43_1012_01: Bukrin Bridgehead - Russian Offensive - PzC 25 Kiev '43

Date: October 12, 1943 - Size: Large - Location: Bukrin Bridgehead, 98 kms SE of Kiev

Intended for Head to Head play

Scenario Briefing: The Russians had been building up the Bukrin bridgehead for most of the first part of the month of October. Finally, on 12 October they launched their massive attack in a deliberate effort to try and break out and take Kiev. They would be attacking uphill against a determined German force of three divisions. Along with this attack, Russian forces in the other three bridgeheads would attempt to tie down the other Axis forces dug in along the area from Rzhishchev to Kanev. With three armies and two tank corps, STAVKA felt that they had a good chance of breaking out and retaking the Ukrainian capital.

The Germans would have few reinforcements as, all along the Dnepr River, other Russians forces were also supporting that attack tying down Wehrmacht formations. A Kampfgruppe of the 11th Panzer Division would arrive to backup the defenders if needed. It was felt that the terrain and defenses and caliber of the German troops should be sufficient to hold the enemy forces at bay.

The attack was preceded by a massive artillery attack. Air strikes would follow as well with more aviation strikes coming throughout the operation.