This book provides a history of the roots of FNLC (Front for the National Liberation of the Congo: ex-Katanga Gendarmerie) in Angola and Zaire, political situation under Mobutu regime, FNLC incursions into Zaire border since 1977 (“Shaba Wars I and II”) and subsequent hostage taking in mining town of Kolwezi. The author describes the subsequent French Foreign Legion and Belgian Para Commando airborne operation and freeing of the hostages, together with practical destruction of the FNLC as fighting force.

“This illuminating "Africa@War" installment superbly summarizes these Cold War conflicts. On so many levels, Kowalczuk's slim study neatly covers key issues of post-WWII African political and military history. It's an effective introduction to these. And I loved it.”

A lavishly photo-illustrated and detailed account of the history of the FNLC (Front for the
National Liberation of the Congo: ex-Katanga Gendarmerie) in Angola and Zaire...In addition to the black-and-white and color photos, the book includes illustrations of the military equipment used in the operation, including fighter aircraft, and battlefield maps.