The Battle of Kursk

The Battle of Kursk was a major World War II Eastern Front conflict between Germany and the Soviet Union in late summer 1943. It eventually became the biggest tank battle throughout history.

After the German attack stagnated on the northern side of the salient, the Soviets began their Kursk Strategic Offensive Operation on July 12 by launching Operation Kutuzov against the German troops' rear on the same side. On 3 August, the Soviets launched Operation Polkovodets Rumyantsev against the German forces on the southern side of the salient, kicking off the second phase. By cutting off and surrounding the forces they expected to be in the Kursk salient, the Germans aimed to reduce the Soviet offensive potential for the summer of 1943.

It was also believed that many Soviet prisoners would be caught and utilized as slave labor in Germany's munitions sector. The Soviet government was aware of German plans, thanks in part to British intelligence's Tunny intercepts. Knowing the offensive would hit on the neck of the Kursk salient, the Soviets developed a defense to degrade the German armored spearhead months in advance. Hitler called off the Kursk operation after barely a week, in order to shift soldiers to Italy.

This was the first time a German military attack was prevented before it could break through enemy lines throughout the war.

Date: July 5, 1943 - August 23, 1943

Location: Kursk Russia

Participants: Germany - Soviet Union