The Untold Story: South African Armour Of The Border War 1975-89 - New Vanguard 243

The Border War was a conflict that took place from 1975 to 1989, primarily between the South African Defence Force (SADF) and various Angolan and Namibian liberation movements. This war was fought in the context of the broader Cold War, with South Africa supporting UNITA and other anti-communist groups in Angola against the MPLA, which was backed by Soviet Union and Cuba.

One of the key components that contributed to the SADF's success in this conflict was their highly effective armored vehicles. In the book "South African Armour Of The Border War 1975-89", part of the New Vanguard series (243),author Simon Dunstan provides an in-depth analysis of the South African armored forces' operations during this period.

The South African Armour

The South African armored forces were composed of a variety of vehicles, including tanks, armored personnel carriers (APCs),and self-propelled artillery. These vehicles played a crucial role in providing fire support, transporting troops, and engaging enemy forces. The SADF had a vast array of armored vehicles at its disposal, some of which were locally produced, while others were acquired from foreign suppliers or captured from enemy forces.

South African Armour of the Border War 1975–89 (New Vanguard Book 243)

by Simon Dunstan(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	46022 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	130 pages

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One of the most notable armored vehicles used by the SADF was the Eland armored car. Designed in South Africa, the Eland was a versatile 4x4 vehicle that could be armed with either a 60mm mortar or a 90mm cannon. It proved to be highly effective in the harsh African terrain, providing both mobility and firepower to South African forces.

Another significant armored vehicle was the Ratel infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). The Ratel was a wheeled vehicle that could carry a squad of infantry while also providing them with fire support. It was well-suited for the fast-paced and mobile nature of the Border War, allowing South African forces to quickly deploy troops and engage the enemy.

In addition to these vehicles, the SADF also utilized modified tanks, such as the Olifant and the Rooikat. The Olifant was an upgraded version of the British Centurion tank, featuring improved armor and firepower. The Rooikat, on the other hand, was a wheeled reconnaissance vehicle armed with either a 76mm or 105mm cannon, designed to operate in the vast open spaces of the South African border.

Tactics and Strategies

The SADF developed innovative tactics and strategies to maximize the effectiveness of their armored forces. One such tactic was the "deep penetration" strategy, which involved sending armored units deep into enemy territory to disrupt enemy supply lines and attack key targets. This strategy proved highly successful in disrupting the activities of the liberation movements.

Another important strategy was the combined arms approach, where the SADF integrated their armored units with infantry, artillery, and air support. This allowed for coordinated and synchronized attacks on enemy positions, significantly increasing the chances of success.

The Legacy

The South African armored forces played a crucial role in the outcome of the Border War. Their superior equipment, combined with innovative tactics and strategies, contributed to the SADF's ability to contain and defeat the liberation movements.

Despite the controversies surrounding the Border War, the South African armored forces are recognized for their professionalism and effectiveness. The lessons learned from this conflict have influenced modern armored warfare and continue to be studied by military strategists.

The book "South African Armour Of The Border War 1975-89" provides an excellent overview of these armored forces, their vehicles, tactics, and engagements during this period. Whether you are a military enthusiast, a historian, or simply interested in understanding the complexities of this conflict, this book is a must-read.

The South African armored forces' contribution to the Border War cannot be understated. Their armored vehicles, coupled with innovative tactics and strategies, played a pivotal role in the SADF's success. "South African Armour Of The Border War 1975-89" sheds light on this often overlooked aspect of the conflict, providing a comprehensive and informative account of the South African armored forces' operations during this period. This book is an essential resource for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the Border War and the role of armored warfare within it.

South African Armour of the Border War 1975–89 (New Vanguard Book 243)

by Simon Dunstan(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	46022 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	130 pages

FREE

The Border War saw the biggest armoured battles in Africa since World War II. Starting as a counter-insurgency operation by the South African Defence Force (SADF) against the South West Africa People's Organisation, South Africa became embroiled in the complex Angolan Civil War, where they came up against enemies well supplied with equipment and armoured vehicles from the Soviet Union.
With the aid of stunning illustrations and photographs, this study details the characteristics, capabilities and performance of the wide variety of armoured vehicles deployed by the SADF, from the Eland armoured car to the Ratel infantry combat vehicle and the Olifant tank. Designed for the unique conditions of the region, South Africa's armour was distinctive and innovative, and has influenced the design of counterinsurgency armoured vehicles around the world.
Frequently requested by Osprey readers, and written by two renowned experts on armoured vehicles, this will appeal to all those interested in modern armour and the Cold War proxy wars.