BOOK REVIEW

BY
LT SHIVANGI

THE BOYD: THE FIGHTER PILOT WHO CHANGED THE ART

OF WAR

"In the heat of combat, do not try to think of the situation—

let the situation think for you."
-- John Boyd
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CONTENTS
1. Particulars of the book
2.
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PART I – PARTICULARS OF THE BOOK

NAME OF BOOK : THE BOYD: THE FIGHTER PILOT WHO

CHANGED THE ART OF WAR
AUTHOR : ROBERT CORAM
PUBLISHER : LITTLE, BROWN AND COMPANY
PAGES : 504
COST : 1050
YEAR OF PUBLICATION : OCTOBER 2004
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PART – II :REVIEW

Introduction
1. The Boyd: The Fighter Pilot Who Changed the Art of War" by Robert Coram is
an extraordinary biography that chronicles the life and enduring impact of Colonel John
Boyd, a fighter pilot and military strategist who reshaped the world of aerial warfare.
With meticulous research, compelling storytelling, and insightful analysis, Coram
delivers a captivating narrative that explores Boyd's unconventional thinking and his
groundbreaking contributions to military strategy.
About the Author

2. Robert Coram is a gifted and accomplished author whose work spans various
genres and subjects. With his exceptional storytelling abilities and meticulous research,
Coram has established himself as a writer of great depth and insight. His writing style is
captivating, drawing readers into his narratives with rich descriptions, engaging
dialogue, and compelling characters. Coram's prose is eloquent and evocative, creating
vivid and immersive reading experiences. One of Coram's notable strengths is his ability
to breathe life into historical events and figures. He meticulously researches his
subjects, unearthing lesser-known details and presenting them in a coherent and
engaging manner. His commitment to accuracy and attention to historical context
ensure that his books are reliable sources of information.
3. Overall, Robert Coram's skill as an author is undeniable. Through his
captivating storytelling, meticulous research, and passion for his subjects, he has
cemented his place among the finest writers of our time. Whether he is recounting the
lives of historical figures or examining pivotal moments in history, Coram consistently
delivers engaging and insightful narratives that leave a lasting impact on his readers.

About the Book

4. Coram skilfully guides readers through the various stages of Boyd's remarkable
life, providing a comprehensive understanding of his accomplishments and the
challenges he faced along the way. From Boyd's early experiences as a fighter pilot in
the Korean War to his instrumental role in the design of revolutionary fighter jets like the
F-15 and F-16, the book paints a vivid portrait of a man whose relentless pursuit of
excellence shaped the field of military aviation.

5. What truly distinguishes "The Boyd" is the exploration of Boyd's intellectual

contributions, most notably his development of the "OODA loop" concept. Coram
elucidates Boyd's theory, which centres around the four stages of decision-making—
observe, orient, decide, and act—and highlights its transformative impact on military
strategy. Through detailed analysis and real-life examples, the book demonstrates how
Boyd's ideas revolutionized tactical thinking and influenced military operations far
beyond the realm of aerial combat.

6. “The Boyd" delves into the inner workings of the military establishment and
sheds light on the challenges Boyd faced in disseminating his ideas. Coram masterfully
captures the resistance and scepticism Boyd encountered, showcasing the entrenched
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nature of traditional military thinking. The book highlights Boyd's tenacity and his tireless
efforts to challenge conventional wisdom, ultimately paving the way for a new era of
strategic thought.

7. Moreover, the biography delves into Boyd's unyielding spirit and his unwavering
commitment to excellence. Coram vividly illustrates Boyd's constant pursuit of
improvement, both in the cockpit and in his intellectual endeavours. This exploration of
Boyd's character serves as an inspiration, underscoring the importance of
perseverance, innovation, and continuous learning.

8. While the book primarily focuses on Boyd's life and achievements, it also
incorporates the experiences and perspectives of those who worked closely with him.
Coram skilfully weaves together interviews, personal accounts, and archival material,
painting a multifaceted picture of Boyd's influence on his peers and the broader military
community. This multifaceted approach enhances the richness of the narrative,
providing a holistic understanding of Boyd's enduring legacy.

Comments On The Book

9. "The Boyd" is not solely a biography of a remarkable individual; it also provides

invaluable insights into the broader world of military strategy and its evolution. Coram
effectively situates Boyd's contributions within the context of historical and
contemporary military thought, making the book relevant to readers interested in the
broader landscape of warfare. By examining the profound impact of innovative thinkers
like Boyd, the biography encourages readers to question established paradigms and
embrace new approaches to solving complex problems.

Conclusion

10. In conclusion, "The Boyd: The Fighter Pilot Who Changed the Art of War" is a
masterful biography that captivates and enlightens readers. Robert Coram's meticulous
research, engaging storytelling, and insightful analysis make this book an indispensable
addition to the shelves of military history enthusiasts. Boyd's contributions to aerial
warfare and military strategy are profound.