Helion & Company publishing produces specialized military history books. Part of the “Middle East at War” series, Lebanese Civil War, volume 2 (second of a four part series) book covers the period of 1978 to 1981 known as the “Quiet before the Storm”. The publication is 70 pages of full color, black & white photographs, diagrams as well as artist illustrations.

The book starts out with abbreviations that will be found in the following pages and a map of Lebanon showing the control zones. Text and illustrations are laid out in chronological order covering all the groups on both sides of the conflict. Each section goes into deep detail on the environment was like leading up to war during the combative build up of militias and regular military troops. Descriptive accounts of troop numbers and equipment is covered in great detail and there are even a few segments covering Mig v.s. Israeli F-15 encounters for which the F-15 had and still has a perfect record of zero losses in air to air engagements. Reading some of the encounters Israel used with their aircraft just show how advanced they are with systems and tactics.

Mid way through the book there are color illustrations of military equipment including armor, naval ships, missiles and multiple aircraft types from jets, drones and helicopters for all sides in the conflict. Throughout the book there are maps and diagrams of battle fronts.

I highly recommend this book for reference on equipment and battlefield conditions during this conflict. I would like to thank Casemates and IPMS/USA for this book to review.