Because of the nearness of Sicily to Tunisia and to protect the rear of the Panzer Army Africa, which was in retreat following the Second Battle of El Alamein the leaders of Germany and Italy Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini immediately dispatched forces to occupy Tunisia.

While the bulk of the Axis forces moved westwards to counter advancing allies units, the L Special Brigade moved to the South of the country to secure the left flank of Panzer Army Africa's retreat route.

With the arrival of more units the brigade garrisoned Kairouan, Sbeitla, and Sened Station and began an intensive exploration of the area to determine the most likely routes of advances of allied forces.

By 8 December 1942 the brigade was at full strength and returned the companies and battery of the 1st Infantry Division "Superga".

On 1-3 February 1943 the brigade retained control of Sened Station after a bitter battle against the American 168th Infantry Regiment.