Ep 5. WWII in the East: The Battle of Kursk

Soviet Storm is an exciting historical documentary series that chronicles the major events of World War II from the Soviet perspective. Season 1 episode 5, titled "WWII in the East: The Battle of Kursk," delves into one of the most significant battles of the war.

The Battle of Kursk was a major engagement in the eastern front between German and Soviet forces. It took place in July 1943, shortly after the German defeat at Stalingrad, and marked a turning point in the war. The episode begins by setting the stage, describing the military situation in the east and Hitler's decision to launch an offensive against Kursk.

The episode then moves on to detail the preparations made by both sides for the battle. The Germans planned a massive armored assault, while the Soviets built up a formidable defensive position. Soviet commanders like Zhukov and Rokossovsky organized a complex system of dug-in tank units, minefields, and anti-tank obstacles to blunt the German attack.

The episode uses a mix of archival footage, animated maps, and expert commentary to give viewers a clear sense of the tactics and strategies employed by both sides. We learn how Soviet tankers used the terrain to their advantage, employing the natural folds of the land to ambush German tanks. We also see how the Germans utilized their new Tiger and Panther tanks, hoping to break through the Soviet lines and encircle the defenders.

As the battle rages on, the episode gives us a sense of the terrible toll taken on both sides. We see gruesome scenes of tanks exploding, soldiers being blown apart, and wounded men crying out for help. The episode does not shy away from the graphic realities of the battlefield, emphasizing the brutality and horror of war.

Ultimately, the battle ended in a decisive Soviet victory. The Germans were unable to breach the Soviet lines, and suffered heavy losses in the process. The episode concludes with a discussion of the wider impact of the battle on the war as a whole. It discusses how the Soviet victory at Kursk marked a turning point in the war, inspiring confidence in Soviet forces and eroding German morale.

Overall, "WWII in the East: The Battle of Kursk" is an informative and engaging episode of Soviet Storm. It does an excellent job of breaking down the complexities of the battle and providing viewers with a clear sense of the tactics and strategies employed by both sides. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of World War II.