Frank Ledwidge Boeken

Considers the weapon of law in conflict regions

This thought-provoking analysis of military failure and its costs examines the British involvement in Iraq and Afghanistan, revealing how and why it went so wrong.

A follow-up to Losing Small Wars, this book analyses the cost - both financial and human - of Britain's involvement in the Afghanistan war. It pieces together the enormous burden the Afghan intervention has placed on the shoulders of British soldiers and their families, UK taxpayers and - by far the greatest sufferers - Afghan civilians.

Arguments surrounding the role of air power alongside land and sea power have raged for a century. The rise of digital networks and putative cyber power adds a new and urgent dimension. Ledwidge covers the gamut succinctly and with compelling good judgment, a stylish energy, and panache. David Betz, Professor of War in the Modern World, Kings College London

Aerial warfare has dominated western war-making for over 100 years, and despite regular announcements of its demise, it shows no sign of becoming obsolete. Frank Ledwidge offers a sweeping global history of air warfare, introducing the major battles, crises, and controversies where air power has taken centre stage.