"German Geschutzwagen B2 Self-Propelled Howitzers." Topic

"With the Fall of France in May-June 1940 came the capture of thousands of French military vehicles. The Germans moved on claiming this still-useful stock and reintroduced them into their own ranks. While some vehicles were allowed retain their original combat roles, others were modified to fulfill growing German Army requirements and this proved with case with the Renault Char B Heavy Tank which was introduced into French Army service prior to the war during 1936. Armed with a 75mm howitzer in its turret, as well as a 47mm cannon in the hull, these steel beasts were well-armored fighting machines and of concern to the invading Germans during 1940. Under new ownership, the tanks were selected for conversion to Self-Propelled Howitzer (SPH) platforms as the "10.5cm leFH 18/3 (Sf) auf Geschutzwagen B2".

Early on, the Germans modified the French tanks as flame-projecting vehicles under the "Flammwagen auf Panzerkampfwagen B-2(f)" designation and sixty were completed to that standard. However, their limited showing along the East Front helped evolve the Char B stock as dedicated self-propelled artillery systems instead…."

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Amicalement
Armand

I think they meant 75mm in the hull and 47mm in the turret. But with those Frenchmen, maybe they've been fibbing to us all this time.

Whatever happened to things being ‘made'? Now it seems that they have to ‘come online' instead.

Good question.

Hope some fellow members have the answer… (smile)

Amicalement
Armand