Unlocking the Secrets of the German Army in World War II

Discover the fascinating history of the German Army, the formidable land forces that played a pivotal role during World War II. Explore the structure, organization, and strategic brilliance that defined their military campaigns. This article delves into the German Army’s achievements, challenges, and the unique doctrines that set them apart.

The Rise of the German Army.

In a mere 17 months after Adolf Hitler’s announcement of the German rearmament program in 1935, the army achieved its goal of 36 divisions. Learn about the rapid expansion and incorporation of the Austrian Army divisions after the Anschluss in March 1938, shaping the German Army’s formidable force.

Blitzkrieg: A New Style of Warfare.

Uncover the military genius behind the German Army’s victories in the early years of World War II. Explore the revolutionary Blitzkrieg strategy, characterized by swift encirclements and the “battle of annihilation,” showcasing the integration of ground and air assets into combined arms forces.

Organizational Structure.

Oberkommando des Heeres (OKH) and OKW.

Delve into the hierarchy of the German Army with a focus on the Oberkommando des Heeres (OKH), the Army High Command from 1936 to 1945. Understand the dynamic between OKW and OKH, as well as the evolving command authority during the progression of World War II.

Abwehr: The Intelligence Arm.

Explore the role of Abwehr, the army intelligence organization from 1921 to 1944. Learn about its transformation into the Overseas Department/Office in Defence of the Armed Forces High Command after February 4, 1938.

Military Districts and Home Command.

Understand the strategic use of military districts (Wehrkreis) to streamline administrative work and ensure a steady flow of recruits and supplies to the field forces. Explore the separation of the Field Army (OKH) from the Home Command (Heimatkriegsgebiet) and the delegation of responsibilities.

Field Forces and Specialized Units.

Discover the intricacies of German Army field forces, including army groups, corps, and divisions. Uncover the fascinating details of Operation Barbarossa in 1941, where the army forces were strategically assigned to Army Group North, Army Group Centre, and Army Group South.

Specialized Units.

Delve into the various arms of service within the German Army, from the Afrika Korps to the Panzerwaffe. Gain insights into the roles played by Feldgendarmerie, Gebirgsjäger, and Panzergrenadier units, among others.

Doctrine and Tactics.

Blitzkrieg: The Key to Success.

Explore the German Army’s operational doctrine of Blitzkrieg, emphasizing swift movements and decisive combat leadership. Understand how adaptability, flexibility, and decentralized decision-making contributed to their superior combat performance.

Tactical Brilliance.

Gain insights into the mission-based tactics (Auftragstaktik) employed by the German Army, emphasizing speed in response to changing circumstances. Understand the discipline and efficiency that characterized both offensive and defensive operations.

Challenges and Legacy.

Explore the challenges faced by the German Army, from logistical constraints to the impact of Allied air power. Understand the foot soldiers’ role throughout the war and the limitations imposed by the scarcity of trucks and petroleum.