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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/21/2021 4:05:24 PM   
melnibonian

 

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quote:

ORIGINAL: MakeeLearn
Looks like the 11th Panzer Division.


You are correct. I have changed the caption

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/23/2021 8:38:22 AM   
Jango32

 

Posts: 307
Joined: 3/15/2021
Status: offline 		Do you usually bring up the Luftwaffe AOGs as close to the new frontline as possible every turn (including in newly captured bases) or do you wait with the redeployment?

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/23/2021 6:57:56 PM   
melnibonian

 

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jango32

Do you usually bring up the Luftwaffe AOGs as close to the new frontline as possible every turn (including in newly captured bases) or do you wait with the redeployment?


I try to get the Fighters (JG) and Close Air Support squadrons (StG and ZG) as close to the front line as possible. If not every turn then definitely every other turn and I move them manually. The long range bombers (KG) are also moved but I do this every 2 turns usually.

The only forces that I let the AI to sort out with the redeployment are the Recon and transports.

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Post #: 63
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 4/27/2021 10:57:27 AM   
melnibonian

 

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Turn 11: 31 August - 6 September 1941


The National Defence Committee appeals to all the workers of Moscow to observe order, remain calm and give their entire support to the Red Army in the defence of the capital



Marshals of the Soviet Union and STAVKA are preparing for the defence of Moscow


Heeresgruppe Nord

After weeks of hard fighting our troops have managed to penetrate the outer defences of Leningrad. XXVI AK and I AK have crossed the Neva and after desperate house to house fighting have managed to clear the city's suburbs. 269.Inf.Div. captured Pavlovo while 217.Inf.Div. supported by 121.Inf.Div. managed to push the enemy forces beyond Osinovets.



11.Inf.Div. with the support of 98.Inf.Div. captured Shilsselburg despite relentless Soviet counter attacks. 291.Inf.Div., 86.Inf.Div. and 4.SS-Pol.Div. have kept the pressure on the city. OKW has approved the shipment of extra artillery in order to force the city to submit.


Stug III of Artillerie-Regiment 269 of 269.Inf.Div. clearing the streets of Pavlovo


During the entire week the Luftwaffe has flown constant Interdiction and Close Air Support missions in order to soften the enemy and disrupt any attempt to relieve the city.


Pushkin after it has been cleared from enemy forces


In the eastern part of the front X AK, XXXVIII AK and II AK have crossed the Volkhov and are pursuing the enemy forces across the entire area. The battles have been made excessively difficult due to the wooded terrain but our forces have show resilience and managed to overrun the enemy positions. LVI Pz.Kps have crossed the river and managed to reach Sviritsa while XXXXI Pz.Kps have pushed over Volkhov all the way to Nebolochi.


Armoured units of Panzer-Abteilung II of 1.Pz.Div. resting in Nebolochi


Heeresgruppe Mitte

In the Moscow area our troops are facing stiff enemy resistance and the advance has slowed down. VI AK and VIII AK have managed to enlarge the Rzhev bridgehead but large numbers of Soviet troops are still applying a lot of pressure in the area. XX AK has managed to clear the Vyazma pocket and is moving towards the front line. At the same time XXXIX Pz.Kps have managed to create a small penetration in the enemy defences but lack of infantry support prohibits us from exploiting it. LVII Pz.Kps supported by V AK pushed the enemy behind the Moskva River with 12.Pz.Div. capturing Mozhaysk but determined Soviet resistance stopped any further advance.




XXIV Pz.Kps managed to break through the enemy defences, capture Kaluga and create a bridgehead on the western bank of the Oka. The lack of infantry support though have limited the successes on this part of the front. XXXXVI Pz.Kps faced stiff resistance but managed to cross the Oka and advanced to Tula with 267.Inf.Div. supported by 10.Inf.Div.(mot) capturing Dugna.


Pioneers of 12. Schützen Regiment of 4.Pz.Div. crossing the Oka


Further south XII Pz.Kps and XXXXVII Pz.Kps supported by XXXXIII AK, XII AK, XIII AK and VII AK broke through the enemy defences, captured Orel and managed to create a bulge separating 13th Soviet Army from 21st Soviet Army.


Anti-tank guns of Panzerabwehr-Abteilung 23 of 23.Inf.Div. engaging the enemy in Orel


Heeresgruppe Süd

In the Southern section XIV Pz.Kps and III Pz.Kps supported by IX AK and XXXXIV AK have checked enemy counterattacks on the Kursk region and maintained control of the situation. XXXXVIII Pz.Kps supported by LV AK and XVII AK have managed to cross the Donets and cracked the enemy positions on the east bank. Inf.Div.mot. Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler supported by 16.Inf.Div.mot. captured Volchansk and 11.Pz.Div. supported by 60.Inf.Div.mot. captured Kupyansk.



XXXXIX AK with LI AK and LII AK managed to cross the Donets in multiple locations and are pushing 32nd Soviet Army further east. These attacks have destabilised the enemy and forced them to retreat behind the Oksol river.


Men of 12.(MG) III. Batallion LSSAH of Inf.Div.mot. Leibstandarte SS Adolf Hitler engaged in fierce street fighting in Volchansk


Further South 11.Armee have crossed the Dnepr pushing the enemy towards the Torets and the Don Basin. 3.Rum.Armee has reached Perekop and the entrance to the Crimea.



The IT.AK supported by II Rum.AK, XI Rum.AK. and the newly arrived División Azul are besieging Odessa with limited success.


PzKpfw III of 33. Panzer Regiment of 9.Pz.Div. on fire after enemy action


Operational Summary

During this week we suffered 38,207 casualties (16,401 killed, 48 captured and 21,758 disabled) and lost 736 Guns, 144 AFVs and 276 aircrafts. The Soviets have suffered 171,594 casualties (29,966 killed, 95,380 captured and 46,248 disabled) and lost 3,071 Guns, 698 AFVs and 942 aircrafts.


He-111H-6 of II/KG53 hit by flak over Moscow




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Post #: 64
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/2/2021 11:41:16 AM   
Jango32

 

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Status: offline 		Leningrad seems to be bound to fall in a turn or two.

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/2/2021 6:53:01 PM   
therealevan

 

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From: Washington State
Status: offline 		This AAR is showing how Ruthless Melnibonian is a player - a truly fascinating campaign so far.

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/3/2021 4:48:56 AM   
melnibonian

 

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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jango32

Leningrad seems to be bound to fall in a turn or two.


That's my impression as well. The city is finally isolated so the end should be near with Moscow following (hopefully)

quote:

ORIGINAL: therealevan

This AAR is showing how Ruthless Melnibonian is a player - a truly fascinating campaign so far.


Thank you for your kind words. I really appreciate it

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Post #: 67
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/3/2021 6:43:31 AM   
melnibonian

 

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Turn 12: 7-14 September 1941

Nach Moskau



German armoured spearheads are moving towards Moscow


Heeresgruppe Nord

After last week's fighting XXVI AK and I AK have managed to clear the area around Pavlovo and the Karelia approaches towards the city. 217.Inf.Div. has started penetrating the outer defences North of the city but faced fierce resistance that disintegrated into bloody street fighting. Nevertheless progress have been made and OKW expectes the city to capitulate within the next few weeks.



On the eastern part of the theatre of operations progress has been hampered by constant rain and the combination of dense forests, swamps and unprecedented quantities of mud. despite this X AK and XXXVIII AK have provided support to LVI Pz.Kps and XXXXI Pz.Kps and pushed the enemy defences further away from the Volkhov. 36.Inf.Div.mot have reached Svir ensuring the complete isolation of the southern part of Lake Ladoga and XXIII AK has initiated probing attacks against enemy positions in the deep forests surrounding Borovichi.


Motorcyclists of Pi.Btl 653 of 260.Inf.Div. are dealing with the Russian mud


Heeresgruppe Mitte

In this section of the front Heeresgruppe Mitte tried to capitalise on the progress of the armoured spearheads from last week's engagements. For this reason XXXXVI Pz.Kps, XXIV Pz.Kps and LVII Pz.Kps supported by V AK and XX AK have continued the thrust towards Moscow enlarging the breakthrough with the 10.Pz.Div. capturing Podolsk, the 12.Pz.Div. reaching Mikhnevo and SS-Inf.Div. mot. Das Reich securing Volosovo. These penetrations although they lack adequate infantry support for an immediate assault in the city have achieved to secure multiple crossings on the Nara and divided the Soviet 22nd and 30th Armies with the former being pushed on the eastern bank of the Oka.



On the Rzhev sector the lack of infantry support has caused a lot of problems in checking the numerous enemy formations with VI AK and VIII AK having to fight multiple engagements. XXXIX Pz.Kps performed limited attacks and managed to create a small penetration in the Soviet lines in Lotoshino and Volokolamsk but lack of supplies and infantry support prevented further exploitation.


Central Moscow under Aerial attack by the Luftwaffe


Of serious concern to OKW are the strong enemy formations in Kubinka, Ruza and Naro-Fominsk numbering 17 Rifle and 5 Cavalry Divisions. These formations need to be destroyed or isolated prior to any attack on the city as they pose a clear and present danger on our armoured penetrations. The situation is difficult and discussions on how to address it are on-going between OKW and Generalfeldmarschall Fedor von Bock's staff.



In the area of Tula strong enemy formations have checked the advance of XXXXII AK but XXXXVII Pz.Kps supported by VII AK, XXXXIII AK and XIII AK have exploited previous penetrations driving a wedge between 13th Army and 3rd Army. 17.Pz.Div. has captured Efremov cutting the rail link between Tula and Izmakovo, putting further supply limitations on the Soviet formations of the Voronezh Front.


Destroyed enemy armour on the outskirts of Livny


Heeresgruppe Süd

In the South the large distances and inadequate rail network has caused numerous supply problems to Panzergruppe Kleist and it has been decided for the armoured units to rest and refit in view of future operations. This meant that most of the advance across the entire front was conducted with minimal or no armoured support.



Despite the lack of fuel the units of Heeresgruppe Süd have managed to make steady progress across the entire front. The capture of Kharkov has opened the approaches to Donets to our troops and the enemy is retreating at a steady pace towards the Don that is the nearest natural defensive position available. IX AK, LV AK and XVII AK are on the enemy's heels but the lack of supplies is limiting the effectiveness of their advance.


Soviet KV-1 Heavy Tank destroyed in Artemovsk


On the Donets Basin IV AK have pushed the enemy all the way to Stalino but heavy resistance coupled with numerous enemy formations of well-prepared defensive positions have forced us to stop the advance. XXX AK and XI AK are advancing towards Mariupol facing only token enemy resistance. As soon as Stalino and Mariupol are captured the road to Rostov-on-Don will be open and OKW expects the entire southern flank of the Soviet Army to collapse.


Elements of Artillerie-Regiment 81 of 97.Jg.Inf.Div. engaged in fierce fighting with the enemy in Slavyansk


In Crimea LIV AK supported by III RM AK and Mnt.RM AK managed to breach the enemy defences on both sides of the Syvash Lagoon and entered the peninsula. II RM AK, V RM AK and XI RM AK supported by IT AK continue to lay siege to Odessa with minimal results so far.



Operational Summary

During this week we have suffered 28,037 casualties (7,629 killed, 52 captured and 20,356 disabled) and lost 272 Guns, 35 AFVs and 248 airplanes. The Soviets have suffered 98,580 casualties (20,126 killed, 35,155 captured and 43,299 disabled) and lost 1,849 Guns, 201 AFVs and 312 airplanes.

This week the Luftwaffe has conducted multiple operations against the enemy both in Moscow and Leningrad, something that can be seen from the significant attrition recorded. One of the most important operations was the attack of III/KG1 in the naval base of Kronstadt aiming to neutralise the Soviet Baltic Fleet. The raid was a resounding success as we managed to destroy multiple facilities, fuel and ammunition storages and cripple the Battleship Marat with a well placed 2,500kg bomb.


Reconnaissance of the Kronstadt Docks image of the Battleship Marat after the Luftwaffe raid





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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/5/2021 12:18:26 PM   
melnibonian

 

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Turn 13: 15-21 September 1941

“Horrible, only skeletons, not people, what will become of us?”



Citizens of Leningrad are being evacuated after the capitulation of the city


Heeresgruppe Nord

Leningrad has fallen! After two weeks of bloody street fighting General Pyotr Petrovich Sobennikov Commander of the 8th Soviet Army surrendered at 04:30 on 20 September. In total the battle has cost us 2,407 killed, 5,283 wounded and 104 Guns and the Soviets have suffered 3,445 dead and 6,529 wounded. In total after the surrender of the city we have captured 45,689 men and 1,112 Guns with the 274th, 111th, 107th, 203rd and 202nd Rifle Divisions and the 25th Cavalry Divisions stricken off the Soviet Order of Battle. General der Artillerie Albert Wodrig commander of XXVI AK has accepted the surrender and initiated a program of rations for the civilian population.



The capitulation of Leningrad has been received with jubilation in Berlin and it is expected that the morale blow to the enemy will be irretrievable. Furthermore the successful completion of the siege will allow us to start moving the elements of 18.Armee towards Kabozha, Borovichi and Vyshny Volocheck in support of 16.Armee and 9.Armee in the area of Kalinin and Moscow.


Central Leningrad after the capitulation of the city


Further east due to the constant rain and the mud our advance was limited. LVI Pz.Kps attempted a small penetration towards Kabozha but the lack of roads and adequate supplies eliminated any possibility of reaching the city. Nevertheless it appears that the enemy is retreating in an organised fashion aiming to stop us from reaching the upper Volga. OKH agrees with the recommendation of Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm Ritter von Leeb for a halt in the offensive in order to allow our troops to rest and refit prior to a drive towards Kalinin and Moscow.


Vehicles of Infanterie-Regiment (mot) 29 of 3.Inf.Div.mot are trying to dig themselves out of the mud


Heeresgruppe Mitte

In the Moscow sector LVII Pz.Kps, XXXXVI Pz.Kps and XXIV Pz.Kps supported by V AK and XII AK have resumed the attack and managed to penetrate the enemy defences on multiple locations. Fighting has been fierce and the Soviets are putting up stiff resistance aided by the multiple woodlands and creeks in the area. Despite the casualties and the constant Soviet counter attacks XXIV Pz.Kps has managed to push the enemy beyond the Oka river.



XII AK and XXXXII AK are supporting the lower flanks of the Panzer drive while keeping the enemy from approaching Tula. The city is still in enemy hands but we expect to isolate it within the next few days. LIII AK and XXXXIII AK are supporting the northward swing of XXXXVII Pz.Kps that is moving parallel to the Upper Don in an attempt to isolate Tula and reach the Oka behind the enemy formations of 3rd and 55th Army in the vicinity of Kashira. This drive has the potential to destabilise the eastern sector of the Moscow Front and envelop a large number of Soviet formations.


Remnants of the Soviet 210th Mechanised Corps on the road to Moscow


XXXIX Pz.Kps supported by VI AK and VIII AK has held the line in the Rzhev sector but the lack of infantry does not allow for large scale offensive operations. OKW has released 2.Pz.Div. and 5.Pz.Div. to support this section of the front and both formations are expected to arrive within the next couple of days. As soon as they are in position XXXIX Pz.Kps has plans to drive towards Kalinin in order to break the enemy line west of Moscow prior to a wide flanking move towards the city.


Soviet counter-attacks in Verbilki putting severe strain on 18.Inf.Div.mot


Heeresgruppe Süd

In the South due to the lack of supplies and fuel OKW has agreed to allow Panzergruppe Kleist a week of rest and refit. Therefore the advance this week was conducted by the infantry and although the lack of heavy armoured formations was felt, progress has been made across the entire front.



IX AK and XXXXIV AK have pushed the enemy towards Voronezh and are in pursuit. The enemy is putting up strong resistance but we have managed to cause severe casualties and a number of Soviet formations have been shattered by the ferocity of our attack. 26th Army has all but disintegrated and we expect the resupplied motorised formations of XIV Pz.Kps to catch up with them and reach Voronezh once they are in motion.


Men of Infanterie-Regiment 116 of 9.Inf.Div. are advancing towards Voronezh through destroyed Soviet villages


XVII AK and XXIX AK have conducted a coordinated attack shattering the Soviet 6th Army and are advancing towards Alekseevka. XXXXIX AK and LI AK have crushed the enemy formations with 1.Geb.Div. reaching Starobelsk. Reconnaissance indicate that the enemy has been eliminated in this section of the front, opening a wide gap of approximately 80km in the Soviet lines between Alekseevka and Voroshilovgrad.


Engineers of Infanterie-Regiment 226 of 79.Inf.Div. are advancing in the Ukrainian steppe


LII AK and IV AK in support of Cav.RM AK have pushed aside the enemy defences and have advanced towards Voroshilovgrad with 6.RM.Kav.Abt. reaching Rodakovo. This penetration and the pressure applied to the enemy by XXXIV AK and XXX AK have shattered the cohesion of the Soviet Southern Front opening wide gaps in the enemy defensive lines.


Me-109 of II./JG52 being prepared for a sortie in Stalino


XXXIV AK and XXX AK have fought against heavy opposition but managed to dislodge the enemy from their well-entrenched positions and 262.Inf.Div. captured Stalino late in the evening of 20 September. The battle for Stalino was a bloody affair but in the end the 106th Mechanised Division was forced to evacuate the city after suffering crippling casualties while the 9th Militia Rifle Division surrendered en masse yielding another 5,000 prisoners.


Mortars of Artillerie-Regiment 262 of 262.Inf.Div. engaged in street fighting in Stalino


Further south XI AK have continued its advance towards the Sea of Azof with 6.RM.Inf.Div. capturing Mariupol in the morning of 19 September. The capture of Mariupol renders Soviet supply and troop movements in the Sea of Azof a precarious proposition while at the same time has open the road towards Rostov-on-Don. Due to the apparent disintegration of the Enemy's Southern Front OKW wants a rapid advance towards Rostov in order to isolate Crimea and complete the expulsion of the Soviet forces from the economically important Donbass Region.


Romanian Soldiers examine a toppled statue of Lenin in Mariupol


In Crimea LIV AK continued its advance towards Sevastopol and III RM AK and Mnt.RM AK are moving towards Feodosia and the Kerech Peninsula facing minimal resistance. Apart from local garrisons intelligence reports indicate that the peninsula is lightly defended therefore OKW wants the complete expulsion of the enemy as soon as possible. In Odessa the Rumanian and Italian forces supported by División Azul are besieging the city with limited results.



Operational Summary

During last week we have suffered 28,938 casualties (10,412 killed, 5 captured and 18,521 disabled) and lost 408 guns, 92 AFVs and 171 airplanes. The Soviets have suffered 179,824 casualties (30,030 killed, 121,082 captured and 28,712 disabled) and lost 3,230 guns, 190 AFVs and 426 airplanes. The increases in casualties and lost materiel are expected to rise due to the impending attack on Moscow and OKW is considering sending further reinforcements to share the burden of the fight. Nevertheless a 1:3 kill ratio is still maintained and OKW expects that as soon as Moscow is captured the Soviet Leadership will sue for peace.


Defensive positions are being constructed in Moscow


< Message edited by melnibonian -- 5/5/2021 12:20:52 PM >

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/5/2021 1:41:17 PM   
Bamilus


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Status: offline 		Looking good!

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/5/2021 1:45:53 PM   
melnibonian

 

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From: Sweden
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quote:

ORIGINAL: Bamilus

Looking good!


Indeed

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/5/2021 1:54:38 PM   
Jango32

 

Posts: 307
Joined: 3/15/2021
Status: offline 		Maybe for future updates or the next AAR, post an image of the initial turn positions; I mainly have the enemy units in mind when suggesting this.

< Message edited by Jango32 -- 5/5/2021 1:55:08 PM >

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/5/2021 3:40:30 PM   
RomanUK

 

Posts: 2
Joined: 5/5/2021
Status: offline 		As a long time 'lurker', I just wanted to thank you for this lovely AAR.

There have been some comments written about balancing issues with WITE2, but this is the first AAR where the Soviets are truly on the ropes in 1941, through a combination of momentum and unsustainable losses.

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Post #: 73
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/5/2021 7:36:57 PM   
melnibonian

 

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
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quote:

ORIGINAL: Jango32

Maybe for future updates or the next AAR, post an image of the initial turn positions; I mainly have the enemy units in mind when suggesting this.


I thought that you could use the previous turn entry in the AAR to see the location of the enemy, but I see your point. From now on I will include a separate image of the initial positions prior to the turn.

Thank you for your feedback. I really appreciate it

quote:

ORIGINAL: RomanUK

As a long time 'lurker', I just wanted to thank you for this lovely AAR.

There have been some comments written about balancing issues with WITE2, but this is the first AAR where the Soviets are truly on the ropes in 1941, through a combination of momentum and unsustainable losses.


Thank you for your kind words. I truly appreciate it

To be totally honest with you part of the success is due to the fact that I am playing against the AI, something that allows me to take far too many chances and do some really risky moves. Against a human opponent most of these tactics would be totally unsuccessful I think.

On the other hand I am trying to enjoy the game and also give a bit of an historical flavour to the AAR so I am happy to take a few liberties if they fall into the greater historical approach of the game and the AAR.

For me the game is well balanced although I do have an issue with the AI's tendency to abandon well defendable positions immediately after a penetration to the rear occurs. This is unhistorical and doesn't fit with the whole Soviet approach to the war, especially in 1941. Nevertheless I understand the reasoning behind the coding of the AI's approach but the lack of opportunities for encirclements after the first couple of rounds is frustrating.

My approach to the attack is, as I explained in a previous post, to push for deep penetrations of the armoured formations to the rear. This can destabilise the AI and force him to either retract the frontline units, thus losing the coherency of its defence, or stay and fight out of the inevitable encirclement. I know that sometimes this appears to be a bit "gamy" but from what I have read regarding German tactics in 1940 and 1941 it is similar to the way they were trying to conduct their actual operations. Obviously this is a game so one should have realistic expectations, but I think this approach is as close as I can get to the actual German way of thinking of the period.

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/5/2021 8:57:08 PM   
xhoel


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Status: offline 		The AAR is looking quite nice. I really like what you have done with the maps and the historical pictures, it adds a nice flavor to it. I would suggest you to switch the counter indicators to "unit names" for the screenshots, might be better than CVs and more in line with the operational report that you are doing. Also turning on enemy hexes might be worth it.

Gameplay wise you are doing really well, although as you said it yourself a lot of the tactics wouldnt work against a human opponent, but you can be a lot more relaxed when playing the AI. Im curious about Odessa: Have you isolated the port via naval interdiction? Keep up the good work!

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RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/6/2021 3:45:19 PM   
melnibonian

 

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From: Sweden
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quote:

ORIGINAL: xhoel

The AAR is looking quite nice. I really like what you have done with the maps and the historical pictures, it adds a nice flavor to it. I would suggest you to switch the counter indicators to "unit names" for the screenshots, might be better than CVs and more in line with the operational report that you are doing. Also turning on enemy hexes might be worth it.



Thank you for your kind words. I really appreciate all the feedback. I think your idea about the Unit Names is brilliant! I had not even thought about it so I will definitely use it from now on

Regarding the enemy hexes I see your point. The reason I am not turning it on is because if I do I can see the hex grid underneath and it really kills the immersion for me. I know it is totally pedantic but for some reason it really irks me. For this reason I am using the red dashed lines to indicate the frontline and I try to have this as close to the hex-ownership as possible. I know it is not the same but I beg your forgiveness on this but I really find it difficult to use the hexes on the maps.

quote:

ORIGINAL: xhoel

Im curious about Odessa: Have you isolated the port via naval interdiction? Keep up the good work!



I am running interdiction missions every turn but so far I haven't managed to isolate the harbour. I will probably allocate the entire Luftlotte on this mission in a hope to achieve this.

(in reply to xhoel)
Post #: 76
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/6/2021 5:27:07 PM   
xhoel


Posts: 3219
Joined: 6/24/2017
From: Germany
Status: offline 		Glad i could help with the Unit Name idea. You can switch to the names fairly easily by pressing Y key. Fair enough on the hex shading choice, i find your frontline depiction with the red line does the job quite well and is in line with the report type.

quote:

ORIGINAL: melnibonian

I am running interdiction missions every turn but so far I haven't managed to isolate the harbour. I will probably allocate the entire Luftlotte on this mission in a hope to achieve this.



If you dont mind some advice: Isolating Odessa or other ports is a fairly easy thing to do as long as the VVS isnt harassing your bombers. In the case of Odessa all you have to do is block the 2 hexes in front of the port (blocking meaning having an interdiction level that is 2 points higher than that of your opponent).

To do so: Do a 3 days a week schedule with rests in between (so raids on day 1, 4 and 7 for example). Bigger sorties are better. Use LBs with mine loadouts and your very valuable naval groups. The loadout is very important. Mines generate a lot more interdiction than the standard bomb set.

Set nr of req bombers to be a min of x, with x being 80-100. Set a nice AS screen that covers those two hexes and the ones nearby to prevent the Soviets from playing games. Keep enough airgroups in the area so you can rotate them out. Adjust the flightpath so it is flying over the two hexes covered and is avoiding enemy AA. If you do this for both air phases for 1 turn, the port will be isolated in a week. Ofc if you are planning to starve them out for a week or two, you will have to keep doing this. Be careful to not fly low morale AGs.




< Message edited by xhoel -- 5/6/2021 5:30:01 PM >

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Post #: 77
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/6/2021 7:17:18 PM   
carlkay58

 

Posts: 8650
Joined: 7/25/2010
Status: offline 		Naval Patrol is also very important to be sure it is running in BOTH air phases!

(in reply to xhoel)
Post #: 78
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/8/2021 4:13:47 PM   
Nikel

 

Posts: 355
Joined: 3/24/2009
Status: offline 		Like many others fascinated by this AAR, and your integration of narrative and historical and game pics.

Congratulations melnibonian !

(in reply to carlkay58)
Post #: 79
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/8/2021 4:17:34 PM   
Nikel

 

Posts: 355
Joined: 3/24/2009
Status: offline 		Like many others fascinated by this AAR, and your integration of narrative with historical and game pics.

Congratulations melnibonian !

(in reply to carlkay58)
Post #: 80
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/9/2021 5:57:12 AM   
melnibonian

 

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline 		@carlkay58 and @xhoel Thank you both very much for your advice. I will follow it

quote:

ORIGINAL: Nikel
Like many others fascinated by this AAR, and your integration of narrative and historical and game pics.

Congratulations melnibonian !


Thank you very much for your kind words and encouragement. It really means a lot to me to see that you guys like the AAR.

(in reply to carlkay58)
Post #: 81
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/9/2021 8:20:38 AM   
melnibonian

 

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline
Turn 14: 22-28 September 1941

Moscow must disappear from the earth’s surface as soon as its riches have been brought to shelter



Soviet lorries racing through Moscow to bring supplies to the front


Planning Phase*


Generalfeldmarschall Gerd von Rundstedt planning his next offensive


As the major operations phase of Heeresgruppe Nord is practically finished, OKW has been focusing on the ongoing operations around Moscow and the advance in the Southern Ukraine. In the Moscow region 3.Panzerarmee will attempt to break the Soviet defences between the 32nd and 10th Army with a deep drive towards Kalinin aiming to destabilise the entire Western Front. The difficulties we are facing on this sector is the lack of adequate infantry support and the extended woodlands that make any rapid advance a real challenge. The constant rain and the subsequent mud complicates things further but at least our armoured formations can still move, albeit at a much reduced rate.

On the East of Moscow 2.Panzerarmee with infantry support will attempt to eliminate the enemy formations in Tula and hit the 22nd Army in a deep drive East of of Moscow. Parallel to this further attacks against the 3rd, 11th and 29th Armies will attempt to fragment the Bryansk Front and separate it from the Western Front.



In the South an advance across the entire front is planned but the schwerpunkt will be concentrated on the enemy formations blocking our approach to Voronezh. Due to the crippling losses suffered by the enemy we expect the Red Army to be near it's final breath and thus a total collapse of the Southwestern Front is not an unreasonable proposition.



Heeresgruppe Nord

After the collapse of the enemy defences in Leningrad elements of 18.Armee are being repositioned towards Volkhov and the Soviet formations of the Northwestern Front. The city of Leningrad is still in a state of chaos and small detachments of Soviet troops together with citizens are continuing to resist but these are handled by the security forces. At the same time 4.SS-Pol.Div. proceeded to the Naval Base of Kronstadt and after a brief exchange Colonel General Ivan Vasilievich Boldin surrendered the garrison.



The constant rain and mud has rendered the advance difficult but XXXVIII AK, II AK and XXIII AK have managed to push the enemy formations and are slowly advancing through the forests. Strong enemy formations continue to resist in Tikhvin but 93.Inf.Div. managed to secure the city. I AK and X AK are progressing with the clearing operations and we expect to pacify the area around Podvorovye within the next few weeks.


Anti-tank guns of Polizei-Panzerjäger-Abteilung of 4.SS-Pol.Div. engaging enemy pockets in Kronstadt


Due to the reduction in the intensity of the fighting and the adverse weather OKW has decided to move XXXXI Pz.Kps and LVI Pz.Kps to Leningrad for resting and refitting. As soon as this is completed the armoured formations can be redeployed wherever needed in the Moscow Sector.


Citizens of Leningrad waiting for food and supplies in their destroyed houses


Heeresgruppe Mitte

During last week fierce battles took place in the Moscow Sector and the mass of enemy formations in the area indicate that the Soviets are indeed determined to defend the city at all cost. XXXIX Pz.Kps supported by VIII AK and XX AK have tried repeatedly to penetrate the enemy defences in the Kalinin Sector but was repulsed. Fighting has been savage but no progress is expected without further infantry support. For this reason OKW has already arranged for replacements to be sent as soon as possible. Due to the lack of progress it has been decided to try to pin as many enemy formations on the area as possible in order to facilitate the Eastern dive around Moscow.



LVII Pz.Kps, XXXXVI Pz.Kps and XXIV Pz.Kps supported by V AK and XII AK have managed to enlarge the advancing corridor driving a deep wedge between the Western and Bryansk Fronts. SS-Inf.Div. mot. Das Reich has managed to reach Kurovskoe and 10.Pz.Div. secured Vorskesensk and pushed all enemy formations beyond the Oka.


Leading elements of I. Battalion SS-Infanterie Regiment Der Führer of SS-Inf.Div. mot. Das Reich supported by assault guns enter Kurovskoe


XXXXVII Pz.Kps supported by XIII AK, XXXXIII AK and VII AK have managed to crush the enemy formations east of Tula and create a double penetration on the rear of the 29th Army. Unfortunately bad weather and fierce enemy resistance did not allowed us to complete the encirclement but we have managed to destabilise the Bryansk Front.


Armoured and motorised elements of 18.Pz.Div. advancing over destroyed bridges on the outskirts of Kashira


31.Inf.Div. supported by 129.Inf.Div. fought a fierce street fight in Tula but managed to expel 110th Rifle Division and capture the city. Securing Tula is of vital importance due to the extensive rail network and other facilities and our engineers are already at work to repair the enormous damage sustained due to the fighting. Capturing Tula and driving to the rear of 29th Army will probably force the Soviets to anchor themselves along the Oka River, therefore the infantry is trying to advance as much as possible to deny them any extra respite for building entrenched defensible positions.


Destroyed vehicles of the Soviet 49th Tank Division outside Moscow


Intelligence reports indicate that the Soviets are digging deep into Moscow aiming to fight for every street so OKW wants to ensure the encirclement of the city as quickly as possible prior to any attack. This battle will be difficult but our latest assaults have caused significant casualties to the Red Army so we expect that the resistance will start fading soon.


Muscovites gather in Manezhnaya Square to observe a Ju-88A-5 of I./KG3 that was shot down during a raid


Heeresgruppe Süd

In the South XXXXIV AK, IX AK, LV AK and XVII AK have managed to cause severe casualties and force the enemy formations beyond the Don and around Voronezh. These attacks have managed to destabilise the Central Front and OKW believes that an attack on Voronezh could cemmence within the next few days.



XXXV AK is applying severe pressure to the enemy north of Voronezh, thus denying the Red Army the possibility to assist the beleaguered forces defending the city. XXIX AK is applying pressure south of the city with between Central and Southwestern Fronts aiming to drive a wedge between them and impede the defensive coherency of the Soviet formations in the area.


Soviet troops attacking the 137.Inf.Div. in Khokhol


Further South XXXXIX AK and LI AK have all but eliminated the weak enemy formations in Rovenki opening a gap of approximately 60km to the Soviet defences. Can.RM AK has driven on along the far shore of the Donets supported by LII AK. The cavalry support has proved invaluable and after a series of unequal battles that left the Red Army severe mauled and depleted 24.Inf.Div. managed to secure Voroshilovgrad despite the enemy's attempt to hold on to the city.


Men of Pionier-Bataillon 24 of 24.Inf.Div. supported by Stug III assault guns are eliminating enemy resistance in Voroshilovgrad


XXX AK and IX AK have cleared the area around Stalino from the enemy and are moving towards Rostov amid limited resistance while in the Crimea LIV AK has reached Sevastopol and the Romanian forces are moving to secure the Kerch Peninsula.


Exhausted motorcyclists of Aufklärungs-Abteilung 171 of 71.Inf.Div. are resting between battles


Operational Summary

During last week we have suffered 31,253 casualties (13,337 dead, 55 captured and 17,961 disabled) and lost 597 Guns, 67 AFVs and 36 airplanes. The Soviets have suffered 194,849 casualties (21,155 killed, 135,941 captured and 37,753 disabled) and lost 2,279 Guns, 238 AFVs and 460 airplanes.


Ju-52 of II./KGr zbV 102 refuelling prior to a supply transport to the units in the Moscow Sector


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Since there was a request for the initial troop positions I thought of including a planning phase in the narrative. Please let me know if it is something you would like to see more and I will do my best to incorporate it in the future. I have also started including some information about the Soviet OOB on the maps, but if you think they get too clattered please let me know and I will remove it.


< Message edited by melnibonian -- 5/12/2021 4:43:45 PM >

(in reply to melnibonian)
Post #: 82
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/12/2021 11:42:56 AM   
melnibonian

 

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline
Turn 15: 29 September - 5 October 1941

Moscow will be defended to the last



Let's defend Moscow!


Heeresgruppe Nord

Heavy rainfall has hampered our advance this week. XXVI AK, I AK, X AK and II AK have all been on the offensive but their advance was slogging due to the mud and enemy resistance. These formations are engaging the enemy forces of Northwestern Front and slowly are advancing towards the Rybinsk Reservoir. After the pacification of Leningrad L AK has started moving towards the frontline and it is expected to get into action within next week.



Further south XXIII AK and XXVIII AK are continuing the application of pressure on the enemy forces of the Reserve Front and are making marginal gains. The adverse weather conditions are making the situation very difficult as the reads have all but disappeared and even the smallest advance requires enormous physical effort. Despite all these difficulties our forces have managed to maul the enemy after a series of sharp and bloody clashes. Unfortunately since we are not able to capitalise on these victories the enemy is retreating only to entrench and face us again in the near future.


Destroyed Soviet T-34s of 33rd Tank Division in the swamps of Borovichi


Per OKW requests XXXXI Pz.Kps and LVI Pz.Kps have moved in the area of Leningrad and Novgorod for rest and refitting. OKW has called for a leadership conference next week in order to decide how to utilise these armoured formations. A number of discussions are already taking place but all decisions will be taken on the conference next week.


PzKpfw III arriving by rail to Novgorod


Heeresgruppe Mitte

During the last few weeks it has become abundantly clear that the main effort of the Soviet Leadership is the defence of Moscow at all cost. For this reason the Red Army is amassing all its precious reserves around the city and intelligence reports indicate that further reinforcements are on the way. The adverse weather and the mud causes significant problems to our troops and is restricting our movements, albeit not to the appalling level we are experiencing in Leningrad.



XXXXIX Pz.Kps supported by VI AK and VIII AK have again assaulted the enemy forces covering the approaches to Kalinin and although small gains were made, so far we have failed to create any sort of deep penetration. The limited Luftwaffe support due to the weather is further exacerbating the whole situation. OKW has dispatched 7.Fl.Div. to provide extra support and this elite unit is expected to reach the designated operational are within the next few days.


Destroyed Soviet tank in Lotoshino


LVII Pz.KPs supported by LIII AK and V AK have pushed the enemy beyond the Moskva River and have managed to create a series of bridgeheads. Nevertheless any further advance was limited due to the weather and lack of supplies. Despite these difficulties progress is being made but if we want to avoid a costly street battle in Moscow we must achieve a penetration towards Kalinin and initiate a broader encirclement of the Soviet formations of the Western Front.


Supply carts of Infanterie-Regiment 329 of 162.Inf.Div. are putting gigantic efforts to cross the Moskva River


XXXXVI Pz.Kps and XXIV Pz.Kps supported by XXXXII AK and XIII AK have once again pushed in the gap between the Western and Bryansk Fronts but the enemy defences and the weather have limited the advance. 3.Pz.Div. and 18.Pz.Div. have reached Koloma and after bitter fighting managed to stop 185th Mechanised Corps from crossing the Oka.


Panzer 38(t) of Pz.Abt. 2 of 3.Pz.Div. advancing to Koloma


Further South XXXXVII Pz.Kps supported by VII AK and XIII AK have continued its thrust towards the Oka. Again stiff enemy resistance and mud have limited the advance but progress has been made. This thrust is expected to destabilise the Bryansk Front and OKW expects the enemy forces around Ryazan to be encircled within the next few days.


Engineers are working hard on repairing the supply network in the outskirts of Moscow


During the last few days engineering units have been working very hard to expand the rail network in order to have as many supplies as possible provided to the frontline troops. These repair units have been working under enemy fire but our railheads have reached our frontlines in Kubinka and Vnukovo.


Anti-aircraft positions in the centre of Moscow


Heeresgruppe Süd

XXXV AK, XXXXIV AK, IX AK and LV AK supported by XIV Pz.Kps and III Pz.Kps have pushed the enemy forces of the Southwestern Front and are threatening Voronezh. The enemy is retreating along the entire front after having suffered significant casualties but so far manages to retain some order in their frontline arrangements. As everywhere in the USSR the heavy rain is causing problems but OKW expects that the resuming of operations from the armoured formations will manage to put severe strain on the enemy forces.



XVII AK and XXIX AK have been engaged with the Soviet 6th and 12th Armies and after brutal fighting managed to pushed the enemy in the region of Svoboda but so far we have not managed to cross the Don. Success in the region has reinforced OKW's opinion that the Red Army is near its last gasp as it seems to be unable to form a continuous defensive battle-line from Voronezh to Rostov with gaping holes appearing in the Don bent.


Elements of Infanterie-Regiment 190 of 62.Inf.Div. are advancing towards the Don amidst heavy enemy resistance


In the Donbas Region XXXXVIII Pz.Kps have resumed its operations and is advancing towards Rostov. The enemy resistance of the South Front is almost non-existent as the enemy is in full retreat across the entire Donets bend. XXX AK and XI AK are near Rostov and we expect to bring the city under artillery fire within the next few days.



In Crimea the enemy resistance has been eliminated with LIV AK reaching Sevastopol and III RM AK supported by Mnt.RM AK having pushed the last enemy forces on the mouth of the Kerch Isthmus. OKW is working on a plan to eliminate the Sevastopol Fortress but so far no decisions were made.



Operational Summary

Over the last week we have suffered 27,141 casualties (10,436 dead, 115 captured and 16,590 disabled) and lost 394 Guns, 46 AFVs and 33 planes. The Soviets have suffered 189,859 casualties (31,163 killed, 121,260 captured and 37,433 disabled) and lost 3,120 Guns, 451 AFVs and 640 planes.


Pilots of II./KG27 are preparing for a mission

(in reply to melnibonian)
Post #: 83
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/14/2021 1:43:33 PM   
melnibonian

 

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline
Turn 15: 29 September - 5 October 1941

Minsk Conference - Strategic Situation Review



The Führer discusses the strategic situation with General der Panzertruppe Heinz Guderian (Oberbefehlshaber Panzergruppe 2), Generalfeldmarschall Fedor von Bock (Oberbefehlshaber Heeresgruppe Mitte) and Generalfeldmarschall Wilhelm Keitel (Oberbefehlshaber der Wehrmacht)


Strategische Situation im Osten

After almost four months of hard fighting OKW is convinced that the Red Army is a spent force. Over the entire front our armies are advancing and the only thing that has saved the Soviet Forces by total defeat is the adverse weather. The advent of rain has caused significant problems to our advanced units as well as to our supply situation mainly due to the extremely poor condition of the roads. Consequently the advance has been checked if not stalled at certain areas allowing the enemy precious time for reorganisation and entrenchment. Despite all these problems we have managed to keep some sort of momentum and progress has been made.



The fall of Leningrad was followed by the rapid collapse of the Soviet Northern Front and the advance of our Finish Allies all the way to Svir River. OKW is aiming to push the advance all the way to Rybinsk Reservoir and the Upper Volga and entrench for the eventual winter lull. Due to the severe supply limitations OKW has decided to move 4.Panzerarmee in the Leningrad area for rest and refit. At the moment no decision has been made on where to relocate 4.Panzerarmee after the refit but OKW is making plans for units to be removed from the frontline for refitting purposes as soon as possible.


Soldiers of Nachrichten-Abteilung 300 of 4.SS-Pol.Div. are removing the Red Stars from buildings in Leningrad


On the Moscow Front, 2.Panzerarmee and 3.Panzerarmee are applying severe pressure on the enemy and have achieved significant penetrations, putting the entire Bryansk Front at risk of being annihilated. Further advances on the Tula Region have caused significant problems on the enemy defences as it restricts the possibilities of the Red Army to reposition units in the defence of Moscow.


Soviet troops are trying to put-up strong resistance to our advance in the muddy forests around Moscow


The enemy effort has make it abundantly clear that the Soviets are intending to defend Moscow at all cost. For this reason OKW has instructed the armoured formations to pursue deep penetrations on either side of the city of Moscow with the intention to isolate it prior to its destruction. The enemy is constantly bringing fresh forces to the Moscow front but these divisions are of low quality and face severe problems by their engagements with our armoured formations. OKW believes that if we manage to get two to three weeks of clear weather we will manage to encircle Moscow, but so far the weather conditions are causing severe delays in our advance.


Georgy Konstantinovich Zhukov Commander in-Chief of the Western Front intends to defend Moscow to the last man


Further South the enemy is desperately trying to form a coherent defensive line but OKW intends for 1.Panzerarmee to encircle and destroy the Soviet Forces in the Voronezh region. When this is achieved the entire South and Southwestern Fronts will be put under severe pressure and their eventual collapse will be just a matter of weeks.


The Führer and Generalfeldmarschall Gerd von Rundstedt (Oberbefehlshaber Heeresgruppe Süd) in Minsk for the Strategic Conference


OKW expects that as soon as the Soviet Bryansk, Central, South and Southwestern Fronts are separated and severely mauled our forces can reach the allocated forward positions and begin entrenching for the upcoming winter lull. Our aim is still to achieve total victory before the end of the year but OKW is willing to accept that a short and bloody summer campaign will probably be required before the Soviet Leadership sues for peace.


The Führer arrives in Minsk for a conference with the Wehrmacht High Command


So far in the war we have suffered 467,920 casualties (192,865 killed, 653 captured and 274,402 disabled) and lost 7,090 Guns, 1,260 AFVs and 1,427 planes. The Soviets have suffered 3,412,078 casualties (485,028 killed, 2,117,737 captured and 809,313 disabled) and lost 61,682 Guns, 13,099 AFVs and 12,691 planes.


The end of the road for one of our brave soldiers




< Message edited by melnibonian -- 5/14/2021 1:52:38 PM >

(in reply to melnibonian)
Post #: 84
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/14/2021 6:16:41 PM   
Francophile

 

Posts: 15
Joined: 3/25/2021
Status: offline 		Great job on this AAR! The commentary and pictures really make it interesting!

(in reply to melnibonian)
Post #: 85
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/14/2021 7:09:01 PM   
Nikel

 

Posts: 355
Joined: 3/24/2009
Status: offline 		Excellent AAR!

What caused that hole in the helmet? Not just a bullet I guess.

(in reply to Francophile)
Post #: 86
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/14/2021 9:04:54 PM   
melnibonian

 

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

ORIGINAL: Francophile
Great job on this AAR! The commentary and pictures really make it interesting!


Thank you for your kind words. I really appreciate it

quote:

ORIGINAL: Nikel
Excellent AAR!

What caused that hole in the helmet? Not just a bullet I guess.


Thank you for the support and your kind words. It means a lot to me to see that people enjoy the AAR

Regarding the hole I have no idea but it looks like a bayonet puncture or some type of shrapnel. Either way it must have been a most unpleasant experience.

< Message edited by melnibonian -- 5/14/2021 9:05:44 PM >

(in reply to Francophile)
Post #: 87
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/15/2021 11:23:24 AM   
melnibonian

 

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline
Turn 16: 6-11 October 1941

Today begins the last great decisive battle of the war



Stalin's son Jakow Dschugaschwili captured during the latest battles in Voronezh


Heeresgruppe Nord

In the North our forces are making steady advances despite the adverse weather conditions. XXVI AK, I AK, XXVI AK and X AK are putting severe pressure on the enemy's Northwestern Front but lack of supplies and the terrible road conditions has allowed the Red Army to escape destruction and keep a coherent defensive line.



II AK, XXIII AK and XXVII AK are advancing towards Kalinin and the forces of the Soviet Reserve and Central Fronts are in full retreat. Again the lack of supplies and the mud is severely curtailing our advance but it is clear that the enemy is truly struggling to keep coherency of their defensive positions. 251.Inf.Div. has managed to capture Maksatikha after brutal fighting and 123.Inf.Div. secured Spirovo.


Vehicles of Beobachtungs-Abteilung 12 of 12.Inf.Div. are trying to traverse Soviet roads


In the Leningrad area 4.Panzerarmee is refitting per the decisions taken in the Minsk Conference. New armoured vehicles are arriving from Germany and Generaloberst Erich Hoepner is discussing with OKW the best future usage of his forces. So far no decision has been made as OKW is waiting to see the outcome of the operations around Moscow before committing to any course of action.


Generaloberst Erich Hoepner (Oberbefehlshaber Panzergruppe 4) discusses plans of future operations with OKW


Heeresgruppe Mitte

The constant fighting and application of pressure in the Moscow sector has finally caused the enemy's Western Front to collapse at various locations. XXXIX Pz.Kps supported by XXVII AK, VI AK and VIII AK have managed to penetrate the enemy's defences despite fierce resistance. This deep penetration attempted to isolate Kalinin but Soviet 198th and 149th Rifle Divisions managed to keep a small corridor open despite the efforts of 20.Pz.Div. 2.Pz.Div. managed to cross the Upper Volga and created a bridgehead despite fanatical and almost suicidal Soviet resistance.



On the right of XXXIX Pz.Kps LVII Pz.Kps supported by XX AK and V AK managed to penetrate the enemy's defences and encircled the 18th, 75th and 108th Rifle Divisions. Tough battles are fought across the entire front and our forces have to resort to close quarter fighting to expel the Soviets from their well entrenched defensive positions, causing scores of casualties on both sides. 14.Inf.Div.mot supported by 167.Inf.Div. and 35.Inf.Div. have reached Solnechnogorsk but stiff resistance from the 157th Rifle Division kept the town into Soviet hands for now.


Soldiers of 208th Rifle Regiment of 18th Rifle Division are entrenched and prepared to fight to their last bullet


LIII AK have managed to push to the outskirts of Moscow, crushing Soviet resistance with 5.Inf.Div. reaching Khimki. The suburb has been heavily defended but 5.Inf.Div. supported by 52.Inf.Div., 132.Werfer.Rgt. and heavy artillery managed to eliminate the enemy's resistance and by the evening of 10 October 287th Rifle Division and 87th Cavalry Division abandoned their positions after having suffered more than 10,000 casualties. The capturing of Khimki has open a deep gap on the outer Moscow defences but it is clear that the Red Army is preparing to defend the city street by street. Nevertheless the drive of our armoured formations have managed to destabilise the enemy's Western Front and have brought the entire Moscow under artillery fire. OKW understands that the city will be a very tough nut to crack and it will require significant effort and resources but our troops are just 15km from the Kremlin!


Moscow's Red Square appears abandoned but looks can be deceiving


XXXXVI Pz.Kps, XXXXVII Pz.Kps and XXIV Pz.Kps supported by XXXXII AK and XII AK have continued to widening the gap between the Soviet Western and Bryansk Fronts pushing enemy formations aside and applying severe pressure on the defenders of Moscow. The enemy has retreated beyond the Klyazma River and so far all our efforts to create a bridgehead have been repulsed. The river is the last natural obstacle until the Nerl River in Vladimir 50-70km to the north. If we manage to cross the Klyazma we can push towards Aleksandrov, Nogorye and Kalyasin and isolate Moscow. The enemy is aware of this as well and fights to its last bullet, standing its ground despite horrendous losses. Our troops have to crush determined enemy counter attacks but so far we have managed to keep the Soviets in check and we are trying to increase the pressure on the defenders of Moscow.


Close quarter fighting is occurring in the forests outside Moscow


South of the Oka XXXXIII AK, VII AK and XIII AK are continuing their advance but the Red Army despite the severe punishment it endures still manages to put up strong resistance. 268.Inf.Div. and 110.Inf.Div. have assaulted Ryazan but despite heavy casualties the Soviets are still in control of the city. 131.Inf.Div. and 78.Inf.Div. have faced similar fate in Korablino with the enemy managing to keep control of the town by the narrowest of margins. 17.Inf.Div. has approached Ryazhsk but due to severe enemy resistance the city is still in enemy's hands, although 331st Rifle Division has been mauled so severely that intelligence reports indicate that it has lost all structure and combat coherency.


Destroyed bridges over the Pronya and Korablino still in enemy hands despite all our efforts


Heeresgruppe Süd

In the Voronezh sector of the front the lack of rain allowed our armoured formations to get back to action and offer significant assistance to our advances. XIV Pz.Kps supported by XXXV AK executed a broad sweep behind the enemy isolating six enemy divisions between the Don and Lev Tolstoy. This encirclement together with the severe punishment administrated to the enemy has all but broken the back of the Soviet Central Front with the majority of the surviving forces retreating towards Michurinsk. SS-Inf.Div.mot. Wiking has managed to cut the rail between Michurinsk and Ryazhsk severing the connection between Central and Southwestern Fronts.



XXXXIV AK supported by XXXV AK have been attacking the enemy on the eastern bank of the Don with 197.Inf.Div. capturing Lipetsk after heavy street to street fighting that cost the Soviets more than 10,000 casualties. The remainder of the Soviet 13th Army has retreated to Gryazi and are prepared to make a last ditch effort to stop our advance.


Civilians are trying to locate their loved ones in Lipetsk after the expulsion of the enemy


III Pz.Kps supported by XXXXIV AK, IX AK and LV AK crossed the Don and managed to achieve deep penetration on the rear of the Southwestern Front severing the connection between the Soviet 13th and 26th Army. Both Soviet formations have been hit hard and are in full retreat having suffered heavy casualties both in men and materiel. 137.Inf.Div. managed to capture Voronezh with the support of heavy artillery and the 263.Inf.Div. The street fighting in Voronezh lasted for a whole week but our superiority in heavy weapons have caused the enemy's 155th and 297th Rifle Divisions to evacuate from the city in the early hours of 9 October.


Soviet troops of 297th Rifle Division engaged in fierce fighting in the streets of Voronezh


In the Rostov area XXXXVIII Pz.Kps supported by IV AK, Cav.RM AK and XXXIV AK have pushed aside all enemy resistance and is driving towards the Don. Bad weather has limited our advance but judging from the very week Soviet resistance OKW is convinced that the Red Army's Southern Front is a spent force. LI AK and LII AK are attempting to severe the rail line between Rostov and Voronezh, cutting the flow of supplies and reinforcements between 22nd Army in Millerovo and the defenders of Rostov.



XXX AK and XI AK have continued their advance and reached Rostov, although no attempt has been made on the city due to the well entrenched enemy and the fearsome defences. OKW has arranged for extra artillery to be sent in the area to assist in the isolation and eventual capture of the city.


Destroyed Soviet armour in Kamensk


In Crimea LIV AK have started preparations for besieging Sevastopol and III RM AK and Mnt.RM AK have expelled the enemy from the peninsula. 7.Cav.RM.Br supported by 7.Inf.Div.RM have crossed the Kerch Straight and attacked the enemy fortifications in Temryuk but so far the Soviets have managed to repulse our advances.



Operational Summary

During the week we have suffered 27,723 casualties (10,527 killed, 67 captured and 17,129 disabled) and lost 389 Guns, 52 AFVs and 245 planes. The Soviets have suffered 211,699 casualties (30,668 killed, 164,750 captured and 34,281 disabled) and lost 3,530 Guns, 320 AFVs and 1,117 planes.


Go-244 Glider of III./KGrzbV5 providing front-line supply service in Voronezh







< Message edited by melnibonian -- 5/15/2021 11:30:20 AM >

(in reply to melnibonian)
Post #: 88
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/16/2021 12:32:23 PM   
melnibonian

 

Posts: 137
Joined: 7/30/2010
From: Sweden
Status: offline
Turn 17: 12-18 October 1941

If they want a war of extermination, they will have one



Everyone in the USSR is fighting the German invaders


Heeresgruppe Nord

The weather conditions in the North is getting worse with more rain, more mud and dropping temperatures. This is having a severe influence on our progress, especially in the Babaevo area. XXVI AK and I AK have continued their advance and 11.Inf.Div. secured Podborovye forcing the Soviet 55th and 27th Armies to retreat towards Babaevo and Kadui. The adverse weather has stopped us from exploring the almost total collapse of the Soviet Northwestern Front and OKW is seriously considering to halt the advance in order to give our hard-pressed units some time for rest and refit.



XXXVIII AK, L AK and X AK have hit hard on the remnants of the Leningrad Front and 58.Inf.Div. and 96.Inf.Div. have won decisive victories against the Soviet 61st Rifle Division in Kabozha. After these encounters the Leningrad front is almost destroyed and whatever is left from the various remaining units is retreating in a disorderly fashion towards Sandovo abandoning large amounts of vehicles and other equipment on their wake. Unfortunately the rain and the deep woodlands have caused significant problem to our efforts to capitalise on this rout.


Gun crew of Artillerie-Regiment 21 of 21.Inf.Div. are trying to move to new positions during the fighting in the swamps near Podborovye


II AK, XXIII AK and XXVIII AK have continued their pounding of Reserve Front's defensive positions in Moldoga and have managed to achieve penetrations in multiple locations. The enemy has been unable to withstand the heavy pressure and started retreating towards Bezhetsk and Sonkovo having suffered severe casualties both in men and materiel. 12.Inf.Div. has been engaged in fierce fighting with the 204th Rifle and 1st Guards Divisions and despite suffering heavy casualties managed to expel the enemy from Maksatikha. Fighting in the dense woods have been very difficult and the Soviet resistance has been fanatical, but in the end our superior tactics and training forced the enemy to retreat. Despite the victories though OKW is deeply worried about the heavy casualties our units have suffered in this sector of the front and intends to limit the offensive actions in the near future in order to get the opportunity to move depleted formations from the frontline for resting and refitting purposes.


Stug III Assault Gun of Artillerie-Regiment 206 of 206.Inf.Div. trying to continue the advance in the muddy roads outside Maksatikha


Heeresgruppe Mitte

In the Moscow Sector the gains achieved last week have finally broke the back of the Red Army as the Soviets are abandoning their defensive positions and surrendering or retreating in a disorderly manner across the entire front. XXXIX Pz.Kps supported by XXVIII AK and VI AK have overrun the enemy's defences creating a gaping hole between the Soviet Reserve and Western Fronts. 14.Inf.Div.mot supported by 2.Pz.Div. and 5.Pz.Div. have occupied both sides of the Volga and have secured the Uglichskoye Reservoir.



LVII Pz.Kps supported by XX AK have moved towards Kimry pushing aside any form of enemy resistance and managing to encircle the 139th Rifle and 23rd NKVD Motorised Divisions. The advance has been difficult due to the terrible condition of the roads but the Red Army has only put token resistance and is retreating en masse having suffered appalling casualties. This pincer of 3.Panzerarmee has completely destabilise the defensive coherency of the Reserve Front and has put the Soviet Western Front in a totally unattainable position.


Panzer 38(t) of 5.Pz.Div. supported by Infanterie-Regiment 111 of 35.Inf.Div. are struggling to advance through the mud outside Kimry


LII AK and V AK have continued their push on the suburbs of Moscow with Soviet resistance failing everywhere and enemy troops surrendering or retreating further into the city of Moscow. OKW has given strict instructions for Moscow to be encircled prior to any attack so for the time being our forces are content to exchange artillery fire with the defenders of the city. The collapse of the link between the Reserve and Western Fronts have cause the total disintegration of the enemy defences west of Moscow.


Soviet troops surrendering in forests around Konakovo


XXXXIII AK have continued the assault on the eastern part of the Moscow suburbs and after heavy fighting have managed to link with units of V AK completing the encirclement of the city. 129.Inf.Div. captured the Izmaylovo Airfield and 87.Inf.Div. secured Mytischi. The closer the fighting taking place to the city the heavier the resistance but the enemy has suffered severe casualties and was forced to retreat into the suburban areas. The encirclement of Moscow has all but destroyed the Soviet Western Front as its units have either retreated into Moscow or surrendered in the forests around the city.


Soviet BM-13 Katyusha Rockets fired from the city of Moscow against our besieging forces


XXXXVI Pz.Kps supported by XII AK have moved to secure the encirclement of the city destroying all remaining enemy forces in the area. The main body of all that remains from the the Soviet 10th Army has concentrated in Zagorsk but their position is ultimately unattainable and will be forced to evacuate the area. Further east XXIV Pz.Kps and XXXXVII Pz.Kps pushed forward towards the Klyazma River breaking the link between the Soviet Western and Bryansk Fronts. 10.Inf.Div.mot have pushed towards Vladimir but lack of supplies and poor road conditions have allowed the city to remain in Soviet hands.


Moscow suburb of Mytischi after the expulsion of the Red Army


Along the Oka VII AK, XXXIII AK and XIII AK are putting severe pressure on the link between the enemy Bryansk and Central Fronts but so far the Soviets have managed to keep this vital connection partially intact. So far the enemy is keeping a coherent defensive posture on the far side of the Oka but the advances of the armoured formations further north will probably force them to evacuate within the next few days.


Spasok has been totally destroyed during the battle to cross the Oka River


Heeresgruppe Süd

After the capture of Voronezh the Soviet Central Front has almost totally disintegrated and only the atrocious weather and lack of proper roads are stopping us from pouring into the planes of Tambov.



XIV Pz.Kps performed a small encirclement trapping three Soviet Divisions that will be dealt by units of XXXV AK. XIII AK, XXXXIV AK and IX AK supported by III Pz.Kps are continuing the application of pressure on the formations of the Southwestern Front but so far the Soviets have managed to hold on to their side of the river and the city of Etil.


Supply carts of Versorgungseinheiten 9 of 9.Inf.Div. crossing a makeshift bridge in the outskirts of Lipetsk


LV AK, XVII AK and XXIX AK have stopped their advance in order for supplies to arrive to the frontline. OKW is concerned by the lack of supplies on this part of the front and the excessive mud making the whole situation almost impossible. For this reason OKW has allowed a number of units to rest and refit, something made possible by the apparent disintegration of the Southwestern and Central Fronts.


Lancers of Infantry Regiment 134 of 44.Inf.Div. getting a well-deserved rest after weeks of bitter fighting


Further south LI AK, LII AK and IV AK have also ordered to stop the advance and allow the supplies to reach them. In this part of the front the enemy appears to concentrate its forces in the area around Rostov so OKW can allow some units to take a respite.



Around Rostov XXXIV AK, XXX AK and XI AK with the support of XXXXVIII Pz.Kps are closing on the city and making all the necessary preparations for a siege. OKW has deemed the city to be taken as soon as possible so we can start preparing defensive positions for the upcoming winter.


He-111 of II./KG55 launching a torpedo against enemy shipping in the Sea of Azof


Operational Summary

During last week we have suffered 19,970 casualties (5,044 killed, 166 captured and 14,760 disabled) and lost 192 Guns, 40 AFVs and 10 planes. The Soviets have suffered 194,047 casualties (25,799 killed, 141,637 captured and 26,611 disabled) and lost 2,825 Guns, 311 AFVs and 531 planes.

(in reply to melnibonian)
Post #: 89
RE: der Rußlandfeldzug - 5/16/2021 12:52:47 PM   
torloisk

 

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(in reply to melnibonian)
Post #: 90
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