You are not logged in.

leichte Feldhaubitze 18 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II “Wespe”

Dear visitor, welcome to WesWorld. If this is your first visit here, please read the Help. It explains in detail how this page works. To use all features of this page, you should consider registering. Please use the registration form, to register here or read more information about the registration process. If you are already registered, please login here.

BruceDuncan

Ex chaos ordo

Posts: 12,916

  • Send private message

1

Tuesday, October 26th 2010, 2:18am

leichte Feldhaubitze 18 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II “Wespe”

(“Wasp” 105mm Self-propelled Howitzer)


The Wespe (Wasp) self-propelled howitzer was first unveiled late in 1937, during a demonstration of prototype equipment at the Grafenwohr training area. While considered imperfect – the chassis and superstructure were thought barely sufficient to contain the weapon – the Wespe did offer mobility superior to towed artillery in support of Panzer formations. Thorough tests were conducted and, early in 1938, the Altmärkische Kettenfabrik GmbH of Madgeburg was directed to begin production of the vehicle. The first vehicles from Alkett emerged in April 1938, and were followed in July of 1938 by additional units from the Mühlenbau und Industrie AG. The type equips light howitzer batteries of the Panzer Divisions, and, as deliveries permit, it is expected that vehicles of this type will be delivered to the light howitzer batteries of the motorised infantry divisions.

108 vehicles of this type were delivered in 1938, and a further 312 in 1939; production is continuing at the present time.