Nashorn

In the winter of 1941, German designers decided to utilize either Panzer III’s or Panzer IV’s chassis for anti-tank gun carrier. Since Panzer III and IV’s chassis was not suited to be a self-propelled mount, the idea of using them was rejected. Instead Alkett’s newly developed special chassis by Alkett - Geschutzwagen (gun carriage) III/IV was used. It combined components of both PzKpfw III (mainly Ausf J - engine, fuel pump, driving and steering mechanism) and PzKpfw IV (mainly Ausf F - suspension).

In February of 1942, Alkett designed new Panzerjager "Hornisse" (Hornet) armed with 88mm Pak 43/1 L/71 gun based on Geschutzwagen III/IV. The main gun was identical to the towed version of 88mm Pak 43/41 anti-tank gun, but adapted to be mounted in an armored fighting vehicle. In late 1942, Nashorn’s chassis and hull was used in the development of Hummel (Sd.Kfz.165). The engine was moved to the center and the hull was lengthened to allow adequate room and weight distribution for the long-barreled 88mm gun. Because of the gun’s great weight and the limited capacity of the chassis components, only light armor protection for the crew of 4(5) was provided.

Panzerjager Nashorn

In October of 1942, soft steel model was presented to Adolf Hitler, who accepted it and expected production to start by May of 1943.

In the early 1944, the arrangement of the driver front plate was changed during production, creating two different models. The main gun remained the powerful 88mm Pak 43/1 L/71. On February 24th (or 27th) of 1944, by Hitler’s order, second never model was named Nashorn (Rhinoceros). Hornisse and Nashorn were almost identical with the only difference being the driver front plate and gun version (unnoticeable). Despite their inadequate armor protection, they both provided the much needed mobility for the long-barreled 88mm anti-tank gun. Limited space provided in the fighting compartment allowed storage space for only 24 to 40 rounds. Hornisse and Nashorn’s crew traveled in an open-top fighting compartment with all its weather-related disadvantages. Protection against the weather could be provided by canvas covers. Both models lacked a machine gun in the hull, so single MG34 or MG42 was carried inside the fighting compartment for local defense. From February of 1943 to March of 1945, only 474 Nashorns and 20 Hornisses were produced. Both models were designed by Alkett and produced by Deutsche Eisenwerke in Tieplitz-Schonau.

Both models were issued to the schwere Panzerjager Abteilungens and had their debut during the Kursk Offensive with 560 sPzJagAbt and 655th sPzJagAbt and with 525 sPzJagAbt in Italy. Even with their light armor protection and high silhoutte but powerful armament, they proved to be successful tank destroyers.

Panzerjager Nashorn Sd. Kfz. 164

Six schwere Panzerjager Abteilungens (560, 655, 525, 93, 519 and 88), each equipped with 30 Nashorns, were created and saw service on all fronts (e.g. 525th schwere Panzerjaeger Abteilung in Italy, 1944). Each Abteilung was composed of command company and 2 to 3 companies with 4 platoons each. Each company had 14 to 17 Nashorn and each platoon had 4 to 5 Nashorns.

Eventually, Nashorns were replaced by the new generation of more powerful and better armored Panzerjagers like Jagdpanzer IV and Panzerjager V Jagdpanther but remained in service to the end of the war.

Nashorn in Action !

The most notable Nashorn ace was platoon commander of 1st company of sPzJagAbt 519, Junior Lieutenant Albert Ernst. He later commanded the 1st company of sPzJagAbt 512 (equipped with Jagdtigers). On December 23rd of 1943, he destroyed some 14 Soviet tanks in a single day using only 21 round of ammunition. The engagement took place near Vitebsk and Albert Ernst received a nickname "Tiger of Vitebsk". In December of 1943, Ernst destroyed total of 19 enemy tanks and on January 22nd of 1944, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross.

It is reported that in early March of 1945, Lieutenant Beckmann from sPzJagAbt 88 destroyed Soviet IS-2 at the range of 4600 meters near Marzdorf.

Some Nashorn crews reported that they were able to knock out Soviet T-34 tanks at distance as great as 4000 meters. Nashorn crews also reported numerous kills of KV and IS-2 tanks as well as SU-152, ISU-122 and ISU-152 assault guns. Nashorn from 2nd Company of schwere Heeres Panzer Jaeger Abteilung 93 was also responsible for the destruction of the only M26 Pershing, destroyed in Europe. Pershing from the 3rd Armored Division was knocked out at the distance of 250 meters with a single shot. This engagement took place in the town of Niehl, north of Cologne on March 6th of 1945.

Nashorn Interior Nashorn - Interior with 88mm Pak 43/1 L/71 gun.

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Glossary

A

Zugkraftwagen (Zgkw) - prime mover/semi-tracked vehicle

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GO BACK TO ACHTUNG PANZER !

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Panzerkampfwagen I
Sd. Kfz. 101

Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf B

In 1931, Major-General Oswald Lutz was appointed the "Inspector of Motor Transport" in the German Army (Reichswehr) with Heinz Guderian as his Chief of Staff. Both realized the need for creation of German Armored Forces and light training tank to train future personnel of Panzer Divisions. In 1932, specifications for light (5-ton) tank were made and issued to Rheinmetall, Krupp, Henschel, MAN and Daimler Benz. The designers work was based on experiences from co-operation with Swedish Landsverk Company and previous "secret" projects.

In 1933, the Heereswaffenamt ordered the development of Kleintraktor - an armored vehicle between 4 and 7 tons in weight. It was designated La.S (Landwirtschaftlicher Schlepper / LaS - agricultural tractor) to hide its true purpose from the Treaty of Versailles. Rheinmetall, Krupp, Henschel, MAN and Daimler Benz submitted their prototypes which were very similar to each other but Krupp’s design of Krupp-Traktor was selected.

It’s design was partially based on British Carden Loyd Mk.IV tankette chassis of which two were secretly purchased from Russia in 1932. In late 1920s and early 1930s, Germans closely co-operated with Russians in the development of armored vehicles at Kama, near Kazan in USSR. Russia purchased two Carden Loyd Mk.IV tankettes from Great Britain in 1929, and based on its design produced T-27 tankette. Krupp’s design was then once again modified and in the Summer of 1933, five LaS chassis produced were tested at Kummersdorf. It was then decided to mount Krupp’s chassis with Daimler-Benz’s superstructure and turret.

After further tests in February of 1934, improved LKA 1 (LaS) designated as PzKpfw I Ausf A entered production in April of 1934. Originally, Ausf A was known as MG Panzerwagen - Versuchkraftfahrzeug 617, before it entered production as Ausf A. In April, 15 PzKpfw I Ausf A were produced and all were presented to Adolf Hitler by Heinz Guderian.

Panzerkampfwagen I was produced in two main very similar variants Ausf A (1934) and Ausf B (1935), which had different suspensions and engines. Ausf A was produced from July of 1934 to June of 1936 , while Ausf B was produced from August of 1935 to June of 1937. Both were produced by Henschel, MAN, Krupp-Gruson and Daimler-Benz. Ausf A proved to be underpowered and its very loud 57hp Krupp engine overheated and Ausf B with its 100hp Maybach engine was an improved version of Ausf A. Both models had identical turret and superstructure but Ausf B was longer (additional roadwheel) and had new modified engine deck (new engine). Both variants were operated by two men crew - a driver and a commander/gunner. The main armament consisted of two 7.92mm MG13 Dreyse (medium) machine guns with rate of fire of 650 rounds per minute.

In 1935/36, Panzer I Ausf A was experimentally mounted with Krupp M601 diesel engine, but it could only produce 45hp of power, and the idea of diesel powered vehicle was rejected.

Krupp's L.K.A.1 (Leichte Kampfwagen Ausland) export light tank.

In 1935, Krupp started work on Leichte Kampfwagen Ausland light tank destined for export following guidelines by Waffenamt. In 1936, Krupp designed Leichte Kampfwagen Ausland, which was modelled after Panzerkampfwagen I. Two versions were to be produced: L.K.A.1 - M.G.-Kampfwagen (also known as M.G. K.A. / L-10) and L.K.A.2 - 2 cm Kampfwagen (also known as 2 cm K.A. / L-20). Krupp also designed version of L.K.A.2 with heavier armor designated 2 cm K.A.v. but it was decided to base it on medium tank m.K.A. The devopment continued until 1940, including medium tank m.K.A. (also known as 4.5cm K.A.v. / M-10) armed with 45mm KwK L/50 gun. Entire program never reached a production stage and was ended.

In 1935/36, Krupp also produced Leichte Kampfwagen B (L.K.B.) light tank for Bulgaria, which was a modified Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf B mounted with Krupp’s M 311 V-8 gasoline engine. Three modified versions - L.K.B. 1, 2 and 3 were produced along with 2 cm L.K.B. armed with 20mm automatic cannon. Just as the L.K.A program, no vehicles reached a production stage and entire program was ended.

Krupp's L.K.A.2 (Leichte Kampfwagen Ausland) export light tank

Both Ausf A and Ausf B were also produced as turretless tanks used for training purposes (PzKpfw I Ausf A ohne Aufbau) and as maintenance vehicles (PzKpfw I Ausf B ohne Aufbau). Eventually both vehicles were used as training vehicles.

In 1934, single example of PzKpfw I Ausf A was sold to Hungary. In 1942, Hungary probably purchased few more for training purposes. The most exotic user of PzKpfw I was Chiang Kai-shek’s National Government China, which purchased 15 PzKpfw I Ausf As in late 1936 (along with other German equipment). Also, it is reported that small number was exported to Finland. Possibly, PzKpfw Is also equipped Croatian Army.

Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf A on display in Spain

In the background, Italian Carro Veloce 33/35 tankette also used by Spain.
Photo provided by Dionisio Garcia Florez.

Its debut (combat test) was during Spanish Civil War (1936-38). First 32 PzKpfw I along with single Kleiner Panzer Befehlswagen I arrived in October of 1936. Only 106 tanks, (102 Ausf A, Ausf B and 4 Kleiner Panzer Befehlswagen I) saw service with "Condor Legion" (Major Ritter von Thoma’s Panzer Abteilung 88 also known as Abteilung Drohne) and General Franco’s "Nationalists". Pz.Abt.88 with its 3 companies was based at Cubas near Toledo, where German instructors trained future Spanish crews, while the unit was used for training duties and combat (e.g. assault on Madrid). Panzerkampfwagen I tanks proved to be outclassed by Soviet T-26 and BT-5 provided to "The Republicans".

Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf B on display in Spain

Photo provided by Dionisio Garcia Florez.

Some Panzerkampfwagen I captured by "The Republicans" were rearmed with French Hotchkiss 25mm Model 1934 or 1937 anti-tank guns mounted in a modified turret (PzKpfw I Ausf. A mit 20mm Flak L/65 Breda Model 1935). During Spanish Civil War, PzKpfw I Ausf B was experimentally armed with Italian 20mm Breda Modello (model) 1935 light anti-aircraft gun mounted in a modified turret, in order to increase its combat potential. Some sources state that three tanks were converted that way.

PzKpfw I Ausf B armed with 20mm Breda gun Spanish Civil War

PzKpfw Is equipped two Nationalist tank battalions (Agrupacion de Carros) - 1st and 2nd Tank Battalion. German High Command used the opportunity of the Spanish Civil War to test their new weapons and tactics of Blitzkrieg. Its very thin armor offered only protection against small firearms and its twin MGs were no match for anything other than infantry units and proved completly useless in combat.

From 1942 to 1943, all existing PzKpfw I tanks in service were converted to load carriers mounted with a large steel box in place of an removed turret and superstructure, while some only had the turrets removed. They were used as ammunition carriers and designated as Munitionsschlepper Auf Panzerkampfwagen Ia und Ib (SdKfz3III). They remained in service even after 1943.

Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf F heavily armored infantry assault tank

The vehicle was sometimes referred to as "Little Tiger".

 

Since late 1938, it was realized that Panzerkampfwagen I did not have any potential as a combat tank and further development of it into a fast reconnaissance and light infantry tank was started. Both Ausf C and Ausf F were completely new designs sharing only limited number of components with standard Panzer I Ausf B. PzKpfw I Ausf C - neuer Art (VK 601) was a fast light reconnaissance tank. It was produced by Krauss-Maffei and Daimler-Benz from late 1942 to early 1943 with only 40(46) being produced. Ausf D - neuer Art verstarkt (VK 602) was an up-armored and improved version of Ausf C produced in limited number. Panzer I Ausf F - neuer Art verstarkt (up-armored new model) (VK 1801) was a heavily armored infantry assault tank. It was produced by Daimler-Benz and Krauss-Maffei from April of 1942 to January of 1943 with only 30 being produced. In May of 1942, 5 Ausf F were issued to 1st Company of Pz.Abt.z.b.V.66 to be used originaly during invasion of Crete (Operation Herkules), but instead were sent to near Leningrad in Russia. In Russia, 1st Company of Pz.Abt.z.b.V.66 was attached to 29th Panzer Regiment of 12th Panzer Division, where they remained in small number till July of 1943. In May of 1943, 5 Ausf F were issued to 2nd Polizei Panzer Company (neu) from Vienna, which was transfered to the Eastern Front. All tanks were lost by August of 1944. In March of 1943, 2 Ausf C and 8 Ausf F were issued to 1st Panzer Regiment of 1st Panzer Division and saw service in Russia, Yugoslavia and Greece to the end of the year. Some 38 PzKpfw I Ausf C were assigned to reserve units of the LVIII Panzer Corps and ended up in Normandy, where they were lost in 1944. Ausf C/D/F never entered full production. Today, PzKpfw I Ausf F from 1st Panzer Division captured in 1943 can be seen in the Museum of Armored Forces in Kubinka (near Moscow) in Russia and second one at the Kalemagdan Fortress in Belgrade, Serbia.

PzKpfw I Ausf F

In 1939/40, 100 of PzKpfw I Ausf A/B were converted into Ladungsleger I (Ladungsleger auf Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf A or B / zerstorerpanzer) - 50kg explosive charge layer vehicle. Two variants existed and differed only in the equipment used for the delivery of the charge. They were especially designed for engineer units to provide them with the charge carrier for delayed action explosives and saw combat service during the Blitzkrieg in the West (e.g. with 7th Panzer Division) and then some in Russia.

Ladungsleger I from 7th Panzer Division

The most interesting conversion based on modified PzKpfw I Ausf A was Flakpanzer I (Sd.Kfz.101) armed with 20mm Flak 38 L/112.5 gun. It was mostlikely based on modified Munitionsschlepper I Ausf A (Sd.Kfz.111) - light ammunition carrier. The gun was mounted on the floor in place of the original turret. The chassis was overloaded and engines were used up leading to poor performance. Approximately, 24 were produced in early 1941 by Alkett in Berlin and all equipped three batteries (each equipped with 8 vehicles) of 614th Flak Abteilung. In addition, each battery had 8 Munitionsschlepper I Ausf A (Sd.Kfz.111) ammunition carriers. Last of those interesting conversions was lost at Stalingrad in January of 1943. Along with Flakpanzer I, there was also PzKpfw I modified and mounted with 15mm MG 151/15 Drilling heavy machine gun. It was captured on the Eastern Front in 1943.

Flakpanzer I, 614th Flak Abteilung, January 1942, Ukraine

Panzer I was extensively used in pre-war maneuvers and propaganda events (e.g. Nuremberg Rallies) and then during Polish, Western European and African Campaigns. PzKpfw I was the main tank of the German army during the Polish Campaign and some 1445 were in service (approx. 50% of all tanks in service). PzKpfw Is which were sent to Africa were equipped with larger filters and were equipped with improved ventilation system.

During African campaign, small number of Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf As was converted in the field by Africa Korps (5th Light Division) during Battle of Tobruk in 1941 into Flammenwerfer auf Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf A (a similar conversion was done to Ausf Bs during Spanish Civil War). It was armed with light portable infantry Flammenwerfer (flamethrower model) 40 and MG (in place of right hand machine gun). Some 10 to 12 bursts could be fired with a range of 25m.

 

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Variants of Panzerkampfwagen I (Sd.Kfz.101)
Ausf A (July 1934 - June 1936)	2 x MG13 Dreyse (7.92mm), 57hp Krupp M305 (Boxer) engine, 4 road wheels & 3 return rollers.
Ausf B (August 1935 - June 1937)	2 x MG13 Dreyse (7.92mm), 100hp Maybach NL 38 TR engine, 5 road wheels & 4 return rollers. lengthened and redesigned rear hull.
Ausf A/B (1935-1937) Befehlswagen/Command Tank	1 x MG13 Dreyse or MG34 (7.92mm), 57hp Krupp M305 (Boxer) engine - Ausf A, 100hp Maybach NL 38 TR engine - Ausf B, 4 road wheels & 3 return rollers - Ausf A, 5 road wheels & 4 return rollers - Ausf B.
Ausf C (nA) (July 1942 - December 1942)	20mm EW141 gun / MG34 (7.92mm) 150hp Maybach HL 45 P engine, fast reconnaissance tank, airborne tank (Messerschmitt ME 321 Gigant).
Ausf D (nA verst) (1942-1943)	20mm EW141 gun / MG34 (7.92mm) 180hp Maybach HL 66 P engine, up-armored fast reconnaissance / infantry support tank.
Ausf F (nA verst) (April 1942 - January 1943)	2 x MG34 (7.92mm) 150hp Maybach HL 45 P engine, up-armored fast reconnaissance / infantry support / assault tank.

 

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Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf C

Panzerkampfwagen I was a little tank that was designed as light training tank for the pre-war Panzer Divisions never intended to be be used in combat conditions but was used as a light combat tank until 1942. It was cheap, fast and maneuverable but its armor and armament were both very weak, because of its original design capabilities. It was Germany’s first mass produced armored fighting vehicle. In the early 1942, Panzerkampfwagen Is were taken out of service and were handed over to the Police and Anti-partisan units. Panzer Is without superstructures were handed over to para-military organizations such as NSKK (National Socialist Motor Corps) for training purposes. 511 of PzKpfw I turrets were used in fortifications of Atlantic Wall, Pomeranian Wall and in the Kostrzyn area.

PzKpfw I was also a propaganda tool being everywhere from military parade through NSDAP rally to celebration of any kind. It was a show piece of the Third Reich and its military might in the years leading to beginning of WWII.

Lesson learned from Panzerkampfwagen I provided the German designers and manufacturers with valuable experience in designing and producing next generation of new panzers that were soon to come. Although, Panzerkampfwagen I was not truly valuable combat tank, it proved to be an excellent training tank and most of the panzer crews were trained on Panzerkampfwagen I until the end of the war or operated it in combat as their first armoured vehicle.

 

Model:	Production Period:	Number of PzKpfw I Produced:
Ausf A	1934-1936	818
Ausf B	1935-1937	675
Ausf C (VK 601)	1942-1943	40
Ausf D (VK 602)	1942-1943	prototype stage
Ausf F (VK 1801)	1942-1943	30

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Panzer-Befehlswagen I Ausf B

Kleiner Panzer Befehlswagen I (Sd.Kfz.265)

This small/light command vehicle was conceived in 1935 by Krupp and was based on Panzer I Ausf B chassis (only 6 were based on Panzer I Ausf A chassis / 1 Kl A / and differed from those based on Ausf B - e.g. lack of armament) and components. From 1935 to 1937 by Daimler-Benz with total number of 190 produced. Two slightly different versions based on Ausf B were produced - 2 Kl B and 3 Kl B, both mounted with two radios - Fu2 and Fu6. They were operated by three men crews. Versions based on Ausf B were later fitted with commander’s cupolas - two types early and late. After the Polish Campaign of 1939, some number was converted to Sanitatskraftwagen I (Sd.Kfz.265) - armoured ambulance, which served in the French Campaign of 1940. Also after the Polish Campaign overall armor protection was increased. Kleiner Panzer Befehlswagen I remained in service until 1941/42, when it was replaced by other command vehicles. Some were also used as radio control vehicles for Minenraeum-Wagen BI/BII (Sd.Kfz.300). Small number was also exported to Hungary. Today, Kleiner Panzer Befehlswagen I can be seen in The Tank Museum in Bovington, UK.

Panzer-Befehlswagen I Ausf B - Gallery

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Panzerjager I (Sd.Kfz.101)(4.7cm PaK(t) (Sf) auf Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf B)

It was armed with Czech 47mm Pak(t) 36 L/43.4 (Skoda 47mm A-5 P.U.V vz.36 gun), operated by the crew of three and build on PzKpfw I Ausf B’s chassis. Crew was protected only by a gun shield, open at the top and rear. The gun had limited traverse of 15 degrees. 86 rounds of ammunition were carried. Originally, it was intended to use 50mm Pak 38 gun but it was not yet ready for production. From March 1940 to February 1941, 202 were converted by Daimler-Benz, Skoda and Alkett. 132 were produced in three series (40, 50 and 42) from March to May of 1940 by Alkett, followed by 70 produced by February of 1941 by Skoda. Two versions can be distinguished by the number of sides of the gun shield. Those produced by Skoda had seven sides and by Alkett five sides. Small number was also armed with 37mm Pak 35/36 L/45 (with original gun shield) guns mounted directly on the hull in place of a removed turret. They proved inefective and rapidly disappeared because of their inadequate fire power, although some remained in service as late as 1943. Panzerjager I saw service in the West, North Africa and Russia with Panzerjager Abteilungs (e.g. 521st, 605th, 616th, 643rd and 670th Panzerjaeger Abteilung in France, 1940). It is reported that few were armed with 50mm PaK 38 L/60 guns after 1940, but it is not confirmed. It was the first of many self-propelled anti-tank vehicles produced during the war.

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Sturmpanzer I Bison (Sd.Kfz.101)

(15cm sIG33(Sf) auf Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf B)

150mm sIG 33 L/11.4 heavy infantry gun (mortar) carrier was built on the unmodified chassis of PzKpfw I Ausf B. The vehicle was operated by the crew of five and only three rounds of high-explosive ammunition were carried. Only 3 crewmen rode in the vehicle, while the other two along with more ammunition rode in a halftrack. Crew was protected only by a large box-shaped gun shield (made up of three 10mm plates), open at the top and rear. Only 38 were converted in January/February of 1940 by Alkett in Berlin. The gun and superstructure overloaded the chassis leading to poor mobility. The idea behind this vehicle was to provide infantry with direct and mobile fire support unit. Sturmpanzer I saw service in the West, Balkans and Russia with 701-706 sIG(Sf) Kompanien - Heavy Infantry Gun Companies (each had 6 vehicles), originally attached to Panzer Divisions and then Panzer Corps. Last of them were taken out from service (with 704 Company of 5th Panzer Division) in late 1943. It was the first of many self-propelled support vehicles produced during the war.

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Specifications

Model:	Ausfuhrung A	Ausfuhrung B
Weight:	5300kg	5900kg
Crew:	2 men	2 men
Engine:	Krupp M305 (Boxer) / 4-cylinder / 57hp	Maybach NL38TR / 6-cylinder / 100hp
Speed:	37km/h	40km/h
Range:	Road: 145km / Cross-Country: 100km	Road: 170km / Cross-Country: 115km
Fuel Capacity:	144 litres	146 litres
Lenght:	4.02m	4.42m
Width:	2.06m	2.06m
Height:	1.72m	1.72m
Armament:	2 x MG13 Dreyse (7.92mm)	2 x MG13 Dreyse (7.92mm)
Ammo:	2250 rounds	2250 rounds
Armor (mm/angle):	Front Turret: 13/10 Front Upper Hull: 13/22 Front Lower Hull: 13/27 Side Turret: 13/22 Side Upper Hull: 13/22 Side Lower Hull: 13/0 Rear Turret: 13/22 Rear Upper Hull: 13/17 Rear Lower Hull: 13/15 Turret Top / Bottom: 8/82 Upper Hull Top / Bottom: 6/82 Lower Hull Top / Bottom: 6/90 Gun Mantlet: 13/round	Front Turret: 13/10 Front Upper Hull: 13/22 Front Lower Hull: 13/27 Side Turret: 13/22 Side Upper Hull: 13/22 Side Lower Hull: 13/0 Rear Turret: 13/22 Rear Upper Hull: 13/0 Rear Lower Hull: 13/19 Turret Top / Bottom: 8/82 Upper Hull Top / Bottom: 6/83 Lower Hull Top / Bottom: 6/90 Gun Mantlet: 13/round

 

Conversions

Munitionsschlepper I Ausf A (Sd.Kfz.111) - light ammunition carrier,

Munitionsschlepper I Ausf A/B - cargo/ammunition carrier,

Kleine Panzer Befehlswagen I (Sd.Kfz.265) - light command tank,

Sanitatskraftwagen I (Sd.Kfz.265) - armoured ambulance,

Pionier-Kampfwagen I - engineer tank,

Panzerjager I (Sd.Kfz.101) - 47mm Pak gun carrier,

Panzerjager I - 37mm Pak gun carrier,

Sturmpanzer I Bison (Sd.Kfz.101) - 150mm sIG 33 gun carrier,

Leichte Bergepanzer I - light recovery vehicle,

Instandsetzungstrupp I - troop carrier / recovery vehicle,

Fahreschulewagen / Schulfahrzeuge I - training tank,

Ladungsleger auf PzKpfw I Ausf A/B (zerstorerpanzer) - explosive charge layer,

Minenraumer I Ausf B - mine clearing vehicle (50 produced in 1938),

Brueckenleger I auf PzKpfw I Ausf A - light bridging vehicle (2 produced in 1939),

Flakpanzer I Ausf A (Sd.Kfz.101) - 20mm Flak 38 anti-aircraft tank,

Flammemwerfer auf PzKpfw I Ausf A - flamethrower tank,

 

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GO BACK !

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George Parada
Copyright@1996-2007

Panzer IV Ausf D

PzKpfw IV Ausf D from 5th company of 2nd Panzer Division
in Semois on May 12th of 1940.

The idea of the tank with all of the characteristics later incorporated in the development of Panzerkampfwagen IV was originally laid down in the early 1930 by Heinz Guderian. In 1934/35, Adolf Hitler ordered Krupp and Rheinmetall-Borsig (and MAN) to develop BW (Begleitwagen) vehicle. Specifications required overall weight to be 18 ton, top speed of 35km/h and 75mm gun as main armament. All companies produced prototypes, which in 1935/36 were tested under various conditions. Rheinmetall-Borsig BW - VK2001(Rh) used Neubaufahrzeug’s modified running gear, while Krupp’s BW - VK2001(K) and Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nurnberg AG’s VK2002(MAN) both used MAN’s newly designed running gear. MAN designed new interleaved suspension system but it was not accepted. Krupp concentrated on the development of the turret while MAN worked on the running gear - VK 2001(MAN). All vehicles had similar characteristics but after extensive tests Krupp’s design - VK 2001(K) was selected to enter full-scale production.

Rheinmetall-Borsig's Prototype.

VK 2001(Rh) - Rheinmetall-Borsig’s Prototype.

In 1935, Krupp after receiving order to produce its design, modified it by incorporating best features of existing designs. After further tests, Krupp was ready to start the production of Panzer IV Ausf A (Versuchkraftfahrzeug 622). The new vehicle featured suspension system composed of drive sprocket, idler and 8 road-wheels on each side of the hull that were paired together in 4 assemblies on each side of the hull. The assemblies were attached to longitudinal twin quarter-elliptic leaf springs bolted to the hull.Above the road-wheels were 4 (reduced to 3 in Ausf J) return rollers on each side of the hull. The vehicle was operated by five men crew composed of commander, gunner and loader in the turret and driver along with machine gunner / radio-operator in the front part of the hull. The communication between the crew was by the use of the intercom.First Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf A was built in October of 1937 by Krupp-Gruson and its production ended in March of 1938 with total of 35 produced. Ausf As were production / development prototypes and 5 were used for further testing while 30 saw combat service until 1941. In April of 1938, Ausf B was produced by Krupp-Gruson and until September of 1938, 42 were produced. Ausf Bs entered service in 1938 and served until late 1943. It featured modified turret and new one-piece front hull plate.

Ausf A was powered by Maybach HL 108 TR, 12 cylinder engine with total power of 300hp with ZF SRG75 5-speed transmission, while Ausf B was powered by Maybach HL 120 TR, 12 cylinder engine with total power of 300hp with ZF SSG75 6-speed transmission. In October of 1938, further development of PzKpfw IV evolved into Ausf C and until August of 1939, 134 produced by Krupp-Gruson. Some Ausf Cs remained in service until 1943. Late Ausf C models were powered by newer Maybach HL 120 TRM, 12 cylinder engine with total power of 300hp. This engine became a standard powerplant for all of the later models of Panzerkampfwagen IV series.

Panzer IV Ausf A

Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf A.

Overall early models (Ausf A/B/C) were development models and were mostly used for testing / training purposes while some were used in combat. In October of 1939, next variant Ausf D was produced by Krupp-Gruson and it was produced until May of 1941 with total of 229 produced. Panzer IV Ausf D was truly the first production model and remained in service until 1944. It featured new front hull plate design (as Ausf A) and new external gun mantlet.

In September of 1940, 233 of Panzerkampfwagen IV’s next variant Ausf E were produced by Krupp-Gruson until April of 1941. Ausf E was the first of Panzerkampfwagen IV fitted with turret mounted storage bins (Gepack Kasten).Very common were the canister/storage racks mounted at the rear of the hull.It featured new design driver’s visor, drive sprocket and commander’s cupola.

Hungarian Panzer IV

Hungarian Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf F(F1).
Photo provided by Dmitry Pyatakhin.

From mid 1937 to late 1940, attempts were made by Krupp and Daimler-Benz to standardize the production of Panzerkampfwagen III and Panzerkampfwagen IV (from Ausf C to Ausf E) and one prototype based on Panzer IV Ausf E with new large roadwheels and FAMO suspension was produced - PzKpfw IV Ausf E mit Schachtellaufwerk.

From April of 1941 to March of 1942, 487 of another variant Ausf F1(F) were producedby Krupp-Gruson along with Vomag and Nibelungenwerke. Ausf F1 was the last of Panzerkampfwagen IVs based on the short version chassis and armed with 75mm L/24 gun. In March of 1942, 25 of Ausf F1s were later converted to Ausf F2s. Ausf F also featured new turret design, drive sprocket and idler. Ausf F was also fitted with 400mm wide tracks instead of old 360mm wide one.Overall, Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf A to F1 were designated Sd.Kfz.161 and were all armed with short 75mm KwK 37 L/24 gun.

North Africa

Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf F2 in North Africa.

In March of 1942, next variant Ausf F2 was produced, followed by Ausf G in May.Current research shows that in reality designation Ausf F2 was not used whendescribing Ausf F armed with 75mm L/43 gun and instead tanks known as Ausf F2 were in fact early Ausf G tanks.Ausf F2 and Ausf G variants were based on the long version PzKpfw IV chassis and were armed with newer 75mm KwK 40 L/43 gun (that was able to compete with Soviet T-34s armed with 76.2mm gun). When encountered in North Africa, British nicknamed Ausf F2 (early Ausf G) - "Mark IV Special", since it was superior to any American or British tank at the time. The installation of the new gun increased the overall weight of the tank and reduced its speed.Both Ausf F(F1) and Ausf F2 were identical except for their armament.Ausf F2’s new 75mm L/43 gun was mounted with single baffle muzzle brake.

Panzer IV Ausf F2

Panzerkampfwagen IV (Special) Ausf F2
Panzer Grenadier Division "Grossdeutschland", Eastern Front, Summer of 1942.

Panzerkampfwagen IVs, which were sent to North Africa (1941-43), were equipped with additional tropical filters (Tp) and improved ventilation system. Only 200 Ausf F2s (including 25 converted Ausf F1s) and 1275 Ausf G were produced by Krupp-Gruson, Vomag and Nibelungenwerke. Both variants were designated Sd.Kfz.161/1. Since March of 1943, additional 412 Ausf Gs were produced armed with newer 75mm KwK 40 L/48 gun and were designated Sd.Kfz.161/2. Ausf G’s new 75mm gun was mounted with double baffle muzzle brakeLate models Ausf Gs were fitted with steel armor skirts and resembled early models of Ausf H. Ausf G featured new simplified design turret mounted with smoke grenade launchers.

Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf H entered production in April of 1943 as the ninth variant of Panzerkampfwagen IV tank family (9 Serie BW). This medium tank received a designation of Sd.Kfz.161/2. Production took place until July of 1944 and Ausf H reached the largest production figures of any Panzerkampfwagen IV model with 3774 produced by Krupp-Gruson AG in Magdeburg, Vomag AG in Plauen and Nibelungenwerke AG in St.Valentin. The last company produced the most of Ausf H tanks until it switched production to the next and final variant Ausf J. Chassis numbers for Ausf H were 84401 to approx.89540.

In December of 1942, Krupp was ordered to redesign future Ausf H model to have sloped front and side armor. The project was cancelled in February of 1943 due to increase in weight to 28tons that required additional modifications and instead Ausf H based on original hull was to be produced. New Ausf H was basically a late model Ausf G with six-speed Zahnradfabrik ZF SSG76 transmission. All Ausf H were armed with 75mm KwK 40 L/48 gun and two MG 34 machine guns with 87 75mm and 3150 7.92mm rounds. The gun sight was T.Z.F.5f. The crew of five consisting of commander, gunner, loader, radio-operator and driver operated the vehicle. Radio equipment was made up of Fu 2 and Fu 5 as well as intercom. The power plant was 12-cylinder water-cooled Maybach HL 120 TRM gasoline engine producing 265hp at 2600rpm. The during the production in June of 1943, the front armor was increased from 50mm with additional 30mm plate to basic 80mm on the front hull and superstructure. The weight of Ausf H was 25 tons, while that of Ausf G was 23.6 tons. Maximum road speed was 38km/h, while average road speed was 25km/h. Further modifications, included deletion of side superstructure visor ports in June of 1943, followed by application of Zimmerit paste starting in September of 1943 and modifications to the suspension (idler and return rollers) in September-November of 1943. Also modified were air filters and introduced were new commander’s cupola and anti-aircraft MG 34 cupola mount (Fliegerbeschussgerat). Vehicles were also fitted with side armor skirts (both hull - 5mm and turret - 8mm) - Schurzen. In addition to new modifications, numerous changes made to Ausf G were also applied to Ausf H. As in any other case, older parts were also used in repairs and rebuilds creating non-standard vehicles.

PzKpfw IV Ausf J

Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf H tanks were issued to Panzer Regiments in Panzer Divisions and were used in that role to the end of the war. On June 6th of 1944, majority of Panzerkampfwagen IV tanks present in France were Ausf H.

In June of 1944, Ausf J, the final variant of Panzerkampfwagen IV tank family entered production as a replacement for Ausf H (10 Serie BW). Its production did not cease until March 1945 with 2970 produced solely by Nibelungenwerke and in small number by Vomag. This medium tank received a designation of Sd.Kfz.161/2. Chassis numbers for Ausf J were approx.86394 to 86573 and unknown to approx.89541.

Left: Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf J of 111th Panzer Brigade, 2111th Panzer Abteilung, Staff Company, Lorraine, France in September of 1944.

Ausf J was produced in mind to simplify the production by simplifying the design of Ausf H. In general, all characteristics of Ausf H were retained including weight, speed, mechanical components and armament. The first component deleted was the electric turret drive with auxiliary generator set, which resulted that the turret had to be traversed manually by hand. Its place was to be taken by 200-litre fuel tank after the production started in July of 1944. This increased the fuel capacity to 680 litres, increasing the combat range to over 300km. It is interesting to point out that German designers decided to increase the fuel capacity at the time when German Armed Forces faced serious fuel shortage problems. Problems were encountered with new fuel tanks and installations started in September of 1944. As the production continued, more modifications were made including: deletion of turret visor and pistol ports, installation of Pilze 2-ton crane mount sockets, introduction of Flammentoeter mufflers, conversion from plate Schurzen to wire-mesh Thoma type, reduction to 3 return rollers per side, installation of Naehverteidigungswaffe close defence system and ceasing application of Zimmerit paste. In addition to new modifications, numerous changes made to Ausf G and H were also applied to Ausf J.

Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf J tanks just like Ausf H were issued to Panzer Regiments in Panzer Divisions and were used in that role to the end of the war.

Ausf H and/or J tank turrets were also used on armoured trains including Panzerjager-Triebwagen 51, 52 and 53 anti-tank rail cars.

From March to September of 1944, some 80 Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf H and 17 Ausf J were converted to Panzerbefehlswagen (IV) mit 7.5cm KwK L/48 medium command tanks. The vehicle received additional radio equipment - Fu 5 and Fu 7 (for communication with Luftwaffe) or Fu 8 (for communication with ground units). Vehicles received a designation Sd.Kfz.267 if equipped with Fu 8 and Sd.Kfz.268 if with Fu 7. In all versions, loader served as a second radio-operator. Plans were made to outfit all Panzerkampfwagen IV tanks with additional antennas so that they could be easily converted into command vehicles by the troops in the field. They were issued to panzer units equipped with Panzerkampfwagen IV tanks.

From July of 1944 to March of 1945, other 90 Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf J tanks were converted to Panzerbeobachtungswagen IV medium observation tanks. They received additional radio equipment to communicate with Hummel batteries. Also additional, optic equipment in a form of periscope for the commander.

The interesting fact is that in 1938, work began on the vehicles, which were to replace newly introduced Panzerkampfwagen III and Panzerkampfwagen IV.In 1939, Krupp was awarded contract for a new tank, which was to replace Panzerkampfwagen IV - VK 2001 (IV). New design attempted to utilize components of existing and plannedvehicles. Development continued and in 1939, VK 2001 (IV), became VK 2001 (BW) and eventually BW 40, only to be stopped in mid-1940. Krupp continued development with VK 2001(K) armed with 50mm KwK L/42 gun. At the same time, MAN and Daimler-Benz began work on their designs - VK 2002(M) and later VK 2401(M). This resulted in VK 2301(K), which utilized the basic design by Krupp with mechanical components developed by MAN. The new series evolved into light VK 2001(K) and heavier VK 2002(K) and VK 2301(K). Work on all new vehicles was stopped in December of 1941 and all efforts were focused on the development of a heavier tank - Panther.

Panzer IV Ausf E

Brand new Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf E.

Only 211 Panzerkampfwagen IV (Ausf A/B/C) were produced as of September 30th of 1939, but right away they became the workhorses of Panzer Divisions. Conceived by General Heinz Guderian (1930 - Medium Tank design / Begleitwagen - escort vehicle) himself as a heavy support tank for Panzerkampfwagen III units, the Panzerkampfwagen IV’s production was slow but when it appeared it soon proved to be a formidable weapon. Panzerkampfwagen IV’s development was partially based on lessons learned from Panzerkampfwagen III and other previous projects. Modifications were carried over the years (such as the design of the hull), updating the vehicle to the needs of the front and many were modified by their crews during service.

Since mid 1943, Panzerkampfwagen IVs were mounted with Schurzen (side and turret skirts). Older variants which returned for repairs were up-armored, rearmed and updatedto standards at the time, creating completely non-standard variants. Others were given to NSKK (National Socialist Vehicle Corps) for training purposes along with small number fitted with plow/dozer blades.

During early stages of Operation Barbarossa in 1941, Panzerkampfwagen IVs were equipped with single-axle trailers carrying two barrels of fuel in order to increase their radius of operation. Since the Fall of 1942, Panzer IVs serving in Russia, were equipped with wider "winter tracks" (Winterketten) and since the Spring of 1944, with even wider "eastern tracks" (Ostketten).

During the Normandy campaign in the Caen area, some late model PzKpfw IVs (e.g. 21st Panzer Division) were dug in only with their turrets showing. Such obstacles were hard to detect and destroy, while they took heavy took on the approaching Allied armor.

One of the most interesting conversions was Panzerkampfwagen IV als Tauchpanzer - submersible tank especially prepared for the never realized invasion of England (Operation Seelowe/Sealion). From July to October of 1940, 42 Ausf Ds were converted into submersible tanks able to travel on the bottom of body of water at the depths of 6 to 15 meters. Along with Ausf D tanks, 160 Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf F/G/H and 8 Panzerbefehlswagen III Ausf E were converted as well. They saw limited service with the 18th Panzer Division’s 18th Panzer Regiment in June of 1941 in the invasion of Soviet Union.

Panzer IV Ausf H

Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf H with armor skirts.
(Late Production Model)

Panzerkampfwagen IV also became a base for special purpose vehicles.From February to May of 1940, 20 Ausf C/Ds were converted by Krupp to bridge layers - Bruckenleger IVb. 16 vehicles were mounted with bridging equipment by Magirus and 4 by Krupp. They saw service in Belgium and France in 1940 with 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 10th Panzer Division. In late 1940, most were converted back to regular battle tanks.In January of 1941, Krupp completed 4 newer Bruckenleger IVc bridge layers. They saw service in 1941 in Russia with 3rd Panzer Division.

At the same time Infanterie Sturmsteg auf PzKpfw IV (Bruckenleger IV s / Sturmstegpanzer) - infantry assault (56m long) bridge mounted on Panzer IV Ausf C was produced. Only 4 were made and saw service in France in 1940 and in Russia in 1941 with 3rd Panzer Division. The bridging equipment worked in a similar fashion as firefighting equipment.Also single Panzer IV Ausf C was fitted with experimental mine rollers but it did not enter production.

Bruckenleger IVc

Bruckenleger IVc with bridging equipment by Krupp.

Panzer IV was also converted to Bergepanzer IV (recovery vehicle) and from October to December of 1944 (or even March of 1945), some 36 were manufactured by rebuilding various models. Another interesting conversion based on Panzer IV Ausf F’s chassis and components was Panzerfahre - lightly armored amphibious ferry with only 2 prototypes tested in mid 1942.

In preparation for the planned Invasion of Malta in March of 1942, 12 PzKpfw IVs with 80mm frontal plate were requested and produced.

Panzerkampfwagen IV’s chassis/components became a base for many conversions and prototypes such as the Heuschrecke - Waffentrager (weapon carrier) series, Nashorn, Hummel and many other.

Later in the war, Germany’s fuel shortages forced them to adopt various means to test vehicles after completion and to train new crews. Some vehicles were powered by bottled (liquid) gas while other by wood burning generators. None of those vehicles were used in combat and were only used to train new panzer crews. Plans were also made that since June of 1945, Panzer IVs would be powered by Tatra 103, 12 cylinder, and air-cooled diesel engine. During the war, designers continued working on the development of new running-gear for Panzer IV, but changes never took place.

PzKpfw IV Ausf H

Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf H
mounted with Soviet T-34’s tracks for additional protection.

Planners also tried to improve Panzerkampfwagen IV’s fire power by mounting two 75mm (Rucklauflos Kanone 43) recoilless rifles together with 20/30mm (30mm MK 103) automatic target indicator gun in a modified turret. Although this very modern project never reached a production stage and ended up as a wooden prototype. Trials were carried by experimentally mounting Panzer IV with various guns such as 50mm KwK 39/Pak 38 L/60 (Ausf D) in 1941/42 or 75mm KwK 42 L/70 (Ausf F2 or H). In November of 1944, interesting concept was proposed by Krupp to mount Panzer IV Ausf H with Panther Ausf F’s new narrow turret (mounted with 75mm KwK 42 or 44/1 L/70 gun), but it was rejected since it would overburden the chassis. In addition, in 1944, Krupp designed simplified six sided turret (Vereinfachter Turm fuer PzKpfw IV) with cupola and three simple hatches but it was not approved.

It was also planned to arm Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf C/D/E with four 280mm or 300mm rocket projectors mounted in a special turret, which replaced the standard one. Turret consisted of forward mounted cabin with machine gun and rear mounted hydraulically operated launching frame. Single prototype was produced and tested although full-scale production did not take place. It was designated as Raketenwerfer auf Fahrgestell PzKpfw IV.

PzKpfw IV Ausf H with Panther Ausf F's new narrow turret

Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf H with Panther Ausf F’s new narrow turret.

In January of 1944, concept of creating a hybrid Panzerkampfwagen based on a standard chassis using components of Panzerkampfwagen III and IV was brought back to the drawings boards. New vehicle was designated as Panzerkampfwagen auf Einheitsfahrgestell III/IV Ausf A - standard chassis. Mechanical components came from both PzKpfw III and IV, suspension used PzKpfw IV components but was composed of six roadwheels paired on leaf springs, improved sloped armor, while turret used was to be the one from PzKpfw IV Ausf J. The new chassis was also to be a base for leichter Panzer Jaeger - Panzer IV Lang (E), which used the superstructure of Jagdpanzer IV armed with75mm PaK 42 L/70 gun. Decision to start production at Krupp-Gruson in February of 1945 was made in June of 1944, but entire project was cancelled in July of 1944 with theexception of Panzer Jaeger mit L/70.

In 1943, it was to decided to stop the production of Panzerkampfwagen IV in the fall of 1944, and since it served as base for numerous conversions, replacement was planned.In June 1943, Guderian envisioned new vehicle - Mehrzweckpanzer (multipurpose tank) to be used as a reconnaissance tank, artillery observation tank, anti-aircraft tank, light tankdestroyer, light selfpropelled carriage as well as other specialized vehicles. New vehicle was to be designed by Krupp and was designated as VK 2801. Plans were made thatthe production of this 28 ton new vehicle was to start in April of 1945, but in October of 1943, entire project was cancelled and production of Panzerkampfwagen IV continued.In June of 1943, Krupp proposed Mehrzweckpanzer mit Vierling 2cm VK 2801 anti-aircraft tank armed with quad 20mm Flak guns, but it also remained only a project.

Soviet PzKpfw IV Ausf H

Captured Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf H in service with the Red Army.
Photo provided by Dmitry Pyatakhin.

Panzerkampfwagen IV Main VariantsPanzerkampfwagen IV (Short - Kurz) Sd.Kfz.161 - October 1937-March 1942

• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf A - 75mm KwK 37 L/24,
• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf B - 75mm KwK 37 L/24,
• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf C - 75mm KwK 37 L/24,
• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf D - 75mm KwK 37 L/24,
• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf E - 75mm KwK 37 L/24,
• Panzerkampfwagen Ausf F1 - 75mm KwK 37 L/24,

Panzerkampfwagen IV (Long - Lang) Sd.Kfz.161/1 - March 1942-March 1943

• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf F2 - 75mm KwK 40 L/43,
• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf G - 75mm KwK 40 L/43 (early),

Panzerkampfwagen IV (Long - Lang) Sd.Kfz.161/2 - March 1943-March 1945

• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf G - 75mm KwK 40 L/48 (late),
• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf H - 75mm KwK 40 L/48
• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf J - 75mm KwK 40 L/48
• Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf J - Panzerbefehlswagen / Panzerbeobachtungswagen - Command Tank / Observation Tank

Panzerkampfwagen IV in Action !On February 7th of 1944, few remaining Panzer IV tanks from the 5th SS Panzer Division "Wiking" spearheaded the attempt to breakout from the Cherkassy Pocket against largely superior Soviet force. During the breakout, SS-Untersturmfuehrer Kurt Schumacher commanded two Panzer IVs, which counterattacked a Soviet tank company destroying in the process some 8 T-34 tanks.On the next day, Schumacher alone engaged another Soviet tank company and during both actions destroyed some 21 Soviet AFVs.For his achievement, he was awarded the Knight’s Cross.

On the afternoon of June 11th of 1944, the 8th Company of the 12th SS Panzer Regiment (12th SS Panzer Division "Hitlerjugend")counterattacked the attempt by Canadian 6th Armored Regiment (along with support units) to capture the area of Le Mesnil-Patry. The 12th SS Panzer Regiment commanded by SS-Obersturmfuehrer Hans Siegel destroyed some 37 Shermans, while losing 2 Panzer IVs and forcing Canadians to retreat.

SS-Unterscharfuehrer Willy Kretzschmar, who commanded Panzer IV of the 5th Company of the 12th SS Panzer Regiment (12th SS Panzer Division "Hitlerjugend") destroyed some 15 Allied tanks during the Normandy battles, including the heavy fighting at Caen area. Models Ausf A to E were produced exclusively by Krupp, while all the later models with exceptions of Ausf J produced by Nibelungenwerke, were produced by Krupp, Nibelungenwerke and Vomag.From October of 1937 to May of 1945, approximately 8600 Panzerkampfwagen IV tanks (armed with long and short barrel guns) were produced (10 different variants). Panzerkampfwagen IV became the main tank of the German Panzertruppen in World War II and fought on every front. It was regarded with high respect by its crews and the enemies.

Panzer IV Ausf D with 75mm L/48

Upgraded Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf D
mounted with 75mm L/48 gun and additional armor plates.

During the war, Panzer IV was exported and used by Hungarian (52), Romanian (100), Bulgarian (46), Finnish (15), Spanish (20) and Croatian armored formations. In 1943, small number of Ausf G tanks was sold to Turkey.From 1941 to 1943, Russians captured large numbers of PzKpfw III, Sturmgeschutz III and PzKpfw IV. Some were pressed into temporary service (e.g. being used as "Trojan Horses" or as "bait") , while some were converted to assault guns designated SU-76i and SG-122A.

"It is suggested to the Red Army to use such German tanks as StuG III and Pz IV due to their relability and availability of spare parts. The new German Panther and Tiger can be used until they broken down without trying to repair them. They have bad engines, transmission and suspension." - Department of Weaponry of the Red Army, late 1944.

After 1945, some were still in use by Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Finland, Egypt, Spain, Syria, Jordan and Turkey (20-22?) as late as 1967.

In 1949/50, Finns converted their Panzer IV(s) into (unsuccessful) mineclearing vehicles and from 1951 until September of 1962, used them for training purposes.

In 1950/60s, number of Panzer IV Ausf H sold to Syria by USSR, France, Czechoslovakia and Spain (17) was still used by Syrian Army during Arab-Israeli conflicts of 1966/1967.

Syrian PzKpfw IV Ausf H at Latrun

Syrians supposedly sold few of their PzKpfw IVs to Cubans before the overthrow of Batista by Castro in 1958, but it is unconfirmed. Few of Syrian PzKpfw IVs were captured by Israelis at the Golan Heights (dug in as bunkers) and one is on display at the Museum of Armored Forces at Latrun, Israel.

Left: Syrian PzKpfw IV Ausf H at Latrun.

Panzerkampfwagen IV was the most numerous German tank of World War II, but its production in comparison to the Soviet T-34 or American M4 Sherman was very limited. The main drawback of Panzerkampfwagen IV was its not well sloped armor along with overall low speed for its size, but eventhough it proved to be a versatile and reliable tank.

Since the beginning of the war, Panzerkampfwagen IV became tactically the most important German tank of World War II that saw service until 1967.

Syrian Panzerkampfwagen IV in USA

PzKpfw IV Ausf H

It is believed that this Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausf H/J (hybrid) was captured by the Russian Mongols of the Red Army in Czechoslovakia and then it was eventually sold to Syria by Czechoslovakia. In 1967, it was captured by the Israelis at the Golan Heights and eventually put on display in the museum in Latrum along with Sturmgeschutz III Ausf G and other PzKpfw IV Ausf H. It was then traded to the Mattituck American Armoured Museum on Long Island for an other vehicle (Stuart) in the museum’s collection.

Picture and information provided by Steve Gabrielli.

Specifications

Conversions
Flakpanzers (Air Defense):

PzKpfw T-34 747(r) / T-34/76 model 1943

"Very worrying", Colonel-General Heinz Guderian, Commander of Second Panzer Army.

"We had nothing comparable", Major-General F.W. Mellenthin, Chief of Staff of XLVIII Panzer Corps.

"The finest tank in the world", Field-Marshal Ewald von Kleist, First Panzer Army.

"This tank (T-34) adversely affected the morale of the German infantry", General G. Blumentritt.

T-34/76 was further development based on T-32 medium tank, which was based on A-20 and A-30 prototypes.Pre-production models were produced in early 1940 and full scale production commenced in mid-1940.T-34 Medium Tank (Tridsatchedverka), when introduced into production in June of 1940, was the most advanced tank design in the world. It was superior to any other tank in the world, including feared German tanks. Its revolutionary design featured sloped armor, speed, hitting power and low silhouette along with reliability and low production cost. T-34 although available in small numbers in the early stage of fighting on the Eastern Front gave German Army a nasty shock when first encountered and remained that way until introduction of more powerful anti-tank armament. T-34 was described by the Germans in the following statements: "Very worrying", Colonel-General Heinz Guderian, Commander of Second Panzer Army, "We had nothing comparable", Major-General F.W. Mellenthin, Chief of Staff of XLVIII Panzer Corps and "The finest tank in the world", Field-Marshal Ewald von Kleist, First Panzer Army.

T-34 was produced in six main variants, all operated by four men crew and armed with 76.2mm gun and 2 or 3 machine guns designated as T-34/76. T-34/76 was produced in following variants: A (model 1940), B (model 1941), C (model 1942), D (model 1943), E (model 1943) and F (model 1943). From 1940 to 1944, some 35119 T-34/76 tanks were produced. In order to respond to T-34/76 in 1942, Germans developed their own Panzerkampfwagen V Panther, which incorporated many features of the Soviet T-34/76 and eventually proved to be a superb tank.

Totenkopf T-34/76

Flakpanzer T-34(r)

Top: T-34/76 Model 1942 from 3rd SS Panzer Division "Totenkopf", September 1942.
Bottom: Flakpanzer T-34(r), Eastern Front, mid 1944.

Captured T-34/76 was designated by the Germans as Panzerkampfwagen T-34 747(r). Large number of T-34/76 tanks was captured and pressed into service contrary to few T-34/85 tanks. T-34/76 was more often captured since from 1941 until mid 1943, Germans were still firmly established on the Eastern Front, while T-34/85 appeared on the battlefield in the winter of 1943, when Germans were already retreating westwards after successful Soviet offensives. Germans were always more than happy to employ as many captured examples as they could and many served with various units. T-34/76 employment by German formations was not always temporary but sometimes permanent until the end of the war. First examples of T-34/76 were in service with 1st, 8th and 11th Panzer Division during the summer of 1941. Although it was considered to utilize captured T-34/76 tanks dangerous because many gunners fired on silhouette instead of markings. In order to prevent such mistakes to take place, crews painted large-dimension crosses or even swastikas. It was very common to paint a cross or swastika on top of the turret in order to prevent the Luftwaffe from attacking. Another way to overcome this problem was to use captured T-34/76 in an infantry support role where recognition problems were not that common. T-34/76D (model 1943) tanks with round twin turret hatches were often nicknamed by the Germans as "Mickey Mouse", because of their appearance when both hatches were open.

T-34/76

PzKpfw T-34 747(r) of 10th Panzer Division’s 7th Panzer Regiment.

Since late 1941, captured T-34/76 tanks were transported to a workshop in Riga for repairs and modifications, while in 1943, Mercedes-Benz in Marienfelde and Wumag in Goerlitz (now Zgorzelec) were also repairing and modifying T-34s as well. Captured T-34/76 tanks were modified to German standards by installation of commander’s cupola, radio equipment along with other non-standard field modifications made during service by the their new owners. Spare parts were never much of a problem and some 300 captured vehicles were maintained on long term bases. T-34/76s tanks were also used as artillery tractors and ammunition carriers. Badly damaged tanks were either dug in as pillboxes or were used for testing and training purposes. Number of T-34/76’s upper hulls with turrets was also mounted on railway wagons designated as Panzerjaegerwagen (tank destroyer wagon). They were used as part of Panzerzug (armored train), Streckenschutzug (railway protection train) and Panzertriebwagen (armored locomotive), including Panzerzug "Michael".

T-34/76

This captured Soviet T-34/76 was painted in panzer grey and marked with large Balkenkreuz.
The German flag was painted on the turret hatch for proper identification by the Luftwaffe.

Known users of captured T-34/76 tanks were numerous along with many unrecorded ones. For example on October 15th of 1941, 1st Panzer Division’s 1st Panzer Regiment had some 6 T-34/76 Model 1940 and 1941 tanks. Along with 1st Panzer Division, T-34/76 tanks were in service with 2nd Panzer Division, 9th Panzer Division (33rd Panzer Regiment), 10th Panzer Division (7th Panzer Regiment), 11th Panzer Division, 20th Panzer Division (21st Panzer Regiment) and 23rd Panzer Division. Number of T-34/76 tanks was still in service in 1945, for example with 23rd Panzer Division in Slovakia and East Prussia. Along with Panzer Divisions, number was used by 18th Panzergrenadier Division and 98th Infantry Division. In the summer of 1943, few captured T-34/76 tanks were even operated by Italian crews. According to original German captured tank inventories as of July of 1943 there were 28 T-34(r) as part of Army Group South and 22 as part of Army Group Center.For example from July 10th to July 14th of 1943, 6th Panzer Division operated 2 captured T-34 tanks. In September of 1943, "RONA" (Russian Army of Liberation) commanded by Mieczyslaw Kaminski operated some 24 captured T-34/76 tanks against Soviet partisans in Byelorussia. T-34/76 was held in high regard and also elite units such as Panzergrenadier Division "Grossdeutschland" (Panzer Regiment "Grossdeutschland") used some captured examples as late as 1945.

T-34/76

Modified T-34/76 with German commander’s cupola.

Waffen-SS units also did not hesitate to use captured T-34/76 tanks and 2nd SS Panzer Division "Das Reich" and 3rd SS Panzer Division "Totenkopf" pressed significant number into service. T-34/76 tanks used by "Das Reich" are of particular interest. When in March of 1943, SS Panzer Corps recaptured Kharkov, some 50 various models of T-34/76 tank were captured. All of those were being repaired in a local tractor (tank) factory that was overrun and designated as SS Panzerwerk (SS Tank Workshop). Shortly after they were repaired along with being modified to German standards, repainted and marked with German markings. Modifications included installation of commander’s cupola (from damaged Panzerkampfwagen III and IV tanks), Schuerzen (armor skirts) and other equipment such as Notek light, storage boxes, tools, radio equipment and antenna. 25 of them entered service with newly created 3rd SS Panzer Battalion of 2nd SS Panzer Regiment of 2nd SS Panzer Division "Das Reich".

T-34/76

PzKpfw T-34 747(r) from 23rd Panzer Division.

SS Hauptscharfuehrer Emil Seibold from 3rd SS Panzer Battalion scored some 69 kills during his career including those on his Panzerkampfwagen T-34 747(r) in July and August of 1943, during the Battle of Kursk Salient. Seibold received Knights Cross during the last decoration ceremony on May 6th of 1945. On July 4th of 1943, 2nd SS Panzer Division "Das Reich" had 18 operational T-34 tanks and 9 in repair. 3rd SS Panzer Division "Totenkopf" also pressed number into service but had none at Kursk. Overall, there were some 22 T-34/76 tanks in active service with Waffen SS Panzer Divisions during the Battle of Kursk Salient.

T 34/76

Captured ex-Soviet T-34/76 Ausf E (Model 1943)
of Panzer Grenadier Division "Grossdeutschland".

On December 30th of 1944, some 29 Panzerkampfwagen T-34 747(r) were in service with Geb.Jäg.Rgt.100. In 1942, single T-34/76 and KW-2 were used to form 66th Panzer Company for the planned Invasion of Malta. Two T-34/76 tanks were captured by schwere Panzer Abteilung 502 on the Leningrad Front in November of 1943 and were pressed into service. In the summer of 1944, the Germans sold three captured T-34/76 tanks to Finland.

Flakpanzer T-34(r)

Flakpanzer T-34(r)

One of the most interesting conversions based on T-34/76 (model 1943) chassis was 2cm Flakvierling auf Fahrgestell T-34(r), an anti-aircraft tank - Flakpanzer. Also known as Flakpanzer T-34(r), it was armed with 20mm Flakvierling 38, which was a four barreled 20mm anti-aircraft L/115 gun. The armament was mounted in a turret made by field workshop (Werkstattkompanie 653) using armor plates from damaged half-tracks. Ammunition was stored in metal cases on a rack at the rear of the vehicle. It served with headquarters of schwere Heeres Panzerjaeger Abteilung 653, on the Eastern Front in early and mid 1944. Flakpanzer T-34(r) can be compared to post-war Chinese Type 63 anti-aircraft tank based on T-34, which remained in service until late 1980s. In mid 1944, this same unit also used other T-34/76 tanks converted to ammunition carriers designated as Munitionspanzer T-34(r).Also, this unit fielded captured recovery version of T-34 tank mounted with 20mm Flakdrilling, which was twin barreled 20mm anti-aircraft gun. Another interesting conversion was done by Kampfgruppe Kienast in Saxony in 1945 - 88mm Flak 36 gun mounted on a modified T-34/76 chassis.

In 1943, improved model operated by five men crew and armed with 85mm gun and machine gun was introduced. It was designated as T-34/85 and by the end of the war some 29430 tanks were produced. Only few were captured and even fewer were pressed into service, since German Army Office wanted to examine and test this new Soviet tank. In mid 1944, 5th SS Panzer Division "Wiking" during heavy fighting on the Vistula front near Warsaw captured and pressed T-34/85 into service. 252nd Infantry Division during their combat in East Prussia also pressed captured T-34/85 into service. It is also reported that 7th Panzer Division also captured atleast one T-34/85. It is unconfirmed, but reported that one T-34/85 was fitted with 88mm gun removed from a damaged Tiger and used during fighting in East Prussia.

T-34/85

Soviet T-34/85 armed with 85mm gun.

As of 1996, T-34, mainly in it its 85mm variant was still in service with many nations including: Afghanistan, Albania (approx. 70), Angola (approx. 58), Guinea Bissau (approx. 10), Cuba (approx. 400), Mali (approx. 18), Romania (approx. 1000), Slovenia, Hungary (approx. 5), Vietnam, Bosnia and other nations.

Specifications

Captured / Foreign Equipment Registry
Soviet T-34 i