Flames of War - Battle of the Korsun-Cherkassy Pocket

Got together with a large group of gamers to refight the attempted breakout of German forces during the Battle of the Korsun-Cherkassy Pocket. The scenario saw 4 players on each side with each player having a 1500 pt force. The table was set up so that one end had 2 German players as the attacking force trying to breakthrough and reach the two other German players at the far end of the table. All 4 Russian players set up in the middle of the table. Now when I say table, I really mean several tables.

The Huge Table(s) with the German relief force on the left and the beleagured German force on the right. 

We created special rules to take into account the deep snow the forces were facing. Off road movement required a cross check each time a vehicle moved.

The German forces prepare to break out. The infantry marries up with armour to attack the Russian ring of steel.

The Russian move to defend the frozen river and hold off the German relief force. 

German panzers move up with panzer grenadiers to try and force their way out of the pocket.

Massive Russian fire stops the German break out force. 

Meanwhile the German relief force take heavy casualties. 

The German relief force keeps advancing, but casualties are becoming heavy.

The Russian hold the line at the river and repel the relief force. 

It was a great scenario. It included air support in the form of Sturmoviks and Stukas (one piloted by Rudel). However, he seemed to be occupied with collecting medals in Berlin as he rarely appeared over the table. Much more effective were the German artillery and nebelwerfers. Both of these really made the Russians pay and nearly broke their ring of steel, but it wasn't enough. Many of the Soviet tanks were T-34/85s or assault guns. The German tanks had a hard time killing them.