Men of war German Army

Contents The German Empire . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 German campaign battles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 How to use this guide. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Infantry squads. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Volkssturm................................................................................................................7 Assault infantry........................................................................................................7 Regular infantry........................................................................................................7 Paratroopers.............................................................................................................8 Panzergrenadier.......................................................................................................8 Sappers.....................................................................................................................8 Mechanized Panzergr. battalion...............................................................................9 Engineers (AP)..........................................................................................................9 Engineers (AT)...........................................................................................................9 Brandenburg division............................................................................................. 10 Fallschirmjäger...................................................................................................... 11 Stosstrupp.............................................................................................................. 12

Specialized soldiers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Rifleman.................................................................................................................. 13 Submachine gun..................................................................................................... 13 Machine gunner...................................................................................................... 13 Team with anti-tank rifle........................................................................................ 14 Anti-tank team........................................................................................................ 14 Crew........................................................................................................................ 14 Flamethrower team................................................................................................ 15 Officer..................................................................................................................... 15 Sniper..................................................................................................................... 16 Veteran sniper........................................................................................................ 16 Radio operator........................................................................................................ 16

Fixed weapons and artillery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

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Heavy machine gun Machine gun.............................................................................. 17 Flak 38 AA AA defense............................................................................................... 17 sGrW 34 Mortar Mortar............................................................................................. 17 AT Pak 41 AT gun ...................................................................................................... 18 AT Pak 38 AT gun . .................................................................................................... 18 AT Pak 40 AT gun . .................................................................................................... 18 FlaK 37 AA defense / AT gun........................................................................................ 19 FH 18 M howitzer Field howitzer.................................................................................. 20 sFH 18 howitzer Field howitzer.................................................................................... 20 Nebelwerfer 41 Rocket artillery................................................................................... 20

Light vehicles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 PzKpfw I Ausf.B Scout vehicle..................................................................................... 21 SdKfz 222 Scout vehicle.............................................................................................. 22 SdKfz 223 Scout vehicle.............................................................................................. 23 PzKpfw II Luchs Light tank......................................................................................... 23 SdKfz 234 Puma Scout vehicle.................................................................................... 24 Wirbelwind AA vehicle.............................................................................................. 25 Flakpanzer I AA vehicle.............................................................................................. 26 Pz III Sapper Minesweeper......................................................................................... 26

Tank destroyer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Hetzer Medium tank destroyer...................................................................................... 27 StuG IV Ausf.G Medium tank destroyer.......................................................................... 28 Nashorn Medium tank destroyer................................................................................... 29 Jagdpanzer IV Medium tank destroyer.......................................................................... 30 Jagdpanther Heavy tank destroyer............................................................................... 31 Elefant Super-heavy tank destroyer............................................................................... 32 Jagdtiger Super-heavy tank destroyer........................................................................... 33

Self-propelled artillery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Wespe Self-propelled howitzer..................................................................................... 34 Hummel Self-propelled howitzer................................................................................... 35 Panzerwerfer Self-propelled rocket artillery................................................................... 36 Sturmtiger Self-propelled howitzer............................................................................... 37

Tanks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38 PzKpfw III Ausf.F Medium tank.................................................................................... 38 PzKpfw III Ausf.J Medium tank.................................................................................... 39 PzKpfw IV Ausf.F1 Medium tank.................................................................................. 40 PzKpfw IV Ausf.G Medium tank................................................................................... 42 PzKpfw IV Ausf.H Medium tank................................................................................... 43 PzKpfw VI Tiger Heavy tank........................................................................................ 44 PzKpfw V Panther Medium tank.................................................................................. 46 PzKpfw VI Kingtiger Super-heavy tank........................................................................ 48 Veteran Tiger Heavy tank.......................................................................................... 50

Transport and logistics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 BMW R12 Motorcycle.................................................................................................. 51 Kubel VW82 Car....................................................................................................... 51 SdKfz 251/1 Armored halftrack..................................................................................... 51 Opel Blitz 3.6 (transport) Supply truck...................................................................... 52 Opel Blitz 3.6 (supplies) Supply truck........................................................................ 52 Opel Blitz 3.6 (engineers) Supply truck..................................................................... 52

Special attacks. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 Goliath.................................................................................................................... 53

German campaign battles Battle for Caen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . June 7, 1944. After the allied landings on the Normandy beaches, the efforts of the German troops under General Edwin Rommel's command were focused communications center on the route towards the French capital, Paris.

The German Empire On September 1, 1939, German troops invaded Poland. In response, France and Great Britain declared war on Germany. The Second World War had begun. Weeks later, the German army conquered Warsaw, and Germany and the Soviet Union shared Polish territory.

Photo: Bundesarchiv, Bild 183-L20582 / Schmidt / CC-BY-SA

Battle of Saint Hilaire. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . August 7, 1944. On discovering that, contrary to what they expected, the great allied landings did not occur in the Dover Strait, the German Panzer divisions stationed at that strategic point launched

In April 1940, Germany occupied Denmark and Norway with scarcely any resistance. Not

the counterattack. The town of Saint Hilaire was

long after, the conquest of the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg began. The French

witness to the clash between both armies.

and British armies withdrew to Dunkirk. On June 10, 1940, Italy declared war on France and Great Britain. Four days later, German troops entered Paris, forcing the French Marshall, Pétain, to sign an armistice. Between August and October of that same year, the Battle of Britain took place, in which British resistance managed to repel the Luftwaffe's air offensive.

Operation Market Garden. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . September 17, 1944. Control of the bridges over the Rhine and the rivers in the Arnhem region was one of the keys to the allied advance in northern Europe. German

From June 1941, German troops entered USSR territory, crossed the Stalin Line,

troops were preparing to face up to the enemy

conquered Leningrad and Kiev and headed towards Moscow, where they were beaten

airborne divisions, which, supported by armored

back by Soviet resistance. Meanwhile, the Afrika Korps, under Rommel's command, took

land forces, maneuvered in order to launch the final

up positions in North Africa.

attack.

In 1942, Germany won the Battle of Stalingrad. However, the arrival of winter coincided with the Soviet counteroffensive, which ended with the surrender of the German Field Marshall Von Paulus on February 3, 1943. The allied landings in Normandy in June 1944 precipitated the end of the conflict. Germany responded with new offensives in Alsace and the Ardennes, but the Soviet attack on German territory came as the final blow for the exhausted German army. The fall of Berlin in May 1945 triggered the unconditional surrender of Germany.

Chronology September 1, 1939 Invasion of Poland April 9, 1940 Invasion of Denmark and Norway May 10, 1940 Invasion of Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg May 28, 1940 Battle of Britain June 14, 1940 Conquest of Paris June 22, 1941 Russian campaign June 28, 1942 Battle of Stalingrad June 6, 1944 Battle of Normandy December 16, 1944 Battle of the Ardennes May 7, 1945 Fall of Berlin

Photo: Bundesarchiv, Bild 101I-646-5188-17 / Opitz / CC-BY-SA

on the defense of Caen, a hugely important

6

German Army: How to use this guide

How to use this guide M Command Points (Special) C Control Points

Assault infantry M 135 C 25

Quantity 6 Combat guide Inventory:

Unit's equipment

Name of the unit Icon

R Reload time A Maximum range

66



10

63

54

30

70

110 m A 4x 44

110 m

V 35

M Command Points (Special) C Control Points

1 29 2 3 M5A125 Stuart Light tank25 300 13 M 32 C 4 38 5 6 25 Main:

L 37 mm R 3 G 2x 0.30 caliber

D 4Crew SPassengers S Y Can tow / be towed

V 35

D4 S-

A 110 m



StG 44 assault rifle

5 98K rifle

MP 40 submachine gun

Inventory:

16x

6x

10

30

70

8x

4x

110 m

Regular infantry M 165 C 26 H 10 X 2

1 29 2 25 3 25 Inventory: 38 5 32 6 25 4

armored enemy scout vehicles such as the German SdKfz 223 and Panzer I or the Japanese Type 92s.

1 4

Front

2

Side Rear

79x2x 0.30 caliber68x G

5x

3.400x

1x

The British used the surname of the Confederate States Army general, Jeb Stuart, to name the whole series of United States M3 and M5

3

6

1

tanks. The M5A1 could carry the same 37 mm weapon as the Greyhound; although its speed was slower, it was better armored and had nearly double the emergency ammunition supply. It was efficient for providing close support to the infantry as well as confronting lightlyarmored enemy scout vehicles such as the German SdKfz 223 and Panzer I or the Japanese Type 92s.

MP 40 submachine gun

98K rifle

Inventory:

Inventory:

79x

Unit's . equipment

4

tanks. The M5A1 could carry the same 37 mm weapon as the Greyhound; although its speed was slower, it was better armored and had Armor: nearly double the emergency ammunition supply. It was efficient for providing close support to the infantry as well as confronting lightly-

Turret

Machine guns mounted

1

H 10 X 2

AP: 66 63 54 44 The British used the surname of the Confederate States Army general, Jeb Stuart, to name the whole series of United States M3 and M5

Armor (in mm of steel)

3 6

AP:

Type

6x L 37 mm 8xR 3

Assault infantry M 120 C 25

V Speed

M1 Garand semi-automatic rifle

Armor:

Penetration into armor according to distance (in mm of steel)

5

10x

M5A1 Stuart Light tank M 300 C 13

Inventory:

MP 3008 submachine gun

Inventory:

4

Thompson submachine gun

Main: 16x

1

M1 Garand semi-automatic rifle

H 8 X 1

2 98K rifle

Assault infantry 8x C 25 4xH 10 X 2 M 135

6x

6

L Caliber of weapon

6

H 10 X 2

4

Thompson submachine gun

16x

Volkssturm M 60 C 16

1

Weapon icon

Hull

H Number of men who make up the unit X Weapons handling skills

Combat guide

Name of weapon

7

Infantry squads

Name of the unit Icon

Combat Guide

68x

5x

3.400x

1x

12x

3x

2x

10x

MG 42 machine gun

8

German Army: Infantry squads Paratroopers M 250 C 30

5

H 10 X 3

2

G43 semi-automatic rifle with sight

Inventory:

25x

2 FG-42 assault rifle

2 MP 40 submachine gun

6 20x

16x

2x

Panzergrenadier M 385 C 35 H 10 X 4

2 MP 40 submachine gun

6

G43 semi-automatic rifle

4

3x

StG 44 assault rifle

Panzerfaust

Inventory:

32x

2

14x

16x Engineers (AP) M 150 C 12

G43 semi-automatic rifle

4x

H 4 X 2

4

4 StG 44 assault rifle

MP 40 submachine gun

Panzerfaust

Inventory:

32x

9 Mechanized Panzergr. battalion M 480 C 35 H 10 X 4

3 98K rifle

Combat Guide

Inventory:

14x

16x Sappers M 50 C 6

2

4x

60x Engineers (AT) M 200 C 12

H 2 X 2

4 MP 40 submachine gun

MP 40 submachine gun

Inventory:

Inventory:

2x

28x

H 4 X 2

10

German Army: Infantry squads

Combat Guide

Brandenburg division M 2 C 24 H 8 X 3

Fallschirmjäger M 3 C 30 H 10 X 3

This special operations corps was founded by

The term “Fallschirmjäger” means

Theodore von Hippel, specialist in espionage

paratrooper in German. These units

and sabotage, who served in the German

formed part of the Air Force and

army during the First World War. An expert

generally had the best weapons in

in the techniques used by Colonel T.E.

the army.

Lawrence (known as Lawrence of Arabia),

With a similar organization to that of

Von Hippel volunteered for the Intelligence

Brandenburg division In 1940, the battalion took part in undercover operations in Denmark, Norway, Belgium, Holland and France. One year later, they operated behind enemy lines in missions aimed at preparing the ground for Operation Barbarossa. In 1942, it officially became a German Army division. Their involvement in the African theater of operations was notorious, where each commando was mobilized to confront the Bedouin Tribes against the British.

11

the motorized infantry divisions, the

Service after the First World War. In 1939, he

paratrooper divisions were largely

received authorization to form an elite corps, specialized in incursions on enemy territory. His men were instructed in the art of capturing

employed as assault units.

bridges and roads, sabotage or neutralization of key enemies. The battalion, created by

In 1944, the evolution of the war led to the cessation of training of the Fallschirmjäger as

Von Hippel, entered on the scene with the invasion of Poland, operating behind enemy

paratroopers. Nevertheless, they continued to carry out infantry duties, as was proved

lines to smooth the path of advance for German troops.

during the Battle of Monte Cassino, where the tenacity of the Fallschirmjäger won them the

The efficiency demonstrated by Von Hippel's men led the German Army to institutionalize

nickname "green devils".

the battalion: and so it was than on October 15, 1939, the Construction Training Company

Equipped with assault rifles and semi-automatic rifles, and deployed in a SdKfz 251/1

800 for Special Duties was born, headed by Von Hippel himself, with its headquarters in

armed with an MG 42 machine gun and with additional supplies for the infantry, these units

the city of Brandenburg.

of elite paratroopers were trained to capture lightly defended positions in order to entrench

Those involved in this elite corps were always volunteers equipped with specific skills and

themselves and defend the captured land.

knowledge: command of several languages, excellent physical condition and astonishing mental agility.

3

4 G43 semi-automatic rifle

1

At the beginning of the conflict there were few paratroop battalions; nevertheless, the Luftwaffe created three regiments in order to form one unit known as the 7th Air Division.

98K rifle

6

4 MG 34 machine gun

2 98K rifle

Panzerfaust

Inventory:

14x

Fallschirmjäger

2

G43 semi-automatic rifle with sight

FG-42 assault rifle

Inventory:

3x

4x

1x

1x

26x

22x

16x

2x

2x

Photo: Bundesarchiv, Bild 101I-559-1076-29 / Haas / CC-BY-SA

12

German Army: Infantry squads Stosstrupp M 4 C 35

Combat Guide

13

Specialized soldiers

H 10 X 4

Rifleman M 11 C 2.5

The Stosstrupp were the most powerful shock infantry troops in the German Army for assaulting heavily defended enemy positions. They were armed with

H 1 X 2

assault rifles, submachine guns and numerous Panzerfaust, with which they could deal with any threat in hand-to-hand combat and urban environments. They were deployed along with an SdKfz 251/17 armored halftrack, armed with

1 98K rifle

a 20 mm automatic gun, which gave them superior firepower against infantry and light armored vehicles.

5

Inventory:

5 StG 44 assault rifle

1x

10 MP 40 submachine gun

1x

Panzerfaust

Submachine gun M 12 C 2.5 H 1 X 2

Inventory:

30x

10x

20x

5x

1 MP 40 submachine gun

Special troops All armies have special corps of soldiers who are better trained and equipped than the regular forces. The American Rangers or the German Panzergrenadiers were examples of these corps. Armed with assault rifles and semi-automatic carbines, they also had anti-tank weapons in order to confront tanks from a distance, as well as a generous supply of grenades and dynamite to clear the way through any obstacle they found. The superior training of these troops gave them greater physical resistance and superior accuracy with their firearms. Special troops excelled both in defense and attack and surpassed regular infantry squads in terms of performance. Sometimes Photo: Bundesarchiv Bild 146-2007-0144 these infantry corps formed motorized units that were directly deployed with their own armored transport vehicles. These halftracks carried additional firepower and had greater speed of movement in order to reach the battle front as quickly as possible, as well as an additional supply of grenades and ammunition which any allied platoon could use to rearm themselves.

Inventory:

2x

1x

1x Machine gunner M 60 C 3.5 H 1 X 2

1 MG 42 machine gun Inventory:

1x

14

German Army: Specialized soldiers

Combat Guide Flamethrower team M 75 C 5 H 2 X 2

Team with anti-tank rifle M 60 C 6 H 2 X 3

2

1 MP 40 submachine gun

1 Pzb39 anti-tank rifle

Inventory:

2x

1 MP 40 submachine gun

Flamethrower

Inventory:

2x

1x

2x

Anti-tank team M 90 C 6

2 MP 40 submachine gun

1x

H 2 X 3

1

Panzershreck

Flare pistol

Inventory:

1x 1x

H 1 X 3

1 Walther pistol

Inventory:

2x

1x Officer M 160 C 8

1

2x

15

1x

4x

1x

11x Officers

Crew M 10

2 Walther pistol Inventory:

C 4

H 2 X 2

Officers are useful for planning troop movements and requesting fire support. The most powerful weapon they have is their binoculars; with them they can explore the battlefield from large distances. To do this, activate the Direct Control and direct them towards the area to reconnoiter; the fog of war will lift wherever you direct the binoculars, even discovering hidden enemies in the undergrowth or in rubble. This information will be shared with any unit near the officer in order to coordinate the attack. Officers also have the ability to request support from outside of the battlefield. They can use a smoke marker to request parachutes to be launched from a box of supplies at any point on the map. In the inside of the box there will be military equipment for the infantry and mortar projectiles. Finally, with their flare pistols, officers can request an artillery attack on any target.

16

German Army: Specialized soldiers Sniper M 160 C 8

H 1 X 4

Combat Guide

17

Fixed weapons and artillery Heavy machine gun Machine gun M 120 C 5

1 98K sniper rifle

Main:











Y







L 7.92 mm R Auto A 80 m

Inventory:

3x

1x

Inventory:

1x

1120x Veteran sniper M 1 C 8

1x

Flak 38 AA AA defense M 200 C 5

H 1 X 4

1

Main: 98K sniper rifle

AP:

29

27

21



10

30

70

Inventory:

3x

1x

L 20 mm R Auto A 100 m

Inventory:

1x

930x

Radio operator M 4 C 11

1x sGrW 34 Mortar Mortar M 350 C 5

H 3 X 2 Main:

3

1 MP 40 submachine gun

L 81 mm R 5

AP:

15

15

15



10

30

70

Flare pistol

Inventory:

Inventory:

4x

2x

2x

18 100 m

1x

21x

121x

1x

A 110 m 15 110 m

German Army: Fixed weapons and artillery Pak 41 AT AT gun M 140 C 5

Main:

L 42 mm R 3

AP:

52

46

38



10

30

70





Combat Guide FlaK 37 AA defense / AT gun M 700 C 10

Y Main:

A 110 m 32 110 m

19

L 88 mm R 5

AP:

142

136



10

30





Y

A 160 m

124

75

70

160 m

The FlaK 18, 36 and 37 guns were used by the German Army as anti-aircraft and anti-tank weapons during the Second World War, becoming one of the symbols of their artillery.

Inventory:

51x

Owing to their 88 mm gun, they were nicknamed "eight-eight" by German troops. During

50x

5x

the First World War, anti-aircraft weapons were largely adaptations of medium caliber guns, modified to fire at elevated angles. As the air war evolved and the benefits of airplanes improved, this type of weapon became obsolete. It was then that the German Army proposed to design guns with higher calibers and rates of fire, with the ability to

Pak 38 AT AT gun M 350 C 5 Main:

L 50 mm R 4

AP:

84

86

69



10

30

70

launch projectiles to great heights. This was how the first prototype of the 88 mm FlaK





Y

18, manufactured in 1928, was born. Its 4.9 meter gun included an automatic cartridge ejection system which increased the rate of fire considerably. Furthermore, the cross-

A 130 m

shaped base allowed it to fire at any angle, an indispensible feature for an anti-aircraft

35

weapon.

130 m

In 1944, there were around 10,700 FlaK 18, 36 and 37 guns in service. Owing to the increase in allied air bombings, the majority of these weapons were used for their original

Inventory:

51x

anti-aircraft purpose. In this role, the eight-eight was not as efficient as equivalent models

50x

5x

of other nations, which were capable of firing heavier projectiles to greater heights. Nevertheless, thanks to their lightness and mobility, they were, in the end, the most used in the conflict.

Pak 40 AT AT gun M 435 C 5 Main:

L 75 mm R 5

AP:

124

119



10

30



A 150 m

108

66

70

150 m

Inventory:

51x



Y

Its high speed anti-tank projectiles made it an unbeatable anti-tank weapon during the first stages of the war, a role which it would continue to play very efficiently until the end of the conflict. This success led to the development of a line of anti-tank guns for vehicles that became the main armament for tanks such as the Tiger I. Inventory:

50x

5x

1x

51x

50x

5x

FlaK guns Production of the FlaK 18 guns began in 1933; some were even sent by the German Army to Spain during the Civil War. After entering service, their weak points were analyzed and improvements were introduced that had already been applied to the FlaK 36. In the final design model, the FlaK 37 included a new system that synchronized the weapon with a central fire controller. This device allowed several guns to be monitored simultaneously, which in turn allowed details to be controlled such as the exact angles and inclinations of the guns, which reduced the time needed to lock onto the target and greatly improved the accuracy of the firings. During the initial phases of the Battle of France, the eighteights were required to fight against tanks whose front armor-plating could not be breached by the medium caliber anti-tank guns of the period.

Photo: Bundesarchiv, Bild 101I-443-1574-26 / Zwilling, Ernst A. / CC-BY-SA

18

20

German Army: Fixed weapons and artillery FH 18 M howitzer Field howitzer M 750 C 10

Main:





Y

Combat Guide

Light vehicles PzKpfw I Ausf.B Scout vehicle M 180 C 9

L 105 mm R 70 A 220 m

Inventory:

66x





Y

L 150 mm R 75 A 250 m

1 13 2 10 3 10 4 15 5 15 6 15 G 2x MG 34 intended to prepare German troops for the

12x

new motorized war, the Panzer I ended

1x

Nebelwerfer 41 Rocket artillery M 5 C 5 Main:

up as an iconic vehicle used both in the Spanish Civil War and in the Second World War.





Y

L 150 mm R 60 A 180 m

After research carried out throughout the decade of 1920, Germany came up with an innovative technique for launching massive smoke, poisonous gas or explosive warhead attacks. These studies resulted in the development of a 100 mm mortar designed to fire gas projectiles: known as the Nebelwerfer, or "smoke launcher", the name was chosen to generate confusion among enemy spies. The Nebelwerfer 41, which consisted of a six tube launcher mounted on the chassis of an anti-tank gun, entered service following the Battle of France. Its rockets were equipped with stabilizer elements that increased their range and accuracy, compensating for the low

The Panzer I could provide infantry support with its two machine guns, but was not sufficiently well armored to confront anti-tank rifle fire, especially in the flanks and turret, whose armor was not inclined as it was on the frontal part of the hull.

number of projectiles launched. Throughout the conflict, approximately 6,000 Nebelwerfer launchers were manufactured, and around five and a half million rockets were used in the main theaters of operation. The Nebelwerfer 41 could fire an entire salvo of six rockets in quick succession, but it had to be reloaded between each firing. Nevertheless, the reload time was less than in other, larger rocket launcher systems.

Inventory:

66x

D 2 S 3

Designed originally for training work

Inventory:

36x

V 30

Armor:

1x sFH 18 howitzer Field howitzer M 900 C 10

Main:

21

Inventory:

1x

2.200x

1x

PzKpfw I Ausf.B Manufactured for the first time in 1934, it played an outstanding role in the German victories between 1939 and 1941.

22

German Army: Light vehicles SdKfz 222 Scout vehicle M 240 C 9 Main:

L 20 mm R Auto A 90 m

AP:

29

27

21



10

30

70

18 90 m

Armor:

1 20 2 14 3 14 4 20 5 14 6 14 G 1x MG 34

V 41

Combat Guide SdKfz 223 Scout vehicle M 200 C 9

D 2 S - Y

Both the SdKfz 222 and the 223 were armored military cars designed for battlefield reconnaissance. The wheeled design favored the movement of the vehicle by road. At the Russian and African fronts they were restricted by their poor off-road performance, therefore they were gradually replaced by halftrack vehicles for the reconnaissance work.

V 41

D 2 S - Y

Armor:

1 20 2 14 3 14 4 20 5 14 6 14 G 1x MG 42 The 223 model is the communications version; equipped with an MG 34, it could confront infantry groups and threaten enemy flanks, but it lacked the armament required to confront other armored vehicles.

Inventory:

Armed with a 20 mm automatic gun and an

SdLfz 222 and 223

23

1.400x

MG 34 machine gun, the SdKfz 222 was capable of carrying out rapid incursions in the initial moments of the battle.

PzKpfw II Luchs Light tank M 240 C 11

Its maneuverability allowed it to cross battlefield and attack fixed weapons crews, wiping out other scout vehicles. Equally, it turned out to be the perfect vehicle for catching enemy infantry platoons off guard in open country.

Main:

V 38

D 3 S 3

L 20 mm R Auto A 90 m

AP:

29

27

21



10

30

70

18 90 m

Armor:

1 30 2 15 3 15 4 30 5 15 6 15 G 1x MG 34 The German Army manufactured 100 units of this light tank between 1943 and 1944. Baptized with the name Panzerspähwagen II, it was nicknamed Luchs ("lynx") by German troops. It was fitted with a 20 mm gun identical to that mounted on the SdKfz 222, although it was slower than the latter owing to its heavier armor. It could be used in scout work or to harass the enemy during the initial phases of the battle.

Inventory:

410x

Inventory:

800x

330x

2.380x

1x

24

German Army: Light vehicles SdKfz 234 Puma Scout vehicle M 300 C 11 Main:

SdKfz 234 Puma Once the inefficiency of the eight-wheeled reconnaissance vehicles was proven during the invasions of Poland and France, the German Army began a programme in 1940 for the design of new armored units. One of the best decisions of this programme was undoubtedly the SdKfz 234 Puma.

L 50 mm R 4

AP:

94

86

67



10

30

70

V 38

Combat Guide Wirbelwind AA vehicle M 350 C 13

D 3 S - Y Main:

A 130 m 34 130 m

25

AP:

29

27

21



10

30

70

18 100 m

Armor:

1 30 2 10 3 10 4 15 5 10 6 10

1 80 2 30 3 30 4 20 5 20 6 20

G 1x MG 34

G 1x MG 34

Armed with a 50 mm high velocity gun

The Wirbelwind was an adaptation of the

designed for light tanks, the Puma

Panzer IV, equipped with a quadruple 20 mm

had sufficient firepower to destroy any

anti-aircraft gun which replaced the original

reconnaissance vehicle that the enemy could deploy. The front armor was inclined to 30

turret.

not sufficiently armored and could be easily destroyed. For this reason, the SdKfz 234 operated better as a rapid response to enemy armored vehicles and not as infantry support.

Although very vulnerable against enemy tanks, the Wirbelwind turned out to be excellent as an infantry support vehicle, with fixed guns. Its four guns could wipe out an area

Nevertheless, the useful life of the Puma went further

in seconds and destroy any fixed enemy

than combat against light vehicles. Its speed

weapon and its crew before they could fire.

and maneuverability allowed it to

The turret and hull were sufficiently armored

overcome medium and

to protect from light weapons and anti-

heavy tanks in order

tank rifles, but its high profile

to attack them by their

was a perfect target for any

flanks and rearguard, causing serious

surviving anti-tank gun.

damage before disappearing to avoid return fire. If the enemy was dominating one area of combat with a medium or heavy tank but did not have sufficient infantry support, the Puma could be a key element in victory.

Inventory:

51x

Inventory:

27x

5x

1.300x

D 4 S -

L 20 mm R Auto A 100 m

Armor:

mm to protect from the impact of anti-tank rifles and 20 mm guns, but the flanks were

V 24

3.320x

1.450x

1x

Wirbelwind The Luftwaffe's air supremacy during the start of the conflict resulted in the Wehrmacht rejecting the development of an anti-aircraft vehicle. The first Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind was manufactured in 1944, when the allied air forces were starting to gain ground. In spite of their proven efficiency in battle, only 100 units were made.

26

German Army: Light vehicles Flakpanzer I AA vehicle M 260 C 11

Main:

V 24

D 3 S -

Combat Guide

Tank destroyer Hetzer Medium tank destroyer M 500 C 23

L 20 mm R Auto A 100 m

AP:

29

27

21



10

30

70

18 Main:

100 m

27

L 75 mm R 6

Armor:

AP:

104

100

90

1 10 2 10 3 10 4 8 5 6 6 6



10

30

70

A 150 m 55 150 m

1 60 2 20 3 20

Only 24 vehicles were converted and sent to the front, where the limited crew protection made it a dangerous Achilles heel. It was

G 1x MG 42

especially efficient against enemy infantry and in operations for providing cover to troops against light vehicles. However, it lacked the

The most notable characteristic of the Hetzer

speed required to act as a fast intervention vehicle, a role that was performed better by the SdKfz 222 or SdKfz 234 Puma.

was its small size and low profile, which made it easy to hide, turning it into a very

Inventory:

difficult target for enemy tank crews to reach.

1x

Its armor was inclined such that it offered

Hetzer

effective protection far superior to what could

This light tank destroyer, fitted with inclined armor plates over the whole hull, had a 75 mm high velocity gun. It was designed as an economical alternative to other more expensive models such as the Jagdpanther and Jagdtiger.

be hoped for from its 60 mm thickness.

Pz III Sapper Minesweeper M 250 C 4

Just like the rest of the German tank destroyers, the gun was

V 18

D 1 S 4

mounted on the hull, which restricted its ability to aim, putting it out of service if it became immobilized. It was equipped with

Armor:

an upper machine gun which was remotely controlled

1 40 2 30 3 50

from the inside of the vehicle and could fire

G 1x MG 34

having to expose themselves to

The chassis of the Panzer III was adapted in order to produce auxiliary vehicles, which

at any angle without any crew member enemy fire.

included this minesweeper. Its front wheels dug up and detonated mines found in its path without damaging the vehicle itself. It had a front machine gun for defense, but it had to be supported by troops who looked after its safety while it cleared the road of mines for the remaining attack vehicles.

Inventory:

1.600x

D 4 S -

Armor:

This adaptation of the Panzer I was equipped with a 20 mm Flak 38 anti-aircraft gun mounted on an uncovered, revolving platform.

630x

V 31

Inventory:

1x

30x

25x

5x

2.975x

1x

28

German Army: Tank destroyer StuG IV Ausf.G Medium tank destroyer M 600 C 23 Main:

L 75 mm R 6

AP:

119

114



10

30

V 28

104

64 150 m

29 Nashorn Medium tank destroyer M 900 C 38

D 4 S Main:

A 150 m

70

Combat Guide

L 88 mm R 8

AP:

229

221



10

30

202

92

70

180 m

Armor:

1 80 2 30 3 30 G 1x MG 42

1 30 2 30 3 30 4 30 5 15 6 15

Compared to the Hetzer, the StuG had a

The first prototype of this tank destroyer was

slightly higher gun and stronger armor on the

manufactured in Berlin using components

front and sides.

from the Panzer III and Panzer IV. The purpose of the design was to counteract the potential shown by the Soviet tanks during Operation

However, the hull plates were not as inclined as those of the Hetzer, especially on the

Designed as a gun for providing infantry support, the StuG IV became famous for its tank destroying work. This model, the most widespread and manufactured, was in reality an adaptation of the Panzer IV. Since the entry into service of the first StuG IV, produced in 1943, approximately 1,100 units were manufactured.

sides. It also had a machine gun mounted

D 4 S -

A 180 m

Armor:

StuG IV Ausf.G

V 27

Barbarossa. The Nashorn (“rhinoceros” in German) had a PaK 43 L/41 gun protected by a shield and mounted on the rear part of the chassis.

on the turret that could only fire to the front, which, along with its lack of turret, weakened

The Nashorn carried one of the most effective anti-tank guns

its defense against infantry attack.

that existed during the war, the same as that mounted on the fearsome Tiger II. Its ability to reach the enemy at huge distances compensated for the disadvantages of its light armor and high profile, easy to locate and reach when moving. The unique combination of extremely weak armor, powerful gun and high operating cost meant that the Nashorn had to be deployed and managed with extreme care, and always had to be kept within the maximum firing ranges, where its main weapon could destroy almost any medium tank. At medium range, it could penetrate and destroy any heavy and super-heavy tank that the enemy deployed, as long as it fired first. As it did not have defense machine guns, it was very vulnerable to vehicles that were lightly armed with 37 mm automatic guns, which could go through the weak armor and kill the crew.

Inventory:

37x

Inventory:

27x

5x

650x

1x

36x

22x

5x

1x

30

German Army: Tank destroyer Jagdpanzer IV Medium tank destroyer M 1150 C 38 Main:

L 75 mm R 6

AP:

155

149



10

30

V 27

135

Main:

79 160 m

Entering into service in 1944, it took part in mythical scenarios such as Normandy and the Ardennes. They showed a high tank destroying performance, but their lack of turret prevented them from becoming equally effective as tanks.

L 88 mm R 8

AP:

229

221



10

30

202

180 m

1 80 2 40 3 20

1 80 2 50 3 40

G 1x MG 42

G 1x MG 34

This tank destroyer, the first prototype of

Their production started in 1944, with nearly

which was manufactured in 1943, was a

400 units manufactured. Used mainly in

modification of the Panzer IV, armed with the

the Eastern Front, they also took part in key

75 mm gun used by the Panther. To increase its protection against penetrating projectiles,

battles such as the Battle of Normandy and the Ardennes.

The extremely low profile of the Jagdpanzer IV could cause the enemy to confuse it with a Hetzer, but this error could cost the enemy dearly.

The Jagdpanther was better than the Jagdpanzer in nearly all aspects. It had better armor, was faster and better armed. It was higher than the Jagdpanzer IV, which exposed it more to enemy fire. The 88 mm gun, the same as that mounted on the Nashorn and the Elefant, was the most effective anti-tank weapon of the conflict, capable of firing to extremely long distances with unbeatable penetration. Though expensive, the Jagdpanther could destroy any heavy enemy tank, although it continued to depend on camouflage and surprise in order to fire before the enemy.

Its weak point was the lack of turret, although the gun could aim at a wide frontal angle, even when immobilized, therefore it continued to be a dangerous enemy.

The 75 mm gun could penetrate the front armor of any medium tank at normal combat distances, and its inclined front and good armor made it very tough during an exchange of fire. Inventory:

33x

Inventory:

22x

5x

700x

1x

D 4 S 4

92

70

Armor:

It had a front machine gun for defending itself from infantry attack.

V 32

A 180 m

Armor:

the front vertical plate was replaced by an inclined one of the same thickness.

Jagdpanzer IV

31 Jagdpanther Heavy tank destroyer M 1800 C 38

D 5 S -

A 160 m

70

Combat Guide

33x

25x

5x

650x

1x

Jagdpanther This adaptation of the Panther mounted an 88 mm gun and had a powerful 700 HP engine. Equipped with inclined armor both on the front and on the sides, the Jagdpanther was one of the allied troops' most feared tank destroyers.

32

German Army: Tank destroyer Elefant Super-heavy tank destroyer M 2000 C 48

Main:

L 88 mm R 8

AP:

229

221



10

30

V 16

202

Main:

92 180 m

33 Jagdtiger Super-heavy tank destroyer M 2300 C 48

D 4 S 3

A 180 m

70

Combat Guide

L 128 mm R 15 A 180 m

AP:

213

209



10

30

198

103

70

180 m

Armor:

Armor:

1 200 2 80 3 80

1 250 2 80 3 80

G 1x MG 34

G 1x MG 34

The first prototypes of the Tiger, designed

Designed in 1943, this was the heaviest

in 1941 by Porsche, were subsequently

armored tank destroyer of the war: although

adapted by the Henschel company in order to manufacture the Elefant.

the German Army ordered 150 units of

Equipped with an 88 mm PaK 43 gun, the final design included an additional

this 76 ton vehicle, in the end only 88 were

front armor plate that increased the total thickness up to nearly 200 mm. Its

manufactured.

baptism of fire took place at the Battle of Kursk, where several mechanical failures forced a rethink of some of its design characteristics. After carrying out some improvements, such as the introduction of a front machine gun, the Elefant was used again in operations carried out in Italy, Poland and Berlin.

V 16

The front armor of the Jagdtiger was simply impassable: it had no weak point. Its massive 128 mm gun had the same range as the 88 mm mounted on the Elefant and Tiger II, although its exit velocity was lower which reduced its penetration capacity. However, its higher caliber caused much

Next to the Jagdtiger, the Elefant was without doubt one of the most fearsome

more serious damage when it penetrated the armor of an enemy tank and

defensive weapons of any arsenal in the Second World War. Its front armor

offered excellent firepower when firing explosive projectiles.

was practically impenetrable from any distance, and its gun could destroy the heaviest of tanks. The cost of deploying one of these immense vehicles was significant, and its performance much depended on the battlefield's layout creating bottlenecks that the Elefant could defend without exposing its flanks and caterpillar tracks, which were much less well protected than the gun mounting and the hull front.

Like the Elefant, the Jagdtiger was extremely slow. This made it vulnerable in the flanks, making its sides and caterpillar tracks easy targets for the enemy. Another weak point was its reload time: on inserting a projectile and propellant charge separately into the gun, the rate of fire was low, as occurred with the Soviet IS-2 and IS-3 models.

At short distances, the enemy could attempt to fire accurately against the main gun mounting. Protected by just 125 mm armor-plating, this was the weak point of its front armor; even though it did not ensure the tank's destruction, one shot that penetrated the armor would damage the main gun, leaving the tank defenseless.

Inventory:

30x

Inventory:

20x

5x

2.600x

1x

26x

14x

5x

3.400x

1x

D 4 S 4

34

German Army: Self-propelled artillery

Combat Guide

35

Self-propelled artillery Wespe Self-propelled howitzer M 900 C 13 Main:

L 105mm R 70

V 24

D 4 S -

A 220

Photo: Bundesarchiv, Bild 101I-219-0553A-15 / Koch / CC-BY-SA

The first Wespe was used at the Eastern Front in 1943 and its success was emphatic. From that time, all operational Panzer IIs were reserved for production of new Wespe, with a total of 680 units manufactured between 1943 and 1944.

Main:

L 150mm R 75

V 24

D 4 S -

A 250

Armor:

Armor:

1 30 2 20 3 20

1 30 2 20 3 20

In 1940, it was proved that the main tank of

The Panzer Divisions revolutionized the

the German Army, the Panzer II, was now

war by creating battalions which had to be

no longer suitable for direct combat against

entirely motorized. However, they could not

enemy tanks. In spite of excellent mechanics,

have self-propelled artillery until the Wespe

it lacked the armor and armament required to

and Hummel entered service.

confront the most modern tanks.

Wespe

Hummel Self-propelled howitzer M 1100 C 13

As for the Wespe, the Hummel was an

However, the iconic tank found the

adaptation of one of the most iconic tanks of

opportunity to extend its useful life when it was converted into a self-propelled artillery

the German Army: the Panzer IV. A gun was

vehicle. The conversion was simple and economical:

mounted on the chassis of this tank that was widely

all that was needed was to replace the turret with a

used by the Wehrmacht, the sFH-18 of 150 mm.

105 mm gun and install armor-plating for crew

Hummel The first Hummels, a model of which 500 units were manufactured, were used at the beginning of 1943 in the offensive led by the Panzer Divisions at the Battle of Kursk.

protection. Lightly armored, the Wespe enjoyed good mobility for pursuing armored divisions and escaping enemy fire. Furthermore, it had a large caliber gun with excellent range mounted on an open-top roof.

Inventory:

66x

Inventory:

1x

36x

12x

1x Photo: Bundesarchiv, Bild 101I-219-0583A-07 / Harschneck / CC-BY-SA

36

German Army: Self-propelled artillery Panzerwerfer Self-propelled rocket artillery M 1300 C 19 V 26 Main:

L 150mm R 120

A 180

37 Sturmtiger Self-propelled howitzer M 10 C 48

D 2 S Main:

L 380mm R 90

Armor:

1 15 2 15 3 15 4 15 5 6 6 6

1 150 2 82 3 82

This artillery vehicle was born from the need

Designed as an infantry support weapon,

to give the Nebelwerfer rocket launchers more

its production was limited: between August

mobility, as the smoke trails they left after being

and December 1944, only 18 units were

fired made them an easy target for the enemy.

manufactured, adapting the battle-damaged

For this purpose, the chassis of the SdKfz 4

chassis of the Tiger I.

performed well in all types of terrain.

D 4 S 4

G 1x MG 34

The rocket launcher mounted, adapted from a naval depth charge launcher, fired

The Panzerwerfer could fire salvos of five rockets before reloading.

projectiles containing up to 125 kg of

The projectiles fired, whilst heavier than those of other

explosive and were capable of destroying

nations, did not produce such a saturation effect but they

large concrete fortifications. Its excellent front

were individually more powerful.

armor protected it from the impact of any anti-tank weapon at long distances, which

Around 300 units of the Panzerwerfer were manufactured between 1943 and 1944, some of which were used to transport ammunition.

V 20

A 130

Armor:

halftrack was chosen, which was rapid and

Panzerwerfer

Combat Guide

compensated for the long reload time of the weapon. Although not designed as an anti-tank weapon, the close impact of a 380 mm rocket was so powerful that it could even destroy the best armored tanks.

Inventory:

Inventory:

30x

14x

700x

1x

Sturmtiger The need to destroy buildings and fortified positions became clear following the experiences of urban combat during the Battle of Stalingrad, which led to the manufacture of this assault gun constructed on the chassis of a Tiger I and armed with a 380 mm naval rocket launcher.

38

German Army: Tanks

Combat Guide

Tanks

PzKpfw III Ausf.J Medium tank M 320 C 23

PzKpfw III Ausf.F Medium tank M 280 C 23 Main: AP:

65

L 50 mm R 4 59 47



10

30

V 24

D 5 S 4

A 130 m 27

70

39

Main:

L 50 mm R 4

AP:

94

86

67



10

30

70

V 30

D 5 S 4

A 130 m 34 130 m

Armor:

1 50 2 30 3 50 4 50 5 30 6 30

130 m

Armor:

1 30 2 30 3 21 4 50 5 30 6 30

G 2x MG 34 The arrival of the Soviet T-34 at the eastern front compelled the German Army to

G 2x MG 34

accelerate development of the Panzer III. So, between 1941 and 1942, 1,500 units

The development of the Panzer III began in the 30s. Designed to confront other armored

of the Ausf.J were manufactured which included the 50 mm KwK 39 gun, longer,

fighting tanks, the first versions (from the Ausf. A to the Ausf. E), were equipped with a

more accurate and with greater penetration capacity than its predecessor.

37 mm short gun, providing a more than satisfactory performance until 1940. However, later models of the Ausf. F included the 50 mm Kwk38 L/42 gun in response to the better

Furthermore, in the Ausf. J the front and rear hull armor was replaced with a 50

armor and armaments of the British Matilda and Churchill tanks, and above all, the

mm steel plate. In addition, armor plates were installed, spaced on the turret and

powerful Soviet T-34.

hull to protect from Russian anti-tank rifles and a new and powerful 320 HP engine

As far as the armor was concerned, the first versions had 15 mm steel plates on the hull and turret. However, the thickness of these plates in the D and F models was doubled. For its part, the turret was protected with 30 mm steel on the sides and 50 mm on the front, a tank which was impenetrable with the anti-tank armament used by the allies until 1942.

was added (90 HP more than its predecessors). From 1943, the Panzer III was relegated to support missions, and the lead role was transferred to the Panzer IV and Panther. The Panzer III Ausf. J was an excellent medium tank with capacity to destroy

However, the advance of the war at the eastern front showed that the Panzer III had become obsolete for confronting the T-34. Although

other, better armed and armored medium tanks such as the Soviet T-37 and the

it was decided to continue its production as a support vehicle, it is certain that Germany concentrated all its efforts towards improving

American M4 Sherman. Its powerful engine allowed it to reach higher speeds

the performance of its big brother, the Panzer IV.

than previous models and gave it excellent mobility. Specifically, this tank needed

The Panzer III was an excellent medium tank for the first stages of the battle. Although inferior, it was capable of finding success against the American Shermans and the Soviet T-34s, and at a much lower cost. Excellent as close support for infantry units, its 50 mm gun could hold the line to any enemy light tank and scout vehicle.

Inventory:

51x

speed in order to survive, but due to the reinforced hull armor, its straight, uninclined plates offered little protection against the enemy's tank weapons and heavy guns, and its side armor was unsuitable for confronting any contemporary anti-tank weapon.

Inventory:

27x

5x

850x

1x

56x

44x

5x

2.450x

1x

40

German Army: Tanks PzKpfw IV Ausf.F1 Medium tank M 360 C 25 Main: AP:

50

L 75 mm R 6 47 42



10

30

Photo: Bundesarchiv, Bild 146-1979Anh.-001-10 / Unknown / CC-BY-SA

The Panzer IV was the most used German battle tank during World War II. Initially, it was designed as a medium infantry support tank, but when war became a reality it replaced the Panzer III as an anti-tank vehicle, as the larger size of its turret allowed it to mount more powerful anti-tank weapons.

41

Until the development of the Ausf.F1 model,

V 28

D 5 S 4

A 130 m 34

all versions had the KwK 37 L/24, a short 75 mm gun which fired high explosive ammunition against anti-tank guns, barricades and scarcely protected positions. However, it showed a lack of accuracy, low

130 m

Armor:

speed of projectiles and average penetration

1 50 2 30 3 20 4 60 5 20 6 20

capacity.

G 1x MG 42

PzKpfw IV Ausf.F1

70

Combat Guide

G 2x MG 34

The first Panzer IV A had 30 mm steel armor with hardly any inclination at the front part of the turret and hull, 15 mm on the flanks and 10 mm on the upper part of the turret and on the belly.

The Panzer IV Ausf. F1 was the last Panzer model equipped with a KwK 37 L/24 low velocity gun, which gave rise to different problems but also some advantages.

Fulfilling its support tank role, it could not fight face to face against medium tanks as the main gun did not have sufficient penetration capacity. However, that same gun allowed it to attack enemy gun emplacements that were firing in low parabolas over small hills and obstacles on the ground, above those which could hide without even exposing themselves to hostile fire. And with a little bit of luck, it could hit the upper part of an enemy tank, where the armor was weaker. The speed of movement of the Panzer IV was slightly inferior to that of the Panzer III and comparable to that of the Soviet T-34, which allowed it to move rapidly in order to remain undercover and continue providing support to its infantry units.

Combat experience required the front hull armor thickness to be increased to 50 mm on the E and F models.

Inventory:

30x

45x

5x

2.450x

1x

42

German Army: Tanks PzKpfw IV Ausf.G Medium tank M 400 C 25

Main:

L 75 mm R 6

AP:

110

107

99



10

30

70

V 28

Combat Guide PzKpfw IV Ausf.H Medium tank M 600 C 25

D 5 S 4 Main:

A 130 m 75 130 m

43

L 75 mm R 6

AP:

120

115



10

30

D 5 S 4

A 150 m

104

64

70

150 m

Armor:

Armor:

1 50 2 30 3 20 4 50 5 30 6 30

1 80 2 30 3 20 4 50 5 30 6 30

G 1x MG 42

G 1x MG 42

G 2x MG 34

V 27

G 2x MG 34

June, 1941. The German Army confronted

The Panzer IV Ausf.H included the KwK 40

Soviet tanks for the last time and proved that the T-34, with its 45 mm inclined

L/48 gun, which was double the length of its

armor favoring the rebound of impacting projectiles, and the KV-1, with its

predecessor and, thanks to the projectile exit

100 mm front armor, were difficult to defeat.

velocity (790 m/s), its penetration capacity

PzKpfw IV Ausf.H

and firing range was considerably increased. In November of that same year, the manufacture was ordered for a gun equivalent in performance to the PaK 40 anti-tank gun, to be installed in the Panzer IV, whose turret could house a superior weapon. In March, 1942, the first units under the name of Panzer IV Ausf.F2 came to light, but soon after entering service they were rechristened as Ausf.G.

Compared with the G model, the new front armor of the Ausf.H notably increased its capacity for survival and its gun increased the probability of causing damage at medium distance and of reaching targets located even further away. However, the turret armorplating did not show any improvement, and

Given its excellent performance against the Sherman and the allied T-34, its low cost and mechanical reliability, production of the Panzer IV continued even after the Panther medium tank, better armored and armed, entered service.

therefore an impact in that area could render its main weapon useless and leave the vehicle defenseless.

In short, the Panzer IV Ausf.G was an example of excellent German engineering, with an exceptional balance between armament, armor and mobility. It could carry out tank support tasks to the infantry perfectly and destroy medium tanks, even though its uninclined front armor continued to make it vulnerable to large caliber anti-tank weapons such as the previous models.

Inventory:

56x

Inventory:

32x

5x

1.500x

1x

56x

32x

5x

1.825x

1x

Since June, 1943, all the new Panzer IV models received 80 mm armor on their front part. Moreover, a considerable number of Ausf.H were equipped with additional armor plates separate to the hull and turret. The aim of this reinforcement was to protect the vehicles from Russian anti-tank rifles and hollow charge projectiles which were fired from allied PIAT and bazookas (infantry anti-tank launchers).

44

German Army: Tanks PzKpfw VI Tiger Tanque pesado M 1100 C 40 Main: AP:

142

L 88 mm R 6 136 124



10

30

V 22

D 5 S 4

Photo: Bundesarchiv, Bild 183-J14953 / CC-BY-SA

Towards 1941, the course of the war forced Germany to design a new battle tank model that would abandon the mobility and speed of movement in exchange for an increase in its firepower with a heavier gun, and better armor protection. Pzkw VI Ausf. H was the original name chosen for the future tank and among the prototypes that were designed, the Elefant and Tiger, among others, were born.

surrender of Germany. Without a doubt, the of the Panzer V and four times more than the Stug III) conditioned its production and, who

160 m

knows, may even have prevented Germany

1 100 2 82 3 82 4 100 5 82 6 82 G 1x MG 42

of 1942 and remained active until the elevated manufacturing costs (double that

Armor:

PzKpfw VI Tiger

45

The Tiger I entered service at the end

A 160 m 75

70

Combat Guide

G 2x MG 34

One of the most significant features of the Tiger I was its resistant 102 mm front armor compared with the 80 mm thickness of the final Panzer IV models.

Its design, with uninclined plates, did not undergo many changes, the reason for which some projectiles could rebound against the less protected parts of the vehicle, such as the upper part of the hull or the join with the turret.

from changing the course of the war in Europe. In total, 1,350 Tiger I and 500 Tiger II were manufactured. At that same time the United States produced more than 40,000 Sherman tanks and the Soviet Union 80,000 T-34s. The Tiger I gave excellent performance in open country, firing at enemy tanks from long ranges. Although it was not as slow as the monstrous Tiger II, its low speed of movement made it vulnerable to flanking maneuvers and in close quarters combat. Only a small number of allied weapons could penetrate the front armor of a Tiger at medium distance: the American M4A3E8(76)W and M26 Pershing, the British 17-pdr QF anti-tank gun and the Russian IS-2 and IS-3, as well as the American M36 Slugger tank destroyers and Soviet SU-100.

The 88 mm KwK 36 gun, one of the most powerful of World War II, stood out because of its great long range accuracy and its excellent penetration capacity.

The British M4A4 VC Firefly, a variant of the

As the sides were protected by 80 mm thick steel plates, the vehicle was prepared to repel projectiles from the majority of enemy anti-tank guns.

Sherman armed with a massive anti-tank gun, was one of the few medium tanks capable of destroying a Tiger I at long range.

Inventory:

51x

27x

5x

3.275x

1x

46

German Army: Tanks PzKpfw V Panther Medium tank M 1350 C 40 Main: AP:

155

L 75 mm R 6 149 135



10

30

70

V 32

D 5 S 4

A 160 m 79

In September, 1942, line production began of the Panzerkampfwagen V Panther, the tank designed in response to the powerful Soviet T-34. In fact, the German engineers opted to equip the Panther with the main features of the enemy tank: inclined armor, wide caterpillar tracks and larger wheels to improve mobility on the soft ground of the Russian winter, and a large caliber gun.

production of this vehicle, involving several factories from different companies. In 1943, an average of 150 units were manufactured per month (380 in July) and the total number of units produced by March of 1945 was

160 m

6,000.

1 82 2 50 3 40 4 110 5 45 6 45

PzKpfw V Panther

47

Germany assigned maximum priority to the

Armor:

G 1x MG 42

Combat Guide

G 2x MG 34

The main gun, a 75 mm KwK 42 manufactured by Rheinmetall, did not stand out due to its caliber, but its large cartridge made it one of the most powerful anti-tank weapons of the war, as it had greater penetration capacity than guns such as the 88 mm fitted on the Tiger I.

Without a doubt, one of the most significant elements of this tank was its hugely powerful Maybach 23 liter, 700 HP engine, capable of driving 43 tons of vehicle at speeds equivalent to those of the T-34 and superior to those of any other heavy tank.

The first models had a 60 mm, smooth steel armored plate welded, although this was increased to 80 mm on the front part. In addition, the hull was covered in zimmerit, an anti-magnetic material which gave it its unmistakable rough appearance. Excellent as tank destroyers, the Panthers could use their mobility and excellent battle gun to destroy any medium tank with only a single shot and to surround heavy tanks with the objective of attacking their vulnerable flanks. Their only weak point was their limited side armor, which made it advisable for them not to confront two threats located in different positions. The Panther was considered as one of the best tanks of World War II. In fact, once the conflict ended, the excellent combination of mobility, firepower and protection continued to inspire the design of new tanks.

This made up for its limited side protection, considerably inferior to that of the Tiger I, with extraordinary front armor, impenetrable to allied guns at medium ranges.

Inventory:

51x

27x

5x

1.600x

1x

48

German Army: Tanks PzKpfw VI Kingtiger Super-heavy tank M 2400 C 50 Main: AP:

229

L 88 mm R 8 A 180 m 221 202 92



10

30

70

V 21

D 5 S 4

At first, Porsche received the order to manufacture 170 units, but after detecting some mechanical deficiencies, the contract was cancelled. At the end of 1943, Henschel began line production, although continuous allied air attacks on the German factories slowed the production rate. In total, 487 units were manufactured: 3 in 1943, 377 in 1944 and 107 in 1945. Each unit had its serial number stamped on the turret.

made, but production did not commence until October, 1942. The aim was to create a more powerful tank than the enemy tanks. Re-nicknamed by German soldiers as

180 m

Königstiger (Bengal tiger), the first Tiger II entered combat on July 18, 1944, in

1 150 2 80 3 80 4 180 5 80 6 80 G 1x MG 42

49

In May, 1941, the first Tiger II designs were

Armor:

PzKpfw VI Kingtiger

Combat Guide

Normandy, following the allied landings. They also took part in the Battle of the Ardennes, in Poland, Hungary and in the

G 2x MG 34

defense of Berlin. Among the allies it was known as King Tiger or Royal Tiger. Any frontal confrontation against the Tiger II

In order to increase the firepower, the 88 mm Tiger I gun was replaced by a new one of the same caliber but capable of penetrating 100 mm of armor plating at maximum combat ranges.

would result in its opponent's destruction, as its excellent 88 mm gun and highly accurate sights were lethal for enemy tanks. Only the American M-26 Pershing and the Soviet IS-2 could rival the Königstiger. In spite of its large tonnage, the Tiger II possessed good mobility, comparable with that of the Tiger I and other allied tanks. The turret turned slowly, which could be a problem during short range combat. Even so, the side and rear armor, although less

For practical purposes, the front armor of the Tiger II was impenetrable to any allied weapon, including the infantry anti-tank weapons. Only the British fixed 93 mm QF 3.7 anti-aircraft gun had any chance of penetrating its armor, and this weapon was rarely used against tanks when in combat.

It was also opted to increase the armor wherever possible, without excessive weight reducing maneuverability on the battlefield.

powerful than the front part, was capable of withstanding the impact of weapons mounted on light tanks and many medium tanks. However, the ammunition storage system could cause the tank to explode if a projectile penetrated the rear part of the turret. Destroying a Tiger II required the coordination of several threats located at different attack angles. Without a doubt, the presence of a Tiger II on the battlefield always attracted enemy attention.

Inventory:

51x

27x

5x

900x

1x

50

German Army: Tanks Tiger veterano Heavy tank M 7 C 40

Main:

L 88 mm R 4

AP:

142

136



10

30

V 22

D 5 S 4

124

75

70

51

Transport and logistics

A 130 m

BMW R12 Motorcycle M 60 C 5

V 45

D 2 S 1

Kubel VW82 Car M 110 C 7.5

V 40

D 3 S -

SdKfz 251/1 Armored halftrack M 125 C 5

V 33

D 2 S 8 Y

G 1x MG 42

160 m

Armor:

Inventory:

1 100 2 82 3 82 4 100 5 82 6 82 G 1x MG 42

Combat Guide

650x

G 2x MG 34

Throughout the war, for each Tiger I destroyed in combat, the German tank defeated an average of 5.74 enemy tanks. Some units, such as the 13 Grossdeutschland Panzer Company (16.67 to 1), the SS-Panzer-Abteilung 103 (12.28 to 1) and the PanzerAbteilung 502 (13.08 to 1) more than exceeded that average.

G 1x MG 42 Inventory:

1.250x Ten Tiger commanders managed to destroy more than 100 enemy tanks. Kart Knispel was believed to have 168 kills, Otto Carius, more than 150. Other distinguished commanders included Johannes Bölter (139) and Michael Wittmann (138). At the end of the war, Tiger I crews were made up of men who had fought together in dozens of battles. Precisely one of

Armor:

those experienced crews was the one which drove the veteran Tiger. Although this was a vehicle that was technically identical to the

1 15 2 15 3 15

rest of the Tiger tanks, the combat experience of these men allowed them to fire their fearsome 88 mm gun with greater efficiency and precision, while also reducing the reload time, with the advantage that this brings to the battlefield.

G 1x MG 42 The SdKfz 251 was designed to transfer the Panzergrenadiers from the mechanized infantry

The veteran Tiger also had larger quantities of the scarce and expensive APCR ammunition (compound type penetrant), ideal for firing against extremely well armored enemy tanks in medium and short range combat.

divisions to the battlefield. It was the most numerous armored halftrack of the war, with more than 15,200 vehicles and variants in service, produced by different firms. The SdKfz 251 was used as a base in the design of many adaptations: ammunition transports and artillery, self-propelled mortars, reconnaissance and engineering vehicles and even command vehicles.

Inventory:

51x

Inventory:

27x

10x

3.275x

1x

3.550x

24x

12x

12x

12x

1x

52

German Army: Transport and logistics Opel Blitz 3.6 (transport) Supply truck M 50 C 5

V 36

D 2 S 10 Y

Combat Guide

Special attacks Goliath M 2 C 0

Transported ammunition and supplies for the infantry troops.

a

The Sdkfz 302, first prototype of the Goliath,

Inventory:

5.000x

53

with an electric motor and capacity for 60 kg

2.000x

500x

10x

20x

10x

10x

15x

1x

of explosives, was created in 1940. This first version measured 120 cm in length and only 30 in height and was controlled from a remote control

Opel Blitz 3.6 (supplies) Supply truck M 150 C 5

connected to the vehicle by steel cable, which transmitted the orders from the remote

V 36

D 2 S - Y

expensive to manufacture and maintain in combat, therefore a new model was designed

Transported supplies for the infantry,

that was fitted with a more reliable petrol engine and three times cheaper to make, which

as well as ammunition for all types of gun and large

was called SdkFz 303a and its explosive charge was increased to 75 kg. One final version,

weapons used by the German Army. It also carried

with an explosive charge of 100 kg was produced, named SdkFz 303b.

additional Jerry cans of fuel.

In 1942, the General Staff of the Germany Army approved the final design, propelled

Inventory:

5.000x

operator. The SdKfz 302 was operated by an electric motor, but this turned out to be

by petrol, of which 7,564 units were made. It entered service in the spring of 1942,

2.000x

500x

10x

20x

10x

10x

30x

2x

demonstrating its efficiency in the demolition of bridges and buildings and in tank destruction. As well as the success that it had during the conflict, the technology used in

100x

Ammunition for all types of weapon and gun used by the German army

the design of Goliath established the basis for future development of remotely controlled vehicles. The Goliath 303 weighed 430 kg and could reach a speed of 12 km/h on unstable terrain, human walking speed. Although not suitable

Opel Blitz 3.6 (engineers) Supply truck M 250 C 5

V 36

D 2 S - Y

for reaching moving tanks or dodging enemy fire, its small size helped it to camouflage itself in the undergrowth and advance through ditches or uneven land without being detected. However, its low profile forced it to go along relatively flat ground, as it could not get

Transported supplies for the installation of defensive

past raised obstacles nor advance through ruins. The whole of its structure was armored with 10 mm of steel, which protected it from

elements, as well as mines and spare fuel.

small arms fire. The vehicle had several camouflage bushes in its inventory, in order to hide the weapon and lay in ambush. The explosive power of Goliath was sufficient to demolish entire buildings and destroy any nearby tank no matter how well armored.

Inventory:

14x

24x

24x

30x

20x

2x

5x