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Germany
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Panzer II and Variants
Krupp L.K.A.II Pz.Kpfw II Prototype Krupp L.K.A.II Light Thnk (Pz.Kpfw II Prototype)
PzKpfw II Ausf G VK901
PzKpfw II Ausf H VK 903
PzKpfw II Ausf J VK.1601 (0) (PzKpfw II n.A. verst) VK1601
PzKpfw II Ausf L Luchs (Lynx) Zugfuhrerwagen Sd Kfz 123
PzKpfw II Ausf M VK1301 VK.1303
VK.1602 (0) Leopard (1eicht)
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.a/1
Not to be confused with the later Ausf. A (the sole difference being the capitalization of the letter A), the Ausf. a was the first version of the Panzer II to be built (albeit in limited numbers), and was subdivided into three sub-variants. The Ausf. a/1 was initially built with a cast idler wheel with rubber tire, but this was replaced after ten production examples with a welded part. The Ausf. a/2 improved engine access problems. The Ausf. a/3 included improved suspension and engine cooling. In general, the specifications for the Ausf. a models was similar, and a total of 75 were produced from May 1936 to February 1937 by Daimler-Benz and MAN. The Ausf. a was considered the 1 Serie under the LaS 100 name.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.a/2
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.a/3
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.b
not to be confused with the later Ausf. B, the Ausf. b was a second limited production series embodying further developments, primarily a heavy reworking of suspension components resulting in a wider track and a longer hull. Length was increased to 4.76 m but width and height were unchanged. Additionally, a Maybach HL62TR engine was used with new drivetrain components to match. Deck armor for the superstructure and turret roof was increased to 10–12 mm. Total weight increased to 7.9 tonnes. Twenty-five were built by Daimler-Benz and MAN in February and March 1937.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.c
As the last of the developmental limited production series of Panzer IIs, the Ausf. c came very close to matching the mass production configuration, with a major change to the suspension with the replacement of the six small road wheels with five larger independently sprung road wheels and an additional return roller bringing that total to four. The tracks were further modified and the fenders widened. Total length was increased to 4.81 m and width to 2.22 m, while height was still about 1.99 m. At least 25 of this model were produced from March through July 1937.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.A
The first true production model, the Ausf. A, included an armor upgrade to 14.5 mm. / 0.57086614 in. on all sides, as well as a 14.5 mm floor plate, and an improved transmission. It entered production in July 1937 and was superseded by the Ausf. Bin December 1937, introducing only minimal changes.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.B
Only Minimal changes from the Ausf A
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.C
Few minor changes were made in the Ausf. C version, which became the standard production model from June 1938 through April 1940. A total of 1,113 examples of Ausf. c, A, B, and C tanks were built from March 1937 through April 1940 by Alkett, FAMO, Daimler-Benz, Henschel, MAN, MIAG, and Wegmann. These models were almost identical and were used in service interchangeably. This was the most widespread tank version of the Panzer II and performed the majority of the tank's service in the Panzer units during the war. Earlier versions of Ausf. C have rounded hull front, but many vehicles of Ausf. C were up-armored to fight in France. These have extra armor bolted on the turret front and superstructure front. Also, up-armored versions have angled front hull like that of Ausf.F. Some were also retro-fitted with commander's cupolas.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.D
With a completely new torsion bar suspension[2] with four road wheels, the Ausf. D was developed as a cavalry tank for use in the pursuit and reconnaissance roles. Only the turret was the same as the Ausf. C model, with a new hull and superstructure design and the use of a Maybach HL62TRM engine driving a seven-gear transmission (plus reverse). The design was shorter (4.65 m) but wider (2.3 m) and taller (2.06 m) than the Ausf. C. Speed was increased to 55 km/h. A total of 143 Ausf. D and Ausf. E tanks were built from May 1938 through August 1939 by MAN, and they served in Poland. They were withdrawn in March 1940 for conversion to other types after proving to have poor off-road performance.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.E
The Ausf. Eimproved some small items of the suspension, but was otherwise similar and served alongside the Ausf. D.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.F
Continuing the conventional design of the Ausf. C, the Ausf. F was designed as a reconnaissance tank and served in the same role as the earlier models. The superstructure front was made from a single piece of armor plate with a redesigned visor. Also, a dummy visor was placed next to it to reduce the number of anti-tank rifle bullets hitting the real visor. The hull was redesigned with a flat 35 mm plate on its front, and the armor of the superstructure and turret were built up to 30 mm on the front with 15 mm to the sides and rear. There was some minor alteration of the suspension and a new commander's cupola as well. Weight was increased to 9.5 tonnes. 524 were built from March 1941 to December 1942 as the final major tank version of the Panzer II series.
Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.G VK901 / Panzerkampfwagen IInA
The fourth and final suspension configuration used for the Panzer II tanks was the five overlapping road wheel configuration termed Schachtellaufwerk by the Germans. This was used as the basis for the redesign of the Panzer II into a reconnaissance tank with high speed and good off-road performance. The Ausf. G was the first Panzer II to use this configuration, and was developed under the experimental designation VK 901. There is no record of the Ausf. G being issued to combat units, and only 12 full vehicles were built from April 1941 to February 1942 by MAN. The turrets were subsequently issued for use in fortifications. Two were converted to use the 50mm Pak 38 and troop-tested on the Eastern Front.[5]
Panzer II Ausf. H VK903 Panzerkampfwagen II neuer Art Ausf.H
Given experimental designation VK 903, the Ausf. H was intended as the production model of the Ausf. G, with armor for the sides and rear increased to 20 mm and a new four speed transmission (plus reverse) similar to that of the PzKpfw 38(t) nA. Only prototypes were ever completed by the time of cancellation in September 1942.
Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.J VK1601 / Panzerkampfwagen IInA verstärkt
Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.L Sd.Kfz.123 / Pz.Sp.Wg. II / VK1303 / Luchs
Panzerkampfwagen II neuer Art Ausf.M VK1301
Using the same chassis as the Ausf. H, the Ausf. M replaced the turret with a larger, open-topped turret containing a 5 cm KwK 39/1 gun. Four were built by MAN in August 1942, but did not see service.
Panzerkampfwagen II mit Schwimmkörper
One of Germany's first attempts at developing an amphibious tank, the Schwimmkörper was a device built by Gebr Sachsenberg that consisted of two large pontoons, with one attached to each side of a Panzer II tank. The tanks were specially sealed, some modifications to the engine exhaust and cooling were needed, as was an inflatable rubber ring used to seal the turret during amphibious operation. A propeller linked by a universal joint to an extension was linked to the tank's engine provided motive power, steering in water being effected by a rudder mounted behind the propeller. Speeds of up to 6 mph in dead calm were claimed, as was the ability to cope with conditions up to sea state 4.[4] Once ashore the pontoons were detachable. The modified tanks were issued to the 18th Panzer Regiment, which was formed in 1940. However, with cancellation of Operation Sealion, the plan to invade England, the tanks were used in the conventional manner by the regiment on the Eastern Front.
Panzerkampfwagen II ohne Aufbau
One use for obsolete Panzer II tanks that had their turrets removed for use in fortifications was as utility carriers. A number of chassis not used for conversion to self-propelled guns were instead handed over to the Engineers for use as personnel and equipment carriers.
Panzerkampfwagen II (Flamm) Ausf.A
Sd.Kfz.122 - on Ausf.D chassis
Panzerkampfwagen II (Flamm) Ausf.B
Sd.Kfz.122 - on Ausf.E chassis
Panzerkampfwagen IInA VK901 / Ausf.G
Panzerkampfwagen IInA verstärkt VK1601 / Ausf.J
Continued development of the reconnaissance tank concept led to the much up-armored Ausf. J, which used the same concept as the Pz.Kpfw. IF of the same period, under the experimental designation VK 1601. Heavier armor was added, bringing protection up to 80 mm on the front (similar to the maximum armor found on the KV-1 model 1941 Soviet heavy tank[6]) and 50 mm to the sides and rear, with 25 mm roof and floor plates, increasing total weight to 18 tonnes. Equipped with the same Maybach HL45P as the Pz.Kpfw. IF, top speed was reduced to 31 km/h (19 mph). Primary armament was the 2 cm KwK 38 L/55 gun. 22 were produced by MAN between April and December 1942, and seven were issued to the 12th Panzer Division on the Eastern Front.
Panzerspähwagen II
Pz.Sp.Wg. II
Panzer Selbstfahrlafette 1c/5 cm PaK38 auf Panzerkampfwagen II VK901
5 cm PaK 38 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen IIConceived along the same lines as the Marder II, the 5 cm PaK 38 was an expedient solution to mount the 50 mm antitank gun on the Panzer II chassis. However, the much greater effectiveness of the 75 mm antitank gun made this option less desirable and it is not known how many field modifications were made to this effect.
Panzer Selbstfahrlafette 1cDeveloped in prototype form only, this was one of three abortive attempts to use the Panzer II chassis for mounting a 5 cm PaK 38 gun, this time on the chassis of the Ausf. G. Two examples were produced which had similar weight to the tank version, and both were put in front-line service, but production was not undertaken as priority was given to heavier armed models.
Panzer Selbstfahrlafette 1 fǜr 7.6 cm PaK 36(r) auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. D1 und D2 Sd.Kfz.132, (NOT Marder II)
Bergepanzerwagen auf Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. J
A single example of an Ausf. J with a jib in place of its turret was found operating as an armored recovery vehicle. There is no record of an official program for this vehicle.
Gefechts Aufklärer VK1602 Leopard
The VK 1602 was intended to be the 5 cm KwK 39-armed replacement for the Ausf. L, with a Maybach HL157P engine driving an eight speed transmission (plus reverse). While the hull was based on that of the Pz.Kpfw. IIJ, it was redesigned after the Panzer V Panther, most noticeably with the introduction of fully sloped frontal armor. Two versions were initially planned, a lighter, faster 18-ton variant and a slower, 26-ton vehicle; the former was abandoned at an early stage. Subsequently, work on the first prototype was abandoned when it was determined that the vehicle was underarmed for its weight, and versions of the Panzer IV and V could serve just as well in the reconnaissance role while being more capable of defending themselves. This vehicle never received an official Panzerkampfwagen title, but it would have been called the "Leopard" had it entered production. Its turret design was adopted for the SdKfz 234/2 armored car
Brückenleger auf Panzerkampfwagen II
production conversions with sliding panel bridge sections.
After failed attempts to use the Panzer I as a chassis for a bridge layer, work moved to the Panzer II, led by Magirus. It is not known how many of these conversions were made, but four were known to have been in service with the 7th Panzer Divisionin May 1940.
Brückenleger auf Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.b
Experimental pivoting bridge from Magirus of Ulm.
Leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
Sd.Kfz.124 /Wespe / Gerät 803 .
Munitions Selbstfahrlafette auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II
Weapon-less Wespe for ammunition re-supply.To support the Wespe in operation, a number of Wespe chassis were completed without installation of the howitzer, instead functioning as ammunition carriers. They carried 90 rounds of 105 mm caliber. 159 were produced alongside the Wespe. These could be converted by installation of the leFH 18 in the field if needed.
Pioneer-Kampfwagen II
5 cm PaK38 L/60 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
7.5 cm PaK40/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
Sd.Kfz.131 / Marder II Marder II = 75 mm Pak 40 gun on Panzer II chassis (Sd. Kfz. 131)
15 cm sIG 33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
Leichter Panzerjäger
1 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.a
2 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.b
3 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
4 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
5 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
6 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
7 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
8 Serie LaS 138 Ausf.D and Ausf.E
9 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.F
LaS 762
2 cm MG Panzerwagen
Vs.Kfw.622 / Ausf.a/1 – design & prototype
VK901 Ausf.G / IInA
VK1301 neuer Art Ausf.M
VK1303 Ausf.L
VK1601 IInA verstärkt / Ausf.J
VK1602 Leopard
Gerät 803
Leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf) / Sd.Kfz.124 / Wespe
Leichte Feldhaubitze 18 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Wespe)
Main article: WespeAfter the development of the Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II for mounting the sIG 33, Alkett designed a version mounting a 10.5 cm leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2 field howitzer in a built-up superstructure. The Panzer II proved an efficient chassis for this weapon and it became the only widely produced self-propelled 105 mm howitzer for Germany. Between February 1943 and June 1944, 676 were built by FAMO and it served with German forces on all major fronts.
Flamingo
Panzerkampfwagen II (Flamm) Ausf.ABased on the same suspension as the Ausf. D and Ausf. E tank versions, the Flamm (also known as "Flamingo"[3]) used a new turret mounting a single MG34 machine gun, and two remotely controlled flamethrowers mounted in small turrets at each front corner of the vehicle.[4] Each flamethrower could cover the front 180° arc, while the turret traversed 360°.
The flamethrowers were supplied with 320 litres of fuel and four tanks of compressed nitrogen. The nitrogen tanks were built into armored boxes along each side of the superstructure. Armor was 30 mm to the front and 14.5 mm to the side and rear, although the turret was increased to 20 mm at the sides and rear.
Total weight was 12 tonnes and dimensions were increased to a length of 4.9 m and width of 2.4 m although it was a bit shorter at 1.85 m tall. A FuG2 radio was carried. Two sub-variants existed: the Ausf. A and Ausf. B which differed only in minor suspension components.
One hundred and fifty-five Flamm vehicles were built from January 1940 through March 1942. These were mostly on new chassis, but 43 were converted from Panzer II Ausf. D/E. The Flammpanzer II was deployed in the USSR, but was not very successful due to its limited armor, and survivors were soon withdrawn for conversion to Marder II tank destroyers in December 1941.
Leopard
Gefechts Aufklärer VK1602
Luchs
Ausf.L: Sd.Kfz.123 / Pz.Sp.Wg. II / VK1303
A light reconnaissance tank, the Ausf. L, was the only Panzer II design with the Schachtellaufwerk overlapping/interleaved road wheels and "slack track" configuration to enter series production, with 100 being built from September 1943 to January 1944 in addition to the conversion of the four Ausf. M tanks. Originally given the experimental designation VK 1303, it was adopted under the alternate name Panzerspähwagen II and given the popular name Luchs (Lynx). The Luchs was larger than the Ausf. G in most dimensions (length 4.63 m; height 2.21 m; width 2.48 m). It was equipped with a six speed transmission (plus reverse), and could reach a speed of 60 km/h with a range of 290 km. The FuG12 and FuG Spr a radios were installed, while 330 rounds of 20 mm and 2,250 rounds of 7.92 mm ammunition were carried. Total vehicle weight was 11.8 tonnes.
Wespe Leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf) / Sd.Kfz.124 / Gerät 803
7.5 cm PaK 40 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Marder II) (Sd.Kfz. 131)
Main article: Marder IIWhile the 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) was a good stopgap measure, the 7.5 cm PaK 40 mounted on the tank chassis of the Ausf. F resulted in a better overall fighting machine. New production amounted to 576 examples from June 1942 to June 1943 as well as the conversion of 75 tanks after new production had stopped. The work was done by Daimler-Benz, FAMO, and MAN. A much improved superstructure for the 7.62 cm mounting was built giving a lower profile. The Marder II became a key piece of equipment and served with the Germans on all fronts through the end of the war.
LaS 762
15 cm sIG 33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
Main article: 15 cm sIG 33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)One of the first gun mount variants of the Panzer II design was to emplace a 15 cm sIG 33 heavy infantry gun on a turretless Panzer II chassis. The prototype utilized an Ausf. B tank chassis, but it was quickly realized that it was not sufficient for the mounting. A new, longer chassis incorporating an extra road wheel was designed and built, named the Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II. An open-topped 15 mm thick armored superstructure sufficient against small arms and shrapnel was provided around the gun. This was not high enough to give full protection for the crew while manning the gun, although they were still covered directly to the front by the tall gun shield. Only 12 were built in November and December 1941. These served with the 707th and 708th Heavy Infantry Gun Companies in North Africa until their destruction in 1943.
Krupp L.K.A.II Pz.Kpfw II Prototype Krupp L.K.A.II Light Thnk (Pz.Kpfw II Prototype)
PzKpfw II Ausf G VK901
PzKpfw II Ausf H VK 903
PzKpfw II Ausf J VK.1601 (0) (PzKpfw II n.A. verst) VK1601
PzKpfw II Ausf L Luchs (Lynx) Zugfuhrerwagen Sd Kfz 123
PzKpfw II Ausf M VK1301 VK.1303
VK.1602 (0) Leopard (1eicht)
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.a/1
Not to be confused with the later Ausf. A (the sole difference being the capitalization of the letter A), the Ausf. a was the first version of the Panzer II to be built (albeit in limited numbers), and was subdivided into three sub-variants. The Ausf. a/1 was initially built with a cast idler wheel with rubber tire, but this was replaced after ten production examples with a welded part. The Ausf. a/2 improved engine access problems. The Ausf. a/3 included improved suspension and engine cooling. In general, the specifications for the Ausf. a models was similar, and a total of 75 were produced from May 1936 to February 1937 by Daimler-Benz and MAN. The Ausf. a was considered the 1 Serie under the LaS 100 name.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.a/2
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.a/3
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.b
not to be confused with the later Ausf. B, the Ausf. b was a second limited production series embodying further developments, primarily a heavy reworking of suspension components resulting in a wider track and a longer hull. Length was increased to 4.76 m but width and height were unchanged. Additionally, a Maybach HL62TR engine was used with new drivetrain components to match. Deck armor for the superstructure and turret roof was increased to 10–12 mm. Total weight increased to 7.9 tonnes. Twenty-five were built by Daimler-Benz and MAN in February and March 1937.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.c
As the last of the developmental limited production series of Panzer IIs, the Ausf. c came very close to matching the mass production configuration, with a major change to the suspension with the replacement of the six small road wheels with five larger independently sprung road wheels and an additional return roller bringing that total to four. The tracks were further modified and the fenders widened. Total length was increased to 4.81 m and width to 2.22 m, while height was still about 1.99 m. At least 25 of this model were produced from March through July 1937.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.A
The first true production model, the Ausf. A, included an armor upgrade to 14.5 mm. / 0.57086614 in. on all sides, as well as a 14.5 mm floor plate, and an improved transmission. It entered production in July 1937 and was superseded by the Ausf. Bin December 1937, introducing only minimal changes.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.B
Only Minimal changes from the Ausf A
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.C
Few minor changes were made in the Ausf. C version, which became the standard production model from June 1938 through April 1940. A total of 1,113 examples of Ausf. c, A, B, and C tanks were built from March 1937 through April 1940 by Alkett, FAMO, Daimler-Benz, Henschel, MAN, MIAG, and Wegmann. These models were almost identical and were used in service interchangeably. This was the most widespread tank version of the Panzer II and performed the majority of the tank's service in the Panzer units during the war. Earlier versions of Ausf. C have rounded hull front, but many vehicles of Ausf. C were up-armored to fight in France. These have extra armor bolted on the turret front and superstructure front. Also, up-armored versions have angled front hull like that of Ausf.F. Some were also retro-fitted with commander's cupolas.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.D
With a completely new torsion bar suspension[2] with four road wheels, the Ausf. D was developed as a cavalry tank for use in the pursuit and reconnaissance roles. Only the turret was the same as the Ausf. C model, with a new hull and superstructure design and the use of a Maybach HL62TRM engine driving a seven-gear transmission (plus reverse). The design was shorter (4.65 m) but wider (2.3 m) and taller (2.06 m) than the Ausf. C. Speed was increased to 55 km/h. A total of 143 Ausf. D and Ausf. E tanks were built from May 1938 through August 1939 by MAN, and they served in Poland. They were withdrawn in March 1940 for conversion to other types after proving to have poor off-road performance.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.E
The Ausf. Eimproved some small items of the suspension, but was otherwise similar and served alongside the Ausf. D.
Sd.Kfz.121 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.F
Continuing the conventional design of the Ausf. C, the Ausf. F was designed as a reconnaissance tank and served in the same role as the earlier models. The superstructure front was made from a single piece of armor plate with a redesigned visor. Also, a dummy visor was placed next to it to reduce the number of anti-tank rifle bullets hitting the real visor. The hull was redesigned with a flat 35 mm plate on its front, and the armor of the superstructure and turret were built up to 30 mm on the front with 15 mm to the sides and rear. There was some minor alteration of the suspension and a new commander's cupola as well. Weight was increased to 9.5 tonnes. 524 were built from March 1941 to December 1942 as the final major tank version of the Panzer II series.
Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.G VK901 / Panzerkampfwagen IInA
The fourth and final suspension configuration used for the Panzer II tanks was the five overlapping road wheel configuration termed Schachtellaufwerk by the Germans. This was used as the basis for the redesign of the Panzer II into a reconnaissance tank with high speed and good off-road performance. The Ausf. G was the first Panzer II to use this configuration, and was developed under the experimental designation VK 901. There is no record of the Ausf. G being issued to combat units, and only 12 full vehicles were built from April 1941 to February 1942 by MAN. The turrets were subsequently issued for use in fortifications. Two were converted to use the 50mm Pak 38 and troop-tested on the Eastern Front.[5]
Panzer II Ausf. H VK903 Panzerkampfwagen II neuer Art Ausf.H
Given experimental designation VK 903, the Ausf. H was intended as the production model of the Ausf. G, with armor for the sides and rear increased to 20 mm and a new four speed transmission (plus reverse) similar to that of the PzKpfw 38(t) nA. Only prototypes were ever completed by the time of cancellation in September 1942.
Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.J VK1601 / Panzerkampfwagen IInA verstärkt
Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.L Sd.Kfz.123 / Pz.Sp.Wg. II / VK1303 / Luchs
Panzerkampfwagen II neuer Art Ausf.M VK1301
Using the same chassis as the Ausf. H, the Ausf. M replaced the turret with a larger, open-topped turret containing a 5 cm KwK 39/1 gun. Four were built by MAN in August 1942, but did not see service.
Panzerkampfwagen II mit Schwimmkörper
One of Germany's first attempts at developing an amphibious tank, the Schwimmkörper was a device built by Gebr Sachsenberg that consisted of two large pontoons, with one attached to each side of a Panzer II tank. The tanks were specially sealed, some modifications to the engine exhaust and cooling were needed, as was an inflatable rubber ring used to seal the turret during amphibious operation. A propeller linked by a universal joint to an extension was linked to the tank's engine provided motive power, steering in water being effected by a rudder mounted behind the propeller. Speeds of up to 6 mph in dead calm were claimed, as was the ability to cope with conditions up to sea state 4.[4] Once ashore the pontoons were detachable. The modified tanks were issued to the 18th Panzer Regiment, which was formed in 1940. However, with cancellation of Operation Sealion, the plan to invade England, the tanks were used in the conventional manner by the regiment on the Eastern Front.
Panzerkampfwagen II ohne Aufbau
One use for obsolete Panzer II tanks that had their turrets removed for use in fortifications was as utility carriers. A number of chassis not used for conversion to self-propelled guns were instead handed over to the Engineers for use as personnel and equipment carriers.
Panzerkampfwagen II (Flamm) Ausf.A
Sd.Kfz.122 - on Ausf.D chassis
Panzerkampfwagen II (Flamm) Ausf.B
Sd.Kfz.122 - on Ausf.E chassis
Panzerkampfwagen IInA VK901 / Ausf.G
Panzerkampfwagen IInA verstärkt VK1601 / Ausf.J
Continued development of the reconnaissance tank concept led to the much up-armored Ausf. J, which used the same concept as the Pz.Kpfw. IF of the same period, under the experimental designation VK 1601. Heavier armor was added, bringing protection up to 80 mm on the front (similar to the maximum armor found on the KV-1 model 1941 Soviet heavy tank[6]) and 50 mm to the sides and rear, with 25 mm roof and floor plates, increasing total weight to 18 tonnes. Equipped with the same Maybach HL45P as the Pz.Kpfw. IF, top speed was reduced to 31 km/h (19 mph). Primary armament was the 2 cm KwK 38 L/55 gun. 22 were produced by MAN between April and December 1942, and seven were issued to the 12th Panzer Division on the Eastern Front.
Panzerspähwagen II
Pz.Sp.Wg. II
Panzer Selbstfahrlafette 1c/5 cm PaK38 auf Panzerkampfwagen II VK901
5 cm PaK 38 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen IIConceived along the same lines as the Marder II, the 5 cm PaK 38 was an expedient solution to mount the 50 mm antitank gun on the Panzer II chassis. However, the much greater effectiveness of the 75 mm antitank gun made this option less desirable and it is not known how many field modifications were made to this effect.
Panzer Selbstfahrlafette 1cDeveloped in prototype form only, this was one of three abortive attempts to use the Panzer II chassis for mounting a 5 cm PaK 38 gun, this time on the chassis of the Ausf. G. Two examples were produced which had similar weight to the tank version, and both were put in front-line service, but production was not undertaken as priority was given to heavier armed models.
Panzer Selbstfahrlafette 1 fǜr 7.6 cm PaK 36(r) auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. D1 und D2 Sd.Kfz.132, (NOT Marder II)
- Marder II = captured Russian 76.2 mm gun on Panzer II Ausf. D/E chassis (Sd. Kfz. 132)
Bergepanzerwagen auf Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. J
A single example of an Ausf. J with a jib in place of its turret was found operating as an armored recovery vehicle. There is no record of an official program for this vehicle.
Gefechts Aufklärer VK1602 Leopard
The VK 1602 was intended to be the 5 cm KwK 39-armed replacement for the Ausf. L, with a Maybach HL157P engine driving an eight speed transmission (plus reverse). While the hull was based on that of the Pz.Kpfw. IIJ, it was redesigned after the Panzer V Panther, most noticeably with the introduction of fully sloped frontal armor. Two versions were initially planned, a lighter, faster 18-ton variant and a slower, 26-ton vehicle; the former was abandoned at an early stage. Subsequently, work on the first prototype was abandoned when it was determined that the vehicle was underarmed for its weight, and versions of the Panzer IV and V could serve just as well in the reconnaissance role while being more capable of defending themselves. This vehicle never received an official Panzerkampfwagen title, but it would have been called the "Leopard" had it entered production. Its turret design was adopted for the SdKfz 234/2 armored car
Brückenleger auf Panzerkampfwagen II
production conversions with sliding panel bridge sections.
After failed attempts to use the Panzer I as a chassis for a bridge layer, work moved to the Panzer II, led by Magirus. It is not known how many of these conversions were made, but four were known to have been in service with the 7th Panzer Divisionin May 1940.
Brückenleger auf Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.b
Experimental pivoting bridge from Magirus of Ulm.
Leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
Sd.Kfz.124 /Wespe / Gerät 803 .
Munitions Selbstfahrlafette auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II
Weapon-less Wespe for ammunition re-supply.To support the Wespe in operation, a number of Wespe chassis were completed without installation of the howitzer, instead functioning as ammunition carriers. They carried 90 rounds of 105 mm caliber. 159 were produced alongside the Wespe. These could be converted by installation of the leFH 18 in the field if needed.
Pioneer-Kampfwagen II
5 cm PaK38 L/60 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
7.5 cm PaK40/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
Sd.Kfz.131 / Marder II Marder II = 75 mm Pak 40 gun on Panzer II chassis (Sd. Kfz. 131)
15 cm sIG 33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
Leichter Panzerjäger
1 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.a
2 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.b
3 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
4 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
5 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
6 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
7 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.c, A,B and C
8 Serie LaS 138 Ausf.D and Ausf.E
9 Serie LaS 100 Ausf.F
LaS 762
2 cm MG Panzerwagen
Vs.Kfw.622 / Ausf.a/1 – design & prototype
VK901 Ausf.G / IInA
VK1301 neuer Art Ausf.M
VK1303 Ausf.L
VK1601 IInA verstärkt / Ausf.J
VK1602 Leopard
Gerät 803
Leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf) / Sd.Kfz.124 / Wespe
Leichte Feldhaubitze 18 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Wespe)
Main article: WespeAfter the development of the Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II for mounting the sIG 33, Alkett designed a version mounting a 10.5 cm leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2 field howitzer in a built-up superstructure. The Panzer II proved an efficient chassis for this weapon and it became the only widely produced self-propelled 105 mm howitzer for Germany. Between February 1943 and June 1944, 676 were built by FAMO and it served with German forces on all major fronts.
Flamingo
Panzerkampfwagen II (Flamm) Ausf.ABased on the same suspension as the Ausf. D and Ausf. E tank versions, the Flamm (also known as "Flamingo"[3]) used a new turret mounting a single MG34 machine gun, and two remotely controlled flamethrowers mounted in small turrets at each front corner of the vehicle.[4] Each flamethrower could cover the front 180° arc, while the turret traversed 360°.
The flamethrowers were supplied with 320 litres of fuel and four tanks of compressed nitrogen. The nitrogen tanks were built into armored boxes along each side of the superstructure. Armor was 30 mm to the front and 14.5 mm to the side and rear, although the turret was increased to 20 mm at the sides and rear.
Total weight was 12 tonnes and dimensions were increased to a length of 4.9 m and width of 2.4 m although it was a bit shorter at 1.85 m tall. A FuG2 radio was carried. Two sub-variants existed: the Ausf. A and Ausf. B which differed only in minor suspension components.
One hundred and fifty-five Flamm vehicles were built from January 1940 through March 1942. These were mostly on new chassis, but 43 were converted from Panzer II Ausf. D/E. The Flammpanzer II was deployed in the USSR, but was not very successful due to its limited armor, and survivors were soon withdrawn for conversion to Marder II tank destroyers in December 1941.
Leopard
Gefechts Aufklärer VK1602
Luchs
Ausf.L: Sd.Kfz.123 / Pz.Sp.Wg. II / VK1303
A light reconnaissance tank, the Ausf. L, was the only Panzer II design with the Schachtellaufwerk overlapping/interleaved road wheels and "slack track" configuration to enter series production, with 100 being built from September 1943 to January 1944 in addition to the conversion of the four Ausf. M tanks. Originally given the experimental designation VK 1303, it was adopted under the alternate name Panzerspähwagen II and given the popular name Luchs (Lynx). The Luchs was larger than the Ausf. G in most dimensions (length 4.63 m; height 2.21 m; width 2.48 m). It was equipped with a six speed transmission (plus reverse), and could reach a speed of 60 km/h with a range of 290 km. The FuG12 and FuG Spr a radios were installed, while 330 rounds of 20 mm and 2,250 rounds of 7.92 mm ammunition were carried. Total vehicle weight was 11.8 tonnes.
Wespe Leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf) / Sd.Kfz.124 / Gerät 803
7.5 cm PaK 40 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Marder II) (Sd.Kfz. 131)
Main article: Marder IIWhile the 7.62 cm PaK 36(r) was a good stopgap measure, the 7.5 cm PaK 40 mounted on the tank chassis of the Ausf. F resulted in a better overall fighting machine. New production amounted to 576 examples from June 1942 to June 1943 as well as the conversion of 75 tanks after new production had stopped. The work was done by Daimler-Benz, FAMO, and MAN. A much improved superstructure for the 7.62 cm mounting was built giving a lower profile. The Marder II became a key piece of equipment and served with the Germans on all fronts through the end of the war.
LaS 762
15 cm sIG 33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
Main article: 15 cm sIG 33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)One of the first gun mount variants of the Panzer II design was to emplace a 15 cm sIG 33 heavy infantry gun on a turretless Panzer II chassis. The prototype utilized an Ausf. B tank chassis, but it was quickly realized that it was not sufficient for the mounting. A new, longer chassis incorporating an extra road wheel was designed and built, named the Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II. An open-topped 15 mm thick armored superstructure sufficient against small arms and shrapnel was provided around the gun. This was not high enough to give full protection for the crew while manning the gun, although they were still covered directly to the front by the tall gun shield. Only 12 were built in November and December 1941. These served with the 707th and 708th Heavy Infantry Gun Companies in North Africa until their destruction in 1943.
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