Intro
Uncover the brutal history of the Third Battle of Kharkovs bloodiest days, where Nazi Germany and Soviet forces clashed in a ferocious battle. Learn about the fierce fighting, strategic blunders, and staggering losses that defined this pivotal WWII conflict, including the Das Reich Divisions carnage and the Soviet counterattacks triumph.
The Third Battle of Kharkov was a pivotal event in World War II, marked by intense fighting and significant bloodshed. It was a major turning point on the Eastern Front, as German forces clashed with the Soviet Red Army in a series of battles that would ultimately determine the fate of the war.
The battle, which took place from February 19 to March 15, 1943, was one of the bloodiest periods of the entire conflict. Here, we will examine the five bloodiest days of the Third Battle of Kharkov, highlighting the key events, tactics, and outcomes that defined this critical phase of the war.
February 20, 1943: The German Counterattack Begins
February 20, 1943, marked the beginning of the German counterattack, as Field Marshal Erich von Manstein's forces launched a surprise assault on the Soviet 6th Army. The German troops, comprising the SS Panzer Corps and the XLVIII Panzer Corps, aimed to drive a wedge between the Soviet armies and recapture the strategic city of Kharkov.
The initial German thrust caught the Soviet forces off guard, resulting in significant casualties. The Soviet 6th Army, led by Lieutenant General Fyodor Kharitonov, struggled to maintain its positions as the German armor and infantry pushed forward.
Day 1 Casualties:
- Soviet: Estimated 10,000 casualties (killed, wounded, or captured)
- German: Approximately 2,000 casualties
February 22, 1943: The Battle for the Donets River
As the German counterattack gained momentum, the Soviet forces were forced to retreat across the Donets River. The river crossing became a critical chokepoint, with both sides engaging in fierce battles to control the riverbanks.
The Soviet 6th Army and 1st Guards Army attempted to establish a defensive line on the eastern bank of the Donets, but the German forces pressed their advantage, pushing the Soviets back and inflicting heavy casualties.
Day 3 Casualties:
- Soviet: Estimated 15,000 casualties
- German: Approximately 3,500 casualties
February 24, 1943: The Fall of Pavlograd
On February 24, 1943, the German forces captured the strategic city of Pavlograd, which controlled the railroad network and communication lines between Kharkov and the Soviet rear. The fall of Pavlograd dealt a significant blow to the Soviet supply chain and further isolated the Soviet 6th Army.
The Soviet forces, now in disarray, struggled to maintain their positions as the German troops continued to push forward.
Day 5 Casualties:
- Soviet: Estimated 12,000 casualties
- German: Approximately 2,500 casualties
March 5, 1943: The Battle for the Mzha River
As the German forces approached the outskirts of Kharkov, they encountered fierce resistance from the Soviet 69th Army, led by Lieutenant General Vasily Kuznetsov. The Soviet forces defended the Mzha River, which marked the final line of defense before Kharkov.
The German troops launched a series of assaults, but the Soviet forces held their ground, inflicting significant casualties on the German side.
Day 14 Casualties:
- Soviet: Estimated 8,000 casualties
- German: Approximately 4,000 casualties
March 14, 1943: The Recapture of Kharkov
On March 14, 1943, the German forces, now reinforced with additional troops and armor, launched a final assault on Kharkov. The Soviet forces, exhausted and depleted, were unable to resist the German onslaught.
The city of Kharkov fell to the German forces, marking a significant turning point in the Third Battle of Kharkov.
Day 24 Casualties:
- Soviet: Estimated 5,000 casualties
- German: Approximately 1,500 casualties
Third Battle of Kharkov Image Gallery
The Third Battle of Kharkov was one of the bloodiest battles of World War II, with estimates suggesting that over 100,000 casualties were suffered on both sides. The battle marked a significant turning point on the Eastern Front, as the German forces recaptured the strategic city of Kharkov and halted the Soviet advance.
As we reflect on the five bloodiest days of the Third Battle of Kharkov, we are reminded of the brutal and devastating nature of war. The sacrifices made by soldiers on both sides will never be forgotten, and their stories serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of peace and diplomacy.
We hope this article has provided a comprehensive and informative account of the Third Battle of Kharkov. If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please feel free to comment below.