The division was formed in August 1939. It took part in invasion of Poland, invasion of Greece and Operation Barbarossa. Since september 1941, the division has been in the spearhead of Operation Typhoon aiming at the capture of Moscow.

The early version of the MG 42 is a German machine gun from the initial production series, distinguished from later versions by a unique bolt cocking handle. The key feature of this machine gun is its high rate of fire at 960 rounds per minute. This significantly increases its firepower and enables effective suppression of the enemy at medium and long ranges.