When to launch Barbarrossa?

[David Hansen]

Typically when I play the 1939 campaign as the Axis (intermediate setting),my focus is to kick off the invasion of Russia NLT the end of May 1941. Still being new to the game, when I arrive at this date my MPP level sits around 900 and the Soviets at 150 MPP with a mobilization level of 33-35%...USA mobilization is about 50%.

That is a huge advantage in MPP and I wonder if I should delay the invasion a year.

But when I read thru the AAR's by players much better than me, the Axis expert launches in May-June of 1941.

I guess I'm asking for insights why 1941 is the preferred choice vs. 1942?

TXS.

[Taxman66]

You are unlikely to make it to a good weather turn in 1942 before the Soviets mobilization allows them to enter the war on their own.

USSR mobilization ranks up 1-2% per turn (both axis and allied turns) at the start of 1941. After historical barb date an additional 1-3% per turn. At the start of 1942 it goes up an additional 3-5% per turn. Thats 5-10% turn (again both axis and allied turns) at the start of 1942.

There is a thread titled USSR Mobilization on the 2nd page of The War Room sub forum with all the details. There used to be one for the USA too but I can't find it anymore. I wish they had been made sticky.

[Taxman66]

In your example there is a pretty good chance the USSR will get in the war by the end of 1941. Remember once it hits 90% there is another add on.

[sPzAbt653]

I wish they had been made sticky.

I bumped it fer ya. I probably shouldn't have done that because now folks will think there is something new to see there but will be disappointed that there is only a lonely 'Bump'.

You can change the viewed list to 'all' near the upper right, and then arrange by Thread Starter if you know that, and that makes it easier to find older threads [;)]

[David Hansen]

Taxman66-Thanks for your insights...that really sheds light on the 41 vs. 42 Soviet invasion.