Odulf Posted April 25, 2012 Posted April 25, 2012 Since long I have this snapshot of a German tank with (what looks to me like) a mobile bridge on top. On the reverse it is marked "Russland 1941". Does any one have more information about this vehicle?
Laurence Strong Posted April 25, 2012 Posted April 25, 2012 Found this much: "20 produced from Feb to May 1940 on Pz KpFw IV Ausf C and D. Each Panzer Div bridging platoon (BL Zug) was issued 4 BL-IV, starting with the 1.Pz Div in March 1940, and also issued to 2nd, 3rd, 5th, and 10th Pz Div's in 1940. The only weapon on board was a MG-34. The original order was for 50 BL-IV's, but the order was cut & increased to 60 because of the number of increasing Pz. Div's. As stated, 20 were produced, but the program was cancelled due in part to the campaigns in France & the Low Countries."
Taz Posted April 28, 2012 Posted April 28, 2012 (edited) This looks like the Bruckenleger IV S / Sturmstegpanzer So not a bridge but a self moving armoured 2 piece telescopic assault ladder designed to be deployed over trenches, minefields and /or the roof of bunkers to allow infantry to cross the obstacles and attack targets inside or beyond. The two sections could be extended up to 26.5/56 meters. This tank also named "Bruckenleger S" was manufactured on a panzer IV ausf C/D chassis. 4 were completed in early 1941 and sent to the front, used by the 39 Pioneer-panzer Abteilung of the 3 Panzer Division in the invasion of Russia. These i think had the tactical numbers 41,42,43 and in your image 44. Regards Eddie Edited April 28, 2012 by Taz
Taz Posted April 28, 2012 Posted April 28, 2012 (edited) Here is it's sister vehicle, tactical number 43. Behind it is the Krupp version of the Bruckenleger IVb. Regards Eddie Edited April 28, 2012 by Taz
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