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Vestes Bellica Military history archive

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Organisation

The German Imperial Army in the World War - Structure and Organization - Motor Vehicle Troops

After mobilization the German Army had about 4,000 motor vehicles and motorized wheels as well as tractors. Motorization was, however, only rudimentary. Even in peacetime the military leadership had at least dealt with the truck service, but only a limited number were acquired for military purposes before 1914. In addition, truck manufacturing was regulated and purchases were promoted by granting state loans; in case of war civilian vehicles were to be requisitioned. During the war vehicle production was strongly stimulated, and special trucks with anti-balloon guns and tractors for the artillery or for ammunition transport were also developed.

Organisation

The German Imperial Army in the World War - Structure and Organization - Machine Gun Companies/ - Detachments

At the outbreak of the war the German Army had 360 machine-gun companies/detachments; by the end of 1915 there were already 450. In addition, at that time there were 80 machine-gun platoons with the cavalry. The number of machine guns was, however, continuously increased. In the autumn of 1916 it was ordered that henceforth each infantry battalion was to have 1 and each Jäger and storm (assault) battalion 2 machine-gun companies. At the same time additional machine-gun sharpshooter detachments (each of 3 companies) were formed.