Battle of Ilawa

Scenario #1 - NATO to the rescue

29 June

This scenario is a meeting engagement. The Russian 3rd Shock Army has been assigned to drive through northern Poland. There objective is to gain one or more crossing over the Wisla (Vistula) river. The 39th Motor Rifle Division (Barvenkove Division, Red Banner) was assigned the task of securing Highway 3 from Olsztyn to Grudziadz on the Wisla. As they approached Ilawa they received reports that elements of the 5th Panzer Division were approach on the highway.

NATO forces had enter Polish territory and were moving to secure as much are as possible. German forces make up the bulk of the NATO forces moving into Poland, but other nations have sent units also.

While the Russian and Ukrainian armies are much smaller these days they are, on average, much better equipped since there are fewer units to fight over the newer equipment.

Thus far neither side has been able to gain air superiority, so both sides have had to keep one eye on the sky as they advance.

Recon pictures

A couple of notes:

1. Yes, there are cars in the pictures, no there are not any military vehicles. (So don't waste your time looking. ;-)
2. Yes, one corner of the town has been bombed. The Polish military unit stationed there decided to announce its support for the government. They should have left their barracks before they did.

Here are the pictures:

• Here is the whole map in one file. Thanks to Jeppy and Daryl!
• Looking east towards the town
• Still looking east as you approch the west edge of town
• Looking from the northeast in to town
• Next picture in flyover, take as you cross into town from the northeast

Here is a narration of the game.

Copyright © 1997 Dallace Unger, Jr.

Last Updated: July 31, 1997