Kursk 1943: A Statistical Analysis (Cass Series on the Soviet (Russian) Study of War)

by Niklas Zetterling, Anders Frankson

Release Date: July, 2000

Edition: Hardcover

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Excellent statistical analysis

I found this to be an excellent compilation of hard data on the July,1943 Battle of Kursk. Huge amounts of data is presented in a manner that makes it easy(relatively speaking)to understand the largest tank battle of WW2. The author begins by presenting a concise background that allows the reader to understand the overall strategic situation on the Eastern Front in the spring of 1943. He then presents an astonishing amount of material that shows in great detail the manner in which the opposing forces were organized,the structure of the units involved (both Soviet and German),the types of tanks and assault guns employed by both armies,a chapter on the impact of both combatants air forces on the battle ,and a chronology of the battle,including a seperate chapter on the armored clash at Prokhorovka.The final three chapters of the book are devoted to the costs and consequences of the battle and an analysis of the battle. Each of these chapters is extensively footnoted. Finally,there are 16 appendices covering just about every conceivable facet of Operation Zitadelle including what may be the most detailed order of battle ever presented on this battle. There are also a large number of tables and figures that further illuminate the size and composition of the opposing forces. I am very impressed by this book and can heartily recommend it.

Mr. Joe Gawne's review

I guess the book that Mr. Gwane reviewed is "Normandy 1944", another book written by Niklas Z. and published by J.J. Fedorowicz in 2000.

I like both "Kursk 1943" and "Normandy 1944". This is the first time I can read data generated from systematically statistic analyses on the strength and losses of involved forces in WWII. The result of the statistics, rather than personal opinions or recollections, tells the truth of these campaigns. These books clarified many long-standing errors and misconceptions, though readers should still keep in mind that the authors could make mistake or use unreliable reference too. Highly recommended.