Military Model Scene

Title: The Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, Volume 1
Author: Ravi Rikhye
Publisher: Helion & Company
ISBN: 978-1-913118-63-1

We have reached number 18 in Helion's Asia @ War series. It details the events of the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. Just one of the military outbreaks between these two neighbours, but one which resulted in a new country being formed.
A 74-page soft-cover book which follows the usual format for the series. The story is spread over 11 chapters, and the text is extensively illustrated throughout. There are archive photos, maps and 7 pages of artwork with fine colour profiles to illustrate vehicles, aircraft and uniforms of both sides. It starts with the background to the issues between neighbours India and Pakistan. They had gained independence from the Colonial rule of Britain in 1947. The transfer of power was completed very quickly, and it does leave the question of whether it was done too quickly, as the groundwork was left for disputes between the new independent states, India itself along with both East and West Pakistan. In addition to the background, the book examines the defence forces in East Pakistan, and compared to those in West Pakistan. It goes on to consider the involvement of Foreign Powers, especially Russia, the USA and China. Next is the role of Air and Naval Power in the conflict before going on to detail the land war on the Eastern, Westerns and Northern fronts, before finishing with the ceasefire, the end of the fighting and in the end, the founding of the independence of East Pakistan as the new state of Bangladesh.
A detailed account, using what official records there are, and involving politics, military force, religion and the outside influences on each sides. One of the main issues between India and India is the control of Kashmir, so there remains a potential flash point for further fighting that resurfaces from time to time. Just one of a number of wars that have already occurred between India and Pakistan, this one is notable for the creation of a new independent Bangladesh. It was a war I can remember taking place in 1971, and interesting to read more detail about what happened on all sides.
Thanks to Helion Books and distributors Casemate UK for our review copy.

Robin