Flames of War - German Starter Set Panzer Kampfgruppe
What we have here?
In the context of military history, the German expression Kampfgruppe, denotes a combat unit of various types, primarily associated with the Wehrmacht of Nazi Germany and its allies in World War II. It can also be linked, to a lesser degree, with the German Empire’s employment during World War I. The term essentially translates to “fighting group” or “battle group.”.
Miniatures presented below are from the German Starter Set for the Flames of War tabletop miniature game. The set is named Panzer Kampfgruppe German Starter Force.
The Stug Assault Guns
Each adequately equipped German infantry division possessed a battalion of assault guns. These units accompanied the grenadiers during assaults, eliminating resilient enemy resistance using their 7.5cm main guns. Referred to as assault gun battalions within grenadier and panzergrenadier divisions, they were deployed to aid both defensive and offensive operations across Italy, France, and the Eastern Front. Continuously engaged, these battalions consistently appeared whenever the Allies posed a threat of achieving a significant breakthrough.
The Tiger Tanks
The Tiger I E heavy tank stood out as the most dreaded German tank during the war, its notoriety for causing death and devastation evident in every assault. Achieving the feat of destroying a Tiger I E heavy tank in battle would be considered an act of bravery deserving a medal. Specifically designed to eliminate Soviet tanks, the Tiger heavy tanks were equipped with a formidable 8.8cm main gun and enveloped in robust armor, rendering them an indomitable presence on the battlefield.
Sd Kfz 251 Half-Tracks
The armored Panzergrenadier Company represents the top-tier within mechanized infantry units. Rather than utilizing trucks, they utilize armored Sd Kfz 251 half-tracks, providing them with both mobility and protection to accompany tanks into combat. The Sd Kfz 251 half-track played a commendable role in supporting its passengers during Germany’s initial blitzkrieg campaigns in 1941. With their armored structure, these units possess the capability to bolster the tanks with infantry assault strength.
The Panzer IV Tanks
Although an older design, the Panzer IV remains a formidable adversary for any Allied tank due to its solid armor and outstanding 7.5cm KwK40 gun. Panzer commanders need to consistently employ cover and concealment to maintain their advantage in combat. Employing maneuvers and well-timed firing techniques are crucial for outsmarting the enemy, disrupting their most strategic plans.
The 15cm Nebelwerfer
The six-barreled 15cm Nebelwerfer rocket launcher instilled fear in Allied soldiers by launching six piercing rockets per launcher, dispersing explosives in each rocket weighing 31.8 kg (70 lb) across a broad area.
The Panzer Grenedier Platoon
The motorized panzergrenadier battalions possessed significantly greater firepower compared to the rifle battalions within the infantry divisions. This firepower advantage enabled them to initiate attacks and counterattacks independently, without relying on external support. When supplemented with tanks and artillery, these battalions became formidable and challenging to halt without implementing a comprehensive layered defense strategy.
The 8.8 cm AA Gun
In Normandy, the presence of the entire 3rd FlaK Corps meant an abundance of over 100 heavy 8.8cm anti-aircraft guns. Primarily focused on countering Allied air forces, they often delegated the anti-tank responsibilities to the longer 8.8cm tank-hunters. However, when required, these anti-aircraft guns showcased their capability in devastating tank assaults.
That’s it, a whole Panzer Kampfgruppe starter! If you want to check what else is inside you can click here!
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