Stalingrad'42 via Vassal - Turns 22 to 24

The weather starts off overcast for the first week of October 1942.

The Axis make yet another attack on Stalingrad.

They actually meet with some success and there is now a City Battle Level 2 in progress.

The Axis made three attacks in the south, this is the after image.

The attacks were very successful.

With the capture of Krasnodar the Axis can start recruiting the locals.

The Soviets launch a successful attack against the Rumanians.

And also, finally, against the 4th Panzer Army.

The Don line remains quiet,

but there is plenty if mostly inconclusive action, around Stalingrad.

In the centre it is a war of manoeuvre for not much of importance. 

But it is down south where the campaign will be won or lost.

The Soviet still have a bit of strength in both forces and position,

but supply is getting precarious.

By the second week in October it has started to rain.  That can only mean one thing: mud!

No attacks are made down south,

but all out attacks are made against Stalingrad.

The bad weather means no air support,

but the Axis are able to take part of the city,

although heavy casualties were incurred by both sides.

The situation on the Don.

The Soviets are getting ready to launch an offensive.

The situation in the south.

It looks grim for the Soviets.

The third week of October is overcast, but the preceding week of rain has left a quagmire of mud.

The Axis renew their southern offensive,

meeting with success in their drive to link up with the Crimea.

The fighting continues for the remaining Stalingrad city blocks.

The Soviets again attack towards Stalingrad.

They inflict casualties, but the chance of  a breakthrough is remote.

They are up against the best German units and are just too weak.

The big picture.

The Soviets are desperately short of troops.