Editing Shock troops (section)

{{short description|Type of infantry for leading attacks}}
{{For|the 1967 film|Shock Troops (film)}}
'''Shock troops''', '''assault troops''', or '''storm troops''' are special formations created to lead [[Offensive (military)|military attack]]s. They are often better trained and equipped than other military units and are expected to take heavier casualties even in successful operations.

"Shock troop" is a [[calque]], a loose translation of the [[German language|German]] word '''''Stoßtrupp''''' (literally "thrust squad" or "push squad").{{efn|Although the German word ''Stoß'' is occasionally used to translate 'shock' or allude to a shock-like event, as in ''Erdstoß'' ([[seismic wave]]), in this case ''stoß'' derives directly from the verb ''stoßen'' (to push), referring to the original task of the ''Stoßtruppen'', known in German as ''vorstoßen'' (roughly: to carry the attack forward, to penetrate the enemy lines).}}  Assault troopers are typically organized for mobility with the intention that they will penetrate enemy defenses and attack into the enemy's vulnerable [[Rear (military)|rear areas]].  Any specialized, elite unit formed to fight an engagement via overwhelming assault (usually) would be considered shock troops, as opposed to "[[special forces]]" or [[commando]]-style units (intended mostly for [[covert operation]]s). However, both types of units could fight behind enemy lines, by surprise if required.