|
The StuG.III (Sd.Kfz.142), based on the widely used Panzer III family of tanks, evolved into a very capable German tank destroyer during WWII. In fact, the StuG.III was Germany’s most widely manufactured armored vehicle of the war. As enemy tanks improved their protection and armament, Germany responded by fitting the powerful 7.5cm StuK 40 L/48 gun in the vehicle’s casemate. This variant was known as the Ausf.G, of which 7,720 vehicles were produced from December 1942 through till April 1945. This made the Ausf.G the most common German tank destroyer variant by far. Based on the Panzer III M chassis, the StuG.III G proved to be a dangerous adversary for any enemy tank.
One user of the StuG.III G on the Eastern Front was Panzergrenadier-Division Großdeutschland, an elite Wehrmacht unit that participated in the titanic clash of armored vehicles at Kursk in July-August 1943. Dragon Armor’s new 1/72 scale model represents a Stug.III Ausf.G from this very division. Painted in a two-color camouflage scheme, the distinctive helmet symbol of Pz.Gren.Div. Großdeutschland is painted on the hull alongside Iron Cross markings. The miniature vehicle is carefully weathered with a deft touch of dry-brushing too to make it appealing to the eye. In summary, this is a standout model of an outstanding tank destroyer that took part in the most outstanding tank battle in history! |
