Gordon Arthur - LAV & Piranha: The Extended Family

LAV & Piranha: The Extended Family - Armoured Prowess Across the Globe

"LAV & Piranha: The Extended Family" by Gordon Arthur dives into the fascinating world of the Light Armored Vehicle (LAV) and its close relative, the Piranha. This globally renowned family of wheeled armored vehicles, with over 9300 units produced and serving in 21 countries, is a testament to its remarkable success. The book delves into the origins of these versatile vehicles, tracing their evolution from the 1972 prototype to their modern deployments in conflict zones. It explores the LAV/Piranha's diverse applications, highlighting its use by various military forces across the globe. From the Canadian 6x6 AVGP and 8x8 Bison, Coyote, and LAV III, to the USMC's LAV deployment and the Australasian ASLAV and NZLAV, the book meticulously examines the variations and configurations of these vehicles across different geographical regions. It further investigates the adoption of the Piranha by European nations, and showcases its presence in countries like Nigeria and Saudi Arabia. "LAV & Piranha: The Extended Family" goes beyond simply chronicling the vehicles' history and development. It explores their operational use, providing insights into their deployment strategies, organization, and combat effectiveness in various theaters of war. The book also delves into the specific details of each variant, offering a comprehensive understanding of their unique capabilities and features. Over 160 captivating photographs, showcasing both external and internal views of these vehicles, breathe life into the text. The images, featuring deployments in Iraq and Afghanistan, offer a rare glimpse into the operational realities of the LAV/Piranha family. Detailed captions accompany each photo, providing crucial context and enriching the reader's understanding of the images. "LAV & Piranha: The Extended Family" is a must-have for anyone interested in modern military vehicles, offering a comprehensive photographic record of this globally ubiquitous and adaptable platform. Gordon Arthur, a renowned author in the military history field, brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to this meticulously researched and engaging text.