German Airborne Divisions

Mediterranean Theatre 1942–45

German Airborne Divisions cover

German Airborne Divisions

Mediterranean Theatre 1942–45

Description

Following the battle for Crete in May 1941, Hitler refused to undertake any further large-scale airborne operations due to the high casualty rate.

The Fallschirmjäger subsequently took up a new role as elite 'line' infantry, and they served in the Mediterranean from 1942 to 1945, taking part in the conflict in North Africa, Sicily and Italy. Their performance in such hard-fought battles as El Alamein and Monte Cassino reinforced their reputation as some of the toughest troops of World War II.

This book explores their changing role in organisation, training and doctrine as the paratroopers developed into Germany's finest frontline soldiers.

Table of Contents

Introduction
Combat mission
Doctrine and training
Unit organization
Tactics
Command, control, communications and intelligence (C3I)
Weapons and equipment
Lessons learned
Chronology
Bibliography
Glossary
Index

Product details

Published 20 Jan 2013
Format Ebook (PDF)
Edition 1st
Extent 96
ISBN 9781472800831
Imprint Osprey Publishing
Illustrations 37 b/w; 4 col
Series Battle Orders
Short code BTO 15
Publisher Bloomsbury Publishing

About the contributors

Author

Bruce Quarrie

Bruce Quarrie graduated with honours from Cambridg…

Resources

Discover More

Visit our exclusive member's website to see artwork, maps, and more from this book.

Resources

Book Vote

Tell us what titles you would like to see published by Osprey, then vote for your favourites in our monthly book vote!

Related Titles

Sign up for Osprey membership for access to thousands of plane profiles, maps, battle scenes and more. Plus up to 30% off website purchases

Free UK delivery for orders £30 and over