BATTLE // September 18, 1922
Great Offensive
Source · Wikipedia
Significance
The Great Offensive was the largest and final military operation of the Turkish War of Independence, bringing the Greco-Turkish War to a close. Launched on 26 August 1922 with the Battle of Dumlupınar, it was the single largest Turkish force concentration since the conflict began, committing roughly 98,000 to 103,000 men against a Greek army of approximately 130,000. The scale of the Turkish victory is reflected in the asymmetry of losses: Greek casualties reached approximately 35,000 against roughly 2,318 on the Turkish side. Between 31 August and 9 September, the front advanced 300 km as Greek forces retreated, effectively collapsing Greek military power in Anatolia and ending Greek territorial ambitions in the region.
Tactics
The Turkish offensive opened on 26 August 1922 at Dumlupınar. Turkish forces were composed of infantry and cavalry units without motorized transport, relying on an ox-cart supply system for logistical support. Despite the absence of mechanized vehicles, the Turkish army sustained a rapid advance, pushing the front 300 km in roughly ten days as Greek troops fell back across the region.
Forces & casualties
Troop strength
- Ankara Government98,670–103,000medium
- Greece130,000medium
Greece fielded a 1.3 : 1 numerical advantage
Casualties
- Ankara Government2,318medium2% loss rate
- Greece35,000medium27% loss rate
Commanders (6)
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6 sibling battles · 0 factions