German PzKpfw. II - The Real Deal

The Panzerkampfwagen II (also known as the Panzer II and abbreviated PzKpfw II) was the common name for a family of German tanks used in World War II. Although originally designed as a stopgap measure due to delays in production of the Panzer III and Panzer IV, it nonetheless went on to play an important role in the early years of World War II. Production began in 1935 and it was largely removed from front-line combat by the end of 1942. The Panzer II saw service during the German campaigns in France, Poland, the Low Countries, Denmark, Norway, North Africa, and the Eastern Front.

The Ausf. C became the standard production model from June 1938 through April 1940 and was the most widespread version of the Panzer II. Early versions of the Ausf. C have a rounded hull front but many were later up-armored by bolting extra armor on the turret front and hull front. Some were also retro-fitted with commander’s cupolas. Many field modifications were also performed.

The main armament was a 2cm KwK 30 L/55 gun and a coaxial 7.92mm MG34 machine gun. The Panzer II Ausf. C carried a crew of 3. The driver sat in the front hull. The commander sat in the turret and was responsible for aiming and firing the guns. The loader/radio operator stood on the floor of the tank under the turret.