"If the tank succeeds, then victory follows."
- Major-General Heinz Guderian, "Achtung Panzer!"
On December 22nd, 1941, the German Weapons Department was ordered to produce an effective self-propelled anti-tank gun for use on the Eastern front. The Czechoslovakian 38(t) chassis was used as the basis for the vehicle. The gun and carriage (without the wheels) was mounted on top of the superstructure using a special mounting plate. It was shaped like a bridge and was bolted to the roof in the front and rear. The gun shield moved with the gun, but the sides were fixed to help protect the crew. The driver and radio operator sat in the front of the hull. Behind them were three ammunition boxes that held 24 rounds. There were two ammunition boxes mounted on the side walls of the superstructure, which contained 12 rounds.
Originally designated the Panzerselbstfahrlafette 2 für 7.62 cm PaK 36, Hitler changed its name to Marder III on February 27th, 1944. Production started on March 24th, 1942 at the Böhmisch-Mährische Maschinenfabrik AG factory in Prague. Initial output was set at 17 vehicles per month, with a target of 30 per month. By May 15th, 1942, 120 had been produced, and another 100 were ordered. These were produced from June to September 1942.
Pictured here is a German Sd. Kfz. 139 Marder III Ausf. H tank destroyer w/ PaK36 anti-tank gun that was attached to the Panzerjager Abteilung 42, 7.Panzer Division, then deployed to Russia during 1942. Pre-order price of $21.99; regular price of $24.99. Ship Date: March 2010.
Dimensions:
Length: 4 inches
Width: 1-1/2 inches
Release Date: ?
Hisotrical Account: "The Ghost Division" - The 7.Panzer Division moved with great speed through France and covered vast distance. During the Battle of France, the 7.Panzer Division earned the name of the Gespensterdivision (German:"Ghost/Phantom Division") because of this speed and because nobody seemed to know where it was, not even the German High Command. Rommel had a "lead from the front" attitude and would sometimes cut communications with High Command if he wished to not be disturbed. His behavior showed confidence in the blitzkrieg concept; his success and favor with Hitler would prevent repercussions from his insubordination to the High Command. Nevertheless, Rommel was criticized by staff for being difficult to contact and locate. Rommel described the French Campaign in his letters to his wife as "a lightning Tour de France". |
