Exploring the evolution of rifles from the musket to the M-16, this book examines their significant impact on warfare, highlighting instances where these weapons changed the course of battles. It also critiques the consequences of poor decision-making and misguided innovations that led to unsuitable firearms being used by inadequately trained soldiers, resulting in disastrous outcomes.
The book also looks at the development of the Type-XXI- and electro-U-boats which, had they been part of a more organised effort, could have changed the pattern of the second half of the war. The result is a comprehensive account of the rise and fall of Dönitz and the Geman submarine service.
"This study of the German Army is the result of many years research into the higher formations of the German Army in the Second World War. It begins by looking at the High Command itself, and includes a critique of Hitler's methods of dealing with his senior military commanders. It then examines the Army High Command and the Reserve Army. It goes on to look at the army groups, armies and corps of the German Army, and gives, in all cases, details of commanders, superior commands and subordinate formations, together with their locations throughout the war. Every command is shown in enough detail to be able to create an order of battle right through the war. The book also contains details of the German Reserve Army, and the Corps which were tasked with providing the front line replacements. There are also details of artillery commands, fortress commands, rear area commands and a special section on the Waffen SS"--Publisher's website