It is today's special forces who are required to conduct the diverse defence operations against a mixture of opposing units, from national forces to insurgency groups, from urban terrorism to VIP security, from siege and hostage situations to raids and missions behind enemy lines; for these tasks they deploy specialist weaponry and equipment. For the serving officer, current affairs commentator, defence studies student and the armament and equipment manufacturers, a single volume illustrated reference is vital and here the need is met with a fully illustrated detailed volume that is international in coverage and thorough and responsible in the information given.