ENCYCLOPEDIA OF GERMAN TANKS OF WORLD WAR [TWO A complete illustrated directory of German battle tanks, armopred cars, self-propelled guns and semi-tracked vehicles, 1933-1945. By Peter Chamberfpin and Hilary L. Doyle. Technical Editor: Thomas L. JentzContents list of vehicle types Panzerkampiwagen | and variants, Pz Kplw | Aust Ao Autbau, 18 Pe Kplw | Aust A (Sd Klz 101), 19 Pe Kplw | Aust B (Sd Kile 101), 20 Pz Kpfw Il Aust b (Sd Kz 121), 29 Pz Kplw | Aus! B 0 Aufbau, 21 Pa Kptw Il Ausf ©, A, B und © (Sd Kite 121), kleiner Panzerbetehiswagen (Sd K'z 265), 2280 Munitionsschiepper aut Pz Kpiw I Aust A (Sd Pz Kpiw Il Ausf O und € (Sd Kte 121), 92 fz 111), 23, Pe Kptw Il Aust F (Sd Klz 121), 23, 180m 1638 (St) aut Pz Kptw | Aust 8, 24 Pa Kpiw Il Flamm Auet A und & (Sd Kiz 122 Pe Kpiw | Aust ©, 24 Flamingo’, 34 47cm Paki) (St) aut Pz Kptw | Aust 8, 25 Pz KpiwIl Aust G, 35 Pe Kptw | Aust F, 26 Pe Kpfw Il Aust J 35 Ladungsleger aui P2 Kptw | Aust 6, 27 2 Kpfw Il nA Aust H und M26 Brikenloger aut Fost Pz Kefw Aus! A,27 Pz Kplw Il Aus! L (Sd Kiz 129) “Luchs’, 96, Flammenwerfor aut P2 Kptw I Aust 8, 27 Sem sIG33 aut Fgst Pz Kptw Il (St), 37 Munitionsschlepper aut Pz Kefw la und Ib, 27 Gelechts Autklarer VK1602 ‘Leopard’, 37 Tezem Pak(r) aut Fgst Pz Kotw tl (St), 38 75cm PaK40/2 aut Fost Pz Kplw Il (S!) (Sd iz 131) "Marder I 38, Loionte Felahaubitze 18/2 aut Fget Pz Kptw il (St) (Sd kiz 124) "Wespe', 39 Panzorkampiwagen It and variants, 28 Pz Kplw Il Aust a/1, a/2 und a/3 (Sd Ktz 121), 28, Pe Kptw Il mit Schwammkorper, 40 Brikenleger aul Pz Kptw il, 41 Pe kpiw 10 Turm, 41 Sem Pak38 L/60 aut Fost Pz Kpiw Il (St), 41 Pz Selbstfahriatette tc:Sem Pak38 aut P2 iKptw tl (VK901), 41 Fine 1h Beko it Aust Eo Fine 1. Fe Kot IV Aut Fy Fite 1. Pe Kat V (Pat Aut A 6 VEHICLE CONTENTS LisT Panzerkamptwagen 95(1) and 38(t) plus variants, 42 Pz Kew 35(8), 42 Artllerie Schlepper Pa Sp Wo 1-19, 43, Pa Kp 38(1) Aust A. 43, Pz Kpfw 38(t) Aus! B,C und D, 44 Pz Kpfw 38(t) Aus! E und F, 44 Pb Kptw 38(t) Aust §, 45 Pz Kptw 38(t) Aust G, 45, Pa Kptw 38(t) nA. 46 8(1) 43 Panzorjager 38(t) ur 720m Pak36(r) (Se Kz 198) "Marder I, 48 7.5em PaK40/3 aul Pz’ Kplw 38(t) Auet A (Sé fz 138) “Marder Ii, 47 15cm siG33(St) aut P2 Kptw 38(%) Aust H (Se kiz 198/1) ‘Grille. 47 Panzerjager 38(t) mit 7'Scm PaKA0/3 Aust M (Sd Kiz 198) “Marder Il, 48 180m siG33/1 aut St 38(t) Aust M (Sd Kz 198/1) ‘Grille’, 49 Munitiongpanzer 38(t) 188), 50, Flakpaner 98(t) aut Sf 38(t) Aust M (Sd itz 140), 50 ‘Auiklarer aul Fst Pz Kpfw 38(t) mit 2om 'KWK38 odor 7.5cm KWK38 L/24, 51 Munitionsschlepper aut Fost Pz Kp 38 (1 82 Schitzenpanzerwagen aut Fgst Pz Kotw 38(t), 52 Mérsortriger auf Fost Pz Kpfw 98(t), 52 Jagdpancer 38(¢) Hetzer (P2 Jag 8(t)) for "7.5em PaK39, 53 Flammpanzer 38(1) Hetzer, 54 Bergepanzer 36(t) Hetzer, 54 1Sem sIG33/2(S!) aul Jgd Pz 38(t) Hetzer 55 Jagdpanzer 38(t) Star, 55 ‘Lelenter Einneitswattenirager, 55 Mitiorer Einheitswaffentrager, 57 Jagdpancer 38(3), 57 St) Aust M (Sd Ktz iw eaempkwagen Il and variants, 58 Pe Kplw il Aust A (Sd Kiz 141), 58 Pe Kp Il Aust 8 (Sd Kl2 141). 59 Pe Kplw il Aust C (Sd Kiz 141), 60, PE Kplw il Aust D (Sd Kt2 141). 60 Pe Kp Il Aust € (Sd Klz 141), 61 Pe kp Il Aust F (Sd klz 141)” 62 Pe Kp Il Ausf G (S8 K'z 141), 63, Pe kplw Il Aust H (Sd Kiz 141). 64 Pe Kp Il Aust J (Sd Kiz 141), 65 Pe kpiw Il Aust J (Sd Kiz 181/1), 66 Pe Kp Il Aust L (Sd Kfz 141/1), 68 Pr mpl Ill Aust M(Sd Kiz 141/1), 67 Pe Kptw Ill Aust N (Sd K1z 141/2), 68 Pe kptw Il (Fl) (Sd Kiz 141/38). 69, Pe Kptw Il ale Tauchpanzer. 70 Panzerbetehiswagen Aus! D' (Sd Kiz 267, 288), 71 Panzerbefehlswagen Aust E (Sd Ktz 266— 258), 72 Panzerbefehiswagen Aust H (Sd kiz 266 268), 72 Panzerbelehiowagen mit Sem KwK L/42 (Sa wiz 141), 73 Panzerbetebiswagen (Aust K) mit Sem Kwk39 L/60, 74 Atileie Panzerbeabachtungswagen (Pz pi il) (Sd Kiz 148), 75, ergepanzor Il, 78 Pe Kptw Ill mit Schachtellautwerk. 77 Minenraumpanzor Il, 77 Pr Kptw Ill Aust N als Schienen-Ketton Fahrzoug SKI, 78 Pionierpanzerwagen aut Fost Pz Kpfw ill, 7 Munitionepanzer aut Fgst Pz Kotw Il, 78 Gep Si far Sturmoeschitz 75em Kanone ‘ust A (Sd Kiz 142), 79 Gep Si fur Sturmaeschitz 76m Kenone ‘ust B (Sd Kiz 142), 80 Gep Si far Sturmgeschitz 7sem Kanone ‘ust C und D (Sd kiz 142), 80 Gep SI fur Stumoeschutz 7.5em Kanone ust € (Sd Kiz 142), 81 7.5em Sturmgeschitz 40 Aust F (Sd Ktz 42/1), 82 7.5em Sturmgeschite 40 Aust F/8 (Sd Ktz 1442/1), 83 75em Stirmgoschitz 40 Aust G (Sd Ktz 142/1), 84 10.50m Sturmhaubitze 42 (S4 ktz 142/2), 85 Sturmoeschotz Il (FI), 68 ‘Slurmintanteriegeschdiz 338, 86 Munitionspanzer auf Fgst StuG III Aus! G, 87 jnzerkamptwagen V (Panther) and variants, "120 Br Kofw V Aust D (Sd Kiz 171), 120 Pe Kot V Aust A (Sd Ktz 171)! 122 2 Kpfw V Aust G (Sd Kiz 171), 124 Pz Kpfw V Aust F (Sd Kfz 171). 128 Panzerbetehiswagen mit 7.5¢m KwK¢2 /70 'Pz Boob Wa Panther, 127 agdpanther (Sd Kz 173), 128 Panzer-Bergegerat (Panther |) (Sd Ktz 170) Panzerkamptwagen IV and variants, 88 Pa Kplw IV Aust A (Sd Kiz 161), 69 Pe Kplw IV Aust B (Sd kiz 161), 90 a Kptw IV Aust © (Sd Ktz 161), 90 Pe Kplw IV Aust D (Sd kiz 161), 91 Pe Kplw IV Aust E (Sd Ktz 181), 93 Pa Kplw iV Aust F (Sd Kfz 181)” 98 Be Kptw IV Aust F, (So Kiz 161/1), 95 Pr Kptw IV Aust @ (Sd Kiz 161/1 und 16172), 97 "31 Pa Kpfw WV Aust H (Sd Kte 161/2), 98 Flakzwilling 8.7em aut Pz Kptw Panther Pe Kptw IV Aust J (Sd Ki2 161/2), 09 ‘Coelian, 132 Pe Kpfw IV ale Tauchpanzer, 100 ‘Sturmpanther, 132 Panzerbeteniswagen mit 75cm KwK L/48, Jagdpanther Siar, 132 101 Panzerbeobachtungewagen IV, 101 Sturmpanger IV (Sd Kiz 166) ‘Brummbar Pz kptw Panthor Ui, 182 Geschitzwagen Panther for sFH18/4(S!), 132 \vks002(DB) — Pz Kptw V, 133 or Sturmgeschite IV (7.5em stuk#0 L/48) (Sa . iz 167), 102 Sturmgeschitz nA mit 760m PaKL/48 aut Fst Pz Kptw IV (Jagdpanzer IV) (Sd Klz 162), 102 Panzer IV/T0(V) (Sd Ktz 162/1), 104 Panzer 1V/70(A), 105 1O5em K18 aut Pz SI IVa, 108 B.8cm Pak4a/t (L/71) aul Fost Pz Kotw ZIV (St) "Hornisse, 107, ‘160m ¢ Pz H 18/1 aut Fgst Pz Ml/IV (St) (Sa kiz 165) Hummer’, 108, a.7em Flak aut Fgst P2 Kpiw IV (Sf) (Sd Kz 161/3) "Mobelwagen’, 109 Flakpanzer IV/2em Viering "Wirbelwing’ Flakpanzer 1V/3,Tom Flak ‘Ostwind', 111 Lichter Flakpanzer 1V(3om) ‘Kugelbitz’, 112 10.5em leFH18/1(St) auf GW IVb (Sd Kiz 16971), 112 10.5cm IoFH18/1 L/28 aut Watfentrager GW IVb Heuschrecke 10°, 113. Leichte Panzerhoubitze 18/40/2 aut Fget Pz pt Hi/Iv (St), 114 Brikenlegor IV, 114 2 Kpfw IV mit Schachiellaufwerk, 115 Sonderausfunrung des Pz Kplw IV, 115 Pe Kptw IV mit Minenroliern, 118 110 Bw (hb), 116 22cm Flahvierling aut Fgst Pe Kplw IV (St), 116 Flakpanzer 1V/3.7em Flakewilling ‘Ostwind 116 Flakpanzer IV/3em Flakvierling erstorer 45, 117 Munitionsschlepper tar Karlgerat, 117 Borgepanzer IV, 118 ‘Sturmovschitz nA Starr, 118 Infanterio Sturmsteg auf Fgst Po Kotw IV, 118, Pandertahra, 119 VEHICLE CONTENTS LIST 7Panzerkamptwagen VI (Tiger) and variants, ‘134 Pz Kolw VI—DW lund DWI, 124 \Vk3001(H). 194 ‘gem SI L/61 (Pr StV), 135, \k3601(H), 135 Pe Kofw VI Ausf E (Sd kle 181) ‘Tiger I, 196 ‘38cm FWS1 aut Sturmmorser Tiger, 198 YK9001(P) ‘Leopard’. 139, Tiger (P), 139 Sturmgeschite mit 8.8em Pak43/2 (Sd Ktz 84) ‘Ferdinand, 140, Bergepanzer Tiger (P), 141 Bergepanver Tiger Aust E, 141 Pe Kofw Vi Aust B (Sd fz 182) ‘Tiger 1 a2 Jagdtiger (Sa Kiz 186), 144 Geschatzwagen Tiger for 17em K72 (St) Yor 21em Mret8/1(St) und far 30.Sem Grw St 1-£06/9, 145 sory tet Se Re re te Pte 20 Pr Kot 8°? Fh 8 VEHICLE CONTENTS LIST Miscellaneous tullytracked vehicles, 146 3.7em WD Schlepper 25PS, 146 Tem WO Schlepper 50PS, 146 Leichtertraktor, 146 Grosatraktor, 147, Noubautanrzoug, 147 VK6501(H), 148, Pe Kpiw ‘Maus’, 148 Pe Kpiw €-100, 149, Minenraumwagen (Sd tz 300), 150 Loichtor Ladungstrager (Sd Ktz $02) (E-Motor), 150 Lolonter Ladungstrager (Sd Ktz 803) (WeMotor), 151 Schworer Ladungstrager (Sd ktz 901) Aust ‘Aung 8, 182 Schwerer Ladungstrager (Sd k'z 201) Aust ©, 153 Mittior Ladungstrager “Springer’ (Se Ktz 304), 153 Gepanderter Munitionsschlepper (VK302). 154 Pr Selbsttahrlafete ta Sem PaK38 aut gop ‘Mun Schl, 155 75cm PaK40/4 aut Reupenschlepper, Ost (Si), 156 Pe Kplw £25, 156 Gopanzerter Mannschatetransporwagen Katzchen', 156, Land.WasserSchlepper, 187 Gort 040 und Gorat O41. ‘Kar’, 158 8.Bom Flak aut Sondertahrgestell, 160 Semitrackod vehicles, 162 Lichter Gepanzerter Kraftswagen (Sa Kiz, 250), later le SPW (Sd Kiz 250), 162 Leichter Schatzenpanzerwagen (Sd KIz 250), 163, Leichter Schotzenpanzerwagen (Sd Ktz 250 Variants), 163 Le gep Muritionskraftwagen (Sd Ktz 252), 168, Le gop Boobachtungskrattwagen (Sd Kiz 253), 168, M gep Mannschaitekrattwagen (Sd Ktz 251), later m SPW Aus! A, Bund C, 169 M Schutzenpanzerwagen Aust O (Sd Klz 251) 170 M Schdtzonpanzorwagen (Sd Ktz 251, Variants), 170 Panzerpahwagen RK Aust A, 179 M gep Beobachtungskraltwagen (Sd Kis 254), 19 Mun Kw far Nebelwerfer (Sd Kfz 4), 180 15cm Panzerwerter 42 aut St (Sd Kiz 4/1), 180 2em Flak aut Fgst Zakw tt (Sd Ktz 10/4) 181 3.7m Pak35/36 aut Zokw 1t, 182 Sem PaK36 (St) auf Zokw tt, 182 7.62em FK3B(r) aut Pz Jag, Sf Zgkw 1t (Sd tz 6), 183 ‘9.Tem Flak36 aut Fst Zokw St (Sd kiz 6/2) 183, ‘cm Flakvierling 38 aut Fost Zgkw a (Sd Kiz 7/1). 184 ‘8.7m FlaK36 aut Fast Zgkw Bt (Sd kiz 7/2), 184 ‘Sem Flak41(St) auf Zokw st, 184 Fourleitpanzerfanrzeng fur V'2 Raketen aut Zakw 8, 185 Gop Zugkrattwagon Bt (Sd K'z 7), 185 B.acm Flak18(S!) auf Zokw 12t (Sd Kr 8) lund Zokw 18t (Sd Kiz 9), 186 7.5em Selbstarialetie L/40.8 Modell 1. 187 Pr Selbstfahriattte Il aut Fost m ZgkW ot 187 3.7om Selbetiahriatette L/70, 188 ‘Schwerer Wehemachtschiepper (gep Aus!) 188 Lichter Wehrmachtschiepper, 189 Hikp 602/603, 189, Hp 605/605, 189Armoured cars and wheeled armoured vehicles, 190 Maschinengewehrivaltwagen (Kiz 13)/Funk aftwagen (Kitz 14). 190 Leiehtor Panzerepahwagen (MG) (Sd Kiz 21), 191 Kleiner Panzertunkwagen (Sd Kiz 260/261), 192 Leichtor Panzorspahwagen (2em) (Sd Klz 222), 192 Leientor 223), 194 Leichtor Panzorspanwagen (4Rad) Bussing ‘NAG, 195. Panzorspahwagen Schildkrote, 195 Krupp gep Radtahrzeug, 195, Schwerer Panzerspanwagon (Sd Kiz 231) Rad, 196. ‘Schworer Panzorspahwagen (Fu) (Sd Ktz 232) 6Fad, 190. Panzorfunkwagen (Sd Ktz 253) 6-Rad, 108 Mannschaltstransportwagen I, 198 Schworer Panzorspanwagen (Sd ktz 231) Bad, 198 ‘Schworor Panzerspahwagon (Fu) (Sd Ktz 232) GRad, 198 ‘Schworer Panzerepahwagen (7.Sem) (Sd Ktz 239), 200 Panzerlunkwagen (Sd Ktz 263) &-Rad, 201 BalistkeMesstahrzeug aut s Pz Sp Wa (8 worspahwagen (Fu) (Sd Kte Rad), 201 ‘Schwofer Panzerspahwagen (2em) (Sd kz 234/1), 202 ‘Schworer Panzerspahwagen (Sem) (Sd Kte 34/2) ‘Puma’, 203, ‘Schworer Panzerspahwagen (7.5em) (Sd Ktz 23473), 208 ‘Schworer Panzerspahwagen (7.5em PaK40) (Sa Kiz 23474), 204 8 al gep Personenkraftwagen (Sd Ktz 247) 208, PolizetPanzerkamptwagen ADGZ, 206 Lechter Truppentutiscnutz Kraftwagen (Kt2 4), 208, 2em FlaK90 oder 38 (S!) aut s g! Einheits PKW, 207 em FlaK30 oder 38 (S!) auf LAW, 209, S 9l LKW 4.5t for Flak (St), 200 3.Jem PaK35/36 aut lo ol LKW 11, 208 Schwores Minenraumahraoug ‘Rumer’, 209 French AFVs in German service, 210 Tsem PaKs0/1 aut GW Lorraine Sehlepper (1) (Sd Kt 135), 210 10m sFH13/1(S1) auf GW Lorraine, ‘Schlepper (1) (Sd kiz 135/1), 212 s0.5em leFH18(S!) auf GW Lon Schlepper (1), 212 Pe Kplw 8-2 740 (1), 219 Flammwagen aut Pz’ Kpiw B-2(1), 214 30.50m leFH18/3(S1) aut GW B-2(1), 214 Pe Kplw 35-8 789(f), 215 Pe Kpiw 35H, 38H und SOH 735(), 218, 7.5em PaKa0(S!) auf GW 39H(1), 218, 30.5em leFH18(S1) aut GW 39H (i), 218 10.5em leFH16(S!) aul GW FCM}, 219 7.5em Pak40(Si) aut GW FCM({), 219, Pe Kplw 35R 731(f), 219 47om Pak (t) aut Pz Kptw 359() ohne Turm, 220 em s Granatwerfer 34 aut Pz Sp Wo ‘AMFS5(1), 221 Infanterie Schiepper UE 690(1), 222 LLeichter Schitzenpanzerwagen US04(t), 224 Mittlorer gepanzerter Zugkrattwagen S303(1), 204 Iitigrer Sendtzenpanzerwagen $307(1), 224 Panzerspahwagen Panhard 178-P204(t), 226 Pa kplw FT-17/18 730(I), 227 allan AFVs in German service, 228 Pz Kptw M3740 735(I) und M1474 736(\), 25 Pr kptw M15/42 738(\), Pe Kp P40 737), 229, Panzorbotehiswagen M41 771(i), 229 Panzerbelehiswagen M42 772(1), 229 Sturmgeschutz M&O und MAT mit 75/18, 850(i), 220 Sturmgeschitz M2 mit 75/36 85%(i), 230 ‘Sturmgeschatz M49 mit 105/25 653(1), 231 Sturmgeschutz M3 mit 75/34 851(3), 232 Slurmgeachitz M&3 mit 75/46 852(i), 232 Panzerspanwagen ABSt 201(i), 232 Be Kptw (5/40 733(i), 283 ‘Sturmgeschutz L6 mit 47/32 770(I), 238 Pz Kp GV35 7331), 253 28 Captured enemy vehicles in German service, 234 Great Britain, 254 Sem KwK L/42 (St) auf Infante Mk I 748(@), 234 10.5cm LeFHi6(St) aut le P2 Kptw Mk IV 736(0), 234 Gep MG Trager Bren 731(0), 294 USSR, 238 Misc Pe Kptw 22 VEHICLE CONTENTS LIST 9Panzerkampiwagen I and variants Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf A ohne Aufbau Other designation: Krupp Traktor LaS Type: Light armoured tracked vehicle for training use Manufacturer: Henschel, MAN, Daimler-Benz, Rheinmetall-Borig, ‘rupp-Gruson Chassis Nos.” 8011-9000 15 produced from February to April 1934 Crew: 2 Engine: Krupp M905 Weight (tons): 3.5 Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 4.02 Speed (kan/he): 37 iat (metres): 208 Range (km): 145, Height (metres): 1.15 Armour (mm/engle): Front Side Rear_Top/Bottom Hult 19/27" 13/0" 13/15" 9/00 History: Prevented by the Treaty of Versailles trom possessing oF manufacturing tanks or similarly designed armoured fighting vehicles, Germany skirted the treaty restrictions by producing 18 tank hulls without superstructures, tutrets or armament. To spread production experience as far as possible. fe companies had been selected in 1983 to produce three vehicles each. The official designation, ‘Land. wirtschafticher Schlepper’ (agricultural tractor). helped disguise. the fact that any type of tracked armoured vehicle was being man: factured, Specific features: This vehicle had a fullysrackad armoured hull. The ‘suspension consisted of a sprocket, 4 road wheels, Tih, lager road wheel (also acting as the idler) and 3 return rollers, ‘The forward oad whee! was cushioned by a coil spring and hydraulic shock absorber. The other 4 road wheels sere mounted in pairs, cushioned by leat springs supported by a girder. This girder was all that re mained of a suspension design which ‘elated back to development ftom a Carden-Loyd design. Combat service: Designed as a training vehicle, the turtetless Krupp ‘Traktor was not intended for combat. In the Spring of 1934, i was issued to. the first Iwo Panzer regiments, Kratiahlehkommando (Motorization ‘instructional Command) "Zossen und. Ohrdrut to give tho toops thelr frst experience of driving @ tly tracked armoured Pa 23 oT gn says to Pe Kt | octets Ros Undwtechatichr Stepper {tbl Fafraonuianne the Lan we os diving schoo vais, 18 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN I AND VARIANTSPanzerkampfwagen | Ausf A (Sd Kfz 101) Other designation: LaS (Vs Kfz 617) Type: Machine-gun armed light tank facturer: Krupp, Henschel, MAN, Krupp-Gruson, Daimlerfenz overheated. To reduce this problem, an ‘airscoop’ type of lowe (© Nos: 9001-1047; was added to the rear deck, and two scoops were added to the rear B18 produced from July 1994 to June 1936 to doflect the exhaust ar. Crew: 2 Engine: Krupp M305 Combat service: The frst complete Pz Kofw | Aust A wore issued in ¥ ions). Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse September 1034. By July 7035, the Krattahriehrkommando had Length (metres): 4.02 Speod (km/hr): 3 recened 475. As new Panzer tnits were lormed around cadres Width (metres): 2.06, Range 45 ‘drawn ftom older unite, and because the cadres took their Pz KpIW Height (metres): 172 Radio: FuG2 Aust A with them as iaining vehicles, by the Deginning of the war the Aust A wae scattered throughout all the Used extensively in Poland and. Fran 40 which took part in the invasion of Denmark and Norway. From Armement: Two 782mm Mats and was iseued to PEAbL Traverse: 360° (hand) Elevation, 12" +18 ate 1940 until 1941. the Aust A was withdrawn from units in the Sight: T2F2 main combat argas. Its final service was in Finland in 1941, and in ‘Ammunition: 2,250 Patr Sm a Armour (mm/angle| Rear Top/ Turret 19/22" 8/82 Superstructure 2 1/76/62 Hult 3/27 13/15" 6/90 Gun mantiet 3/round History: Originally known as the MG Panzerwagen (arm car itz 017), the Pz Kplw | Aust A was tho frst German tank te go Info mass-production. An intial order for 135, given to Krupp, was quickly expanded by orders for an additional 430 in January 1934, Specific features: Tho Pz Kpfw | Aust A had the samo hull and sus pension as the Aust A o Aufbau The superstructure was built out ‘llowed room for the driver's access hatch in the lett side and root ot the superstructure, Both machine-guns were mounted coaxially in the turret front in an internal moving gua mantlet. Although there Wore only two crew members, five vision ports were provided in the Yapersioture and six In the turret. Tho orginal design did nt PrO- pytss 6-63, PrKotw | Ava! Aon prewer manonnres (halo! and la ance dng 160 ide adequate ventilation with the result that the air-cooled engine labo!Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf B (Sd Kfz Other designation: LaS Maybach Type: Machine-gun armed light tank Manufacturer: Henschel, MAN, Oaimler-Genz, Krupp-Gruson, ed from August 1995 to June 1957 Engine: Maybach NL3BTR Gearbox: 5 Yorward, 1 reverse Speed (km/hr): 40, Range (km): 170 Radio: FuG2 Weight (tons): 5.8 Length (metros): 442 208 Armament: Two 7.92mm MG13 Traverse: 360" (hand) jovation: — 12" +18 Sight: TZF2 Ammunition: 2.250 Pate Smk Bottom B782-20. ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Sido Turret 53/30" Superetructue: 19/22 ult 19/2 Gun mantet 137/r0und History: Whon tho Aust A proved to be underpowered, and Ound 10 overheat, the Wrret and superstructure wore mounted fon the longer ehasele designed for tho KI Pz Bet Wo Specific features: The Aust & had a longer chassis than the Aust A having taken over the chassis designed for the KI Pz Bot Wg. The Suspension was modified and resulled in S road wheels, 4 retuin follere and tho idler whoo! elevated so that it was no longer in use ‘a road wheel, The tear deck was also redesigned with louvres ‘arranged. as to supply and water-cooled ] nth those on the Aust A Combat service: The Aust B was issued 10 all existing Panzer units from 1985 until 1949, From the latter halt of 1940 until early it'was phased out of service and when the Germans invaded Russia in “June “1941, only 74 were serving. with Panzer Regiments. The Aust B was istued ae an armoured vehicle for company and battalion mmanders of the Panzer)agerabtelu (lankhunter de: tachments which were equipped with seltpropelied ant:tank gun mounted on German-designed armoured vehicles). Late in 1943. the Commandere of the Pz Jag Abt rogistered complaint that tho AUst B was completely inadequate asa command veh Paton 448 PK | Aust Bp, n France, 10: ebove, an expeimarta ele ‘mare iro coca Kea MD} isl engine an steno to seas soma low,Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf B ohne Aufbau Other designation: Instandsetzungskraftwagen | Type: Light armoured tracked vehicle for maintenance equipment Manufacturer: Henschel, MAN, Daimler-Benz, Krupp-Gruson, Wegmann Chassis Nos.: 10476-16500 164 produced trom 1936 to November 1938 Crew: 2 ‘Engine: Maybach NL3BTR. Weight (tons): 4.0 Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Length (metros): 4.42 Speed (km/hr): 40 width (melzes): 2.08 Range (km): 170 Heiaht metres): 1.35 Armour (mm/angle): Front Side ‘Rear Top/Bottom Hull 427" 19/0" 13/19" 6/00 History: The Pz Kpfw | Aust 8 0 Aufbau was produced to provide ach trmoured company with a fullytracked repair and maintenance vehicle Bpeciic features: This vehicle consisted of the hull of the Aust 6 minus is turel and superstructure, The rear deck remained in place fo protect the engine trom the elements and to funnel the Combat service: Issued to the repair and recovery 3 Srmoured companies until 1941, when it was found to be too small to perform ina. recovery ole, From mid 1940, it served mainly {a 2 training vehicle, Sra si Pate. neandatungseatongan rook and recovery etic, Pine 8: PT Koke! Rl fied fi the Aust B's 4) wth he MODY esl engin, PANZERKAMPFWAGENIAND VARIANTS — 21Type: Light armoured tracked command vehicle Manufacturer: Daimler Benz Chassis Nos: 9401-9430, 10478-15200 184 produced from 1935 to 1897 plus 6 based upon Pz Kptw | Aust A chassis crew: 3 Engine: Maybach NLS8TR Weight (tons): 5:9 Goartox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Length (metros): 4.42 Speod (km/hr): 40 Width (metres): 2.06, Range (km): 170, Height (metres): 1.99 Radio: FuGS and FuG2 Armament: One 7.92mm MG13 or 94 Traverse: hand Sight: KazF2. “Ammunition: 900 Patr Smk Turret” fixed Front Side Rear Top/Bottom 19/23" 19/29" 13/20" 8/90 13/25" 13/0" 13/20" 6/90 History: The klsiner Panzerbofehlewagen was developed 3 an larmoured command vehicle. ‘The Pz Kptw | had room for a radi Fecelver only, and had 10 be moditied to accommodate a transmitter and its operator. Several of these vehicles were produced by madity ing Pz Kptw I Aust A. The production series was based onthe lengthened chassis which had been developed for the KI Pz Bet Wa and later utlized for the Pz Kota | Aus! 6 Specific features: The ki Pz Get Wg had the same hull and rear deck as the Pz Kpiw | Aust &. The size of the superstructure was Increased by heightening the sides. Both transmitting and receiving sels were mounted in this superstiuctura. ‘The only armament was provided by a machine-gun ina hull mount in the superstructure Toot. This was later replaced by a stationary cupola with sits for al found vision. After the “campaign in Poland, Sm "armour was fadded to huil, superstructure. and. cupola ftont, and” 12mm" armour was added to the glacis plate Combat service: Issued to company, battalion, regimental and brigade headquarters of Panzor units from 1935 nti 1940. In lato 1940, early 1941, it was withdrawn from companies and remained in service ‘only with higher headquarters untl late 1942" From 1940 it was. also issued 10 the signals battalion and observation batteries of artery tegiments in the Panzer divisions 22 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN | AND VARIANTS, er Panzerbefehlswagen (Sd Kfz 265) 51, Eat vrson ofthe Pe Bef We based onthe Aus A. 3 Sms vero based on the Aust 8Munitionsschlepper auf Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf A (Sd Kfz 111) Other designation: Gerat 35 Type: Light armoured tracked ammunition carrier 51 converte in September 1938 History: The Munitionsschlepper was developed to provide the Pan Zer Regiments with an armoured vehicle for supplying ammunition to Chassis Nos. 8011 Crew: 2 Engine: Krupp M305 frontline tanks under enemy fire Weld (ons Gearbox: § forward, 1 reverse Specitic features: The turret of the Aust A was removed and the ‘opening was ‘covered with a segmented armour plate hatch to Brovide overhead protection for the driver and his cargo. Combat service: The Sd Kiz 111 vehicle was isquod to the supply Companies of Panzer regiments and served in Poland and France, Armour (mmm/angle): Front Side Rear ‘Top/Botton Superstructure: 19/22" 19/22" 18/17" 6/82°-00 Pee 47. un St nt PKA tho vw) ta he rae ate ul 3/27 13/0" 13/15" 6/90 ih ott oo of tm PANZERKAMPFWAGENIAND VARIANTS 2315cm sIG33(Sf) auf Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf B Type: Self-propelled heavy infantry gun on tank chassis Manufacturer: Alkott Chassis Nos.: 10478-16500 38 converted in Fobruary 1940 Crew: 4 Engine: Maybach NL36TR Weight (tons): 85 0x: 5 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 4.67 Spood (h/t) 40 Wiath (metres): 208 Range (km): 140 Height (metres). 2.8 ‘Armament: One 15cm si@33 L/11 Travorse: 124" * right (hand) Elevation: 4 Sight: ROIS ‘Armour (mm/anglo): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Superstructu 19/22" 33/22" 19/0" 6/83°-90 Hull 13/27" 13/0" 19/19" 6/90" Gun shiel 10/0" 10/0" open open History: Developed to provide armoured infantry with Immediate fire ‘support trom @ self propelied armoured plattorm which ‘could follow tham closely into action Specific features: Tho turret and superstructure wore removed trom the Pz Kofw | Aust B, and a large box-shaped gun shield, open at top and rear, was built on the hull. The 15cm SIG (heavy infantry un) on its normal field carriage, but without the catriage wheels, ‘was mounted in this enclosure. Combat service: Used to equip sIG(S!) Kompanien (Heavy Infantry Gun (SP) Companies) 701-706, which were allocated to sh Panzer Givisions belore the campaigns in Belgium. Holland and Franca in May-June 1940. Several were stil in. servico in mid 1983 with the TO4th schwere Infanteriogeschite Abteiing of "the Sth” Panzer Division in Russia tes 5.59 cm sO ut Pe Koh Aust Bin Fares fot and Resi, Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf C Other designation: Pz Kpfw | nA Type: Light tracked VK601 reconnaissance vehicle Manufacturer: Krauss-Mattoi ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Chasis Nos 150101=150140 Turret 30/13" 20/24" 20/6)" 10/60"-90" 40 produced trom July to December 1942 Superstructure: 30/10" 20/0" 20/18" 10/824°-90' Crew 2 Engine: Maybach HLASP Hull 30/20° 20/0" 20/90" 10/90 Weight (tons): 8.0 Gearbox: 8 forward, 2 reverse Gun mantle: 30/rouna Length (matres): 4.19 Speed (km/hr): 79 2 Pont (creas am eines reoonPalesance vehicle wih Inreased emote prticton, fr ise feereneneel ia eres firbore operations. KraussMaffel received. the order to” develop Armament: One EWI41 MG One 7.92mm MG34 tho chassia on 16 September 1039. while Daimler Benz were ordered Traveree: 960" (hand) hand to design the superstructure and turret. A single prototype was Bull Elevation: —10" +20 KgzFe land extensively tested. The wheel and track arrangements underwent Sight! TZF10 Considerable modification. Inia, the ‘rial production series of 0 Pats 6041. Ps Kot | et C. Lat, undraing tl 24 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN | AND VARIANTS.vehicles were to have been fitted with selfubricating tracks, but {habe were dropped in favour of dry pin tracks before the VKBO! Wwas issued to combat units in 1943. A more powertul motor, the Maybach HUST, was fied. in’ the final development vehicle, the ‘vKsoz. Speciic features: The Pz Kptw | Aust C was a completely different design from the Aust A&B. The suspension had overlapping road \whosls sprung with a torsion bar, which allowed the vehicle to attain the high speed of 65 kilometres por hour. The armour thickness was double that of previous Pz Kplw | models. The driver's vision was limited to a visor in the front plate and @ second visor immediately to his left. A cupola was fitted with 8 periscopes to allow allound Vision for the commander, whose only other vision was provided by {he sighting telescope. The main armament was a. large-caibre machine-gun, the EWT41, which was coaxially mounted ‘with the mass Combat service: Two were issued to the 1st Panzer Division early in 1943 and taken to Russia for combal evaluation. The other 38 had bbeen issued to reserve units of LVIll Pe Res Korps (Reserve Tank Corps) at the time of the Normandy invasion in 1944 4.7cm PaK(t) (Sf) auf Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf B Other designation: Panzerjager Type: Self-propelled anti-tank gun on tank chassis Manufacturer: Daimler-Benz, Skoda Chassis Nos. 10476-16500 202 converted tom Pz Kptw | Aust B trom March 1940 to February 3 Engine: Maybach NLSBTR Weight (tons): 6.4 Gearbox: 5 Torward, 1 reverse engin (motres): 4.42 ‘Speed (km/h): 40 Wicth (metres): 208 Range (km): 140 Height (metres): 2.25, Radio: FuGe e ‘Armament: One 4.7om PaK(t) L/43.4 Traverse: 174" let 174" right (hand) Elevation: 8° +12 Sight: 2F2%30" Ammunition: 88 Pate ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear ‘Top/Bottom Superstructue: 19/22" 13/22" 13/0" 6/90" Hull 13/27" 13/0" 13/17" 6/80: Gun ehiois 445/27 145/27" open open History: Developed to provide seltpropelied antitank guns with larmour protection. First of the meny German conversions of standard Panzer chassie, to give the Panzorlager mobil by ullizing otherwise ‘bsolescent vehicles. Specific features: The basic Pr Kplw | Aus! B was modified by remov ing the turret and superstructure root and altering the air intake at the front of the rear deck. A gun shield, with rear and top left open, was built up around the superstructure. The 47em PaK (antitank gun) ‘was mounted within the shield on a pivoting mount supported by ‘irders, Combat service: Icoued to § Hoores Pz Jag Abt (Sth Army Tank: Hunter Detachment). It first saw service in 1940 in Belgium and France, After serving in all the major campaigns, it was phased out late in 1948. Paes 62-634 7em Pak (SP) at Pe Kot | Ast Bin North Ati (above) Suing te 130 aroma PANZERKAMPFWAGENIANDVARIANTS 25Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf F Other designation: Pz Kptw I nA Verstirkt Type: Heavily armoured VK1801 infantry assault tank (machine-gun armed) Manufacturer: Krauss-Matoi ‘Chassis Nos: 160301~150390 30 produced trom April to December 1942 Crow: 2 Engine: Maybach HL4SP Weight (tons): 21.0 Gaarbox: 4 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 4.38 Speed (km/hr): 25 Wigtn (metres): 264 Range (km): 150 Haight (metres): 205 Radio: FuGs ‘Armament: Two 7.9mm MG34 Traverse: 360" (hand) Elevation: —10" “+20 Sight: TZFS Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear ‘Top/Bottom Turret: 80/0" 50/10" 50/10 25/90 Superstructure 80/10" §0/0" 50/10" 25/90 Hult 80/20" 0/0" 50/14" 25/00" {Gun mantet: 80/round History: Further development of the Pz Kpfw I. with the heaviest possible armour as the main design feature. The initial order of 30, Given on 22 December 1939, was filled, but an additional order for 00 was cancelled before production began, The final development vohicle, the VK1802, was built with the VG45319_preselector gear box. Specific features: The Aust F had a ‘Schachtellautwerk’ (interleaved suspension) with overlapping road wheels and a torsion bar suspen- sion. Its 60mm frontal armour was inpenotrable by most antitank Guns of the period The. commander had 5 periscopes. set in the {uret root for vision to tho front and sides, plus a binocular telee cope for sighting the machine-guns. Vision for the driver was pro Vided by a sliding shutter vieor in the superstructure front, anda periscope mounted in the Hull root, on the driver's lat side Comba service: Eight wore issued to the st Panzer Division early in 4949 and taken to Russia for combat evaluation in the summer of 1943. Patas 64.68 2 Kot | Aue FP 0 shows he 5 paicope in 25 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN I AND VARIANTS Pats 6768. Lcinsione aut Pe Kot Rist! The verscn suomi de {tie eorated sr fod te chore Sind he vehi whe that n Pa 88 fie i, Munonsceom ot Px Ktn Type: Demolition charge-laying tank History: The Ladungsleger were devices fitted to the rear deck of the Pz Kpfw | to allow a charge to be placed near obstacles and detences in order to clear a path for assault troops. Two versions fxisiod. Tho firs! allowed the charge to fall behind the tank, the Second had a cable-oporated arm which pivoted over the tank to place the SOKg charge ahead. Ladungsleger auf Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf B n Combat service: The Ledungsleger device was mouniod on ton Pe Kplw 1 Aust 8 of the 3 Pz Pioniere Kp (Std Armoured Engi Company} of each Pioneer Battalion in the Panzer Divisions, Briikenleger auf Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf A ‘Type: Armoured bridgelayer History: The Brikenleger aut Fast Pz Kofw | used the Aust A chassis, but inadequate suspension of these vehicles made the idea imprac: tieable. The bridges wore later Used for similar vehicles based on the Pz Kota Il Flammenwerfer auf Panzerkampfwagen | Ausf A Type: Flame-thrower tank History: In. preparation for the assault on Tobruk, the Engineers of 5 le Divsion (Sth Light Division) of the Deutsche Afrika Korps, Converted. soveral 'P2_‘Kplw | AUST A to. flamethrower tanks. The portable Flammenwerter replaced the righthand machine-gun in 14. 12_one-second ese Flammpanzor the turet. Fuel capacity allowed between 10 bursts, with a maximum rango of 25 metres. were Issued to the Sth Tank Regiment Munitionsschlepper Ausf Panzerkampfwagen la und Ib Type: Ammunition carrier History: From the spring of 1942, obsolete Pz Kpfw I wore converted to loadcartiors by the filing of a largo stool box in place of the turret. This. box: was covered by a canvas tilt From early 1943, however, an order was issued that all remaining Pz_Kptw | be con: Yorted. to "Munitionsschlepper ohne Aufbau’ (ammunition tractors ‘without superstructure). These were often created by removing only the turret and not the superstructure as indicated in the order. The turrets removed from these vehicles, and from the earlier selt propelled. gun conversions, were used for permanent fortifeations in May 1944, of the 617 Pz Kptw | turrets available, 611 had already been roleased for this purpose. The Munitionsschlepper converted. ia 1942 were Issued to various Pz formations including 1 SS. Leib standarte “Adolf Hitler. From 194, the Pz divisions “converted the tanks ‘still in their possession. PANZERKAMPFWAGENIANDVARIANTS 27Panzerkampiwagen II and variants Panzerkampfwagen Il Ausf a/1, a/2 und a/3 (Sd Kfz 121) Other designation: 1 Serie LaS 100 Type: Light tank Manufacturer: MAN, Daimor Bone Armour (mm/angloy: Front side Top/ottom Choos Nos. 20001-2007 Fier {Srround $9022 B7e0" 00 fs produced tram May 1898 to February 1937 Supratructure 10 1370 so: & 10/70 Grew Ehgine. Maybach HL37TR ful Vairoud 18/0" 13/0" 8/80 Woigt tons): 76 Gearbox. forward. 1 roorse Gun mantle {found Length (metas): 438 Speed (km/hr) 40 Hone Ongnaly ire as the “em MG Pancnwaze’ (Vs Ke el tidy ange (km: nthe PE Kotw ll was designed to supplement the Pe Kote by ere smite _ bien Providing an automatic weapon capable of firing both a high- ‘Armament: One 2em KwK30 L/55 One 782mm MAE Srploane round and an smourpicicing round. Te design ered Eeveton: 9y°\20 ras ioved by the Waffen (Ordnance Depertment) in uy 132 Sant Tze and the fst complete sot steal protarpe was put tough te paces Simuniton: 180 Por & Spor 2280 imOetober 1005. Mary ‘of the" tething ‘robioms, had” wot been Rational polis) ‘oreed” the Goesion ‘to order the. sonparainey ra Tange urtber of wenylve in each of the eaperinenal develope Is Specie Tetures: Aer production of the first ten Aust a/1, a welded tear idler replaced the original usbertyred, cast reat ion An Improvement was; made wih the ‘Aust a/2 by designing te. fe proof engine compartment wall'so that ft could 9 removed fem tho crow compartment anda. large port was installed under the motor for access to ths fel pump andl iter The Aust 4/9 had & inroor ‘racatorinsaleg, and te springs for the “apencion were maroved Combet service: The Fe Kptw Il wore fist issued to Panzer units in the spring of 1906. Assigned to platoon and company. commanders they‘ wore also seed fo equip fll platoon in each company. fr tankersustanie engegemerte, Thay retained their main combat tank Status in Poland, ut wore. tinaly relognad. to a reconnaissance txplotation role during te campargn in tho West. When to Ruslan Sampaign started each Pancor Regimen, Panser Detachment and Parzet Company hada platoon ot Pr kKprw li assigned fr roconnateance In 4842, these platoons ware withdrawn for tank companies, The Ps Kotw itwas phased out of somce wih tank regiment ate 1083 but remained in service wih various Panzer uns on secondary Hons creme peer eeneeas Pt 72. Koos rape wei oh Ps Kat 8 sovcaon TRA feuoy' roc or he Be tw by tts © erg tre. zp Pane Pek Auta 0/3 3, Sho ho ech 28 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Il AND VARIANTSPanzerkampfwagen II Ausf b (Sd Kfz 121) Other designation: 2 Serie LaS 100 Type: Light tank Manufacturer: MAN, Daimler-Benz fags 7475s Kot Au oe at ai now Dw eet wh age Chassis Nos: 21001-21025 25 produced from February to March 1937 Crew: 2 Engine: Mayt Sh HLEOTA Wear (tons): 79 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 4.76 Speed (km/hr): 40 Wiatn (metres): 2.14 Range (km) 200 Height (metros): 1.98 Radio: Fu One 2om KwK30 L/55. One 7.92mm MGS4 ‘360° (hand) = 9p +20" = wes = ‘Ammunition; 180 Pegr & Spar 2250 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Tuner 19/round 19/21" 19/21" 10/84"-90 Superstructure: 13/10" 13/0" 13/90" 12/90" @ 10/82 it 13/round 13/0" 13/7" 5/80 4b was the second model in the development ser 1s of modifications was made to the Pe Kolw I, and these wore Incorporated in the Aust b final with a wider ti foro mod were added 10 Tender was hing mud and other ‘and a different style of exhaust muffle PANZERKAMPFWAGENIIAND VARIANTS 29Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf c, A, B und C (Sd Kfz 121) Other designation: 3, 4, 5, 6 und 7 Serie LaS 100 Type: Light tank Manufacturer: MAN, Deimler-Banz, Henschel, Wegmann, Alkett MIAG, FAMO Chassis Nos.: 21101-27000 1,113 produced from March 1997 to April 1940 Crow:"3 Engine: Maybach HLG2TR Weight (tons): 89 box: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 4.81 Speed (km/hr): 40 Wiatn (metres): 222 Range (km): 200 Height (metres): 1.98 Radio: FuGs Armament: One 2em KwK30 L/55 One 7.92mm MG34 Traverse: 360" (hand) Elevation: —9}" +20" Sight: TZF4 (Aue! e) TZF4/96 (Aust A & B) TZF4/38 (Aust C) ‘Ammunition: 180 Par & Spor 2.250 SmK ‘Armour (mm/angle):Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turret 14s/round 14.5/22" 145/22" 10/86"-00 Superstructure: 45/9" 145/0" 14/9" 10/81"-90 Hult 145/round 18.5/90" 18.5/6° 145/73 -69 5/90 Gun mantle: 16/rouna History: Tho final modol of the development serie wae the Aust c which bore the external features that came to be recognized as the Standard design for the Pz Kptw Il. The Aust ¢ retained the 13mm armour of the Aust b. The AUst A was the first production series and was built rom July 1937. The Aust 8 was produced trom December 1907, the Aust C, from June 1938, Spectic features: With the Ausi c. he suspension was changed ftom six small road wheels to five independently sprung larger dia ‘meter road wheels, and the number of return rollers was increased ftom three to four. The track design was changed (which meant that the drive sprockets had to be modified) and wider fenders and idior wheels were installed. The ventilation and cooling ot the engine Compartment was again improved. The final drives and epicyclie steer ing eystem on 25 of the Aust © were manufactured trom an “ersatz (eabetitute) molybdenum’ stee The last major change in the Pz Kpfw Il series was the introduction fof an improved transmission in the Aust A. There were only minor Giforences (mainly changes to the vision porte) between the Aust A B and G. As originally produced, all the Pz Kpfw ll Aust c, A to C hhad''a spit hateh on the turret root for the ‘commander, and & founded hull front. The Polish antitank rifle could easily penetrate the 15mm armour of the Pz Kpfw Il_and the troops requested that be strengthened. By May 1940, additional 20mm armour plates had been bolted to the front of the turet, superstructure and hull front. of approximately 70 per cent of the Pz Kptw Il Ausf cto C, and the farmour of the remainder had been increased before the invasion of Russia During’ the campaign in Poland, commandors had complained ot limited. vision, and had registered the same complaint during. the campaign in the West. From October 1940, this defect was remedied by the provision of a kit with eight periscopes for the commander's Combat service: The Ausf c, A. B and C were employed in the same way as the earlier Aust a and 8. Foe 8 The rew conmandrscupau no soca armour bolted othe tet and hall en ey ABC 30. PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Il AND VARIANTSPANZERKAMPFWAGEN II AND VARIANTS — 31Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf D und E (Sd Kfz 121) Other designation: 8 Serie LaS 138 Type: Light tank for cavalry units Manufacturer: MAN. ‘Chassis Nos: 27001-28000 48 produced trom May 1838 to August 1939 Crew: 3 Engine: Maybach HLE2TRM Weight (tons): 10.0 Gearbox: 7 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 4.65 Speed (km/hr): 58 Wiatn (metres): 23, Range (km): 200 Height (metres): 208 Radio: FuGs ‘Armament: One 2em KwK30 L/55 One 7.92mm MG34 Traverse: 360" (hand) 7 Elevation: —9}" +20 = Sight: TZF4/36 ‘Ammunition: 180 Par & Spor 2.260 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear__Top/Bottom Ture: 145/rouna 145/22" 145/22" 10/76"-20. Superstructure 30/0" 4485/0" 145/70" 10/90"-79" Hull 30/9" 1485/0" 145/0" 5/90" ‘Gun mantit 16/round History: The Pz Kpfw ll Ausf D and E were developed to give the cavalry a light tank for pursuit and reconnalssance, with a top speed ff Sskm/hr instead of the normal speed of 40km/. Specific features: The ‘entie hull, superstructure and suspension wore of a different design from the normal Pe Kptw 11 series, Dut the turret remained the same. The superstructure front was’ in_one Straight piece and had two double-shuttered visors, one on the left for tne driver and one on the right for the radio operator. This was the frst Pz Kpfw to use a torsionar suspension and a pre-selective gearbor. Instead of the five singleyted toad wheele and four return follers of the normal Pz Kofw Il series, the Aust D and E had four large double-tyred road wheels which also served to retum the track. The latter was also redesigned, with centre guides replacing the double hom guides. The ary pin track of the Ausf D was replaced by a Wbricated pin track which necessitated the use of newly Gesigned drive sprockets, idlers and toad whee's Combat service: Tho Pz Kptw Il Aust D and E were to be iesued to th tank detachments of the leichter (light) Divisionen. Only sufficient to equip a single Panzerabieilung wore completed, and it 1s uncertain it these saw action, even in Poland. In March 1940, they were withdrawn for conversion to Pz Kptw il Flamm (‘lame-throwers) Pees 63.8, Ps Kol Auat O: above, beng loaded ont St tank waneortes 2 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN II AND VARIANTS.Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf F (Sd Kfz 121) Other designation: 9 Serie LaS 100 Type: Light reconnaissance tank Manufacturer: FAMO CChasele Nos 28001-28634 S24 produced trom March 1941 to Decomber 1942 Crew: 3 Weight (tons): 95 Length (metres) Engine: Maybach HLE2TR Gosrbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Speed (km/hr): 40 Range (km): 200 Radio: FuGS ‘Armament: One 2em KwK30L/55 One 7.92mm MG34 Traverse: 960° (hand) = Elevation: 8)" +20" Sight: TZF4 Ammunition: 180 Pxgr & Spor 2,700 Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turret: S0/round 15/21" 15/21" 10/77"-90" Superstructure ao/io" 15/0" 15/9" 15/00°-10/82" ul: as/1g" 15/0" 15/7" 5/90" Gun mantle: 30/round History: The Aust F was the final model of the normal Pz Kpfw I fares” It was to have boen in production by mid 1980, but delays in design set production back until March 1941. Early in June 1942, it was decided to mount the 7.Sem Paka on the Pz Kpiw Il chassis, wwth the result that an order of 20 June 1942 slated that 60 per cont of the Pz Kpfw Il production was io be 7.5cm PaKéO (St). In July 1942, a further directive decreed that with effect from August 1342, all Pr Kpfw Il production was to be as chassis for the 7.5m PakéO (Si), This was circumvented when FAMO produced the last fifeon Fe Kptw il Aust Fin December 1942, which completed the original frder of Aust Fas Pz Kot IL Special features: Instead of the rounded hull of the previous models Of the normal series, the front hull of the Aust F was made trom one fat S5mm plate. The front of the superstructure was also redesigned fas one fet 20mm plate extending across the width of the. nul, and 2 dummy visor of aluminium was fitted on the righthand side of the river's double-huttered visor. The only change. to the suspension was the new conical design of the idler wheel. The thickness of the turret front plates and gun mantlet was increased to 30mm, which maintained the seme basic design as the earlier series. The ‘com mmander's eight-periscope cupola was installed as a standard produc- Combat service: The Pz Kpfw Ii Aust F was employed in the same way a8 the Pz Kptw Il Aust a/1 to a/3,Panzerkampfwagen II Flamm Ausf A und B (Sd Kfz 122) Other designation: Flamingo Type: Light flame-thrower tank Chassis Nos.: 27001-28000 112 from direct production plus 43 converted trom Pz Kpfw Il Aust D. & E from January 1940 to March 1942 Crew: 3 Engine: Maybach HL62TRM Weight (tons): 120 Gearbox: 7 Yorwarg, 3 reverse Length (metres): 4.9 Speed (km/hr): 58 Wiath (metres): 24 Range (km): 250 Hoight (metres): 1.85 Radio: FuG2. ‘Armament: Two Flammenwerter- One 7.92mm MG34 "anlagen Traverse: 180° (hand) Elevation: Sight: direct ‘Ammunition: 920 litres fuel ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/ettom Turret: 30/0" 20/21" 20/30" 10/84"-00 Superstructure 50/9" 145-25 + 145/15° 10/79°00 15/0 Hut 90/9" 4145/0" 145/0° 5/90 History: Early in 1939, the Waffenamt realised the need of an armoured vehicle mounting flame-thyowers which ‘could. flush an fenomy trom bunkers and other fortied positions. On 24 January 1899, an order was placed for an. O-Serie (pre-production series} of 90 flamerthrowers on the Pz Kpfw Il. Aust D chassis were com 34 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN II AND VARIANTS pleted for this purpose as early ae April 1939, and a soft steel proto type was completed in lly 1939. Final production of the Serie Started in May 1940, and the last three of this series wore completed in February 1941. A'second order for 180 was begun in August 1981 but only 65 had been completed by March 1942, when production ceased, and the chassis were utlized to produce the Pr Sf 1 fir Te2em Pak36(r) (Armoured SP Mounting’ | for” 7.62m antitank gun 36 (Russian) Speciic features: The Pz Kptw Il (FI) had the same basic chassis {a5 the Pz Kotw Il Aus! D & E. The Pz Kptw ll turret was roplaced by a smaller turret mounting a single MG34, and two flamethrower Units were mounted on the front comers of the superstructure over the tracks. The {uel for the flamedhrowers was stored internally, and armoured compartments were added to the sides of the euperstruc ture to hold four tanks of compressed nitrogen. The second series, Identiied as Aust 8, had a new sprocket design and further minor Improvements in the’ suspension Combat service: The Pz Kptw il (FI) frst saw service In June 1961 in Russia, with Panzerableilungen which had been trained in their Use as. closesupport vehicles. The’ Dattalionsized” unit ‘proved to Targe for optimum employment of the vehicle, and the relatively thin armour and highiy-lammable fuel ‘caused many casualties. These Considerations. led to. the reorganization of the two. flame.throwor Battalions as normal Panzer units eatly in. 1942, and the Pz. Kphw IN(FI) were retumed to Ordnance for conversion’ to. 7.62em Paki) (si ates 98.28 Ko Pate 9 ovina dt Fates 9:9. Comparativn vows of ha Pe Kp 6 rooted ad showy bing int yePanzerkampfwagen Il Ausf G Other designation: Pz Kpfw Il nA (VK901) Type: Light reconnaissance tank Manufacturer: MAN Chassis Nos. 150001150075 12 produced trom April 1941 to February 1942 Crew: 3 Engine: Maybach HLS Weight (tons): 108 Gearbox: 5 Torward, 1 reverse angth (metres): 4.24 Speed {km/he): 50 Wieth (metres): 238 Range (km): 200 Height (metres): 2.05, ‘Armament: One EW141 MG (One 7.92mm MG34 ‘Traverse: 360° (hand) = Sight! T2F10 Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Ture 307 ish 18h Superstructure: 30/10 15/0" 157 wut 30/20" 15/0" 15/ Gun mantet 30/round History: The VK901 was a further development of the Pz Kptw I series. the main design objective being an increase in speed. The Drder was issued on 18 June 1998 for MAN to develop the chassis, and. DaimlarBenz to dovolop the superstructure and turret, The ‘order was for an ‘O'Serie’ of.75, with production to start in October $840, The prototype of the chassis was completed late in 1998, but the many modifications delayed production, and of the entire order, only twelve were completed, Panzerkampfwagen Il Ausf J Other designation: Pz Kpfw Il nA Verstarkt (VK1601) Type: Heavily-armoured reconnaissance tank Manufacturer: MAN Chassis Nos. 150201~150222 22 produced from April to Decomber 1942 Crew: 3 Engine: Maybach HL4SP Weight (tons): 18.0 Goarbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Speed (km/he): 31 Armament: One 2em KwK38 L/55 One 7.92mm MG42 Traverse: 360" (hand) = Sight. TZF4/38 Armour (mm) Front Side Rear Top Turret: 058 Superstructre eo 6 8 2 Hut 2 0 Gun mantot 80/round History: The VK1601 was a further development of the Pz Kpfw Il Series, tho main objective being the provision of maximum possible armour protection, while retaining the original weight. The develop ae $9 (sbve) Pe Kot i Aust J tH ia Sonn an vues eonr wh cero of the P Ket Pate $2. Pr Koh Aust. ‘Specie features: The VK901 had a completely redesigned suspen: sion, with five pairs of overlapping road wheels, sprung on torsion bars. As in the previous Aust D, © and F, iront. was Dox shaped, but devoid of hatches. The drive ‘operator fentered through the superstructure roof hatches provided ‘with vision ports to their front. and_sides. The turret, mounted Ccontrally. was devoid of vision ports. The commander's vision was ‘supplied by the poriscopes in the cupola, and by the gun sight Combat service: No evidence has been found of the VKGO' having been iseued to unite for frontline “eervice, Twenty-seven of the YK901 turrets were released for use in foried emplacements es stationary pllboxes, ment order for an ‘OSerie’ was issued on 22 December 1939. De Volopment of the chassis was entrusted to MAN, and of the turret to Daimler-Benz. The prototype was completed in June 1940, and production was to havo started in December of that year. Various Golays were ‘encountered, however, and only twenty-two VK1601 were completed: Specific features: “The Vki601 had Schachtellautwork inter Jeaved suspension) of similar design to that of the VK9O1, but more strongly built in order to suppor the additional weight” The: hull'and superstructure were bulla one unit—a departure from the normal German practice up to this time, of a superetructure bolted to the hull Access for the driver and radio operator was facilitated by circular hatches in the hull sides, The commanders access was through the turret root, via cupola which was equipped with periscopes. ‘Combat service: Seven VK1601 were issued to 12th Panzer Division, which ‘saw service on the Easton Front during 1943. In 1948, a Ykv601 was found minus its reel and with a jb Mted, 10 create & rudimentary BergePanzerwagon (Armoured Recovery Vehicle) PANZERKAMPFWAGEN IIAND VARIANTS 36,Panzerkampfwagen II neuer Art Ausf H und M Other designations: VK903, VK 1301 Type: Light reconnaissance tank Manufacturer: MAN CChassie Nos: 200001-200004 (VK1301) 4 VK1801 produced in August 1942; VK90S prototypes only Crew: 3 Engine: Maybach HLS6P Weight (tons): 105 farbox: 4 forward, 1 reverse Speed (km/hr): 65 ‘Armament: One Gert One 2em KwK3® L/65 One 7.92mm MG34 18202 oF Traverse: 360° = Sight TaF4/99 = ‘Armour (mm) Front Side Rear Top. Turret 30 Superstructure 3 3D Hull OO 5 Gun mantet 30/round History: The VK908 was to have been the production version of the earlier VK901 (Pz Kpiw Il-n& Aust G), having increased side armour, diferent transmission and a higher speed. in March 1942, it was decided to replace the SSG_48 gearbox by the transmission of the Pz Kpfw 38(1) nA in production models. Tho total order was for 200, vehicles, with 120 to be bullt between April and December 1942. Dolays set the projected production start date back to September 41842, but by this time, the project had been cancelled. The VK1301 was intended ae a heavier reconnaissance vehicle to be built alongside the VKG03. It was to have had the Som KwK30/1 but, fited with the 2em KWwK38, it was tho forerunner of the Aust U (vk1308) Specific features: Goth vehicles wore similar in appearance to the Pr Kpfw I Aust L(VK1303), iflering only in armour thickness ‘Combat service: None, Panzerkampfwagen Il Ausf L (Sd Kfz 123) Other designations: Pz Sp Wg Il, VK1303, Luchs Type: Light reconnaissance tank Manutacturer: MAN Chassis Nos: 200101-200200 100 produced from Soptember 1943 to January 1944 plus 4 converted from VK1901 Crew: 4 Engine: Maybach HLS6P. Weight (tone): 130 Goarbox: 6 Torward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 4.63 Speed (km/hr) 60 Wigtn (metres): 2.48 Range (km): 290 Height (metres): 2.21 Radio: FuGt2+FuG Spra ‘Armament: One 2em KWK38 L/55 One 7.2mm MG34 ‘Traverse: 960" (hand) = Elevation: —9° +18" = Sight: TZF6/38 = 2250 Ammunition: 330 Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Ture 30/10" 20/21" 20/21" 12/79"-00 Superstructur: 30/10" 20/0" 20/28" 10/86*-90 ult 30/22" 20/0" 20/28" 10/90 ‘Gun mantiet 30/roune History: The Luchs (Lynx) was developed as a fullytracked armoured Feconnaissance vehicle. Tho development order was issued on 15 ‘April 1939, with production to begin in August 1942. MAN developed the chassis and Daimler-Benz, the superstructure and turret. The frst trial vehicle was completed in’ April 1942. The initial order was for 800, Luehs, the firt 100 with the '2em Kiwk26 and the remainder with the em Kwk 39/1 L/60 (designated Leopard). However the Sem KwK 39/1 J vorsion was never produced, because an order Issued in January 1943, decreed that production cease after the first 100 Luchs had been ‘completed. Specific features: The VK1903 retained the same suspension and hull-dosign as ite presecessor, the VK9O. The superstructure was widened, extending over the tracks to allow a larger turret to be ‘mounted. The turret lacked a cupola and vision ports. In thelr plac two revolving periscopes were ited to the turret roo! to. provide vision Tor the gunner and commander. 96 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN II AND VARIANTS. Paton $7.98. Px Kot Aus L: Plate 9 shows the vehi in sene on the Russi Front "Wot he sdtana armour on the rose Ste) Combat service: losued to the Panzer Autklérunge-Abtel mngen (Ar moured Reconnaissance Detachments) of the Panzer” diveions, served on the Eastern and Western fronts until the end of the War15cm sIG33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf) Type: Self-propelled heavy infantry gun on tracked carriage 12 produced In November and December 1941 Crew: 4 Engine: Maybach HLS2TRM Weight (tons): 11.2 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metros): 6.41 Speed (km/hr): 40, wiath (metres): 26 Range (km)- 160, Height (mottes): 1.9 Radio: FuG Spr ‘Armament: One 150m sIG33 L/12 One 782mm MG34 Traverse: 10° (hand) loose Sight: RDIS6 direct ‘Ammunition: 80 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Superstructure 30/9" 15/30" 15/10" 5/80 Hull aris" 18/0" 18/15" 5/00" Gun mantiet: none Gun shiol 15/10" 15/30" open open History: Alter the success of the 150m siG33 aut Fost Pz Kotw I (G1) in France in 1940, plans were made to mount this heavy infan: try gun on a more suitable chassis, and to drastically lower its height. A” prototype was built on a’ Pz Kofw Aust B chassis in February 1941 when it was realised that the normal chassis did not provide sufficient room forthe large gun. A new chassis was planned using basic Pz Kplw Il components and was to havo Boon Feady for production in July 1941. Because of design problems and {olays, however, the twelve 1Sem siG33 (St) were nt Golivored Until fate 1941 Specific features: The chassis for this vohiclo was basically a Pz Kptw il chassis which had been widened by 82cm and lenathened by 60em to accommodate the Sem sIG33 and’ maintain alow silhouette. This lengthening required the addition of a sixth road whee! fon each side, but no further suspension changes were required. The fighting compartment was formed by 15mm plates on the front and sides, but was open on top and at the rear. The engine cooling was ‘reatly increased by large hatches on the rear deck which could be braced open to allow a large volume of cooling air to circul Combat service: All twolve. 15cm sIG Sil aut Pz Il were shipped to North Africa early in 1942, with the 707 and 708 siG Kp (S!) (Heavy Infantry Gun Companies (SP). They took part in the spring offensive ‘a Gazala, and all further major offensives. in North Arica with th Deutsches Aftka Korps unt the last of them wo spring of 1948. Petes 9-101. 1crn G20 aut Fost Pe Kot I (SH Pate 11 shows the pte vehi. Gefechts Aufklérer VK1602 Other designation: Leopard Type: Medium reconnaissance tank Prototypes incomplete when project was cancelled in 1942 Crow: 4 Engine: Maybach HL1S7F Weight (tons): 21.9 Gearbox: 8 forward, 4 Length (metres): 4.74 Speed (km/hr): 60 Width (metres): 3.1 Radio: FuG2 or FuGS+FuGS Hoight (metres): ‘Armament: One Sem KwK39/1 One 7.92mm MG34 “Traverse” 360" (hand) - Elevation: — 10" +20 = Sight: TZ = Ammunition: 50 2.400 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Ture: 50/20° 30/25" 30/25" 30/ Supersiructure: 50/50" 30/0" 30/20 Hull 50) 30/0" 30/ —20-25/90 Gun mantle: History: intended as a heavy armoured reconnaissance vehicle, its dovelopmont was discussed by Hiller in March 1942 MIAG were fentrusted with the chassis construction and Daimler-Benz, the turet Ail design work was to have been ready by the end of October 1942 Production was to have started in April 1848 with projected output of 108 Leopards by December 1943, and 150 in spring 1944. A ful Size mock-up had been propared by the end of May 1942. The project ‘was ‘cancelled even before the prototypes were ready because of Changing requirements as the war progressed. A competing design known as the VK1601 was issued to Porsche and Skoda. Specitic features: Suspension layout was. similar to that ot the Pr Kptw I Aust L. Frontal armour was sloped in a similar fashion to the Panther. The turret developed for thie vehicle was subsequently Utlized on the heavy 8-rad (B-whooled armoured car) Sd Ktz 284/2 Puma Combat service: None. PANZERKAMPFWAGENIIAND VARIANTS 37 ‘SaukoptblendePanzer Selbstfahrlafette 1 fiir 7.62cm PaK36(r) auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf D' und D? (Sd Kfz 132) Other designation: LaS 762 Type: Self-propelled captured anti-tank gun on tank chassis Manufacturer: Alket, Wegmann Chassis Nos: 27001-26000 201 converted from April 1942 to June 1943 Crew: 4 ‘Engine: Maybach HL62TRM Weight (tons): 11.5 Gearbox: 7 Yorward, 3 reverse Length (metres): 5.65 Speed (km/hr): 55 wnatn (motes): 23, Range (km): 220 Height (metres): 26 Fadio: FuG Sor d Armament: One 7.62em PaK36 One 7.92mm MG34 515 Traverse: 50° (hand) loose Elevation: —5° +16" loose Sight: 2°33 direct Ammunition: 30 00 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear ‘Top/Bottom Superetructur: 30/9" 145/20" 145/15" open Hull 30/9" 14/0" 145/0° 5/90 Gun shield 145/30" 145/15" open open History: On 20 December 1941, an order was given to Alkett to develop a. seltpropelied antitank gun by mounting the ‘captured 782em on the Las 138 chassis, Th intial order for 150 was com pleted by 12 May 1942, and an additional 60. superstructures were Ordered so that further Pz St 1 (Armoured SP Mounting 1) could be produced trom the chassis of Pz Kpfw Il (F) returned for repair. The {urate of the Pz Kptw il (F) were later used in permanent forifica tions. By May 1948, a tolal of 8 such turrets had been released for this purpose. Specific features: The hull and superstructure remained unchanged ftom those esigned for the Pz Kpfw Il Aust 0, & and Flamm, The Other designation: Marder II ‘Type: Self-propelled anti-tank gun on tank chassis, Manulacturer: FAMO, MAN, Daimler-Benz Chassis Nos: 28001-29550 '576 produced trom June 1942 to June 1943 75 converted trom Pz Kpfw Il from July 1843 to March 1946 Crew: 3 Engine: Maybach HLE2TRM Weight (tons): 10.8 Goarbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 6.36 Speed (km/hr): a0 Wiatn (metres): 228, Range (km): 190, Height (metres): 22 Radio: FuG Sprd ‘Armament: One 75em Pak40/2 (One 792mm MG34 Traverse" 32" Tet 25" right (hand) loos Elevation: —8" +10 loose Sight) ZF3 x8 direct ‘Ammunition: 37 600 Armour (mm/engle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Superstructure 30/10" 10/8" 10/0" +open 107 + open Hull: 35/19" 15/0" 15/7) 5/90 Gun siete: 2 44i30° 38 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Il AND VARIANTS 7.5cm PaK40/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen Il (Sf) (Sd Kfz 131) height of the superstructure front and sides was increased to form 2 fighting compartment. The 7.62em PaK36(+) was mounted in this enclosure ona moditied field carriage which incorporated gun Shield to protect the crow during combat Combat service: The 7.62cm Paki) auf Fgst Pz Kofw il (St) were issued to. the Panzerlagerabteilungen (St) (TankHunter Detach ments (SP)} of the Panzer. and PanzerGrenadier (Armoured and ‘Armoured Infantry) divisions from April 1942,.and to units which fought mainly in’ Russia. Phased out of frontline service early in O44, the. 7.62em Pak(r) (St) had accomplished its role asa stop: ‘Gap Unt better designs could be fielded, Pe Kotw (8), wich varied Paes 102104. Tho tv versione of 7 em PKI a ~~ History: On 13 May 1942, it was questioned whether the Pr Kofw I then in production at a rate of 50 per month, was still adequate in a ‘combat role, or whether it should be replaced by the 7.5cm Pak40 ‘mounted on'the Pz Kptw It chassis, Early in June, t was decided 10 produce 50 per cent of tho series as 7.5em Pak St, and lator in the month, it was decided that at least 75 per cent (100 per cent. if the ‘Army s0 desired) of all new production was to be 7-Sem Paka Production was cut short in Jun 1943, to give all of the Pe. Kot I Fost to Wespe (Wasp) production. From July 1943 to March 194, an additional seventy-ve PaK40/2 were mounted on converted Pz Kptw Il Aust c, 8, B, Cand F chassis, Specific features: The hull and superstructure front remained the same ae the basic Pz Kplw Il Aust F. A supercttueture was built t0 form a fighting compartment. The upper half of the field-cariags mount for the 7.5em PaKdO was otained, But modified with girders to form the support for the antitank gun. Combat service: The Sd-Kfz 131 wae issued to Panzerjager detach ments (SP) from July 1942, It remained in active service until the fend of the war, Serving on all major frontsPos 10616, 7.m PaK#0/2 at Fast Pe Kote (St Leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf) (Sd Kfz 124) Other designations: Wespe, Gerat 803 Type: Self-propelled light field howitzer on tracked carriage Manutacturer: FAMO. Chassis Nos 31001-92190 {76 produced trom February 1943 to July 1944 459 munitions vehicles bull durin the same period Grew: 4 Engine. HLS2TR Weight (tons): 11 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metros): 481 Speed (km/hr): 40 Width (mates): 2.28 Range (kim): 220 Height (metres): 2.3 Radio: FuG Spr! Armament: One 10.5em leFHIBM One 7:92mm MG34 worse: 17° eft 17° right (hand) loose Elevation: —5" +42 foose. Sight: RDII36 irect Ammunition: 32 Armour (mm/angle): Front: Sida, Rear Top/Bottom Superstrucre 20/30" 15/0" 8/0" 10/90 ul: ao/1s" 19/0" 15/10" 5/80: Gun siete: 10/24" 10/17" 10/16" open History: The Wespe was designed by Alkett early in 1942, and was Ghosot_as tho most practical self-propelled mount for the leFHI6 over the Pz Kplw ill and Pz Kofw IV. Asan interim measure, the Wespe proved. a great "success and. in Februaty 1943, all further Pe Kolw Il chassis were ordered to be used for Its production. The intial order for 1,000 was cut back to 835 late in 1943, This total }é Munitions St aut Fost AFV Il) which carried included 159. (without leFH18/2) dosig Pe Kptw Il (AmmunitionSP on chassis 20 rounds with a crow of three. Specific features: The Wespe was built on a modified Pz Kpfw Il Chassis with the hull slightly lengthoned, the engine moved forward, the glacis extended and the cooling-aystem louvres completely re Gesigned. The suspension was altered slightly by reducing the num ber of retum rollers. from four to three, and by adding spring Dumper stops for the road wheols t0 absorb the recoll loadings. The fiver occupied a small compartment forward, next to. tho trans fission, ang separated from the remainder of the crew who were Focated in the rear fighting compartment which was. built up trom sloping plats. The design of the Munitions St version stil allowed the installation of the leFH18/2 by Field Maintenance as replace- ‘Combat service: The Wespe was issued to SP detachments of the Panzerartilere regiments in Panzer and Panzergrenadier civisions fe fret major action was at Kursk in Russia, and saw active service In the east, west and south-west until the end of the war. Pinter 107108, LoFH18/2 ul Fost Pe Ko i (S PANZERKAMPFWAGEN II AND VARIANTS 33Paes 18-110, Wenne ants ammunition cri (ight, Muon Sts Fae Ps Kp Panzerkampfwagen it mit Sclwimmkérper Type: Amphibious tank History: The Schwimmpanzer ll was developed as a result_of Combat Service: These tanks were used a8 normal Pz Kpfw ll by the Fequitements for the proposed invasion of England late in 1940, The 18th Panzer Regiment which was formed in October 1940, They were firm of Gebr Sachsenberg in Roslay was responsible for the flotation usad in action in the central sector of the Russian front from June Gevices which were attached to the sides and front of the Pz Kotw 1941 Ii, Water" propulsion ‘was ‘vansferted. (rom the drive. sprocket, and the floats were attached on extensions to the tack support roller, Alloa, it was capable of 10km/hr. eee Pate 18, Brheroge ou Ps Kofw with the rie ready obo aun i, Thetregex chad Crier Kor. Ste. SomPokIBL 000s! Fae Pakpw 40 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN II AND VARIANTS.Briikenleger auf Panzerkampfwagen II Type: Armoured bridgelayer Histon: Magirus of Ulm experimented with a Brokenleger ‘mounted on the Pz Kpfw |. Tho number of these Brikenleger pro: Kot i Aust b which foatured a pivoting bridge, but the Brukenleger duced is not known, but four were in service with the Engingers of wich was in service in 1940 was fitted with a two: the 7th Panzer Division in Belgium and France in 1940, bridge, “designed for” scaling obstacles. This had Tormerly been Panzerkampfwagen Il ohne Turm Other designation: Pionier-Kampfwagen II ‘Type: Tracked carrier Histon: From 1942, a number of the older Pz Katw Il, returned for seltpropelled gun conversions were issued for building into per- Overhaul, were corverled to carrier vehicles for the Engineers, by manent fortifications. In. May 1944, 730 Pz Kptw Il turrets were fomeving thelr turrets. The turrets. removed from these and other available and of these, 485 had already been released. 5cm PaK38 L/60 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen Il (Sf) ‘Type: Self-propelled anti-tank gun History: Improvised seltpropelied gun, similar to the 75cm Pak4o fut Fost Pz Kofw tl (St) (Sd Ktz 131). The chassis was that of a Pz Kptw 11 Aust A, B or C. Panzer Selbstfahrlafette 1c /5cm PaK38 auf Panzerkampfwagen II (VK901) Other designation: Leichter Panzerjager Type: Self-propelled anti-tank gun History: In July 1940, the Watfenamt placed an order with MAN in January 1942 and were sont to the front. The total weight was for two prototypes of this light antitank vehicle. Rheinmetall-orsig 10.5 tons. No further orders were placed bacause of the unsistablity supplied the gun and superstructure, The two vehicles wore delivered of the Scm PaK38 in the conditions. prevailing in 1942, PANZERKAMPFWAGENIIAND VARIANTS 41Panzerkampfiwagen 35(t) and 38(t) plus variants Panzerkampfwagen 35(t) Other designations: S-tla, T-11 Type: Captured light tank Manutacturer: Skoda (80% ), CKD (20%) Chassis Nos: 50001-50424) 424 produced between 1935 and 1938 219 contiscated-rom Czech Army in March 1999 Crow: 4 Engine: Skoda T11 Weight (tons): 10.5 Gearbox: 6 forward, 6 reverse Length (motes): 49 Speed (km/hr): 38 Wistn (metres): 2.1 Range (km): 190 Height (metres): 2.95 Radio: FuG27(t) ‘Armament: One 3.7em One 7:82mm MG37(1) One 7.92mm MGI7(t) Kk 94 (t) 1/40 Traverse: 360" (hand) 10° left 10° right 5° left 11° right Elevation: —10" 425" 14" 425 Sight) T2F(t) Mazr (i) Ammunition:72_ Page 800 & Spar ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turret 25/10" 15/14" 15/18" 8/81" +90 Superstructure: 25/17" 16/0" 15/60" 8/85" + 90 ull 25/30" 16/0" 16/0" 8/90) ‘Gun mantle: 25/round History: The Panzorkampfwagan 35(t) was the main battle tank of the Czech Army during the years immediately preceding the German ‘annexation of Bohemia and Moravia in March 1930. Initially, this tank was unreliable and although this problem was eventually solved, ite bad reputation remained. Ater it had been taken into’ German service it was systematically rebuilt, and remained in service Yor ‘more than three years, At the time of its development it represented 2 very advanced design, with more than adequate armour and fire Power, but Its technical epecifieation includes too many complex features, notably a pneumatically operated transmission. Specific features: Fear sprocket drve, small road wheels and par ticularly wide tracks were the identitving features, The armour was fiveted in the contemporary style, The main gun was developed {tom the Skoda antitank gun of the same calibre, and was renowned for its accuracy. The pneumatically “controlled gearbox, which was designed to ease driving, proved @ great weakness and gave trouble, during the Russian winter of 1941 Combat service: Of the Pz Kptw 35(t) taken from the Czech Army in 1939, scarcely mote than fity per cent were ready for action, and these served with the Tet Light Division in Poland. In October. 1039, the 11th Panzer Regiment and the 65th Panzerabteilung of that ivision wore formed ino the 6th Panzer DWision which contained to tise these tanks, Both in France in 1940 and on the Cental front in Fussia until late 1941, by which time, the bulk of the. division's farmour had been lost. Tho Pz Kpiw_35(t) also served with the Army of Bulgaria, 26 being exported by Germany in February 1940. The Armies of Rumania and Slovakia had considerable numbers of these tarks in service through: ‘out the war, having been supplied by Skoda prior to 1939, 42 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN’S6i{t) AND a(t) PLUS VARIANTS. 118.121. Pow 351, Plate 121 shows the Ps Bot We Command version.Artillerie Schlepper 35(t) Other designation: Mérser Zugmittel 36() Type: Artillery tractor History: A small number of the surviving Pz Kpfw 95(t) were con: Yorled to tractors by removing the turret_ang fiting a canvas. cover Ir'ts place. ‘The tow bar fitted to the reat allowed 12 tonne to bo pullod, Turrets from these tanks and others retumed for repair. were Used for ined foriiications, OF the 38 avaiable, 36 had been issued by May 1948 Pat 122, Meee Zuo 80 Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) Ausf A Other designations: | Serie TNHPS, LT Vz38 Type: Light tank Manutacturer: BM. Chassis Nos: 0007-0150 150 produced from May to November 1999 Grew: 4 Engine: Praga EPA Weight (tons): 94 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (mates): 46 Speed (km/hr): 42 Width (metres)? 2.12 Range (kin): 250, Hovght (metres): 24 Radio: FuG37(t) Armament: One 3.7em One 792mm One 7.92mm Konk36(t) 1/487 M1G37(") M37) Traverse: 980" (hand) 10° left 10° right 35" left 11° right Elevation: —10" +25 14425 = Sit: T2F it) Mazer (t) Ammunition: 72 2,400 (ine 900 AP) Armour (mm/anglo): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Foret 25/10" 15/10" 15/10" 10/80 Superstucture: 25/17" 15/0" 10/60" 8/90 wal 25/16" 15/0" 18/12" 8/90) Gun mantiet 25/round Histo: The Pz Kotw 98(!) was, in fact, the Czech LT Vz 98 which twas produced for the Wehrmacht alter the annexation of the Czecho- Slovakian. provinces of Bohemia and Moravia in March 1999. Ordered as a prototype trom CKD (Praga) in 1937, the Vz 98 was Outright winner of competitive teste held in 1938. In July, an order Mas placed. for 150 tanks to. be manufactured immediately. The Munich Agreement forced the slowdown of this order and no pro- {uation vehicles were delivered before March 1939. After the German fccupation, an order was placed for the 150 incomplete tanks to be Completed for the Wehrmacht as the Pz: Kpfw 38(%) Aust A, Specie features: Externally. similar to the model ordered by the Chech Army. in 1938, the Aust A can be readily identiied by the ete’ aerial in the farm of @ pipe along the left side of the tank ‘The Germans Increased the crew by a gun loader, thus relieving the mmmander of this. task. The amount of 37mm ammunition. was feduced by 3 bins containing 18 rounds, to make space for the ‘sddtional crewman Gombat service: Filtynine Pz Kplw 38(t) Aust A served in the G7th Parzorabiellung.of the rd Light Division in Poland, and 15 served Er'Norway in 1940, Therestter, this tank served in most theatres of war except Africa Panzerspahwagen T-15 Other designation: Skoda T-15 Type: Reconnaissance tank History: In 1942, Skoda built a prototype reconnaissance tank for (KW (Wahrmach! High Command) ‘rials. This 10 ton venicie was farmed with a 37em gun and an MG. The armour was 20mm to Emm find. the voticlo was powered by & V-8. T0.Bit engine developing 220PS at 2,800rpm. A ‘crew of 4 was accommodated. The T-15 was Unsuccessful in competition with the VKI303. Pate 123, Wooden mockup ofthe Skods 1. PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 36(t) AND 38it) PLUS VARIANTS 43Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) Ausf B, C und D Other designation: Type: Light tank Manufacturer: BMM Chassis Nos.: 0151-0260, 0261-0370, 0371-0475 325 produced from January to November 1940 Crow: 4 Engine: Praga EPA Weight (tons): 95 Gearbox: 8 forward, 1 reverse II, Il IV Serie TNHPS Length (metres): 4.1 Speed (km/hr): 42 Wath (metres): 24 ange (km): 250 Height (metres): 24 Radio: FuGs7(") ‘Armament: One 3.7em One 792mm MG37(t) One 7.92mm MGI7(t) kwk38(t) 1/478 Traverse: 950° (hand) 10° lett 10° right 35" lett 11° right Elevation: — 10" 425° 14" +25 = Sight: T2F() MazF (i) ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Ture: 25/10" 19/10" 15/10" 10/90 Superstructure: 25/17" 18/0" 10/80" 8/90 Hull 25/16" 15/0" 18/12" 8/90" Gun mantit: 25/round History: The Pz Kptw 98(t) Aust A ordered in May 1959, was a Completion of the tanks already ordered for the Czech Army. The ‘suceoss of tests with the prototypes and the frst production vehicles led the Watfenart to order a further 325. Three series were eri: ‘aged, ‘Series Il, Ill and I¥, being basically similar apart rom minor otail changes to suit German use. Speciti features: Extornaly similar to Aust A, both Aust B and Chad the driver's curved plate. The battle serial was deleted. Smoke: dispensers and tho German "Notek’ lighting system ware added. The Pat 126. Pz Ko 380 Aut BoC fw i Pkt 280 Aut Conoco no os et antisplash protection for the turret ring was introduced on the Aust 3 Combat service: Both Aust B and © served in Franco in 1940 with the 7th and éth Panzer Divisions, and with the 8th Panzer Division in Greece in 1941, The Aust D wat introduced in September 1940, Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) Ausf E und F Other designation: V und VI Serie TNHPS. Type: Light tank Manufacturer: BMM Chassis Nos" 0476-0750, 0751-1000 525 produced trom November 1940 to October 198% Crew: 4 Engine: Praga EPA Weight (tons): 9.85 Gearbox: 5 Yorward, 1 reverse Length (metros): 4.61 Speed (km/hr): 42 Width (metres): 2.14 Range (km): 250 Height (metres): 2.4 Radio: FuGs Armament: One 3.7m One 7.82mm MG37(t) One 7.2mm MG37(t) KwK38 (1) 1/478 Traverse: 360° (hand) 10° left 10° right 35° Felt 11° right Elevation: 10° 425" 14" 4 25 Sight: TZF(t) Mazr (i Ammunition: 42 Pear 2.400 & Spar Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Top/Bottom Turret 254+25/10° 30/10" 15/90 Superstructure: 28428797" 154-1570 8/90 Hult 425/18" 18/0" 18/12" 8/90 Gun mantiet 25/round History: As a result of experience in Poland, greater protection was demanded, and from November 1940 the. frontal armour of these tanks was increased to 50mm by riveting two 25mm plates together fn all frontal surfaces. The armour on the tureat sides. and on the Upper sides of the fighting compartment w. inereased Specitic features: Now visors—Sehklappe 50 (Observation Port £0) ‘were fitted for driver and operator, riveting waa reduced on frontal plates. and the turret machine-gun ball mount was located internally Combat service: All modele of the Pz Kpiw 8(!) served in Russia from July 1941, The Aust D, E and F served mainly with the more Fecenily formed 12th, 19th and 20th Panzer Divisions, as well as with the 7th and 8th Panzer Divisions which were the. first divisions to be equipped with these tanks Pe 128 Ko 380) us Pra 18, PERG So) Aust oF 44 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 35(t) AND B{t) PLUS VARIANTSPanzerkampfwagen 38(t) Ausf G Other designation: VII Serie TNHPS Type: Light tank Manufacturer: GMM Chassis Nos: 1001-1090 90 produced trom May to December 1941 Crew: 4 Engine: Praga EPA Weiaht (tons): 9.5 Length (metres): 4.81 Wath (metros): 2.14 Height (metres): 24 Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Speed (km/hr). 42 Range (km): 250 ‘Armament: One 3.7em One 792mm MG37(!) One 792mm MG37(1) what) L/A78 Traverse: 60° (hand) 10° left 10° right 95° left 11° right Elovation: —10" +25" —14" +25 Sight: TZF(t) Mazr(t) ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turet 25/10" 15/10" 18/10" 10/90 Superstructure: 25/17" 15/0" 10/60" 4/90" ul 25/16" 15/0" 18/12" 8/90° Guin mantle 26/round Histor: The final outgrowth of the demand for heavier armour resut ted in the Pz Kpfw 28(t) Aust G, which used basic. SOmm armour plate Yor all frontal surfaces. More extensive use of welding was trade in the construction of this model. The growing obsolescence: Of this tank led Hiller to order thal its chassis be used as the basis of a selfpropelled anti-tank gun. A proportion of the output for March {42 and all output for April were sed for this purpose, The final A7 tanks were manufactured in May and June. 1942. Specie features: Drivers plate located by only three rivets; no rivets on the engine covers. Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) Ausf S Other designation: TNH-SV. Type: Light tank Manufacturer: BM. CChassie Nos: 1101~1600 1321 produced ftom October 1941 to June 1942 Crow 4 Engine: Praga EPA Weight (tons): 9.85 Goarbox: 5 Torward, 1 reverse LLengm (metres): 4.61 ‘Spoed (km/hr): 42 With (metres): 2.14 Range (km): 250 Height (metres): 2.4 Radio: FuGs ‘Armament: One 3.7em One 782mm MG37(!) One 7.82mm MG37(t) Kwk36(1) L/478 ‘Traverse: 350° (hand) 10° let 10° right 3 left 11° right Elevation: 10" +25" — 14" 425 = Sight) TZF() MazF(t) 7 Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turek: 50/0 90/10" 22/10" 15/00 Superstructur: 50/17" 15415/0" 10/8/90" ul 50/16" 15/0" 15/12" 8/90" Gun mantiet: 25/rouna History: Before the German occupation of Czechoslovakia in March 1908, CKD (later known as EMM) had sought expor orders for their tanks. In 1938/39, Sweden placed an order for 90 TNH-SV tanks. In the spring of 1949, the Germans commanded that all tanks under construction for Sweden be delivered to. the Wehrmacht. Early in 1941, Sweden received licence to build the TNHPS tank, which she did, under the designation Srv m/41. Deliveries to the Swedish ‘Army took place from February 1943. The Strv m/41 was basically Similar to the Pz Kplw 38(%) Aust G. The ‘Swedish’ vehicles were to have been assembled from February 1941, But difficulties arose because of their obsolete configuration, and because of the modifi tations which had been incorporated specially for the export order. Specliie Teatures: Similar in appearance to Pz Kotw 38(t) Aust A. Dut without batio acral, Those tanks wore fitted with turretring splash: ‘2s filed to the contemporary Aust E and F. Combat service: Tanks of thie type were exported to the Slovak Free Slate and served with their Fast Division in southern Russia in 1941 and 1942, Combat service: Served mainly in Russia. Various models of the Pz Kptw. 36(t) sories were exported to the German alll, Hungary, Fumania, and Slovakia. In September 1944, the Pz Kotw 98(t, ‘despite. being obsolete, was stil in service mainly with armoured {rain units, two tanks being carried on the flat cars of each train. At this time, 229 Pr Kptw 38(t) of all models were listed as available, Plate 190, Ps Kot Se) Aust PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 35(t) AND 38(t) PLUS VARIANTS 45.Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) neuer Art Type: Light reconnaissance tank Manufacturer: MM 18 claimed to have boon produced in early 1942 Crew: 4 Engine: Praga V-8 Weight (tons): 14.8 Gearbox: 4 forward, 1 reverse Lenath (metres): 5 Speed (km/hr): 62 Wiath (metres): 2.5 Range (km): 200 Hoight (metres): 24 ‘Armament: One 3.7em KwK38(t) One 7.92mm MGI7(t) ware Traverse: 350° (hand) Elevation: — 10" +25" Sight: TZF(t) ‘Armour (mm): Front Top Turret: 35 8 Superetructure: as 8 Hull 35 8 Gun mantle: 35/round History: Offered as the GMI solution to the Waffenamt require ‘ment for a reconnaissance tank which had originally been issued 10 MAN as early as September 1039. The P2 Kpw 38(t) nA followed very closely the successful layout of the Pz Kptw 36(%), but the latest techniques “of wolded armour were incorporated, and the SC (een rin vohicle was powered by a V-8 engine of 250PS. Despite successful Performance ‘and a very high speed achieved during tests in 1942 Fo production order was placed. The transmission and steering gear however. were ordered to be ftied in the VK903, which, in tum, did fot pass beyond the development phase. Specific features: Now welded construction for hull and turret. Road wheels more closely spaced, and new V-8 engine. Combat service: None. Panzerjager 38(t) fiir 7.62cm PaK36(r) (Sd Kfz 139) Other designations: Marder Ill, Vil und VIII Serie TNHPS Type: Self-propelled captured anti-tank gun on tank chassis Manufacturer: BMM Chassis Nos. betwoon 1951 & 1510, 1511-1768, 344 produced trom April to October 1942 419 converted from Pz Kptw 98(t) in 1943, Crew: 4 Engine: Praga EPA & EPA/2 Weight (tons): 10.67 Goarbox: § forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 5.85 Speed (km/hr): 42 Width (metres): 2.18, Range (km): 185 Hoight (metres): 25 Radio: Fu Spr d ‘Armament: One 720m Pak36(+) One 7.92mm MG37() sis ‘Traverse: 21° lott 21° right (hand) 35° left 11° right (hand) Elevation: —8" + 134 14" 425 Sight: 2F3x8 MazF (t) ‘Ammunition: 30 Pagr S9Ret, 1,200, gr 40 & Spgr 39 ‘Armour (mm/angie): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Suporstructure 50/17" 16/11" +14" 10/65" 10/90. Hull 50/8" 15/0" 18/16 10+ 8/20 Gun shieta Wat 11/92" open’ open History: The problems faced by the German troops in Russia wh they encountered superior Russian armour was to be solved in the short term by the production of soltpropelied ant-tank guns. Since tho Pz Kptw’ 38(t) was obsolete as a batle tank and considered too slow as a reconnaissance tank, it was ordered that a number of the chassis under construction be converted to gun carriages. A prototyoe Si (SP) mounting a Russian 7.62em. gun’ was. built in December 1941, and an order dated 22 December 1941 called for pro duction of 17 units per month from 24 March 1942, and for capacity for 30 per month fom July. Several orders wore issued so. that ‘eventually 244 were but. From July 1942, Hiller ordered that all Pr Kptw 38() production be used as St. The 7.62em Pak36(r) was tho Russian FK206 rebuilt to German specifications and rechambered to take a PaK40 cartridge. Conversion was made trom the large stocks ‘of guns captured during the initial success in Russia Speci To cope with the greater weight of the selt-propelied ‘Guns, the motor was Increased in powor to 150PS. This model was Introduced in July 1942 as the Ausf H (chassis numbers from 1601). Combat service: Served mainly with Panzerjager detachments in Fussia. A total of 66. were dispatched to North Arica where those that arived from July to November 1942 eerved with the 23rd Panzer Jgerabteilung of the 1th Panzer Division, and with the 28th Pancer lAgerabieilung. The first six units, which arrived in North Alrica in May 1042, romained with the HO of the Tank Aimy. 48 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 36(t) AND 38it) PLUS VARIANTS. Pes 132.13, Po tg 3 fr 7.2m Par above, onthe Ruin Front.7.5cm PaK40/3 auf Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) Ausf H (Sd Kfz 138) Other designation: Vill Serie TNHPS Type: Self-propelied anti-tank gun on tank chassis Manufacturer: BM (Chassis Nos. 1601-2100 242 produced {rom November 1942 to April 1949 plus 1 prototype 475 converted from Pz Kp 98(t) in 1943 Grew: 4 Engine: Praga EPA/2 Weight (tons): 10.8 Goarbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 6.77 ‘Spood (km/hr): 35 Widty (metres): 2.18 Range (km): 240 Height (metres): 2.51 Radio: FuGs ‘Armamont: One 750m PaK40/3 One 792mm MG37(t) as, Traverse: 90° lft 20° right (hand) 35° lot 11° right (hand) levaion: —5° +22" 14" +25" Sight. 2F3x8 MazF(t) ‘Ammunition: 38 00 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Sido Rear Top/Bottom Superstructure Eovist 15/0" open 10/65" + 90° Pte TB-16. 75cm Paka aut Po Kot 2810 Aust Hutt: 50/16" 19/0" 15/16" 8/90 Gun shies 35/25" 15/25" open 8/00 History: In May 1942, discussions took place conceming the manu facture of a new soitpropelied gun, based on the Pz Kptw 38(t) Chassis, but mounting the normal German 7.5cm PaK40 in place of the 7.62em Pak35(r). The prototype was ready in June 1942. and incorporated. a redesigned superstructure which was lower, lighter fnd provides Superior protection. Specie features: Both tho 75cm Paké0 prototype and a 7.5em SUuK4D prototype wore built on the Pz Kpfw 35(t) Aus! @ chassis By November 1042, howover, the Aust chassis with the more powerful engine was available. The Aust H hull was similar to the Fall of the Aust G, but the side armour was reduced by omitting the additonal iSmm plate from the fighting compartment. Combat service: The Sd Kiz 138 was Issued to Panzerliger detach: Tent (SP) trom tate. 1942. Lutwatlo and SS units, as. well_as were in action with ‘Leibstandarte Adolt Hite’, 1st SS Panzer Division Wenrmacht units received these guns. From December 1942, they in Russia, and served also in Tunisia and Waly in 1943. 15cm Schweres Infanteriegeschiitz 33 (Sf) auf Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) Ausf H (Sd Kfz 138/1) Other designations: Vill Serie TNHP, Gerat 805, Grille Type: Self-propelled heavy infantry gun on tank chassis Manufacturer: BNIM Specific features: The standard Aust H_ chassis with @ new fighting Chassis Nos: betwoon 1601 & 2100 Compariment superstructure whieh had to be extended over the 90 produced from February to April 1943 plus 1 prototype fengine compartment to accommodate the heavy gun and its ammuni- Crew: S Engine: Praga EPA/2 tion Weight (tons): 115 Goarbox: Yorwars, 1 reverse Combat service: The Grille were issued to the schwere Infanterieges Length (metres): 4.61 Speed (km/hr): 35 chute companies of the Panzorgrenadier regiments, and corved in Width (metres): 2.15 Range (km):, 185 Russia, Tunisia, Italy and France from early 1943. In June 1944 this Height (meties): 24 Radio: FuGis Version of Grile was stil in sorvice with the 38in Panzer schwere Tnfanteriegeschite Abteilung of the 2nd Panzer Division in Normandy ‘Armament: One 150m 1638/1 One 7.2mm MGS4 Six vehicles were issued to each detachment. | ui Traverse: §° left §° right (hand) loose Elevation: 3° +72" loose Sight. Roit36 direct ‘Ammunition: 15 ‘Armour (mm/anglo); Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Suparsructure 25/12" 15/15/10" open ult 50/15" 18/0" 15/16" 8/90" Gin shield 15/12 Histor: The Grille was originally ordored for construction on the new fallpropelled gun chassis “which BMM. were developing as the 51 38(t) Aust M. Two hundred siG33 ware to be thus mounted. On 6 February 1943, however, Hitler agreed to a proposal to adapt the 51688 for mounting in the roar-engined Aust H in order to make the Giile available as. soon as possible. An additional advantage would be that Pz Kptw 36(t) returned from the front could be converted to Grille. As'a result, Hitler ordered that from March 1943, all repaired Vehicles were to be used for this purpose. It was agreed, however that efter the order for 200 had ‘been tulfiled, any turther Grille production was to be manufactured from the Pz Kpfw 38(t) returned to the factory for rot ‘Pat 126,16 620189 ut Ps Kot 30 Aut PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 36it) AND 3B(t) PLUS VARIANTS 47Panzerjager 38(t) mit 7.5cm PaK40/3 Ausf M (Sd Kfz 138) Other designations: Marder I!!, X Serie TNHP- Type: Self-propelled anti-tank gun on tracked carriage Manufacturer: BM wor Chassis Nos. between 2101 & 3600 yy & 875 produced between April 1943 and May 1944 a : Grew: 4 Engine: Praga AC Weight (tons): 105 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 495 Spee (km/hr): 42 ' Width (mettes)? 2.15, Range (km): 190 Height (metres): 248 Radio. FuG Spr ‘Armament: One 7.5em Pak 40/3 One 782mm MG34 748 Traverse: 21° fet 21° right (hand) loose Elevation: — 5" +13 loose Sight: ZF3x8 direct ‘Ammunition: 27 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear, Top/Bottom Suporstructur! 40/90" 10/15" 10/0" 8/80 ul 18/15" 15/0" 10/41" 10/90 Gun shies 6/28 40/16" TO/TT" open History: In July 1942, Hitler ordered that the total production capacity of the Pr Kptw.99(t) be utilized for seltpropolled gun chassis. It hhad Been realised that in the existing makeshift self-propelled aun many of the features. of the tank chassis wore wasteful. A new Gesign was proposed in which the motor was moved to the middle, fand this enabled the gun to be mounted moro suitably at the rear of the vehicle. Frontal armour and, therefore, weight, was also reduced. On © February 1943, Hiller was informed thal after test tiring, the ew seltpropelled gun would be available in the shortest possible fime. and BAIM would be capable of producing 180 per month com pated to their present output of 60 units ‘This level was not reached Until October/November 1943, but not all wero 7.8em PaKd0/3 Si falthougn maximum monthly delivery of 141 was reached in Octob in May. 1844, production was terminated In favour of the Jagd panzer Hetzer” (Tank-Hunter ‘Balter’. Specific features: Vehicles bull during 1943 can be identiiod by the founded, cast cover Yor the driving compartment at the front right hand side of the vehicle, At tho ond of 1943, a simpler welded cover was introduced, and the front towing lugs were now formed from fextensione of the side armour plate Combat service: Panrerjager Detachments (SP) of both Panzer and infantry divisions were issued with these guns from May 1943, Be {cause of the large number produced, they served on all fronts, with {360 still listed a8. avaiable for action in the Wallenamt inventory for 1 February 1945. ‘Pann 137-19, P Jo 381 it 7 Som PaKAO'a Aut M: bow, te production videPlt 140-141 1m 1G aut SF) Aca 15cm Schweres Infanteriegeschiitz 33/1 auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) (Sf) Ausf M (Sd Kfz 138/1) Other designations: Grille, X Serie TNHP, Gert 806 ‘Type: Self-propelled heavy infantry gun on tracked carriage Manulacturer: 8M (Chassis Nos.: between 2101 & 3600 22 produced from April to June 1983 and from October 1943 to September 1944 crew: 4 Engine: Praga AC Woight (tons): 12 Goarvox: 5 forward, 1 reverse engin (metres): 4.95 Speed (km/hr) 35 Wath (metros): 2.15, Range (km): 190 Height (metres): 2.47 Radio: FuGi6 Aumament: One 15cm sIG33/2__One 782mm MG34 Traverse: 5° left 5” right (hand) loose Elevation: 0" +73 loose Sight: Riss airect Ammunition: 18 Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear ‘Top/Bottom Suporstructur: w0re7’ 10/18" 0/0" 8/00 Hal 35/15" 15/0" 10/41" 10/90 Gun shies 30/9" 10/16" 40/17" open History: The initial order for 200 Grille called for use of the old Aust H chassis with “a view to getting the Grille into service quickly NNinely were Dult-on the Aust H, and the remaining 110 Grille were built on tho now Aust M chassis. The contract was completed in June 1843. but a further order was placed, and regular production ‘continued irom October 1943 until September 1944, The Grille was the very last Aust M SI in production. In fact, the ten unite buat in September 1944, wero on chassis originally built for the Flakpanzer (Armoured AA SP). Specific features: As for the Panzerjager 98(t). In elevation, the gun was protected by a heavy spring flap which was a feature of all the 51633 (St) Combat service: Served on all fronts with the schwere tnfanterle ‘geschutz companies (SP) of armoured infantry rogimonts. No dieting tion was made between Grille with Aust Hor Aust M chassis. In February 1945, 173 Grille were stil listed as available for service. PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 35(t) AND 38(t) PLUS VARIANTS 49.ewe ate 12. Mntorsoarane Sin (Aue Munitionspanzer 38(t) (Sf) Ausf M (Sd Kfz 138) Other designation: X Serie TNHP Type: Tracked armoured ammur Manufacturer: BMM Chassis Nos: between 2101 & 9600 102 produced from Januaty to May 1944 Crow. 2 Engine: Praga AC Weight (tons): 12 Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 4.95 ‘Speed (km/hr): 35 Wiatn (metros): 2.15 Flange (km): 190 Height (motres): 2.47 Radio: FuGI6 ‘Armament: One 7:92mm MG36 Traverse: loose Elevation: loose Sight. rect, ‘Ammunition: 40 sIG-pate ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom ‘Superstructuro: so/e7" 10/15" 10/0" 8/00" Hull: 45/18" 15/0" 40/41" 10/90" ‘Gun shits: 30/28" 10/16" 10/17" open History: The second large order for Grille 15cm sIG33/1(Sf) allowed for the production of nearly forty per cont of the order as ammunition carriers. lt had been recognized that the very limited. ammunition ‘capacity of the Grile was detrimental to Its ‘ighting capacity. Nt was planned to have two Munitionspanzer to every six Grille in an fermoured heavy infantry gun detachment Specific features: In most respects, the Munitionspanzer 38(t) (St) was identical with the Grile, The 15cm siG33/1 was replaced by ammunition racks, and the gun aperture was plated over. The cor Version allowed the possibilty of re-conversion to sIG vehicles Combat service: Issued to the schwere.Infanteriegeschite company (SP) of Parzorgronadier regiments and served on all fronts until 1945. Flakpanzer 38(t) auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) Ausf M (Sd Kfz 140) Other designation: X Serie TNHP Type: Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun on tracked carriage Manufacturer: MM Chassis Nos." between 2701 & 3250 “40 produced trom November 1943 to February 1948 {converted in November 1943, Crow: 4 Engine: Praga AC Weight (tons): 9.8 Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Longin (metres): 4.61 Speed (km/hr): 42 Widtn (metres): 2.15, Range (km): 210 Height (metres): 225 Race: FuGS or FuG2 ‘Armament: One 2em FlaK38 L/1125 Traverse: 950° (hend) Elevation: —5" +90 ‘Sight: Flatvisior 38 ‘Ammunition: 360 2cm Br Spgr L Spur, 360 2m Br Spgr, 320 2em Pzar Spur Zon ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Sottom ‘Superstructure: 10/67" 10/28" 10/25" 8/90" ul 15/15" 15/0" 0/41" 10/80" Gun shiets: 10/17" 10/25" 10/25" open 50 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 35(t) AND 38(t) PLUS VARIANTS History: During the autumn of 1943, Hitler approved the development of a 27em Flakpanzer IV, but refused permission for tho construc tion of the already available 2cm Vierings Flak aut Pz Kptw IV (2om Quadruple AA Mounting on AFV IV), On 15 October 1943, because of the urgent need for @ Flakpanzer, Hitler agreed to @ makeshit Solution which ‘could be produced immediately on the basis of the Selbstfahratetto 38(t). 150 Flakpanzer 98(1) were ordered, and were to be produced until the heavier Flakpanzer IV became available early in 1944, This vehicle was demonstrated to Hitler on 16 Decem er 1943. Lack of firepower was major drawback, The last ten Vehicles of the order were used for the production of 15cm siG33/2 St Specific features: 20m FlaK38 with all-round traverse was mounted Inthe tear fighting compartment. A new superstructure was provided, the Upper part of which could be folded down to alow easier acces ta the weapon and permit traverse al low el Combat service: issvea" in January” and February” 1046 to the AA Platoon of each tank regiment in the Panzer divisions. A consider fable proportion ‘of these guns were issued to divisions in the West land saw action in Normandy, for example, with the 12th SS Panzer Division “Hitlerugend” (Miter Youth).Pata 48-144, Fakpancr 380) au S380) Aust Mt Aufklarer auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) mit 2cm KwK38 oder 7.5cem KwK38 L/24 ‘Type: Tracked armoured reconnaissance vehicle on tank chassis. Manufacturer: BM 50 with 2cm Hangelatetto 38 converted in February and March 1944; 2 with 75cm KwKk L/24 crew: 4 Engine: Praga EPA/2 ight (tons): 9.75 Goarbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Length (iatves): 451 Speed (km/hr): 42 Width (metres): 2.14 Range (km): 210 Haight (metres): 2.17 FuGi2 ‘Armament: One 2om KwK38 L/55. One 7.82mm MG42 ‘Traverse: 360" (hand) Elevation: —4° +70 = Sight: TZFSe Armour (mmvVangla): Front Side Rlear_Top/Bottom Ture: 30/40" 6/40" 8/40" open Superstructure: 50/25 15/30" 15/0" 8790" Hu 50/18" 18/0" 16/12" 6/90 Gun mantet 0/round History: Since production of the fullyracked reconnaissance vehicle (Lym) ‘was sehedled to end in January 1944 ater only 100 en bull, plans were made to provide an alterative by using the chassis of Pr Kphw 38(t) returned for repair. From December 1943, BNM were to convert 118 tanks by April 1944. After delays, however, only 70 chassis were prepared in February and March 1844, Only 15. of the units without the 2cm Hangolatette (2em Swivel Mounting) were delivered, and 12 of those were held back by Uuntl at least November 1844. 3M proposed. two designs for the Tem KwK version Later, an Auiklarer aul Fost Jagdpanzer 88(t)mit_7.50m KST L/24 was tested, Decause It was intended to have a reconnaissance vehicle using the $8(t) chassis built along- side the Jagdpanzor 38(t)_ and Jagdpanzer 98(a) from mid 1945, Specific features: A now superstructure was fitted tothe old Pz Kptw 38(t) chassis, and on that, was mounted the 2em Hangelatetto 38 turret, as used for the Sd Ktz 250/9, 251/23 and 234/1. The 75cm mounting was. achieved by extending the sides of the new superstructure upwards. Combat service: Issued to armoured reconnaissance companies trom Apri 1944. Saw service on Both ‘and Western fronts. (Continued ove) Pte 145, Atl at Fost Pe Kot 380) it 2m Kw PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 36(t) AND 38(t) PLUS VARIANTS 51Paes 16-147, Auth ot Fart Pe Kot 28: et, clos-up of the 2em Mngt tra: at wh Te som Rie U3 oon Munitionsschlepper auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) Type: Ammunition carrier 1m 1942, these Muni panzer were created by removing Pe Kptw 38(t). Tho opening was ‘canvas cover. These makeshift load carriers served with many units, mainly in the East. Turrets from Pz Kptw 98(t) converted to selfpropelied guns, ete., were used in fed fortification mountings. By May 1944, 351 turrets had beon issued for such purposes, anda further 64 were available Schiitzenpanzerwagen auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) Type: Armoured personnel carrier History: During 1944, a prototype of a personnel carrier based on the 38(%) chassis was built and tested. The engine was mounted in the front fefthand side, ust M. The troop compartment was openopped, and was based on the design of the Sd Klz 251 Aust D. Projects for troop cat mittlerer Einhoitewattentrager (Medium Standard Woapon wore favoured in 1948, Morsertrager auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) Type: Mortar carrier History: Only a prototype of this vehicle was built. It was similar to the SPW (APC), but shorter Pate 48 Mun Sed ut Fant Pe Ko 20 Pat 43 (ng R's a eet PS Ro 82 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 35(t) AND 38it) PLUS VARIANTS.Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer (Panzerjager 38(t)) fiir 7.5cm PaK39 Other designations: Gerat 655, Pz Jig Wo 638/10 Type: Tank destroyer evm Skoda 2504 produced Irom Apri 1944 to May 1945 Frodueton plan for 1643 calle for 1,000 units per mo Chassis Nos: 321001-223000 323001- Manutact th by mid-year Crew: 4 Engine: Praga AC/2 Weight (tons): 15.75 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 6.38 Speed (km/h). 42 Wish (metres): 2.63, Range (kr): 177 Hoignt (metres): 2.17 Radio: FUGS+FUG Spr t Armament, One 75om PaK39 L/48 One 7.92mm MG34 or 42 ‘Traverse: 5° Toft 11" right (hand) 360° (hand) lovation: —6° +12 Sight) SIZFta Periskop 3x8 ‘Ammunition: 41 1,200 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear. Top/Bottom Superstucture: 60/60" 20/40" 8/70" 4/90 Hull 60/40" 20/15" 20/15" 10/80 Gun mantle: {60/ Saukoptblende History: As early as March 1943, Col. Gen. Heinz Guderian, the Ins Pector of Armoured Units, demanded a light tank destroyer, which Would be adequately armoured, with overhead protection and. low sihouette, to replace exiting. light seltpropelled guns and towed Snictank guns. Development was based ‘on the chassis of the Pz Kotw 88(1). Following tosts. in December 1943, 1 was ordered. that the compleie production facilities for the 38(%) be switched to pro- {duction ‘of the new Panzerjager. Production commenced in. April ‘844 at GMM and was taken up by Skoda in September 1944. It had been intonded to switch over to rigid mounted guns as soon as possible, but this was deferred at the beginning of 1944. and, again In November 1944, May 1945 was the deadline for change over to figid mounting of the PaK39/1 and 10.Sem StuHé2 (10.5em Assault Howitzor 42). Specie features: The Hetzer was a completely new design using the wellproven components of the Pe Kpiw 38(%). A new wide hull with extensive use of angled armour was employes. Cramped fighting Compartment and limited angio of fre presented problems in batle. A rootmounted remote-controlled MG ‘waa provided for clos. do, fence. Combat service: The frst combat unite to receive the Hetzer, in July Tous, were Panzerjagerabtellungen 731 and 743, and the 15th and Toth Infantry Divisions, It_was. subsequently issued to tank-hunter Getachments attached to all types of formation. In 1948, the Swiss ‘Army purchased 158 Hetzer from Czechoslovakia under the designa fion G13. The Hetzer also served with the postwar Czech Army. Pate 150-152. Jod Pe 380) Hota fe 7 Sem PakI0 Pipe hws sv eodcton md Pte PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 35(t) AND 38\t) PLUS VARIANTS 53Flammpanzer 38(t) Hetzer ‘Type: Flame-thrower on tank destroyer chassis Manufacturer: BMM 20 converted from Hetzer in December 1944 Crow: 4 Engine: Praga AC/2 Weight (tons): 155 Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Longin (motes): 487 Speed (km/hr): 42 Wiatn (metres): 263 Range (km): 177 Height (motres): 2.17 ‘Armament: One 14mm (One 782mm MG34 or MG42 Flammenwerter 41 Traverso: 5° Toft 11" right (hand) 960° (hand) Elevation: 6" +12 ‘Sight! SIIZFIa Poriskop 3x8! “Ammunition: 24 bursts (184 gal) 1,200, ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Suporetructue 60760" 20/40" 8/70" 8/90 ult 60/40" 20/15" 20/15" 10/90" Paton 153.164. Fammoanzr 38) Het: it, wih he cover removed frm the fame Bergepanzer 38(t) Hetzer Other designations: Gerat 573, Bergepanzer Type: Armoured recovery vehicle Manutacturer: EMM 108 produced 84 converted from Hetzer Crew. 4 Engine: Praga AC/2 Weight (tons): 14.5 Gearbox: 8 forward, 1 reverse Longin (metros): 4.87 Speed (km/hr). 42 Width (metres): 2.63, ange (km): 177 Hoight (metres): 1.71 Radio: FuGs Armament: One 792mm MG34 Traverse: loose Elovation: loose Sight: direct ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/ottom Suporsteuetura 60/60" 20/40" 8/70" open. Hull 60/40" 20/15" 20/15" 16/90 History: The Bergepanzer 38(%) was developed to accompany and recover Hetzer for the units operating these new Jagdpanzer. A note of August 1944 indicates that for every 14 Jagdpanzer, a Bergepancor Wwas to be manufactured, but by September, only 7 were available, In October, the deficit was made up by the completion of 64 Borge: panzer 38(1) ‘which had boon converted from Hetzer set aside in June and July. From December, regular production commenced. The opentopped Bergepanzer was an ideal vehicle for conversion, land although the number of AFV types was supposed to havo Deen Grastically reduced, special demands, continued to como trom front line troops. Official production commenced of the 15em siG33 St 54 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 35it) AND 38(t) PLUS VARIANTS. History: During the planning of the Ardennes offensive, it was decided that come flamethrower tanks would be required. Twenty Jagdpanzer 38(t) were converted for this task by the fiting of a. projector in place of the normal 7.5em Pak39. 700 litres (154 gal) of fame vel were carried. Consumption allowed for 87.5 seconds fire, but the umber of bursts was governed by the number of starter cartridges Range was 50 to 60 metros. Specific features: Identical with Jagdoanzer Hetzer, small funnel'shaped cover for the flame-projector. Combat ‘service: Used by special units in the Ardennes, @ number wore captured and photographed, giving this vehicle more promin fence than its small production daserves. except for the based on the Bergepanzer, while photographic evidence shows a 2em FiaKa8 mount. In 1948, a "Volkettenaufklarer 38" (Full-Tracked Scout 38) armed with the 7.5cm KSI L/24 mounted on a modified Beroepanzer chassis was under test Specific features: The Bergepanzer 38(t) was based on the Hetzer, but the superstructure was lower and was open topped. The front plate was unbroken. The fighting compartment contained a” winch fand’a tubular derrick was carried Combat service: From October 1044, served with those tankchunter detachments operating Hetzer. Pat 18, Boxgepance 380) Hotz15cm Schweres Infanteriegeschiitz 33/2 (Sf) auf Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer Other designations: Gerat 588, GW 638/27 Type: Self-propelied heavy infantry gun on tank destroyer chassis Manufacturor: EMM 6 converted and 24 produced from December 1944 row. Engine. Praga AC/2 Weight (tons): 16.5 Gearbox: 5 Torward, 1 reverse LLongth (metres): 4.87 Speed (km/hr): 32 Wiath (metros): 2.63 Range (km):. 130 Nain (routed): 22 Radio: FuGté ‘Armament: One 15cm s1G33/2 (St) One 7.92mm MG34 or 42 Traverse: 5° ett 5" right (hand) loose Elevation: —0" +73" loose Sight: RIS airect ‘Ammunition: 15 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom ‘Superstruct 60760" 20/40" 8/70" open +40" Hu: 60/40" 20/15" 20/15" 10/90" Gun shiet: 40/9 History: The last few 38(1) Aust M chassis were completed as 15cm 3103372 Sf in August 1944, but the demand for a self-propelled {Sem s1G33 continued, and was the subject of discussions between Hitler and Speer in October 1948. By November, it had been decided Jagdpanzer 38(t) Starr Type: Tank destroyer with rigid mounted gun. Manufacturer: BM {0 preproduction soos; production was to have begun in May 1945, Crew: 4 Engine: Praga AC/2 Gearbox: § forward, 1 rever Speed (km/hr): 42 Range (km): 177 Radio: FuGs +FuG Spr One 7.92mm MG42 Weight (tons): 14 Length (metres): 6:38, Wieth (metros): 2.63 Height (maties): 2.17 ‘Armament: One 7.5om PaK30/1 Starr L/48 of one 10.5om StuH42 Starr Traverse: 8 let 8° right (hand) 260° (hand) Elevation: —8" +15" Sight: W2F2/2 Periskop 3x8) ‘Ammunition: 1.200 Armour (mm/angie): Front Side Rear ‘Top/Bottom Superstructure 60/60" 20/40" 8/70" 8/90 al 80/40" 20/15" 20/15" 10/90 Gun mantet 60/Saukoptblende History: The initial decision to proceed with the production of the Jagepanzer 28(t) Hetzer in December 1948. was on the basis that it ‘woul bo bult with a rigid, mounted gun. Early in 1943, Rheinmetall had proved the feasibility of the idea by mounting a 12em GeW (1) (Worar (fussian)) on an old Pz Kplw i "chassis. Alkett took over Leichter Einheitswaffentrager Other designations: 10.5em—GW 638/26, Gerat 587 Type: Light standardized weapons carriage Prototypes only. Production was to have begun in Spring 1945 with ‘uiput of 350 units per month by September 1945, based upon the 28 (4) componente With 10.5em leFH mounted: jw 4 Engine: Praga AC/2 Weight (tons): 19.5 Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Longin (metres): 6.53, Speed (km/hr) 35 Wiath (metres): 3.16 Height (metres): 2.25 Range (km). Radio: FuGi6 Armament alternatives: One 10.Sem leFH18/40/ L/28 or One 8.8em Paka L/71 Traverse: 360° (hand) Elevation: —5* +42 a: +20 Sight: FDIS birse ‘Ammunition: 96 3 Pate 15, 15m s630/215 aut Jod Pt Meta. an would carry the 15cm siG33. Specific features: Based on the superstructure of the Bergepanzor 38(1), with an addtional raised superstructure surrounding the sIG33 which used the came mounting and shield as an earlier selt propelled Combat servic ‘geschitz company (SP) of armoured issued (a9 replacements) to the schwore Intantoric: antry regimen tne development with a rigid mount 7.5em PaK39 in the Jagdpanzer IV, and a mounting for the 38(t). Ten 38(t) units were ordered and the tirst was delivered by mic-1948. Problems with sealing of the Sights and unmanageable handwheels, lead 10 postponement of pro- duction of the rigid mount Jagdpanzer 38(t), but interim production of this vehicle, ‘with a recoiling 7.5cm PaK38, was continued. By November 1944, ite progress had been achieved with the various Solutions proposed, and the normal Hetzer was confirmed in produc- tion, Rheinmetall again took over development, with orders to achieve production se 200" as possible. The final design of weapon mount find sight was sent 10 Prague at the beginning of April 1945, and a ‘decision for full production was to have beon taken on 20 April 1945. Success achieved by Rheinmetall lead to the commencement of a prototype 38(%) to mount the T0.5cm Stula2 which was to have been fitee in 10 per cent of all rigid mount production on tho 38(t} ‘Specific features: Same features as for Hetzer, but the rigid mounted ‘uns had t0 be moved nearer the centredine of the. vehicle. The ‘Smaller ball mount allowed this move, and mado for a strongar front plate because of the small opening required. The new mount reduced hhove heaviness ané overall weight. Production vehicles wore to be fitted with an elevation stabilizer, and the coaxial MG mount, being Gesigned for tho Jagdpanzer 38(d), was to be incorporated when available, ‘Armour (ram) Front Side Rear Top Superstructure: a 0 0 B Hull % 1% 1 28 Gun shies: 15 10 open open * Unarmed Munitionspanze History: The initial designs for Watfentrager based on the large and complicated Pr III/IV chassis, were bulll during 1943. The Wa Prat 4 (Ordnance Proving Branch 4) decided that these were too heavy {and too costly for the purposes of the Arillery. In February 1944, a ‘Rew specification was issued for a Watfentrager to replace towed atllery weapons. Again, the weapon was to be dismountable. but from a low rear platform without special equipment. The traverse was to be 360°, fire height 1.8m and elevation —"6"+45". Krupp. were ‘given overall responsibilty for. the project, with Rheinmetall"co- ‘operating on gun aspects, and Ardelt and Steyr developing the PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 36(t) AND 38(t) PLUS VARIANTS 55chassis. The lightvehicle project was managed by @ Herr Woslfort Initially, it was proposed to have a rear drive in keeping with current thinking, ut the more conventional front drive was adopted as. it allowed’ a lower gun platform. ‘Steyr produced a vehicle with running ‘gear based on the RSO (Raupenschlopper Ost= Tracked. Tractor, East), but the Ardelt design with normal 28(t) wheels was accepted for production. The ongine arid transmission were placed to the right of the driver, and the river's compartment could be folded to give Increased depression to the gun. Prototypes based on the 38(t) were built late in 1944, Production was to be on the basis of the 38(d) Which featured a new transmission, the Tatra-103 220PS. motor, and idlor/drive 301 ‘8. 38(d) mounting the 88cm PaKéS was tested euccesstully at Hillersieben on 27 April 1845. Pate 167 Ahinnetat Bong orotate fr 8 ton Pek on le Cohaewatenc bow. Pies 16 189-Krpp Str boty fr Bem PoKcG/ 1/71 Waters: Pines 10-162. Avon 88cm PaKSS/3 Walerger vies, Pate 160 shor the rote, ung KrezeStyr wacwork Pat 11 shows the cand rotate, wih new Sire naw Pa shown rosso rae: ete ae 56 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 35{t) AND 38it) PLUS VARIANTS. ates 163172. Design poles fr rau standaried wouponscarges, Fig 165 16; Doon fr tat: Erneta’ mourn V0 fer FHS Fits 16-18, Daan for Mir: Eaatrrone mounting Som F880. Paes 10:12: Dong or Mater Eohatenarensger mounting Sam RIBSMittlerer Einheitswaffentrager Other designation: 638/22, 15cm sFH—Gerat 580 GW 638/23 ‘Type: Medium standardized weapons carriage Prototypes only ity 10:5em leFH mounted: Crew: 4 Wight (tons): 19° Engine: Praga AC/2 Goarbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Length (metros): 6.75, Speed (km/h): 35 Wiath (metres): 9.16 Radio: FuG1s Height (metres): 225 Armament alternatives: Ammu- Traverse Elevation: Sight: nition: soem leFH18/40/5 360" (Rand) 5 +42" AIS 40 U8 50m sig3s/2.L/11 05cm ski8/1 Ya8om KBV/3 (Sf) 30° let —5* 445° 30 ss 80° right (nana) ‘sem sF#18/6 L/30 30° leit 30° right (hand) —o" +45" 20 em Pakés L/71 360° (hana) =e" +40" AbiIg2/ 94 36 hg Jagdpanzer 38(d) 10.5cm—Gerat 578 GW 638/21, 15cm sIG—Gerat 577 GW 1/20, 12.8em—Gerat 579 GW ‘Aemour (mm) Front Side Rear Top Superstructure: ao 1 0 8 Hull % 0 1 8 Gun shiote: 15 10 open open + Weight with 12.8¢m KB1/3(St) mounted: 15.8 tone History: At the same time as the leichter Einheltewattentrdger (Light Standard Weapons Carrier) was being bull, a parallel project was being managed by a Mr Egen, also of Krupp. This was a larger vehicle, with 6 38(t) wheels per side, and was known as the Krupp | it had ‘but certain problems arose with the gth/wiath ratio and the design had not been adopted when hos- tities ceased. Like the 4wheel design, production vehicles wore to hhave boon based on the 38(3), with its new drive train and Tatra 403 220PS air-cooled motor. Pats 173.174, Mire irtwatfonebge mourning 10cm fF H1/40/5L/28. Other designations: Gerat 548—Jagdpanzer 638/29 fiir 7.5cm PaK42/1, Gerat 547—Jagdpanzer 638/28 fir 10.6em ‘StuH42/2 Type: Tank destroyer Prototypes only: production decision was to have been taken on 20 ‘Apri 1945, Ffom mid 1945, production plan called for 1.280 units per mmonth from Alkett. Vomag, Krupp-Gruson, MIAG and Niwerke. Alkett twere to Include 125 StuH42 in their batch crew: 4 Engine: Tatra 103 Woight (tons): 16 Goarbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 527 Speed (km/h): 42 Wiatn (motes): 2.81 Range (km)" 220 Height (metres): 1.75, Radio: FuGS-+FUG Spr! Armament: One Sem Paké2/1 L/70 oF 105em Stuia2/2L/28 ‘Traverse: 8° left 8” right (hand) Elevation: —8" +15 One 792mm MG42 Sight) W2F2/2 = Armout (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Suporstructur: 80/60" 20/55" 8/78" 8/90 ul: 0/40" 20/0" 20/12" 8/90. Gun mantot {60/Saukoptolende Histor: Long-term plans for AFV production indicated that the Pz Kptw IW chassis was to be replaced by the Pz IIV/IV chassis by mid 1945, fand many changes had alroady Beon incorporated in the production ff vohiclgs. However, in the autumn of 1944, production of the Pe III/IV was eancelled, and Hitler ordered that all production tac ties thus freed were to be used for 38(t) and 38(d). The 38(t), tho fonginal Czech model, was to continue in production as the He Some with rigid’ mounted guns. and some in the existing. variants The 36(1) was also to be the basis for @ reconnaissance vehicle. The 38(d) was a slightly larger, redesigned version, dlifering mainly in that It Used the Tatra 220°S diesel ai-cooled engine and a new drive train, This redesioned vehicle was capable of mounting the. 7.5em Paké2/1(L/76), either ina recoiling ‘mount. or rigidly, and could thus replace the Pz 1V/70. The 7.Sem Pak39(L/48) and 10.5em StuHa2/2 were alternative weapons, as the 38(d) was also to be a replacement for the StuG Ill, The 38(3) production was to be taken Up by all the German manufacturers engaged in the Pz Kptw IV and ‘StuGil' programme, while BMM and Skoda continued for the time being with the 38(t). In addition to the Jagdpanzer vehicles, the 38(d) wae intended to be the basis of a replacement Kugelbitz (bal: lightning: AA Tank) when the Pz Kofw IV chassis was terminated. A wooden mocksip indicated that it was to use a smaller turet ra than that on the Pz IV version. Development of the turret allowed two Zem MG in addition to the two em MK 103 to be controlled by one Crew man. The hydraulic traverse and elevation contro! permitted ‘movement of 45° per second. Traverse was 360° and elevation was prt 70". 1,200 Sem and 1,000 2em rounds were to be carried ‘There were two versions, Aus! Proteklorat and Aust Reich. The dit ee between them was in the hull configuration, PANZERKAMPFWAGEN 36it) AND 8(t) PLUS VARIANTS 87Panzerkampiwagen III and variants Panzerkampfwagen Ill Ausf A (Sd Kfz 141) Other designation: 1 Serie ZW Type: Medium tank Manufacturer: Daimler-Benz 15mm armour was designed to withstand atmourpiercing rounds from Chassie Nos.: 60101-60110 riles or small calibre machine-guns only 10 produced in 1937 Combat service: The first Aust A were Issued to Panzor regiments in Crow: 8 Engine: Maybach HLI08TR the spring of 1937. Having only 15mm armour and an unsatisfactory Weight (tons): 15.4 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse suspension. they were all withdrawn from combat unite in February Length (metres): 5.69 Speed {km/hr}: 95 1940, Wiath (metres). 281 Range (km): 165, Height (metres): 2.34 Radio: FuGS . Armament! One 3.7em Two 7.2mm MG34_One 7.92mm MG34 wk L/46.5 Traverse: 360° (hand) Elevation, —10" +20 Sight: ZFS = kozee Ammunition: 10 Pzgr 4,500 Patr SK. 8 Spot Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear___‘Top/Bottom Ture 15/18" 19/28" 15/0°-21" 10/62"-00 Superstructure 15/10" 15/0" 15/0" 10/70°-90 Hull 15/20" 18/0" 15/0 90) Gun mantit 18/round History: In. 1935, development orders were issued for a fulltracked vehicle in the 1S40n ‘lass. Originally known as the S:7em Gesehuts Panzerwagen (Vs Ktz 619) (Armoured Gun Cartier) (Trial Vehicle NNo 619). the Pz Kptw ill went into production ona development series in 1937. By early May 1937, fie of this 1 Serie Zugtuhrerwagen (13t Series Platoon Commander's Vehicle), the Aust A had been produced Special features: The Ausf A had a 3.7em gun mounted in the turret with two coaxial machine-guns, A third machine-gun, manned by the fadio operator was mounted in the font of the superstructure, The Pz Kpfw Ill had a crew of five; commander, gunner, loader. driver and radio operator. Power was provided by a V-12 gasoline engine, trans- fered through five-speed gearbox ‘and controlled by an epicyclic cluten and brake steering systom. Tho suspension consisted of five road wheels dampened by coil springs, and two return rollers, The Pts 175.178. Kroes racine tot ZW (Zugtierwagen’ Spechon whch they codenamed Mi ae Ther fhe Kt i st Plate 178, Pe Kotw il ual A) en’ 209 e vena cube Pte 18 ioppos poe op Pz Kofw It Aust Ain Plain 180, 58 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Il AND VARIANTSPanzerkampfwagen III Ausf Other designation: 2 Serie ZW Type: Medium tank Manufacture: Daimler-Benz Chassis Nos: 60201-60215 18 produced in 1937 Crew: 5 Engine: Maybach HLI08TR Weight (tons): 15.9 Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 reverse Usngth (metres): 5 67 ‘Speed (km/h): 40, Widin (metres): 2.01, Range (kr): 165 Hoight (metres): 239 Radio: FuGs Armament: One 2.7em Twa 7.82mm MG34 One 7.92mm MGS4 Kk 1/465 Traverse: 380" (hand) = Elevation: © 10" 420" = Sigh: T2Fs5a KozF2 ‘Ammunition: 121 Pzgr 4,500 Patr Sm Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Top/Bottom Ture: 15° 19/25" Rear 10/83"-80 Superetuctur: 15/10" 15/0" 15/0°-21" 10/80 a 15/25" 15/0" 15/0" 5/90 Gun mantot: 15/rouna History: The Aust B was the second attempt at a design solution for a tank inthe 150n class. Only a small number of these design series Yehicloe were produced to provide @ gur-armed P2 Kpfw for training Specie features: The design of the suspension of the Aust B was completly diferent from that ot the Aust A. In place of the The road wheels with coll springs, the Aust 8 had eight road wheels per side, Givded into pairs, with long loat springs supporting. a pair of road wheels at each end. Further improvements were made by increasing the number of return rollers to three, redesigning the cupola, and altering the rear deck and engine air louvres. Combat service: The Aus! B were Issued to Panzer units in 1997, ‘ter action in Poland, they were all removed from combatant units in February 1940 because of their unsatisfactory suspension and 16mm armour. In October 1940, the five Aust B Fgst, which had been used for the experimental (O-Serie) series of the Sturmgeschitz, Wwore returned to the Armoured troops and used as taining vehicles. Fdoeged cubal, compere wih Paws i771 nme PANZERKAMPFWAGEN III AND VARIANTS 59Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf C (Sd Kfz 141) Other designation: 3a Serie ZW Type: Medium tank Manufacturer: Daimlor-Senz Chassis Nos: 60301-60315 15 produced from 1937 to January 1938 Crew: 5 Engine: Maybach HL108TR Weight (tons): 16 Length (mottos): 5.85, Wiath (metres): 2.82 Gearbox: 5 forward, 1 rovorso Speed (km/hr): 40 Range (km): 165, Height (metres): 2.42 Radio: FuGS: Armament: One 3.7em Two 792mm MG34 One 7.2mm MG34 Kwk 1/465 Traverse: 360° (hand) = hand Elevation: — 10" +20 Sight: TZFSa kozr2 Ammunition: 121 Pzgr 4,500 Patr Sm Spor Armour (mm/angie): Front Side Rear_____Top/Sottom Turret 15/15" 15/25" 15/0"-21" 10r6"-20" Superstructure 45/11" 15/0" 15/9" 10/73"-90" ul 45/25" 15/0" 15/23" 5/90" (Gun mantiet: 48/round History: The third vehicle in the development series, the Aust C, was yet another attompt 10 improve the design of the suspension. Specific features: Tho Aust C stil had eight road whesls on each side, withthe fist and last pairs on_a shor leaf spring, mounted parallel to the ground. The second and third pairs were supported by a longer leat-spring assembly. Also featured wore a servo-operaled epicyelic clutch, brake steering and a new dosign for tho drive sprocket and ‘ler. ‘Combat sorvice: By 20 January 1938, there were only twenty:three Pz Kptw Ill in the total Army Inventory but this number had increased to fortytwo by the end of March 1938. Tho Aust C saw action only In Poland. It was withdrawn trom Panzer regiments in February 1940, before the start of the campaign in the West Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf D (Sd Kfz 141) Other designation: 3b Serie ZW Type: Medium tank Manutacturer: Daimler-Benz Chassis Nos. 80271-60225, 60316-60040 {30 produced trom January to June 1938, Crow: 5 Engine: Maybach HL108TR Weight (tons): 16 Goarbox: 8 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 5.92 Speed (km/nr): 40 Wiath (metres). 2.82 Range (km): 165 Height (metres): 2.42 Radio: Fug Armament! One 3.7em Two 7.@2mm MG34 One 7.82mm MGS wk (/40.5 Traverse: 960° (hand) = hand Elevation: — 10" +20 Sight: TZF5a kozr2 Ammunition 121 Pzgr 4,500 Patr Smk & Spor Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear___‘Top/Bottom Turret 15/15: 15/25" 15/0°-21" 10/83"-00 Superstructure 15/10" 15/0" 15/10" 10/75"-20 ult 15/20" 15/0" 15/33" 6/90" ‘Gun mantle: 15/round 60 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTS. fourth of the devolopment series for an ice in the 15 ton class. Again, emphasis was placed on Improving the suspension Specific features: The suspension was again improved over previous vehicles by inclining tho leaf spring assemblies supporting the tist land last pais of road wheels, in order to increase support. The Aus! D hhad a newly-dosigned sprocket, idler and transmission. This. was the last model in the series with 15mm basic armour, although a new style cupola had been introduced, with 30mm armour and five vision sits ‘The design of the rear deck and hull rear was changed to Improve armour protection. ‘The louvres on top were replaced by hatches wnich could be braced open ‘Combat service. During 1938, the oficial organization called for three Pe Kpiw ill in a Zug (platoon) In the light tank company (a) of each armoured dotachmont. Thus, each Panzer regiment was to have oaly sie Pz Kplw i and each’ Panzer division, twelve, After action in Poland, the Aust D was also wilhdrawn trom the Panzer regiments in February 1940. Its frontline. service was. lengthened by several months, however, when Aust D were issued to Pz Abt z b VA0 (Tank Detachment for Special Employment 40), which fought in Norway in ‘April 1940. Plate 42. Ko Il Aut chasis (hre bang uaa act pw Aust DE, Fand on PePanzerkampfwagen III Ausf E (Sd Kfz 141) Other designation: 4 Serie ZW Type: Medium tank Menutacturer: Daimler-Benz, Henschel, MAN Chassis Nos. 60401-60486 95 produced trom December 1988 to October 1939 Crew: 5 Engine: Maybach HL1207R Weight (tons): 19.5, Gearbox: 10 forward, 4 reverse Length (matres): 6:38 Speed (km/ne): 40 wath (metres): 291 Range (km): 165 Height (metres): 2.44 Radio: FuGs: yamm MG34_—_ One Armament: One 3.7em Two m MGs Kwk L465 Traverse: 960° (hand) = 5° lett 20° right (hand) 10° 420° = 19" +10 Ko2F2 ‘Ammunition: 131 Pagr 4,900 Patr Smk 3 Spor Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turet 30/15" 30/25" 30/0°-21" 12/83"-80 Superstructue: 30/8 30/0" 21/29" 17/77"-90 wl Bo/2t 30/0" 21/10" 18/80 Gun mantlet 30/round History: The Aust E was the first in the series to go into extended Drodution. Its basie design remained unchanged throughout the rest Of the series, as a result of the adaptation of a successful suspension tystem supported by torsion bars. Speciic eatures: The increase in armour protection, with, a resultant inereaso In weight, was allowed by the new suspension design, con: Siting of six road wheels, incividualy supported by torsion bars. The ful side was made of single plate instead of the previous segmented plales. Escape hatches wore introduced on both sides of the hull, and Gurng the production run, a vision port for the radio operator was faded to the superstructure sido. A larger engine and a new gearbox re introduced, and. trouble with the latter caused. problems for production, All Aust E came. off the production-ine mounting the 37em KwK. From August 1940 until 1942, many wore converted to tary the Sem KwK L/42_with an external manllet. Orders were also [Stued to increase the armour protection by adding SOmm plates to tho hull font and rear and superstructure tron, at the same time as the vagunning tock place. ‘Combat service: On 1 September 1939 there wore only 98 Pz Kpfw Il in he entre Army inventory, at the start of the campaign in Poland ‘The production of the Aust E had allowed a slight increase in the bea organization of from three to ive P2 Kptw til in the 1 Zug (tst platoon) of the light tank companies. However, production delays and the formation of special organizations such as the Armoured Training Detachment, meant that some Panzer divisions in Poland were with fut ¢ single Pz Kptw Ill The service life of the Aust E was extended by rearming them with the Sem KwK L/42 and, from 1943, converting Several of them to P2 Beob Wg (Armoured Observation Vehicles) Pats 186-186 Ps Koh Aust E Pints 19718: Pr ket At Eo F,convertad to mount fhe bem Kan Ll? gon an erara ta cot ‘econ ond ton om Kae ‘mou that wen ade 0 thw hl fone ped nfs Rott haa "Gand ond on Pe Kath Speen eter dard Wc and on Pe Koi PANZERKAMPFWAGEN II AND VARIANTS 61Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf F (Sd Kfz 141) Other designation: 5 Serie ZW Type: Medium tank Manufacturer: Daimler-Benz, Henschel, MAN, Alkett, FAMO Chassis Nos: 61001-81650. 435 produced from September 1939 to July 1940 Crow: 5 ‘Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 19.8 Gearbox: 10 forward, 4 reverse Longth (motres):. 5:38 Speed (km/hr): 40 Wiath (metres): 2.91 Range (km): 165, Height (metres): 2.64 Radio: FuGs ‘Armament: One wk 1/48.5 sm Two 792mm MG34 One 792mm MG4 Traverse: 360° (hand) = 15% feft 20° right ‘nand) Elevation: — 10° +20: 10" +10 Sight: 125 = Kaze ‘Ammunition: 131 Pzgr 4,600 Patr Smk & Spor ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turret: 30/15" 30/25° 90/0°-21° 12/69°-80 Superetructure 20/8 30/0" 21/20" 17/77"-80 Hull 30/21 30/0" 21/10" 16720 {Gun mantit: 30/tound History: Basically, tho Aust F was the samo vehicle as tho Aust E. In fact, was the result of an order to mass-produce an ellective battle tank. In’ January 1939, the order was reduced by 250, after, produc: tion ‘orders had been placed for the improved models, Aust G and H. Specif features: The basic change was to the ignition system. Early in the production run, cast airintakes were added to the upper hull plate 10 allow air circulation for brakes and final-drive cooling. The Majority were produced mounting the 3.7em KwK. but approximately 100 were equipped with the Sem Kwk L/42 and extemal mantlet as cotiginal equipment. From August 1940 until 1942, many of the re mainder were converted from the 3.7em KwK to the Sem Kwk L/42 fand external gun mantel. Orders were also iestied to up-armour the hull and superstructure, by adding 30mm plates, at the samo time as the upgunning took place Combat service: in lato 1939 and early 1940, the Aust F wore Issued to the Panzer regiments as quickly as they could be produced. On 10 May 1940, 348 Pe Kpfw Ill, mostly Aust € and F but with a fo Aust G, were with seven Panzer divisions on the Wester Front. Al this time, there were two light tank companies with each tank detach mont, but the actual strength varied greatly betwoon the seven Panzer divisions, ranging trom live to Seventeen Pz Kpfw Ill in each tight tank company. The last Aust F known to have been in action were with the 116th Panzer Division in June 1944, They are now on dleplay at the Patton Museum at Fort Knox, Kentucky.Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf G (Sd Kfz 141) Other designation: 6 Serie ZW Type: Medium tank Manutscturer: Daimler-Benz, MAN, Alkot, Henschel, Wegmann, FANO, MINH Chassis Nos.: 65001-85950 600 produced from April 1940 to February 1941 Grew: 5 Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 203 Goarbox: 10 forward, 4 ovorse Length (motres): 5.4 Spood {xm/he). 40 Wisin (mettes): 29 Range (km): 165 Hoignt (metres): 2.48 Radio: FuGs Armament: One Som One 782mm MG34___ One 7.82mm MGA wk 1/82 Traverse: 360° (hand) 15° leit 20" right hand! Elevation: — 10° +20 10" +10 Sight: TZF5d kaze ‘Ammunition: 99 Pzgr 2,700 Patr Sm & Spar ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Ture: 30/15" 30/25" 30/0°-21" 12/83"-80' Superstructure: 30/8° 30/0 30/90" 17/77"-80 ul 30/21" 30/0" 30/10" 16/90 Gun mantle 37/0"-45 History: An intial order for 1,250, placed in January 1999, had been Feduced to 800 by May 1930, when the Pz Kptw 38(t) production became available from Czechoslovakia. The entie series was to hav had the 3.7em KwK, but the lessons learned in Poland ‘and Franc accelerated the Introduction of the Som Kwk L/42, %0 that the great majonty of tho Aus! G received this armament. Speciic features: The main differences from previous models were the increase from 21mm to 30mm in the armour thickness of the hull fear, and the introduction of a new pivoting visor for the driver. The turret was modified to include an exhaust fan mounted on tho root, and one signal port was eliminated. In mid-production, a newly: designed cupola ‘wae introduced, and, lato. in tho sories, wide (dem) tracks. Approximately ity Aus! G were equipped with the S7om Kwk L/46.5 with internal mantlet, The romaindor had tho scm ikwe L/42 with external _mantiet. From August 1940 until 1942, many of thoee mounting the 3.7em Kw were up-armoured and up-gunned to the Sem KwK L/42. The sight for the 3.7em KwK was the TZFSa Combat service: Early Aust G produced trom April to June 1940, were sued as. replacements tothe Panzer regiments at the front in ance. Contrary to popular belie, al Pz Kpfw Il inservice in France had the Tem KwK. Pz Kpfw Ill with the Sem KwK L/42 were first produced in July 1940. P2 Kpfw Ill with the 3.7om Kwk had been phased out of service in Russia by the end of 194%. Most survivors mounting the 3.Tem KwK were converied to mount the Scm KwK L/42, but fityour remained on the Army inventory as late as September roe ‘Pats 192.183 Ps Koh Il ut. The vance inte top photoarh ‘dana le va ec th Sr ae Pate 18. The cuols ved on Ps Kotw It Bua GU; Mand N, talon Pe Kotw Aut €,Fand PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTSPanzerkampfwagen III Ausf H (Sd Kfz 141) Other designation: 7 Serie ZW ‘Type: Medium tank Manufacturer: MAN, Alkett, Henschel, Wegmann, MNH, MIAG Ghassis Nos: 66001-66560 08 produced from October 1940 to April 1941 Crew: © Engine: Maybach HL1Z0TRM Weight (tons): 21.8 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse engin (metres): 5.41 Speed (km/nr): 40 Wiatn (metres): 295 Range (km): 165 Haight (metres): 2.44 Radio: FuGS, Armament: One Sem One 792mm MG34.__One 7.82mm MGI wk 742 ‘Traverse: 350° (hand) 15° lett 20° right hand) Elevation: — 10" +20 10" +10 Sight) TZFSS = Kaze Ammunition: 99 P2gr 2,700 Pate Sm & Spor ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear_—_‘Top/Bottom Turret 30/13" 30/28" 30/15" 10/85"-90 Superstructure: '30+30/90° 30/0" 30/90" 17/77°-90 Hull 30+30/23" 30/0" 30-+20/8* 16/80) Gun mantiet: a7/0"-45 History: An intial order for 759 Aust H was placed in January 1999 ‘This was to be the first model to mount the Sem KWK. and the turret was redesigned to accommodate it. The campaigns in France and Poland had shown a need for increased protection and although it Was too late to ineroase the basic armour, addtional plates wore Bolted to it. The order for the Aust H was reduced by 450 when the ‘new model of the Pz Kplw Ill with heavier besic armour (Aust J) was Blanes Specific features: The Aust H had a newly designed turret, the roar of which was formed from a single plate. The basic 30mm armour was Increased by the addition of 30mm plates to the hull roar, hull front land. superstructure front. A new transmission, sprocket and. idler osign wore algo introduced with this model. To protect the smoke candies, an armoured cover was fitted. The Aust H was the fist model to have a turret Dacket, and this was subsequenlly rlro-ited to the Aust E, F and G, The dOmm ++ 30mm armour on the front of the hull ang superstructure of the Aust H was impenetrable at combat ranges by the main enemy tank and antitank gune in use in 1941, the Brion 2-pounder, the American 37mm MS. and the Russian 5mm Model 1957. Combat service: On 20 June 1941, there were seventeen Panzer div: sions on the Border of the territory held by tho Russians. Of those, Six had been issued with Pz Kptw 98(t) and eleven had Pz Kpfw il Each and every light armoured company had its full complement of Seventeen Pr Kpfw il, which gave a total of 960 Pz Kptw Ill Aust E fo J. if those at detachment and regimental headquarters were included. Pat 195196. Ps Kotw Il Aut H. Anew ype of dv sroct with cD shaped Ma {nt'apen ght spo rar, was mvoduond wr the al, Net the SDs ‘tr boned on fe upper and lower nose ite: Above- Soe, TBH, baw, Hea! Norn ArsPanzerkampfwagen III Ausf J (Sd Kfz 141) Other designation: 8 Serie ZW Type: Medium tank Manufacturer: Daimler-Benz, MAN, Alkott, Henschel, Wegmann, MIAG, NH Chassis Nos.: 68001-69000, 72001-74100 1549 produced from March 1961 to July 1942 Crow: 5 Engine: Maybach HLY20TRM Weight (tons): 21.5 Goarbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 552 Speed (km/hr): 40 Win (metres): 2.95 Range (km): 185 Height (metres): 250 Radio: FuGs Aimamant: One Som One 792mmMGS4 One 7.92mm MG34 Kw U2 Traverse: 350° (hand) = hana Elevation: — 10" +20 Sight. TZFSA = kozF2 Ammunition; 99 Pzgr 2,700 Pate Smk Spar Amour (mm/angie): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turret 90/15" 30/25" 30/12" 10/80"-20" Superstructure 50/9" 30/0" 50/15" 17/75°-80 Hull 50/21" 30/0" S0/10" 16/90: Gun mantit 50/0" History: The Aust J wae the first model of the series to have the armour protection increased to a basic SOmm. An intial order for 800, wat later Ineeased to 2,700 and assigned a second chassis number specific features: The increase to SOmm of the main tront and rear sur face armour, necessitated newly-designed fittings. An improved visor forthe driver was fitted, togather with new ballshaped hull machine gun mount. Single-piece access hatches in the lacis, hinged at the ont. were filed In place of the double-natch.. Newiy-designed air makes for brake and final-drive cooling were mounted on the uppor ruil front, The smoke-cradle rack was re-positioned and mounted in- 98 Side the redesigned upper tail plate, for additional armour protection From April 1942, 20mm spaced armour was added {0 the gun mantlet and/or superstructure front Combat service: The Aust J with the Som KwK L/42 were used to gauip the 2nd and Sth Panzer Divisions, and an independent Panzer iment. which were sent as reinforcements to Russia in September 1941. The remainder were Used to replace the loss of approximately 1400 Pz Kpfw Il during the fist year of fighting in Russia and North Arica. At tho start of the summer campaign on the Eastern Tront in June. 1842, approximately 500 Pz Kpfw Ill (Sem Kwk L/42) were with ie Panzer dhisions at the front A year later, at the start of the tensive at Kursk, there were stil 141 with Army Groups Centre and Sot ate 197. Pe Kot Aut Pat 1 Konan ich wa dP he Miata and ond Ror Pretos 19820 Ps Kt Il Aust J Pate 198 ‘ows te ain of teaced ecu on he an PANZERKAMPFWAGEN IIl AND VARIANTS 65.Panzerkampfwagen Ill Ausf J (Sd Kfz 141/1) Other designation: 8 Serie ZW Type: Medium tank Daimler-Benz, Alkett, Henschel, Wegmann, MNH, MIAG, Manufacturer ‘MAN. ‘Chassis Nos.: 72001-74100, 68001-69000 41067 produced from December 1961 to July 1942 Crows" Engine: Maybach HL1Z0TRM Weight (tons): 21.5 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Lengtn (motres): 6.28 Speed (km/hr): 40 Wiath (metres): 2.95 Range (km): 155 Hoight (metres): 2.5 Radio: FuGs Armament: One Sem One 792mmMG3¢ One 792mm MG34 iKwk39 L/60 Traverse: 960° (hand) = hand Elevation: — 10" +20 Sight: TZF50 = kozre ‘Ammunition: 84 Pear 2,700 Patr Smk 8 Spor ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/ottom Turret: 30/15" 30/25" 30/12" 10705"-20" Superstructur: 50/9" 30/0" S0/I5°17/75"-90" Hull 50/21" 90/0" 50/10" 16/90 Gun mantiet: 50/0"45" History: Orders wore given to got the Scm KWK39 L/60 gun into a produetion series as quickly as possible which resulted in the Aust J Series being split Between this gun and the Scm KwK L/42. Originally, Pats 20.202. Ps Kot Ava J ered ane scree (one in an in August 1940, Hitler had ordered the L/60 gun, but the Ordnancs Department gid not implement the decision as the L/42 had recenth been introduced and had proved successful. At Nis birthday demons tration in April 1941, Hitler saw the Pz Kptw iil Ausf J sil without th tong gun and insisied on ite fiting a8 soon as possible. Events i Russia two months later proved the need for @ more powerti Specific features: The only differences between the Aust J with th ‘Sem Kwk L/42 and those with the Som KwK39_L/60, were the. gun itselt and the ammunition stowage which was reduced because of th Increase in the shell length Combat service: The Aust J with the lono-barrellod Som KwK39 L/8d Wore issued to the tive tank detachments formed in varly 1942 for the 9rd, 16th, 29th and 60th Motorized Infantry Divisions, and the St SS Motorized Infantry Division ‘Wiking’. The remainder were used a replacements for the extremely high losses which had been sustained in’ Russia and North Aica The long Som Kwk was very useful i North Africa when engaging tho Grant and Valentine tanks, Dut wa Of litle value in'a frontal engagement against a Russian T-34 or KV Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf L (Sd Kfz 141/1) ‘Type: Medium tank Manuiacturer: Henschel, Wegmann, Alkett, MNH, MIAG, MAN, Daimler ‘Chassis Nos: 74101-75500 653 produced from June to December 1942 Crow: 5 Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 22.7 Gearbox: 6 forwars, 1 reverse Length (metres): 6.28 Speed (km/hr): 40 Width (metres): 2.95, ange (km) 155, Hoight (motres): 2.5 Radio: FuGS ‘Armament: One Scm One 7.92mm MG34 One 7.92mm MG34 Kwk39 L/60 Traverse: 960° {hand} = hand Elevation: —10" +20 Sight: TZF5e kazr2 ‘Ammunition: 82 Pegr 4,950 Patr Smk Spor Armour (mm/angle): Front. Side Rear_‘Top/Bottom Turret: S7/15° 90/25" 30/12" 10/83°-20' Superstevcture 50+20/9" 30/0" 50/17" 18/79"-00' Hull: 50/21" 90/0" 50/8" 16/90" Gun mantle: 50+ 20/0°=85 History: in March 1942, a study was undertaken to determine whethor the Pz Kptw IV turret would ‘it'on the Pz. Kpfw Il superstructure Analysie ‘revealed. that” the resultant weight’ was excessive, and humerous modifications would be necessary. The idea was dropped land production of the Pz Kplw Ill with the Sem KwK39.L/60 Continued. ‘The original order for 1.100 Aust L_was reduced by an ‘order early in June 1943, to. mount 450 7.sem Kw L724 In tho Pz (66 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTS “sion pvt on th sie of te tut hie bee linet mount the short 7.5m oun ard ‘was completed with an exper Kptw Ill 447 Aust L were used to thus. became Ausf N. One Aust L mantal, apered-bore KwKO725. Specific features: Improvements to the Aust L included increasing the armour on the turret front from 30mm to 57mm, installing a torsion bar counter balance instead of a coll spring for the main gun find altering the acinstake louvres and hatches on the rear deck. Al‘Aust L had 20mm spaced armour on the superstructure front, and fmost had 20mm spaced armour on the gun mantit. Early in the pro Guction run, the hull escape hatches on the hull side, the loader's tision port on tho gun mantlet and the turet side ports were deleted eystem designed to trenster heated engine coolant from one vanicle fo another was also introduced with tho Aust L. Combat service: Late in June 1942, at the start of tho summer offen five, there were approximately 600 Pz Kpfw Ill mounting the Sem wk L/60 with units at the front in Russia. Apart from replacing Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf M (Sd Kfz 141/1) Type: Medium tank Manufacturer: Wegmann, MAN, MIAG, MINH Chassis Nos: 76101-77800 250 produced from October 1942 to February 1943 Crew. & ‘Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 22. Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 6.41 Speed (km/hr): 40, iat (metres): 2.95 Range (km): 155 Height (metres): 25 Radio: FuGS: ‘Armament: One Sem One 792mm G34 One 7.92mm G34 Kwk39 L/60 Traverse: 960° (hand) = hana lvalion: — 10" “+20, Sight. TZFSe kozr2 Ammunition: 92 Pzor 3,750 Patr Sm Spar Armour (mm/angle): Front. Side_ Rear ‘Top/Bottom Turret 6° 90/25" 90/12" 10/63"-90 Superstructure 50+-20/9° 30/0" §0/17" 18/79°-80 ut 50/21" 30/0" 50/8" 16/90, Gun mantlt 50+ 20/0°-45 History: As early as March 1942, the OKH was considering replacing fs soon as possible the Pz Kptw Ill by the Panther. In July 1942, the frder for 1,000 of the final Pr Kpfw Ill series, the Aust M, was cut Beck to 775. Shorly afterwards, it was decided to use Pz Kofw tll chassis to build StuG, and 165 Aust M chassis wore set aside for this purpose. Reaction to the Aust NL with its short 7.Sem KwK L/24, had been very positive and resulted in an order issued early in November 1812 10 complete the Aust M series as Aust N with the 7.5m KWK L/ 24. Also in November 1942, was conceived the idea to mount a flame: Pats 26-297. Kohl Aust M, Note the nosed ssi ie dee ca ha sen ath he Se Fight voce eauppe wa Searan armour losses, Ausf L were issued to the newly-formed Panzer regiments of the tt (Leibsianaarte Adolf Hitler), 2nd (Das Reich) and 3rd. (Toten: kop!) 85 Panzergrenadier Divisions, and the Panzergrenadier Division Grossdevischiang ‘Pt 206-205. Px Ko Il Aut L, showing the spaced armour on the gun manta snd FEnfome ote sas to einunatc of te foe von por on te eo the tae) thrower in the turret of the Pe Kpfw Il, and 100 Aust M were ear marked for this purpose. A further 47 Pz Kpfw Il wore never com plated, with the result that, of the initial order for 1,000 Aust M, only 280 were completed, Specific features: The basic difference between the Aust L and the Aust M was the fording equipment on the Aust M. This was achieved by sealing devices around all hull airinlets and discharge-ouvres. and by a modified mutfer with a closurevalve mounted high on the hull fear. In addition, the smokelaying device was changed from the 5 Ssmoke-candle rearmounted rack to 3 dischargers mounted forward fon each turret side. When fitted with the wide Ostkette, the width increased to. 327m, and for this. reason, vehicles with Schurzen fapron armour) were &.41m wide. Combat service: The Aust M wore mainly used to replace trontiine foscos. Although it had lost its ellectiveness in frontal tankeversustank factions, there. were stil 432 Pz Kpfw Ill (Scm_KwK L/60) with the armoured “and armoured. Infantry divisions of Army Groups Centre fand South. at the start of the offensive at Kursk in July 1943, At the Same time, the Airborne Panzer Division Hermann Géring and the {Sth Panzerarenacier Division had 49 Pz Kofw Ill (Sem Kwk L/60) for the detence of Sicily. PANZERKAMPFWAGENINANDVARIANTS 67Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf N (Sd Kf. Type: Medium support tank Manufacturer: Henschel, Wegmann, MNH, MIAG, MAN Chassis Nos: 73851-77800 1853 produced trom June 1942 to August 1943 plus 37 converted from rebuilt Pz Kptw ill crew: 5 Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 23 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metros): 5.52 (Aust L) Speed (km/h): 40 565 (Aust M) Range (km): 155, Width (metres): 2.95, Fado: FuGS: Height (metres): 25 Armament: One 7.5em One 792mm MG34¢ One 7.92mm MG94 wk 724 Traverse: 360° (hand) hang Elevation: 8° 420" = Sight: T2F50 = kazee Ammunition: Aust L '58 Pagt, Spar & Nebel 3450 Patr Smk ‘Aust WM: 64 Pzgr, Spar & Nebel 3,750 Patr Smk ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Ture S1/15° 30/25" 30/12" 10/83'-90 Suporstructure: 504-20/9° 80/0° 0/17" 18/70°-00 Hult 0/21" 30/0" 50/9" 16/90 Gun mantet 50/0"-45 History: In June 1942, because of the decreased effectiveness of the Pz Kptw Il against enemy armour, it was decided to mount the 7-Sem wk L/24 in the Pz Kptw Il. This gun not only fired @ more effective high-explosive (Sper) round. but also fired @ shaped-charged (Hoht ladung) round with. better armour penetrating ability than the. long: barrelled Sem Kwk39 L/60 which it replaced. The inival order for 450 was produced, using 3 trom the Aust J ories and 447 ‘rom the Aust L series. Since the troops liked the Aust N, an order was issued in November to complete the Aust M series with tho short 7.5em Kwk, 219 Aust M wore 80 converted, and an additional 37 Pr Kptw il returned from the front for major overhaul, were also converted 10 Aust N to complete the series of 700. 'z 141/2) Specific features: The basic features woro tho samo as the Aust JL and M-series. The only differences were that the Aust N had the em Kwk L/24 instead of the Sem KWK, and dia not have spaced armour on the gun mantlet because the additional weight of the 7'sem KwK. Many of the late model Aust N were fitted with a new ‘cupola with thicker armour and a single hatch in place of the earler Sesign with a spit hateh. From Maren 1943, the Aust Ni wore ited with shitting armour during production Combat service: From September 1942 to May 1943, the heavy tank Companies” organisation called for 10 Pz Kpfw Aust N to render close Support for the nine Tigers. In addition, the Aust N wore issued to the Panzer regiments of the Panzer divisions and used in the same com bat role as the Pz Kpfw IV with the short 75cm KwK. A the stat o the Kursk offensive in July 1943, there wore 155 Aust N with the Panzer troops in Army Groups Centre and South. Pate 200, Kol ust NT particu atic based on the Aus [Fone pant rte, Goon saulbped with Schur. Fat 9. Fe Ko Alt Nr by sured Aled faces in Norway, Te irate 710 loppocto peo). An Aust Win Tusa nite 1942. oO RRRERSIENET oe eegremerT Pe fe galtikeType: Medium flame-thrower tank Manutecturer: Wegmann, Chassis Nos: 77603-77708 400 produced from February to April 1943, Crew 3 Engine: Maybach HLI20TRM Weight (tons): 23 Goarbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 6.41 Speed (km/he): 40 Width (metres): 2.95 Range (km): 155 Hoight (metres): 250 Radio: FuGs + FuG2 ‘Armament: One 14mm One 7.82mm MG34 One 7.92mm MG34 Flammenworter Traverse: 360" (hand) = hand’ Elevation: 8° +20" = Sion: kgzFe “Ammunition: 1,000 litres 3,750 Patr Smk Flammol Armour (mm/angie): Front ‘Side Rear Top/Bottom Turret: 57/15" 80/25" 90/12" 10/83"-90" Superstructre: 5020/9" 30/0" 50/17" 18/17°-90 ul 50++30/21" 30/0" 50/9" 16/80 Gun mantct 50+ 20/0'-45" Histor: In November 1942, the idea arose to mount a flamethrower in te tutte of the Pz Kpfw Ill for use in close-range combat euch as had boon experienced at Stalingrad. Production was to have begun in Jarwery. bul was set back a month because of problems with the lammenvierter" production. One hundred Pz Kptw ill of the Aust M series were Dull by MIAG, and were turned ovor to Wegmann for tompletion as the Pz Kpfw iil (Fl). Specific features: The P2 Kofw ill (Fl) had the same basic features fas tho Aust M since this was the model used to furnish the chassis, A llamertrower was mounted in the turret in place of the Som Kwk L/60. Additional protection was afforded by welding 30mm plates fo the hull front. Range of the flame:projector was 5m to 60m. Combat service: Tho Pz Kplw IIl(H) never renched the oops at Stalingrad, but were issued to Panzer regiments at the rato of soven tanks to each Flamethrower Platoon. In July 1943, forty-one were fvailable in the 6th Panzer Division, 11th Panzer Division and Panzer Bivision Grossdeutschland, for the attack on Kursk Pats 201.21. Ps Kot PANZERKAMPFWAGEN I AND VARIANTS 69Panzerkampfwagen III als Tauchpanzer Other designation: Tauchpanzer Il Type: Submersible battle tank 168 converted from July to October 1940, Data as for Pz Kptw ll’Aust F (S.7em) and (Sem), Pz Kpfw Il Aust G and Aust H, and gr Pz Bet Wo. History: The Tauchpanzor was developed in mid-1940 for the pro posed invasion of England (Sea Lion). The P2 Kptw Ill were modified land provided with a submersion kit. Airintakes were fited with lock ing covers, and the exhaust was fitted with non-retumn valves. The Cupola, gun mandet and hull MG were sealed with watorproo! tabre covers. An ilatable rubber tube surrounded the Wrret ring. While submerged, the tank drew air through a pipe trom a float carrying a Snorkel device and radio antenna which remained on the surface. A gyrocompass was. used for underwater navigation, The Tauchpanzer ould operate in depths of up to 15 metres. A vessel with a hinged 70 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN ll AND VARIANTS ramp was used to disembark the Tauehpanzer at a suitable distanc from the shore, With the cancellation of ‘Sea Lion’ the Tauchpanzer wore no longer required In quite the samo form. At Milowtz near Prague, in the spring of 194%, most of the tanks were modified 10 make thom suitable for fiver’ crossing, with a fixed snorkel pipe attached through the commander's cupola, Combat service: From July 1940, four sections of volunteers. trom existing Panzer rogimenis were trained on the Island of Syit, and the Tauchpanzer wore to be ready for operations at Putloe by 10 AUguAL, In mid Oclober, three of these sections were attached #0 the 18th Panzer Division, and the remainder went to the Sth Panzer Regiment of the 3rd Panzer Division. On 22 June 1941, the Tauchpanzer of the TBth Panzer Division crossed the iver Bug at Patulintes 219218. Po Kot ls Tauctpsrae.n Pate 214 hi FBa'S2tg Cera st non he Spe has boon canta atte ff fe tan {St ie Sap sonparmarn Paw 25 te a ipa hos bow corned othe 1s dete bergen Pate, towed oat aps te schon dove en oo wate, ae 21 shows beng conduc om brace are sang dee ern of sone nrc was cried ont er ot te weicos shows the submersible Panzerbefehlswagen III Ausf D' (Sd Kfz 267, 268) Other designation: 3c Serie ZW Type: Medium tracked command vehicle Manufacturer: Daimler-Benz Chassis Nos. 60341-50370 20 produced from June 1938 to Engine. Maybach HL108TR Length (metres): 5.96 Radio: FuG6 + FuGs ( UGE FUGT (Sd Ke 266) ‘Ammunition: 1,500 F “and detached upon enteing the water. Pte 218: a rver-crossing modfiation, consisting S74 0d thn tached tote commanders copa. History: The need of command vehicles tor tactical control of the Panzer regiments. was realized from the inception of the atmoured troops in 1935. More space was required than was provided by the Heine Panzerboehiewagen, “resulting in tho adaptation of tho Pr" Kptw Ill design for the grosse Panzorbetehiswagen (Large ‘Armoured Command Vehicle). The external appearance was. mai tained as closely as possible to that of the Pe Kptw Il, so thal the Command vehicle would not unduly attract enemy io. Tho. ital frder for 32 wae not completed because of production delays and the on of a batter suspension design features: The Aust D" had the same basic design and suspen: tho Pz Kot Ill Aust O. The dillerences wore: thicker armour tain armament, tureet bolted in place, additional vision and pistol ports on the superstructure sides, and a pistol port in place of the machine;gun on the superstructure front. The large frame antenna on the rear deck readily cistinguished this vehicle from a Pe Kptw Il. Combat service: From 1938 0 1938 3b (Headquariers) of each Getacnment. Panzer regiment and. Panzer brigade, were 0 ne grosse Panzerbefchlewagen.With only 38 Pz Bot Wg Aust D* and £ available on 1 September 1959, most units were short of the fequired number.and several unite did’ not recoive any. The Aust D femained inservice during the Western campaign in. i940, but had been relited by early 1941 because of their Inadequate suspension Paes 21820, Pe Bf Wott At 0, showing the ge rome ean and he dumey 3:7em gun PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTS 71Panzerbefehlswagen Ausf E (Sd Kfz 266-268) Other designation: 2 Serie gr Pz Bef Wo ‘Type: Medium tracked command vehicle Manulactuter: Daimler-Benz Chassis Nos: 69601-60545, 45 produced from July 1999 to February 1940 Crew: 5 Engine: Maybach HL1207R Weight (tons): 19.5 Gearbox: 10 forward, 1 reverse Longin (metres): 5.38 Spoed (km/hr) 40 Widin (metres): 291 Range (km): 165 Radio: FuG6-+ FUG? (Sa Kt2 266) FuGé+FuG8 (Sd Ktz 267) FuGs+FuG7 (Sd Kiz 268, Hoight (metres): 2.44 ‘Armament: One 7.92mm MG34 Traverge: 60" (hand) Elevation: —15" +35" Sight: KgZF2 ‘Ammunition: 1.500 Pate Smk Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turret: 30/15" 30/25" 30/0°-21" 12/83"-90" ‘Superstructure: 30/9" 30/0" 21/29" 47/77°-90" Hult 30/21" 30/0 21/10" 16/90" Gun mantiet: 30/round, History: The second order for the gr Pz Bot Wo was for 45 paseo on the same design and suspension as the Pz Kptw Ill Aust E. The series was not completed as quickly vas originally planned because of ‘material shortagos early in the war. Specific features: The Aust E had the same hull and suspension as the Pz Kpfw Il Aust E. The diferences wore: dummy main armament, ture bolted in place, addtional vision and pistol ports on the super: structure sides, and @ pistol port in place of the machine-gun on the superstructure front. The large frame antenna ‘on the rear deck feadlly distinguished this vehicle trom a Pz. Kptw Ii Combat service: Sixtyfour Pz Bef Wo Aust D' and € were available with Panzer divisions at the star of the Wester campaign in. 1940, with 8 sont ina replacements during the fighting. The Aust E re. mained in service unti the end of the war, being gradually phased ut by attrition. Pte 21-22. Pe Bot Wo Aust E Panzerbefehlswagen Ausf H (Sd Kfz 266-268) Other designation: 3 Serie gr Pz Bef Wa ‘Type: Medium tracked command vehicle Manufacturer: Daimler-Benz Chassis Nos: 70001-70145, 70146-70175 145 produces trom November 1040 to. September 1941 and 90 from December 1947 to January 1942, crow: Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tone): 21.8 Gearbox: 6 Torward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 5.4 ‘Spoed (km/h): 40 Wiatn (motes): 2.95 Range (km):. 165 Height (metres): 2.44 Radio: FuG6 + FuG2 (Sad kfz 266) FuGS + FuG8 (Sd Ke 267), FuGS+FUG7 (Sd Ktz 258) ‘Armament: One 792mm MG34 ‘Traverse: 60" (hand) Elevation: — 10" +95 Sight) KoZF2 ‘Ammunition: 2,880 Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/ottom Turret 30/15" 30/25" 30/19" $0/85"-90" Superstructure 30+30/9° 30/0" 30/90" 17/77" 80 Hull 30430723" 30/0° 30+30/8° 16/90 Gun mantle: 30/r0una History In January 1939, the order was placed for the third series ‘amounting to 145 grosse Panzerbefehiswagen. AS a result of lessons leamed in Poland and France. the original design, specitying only 30mm armour, was changed to require. an additional 30mm armour plate to be bolted to the front of the hull and superstructure and hull fear. Directiy after completion of tho iret Aust H series, second series of 30 ‘alter Typ" (old type) was ordered in October 1941. Most ff these indeed had the old stylo Aust H hull, but a few of the last Produced used the chassis of the Pz Kotw Ill Aust J ‘Specific features: The Aust H had the samo hull and euspension as the Pz Kofw Ill Aust H. The differences were in the main armament turret bolted in place, additional vision and pistol ports on the euper: 72 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTS structure sides, and a pistol port in place of the machine-gun on the superstructure front. The dummy gun on the early models resembled the 3.7em KwK L/45, This was changed on later models to a Gummy fun resembling the Scm KwK L/42. A TSF1 periscope was mounied Combat service: With increased production. the number of Pz Bet Wa at Panzerabteilung and Tank Regiments neadquarters was increased to two. In addition, the revised organization of the Pz Nachrichten (Sionals) Abteilung in the Panzor divisions called for soven P2 Bet Wo, 8d Kfe 267 and 268. At the start of the summer offensive In 194%, 120 gr Pz Bot Wg Aust E and H were with the 17 Panzer divisions. The second series of Pz Bet Wg Aus! H were mainly used to equip new units such as the 25th Panzer OWision, 2nd SS Panzergrenadier Division ‘Das “Reich” and. the Armoured Infantry Division ‘Grose: deutschland’ At tho start of the summer offensive in late June 1942, there were approximately 75 grosse Pz Bet Wa at the front,Panzerbefehlswagen mit 5cm KwK L/42 (Sd Kfz 141) Other designation: Pz Kpfw Il (Sd Kfz 141) (als Pz Bef Wa) Type: Medium command tank Manufacturer: Daimler-Benz Chassis Nos: 72001-74100 {1 produced trom August to November 1942 108 converted from Pz Kpfw Il from March to September 1943 Crew: § Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 215 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metros): 628 Speed (km/hr): 40 Win (metres): 2.95 Range (km): 155 Height (metres): 2.50 Radio: FuGs + FuG7 FuGs + FuGe Armament: One Som KwK L/42. One 792mm MG34 Traverse: 960" (hand) = Elevation: — 10" +20 Sight: T2F5¢ ‘Ammunition: 75 Pzgr & Spor 1,500 Patr Smk ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Turret: 30/15" 30/25" 30/12" 10/83"-00 Superstructur: 204+ 50/9" 90/0" 50/15" 17/75°-90 a 50/21" 30/0" 0/10" 16/90 Gun marti: 20+ 50/0°-45 Histon: Ever since the campaign in Poland, the troops had been ask ing for a command vehicle with more elective armament than ® few Machine-pistols and the single machine-gun, ‘They finally got. their wish three. years later when Daimler Benz, was given an order 10 Convert Pz Kpfw ill to Pz Bet Wa by tho addition of along range radio, In January 1943, the WaA Issued’ an order that there would be no further production af specially designed Pz Bet Wa. All Command Vhicles would be produced by ‘conversion of standard production Pr Kplw. From March to September 1943, an additional 104 P2 Kotw I (Som_Kwk L/42) were converted to Pe Bet Wo by removing an ammunition rack and’ adding the long-range radio, Specie feature: Virtually the same vehicle aa the Pz Kphw Ill Aust J The only diferences were the elimination of the hull machine-gun, Pat 25, Ps Bet Wo Il st Som Kk L/2, and reduction in the number of rounds carried in order to make room for tho additional radio sets. A'TSF1 periscope was mounted in the turret root of these command vehicles Combat service: Issuod_ 10 the newly-formed SS Panzer Divisions, Leibstandarte Adolf Hiller, "Das Reich’ "Totenkopf" and "Wiking and as replacements in many other units, In addition to their normal role with Panzer regiments and Panzer Nachrichten Abteilung. trom 1943 the Pz Bet Wo 1/42 wore to be issiled a> command. vohicles, for Sturmpanzer detachments, assault gun detachments and armoured radio-control detachments PANZERKAMPFWAGEN III AND VARIANTS 73.Panzerbefehlswagen mit 5cm KwK39 L/60 Other designation: 4 Serie Pz Bef Wg Ausf K Type: Medium command tank Manufacturer: Daimler-Benz Chassis Nos 70201-70250 50 produced from December 1942 to February 1943, Crew: 5 Engine: Maybach HL1207RM Waight (tons): 23, Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 6.41 ‘Speed (km/he): 40 whan (motes): 295 Range (km): 155 Hoight (motres): 251 radio: FuGs + FuGS (Sd Ktz 267) FuGS + FuG7 (Sd Kz 268) ‘Armament: One Sem KwK39L/60 One 7.92mm MG34 Traverse: 360° (hand) = Elevation: 10" +20 = Sight TzFse Ammunition: 65 Pegr & Spor 1.500 Patr Smk ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear ‘Top/Battom Ture 57/15" 90/25" 30/12" 10/83"-00 Superstructure: 50+20/9° 30/0" 50/12" 18/79°-80 Hult 50/21" 30/0" 60/9" 16/90 Gun mantiet 50/0"—45 History: The original order for 200 Pz October 1941. The main feature wae M armament, the Sem Kwk L/60. This order was postponed, fesult of the building of 30 adaitional Pz Get Wo Aust H because of the order for 80 Pz Bet Wg mit Sem KuK to be from the Pz Kptw Ill Aust J production. Finally the « Sorte Pz Bot Wa mit Sem Kwk L760. Schmal (small gun mantlet) was produces alongside the Pz Kplw II Aust M from October 1942, but the order was reduced t 50 because Pr KpIw ill production was being terminated and Rt had been decided to convert Pz Kptw tll to Bat Wi from early 1943 Specific features: Tho Aust K had the same hull and superstructure a5 the Aust M-with the oxcoption of additional vision and pistol por being'a shortened gun mantlot, deletion of the coaxial machine-gun and the addition of a visor to the turret front, quite similar in design fo the drivers visor. The large-trame antenna on previous command tank models was replaced by a star antenna Combat service: The Aus! K were Issued as replacements for the heavy losses sustained during the winter of 1942/43, The Aust K were maintained as command vehicles until mid. 1944 in armoured dtach ‘ments which, otherwise, wore completely equipped with the Pz Kpw IV 74 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTSArtillerie-Panzerbeobachtungswagen (Panzerkampfwagen III) (Sd Kfz 143) Type: Armoured observation post based on obsolete tank chassis Chassis Nos: 60401-78000 282 produced by converting Pe Kolw Ill rom February 1943 to April Tae Crow: 5 Engine: Maybach HL120TAM or TR Weight (lone): 195-29 Gearbox 10 forward, 4 rovers0 oF Length (metros): 5.52 6 forward, 1 rever iain (motes): 2.92 Speed (km/hr) 40 Height (metres): 2.50 Range (km): 108 Radio: FUGS & FuG4 Armament: One 7 92mm MG34 Sion: TAF2 ‘Ammunition: 1,500 Patr Smk ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Top/Bottom Ture 0/15" 30/25" 30/12" 10/83"-90" Superstructure 20. 30/0" 30/30" 47/77"-90° a 304-30/21" 30/0" 30++30/10" 16/90 Gn mantlet 50/0"; History: With the dovolopment of fullytracked, seltpropelied artillery, came the need of a fullytracked armoured observation veicte. Since the older Pz Kptw Ill Aust Eto H had lost most of their combat effectiveness, it was decided, as an interim solution, to modify thom, Plans were made to replace them with a Pz Beob Wg specifically esigned for that purpose, but this never materialized Speciic features: Tha ul. superstructure and turret remained the ime as the Pz Kptw Ill Ausf € to Aust M, upon which the Pe Beob Wg was based, with the following exceptions: (1) 30mm armour pl was added to the hull font and rear. and superstructure Tear of all Converted Aust € to G. (2) The machine-gun mounted in the supor. structure front was removed and the hale plugged. (3) The original fun mantiet was removed and replaced by'a thicker mantle, with a dummy gun and a machine-gun mounted in the centre of the mantet Combat service: Introduced with the rst’ Hummel and Wespo. Bat tenes (Hummel=bumble-bee. Wespe=wasp) early. in 1948, they remained in setvice until the end of the war. The organization of each Wospe and Hummel Battery included two Pz Beod Wa. eer See EES amonBergepanzer III Type: Armoured recovery vehicle on tank chassis ‘Approx. 150 converted trom March to December 19¢4 Crow: 3 Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 19 Goarbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 628 Speed (km/hr): 40 Wiatn (metres): 295 Range (km): 200 Height (metres): 245, Radio: FuGs ‘Armament: Two 7.92mm MG34 Traverse: hand Sight: KazF2 Armour (mm/angle): Front Sido Rear Top/Bottom Supersteucture 50/9" 30/0" 50/17" 18/79'-90 Hult 50/21" 30/0" 50/9" 16/90" History: In January 1944, it was ordered that all Pz Kpfw Ill returned for overnaul be converted to Bergepanzer. The production plan called for fifteen to Be converted in March, thirty in April and thirty in May. ‘These vehicles were to be used with the Panzerbergeanker (1. achs) (armoured recovory anchor: L-axle) (Sd An 40). This large anchor was placed alan appropriate location, and the Gergepanzer pulled the vehicle to be recovered, via a reduction tackle attached by cable to the anchor Specific features: A large wooden box body was mounted on top of the former fighting compartment. A dertick crane. like that on tho Bergepanther, was provided with mounting locations. on the rear engine covers. The wide Ostkette (East track: for Russia) tacks ‘wore generally used Comb Issued to the Workshop Company of the Panzer dolachments equipped with the Pz Kptw IV or Sturmgeschtz Ill oF 1. In February 1945, 130 Bergepanzer II! were listed #s available. 78 _ PANZERKAMPFWAGEN II AND VARIANTS at 22 etanceatungeeattwagen maintenance vitae on P Kot Il casas. Pats 23-2, Bergonuer i shonong te os oe acoery anor, hte, Pate,Panzerkampfwagen III mit Schachtellaufwerk Type: Battle tank with experimental suspension Histor: Prototype development of large interleaving road_whools, Using @ Pz Kpiw Ill Aust H (7 ZW) as the basis of the conversion The one prototype built late in 1940 was used for training purposes ater testing had been completed, Minenraumpanzer III Type: Mine destroyer History: Prototype development of a mine-destroyer vehicle. The PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTS.Reuen Fenreasa Set Serene 42 Porro 343 Munitorapener at Fost P Koti Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf N als Schienen-Ketten Fahrzeug SK1 Type: Battle tank with railway suspension History: Two or three prototypes of these SK1 were converted from Pa Kplw ill Aust L(7.5om L/24) during late 1942 and early 1943. The suspension was reconfigured 80 8 Io allow the railway bogie wheels {o bo retracted into the belly Tor normal cross-country performance The drive train was modified eo that the rail bogies were driven by the tank ails could reach 100km/he. Saurer in Vienna want work on this project. The proto type was demonstrated on 20 October 1943, Pionierpanzerwagen auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen III Other designation: Pionierpanzer III Type: Tracked carrier History: From 1943, a number of Pz Kptw Ill from the later series were converied 10 Engineers” vehicles by removing tha turret and ting racks for carrying equipment and small assault bridges. Munitionspanzer auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen III Other designations: Munitionspanzer III, Schlepper II Type: Ammunition carrier History: From May 1943, somo old Pz Kptw Ill retumed for rebuilding, Were converted to Bef Wa and Beob Wg. The remainder were con: Verted to Munitionspanzer between May. 1943 and May 1944, Aftor that date, Pz Kofw Ill were converted to Bergepencer Il, for use with 78 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTS tank detachments. Turrets from converted tanks were issued for use in’ fixed emplacements, In May 1944, 110 turrels armed with Som Kwk L/42 and L/60 wore available for such use.Gepanzerter Selbstfahrlafette fiir Sturmgeschiitz 7.5cm Kanone Ausf A (Sd Kfz 142) Other designations: StuG Ausf A, 1 Serie Type: Assault gun Manufacturer: Alkett Chassis Nos. 90001-90100 Spotolypes of the O series builtin 1937 80 produced from January to May 1940 Crew: Engine: Maybach HL1Z0TR Weight (tons): 196 Goarbox: 10 forward, 4 reverse Length (metres): 5.38 Speed (km/hr): 40, Wiath (motres): 292 Range (km): 160 Hoight (metres): 1.95 Radio: FuG16 or FuG16 Armament: One 7-Som StuKST L/24 raverge: 12" let 12" night Elevation +20) Sight: Rbts2 ‘Ammunition: 44 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Superstructure: 50/10" 30/0" + 30/30" 11/78°-90" & 9/20 47/85 ut: 50/21" 90/0" 30/30" + 16/90 10 History: On 16 June 1936, the order was given to develop an armoured vehicle for infantry support, mounting a gun of al least 75cm calibre. The gun was requited to havo a minimum of 25) traverse, and to be mounted in the hull, eliminating’ the requirement for a turret, which could result in a vehicle not exceeding the height of an average man. The experimental (0serle) ‘series consisted of five Pz Kplw Ill Aust B chassis (Chassis Nos 90216-90220), upon which were mounted the soft steel superstructures containing the fixed 7'5em ‘SWK.” After the sucoesstul testing of these protatypes, the {Serie Aust A went into production in January 1940, Specific features: The StuG Aust A had the same susponsion, drive train components and basic hull shape as the 5 ZW (Pz Kptw ill Aust F). but the similanty stopped there. The StUG front and rear armour ‘was thicker. there were no escape hatches on the hull sides, and the brake access hatches on the glacis were hinged at the sides Instead fof fore and aft. The 7.Sem StuKa7 was mounted offset to the right in the squat superstructure. Vision for the ‘driver was provided by @ pivoting visor and a twin periscope device in the superstructure front, anda vision port inthe left superstructure. The. gunner’s arileryype periscope sight was provided with a direct vision port in the left upper superstructure, and. the commander had a stissors Periscope which could be raised by opening the front halt of his fecess hatch. Additional armour protection was provided for the ren, by attaching 9mm plates st an angle to the superstructure sides, Combat service: The first StuG was issued to the troops in February 4940, with an additional 24 by the end of May. These were used to quip ‘Sturmartilerio Batteries 640, 689, 660 and 665, which went into action in France, tw Aunt tpeion!. FR Seo PANZERKAMPFWAGEN III AND VARIANTS 79.Gepanzerter Selbstfahrlafette fiir Sturmgeschiitz 7.5cm Kanone Ausf B (Sd Kfz 142) Other designations: StuG Ausf B, 2 und 3 Serie Type: Assault gun Manufacturer: Alkett Chassis Nos 90101-90420 320 produced from June 1940 to May 1041 Crow: 4 Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 20.2 Goarbox: 6 forward, 1 roverse Length (metres): 5.4 Speed (km/hr): 40 Wiatn (metres): 293 Range (km) 160 Height (metres): 1.98 Radio: FuG15 or FuGt6 ‘Armament: One 75m StuK37 L/24 Traverse: 12" left 12" ight (hand) Elevation: — 10" +20" Sight: RDIS2 ‘Ammunition: 44 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Re: Superstructure 50/10" 30/0°+ 30/30" 9/30" 20/0" ‘Top/Bottom 11/78"=90" & 7/85" 20/30" +16/00" 10" Hull 60/21 (Gun mantiet 50/15" History: The Aust B was the 2nd and 3rd Series of the StuG, ditfering from the previous model by improvements to the drive train Specific features: Improvements wore. made to tho. ignition system, land a synehromesh transmission replaced the pre-solective type used inthe Aus! A. The 3rd Series of the Aust B production had a new shespoke drive sprocket, and an cight-spoke idler, designed for the wider 4Oom track’ The remainder of the vehicle was unchanged Combat service: By the end of 1940, the number of Sturmariliere batteries had been raised to seven, and four ascaultarilary detach: monts, each with three batteries had been formed. Additional assault artillery detachments equipped with Aust B wore formed early in 194% ‘The 2nd Sturmarillerie Abteilung was present during the Balkans campaign, and the 6th Abteilung advanced into Russian territory in Sune 1984 SS cae ice Sen Patan 207208, SG Gepanzerter Selbstfahrlafette fiir Sturmgeschiitz 7.5cm Kanone Ausf C und D (Sd Kfz 142) Other designations: StuG Ausf C und D, 4 und 5 Serie Type: Assault gun Manutacturer: Alkett Chassis Nos. 90581-90750 50 Ausf C and 150 Aust D produced trom May to September 1941 Crew: 4 Engine: Maybach HLI20TRM Weight (tons): 20.2 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 5:4 Speed (km/hr): 40 wiath (metres): 2.93, Range (km): 160 Height (metres): 1.98 Radio: FuGi5 or FuGi6 ‘Armament: One 7.5em StuK37 L/24 Traverse: 12" left 12° right (hand) Elovation: 10" +20" Sight: Roits2 ‘Ammunition: 44 50 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Superstructure: 50/10" 30/0" + 30/90" 11/89"-90" & 9/30" 17/85 Hu 50/21" 30/0" 30/30°+ 16/90 10° Gun mantiet: so/ts Series of production was the Aust C, and the Sth Sories, the Aust D. Both models featured an improved superstructure esion Specific features: A now superstructure dosign was introduced with the Aust C. The main changes were the elimination of the ditect vision ort for the gunners sight. he redesigning of the root hatch above the gunner to allow tho gun sight to be raised beside the closed hatch, and a diferent armour layout forthe front of the superstructureWith the Aust D, a percentage of the production were built as com Iranders vehicies by adding an armoured pannier to the right side of the supersiucture, of @ similar design to the pannier on the left Superstuctdre sido of all Aust AD. Combat service: The Aust C and D wore used to replace the frontline losses of 105 aeeault guns which had occurred in 1941, and to equip additional Sturmartillerie detachments. Three Aust D found theit way to North Africa with the Abt zB v 268 (Detachment for Special Em ployment 288) early in 1942, seeing action in the enveloping attack ‘around the Gazala position, and the capture of Tobruk. en 208280, Cormuave to of 1 At Co int and SG At Gepanzerter Selbstfahrlafette fiir Sturmgeschiitz 7.5cem Kanone Ausf E (Sd Kfz 142) Other designations: StuG Ausf E, 6 Serie Type: Assault gun Manufacturer: Alkett CChassie Nos: 90761-91036 272 produced trom Seplember 1981 to March 1942 Crew: 4 Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 20.8 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 54 Speed (km/nr) 40 Wisth (metres): 2.99, Range (km): 160 Height (motres): 198 Radio! FuGIS or FuGi6 Armament: One 7.Sem SwKST L/24 One 7.92mm MG34 Traverse: 12° loft 12" ight (Rand) loose Elevation: —10" +20 loose Sight: Rots2 airect ‘munition: 44(50) 00 Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Superstructure: 50/10" 30/0" 30/30 wi Te-90" & 17/88 ut s0/21- 30/0" 30/30°+ 10° 16/90 Gun mantle, 50/15" History: The Aust E was part of the 6th Series of StuG_ production Original plans were for 800 StuG in this series, But the Aus! E produc fion was. cut back with the introduction of the long StuK40 in 1942, (ne Aust E was Used a8 a prototype for this long gun, while a second Ast E was used for the StuH prototype. Twelve further Aust E chassis fod for the StUIGSIB, lures: The major improvement in the Aust & was the addi jimoured pannier on the right side of the superstructure ‘tuG in this Series. Both tho right and left panniors were longer than those on previous models. ‘The 9mm slanted armour plates on the superstructure sides of previous Aust wore discontinued. Another Plate 25. 1G HH Aust Cistinguishing feature of the Aust E were the small hinges for the Glacis hatches. replacing the bulky hinges used on previous Ausf The fire power of the StuG was increased by the addition of an MG34, which was stowed internally. The SIuG was not provided with @ mount or gun shield for the MG36, To bring the automatic weapon Into fection. the crew member was exposed above the hatch, Combat service: ‘A fow new production Aust E went to additional Sturmgeschitz detachments, but most wore used to replace frontline losses. In early July 1982, there were 619 StuG Aust A-E listed 2s, combat ready. By early July 1043, ths total had boon reduced to 142, ‘Aust AE of which. only 37 were with units a the front PANZERKAMPFWAGEN III AND VARIANTS 817.5cm Sturmgeschitz 40 Ausf F (Sd Kfz 142/1) Other designations: StuG Ausf F, 6 und 7 Serie Type: Assault gun / tank destroyer Manufacturer: Alkstt '359 produced from March to September 1942 plus 1 prototype Chassis Nos 91037-91400 Crew: 4 Weight (tone): 21.8, Length (metres): 6.31 ‘wiatn (metres): 292 Height (metres): 2.15, ‘Atmament: One 7.5em StuKéO a9 or L748 10° lott 10° right (hand) 6" +20" Sight: S1ZFta Ammunition: 44 Armour (mm/angle): Front Superstructure: 50 or 50+ 20/10" Hult 50 or 50+ 30/21 Gun mantit: 50/0" History: On 28 Soptember 1941 Engine: Maybach HLI20TRM Goarbox: 8 Yorward, 1 reverse Speed (km/hr): 40 Range (km): 140 Radio: FuGIS or FuGT6 (One 7.92mm MG34 direct 00 Side Rear Top/Bottom 30/10" 90/30" 11/78"-90" & 7/89" 30/0" 30/20" + 16/90 10 so 30/90" 4 latter trom the OKW (Oderkom. mando. der Wehrmacht™=Wehrmacht High Command) to the OKH (Oberkommando dee Heeres—Army High Command) stated thal Hiller Fequested that the armour of the StuG be increased, and that a larger 75cm Kanone be mounted. These improvements were to be made as ‘uickly as possible in order to regain superiority over the new types Sf enemy tanks (speciically KV=1- and T-34). This request resulted In the Aust F, with the long StUK40, finiehing the 6th Series from March to July 1342, and the 7th Series from July to September 1942, ‘Additional armour fiting started in June 1942, and continued tor the rest of the Ausf F production, so that 182 had the Zusatz Panzorung (adational armour). Thirty-one Aust F were fitted with the L/48 gun. Specific features: The Aust F retained the same hull and superstruc ture as the Aust E with the exception of a new modification to tho superstructure roof by the addition of an exhaust fan to remove oun fumes. Early In the production series, the upper front of the super structure was modified to improve protection. The 7.5cm StuK40 was mounted in the same position as the StuK37, But the gun mantiot had been redesigned to contain the larger recoil mechanism of the larger oun Pts 252.254, S16 I Aust F Combat service: The Aust F were issued mainly to Sturmgoschutz detachments, already at the front. Their appearance gave the front Tine troope an effective antitank weapon which could oasily defeat the Russian KV-1 and T-34, The Aust F were also issued to t ‘nowlyormed F SK! Kp 312, S13 and 314 (Remote-Controlied Dem tion Units) and to the Sturmgeschitz detachments of the Hermann Goring Division, 2 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTS.7.5cm Sturmgeschiitz 40 Ausf F/8 (Sd Kfz 142/1) Other designations: StuG Aust F/8, 8 Serie Type: Assault gun / tank destroyer Manufacturer: Alkett Chassis Nos: 91401-91750 {$34 produced trom September to December 1942 Grew: 4 Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tons): 23:2 Gearbox: 6 forward, | reverse Length (metres): 6.77 Speed (km/hr): 40 wiath (motes): 292 Range (km): 140 Height (metres): 2.15, Radio: FuGIS or FuGt6 ‘Armament: One 7.Sem Stuk40 One 7.92mm NGS4 “Traverse: 10° lett 10° right (hand) loose Elevation: —6" +20 loose Sight, SIZFIa direct ‘Ammunition: 46 00 Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom Suporstrucure: "90/10" 30/0" 30/30" 11/78"-90" & 17785 Hut 504-90/21" 30/0" 50/90" 16/90 Gun mantiet $0/0" 30/17 30/90 History: The Aust F/8 was the &th Series of the StuG production. The Basie design change was the improvement of the hull. Four Aust F/8 were converted to SWHA2, and twelve chassis were used for the Suiosse, Specific features: The same hull design had been maintained trom the Aust Ato F. This was changed in the Aust F/B by the introduction of fan improved full "design ‘similar to that used tor the Pz Kptw ill Aust'J and L. The side plates were extended past the front plate, Wwith holes. drilled to provide towing brackets. The rear dock was ‘extended farther to the rear, and the airlouvre design was altered to Improve. ventilation. The tear hull armour thickness. was increased from 30mm to. 50mm, and all Aust F/B had the additional 30mm armour bolted to the Wont of the hull and superstructure. During 1942, with increased demand for the StuG_in preference to the Pz Kptw Ill, Alkett ceased production of the latter and concentrated on the ‘StuG. As a result, a proportion of the Aust F/B were built on Pe Kptw ‘il type hulls, which can be identified by the singlepiece forward opening hateh over the final drive Combat service: Some expansion of new Sturmgeschutz detachments Continued in the autumn and winter of 1942. But again, most Aust F/@ were used to replace losses. in existing units. In addition to the independent units “under “Army control, the Lolbstandarte Adolt Hitler. Das Reich, Totenkopf and Grossdeutschland Divisions each received @ Sturmgesehute detachment. or had their Sturmgeschatz company expanded to detachment strength and equipped with Aust F PANZERKAMPFWAGEN III AND VARIANTS 63.7.5cm Sturmgeschitz 40 Ausf G (Sd Kfz 142/1) Other designation: StuG Il Aust G Type: Assault gun / tank destroyer Manufacturer: Aikett, MIAG Chassis Nos.: 76101-77550, 91751-94250, 95001, 105001— 7.720 produced from December 1942 to March 1945 plus 173 converted ‘rom Pe Kptw il in 1984 crow: 4 Weight (tons): 28.9 Length (metres): 6.77 Wiath (metres): 2.95 Height (metres): 2.16 Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Speed (km/hr): 40 Range (km): 155, Radio: FuGis & FuG16 One 7.92mm MG34 ‘Armament: One 75cm One oF two 7.92mm ‘stuk@o L/43 mess" or MG&2 Traverse: 10° left loose 10" right (hand) Elevation: — 6" +20 loose Sight) SIZFta direct ‘Ammunition: 54 600 ‘Armour (mm/angle): Front Side Rear Top/Bottom ‘Superstrvcture: 50430 0° 30/11" 30/0" ¥nt7/TS'-90 80/10 ut 50+30 or 30/0" 50/10" 16/90 80/21 Gun mantit sors 90/17 30/90" "£3070 80/Saukoptblende “Late production only History: The Aust G was the last production series of the StuG. Roll ing off the assemblyine in December 1942, the Aust G was produced Unt the end of the war, with no major design changes. In 1942. the ddocision was made to use Pz Kptw Ill Fgat for StuG production, since the Pz Kplw Ill-was being phased out and replaced by the Panther In-responso to this roquest, 165 Pz Kptw ill Aust M Fast were used as chassis for StuG Aus! G, with production trom February to November 1943. In 1944, 173. Pz Kptw Ill, relumed to the factory for overhaul, were converted to SiG Aust G. Speci features: The hull of the Aust G remained unaltered trom the design used for the Aust F/8, The main design changes wore to the superstructure, The rool was allered, and a cupola with periscopes ‘was added for the commander, and a shield for the machine-gun was installed in front of the loader’s hatch. The superstructure sides were ‘ow slanted, and slanted plates wore added to protect tho front of bath panniers. Various improvements. were instituted during the pro duction run, including introduction of the Saukopt (son's ead) gun mantiet late in 1943. the coaxial machine-gun early in 1944, and the Nanverteidigungswatie (close-in defence weapon) and remote-control machine-gun to the superstructure roof late in spring 1944. Vehicles Iksued 10 Funklonk ‘Kompanion (Remote-Contiol Companies) were fied with an additional radio aerial on the left front of the fighting compartment root 84 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN. AND VARIANTS Combat service: Twenty-eight independent Sturmgeschitz detach ments, four divisional Sturmgeschutz detachments, two 2nd_Funklenk companies and twelve Sturmgeschitz platoons (with Luftwatle Field Divisions) were at the front in Russia at the start of tho Kursk offensive. From the start of the war, the use of the assault-gun spread from Sturmgeschutz detachments 10 the other types of formations Including "Panzer detachments, Parzerjager detachments and Funklenk companies and detachments ates 257268. SG ast Noten Pw 258, foo Suc aust Oomth10.5cm Sturmhaubitze 42 (Sd Kfz 142/2) Other designation: StuH42 90/0" 50/10" 16/90 20/17 30/90 PANZERKAMPFWAGEN I AND VARIANTS 85Specific features: The StuH42 had the same hull and superstructure as the StuG Aust F, F/8 and G, upon which It was based. During the production serigs, as. improvements were made in the Stu [Aust"G, these same improvements were mada on the StuHe2. The basic ditferonce betwoon the StuH and StuG, was ed gun ‘mount to take the 10.5em StuH, and altered internal storage for the larger rounds. Combat service: From 1943, StuH were issued to many of the Sturm geechite detachments later renamed Sturmgaschute brigades. Esch detachment equipped with these vehicles received nine StuH42 which they used to support the SIuGAO, to provide Neavier destructive tire ower and to supplement antitank defence. At the start of the Kursk Dtlensve, sixieight StH82 were with Army Groups Centra and South ft the front in Russia, Pat 283 late model of Sure without maze take, a itie’ nth the emote onal machine gr Pat 24 ht). Sted based onthe St laa, ni Seep! gun mont. s 28 Sturmgeschiitz III (Fl) Other designation: StuG (FI) Type: Flame-thrower on assault gun chassis 10 converted in May and June 1943 Crew: 4 Engine: Maybach HL120TAM Woignt (tons): 29 Goarbox! 6 Yorward, 1 reverse Length (metres): 9.82 Speed (ien/hr)s 40 wth (metres): 295 Range {km} 155 Height {metres}: 26 Radio: Fuas Armament: One ‘4mm Flammen- One 7.2mm MG34 wertor Traverse: 10° lft 10" right (hand) loose Elvaton: "0" +20 loose Sign: direct ‘Ammunition 800 Armour (mm/ange): Front Side Rear. _Top/Bottom Suporetructre: Sor'a0/s0° ao/ts* 90/0" HetT/ 78-80" Hal S0+a0/21" 80/0" S0/t0" 18/00" Sturminfanteriegeschiitz 33B ‘Type: Assault infantry gun Manutscturer: Alket Chassis Nos: 90751-81036, 91401-01750 24 preduced from Decembor 1941 to October 1942 Crew: 5 Engine: Maybach HL120TRM Weight (tone): 21 Gearbox: 6 forward, 1 reverse Longth (motres):.§.4 ‘Speed (km/hr): 20 Wists (metces): 2.9, Height (metres): 2:3 ‘Armament: One 160m Stu |G L/11 One 7.92mm MG34 Range (km): 110 Radio: FuG Spr 4 Traverse: 3° left" right (hand) 15" left 20" right (hand) Elevation: 3" +25 —10" +20 Sight: FbI96 + S1IZF1 kazr2 ‘Ammunition: 30 800 [Armour (mm/angle):Front Side Rear ——_‘Top/Bottom Superstructure: 80/10 50/25" 15/0" 10/00" + a7"-90 Hut: 90450 0r 50/21" 30/0" 3o0r 16790" Gun mantiet: 30/10) 50/10 86 © PANZERKAMPFWAGEN Ill AND VARIANTS History: In December 1942, plans were made to increase Sturmge Schutz Ill production by utilizing the chassis already on order for the Pe Kptw Ill, With the ending of the Pz Kpfw Ill production, only 100 fanks would be available for manufacture as Flammpanzor (flame throwing vehicle), and it was decided that of the 220 Sturmgeschatz to be delivered in June 1943, ton would bo armed with the Flammen- werter.(Vlamesthrower). Only these ten were eventually converted Speeitic features: Tho Sturmkanone (assaultgun) was replaced by the Flammenwerier, and flame fuel tanks were filed, but otherwise, fs for Sturmgescnitz Ill, from which they were converted. The only Dhotographie evidence of these Flammenwerfor shows a unit com- Yerted trom a StUG Ill Aust F/8. Pate 285, Set