German - Panzer IV Ausf.D (with Winter Tracks)

The German Panzer IV Ausf. D (with Winter Tracks) was an early production variant of the Panzer IV, introduced in 1939 and used during the campaigns in France (1940) and later on the Eastern Front. It was armed with the short-barrelled 7.5cm KwK 37 L/24 gun, designed primarily for infantry support with high-explosive shells, alongside two 7.92mm MG34 machine guns. Armour protection was modest, with up to 30mm on the front, leaving it vulnerable to enemy anti-tank weapons. Powered by the Maybach HL 120 TRM engine, it had a top speed of around 42 km/h (26 mph), giving it reliable mobility for its time. During winter operations in the Soviet Union, many Panzer IV Ausf. Ds were fitted with Winterketten (winter track extensions), which widened the tracks to improve traction on snow and ice, reducing the risk of vehicles becoming bogged down in harsh conditions. Although by 1941–42 the Ausf. D was increasingly outclassed by Soviet T-34s and KV-1s, it continued to serve in frontline and secondary roles, its winter modifications allowing it to remain effective in mobility even as its firepower became outdated.

Multi part resin model.

Printed by Imperator Models on License from Wargame 3D.