This release sees the introduction of some new cavalry and infantry options for the Soviets. Firstly the Soviets now have cavalry support in the form of a troop of 6 riders, then they are further reinforced with a unit of sappers ready clear minefields and build fortifications, and lastly, we have added women’s SMG and rifle squads to available forces.
As always, here’s a little background on the various new units…..
Cavalry
Soviet cavalry played a vital role in World War II, especially in the early stages of the war against Nazi Germany. Despite the increasing mechanization of the Red Army, the horsemen proved their worth in many battles and operations. The mobility, surprise and shock effect of cavalry could easily exploit enemy weaknesses and gaps.
One of the most famous examples of Soviet cavalry in action was the Battle of Moscow in 1941-1942. During this battle, the 44th Mongolian Cavalry Division and other units participated in the counteroffensive that stopped the German advance on the capital. The Mongolian horsemen, equipped with submachine guns, rifles and sabers, attacked the German flanks and rear, disrupting their supply lines and communications. They also captured many prisoners and weapons, earning them the nickname of “ghost division” by the Germans.
The Cavalry Mechanized Groups of 1942-1943 aimed to exploit breakthroughs in the enemy lines. These groups consisted of a cavalry corps and a tank or mechanized corps, supported by artillery and aviation. They were able to operate deep behind enemy lines, destroying enemy headquarters, depots and transport hubs, as well as encircling and annihilating enemy forces. For example, in the Battle of Stalingrad in 1942-1943, the 4th Cavalry Corps and the 4th Mechanized Corps formed a Cavalry Mechanized Group that cut off the retreat of the German 6th Army, contributing to its surrender.
Soviet cavalry also proved effective in mountainous and wooded terrain, where tanks and vehicles had difficulty moving. In such areas, the horsemen used their knowledge of the local geography, as well as their ability to move stealthily and quickly, to ambush and harass the enemy. For instance, in the Carpathian Mountains in 1944, the 6th Guards Cavalry Corps fought against the German and Hungarian forces, capturing several important passes and towns.
By the end of the war, Soviet cavalry had participated in almost all major battles and campaigns, across most fronts. They had shown their courage, skill and adaptability in various conditions and situations. They had also inflicted heavy losses on the enemy, while suffering many casualties themselves. Soviet cavalry was a formidable force that helped shape the outcome of World War II.
This unit is supplied as 5 riders and 1 NCO.
Sappers
Soviet sappers were combat engineers who performed various tasks during World War II. They built defensive positions, cleared mines, and constructed bridges. They also trained other engineers for the Red Army.
One of the main roles of the sappers was to create fortifications for the Soviet troops. This included digging trenches, building bunkers, and erected obstacles. The sappers often worked in harsh conditions and under enemy fire. They had to plan and execute their projects quickly and efficiently. For example, they built the Mozhaysk Line, a series of fortifications that helped slow down the German advance on Moscow in 1941.
Another important role of the sappers was to clear minefields. They used metal detectors, probes, and dogs to locate and defuse explosives. Sappers also laid mines to hinder the enemy movement. For instance, they mined the approaches to Stalingrad, where they fought alongside the infantry in the city.
A third role of the sappers was to build bridges across rivers and canals. Depending on the situation, the sappers used rafts, pontoons, and timber to construct temporary or permanent crossings. In addition to potential enemy fire, they also had to deal with strong currents, ice, and mud.
The unit comprises 1x NCO, 5x sappers.
Women’s rifle and SMG squads
Though rare, women were also found in the Red Army performing combat roles. The “1st Separate Women’s Volunteer Rifle Brigade” was active from 1942-44. While many of women performed second line duties such as manning AA sites, they also saw front line combat. This was the case during the Battle of Stalingrad where women of the 1077th Anti-Aircraft Regiment engaged in ground combat.
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We hope that you found this little bit of background history and that soon our models will be reinforcing your Soviet armies – Ura!