Sd.Kfz 179 BERGEPANTHER "PANTHER" Ausf. D (Umbau Seibert) - full interior details 1945

Description

In June 1943, MAN was tasked with modifying a dozen Panzer V Panther into a Bergepanther recovery tank. The turrets are removed. The turret wells are closed by a circular wooden piece mounted on a metal frame. The rear part of this part is articulated thanks to a set of hinges and folding the movable panel, the crew can access inside of the tank. The body is equipped with a flat bottom. These facilities allow to board and store the three tons of equipment needed for emergency troubleshooting and towing gear in difficulty. This first generation of Bergepanther will be successfully engaged during the Citadel operation (Kursk). The recovery tanks are attached to the Schwere Panzerjäger-Abteilung 653. This precursor model does not have a rear tether and can only be used for towing damaged or broken gear. The Bergepanzer V Bergepanther began his career successfully with the pull of tank destroyer Ferdinand. Here, the version built by the firm Umbau Seibert in 1945. (Scale : 1/35e)