Krupp Guns in the Tropics - Dutch Colonial Artillery 1900-1923

In the Dutch East Indies, a surprisingly large and often unique collection of mainly Krupp artillery pieces - some rare, others
virtually forgotten - was deployed, offering a fascinating chapter of military history deserving rediscovery by an international audience.

This monograph, the first in a planned series, begins to fill gaps in our understanding of Dutch artillery in the early twentieth century. It examines the weapons, crucial manufacturers like Krupp, procurement, and the commercial and political forces that shaped Dutch colonial defence. Part 1 contains 136 pages, approximately 75 illustrations, seven tables, and describes about 30 types of artillery serving between 1900-1923: field artillery, mountain artillery, fortress and coastal artillery, naval artillery, as well as mortars.

Much of this story will sound strikingly familiar: supply chain vulnerabilities, geopolitical dilemmas, the challenges of a small country navigating between great powers, and dependence on foreign suppliers. More than a century later, these themes remain as relevant as ever.

This book is a must have for - among others - those interested in Dutch (military) history, in the history of artillery in general, as well as for those interested in the history, exports and weapon development of Krupp. 

"As I expected from the author - thoughtful, well-researched, and well-written. A gem"  

Leland Ness, author of Kangzhan, Guide to Chinese Ground Forces, Rikugun, Guide to Japanese Ground Forces (2 vols), Jane's World War II Tanks & Fighting Vehicles, the Complete Guide and former editor at Jane's Information Group

"Krupp Guns in the Tropics is a thoroughly researched and referenced English language study. It addresses a topic seldom covered in the past: Dutch artillery in service within the colonies. Nuijt is a well known expert among 19th- and 20th-century artillery enthusiasts and historians. His latest publication makes a valuable contribution to the fields of artillery technology and Dutch colonial military technical capabilities"  

Ralph Lovett, senior expert, US Army Field Artillery 

Paperback edition from 2026 (€ 30.00)

BRANDNEW book - illustrated with photos and drawings.