Book Review: Spetsnaz: A History of the Soviet and Russian Special Forces

Authors

Chase Metcalf

Files

Description

Author: Tor Bukkvoll

Reviewed by Colonel Chase Metcalf, assistant professor, Department of Military Strategy, Planning, and Operations, US Army War College

Tor Bukkvoll delivers an in-depth and compelling history of Soviet and Russian Spetsnaz, tracing its evolution from strategic reconnaissance units to key players in hybrid and irregular warfare. The reviewer recommends the book for scholars, military professionals, and anyone interested in Russian special operations forces.

Publication Date

9-22-2025

Keywords

special operations, Russian military, warfare, Spetsnaz, Afghanistan

Disciplines

Defense and Security Studies

Recommended Citation

Chase Metcalf, Book Review: Spetsnaz: A History of the Soviet and Russian Special Forces ( US Army War College Press, 2025),
https://press.armywarcollege.edu/parameters_bookshelf/95