WW2 28mm German Fallschirmjager Complete Squad with modulhead option (10 bodies/10 heads)

Fallschirmjäger in Normandy – Elite German Paratroopers of 1944

The Fallschirmjäger, Germany’s elite paratroopers, were among the most formidable infantry units fielded by the Wehrmacht during World War II. Originally conceived as airborne assault troops under the Luftwaffe, by the time of the Battle of Normandy in 1944, they had largely transitioned into elite ground infantry. Despite suffering heavy casualties earlier in the war, the Fallschirmjäger who fought in France demonstrated exceptional resilience, discipline, and skill under fire, earning the respect of their adversaries.

During the Normandy campaign, Fallschirmjäger units were deployed across northern France, often rushed into the front lines to plug gaps in the German defenses after the Allied landings. They were particularly active around Carentan, Saint-Lô, and Caen, where their tenacity slowed the Allied advance. Unlike regular infantry divisions, Fallschirmjäger formations were smaller but highly trained, emphasizing initiative, small-unit tactics, and defensive warfare.

Equipment and Uniform

The Fallschirmjäger were distinct in both appearance and equipment. Their uniforms were designed specifically for airborne operations and close combat. They often wore the M38 jump helmet, lower-cut than the standard Wehrmacht Stahlhelm, providing better mobility during parachute drops. Many helmets were camouflaged with netting or foliage (as you can see in this set!), a detail represented in your miniature collection.

Their uniforms typically consisted of the Knochensack (“bone sack”) jump smock, usually in splinter or tan-and-water camouflage patterns. This loose-fitting garment was worn over their field gear and provided pockets for grenades, ammunition, and personal items. Underneath, they wore standard Luftwaffe field tunics and trousers, with tall brown jump boots that set them apart from other troops. Later in the war, supply shortages meant many paratroopers wore a mix of uniforms, including Wehrmacht or SS field gear.

Fallschirmjäger weaponry was diverse and effective. The core infantry armament included the Karabiner 98k rifle, MP40 submachine gun, and the MG34 or MG42 machine gun, or the famous FG42, which served as the backbone of their firepower. The MG42, in particular, was a fearsome weapon—capable of firing up to 1,200 rounds per minute, it was used to establish deadly base-of-fire positions in both attack and defense. Fallschirmjäger units also employed Panzerfausts and Panzerschrecks for anti-tank defense, as well as light mortars and captured Allied weapons when necessary.

Tactics and Combat Role

In Normandy, Fallschirmjäger were no longer used for large-scale airborne drops; instead, they operated as elite infantry. Their tactical doctrine emphasized small-unit autonomy, rapid maneuvering, and aggressive counterattacks. They often fought from well-prepared defensive positions, using camouflage and terrain to their advantage. Their ability to conduct delaying actions—holding up enemy forces for days with limited support—became one of their trademarks. One day, I will perhaps try to create a Wargame rule who depicts this kind of tactical specifications.

At battles such as Carentan, Fallschirmjäger units from the 6th Regiment held out tenaciously against U.S. paratroopers from the 101st Airborne Division. Their defensive tactics involved interlocking fields of fire, concealed machine gun nests, and carefully planned fallback positions (as we cans see in Band of Brothers!). Even when outnumbered and outgunned, they made Allied advances costly and time-consuming.

Fallschirmjäger were also known for their discipline and “esprit de corps”. Many officers (like Colonel Von Der Heydte) and NCOs were veterans from earlier campaigns in Crete, Italy, or the Eastern Front. Their leadership style encouraged initiative—junior leaders were expected to make independent decisions in combat, an approach that often gave them a tactical edge in chaotic battlefield conditions.