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How did German troops cross the Meuse River near Sedan?
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Battle of France
Adolf Hitler (center) in front of the Eiffel Tower in Paris shortly after signing an armistice with France, June 1940.
German troops crossed the Meuse River near Sedan on May 13, 1940, primarily due to a massive and decisive aerial bombardment.12
The crossing was facilitated by the following factors:
- Air Superiority: Wave after wave of Stuka dive-bombers pounded the French defenders on the south bank of the river. This relentless air assault shattered the morale of the French troops, allowing German forces to push across the river in rubber boats and on rafts.12
- Lack of French Preparedness: French commanders had incorrectly deemed the Ardennes impassable for tanks, leading to a critical lack of antitank weapons and antiaircraft guns in the sector. The defenses were also undermanned by troops of lesser quality.12
- Strategic Surprise: By moving through the Ardennes, the Germans bypassed the main Maginot Line fortifications, striking at a weak, poorly fortified hinge of the Allied line.12
Once the initial crossing was secured, the Germans brought their tanks across to widen the bridgehead, enabling them to break through into open country by May 15.12