THE INVASION OF POLAND

Blitzkrieg in Action

WARGermany invades Poland on September 1,

1939

Keeping their guarantee to Poland, Britain and France declare war on Germany on

September 3

Blitzkrieg: Lightning War

Blitzkrieg is a tactic using speed and surprise, using light tanks, planes and infantry (soldiers on foot).

It was designed to hit hard and move on immediately, creating panic among the civilian population.

Once a target was selected, Stuka dive bombers were sent in to destroy all rail lines, communication centres and rail links.

They would be followed quickly by tanks and infantry, with the aimof tearing through a part of the enemy line.

This would enable them to target the enemy’s inner defences andinfrastructure and made it difficult for the enemy to respond.

Then they would encircle the enemy.