The capture of Boulogne-sur-Mer by the German 2nd Panzer Division occurred during the Battle of Boulogne, part of the larger context of the German invasion of France in 1940. The battle took place as German forces executed their blitzkrieg strategy, rapidly advancing through France following the fall of Belgium. Boulogne, positioned on the northern coast, became a key target due to its strategic port facilities, critical for supply lines and troop movements.

After intense fighting, French and British troops attempted to defend the town against the advancing German forces. The German 2nd Panzer Division, known for its mechanized mobility and armored units, systematically overran the defensive positions. Despite valiant efforts to hold the line, the encirclement and eventual surrender of the Allied troops became inevitable. By the end of the battle, the remaining soldiers surrendered, leading to the Germans securing the port on May 25, 1940.

This successful capture was significant not only for the Germans but also for the overall campaign in the Western Front. The fall of Boulogne allowed German forces to improve their logistical capabilities and established a foothold for subsequent operations as they pushed onward towards ports like Dunkirk, initiating a critical phase in the Battle of France. The ramifications of this event contributed to the rapid collapse of French defenses in the following weeks.