Very good book on Soviet special operations forces. Author is especially well informed regarding Russian security forces and gives a very concise history of the Spetsnaz, from the days of the Bolshevik's revolution to the modern times.

Especially interesting was information on how Spetsnaz always acts as motorized/mechanized infantry unit [unlike light infantry Western counterparts]. I guess that lessons from WW2 and engagements of light infantry against German armored and mechanized forces were never forgotten.

Author gives a lot of information but just cannot do without some remarks here and there for which I just don't see reason (i.e. "weird" obsession of Soviets/Russians with Pyrrhic victories like Afghanistan Krer operation (Arnhem anybody, Point du Hoc or Operation Anaconda - every army that saw combat has one not-a-victory-not-a-defeat that shows how their forces are tough and resourceful; its the way things go, present dumbest move that cost lives as something that "just happened" but "we persevere") and constant [demeaning] comparison with 75th Ranger regiment or 2 REP which I do not understand since both formations are crack units on the world level - if majority of Spetsnaz is on level with these units and not cloak-and-dagger Tier One operators I think this is more reason to be very careful around general Spetsnaz).

But even with these occasional remarks it is very informative book. I just hope somebody publishes larger (>64 pages) paperback about these Eastern Europe units.

Highly recommended. ( )