Panzer Tactics: Tank Operations in the East, 1941-42 - Oskar Munzel (translated by Linden Lyons)

Review submitted to Strategy and Tactics Magazine. 

Title: Panzer Tactics: Tank Operations in the East, 1941-42
Author: Oskar Munzel (translated by Linden Lyons)
ISBN: 978-1-61200-989-6
Publisher: Casemate
Year: 2021
Hardcover
Pages: 167
Photos/Maps: 0/21

Casemate Publishing is reissuing newly translated versions of the “Die Werhrmacht Im Kampf”:Battles and Problems of the Second World War series originally published in German during the 1950’s and 60’s. Written by former senior Commanders of the German Army, they capture the perspectives of those who were influential in how these campaigns and battles were planned and executed. The author, Munzel, was a member of the 6th Panzer Regiment from June, 1941 to December, 1943; he was its Commander from December, 1941. He also Commanded the 14th and 2nd Panzer Divisions and was the recipient of the Knight’s Cross. The 6th Pz Reg was directly involved in the operations described in this book and he thus brings a unique and eminently qualified operational perspective to his analysis.  

This work focuses first upon three major panzer operations leading up to the Battle for Moscow: the encirclement operations around Uman, the turn south to Kiev and the subsequent drive for Moscow. It then touches upon the reorientation south to the Caucasus and culminates in a series of conclusions based upon the experiences of the author. Drawing upon his personal perspectives, the recollections of other senior Panzer Commanders, as well as primary source material such as combat reports, war diaries and original orders, the author is able to both instruct and mentor the reader on elements of operations that only one who has experienced the cauldron and stress of battle can truly appreciate.  

Munzel’s refers to a number of themes that are prevalent throughout his discussion of the battles. Logistics and the ability to maintain a reliable source of supply for the operational forces was always a challenge even as early as the first few weeks of the Barbarossa Campaign. Shortages of ammunition and fuel are mentioned many times and the benefits of diesel engines that were used by the Russians. Overcoming these challenges are even more critical when one considers that the foundation of the German operational doctrine was deep interdiction by mobile forces. Additionally, was the critical need for aggressive, operationally focussed commanders at the Major, Lt-Col and Colonel ranks. These were the key individuals who set the tone for their units. Developing and mentoring leadership to match the nature of German operational doctrine ensured that senior NCO’s and Officers were able to assume command with assurance and an appreciation of the commanders intent. The author also discusses the impact of improvisation on German tactics as well as capabilities. The ability to improvise without higher direction is a skill set that was critical to the effective execution of German operations in the East. It ensured that opportunities that had not been foreseen were able to be exploited and it also enabled the Germans to overcome a more numerous enemy that was much more pedantic in their operational command and doctrine. Innovation on the part of German engineers enabled the incorporation and utilization of captured equipment, thereby offsetting some of the industrial shortfalls that they had begun to experience. The downside of this was the logistical nightmare that ensued as a result of the myriad of parts and ammunition types required to keep equipment operational; this had a detrimental effect upon an already strained logistics tail. Finally, the adverse effects of climate on the transportation infrastructure of the Soviet State, particularly rain degrading the road networks, combined with an inability of soft skinned vehicles to operate effectively off road further reduced the efficient logistical support to operations. 

The author’s writing style is clear and has a resonance to modern day. There are operational maps provided that facilitate the reader tracing the advances of the forces in question. They are copies of the original German operational maps from the time, are quite detailed, but at times difficult to follow; however, they do meet the need. Additionally, Munzel’s provides excerpts, at the end of the book,  from the War Diary of the 8th Company, 6 Pz Regt, that provide a snapshot of significant daily activities and the distances covered by the unit. This is useful as it gives the reader a sense of how fast the Germans were advancing and, by extension, how challenging was the effective maintenance of logistics, command and control as well as foot bound infantry support. 

This is an excellent book. Engaging in its narrative and educational in its conclusions. Casemate has published a high quality work worthy of the historian, the professional and the casual reader.