Operation Barbarossa 1941 PDF

Operation Barbarossa aka “Never Invade Russia! (Especially in the Winter)” 22 June 1941  Lebensraum “When we think of new territory we must think of Russia, destiny itself points our way there.” - Mein Kampf “You have on...

Operation Barbarossa aka “Never Invade Russia! (Especially in the Winter)” 22 June 1941  Lebensraum “When we think of new territory we must think of Russia, destiny itself points our way there.” - Mein Kampf “You have only to kick in the door and the whole rotten structure will come crashing in.” Other Reasons… 90% Russian Generals Romanian oilfields Ger officers in Poland Russia v. Finland Baltics Arms for Resources A trick? Stalin ignored reports of Ger troops on border Ger recce planes GB, USA warned Did not want to offend Germany and mobilize. Why? Drunk for three days… The beginning… Biggest land battle in history 1 week – halfway to Moscow Germany and allies Soviet Union Ratio Air superiority Divisions 183 190 1 : 1.1 Personnel 4,306,800 3,289,851 1.3 : 1 Guns and mortars 42,601 59,787 1 : 1.4 Surprise Tanks (incl assault guns) 4,171 15,687 1 : 3.8 Aircraft 4,389 11,537 1 : 2.6 Quality Disorienting Order of Battle Germany and Allies Soviet Union Divisions 183 190 Personnel 4,306,800 3,289,851 Guns and 42,601 59,787 mortars Tanks 4,171 15,687 Aircraft 4,389 11,537 Schwerpunkt “focal point” centre of gravity What is the best way to defeat the USSR? Defeat its Army? Occupy its Land? Destroy Moscow? Trading Space for Time Moscow? Ukraine! Hitler orders army south Economic, Food Winter is Coming! 30 km from Moscow No winter clothing (fur coats!) “No further requests…” Hypothermia, sickness - 40 degrees November Oil frozen Siberian Troops T34  Would taking Moscow have knocked the USSR out of the war? Why/why not?