During the time of the catastrophic retreat to the Dnepr in the summer of 1943, some German frontline divisions suffered such heavy losses that they could not readily be reconstituted. These divisions developed a very unfavorable balance between their rear and support units and their infantry elements.

In reaction to the crisis, OKH issued orders for the creation of several Korpsabteilungen (Corps Groups), each consisting of the Divisionsgruppen (cadres) of three burned-out infantry divisions.

A Korpsabteilung operated much like a normal infantry division, with each Divisionsgruppe functioning as a regiment. Each Divisionsgruppe was composed of two Regimentsgruppen, each roughly equivalent to a battalion. The surviving elements of the divisional support units (Artillery, Pioneer, and Signal Troops) were reorganized and attached to the Korpsabteilung. Any extra staff and rear area personnel were shuttled off and used in the creation of new formations.

There were six Korpsabteilungen, identified with the letters A-F (e.g., "Korpsabteilung D", abbreviation: "KAbtl)"). Albert Seaton states that Korpsabteilungen were not of much use and were disbanded in the "early summer of 1944" (The German Army 1933-45, 1982, p.217). This means that historically these units were in use for about a year.

To incorporate Korpsabteilungen into your next game of Scorched Earth, add the following section to optional Rule39D. As for counters, I suggest six 5-7-6 Inf XXs with "divisional unit" symbols and unit IDs from A-F.

Rule 39D12 Korpsabteilungen

Any time after Jul I 43 the German player may create Korpsabteilungen (Corps Groups). Korpsabteilungen assemble and break down per Rule 15, except that there may be an RP gain or loss, depending upon the units involved. Use the defense strengths of the units involved when making this determination.

Example: 3x 3-6 Inf DG move to the same hex and assemble a Korpsabteilung. The total defense strength of these units equals 9. Replace the three DGs with a 5-7-6 divisional unit and add two (9-7=2) inf RPs to the German replacement pool.

To subsequently break down this Korpsabteilung, two inf RPs must be spent.

While in play, a Korpsabteilung is treated in all aspects as an infantry division.

More on Korpsabteilung [TEM 34]