Post by Keith Heitmann on Sept 2, 2004 3:54:00 GMT -5
The Panther was designed as a new heavy tank able to combat the Russian T-34, a tank with which German armor could simply not compete. In fact, the Panther was partially copied from a captured T-34. Prototypes were built in 1943. The original engine had to be replaced during production due to an order for increased frontal armor. Had it not been for the greater number of Russian tanks, the Panther would have wreaked much more havoc on the Soviets and throughout all of Europe. It had outstanding firepower, great mobility, and beautifully sloped armour.
The Ausf G included improvements to the transmission, extra armor onto the upper hull, episcope to improve the driver? visibility, and increased ammunition stowage from 79 to 82 rounds. Like all Panthers, the Ausf G was loaded with a 75mm high velocity gun. The late G version had improved combat characteristics, including steel-rimmed road wheels and a fighting compartment heater system. These late Panther G? donned the new?mbush camouflage colors ordered by the OKH. A cleaning gear stowage box was placed across the hull rear as well. Before the war? end 3,740 Ausf Gs were produced. The Panther is hailed as the best German thank of World War II, far superior to any US or British tank at the time.
