Why Didn't Germany Wait to Start WW2 Until After Establishing Dominance in Air and Ground Forces?

Some might argue that, given the technological advancements Germany made in the mid-1930s, the country could have taken a more cautious approach in starting World War II. However, the complex interplay of historical, political, and military factors played a significant role in Germany's decision to invade Poland in 1939. This article delves into why Germany chose not to wait, exploring the context, strategy, and consequences of their decision.

The Context and Technological Superiority

Germany's decision to initiate the war in 1939 was partly driven by the urge to surpass the Allied powers in terms of military strength. By the time of the invasion of Poland, the German armed forces, including the Luftwaffe and the Panzer divisions, were already showing significant technological and tactical superiority. The development of new weapons, such as the ME-262 jet fighter and the Tiger and Panther tanks, would have given the German forces an even more noticeable edge if they had been deployed earlier.

Historical and Treaty Considerations

The Treaty of Versailles, signed in 1919, limited Germany's military capabilities severely, including a restriction on the size of the army to 100,000 men. Germany cleverly circumvented these restrictions by creating an officer corps of that exact size and conducting secret military operations with the Soviet Union. This allowed the German military to grow in strength and sophistication in a clandestine manner.

Ironically, the Allies Were Also Preparing for War

Though Germany acted secretly, Britain and France were also working to strengthen their military capabilities. Britain's conscription only began in August 1939, resulting in a less prepared military for engaging in the Battle of France. Similarly, France's air force was transitioning to more advanced models, which would have been even more formidable by 1942. The US also entered the war with its own bombers joining the fight, such as the B-24 Liberator, which significantly bolstered the Allied air forces.

The Strategic Logic and Leadership Decisions

The German leadership, under Adolf Hitler, made a series of strategic decisions based on the geopolitical and military climate of the time. Hitler believed he was improving Germany's standing through various political and military maneuvers, such as the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact with the Soviet Union, which initially allowed Germany to avoid a two-front war. The assumption that Britain and France would abandon Poland was also a significant factor. Given the prevailing sentiment of weakness in the West, Germany felt a strong strategic advantage in striking early.

Time and Opportunity

Germany was keenly aware of the military build-up of its potential adversaries. The faster they could initiate conflict, the less time the Allies had to mobilize and strengthen their defenses. The invasion of Poland in 1939 allowed Germany to secure a significant geopolitical advantage before the Allies could fully prepare for a counterattack. The pressure of time, the fear of another major conflict, and the assessment of relative strengths all contributed to Germany's aggressive stance.

Conclusion

The decision by Nazi Germany to commence World War II in 1939 was a complex one, influenced by both strategic and tactical considerations. Understanding the reasoning behind this decision helps us appreciate the multifaceted nature of historical events and the intricate balance of power that shaped the course of the war.

Keywords

World War II Nazi Germany Luftwaffe Panzers Treaty of Versailles