At the start of World War II, Germany’s advancements in mobile warfare shocked the world with their speed, ferocity, and success on the battlefield as they swept across Europe. Although, not always successful at the start, Germany was the first army to combine tanks, artillery, air power, and mobile infantry into a dominating force on the battlefield. Over the course of the war, the Allied powers tried to figure out a way to replicate Germany’s successes, with varying results. As reserves and resources became more scarce, Germany’s capabilities became more and more degraded and they were never able to get the same results they experienced during the early part of the war.

This latest offering from Osprey Publishing “Elite” series provides some insight into the development of Germany’s Panzergrenadier forces from inter-war years through the end of the war. It includes some insight into the changes needed as resources slowly went away, and as the Allies experienced more and more success using their own styles of mobile infantry.

Dr. Nigel Thomas provides only a short introduction to Germany’s mobile infantry forces, before switching to a comprehensive listing of the units formed both pre-war, as well as the changes to each unit as the war continued. While the book lacks details on the tactics of the mobile infantry and Panzergrenadiers, it provides a very in-depth history of the changes to uniforms, equipment, as well as insignia common to these infantry units across all the fronts. The book focuses solely on the Heer (regular army) units.

For someone interested in figure painting, or the history of World War II German infantry equipment and uniforms, this publication provides some fantastic information. The book contains excellent color plates showing enlisted, junior, and senior officer uniforms, insignia, and awards, and provides detailed explanations of the colors and materials used for these items. Also, every photo in the book comes with a detailed explanation of the equipment used and uniforms being worn in each photo.

If you’re a figure painter, or interested in a comprehensive history of German uniform and equipment changes throughout the war, this book is highly recommended. Personally, I enjoyed learning about the different insignia and awards worn on German infantry uniforms and plan on using the information to enhance my figure painting. It is definitely well researched and provides an abundant supply of excellent illustrations and photos. Thanks to Osprey Publishing and IPMS USA for this review copy.