Churchill's Spearhead: The Development of Britain's Airborne Forces in World War II

This book covers the inception, growth, and employment of Britain's airborne forces between June 1940 and March 1945, taking a comparative approach and following tailored lines of development. It examines the political environment, equipment and technology, personnel and training, command and control, and concepts and doctrine that influenced each other.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 30 October 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

This book delves into the inception, growth, and employment of Britain's airborne forces (parachute and glider-borne formations) between June 1940 and March 1945. It adopts a comparative approach, tracing tailored lines of development that interact and influence one another. The contents encompass various aspects:

Politics and Policy: Examining the political environment within which critical decisions were made regarding the development of Britain's airborne forces. This includes Churchill's personal contribution, the impact of inter-service rivalry, and the influence of other government departments.

Equipment and Technology: Discussing the challenges and methods of procuring and supplying the bespoke equipment required by airborne forces. This includes the supply of combat equipment, support aircraft, and gliders.

Personnel and Training: Exploring the efforts expended to man the new force and the effects of different approaches to recruitment and training. This includes the selection and recruitment of airborne personnel, the individual training of paratroops and glider pilots, and the role of collective training prior to operations.

Command and Control: Analyzing the ability of individuals in key appointments to influence the development and operational and tactical employment of the force. This includes the reaction and approach of higher commanders to the new capability, the selection and impact of commanders within the airborne force, and the influence of the airborne staff.

Concept and Doctrine: Examining how Britain's airborne forces were employed and performed on operations in the Mediterranean and northwest Europe. This includes exploring how the development of the airborne concept was influenced by physical constraints.

By examining these facets, the book provides a comprehensive understanding of the evolution, challenges, and achievements of Britain's airborne forces during World War II. It sheds light on the intricate relationships between politics, policy, equipment, technology, personnel, command and control, and concepts and doctrine, highlighting their profound impact on the course of the war.

Weight: 376g
Dimension: 156 x 234 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399077743