The Imperial Russian Army 1763-1815 - George Nafziger and Warren Worley
Vol 1: Infantry, Engineers and Opolochenie (170pp)
Vol 2: Cavalry, Cossacks, Guard and Artillery (103pp)
£13.99 each.

Now that the bicentennials are properly underway, there is an increasing interest in the Russian army, whose involvement in the wars really began in 1799. Dr Duffy's account of Suvarov's 1799 campaign in Italy will be out shortly, but details of this enormous and rather archaic army have remained a mystery to most enthusiasts. However, help is at hand with a two volume reference by the prolific George Nafziger.

In slightly longer format than his previous works on the minor European armies, plus some black and white illustrations, Nafziger with Worley runs through the entire force in the usual staggeringly exhaustive detail most readers will already be familiar with. However, there is also space for some helpful general background outlining the military-political events of the period from the end of the Seven Years' War to Waterloo, the key period of Tsarist Russia's expansion into Europe. Suvarov was their greatest commander - the likely outcome of a clash with Napoleon being a topic of endless debate - so a brief section at the back of Vol 1 covering Suvarov's 'Science of Victory' is a welcome addition for those interested in military strategy.

This is an essential guide for anyone interested in the Continental campaigns - especially for those whose primary interests lie elsewhere and so just need a clear reference. The next stage for those interested should be Mark Conrad's translation of Viskovatov's 'Historical Description of the Clothing and Arms of the Russian Army' (2 Vols £16.50) also produced in association with George Nafziger. Dave Hollins.

More Book Reviews

The Bayonets of the Republic
1815: The Roads to Waterloo
The Austrian Auxiliary Troops
The Prussian Army 1792-1815

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