The Indian Army at War 1947-99

This absorbing study describes and illustrates the Indian Army forces that fought in five wars during the second half of the 20th century.

The Indian Army is the world’s largest volunteer army, with an enviable history and tradition of valour and gallantry. It was involved in warfare soon after India’s independence and has fought five wars between 1947 and 1999, notably against Pakistan (1947-48, 1965, 1971 and 1999) but also against China (1962). Besides these, the Indian Army has been involved in smaller internal conflicts and counter-insurgency operations, some of which continue. The Indian Army has also carried out two military interventions overseas, namely in the Maldives (1988) and in Sri Lanka (1987-90).

The troops who fought in these operations, culminating in 1999’s Kargil War against Pakistan, are described and illustrated in this book, written by an Indian Army veteran. The Indian Army’s evolving uniforms, insignia and personal equipment are depicted in photographs, some previously unpublished, and eight plates of original colour artwork. The book is an important contribution to our understanding of the Indian Army’s contribution to global military history since Independence in 1947.

Mandeep Singh is a colonel in the Indian Army with over 35 years in uniform. He commanded his regiment during operations against Pakistan and later along the Line of Actual Control. The author of seven books, he has been awarded the Chair of Excellence twice by the United Service Institution of India.

Raffaele Ruggeri was born in Bologna where he still works and lives. He has long been interested in military history and has illustrated a number of books for Osprey.