British Cruiser Tank A13 Mk. I & Mk. II

Brief Summary

"British Cruiser Tank A13 Mk. I & Mk. II" by Peter Brown is a comprehensive examination of the A13 Mk. I, the first British Cruiser tank to employ the Christie suspension system. The book not only delves into the technical development and production of the A13 series but also covers their significant roles in World War II, highlighting the battles in France in 1940 and North Africa in 1941. Enhanced by extensive photographic documentation and technical drawings, this book fills a crucial gap in the historical study of British armored vehicles.

Main Themes and Topics

The primary focus of the book is on the development, production, and operational use of the A13 Cruiser tank series during World War II. Peter Brown provides an in-depth look at the technical innovations introduced with the Christie suspension system, setting a precedent for future Cruiser tanks. An extensive narrative is presented on the operational deployment of these tanks by the British Expeditionary Force in France and the 8th Army in North Africa, as well as their use in other locations like Greece, Cyprus, and Malta. The book is a treasure trove of detailed information, supported by tables showcasing unit strengths and tank availability.

Writing Style and Tone

Peter Brown adopts a meticulous and informative style, reflecting his 40-year journey researching British armored fighting vehicles. His tone is authoritative, yet accessible, making complex technical concepts understandable for both military historians and modelers. Each photograph and technical drawing is accompanied by well-informed captions, providing context and insights that enrich the reader's understanding of the A13 series.

Awards and Recognition

While there are no specific awards mentioned for "British Cruiser Tank A13 Mk. I & Mk. II," the book has received positive reviews from experts in the field. Military Modelling and other respected outlets have praised it for its exhaustive research and valuable contributions to the modeling community, highlighting its appeal to Christie tank design enthusiasts and fans of early war British armor.

Criticism

Criticism of the book is notably sparse, with most reviewers lauding its depth and detail. Some might argue that the dense compilation of technical data and images could be overwhelming for those new to the subject matter. However, for its intended audience of historians and modelers, these elements are likely seen as assets rather than drawbacks.