Difference between revisions of "Sd.Kfz.234/4"

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{{Specs-Card|code=germ_sdkfz_234_4}}
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{{About
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| about = German tank destroyer '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other versions
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| link = Sd.Kfz.234 (Family)
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}}
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{{Specs-Card
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|code=germ_sdkfz_234_4
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_Sd.Kfz.2344.jpg|ArtImage_Sd.Kfz.234-4.png}}
 +
|market=Sd.Kfz.234/4
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}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert the screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, they will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''
+
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (full name: ''Schwerer Panzerspähwagen 7.5 cm Sonderkraftfahrzeug 234/4 Panzerabwehrkanonenwagen'') was a relatively improvised variant on the [[Sd.Kfz.234 (Family)|Sd.Kfz.234 chassis]], created in late 1944 to prevent PaK40s from falling behind during the constant retreat of the Germans on all fronts. By removing the superstructure of the Sd.Kfz.234 and installing a PaK 40 mount with a small cut in the bottom half of the shield, the gun could roll into position, take shots, and drive at full speed in reverse.
 +
 
 +
It was introduced during [[Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica"]] in the [[Operation_S.U.M.M.E.R.|"Operation S.U.M.M.E.R."]] event of 2017 that lasted from 28 July to 28 August, unlocked after obtaining 7 tanker Marks of Distinction. The [[PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm)]] is powerful enough to destroy most tanks with a single hit. Meanwhile, the Sd.Kfz.234/4 has a top speed of 30-40 km/h in both forward and reverse, allowing for quick relocation. It is possible, though not necessarily required, to use the 75 mm gun and return fire while moving. Terrain features such as bushes and shadows can provide excellent concealment, so make use of them to stay hidden. As a last line of defense, the Sd.Kfz.234/4 is also equipped with a pintle-mounted MG42 machine gun, which provides a high rate of fire for dealing with soft targets and low-flying aircraft.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpfull for survival in combat?''
+
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 +
'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
 +
* Rolled homogeneous armour
 +
* Cast homogeneous armour (Gun mantlet, Vision ports)
 +
* Structural steel (Side skirts)
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 +
|-
 +
| Hull || 30 mm (40°) ''Front plate'' <br> 15 mm (70°), 30 mm (55°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 30 mm (35°) ''Lower glacis'' || 8 mm (34-35°) ''Top'' <br> 8 (19-35°) + 4 mm || 10 mm (21-46°) || 5 mm
 +
|-
 +
| Gun shield || 4 + 4 mm (18-29°) || N/A || N/A || N/A
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
 +
 
 +
* Wheels provide 10 mm of armour thickness.
 +
* Belly armour is 12.7 mm thick.
  
−
''If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''
+
The best way to deal with this tank is to immobilize it while sitting outisde of its gun's reach. Because of its low armour values, it can be easily penetrated with 12.7 mm MG fire or HE shells to the open roof. Most armour-piercing shots will simply over-penetrate the vehicle's front armour and will not do much to the crew compartment unless aimed at specific crew or module locations. As such, explosive ammunition is the preferred methods of elimination (overpressure).
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
−
''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and maneuverability as well as the maximum speed forward and backward.''
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{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 +
''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.''
 +
 
 +
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 298|rbMinHp= 186}}
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
−
''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibilty of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 +
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 +
{{main|PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm)}}
  
−
=== Additional armament ===
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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''Some tanks are armed with several guns in one or more turrets. Evaluate the additional weaponry and give advice on its use. Describe the ammunition available for additional weaponry. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage. If there is no additional weaponry remove this subsection.''
+
|-
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! colspan="5" | [[PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm)|75 mm PaK40/3 L46]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 +
|-
 +
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 +
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 +
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
 +
|-
 +
! ''Arcade''
 +
| rowspan="2" | 36 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+22° || rowspan="2" | ±20° || rowspan="2" | - || 12.3 || 17.1 || 20.7 || 22.9 || 24.4 || rowspan="2" | 7.67 || rowspan="2" | 6.78 || rowspan="2" | 6.25 || rowspan="2" | 5.90
 +
|-
 +
! ''Realistic''
 +
| 8.3 || 9.8 || 11.9 || 13.2 || 14.0
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Ammunition ====
 +
{{:PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm)/Ammunition|PzGr 39, Hl.Gr 38B, PzGr 40, K.Gr.Rot Nb., Sprgr. 34}}
 +
 
 +
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 +
[[File:Ammoracks_Sd.Kfz.2344.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 +
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! Full<br>ammo
 +
! 1st<br>rack empty
 +
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 +
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 +
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 +
|-
 +
| '''36''' || 31&nbsp;''(+5)'' || 13&nbsp;''(+23)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+35)'' || No
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
'''Notes''':
 +
 
 +
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
 +
* Left flank empty: 31&nbsp;''(+5)'' shells.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
−
''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft, but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.''
+
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 +
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 +
{{main|MG42 (7.92 mm)}}
  
−
== Usage in the battles ==
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | [[MG42 (7.92 mm)|7.92 mm MG42]]
 +
|-
 +
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 +
|-
 +
| Pintle || 2,100 (150) || 1,200 || ±20° || ±45°
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
== Usage in battles ==
 +
''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* High muzzle velocity and great penetration power means it is great for long range battles
 +
* Adequate ammo count for prolonged combat
 +
* Can move forward and backwards with equal speed
 +
* Low profile
 +
* Eight-wheel drive gives it good surface traction and handling, much better manoeuvrability
 +
* Doesn't flip when turning
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
 
  
−
== Historical part ==
+
* Very weak armour, can be penetrated by aircraft weapons and heavy machine guns
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''
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* Open-topped, making it very vulnerable to attacks from the air or overpressure damage
 +
* Limited gun traverse
 +
* Crew compartment is littered with ammo
 +
* Vehicle will be immobilized if the driver is knocked out
 +
* Bad gun depression only -5°
 +
 
 +
== History ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 +
===Development===
 +
The blitzkrieg tactics in Poland and France gave the Germans a new appreciation of mobile and lethal reconnaissance vehicles. The Germans especially valued the armoured cars due to their speed, firepower, and their pre-war build-up as they were not restricted by the Versailles Treaty. The Germans started with armoured cars like the Sd.Kfz.231 family, each with different armaments. However, these vehicles had its flaws and in August 1940, Germany sought a replacement following the conclusion of the Battle of France.
 +
 
 +
The new vehicle was built off an improved Sd.Kfz.232 chassis made in monocoque construction by Büssing-NAG, its armoured body was made by Deutsche Edelstahlwerke, the turret by Daimler-Benz and Schichau, and air-cooled diesel engines by Ringhoffer-Tatra-Werke AG. The monocoque chassis design was built with an eight-wheel steering system, six forward and reverse gears, as well as having an additional driver seat in the rear for quick reversal get-aways. This construction led to '''Sd.Kfz.234''' family. Vehicle construction first started in 1943 as the [[Sd.Kfz.234/2]], which had a turret originally intended for the VK 1602 Leopard mounting a [[KwK39 (50 mm)|5 cm L/60]] gun, construction continued on this vehicle until mid-1944. The Sd.Kfz.234/2 earned the nickname "Puma" from the soldiers using it.
 +
 
 +
Production for Sd.Kfz.234/2 shifted towards other armaments in 1944 that replaced the original. This produced variants such as the Sd.Kfz.234/1 which replaced the turret with an open-top one carrying a [[KwK38 (20 mm)|2 cm KwK38]], this was produced between mid-1944 to early 1945. Right besides that, the Sd.Kfz.234/3 was produced with an open-top structure to mount a [[KwK37 (75 mm)|75 mm howitzer]], this was produced from mid-1944 until the end of 1944. At the Sd.Kfz.234/3's production end, it was replaced by the [[Sd.Kfz.234/4]], also known as the "Pakwagen", that had the armament replaced by a [[PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm)|7.5 cm PaK40 L/46]] anti-tank gun. This last variant was produced from the end of 1944 to the capitulation of Germany in World War II. A total of 478 Sd.Kfz.234 armoured cars were produced, 200 of the 234/1, 101 of the 234/2, 88 of the 234/3, and 89 of the 234/4.
 +
 
 +
===Combat usage===
 +
The Sd.Kfz.234 cars were originally intended for the conflicts in North Africa. However, the engine development took abnormally long to complete and by the time it was ready, the North African theatre had concluded. Nevertheless, they served in the Western and Eastern front with success, but was impeded by its low production count.
 +
 
 +
The Sd.Kfz.234/2 variant was arguably the most popular, as the staple of the 234 family. The vehicle served in the Panzer Lehr Division, 1st and 2nd SS Panzer Division, 2nd, 7th, 13th, and 20th Panzer Division. The Sd.Kfz.234 in the recon companies were allocated in 19 or 25 vehicles per division, further split into platoons up to six vehicles and one as the headquarters. However, due to their low production numbers, this allocation was rarely kept in full strength in the war,
 +
 
 +
The Sd.Kfz.234 first saw combat in Normandy after D-Day in the stationed Panzer Lehr and 2nd Panzer Division in the Sd.Kfz.234/2 variant. The divisions used these vehicles in recon roles until their withdrawal behind the Seine River, with Panzer Lehr having 8 Sd.Kfz.234/2 of the original 26 it had. These divisions were rebuilt in the fall of 1944 with the Sd.Kfz.234/1 and Sd.Kfz.234/3 after the 234/2 ceased production.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
  
−
== Read also ==
+
;Skins
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
+
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_sdkfz_234_4 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|b7EikSPup3Q|'''The Shooting Range #58''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 08:00 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|RGeu2yLGeTU|'''Best armored cars''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 4:37 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}
 +
 
 +
== See also ==
 +
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
−
''ETC.''
 
  
−
== Sources ==
+
== External links ==
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''page on the Wikipedia;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
* [[wt:en/news/4862-marathon-sd-kfz-234-4-schwerer-panzerspähwagen-en|[Devblog] Sd.Kfz.234/4 Schwerer Panzerspähwagen]]
 +
 
 +
{{Germany tank destroyers}}
 +
{{Germany premium ground vehicles}}
 +
[[Category:Wheeled ground vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 08:24, 23 August 2024

Introducing Wiki 3.0
This page is about the German tank destroyer Sd.Kfz.234/4. For other versions, see Sd.Kfz.234 (Family).
Sd.Kfz.234/4
germ_sdkfz_234_4.png
GarageImage Sd.Kfz.2344.jpg
ArtImage Sd.Kfz.234-4.png
Sd.Kfz.234/4
Germany flag.png Germany
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
4.7 4.7 4.7
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
MARKET

Description

The s.Pz.Sp.Wg. (7,5 cm) Sd.Kfz.234/4 (full name: Schwerer Panzerspähwagen 7.5 cm Sonderkraftfahrzeug 234/4 Panzerabwehrkanonenwagen) was a relatively improvised variant on the Sd.Kfz.234 chassis, created in late 1944 to prevent PaK40s from falling behind during the constant retreat of the Germans on all fronts. By removing the superstructure of the Sd.Kfz.234 and installing a PaK 40 mount with a small cut in the bottom half of the shield, the gun could roll into position, take shots, and drive at full speed in reverse.

It was introduced during Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica" in the "Operation S.U.M.M.E.R." event of 2017 that lasted from 28 July to 28 August, unlocked after obtaining 7 tanker Marks of Distinction. The PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm) is powerful enough to destroy most tanks with a single hit. Meanwhile, the Sd.Kfz.234/4 has a top speed of 30-40 km/h in both forward and reverse, allowing for quick relocation. It is possible, though not necessarily required, to use the 75 mm gun and return fire while moving. Terrain features such as bushes and shadows can provide excellent concealment, so make use of them to stay hidden. As a last line of defense, the Sd.Kfz.234/4 is also equipped with a pintle-mounted MG42 machine gun, which provides a high rate of fire for dealing with soft targets and low-flying aircraft.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull30 / 8 / 10
Turret14 / 14 / 10
Crew4 people
Visibility84 %

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
  • Cast homogeneous armour (Gun mantlet, Vision ports)
  • Structural steel (Side skirts)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 30 mm (40°) Front plate
15 mm (70°), 30 mm (55°) Front glacis
30 mm (35°) Lower glacis 		8 mm (34-35°) Top
8 (19-35°) + 4 mm 		10 mm (21-46°) 5 mm
Gun shield 4 + 4 mm (18-29°) N/A N/A N/A

Notes:

  • Wheels provide 10 mm of armour thickness.
  • Belly armour is 12.7 mm thick.

The best way to deal with this tank is to immobilize it while sitting outisde of its gun's reach. Because of its low armour values, it can be easily penetrated with 12.7 mm MG fire or HE shells to the open roof. Most armour-piercing shots will simply over-penetrate the vehicle's front armour and will not do much to the crew compartment unless aimed at specific crew or module locations. As such, explosive ammunition is the preferred methods of elimination (overpressure).

Mobility

Reverse gearbox
Forward and backward movement is possible at the same maximum speed
Speedforward / back
AB98 / 98 km/h
RB and SB90 / 90 km/h
Number of gears7 forward
7 back
Weight11.7 t
Engine power
AB401 hp
RB and SB210 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB34.3 hp/t
RB and SB17.9 hp/t

Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 98 98 11.7 298 401 25.47 34.27
Realistic 90 90 186 210 15.9 17.95

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB727 Sl icon.png
RB818 Sl icon.png
SB1 128 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts67 000 Sl icon.png
Aces330 Ge icon.png
Research Aces570 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 70 / 110 / 130 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 136 / 136 / 136 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new wheels.png
Tires
Mods new car suspension.png
Suspension
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Mods tank reinforcement ger.png
Crew Replenishment
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Mods tank ammo.png
75mm_kwk_37_40_HEAT_ammo_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Mods airstrike.png
Airstrike
Mods tank ammo.png
75mm_kwk_40_APCR_ammo_pack
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Mods scouting.png
Improved optics
Mods tank ammo.png
75mm_ger_Smoke_ammo_pack

Armaments

Main armament

75 mm PaK40/3 L46 cannon
Ammunition36 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
7.6 → 5.9 s
Vertical guidance-5° / 22°
Horizontal guidance-20° / 20°
Main article: PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm)
75 mm PaK40/3 L46 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 36 -5°/+22° ±20° - 12.3 17.1 20.7 22.9 24.4 7.67 6.78 6.25 5.90
Realistic 8.3 9.8 11.9 13.2 14.0

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
PzGr 39 APCBC 151 148 135 121 108 96
Hl.Gr 38B HEAT 80 80 80 80 80 80
PzGr 40 APCR 182 177 159 140 122 107
Sprgr. 34 HE 10 10 10 10 10 10
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
PzGr 39 APCBC 792 6.8 1.2 14 28.9 48° 63° 71°
Hl.Gr 38B HEAT 450 4.4 0.05 0.1 872.1 62° 69° 73°
PzGr 40 APCR 990 4.1 - - - 66° 70° 72°
Sprgr. 34 HE 550 5.74 0 0.1 686 79° 80° 81°
Smoke shell characteristics
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Screen radius
(m) 		Screen deploy
time (s) 		Screen hold
time (s) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
K.Gr.Rot Nb. 540 6.2 13 5 20 50

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Sd.Kfz.234/4
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
36 31 (+5) 13 (+23) 1 (+35) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • Left flank empty: 31 (+5) shells.

Machine guns

7.92 mm MG42 machine gun
Ammunition2 100 rounds
Belt capacity150 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
Main article: MG42 (7.92 mm)
7.92 mm MG42
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 2,100 (150) 1,200 ±20° ±45°

Usage in battles

Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High muzzle velocity and great penetration power means it is great for long range battles
  • Adequate ammo count for prolonged combat
  • Can move forward and backwards with equal speed
  • Low profile
  • Eight-wheel drive gives it good surface traction and handling, much better manoeuvrability
  • Doesn't flip when turning

Cons:

  • Very weak armour, can be penetrated by aircraft weapons and heavy machine guns
  • Open-topped, making it very vulnerable to attacks from the air or overpressure damage
  • Limited gun traverse
  • Crew compartment is littered with ammo
  • Vehicle will be immobilized if the driver is knocked out
  • Bad gun depression only -5°

History

Development

The blitzkrieg tactics in Poland and France gave the Germans a new appreciation of mobile and lethal reconnaissance vehicles. The Germans especially valued the armoured cars due to their speed, firepower, and their pre-war build-up as they were not restricted by the Versailles Treaty. The Germans started with armoured cars like the Sd.Kfz.231 family, each with different armaments. However, these vehicles had its flaws and in August 1940, Germany sought a replacement following the conclusion of the Battle of France.

The new vehicle was built off an improved Sd.Kfz.232 chassis made in monocoque construction by Büssing-NAG, its armoured body was made by Deutsche Edelstahlwerke, the turret by Daimler-Benz and Schichau, and air-cooled diesel engines by Ringhoffer-Tatra-Werke AG. The monocoque chassis design was built with an eight-wheel steering system, six forward and reverse gears, as well as having an additional driver seat in the rear for quick reversal get-aways. This construction led to Sd.Kfz.234 family. Vehicle construction first started in 1943 as the Sd.Kfz.234/2, which had a turret originally intended for the VK 1602 Leopard mounting a 5 cm L/60 gun, construction continued on this vehicle until mid-1944. The Sd.Kfz.234/2 earned the nickname "Puma" from the soldiers using it.

Production for Sd.Kfz.234/2 shifted towards other armaments in 1944 that replaced the original. This produced variants such as the Sd.Kfz.234/1 which replaced the turret with an open-top one carrying a 2 cm KwK38, this was produced between mid-1944 to early 1945. Right besides that, the Sd.Kfz.234/3 was produced with an open-top structure to mount a 75 mm howitzer, this was produced from mid-1944 until the end of 1944. At the Sd.Kfz.234/3's production end, it was replaced by the Sd.Kfz.234/4, also known as the "Pakwagen", that had the armament replaced by a 7.5 cm PaK40 L/46 anti-tank gun. This last variant was produced from the end of 1944 to the capitulation of Germany in World War II. A total of 478 Sd.Kfz.234 armoured cars were produced, 200 of the 234/1, 101 of the 234/2, 88 of the 234/3, and 89 of the 234/4.

Combat usage

The Sd.Kfz.234 cars were originally intended for the conflicts in North Africa. However, the engine development took abnormally long to complete and by the time it was ready, the North African theatre had concluded. Nevertheless, they served in the Western and Eastern front with success, but was impeded by its low production count.

The Sd.Kfz.234/2 variant was arguably the most popular, as the staple of the 234 family. The vehicle served in the Panzer Lehr Division, 1st and 2nd SS Panzer Division, 2nd, 7th, 13th, and 20th Panzer Division. The Sd.Kfz.234 in the recon companies were allocated in 19 or 25 vehicles per division, further split into platoons up to six vehicles and one as the headquarters. However, due to their low production numbers, this allocation was rarely kept in full strength in the war,

The Sd.Kfz.234 first saw combat in Normandy after D-Day in the stationed Panzer Lehr and 2nd Panzer Division in the Sd.Kfz.234/2 variant. The divisions used these vehicles in recon roles until their withdrawal behind the Seine River, with Panzer Lehr having 8 Sd.Kfz.234/2 of the original 26 it had. These divisions were rebuilt in the fall of 1944 with the Sd.Kfz.234/1 and Sd.Kfz.234/3 after the 234/2 ceased production.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #58 - Metal Beasts section at 08:00 discusses the Sd.Kfz.234/4.
Best armored cars discusses the Sd.Kfz.234/4 at 4:37 - War Thunder Official Channel

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the vehicles;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links


Germany tank destroyers
Pz. I Derivatives  Panzerjäger I
Pz. II Derivatives  15cm sIG 33 B Sfl
Pz. 38(t) Derivatives  Marder III · Marder III H · Jagdpanzer 38(t)
Pz. III Derivatives  StuG III A · StuG III F · StuG III G · StuH 42 G
Pz. IV Derivatives  Jagdpanzer IV · Panzer IV/70(A) · Panzer IV/70(V) · Dicker Max · Nashorn · Brummbär · VFW
Pz. V Derivatives  Jagdpanther G1 · Bfw. Jagdpanther G1
Pz. VI Derivatives  Sturer Emil · Elefant · Ferdinand · 38 cm Sturmmörser · Jagdtiger
Wheeled/Half-track  8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl. · Sd.Kfz.251/9 · Sd.Kfz.251/10 · Sd.Kfz.251/22 · Sd.Kfz.234/3 · Sd.Kfz.234/4 · 15 cm Pz.W.42
ATGM Carrier  RakJPz 2 · RakJPz 2 (HOT) · Wiesel 1A2
Other  Waffenträger · M109G · JPz 4-5 · Raketenautomat · VT1-2

Germany premium ground vehicles
Light tanks  Pz.II C (DAK) · Pz.Sfl.Ic · Pz.Sp.Wg.P204(f) KwK · Sd.Kfz. 140/1 · Sd.Kfz.234/1 · Ru 251 · SPz 12-3 LGS · TAM 2IP
Medium tanks  Nb.Fz. · Pz.III N · Pz.Bef.Wg.IV J · ▀M4 748 (a) · ▀T 34 747 (r) · Ersatz M10
  mKPz M47 G · Turm III · Leopard A1A1 (L/44) · Leopard 2 (PzBtl 123) · Leopard 2A4M
Heavy tanks  ▀Pz.Kpfw. Churchill · ▀KV-IB · ▀KW I C 756 (r) · ▀KW II 754 (r)
  VK 45.01 (P) · ␠Tiger · Pz.Bef.Wg.VI P · Tiger II (H) Sla.16
Tank destroyers  Sd.Kfz.234/3 · Sd.Kfz.234/4 · Sd.Kfz.251/10 · Sd.Kfz.251/22 · 15 cm Pz.W.42
  Brummbär · Panzer IV/70(A) · VFW · Bfw. Jagdpanther G1 · Elefant · 38 cm Sturmmörser

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