1. Tanks and Armoured Vehicles:
- The development of fast, manoeuvrable tanks, such as the German Panzer series, allowed for rapid breakthroughs and exploitation of enemy weaknesses.
- Armoured vehicles provided protection and mobility for troops on the battlefield.
2. Air Power and Close Air Support:
- The use of aircraft, particularly dive bombers like the Stuka, provided close air support for advancing ground troops.
- Air superiority enabled the Luftwaffe (German Air Force) to dominate the skies and disrupt enemy communication and supply lines.
3. Radios and Communication:
- Advances in radio technology facilitated effective communication and coordination between different units, enabling rapid decision-making and synchronization of attacks.
- Mobile radios allowed commanders to direct operations in real-time.
4. Motorized Transport and Logistics:
- The use of trucks and mechanized transport allowed for the swift movement of troops, supplies, and equipment.
- Efficient logistics ensured that the advancing forces had the necessary resources and fuel for sustained operations.
5. Mechanized Artillery and Indirect Fire:
- The development of self-propelled artillery, such as the German Wespe and Hummel, provided mobile firepower support to advancing troops.
- Indirect fire from howitzers and mortars allowed for precise targeting and destruction of enemy positions from a distance.
6. Amphibious Landings and Naval Support:
- Advances in amphibious landing craft and naval support enabled the rapid deployment of troops and equipment across water bodies, facilitating surprise attacks on coastal regions.
- Naval support from battleships and destroyers provided artillery cover and protected landing forces.
7. Reconnaissance and Aerial Photography:
- Aerial photography and reconnaissance missions using advanced aircraft helped gather crucial intelligence about enemy positions, terrain features, and weak points, allowing for better planning and execution of blitzkrieg operations.
In summary, advancements in tank technology, air power, communication systems, motorized transport, artillery, amphibious landings, and reconnaissance capabilities collectively contributed to the effectiveness and success of blitzkrieg during World War 2.