FRENCH TANKS OF THE GREAT WAR: Development, Tactics and Operations

Details how the French tank corps was an essential part of the French army from 1917 onwards. Using information derived from the French military archives at Vincennes, describes the design and development of the tanks, as well as the political and organizational issues that arose between the French military and civilian bureaucracy. All the major engagements in which French tanks participated are depicted in graphic detail, often quoting directly from recollections left by individual tank commanders of their experience in battle. Each operation is assessed in terms of its impact on French tactics in general and on tank tactics in particular. The Nivelle offensive and the battles of Malmaison, the Matz, Soissons, and Champagne are featured. The actions of the French tanks serving with the US army are covered too.