Red Army by Sabine Lorca

“Red Army” presents a comprehensive exploration of the Soviet Red Army, detailing its transformation from a revolutionary force into a 20th-century military superpower. The book argues that the Red Army's development was intrinsically linked to Soviet political and social policy, reflecting the communist state's ambitions. Readers gain insight into the Red Army’s unique military doctrines, such as “Deep Battle” and “Deep Operations”, which aimed at overwhelming the enemy through coordinated, continuous attacks across the depth of the battlefield. The book further highlights the Red Army's pivotal role in World War II, where it faced immense challenges but ultimately triumphed against Nazi Germany.

The book meticulously traces the evolution of the Red Army across its chapters. It begins with its chaotic origins during the Russian Civil War, progresses through the development of its key military doctrines, and analyzes its performance in major conflicts. Subsequent chapters delve into the Red Army's purges, its initial struggles and eventual triumph in World War II, and its lasting impact on the Cold War. By integrating military analysis with social and political history, “Red Army” offers a unique perspective, moving beyond traditional accounts of battles to provide a more comprehensive understanding.