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Robert Forczyk covers the development of armoured warfare in North Africa from the earliest Anglo-Italian engagements in 1940 to the British victory over the German Afrikakorps in Operation Crusader in 1941. The war in the North African desert was pure mechanized warfare, and in many respects the most technologically advanced theatre of World War II. It was also the only theatre where for three years British and Commonwealth, and later US, troops were in constant contact with Axis forces. World War II best-selling author Robert Forczyk explores the first half of the history of the campaign, from the initial Italian offensive and the arrival of Rommel's Panzergruppe Afrika to the British Operation Crusader offensive that led to the relief of Tobruk. He examines the armoured forces, equipment, doctrine, training, logistics and operations employed by both Allied and Axis forces throughout the period, focusing especially on the brigade and regimental level of operations.Fully illustrated throughout with photographs, profile artwork and maps, and featuring tactical-level vignettes and appendices analysing tank data, tank deliveries in-theatre and orders of battle, this book goes back to the sources to provide a new study of armoured warfare in the desert.

Desert Armour: Tank Warfare in North Africa: Beda Fomm to Operation Crusader, 1940–41 explores one of the most dynamic and influential campaigns of World War II, in which armoured warfare and air power combined to transform land warfare forever. The lightning-fast sweep across the desert by Germany's Afrika Korps threw British and Commonwealth forces into disarray, culminating in the crushing defeat at Tobruk.

Based on original research, including previously unpublished German archival material, this book details the early successes of the Afrika Korps, the subsequent British recovery, and finally Operation Crusader, which led to the first defeat of German forces by the British Army during the conflict.

With detailed analysis of the tactical and operational factors that influenced the outcome, and supported by specially commissioned maps and colour plates, Desert Armour provides a uniquely insightful account of an epic struggle between two formidable armies.

Robert Forczyk is a military historian and author who has written extensively on World War II. He is a former intelligence officer and has worked as a consultant for the US Army's Center of Military History.

Desert Armour: Tank Warfare in North Africa: Beda Fomm to Operation Crusader, 1940–41 is essential reading for anyone interested in World War II, military history, or the development of armoured warfare.