The Salerno Landings in Facts, Figures and Statistics

As Soviet forces fought on the Eastern Front, and Western powers began to plan the invasion of Normandy, the Allies were already preparing to invade mainland Italy.

With Sicily captured successfully, and the Italian Army on the verge of surrender, the boot of Italy was next on the cards – and Operation Avalanche was born. Originally intended as a surprise attack, the landing at Salerno became the launch point for Allied entry into Italy on the 9th of September 1943.

• However, despite efforts to draw Axis forces away from the location, German command quickly realised what was happening - and readied to receive the British and American forces as they arrived.
• Shelled by tanks, mortar rounds, and artillery fire, Allied troops lost ground as quickly as they gained it – and plans for a retreat were even considered. Yet Allied airpower and naval power were able to provide considerable support, and forced the Germans to a standstill.

It took a mammoth united effort of ships, aircraft, and boots on the ground to make it happen – not to mention the sacrifice of numerous brave combatants.

Here, we break down the Battle of Salerno in facts and statistics.