Norway struggles to defend itself

April 15-30, 1940

Western Front, Norway
After securing their initial objectives, the German army begin their conquest of Norway. Major General Carl Otto Ruge, Norway's new commander-in-chief, leads a stubborn defense around Lake Mjosa and the Glomma valley.

An Allied expeditionary force of over 10,000 British, French, and Polish troops push back. Its objective to recapture Trondheim to secure a base, but its units are ill-prepared for the campaign. There has been little liaison with the Norwegians and various units lack cohesion. Lack of training in artic warfare, key supplies, air cover, and anti-aircraft weaponry exacerbate the situation.

German aircraft launch counterattacks. British and French troops eventually evacuate on May 1-2.