Chopper down! The story of a mercenary pilot in Africa - Carl Alberts (First edition)

This is the true story of the frustrations, personal sacrifices and too often the extreme risks that the aircrews took while flying in support of the ground offensives for Executive Outcomes operations in Angola and Sierra Leone.

The first task was securing Angolan government control in the Soyo oil-producing region and then the war against UNITA throughout the country.

Most of this was achieved with outdated equipment and aircraft that were seldom airworthy. Living under harsh conditions with the ever-present threat of enemy attack, as well as great risk from their ill-disciplined allies, the contribution these aircrews made to the overall success of the war effort was extensive.

The author also describes the realities of 'post-war syndrome', his subsequent failed business venture in Liberia and his involvement in the conflict in the Ivory Coast that brought about his arrest in South Africa for mercenary-related activities.

His story of being a maverick chopper pilot in SADF Border War and a mercenary pilot for Executive Outcomes is gripping and gritty.