Bright Sword: Construction starts from southeastern Shanxi

Zeng Jiwen explained, "At the same time, after all, we have been training for such a long time, and the soldiers are not new recruits. The previous actual combat was only against small Japanese troops. This time, let the 108th Division test how well we are trained." Zeng Jiwen looked determined.

After all, an elite force with firm beliefs and strong combat effectiveness must go through many tests of blood and fire to forge its military spirit, and this time will be the first step for the 389th Brigade to face the test.

After hearing Zeng Jiwen's answer, the two men also agreed. An elite and victorious army is forged in the test of blood and fire.

"In that case, our previous strategy has changed." Zhou Xi reacted.

"There's no way. We are now much better developed than other brother troops. Take equipment and training for example, even the Central Army may not be able to compare with us." Zeng Jiwen continued.

"Other troops are conducting guerrilla warfare behind enemy lines, following the old methods. This is determined by the current situation. We are different. We have begun to grow stronger. Sooner or later, we will face the Japanese offensive head-on."

"Moreover, with us here to draw firepower, other troops can develop better. With such strength, we must bear equal responsibility."

Zeng Jiwen spoke earnestly. After hearing Zeng Jiwen's words, the two of them sighed inwardly. Previously, their thoughts were the same as everyone else's, and they had always felt that they were too weak to fight the Japanese army head-on.

However, after hearing Zeng Jiwen's explanation, he knew that the current strength of the 389th Brigade had improved by several steps compared to before, and it was time to start taking the initiative.

"In this case, the entire combat plan on the eastern front will have to change. At the same time, we have to discuss with the headquarters about the adjustments to our proactive attack." Wang Zhuo added.

"Yes, there is also the issue of coordination with the 47th Army in Changzhi. To coordinate the command of the two armies, I'm afraid we have to go to Changzhi again." Zhou Yiqi also said.

"Then you two have to quickly formulate a combat plan. The headquarters will only agree after seeing our strength. Otherwise, just your words as the brigade commander, the deputy commander will not believe you no matter how much you say." Zhou Xi joked.

"Okay, Lao Wang, you stay here and help me with the plan. Once we've formulated it, we'll send it to headquarters."

After saying that, Zeng Jiwen and Wang Zhuo began to formulate a combat plan based on the current situation with a group of staff from the brigade.

Since the 389th Brigade is currently in the Wuan area, in addition to local armed forces, there are two main regiments operating there. At the same time, there is also a main regiment operating in Licheng. According to previous plans, a large number of local militias have been active on the transportation line from there to Wuan, waiting for the opportunity to form various local regiments.

Therefore, in this operation, the main forces are the main force regiment and local forces in the Wuan direction, and then three direct regiments and the main force regiment formed previously are drawn out, which is completely sufficient. The other main force regiments are responsible for maintaining other defense zones.

Looking at the map, the Japanese army attacked Changzhi, starting from Wuan, passing through Shexian and Dongyang Pass, and then arrived at Licheng.

The best location to set up an ambush is in the middle, where it is almost between Dongyang Pass and She County. There are mountains on both sides and the terrain is high, which is a perfect place to set up an ambush.

One is the Wuzhi Pass just outside Shexian County. The Qingzhang River directly cuts off the Handan-Changzhi Highway, and the mountains on both sides of the river mouth are natural locations for ambush.

Then, there is the transportation from Wu'an to Shexian. After arriving in Yetao, you can either cross the mountains to Piandian, or go around Dayupei and go down along the Shuiyi River.

According to the Japanese army's previous offensive habits, a division would generally have a regiment of Japanese troops leading the charge. Once the front-line positions were stabilized, subsequent large forces would arrive.

Although the 108th Division was a special division formed later by the Japanese Army, it is currently at full strength. The entire division consists of four infantry regiments, as well as corresponding cavalry, engineers, and logistics regiments. The total number of troops is approximately 20,000 to 25,000. However, due to its composition being composed of reserve personnel from the Japanese 8th Division, its combat effectiveness is not as good as that of the Type A divisions.