Bergepanther Ausf. A (Zimmerit and Shurtzen)(Final production )(SdKfz179)

This model is of the final production model of the Bergepanther Ausf. A which is most easily recognised from the earlier versions by the larger, rediesigned earth spade and the improved stowage on the hull. It faithfully reproduces this superb ARV and has full internal detail, including Winch Motor, Gearbox, Jibs, 2cm KWK38 Gun, 2x MG34 with AA mounts, Earth Spade, Brass fret chain, Copper Hawser Cables. Tools, etc.,The Wehrmacht had been quick to understand the need to recover tanks in the combat area so when the Panthers were introduced in early 1943, planners had already decided to deploy specialist armoured recovery vehicles based on the Panther chassis. The first 12 built, taken from the MAN production line, were simple turretless hulls without even a wooden superstructure and no earth spade, etc., Series production was then undertaken by Henschel from July 1943, building 70 by November of that year. In February 1944 Demag converted all their Panther production over to Bergepanthers, supplying 150 by September before the Ausf G production type started. Along with conversions based on returned hulls for repair, a total of 347 are believed to have been completed. They were first deployed at Kursk in July 1943 and saw wide service on all fronts until the end of the war. This late type entered service in 1944. This particular model has a fully zimmeritted hull and optional Shurtzen.