From Balkans to Babylon: Zastava AKs of Yugoslavia, Serbia, and Iraq is the first English-language book about the history of one of the most fascinating AK lineages ever produced — the Zastava M70 rifles.
The book is a deep visual and historical dive into the origins and evolution of this weapon platform — from the factories of the former Yugoslavia to the battlefields in the Iraqi desert.
Built for collectors, researchers, armorers, and serious enthusiasts, this book maps the evolution of Zastava-pattern Kalashnikovs across changing states, wars, and dynamic international relations. In order to precisely outline this history, the author used declassified documents from both the CIA and KGB, as well as all available sources and research from the former Yugoslav states.
But archives weren't the only field of research for this book — the majority of photos you will see on the pages were taken by the author in warzones in the Middle East and Africa, and document the field use of M70 variants in different conflicts. Numerous professionals who have extensive experience with Zastava rifles also contributed to the book, sharing their stories and observations.
Inside the book, you’ll find carefully organized identification guidance, clear comparisons between variants, and richly detailed photography that highlights the small features that matter. "From Balkans to Babylon" covers the history of Zastava factory, the development history of M70 variants, as well as Zastava 5.56 rifles, starting from M80 and continuing with M85 and M21.
A significant part of the book is dedicated to the Iraqi small arms production, covering well-known Tabuk variants as well as less-known rifles. The book also includes information about prototypes and rare variants that were never featured in any publication.
Whether you’re verifying a specific rifle, building an accurate reference library, or simply exploring the story of how these AKs spread and transformed across regions, "From Balkans to Babylon" is designed to be both a practical field reference and a premium volume you’ll want to keep on your desk.
Highlights:
- An illustrated timeline of Zastava AK development from Yugoslavia to modern Serbia
- Markings and manufacturing details useful for identification and provenance
- Coverage of Iraqi-service and Iraq-linked Zastava patterns and context
- High-quality photography focused on diagnostic details, not just glamour shots
