Ballistik-Messfahrzeug auf Sd.Kfz.231 (8-rad)

Fully armored observation vehicle based on Sd.Kfz.231 (8-Rad). Single example was found in 1945 at the artillery proving grounds at Hillersleben.

Ballistik-Messfahrzeug auf Sd.Kfz.231 (8-rad).

src: site "Panzer Page von Reitsch"

Schwerer Panzerfunkwagen Sd.Kfz.263 (8-rad)

A version of command intended for the transmissions and PC, deprived of turret and with the modified hull was also manufactured. A special superstructure replaces the turret there and the machine was equipped with powerful radio stations for connections on the scale with the battalions, regiments and divisions. This vehicle received designation Sd.Kfz.263 (8-rad) Schwerer Panzerfunkwagen (heavy radio operator armoured vehicle).

Schwere Panzerfunkwagen Sd.Kfz.263 (8-rad)

src: site "Germany's vehicle history"

Its only armament consists of a MG34 installed in the superstructure. As for the other vehicles, frame-antenna overhung the vehicle and will be replaced by afterwards. From 1941, this type of vehicle (in service in the sections of transmission of the armoured reconnaissance battalions) will be supplanted by halftracks equipped with radio equipment. The armoured cars will play a significant role as long as the German forces will be in offensive phase. They will thus know their hours of glory during the " Blitzkrieg " in 1939-1940. From the end of 1941, to the gates of Moscow, the German forces not advancing more and those enter a defensive phase (also in North Africa). The role of the armoured cars as well as the importance of the reconnaissance units decreases. The halftracks take more and more the step on the vehicles with wheels, being adapted better for the defensive. It is symptomatic to note that on the contrary, the Allies in offensive phase, use more and more armoured cars.

[Profiles]

schwere Panzerspähwagen (8-rad) Sd.Kfz.233 (7.5 cm)

During this time, new vehicles on wheels however make their appearance. The latter according to needs for the front was to be able to ensure their own support of mobile fire. The first machine of this type to be come out was " Sd.Kfz.233 Schwerer Panzerspähwagen put 75 mm KwK 37 " (heavy armoured reconnaissance vehicle armed with the gun of 75 mm KwK 37). The vehicle was armed with short the gun of 75 mm at low initial speed KwK 37 L/24 (arming Panzers IV) assembled in front of the superstructure. The turret and the top of hull disappeared. This gun is able to draw from smoke-producing, the high-explosive shells with great power and two types of perforating shells. It has a total capacity of 55 blows (all projectiles included). Its crew includes a man of less: the driver, the rear driver-radio operator and the commander-gunner. The horizontal pointing of the gun was limited enough.

schwere Panzerspähwagen 231 (8-rad).

src: site "Panzer Page von Reitsch"

[Profiles]