Preparations
Mounting pressure from the western Allies caused the Russians to hurry their preparations. Brusilov amassed four armies totaling 40 infantry divisions and 15 cavalry divisions. He faced 39 Austrian infantry divisions and 10 cavalry divisions, formed in a row of three defensive lines, although later German reinforcements were brought up. Brusilov, knowing he would not receive significant reinforcements, moved his reserves up to the front line. He used them to dig entrenchments about 300 meters long and 90 meters wide all along the front line. These provided shelter for the troops and hindered observation by the Austrians. The Russians secretly crept to within 100 yards (91 m) of the Austrian lines and at some points as close as 75 yards (69 m). Brusilov prepared for a surprise assault along a 300-mile (480 km) front. The Stavka urged Brusilov to considerably shorten his attacking front to allow for a much heavier concentration of Russian troops. Brusilov, however, insisted on his plan and the Stavka relented.
Read more about this topic: Brusilov Offensive
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