Sixth Army (Japan)

The Sixth Army (第6軍, Dai-roku gun) was a field army of the Imperial Japanese Army.

History

The Sixth Army was formed on May 4, 1939, under the command of the Kwantung Army, as part of the strengthening of Japanese forces in Manchuria following border clashes with the Soviet Union. It primarily served as a garrison force along the northern borders of Manchukuo, and was tasked with preventing Soviet incursions. Its initial deployment was in the Hailar district.

During the Soviet invasion of Manchuria in August 1945, the Sixth Army was deployed along the western flank of the Japanese defenses. Facing overwhelming Soviet forces, the Sixth Army was quickly overwhelmed and largely destroyed.

Commanders

• Lieutenant General Rokuro Yasui (May 4, 1939 – March 1, 1941)
• Lieutenant General Ryukichi Tanaka (March 1, 1941 – April 1, 1943)
• Lieutenant General Shiro Yoshihara (April 1, 1943 – October 27, 1944)
• Lieutenant General Seizo Arisue (October 27, 1944 – August 15, 1945)

Structure

The Sixth Army's structure varied depending on the stage of the war, but typically included several infantry divisions, artillery regiments, and supporting units. Details on specific subordinate units are fragmented and require further research.