France had operated armour in Indochina since 1919, when it first sent FT-17s to its colony. But after World War II the Viet Minh rebellion began brewing. French troops were equipped with a motley collection of American and British armour until the Korean War brought the French new military aid. This included large numbers of the M24 Chaffee light tank, along with amphibious vehicles such as the M29C Weasel and LVT4 Buffalo. France's armour was a key part of the battle against the Viet Minh, and experience in this war influenced both sides in the 'American War' that was to come. The Viet Minh sought to restrict set-piece battles where the French could use their armour and superior firepower, while the French exploited their amphibious armour in difficult coastal and inland terrain. This fascinating book explains the role that armour played in the First Indochina War, right up to the last stand at Dien Bien Phu, and the ten light tanks that were airlifted into the doomed base. Book jacket.
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