Exercise Spartan

Exercise Spartan was a Second World War exercise that took place from 4 to 12 March 1943 in England. It was a test of the structures, components, and organization of the Canadian Army at that time. The exercise was the largest field force ever commanded by a Canadian officer up until that time. It was described by The Times as “the greatest offensive exercise ever staged in the military history of these islands.”

Background
Exercise Spartan was a follow-up to Exercise Bumper conducted in October 1941. This one however, was an offensive exercise where the Allied Army under the command of a Canadian General was expected to advance across a bridgehead and take the capital city of the fictional enemy country of Eastland which was located at Huntingdon.

Purpose of the Exercise
The exercise was part of series of exercises intended to prepare allied forces for the eventual invasion of North Western Europe. It was meant to trial the formations, commanders and support functions. Many newer capabilities were also tried for the first time including the coordination between air and land forces during offensive operations.

General McNaughton described the purpose of the exercise as follows in an after action report:"This large scale exercise was designed as a strict test of the physical condition and endurance of the troops, their proficiency in movement and tactics and of the ability of commanders and staffs to administer, handle and fight their formations and units. "

Order of Battle
The exercise had the First Canadian Army face off against British troops who were fulfilling the role of the German army.

Results of the Exercise
While many lessons were learned throughout the exercise, the main result was that LGen McNaughton performance in command of the 1st Canadian Army was deemed unsatisfactory and he was relieved of command. Command was eventually given to General Crerar (1 Canadian Corps Commander during the Exercise). While it was clear since at least 1941 General Sir Alan Brooke had had issue with McNaughton, it seems that Brooke was able to use McNaughton’s performance during Ex Spartan to relieve him.