Iron Spearhead: Combat Tactics of German Tank Companies in WWII

The German Panzer divisions played a crucial role in the dynamic and fast-paced warfare of World War II. Their strength lay not just in superior engineering but in well-developed tactics, strategic mobility, and aggressive leadership.

The effectiveness of German tank units was a result of rigorous training, battlefield experience, and a doctrine that emphasized coordination, firepower, and maneuverability.

This book delves into the combat tactics of German medium tank companies, particularly those utilizing the Panzer IV, one of the most versatile and widely used tanks in the Wehrmacht.

The strategies outlined in this volume are derived from German training manuals and battlefield reports, offering a comprehensive insight into how German tank commanders approached combat scenarios.

These tactics were honed on the Eastern Front, where German forces faced the vast numbers and tenacious resistance of the Soviet Union.

From individual tank engagements to company-level operations, this book presents the fundamental principles that guided German armored warfare. It details how tanks coordinated with infantry, handled enemy anti-tank defenses, and conducted offensive and defensive maneuvers. These lessons, written by experienced German officers during the war, highlight not just the technical aspects of armored combat but also the mindset and discipline required for success.

This book is not merely a historical document; it is a valuable resource for military historians, wargamers, and enthusiasts of armored warfare.



Understanding these tactics offers a glimpse into the strategic thinking that made the German Panzer divisions so formidable on the battlefield.