My overview of the Russian tactical system
In response to an email question, I wrote the following description of Russian tactics in WW II. I thought some here might find it useful, or worth comment.
There were two principle components of the army, rifle forces and mech forces. Rifle forces were numerically dominant and provided the structure of lines and provided mass for attacks. They were also expected to lead breakthrough fighting. Mech forces were numerically an order of magnitude smaller, but much better equipped. They did most
To give some further information on this, based on Soviet officer memoirs I have read, this collection of intel was a core task for divisional and below staffs during the attack preparation. Higher levels of command would compare the amount of targets reported by divisions. If you were (well) below the average in reporting targets in your divisional sector, it could happen that the Front commander pays you a visit, and gives you the option to either report more targets, or attack on D-Day with