Panzer Tracts No. 3-1 PzKpfw III Ausf A-D, Leichttraktor & Krupp MKA

It was Germany’s first post-WWI gun tank, so belongs here in the Panzer Tracts sequence. Two types were built, by Krupp and by Rheinmetall, with different chassis but the same rear-mounted turret.

Technical specifications are given, with many photographs, side-view plans by Mr. Doyle, and drawings with dimensions that give enough information for scratch builders to produce models of either version. Then comes the Panzer III coverage, starting with the prototype chassis ordered from Daimler-Benz and from M.A.N. and trial turrets from Rheinmetall and from Krupp. The Krupp turret was selected, with the Daimler-Benz chassis and its coil spring suspension used for the Ausf A. Daimler-Benz produced further test chassis with differing leaf spring suspensions that became the Ausfs B, C and D. All four types saw action in the 1939 Polish campaign of 1939 but, apart from a few Ausf D used in Norway, were replaced by Ausf E before the French campaign.

Development and use is described in detail, with the modifications made during testing and those after issue to the troops. Although there’s a 4-view 1/35 scale plan only for the Ausf D, there are side views of Ausfs A to C and of course many photographs including interior views of the Ausf A turret and full interior and exterior stowage layouts for the Ausf D.