Ep 4. Outblitzing the Blitzkrieg

"Great Tank Battles of WWII" is a fascinating historical documentary series that delves into some of the most significant and gripping armoured warfare battles of the Second World War. In season 1 episode 4, named "Outblitzing the Blitzkrieg," viewers are taken back to the year 1942, when the tide of the war was starting to turn against Nazi Germany and its allies on the Eastern Front.

The episode primarily focuses on the Battle of Rostov, which was a key Soviet victory against the German army. Rostov was a strategically important city in southern Russia, as it was located at the mouth of the Don River and controlled the passage between the Caucasus Mountains and the Black Sea. Both the Soviet Union and Germany recognised the importance of the city, and it was the site of several major battles during the war.

The episode starts by setting the scene for the battle and explaining the tactics used by both sides. The German army was known for its "blitzkrieg" tactics, which involved swift and overwhelming attacks using tanks, artillery, and infantry. The Soviet army, on the other hand, had a huge numerical advantage but was often plagued by poor communication and coordination.

As the battle begins, viewers get to see the power of the German panzer divisions in action. The German tanks roll over the open terrain and easily outmaneuver the Soviet defenders. However, the Soviet army had learned from their previous losses and had developed new tactics to counter the German advance. The Soviets used anti-tank guns, minefields, and artillery to slow down the German attack and allow their own tanks to get into position.

The documentary features interviews with historians and military experts, who explain the strategic choices made by both sides and the impact of the battle on the overall war effort. Viewers learn about the strengths and weaknesses of different tank models used by the German and Soviet armies, as well as the importance of air support and logistics in modern warfare.

One of the standout moments in the episode is the story of the so-called "Panfilov's Twenty-Eight." During the battle for Rostov, a group of twenty-eight soldiers from the Soviet 316th Rifle Division held their ground against a much larger German force. The Soviet soldiers were armed only with anti-tank grenades, but they managed to disable several German tanks and defend their position until reinforcements arrived. The bravery of the Panfilov's Twenty-Eight became a symbol of Soviet resistance against the Nazi invasion and inspired many other soldiers to fight on.

Overall, "Outblitzing the Blitzkrieg" is a gripping and informative episode of "Great Tank Battles of WWII." It offers a fascinating window into the tactics and technologies used by both the German and Soviet armies during the war, and showcases the bravery and determination of the soldiers who fought on the front lines. Whether you're a military history buff or just a casual viewer looking for a captivating story, this episode is well worth watching.