Examines why the South African government took the political risk in attacking 'Fortress Cassinga' in a cross-border operation that would clearly attract the ire of the world. He studies SWAPO [South West African Peoples Organisation] claims that Cassinga was a refugee camp guarded by only a few PLAN soldiers, explaining why Sam Nujoma, the SWAPO leader, had no option but to perpetuate this falsehood. He looks ... at all the players involved: SWAPO/PLAN and their commander Dimo Amaambo who fled the field of battle; the Cuban and FAPLA intervention; and the South African paratroopers, led by Breytenbach, who not only had to combat a determined enemy but also senior South African staff officers. Above all, it is a soldier's tale which pays homage in equal parts to the bravery of the paratroopers and the determination of the PLAN fighters who stood to their guns until annihilated"-- From the publisher.

Co-published by Helion and 30° South Publisher in 2011. Africa@War series Volume 3. Cover title.

Background to the battle -- Planning and Operation Bruilof -- Training at De Brug -- Skillie Human's disturbing premonition and the jump -- The assault begins -- The battle -- Cassinga Base is taken -- Cubans to the rescue -- Going home -- A Potemkin refugee camp : debunking SWAPO claims.