The German Wehrmacht was the unified armed forces of Nazi Germany from 1935 to 1945. It consisted of three main branches: the Heer (Army), the Kriegsmarine (Navy), and the Luftwaffe (Air Force). The Wehrmacht played a significant role in World War II, engaging in various military campaigns across Europe and beyond. The Wehrmacht was known for its use of combined arms tactics and rapid maneuvers, particularly during the early years of the war. However, it was also involved in numerous war crimes and atrocities, especially on the Eastern Front, which have led to extensive historical scrutiny and debate regarding its legacy.