The Impacts of a Little Known Battle Between the Soviets and Japan in 1939

The Battles of Khalkhin Gol took place through the summer of 1939. For both nations, the conflict would provide insight and dictate strategic decisions taken during World War II.

In 1931, while Germany was witnessing the ascension of the Nationalist Socialist Party, in the Pacific, the Japanese seized Manchuria. The Empire of the Rising Sun was also ascending. And they set their eyes on the Soviet Union’s eastern territory. 

Conflict would erupt in 1939 along the river Khalkhin Gol, known as the Battles of Khalkhin Gol. The conflict between the Soviet Union and Japan had significant consequences for both nations. It also played a crucial role in shaping the events of World War II.

A Lesser Known Border Conflict

The Japanese were seeking to expand their influence in East Asia. Having seized control of Manchuria, they set their eyes on the border shared with Soviet-allied Mongolia. Mongolia held that the separating border existed 10 miles east of the Khalkhin Gol River. Japan believed the border was the river itself.

What started as small border skirmishes in May of 1939 would soon escalate. In July the Japanese executed their two-pronged assault. Hoping the invasion would catch the Soviets offguard, the Japanese miscalculated. By the time the conflict was over, the Japanese left defeated.

The Soviet Union, led by General Georgy Zhukov, launched a successful counteroffensive against the invading Japanese. After being pushed from Baintsagan Hill, the Soviets showed superior tactics, coordination, and firepower. Leveraging 450 tanks and armored cars, the Soviets nearly encircled the Japanese force. The Soviets pushed the Japanese troops back across the single pontoon bridge they had. 

Going For a Second Push

In Late July, Japan launched another heavy assault. Even with the support of artillery, Japan underestimated the strength of the Soviet forces. And it proved to be a grave mistake. They failed to take the bridge. The battle drifted to a stalemate.

When August arrived, war seemed imminent in Europe. Zhukov and the Soviet Union were aware that a two-front war may break out. Fearing such a predicament, the Soviets launched a massive offensive. The goal - clear the Japanese from the Khalkhin Gol region. 

Ending The Eastern Front

Having received a fresh supply load from a nearby base, Zhukov had everything he needed. Against two light infantry divisions, the Soviet Union brought three rifle divisions, two tank divisions (with an additional two tank brigades), two motorized infantry divisions, and over 550 fighters. 

Japan fought valiantly, but in the end were overmatched. They were unprepared for the harsh terrain, which included the vast Mongolian steppes. They had stretched outside their supply lines which left them in a state of constant shortage. When the Soviets mounted their thrust, there was little Japan could do. 

When the dust settled, Japan had lost nearly 8,500 troops, 162 aircraft, and 42 tanks. Meanwhile the Soviets cited just under 8,000 killed and over 15,000 wounded. The Soviets also lost 250 tanks, 250 aircraft, and nearly 100 artillery pieces. 

Lessons Taken Into World War II

The Battles of Khalkhin Gol had broader implications beyond the immediate conflict. While it is little known in the West, it significantly influenced the course of World War II in several ways.

Firstly, the Soviet victory at Khalkhin Gol demonstrated to Japan the military prowess of the Soviet Union. This deterrence factor played a crucial role in preventing Japan from launching a full-scale invasion of the Soviet Union during World War II. Japan realized the risks and challenges posed by engaging in a conflict with a formidable opponent like the Soviet Union on their home turf.

Secondly, the defeat at Khalkhin Gol forced Japan to reassess its strategic priorities. Recognizing the strength of the Soviet Union, Japan shifted its focus towards expanding its influence in Southeast Asia and the Pacific. This shift in priorities ultimately led to the infamous attack on Pearl Harbor and Japan's involvement in the wider conflict of World War II.

Lastly, the Soviet victory at Khalkhin Gol had a significant impact on Soviet strategy. It boosted the confidence of the Soviet military and provided valuable lessons in warfare. The Soviet Union learned from their successes at Khalkhin Gol and applied those lessons to their future military operations - including an offensive launched during the Battle of Stalingrad. 

Though not as widely known, the Battles of Khalkhin Gol marked a significant turning point in history. The Japanese defeat demonstrated the military capabilities of the Soviet Union. It altered Japanese strategic priorities and influenced the course of World War II.

History for the Hurried:

May 29, 1453: The city of Constantinople was captured by the Turks, who renamed it Istanbul. This marked the end of the Byzantine Empire as Istanbul became the capital of the Ottoman Empire.

May 29, 1660: The English monarchy was restored with Charles II on the throne after several years of a Commonwealth under Lord Protector Oliver Cromwell.