Ranking the Combat Strength of the Top Five Ace Divisions of Nazi Germany in World War II

No Matter How Formidable, Aggressors Cannot Escape Defeat

1. 2nd SS Panzer Division “Das Reich”

The “Das Reich” Division was recognized as the premier ace of the Waffen-SS. As one of the first divisional units of the SS to be formed, it excelled in both experience and military achievements, making it the quintessence of the Waffen-SS divisions. Its members were considered elites by the Nazi Party in terms of race, ideology, and military capabilities, and Heinrich Himmler held high expectations for them.

However, the regular army viewed them merely as a motley crew of political thugs. Under the careful guidance of Paul Hausser, the “Das Reich” Division soon evolved into a professional military force, utterly loyal to the Nazi Party and imbued with a spirit of adventurous aggression.

After the outbreak of WWII, the “Das Reich” Division participated in all major battles except those in Norway and North Africa, including the “Operation Typhoon” aimed at capturing Moscow, as the sole divisional combat unit of the Waffen-SS.