Other titles:THE BATTLE FOR OREL [Alternative Title]
Summary: English version of the Soviet film "The Battle for Orel", also known as "The Drive to the West".
Description: I. By mid-summer 1943 Germans occupied the strategically important triangle between Orel, Briansk and Mtsensk before their intended advance to Moscow. Russian intelligence having discovered the German assault plan for gaining Svesk, a valuable intermediate position, were ready for attack. In the battle that ensued German losses were heavy but they continued to advance - then a decisive counter blow followed.
II. The Red Army converged to liquidate the Orel "triangle" by converging from North, East and South. During the occupation Nazis had converted Orel into an impregnable fortress, but by 12th July, the Red Air Force had destroyed German communications and the army advanced now under the experienced leadership of General Popov. After only 24 hours in the field, the Russians were advancing successfully, Mtsensk was liberated.
III. Operations shifted south to Orel itself where even denser and more elaborate defence systems were overcome. By August 4th the Red Army arrived at Orel; on the 5th, it was liberated. In Moscow - the battle was proclaimed as a great and decisive victory of the war.
Alternative Title:THE BATTLE FOR OREL [Alternative Title]