Which of the following describes German blitzkrieg tactics?

History · High School · Thu Feb 04 2021

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Blitzkrieg, meaning "lightning war" in German, refers to a military strategy that was used by the German military during World War II. It is characterized by the following key elements:

  1. Rapid and Coordinated Attacks: Blitzkrieg tactics involved swift and highly coordinated attacks using a combination of ground forces, air power, and sometimes naval forces. The goal was to create a rapidly advancing and overwhelming force.
  2. Surprise and Deception: The element of surprise was crucial in blitzkrieg tactics. German forces often used deception and diversionary tactics to confuse and mislead the enemy about their intentions and the location of their main thrust.
  3. Mobile Warfare: Blitzkrieg emphasized the use of highly mobile and mechanized infantry, supported by tanks and aircraft. This allowed for quick movement across enemy lines and deep into enemy territory.
  4. Close Air Support: The German Luftwaffe (air force) played a significant role in supporting ground forces. Close air support was used to soften up enemy defenses and disrupt their communication and supply lines.
  5. Encirclement: Blitzkrieg often involved encircling and trapping enemy forces. Rapid advances could lead to the isolation and encirclement of enemy units, making it difficult for them to receive reinforcements or escape.
  6. Use of Combined Arms: Blitzkrieg tactics emphasized the coordinated use of infantry, tanks, artillery, and air support working together. This combined arms approach aimed to exploit weaknesses in the enemy's defenses.
  7. Flexible Command Structure: The German military employed a decentralized and flexible command structure, allowing local commanders to make decisions based on the rapidly changing situation on the battlefield.

Blitzkrieg tactics were notably employed by the German military in the early stages of World War II, leading to rapid victories in campaigns such as the invasion of Poland in 1939 and the Battle of France in 1940. The success of blitzkrieg was partly due to its innovation and the weaknesses in the defensive strategies of the opposing forces at the time.