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Patrick McLanahan #11
Air Battle Force
Major General Patrick McLanahan creates an untried futuristic air combat unit that must be utilized against the Taliban and their plans to seize control of an oil-rich Asian state as the unstable peace established by American victories in Afghanistan threatens to dissolve in chaos. Reprint.
518 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published May 13, 2003
204 people are currently reading
700 people want to read
About the author
Dale Brown
151 books1,132 followersFormer U.S. Air Force captain Dale Brown is the superstar author of 25 consecutive New York Times best-selling military-action-aviation adventure novels: FLIGHT OF THE OLD DOG (1987), SILVER TOWER (1988), DAY OF THE CHEETAH (1989), HAMMERHEADS (1990), SKY MASTERS (1991), NIGHT OF THE HAWK (1992), CHAINS OF COMMAND (1993), STORMING HEAVEN (1994), SHADOWS OF STEEL (1996) and FATAL TERRAIN (1997), THE TIN MAN (1998), BATTLE BORN (1999), and WARRIOR CLASS (2001). His Fourteenth Novel AIRBATTLE FORCE will be published in late Spring 2003... Dale's novels are published in 11 languages and distributed to over 70 countries. Worldwide sales of his novels, audiobooks and computer games exceed 10 million copies.
Dale was born in Buffalo, New York on November 2, 1956. He graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Western European History and received an Air Force commission in 1978. He was a navigator-bombardier in the B-52G Stratofortress heavy bomber and the FB-111A supersonic medium bomber, and is the recipient of several military decorations and awards including the Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Combat Crew Award, and the Marksmanship ribbon.
Dale was also one of the nation's first Air Force ROTC cadets to qualify for and complete the grueling three-week U.S. Army Airborne Infantry paratrooper training course.
Dale is a director and volunteer pilot for AirLifeLine, a non-profit national charitable medical transportation organization who fly needy persons free of charge to receive treatment. He also supports a number of organizations to support and promote law enforcement and reading.
Dale Brown is a member of The Writers Guild and a Life Member of the Air Force Association and U.S. Naval Institute. He is a multi-engine and instrument-rated private pilot and can often be found in the skies all across the United States, piloting his own plane. On the ground, Dale enjoys tennis, skiing, scuba diving, and hockey. Dale, his wife Diane, and son Hunter live near the shores of Lake Tahoe, Nevada.
Dale was born in Buffalo, New York on November 2, 1956. He graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Western European History and received an Air Force commission in 1978. He was a navigator-bombardier in the B-52G Stratofortress heavy bomber and the FB-111A supersonic medium bomber, and is the recipient of several military decorations and awards including the Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Combat Crew Award, and the Marksmanship ribbon.
Dale was also one of the nation's first Air Force ROTC cadets to qualify for and complete the grueling three-week U.S. Army Airborne Infantry paratrooper training course.
Dale is a director and volunteer pilot for AirLifeLine, a non-profit national charitable medical transportation organization who fly needy persons free of charge to receive treatment. He also supports a number of organizations to support and promote law enforcement and reading.
Dale Brown is a member of The Writers Guild and a Life Member of the Air Force Association and U.S. Naval Institute. He is a multi-engine and instrument-rated private pilot and can often be found in the skies all across the United States, piloting his own plane. On the ground, Dale enjoys tennis, skiing, scuba diving, and hockey. Dale, his wife Diane, and son Hunter live near the shores of Lake Tahoe, Nevada.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
December 23, 2022
For some odd reason, it's a bit hard finding all of Dale Brown's books online. Some seem to be unavailable permanently, including digital editions. Thus, I had to jump from book 6 to this book 11. And I must say, I'm not impressed. Meh.
The first few books were excellent. Really. Top notch manlit. They would have a good story, varied characters, a level of plausability, and overall, you'd feel like a book might turn into a movie script or some such. Not so with Air Battle Force.
The whole thing feels stilted. There's no sense of action, no suspense whatsoever, no character development, and only a few passing mentions of military stuff that make Dale's book enjoyable. At best, you are mildly amused, but oftentimes bored. The shift from manned bombers to computer game like drone action feels cheap. Not once did I feel even remotely excited about the narrative. And I'm not going to continue with the future installments. I will go back and try to find the older volumes, as they definitely have decent characters, more fun, and way more action.
Igor
The first few books were excellent. Really. Top notch manlit. They would have a good story, varied characters, a level of plausability, and overall, you'd feel like a book might turn into a movie script or some such. Not so with Air Battle Force.
The whole thing feels stilted. There's no sense of action, no suspense whatsoever, no character development, and only a few passing mentions of military stuff that make Dale's book enjoyable. At best, you are mildly amused, but oftentimes bored. The shift from manned bombers to computer game like drone action feels cheap. Not once did I feel even remotely excited about the narrative. And I'm not going to continue with the future installments. I will go back and try to find the older volumes, as they definitely have decent characters, more fun, and way more action.
Igor
February 26, 2022
Dale Brown is a good "ripped from the headlines" novelist. When he wrote this back in 2003, he knew that Russia was going to become resurgent and flex its muscles again. Whether it is the Ukraine or the former Soviet republics in the "-stans", Russia's bomber force is a good force.
The problem with Dale Brown was his "President Thorn" - a US President wants a massive draw-down and removal of US overseas military presence. This is as close to Obama and Biden as you can get without being political. Unfortunately, whether in the real world or in fiction, such a person is disastrous.
The end of the novel sets up for the next two novels as General Gryzlov becomes the new president and takes his revenge.
The problem with Dale Brown was his "President Thorn" - a US President wants a massive draw-down and removal of US overseas military presence. This is as close to Obama and Biden as you can get without being political. Unfortunately, whether in the real world or in fiction, such a person is disastrous.
The end of the novel sets up for the next two novels as General Gryzlov becomes the new president and takes his revenge.
September 27, 2015
#11 in the series with an ending which clearly foretells there will be a #12 following soon with only minimally more subtly than a bolded TO BE CONTINUED...
If there's one particular thing I take from this book it's that Patrick McLanahan is a terrible employee always seeming to be at odd with whatever it is his bosses want. No matter how seemingly reasonable or logical the request is, like a boundary testing toddler, McLananhan immediately does the opposite.
Passes the time, but there's better books in the series.
If there's one particular thing I take from this book it's that Patrick McLanahan is a terrible employee always seeming to be at odd with whatever it is his bosses want. No matter how seemingly reasonable or logical the request is, like a boundary testing toddler, McLananhan immediately does the opposite.
Passes the time, but there's better books in the series.
April 2, 2016
Pretty good book. It has been awhile since I have read any from the Battle Group series so this was a nice one to get back to. I haven't been reading the series in order so some of the background references might ruin it for me when I go back and read others. Overall I still enjoyed it.
August 9, 2023
Welcome to the adrenaline-pumping world of aerial combat, where brave pilots soar through the skies, facing unimaginable challenges and risking their lives to protect their nations. Get ready to embark on a heart-stopping journey that will take you on the wings of cutting-edge fighter jets and thrust you into the midst of intense dogfights. This is not just a book; it is an immersive experience that will leave you breathless and eager to discover the untold stories of heroes in the air.
In the modern era, when the world's political landscape is marred by uncertainty and conflict, air forces play a critical role in safeguarding their nations' interests. In the face of enemy threats and emerging technologies, air superiority has become the linchpin of defence strategies. The stakes are high, and the challenges are formidable. The book "Air Force Battle" delves deep into the trials and tribulations faced by the brave pilots who take to the skies, confronting death-defying situations with unwavering determination.
Through "Air Force Battle," readers will gain an insider's perspective into the extraordinary world of aerial warfare. Experience the adrenaline surge as you witness hair-raising dogfights, the thrill of precise target strikes, and the camaraderie shared amongst the elite flying squads. This book promises an immersive and riveting account of air force missions, where each turn of the page will reveal new insights and captivating narratives.
In "Air Force Battle," acclaimed author Dale Brown brings his unparalleled expertise and in-depth knowledge of military aviation to offer an authentic portrayal of the life of air force pilots. The book not only explores the cutting-edge technology and tactics employed by air forces but also delves into the human side of the story, revealing the courage, sacrifices, and emotional struggles faced by those who choose to serve their countries from the cockpit.
Dale Brown, a seasoned veteran in the genre of military thrillers, is renowned for his meticulous research and attention to detail. With a distinguished background in military service and a passion for aviation, Brown's storytelling is infused with authenticity and realism. Prepare to be guided by a master storyteller who knows the skies like the back of his hand.
As you turn the pages of "Air Force Battle," you will be captivated by the spellbinding narratives and unforgettable characters. The dedication of these pilots, the adrenaline-charged battles, and the emotional rollercoaster they endure will evoke a deep connection with their struggles and triumphs. This commitment to their journey will keep you engrossed until the final page.
The tone of "Air Force Battle" is one of urgency, valor, and resilience. From the breathtaking aerial acrobatics to the nail-biting moments of suspense, the book strikes a balance between exhilaration and poignancy. The skies become a battlefield, and every maneuver is a matter of life and death, adding an extra layer of intensity to the narrative.
In a world where national security is paramount and the need for defence forces remains ever-present, "Air Force Battle" becomes more than just a work of fiction. It mirrors the real-life dedication of air force personnel who risk their lives to protect their homelands and preserve the values they hold dear. The book's relevance lies in its reflection on the crucial role played by these unsung heroes in safeguarding global peace.
Through vivid descriptions, heart-stopping action, and deeply relatable characters, "Air Force Battle" will transport readers into the cockpit, making them feel the G-forces and experience the emotional highs and lows of those who fly into the face of danger. Prepare to be fully immersed in a world where courage knows no bounds.
"Air Force Battle" will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind. It will remind you of the courage and sacrifice of those who defend our skies, and it will ignite a newfound appreciation for the extraordinary feats achieved by air force pilots. Brace yourself for a gripping journey that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.
In the modern era, when the world's political landscape is marred by uncertainty and conflict, air forces play a critical role in safeguarding their nations' interests. In the face of enemy threats and emerging technologies, air superiority has become the linchpin of defence strategies. The stakes are high, and the challenges are formidable. The book "Air Force Battle" delves deep into the trials and tribulations faced by the brave pilots who take to the skies, confronting death-defying situations with unwavering determination.
Through "Air Force Battle," readers will gain an insider's perspective into the extraordinary world of aerial warfare. Experience the adrenaline surge as you witness hair-raising dogfights, the thrill of precise target strikes, and the camaraderie shared amongst the elite flying squads. This book promises an immersive and riveting account of air force missions, where each turn of the page will reveal new insights and captivating narratives.
In "Air Force Battle," acclaimed author Dale Brown brings his unparalleled expertise and in-depth knowledge of military aviation to offer an authentic portrayal of the life of air force pilots. The book not only explores the cutting-edge technology and tactics employed by air forces but also delves into the human side of the story, revealing the courage, sacrifices, and emotional struggles faced by those who choose to serve their countries from the cockpit.
Dale Brown, a seasoned veteran in the genre of military thrillers, is renowned for his meticulous research and attention to detail. With a distinguished background in military service and a passion for aviation, Brown's storytelling is infused with authenticity and realism. Prepare to be guided by a master storyteller who knows the skies like the back of his hand.
As you turn the pages of "Air Force Battle," you will be captivated by the spellbinding narratives and unforgettable characters. The dedication of these pilots, the adrenaline-charged battles, and the emotional rollercoaster they endure will evoke a deep connection with their struggles and triumphs. This commitment to their journey will keep you engrossed until the final page.
The tone of "Air Force Battle" is one of urgency, valor, and resilience. From the breathtaking aerial acrobatics to the nail-biting moments of suspense, the book strikes a balance between exhilaration and poignancy. The skies become a battlefield, and every maneuver is a matter of life and death, adding an extra layer of intensity to the narrative.
In a world where national security is paramount and the need for defence forces remains ever-present, "Air Force Battle" becomes more than just a work of fiction. It mirrors the real-life dedication of air force personnel who risk their lives to protect their homelands and preserve the values they hold dear. The book's relevance lies in its reflection on the crucial role played by these unsung heroes in safeguarding global peace.
Through vivid descriptions, heart-stopping action, and deeply relatable characters, "Air Force Battle" will transport readers into the cockpit, making them feel the G-forces and experience the emotional highs and lows of those who fly into the face of danger. Prepare to be fully immersed in a world where courage knows no bounds.
"Air Force Battle" will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind. It will remind you of the courage and sacrifice of those who defend our skies, and it will ignite a newfound appreciation for the extraordinary feats achieved by air force pilots. Brace yourself for a gripping journey that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page.
October 9, 2022
Unbelievable. No, really - unbelievable.
Boy I hope the actual military and political landscape is different from the bunch of mutineers and morons on display in this book. Time after time (after time after time) the military personnel outright disregard and disobey their superiors - and then, gosh darn it, it turns out they were right after all - and are commended! Hoo boy.
That said I did find it mostly entertaining, though I wonder if the author really needs to dive quite as deep into some of the aircraft and weaponry used in the narrative. I get it - that's part of the attraction for most readers (including me) and he wants to prove he's an insider - but one chapter read like a specification dump from some weapon manufacturers.
Boy I hope the actual military and political landscape is different from the bunch of mutineers and morons on display in this book. Time after time (after time after time) the military personnel outright disregard and disobey their superiors - and then, gosh darn it, it turns out they were right after all - and are commended! Hoo boy.
That said I did find it mostly entertaining, though I wonder if the author really needs to dive quite as deep into some of the aircraft and weaponry used in the narrative. I get it - that's part of the attraction for most readers (including me) and he wants to prove he's an insider - but one chapter read like a specification dump from some weapon manufacturers.
September 22, 2019
Dale Brown writes an amazingly technical thriller about a Sci-Fi force of airplanes and other space gadgets. People who build military aircraft will think they have gone to heaven. People who don't will have to do a lot of skimming. I don't build planes!
I will say that the second half of the book was really thrilling and worth reading. I will also say that Patrick McLanahan needs some time out in his crib! The politics are somewhat interesting and the secondary characters are very likable.
The book was written back in 2003, so it is facinating to think how much of this technology has found it's way into today's Air Force!
I will say that the second half of the book was really thrilling and worth reading. I will also say that Patrick McLanahan needs some time out in his crib! The politics are somewhat interesting and the secondary characters are very likable.
The book was written back in 2003, so it is facinating to think how much of this technology has found it's way into today's Air Force!
May 12, 2017
Dale Brown is one of the best military action thriller writers today. This book had all the ingredients he normally includes; it was not one of my favorites. I do admit I got confused with some of the foreign names and that has nothing at all to do with his character development.
I was happy to see some of the old faces I remembered from other books that were included in this one. Following their careers and exciting sagas has made reading his books exciting for me.
I was happy to see some of the old faces I remembered from other books that were included in this one. Following their careers and exciting sagas has made reading his books exciting for me.
January 4, 2022
I think the on the edge of your seat factor was definitely there, but the writing was somewhat choppy and a little hard to follow how things flowed together. There was a huge cast of characters and this might be popular with some readers also.
It may be my fault that I favor books based strongly on true stories. I quit at page 84. I see some people aren't bothered in the least at what I mentioned so go for it. A nice effort by Dale Brown for these types of readers.
It may be my fault that I favor books based strongly on true stories. I quit at page 84. I see some people aren't bothered in the least at what I mentioned so go for it. A nice effort by Dale Brown for these types of readers.
May 13, 2020
This was my first foray into geopolitical thrillers. This one had engaging aeronautical engineering elements that had me excited about recommending it to my young adult students. I endured the offensive language but could not go beyond the descriptive brothel scene. Since I can’t recommend it to anyone based on that sort of content, I couldn’t give it a higher rating.
December 24, 2021
I enjoyed this fast paced and exciting novel in the Patrick McLanahan series. McLanahan and his team of engineers have put together an air combat unit of the future known as Air Battle Force. Their first target is the oil rich Republic of Turkmenistan in Central Asia.
As the series progresses it is fun to see how McLanahan and his team come up with new and better weapons.
As the series progresses it is fun to see how McLanahan and his team come up with new and better weapons.
February 2, 2024
Isolationist President Thorn is still in office and holding to his policy keeping US forces in the USA. When a Taliban leader takes his troops over the border from Afghanistan into Turkmenistan and begins sacking both towns and military bases something needs to be done and Thorn is not the man to do it.
January 8, 2018
Review of "Air Battle Force" by John Lietzke
I really found the book very interesting and entertaining. The author and the author's writing is very good in my eyes. I will
purchase more books by this author.
I really found the book very interesting and entertaining. The author and the author's writing is very good in my eyes. I will
purchase more books by this author.
December 12, 2020
Air Battle Force
Another excellent story by Dale Brown. The US gets involved with the Taliban moving in to Turkmenistan. The Russians try to take over the country ad end up fighting against everyone else. Patrick then brings his forces in to pit them against the Russians.
Another excellent story by Dale Brown. The US gets involved with the Taliban moving in to Turkmenistan. The Russians try to take over the country ad end up fighting against everyone else. Patrick then brings his forces in to pit them against the Russians.
April 26, 2025
Holiday-level adventure thriller. Nothing wrong with it but not in any way exciting. the interesting bit is that it's written in 2003 and prophesying the same tech which is still, over twenty years later, being expected any day now ...
March 9, 2018
Although i enjoyed the book very much some of the battle scenarios were too overloaded with technical jargon for me
May 5, 2020
426 pages
July 21, 2020
Computer operated air craft much safer for human pilots.
October 1, 2020
Well written, action packed - just not my kind of book. Read it as a book challenge selection.
December 13, 2020
Very good
August 16, 2022
Fun new direction and exciting story. Enjoying the McLanahan family fun...
November 3, 2022
This was a fun geopolitical battle tech book. Entertaining enough to make me
Want to read more in the series
Want to read more in the series
April 11, 2023
I just could not get past a quarter of the book! I hated it! I did not like anything about it.
So, again, sorry to the fans.... But not for me!
So, again, sorry to the fans.... But not for me!
October 24, 2023
A good engaging read
April 30, 2024
Another great one
I just can’t get enough of these fantastic books. I enjoy the detailed descriptions of weapons and tactics along with the action and suspense.
I just can’t get enough of these fantastic books. I enjoy the detailed descriptions of weapons and tactics along with the action and suspense.
August 17, 2024
Good book
March 26, 2025
I used to love these techno thrillers but now I kind of shudder at the Geo Politics and far fetched technologies. Very readable though. Ideal for a long flight.
January 27, 2021
This is I would say a typical Dale Brown geo-political thriller. Excellent scene setting of a fictional yet coherent and believable political background. This time around we have a group of Taliban fighters who have crossed the border into Turkmenistan for what was planned as short duration raid for supplies. After they are attacked by US stealth forces led by Patrick McLanahan the leader believes he has been saved by God for a special mission. He continues to press further and further into Turkmenistan capturing towns, pumping stations and large section of the many gas and oil pipelines that run through the country.
As could be expected the Russian’s are not happy with the potential of another former state becoming a Muslim country so they start to take steps to intervene in the situation. This leads to confrontation with the US and McLanahan’s special brand of high tech weapons which lead to the usual high quality action /battle scenes that make Brown’s books so fun to read. I don’t mind if weapons are ridiculously high tech and impractical they still make great battles.
The only downside to whole series is the lack of accountability. In every book McLanahan and his team completely disregard direct orders for their legitimate chain of command. Usually by attacking targets in foreign countries with which the US are not in direct war with and without the Presidential authority to make such attacks legal. Yet they are all still in the military and apparently thriving, despite not being total trusted and view is rouge officers unable to follow orders. Now I like a bit ‘suspension of reality’ but it has to feel possible. The weaponry may be fictional but based on legitimate physics so that one day they could become reality. Having service officers in any military that take it on their on initiative to decide who, when and what to attack is just to far out there for me and stops the series from being brilliant. I still get a great deal of enjoyment out of reading them but the series could be so much better.
As could be expected the Russian’s are not happy with the potential of another former state becoming a Muslim country so they start to take steps to intervene in the situation. This leads to confrontation with the US and McLanahan’s special brand of high tech weapons which lead to the usual high quality action /battle scenes that make Brown’s books so fun to read. I don’t mind if weapons are ridiculously high tech and impractical they still make great battles.
The only downside to whole series is the lack of accountability. In every book McLanahan and his team completely disregard direct orders for their legitimate chain of command. Usually by attacking targets in foreign countries with which the US are not in direct war with and without the Presidential authority to make such attacks legal. Yet they are all still in the military and apparently thriving, despite not being total trusted and view is rouge officers unable to follow orders. Now I like a bit ‘suspension of reality’ but it has to feel possible. The weaponry may be fictional but based on legitimate physics so that one day they could become reality. Having service officers in any military that take it on their on initiative to decide who, when and what to attack is just to far out there for me and stops the series from being brilliant. I still get a great deal of enjoyment out of reading them but the series could be so much better.
January 15, 2011
2 of 5 stars for Air Battle Force by Dale Brown (Audio Abridged edition). Hard to tell if the choppy dis-connected nature of the book was an artifact of the abridgement or of the story. Alot of setup for the Nevada Air National Guard Air Battle Force group and their sci-fi aircraft and soldier battle armor. A little setup of a situation in the former USSR states. Even less of the ABF group resolving the issue. Overall, I was disappointed in how all of the sub-stories hung together. Can't recommend this book, sorry.
December 19, 2015
I read this and the next three Dale Brown, Patrick MacLanahan books in an ebook compilation. These are the first of his books that I've read, and almost certainly the last. I was looking for someone who could fill the gap left by the early Tom Clancy's (Red Storm Rising etc.) but I found these stories to border on the ridiculous. I can cope with the tub thumping American patriotism, but the thought of a General repeatedly carrying out unprovoked attacks on foreign targets and getting away with it again and again is really annoying. I don't find the hero to be very likeable.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews