In World War II, an unsuccessful German offensive against a Soviet salient in July 1943. Kursk was the greatest tank battle in history and proved to be a turning point in the Eastern Front campaign. With nearly 6,000 tanks and 2 million troops involved the battle was hard fought, reaching its climax with the pitched battle on 12 July between 700 German and 850 Soviet tanks.
Green is a symbol of fertility. White represents neutrality. Black reflects the Emirates' oil wealth. Red recalls the former flags of the Kharijite Muslims. Effective date: 2 December 1971.