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Introduction
To the readers;
The intention of these documents is to provide potential Steel Panthers scenario designers an understanding and ability to create historical and realistic scenarios. Additionally, E-Mail games can now be “based” real force distributions instead of spur of the moment and ad hov creations. There are three take aways:
1. Realistic force creations2. New tactical opportunities3. New units creations
REALISTIC FORCE CREATIONS
Most nationalities utilized triangular formations. The different forms were dependent upon units available, strength of units and operational goals. Almost all armies used battalion sized unit formations as their minimum size. Steel Panthers limits this important characteristic with formation sized parameters.
I am not recommending playing regimental sized battles, but true battalion sized battles are currently impossible with the limits on unit numbers. An example of an realistic operational unit would be an American Regimental Combat Team.
Please refer to the RCTs organization.
Normally the RCT would have two advancing formations with a third in reserve. Each advancing formation would be a battalion of infantry and 1 or 2 companies of engineers. The artillery battalion and battery would be with the reserve formation. The armored company would be split between the advancing formations. This basic formation (one of the advancing columns) requires: 1 or 2 platoons of tanks, 2 or 3 sections of off board artillery (maybe on board), 1 or 2 platoons of engineers with trucks, roughly 28 infantry squads with supporting heavy weapons. The divisional motor pool would provide transportation for the infantry - some on the tanks and the rest in trucks. This may seem like a lot of units but it is only roughly 400 points!! (120 for the tanks, 40 for the artillery, 32 for the engineers, 16 for their trucks, 84 for the infantry, 36 for their trucks, and 70 for misc. (like a company from the Recon battalion - ACs)). This would be a standard formation used in SP. Yet, this type of formation is impossible to achieve with the unit number limitation.
NEW TACTICAL OPPORTUNITIES
If players could create this type of formation, tactics would be dramatically different. Effective flanking maneuvers, thrusts ,etc. could be staged. You could afford to be aggressive because you could have some on board reserve to accomplish the mission if you make a mistake or miscalculation. Now, if a tactical mistake is made, you are essentially up a creek.
My goal was not to compliant, but provide an easy reference source to truly challenge other players in games. With unit formation charts, players can simulate an armored attack against an infantry unit and know what possible units would be available. Again it changes tactics. If you know the enemy will not have tanks, your selection of forces is going to be different. You might choose slow moving SP artillery units to “blast” at bunkers, etc. versus fast moving mobile tanks because you do not have to worry about an armored counter attack.
Thus, challenges would be what type of engagement, the year and month, the nationalities, and the unit type (Armor division versus an infantry or Armored infantry). This will create “unbalances” in player
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formations strengths. Armored units will have force advantages over infantry. This is what real military commanders hoped to achieve when attacking.
So how to make the game “fair”? Simple, negotiate point reallocations before the game; such as the infantry division defender has a 25% point bonus or the armor attacker has 25% penalty. Again these point reallocations change your tactics. It is not enough to capture two of the three objective areas, but as the armored commander you must assault all three to win.
My goal is to provide the resources to create circumstances like these, allowing different tactical plays. Unit structures and organizations create limits for force selections. In turn these limits provide different opportunities for tactics based on unit types. Indeed you’ll be faced with the same chooses actual commanders had or the lack of chooses dependent on you perspective.
NEW UNITS CREATIONS
Furthermore, anyone using Spedit can now create additional units based on realistic structures. For example, I have integrated (with the editor) the 4th platoon of the standard German infantry company into the other three platoons. This is realistic, the heavy weapons rarely operated alone, and it allows a large group (pool) of men to transport (carry) the heavy weapons. So their movement rates are not dramatically different than infantry (now they are so slow without motorized transport).
NATIONALITIES COMPLETED
I have researched four force structures:
1. German2. American3. British (still being cleaned up)4. Russian (still being cleaned up)
FREE AND PUBLIC INFORMATION
These documents are not commercial in nature and the information found in them is freely available in public libraries, etc. I highly recommend reading the reference sources listed. Most of the stories and accounts are dramatic and compelling. Any copyright infringement is unintentional and this documents distribution is free. My sole request is: if you create scenarios with these charts, I’d love to play them.
Please include this preface and the reference sources with any distribution.
CONCLUSION
I do not plan to update or revise the documents - the compilation took too much time. I would appreciate receiving corrections or adjustments. Again these charts and tables are from multiple sources, which sometimes had slightly different organizations and unit strengths. Additionally, I have rough draft forms of the British and Russian forces. Once I clean them up, I post ‘em.
Have fun. Thanks.
S. Sheckells
SSHECKE277@AOL.com
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German Units
1. German sections are equivalent to American squads.
2. There are three types of formations:
Organizational: The “paper” strength a unit has. Operational: A time period assessment of unit (based on reality). Operational is how the
forces were grouped and typically engaged the enemy in the field. Field: Snapshot of unit’s current strength. For example: an unit should have 5 tanks in a
platoon per company operating with 2 other companies. But recent losses in fighting has field forces at 4 tanks per platoon with only 2 companies (the third was too badly damaged).
3. The formations specified have optimums unit numbers. Most units functioned at 80% to 90% of their optimum. For example:
A German infantry Panzer Grenadier Battalion should have 39 sections (squads) on paper. However it operational strength is 90% or 35 sections. It has not received replacements, etc. Additionally, after three days of intense fighting it has taken casualties and is at a field strength of 25 sections.
4. Organizational is what was supposed to be on paper. How an army thought it would operate. Additionally the organizational set up defines how an army replenishes itself. Thus most units are assigned to a division. Normally new units (replacements or replenishment of people and material) are sent to a division to be assigned to the formation needing the resources. Note: new “units” ,like new divisions, are formed at higher levels (like the US “creating” new divisions for WW II) or are “created through re-organization” from the remnants of other units (like the German as the war continued).
5. German operated in kampfgruppe (n). These were combined arms groups which operated at a battalion or larger level. In other words, individual companies, platoons, etc. were not assigned to a kampfgruppe or created as a kampfgruppe (there are rare exceptions).
The exceptions were units which were formed and maintained independence as a smaller units than a regiments such as engineering battalions or assault gun battalions. Furthermore, kampfgruppen were at least battalion sized because a battalion is a small unit when you are commanding a corp. or army (a battalion is less than a 1000 men, closer to 600ish, while an army or corp. could be 100,000+). The exceptions like Engineering battalions or Assault Gun Battalions would be assigned to a division. In turn these battalion would be “divided’ by company (no smaller) to support the multiple battalions of infantry, tanks, etc.
6. Kampfgruppe allowed the Germans tactical and strategic flexibility. Kampfgruppe had an armored element such as tanks, assault guns, tank destroyers (TDs), armored cars, or even armored infantry (half-tracks); an infantry element, and support elements like artillery, SPs (Self Propelled - I use this to refer to artillery in a tracked vehicle versus mobile artillery which is transported by truck), Anti Tank (AT) guns, etc.
7. Kampfgruppe allowed the Germans tactical and strategic flexibility. Kampfgruppe had an armored element such as tanks, assault guns, tank destroyers (TDs), armored cars, or even armored infantry (half-tracks); an infantry element, and support elements like artillery, SPs (Self Propelled - I use this to refer to artillery in a tracked vehicle versus mobile artillery which is transported by truck), Anti Tank (AT) guns, etc.
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8. The German, unlike the Americans, would combine and consolidate units in the field. As the war progressed vehicles and their replacements became scarce. Consequently, to maintain a unit’s strength, light units (units with significantly less than their organizational strength - like 50% of organizational) would be combined to create “normal” units. These were sometimes called heavy units. I think “heavy units” is a misnomer because the new combined units were not that much stronger via actual numbers than the original organizational charts or numbers. They were only “heavy” compared to the current field deployments. For example:
The 1st SS Panzer Division in the Ardennes Offensive. The organizational tank strength of an SS Panzer Division was a regiment of tanks divided into two tank battalions. However, the Liebstandarte (1st SS) did not have enough tanks to create two viable tank battalions and the organizational regiment. So they formed from the remnants of their two understrength tank battalions a single mixed battalion composed of two companies of Pz IVs and two companies of Pz Vs. The “new” 4 company tank battalion was stronger than the current tank battalion (the “new” unit had 4 companies versus the current standard of 3). It might be considered a “heavy” unit, but in reality it was one battalion of 4 companies making up a regiment versus the original two battalions of 3 companies (weaker by 2 companies).
9. Usually tanks were not “mixed”. A battalion would have all main units very similar. Logically this makes sense due to repair, maintenance, etc. And more importantly, different vehicles meant different speeds and strengths. Tigers (Pz VIEs) operated with Pz IVs and not Panthers (Pz Vs) because the Tigers and Pz IVs had similar speeds. It is bad news on a battlefield to have one tank doing 17 and another doing 13. They will be unable to support each other - hence the enemy can divide and conquer. This is a critical point in designing scenarios - people create formations they would never operate together unless they were trapped in a city and fighting to the last man (this did occasionally happen). Yes, as you already suspect: I am a historical player. I like what ifs, but they must make historical and situational sense. My “historical perspective” inspired the creation of the scenarios for the Ardennes Offensive.
10.The Germans attempted to maintain operational field strengths. It is functionally weak to have infantry company with three platoons of 3 men or a 2 tank battalions with 10 tanks apiece. You combine them and have an unit that can actually fight. They consolidated versus replenishing because they could not replenish their units. Fundamentally it is better to replenish a damaged unit than to consolidate it with another. The Americans didn’t consolidate because they could send the unit to the rear and replenish it. Hence they had no reason to consolidate units.
11. A brigade is an independent battalion or regiment. Units would be designed as a brigade to indicate an independence from a division. In other words, an Assault Gun Brigade could be assigned to a corp. or army and not be consigned to a division. Therefore could be replenished from the corp.’s or army’s resources not the division’s. Additionally it could operate more freely and be shifted where it was needed within the corp..
12.Organizational and Unit Strength Tables are provided. Additionally, notes to the tables and SP Design tips follow.
13. Most units will be withdrawn from battles, unless surrounded, cut off, trapped, etc. when they reach casualties of 50% to 60%. This leads to another flaw in SP: I have fought almost to the last man (70% to 80% casualties) in several scenarios. This does not happen in real life. For example, here are the divisional casualty figures from the AO: (This is in casualty percentages of operational strength at beginning of AO) Number that are greater than 20% casualties are excessive i.e. 20% is not good, 20% to 30% is bad, 30% to 50% is devastating, more than 50% is crippling (the division probably will be disbanded, consolidated, etc.)
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Divisional Type
GERMAN 1st SS 2nd SS 9th SS 12th SS 2nd Pz 9th Pz 116th Pz Lehr
Panzer 20 20 27 17 14 17 20 153rd 15th
Panzer Grenadier
18 16
Begleit Fuhrer 150th Panzer Brigade 19 27
3rd 5th Parachute 21 62
9th 12th 18th 26th 62nd 79th 167th 212nd Volksgrenadier 15 38 31 37 33 15 18 16
272nd 276th 277th 326th 340th 352nd 560th Volksgrenadier 23 15 16 27 25 38
AMERICAN 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th 7th 9th 10th 11th
Armored 10 15 12 13 10 11 1217th 82nd 101st
Airborne 20 16 381st 2nd 4th 5th 8th 9th 26th 28th 30th
Infantry 14 13 18 36 1535th 75th 78th 80th 83rd 84th 87th 90th 99th
Infantry 17 11 10 17 14 19 11 20106th
Infantry 67
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ORGANIZATIONAL UNITS
GERMAN AMERICAN EQUIVALENT
1. Panzergrenadiers 1943 - 1945
2. Panzergrenadier Divisions
Panzer Division 1943 Armored DivisionPanzergrenadier Division 1943 Armored Infantry DivisionPanzer Division 1944 Armored DivisionPanzergrenadier Division 1944 Armored Infantry DivisionSS Panzer Division 1944 Armored DivisionSS Panzergrenadier Division 1944 Armored Infantry Division
3. Panzergrenadier Regiments
Panzergrenadier Regiment (Gepanzert) 1943 Armored Infantry - Tank Div.Grenadier regiment (Gepanzert) 1943 Motorized Infantry - Tank Div.Panzergrenadier Regiment (Motorized) 1943 Armored Infantry - Armored Inf.Grenadier regiment (Motorized) 1943 Motorized Infantry - Armored Inf.
Panzergrenadier Regiment (Gepanzert) 1944Grenadier regiment (Gepanzert) 1944Panzergrenadier Regiment (Motorized) 1944Grenadier regiment (Motorized) 1944
SS Panzergrenadier Regiment (Gepanzert) 1944SS Grenadier regiment (Gepanzert) 1944SS Panzergrenadier Regiment (Motorized) 1944SS Grenadier regiment (Motorized) 1944
4. Panzergrenadier Battalion 1943 - 1945
Panzergrenadier Battalion 1943 Armored Infantry BattalionGrenadier Battalion 1943 Motorized Infantry Battalion
Panzergrenadier Battalion 1944 Armored Infantry BattalionGrenadier Battalion 1944 Motorized Infantry Battalion
5. Volksgrenadier Regiment Foot Infantry
6. Fallschirmjager Regiment Parachute Infantry
7. FLAK Abteilung:
Volksgrenadier FLAK Battalion Infantry Anti AircraftPanzergrenadier FLAK Battalion Armored Infantry Anti AircraftFallschirmjager FLAK Battalion Parachute Anti AircraftPanzer FLAK Battalion Armored Anti AircraftSS Panzer FLAK Battalion SS Armored Anti Aircraft
8. Sturmgeschutz Abteilung (Battalion): Assault Gun
Assault Gun BattalionAssault Gun Brigade
9. Panzerjager 1944: Tank Destroyer
Self Propelled Anti-Tank (Tank Destroyer) AbteilungTowed Anti-Tank Abteilung
10. Panzerjager 1943: Tank Destroyer
Self Propelled Anti-Tank - PanzerSelf Propelled Anti-Tank - Panzergrenadier
11. Schwere Panzerjager Abteilung: Heavy Tank Destroyer
Self Propelled Heavy Tank Destroyer BrigadeTowed Heavy Anti-Tank Abteilung
12. Panzer Regiments:
Panzer Regiment1944 - 1945 : Organizational ArmoredPanzer Regiment Late 1944 ArmoredPanzer Regiment Mid 1944 ArmoredPanzer Regiment Early 1944 - Western Front ArmoredPanzer Regiment Early 1944 - Eastern Front ArmoredPanzer Regiment Late 1943 Armored
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Panzer Regiment 1942 to Late 1943 Armored
13. Schwere Panzer Brigades:
Schwere Panzer Brigade 1945 Heavy ArmoredSchwere Panzer Brigade Late 1944 - Western Front Heavy ArmoredSchwere Panzer Brigade Late 1944 - Eastern Front Heavy ArmoredSchwere Panzer Brigade 1944 Heavy Armored
14. Engineering Battalion
Engineering Battalion (armored and Motorized) Engineering BattalionVolksgrenadier Engineering Battalion Infantry Engineering Battalion
15. Aufklarungs Abteilung
Aufklarungs Battalion 1942 - 1943 Recon
Grenadieraufklarungs Battalion 1943 - 1944 Infantry ReconPanzergrenadieraufklarungs Battalion 1943 - 1944 Armored Infantry ReconPanzeraufklarungs Battalion 1943 - 1944 Armored Recon
Fusilier Aufklarungs Battalion 1944 - 1945 Light Infantry ReconPanzeraufklarungs 1944 - 1945 Armored Recon
16. Field Artillery Regiments
Panzergrenadierartillerie 1943 - 1944 Motorized Infantry ArtilleryPanzerartillerie 1943 - 1944 Armored Artillery
Panzergrenadierartillerie 1944+ Motorized Infantry ArtilleryPanzerartillerie 1944+ Armored ArtillerySS Panzerartillerie 1944+ SS Armored ArtilleryFallschirmjagerartillerie 1944+ Parachute ArtilleryVolksgrenadierartillerie 1944+ Infantry Artillery
17. Field Artillery Battalions
Leichte Panzerartillerie 1943 - 1944 Light ArtilleryGemischte Panzerartillerie 1943 - 1944 Mixed ArtilleryPanzerartillerie 1943 - 1944 Self Propelled ArtilleryOther Units 1943 - 1944
Leichte Feldkanone 1944+ Light Cannon ArtilleryLeichte Feldhaubitze 1944+ Light Howitzer ArtilleryGemischte Feldhaubitze 1944+ Medium Howitzer ArtillerySchwere Feldhaubitze 1944+ Heavy Howitzer ArtilleryPanzerartillerie 1944 Self Propelled ArtilleryNebelwerfer 1944+ Rocket ArtilleryVAK - Volksartillerie 1944+VWB - Volkswerfer Brigade 1944+
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PanzerGrenadiers 1943 and 1945
There are several types of “Panzer” or “Grenadier” infantry:
Panzergrenadier: The term originally meant armored infantry and corresponded to infantry units in armored transports such as half-tracks. However the term evolved through the war and sprouted several sub-definitions.
Grenadier: Literally it means foot soldier. It was the original term for assault infantry. There were Infantry Divisions in the Army (early part of war), but they corresponded to “foot soldiers”. Grenadier Infantry was motorized or had a part of the unit motorized. However it was not armored. Hence the development of Panzergrenadiers. The term evolved with Panzergrenadier. As the war progressed Grenadiers became Volksgrenadier, a lighter division than its predecessor which was more like Infantry than Grenadiers (motorized).
So what does Panzergrenadier mean in 1943? 1944? 1945?
There were two distinct formations within the German Army: a Panzer Division and a Panzergrenadier Division. The Panzer Division was strategically and tactically developed for utilizing tanks. The infantry components of the division were to support the tanks. On the other hand, the Panzergrenadier Divisions were “beefed up” infantry units. Their strategy and tactics are reflective of infantry, even though they are very powerful infantry. Consequently there are distinct differences between Panzergrenadiers with Panzer Divisions and Panzergrenadiers with Panzergrenadier Divisions. Yes, it is confusing. Try to segment based on strategy / tactics - one is a tank perspective, the other a heavily armed infantry perspective.
Panzergrenadier units are divided into: Panzergrenadier is PG.
1. PG Regiment attached to Panzer Divisions (Gepanzert)2. PG regiments attached to PG Divisions (Motorized)
The PG Divisions had light armored elements which provided armored support for the infantry, while the infantry elements (the Panzergrenadiers) in a Panzer Divisions provided infantry support for the armor.
* To avoid confusion from now on - I will call Panzergrenadiers in PG Divisions (infantry based units) Grenadiers. This is inaccurate but will alleviate confusion with the term Panzergrenadier. Therefore Grenadier refers to motorized infantry. Please note originally: Panzergrenadier meant armored infantry with light armor support, Grenadier meant motorized infantry (partially or whole), and infantry meant non-motorized and non-armored. *
Thus the formations will be described going top to bottom (Division to section).
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PanzerGrenadier Divisions
1943 - 1944 DIVISIONS
Panzer Division:
Armored Components Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Panzer Regiment
(2 Panzer Battalions)1 Panzergrenadier
Regiment (1 Armored Battalion) (1 Motorized Infantry
Battalion)
1 Motorized Panzer Artillery Regiment
(2 Artillery Battalions and 1 SP Artillery Battalion)
1 Motorized Engineering
Battalion
1 Recon Battalion 1 Grenadier Regiment (1 Motorized Infantry
Battalion)(1Infantry Battalion)
1 Panzer FLAK Battalion 1 Self Propelled HQ Company
1 Self Propelled Anti Tank Battalion
2 Medium Armor Battalions1 Light Armor Battalion
1 TD Battalion
1 Armored Battalion 1 SP Artillery Battalion
4 Armored Battalions 4 Infantry Battalion 4 Artillery Battalions
Panzergrenadier Division:
Armored Components Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Assault Gun Battalion 1st Grenadier Regiment
(2 Motorized Infantry Battalions)
(1Infantry Battalion)
1 Motorized PG Artillery Regiment
(3 Artillery Battalions)
1 Motorized Engineering
Battalion
1 Recon Battalion 2nd Grenadier Regiment (2 Motorized Infantry
Battalions)(1Infantry Battalion)
1 PG FLAK Battalion 1 Armored HQ Company
1 Self Propelled Anti Tank Battalion
1 Light Armor Battalion1 TD Battalion
1 Infantry Support Battalion
3 Armored Battalions 6 Infantry Battalions 4 Artillery Battalions
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PanzerGrenadier Divisions
1944 - 1945 DIVISIONS
* Please note: There no changes in the divisional structures between 1943 and 1945! ** The changes are at a regimental or battalion level! *
Panzer Division:
Armored Components Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Panzer Regiment
(2 Panzer Battalions)1 Panzergrenadier
Regiment (1 Armored Battalion) (1 Motorized Infantry
Battalion)
1 Motorized Panzer Artillery Regiment
(2 Artillery Battalions and 1 SP Artillery Battalion)
1 Motorized Engineering
Battalion
1 Recon Battalion 1 Grenadier Regiment (1 Motorized Infantry
Battalion)(1Infantry Battalion)
1 Panzer FLAK Battalion 1 Self Propelled HQ Company
1 Self Propelled Anti Tank Battalion
2 Medium Armor Battalions1 Light Armor Battalion
1 TD Battalion
1 Armored Battalion 1 SP Artillery Battalion
4 Armored Battalions 4 Infantry Battalion 4 Artillery Battalions
Panzergrenadier Division:
Armored Components Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Assault Gun Battalion 1st Grenadier Regiment
(2 Motorized Infantry Battalions)
(1Infantry Battalion)
1 Motorized PG Artillery Regiment
(3 Artillery Battalions)
1 Motorized Engineering
Battalion
1 Recon Battalion 2nd Grenadier Regiment (2 Motorized Infantry
Battalions)(1Infantry Battalion)
1 PG FLAK Battalion 1 Armored HQ Company
1 Self Propelled Anti Tank Battalion
1 Light Armor Battalion1 TD Battalion
1 Infantry Support Battalion
3 Armored Battalions 6 Infantry Battalions 4 Artillery Battalions
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SS PanzerGrenadier Divisions 1944 and 1945
SS Panzer Division:
Armored Components Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Panzer Regiment
(2 Panzer Battalions)1 Panzergrenadier
Regiment (1 Armored battalion and 2
Motorized Infantry Battalion)
1 Motorized Panzer Artillery Regiment
(4 Artillery Battalions and 1 SP Artillery Battalion)
1 Motorized Engineering Battalion
1 Recon Battalion 1 Grenadier Regiment (3 Motorized Infantry Battalions)
1 Panzer FLAK Battalion 1 Self Propelled HQ Company
1 Self Propelled Anti Tank Battalion
1 Assault Gun Battalion2 Medium Armor Battalions
1 Light Armor Battalion1 TD Battalion
1 Infantry Support Battalion
1 Armored Battalion 1 SP Artillery Battalion1 Rocket Battalion
5 Armored Battalions 6 Infantry Battalion 6 Artillery Battalions
SS Panzergrenadier Division:
Armored Components Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Assault Gun Battalion 1st Grenadier Regiment
(3 Motorized Infantry Battalions)1 Motorized PG Artillery
Regiment (4 Artillery Battalions)
1 Motorized Engineering Battalion
1 Recon Battalion 2nd Grenadier Regiment (3 Motorized Infantry Battalions)
1 PG FLAK Battalion 1 Armored HQ Company
1 Self Propelled Anti Tank Battalion
2 Panzergrenadier Battalion
1 SP Artillery Battalion
1 Light Armor Battalion1 TD Battalion
1 Infantry Support Battalion
2 Armored Battalion 1 SP Artillery Battalion1 Rocket Battalion
3 Armored Battalions 8 Infantry Battalions 6 Artillery Battalions
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PanzerGrenadier Regiments 1943 - 1944
PANZERGRENADIER REGIMENTS WITH PANZER DIVISIONS
* Panzergrenadier or Grenadier Regiments attached to Panzer Divisions were Gepanzert. *
Panzergrenadier Regiment (Gepanzert):> Armored Infantry Regiment 1943
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Battalion 1 Battalion 1 Motorized Artillery
Company1 Sapper Company
1 Armored HQ Company
The armored company had half-tracks instead of trucks.
Grenadier Regiment (Gepanzert):> Motorized Infantry Regiment 1943
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Motorized Battalion 1 Motorized Artillery
Company1 Sapper Company
1 Infantry Battalion (foot)
1 Motorized HQ Company
Regimental Companies:
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ Company (2) KKs
(3) MaultierRECON (1) sctn FLAME (1) Eng
sctnAT (3) 75mm gun
(3) trckCOMMO (1) sctn
Gun Company
(2) KKs(3) Maultier
ART (2) 75mm gun(2) trck
(2) Maultier
ART (2) 75mm gun(2) trck
(2) Maultier
ART (2) 75mm gun(2) trck
(2) Maultier
Sapper Company
(2) HMG(3) 81mm Mtr
(4) trcks
(4) sctns(4) trcks
(4) sctns(4) trcks
(3) sctns(3) trcks
(3) sctns(3) trcks
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PanzerGrenadier Regiments 1943 - 1944
PANZERGRENADIER REGIMENTS WITH PANZERGRENADIER DIVISIONS
* Panzergrenadier or Grenadier Regiments attached to Panzergrenadier Divisions were Motorized. *
Panzergrenadier Regiment (Motorized):> Armored Infantry Regiment 1943
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.
There were no armored infantry attached to a PG Division. The sole exception could have been an armored infantry company (s) attached to the division acting
as a recon force in place of or conjunction to the recon battalion.
Grenadier Regiment (Motorized):> Motorized Infantry Regiment 1943
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.2 Motorized Battalion 1 Motorized Artillery
Company1 Sapper Company
1 Infantry Battalion (foot)
1 Motorized HQ Company
Regimental Companies:
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ Company (2) KKs
(3) MaultierRECON (1) sctn FLAME (1) Eng
sctnAT (3) 75mm gun
(3) trckCOMMO (1) sctn
Gun Company
(2) KKs(3) Maultier
ART (2) 75mm gun(2) trck
(2) Maultier
ART (2) 75mm gun(2) trck
(2) Maultier
ART (2) 75mm gun(2) trck
(2) Maultier
Sapper Company
(2) HMG(3) 81mm Mtr
(4) trcks
(4) sctns(4) trcks
(4) sctns(4) trcks
(3) sctns(3) trcks
(3) sctns(3) trcks
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PanzerGrenadier Regiments 1944 - 1945
PANZERGRENADIER REGIMENTS WITH PANZER DIVISIONS
* Panzergrenadier or Grenadier Regiments attached to Panzer Divisions were Gepanzert. *
Panzergrenadier Regiment (Gepanzert):> Armored Infantry Regiment 1944
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Battalion 1 Battalion 1 Self Propelled
Artillery Company1 Armored HQ
Company1 Panzer FLAK
Company The armored company had half-tracks instead of trucks.
Grenadier Regiment (Gepanzert):> Motorized Infantry Regiment 1944
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Motorized Battalion 1 Self Propelled
Artillery Company1 Motorized HQ
Company1 Infantry Battalion
(foot)1 Panzer FLAK
Company The Self Propelled Artillery company could be towed. As the war progresses (into 1945) these
companies had towed artillery pieces (trucks) for the lack of tracked vehicles.
Regimental Companies:
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ Company (2) KKs
(2) MaultierRECON (1) sctn COMMO (1) sctn AT (3) 75mm gun
(3) trck
FLAK Company
(2) KKs (4) 20mm AA(4) trck
(4) 20mm AA(4) trck
(4) 20mm AA(4) trck
Self Propelled Gun Company
(3) KKs (2) 150mm SP (2) 150mm SP (2) 150mm SP (3) Maultier
Towed Gun Company
(4) KKs ART (2) 150mm gun
(2) trck
ART (2) 150mm gun
(2) trck
ART (2) 150mm gun(2) trck
(3) Maultier
Approximately 1/3 of PG regiments had the FLAK company.
PANZERGRENADIER REGIMENTS WITH PANZERGRENADIER DIVISIONS
* Panzergrenadier or Grenadier Regiments attached to Panzergrenadier Divisions were Motorized. *
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Panzergrenadier Regiment (Motorized):> Armored Infantry Regiment 1944
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.
There were no armored infantry attached to a PG Division. The sole exception could have been an armored infantry company (s) attached to the division acting
as a recon force inplace of or conjunction to the recon battalion.
Grenadier Regiment (Motorized):> Motorized Infantry Regiment 1944
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.2 Motorized Battalion 1 Motorized Artillery
Company1 Motorized HQ
Company1 Infantry Battalion
(foot)1 Panzer FLAK
Company
Regimental Companies:
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ Company (2) KKs
(3) MaultierRECON (1) sctn COMMO (1) sctn AT (3) 75mm gun
(3) trck
FLAK Company
(2) KKs (4) 20mm AA(4) trck
(4) 20mm AA(4) trck
(4) 20mm AA(4) trck
Gun Company (3) KKs(3) Maultier
ART (2) 75mm gun(2) trck
(2) Maultier
ART (2) 75mm gun(2) trck
(2) Maultier
ART (2) 75mm gun(2) trck
(2) Maultier
Approximately 1/3 of PG regiments had the FLAK company.
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SS Panzergrenadier Regiments 1944 - 1945
SS PANZERGRENADIER REGIMENTS WITH SS PANZER DIVISIONS
* Panzergrenadier or Grenadier Regiments attached to Panzer Divisions were Gepanzert. *
SS Panzergrenadier Regiment (Gepanzert):> Armored Infantry Regiment 1944
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.1 Battalion 2 Battalion 1 Self Propelled
Artillery Company1 Self Propelled Tank Destroyer Company
1 Panzer FLAK Company
1 Armored HQ Company
The armored company had half-tracks instead of trucks.
SS Grenadier Regiment (Gepanzert):> Motorized Infantry Regiment 1944
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.3 Battalion 1 Self Propelled
Artillery Company1 Self Propelled Tank Destroyer Company
1 Panzer FLAK Company
1 Motorized HQ Company
Regimental Companies:
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ Company (2) KKs
(3) MaultierRECON (1) sctn COMMO (1) sctn
FLAK Company (2) KKs (4) 20mm AA(4) trck
(4) 20mm AA(4) trck
(4) 20mm AA(4) trck
Self Propelled Gun Company
(3) KKs (2) 150mm SP (2) 150mm SP (2) 150mm SP (3) Maultier
Self Propelled Anti-Tank Company
(2) JgPzs (4) JgPzs (4) JgPzs (4) JgPzs
Approximately ½ of SS PG regiments had the FLAK company.
SS PANZERGRENADIER REGIMENTS WITH SS PANZERGRENADIER DIVISIONS
* Panzergrenadier or Grenadier Regiments attached to Panzergrenadier Divisions were Motorized. *
SS Panzergrenadier Regiment (Motorized):
16
> Armored Infantry Regiment 1944
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.
There were 2 armored infantry battalions attached to a SS PG Division.
SS Grenadier Regiment (Motorized):> Motorized Infantry Regiment 1944
Armored Infantry Motorized Infantry Artillery Misc.3 Battalion 1 Self Propelled
Artillery Company1 Self Propelled Tank Destroyer Company
1 Panzer FLAK Company
1 Motorized HQ Company
Regimental Companies:
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ Company (2) KKs
(3) MaultierRECON (1) sctn COMMO (1) sctn
FLAK Company (2) KKs (4) 20mm AA(4) trck
(4) 20mm AA(4) trck
(4) 20mm AA(4) trck
Self Propelled Gun Company
(3) KKs (2) 150mm SP (2) 150mm SP (2) 150mm SP (3) Maultier
Self Propelled Anti-Tank Company
(2) JgPzs (4) JgPzs (4) JgPzs (4) JgPzs
Approximately ½ of SS PG regiments had the FLAK company.
17
Panzergrenadier Battalion 1943 - 1945
Fundamentally the infantry battalion did not change from year to year. The regimental attachments (companies) changed, but the battalion structure did not. Additionally, there additions and subtractions of the number of battalions per regiment and division.
The battalions (Infantry or Engineers) or Abteilung (all other units) were designated in two manners: with Roman Numerals such I Battalion, II Battalion, etc. if they were part of a regiment; or they were numbered with Arabic Numerals such as 102nd Battalion, 355th Abteilung, etc. if they were independent (usually implies attachment to a Corp. or Army, etc.).
The companies, unlike there American and British counterparts (who used letters), were designated with Arabic Numerals such as 1st Company, 2nd Company, etc..
Panzergrenadier Battalion 1943
Battalion
Company HQ Unit
Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4 Platoon 5
HQ 1 sctn(1) HT
SIGNAL 1 sctn(2) HT
1 Rifle 4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
HVY (3) HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) SPW 251/10(2) HT
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other
platoons
2 Rifle 4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
HVY (3) HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) SPW 251/10(2) HT
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other
platoons
3 Rifle 4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
HVY (3) HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) SPW 251/10(2) HT
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other
platoons
4 - Weapons 1 sctn(2) KKs
IG (2) 75mm Art
(2) HTs
IG (2) 75mm Art
(2) HTs
SP IG (6) SPW 251/9
AT (3) 75mm Gun (2) trck
SAPPER (3) Eng. Sctns
(3) HT, (1) trck
KK is Kubelwagen, Trck is a 21/2 ton truck, towed indicates a truck is integral to the unit (it is towing the gun). HT refers to Half-tracks. These corresponded to SPW 250s and SPW 251s. All other s will be
specifically designated. SPW 251/9 is a variant of the SPW 215/10. I believe (could be mistaken) it is 57mm Art piece on a
SPW 251 chassis. E-Mail clarifications, they would be appreciated. IG means Infantry Gun. The second IG platoon in the Weapons Company was supposed to be 120mm Heavy Mtrs, but
typically it remained IGs. A second Sapper (Engineering) platoon in the Weapons Company was in ½ of the battalions.
Infantry and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Inf. Sctns
Eng. Sctns
HMG 81mm Mtr
120mm Mtr
AT Tms
AT 75mm Guns
Art 75mm Tubes
HTs Trucks
Platoon 4 3 4
18
Company
12 3 2 4 14
Battalion 38 3 9 6 12 3 10 52 3
19
Panzergrenadier Battalion 1944
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4 Platoon 5HQ 1 sctn (1) trk SIGNAL (1) sctn
(2) trk1 SMG 4 sctns
(4) HT4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
HVY (2)HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) HT
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other platoons
2 SMG 4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
HVY (2)HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) HT
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other platoons
3 RIFLE 4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
4 sctns(4) HT
HVY (2)HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) HT
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other platoons
4 - WEAPONS 1 sctn(1) trck
MTR (2) 120mm Mtr
(2) Trcks
AT (3) 75mm Gun
(2) trck
Infantry and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Inf. Sctns
Eng. Sctns
HMG 81mm Mtr
120mm Mtr
AT Tms
AT 75mm Guns
Art 75mm Tubes
HTs Trucks
Platoon 4 4Company
12 2 2 4 14
Battalion 39 6 6 2 12 3 42 8
20
Grenadier Battalion 1943
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4 Platoon 5HQ 1 sctn
(1) trckSIGNAL 1 sctn
(2) trck1 Rifle 4 sctns
(4) trck4 sctns(4) trck
4 sctns(4) trck
HVY (2) HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) trck
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other
platoons2 Rifle 4 sctns
(4) trck4 sctns(4) trck
4 sctns(4) trck
HVY (2) HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) trck
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other
platoons3 Rifle 4 sctns
(4) trck4 sctns(4) trck
4 sctns(4) trck
HVY (2) HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) trck
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other
platoons4 - Weapons 1 sctn
(2) KKsMTR (2) 120mm Mtr
(2) TrcksAT (3) 75mm Gun
(3) trck(2) Maultier
KK is Kubelwagen,
Infantry and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Inf. Sctns
Eng. Sctns
HMG 81mm Mtr
120mm Mtr
AT Tms
AT 75mm Guns
Art 75mm Tubes
HTs Trucks
Platoon 4 4Company
12 2 2 4 14
Battalion 38 6 6 2 12 3 50
21
Grenadier Battalion 1944
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4 Platoon 5HQ 1 sctn
(1) trckSIGNAL 1 sctn
(2) trck1 Rifle 4 sctns
(4) trck4 sctns(4) trck
4 sctns(4) trck
HVY (1) HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) trck
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other
platoons2 SMG 4 sctns
(4) trck4 sctns(4) trck
4 sctns(4) trck
HVY (1) HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) trck
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other
platoons3 SMG 4 sctns
(4) trck4 sctns(4) trck
4 sctns(4) trck
HVY (1) HMG(2) 81mm Mtr
(2) trck
(4) AT Tms dispersed with other
platoons4 - Weapons 1 sctn
(2) KKsMTR (2) 120mm Mtr
(2) TrcksAT (3) 75mm Gun
(3) trck
KK is Kubelwagen,
Infantry and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Inf. Sctns
Eng. Sctns
HMG 81mm Mtr
120mm Mtr
AT Tms
AT 75mm Guns
Art 75mm Tubes
HTs Trucks
Platoon 4 4Company
12 1 2 4 14
Battalion 38 3 6 2 12 3 50
22
Volksgrenadier Regiment
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4 Attached
HQ comp (2) KK COMMO (2) trk Recon (6) KK
Gun comp Lt. (2) 75mm Art Lt. (2) 75mm Art Med (2) 105mm Art
Hvy (2) 150mm Art
AT comp (towed)
1 sctn (2) 57mm Gun (2) 75mm Gun
I Infantry HQ 1 sctn (1) trk COMMO 1 sctn, (2) trk
1 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) HMG, (2) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (4)
2 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) HMG, (2) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (4)
3 RIFLE 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) HMG, (2) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (4)
4 - WEAPONS 1 sctn MTR (2) 81mm Mtr (towed)
AT (3) 75mm Gun (towed)
II Infantry HQ 1 sctn (1) trk COMMO 1 sctn, (2) trk
1 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) HMG, (2) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (4)
2 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) HMG, (2) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (4)
3 RIFLE 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) HMG, (2) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (4)
4 - WEAPONS 1 sctn MTR (2) 81mm Mtr (towed)
AT (3) 75mm Gun (towed)
Infantry and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Sctns HMG 81mm Mtr
AT Tms AT Guns Art Tubes
Platoon 4 0 0 0 0 0Company
12 2 2 4 0 0
Battalion 39 6 8 12 3 0Regiment
79 12 16 24 10 8
SP Design Notes VG Regiment:
See PG Regiment.
VG Divisional Structure was:
Division 1st VG Regiment2nd VG Regiment3rd VG Regiment1 VG FA Regiment1 Infantry Recon Battalion1 VG AT Battalion1 VG Engineering Battalion
This structure is consistent with VG Divisions from 1944 to 1945.
23
Fallschirmjager Regiment
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4 Attached
HQ comp (2) KK
AT comp (towed) (3) 57mm Gun (3) 57mm Gun (3) 75mm Gun
MTR comp (towed) (2) 81mm mtr (2) 120mm mtr
I Parachute HQ 1 sctn (1) trk COMMO 1 sctn, (2) trk
1 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) MMG, (1) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (3)
2 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) MMG, (1) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (3)
3 RIFLE 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) MMG, (1) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (3)
4 - WEAPONS 1 sctn MTR (2) 81mm Mtr (towed)
HVY (2) HMG AT Tms (3)
II Parachute HQ 1 sctn (1) trk COMMO 1 sctn, (2) trk
1 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) MMG, (1) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (3)
2 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) MMG, (1) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (3)
3 RIFLE 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) MMG, (1) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (3)
4 - WEAPONS 1 sctn MTR (2) 81mm Mtr (towed)
HVY (2) HMG AT Tms (3)
III Parachute HQ 1 sctn (1) trk COMMO 1 sctn, (2) trk
1 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) MMG, (1) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (3)
2 SMG 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) MMG, (1) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (3)
3 RIFLE 4 sctns 4 sctns 4 sctns HVY (2) MMG, (1) 81mm mtr
AT Tms (3)
4 - WEAPONS 1 sctn MTR (2) 81mm Mtr (towed)
HVY (2) HMG AT Tms (3)
Infantry and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Sctns MMG HMG 81mm Mtr
120mm Mtr
AT Tms AT Guns
Platoon 4 0 0 0 0 0 0Company
12 2 0 1 0 3 0
Battalion 38 6 2 5 0 12 0Regiment
115 18 6 17 2 36 9
FJ Divisional Structure was:
Division 1st FJ Regiment2nd FJ Regiment3rd FJ Regiment1 FJ FA Regiment1 Infantry Recon Battalion1 FJ Mtr Battalion1 FJ AA Battalion
24
1 FJ AT Battalion1 FJ Mobile Engineering Battalion
25
FLAK Units
FLAK Battalion - Volksgrenadier (VG)
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (2) KK SIGNAL
Battery 1 2 sctns Lt. (4) 20mm AA
Hvy (4) 80mm AA
Battery 2 2 sctns Lt. (4) 20mm AA
Hvy (4) 80mm AA
Battery 3 2 sctns Lt. (4) 20mm AA
Hvy (4) 80mm AA
Battery 4 (Light)
2 sctns (6) Wirbelwind
All AA guns had trucks to transport them. During 1944 the Wirbelwind was replacing the Ostwind. Thus Ostwinds could be found in FLAK
battalions. The organization above is 1944. 1943 organization had a 3rd section attached to each battery. It was another light section. The 1942 and into 1943 organization had the 4th battery as Half-tracks with 20AA guns mounted on
them instead of Wirbelwinds or Ostwinds. Thus the 4th battery had 4 sections of 3 HTs .
FLAK Battalion - Panzergrenadier (PG)
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (2) KK SIGNAL
Battery 1 (Heavy) 2 sctns Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Battery 2 (Heavy) 2 sctns Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
FLAK Battalion - Fallschirmjager (FJ)
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (2) KK SIGNAL
Battery 1 (Heavy)
2 sctns Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Battery 2 (Heavy)
2 sctns Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Battery 3 (Light) 2 sctns (4) 20mm AA (4) 20mm AA (4) 20mm AA
Battery 4 (Light) 2 sctns (4) 20mm AA (4) 20mm AA (4) 20mm AA
FLAK Battalion - Panzer
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (2) KK SIGNAL
Battery 1 (Heavy)
2 sctns Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Battery 2 (Heavy)
2 sctns Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Battery 3 (Light) 2 sctns (4) 20mm AA (4) 20mm AA (4) 20mm AA
26
FLAK Battalion - Fallschirmjager (FJ)
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (2) KK SIGNAL
Battery 1 (Heavy)
2 sctns Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Battery 2 (Heavy)
2 sctns Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Battery 3 (Heavy)
2 sctns Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Hvy (2) 88mm AA
Battery 4 (Light) 2 sctns (4) 20mm AA (4) 20mm AA (4) 20mm AA
VG FLAK Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Sctns 20mm AA
88mm AA
Quad 20mm
Total
Section 0 4 4 6Battery 2 4 4 6Battalion 8 12 12 6 30
PG FLAK Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Sctns 88mm AA
Total
Section 0 2Battery 2 6Battalion 4 12 12
FJ FLAK Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Sctns 20mm AA
88mm AA
Total
Section 0 4 2Battery 2 12 6Battalion 8 24 12 36
Panzer FLAK Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Sctns 20mm AA
88mm AA
Total
Section 0 4 2Battery 2 12 6Battalion 6 12 12 24
SS Panzer FLAK Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit Sctns 20mm AA
88mm AA
Total
Section 0 4 2Battery 2 12 6Battalion 8 12 18 30
27
Sturmgeschutz Units
Sturmgeschutz Battalion (Assault Gun)
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3HQ comp (2) KK
1st Assault comp
(2) Stg H42 (5) Stg H42 (5) Stg H42
2nd Assault comp
(2) Stg III (5) Stg III (5) Stg III
3rd Assault comp
(2) Stg III (5) Stg III (5) Stg III
The Stg IIIs could be Stg H42s, Brumbar, Sig33. Some assault gun units used Pz IIIs instead of assault guns. This was more frequent on the Eastern
Front. This configuration was typical of battalions attached to infantry divisions.
Vehicle Unit Strength Chart
Unit Assault Guns
Platoon 5Company
12
Battalion 40
Sturmgeschutz Brigade (Assault Gun)
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3HQ comp (2) KK (2) Stg III
1st Assault comp
(2) Stg H42 (4) Stg III (4) Stg III (4) Stg III
2nd Assault comp
(2) Stg III (4) Stg III (4) Stg III (4) Stg III
3rd Assault comp
(2) Stg III (4) Stg III (4) Stg III (4) Stg III
This configuration was typical of independent brigades. Most Assault Gun Brigades had 42 vehicles while in the AO.
Vehicle Unit Strength Chart
Unit Assault Guns
Platoon 4Company
14
Battalion 44
28
Panzerjager Units 1944 (Anti-Tank)
Self Propelled: Panzerjager Abteilung (Tank Destroyer Battalion)<Attached to Panzer or Panzergrenadier Divisions - Self Propelled Anti-Tank>
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3HQ comp (2) KK
1st TD (towed) comp
(2) HTs (4) 75mm AT Guns
(4) 75mm AT Guns
(4) 75mm AT Guns
2nd TD comp (2) JP IVs (4) JP IVs (4) JP IVs (4) JP IVs
3rd TD comp (2) JP IVs (4) JP IVs (4) JP IVs (4) JP IVs
The AT guns are all towed by trucks. Tank Destroyers could be Hetzer, Marder II or III. This configuration was typical of battalions attached to armored divisions. Many of these units were understrength as reinforcement went to independent brigades. The 1st SS PJ Battalion only had 2 platoons per company with 4 tanks per platoon.
Vehicle and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit PJs AT Guns
Total Guns
Platoon 4 4Company
14 14
Battalion 30 14 44
Towed: Panzerjager Abteilung (Anti-Tank Battalion)<Attached to Infantry Divisions - Towed Anti-Tank>
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3HQ comp (2) KK
1st SP AT comp (2) JP IVs (4) JP IVs (4) JP IVs (4) JP IVs
2nd AT (towed) comp
(3) 75mm AT Guns
(3) 75mm AT Guns
(3) 75mm AT Guns
3rd AA (towed) comp
(3) 37mm AT Guns
(3) 37mm AT Guns
(3) 37mm AT Guns
The AT guns are all towed by trucks. Tank Destroyers could be Hetzer, Marder II or III. This configuration was typical of battalions attached to Infantry divisions.
Vehicle and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit JPs AT Guns
Total Guns
Platoon 4 3Company
14 9
Battalion 14 18 32
29
Panzerjager Units 1943 (Anti-Tank)
Panzerjager Abteilung (Tank Destroyer Battalion)<Attached to Panzer Divisions -Self Propelled Anti-Tank>
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3HQ comp (2) KK SIGNAL AA (3) Sdkfz
10/4(3) Marder II
1st AT comp (2) Marder II (4) Marder II (4) Marder II (4) Marder II
2nd AT comp (2) Marder II (4) Marder II (4) Marder II (4) Marder II
3rd AT comp (2) Marder II (4) Marder II (4) Marder II (4) Marder II
Tank Destroyers could be PzJagd 38, Marder I or II. This configuration was attached to armored divisions.
Vehicle Unit Strength Chart
Unit JPsPlatoon 4Company
14
Battalion 45
Panzerjager Abteilung (Tank Destroyer Battalion)<Attached to Panzergrenadier Divisions - Self Propelled Anti-Tank>
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ comp (2) KK SIGNAL (3) Marder II
1st SP TD comp (2) Marder II (4) Marder II (4) Marder II (4) Marder II
2nd AT (towed) comp
(2) AT 75mm Gun
(2) AT 75mm Gun
(2) AT 75mm Gun
3rd AA comp (3) Sdkfz 10/4 (3) Sdkfz 10/4 (3) Sdkfz 10/4 (3) Sdkfz 10/4
Tank Destroyers could be PzJagd 38, Marder I or II. This configuration was attached to armored divisions.
Vehicle and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit PJs AT Guns
AA HTs Total Guns
Platoon 4 2 3Company
14 6 12
Battalion 14 6 12 32
30
Schwere Panzerjager Units 1944 (Anti-Tank)
Self Propelled: Schwere Panzerjager Brigade (Heavy Tank Destroyer Battalion)<Attached to Panzer or Panzergrenadier Divisions - Self Propelled Anti-Tank>
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3HQ comp (2) HTs (2) JpP IV/70
1st HTD comp (2) Jag V (4) Jag V (4) Jag V reserve
2nd TD comp (2) JpP IV/70 (4) JpP IV/70 (4) JpP IV/70 reserve
3rd TD comp (2) JpP IV/70 (4) JpP IV/70 (4) JpP IV/70 reserve
Tank Destroyers could be Hetzer, Jagdpanthers, Jagdtiger, JPz IV/70, or Stg IV. These units were always independent brigades attached to groups. Reserve is a vehicleless unit. It served as a personnel pool. The SP-HTD (Self Propelled-Heavy Tank Destroyer) forces in AO were 519th HTD with Panzer Lehr,
559th HTD with the 12th SS Panzer Division, and two other Towed HTD battalions. The original configuration should have 5 vehicles per platoon, but as the end of 1944 approached
reinforcements were unavailable.
Vehicle Unit Strength Chart
Unit JpP/70 Jag V Total Guns
Platoon 4 4Company
10 10
Battalion 10 22 32
Towed: Schwere Panzerjager Brigade (Heavy Tank Destroyer Battalion)<Attached to Infantry Divisions - Towed Anti-Tank>
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3HQ comp (2) HTs
1st SP AT comp (2) Stg IIIs (4) Stg IIIs (4) Stg IIIs reserve
2nd AT (towed) comp
(2) 88mm AT Guns
(4) 88mm AT Guns
(4) 88mm AT Guns
reserve
3rd AA (towed) comp
(2) 88mm AT Guns
(4) 88mm AT Guns
(4) 88mm AT Guns
reserve
The AT guns are all towed by trucks. Tank Destroyers could be Hetzer Marder III. This configuration was attached to Infantry divisions.
Vehicle and Gun Unit Strength Chart
Unit JPs AT Guns
Total Guns
Platoon 4 4Company
10 10
31
Battalion 10 20 32
32
Panzer Units 1944 (Armored)
Organization Time framePanzer Regiment Late 1944 Nov 1944 - 1945
Panzer Regiment Mid 1944 July 1944 - Nov 1944
Panzer Regiment Early 1944 – Western Front
Jan 1944 - July 1944
Panzer Regiment Early 1944 - Eastern Front
Jan 1944 - July 1944
Panzer Regiment Late 1943 Oct 1943 to 1944
Panzer Regiment 1942 to Early 1943 1942 to Oct 1943
Panzer Regiment 1944 - 1945 – Organizational
1944
The time frames are relative.
Panzer Regiment 1944 - 1945 - Organizational
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2)
sctnsAA (3) Sdfz 10/4 AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Pz comp (2) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs reserve
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs reserve
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs reserve
4th Pz comp (2) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs reserve
II Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2) sctns
AA (3) Sdfz 10/4 AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Pz comp (2) Pz Ivs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz Ivs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz Ivs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
4th Pz comp (2) Pz Ivs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
This is the “on paper” organization. The organization of Panzer regiments should have conformed to this, but the lack of resources
“created” different field variants. There are a number of variants, please see additional charts. Ideally as of early 1944, all Panzer battalions should be Panthers Pz Vs. However this never
occurred.
Panzer Divisional Structure was:
Division Panzer 1944 + Panzer 1943 - 1944 SS Panzer 1944 +1 Panzer Regiment 1 Panzer Regiment 1 Panzer Regiment
1 Panzeraufklarungs Battalion 1 Mobile Infantry (VG) Regiment 1 Panzeraufklarungs Battalion1 Mobile Infantry (VG) Regiment 1 PG Regiment 1 Sturmgeschutz Battalion
1 PG Regiment 1 Panzer Field Artillery Regiment 1 SS Grenadier Regiment1 Panzerjager (SP) Battalion 1 Panzer FLAK Battalion 1 SS PG Regiment
1 Panzer Field Artillery Regiment 1 Engineering Battalion 1 Panzerjager (SP) Battalion
33
1 Panzer FLAK Battalion 1 Panzeraufklarungs Battalion 1 SS Panzer Field Artillery Regiment1 Engineering Battalion 1 Sturmgeschutz Battalion 1 SS Panzer FLAK Battalion
1 Panzer FA SP Company 1 Engineering Battalion
34
Panzer Units 1944 (Armored)
Panzer Regiment Late 1944
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Panzer HQ comp (2) KK SIGNAL (2) sctns
1st Pz comp (2) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs reserve
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs reserve
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
4th Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
II Panzer HQ comp (2) KK
1st Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs
The II Panzer battalion was being refitted. Therefore it was not operational. This set up is typical of from Nov 1944 to the end of the war. Often the I battalion was called a mixed
panzer battalion. SS panzer battalions had 5 tanks per platoon. Similarly they operated with a single battalion.
Panzer Regiment Mid 1944
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Panzer HQ comp (2) KK AA (3) Sdfz
10/4SIGNAL (2)
sctns1st Pz comp (2) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs (4) Pz Vs
4th Pz comp reserve reserve reserve
II Panzer HQ comp (2) KK AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
SIGNAL (2) sctns
1st Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs
4th Pz comp reserve reserve reserve
This is the typical organization before the heavy fighting in the Summer and Fall of 1944. Essentially this is a good transition from Early 1944 to Late 1944. At any one time, many Panzer Regiments were in flux between Late1944 and Mid 1944 - Field organizations.
SS panzer battalions had 5 tanks per platoon. They also “lost” the 4th panzer company per battalion.
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Panzer Units 1944 (Armored)
Panzer Regiment Early 1944 Western Front
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2)
sctnsAA (3) Sdfz 10/4 AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
4th Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
II Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2) sctns
AA (3) Sdfz 10/4 AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
4th Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
The Pz IVs were being replaced by Pz Vs. Consequently, a number of Panzer Regiment had Pz Vs as one of the battalions.
SS panzer battalions had 5 tanks per platoon. In other words, they maintained the original 1943 platoon organization. However the only had 3 platoons versus the 1943 concept of 4 platoons per company.
SS panzer Regiment had 1 battalion of Pz IVs and the other Pz Vs.
Panzer Regiment Early 1944 - Eastern Front
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2)
sctnsAA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
3rd Hvy Pz comp (2) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs reserve
4th Hvy Pz comp (2) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs reserve
II Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2) sctns
AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs reserve
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz IIIs (4) Pz IIIs (4) Pz IIIs (4) Pz IIIs reserve
4th Pz comp (2) Pz IIIs (4) Pz IIIs (4) Pz IIIs (4) Pz IIIs reserve
The Pz IVs were being replaced by Pz Vs. Consequently, the second battalions were transferred west to be refitted. Note, their equipment typically stayed and formed Light Panzer Battalions of mixed Pz IVs and Pz IIIs and only the personnel went west. This meant the personnel were not as experienced as the I Panzer battalion.
A consequence of reduced Panzer strength within a battalion resulted in Heavy companies being directly incorporate into the panzer battalions. Entirely dependent upon the unit, there could be 1 or 2
36
Heavy companies. This was unusual because heavy units were historically formed into separate battalions (brigades) and attached to corps or armies.
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Panzer Units 1943 (Armored)
Panzer Regiment Late 1943
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2)
sctnsAA (3) Sdfz 10/4 AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Light Pz comp (2) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs reserve
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs reserve
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs reserve
4th Hvy Pz comp (2) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs reserve
II Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2) sctns
AA (3) Sdfz 10/4 AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Light Pz comp (2) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs reserve
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs reserve
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs reserve
4th Hvy Pz comp (2) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs reserve
The battalions frequently had mixes of Pz IIIs and Pz IVs. The Pz IIIs were “supposed” to have been replaced, but losses of Pz IVs forced many panzer units to continue using Pz IIIs. They were employed as a Light or Recon tank company.
The battalions were operationally used in kampfgruppe. The emergence of superior Soviet tanks, forced the battalions to integrate a Heavy tank company directly into the battalion instead of operating as a support or special unit.
By the end of 1943 many of the battalions did not have enough vehicles to field a 4th platoon per company. This became an operational reserve.
Panzer Regiment 1942 to Late 1943
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2)
sctnsAA (3) Sdfz 10/4 AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs
4th Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs (5) Pz IVs
II Panzer HQ comp (2) KK ENG (4) sctns SIGNAL (2) sctns
AA (3) Sdfz 10/4 AA (3) Sdfz 10/4
1st Pz comp (2) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs
2nd Pz comp (2) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs
3rd Pz comp (2) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs
4th Pz comp (2) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs (5) Pz IIIs
The Tigers or Pz VIEs were organized in separate battalions.
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Panzer Unit Strengths
Panzer Regiment 1944 - 1945 - Organizational
Unit Pz IV Pz V Sdfz 10/4
Total Guns
Platoon 4 4 0Company
14 14 0
Battalion 56 56 6 56Regiment
56 56 12 112
SS Panzer Regiment 1944 - 1945 - Organizational
Unit Pz IV Pz V Sdfz 10/4
Total Guns
Platoon 5 5 0Company
17 17 0
Battalion 68 68 6 68Regiment
68 68 12 136
Panzer Regiment Late 1944
Unit Pz IV Pz V Total Guns
Platoon 4 4Company
14 14
Battalion 42 42 42Regiment
42 42 42
SS Panzer Regiment Late 1944
Unit Pz IV Pz V Total Guns
Platoon 5 5Company
17 17
Battalion 68 68 68Regiment
68 68 68
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40
Panzer Unit Strengths
Panzer Regiment Mid 1944
Unit Pz IV Pz V Sdfz 10/4
Total Guns
Platoon 4 4 0Company
14 14 0
Battalion 42 42 3 42Regiment
42 42 6 84
SS Panzer Regiment Mid 1944
Unit Pz IV Pz V Sdfz 10/4
Total Guns
Platoon 5 5 0Company
17 17 0
Battalion 51 51 3 51Regiment
51 51 6 102
Panzer Regiment Early 1944 - Western Front
Unit Pz IV Sdfz 10/4
Total Guns
Platoon 4 0Company
14 0
Battalion 56 6 56Regiment
102 12 102
SS Panzer Regiment Early 1944 - Western Front
Unit Pz V Pz IV Sdfz 10/4
Total Guns
Platoon 5 5 0Company
17 17 0
Battalion 68 68 6 68Regimen 68 68 12 136
41
t
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Panzer Unit Strengths
Panzer Regiment Early 1944 - Eastern Front
Unit Pz IV Pz III Pz VIEs Sdfz 10/4
Total Guns
Platoon 4 4 4 0Company 14 14 14 0Battalion 28 28 3 56Battalion (Light)
28 28 3 56
Regiment 56 28 28 6 102
Panzer Regiment Late 1943
Unit Pz IV Pz III Pz VIEs Sdfz 10/4
Total Guns
Platoon 5 5 4 0Company 17 17 14 0Battalion 34 17 14 6 65Regiment 68 34 28 12 130
Panzer Regiment 1942 to Late 1943
Unit Pz IV Pz III Sdfz 10/4
Total Guns
Platoon 5 5 0Company 22 22 0Battalion 88 88 6 88Regiment 88 88 12 176
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Schwere Panzer Units (Heavy Armored)
Schwere Panzer Brigade 1945
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Hvy Panzer HQ comp (2) HTs (2) SMG sctns
1st Hvy Pz comp (2) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) SMG sctns
2nd Hvy Pz comp (2) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) SMG sctns
3rd Hvy Pz comp (1) SMG sctn reserve reserve reserve
4th Hvy Pz comp
The infantry sections were truck transported except the HQ sections which had HTs.
Schwere Panzer Brigade Late 1944 - Western Front
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Hvy Panzer HQ comp (2) HTs (2) SMG sctns
1st Hvy Pz comp (4) Pz VIBs (4) Pz VIBs (4) Pz VIBs (2) SMG sctn
2nd Hvy Pz comp (4) Pz VIBs (4) Pz VIBs (4) Pz VIBs (2) SMG sctn
3rd Hvy Pz comp (4) Pz VIBs (4) Pz VIBs (4) Pz VIBs (2) SMG sctn
4th Hvy Pz comp (1) SMG sctn reserve reserve reserve
The infantry sections had HTs. Essentially the Armored Infantry acted as recon elements for the Tigers.
Pz VIBs were King Tigers. They were used exclusively on the Western Front. Note the Russians did fight against them, but it was when they “reached the borders of Germany i.e. the war was not in the “real East” anymore.
A similar brigade could have Pz VIEs or the normal Tiger tank. There were 3 Schwere Panzer Brigades in the AO: the 501st SPB with the 1st SS Panzer Division, the
506th SPB attached directly to the 15th Army and the 301st SPB with the 47th VG division. The 501st and 506th were King Tiger brigades (Pz VIBs) and the 301st was a Tiger brigade (Pz VIE).. As far as I can tell, the only SPB to see action was the 501st SPB with the 1st SS (KG Peiper). The entire brigade was lost (damage and abandoned with Peiper’s encirclement and retreat).
Typical SPB strength in the AO was 25-35 tanks. Late 1944 indicates from September / October 1944.
Schwere Panzer Brigade Late 1944 - Eastern Front
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Hvy Panzer HQ comp (2) HTs (2) SMG sctns
1st Hvy Pz comp (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (2) SMG sctn
2nd Hvy Pz comp (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (2) SMG sctn
3rd Hvy Pz comp (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (2) SMG sctn
4th Hvy Pz comp (1) SMG sctn reserve reserve reserve
The infantry sections had HTs. Essentially the Armored Infantry acted as recon elements for the Tigers.
The Pz VIEs were normal Tigers.
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Schwere Panzer Units (Heavy Armored)
Schwere Panzer Brigade 1944
Battalion Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4I Hvy Panzer HQ comp (2) HTs (2) Pz IVs
1st Hvy Pz comp (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs reserve
2nd Hvy Pz comp (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs reserve
3rd Hvy Pz comp (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs (4) Pz VIEs reserve
4th Recon Pz comp (2) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (4) Pz IVs (2) SMG sctn (2) SMG sctn
The infantry sections had HTs. Essentially the Pz IVs and Armored Infantry acted as recon elements for the Tigers.
Schwere Panzer Brigade 1945
Unit Pz VIEs SMG sctns
HTs Total Guns
Platoon 4 0 0Company 10 4 0Battalion 20 11 2 20
Schwere Panzer Brigade Late 1944 - Western Front
Unit Pz VIBs SMG sctns
HTs Total Guns
Platoon 4 0 0Company 12 2 2Battalion 36 9 9 36
Schwere Panzer Brigade Late 1944 - Eastern Front
Unit Pz VIEs SMG sctns
HTs Total Guns
Platoon 4 0 0Company 12 2 2Battalion 36 9 9 36
Schwere Panzer Brigade 1944
Unit Pz VIEs Pz IVs SMG sctns
HTs Total Guns
Platoon 4 4 0 0Company 12 10 0 0Battalion 36 12 4 6 48
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Engineering Battalion
Engineering Battalion> Armored or Motorized
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ comp (2) KKs SIGNAL (1) sctn
(2) HTs2 sctns (2) HTs
Armored comp 1 sctn (2) 120mm Mtr (2) HTs
3 sctns, 1 w/ HMG
3 sctns, 1 w/MMG
3 sctns, 1 w/MMG
Motorized comp 1 sctn (2) 120mm Mtr (2) HTs
3 sctns, 1 w/ HMG
3 sctns, 1 w/MMG
3 sctns, 1 w/MMG
Heavy Motorized comp
1 sctn SIGNAL (1) sctn (2) trcks
MTR (2) 81mm mtr, (1) sctn
HMG (2) HMG, (1) sctn
Bridging comp Various not described
The armored company was transported in HTs. The motorized companies were transported in trucks. All of the units were mobile (trucks or HTs). Note unlike their American counterparts (who were either motorized or armored (HTs)) German Engineering units had both trucks and HTs.
These units were attached to divisions. They rarely acted alone or were independent of other units. Sappers and Pioneers are engineering style units. However, they did not have the heavier
equipment an actual engineering battalion would possess (like bridging equipment). Sappers units allowed other units to organically possess mine clears, demolition’s, etc.
Note as the war dragged on, there were Engineering Battalions designated as Motorized or Armored. The Armored Battalions had the above formation, the Motorized used all trucks.
Engineering Battalion
Unit Sctns MMG HMG MtrPlatoon 3 0 0 0Company 9 2 1 2Battalion 27 4 4 6
Volksgrenadier Engineering Battalion
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ comp (2) KKs SIGNAL (1) sctn
(2) HTs2 sctns (2) HTs
1st Motorized comp 1 sctn (2) 120mm Mtr (2) HTs
3 sctns, 1 w/ HMG
3 sctns, 1 w/MMG
3 sctns, 1 w/MMG
2nd Motorized comp 1 sctn (2) 120mm Mtr (2) HTs
3 sctns, 1 w/ HMG
3 sctns, 1 w/MMG
3 sctns, 1 w/MMG
3rd Heavy Motorized comp
1 sctn SIGNAL (1) sctn (2) trcks
MTR (2) 81mm mtr, (1) sctn
HMG (2) HMG, (1) sctn
The motorized companies were transported in trucks or motorcycles. All of the units were mobile. These units were attached to VG Divisions.
VG Engineering Battalion
Unit Sctns MMG HMG MtrPlatoon 3 0 0 0Company 9 2 1 2Battalion 27 4 4 6
Aufklarsungs (Reconnaissance) Battalion
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Aufklarungs Battalion 1942 - 1943
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ comp (2) KKs COMMO (1)
sctn (2) HTsAC (6)
1st AC comp 1 sctn (1) HT
AC (6) AC (6) AC (6) AC (6)
2nd AC comp 1 sctn (1) HT
AC (6) AC (6) AC (6) AC (6)
Recon comp 1 sctn (1) HT
MTR (2) 120mm Mtr, (2) HTs
(3) sctns, (3) HTs (3) sctns, (3) HTs
(3) sctns, (3) HTs
Heavy Recon comp 1 sctn (1) HT
AT (3) 75mm AT Guns
ART (3) 75mm Art Guns
AC (6) w/ guns ENG (4) sctns, (4) HTs
AC is armored car. Note ACs can be substituted by Lynxes, Pz IIIs, etc.
Grenadier Aufklarungs Battalion 1943 - 1944> Infantry Recon
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ comp (2) KKs COMMO (1)
sctn (2) HTsAC (6)
1st Recon comp 1 sctn (1) HT
Pz III (4) Pz III (4) Pz III (4) Pz III (4)
2nd Recon comp 1 sctn (1) HT
Pz III (4) Pz III (4) Pz III (4) Pz III (4)
3rd Recon comp 1 sctn (1) HT
MTR (2) 120mm Mtr, (2) HTs
(3) sctns, (3) HTs (3) sctns, (3) HTs
(3) sctns, (3) HTs
Heavy Recon comp 1 sctn (1) HT
AT (3) 75mm AT Guns
ART (3) 75mm Art Guns
AC (6) w/ guns ENG (4) sctns, (4) HTs
This is a generic unit. The vehicle production in Germany was focused on heavier units not ACs. Consequently, ACs became scarce. However, there were abundant Pz IIIs from the Panzer unit upgrades to Pz IVs. These began to replace the ACs as the standard heavy recon unit.
Panzergrenadier Aufklarungs Battalion 1943 - 1944> Armored Infantry Recon
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4 Platoon 5HQ comp (2) KKs SIGNAL (1) sctn
(2) HTsAC comp (2) KKs (4) SdKfz222,
(2) SdKfz231(4) SdKfz222, (2)
SdKfz231(4) SdKfz222, (2) SdKfz231
HVY (4) SdKfz243, (2)
SdKfz2311st VW Recon comp (2) mtrccls RADIO (1) VW (3) sctns, (3)
VWs(3) sctns, (3)
VWs(3) sctns, (3)
VWsHVY (2) HMG, (1) 81mm Mtr,
(3) trcks2nd VW Recon comp (2) mtrccls RADIO (1) VW (3) sctns, (3)
VWs(3) sctns, (3)
VWs(3) sctns, (3)
VWsHVY (2) HMG, (1) 81mm Mtr,
(3) trcks3rd VW Recon comp (2) mtrccls RADIO (1) VW (3) sctns, (3)
VWs(3) sctns, (3)
VWs(3) sctns, (3)
VWsHVY (2) HMG, (1) 81mm Mtr,
(3) trcks4th Heavy VW comp 1 sctn (1)
HTAT (3) 75mm
AT GunsART (2) 75mm
Art GunsENG (3) sctns,
(3) HTs
This was the recon element for a PG Division. Mtrccls are motorcycles. VW is Volkswagen mini-truck. KK, VW, motorcycles, or even light trucks could be found in these units. Basically anything that was light, small and fast was used to transport troops.
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Aufklarsungs (Reconnaissance) Battalion
Panzer Aufklarungs Battalion 1943 - 1944> Armored Recon
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ comp (2) KKs COMMO (1)
sctn (2) HTsAC (6) SdKfz222
1st AC comp (2) KKs (4) SdKfz222, (2) SdKfz231
(4) SdKfz222, (2) SdKfz231
(4) SdKfz222, (2) SdKfz231
HVY (4) SdKfz243, (2)
SdKfz2312nd AC comp (2) KKs (6) SdKfz222 (6) SdKfz222 (6) SdKfz222 (6) SdKfz222
1st Armored Recon comp
(2) KKs (3) recon sctns, (3) HTs
(3) recon sctns, (3) HTs
(3) recon sctns, (3) HTs
MTR (2) 81mm Mtr, (2) HTs
2nd Armored Recon comp
(2) KKs (3) recon sctns, (3) HTs
(3) recon sctns, (3) HTs
(3) recon sctns, (3) HTs
MTR (2) 81mm Mtr, (2) HTs
3rd Heavy Armored Recon comp
(2) HTs ART (3) 75mm Art Guns, (3) SPW251/10
HVY (6) SPW251/10
AT (3) 75mm AT Guns
ENG (3) sctns, (3) HTs
This was the recon element for a Panzer Division. Mtrccls are motorcycles. VW is Volkswagen mini-truck. KK, VW, motorcycles, or even light trucks
could be found in these units. Basically anything that was light, small and fast was used to transport. All ATs and ARTs are truck transported. In many cases, there was a 2nd Eng. platoon for the Heavy Armored Recon company.
Fusilier (Grenadier) Aufklarungs Battalion 1944 - 1945>Light Infantry or Recon Infantry
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ comp (2) KKs COMMO (1)
sctn (2) trck1st Recon comp 1 sctn (1)
trck(3) sctns, (3)
trcks(3) sctns, (3)
trcks(3) sctns, (3)
trcks(3) sctns, (3)
trcks2nd Recon comp 1 sctn (1)
trck(3) sctns, (3)
trcks(3) sctns, (3)
trcks(3) sctns, (3)
trcks(3) sctns, (3)
trcks3rd Heavy Recon comp
1 sctn (1) HT
(3) sctns, (3) HTs
(3) sctns, (3) HTs (3) sctns, (3) HTs
(3) sctns, (3) HTs
Wpns comp 1 sctn (1) trck
MTR (4) 81mm Mtr, (4) trcks
MTR (4) 120mm Mtr, (4) trcks
These units were used as the mobile elements of VG Divisions. They were light packed and typically had greater speed than normal infantry (beside the mobility). Often they had more ammunition and heavier squad weapons to act as assault troops.
Panzer Aufklarungs Battalion 1944 - 1945> Armored Recon
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Platoon 2 Platoon 3 Platoon 4HQ comp (2) KKs COMMO (1) sctn (2) HT
AC comp 1 sctn (1) HT
AC (8) AC (8)
1st Armored Recon comp
1 sctn (1) HT
(3) sctns, (3) HTs (3) sctns, (3) HTs (3) sctns, (3) HTs
(3) sctns, (3) HTs
2nd Armored Recon comp
1 sctn (1) HT
(3) sctns, (3) HTs (3) sctns, (3) HTs (3) sctns, (3) HTs
(3) sctns, (3) HTs
3rd Wpns comp 1 sctn (1) HT
MTR (4) 81mm Mtr, (4) HT
MTR (4) 120mm Mtr, (4) HT
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Aufklarsungs (Reconnaissance) BattalionAufklarungs Battalion 1942 - 1943
Unit Sctns AC AT ART MtrPlatoon 3 6 0 0 0Company 10 24 0 0 0Battalion 18 60 3 3 2
Grenadier Aufklarungs Battalion 1943 - 1944> Infantry Recon
Unit Sctns AC Pz III AT ART MtrPlatoon 3 0 4 0 0 0Company 10 0 16 0 0 0Battalion 18 12 32 3 3 2
Panzergrenadier Aufklarungs Battalion 1943 - 1944> Armored Infantry Recon
Unit Sctns AC AT ART 81mm Mtr HMGPlatoon 3 6 0 0 0 0Company 9 24 0 0 1 2Battalion 31 24 2 2 3 6
Panzer Aufklarungs Battalion 1943 - 1944> Armored Recon
Unit Sctns AC AT SP AT ART Mtr HMGPlatoon 3 6 0 0 0 0 0Company 9 24 0 0 0 2 0Battalion 22 54 3 9 3 4 0
Fusilier (Grenadier) Aufklarungs Battalion 1944 - 1945>Light Infantry or Recon Infantry
Unit Sctns 81mm Mtr 120mm Mtr HT TruckPlatoon 3 0 0 0 0Company 12 0 0 0 0Battalion 41 4 4 13 37
Panzer Aufklarungs Battalion 1944 - 1945> Armored Recon
Unit Sctns AC 81mm Mtr 120mm Mtr HT TruckPlatoon 3 8 0 0 0 0Company 13 16 0 0 0 0Battalion 29 16 4 4 43 0
49
Field Artillery Regiments 1943 - 1944
There are 3 battalion formation types for 1943 and 6 battalion formation types for 1944+. Consequently, I defined the regimental formation and then delineated the battalion organization.
Panzergrenadierartillerie Regiment : 1943 - 1944> 1943 Motorized Infantry Field Artillery Regiment
RegimentHQ comp1st Light Howitzer Battalion2nd Light Howitzer Battalion3rd Mixed Howitzer Battalion
Panzerartillerie Regiment : 1943 - 1944> 1943 Armored Field Artillery Regiment
RegimentHQ comp1st Light Howitzer Battalion2nd Mixed Howitzer Battalion3rd Self Propelled Battalion
50
Field Artillery Regiments 1944+
Panzergrenadierartillerie Regiment : 1944+> 1944 Motorized Infantry Field Artillery Regiment
RegimentHQ comp1st Light Howitzer Battalion2nd Medium Howitzer Battalion3rd Self Propelled Battalion
Panzerartillerie Regiment : 1944+> 1944 Armored Field Artillery Regiment
RegimentHQ comp1st Light Howitzer Battalion2nd Medium Howitzer Battalion3rd Self Propelled Battalion
SS Panzerartillerie Regiment : 1944+> 1944 SS Armored Field Artillery Regiment
RegimentHQ comp1st Light Howitzer Battalion2nd Medium Howitzer Battalion3rd Heavy Howitzer Battalion4th Self Propelled Battalion5th Rocket Battalion
Fallschirmjagerartillerie Regiment : 1944+> 1944 Parachute Field Artillery Regiment
RegimentHQ comp1st Light Howitzer Battalion2nd Light Howitzer Battalion3rd Medium Howitzer Battalion
51
Field Artillery Regiments 1944+
Volksgrenadierartillerie Regiment : 1944+> 1944 Infantry Field Artillery Regiment
RegimentHQ comp1st Light Cannon Battalion2nd Light Howitzer Battalion2nd Light Howitzer Battalion4th Medium Howitzer Battalion
52
Field Artillery Battalions 1943 - 1944
Leichte Panzerartillerie Abteilung : 1943 - 1944> 1943 Light Field Artillery Battalion (Motorized)
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (2) trcks COMMO (2) trck EVAL (2) trck SIGNAL (2) trck
1st Battery 1 sctn (1) HT COMMO (1) trck (2) 105mm Art, (2) HTs (2) 105mm Art, (2) HTs
2nd Battery 1 sctn (1) HT COMMO (1) trck (2) 105mm Art, (2) HTs (2) 105mm Art, (2) HTs
3rd Battery 1 sctn (1) HT COMMO (1) trck (2) 105mm Art, (2) HTs (2) 105mm Art, (2) HTs
Leichte Panzerartillerie Abteilung : 1943 - 1944> 1943 Light Field Artillery Battalion (Motorized)
Unit HT trck 105mm Total GunsBattery 2 1 2Company 5 1 4Battalion 15 11 12 12
Gemischte Panzerartillerie Abteilung : 1943 - 1944> 1943 Mixed Field Artillery Battalion (Motorized)
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (2) trcks COMMO (2) trck EVAL (2) trck SIGNAL (2) trck
1st Heavy Battery 1 sctn (1) HT COMMO (1) trck (2) 150mm Art, (2) HTs (2) 150mm Art, (2) HTs
2nd Heavy Battery 1 sctn (1) HT COMMO (1) trck (2) 150mm Art, (2) HTs (2) 150mm Art, (2) HTs
3rd Medium Battery 1 sctn (1) HT COMMO (1) trck (2) 100mm Art, (2) HTs (2) 100mm Art, (2) HTs
Gemischte Panzerartillerie Abteilung : 1943 - 1944> 1943 Mixed Field Artillery Battalion (Motorized)
Unit HT trck 100mm 150mm Total GunsBattery 2 1 2 2Company 5 1 4 4Battalion 15 11 4 8 12
53
Field Artillery Battalions 1943 - 1944
Panzerartillerie Abteilung : 1943 - 1944> 1943 Self Propelled Field Artillery Battalion
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (2) trcks COMMO (2) trck EVAL (2) trck SIGNAL (2) trck
1st Light SP Battery 1 sctn (1) HT
COMMO (1) HT (3) 105mm SP (3) 105mm SP
2nd Light SP Battery 1 sctn (1) HT
COMMO (1) HT (3) 105mm SP (3) 105mm SP
3rd Heavy SP Battery 1 sctn (1) HT
COMMO (1) HT (3) 150mm SP (3) 150mm SP
Panzerartillerie Abteilung : 1943 - 1944> 1943 Self Propelled Field Artillery Battalion
Unit HT trck 105mm SP
150mm SP Total Guns
Battery 2 3 3Company 2 6 6Battalion 6 8 12 6 18
Other Units : 1943 - 1944
Please Note: I did not have information regarding infantry artillery, Fallschirmjager artillery, etc. for 1943. My suspicion, from other formations, is these units were formed like the above with one exception: There piece was transported by truck not half-track. In general all armored (panzer) artillery was transported by half-track.
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Field Artillery Battalions 1944+
Originally Panzer Artillery was transported by half-tracks not trucks. However with vehicle shortages, most units began using truck transport, except for the for the heavier guns.
Additionally, the Germans frequently used captured equipment to augment and “fill out” there artillery units.
Leichte Feldkanone Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Light Field Cannon Battalion (motorized)
Company HQ Unit Platoon 1 Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (1) trcks COMMO (1) trck EVAL (1) trck SIGNAL (1) trck
1st Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 75mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 75mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 75mm Art, (2) trcks
2nd Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 75mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 75mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 75mm Art, (2) trcks
3rd Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 75mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 75mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 75mm Art, (2) trcks
4th Battery Service Service Service Service
Leichte Feldkanone Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Light Field Cannon Battalion (motorized)
Unit HT trck 75mm Total GunsBattery 0 2 2Company 0 7 6Battalion 0 25 18 18
Leichte Feldhaubitze Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Light Field Howitzer Battalion (motorized)
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (1) trcks COMMO (1) trck EVAL (1) trck SIGNAL (1) trck
1st Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 105mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 105mm Art, (2) trcks
2nd Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 105mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 105mm Art, (2) trcks
3rd Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 105mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 105mm Art, (2) trcks
4th Battery Service Service Service
Leichte Feldhaubitze Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Light Field Howitzer Battalion (motorized)
Unit HT trck 105mm Total GunsBattery 0 2 2Company 0 5 4Battalion 0 19 12 12
55
Field Artillery Battalions 1944+
Gemischte Feldhaubitze Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Medium Field Howitzer Battalion (motorized)
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (1) trcks COMMO (1) trck EVAL (1) trck SIGNAL (1) trck
1st Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 150mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 150mm Art, (2) trcks
2nd Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 150mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 150mm Art, (2) trcks
3rd Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 150mm Art, (2) trcks (2) 150mm Art, (2) trcks
4th Battery Service Service Service
Gemischte Feldhaubitze Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Medium Field Howitzer Battalion (motorized)
Unit HT trck 150mm Total GunsBattery 0 2 2Company 0 5 4Battalion 0 19 12 12
Schwere Feldhaubitze Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Heavy Field Howitzer Battalion (motorized)
Company HQ Unit Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (1) trcks COMMO (1) trck EVAL (1) trck SIGNAL (1) trck
1st Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 210mm Art, (2) HT (2) 210mm Art, (2) HT
2nd Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 210mm Art, (2) HT (2) 210mm Art, (2) HT
3rd Battery (1) KK COMMO (1) trck (2) 300mm Art, (2) HT (2) 300mm Art, (2) HT
4th Battery Service Service Service
Schwere Feldhaubitze Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Heavy Field Howitzer Battalion (motorized)
Unit HT trck 210mm 300mm Total GunsBattery 2 2 2Company 6 1 4 4Battalion 18 7 8 4 12
56
Field Artillery Battalions 1944+
Panzerartillerie Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Self Propelled Field Artillery Battalion
Company HQ Unit Commo Plt Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (2) trcks COMMO (2) trck EVAL (2) trck
1st Light SP Battery 1 sctn (1) HT
COMMO (1) HT (2) 105mm SP (2) 105mm SP (2) 105mm SP
2nd Heavy SP Battery 1 sctn (1) HT
COMMO (1) HT (2) 150mm SP (2) 150mm SP (2) 150mm SP
Panzerartillerie Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Self Propelled Field Artillery Battalion
Unit HT trck 105mm SP
150mm SP Total Guns
Battery 1 2 2Company 2 6 6Battalion 4 6 6 6 12
Nebelwerfer Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Rocket Artillery Battalion
Company HQ Unit Commo Plt Section 1 Section 2 Section 3HQ comp (1) KK COMMO (2) trck EVAL (2) trck
1st Werfer Battery (2) Trcks COMMO (1) trck (2) 10 tube Werfer (2) 10 tube Werfer
(2) 10 tube Werfer
2nd Werfer Battery (2) Trcks COMMO (1) trck (2) 10 tube Werfer (2) 10 tube Werfer
(2) 10 tube Werfer
3rd Werfer Battery (2) Trcks COMMO (1) trck (2) 10 tube Werfer (2) 10 tube Werfer
(2) 10 tube Werfer
4th Werfer Battery service service service
Panzerartillerie Abteilung : 1944+> 1944 Self Propelled Field Artillery Battalion
Unit HT trck Werfer Total LaunchersBattery 2Company 3 6Battalion 13 18 18
57
Field Artillery Battalions 1944+
The next two formations are unique. They provided a corp level defense of artillery support and fire suppression. This type of mass bombardment (its capability) became essential as Germany fought a defense war. Large artillery strikes can and did break up attacks. However ammunition became a severe problem. Additionally these units were typically “static” or bodenstandige units. They were the firepower of entrenchment and siege defense.
As Hitler declared areas as “Felster Platzen” (last stand areas). The German Army began entrenching in areas and fighting (as ordered) to the last man (supposedly). Although this tactic lost was idiotic, the high command the formed units needed for such tactics. These heavy artillery units fit the bill.
Most Neberwerfers were used for smoke (at least initially). The poor accuracy made them only effective in urban or mass area bombardments: like to take out a entire hill. Unfortunately SP’s Werfers do not come with smoke. Use the editor and switch them from a HE launch system to a smoke launch system. They lay great smoke - as they did in reality.
VAK - (Volksartillerie Korp) : 1944+
Korp BattalionArtilleryArtilleryArtilleryArtilleryArtilleryArtillery
Typically these units used heavy artillery such as 170mm, 210mm, 300mm, etc. They used captured equipment and even 88mm as artillery pieces. It was an havoc artillery group.
VWB - (Volkswerfer Brigade) : 1944+
Regiment Battalion150mm Artillery150mm Artillery210mm Artillery
NebelwerferMaultier CompanyMaultier Company
Maultier’s were Pz II or Pz III platforms with a Nebelwerfer on top. Essentially they were mobile rocket launchers like the US Calliope. There use was primarily smoke creators. Again, SP does not have them. You have to “create” them with the editor.
Additionally, most regiments had several Maultiers attached to the HQ company. I did not include in them in the formations, but they were there. The Maulteirs were called Panzerwerfer 42s.
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