The Afghan Papers by Clarke, Michael;

Short description:

In 2006, British forces entered the Helmand Province of Afghanistan in what would become one of the defining military campaigns of the decade. At great cost in blood and treasure, the UK waged a protracted counter-insurgency against a resurgent Taliban.

Long description:

In 2006, British forces entered the Helmand Province of Afghanistan in what would become one of the defining military campaigns of the decade. At great cost in blood and treasure, the UK waged a protracted counter-insurgency against a resurgent Taliban.

But how was the decision taken to commit Britain to such a difficult and drawn out campaign? The Afghan Papers is the result of private interviews with and frank contributions by some of the most important actors in the fateful decision. Former generals, politicians and civil servants contribute to an original RUSI analysis that provides a startling insight into the decision to commit the UK to a war – a decision wracked by conflict, incoherence and confusion.

Table of Contents:

Chapter 1 Introduction, Michael Clarke; Chapter 2 The Helmand Decision, Michael Clarke; Chapter 3 Flawed ‘Comprehensiveness’, Valentina Soria; Chapter 4 Canada in Regional Command South, Matthew Willis; Chapter 5 UK National Strategy and Helmand, Robert Fry, Desmond Bowen; Chapter 6 Afghanistan and the Context of Iraq, Nick Beadle; Chapter 7 Conclusion, Michael Clarke;