Franks’
views a journal highlight
By
Maj Catherine McCullagh
THE architect of the successful US-led invasion of Iraq, retired
Gen Tommy Franks, has delivered his verdict on the performance
of Australian soldiers in coalition forces in Afghanistan and
Iraq.
In an interview with the Australian Army Journal, Gen Franks also
reveals how his close working relationship with then CDF Gen Peter
Cosgrove eased the tough call of coalition warfare.
The interview with Gen Franks is among the many highlights of
the autumn 2005 issue of the Australian Army Journal, currently
on its way to units in Australia and overseas.
Other highlights include CA Lt-Gen Peter Leahy’s insight into
the futuristic seamless force with its “Army in the air”, the
battlefield reality of the “strategic corporal” and the complexity
of network-centric warfare.
The journal also takes a hard look at the time-honoured infantry
tactics of suppression and manoeuvre, the experience of US Marines
in urban operations and the increasingly important legal and media
considerations in operational planning.
Away from home, the journal analyses the harsh realities of Iraqi
reconstruction – daily fare for many Australian soldiers – and
the nature of radical Islam.
Other Australian mercy missions, including Op Anode, feature alongside
commentaries on Indonesia and the situation in Darfur, the troubled
province of Sudan and potential military hotspot.
The journal retains its historical perspective with a look at
the role of signals intelligence and a timeless study of the principles
of Australian defence by Gen James Whiteside Mackay.
The issue closes with a bounty of book reviews and a remarkable
collection of obituaries including those of Maj-Gen Tim Cape,
Brig “Chic” Charlesworth and Brig O.D. Jackson.
Like its predecessors, the latest issue features a mix of opinion,
debate and analysis on issues that matter to soldiers.
Extra copies of the Australian Army Journal can be ordered through
the Land Warfare Studies Centre’s web site at www.defence.gov.au/army/lwsc/
or by contacting Journal staff on army.journal@defence.gov.au.
