Kurdish Armour Against ISIS

Brief Summary

Kurdish Armour Against ISIS by Ed Nash offers a detailed examination of the improvised mechanized warfare employed by the Kurdish YPG and SDF forces against ISIS. The book provides an in-depth exploration of how the Kurds utilized an innovative approach by transforming civilian vehicles and abandoned military machinery into powerful armored fighting vehicles (AFVs) to confront the heavily armed forces of the Islamic State. Nash, combining personal experience with academic insight, documents how these makeshift machines were pivotal in battles across the regions of Kobane, Manbij, and Raqqa, prior to the intervention of US air power.

Main Themes and Topics

The central theme of the book revolves around the ingenuity and resilience of the Kurdish forces. It highlights the resourcefulness required to assemble effective military equipment from scarce resources in a harsh wartime environment. The narrative focuses on the development and deployment of these makeshift armored vehicles, showcasing the challenges and triumphs faced by the Kurdish fighters. Furthermore, the book discusses the broader implications of improvised warfare and its impact on the shifting dynamics of the Syrian conflict. Through a thorough examination of various battles, the authors provide a detailed narrative of Kurdish self-defense and strategic innovation in the face of a formidable enemy.

Writing Style and Tone

Ed Nash adopts an engaging and informative writing style that combines detailed technical analysis with personal anecdotes. The tone is authoritative yet accessible, making complex military strategies understandable to readers without a background in military studies. The co-authors' unique perspectives—a British volunteer fighter and an academic expert—offer a balanced and insightful look into the intricacies of Kurdish mechanized warfare. This blend of firsthand experience and scholarly research enriches the narrative, allowing readers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Criticism

While Kurdish Armour Against ISIS offers a unique and thorough exploration of a specific aspect of the Kurdish conflict, some readers may find the focus on technical details to be overwhelming. The extensive descriptions of the vehicles and battles may not appeal to those looking for a broader overview of the Kurdish struggle against ISIS. Additionally, the narrow scope might leave readers wishing for more context or analysis on the geopolitical ramifications of the conflict.