South African Armour of the Border War 1975–89

Main Themes and Topics

South African Armour of the Border War 1975–89 by Kyle Harmse provides an in-depth exploration of the armoured battles and military innovations that characterized the Border War in Southern Africa. The book focuses primarily on the role and evolution of the South African Defence Force's (SADF) armoured vehicles during their engagements in the conflict. It highlights the development and deployment of key vehicles like the Eland armoured car, the Ratel infantry combat vehicle, and the Olifant tank. Furthermore, the book discusses how these vehicles were designed for the unique challenges posed by the region's environment and combat conditions. It also touches upon how South African military innovations in this period influenced global military strategies in counterinsurgency.

Writing Style and Tone

Kyle Harmse, along with his co-author who is also an expert in armoured vehicles, writes in a detailed and factual style. The tone is informative, aimed at providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the military strategies and technological advancements of the SADF during the Border War. The authors effectively balance technical details with historical context, making the material accessible to both military enthusiasts and historians alike. The inclusion of stunning illustrations and photographs aids in visualizing the distinctiveness of these armoured vehicles, enhancing the reader's engagement with the material.

Brief Summary

The book offers a compelling account of the Border War, which marked the largest armoured conflicts in Africa since World War II. It starts by exploring the initial phases of the conflict, which began as a counter-insurgency operation by the SADF against the SWAPO. As the conflict escalated, South Africa found itself deeply involved in the Angolan Civil War against adversaries supported by the Soviet Union. Harmse carefully documents the characteristics, capabilities, and performance of the variety of armoured vehicles used by the SADF. By placing a special focus on the innovation behind these vehicles, the book underscores their significance and lasting impact on global military vehicle design.