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Hunting the watchmen the Ulster Defence Regiment and IRA strategy

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  • Daniel Chesse

Abstract

The Ulster Defence Regiment (UDR) were unique within the context of the Troubles-79% of their nearly 200 UDR casualties came while off-duty. This article frames these attacks, assesses their impact and concludes whether certain individuals (such as Catholics) were specifically targeted. I demonstrate that such tactics were ruthless pragmatism and were influenced by regionality. The IRA focused on eliminating security forces, although some pursued personal vendettas. I forward that overall, the IRA consistently demonstrated a concept of target legitimacy – ‘legitimacy frameworks’. I conclude that these practices are not only common, but should be anticipated in counterinsurgencies.

Suggested Citation

  • Daniel Chesse, 2024. "Hunting the watchmen the Ulster Defence Regiment and IRA strategy," Small Wars and Insurgencies, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 35(4), pages 545-572, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:taf:fswixx:v:35:y:2024:i:4:p:545-572
    DOI: 10.1080/09592318.2024.2319671
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