Chapter 798： Counterattack (1/2)
In battles and artillery battles, the French offensive power was gradually consumed. Although the defensive Germans also paid a heavy price, they still dominated the exchange ratio. After all, the current sacrifices are fighting for the upcoming offensive. A lot of time.
”We have reorganized the long-range heavy artillery guns of the various armies with a range of more than 12 kilometers into several long-range artillery brigades. Each brigade has between 36 and 48 heavy artillery. We now have 10. Such a brigade can completely suppress the French army in depth.” Two days later, Hindenburg reported to His Royal Highness the preparations.
”As for the armored forces, apart from the armored units that deal with the French, we don’t have much left on the northern front. Although it is enough, it might not be enough to direct the attack alone. In order to make up for this problem, we provide the following troops with A lot of truck guns and towed artillery.”
”We have prepared a semi-combat ammunition for all troops. In order to ensure that the infantry units have sufficient firepower and continuity, we have re-optimized the transportation system. At the same time, we have prepared a large number of machine guns for the assault troops, which can basically guarantee all storms. Each combat squad of the commando has a machine gun.” Schmidt reported to Prince Ruprecht on the preparations for the final battle.
”What about the air force?” the prince asked.
”The air force can only guarantee the support in shallow positions and the air superiority over our army. I am afraid it is a little difficult to bomb deep.” Schmidt replied.
”Okay, let's start, we can't wait.” The prince thought for a while and said.
”In fact, the opinion of the Chief of Staff Xiaomoqi is that you can wait.” Calipute said.
”I'm not talking about the Western Front, I'm talking about the Eastern Front!” The prince squeezed the telegram he had just received.
”Let's start!” With the command of the general offensive, as many as 1,300 howitzers and long-range artillery of various calibers deployed along the Marne River launched a bombardment of up to 3 hours against the French position on the other side of the river! The attack began at dawn, and the 105mm and 150mm howitzers at the front began to bombard the proven French attack starting positions.
According to the information collected, during the previous period of engagement, the French had specially built a number of assembly positions. The troops would be concentrated here before the offensive. When the Germans counterattack, these positions can also be used as support points.
When the French were accustomed to their own firepower advantage and used to eat a good meal in the assembly area before attacking, and then smoked a few cigarettes to relieve the pressure, the sudden violent shelling caused quite a few people to interact with their own hands before they could react. Bread can no longer be separated from each other... The fierce shelling directly turned many infantrymen and their weapons, breakfast and other things into a scorched land.