November 25, 1942 began the offensive of the Soviet troops on the German defense, called-on Rzhev salience. The operation was codenamed "Mars" and was the equivalent of Operation Saturn at the same time at Stalingrad. The forces of the Soviet forces involved in both offensives were comparable.

The purpose of the operation was to encircle most of the 9th German Army. At the end of the operation, the Soviet forces were to attack the Vaisma. This would lead to the breakdown of the 9th Army and the 3rd Armored Division. As a result, most of the GA "Center" forces would be destroyed and the Soviet troops could attack Smolensk.

The "Grossdeutschland" division, divided into several Kampfgruppen, was located in the valley of Luciess River, south-east of Olenino.

