In the final months of World War II, the Soviet Union spearheaded a colossal push towards Berlin, aiming to crush the heart of Nazi Germany. By early 1945, after grinding victories across Eastern Europe, the Red Army stood poised on the Oder River. The Germans, though battered, fiercely defended their capital.
Marshal Georgy Zhukov led the 1st Belorussian Front, while Marshal Ivan Konev commanded the 1st Ukrainian Front. Stalin orchestrated a rivalry between them, hoping it would hasten Berlin’s capture. On 16 April, the Soviets launched the Berlin Offensive, initiating with a thunderous artillery barrage—some claim the largest in history. Soviet forces faced entrenched German troops, fanatical resistance, and brutal urban combat.
By late April, Soviet soldiers encircled Berlin, battling street by street in a city reduced to rubble. The fighting culminated in the storming of the Reichstag, symbolising the defeat of Nazism. On 30 April, Hitler committed suicide. Berlin fell on 2 May.
The Soviets paid dearly—over 80,000 troops killed—but the victory was monumental. The red flag raised over Berlin signalled not only an end to the Third Reich but the rise of Soviet power in post-war Europe.
This release showcases a range of Late War Soviet troops, equipment and armour, focusing on the the units involved in the race for Berlin and the subsequent tough fighting in the city itself.
Further additions planned for later in July, so stayed tuned!
