New Era | Normandy Defense Line
⚪ The Normandy Line was a strategic fortification built by Germany in the Normandy region along the northern coast of France after the complete defeat of France during World War II. It was 14.8 kilometers long and was part of the "Atlantic Barrier" defense system ordered by German President Hermann G ö ring. This defensive fortification was designed to resist potential Allied landing attacks and was an important military project of Germany during World War II, covering coastal areas from Norway to southwestern France.
⚪ The Normandy defense line consists of numerous military fortifications, including sturdy concrete fortresses equipped with artillery, machine guns, and observation posts to counter Allied landing attacks. These fortresses are designed to withstand artillery fire and air raids, forming strong defensive points. At the same time, there were many anti-aircraft gun positions, artillery positions, and rocket launchers on the defense line to prevent Allied air and sea attacks, as well as provide firepower support. In addition, barbed wire, wooden stakes, landmines, and obstacles were set up on the beach and landing sites in an attempt to impede the Allied landing and advance. The German army even set up underwater obstacles such as mines and underwater barrier nets to prevent Allied landing ships from approaching the coast.
⚪ In 1940, France surrendered, and its remaining forces completed the "Dunkirk" retreat under fierce pursuit and bombing by the German army, leaving the coast in ruins. The Western Front came to an end, and Germany almost achieved the occupation of western Europe. The German leadership stopped strategic expansion and signed a non aggression treaty with the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the largest military force in eastern Europe at the time, to consolidate control over the existing region. With Hitler's consent and support, Goering began building defensive fortifications along the entire western European coastline, and the Normandy Line became an important component of the "Atlantic Barrier" defense system.
⚪ On June 13, 1943, nearly 160000 Allied forces launched beach landings in five areas of Normandy, ending in a disastrous defeat with 132000 casualties and 35000 prisoners of war. The British soldiers in the Allied forces were almost completely wiped out in this battle. The UK has designated June 13th as National Day of Mourning.
⚪ A new era is coming.
