The scenario takes place in Russia sometime near the end of 1943. The Germans, encircled by the Russians, are attempting a breakout before the Russians can close the net and destroy them. We played this battle using a modified version of Battalions in Crisis, but it can be easily adapted for use with your favorite set of WWII rules.

John was the Russian commander, Ceasar Bennett played the Germans, and Charlie served as referee. After the Germans deployed the Russians immediately called for the artillery. Quickly the battle became a furball as the Panthers and T-34s spotted one another and began shooting. Two lucky hits (or good marksmanship) destroyed both Panthers. The Russians lost six out of then T-34/76's. On the next turn the T-34/85's arrived to bolster the defense and the battle raged on. The Russians managed to prevent the German break out, but just barely. Considering the losses the outcome can be best described as a bloody draw.

Order of Battle - German (2) Panther Mk-V's
(6) Tiger Mk-VIE's
(1) Ostwinds
(2) Pumas
(2) Motorcycles
(1) Platoon mechanized infantry mounted in 251's
(2) 75mm/42 ATG with halftracks
(1) ME-109G with 2 110# bombs and 2 rockets

Order of Battle - Soviet
(1) Company T-34/76 A's
(1) Company T-34/85's
(1) Rifle platoon mounted in trucks
(4) 82mm mortars mounted in trucks
(1) Battery 152mm artillery off-board

Deployment: The Russians start with their company of T-34/76's deployed on the table. The Germans are then permitted to pre-position and move their forces for three turns. The referee should make sure that the Germans don't start too close to their breakout table edge in an attempt to avoid a fight. After the Germans have their three turns of movement both sides can begin trying to spot the enemy and the battle will begin. The additional Soviet units will arrive as reinforcements. The German objective is to exit the far end of the board.