Graviteam Tactics: Stalemate on Donets

Izyum-Barvenkovo offensive operation of the Red Army was carried out from 17 to 27 July, 1943 by forces of South-Western Front in order to encircle and destroy the German group defending Donbass, as well to prevent the transfer of enemy troops to the Kursk region. The operation was carried out simultaneously with the Mius operation of the Southern Front. The main blow in the direction of Barvenkovo from the Izyum region, should have been delivered by 1 and 8gds A. The 3gds A operated in an auxiliary direction. The mobile group of the South-Western Front (23TC and units of the 6 and 4gds RC) were tasked to enter into the breakthrough, strike in the direction of Stalino and, in cooperation with the troops of the Southern Front that were conducting the Mius operation, encircle the Donbass enemy group.

Three operations of 9-10 turns for each of the parties in July, 1943.

Precisely recreated area of over 140 sq. km: forest, river and plains with harsh terrain, farmlands and small settlements.

Historical organizational structure of units at the time of the offensive.

Combat use of Mk4 Churchill tanks.