Weygand Line

The Weygand Line was a defensive front established by French forces in early June 1940 during the Battle of France in World War II. It stretched along the Somme and Aisne rivers, replacing the earlier Maginot Line which had been outflanked by German forces invading Belgium.12

Despite being manned by 49 French divisions, the Weygand Line was significantly weaker than the Maginot Line due to diminished numbers and morale among the troops. The German offensive, launched on June 5, 1940, utilized seasoned armored divisions and overwhelming air power. The Germans quickly broke through the Weygand Line, aiming to destroy the remaining French armies rather than just capture Paris. The defense collapsed, leading to German forces crossing the Seine and advancing rapidly, ultimately cutting off French troops in the Maginot Line.1