Short Answer
Hitler’s military strategy during the invasions of France and the Soviet Union emphasized speed, air power, and overwhelming force to quickly incapacitate his enemies. He utilized bombing tactics to demoralize civilians and ensure chaos, while preceding invasions illustrated Germany’s military strength and served as tactical preparatory steps for his larger ambitions.
Step 1: Military Strategy and Speed
Hitler’s attacks on both the Soviet Union and France relied heavily on the speed, size, and power of the German military. The primary goal was to overwhelm the enemy quickly through effective military maneuvers. This approach allowed the German forces to deploy their tactics effectively, using their advanced technology to gain an advantage in both campaigns.
Step 2: Use of Air Power and Bombing Tactics
In both campaigns, Hitler strategically employed air power to subdue his opponents and gain a tactical advantage. This included:
- Utilizing air raids to bomb key military targets.
- Targeting cities to demoralize the civilian population.
- Undermining the enemy’s capacity to fight back effectively.
Step 3: Preceding Invasions and Goals
Before launching major campaigns, Hitler typically invaded nearby countries to showcase Germany’s military prowess. For example:
- He invaded Belgium and the Netherlands prior to attacking France.
- He invaded Poland before redirecting his forces toward the Soviet Union.