Gorlice Tarnow Breakthrough 1915

May 1915: To help the Austro-Hungarians, a new German army is formed under the capable von Mackensen, and placed in the line east of Crackow. He attacks and completely pierces the Russian lines. A Russian retreat ensues that enables the Central Powers forces to recapture most of Galicia. After being pressured by the Kaiser, von Falkenhayn gave into the insistence of Hindenburg and Ludendorff which resulted in a widening of the offensive.

Brusilov Offensive 1916

June 1916: In response to French pleas for help to relieve the pressure at Verdun, the Russian STAVKA authorizes a major offensive. General Brusilov plans attacks all along the front of his Southwest Army Group aiming primarily at Austro-Hungarian positions.