RE: der Rußlandfeldzug

Matrix Games Forums

Forums Register Login Photo Gallery Member List Search Calendars FAQ

My Profile Inbox Address Book My Subscription My Forums Log Out

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug

View related threads: (in this forum | in all forums)

Logged in as: Guest

Users viewing this topic: none

Printable Version

All Forums >> [New Releases from Matrix Games] >> Gary Grigsby's War in the East 2 >> After Action Reports >> RE: der Rußlandfeldzug

Page: << < prev 1 [2] 3 4 next > >>

Message

<< Older Topic Newer Topic >>

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/6/2021 4:52:06 PM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bamilus

Ah, ok. Makes sense. I'm like "dang thats a ton of recon!"

My standard way of playing is to finish the turn then get back to the end of the previous turn turn FOW on and take the pictures for the AAR.

I am always 2-3 turns ahead of the turns I am posting here

< Message edited by melnibonian -- 4/6/2021 4:53:22 PM >

(in reply to Bamilus)

Post #: 31

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/10/2021 12:49:55 AM

Richard III

Posts: 710
Joined: 10/24/2005
Status: offline

Thanks for this fine AAR, I just started VS the AI so it`s very helpful.
I assume you did a manual air target selection ?

_____________________________

“History would be a wonderful thing – if it were only true.”

¯ Leo Tolstoy

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 32

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/10/2021 6:32:24 AM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Richard III

Thanks for this fine AAR, I just started VS the AI so it`s very helpful.
I assume you did a manual air target selection ?

Thank you

Yes I am not using AI Assist on the Air War. All targets and missions are arranged by me

(in reply to Richard III)

Post #: 33

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/10/2021 10:08:13 AM

Jango32

Posts: 307
Joined: 3/15/2021
Status: offline

How are your logistics holding up with these big advances?

EDIT:
Two questions question about your turn 1 and turn 2 posts. In the Army Group South screenshot, only III Panzer Korps advanced (near as I can tell). But in the turn 2 screenshot of Army Group South and the text explaining it, XIV Panzer made it all the way to Novogrod-Volynsky. Was turn 1's screenshot taken before the end of the turn?

Also, is 11.Inf.Div. mot. an infantry division that you motorized for the turn?

< Message edited by Jango32 -- 4/10/2021 11:46:42 AM >

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 34

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/10/2021 5:25:32 PM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 5: 21-27 July 1941

These Russians seem to have an inexhaustible supply of men. Here they unload fresh troops from Siberia every day, they bring up fresh guns and lay mines all over the place

Soviet Tanks are preparing for a counterattack against our positions in Smolensk

Heeresgruppe Nord

Our logistic situation in this part of the front is becoming relatively difficult. 4.Panzerarmee has moved rapidly but spent the last few days resting and consolidating its advanced position. Simultaneously 18.Armee is advancing through Latvia meeting only token resistance as the Red Army appears to withdraw towards Leningrad. 16.Armee has managed to check the Soviet units massing at its flanks but clearly without proper coverage the Novgorod-Velikie Luki line can cause quite a few problems as we are advancing towards Leningrad.

The Soviets from their part are digging in aiming to defend Leningrad and reconnaissance flights observe constant building of fortifications around the city. A lot of discussions are taking place in OKW about how to handle the situation in the North. A number of different options are available and some decisions will need to be made soon. Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm Ritter von Leeb is in favour of a rapid advance of 4.Panzerarmee towards Narva to isolate the the Soviet 6th and 20th Armies before they manage to reach Leningrad, while at the same time move 16.Armee towards Novgorod to cover the advancing flanks and check the Soviet defence perimeter of the city. Generaloberst Alfred Jodl together with Generalfeldmarschall Walther von Brauchitsch are in favour of using the armoured formations in a pincer movement in coordination with 3.Panzerarmee to encircle the Soviet formations in the areas of Peno, Adreapol, Nelidovo and Rzhev, thus decreasing the front length, eliminating the danger to the flanks of Heeresgruppe Nord and create the stage for a follow-up drive towards Moscow. Generaloberst Erich Hoepner together with General der Infanterie Erich von Manstein advocate for a rapid drive towards Lake Ladoga and capture the ports of Kobona, Novaya Ladoga and Syasstroy thus isolating Leningrad. No decision has been taken at the moment but the debate is fierce an continues.

General der Infanterie Erich von Manstein discusses the different options for the capture of Leningrad with General der Panzertruppe Erich Brandenberger

Heeresgruppe Mitte

After the capture of Smolensk and the elimination of the encircled Soviet formations on the west side of the Dnepr 2.Panzerarmee performed an encirclement of the Soviet formations in the area of Roslav. XXXXVI Pz.Kps and XXIV Pz.Kps moved from the North while XXXXVII Pz.Kps moved from the South. In total 4 Cavalry, 13 Infantry, 2 Tank and 1 Mechanised Divisions are located in the pocket. Unfortunately due to significant Soviet resistance and lack of supplies the 2.Panzerarmee has not managed to close the kessel tight so it is expected that some of the entrapped enemy formations will eventually avoid destruction. Fearing enemy advances in the area around Velikie Luki 3.Panzerarmee stayed in reserve and resupplied while 9.Armee and 4.Armee are moving to create a new jump-off line for the eventual drive towards Moscow.

Further south VII AK managed to capture Gomel and pushed the enemy formations beyond the Desna. The massive encirclement in the Pripyat area is slowly cleared but some enemy formations are still putting fierce resistance. Nevertheless we expect the remaining Soviet formations to capitulate within the next few days.

Elements of Infanterie-Regiment (mot.) 20 of 10.Inf.Div. mot. are resting after hard fighting in Kirov

Heeresgruppe Süd

Due to the clearing operations in the Pripyat area and the lack of supply 1.Panzerarmee spent the week refitting and covering the Desna and Dnepr crossings as well as the approaches to Kyiv. elements of 6.Armee are moving towards Kyiv to assist in the upcoming advance towards Kharkov and Kursk.

Further South 17.Armee, 11.Armee and 3.Rum.Armee are facing stiff resistance from entrenched Soviet formations in Nikolaev. The continuous and intertwined rivers of the region make the advance difficult as frontal attacks are truly costly both in men and equipment. LII AK and XXXXIX AK managed to create initial penetrations to the enemy defensive lines. These penetrations were spearheaded by 60.Inf.Div. mot. and 1.Sl.Bde but stiff enemy resistance and lack of supplies stopped the pincers before meeting per the original plan (dashed lines)

PzKpfw IV of Panzer-Abteilung 33 of 11.Pz.Div. waiting for fuel

XI Rum.AK and II Rum.AK have reached the outskirts of Odessa and Hu.Kps (mot) have managed to cross the Sinyukha and create a bridgehead. These advances are painfully slaw due to the lack of armour so OKW is having discussions on how best to utilise 1.Panzerarmee. So far though no decision has been made.

Operational Summary

During this week we suffered 28,471 casualties (10,947 dead, 20 captured and 17,774 disabled) and lost 408 Guns, 64 AFVs and 3 aircrafts. The Soviets lost 188,608 men (19,646 dead, 124,686 captured and 44,276 disabled), 3,178 Guns, 472 AFVs and 330 planes. It is alarming to see the ratio of men killed in action to be reduced to almost 1:2, something indicating the stiffening of the Soviet resistance.

Soviet prisoners are marched to the rear while German troops advance in Gomel

< Message edited by melnibonian -- 4/10/2021 5:27:08 PM >

(in reply to Jango32)

Post #: 35

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/10/2021 5:44:08 PM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Jango32

How are your logistics holding up with these big advances?

As you can see from the report of Turn 5 I am facing logistical problems. I managed to link Minsk to the rail network but I am was forced to have two Panzer Groups (1&3) idle in order to have them fully supplied for the next part of the advance. Next turn we will need to drive deep, very deep into enemy territory

quote:

ORIGINAL: Jango32

EDIT:
Two questions question about your turn 1 and turn 2 posts. In the Army Group South screenshot, only III Panzer Korps advanced (near as I can tell). But in the turn 2 screenshot of Army Group South and the text explaining it, XIV Panzer made it all the way to Novogrod-Volynsky. Was turn 1's screenshot taken before the end of the turn?

If I remember correctly one of the units of XIV Panzer did move in T1 and then in T2 reached Novogrod-Volynsky. I did not explained properly in the text and I apologise for this. Will be more careful in the future

quote:

ORIGINAL: Jango32

Also, is 11.Inf.Div. mot. an infantry division that you motorized for the turn?

Indeed this is the case

(in reply to Jango32)

Post #: 36

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/11/2021 4:19:52 PM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 5: 21-27 July 1941

Disaster in Vilnius

I have only a few words. He was one of the best National Socialists, one of the strongest defenders of the German Reich idea, one of the biggest enemies of all the enemies of the Reich. He is a martyr. He died for the preservation and protection of the Reich.

General der Infanterie Erich von Manstein (24 November 1887 – 29 July 1941)

Shocking news are coming out of the Reichsministerium für Volksaufklärung und Propaganda this morning. General der Infanterie Erich von Manstein (Oberbefehlshaber LVI Pz.Kps) and General der Infanterie Hans-Gustav Felber (Oberbefehlshaber XIII AK) were killed in a terrible accident in Vilnius. Another 7 Officers and 3 crew members also perished in the accident.

The remains of the tragic Ju-52 in Vilnius airfield

Although details of the accident are still unknown it is understood that both Generals with some trusted staff were onboard a Ju-52 bound for Vilnius airfield when the plane suffered some type of catastrophic failure and crashed during its approach just 1.2Km from the final destination. The impact was severe and everyone onboard died instantly.

OKW and frontline Commanders get together for a strategy conference in the Wolfsschanze

General der Infanterie Erich von Manstein and General der Infanterie Hans-Gustav Felber were among the frontline commanders that were called by OKW in Wolfsschanze for detailed discussions regarding the strategic objectives of the Campaign in the East. After the meeting they were both scheduled to arrive in Vilnius after which they would have proceeded to their respective commands. Their loss is truly tragic and the war effort has suffered a terrible blow.

State Funeral of General der Infanterie Hans-Gustav Felber

Both were given state funerals in Berlin with full military honours.

Funeral procession of General der Infanterie Erich von Manstein

The Führer is giving a eulogy in General der Infanterie Erich von Manstein's funeral

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[1] In game Manstein died on Turn 4 during the attack on Novgorod (no idea how and what he was doing so close to the frontline) but I have decided to spin it as a side story
[2] In game Hans-Gustav Felber died in Turn 2 but realised it when I saw that Manstein died

So since we have two Generals dead I thought of coming-up with the plane crash story for immersion.

< Message edited by melnibonian -- 4/11/2021 4:32:38 PM >

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 37

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/11/2021 5:06:48 PM

carlkay58

Posts: 8650
Joined: 7/25/2010
Status: offline

Which is bringing up a disturbing trend in my games where in the last four games as the Axis I have lost Manstein on turn 4 or 5.

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 38

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/11/2021 5:14:51 PM

M60A3TTS

Posts: 4014
Joined: 5/13/2011
Status: offline

I dislike alamy. Not their pics of course. They seem to just be a group of vultures. They're as bad as Critical Path on YouTube.

(in reply to carlkay58)

Post #: 39

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/11/2021 5:24:09 PM

HardLuckYetAgain

Posts: 6987
Joined: 2/5/2016
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: carlkay58

Which is bringing up a disturbing trend in my games where in the last four games as the Axis I have lost Manstein on turn 4 or 5.

Dang!!!!

(in reply to carlkay58)

Post #: 40

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/11/2021 5:36:09 PM

carlkay58

Posts: 8650
Joined: 7/25/2010
Status: offline

Hey one game I lost Guderian, Manstein, von Kluge, and Hoth by turn 6. It definitely puts a hamper on your leadership.

But worse is when you lose Zhukov as commander of STAVKA on turn 2. That happened in my game vs you.

(in reply to HardLuckYetAgain)

Post #: 41

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/11/2021 6:21:49 PM

HardLuckYetAgain

Posts: 6987
Joined: 2/5/2016
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: carlkay58

Hey one game I lost Guderian, Manstein, von Kluge, and Hoth by turn 6. It definitely puts a hamper on your leadership.

But worse is when you lose Zhukov as commander of STAVKA on turn 2. That happened in my game vs you.

WoW!!! I have no words.

(in reply to carlkay58)

Post #: 42

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/13/2021 7:40:28 AM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 6: 28 July - 3 August 1941

We only have to kick in the door and the whole rotten structure will come crashing down

German Troops continue to advance in the USSR

Heeresgruppe Nord

Heeresgruppe Nord's units are edging closer and closer to Leningrad. By performing a coordinated strike I AK and L AK managed to isolate the majority of the Soviet troops in Estonia and 4.SS-Pol.Div. managed to capture Talin after fierce street fighting that lasted for three days. XXVI AK swung around Lakes Pskov and Peipus and occupied the eastern banks of the Narva, thus closing the encirclement in Estonia.

16.Armee has been fighting hard to protect the flanks of our armoured spearheads but for any progress to occur towards Leningrad the enemy formations between Velikie Luki and Lake Ilmen must be destroyed. Due to the lack of infantry support the armoured formations did not advance towards Leningrad but instead XXXXI Pz.Kps moved westwards towards Narva to assist in the encirclement of the Red Army 6th and 20th Army in Estonia. LVI Pz.Kps moved east of Lake Ilmen aiming to destabilise the outer defences of the city and initiate a drive towards Lake Ladoga.

Combat Engineers of Pol.Pi.Btl. of 4.SS-Pol.Div. engaged in street fighting in Talin

Heeresgruppe Mitte

Lack of supplies and stiff enemy resistance have slowed the advance of Heeresgruppe Mitte. XXXIX Pz.Kps and LVII Pz.Kps managed to break the enemy defences north of Vyazma but their advance was halted by continues harassment from retreating Soviet formations. VI AK and VIII AK have made contact with the enemy formations but no advance was achieved.

XXIV Pz.Kps and XXXXVI Pz.Kps probed the enemy defences but did not manage to make any advances further than Zanosnaya. XXXXVII Pz.Kps severely depleted of fuel and ammunition moved southwards and Lehr.Btl.mot 900 managed to capture Bryansk. V AK, XXXXII AK and XXXXIII AK are providing infantry support and pushing the enemy beyond the Desna.

Ant-tank weapons of 14.(Pz.Jg-)Kompanie, Panzerjäger-Abteilung 900 of Lehr.Btl.mot 900 fighting their way into Bryansk

Heeresgruppe Süd

In the South the Red Army is putting stiff resistance along the whole area of operations. Due to the rapid initial advance of 1.Panzerarmee 6.Armee and 17.Armee are struggling to keep up. XXXV AK and LIII AK with the support of security units have almost eliminated the Soviet formations in the Pripyat area, thus allowing XVII AK and LV AK to resume the advance.

XIV Pz.Kps with the support of XXXXII Pz.Kps and III Pz.Kps managed to break the enemy defences in Priluki but lack of adequate supplies limited their advance.

Soviet prisoners waiting their transportation to secure rear areas

Further South the lack of significant armoured formations has hampered our advance. 4.Rum.Armee and LIV AK, XI AK and LII AK managed to cross Yuzhny Bug and breat bridgeheads in multiple locations but no major breakthrough occurred. Mob.Hun.Kps managed to penetrate the enemy defences but faced strong resistance and did not manage to advance beyond the Ingul.

PzKpfw III of Panzer-Abteilung 4 of 13.Pz.Div. advancing despite heavy enemy resistance

Cav.Rum.Kps managed to achieve deep penetration and reached the Dnepr in Kremenchug while 46.Inf.Div. captured Kirovograd and 113.Inf.Div. secured Cherkassy. It is expected that these penetrations to the rear will force the enemy to retreat but without further armoured support advance on this section of the front will be slow.

Operational Summary

This week we suffered 43,525 casualties (19,325 killed, 34 captured and 24,166 disabled) and lost 623 Guns, 149 AFVs and 36 airplanes. The Soviets have suffered 223,443 casualties (33,210 killed, 134,356 captured and 55,877 disabled) and lost 4,291 Guns, 1,047 AFVs and 733 airplanes. From these losses we can see that the enemy resistance is getting stronger and we should expect a few weeks of hard fighting before the ultimate victory.

Staffelkapitän of 9./JG 54 Oberleutnant Hans-Ekkehard Bob celebrating 19 air victories so far in the campaign

< Message edited by melnibonian -- 4/13/2021 8:05:49 AM >

(in reply to HardLuckYetAgain)

Post #: 43

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/14/2021 5:51:18 PM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 7: 4-10 August 1941

Lenin left us a great legacy, but we, his heirs have f%$*ed it up

Soviet losses continue to rise. How much longer can they withstand this onslaught?

Heeresgruppe Nord

I AK and L AK have cleared the encirclement of 6th and 20th Armies and no enemy forces can be found east of the Narva. In total this kessel has provided us with 92,934 prisoners and numerous supplies and equipment. XXVI AK has probed the enemy defences in Kingisepp without much success.

Further east V AK, XXXVIII AK and II AK have arrived and positioned themselves between Luga and Novgorod while both XXXXI Pz.Kps and LVI Pz.Kps have used this time to rest and resupply.

Advanced units of SS-Totenkopf-Infanterie-Regiment 3 of SS-Inf.Div. mot. Totenkopf advancing in the area around Lake Ilmen

Since the majority of our infantry has arrived we are now in a position to initiate the first part of Operation Würgegriff, the isolation and capture of Leningrad. For this reason OKW has sent us 93.Inf.Div., 96.Inf.Div., 98.Inf.Div. and 260.Inf.Div. to assist. These units are currently in transport and are expected to occupy their positions on the battle line early next week. Since the rail line is usable up until Luga it is expected that these reinforcements will disembark and walk to the frontline, thus minimising the need for long delays and transportation.

Meanwhile the enemy has started preparing defensive positions around Leningrad and is trying to consolidate its forces for the upcoming attack.

Abandoned Soviet KV-2 Main Battle Tank on the outskirts of Talin

Heeresgruppe Mitte

The enemy has entrenched in aiming to stop our advance towards Moscow and this week we had to consolidate our forces and bring the infantry into position prior to our upcoming attack. For this reason the armoured formations were rested and resupplied while the infantry tried to create bridgeheads and secure starting positions for the next phase of the Campaign.

XX AK has pushed to the outskirts of Vyazma but fanatical enemy resistance did not allow any further advances. V AK managed to capture Spass-Demensk and Zanosnaya and forced the enemy to retreat to Ugra. XXXXII AK managed to cross the Desna in a number of places creating bridgeheads but no further advance was possible due to fierce enemy resistance.

Soviet counterattack in the outskirts of Bryansk

167.Inf.Div. had to defend against multiple Soviet counterattacks in Bryansk but those were crushed and the city remains in our hands. XII AK, VII AK and IX AK managed to push the enemy formations beyond the Dnepr tributary and are in position to begin their advance towards Kursk.

Soviet BT-7 being knocked out of action by PAK during the attack in Bryansk is examined by Engineers of 167.Inf.Div.

Heeresgruppe Süd

During this week 1.Panzerarmee was rested and resupplied in order to allow for 17.Armee to reach the front line and offer support. XXXXIV AK, LV AK and XVII AK managed to push the enemy formations beyond the Sula but despite all efforts they did not manage to capture Burin.

XXIX AK and XXXXIX AK have attacked the enemy and managed to cross the Psel creating a vitally important bridgehead. Further south 262.Inf.Div. captured Kremenchug, 94.Inf.Div. captured Znamenka and 71.Inf.Div. occupied and defended Kirovograd from determined enemy attacks.

Motorcyclist of Infanterie-Regiment 226 of 79.Inf.Div. trying to decide which way to go

Further south XI AK and LIV AK have managed to push the enemy towards Ingulets and the Dnepr and V Rum.AK has managed to isolate Nikolaev. II Rum.AK and XI Rum.AK are besieging Odessa and the city is isolated thanks to determined efforts by the Luftwaffe that has managed to block enemy shipments.

Red Navy Marines are fighting hard defending Odessa

Operational Summary

During last week we have suffered 38,879 casualties (10,236 killed, 20 captured and 22,603 disabled) and lost 386 Guns, 32 AFVs and 43 aircrafts. The Soviets have suffered 208,013 casualties (21,612 killed, 140,557 captured and 45,844 disabled) and lost 3,046 Guns, 1,482 AFVs and 988 aircrafts.

He-111-3 of II./KG55 Greif is preparing for a bombing mission to Kharkov

< Message edited by melnibonian -- 4/14/2021 5:55:32 PM >

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 44

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/15/2021 9:47:25 AM

Jango32

Posts: 307
Joined: 3/15/2021
Status: offline

Looking good so far. Are you going to stop at Rostov in 1941 or will you attempt to reach the Caucasus?

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 45

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/15/2021 10:46:41 AM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Jango32

Looking good so far. Are you going to stop at Rostov in 1941 or will you attempt to reach the Caucasus?

To be honest I don't know yet. I think it will depend on the overall strategic situation.

My initial reaction is to stop, entrench and get through the winter but I guess I will have to see how the VP situation evolves.

(in reply to Jango32)

Post #: 46

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/16/2021 4:21:15 PM

Bamilus

Posts: 973
Joined: 4/30/2010
From: The Old Northwest
Status: offline

Great AAR. I'm getting better each time I start a new game and I was able to replicate a lot of your success for first few turns but not after that. Is there anyway you could post some tips on how you manage such deep envelopment, especially so early? Or maybe upload some saves I could test?

Again, thanks for posting this and you're definitely skilled.

_____________________________

Paradox Interactive Forum Refugee

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 47

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/17/2021 11:42:24 AM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 7: 4-10 August 1941

Planning Operation Würgegriff

OKW Planners are discussing the details of Operation Würgegriff with the Führer

The rapid advance of our forces in the Baltics brings ever closer the possibility to capture Leningrad. Over the last few days OKW planners have been discussing with Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm Ritter von Leeb and his staff on the different options available for the upcoming attack. Due to the terrain in the region that is dominated with rivers, marches and forests we must try to avoid frontal attacks and instead aim for the isolation of the city prior to its capture. After long discussions the basic plan for Operation Würgegriff was presented and approved by the Führer.

The plan calls for L AK, I AK and XXVI AK to attack enemy positions on the Kingisep-Sossnizy axis and support XXXI Pz.Kps in the attempt to create a deep penetration. As soon as this is achieved XXXXI Pz.Kps will bypass enemy positions and push towards Gobitzy, Rapsha and Krasnogvardeysk. At the same time II AK and X AK will attack enemy positions in the Msinskaja-Torkovichi-Myasnoy Bor axis in support of LVI Pz.Kps. As soon as a breakthrough is achieved LVI Pz.Kps will push towards Kukkovo, Lyuban and will attempt to link with XXXXI Pz.Kps in Tosno. If this encirclement is achieved we expect to isolate or destroy two of the three Soviet Armies present in the region. Initial intelligence reports expect that we could isolate at least 19 Infantry Divisions and numerous support brigades.

Heavy guns of Artillerie-Regiment 186 of 86.Inf.Div. are crossing the Narva moving towards their starting positions.

Further South XXIII AK and XXVIII AK will attempt to move east of Lake Ilmen towards Molvotitsy and Demyansk in order to protect the overly extended flanks of 16.Armee. High Command is insisting that the attack begins as soon as possible in order to devoid the enemy from the possibility to entrench and construct deep defences around the city. For this reason OKW has allocated 96.Inf.Div., 98.Inf.Div. and 260.Inf.Div. to be split between II AK, X AK and XXVI AK. These units are expected to arrive within the next couple of days and will be ready for deployment before Operation Würgegriff begins.

As soon as 4.Panzerarmee completes the initial assault and manages to isolate the majority of the Soviet units south of the Neva, it will swing northeast and will attempt to reach lake Ladoga, thus completing the encirclement of the city.

Armoured units of Panzer-Abteilung 65 of 6.Pz.Div. are finishing their perparations

(in reply to Bamilus)

Post #: 48

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/18/2021 5:14:27 AM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bamilus

Great AAR. I'm getting better each time I start a new game and I was able to replicate a lot of your success for first few turns but not after that. Is there anyway you could post some tips on how you manage such deep envelopment, especially so early? Or maybe upload some saves I could test?

Again, thanks for posting this and you're definitely skilled.

Thank you for your comments

Regarding the advance I think there are two main reasons for it. Firstly I am playing on the normal difficulty, so I do expect the Soviets to have a slight disadvantage as discussed in previous threads on the forum. The other critical reason in my opinion is the AI. The moves that I make can offer results exactly because I play against the computer as any human player would have probably reacted differently.

In terms of strategy my aim is that as soon as the infantry "clears" 3 adjacent units on the enemy's frontline I push the tank and mechanised formations through the hole and deep into the rear. If I can create encirclements then I go for it otherwise I still try to push deep in order to "force" the AI to redeploy its main line. Practically I am trying to force the AI to make a tough decision, be on the move and have a weak defensive line or stand your ground, get encircled and destroyed.

Regarding the encirclements since the enemy is the AI I tend to try to make them as wide as I can but this means that the rings are not too tight. On the other hand in this manner I can cover a large area so even if some enemy units do escape there will always be enough to destroy.

I have posted a planning part (another one is coming later today) and hopefully it will be useful as I try to outline the basic idea of the different attacks and how they fit in the strategic picture (subject to historical flavour obviously).

I hope this helps. If you would like to discuss it further please let me know

(in reply to Bamilus)

Post #: 49

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/18/2021 6:38:17 AM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 7: 4-10 August 1941

Planning Operation Rheingold

The Führer discusses Operation Rheingold with Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm Keitel (Oberbefehlshaber der Wehrmacht) and Generaloberst Alfred Jodl (Chef des Wehrmachtfuhrungsstabes im OKW)

The capture of Smolensk has initiated discussions regarding the best course of action to be taken for an advance towards Moscow. OKW has been debating this, especially in light of the significant Soviet formations in the Rzhev-Vyazma-Orel-Kursk front. The enemy has started to dig in depth and new formations are reinforcing the front every day. OKW is of the opinion that a preliminary attack must take place before 15 August 1941 aiming to the encirclement and subsequent destruction of the majority of enemy formations between Rzhev and Bryansk.

After long discussions OKW agreed to initiate Operation Rheingold on 11 August 1941. The plan calls for separate armoured thrusts that will attempt a double envelopment of the five identified Soviet Armies in the area between Rzhev and Bryansk.

VI AK and VII AK will attack the enemy in Nelidodo and Olenino in support of LVII Pz.Kps. As soon as a breach is achieved the armoured units will attempt to drive deep towards Gzhatsk and Kaluga. LVII Pz.Kps will be the outer ring of the upcoming double penetration. XXXIX Pz.Kps will make a more restrictive breach in Dugino and attempt to block the 34th Army from retreating its positions around Vyazma. This advance will be part of Operation Nibelungen Gold and will be conducted in close cooperation with XXIV Pz.Kps.

Anti-tank formations of 189th Rifle Division are entrenched and waiting for our attack

XX AK will support XXIV Pz.Kps to achieve penetration in Urga. As soon as this breach is achieved XXIV Pz.Kps will attempt to link with XXXIX Pz.Kps in Yukhnov and Temkino, completing the encirclement of the enemy formations in Vyazma (Operation Nibelungen Gold).

XXXXVI Pz.Kps will follow XXXIX Pz.Kps but instead will move towards Kaluga and Kozelsk as part of Operation Nibelungen Silber. XXXXIII AK will provide infantry support and XXXXVII Pz.Kps will break through the enemy positions in Bryansk. As soon as this penetration is achieved XXXXVII Pz.Kps will try to link with XXXXVI Pz.Kps in Khvastovichi and Kaluga completing the southern pincer of Operation Nibelungen Silber. Depending on the situation on the ground OKW has given local commanders discretion to execute Operation Nibelungen Kupfer, namely a direct drive to Orel, but only after the aims of Operation Nibelungen Silber are completed.

PzKpfw IV and Panzer 35(t) of 17.Pz.Div. are completing their preparations

For this operation OKW has allocated the entire Luftlotte 2 for ground support with StG 1, SKG 210 and StG 77 expecting to provide close air support to the armoured formations.

Intelligence indicate the existence of five Soviet Armies with at least 20 Infantry, 8 Cavalry and 8 Tank Divisions in the area of operations. OKW expects fierce fighting but it is believed that as soon as our armoured formations manage to achieve penetration the enemy resistance will collapse. Operation Rheingold holds the possibility for our forces to eliminate the entire enemy formations protecting Moscow. It is a vital operation and OKW is willing to provide all support to ensure its success.

Oberleutnant Hans-Ulrich Rudel revising the details of Operation Rheingold

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 50

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/18/2021 12:45:50 PM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 8: 11-17 August 1941

Our troops must hurl themselves with all their means and energy against the enemy and annihilate them in all places where they have violated our frontiers

Marshal of the Soviet Union Semyon Konstantinovich Timoshenko is encouraging his troops to continue the fight

Heeresgruppe Nord

At 04:30 Operation Würgegriff commenced per OKW plans. I AK and L AK attacked the enemy positions at Lipovo and Kotly achieving complete surprise. The enemy formations were almost stunned by the ferocity of our attack and abandoned their positions by 10:30 the same day. As soon as enemy resistance has been weakened XXXXI Pz.Kps commenced its attack pushing hard into the enemy's rear. Despite stubborn resistance from the retreating Soviets 6.Pz.Div. managed to reach Globitzy supported by 36.Inf.Div.mot that reached Ropsha. 1.Pz.Div. completed the pincer by reaching Krasnogvardeysk.

Further east II AK and X AK attacked the enemy's positions at Sluditsa, Kukkovo and Siversky and after hard fighting managed to create initial cracks in the enemy's defensive line. LVI Pz.Kps used these to create a breakthrough and after two days of bloody fighting managed to clear the enemy defences. As soon as this was achieved SS-Inf.Div. mot. Totenkopf and 8.Pz.Div. moved forward to complete the encirclement. In total 7 Rifle Divisions are believed to be trapped and the majority of the Soviet formations south of the Neva have either surrendered or destroyed.

Infanterie-Regiment 43 of 1.Inf.Div. using 8 cm GrW 34 to suppress enemy positions

XXXVIII AK performed limited attacks north of Lake Ilmen in order to check the enemy and ensure that no support will be provided against our armoured pincers. Further south XXIII AK and XXVIII AK are advancing northwards but are engaged in constant fighting with enemy units positioned in our flanks.

Ju-88A of II/KG51 preparing for a sortie over Leningrad in support of 1.Pz.Div.

Heeresgruppe Mitte

Per OKW planning Operation Rheingold was initiated at 04:45 on 11 August with a preparatory artillery barrage over the entire front of Heeresgruppe Mitte. After 45 minutes of relentless shelling VI AK and VII AK commenced the attack but faced stiff and determined resistance from the enemy. Breakthrough was achieved on the afternoon of 14 August and immediately LVI Pz.Kps moved to support the advancing XXXIX Pz.Kps. 14.Inf.Div.mot reached Tekino completing the northern pincer of Operation Nibelungen Gold. Further south XX AK and XXXXII AK attacked the enemy at multiple locations and after three days of hard fighting managed to break the Soviet defences at Sukhinichi. XXIV Pz.Kps moved rapidly towards Kaluga and linked with the northern pincer at Yukhnov. In total Operation Nibelungen Gold has managed to isolate approximately 13 Rifle, 5 Cavalry and 4 Tank Divisions in Vyazma.

XXXXVI Pz.Kps moved parallel to XXIV Pz.Kps towards Kozelsk and the Oka providing the northern pincer of Operation Nibelungen Silber. XXXXVII Pz.Kps broke through the enemy positions in Karachev and advanced in the enemy's rear linking with the northern pincer in Bolkhov. 29.Inf.Div.mot pushed towards Orel in accordance with Operation Nibelungen Kupfer but strong enemy resistance forced them to stop in Naryshkino just 10km from Orel.

Destroyed Soviet T-34 Main Battle Tanks in the outskirts of Kaluga

Luftlotte 2 and II Fliegerkorps have provided close air support to our armoured units for the duration of the operation and have flown more than 800 sorties.

Ju-87 of II/StG1 flying in close support of 3.Pz.Div.

Overall Nibelungen Silber have managed to isolate approximately 6 Rifle, 2 Cavalry and 2 Tank Divisions but due to the fanatical resistance some of the enemy formations in the area managed to escape our encirclement. Nevertheless OKW considers Operation Rheingold to be a success as it offers the possibility to initiate a drive towards Moscow in August.

Infanterie-Regiment 364 of 161.Inf.Div. advancing through a destroyed Russian Village

Heeresgruppe Süd

Across the entire front Heeresgruppe Süd conducted a full scale advance this week. VII AK and IX AK crossed the Desna but their advance was limited by the strong enemy resistance. XXXXIV AK, XVII AK and LV AK attacked the enemy positions at Konotop in support of XIV Pz.Kps that managed to achieve a deep penetration all the way to Rakitnoe. III Pz.Kps advanced in parallel brushing aside scattered enemy forces. 14.Pz.Div. reached the outskirts of Belgorod and 13.Pz.Div. managed to advance all the way to Kharkov, stopping due to severe enemy resistance just 15km from the city. XXXXVIII Pz.Kps supported by XXXXII AK crushed the enemy formations on its path and 11.Pz.Div. supported by 60.Inf.Div.mot. reached Chugev and isolated Kharkov from the south.

This advance has caused havoc in the Soviet defences as the road to Kharkov is wide open and the enemy formations are disintegrating under the weight of our armoured pincers. OKW expects the city to fall within a few days as soon as infantry support catches up with the Panzers.

Survivors of a destroyed enemy column are surrendering to advancing troops on the road to Kharkov

Further South 11.Armee has conducted a coordinated advance pushing the enemy at multiple locations but the lack of armoured units has limited its success. Rumanian Units are besieging Odessa while 1.Gds.Rum.Inf.Div. managed to capture Kherson after four days of brutal fighting.

Destroyed T-34s in Oposhnya. The Soviets are fielding more of these as the weeks pass

Operational Summary

During this week we suffered 41,703 casualties (17,646 killed, 119 captured and 23,938 disabled) and lost 645 Guns, 79 AFVs and 37 airplanes. The Soviets have suffered 174,557 casualties (43,442 dead, 84,536 captured and 46,579 disabled) and lost 3,325 Guns, 738 AFVs and 1,868 airplanes.

Untersturmführer Franz Jellbeck awards Eisernes Kreuz 2. Klasse and Kriegsverdienstkreuz to recipients of SS-Standarte Germania

< Message edited by melnibonian -- 4/18/2021 12:50:19 PM >

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 51

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/18/2021 12:53:41 PM

kahta

Posts: 287
Joined: 9/21/2019
From: Arkansas
Status: offline

Great update! Keep up the good work!

_____________________________

1942 Alt History: Endsieg

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 52

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/18/2021 2:35:54 PM

bladewar

Posts: 1
Joined: 7/4/2015
Status: offline

What program do you use to edit the images?

(in reply to kahta)

Post #: 53

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/18/2021 3:17:52 PM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: kahta

Great update! Keep up the good work!

Thank you. I am happy you enjoy it

quote:

ORIGINAL: bladewar

What program do you use to edit the images?

I am not using anything special. I just paste the screenshot to Powerpoint and add all the text and arrows there. Truly basic stuff.

I am using this mod for the trees https://www.matrixgames.com/forums/tm.asp?m=5001135 together with this mod https://www.matrixgames.com/forums/tm.asp?m=4991343 for the swamps.

I hope I have answered your question

(in reply to kahta)

Post #: 54

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/18/2021 4:45:11 PM

Bamilus

Posts: 973
Joined: 4/30/2010
From: The Old Northwest
Status: offline

quote:

ORIGINAL: melnibonian

quote:

ORIGINAL: Bamilus

Great AAR. I'm getting better each time I start a new game and I was able to replicate a lot of your success for first few turns but not after that. Is there anyway you could post some tips on how you manage such deep envelopment, especially so early? Or maybe upload some saves I could test?

Again, thanks for posting this and you're definitely skilled.

Thank you for your comments

Regarding the advance I think there are two main reasons for it. Firstly I am playing on the normal difficulty, so I do expect the Soviets to have a slight disadvantage as discussed in previous threads on the forum. The other critical reason in my opinion is the AI. The moves that I make can offer results exactly because I play against the computer as any human player would have probably reacted differently.

In terms of strategy my aim is that as soon as the infantry "clears" 3 adjacent units on the enemy's frontline I push the tank and mechanised formations through the hole and deep into the rear. If I can create encirclements then I go for it otherwise I still try to push deep in order to "force" the AI to redeploy its main line. Practically I am trying to force the AI to make a tough decision, be on the move and have a weak defensive line or stand your ground, get encircled and destroyed.

Regarding the encirclements since the enemy is the AI I tend to try to make them as wide as I can but this means that the rings are not too tight. On the other hand in this manner I can cover a large area so even if some enemy units do escape there will always be enough to destroy.

I have posted a planning part (another one is coming later today) and hopefully it will be useful as I try to outline the basic idea of the different attacks and how they fit in the strategic picture (subject to historical flavour obviously).

I hope this helps. If you would like to discuss it further please let me know

Thanks for advice. Im on my third game, after restarting while learning, and I've had much better success this time, following a lot of what you've done. I've reached every historical barbarossa city by end of Oct 1941, minus Tula and Rostov, but I took Sevastopol as well. I'm letting Kalinin get captured (but I keep the bonus points) to tighten up my lines for the winter but will try and defend everything else.

_____________________________

Paradox Interactive Forum Refugee

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 55

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/18/2021 9:28:09 PM

OberGeneral

Posts: 205
Joined: 10/9/2018
From: Canada
Status: offline

Amazing progress! I wiil look forward to your Victory

And thanks for the links to the mods. I have installed both.

< Message edited by OberGeneral -- 4/19/2021 9:59:14 PM >

(in reply to Bamilus)

Post #: 56

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/20/2021 7:58:20 AM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 9: 18-24 August 1941

The enemy is putting up a fierce and fanatical fight

Italian Allies have joined the struggle against the USSR and OKW is providing a detailed situation report

Heeresgruppe Nord

Operation Würgegriff continues this week with the elimination of all enemy units south of the Neva. L AK, I AK and XXVI AK have pushed the scattered and demoralised Soviets and reached the outskirts of Leningrad. 291.Inf.Div. supported by 86.Inf.Div. and 4.SS-Pol.Div.have managed to reach Gorelovo and 21.Inf.Div. and 217.Inf.Div. are besieging the Fort of Kronstandt.

X AK has moved towards Kolpino and Pushkin but strong enemy defences prevented them from advancing any further. II AK has checked the enemy east of Lake Ilmen and XXIII AK is continuing its northern advance protecting the overextended flanks of 16.Armee

Anti-tank emplacements in the center of Leningrad in anticipation of the German attack

LVI Pz.Kps drove parallel to Volkhov scattering and destroying everything in its path. 8.Pz.Div. reached Novaya Ladoga and SS-Inf.Div. mot. Totenkopf reached the outskirts of Kobona. XXXXI Pz.Kps supported LVI Pz.Kps and the two armoured formations forced all enemy units to retreat either inside Leningrad of past the east bank of Volkhov.

PzKpfw III of 10.Pz.Rgt. of 8.Pz.Div. advancing through the forest towards Novaya Ladoga

By achieving to reach both the Baltic Sea and Lake Ladoga the city of Leningrad and all its defenders are isolated. Based on reconnaissance we can see that the defences of the city are truly formidable, something very impressive, especially given the short time the Soviets had to prepare them, but lack the necessary strategic depth. A siege is now initiated and OKW expects the city to fall within the next few weeks.

Fuel facilities in the Kronstadt Naval Base destroyed by the Luftwaffe

Heeresgruppe Mitte

Building on the momentum created by the encirclements of Operation Nibelungen Gold, VI AK and VIII AK advanced towards Rzhev with 161.Inf.Div. capturing the city in the early hours of 22 August after heavy fighting. Clearing operations are expected to continue for a couple of days but the city is in our hands. V AK continued the elimination of the encircled enemy formations in Vyazma but the city is well defended.

XXXIX Pz.Kps and LVII Pz.Kps supported by XX AK conducted a coordinated pincer encircling the enemy formations in Borodino. It appears that the enemy is retreating towards Moscow and abandon their defensive positions in front of our armoured units. Detailed discussions are taking place in OKW regarding the possibility for a direct assault in Moscow by the armoured formations or the need for infantry support. A high level meeting is called for 20 August and decisions on the next stage of the attack are expected to be taken there.

Destroyed Soviet T-34 in Zubtsov

XXIV Pz.Kps and XXXXVI Pz.Kps advanced towards Kaluga with 10.Inf.Div.mot capturing the city. Determined defence and numerically superior enemy formations though stopped the advance towards Tula. At the moment we have managed to cross the Oka at multiple locations but the enemy is digging-in on the eastern bank and we expect a tough fight on the way to Tula.

Destroyed PzKpfw IV in Kaluga

Further south XXXXII AK continues the elimination of the encirclement achieved in Kirov during Operation Nibelungen Silber but the enemy is putting up stiff resistance. XXXXVII Pz.Kps supported by XXXXIII AK advanced towards Orel but faced strong resistance. Our attempts to cross the Oka failed and the city remains in enemy hands.

Heeresgruppe Süd

XII AK and VII AK attacked the enemy positions along the front but the enemy managed to repel them. XIII AK, IX AK and XXXXIV AK continue their advance as after last week's Panzer drive to Kharkov the enemy has abandoned their positions are retreating along the open ground.

The disintegration of the enemy defences in the area offered a unique possibility to switch schwerpunkt and XIV Pz.Kps supported by III Pz.Kps drove northwards towards Kursk that fell into the hands of 16.Pz.Div. This northern strike is expected to destabilise the enemy positions around Orel and Tula, thus allowing 2.Panzerarmee to make significant gains.

Motorised Infantry SS-Regiment Westland of SS-Inf.Div. mot. Wiking advancing in Schigry

LV AK and XVII AK are moving towards Kharkov but so far determined enemy resistance stopped them from crossing the Donets. XXIX AK has reached Kharkov and the city is now isolated. XXXXVIII Pz.Kps have pushed passed the Soviet defences towards Kupyansk while creating a bridgehead on the Donets bend.

Observation post of Infanterie-Regiment 528 of 299.Inf.Div. overlooking enemy defences over the Donets

Further south the lack of motorised units render the advance slow but our forces are pushing the enemy further into the steppe. IV AK, LI AK and XXXIV AK have managed to reach Dnepropetrovsk and almost isolate the city. Downstream the Soviets are building their defences on the far bank of Dnepr but 7.Rum.Cav.Abt. has managed to create a small bridgehead.

In Odessa fresh Italian divisions are arriving to take control of the siege.

Operational Summary

This week we have suffered 39,659 casualties (13,191 killed, 119 captured and 23,349 disabled) and lost 389 Guns, 86 AFVs and 32 airplanes. The Soviets have suffered 163,370 casualties (26,759 killed, 82,537 captured and 50,038 disabled) and lost 2,756 Guns, 306 AFVs and 1,150 airplanes.

Ju-87 of I/StG2 refuelled and rearmed prior to another sortie

< Message edited by melnibonian -- 4/20/2021 8:00:11 AM >

(in reply to OberGeneral)

Post #: 57

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/20/2021 12:01:59 PM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 10: 24-31 August 1941

Strategic Situation Review

Generalfeldmarschall Walther von Brauchitsch (Oberbefehlshaber des Heeres) and Generaloberst Franz Halder (Chef des Generalstabes des Heeres) are discussing the strategic situation with the Führer

Strategische Situation im Osten

After 9 weeks of hard fighting it is clear that the Wehrmacht has performed admirably and the Red Army is all but crushed. Our armoured spearheads have driven deep into the USSR and are on the door of Moscow and Leningrad. The strategic aim of Unternehmen Barbarossa was and still is the destruction of the Red Army and the Soviet ability to wage war and the capture of Leningrad and Moscow.

4.Panzerarmee has to a large extent manage to isolate Leningrad, although the city is well defended and will not fall without significant effort from our part. For this reason 18.Armee and 16.Armee have already started preparations for a siege and we expect the city to fall within the next few weeks. 4.Panzerarmee will clear the shores of Lake Ladoga, thus ensuring the complete isolation of the city and I Fliegerkorps will establish air superiority over the greater area to ensure unhindered operations from our bombers.

Destroyed buildings in Leningrad

On the Moscow area Operation Rheingold has been a resounding success managing to destabilise the enemy positions. Repeated armoured thrusts have managed to isolate the majority of the enemy formations in Vyazma and Borodino, but more Red Army units are entrenching in the approaches to Moscow. OKW has provisionally approved Operation Siegfried, the encirclement of the Greater Moscow Area by 3.Panzerarmee and the details are currently put in place. This massive pincer and the subsequent capture of the city are expected to be completed by the end of September. Infantry support will be paramount as enemy resistance will most probably be fierce.

Advanced units of 39.Pz.Rgt. of 17.Pz.Div. on the outskirts of Orel

2.Panzerarmee will attempt to encircle the majority of enemy formations located between Tula and Kursk, thus eliminating any possible enemy threat to the flanks of 3.Panzerarmee. OKW believes that as soon as the enemy formations beyond the Oka are eliminated the entire Central Front of the enemy will collapse and Moscow will be left to fend with whatever units are already available in the city.

PzKpfw III of 33.Pz.Rgt. of 11.Pz.Div. advancing through a village in the outskirts of Kharkov

After the capture of Kursk and the isolation of Kharkov, 1.Panzerarmee will swing south, cross the Donets and drive deep in the enemy's rear towards Salino and Rostov. This will force the enemy to either fight for the industrially important Donets Basin region and subsequently being encircled and destroyed, or retreat beyond the Don.

Up until this point we have suffered 283,492 casualties (121,748 killed, 311 captured and 161,433 disabled) and lost 4,242 Guns, 847 AFVs and 518 airplanes. The Soviets have suffered 2,452,577 casualties (322,308 killed, 1,544,479 captured and 585,790 disabled) and lost 44,879 Guns, 11,138 AFVs and 9,298 airplanes.

Strategische Situation im Westen

In the West the RAF has attempted a number of bombing raids on the continent with varying degree of success. Luftwaffe defence units in France and Germany are making these raids very costly for Bomber Command but still despite all our efforts some bombers do pass through and cause damage.

RAF Bombers on their way to targets in Germany

In the Atlantic Ubootwaffe is fighting hard against allied convoys, but its job is getting more difficult due to the US Navy's recent policy to provide escort to both inbound and outbound convoys until the Azores. Nevertheless despite the enemy's efforts the Ubootwaffe has managed to sink 1,626,114GWT of enemy shipping in 1941 for the loss of 16 U-Boats.

Norwegian Tanker SS Pendrecht burning after being attacked by KptLt Herbert Schultze in U-48 on 8 June 1941

Strategische Situation in Afrika

In North Africa Panzergruppe Afrika is reinforced with 15.Pz.Div. and General der Panzertruppe Erwin Rommel is expected to initiate operations aiming to push the British back to Egypt. Although this front is of secondary priority OKW hopes for a swift drive to Alexandria that could put the Suez Canal out of action and cripple the British war effort.

PzKpfw IV of 15.Pz.Div. arriving in Tunis

< Message edited by melnibonian -- 4/21/2021 4:06:47 PM >

(in reply to melnibonian)

Post #: 58

RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/21/2021 2:26:36 PM

melnibonian

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline

Turn 10: 24-31 August 1941

Had I known they had as many tanks as that, I’d have thought twice before invading

T-34 Production Line in Kirov

Heeresgruppe Nord

Operation Würgegriff continues this week and the Siege of Leningrad is officially underway. L AK, I AK and XXVI AK have all conducted probing attacks on the enemy positions and 269.Inf.Div. managed to reach the suburbs of the city by occupying Pushkin after a long and bloody encounter with 242th and 319th Rifle Divisions. 21.Inf.Div. supported by 4.SS-Pol.Div. and 11.Inf.Div. managed to reach Oranienbaum and Peterhof but had to stop due to the fierce enemy resistance.

X AK supported by XXXVIII AK and II AK have contained the Soviets on the far side of Volkhov and 58.Inf.Div. managed to cross the river and establish a bridgehead that was further increased by 253.Inf.Div. and 96.Inf.Div.

Pionier-Bataillon 269 of 269.Inf.Div. supported by StuG III assault guns of Artillerie-Regiment 269 enter Pushkin

In Lake Ladoga XXXXI Pz.Kps completed the occupation of the ports and expelled the Soviets beyond Volkhov. 8.Pz.Div. and SS-Inf.Div. mot. Totenkopf managed to cross the river and after heavy fighting established two vital bridgeheads. At the same time LVI Pz.Kps crossed the river at Kirishi, securing the flanks of the assaulting troops in Leningrad.

Soviet KV-1 destroyed by elements of Infanterie-Regiment (mot) 29 of 3.Inf.Div.mot in the forests around Bugodoshch

Heeresgruppe Mitte

This week 9.Armee and 4.Armee performed operations to consolidate the front and started the elimination process of the different kessels created by the armoured formations. VIII AK pushed the enemy all the way to Staritsa but failed to occupy the city due to lack of supplies and heavy resistance. XX AK started the clearing process of the Vyazma and Borodino kessels but some enemy units are still resisting. It is expected though that both kessels will be cleared within the next couple of days.

Due to the clearing up operations of 9.Armee and the subsequent lack of infantry support both XXXXIX Pz.Kps and LVII Pz.Kps stopped their advance. V AK supported XXXXVI Pz.Kps and XXIV Pz.Kps but all their attempts to break through the enemy defences beyond Kaluga were unsuccessful. The Soviets have managed to entrenched themselves in the heavy woodlands on the approaches to the Oka river and we will need organised, determined and coordinated efforts to break through and drive towards Tula.

German troops pushing towards Tula

South of Tula the Soviets have occupied defensive positions on the far bank on Oka and all our efforts to dislodge them have so far not being successful. XII AK supported by XXXXIII AK and XXXXVI Pz.Kps have made repeated attempts to storm Orel but the Soviet defences have so far managed to hold our advances. XIII AK have managed to cross the Oka but for now the enemy line has not being breached at any point.

Heeresgruppe Süd

In the South III Pz.Kps managed to enlarge the bridgehead around Kursk and the city is firmly in our hands. XXXV AK and IX AK are providing support and preparing for a coordinated thrust towards Orel.

After the isolation of Kharkov, Inf.Div. mot. Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler supported by 299.Inf.Div. managed to occupy the city after heavy fighting. The enemy have put up strong resistance for a few days but was forced to surrender of 26 August.

1. Pi.Kompanie of Inf.Div. mot. Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler engaged in fierce street fighting in Kharkov

Further south we have been engaged in heavy fighting along the Dnepr but coordinated efforts of LI AK and IV AK managed to capture Dnepropetrovsk and 94.Inf.Div., 34.Inf.Div. and 139.Inf.Div. created a series of bridgeheads across the river. 94.Inf.Div. managed to capture Zaporozhye and 76.Inf.Div. Nikopol.

Mounted troops of Artillerie-Regiment 34 of 34.Inf.Div. securing Zaporozhye after two long days of fierce fighting

Further south the Rumanian troops have managed to cross the Dnepr in multiple locations and are advancing towards Crimea whereas the Italian troops are taking charge in the siege of Odessa.

Engineers of Pionier-Bataillon 194 of 94.Inf.Div. are crossing the Dnepr in Dnepropetrovsk

Operational Summary

During the week we have suffered 31,664 casualties (8,690 killed, 54 captured and 22,950 disabled) and lost 328 Guns, 20 AFVs and 127 airplanes. The Soviets have suffered 122,340 casualties (26,121 killed, 62,120 captured and 34,099 disabled) and lost 2,040 Guns, 168 AFVs and 541 airplanes.