Operation Biting

Operation Biting, crafted by the esteemed author Max Hastings, is a riveting historical account that delves into one of World War II's most audacious and successful commando raids. Set in the cold winter of February 1942, this gripping narrative presents an intricate tapestry of daring military strategy and human bravery. The Allies were faced with a perplexing conundrum: a powerful radar network, the Würzburg, had been detected on Europe’s Nazi-occupied coast. Understanding its workings was vital, not only for the success of future air raids but for the tide of the war itself.

Under the veil of night on 27/28 February, 120 handpicked airborne troops embarked on this perilous mission. Facing blinding snow and the peril of being dropped miles away from their intended target, these fearless individuals pressed on. Their goal was a radar installation perched high atop the cliffs of Bruneval, Normandy. The narrative peels back the layers of this high-stakes operation, revealing the tense three-hour battle against German forces, and the nail-biting escape across stormy waters.

Max Hastings draws readers into this suspenseful tale with a deft hand. He brings to life a cast of remarkable personalities whose roles were pivotal to the raid's success. Among them is Dr. RV Jones, a brilliant scientist whose insights sparked the operation; Lord Louis Mountbatten, whose flamboyant personality belies his military acumen; and Major John Frost, the determined leader of the paratroopers. Intriguing figures such as 'Colonel Remy', the intrepid French agent, and Charlie Cox, the RAF technician who rose as an unexpected hero, add layers to this rich tapestry.

The narrative is further invigorated by the portrayal of Wing-Commander Charles Pickard, a legendary figure commanding the bomber pilots, whose guiding hand was essential during the mission’s airborne phase. Hastings’ adept storytelling merges both ground-level and strategic viewpoints, painting a vivid picture of the operation's drama and complexity.

Operation Biting is more than a simple recounting of historical facts; it's a masterclass in storytelling by Hastings, a seasoned chronicler of wartime sagas. With his signature blend of meticulous research and engrossing prose, Hastings ensures that this nearly forgotten episode of WWII is vividly remembered as an epic of valour and ingenuity. This book stands as not only a testament to those who braved the mission but also as a thrilling read that captures the tension and triumph of wartime commando raids.