David Birtles

The Military and Police Forces of the Gulf States, Volume 3, covers the military, police, and selected para-military services of Bahrain, Kuwait and Qatar from early 20th Century until 1980. Great Britain and these three states have had various mutual defence treaties since centuries. This resulted in establishment of very close ties between the British and the Sultan of Oman’s armed forces. Since 1920s, the British seconded and contract personnel served with the latter services through forming, leading, advising and training them.

In January 1839 Captain S. B. Haines of the Indian Marine, the East India Company's Navy, occupied the port of Aden. Possessing a magnificent natural harbour at the junction of the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean, Britain recognised its strategic importance and thus began a period of British control which lasted until 29th November 1967. This book presents an updated and expanded record of the mainly Arab armed forces raised in Aden and the Protectorate during the time of British control. Not only are brief historical details provided for each unit but details of insignia and uniform are included, and the book is brought to life by Jonathan Paynter’s superb colour uniform illustrations. It includes over 220 black and white photographs and 11 pages of colour photos, 5 pages of colour uniform plates as well as further information on the Armed Forces and awards. New information is to be found on the Lahej Trained Forces and Mukalla Regular Army and other forces. H. H. Sultan Ghalib II has provided access to his personal collection of photographs which provide an exceptional insight into the Eastern Aden Protectorate and former FRA/SAA Sgt. Tony Ford provided access to hundreds of colour photographs. About the Authors Cliff Lord served as a cipher Operator in 15 Signal Regiment, Aden, during 1967. After leaving the Army, he worked for the Washington Post before joining Air New Zealand Network Control. The late David Birtles joined Royal Signals after a few years in the Merchant Navy. He served in Aden in 1960 including time with the Aden Protectorate Levies.