October 1942

Eastern Front

Early in the day, the Soviets launch an artillery barrage with more than 300 guns sited on the east bank. Heavy losses are inflicted upon the tightly packed German units close to the factories. Shortly afterwards, the VIII Air Corps pounds the Soviet defenses in the factory district, 2,000 sorties being launched against the Soviets. Heavy fighting erupts as the Germans recapture the Silikat factory and isolate the 42nd and 92nd Rifle Brigades and the 6th Guards Tank Brigade.

The Germans bring the entrance to Chuikov's command bunker under accurate and sustained mortar and machine-gun fire.