Panzer IV Ausf.G/H

Panzer Vor!

Historical Overview:

With the introduction of the long barrelled 75mm KwK.40, the role of the Panzer IV shifted from mobile infantry support to being the back-bone of German armour during and after the middle stages of the war.

In 1943, it was clear to German High Command that in order to make up for the losses suffered at the hand’s of the Soviets, production would need to be increased. The efforts bore small fruits, with Nibelungenwerke being able to increase production by 20 Tanks/month, however, this would later be stifled by reducing tank production in favour of StuG IVs and JPz. IVs.

Further development of the Panzer IV led to the Ausf.H version. There is a misconception about the difference between it and the Ausf.G, commonly attributed to the barrel length. In reality, late production Ausf.G’s used the same KwK.40 L/48, and were identical to Ausf.H’s. One would be forgiven for asking “why bother changing the designation?”.

Source(s):

TE - Panzer IV Ausf.H