Table of Contents

1. The Base at Malta in the 1920s 2. The Failure to Strengthen Malta's Defences, 1930-35 3. Malta in the Abyssinian Crisis, 1935-36 4. Prelude to War, 1936-39 5. Final Preparations for War 6. The Threat of Invasion 7. The Initial Onslaught 8. The German Intervention in the Mediterranean 1941 9. Malta's Contribution to 'Crusader' 10. The 1942 Siege of Malta 11. Malta's Contribution to the Recovery of North Africa 12. Conclusion

About the Author

Douglas Austin was born in Malta and served in the RAF before a career in banking in New York and London. In 2002 he gained a Ph.D at University College, London in military history.

Reviews

'Dr Douglas Austin's book is a major contribution ... For everyone interested in Malta's contribution to the Second World War, the book is essential reading, for he provides us with a broad understanding of British defence thinking about Malta.' - Sunday Times of Malta, August 29th 2004'The well written narrative is accompanied by extensive references, an excellent bibliography and a thorough index. It deserves to be read and carefully studied by all who are interested in the wartime history of the George Cross Island.' - R.A.F. Historical Society Journal

'Dr Douglas Austin's book is a major contribution ... For everyone interested in Malta's contribution to the Second World War, the book is essential reading, for he provides us with a broad understanding of British defence thinking about Malta.' - Sunday Times of Malta, August 29th 2004'The well written narrative is accompanied by extensive references, an excellent bibliography and a thorough index. It deserves to be read and carefully studied by all who are interested in the wartime history of the George Cross Island.' - R.A.F. Historical Society Journal'This is an important read for anyone interested in the European war or British strategic thought.' - The NYMAS Review