After the invasion and subsequent fall of France in 1940, the German army controlled the entire coast of Northern France. Following the Allied evacuation at Dunkirk, Hitler had hoped that Britain would agree to settle the war. But, because of British determination and Germany's inability to carry out an invasion of England, Germany was forced to maintain a defensive posture along the coast.
the many setbacks on the Eastern Front. What it lacked in Luftwaffe and materials, it made up for in highly experienced and trained men. Also, its armor, heavy infantry weapons, and anti-tank capabilities were years ahead of the Americans and British. But, the Allies controlled the air and sea and what they lacked in quality, they hoped to make up for in quantity.
The German high command was actually anticipatory about the upcoming Allied invasion. It meant that finally the British and American threat could be "dealt with" once and for all. If they could defeat the Western Allies finally, they could transfer the badly needed units to the Eastern front. Both sides knew that the outcome of the invasion would most likely result in victory or defeat in the war.
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