A British historical simulation

Por: André Geraque Kiffer

In the early hours of November 20, 1917, more than 400 tanks (tanks) advanced against a 10-kilometer enemy line near the city of Cambrai, leading the assault of five infantry divisions against this sector of the Hindenburg Line. The study of the terrain is the basis of the most important variable that will be scientifically sought to alter and obtain a British victory, that is, to carry out a limited area offensive with the aim of creating a salient between the channels, dominating Cambrai by south and west (Bourlon position), which served as a safe attack position for the continuation of operations after the winter, aiming at a strategic penetration. In the scenario of the wargame that will be used it was decided not to change the organization for the combat of the Tank Corps, because it is understood to be far ahead of its time a "Blitzkrieg" and even more, in this case, applying in a “siege war”. On the other hand, the operational strategic failure in the allocation of resources to the Third Army was corrected due to the reduction of the front and the depth of penetration, as well as the reduction of the objective level, from strategic to tactical. In short, a safe “laboratory” for new weapon systems.