Because of its many advanced and innovative features, the World War II German Panzerkampfwagen V, known as the “Panther” tank, is still considered by many ordnance experts as a weaponry masterpiece. The development of the Panther came about due to the successes generated by the Russian T-34, which has become a serious threat to the German forces during the mid part of the conflict. Mass production of the Panther began during the spring of 1943, and with its sophisticated mechanics and powerful Type 42 L70, 70mm main gun, the Panther tank demonstrated its formidable strength during front line action shortly after its introduction. Several improvements were suggested following its initial employment, resulting in the Panther Type G, which began to appear in spring 1944. Major improvements consisted of additional side armor slope angles and simplified assembly refinements for mass production. The powerplant of the Type G Panther was a Maybach HL230-P30, V-12 cylinder, watercooled engine producing 700 horsepower. This powerplant was mated to an improved transmission in order to eliminate gear malfuntions found on earliar models. An innovative torsion bar suspension system and compound roadwheels enabled superb off road running ability. Major contractors MAN, Daimler-Benz, and MNH all tooled-up to manufacture the Panther Type G version during the latter part of the war, and these three produced 3,740 out of a total of 6,000 units produced by all firms.
Prowling Armor
Initial encounters with the T-34 in 1941 were something of a shock to invading German troops, who had until that point experienced general success with their armored forces. Their response was the Panther, first fielded in 1943. The Ausf.G (Type G) variant followed on from Ausf.D and Ausf.A Panthers; debuting in March 1944, it featured sloped armor, a powerful 700hp Maybach HL-230 engine and a fearsome 75mm gun - all that added up to an imposing combination of firepower, mobility and survivability which proved a boon for German forces and something of a headache for the Allies.
About the Model
★This is a 1/35 scale plastic model assembly kit. Length: 256mm, width: 96mm. ★An early production Ausf.G Panther is recreated, with realistic details such as turret and hull weld lines. ★Features plenty of accessories including depictions of spare track links. ★Turret rear escape hatch is a moving component, and allows inspection of hull interior details such as gun breech. ★Commander, driver and radio operator hatches can be assembled open or closed. ★Suspension arms are separately molded parts. ★Features belt type tracks. ★Comes with a figure in overalls and four marking options in the box.
