Reaper Force - Inside Britain's Drone Wars

Based on extensive research access, this book provides an intimate portrait of RAF Reaper operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, highlighting the human aspect of remote air warfare in the twenty-first century.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 352 pages
\n Publication date: 08 August 2019
\n Publisher: John Blake Publishing Ltd
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This groundbreaking exploration of RAF Reaper operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria offers a unique perspective through unparalleled access to the Reaper squadrons and personnel at RAF Waddington in Lincolnshire and Creech Air Force Base in Nevada, USA. The author has firsthand witnessed lethal missile strikes against Islamic State jihadists in Syria and Iraq, alongside the dedicated crews who operate these missions. In-depth interviews have been conducted with Reaper pilots, sensor operators, mission intelligence coordinators, and spouses and partners, shedding light on the human dimension of remote air warfare in the twenty-first century. The result is an intimate portrait that delves into the lives, experiences, and challenges faced by these individuals as they navigate the complexities of combat in remote and hostile environments.

The author's access to these highly classified operations provides a rare glimpse into the world of Reaper pilots, who are tasked with carrying out precision strikes against terrorist targets. These pilots undergo rigorous training and are equipped with advanced technology to ensure the success of their missions. They operate from remote bases, often in hostile territory, and must make split-second decisions that can have far-reaching consequences.

One of the key themes of the book is the emotional toll that remote air warfare takes on the pilots and their families. The long hours spent away from home, the constant fear of danger, and the risk of losing loved ones are all factors that contribute to the stress and anxiety experienced by these individuals. The author does an excellent job of capturing the emotional journey of the Reaper pilots and their families, providing a deeper understanding of the human cost of war.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of technology in remote air warfare. The Reaper drones are equipped with advanced sensors and weapons systems that allow them to carry out precise strikes against targets with incredible accuracy. However, the use of technology also brings with it ethical and legal considerations, particularly when it comes to targeting civilians. The author explores these issues in depth, providing a balanced perspective on the challenges and benefits of using advanced technology in combat.

The book also sheds light on the collaboration between the RAF and other military forces around the world in the fight against terrorism. The Reaper squadrons are part of a larger coalition that includes countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. The author highlights the importance of teamwork and coordination in these operations, as well as the challenges of working with different cultures and languages.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in military history, international relations, or the human aspect of war. It provides a comprehensive and insightful perspective on RAF Reaper operations in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria, and offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of the complex challenges of modern warfare.

\n Weight: 272g\n
Dimension: 197 x 128 x 21 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781789460780\n \n