The Battle of Belchite

August 24-September 27, 1937

Intended as another Republican showpiece, Republicans launched a full scale attack with some their best units designed to finally capture the main rail junction of Saragossa and secure all of Aragón for the Republic. Again, stubborn heroic Nationalist stands at places like Belchite preoccupied Republican attentions, allowing the Nationalists to build up countermeasures. Disastrous attack by Republican armour at Fuentes del Ebro again cost the Republic many precious tanks, including many new BT-5's. Stubborn and capable in defence, the Republic had still not managed to undertake a succesful offensive [Santa Cruz].