Pocket clearing question

[FeurerKrieg]

As I haven't finished the manual, and have only been playing an hour or so a night, I had a question. What is the best way to clear a pocket? Perhaps a better way to ask is, is there a benefit to letting the enemy units sit in the pocket for 1, 2, 3 or more turns before attacking? Or do they only use up supply when you attack?

I'm trying to figure out if I should be clearing pockets as soon as they are trapped, then move on, or just leave them behind to wither- or if it is something in between.

[ChuckBerger]

Depends...

Often in the first few turns, it's best to assault immediately. The penalties for Soviets and large concentric attack bonuses mean you'll take minimal casualties, and usually you'll want to clear the pockets quickly to keep forces moving forward and clear transport lines.

Later, I find assaulting quickly is usually the best option, especially if you can attack from 4/5/6 sides to get the massive concentric attack bonuses. Getting rid of pockets means they don't have a chance to try to breakout and/or to become partisans.

The only time leaving them for a few turns to wither really makes sense is for large pockets and/or pockets of guys entrenched in good defensive terrain, & where you are not worried about a breakout & can afford to have your infantry divisions sitting around for a few turns.

[FeurerKrieg]

Thanks, Chuck.