The Advanced Panzer Blitz To&e Book Version 3
The Advanced Panzer Blitz To&e Book Version 3
The Advanced Panzer Blitz To&e Book Version 3
Volume 3:
Wargaming Orders
of Battle
-1–
ORDERS OF BATTLE
1 Introduction
This covers most of the major armies used in World War II. Some of the data has had to be
invented, due to lack of information. Although they have been written for “Panzer Blitz” they are
applicable to most platoon scale board games. The armies are organized alphabetically. Supply
vehicle counters have been included at one per battalion.
All German battalions are shown at their composite level with all the assets they would receive
from their brigade or regimental headquarters. All Allied units are not shown as composite units
because allied tactics employed regimental assets differently.
2 F American Tank Regimental Headquarters Section 1942 to 1945 (Commands two medium
and one light tank battalion until 1943 then it commands 3 medium battalions)
HQ 1 CP, 1 M3, 1 Truck
2 N American Artillery Battalion (this applies throughout the war to US ARMY and US
MARINES)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Jeep, 3 Truck, 1 ARV, 1 12.7AAG or 1
M16 (after 1942 in armoured artillery only)
3 Batteries Towed each 1 CP, 1 OP, 2 Jeep, 1 How (75, 105, 155,
203mm) 2 Truck (Jeep in AB Div Bn)
Or
Armoured each 1 CP, 1 OP, 2 M3, 1 M7 or M12, 1 Truck
HQ 1 CP, 2 Jeep
3 Infantry Companies each 3 Rifle, 1 Baz, 1 60M, 1 MG
1 Heavy Weapons Company
1 Anti Aircraft Platoon 1 12.7 AAG, 1 Jeep
3 Machinegun Platoons each 1 MG, 1 Jeep
1 Mortar Platoon 1 81M, 1 Jeep
1 Anti Tank Platoon 1 57ATG, 1 Jeep
Note Jeeps are available to glider borne units only.
1 Machinegun Platoon 1 MG
2 AA American Towed Tank Destroyer Company 1944 to 1945 (3 companies make a towed TD
battalion)
3 Towed Platoons each 1 76ATG, 1 M3HT
2 AR American 175th Field Artillery Battalion (Minnesota National Guard) Operation Torch
1942
HQ 1 CP, 1 Jeep, 1 Truck, 1 ARV
3 Artillery Batteries each 1 25lb How, 2 Truck, 1CP, 1 OP, 2 Jeep
Note Part of the 34th Infantry Division took part in Race
for Tunis with British 1st Army then reverted back
to a 105mm battalion.
Divisions:
Infantry – 3 Infantry Regiments, 3 105mm Artillery Battalions, 1 155mm Artillery Battalion, 1 Anti-
Aircraft Battalion (Towed), 1 Anti Aircraft Battalion (Towed), 1 Self-Propelled Anti Tank Battalion, 1
Cavalry Troop, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Tank Battalion
442 Regimental Combat Team – 3 Infantry Battalions (100th, 2/442, 3/442), Regimental
Headquarters 442 (independent unit closely linked to the “Texas Division” made up of Japanese
Americans)
1 Special Service Force (a joint Canadian-US Unit served in Italy 1943-44) – 3 Regiments
(use Marine Regiment Headquarters) (each with 2 Battalions (use US Ranger Battalion), 1
Headquarters Battalion (1 CP, 1 Jeep, 1 Sigs, 3 Truck, 2 57ATG, 1 12.7AAG)
3 A British Infantry Brigade Headquarters 1939 to 1945 (Commands 3 Infantry Battalions plus
attachments)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 ARV, 1 Truck
3 G British Armoured Brigade Headquarters 1940 to 1945 (North Africa and Europe)
(commands 3 Armoured Regiments, 1 Motor Infantry Battalion plus attachments)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 ARV
Note Canadians changed their order of battle in July
1944 by transferring the Motor Infantry Battalion
to the Armoured Division’s Infantry Brigade.
3 L British Cruiser Regiment October 1942 to May 1943 (North Africa & Tunisia)
HQ 1 AEC, 1 CP, 1 Truck, 1 ARV
1 Troop (CO) 2 Crusader
1 Recce Troop 2 M3A3
1 Anti Aircraft Troop 1 Stag AA
2 Squadrons each 4 Crusader
1 Squadron 4 M4/75
1 Squadron 4 Grant
3 M British Medium Armoured Regiment June 1943 to June 1944 (Europe) Replaces the
Cruiser Regiment of earlier periods
HQ 1 AEC, 1 CP, Truck, 1 ARV
1 Troop (CO) 1 Cromwell
2 Sigs Troops each 1 Daimler
1 Anti Aircraft Troop 2 Stag AA
1 Recce Troop 2 M5
3 Squadrons each 4 M4/75 or Cromwell
Note May add 1 Sherman counter per week beginning
Mid June 1944 until August 1944 then use 3M
3 N British Medium Armoured Regiment August 1944 to April 1945 (Europe) Replaces the
Cruiser Regiment of earlier periods
- 13 –
3 T British Self Propelled Field Artillery Regiment, RA and RHA 1942 (2 in an Armoured
Division)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 ARV
2 Self-Propelled Batteries each 1 SPG, 1 Truck, 1 CP, 1 OP, 2 Jeeps
Note Guns are
1942 to 1943 Bishop (N. Africa and Sicily)
3 U British Self Propelled Field Artillery Regiment, RA and RHA 1943 to 1945 (2 in an
Armoured Division)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 ARV
4 Self-Propelled Batteries each 1 SPG, 1 Truck, 1CP, 1 OP, 2 Jeeps
- 14 –
3 W British Heavy Regiment, RA 1939 to 1945 (these were not used in North Africa)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 ARV
4 Heavy Batteries each 1 Gun, 1 CP, 2 Trucks, 1 Staff Car
Note Guns are
1939 to 1940 France 8”
1939 to 1943 7.2
1942 onwards 7.2 or 8”
Divisions:
South African Infantry – 3 Infantry Brigades, 3 Field Artillery Regiments, 1 Light Anti-Aircraft
Regiment, 1 Medium Anti-Aircraft Regiment, 1 Anti-Tank Regiment, 1 Engineer Squadron, 1
Machinegun Battalion, 3 Divisional Recce Regiments, 1 Tank Regiment,
Parachute – 2 Parachute Brigades, 1 Glider Brigade, 3 75mm Field Artillery Regiments, 1 Towed
Anti-Tank Regiment (57ATG towed by jeeps), 1 Engineer Squadron (if this division goes into battle
as infantry all the same assets as an infantry division are present, 1 Machinegun Battalion, 1
Divisional Recce Regiment, All transport is Jeep and armoured cars are Lynx.
- 19 –
Divisions:
This is army is estimated. No more than one division ever operated together.
Divisions:
This is army is estimated. Quickly bowled over this army had no real personality. The
Yugoslavs were very fragmented ethically and this should be represented in morale. The Croats in
particular will change sides when faced with the Germans.
1 OP team 1 OP
Divisions:
A small army, which managed to hold the Russians for some eight or nine months in the
winter of 1939 to 1940, and then joined Germany in their invasion of Russia in 1941. The army had
little in the way of heavy weapons, most of its armour came from captured Russian sources, or later
supplied by the Germans. From 1944 the Finns saw the writing on the wall and changed sides, and
fought with the Soviets until the Germans were expelled from Finnish soil.
7 A Finnish Regimental Headquarters 1939 to 1945 (May Command 2 Infantry Battalions and 1
Cyclist Battalion)
HQ 1 CP
7 C Finnish Tank Company 1939 to 1940 (only one was used, Renault FT17/37’s were dug in as
defenses.)
3 T26
Divisions:
This organization was used for the campaigns in Europe, and also in Syria and North West
Africa. For Free French until 1943 use the British organizations, from then on use the US
organizations with a mixture of British, American and France 1940 equipment. After 1944 most
equipment was standardized on the US model but commandos retained British organization and
equipment. The following tables are by division, starting with DLM, then DCR and finally Infantry. In
Syria H35 tank battalions and Infantry units may be used. In Tunisia Infantry and S35 or H39 tanks
- 23 –
can be used.
8 A French DLM Tank Regiment Headquarters 1939 to 1940 (Commands 1 S35 and 1 H35/39
Battalion)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 Truck
8 I French DCR Chasseur Battalion 1939 to 1940 (Division only had one of these)
HQ 1 CP, 1 81M, 1 Staff Car, 2 Trucks
3 Infantry Companies each 3 Rifle, 3 Lorraine
1 Anti Tank Company 3 25ATG, 3 Loraine
1 Recce Company 1 Panhard, 1 Scout, 1Motorcycle
- 24 –
8 J French DCR Divisional Anti Tank Company 1939 to 1940 (Division only has one of these)
3 Lorraine, 3 47ATG
8 S French Infantry Division Infantry Regimental Headquarters 1939 to 1942 (Use for
Motorized infantry as well, has 3 Battalions)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 Truck
- 25 –
8 AD French Infantry or Motorized Division Light Artillery Group 1939 to 1942 (Division has 1
of these)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 Wagon
3 Light Battalions each 4 CP, 1 OP, 3 75H, 3 Wagons, 3 Limbers, 5 Staff
Car
1 Anti Tank Company 2 Lorraine, 2 25ATG
Note Motorized divisions have trucks, infantry divisions
have wagons and limbers.
8 AE French Infantry or Motorized Division Artillery Group 1939 to 1942 (Division has 1 of
these)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 Truck
2 Medium Battalions each 4 CP, 1 OP, 3 105H, 3 Wagons, 3 Limbers, 5
Staff Car
1 Heavy Battalion 4 CP, 1 OP, 3 155H, 3 Wagons, 3 Limbers, 5
Staff Car
Note Motorized divisions have trucks, infantry divisions
have wagons and limbers.
8 AG French Motorized Infantry and Armoured Corps Heavy Artillery Regiment 1939 to 1940
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 Truck
2 Battalions each 3 105H, 4 CP, 1 OP, 6 Trucks, 5 Staff Car
2 Battalions each 3 155H, 4 CP, 1 OP, 6 Trucks, 5 Staff Car
Division:
DLM (Division Light Mechanized) – 1 DLM Armoured Brigade (2 DLM Tank Regiments), 1 DLM
Recce Groupe, 1 Dragoons Portees Regiment, 1 DLM Anti-Tank Groupe, 1 DLM Artillery Groupe, 1
Motorized Machinegun Battalion, 9 Motorized Engineer Platoons
DCR (Division Armoured (“Chars”))– 1 DCR Armoured Brigade (1 DCR Medium Tank Regiment,
1 DCR Heavy Tank Regiment), 1 DCR Chaser Battalion, 1 DCR Artillery Groupe, 1 Motorized
Machinegun Battalion, 3 Motorized Engineer Platoons
DCL (Division Cavalry Light) – 1 Light Cavalry Brigade (2 Cavalry Regiments), 1 Light Mechanized
Brigade (1 Armoured Car Regiment, 1 Reconnaissance Battalion, 1 Tank Battalion (H35), 1
Dragoons Portees Regiment), 1 DCL Artillery Groupe, 1 DCL Anti Tank Groupe, 1 Motorized
Machinegun Battalion, 1 DCL Anti Aircraft Battery (1 25 AAG, 1 Limber), 3 Motorized Engineer
Platoons
The German army fielded over 300 infantry divisions, which provided the bulk of their forces.
There was a continual shortage of equipment, so units shown here are almost certainly over
strength.
9 U German Armoured Grenadier Battalion 1942 to 1945 (In Russia, Tunisia and Europe)
HQ 1 CP, 1 HT, 1 Mauliter, 1 ARV
- 31 –
9 V German Mixed Grenadier Battalion 1944 to 1945 (In Russia and Europe)
HQ 1 CP, 1 HT, 1 Mauliter, 1 ARV
1 Company 3 SMG, 1 Pz S (From July 1944), 3 HT
2 Companies each 3 Rifle, 1 Pz S (From July 1944), 3 Truck
1 Heavy Company
1 Anti Aircraft Platoon 1 AA HT
1 Anti Tank Platoon 1 Marder
1 Anti Tank Platoon 1 75ATG, 1 Truck
1 Cannon Platoon 1 GW38
1 Machinegun Company
1 Recce Platoon 2 SMG, 2 Motorcycle
1 Machinegun Platoon 1 MG, 1 Truck
1 Com Engr Platoon 1 Combat Engr, 1 HT
1 Mortar Battery 1 120M, 1 81M, 2 Truck
Note The first Panzer Grenadier Regiment of a Panzer
Division had this type of organization in place of a
full Armoured Grenadier Battalion with the other
battalions of the division being Motorized
Grenadier Battalions. Only SS and Elite Army
and Luftwaffe formations had full Armoured
Grenadier Battalions. This was a result of the
1944 re-org of the German Army and the
continuing equipment and manpower shortages.
9 X German Motorcycle Battalion 1939 to 1943 (All Theatres)(One of these per Panzer Division)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Motorcycle, 1 Truck
- 32 –
9 AA German Panzer Lehr Panzer Regiment Headquarters 1944 to 1945 (Comds 12 Pz Lehr
Coys (4 coys of 5 PzV, 4 coys of 5 Pz IV and 4 coys of 5 PzVI)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Comd Pz, 3 AA HT, 1 Mauliter,
1 Jagd Panzer Company 4 Jpz 4
1 Anti Aircraft Company 4 AA HT
1 Recce Company 4 Luchs, 4 SMG, 4 M/C
existence):
510 - 3/44 East Front
511 - 1/44 East Front then folded into 502. Use
Tiger 2 from 8/44.
511 - 1/45 East Front, newly raised from training
troops. Use Tiger 2 from 1/45.
1/130 – 1/44 West Front, was made a panther
battalion after 8/44
SS 101 – 2/44 West Front, then East Front from
1/45. Use Tiger 2 from 12/44.
SS 102 – 2/44 West Front, then East Front from
1/45. Use Tiger 2 from 12/44.
SS 103 – 2/44 West Front, then East Front from
1/45. Use Tiger 2 from 12/44.
424 - 1/45 East Front. Formed from the surplus
Tiger 1s of Tiger 2 re-equipped units.
9 AK German Infantry Division Anti-Tank Battalion Late 1942 to 1945 (Use this for Africa as
well, see Note)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 Truck
1 SPAT Company 3 SPAT (StuG3g, Marder, Hetzer)
1 Anti-Tank Company 4 50ATG, 4 Truck
2 Anti Aircraft Company 2 AA HT or 2 20AA, 2 Truck
Note 75ATG from November 1942. Must use 7.62ATG
in North Africa and may use 7.62ATG on East
Front after July 1942.
9 AL German Panzer & Panzer Grenadier Division Anti-Tank Battalion 1942 to 1945
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 Truck
2 SPAT Companies each 3 SPAT (StuG3g, JP4, Marder, Hetzer (1944))
2 Anti Tank Companies each 2 75ATG, 2 RSO
HQ 1 StuG3g, 1 AAHT
3 Batteries each 1 StuG3g
1 Support Battery 1 StuG42
9 BH German Demonstration Brigade 900 1941 to 1943 (Commands 2 1941 Panzer Grenadier
Battalions, numbers 901 and 902)
HQ 1 CP, 1V/W, 1 Truck, 1 Scout, 1 M/C
Engineer Company 2 Com Engr, 1 Const Engr, 1 Tank Bridge, 4
Truck
Anti-Tank Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 V/W, 1 Truck
1 AA Batteries each 2 AAHT
3 AT Company each 2 50ATG, 2 Truck
Note This is the forerunner to the Panzer Lehr Division.
It fought on the East Front in 1941 and served in
France 1942 to 1943 as a training and
replacement unit until upgraded to Division status.
Add Panzer Battalion (Pzkfw 3N) numbered “130”
in late 1942.
Divisions:
Infantry 1939 – 3 Infantry Regiments (3 Battalions each), 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Infantry Recce
Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion
Air Landing Infantry 1940-44 – 2 Infantry Regiments (2 Battalions each), 1 Parachute Regiment (3
- 42 –
Infantry 1944 – 3 Infantry Regiments (2 Battalions each), 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Infantry Battalion,
1 Fusilier Company, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion,
78th Sturm Infantry 1943-44 – 3 Sturm Infantry Regiments (1 Infantry Battalion and 1 105H Artillery
Battalion each), 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Fusilier Company, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Jagd Panzer
Battalion (Marder 2), 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti Aircraft Battalion, 1 Mortar Battalion, 1 Assault
Gun Battalion
Static Infantry 1944 (Security Division) – 3 Static Infantry Regiments (2 Battalions each), 1
Artillery Regiment, 1 Anti-tank Battalion
Luftwaffe Field – 2 Luftwaffe Infantry Regiments (3 Luftwaffe Battalions each), 1 Artillery Regiment
(only 2 Light Battalions), 1 Fusilier Company (as per the Volksgrenadier Fusilier Company but no
armoured car), 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion
SS Infantry (after 1943) – 3 Infantry Regiments (3 battalions each), 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Infantry
Recce Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion
Motorized Infantry (until 1943) – 3 Motorized Infantry Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Recce
Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion
Light Division 1939-41 – 1 Panzer Regiment, 1 Motorized Infantry Regiment, 1 Artillery Battalion, 1
Motorized Recce Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion
Panzer Division 1941 – 1 Panzer Regiment, 2 Panzer Grenadier Regiments (two battalions each),
1 Motorcycle Battalion, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Motorized Recce Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1
Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion
Panzer Division 1943 – 1 Panzer Regiment, 1 Panzer Grenadier Regiment (2 Battalions each), 1
Motorized Grenadier Regiment (2 Battalions each), 1 Panzer Artillery Regiment, 1 Motorized Recce
- 43 –
Panzer Division 1945 – 1 Panzer Regiment (1 Panther Battalion, 1 Panzer Grenadier Battalion), 2
1944 Infantry Regiments (2 Infantry Battalions each), 1 Panzer Artillery Regiment, 1 Motorized
Recce Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Company, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion
Panzer Lehr Panzer Division 1944-45 – 1 Panzer Lehr Panzer Regiment, 2 Panzer Grenadier
Regiments (3 Battalions each), 1 Panzer Artillery Regiment (including 1 Self Propelled Nebelwerfer
Battalion), 1 Motorized Recce Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft
Battalion, 1 Assault Gun Battalion (This organization should be used for the Greater Germany
Panzer Division but with a standard Panzer Regiment of one battalion each Pz4h, Panther and Tiger
1)
Herman Goering Panzer Division 1943-45 – 1 Panzer Regiment, 2 Panzer Grenadier Regiments (3
Battalions each), 1 Panzer Artillery Regiment (including 1 Self Propelled Nebelwerfer Battalion), 1
Motorized Recce Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft Regiment (2
Anti Aircraft Battalions, 1 Motorized Grenadier Battalion), 1 Assault Gun Battalion (This
organization should be used for the 1st Herman Goering Panzer Division and 2nd Herman Goering
Panzer Grenadier Division (with one panzer battalion only in Herman Goering Panzer Grenadier
Division)
SS Panzer Division 1943 (from September 1943) – 1 Panzer Regiment (1 battalion each of
Panthers, Pz4h, Tiger), 2 Panzer Grenadier Regiments (3 Battalions each), 1 Panzer Artillery
Regiment, 1 Motorized Recce Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft
Battalion, 1 Assault Gun Battalion
Panzer Grenadier Division 1943 – 1 Panzer Battalion (Assault Gun battalion in 1945), 2
Motorized Grenadier Regiments (2 Battalions each), 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Motorized Recce
Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion
18th Artillery Division (1943-44 East Front) – 1 Pz Artillery Regiment, 1 Heavy Artillery Regiment,
1 Artillery Regiment (Motorized), 1 Observer Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Company (75mm), 1 Engineer
Battalion (no bridging assets), 1 Anti Aircraft Battalion
Cavalry 1939-43 – 3 Cavalry Regiments, 1 Cavalry Artillery Regiment, 1 Infantry Recce Battalion, 1
Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Company, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion
Cavalry Brigade 1944-45 – 2 Cavalry Regiments, 1 Cavalry Artillery Regiment, 1 Motorized Recce
Battalion, 1 Anti-tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Company
- 44 –
Parachute Brigade Ramke 1942 Africa – 4 Parachute Infantry Battalions, 1 Artillery Battalion
(105mm), 1 Anti Tank Company (28mm), 1 Engineer Company (this unit had no infantry transport
and borrowed transport from the Afrika Corps Flak Battalions after they were positioned).
10 Hungarian Army
One of Germany’s allies in 1941 to early 1945 when it went over the Soviets after an
armistice. The formations given here cover the later period; in 1941 the army assisted in the invasion
of Yugoslavia, and supplied a small group of Mechanized Cavalry to the German invasion in 1941,
withdrawn by November of that year. In 1942 and 1943 it supplied one army consisting of 3 Infantry
Corps and the Hungarian 1st Armoured Division. This force was destroyed, and no further action
was undertaken until January 1944. There appears to have been little change in organization in this
period. When Hungary surrendered in 1945 its forces were reorganized on Russian lines, and given
Russian equipment.
Hungarian Equipment
Toldi as a Pz2
Turan I as a Pz38
Turan II as a Pz4d
Nimrod as a AA HT
Zrinyi II as a Stug42
39 M Csaba as a 222 A/C
Divisions:
The least well prepared of the major powers in Europe, the Italians have unfairly become the
butt of many jokes. Much of the equipment was elderly, particularly the artillery, whilst the tanks
tended to be a generation behind those of their enemies. The individual soldier was highly trained in
battlecraft but morale suffered because of the lack shared danger between officer and men. The
bulk of the army fought in North Africa and was effectively destroyed by May 1943. The Army
supplied to the Eastern Front ceased to exist in the counterattack following Stalingrad. Only 2
armoured divi sions were committed to action, in North Africa, there were some 6 more held back in
Italy. Fascists units retained the organizations shown after 1943; those fighting on the Allied side
used American organization, with mostly American equipment, although some British weapons
were supplied.
11 C Italian Fascist “Black Shirt” Infantry Legion Headquarters 1938 to 1943 (Commands 2
- 46 –
Cohorts)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car
11 J Italian Tank Regiment 1938 to 1943 (Initially 1 Medium Battalion, up to 4 Light Battalions,
later 3 Medium Battalions under command)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car, 1 ARV
1 Anti Aircraft Company 2 20AAG, 2 Truck
11 P Italian Infantry Division Artillery Regiment 1938 to 1943 (Infantry Division has 2 of these
officially, but many had only one)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Staff Car
2 Light Battalions each 3 75H, 1 OP, 4 CP, 3 Wagon, 6 Limber
1 Medium Battalion 3 105H, 4 CP, 1OP, 3 Wagon, 6 Limber
2 Anti Aircraft Batteries each 2 20AAG, 2 Limber (2nd company applies in
North Africa only)
Note Individual Battalions may be fielded
Divisions:
Infantry – 3 Infantry Regiments, 2 Artillery Regiments, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Light Tank Battalion,
1 Close Support Battalion (Infantry Divisions on the East Front had 2 Close Support Battalions with
the recce companies)(Most Infantry Divisions on mainland Italy had only two Infantry Regiments)
Of the major powers the Japanese were the most disorganized. Although there were official
organizations for divisions they were most frequently not honoured in the breach. The major portion
of the army was committed to main land China and Manchuria, and in 1939 was given a rude shock
at the hands of the Russians. The Western Allies met the more lightly equipped, if extremely high
morale forces. Contrary to popular belief this army was not a superior jungle fighting force but it
was certainly not as road bound as the Western Allies – a very definite advantage! Only one or two
armoured divisions were formed, and most armour acted as independent companies, or regiments.
The First Armoured Division was held on mainland Japan throughout the war in case of invasion and
was at full strength when it surrendered in 1945.
HQ 1 CP, 1 Wagon
3 or 4 Companies each 3 Rifle
1 Machinegun Company 1 MG
1 Cannon Platoon 1 70IG, 1 Limber
1 Anti Tank Platoon 1 37ATG, 1 Limber
Note From 1943 may replace 37mm with 47mm.
12 I Japanese Divisional Anti Tank Regiment 1936 to 1945 (Infantry use Horses and only in
China)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Horse, 1 Wagon
3 Batteries each 3 37ATG, 3 Limber
- 50 –
Divisions
A much more effective army than the 1939 campaign has given credit for. It was largely an
infantry force, with two motorized brigades, and a large cavalry arm. There were also several
armoured trains. Despite rumours to the contrary Polish cavalry did not charge German tanks with
lance. From 1940 the Poles in the West followed British organizations, and from 1942 in the East
Russian ones.
13 H Polish Cavalry Brigade Recce Battalion (may also be used with a Mechanized Brigade)
HQ 1 CP, Staff Car, 1 Truck
1 Armoured Car Squadron 3 WZ34
1 Light Tank Company 4 TKS
battalions.
Divisions:
The Russian army and its disadvantages and advantages are by now well known. Much of the
artillery fired over open sights rather than using indirect fire more normal in the other major armies.
This caused heavy losses to the guns. The direct fire doctrine was reinforced by the appearance of
assault artillery such as the SU-122, SU-152, and ISU-152. All units in this section are platoon-
sized.
14 B Soviet Guards Rifle Regiment Headquarters 1941 to 1945 (Has 2, 3 or 4 Battalions, may
have a Tank Battalion from 1942 while on the attack)
HQ 1 CP
1 Cannon Company 2 122IG, 2 Wagons
1 Mortar Company 2 120M, 1 Wagon
1 Anti Tank Company 2 57ATG, 2 Limber
1 Anti Aircraft Company 2 12.7AAG, 2 Wagon
Note For a Motorized Division Headquarters replaces
Wagon with Truck and adds 1 ARV
A note on Soviet Combat Brigades – Soviet brigades served on the ends of the Eastern Front.
Most Rifle Brigades were formed from citizen militias in Leningrad and served on the Northern end of
the Eastern Front. Naval Infantry brigades served with the fleet and fought along the coast of the
Black Sea. Mountain Brigades served in the Casascus Mountains, in the Recapture of the Crimea
and later in the Balkans.
14 O Soviet Tank Brigade HQ 1938 to1941 (Has 1 Light and 2 Medium or BT battalions, 1
Motorized Infantry Battalion)
HQ 1 BT7, 1 ARV
2 Recce Companies each 3 BA10
Note This formation was officially reorganized in 1940.
The process was still in training and unfinished in
1941. Medium Brigades have BT Headquarters;
Lt brigades have T26 Headquarters.
14 W Soviet Tank Brigade September 1941 to May 1942 (This unit counts as a Battalion unless
SMG Battalion is added)
HQ 1 T34a, 1 Truck, 1 ARV
2 Companies each 3 T34a
2 Companies each 3 T26
1 Company 3 KV1
14 X Soviet Tank Brigade June 1942 to July 1943 (This unit counts as a Battalion unless SMG
Battalion is added)
HQ 1 T34a, 1 Truck, 1 ARV
3 Companies each 3 T34a
1 Company 3 T70
1 Recce Company 3 SMG, 3 Motorcycle
14 Y Soviet Tank Brigade Headquarters July 1943 to May 1945 (3 Tank Battalions and 1 SMG
Battalion)
HQ 1 T34, 1 Truck, 1 ARV
1 Recce Company 3 Recon, 3 Motorcycle, 2 BA10
1 Anti Aircraft Company 2 12.7AAG, 2 Truck
1 Engineer Company 3 Combat Engr, 3 Truck
1 Mortar Battery 1 120M, 1 Truck
1 Howitzer Battery 1 76H, 1 Truck
Note T34/85 may be used from November 1943
HQ 1 CP, 1 Horse
4 Squadrons each 3 SMG, 3 Horse
1 Mortar Battery 2 81M, 2 Wagon
1 Howitzer Battery 1 76H, 1 Limbers, 1 Wagon
1 Anti Tank Platoon 1 45ATG, 1 Limber
1 Anti Aircraft Platoon 1 12.7AAG, 1 Wagon
Divisions:
Rifle Division (1940- 45) – 3 Infantry Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Tank Battalion (T26 in
1941), 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Recce Battalion
Motorized Rifle Division (1940 – 42) – 3 Infantry Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Tank Brigade
(T26), 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Recce Battalion
Tank Division (1940-42) – 2 Tank Brigades, 1 Mechanized Brigade, 1 Heavy Tank Regiment, 1
Artillery Regiment, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Battalion (Towed), 1 Recce Battalion
Artillery Division - Independent artillery divisions had very varied composition. Light Brigades had
2 Regiments of 3 light battalions as above; these would be motorized. Howitzer Brigades had 2
Regiments of 2 Medium Battalions, with 122mm Howitzers, and 1 battalion of 152mm Gun
Howitzers. Cannon Brigades could have 122mm, 152mm or 203mm weapons in 3 battalions.
Rocket brigades could have 2 Regiments of 3 battalions. Air Aircraft Brigades could have 2 or 3
Regiments. Mortar brigades could have up to 4 battalions of 120mm mortars.
Tank Corps (1943-45) – 3 Tank Brigades, 1 Mechanized Brigade, 1 Heavy Tank Regiment, 1
Artillery Regiment, 2 Self-Propelled Gun Regiments, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Regiment
(Towed), 1 Recce Battalion,
15 Bulgarian Army
Sharing a religion and a culture similar to old Russia it was a great territorial benefit to be
part of the Axis. Bulgaria gained parts of Yugoslavia from its Axis relationship. A Bulgarian Army
- 61 –
is a Corps sized unit of 3 Infantry Divisions, 1 Cavalry Division, 1 Army Artillery Regiment and a
Tank Regiment (only if allotted from Army Group as Bulgaria had only 1 such unit). There was also
a Royal Guards Motor Infantry Battalion guarding the King. The Anti Aircraft Battalions were
allotted to the defense of major cities and there were 4 of them under an Anti Aircraft Regiment
Headquarters.
Divisions:
- 63 –
Cavalry – 1 Motorized Infantry Regiment, 2 Cavalry Brigades (of 2 Cavalry Regiments each), 1
Artillery Regiment, 1 Tank Battalion (attached only when division is on the offensive)
16 Rumanian Army
The Rumanian Army made a significant but under-recognized contribution to the Axis war
effort. They maintained 2 full armies in the field throughout the war, and maintained approximately
1.1 million combat troops at any one time. Whilst they are famous for being the weak link in the
chain at Stalingrad, the troops themselves were well motivated and well lead but did as well as they
could within the limitations of their equipment and logistic support. When they were provided with
modern arms by Germany, they fought very well indeed, and the mobile (cavalry and armoured)
formations and mountain units fought well consistently particularly during the counter attack to save
the Rumanian Army at Stalingrad. The Rumanian Infantry Divisions were handicapped in mobile
operations by their almost total dearth of motor transport, and in static operations by the light-
weight of their artillery (the heaviest guns being 100mm howitzers of WW1 vintage, and the bulk
were 75mm field guns) and they were quickly overrun by Soviet mobile units.
Of all the Axis Satellites in the East, Rumania was on the Allied side in the First World
War. This former relationship made the reason for joining the Axis side more of an imperative than
for most Axis partners. Knowing that Germany and the USSR would sooner or later go at it,
Rumania had to pick the winning side to survive. Unfortunately for Rumania she picked wrong.
Divisions:
Cavalry – 1 Cavalry Motor Regiment, 2 Horse Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Mortar Company,
1 Anti-Aircraft Company, 1 Engineer Company
Armoured – 1 Royal Tank Regiment, 1 Tank Regiment, 2 Motor Infantry Regiments, 1 Anti-Aircraft
Company, 1 Recon Battalion, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Motorized Anti-Tank Battalion
17 Greek Army
This army had little chance to develop its own personality. A client state of the British
Empire much of the equipment was British but the organization had a French influence. This army
fought the Italians to a standstill then invaded Albania forcing Germany to conquer the Balkans to
save the Italians. This resulted in a delay in the invasion of the USSR that saved Moscow and
probably cost Germany the war, for that, we all owed a great debt to the Greek soldier. The Greek
army did as best as it could but had little professionalism so it had little chance against the
Germans. Equipment is a mixture of pre-war US, French and British.
Divisions:
Infantry – 3 Infantry Regiments, 1 Infantry Divisional Recce Group, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Engineer
Company
Motorized Infantry – 3 Motorized Infantry Regiments, 1 Motorized Recce Group, 1 Motorized Anti-
Aircraft Group, 2 Motorized Artillery Group, 1 English Battery, 1 Anti-Tank Company, 1 Anti-Tank
Rifle Company, 1 Motorized Engineer Company
Cavalry – 1 Cavalry Regiment, 1 Motorized Cavalry Regiment, 2 Cavalry Divisional Recce Groups,
1 Mounted Machinegun Group Note the Motorized Cavalry Regiment was transferred to the
Motorized Infantry Division and the Cavalry Brigade was transferred in to replace it in November
1940.
Cavalry Brigade – 1 Cavalry Regiment, 2 Corps Recce Groups, 1 Mounted Machinegun Group
18 Introduction
This next section covers organizations for the major armies, and major conflicts from 1958
to 1997, so some strange armies appear because they have been in action.
19 American Army
There are four sets of organization for the US army, Pentomic, ROAD, Division 86 and
Army XXI. ROAD, Division 86 and Army XXI units practiced cross attachment, so Tank and
Mechanized Companies may be fielded with companies from the opposite. Similarly the Brigades
are very flexible, and can command from 2 to 5 battalions in these units.
19 AX American XXI Armoured Cavalry Regiment (Light) 1997-2001 (Commands 1 Air Cavalry
Squadron and 3 Cavalry Squadron (Light))
HQ 1 HMMV/TOC, 3 HMMV, 1 CP, 1 ARV, 1 Truck
Chemical Company 1 HMMV, 2 M93 Fox
Intelligence Company 3 HMMV, 2 OP, 1 GSR
Air Defense Battery 3 HMMV/AD
- 77 –
Divisions:
Air Mobile Division – 3 Brigade Headquarters, 9 Infantry Battalions, 1 Artillery Brigade, 1 Anti-
Aircraft Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Cavalry Squadron, 1 Helicopter Battalion, 1 Attack
Helicopter Battalion
Marine Division – 3 Marine Regiments, 1 Armoured Battalion, 1 Light Armoured Vehicle Battalion,
1 Amphibious Assault Vehicle Battalion, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 1 Engineer
Battalion, 1 Cavalry Squadron, 1 Helicopter Battalion, 1 Attack Helicopter Battalion
These have been included to give a basis for the recreation of the Falklands Conflict. The
Argentines deployed only light armour to the Islands, but included are some of the armoured units,
which could have been used.
21 British Army
A shrinking force, still primarily an infantry force, and the European army with the most
experience in worldwide deployment. The basic structures have changed little, and the introduction
of new equipment has always been slow, due to lack of funds. Cross attachment is practiced, but
brigade structures are rigid unlike those of the American army.
Divisions:
Field Force – 2 Infantry Brigades, 1 Armoured Brigade, 1 Engineer Regiment, 1 Air Defense
Regiment, 1 Helicopter Battalion, 1 Recce Regiment, 1 Artillery Brigade (Towed)
The World’s largest army, which may now be conscript, although it was until the 1980’s an
all-volunteer force. This army makes an interesting opponent for both Russians and Vietnamese.
Divisions:
Tank Division – 2 Tank Regiments, 1 Mechanized Infantry Regiment, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Anti-
Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Recon Battalion
Motor Rifle Division – 1 Tank Regiment, 2 Mechanized Infantry Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1
Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Recon Battalion
Infantry Division – 3 Infantry Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Tank Assault Gun Battalion, 1
Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion
Airborne Division – 3 Infantry Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Assault Gun Battalion, 1 Anti-
Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion
The major Arab army fighting Israel, and despite the results obtained one of the more
effective. Initially it had British equipment, but by 1956 it had received much Russian equipment,
whilst in the late 1970’s it moved on to American vehicles, with a Soviet basic organization.
Divisions:
Infantry Division – 3 Infantry Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Assault Gun or Tank Battalion, 1
Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion
Able, despite the almost complete destruction of France in 1940, to be the only fully
independent army in Western Europe, and only with loose ties to NATO. The French have a
considerable worldwide capability and maintain large and varied light forces to allow this. From
1978 French divisions have been large brigades, so from that date on the Brigade level Headquarters
is called Divisional. Prior to 1956 use US Army World War 2 organization.
24 E French NATO Infantry Brigade 1956 to 1974 (May command 3 Infantry & 1 Light Tank
Regiment)
HQ 1 Jeep, 2 Truck, 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 ARV
1 Recce Company 2 Jeep/MG, 2 AML90, 2 AML60, 1 Jeep/106
1 Engineer Company 3 Truck, 3 Combat Engr
Note This type of formation could also be used on colonial
operations.
Note AMX -VCI can be used until 1994, LeClerc from 1995.
Eryx ATGW may also be used, from 1995.
11th French Airborne Division – Division Headquarters, 1 Airborne Armoured Regiment (1st
Hussars), 2 Parachute Brigades (consisting of 3 Airborne Regiments and a Brigade Headquarters),
35th Airborne Artillery Regiment, 17th Airborne Engineer Regiment, 1st Marine Parachute Infantry
Regiment, 7th Combat Helicopter Regiment. (Infantry units are 3rd Marine Parachute Infantry
Regiment, 8th Marine Parachute Infantry Regiment, 9th Chasseur Parachute Infantry Regiment, 6th
Marine Parachute Infantry Regiment, 7th Chasseur Parachute Infantry Regiment, and 2nd Foreign
Legion Parachute Infantry Regiment).
- 93 –
The German army was officially reformed in 1956, but was not fully reorganized until the
early 1960’s, although combat troops could have been fielded earlier. Initially the army had almost
entirely American equipment and doctrine, but cross-attachment is carried out on a permanent
basis by adding a mobilization battalion with the brigade, this adds the differing company type.
Some older equipment survives in the territorial forces, and these plus some of the Jaeger units are
committed to homeland defense not NATO command.
or Hb or 105Ha or Hb
Note Regular armoured units use M109G (the Panzer Artillery
2000 system is being introduced). Similarly the towed
155H are for Territorial and mountain units. The Luftlande
units now have a Mortar battalion, with 3 batteries of 2
120M. Its “vehicles” are the army helicopters. Divisional
and Corps level units have two structures:
3 Towed batteries with 155Hb and 1 Self-
Propelled Battery of M110
Or Rocket Battalion of 2 batteries of 2 LARS, 2
Batteries of MLRS
Divisions:
Panzer Division – 2 Panzer Brigades, 1 Panzer Grenadier Brigade, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Recce
Battalion, 1 Engineer Brigade
One of the most infamous armed forces in recent history, it has few if any redeeming
features. Other than this it was trounced in 1973 by the Israelis, and totally mangled by Allied
forces in 1991. The best equipment should be reserved for Republican Guard units. Only Soviet
made equipment was used against the Israelis in 1967.
Divisions:
Tank Division – 2 Tank Brigades, 1 Mechanized Infantry Brigade, 1 Artillery Brigade (3 122mm
Towed Howitzer Battalions, 1 122mm Self-Propelled Howitzer Battalion, 1 152mm Towed Howitzer
Battalion, 1 Multiple Rocket Launcher Battalion), 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion (Self-Propelled), 1 Anti-
Aircraft Battalion (Towed), 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Special Forces Battalion, 1
- 99 –
Recce Battalion
Motor Rifle Division – 1 Tank Brigade, 2 Mechanized Infantry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade (3
122mm Towed Howitzer Battalions, 1 122mm Self-Propelled Howitzer Battalion, 1 152mm Towed
Howitzer Battalion, 1 Multiple Rocket Launcher Battalion), 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion (Self-Propelled),
1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion (Towed), 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Special Forces
Battalion, 1 Recce Battalion
Infantry Division – 3 Infantry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade (3 122mm Towed Howitzer Battalions
and 1 Multiple Rocket Launcher Battery), 1 Tank Battalion, 1 Anti-Aircraft Battalion (Towed), 1 Anti-
Aircraft Battery (self-propelled), 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion, 1 Special Forces
Battalion
An army with an immense amount of combat experience, and at one time probably the
most effective army in the world. The exact organization is still secret. Since 1985 the army has
had no structure above company level, these are attached to Combat Forces, which in turn are
formed into Combat Units. You will note the incredible likeness to the US Army Pentomic
organization except units are not permanently assigned to a higher headquarters.
Division – Ad Hoc combinations of Brigades brought together under one commander, add a Recce
Battalion and an Artillery Brigade and a few extra Anti-Aircraft companies.
A British trained Bedouin army, of some ability. Jordan has always steered a middle path,
trying to at least keep out of wars with Israel, and remain in the Arab camp. Mostly using western
equipment, but some Russian weapons has been introduced.
As the last Stalinist state, North Korea has lost its sponsors, and may well have little
functioning equipment left. Well into the 1980’s their commandos raided into the South, trying to
destabilize the regime there.
29 A North Korean Corps Tank Regiment Headquarters 1960 to 1997 (Commands 3 Tank
Battalions, 1 Motor Rifle Battalion)
HQ 1 T55 or T62 or Type 59, 1 Sigs, 2 Truck, 1 ARV
Recce Company 2 PT76 or Type 63
1 BTR152 or BTR50 or BMP1, 3 Rifle
Anti Aircraft Company 2 ZSU-57
Engineer Company 2 BTR 50, Combat Engr, 1 Const Engr 1 MTU20
Note T55/Type 59 can be used without restriction, T62 from 1970.
BMP were issued from 1981, and ZSU23 from 1985.
Divisions:
Corps - a Corps consists of 4 Infantry Divisions, 2 Infantry Brigades, 1 Corps Tank Regiment, 1
Corps Artillery Regiment (130 or 152mm – 3 Battalions), 2 Corps Antiaircraft Regiment (57mm S60
– 3 Battalions), 1 Corps MRL Regiment (BM21 – 3 Battalions), 1 Corps Engineer Regiment, (3
Battalions), 1 Corps ATGM Company (3 Platoons of AT1 on Gaz)
Another army which is primarily an infantry army, in the late 1980’s and on into the 1990’s
it has had the economic backing of one of the fastest growing economies in the world. It follows the
American model to a large extent, and is an ally. It did fight in Vietnam and proved to effective, if
brutal. The unit used for Vietnam was the Capital Mechanized Division, mounted in M113, with a
Tank Battalion possibly attached.
Divisions:
This section is only accurate until 1991. There are many changes in progress at present,
but the Russians certainly have retained the same basic organization until today. This is probably
due to the typical Russian inertia.
31 A Russian Motor Rifle Regiment Headquarters 1958 to 1970 (Commands 3 Motor Rifle
Battalions)
HQ 1 BTR152 or BTR50 or BTR60, 1 CP, 3 Truck, 1 ZPU4, 1
BRDM1, 1 Sigs, 2 ARV (1 Each)
Regimental Mortar Battery 1 Gaz, 1 OP, 2 APCs, 2 120M
1 or 2 AA Companies each 2 ZSU57 or 2 Trucks, 2 ZPU4 (Only 1 battery may have
ZSU57)
Engineer Company 1 Truck, 1 Combat Engr, 1 MTU1
1 Anti-Tank Battery 2 Trucks, 2 85ATG or 100ATG
1 Anti-Tank Company 2 Gaz/107RR or 2 Gaz/Snapper or BRDM1/Snapper
1 Recce Company 2 BRDM1, 1 PT-76
Note Only one type of APC may be used. Czechs use OT810
instead of BTR152, Czechs and Poles use OT64 and
OT62 in place of BTR60 and BTR50 respectively.
Similarly BRDM are replaced by OT65/FUG. Only BTR152
may be used until 1960, BTR50 from 1959 and BTR60
from 1961.
- 107 –
31 B Russian Motor Rifle Regiment Headquarters 1970 to 1982 (Commands 3 Motor Rifle
Battalions, 1 Tank Battalion)
HQ 1 BMP-Comd or BTR50 or BTR60, 1 CP, 1 BRDM1 or
BRDM2, 1 Sigs, 2 Truck, 2 ARV (1 Each)
Regimental Mortar Battery 1 BRDM 2, 1 OP, 2 Trucks, 2 120M, 1 Gaz, 1 CP
1 Anti Aircraft Companies ea 2 ZSU57 or 1 ZSU23 and 1 SA9
1 Engineer Company 1 Truck or BTR50, 1 Combat Engr, 1 MTU20
1 Anti-Tank Company 2 Gaz/Snapper or BRDM1/Snapper, or BRDM1/Sagger or
BRDM-2/AT
1 Recce Company 2 BRDM1 or BRDM 2, 1 PT76
Note Only one type of APC may be used; Czechs and Poles use
OT64 and OT62 in place of BTR60 and BTR50. Similarly
BRDM are replaced by OT65/FUG. BTR50 is used in
second line Soviet units and can replace the BMP in first
line units. BTR152 may be used in second Warsaw Pact
line units and third line Soviet units. BMP1 from 1971,
BMP2 may be used from 1979. Gun tractors may be MTLB,
or specialised Artillery Tractors such as the AT-L series. In
Warsaw Pact nations there is good evidence that even farm
tractors have been used to haul artillery in second and third
line formations.
31 C Russian Motor Rifle Regiment Headquarters 1983 to 1997 (Commands 3 Motor Rifle
Battalions, 1 Tank Battalion, 1 Artillery Battalion)
HQ 1 BMP-Comd or BTR-50 or BTR60/70/80, 1 CP, 1
BRDM2, 1 Sigs, 2 Truck, 2 ARV (1 Each)
1 Anti Aircraft Company 1 ZSU23, 1 SA9 or SA13
1 Engineer Company 2 BTR50 or BTR60, 2 Combat Engr, 1 MTU20
1 Anti Tank Company 3 BRDM1/Sagger or BRDM-2/AT or SHTURM-C
1 Recce Company 2 BRDM2, 1 BMP-R
Note Only one type of APC may be used. Czechs and Poles
use OT64 and OT62 in place of BTR60 and BTR50. BTR
50 and BTR 152 are used in third line units only.
31 F Russian Tank Regiment Headquarters 1986 to 1997 (has 3 Tank Battalions, 1 Motor Rifle
Battalion, 1 Artillery Battalion)
HQ 1 T54/55 or T62 or T72 or T64 or T80, 1 BMP-Comd or
BTR50, 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 2 Truck, 2 ARV (1 Each)
1 Anti Tank Company 3 T64 or T80 (Russian units only)
1 Anti Aircraft Company 1 ZSU23, 1 SA9
1 Engineer Company 3 MTLB, 3 Combat Engr, 1 MTU20
1 Recce Company 2 BMP-R, 1 MBT
Note T34/85 and T44 may still be in use with 3rd line units.
Warsaw Pact nation units primarily used the T72 tank.
T64 and T80 primarily served the Soviets. T62 is in
Russian 2nd Line units. Russians primarily use fully
upgraded T55 in conjunction with T80U and T80B. second
and third line units may have PT76 in the Recce
Company. Warsaw Pact Units replace PT76 with BMP1.
Note This unit may add one motor rifle company, one tank
company, engineer company, and an anti aircraft platoon.
Divisions:
Tank Division – 2 Tank Regiments, 1 Mechanized Infantry Regiment, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Anti-
Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion
Motor Rifle Division – 1 Tank Regiment, 2 Mechanized Infantry Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1
Anti-Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion
- 111 –
Airborne Division – 3 Infantry Regiments, 1 Artillery Regiment, 1 Assault Gun Battalion, 1 Anti-
Aircraft Battalion, 1 Anti-Tank Battalion, 1 Engineer Battalion
Naval Infantry Brigade – Naval Infantry Brigade Headquarters (BTR60 Inf Regiment Headquarters),
3 to 5 Naval Infantry Battalions (BTR60), 1 to 2 Naval Tank Battalions (T55 or T72), 1 Naval Artillery
Battalion (2S1), 0 to 1 Rocket Battalion (BM21)
One of the more militant Arab states heavily involved against Israel in 1967, 1973 and during
Operation Peace for Galilee in 1982. It also supplied a division to the Coalition during Desert
Shield/Desert Storm in 1991. It does not appear to be as well trained as the Egyptian army, but has
provided a tough opponent in defensive positional fighting, and demonstrates high morale.
SA7
3 Infantry Companies each 4 BTR152 or BTR60 or OT64, 3 Rifle, 1 82RR
Anti Tank Platoon 2 Gaz, 2 107RR (BTR152 & BTR60 Bn to 1968 to 1973),
or 2 Sagger
Mortar Battery 2 Gaz, 1 CP, 1 OP, 2 Trucks, 2 120M
Note Infantry Battalions may replace the BTR152 with Trucks,
until 1970. Sagger was introduced in 1971, Spigot and
Milan in 1981. OT64 was introduced in 1981.
Divisions:
A ghost of the army that captured Vimy Ridge in WW1 and beat the 1 SS Panzer Corps in
Normandy, the Land Force consists of 3 Regular Army Mechanized Infantry Brigades (3 Infantry
Battalions, 1 Armoured Regiment, 1 Close Support Medium Artillery Regiment, 1 VLLAD Battery)
and 10 Light Infantry Brigades (all reservists consisting 2 Light Infantry Battalions (2 companies
each) 1 Light Armour Regiment (of 2 FSV Cougar Squadrons and 1 Recce Squadron (21 Jeeps with
MMG)), 1 Light Artillery Regiment (of 2 batteries of towed 105 C3 howitzers) and 1 Field Engineer
Squadron and 1 VLLAD Battery))4th Engineer Support Regiment, 1 Signals Regiment and 4th Air
Defense Regiment. At full war mobilization there should be troops for 4 divisions of mechanized
infantry.
33 C Canadian Mechanized Infantry Battalion (some battalions maybe equipped with M113 in
place of LAV3 IFV)
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 M577, 1 Bison, 1 Truck, 1 LAV3
4 Mech Inf Companies each 3 LAV3, 3 Rifle, 3 Eryx
Anti Tank Platoon 3 LAV/TUA
Mortar Platoon 2 LAV/81M, 2 LAV3 1 CP, 1 OP
Pioneer Platoon 1 LAV, 1 Combat Engr
Recce Platoon 2 Coyote
Note In peacetime one battalion of a brigade contains a light
infantry battalion of four infantry companies (two light
infantry companies trained in Mountain and Arctic warfare,
one company airmobile and one company airborne). It is
assumed that in wartime these units would be the basis
- 114 –
Division – 3 or 4 Brigades can come together under a Headquarters to form a Division, add 1
Engineer Support Regiment, 1 Siganls Regiment and 1 AD Regiment as Division Troops
34 Panama 1989
35 Norway
A small army with no combat experience but very capable in arctic and sub-arctic warfare.
All troops should be considered ski capable. In war this army would have been re-inforced with a
Canadian Mechanized Brigade (1st Canadian Brigade was slated) and the British Royal Marine
Brigade to form the hard shoulder of the Northern Flank of NATO. Type 90 units are Regular Army
(there is currently 1) and Type 78 units are Reserve Mobilization Brigades (There are currently 10).
Additionally, there are 22 ski equipped local defense battalions that have some partisan training. 1
Armoured, 1 Mechanized and 2 Motorized brigades would form the 6th Division. Additionally, there
- 115 –
are 7 independent infantry battalions; the Royal Guards, 2 Fortress units and 4 motorized units.
There is a plan afoot to create 2 armoured brigades of 2 tank battalions, 2 Mechanized Infantry
brigades, 2 Motorized Infantry Brigades.
The Yugoslav army consisted of one mechanized corps and seven corps stationed around
- 116 –
BRDM2/AT
BOV-1 AT
Self-propelled company is available in mechanized units
only
105RR
120RR
Large Units:
Corps – 4 Brigades of any possible Type, 1 Artillery Brigade, 1 Anti-Aircraft Regiment, 1 Anti-Tank
Regiment, 1 Engineer Regiment, 1 Recon Battalion,
37 Croatia
Following the Yugoslav break-up the Croatian Army was formed along the lines of the old
- 119 –
Croatian Army of World War Two. The Army is divided into six operational zones (Corps). Much
German and American equipment has been available to this Army since 1995 including Leopard 2
Tanks and M110 self-propelled artillery.
Large Units:
Corps – 4 Brigades of any possible Type, 1 Artillery Brigade, 1 Anti-Aircraft Regiment, 1 Anti-Tank
Regiment, 1 Engineer Regiment, 1 Recon Battalion,
38 Bosnia-Herzegovina
The poorest of the new armies to raise from the dust of the Yugoslav political collapse. The
Bosnian Army is a patchwork of old Soviet and American Equipment. Expect to find US M36 Tank
Destroyers employed along side of T55 tanks.
- 122 –
Large Units:
Corps – 4 Brigades of any possible type, 1 Artillery Brigade, 1 Anti-Aircraft Regiment, 1 Anti-Tank
Regiment, 1 Engineer Regiment, 1 Recon Battalion,
39 Bosnian-Serb Republic
- 124 –
This army was known to get a lot of military equipment from the remains of the Federal
Republic of Yugoslavia (Rump Serbia) and follows it pattern of warfare. This army is aggressive and
violent, especially the light infantry militia units fighting in their home area.
Large Units:
Corps – 4 Brigades of any possible Type, 1 Artillery Brigade, 1 Anti-Aircraft Regiment, 1 Anti-Tank
Regiment, 1 Engineer Regiment, 1 Recon Battalion,
40 India 1950+
The Indian army is the guardian of the world’s largest democracy. The Indians have been at
war with China and Pakistan at various times since independence in 1947. This army can be said
to be more British than the British army from which it inherited it’s tranditions and military ethos. It
is also one of the world’s largest standing armies. One of the biggest problems in representing a
Third World army is the plethora of equipment from various sources. Equipment that is often servi ng
alongside one another in the same units. You will see a number alternates offered to the official
ORBAT feel free to change them out.
- 127 –
40 K Tank Regiment
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Tank, 1 Jeep, 2 Truck, 1 ARV
1 Recon Squadron 2 Jeep/MG, 1 Jeep/106 (3 PT76 after 1985)
3 Tank Squadrons each 3 Tank
Note Tank types are:
Sherman (after 1950)
Centurion 5 (after 1960)
T54 (after 1960)
T55 (after 1966; Delete Sherman)
M48 (after 1960)
Vickers 2 (after 1967)
Centurion 13 (after 1975)
T62 (after 1976)
T72 (after 1980)
Vickers 3 (after 1982; Delete M48)
T55/105 (after 1983)
- 129 –
40 L Artillery Regiment
HQ 1CP, 1 OP, 1 Sigs, 2 Jeep, 2 Truck, 1 MRT
4 Batteries each 2 How, 2 Truck
Note Howitzer types are:
3.7H (mountain units before 1965)
25H (before 1966)
5.5H (until 1996)
105Ha (after 1960)
130H (after 1965)
155Ha (after 1960)
Abbot SP (after 1970)
155Hb (after 1985)
AS90 (after 1997)
India is standardizing on the 155 NATO round in 2002.
Any remaining pieces in service with be withdrawn and re-
built to 155 bore with Israeli assistance. Self-propelled
units are in independent armoured brigades. Mountain
units are equipped with mortars; available are 107mm (in
reserve now), 120mm and 160mm mortars)
40 O Air Defense Group (Commands one Anti Aircraft Regiment and one Surface to Air Missile
Regiment. These groups are found in armoured divisions and at Corps level)
HQ 1CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Jeep, 2 Truck, 1 MRT
40 T Engineer Regiment
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Jeep, 2 Truck, 1 MRT
2 Engineer Squadrons each 3 Com Engr, 3 Truck
1 Bridging Squadron 2 Bridge, 2 Pon Engr, 4 Truck
Large Units:
Infantry Division – 3 Infantry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade (1 Regiment 5.5H, 3 Regiments 155 or
105H, 1 120 Mortar Battery), 1 Tank Regiment (T55), 1 Engineer Regiment
RAPID Division – 2 Infantry Brigades, 1 Artillery Brigade (1 Regiment 130H, 3 Regiments 105H, 1
BM21 Battery, 1 AA Gun Battery ZSU23), 1 Armoured Brigade (2 Tank Regiments and 2
Mechanized Infantry Battalions), 1 Divisional Anti Tank Company, 1 Attack Helicopter Flight, 1
Recon and Support Battalion, 1 Engineer Regiment
41 Pakistan 1950+
- 131 –
The main foil for India on the sub-continent, this army follows the British model but is more
involved in the internal politics of Pakistan and the international politics of Islam. A tough fighting
army it has reputation holding on no matter what the cost and has become extensively involved in
UN Operations at the battalion level.
41 E National Guard Infantry Battalion (local defense untis that do not serve outside their
locality)
HQ 1 CP
- 132 –
41 I Tank Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Tank, 1 Jeep, 2 Truck, 1 ARV
1 Recon Company 1 Jeep/MG, 1 Jeep/106
3 Tank Companies each 3 Tank
Note Tank types are:
M4/76 (1950 to 1965)
M48 (1960 1990)
M47 (1975+)
Type 59 (1975 to 1990)
M48A5 (1980+)
Type 69 (1985+)
T80U (2002+)
41 M Mortar Battalion
HQ 1CP, 1 OP, 1 Sigs, 2 Jeep, 2 Truck, 1 MRT
3 Batteries each 2 120M, 2 Truck
Note Available mortars are 120mm and 107mm. 107mm is the
WW2 British mortar and is considered obselete but was
in general use before 1965.
41 P Engineer Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Jeep, 2 Truck, 1 MRT
2 Engineer Companies each 2 Com Engr, 2 Truck
1 Bridging Company 2 Bridge, 2 Pon Engr, 4 Truck, 1 MLG
Large Units:
42 Belguim 1980+
Belguim is a NATO member and a middle power in Europe. A good all round army well
equipped they long remember the results of not being prepared in 1940. Belguim has taken part in
several UN missions in Europe and in their former colonies in Africa. Belgian army consists of 1
Corps of 1 Mechanized Infantry Division and 1 Parachute/Commando Brigade (all regular).
42 F Artillery Group
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Iltis, 2 Truck, 1 MRT
42 G Parachute/Commando Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 OP, 2 Iltis, 2 Truck, 1 MRT
Mortar Platoon 2 81M, 1CP, 1 Iltis, 2 Truck
Anti Tank Platoon 2 Milan, 2 Iltis
3 Parachute Companies each 3 Para
42 J Armoured Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 M577, 1 M113, 1 M548, 1 Leopard 1, 1
ARV, 1 Leopard 1 Dozer
Recce Platoon 1 Scorpion, 1 Scimitar
3 Tank Companies each 3 Leopard 1
Note Other tanks available include:
M47
AMX13/105
M4/76
M41
M24
M41 or M24 replaces both Scorpion and Simitar in reserve
unit equipped with tanks other than Leopard 1.
- 136 –
42 O Artillery Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Iltis, 1 Truck, 1 ARV
3 Batteries each 2 M109A2, 4 Truck, 1 CP, 1 Op, 1 Iltis
Note Other artillery available in early periods:
M109
M108
M44
M7
42 Q Missile Regiment
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Iltis, 1 Truck, 1 MRT
2 Batteries each 1 Lance, 1 Truck
Gerpard
20AA (add trucks as prime movers)
Gatling (Towed, again add trucks)
42 U Engineer Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Iltis, 1 Truck, 1 MRT
3 Engineer Companies each 3 Com Engr, 3 Truck
42 W Bridging Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Iltis, 1 Truck, 1 MRT
1 Bridging Company 3 Tank Bridge, 2 Pon Engr, 5 Truck
2 Bridging Companies each 6 Truck Bridge, 4 Pon Engr, 10 Truck
Large Units:
The Dutch are marginally prepared to operate in Europe but would require time to mobilize
to get their units to full strength. Dutch commandos work very closely with the British Royal Marine
Commandos and are considered to be very good. Dutch mechanized units have participated in
various UN missions although not always successfully. The Dutch army in 1980 consisted of 1
Corps of 3 Mechanized Infantry Divisions (1 Regular, 1 Reserve and 1 Mixed) plus Corps troops.
The peace dividend of the 1990s reduced the regular Dutch army to one mixed division.
43 H Artillery Group
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 YP408, 2 Truck
43 I Commando Battalion
HQ
3 Commando Companies each
Support Companies
43 K Infantry Battalion
HQ
3 Infantry Companies each
1 Support Company
43 L Airmobile Battalion
HQ
3 Infantry Companies each
1 Support Company
43 N Tank Battalion
HQ
Recce Platoon
3 Tank Companies each
43 O Recce Battalion
HQ
43 R MLRS Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 YP408, 2 Truck
2 Batteries each 2 MRLS, 2 Truck, 1 CP, 1 OP, 2 M113
2 Batteries each
Large Units:
Mixed Division 1990 – 1 Mechanized Brigade, 1 Light Brigade, 1 Airmobile Brigade, 1 Artillery
Group, 1 Engineer Group, 1 Air Defense Battalion
Denmark is a small nation with a very small military. The Danes have very little operational
experience. The Danes have no immediate history of military prowness and their capabilities are
unknown in real war conditions.
45 Switzerland
46 Sweden
47 Italy
48 Greece
49 Turkey
50 Finland
51 Spain
52 Taiwan 1997+
Taiwan is a small island off the coast of mainland China where the Nationalist Government
retreated following their defeat by the Communist Chinese. With the assistance of the US Navy,
the Nationalists have created a new country in what was once a province of China. The main threat
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to their existence is the Communist Army but this is unlikely as long as US support is available.
Recently the military re-organized into 30 brigade groups, discarding the concept of the division and
reassigning all support services to the brigades. The military is equipped with US equipment
although much of this is modified and added to by a growing home defense industry.
52 F Marine Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 3 LVTP5, 1 MRT
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52 G Airmobile Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 2 HMMV, 1 Truck, 1 MRT
3 Rifle Companies each 3 Inf, 1 90RR
1 Support Company 1 Stinger, 1 120M, 1 OP, 1 HMMV/106, 3 HMMV
52 J Armoured Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 M577, 1 M60A3, 1 Truck, 1 ARV
1 Rifle Company 3 Inf, 90RR, 3 CM21
2 Tank Companies each 3 M60A3
52 L Artillery Battalion
HQ 1 CP, 1 Sigs, 1 Jeep, 2 Truck, 1 MRT
3 Batteries each 2 How, 4 Truck, 1 CP, 1OP, 2 HMMV
Note Howitzers include:
Airmobile
75H
Light
105Ha
105Hb
Medium
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155Ha
155Hb
M109A2 (Marines only)
Heavy (Corps Assets)
203Ha
203Hb
Large Units:
53 Singapore
54 Japan
55 Australia
56 New Zealand
57 South Africa
58 Cuba
When forming large units such as Divisions you will require a Headquarters Group. These
groupings should consist of 1CP, 1 Sigs, 1 SMG/Rifle/Security, 1 Medium Mortar, 1 anti-tank gun,
1 Anti-aircraft gun plus transport according to the unit type (armoured, motorized or foot)
Divisional units not represented include Military Police, Signals, Supply, Medical and
Transport battalions. These should be made up of three platoons of three companies each plus a
headquarters.
These ORBATs were originally designed for Platoon Level Board Games so the following
notes will assist you in converting to miniatures. All vehicles/guns should be used one model for
one counter.
For my BattleGame rules, each OP should consist of one officer, one radioman and one
rifleman. Each CP should consist of one officer, one radioman. Each infantry platoon should
consist of 1 LMG Team and 3 Rifle Teams. Each company has a Headquarters of 1 Officer, 1
NCO, 1 Anti-Tank Team, this is Headquarters is divided amongst the company vehicles when
mounted. From 1944 German infantry platoons consist of 1 LMG Team and 2 Rifle Teams.
Machinegun Platoons consist of 3 HMG teams. Signals platoons (EW, DF, Sigs, Loc Arty) consist
of 2 figures armed with rifles and the appropriate equipment.
Most artillery batteries consist of two gun detachments, 1 battery CP and 1 battery OP
plus vehicles. All mortar units should be replaced two for one or two miniature weapons and crews
should replace each mortar counter.
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Engineer platoons for all nations consist of 1 LMG Team, 1 Demolition Team and 1 Flame-
thrower Team (unless the flamethrower team is specified separately).
For other platoon scale war-gaming rules, each OP should consist of stand as appropriate.
Each CP should consist of one stand as appropriate. Each infantry platoon should consist 1 LMG
stand and 1 Rifle Stand as appropriate to the rules you are using. Each company has a command
stand and a weapons stand as specified in the rules you are using. Machinegun Platoons consist
of one to three HMG Stands.
Most artillery batteries consist of one to two gun detachments, 1 battery command post
stand and 1 battery OP stand plus vehicles. All mortar units should be replaced two for one or two
miniature weapons and crews should replace each mortar counter.
Attack and Defend strengths remain unchanged; move and range indicators must be
increased to preserve the look of the game as follows:
2S Soviet SPG Series also see SAU and SO; they mean the same
A
A9 British Infantry Tank
A10 British Cruiser Tank
A11 British Infantry Tank
A12 British Infantry Tank
A13 British Cruiser Tank
A Armour Class Weapon
AA Anti Aircraft Class Weapon
AAG Anti Aircraft Gun
AAV7 See LVTP-7
AB Auto Blinda – Italian Armoured Car
Ab Airborne
Abbot UK SP 105 Howitzer
AC Armoured Car
A/C Aircraft or Armoured Car
ACAV Armoured Cavalry Armoured Vehicle? M113 with extra MG and a MG Turret
ADATS Air Defense Anti Tank System Canadian SPAA Missile on M113
AEC British Command Post Vehicle
AEV Armoured Engineer Vehicle
AH Attack Helicopter
AML French Armoured Car Series
AMX French Tank/APC/IFV/SPG series
AP Armour Piecing
APC Armoured Personnel Carrier
ARM Armoured Infantry Platoon
Armd Armoured
Army A unit of Corps
Amph Amphibious
ARV Armoured Recovery Vehicle
Arty Artillery
AS Attack Strength
AS90 Self Propelled 155mm Howitzer
AT Anti Tank
A/T Anti Tank
ATG Anti Tank Gun
ATGM Anti Tank Guided Missile
ATGW Anti Tank Guided Wire
AT-L Soviet Prime Mover Series
A/Tk Anti Tank
AVLB Armoured Vehicle Launcher Bridge
Armoured Vehicle General Purpose – Canadian Cougar Tank Trainer and
AVGP
Grizzly APC
AVRE Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers
B
Bde Brigade
Bgd Brigade
Bison Canadian Amoured Command Post based on the LAV
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H/T Half-Track
HT Half-Track
Humber British Scout Car
HV Hummer or Hum Vee or HUMMV
Hvy Heavy
I
I Infantry Class Weapons
IDF Indirect Fire
IG Infantry gun
IND Independent
INF Infantry
ISU Soviet Heavy Assault Gun Series
J
Javelin US ATGW or UK LAA Missile
Jeep Light vehicle
Jeep/MG Light vehicle with a machinegun
Jg Jagd or hunting
JP Jagd Panzer
K
Kan Kanone
KV Soviet Heavy Tank Series
Kurrassier Austrian SPAT
KWAG Kubelwagen
L
L/A Light aircraft
LARS Light Artillery Rocket System
LAV Light Armoured Vehicle
LAV 3 Canadian IFV based on LAV
LBer Pounder
LeClerc French Tank
LMG Light Machinegun
Loc Locating
LOF Line of Fire
LOS Line of Sight
LR Land-Rover
LSI Landing Ship Infantry
LST Landing Ship Tank
LTVP Light amphibious APC
Lt Light
LVT Light amphibious vehicle
LVT (A) Light amphibious vehicle with extra armament and armour
LVTP-7 Amphibious APC also called AAV7
LW Luftwaffe
Lynx UK Helicopter or Canadian Recce APC
M
M Mortar Weapon Class
M1 US Tank
M2 US IFV
M3 US Recon IFV
M3/57 M3 HT with 57mm ATG
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