"If the tank succeeds, then victory follows."
- Major-General Heinz Guderian, "Achtung Panzer!"
On September 9th, 1938, Henschel began building the VK3001(H), which was based on their DW II prototype and used dry pin tracks. Early in 1940, the first trials took place and by March 1941, the first VK3001(H) was ready. Two months later it was decided to abandon all development, because the VK3601(H) carried a better gun. (A 7.5cm KwK L/24 or 10.5cm KwK L/28 was planned for the VK3001(H)). Nevertheless, 4 chassis were completed and twelve turrets had been built by Krupp with the 7.5cm KwK L/24, which were later used in fortifications.
In mid 1941, the Waffenamt (Ordnance Department) decided to use 2 chassis of the VK 3001(H) to mount the Rheinmetall 12.8cm K L/61, which was based on the 12.8cm Flak. The hull had to be lengthened to fit the huge gun and an eighth roadwheel was added.
In August, the first "Versuchsjäger 3001" was completed and brought to the Eastern front. The troops were inspired by its looks and capabilities, and it came to be called "Sturer Emil". One of the vehicles was captured intact late in 1943. Ship Date: February 2010. |
