What was Operation Weserübung?
Operation Weserübung was the code name for the German invasion of Denmark and Norway that began on the 9th of April 1940. The operation involved simultaneous attacks by sea, air, and land to occupy both countries.
Questions about Operation Weserübung
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Who commanded Operation Weserübungs forces in Norway?
General Nikolaus von Falkenhorst received command of the operation on the 21st of February 1940. He had previously fought in Finland during the First World War and possessed familiarity with Arctic warfare conditions.
When did the Battle of Drøbak Sound occur during Operation Weserübung?
The Battle of Drøbak Sound took place in the early morning of the 9th of April 1940 when gunners at Oscarsborg Fortress fired on the leading ship Blücher. The ship sank within two hours resulting in the loss of 600 to 1,000 men.
How long did the invasion of Denmark last under Operation Weserübung?
The invasion of Denmark lasted less than six hours before King Christian and the entire Danish government capitulated at approximately 06:00 local time on the 9th of April 1940. German troops landed on a commercial ferry in Gedser at 03:55 and moved north to seize key locations.
Why was iron ore from Sweden important for Germany during Operation Weserübung?
German industry relied heavily on importing iron ore from mines in Swedish Lapland which were shipped through the ice-free Norwegian port of Narvik. Control of the Norwegian coast allowed Germany to prevent potential Allied blockades against its supply lines.