S S Uban

Phantoms of Chittagong—The Fifth Army in Bangladesh (Reprint, 2024)

This book reveals, for the very first time, a trove of little-known and extraordinary facts about the Indo-Pak War of 1971-a historic conflict that led to the creation of a new nation: Bangladesh. At the heart of this compelling narrative is the author, who played a pivotal role in a daring and highly successful guerrilla operation. Under extreme and challenging circumstances, a remarkably small and ill-equipped group of fighters achieved outsized successes that shifted the course of the war. These efforts not only broke new ground in the history of unconventional warfare but also added a remarkable chapter to the proud legacy of the Indian Army. The importance of the author's contributions did not go unnoticed. Prime Minister Indira Gandhi personally acknowledged his achievements, stating, "You were the backbone of all our success in Bangladesh." Similarly, Air Chief Marshal P.C. Lal expressed in a letter of congratulations, "Though a detailed account of your activities may never be published, I know your force played a major part in bringing about a quick victory in the East." Even Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh, was so deeply impressed that he requested the Government of India to appoint Major General Uban as his personal advisor. How did such an under-resourced force-lacking air support, artillery, and even basic modern equipment-succeed where many others might have failed? How did this newly raised Special Frontier Force earn the admiration of none other than Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, who referred to them as his "Fifth Army"? The book delves into this astonishing journey, exploring not only the battlefield heroics but also the psychological and political dimensions of the campaign. It highlights the reaction of the guerrilla fighters to the unexpected arrival of the U.S. Seventh Fleet in the Bay of Bengal, the internal rivalries within the Indian Army, and the political tensions among the exiled leaders of the Bangladesh government. Amidst these challenges, the author's relentless efforts to promote peace culminated in a moment few thought possible-Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, once bitter foes, embracing on a public platform in Lahore. This insider account provides military historians, strategic thinkers, and readers of modern history an exceptional opportunity to explore the untold tactics of a covert force that played a decisive role in one of South Asia's most significant conflicts. Commanders and officers, many of whom were unaware of the very existence of this elite unit during the war, will find valuable lessons in its unconventional yet highly effective methods.