Title: The Battle of Kursk: The Operational Art and Principles of War.
Author: Major Jerome Barbour, United States ArmyThesis: Germany's inabilities to apply the principles ofwar at the battle of Kursk were
the proximate cause of its defeat.
Discussion: The Soviet victory at the Battle of Kursk would have lasting effects on the outcome of World War II from both a strategic and operational point of view. Following the Soviet victory, operational.initiative would permanently favor the Soviet Army due to Germany's inability to exercise offensive operations. The Battle of Stalingrad was a turning point for the Soviets in terms of a moral victory, but it had had little if any affect on Germany's ability to influence the outcome of the war from a decisive standpoint.
Kursk on the other hand would decisively end Germany's ability to marshal its forces in a
manner that enabled a decisive victory.
Conclusion: When looking at the fundamental principles of war, it is clear that the Soviets demonstrated a far greater grasp in application than that of the Hitler and his staff. From the operational planning, to the execution, the Soviet Army showed the ability to grow where as the Germans reverted or remained marred in doctrine of their past campaigns. The Russian showed more flexibility in adapting to German tactics than their counterparts. General Zhukov clearly understood the Russian Center of Gravity, whereas Hitler adhered to Nazi dogma and ideology. Zhukov not only developed an effective strategy but did so in a way that influenced Germany's operational center of gravity.
