The reconnaissance screen fell back deliberately towards Kharkov, and by 4 February 1943 I SS Panzer Corps was almost fully deployed in its main defensive position along the Donets.

• 侦察部队故意向哈尔科夫撤退，1943年2月4日，党卫队第1装甲军沿着顿涅茨河全部展开防御。