ABSTRACT
In the German memorandum, the Franco-Soviet Pact was blamed for destroying the basis of Locarno. With this charge Soviet diplomats were to deal in a short while. There were sound reasons for a belief in Moscow that no military counter-action would be involved. In the event of a tank break-through into the depth of the defensive positions, the divisional commander would employ his mobile anti-tank reserve against the invading tanks and his own would mount a tank counter-attack. Having thrust the enemy tanks back and having thrown the enemy infantry into confusion, the divisional commander in his turn would counter-attack with his storm-groups and re-establish the position which has been disrupted. To disrupt enemy preparations for the offensive, the corps commander may employ 'counter-artillery preparation', aimed at infantry being moved up, tanks being moved into position, staff centres and communication networks; 'counter-preparation' ought also to forestall enemy artillery preparation.
