What do you think?
Rate this book
India's Wars
Full Spectrum: India's Wars, 1972-2020
The armed forces have played a key role in protecting India's sovereignty and raising its stature as a stable democracy and responsible regional power. Though the nation's soldiers, sailors and airmen occupy a special place in people's hearts, standard narratives of contemporary Indian history rarely cover the military dimension. In his first book, India's Wars: A Military History, 1947-1971, Arjun Subramaniam attempted to set this right by taking readers on a journey until the liberation of Bangladesh in 1971. Full Spectrum: India's Wars, 1972-2020 takes the story forward. It is a sweeping account of war and conflict in contemporary India over the past five decades. Covering every major operation that the armed forces have participated in - including insurgencies in the north-east, terrorism and proxy wars in Jammu and Kashmir, separatist violence in Punjab, the IPKF intervention in Sri Lanka, and the continued stress along the LoC and LAC - it fuses the strategic, operational, tactical and human dimensions of war and conflict into a racy narrative that reflects their changing character in modern times.
472 pages, Hardcover
First published September 25, 2020
48 people are currently reading
443 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
April 23, 2021
Outstanding. Simply outstanding. Air Vice-Marshal (Retd) Arjun Subramaniam has written yet another masterpiece to add to his epic work India's Wars . This book is a sequel to the just mentioned book and is as insightful, excellent, and makes a great read just as the first one. Despite being passionate about Indian history, I must admit that I had very little idea about the insurgency and the efforts made by the brave soliders of the Indian Armed Forces in Nagaland and Mizoram. This book was an eye-opener in this regard.
The author's vast experience as a veteran of the Indian Air Force combined with his intellectual and academic ability proves to be a superb combination for this book which is a perfect amalgamation of thorough research, wonderfully narrated anecdotes, and insights based on a thorough and cutting-edge analysis. While 1962 Sino-Indian War is a painful memory for most Indians, the book describes the brilliant manner in which Indians have since given the Chinese a bloody nose, be it during the 1967 Nathu La and Cho La clashes or the recent Galwan Valley clashes.
The author presents an objective and balanced narrative throughout the book which makes it an engaging read. Indian military history is often less explored. For an aspiring superpower, it is imperative that the military history needs to be explored, written, read, and transmitted across the world. Superb efforts like these made by Air Vice-Marshal Arjun Subramaniam can contribute a lot in building this crucial narrative. I would suggest that this book is a must-read for every Indian.
The author's vast experience as a veteran of the Indian Air Force combined with his intellectual and academic ability proves to be a superb combination for this book which is a perfect amalgamation of thorough research, wonderfully narrated anecdotes, and insights based on a thorough and cutting-edge analysis. While 1962 Sino-Indian War is a painful memory for most Indians, the book describes the brilliant manner in which Indians have since given the Chinese a bloody nose, be it during the 1967 Nathu La and Cho La clashes or the recent Galwan Valley clashes.
The author presents an objective and balanced narrative throughout the book which makes it an engaging read. Indian military history is often less explored. For an aspiring superpower, it is imperative that the military history needs to be explored, written, read, and transmitted across the world. Superb efforts like these made by Air Vice-Marshal Arjun Subramaniam can contribute a lot in building this crucial narrative. I would suggest that this book is a must-read for every Indian.
December 14, 2022
Intensely researched scholarly work, brilliantly executed – an apt sequel to India's Wars: A Military History 1947-1971.
There is no jingoism, it is factual, unbiased and balanced, giving the enemy their due when called for. There are gripping descriptions of action on the battlefield and adequate representations to the three arms of the Armed Forces. This is comprehensive coverage of the Naga and Mizo insurgency, UN assignments, Siachen, Kargil, IPKF in Sri Lanka, Operation Bluestar, J&K and LOC, China and LAC, but without too much detail – that is left for the end in the form of a list of recommended reading for a more complete picture.
The armed forces have performed creditably with the limited resources at their disposal; it is the venal, vacillating, pusillanimous politicians down the years that have let them down – time and time again.
A must read for every Indian.
There is no jingoism, it is factual, unbiased and balanced, giving the enemy their due when called for. There are gripping descriptions of action on the battlefield and adequate representations to the three arms of the Armed Forces. This is comprehensive coverage of the Naga and Mizo insurgency, UN assignments, Siachen, Kargil, IPKF in Sri Lanka, Operation Bluestar, J&K and LOC, China and LAC, but without too much detail – that is left for the end in the form of a list of recommended reading for a more complete picture.
The armed forces have performed creditably with the limited resources at their disposal; it is the venal, vacillating, pusillanimous politicians down the years that have let them down – time and time again.
A must read for every Indian.
February 14, 2021
A synopsis into the history of the Indian Military and its conventional/sub-conventional engagements between 1971-2020, Full Spectrum is a very ambitious book. I haven't had the chance to read the prequel to this one, titled "India's Wars: A Military History, 1941-1971", but I am sure that packs an equal punch.
The book is revelatory in some aspects, as it delves into first-hand accounts by many individuals who were privy to the high level discussions presaging operations, as well as those who were part of the on ground operations as well. As a retired Air Vice Marshal, the author does lean onto Indian Air Force's narratives/accounts surrounding the aforementioned operations, than those by army officers, especially from the infantry/artillery units deployed. This does lend a different perspective than one we are used in our traditional readings of the heroics and deployment of the army outfits in different terrains across decades against different adversaries. Having read a few books on Kargil, I didn't come across a more reasoned analysis on not only the victories but also the initial issues that the IAF had to surmount in its efforts to target Pakistani intruders, such as getting coordinates on Pakistani positions across heights of Tololing and Tiger Hill. However, on a few occasions, the same leaning seems to warp the narrative to present a very myopic and isolated view of an otherwise extensive military operation. This is most perceptible in the author's account of Operation Cactus, wherein the Indian Para Brigade was deployed upon request by the Maldivian President, Mr Gayoom. The account presents a critique on the lack of joint manship leading up to the lifting of the brigade and its eventual deployment in Madives. It makes little mention of the efforts of the para brigade in the field, and draws upon facts as presented by Group Captain Bewoor, the then CO of IAF's 44 squadron that took part in the operations. But one can let this go, since the book in its attempt to present a holistic view of many operations, can't possibly delve into the nitty gritty of every military manoeuvre made during an operation.
I quite enjoyed the chapters on the insurgency in the North East, which built the edifice to Indian military's doctrine on counter-insurgency/counter-terrorism operations. India's military expedition to Sri Lanka is another fascinating part of this book, and honestly, deserves a book in itself.
I hope the author will take cognizance of the indulgence of mainstream Indian readers in all things military history, howsoever, momentary, and perhaps pick a few of these operations and pen down extensive accounts on each.
The book is revelatory in some aspects, as it delves into first-hand accounts by many individuals who were privy to the high level discussions presaging operations, as well as those who were part of the on ground operations as well. As a retired Air Vice Marshal, the author does lean onto Indian Air Force's narratives/accounts surrounding the aforementioned operations, than those by army officers, especially from the infantry/artillery units deployed. This does lend a different perspective than one we are used in our traditional readings of the heroics and deployment of the army outfits in different terrains across decades against different adversaries. Having read a few books on Kargil, I didn't come across a more reasoned analysis on not only the victories but also the initial issues that the IAF had to surmount in its efforts to target Pakistani intruders, such as getting coordinates on Pakistani positions across heights of Tololing and Tiger Hill. However, on a few occasions, the same leaning seems to warp the narrative to present a very myopic and isolated view of an otherwise extensive military operation. This is most perceptible in the author's account of Operation Cactus, wherein the Indian Para Brigade was deployed upon request by the Maldivian President, Mr Gayoom. The account presents a critique on the lack of joint manship leading up to the lifting of the brigade and its eventual deployment in Madives. It makes little mention of the efforts of the para brigade in the field, and draws upon facts as presented by Group Captain Bewoor, the then CO of IAF's 44 squadron that took part in the operations. But one can let this go, since the book in its attempt to present a holistic view of many operations, can't possibly delve into the nitty gritty of every military manoeuvre made during an operation.
I quite enjoyed the chapters on the insurgency in the North East, which built the edifice to Indian military's doctrine on counter-insurgency/counter-terrorism operations. India's military expedition to Sri Lanka is another fascinating part of this book, and honestly, deserves a book in itself.
I hope the author will take cognizance of the indulgence of mainstream Indian readers in all things military history, howsoever, momentary, and perhaps pick a few of these operations and pen down extensive accounts on each.
January 14, 2021
An expertly written sequel by the author from where he had left his earlier book - India's War: A Military History - 1947 to 1971. Together the two volumes cover nearly seven decades of India's wars and conflicts - both internal and external. This volume slightly predates 1971 with the rise of Naga rebellion and insurgency, but quickly moves on to the post-Bangladesh liberation with a focus on the north-east insurgencies, Conquest of Siachen glacier, Operation Blue-star, Kargil War, Terrorism and proxy war in J&K, the role of Indian armed forces in Sri Lanka and Maldives, contribution of Indian military in various UN peace keeping missions, endless conflicts along the LoC and LAC and ends with the recent airstrikes by IAF on the terror camps in Balakot. Although all of these operations by the Bravehearts of the Indian armed forces was not an astounding success, the author has immaculately accentuated the explanations behind the setbacks and how this could be a learning curve for the next generation of officers. In the course of writing this book, the author has done immense research and interviewed on the ground officers involved in each of those operations to get the first-hand narrative of the combats and challenges faced by them. While some details remain classified even today, it gives the reader an insight into the Indian Military personnel whose strategic, operational, and tactical decision-making skills are tested through times in not only protecting our international perimeters but internal conflicts which are even a bigger menace to the country. The author has furthermore illustrated how our front liners brave the elements of nature without caring for their own lives but ensuring the safety of its citizens, while they sleep in peace. A must-read two volumes for all those interested to get a first-hand account of India's contemporary military operations since independence.
December 20, 2020
An excellent continuation from the previous book. The author has explained various post 1971 operations of Indian forces very well. These include conflicts with neighbours and also several chapters on internal security duties to combat, infiltration, insurgencies and terrorism.
In addition, the books covers UN missions since 1947 where Indian forces were involved.
A very well researched book. Loved it through and through.
In addition, the books covers UN missions since 1947 where Indian forces were involved.
A very well researched book. Loved it through and through.
May 20, 2021
Being second part to India's Military history.
I knew i had to read it when it got published last year.
The writer AVM (Retd) Arjun Subramaniam is an acclaimed Fighter Pilot and a scholar in Military History.
I bought his first book out of curiosity and finished it during those dreaded days when i had insomnia issues. Spent my night reading his book.
I really love his style of writing it just flows like a story.
Full spectrum was a strange name to the second part and the first chapter begins with explaining why wars are now categorised as 2G, 3G, 4G, Hybrid, conventional non convential.
It takes into account the all war fought post 1971 big and small conventional non conventional since then and thats where previous book ended.
Book lucidly dealt with all skirmishes missions operations our defence forces undertook be in land sea and water including foreign lands, behind enemy lines and also as latest as recent ladakh stand-off.
Book helped in clearinf lot of doubts media created be it Doklam Crisis or Balakot strike including the cloud incidents and the land grab issues fired by Media in ladakh.
If you are keen in knowing more about how Strategic intent is achieved by Military then you should read Arjun Subramaniam.
#Books #booksofinstagram #Booklibrary #bookstagram #booklover #Books #bookshelf #bookworm #bookstagrammer #booknerd #bookaddict #bookreview #booksbooksbooks #bookstack #read #readersofinstagram #reading #readmorebooks #readmore
I knew i had to read it when it got published last year.
The writer AVM (Retd) Arjun Subramaniam is an acclaimed Fighter Pilot and a scholar in Military History.
I bought his first book out of curiosity and finished it during those dreaded days when i had insomnia issues. Spent my night reading his book.
I really love his style of writing it just flows like a story.
Full spectrum was a strange name to the second part and the first chapter begins with explaining why wars are now categorised as 2G, 3G, 4G, Hybrid, conventional non convential.
It takes into account the all war fought post 1971 big and small conventional non conventional since then and thats where previous book ended.
Book lucidly dealt with all skirmishes missions operations our defence forces undertook be in land sea and water including foreign lands, behind enemy lines and also as latest as recent ladakh stand-off.
Book helped in clearinf lot of doubts media created be it Doklam Crisis or Balakot strike including the cloud incidents and the land grab issues fired by Media in ladakh.
If you are keen in knowing more about how Strategic intent is achieved by Military then you should read Arjun Subramaniam.
#Books #booksofinstagram #Booklibrary #bookstagram #booklover #Books #bookshelf #bookworm #bookstagrammer #booknerd #bookaddict #bookreview #booksbooksbooks #bookstack #read #readersofinstagram #reading #readmorebooks #readmore
June 10, 2021
The book has given a superb narration of India's military history in a desi John Keegan-style. Read it after India's Wars: 1947-1971.
July 19, 2025
In my review of his last book, I predicted that Subramaniam would not be able to write another book because of the barriers he faced writing his first one and the fact that the conflicts he would; be writing about would be messy (Jammu & Kashmir and Naga insurgencies), unclear (Siachen Glacier) and have some glaring failures (IFPK in Sri Lanka)
Thankfully, my prediction was wrong, and Subramanian wrote the book anyway. While his work is illuminating I am still giving it only three stars . This is because most of these conflicts are covered from a “Command” over view of the situation and show little “on the ground” operations by the men who fought it.
Thankfully, my prediction was wrong, and Subramanian wrote the book anyway. While his work is illuminating I am still giving it only three stars . This is because most of these conflicts are covered from a “Command” over view of the situation and show little “on the ground” operations by the men who fought it.
May 19, 2021
The author is a retired Air Vice Marshal of IAF. The book is about the Military History of India for the past 5 decades. Covering every major war that the Defence Services of India participated in - including the Kargil War, insurgencies in the North East, terrorism and proxy wars in J&K, separatist violence in Punjab, IPKF operations in Sri Lanka and the continued stress on the LOC and LAC - the book is highly recommended reading for war historians and those who enjoy military narratives.
June 17, 2021
Full Spectrum is a fitting sequel to India's Wars. Continuing with where he had left off, the author starts with few incidents which weren't covered in his earlier book,viz. Nagaland and Mizo insurgency, collaboration with Russians and self sufficiency abilities of Indian Navy with special sections on Nilgiri class of Made in India frigates, Mig 21 fighter aircrafts and the Bofors gun. Chronologically, this is followed by Operation Bluestar, Siachen face-off, Peacekeeping missions to Sri Lanka and Maldives intervention. Operation Pawan section is very detailed and sheds on lesser known IPKF wars in Sri Lanka which culminated in assassination of Rajiv Gandhi. Focus then shifts to militancy in the walley, the Kargil War and Hybrid war in Kashmir. The author does well to document the lesser known of Indian contributions to UN peace keeping missions and India China faceoff in Doklam and surgical strikes in Pakistan. A scholarly account, do read if you wish to understand the world of Indian defence forces and their history a little better.
July 27, 2022
Just for the fact that for a well read Indian who has been following military history and literature for two decades, this was the first book that explained the nuances and history of operation Pawan and operation brass tacks in a readable and engaging fashion means that this book needs to treasured and read again and again.
As always, well placed maps would be helpful but I would recommend that war book authors consider having a web page where relevant maps are present which can be followed at any time with every relevant detail.
Excellent work. I hope this is the first of many many such books
As always, well placed maps would be helpful but I would recommend that war book authors consider having a web page where relevant maps are present which can be followed at any time with every relevant detail.
Excellent work. I hope this is the first of many many such books
September 25, 2022
Passingly interesting, but the same faults as the first volume. In the first, there was often a feeling of being disjointed and scattered in where and when it focused. In the second, while being close to ones subject isn't inherently a bad thing, here it did detract, as far too often Subramaniam felt less like an historian than a cheerleader, which in turn makes one question how authoritative one ought to treat the narrative at points.
December 19, 2021
Loved this book!
Read
September 27, 2022A good account of the relatively recent conflicts. Good details and easy read.
May 6, 2025
This book provides wars and conflicts in which the three Indian armed forces were involved between 1972 and 2020. If you wish for a neutral account of such wars, read this.
August 11, 2025
A dispassionate look at all operations short of war prosecuted by India’s military forces. An ok read
April 27, 2023
This book is a must read for all Indians.
The objectivity with which Arjun sir has explained every operation is noteworthy. He has made an effort to give information as precisely as he can ( some of it also becomes a little too detailed with every model of equipment used but for someone who wants to get into techinical details as well, is a great plus)
He has called out mistakes where mistakes were made and has helped me understand greatly the nuances that were involved in all the engagements of the armed forces.
The chapters on Operation Blue star and the chapters dealing with the Kashmir insurgency are illuminating to say the least and gives a lot of perspective to someone who has only been fed half baked information from the media
He has also detailed out must reads for reading ahead for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the history of the armed forces
all in all, a great book and definitely among my top reads of the year
The objectivity with which Arjun sir has explained every operation is noteworthy. He has made an effort to give information as precisely as he can ( some of it also becomes a little too detailed with every model of equipment used but for someone who wants to get into techinical details as well, is a great plus)
He has called out mistakes where mistakes were made and has helped me understand greatly the nuances that were involved in all the engagements of the armed forces.
The chapters on Operation Blue star and the chapters dealing with the Kashmir insurgency are illuminating to say the least and gives a lot of perspective to someone who has only been fed half baked information from the media
He has also detailed out must reads for reading ahead for anyone who wants to delve deeper into the history of the armed forces
all in all, a great book and definitely among my top reads of the year
April 9, 2022
The writing style isn't as conversational as the first volume but it's probably due to the nature of conflicts and Warfare that Indian Armed Forces has been embroiled in after 1971. Whether it was the sensitive Sikh issue, the insurgency in the NE or the IPKF in Sri Lanka. Again, AVM Subramanian creates a starting foundation from which enthusiasts can launch themselves deeper into the conflicts and the politics behind each skirmish.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews