SOE in the Third Reich: Special Operations Executive’s German Section in WW2

The "X" Section of S.O.2, a part of the Ministry of Economic Warfare, was formed in November 1940 with the goal of establishing channels of communication into Germany and Austria for subversive activities.

Despite facing immense difficulties due to the rigid internal control exercised by the SS and Gestapo, Major R.H.

Thornley decided to focus on sporadic sabotage and administrative sabotage instead of large-scale operations.

The first two agents were sent into Germany via Yugoslavia in February 1941, resulting in the successful distribution of forged ration cards that disrupted the German economy.

Other efforts included using itching powder, distributing "black" propaganda, and spreading alarm and despondency among German troops.

With its innovative approach to sabotage and its ability to operate undetected within Germany and Austria, the "X" Section proved to be a valuable asset in the fight against the Nazi regime.