The challenge is that SUs with AFVs use the Mech leader rating when firing, which makes them less effective in a typical infantry corps. However, there are ways to work around this. One approach is to attach StuGs and Jagdpanzers to infantry divisions within Panzer corps. Another strategy I prefer is using Panzergrenadier divisions for defense. Their AFVs, often StuGs or Jagdpanzers, aren't very effective in offensive roles anyway. You can then assign extra SUs to Panzergrenadiers that have taken losses.tyronec wrote: ↑Mon Oct 21, 2024 5:40 pmCould be worth putting some SUs in the front line, I did try that earlier in the year and didn't have great results from it but may be worthwhile now. Another reason for the heavy Soviet losses in that battle is that he attacked with less than usual and then I got lucky and won it.The hex that held had 58 tanks there. While I understand the argument for keeping panzers in reserve as a counterattack force, German attacks become much more costly once the Soviets field large numbers of T-34/85s. In my opinion, at this stage of the war, it's more effective to distribute some of the panzers, or at least the StuGs, among fortified hexes. Panzer divisions on reserve can also provide valuable support.
I don't think Panzers on RESERVE works well because as I understand it they don't get the fortification bonus and just get trashed for nothing as am not going to win these battles even with them. Am using them as a second line so it is harder for the Soviets to get a follow up attack. and if they had activated and then were attacked again then they could suffer very badly.
As for using Panzers in the second line, it's a solid tactic. Regarding placing Panzer divisions in reserve, I agree it carries some risk. If a battle is going to be lost by 10:1 or 15:1 odds, a Panzer division jumping in might just get mauled without contributing much. But in battles with odds closer to 3:1, reserve activation can typically swing things in your favor and inflict significant Soviet losses. Also, just the threat of reserve activation can make the Soviets more cautious and lead them to overcommit in their attacks. This plays to your advantage by slowing their advance and increasing the penalties they suffer from concentrating too many units in one attack.
