Falkenhorst commands invasion of Norway

General Nikolaus von Falkenhorst was appointed to lead the German invasion of Norway, a strategic military operation during World War II. The decision to invade Norway was influenced by the need to secure iron ore shipments from Sweden, which were vital for the German war effort. Control over Norway would also provide Germany with a stronger naval position in the North Atlantic, allowing for better access to the British Isles and the ability to disrupt Allied shipping routes. The operation, codenamed Operation Weserübung, aimed to capture key locations including Oslo, Bergen, and Narvik, which were essential for establishing a foothold in Scandinavia. The invasion commenced with a combination of naval and airborne assaults, showcasing the effectiveness of Blitzkrieg tactics. German forces faced limited resistance from Norwegian troops, who were unprepared for the scale and speed of the invasion. The rapid success of the operation allowed Germany to secure Norway within a short period, significantly impacting the balance of power in Northern Europe. The occupation of Norway provided Germany with strategic advantages, including control over the North Sea and the ability to launch further operations against the Allies. The invasion also had lasting effects on Norway, leading to a prolonged occupation that would influence the country's political landscape and resistance movements during the war.