#0306_03_XLVIII Panzer Korp battles at Taranovka - PzC 19 Kharkov 43

XLVIII Panzer Korp battles at Taranovka - Mar 6th to Mar 7th, 1943. While the SS Panzer Korp was the left hook, encircling Kharkov, XLVIII Panzer Korp was the right hook with the shorter distance to cut off Kharkov from the south east. Unexpectedly, Taranovka had been heavily reinforced by the Soviets and had to be taken before the Mzha and Udy Rivers could be crossed. The fighting here was particularly fierce and the time lost clearing the town cost the Korp dearly when it reached the Mzha. Ultimately it was to be five days before the Mzha could be breached. (Size, Small) This scenario can be played either HTH or against the AI. The German player has to use a weakened 6th Panzer Division and quickly capture Taranovka. This is easier said than done. Once 11th Panzer Division is released it is critical that the XLVIII Panzer Korp breaches the Mzha River line quickly to win. The Soviet player can potentially hold longer here as the Wehrmacht Panzer Divisions are substantially weaker than their SS brethren. The 350th Rifle Division is very exposed and an early retirement back onto the heights should be considered. Look for ways to force the Germans to lose time by interdicting the road network where ever possible.