German Infiltration Tactics and Stormtrooper Units Flashcards

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What were German stormtrooper units in 1918?

They were special German assault troops trained to lead attacks on enemy trenches in 1918.

Why did the German army develop stormtrooper units and infiltration tactics?

They wanted to break through trench lines more quickly and with fewer losses than old style mass attacks.

How were stormtroopers different from ordinary infantry soldiers?

They were picked men with extra training, lighter equipment, and more weapons like grenades and light machine guns, so they could move faster and fight in small groups.

What is meant by German ‘infiltration tactics’?

It means attacking in small groups that slip through weak spots in the enemy line and push into the ground behind the front.

How did German artillery support infiltration attacks?

German guns fired a very short, very heavy ‘hurricane’ bombardment, often with gas shells. Then they used a creeping barrage that moved forward just in front of the stormtroopers.

What did stormtroopers do when they met a strong enemy strongpoint, like a bunker?

They tried to move round it and leave it for later troops to deal with, instead of wasting lives in a straight-on attack.

What weapons and equipment did stormtroopers usually carry?

They carried rifles or carbines, many grenades, light machine guns or pistols, and sometimes flamethrowers, but left heavy packs behind so they could move fast.

How were stormtroopers used at the start of the 1918 Spring Offensive?

At dawn on 21 March 1918 they led surprise attacks in thick fog, following the barrage to break into British trench lines on the Somme.

What were the main advantages of using stormtroopers and infiltration tactics?

They gave surprise and faster advances with fewer losses in the first wave, and could spread confusion by reaching headquarters and guns behind the front.

What other name was often used for German infiltration tactics, based on a general’s name?

They were often called ‘Hutier tactics’, after German General Oskar von Hutier, who helped develop and use them.

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