Stalingrad Front

The Soviet High Command formed the Stalingrad Front on 12th July 1942, to counter the advancing German forces. Marshal Semyon Timoshenko led the front, supported by Nikita Khrushchev and General Pavel Bodin. The front included newly formed armies like the 62nd, 63rd, and 64th, tasked with defending the Stalingrad region.

Commanders

Marshal of Soviet Union Semyon Timoshenko, 12th July 1942 to 23rd July 1942

Marshal Semyon Timoshenko led the Stalingrad Front in 1942, organizing defenses against advancing German forces during World War II. He commanded newly formed armies, including the 62nd, 63rd, and 64th, to protect the Stalingrad region. Timoshenko’s leadership and strategic decisions significantly contributed to the Soviet efforts in the critical Battle of Stalingrad.

Lieutenant-General Vasiliy Gordov, 23rd July 1942 to 12th August 1942

Lieutenant-General Vasiliy Gordov commanded the Stalingrad Front in 1942, leading Soviet forces during critical stages of the Battle of Stalingrad. He directed defensive operations, regrouped battered units, and coordinated reinforcements to counter German advances. Gordov’s leadership played a significant role in stabilizing the front and preparing for the eventual Soviet counteroffensive.

Marshal of Soviet Union Andrey Yeryomenko, 12th August 1942

Marshal Andrey Yeryomenko commanded the Stalingrad Front in 1942, leading Soviet forces during the critical Battle of Stalingrad. He organized defensive operations, coordinated reinforcements, and implemented strategic counterattacks against German advances. Yeryomenko’s leadership and tactical decisions significantly contributed to the Soviet victory, cementing his reputation as a skilled and decisive military commander.

Active

12th July 1942 to 1st January 1943

Engagements

Case Blue
The Battle of Stalingrad

Front Composition

August

21st Army
51st Army
57th Army
62nd Army
63rd Army
64th Army
1st Tank Army
4th Tank Army
8th Air Army
7th Sapper Army

September

63rd Army
21st Army
4th Tank Army
24th Army
1st Guards Army
66th Army
8th Air Army

History

The Stalingrad Front began operations in July 1942, tasked with defending the city of Stalingrad against advancing German forces. Commanders organized defensive positions, regrouped battered units, and coordinated reinforcements to counter relentless German offensives. The front’s forces, including the 62nd and 64th Armies, engaged in intense urban combat, holding critical positions.

During the battle, the Stalingrad Front launched counterattacks to disrupt German advances and regain lost territory. Commanders implemented strategic maneuvers, exploiting weaknesses in German lines and coordinating with other Soviet fronts. These efforts significantly weakened German forces, setting the stage for a decisive Soviet counteroffensive.

In November 1942, the Stalingrad Front played a crucial role in Operation Uranus, encircling the German 6th Army. Commanders directed coordinated attacks, cutting off German supply lines and forcing their surrender. The front’s success marked a turning point in World War II, showcasing Soviet resilience and strategic brilliance.