The Panzerkampfwagen III (SdKfz 141), commonly known as the Panzer III, was a medium tank developed in the 1930s by Germany, and was used extensively in WW2. Production of the Panzer III ceased in 1943.
The Ausf E was the first version of the mass produced Panzer III tanks. The Ausf E, armed with either a 3.7cm KwK 36 L/46.5 or a 5cm KwK 38 L/42 gun, was fitted with torsion bar suspension with six roadwheels on individual swing axles. Three track return rollers were positioned above the road wheels. A few Ausf E saw combat in Poland in 1939.
The Ausf F was initially armed with a 3.7cm KwK 36 L/46.5 gun and later up armoured and fitted with 5cm KwK 38 L/42 gun. Armoured vents were fitted to the turret roof and rear engine deck to enable it to cope with the dust and heat of the North African desert. Paint was dark yellow (dunkelgelb) with extensive usage on the Eastern Front.
The Ausf G was produced between March 1940 and early 1941. The first Ausf G tanks were armed with 3.7cm KwK L/46.5 guns. Some took part in the invasion of Holland, Belgium and France in May 1940. After experience during the Battle of France, some were upgraded with a 5cm KwK 38 L/42 gun. They were used on the Eastern Front and in North Africa. Rear turret stowage boxes were sometimes fitted later.
Product Highlights:
- Option to build an Ausf E, F or G variant
- Open or closed command & crew hatches
- Tank crew figures included
Number of Parts: 143 pieces / 4 sprues. Note: Models supplied unassembled and unpainted