Which troops did Germany use to capture Crete in 1941?

Germany used glider-borne and parachute troops to capture Crete in 1941, which marked a significant military operation known as Operation Mercury. This operation was notable for the extensive use of airborne forces, reflecting the innovative tactics employed by the German military at that time.

The airborne units, specifically the Luftwaffe Fallschirmjäger, were deployed to secure key locations crucial for the invasion and to establish control over the island as quickly as possible. They utilized gliders to land troops behind enemy lines and parachutes to drop troops directly into combat areas. This strategy significantly contributed to the swift and surprising nature of the German assault.

The use of paratroopers and glider troops demonstrated the effectiveness of airborne operations and marked one of the first large-scale airborne invasions in military history, showcasing the strategic importance of air superiority and rapid troop deployment in modern warfare. The success at Crete also set a precedent for the use of airborne forces in future conflicts.