Скачать или смотреть How Ghost Army Fooled the Nazis with Inflatable Tanks

The Ghost Army, officially known as the 23rd Headquarters Special Troops, was one of the most unique and innovative units in military history. Comprised of artists, designers, sound engineers, and actors, this unit was tasked with creating elaborate deceptions to mislead the enemy about the size, location, and intentions of Allied forces during World War II. Their mission was to create the illusion of large troop movements and preparations in order to divert attention from real operations, thereby protecting the lives of soldiers and increasing the chances of mission success.

The Ghost Army's deceptions were incredibly sophisticated for the time. They employed inflatable tanks, artillery, and vehicles, which could be quickly deployed to simulate the presence of an entire armored division. To further the illusion, the unit used loudspeakers to broadcast sounds of troop movements, construction, and even battle noises, creating the auditory impression of a large force. Additionally, they engaged in fake radio transmissions, complete with convincing dialogue and tactical chatter, which were designed to be intercepted by the enemy and lead them to incorrect conclusions.

One of their most famous operations was during the Battle of the Bulge, where their efforts helped to confuse German forces and mislead them about the Allies' true plans. The unit's success in deception was so effective that it likely saved thousands of lives by preventing enemy attacks on vulnerable areas and allowing Allied forces to concentrate on key operations without being detected.

The Ghost Army's operations remained classified for decades after the war, adding to the mystery and intrigue surrounding their contributions. It was not until the 1990s that the full extent of their activities was revealed to the public, highlighting their significant, albeit unorthodox, role in the Allied victory in Europe. The story of the Ghost Army is a testament to the power of creativity and deception in warfare, showing how unconventional methods can have a profound impact on the outcome of a conflict.