces unit as they conduct a live firing training event especially for the benefit of the author! There is a series of 'action' shots of the engagement and good views of their Land Rover vehicles are offered. This is followed up with a brief look at the 5th Artillery Regiment "Superga", which left its MLRS behind in Italy before traveling halfway round the world to conduct foot and light patrols in Kabul.