Jagdpanzer 38(t)

     
Název:
Name:
Jagdpanzer 38 (t) Jagdpanzer 38 (t)
Originální název:
Original Name:
Jagdpanzer 38 (t)
Výrobce:
Producer:
DD.03.1944-DD.05.1945 Böhmisch-Mährische Maschinenfabrik AG, Praha /
DD.07.1944-DD.05.1945 Škoda Werke, Plzeň /
Období výroby:
Production Period:
DD.04.1944-DD.05.1945
Vyrobeno kusů:
Number of Produced:
cca 2900
Prototyp vyroben:
Prototype Built:
01.04.1944
Osádka:
Crew:
4
Technické údaje:
Technical Data:
 
Bojová hmotnost:
Combat Weight:
16000 kg 35274 lb
Celková délka:
Overall Length:
6270 mm 20 ft 6 ⅞ in
Celková šířka:
Overall Width:
2526 mm 8 ft 3 ½ in
Celková výška:
Overall Height:
2100 mm 6 ft 10 ⅝ in
Světlá výška:
Ground Clearance:
425 mm 1 ft 4 ¾ in
Pancéřování:
Armour:
čelo - 60 mm
boky - 20 mm
zadok - 20 mm
strop - 8 mm
dno - 10 mm
front - 60 mm
sides - 20 mm
rear - 20 mm
top - 8 mm
belly - 10 mm
Pohon:
Propulsion:
 
Typ:
Type:
Praga AE (zážihový vodou chladený 6-valec objemu 7.754 cm3) Praga AE (6 cyl., gasoline, water cooled, 7.754 ccm)
Výkon:
Power:
118 kW při 2500 ot/min 158.2 bhp at 2500 rpm
Převodové ústrojí:
Transmission:
Praga-Wilson (5+R) Praga-Wilson (5+R)
Výkony:
Performance:
 
Rychlost na silnici:
Road Speed:
40 km/h 25 mph
Rychlost v terénu:
Cross-country Speed:
25 km/h 16 mph
Jízdní dosah po silnici:
Cruising Range on Road:
160 km 99 mi
Jízdní dosah v terénu:
Cross-country Cruising Range:
80 km 50 mi
Překonávání překážek:
Obstacles Crossing:
 
Svah:
Gradient:
25 ° 56 %
Boční náklon:
Side Slope:
? ° ? %
Překročivost:
Trench Crossing:
1,5 m 59 in
Výstupnost:
Vertical Obstacle:
0,65 m 26 in
Brodivost:
Fording Depth:
1,1 m 43 in
Výzbroj:
Armament:
 
Hlavní:
Main:
7,5 cm PaK 39 L/48 (41 nábojov) 7,5 cm PaK 39 L/48 (41 rounds)
Vedlejší:
Secondary:
guľomet MG 34 kalibru 7,92 mm (600 nábojov)
útočná puška StG 44 kalibru 7,92 mm (180 nábojov)
machine gun MG 34 cal. 7,92 mm (600 rounds)
assault gun StG 44 cal. 7,92 mm (180 rounds)
Uživatelské státy:
User States:




Jagdpanzer 38(t) ve službách cizích armád




Jagdpanzer 38(t) in the service of foreign armies
Poznámka:
Note:
- -
Zdroje:
Sources:
Vladimír Francev, Charles K. Kliment, Milan Kopecký - Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer, MBI, rok vydania 2001, ISBN: 80-902238-9-3
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#423600 Version : 0
History of the creation
In the breakthrough year of 1943, the German military leadership realized the necessity of effectively reinforcing infantry units with mobile anti-tank assets. These required not only conventional artillery support (the emergence of a new category of Sturmgeschutz), but also anti-tank support. Due to the Allied air raids at the end of 1943, the production of the classic assault guns Sturmgeschütz III manufactured by Alkett suffered a considerable shortfall. The other manufacturer, Miag, was unable to replace this shortfall. Therefore, a manufacturer was sought and found to meet the Army's requirements for a light tank fighter that was to be produced in large numbers at low cost. This was the Protectorate company BMM (Böhmisch-Mährische Maschinenfabriken, ex. ČKD). The company was well known for its established production of light tanks Pz.Kpfw. 38(t), Marder III tank fighters and various other self-propelled guns using the platform of the timeless pre-war Czechoslovak tank LT vz. 38. Originally, it was considered that BMM would produce German assault guns, but due to obsolete machinery and other limitations of the factory, such changes could not be implemented without great cost and time. The design department, however, was working on its new design for a light tank fighter. Consideration and approval of the project was very rapid. The German military authorities confirmed the assignment for the development and production of a tank interceptor in the 13-tonne weight category. The fighter was to use as many components as possible from the established production platform Pz.Kpfw. 38(t). The required armament of the fighter was to consist of the 7.5 cm PaK 39 L/48 anti-tank gun.
On 8 January 1944, a drawing of the final version of the vehicle, designated Pz.Kpfw. 38(t) - 18, was completed. The inspiration was the German Jagdpanzer IV, which was just entering production. From this fighter it took the identical gun laden in a gimbaled mount (design by the German engineer Stollberg). A certain amount of inspiration in the development of the Jagdpanzer 38(t) was also played by the Romanian tank interceptor project Maresal, which German experts were able to get acquainted with in 1943, and who showed particular interest in such a conceived vehicle.
The armour protection was to consist of 60 mm frontal armour, the sides and rear were to be only 20 mm, the ceiling 8 mm and the bottom 10 mm. According to Czech sources, the 60 mm frontal armour was made of a material with a strength of 105 kg/mm22) (314 according to Brinell ?5)), while the thinner sheets had a strength of 80-85 kg/mm22) (233-247 according to Brinell ?5)). According to Mr. Doyle, the 60 mm armor produced in the Protectorate (Siemens-Martin) was weaker than the German armor used in the production of Pz.Kpfw. IV or Panther (armour plates from 16-30 mm had a Brinell hardness of 309-3353, 278-324 for plates 35-50 mm thick and 265-309 for plates 55-80 mm thick)4). I came across mention that the 60 mm Jagpanzer 38(t) armor is equivalent to 30 mm surface hardened armor Pz.Kpfw. III6). According to the values above, and if the conversions (kg/mm2 vs. according to Brinell) are correct, I don't see a difference in armor quality.
The conversions performed showed an increase in the total weight of the tank fighter to 16 tons. This must have had an effect on speed and agility. The offset gunner's armouring was putting a strain on the right side and this would have led to wear on some components. However, despite these shortcomings, the project went ahead and although it was an improvisation nothing could prevent the decision for mass production. Already in the design phase, however, a cannon without a braking gear (Starr), an air-cooled Tatra diesel engine and an extended chassis (the later project Jagdpanzer 38D) were envisaged.On 24 January 1944, a wooden mock-up of the vehicle was completed, which was also later modified.
The required production of three prototypes was to be fulfilled in 3/1944, but the first prototype was completed by 1/4/1944. The planned production was to be gradually increased up to 1,000 fighters per month. This volume of production could not be handled by BMM, so the Skoda- Werke, Pilsen, was to be involved in the production. The licensing agreement between the two companies was signed on 15.6.1944. The two companies worked together on the continuous improvements under the guidance of experts from the German Army Ordnance Office (Waffenamt) and the company's Alkett department, who had a decisive say in the introduction of the modifications. A number of subcontracting companies were involved in the production. From autumn/autumn 1944, the BMM branch in Slany became involved in production. In the same way, Škoda tried to start production in a new plant in Račice near Hradec Králové. However, the completion of the fighters started before the end of the war and only 32 vehicles were completed.


The planned orders were about 25% complete:

Production numbers
Company
Number
Note
321001-323000BMM2000Scheduled completion as of 11/1944
235001-327000BMM2000
323001-325000Skoda2000Order SS 4912-0210-8958/44 (signed 14.2.1944)
327001-329000Skoda2000Order signed 12.7.1944
?Skoda3000Order SS 4902-0210-8970/44 (signed 19.10.1944)



The cost of the Jagdpanzer 38(t) tank fighter was RM 54,000. The total cost of building one Jagdpanzer 38(t) was about half that of Jagdpanzer IV. This was also the reason why production of the Jagdpanzer IV with the short gun was discontinued. However, production of the Panzer IV/70 (V) version with the long gun (L/70) remained.
The undercarriage consisted of a set of four running wheels suspended by leaf springs. Compared to the Pz.Kpfw. 38(t), they had a larger diameter of 825 mm (original 775 mm) and came from the new version Pz.Kpfw. 38 n.A. (initially bolted (32 bolts), later riveted (16 rivets)). The wheelbase was increased from 1775 mm to 2123 mm. The drive wheel on the prototypes came from Pz.Kpfw. 38(t) with perforation holes around the perimeter. The tension wheel was a number of versions. Machined wheels with 12 perforation holes (another version with oval holes), later with 8 perforation holes (another version with welded reinforcements), followed by pressed wheels with 6 (another version with pressings) and the final production had 4 perforation holes. The tracks were almost identical, except that the width was increased from 293 mm to 350 mm (there are two slightly different versions of the Kgs 64/350/104). Extended belts designed for the difficult terrain on the eastern front, the so-called Ostketten, with a width of 440 mm2) were also tested (other sources claim that it is the Winterketten Kgs 64/425/104 with a width of 425 mm7)). At the rear was a tensioning mechanism, which could be used to adjust the tensioning wheel to a range of 165 mm.
As a result of testing the new fighter design in test and training units, it was found that the vehicle was unevenly loaded and the front of the chassis suffered from problematic steering and wear on the front pair of running wheels. This led to various efforts to both lighten the front of the vehicle and strengthen the structure. One of these was a strengthened spring assembly. From 9/1944 onwards, 16 springs of 9 mm thickness were fitted at the front, 16 springs of 7 mm thickness at the rear. Further lightening was provided by the new lightened gun visor, which became standard.
The protective collar protecting the cannon underwent modification. The prototypes had them with scalloped edges. Early vehicles had a cover with a single bay for the locating pins at the top of the collar. One version extended over the edge of the hull, the other no longer extended over. The later standard collar no longer had a funnel for the locating pins.
The driver's periscope cover was originally cast, but after it was discovered to be a missile catcher it was replaced with a sheet metal canopy.
The exhaust silencer also underwent a change. Initially it was positioned above the top edge of the rear armour, later the exhaust pipe was shortened and the muffler positioned obliquely ventrally. Early production had the muffler made of perforated sheet metal, later it was replaced with a non-perforated one.
Service holes with hatches were added on the engine cover.
The commander's hatch was changed from a one-door to a two-door hatch.
The tool box located on the left rear fender originally had perforated holes, but later was no longer perforated.
The shape of the towing hooks was also changed, the last production received welded-on chamfering profiles.


1)armada.vojenstvi.cz
2)Vladimir Francev, Charles K. Kliment, Milan Kopecký - Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer, MBI, Publishing House, Prague, year of publication 2001, ISBN 80-902238-9-3
3)Thomas L. Jentz, Hilary Louise Doyle - Panzer Tracts No. 9, Jagdpanzer (Jagdpanzer 38 to Jagdtiger), year of publication 1997, ISBN: 0-9648793-3-6
4)tanks-encyclopedia.com
5)www.itc-ltd.co.uk
6)tanks-encyclopedia.com
7)Dr. Peter Schwarzmann - Panzerketten Die Gleisketten der deutschen Kettenfahrzeuge des Zweiten Weltkriegs, year of publication 2013, ISBN: 978-3-943883-00-8

Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Maketa nového stíhača tankov bola postavená v 1/1944. Následne sa na nej prevádzali úpravy (montáž a demontáž úsťovej brzdy, doplnené schurzeny, či prvý návrh diaľkovo ovládaného guľometu).

Maketa nového stíhača tankov bola postavená v 1/1944. Následne sa na nej prevádzali úpravy (montáž a demontáž úsťovej brzdy, doplnené schurzeny, či prvý návrh diaľkovo ovládaného guľometu).
Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Upravená maketa s prvým návrhom diaľkovo ovládaného guľometu na streche vozidla

Upravená maketa s prvým návrhom diaľkovo ovládaného guľometu na streche vozidla
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Prvá nahrubo zostavená korba vo firme Poldi Kladno

Prvá nahrubo zostavená korba vo firme Poldi Kladno
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Čelný pancier nemá otvor pre kanón, možno bol vytvorený neskôr ? V súvislosti s nejasným pôvodom prvého prototypu vozidla Starr ma napadá špekulatívna myšlienka, či tento skelet nebol použitý pre jeho výrobu. Existujú informácie a fotografie o prvej trojici prototypov a dokonca existuje fotografia prvého sériového vozidla (321004 viď. nižšie) a tie majú štandardné otvory pre kanón. Tak odkiaľ sa nabrala ďalšia korba s charakteristickými detailami prototypov, ktorá bola použitá pri výrobe prvého prototypu Starr ?. Vzhľadom na to, že musela byť použitá pancierová platňa s menším otvorom pre kanón v čase rozbiehajúcej sa výroby bolo skôr nepravdepodobné, že sa vyrobila extra platňa, rovnako ako použitie modifikovanej štandardnej platne s pôvodným otvorom. Kdežto použitie tejto korby bez otvoru je asi najlogickejšia možnosť. Rýchle vypálenie plameňom, či vyfrézovanie požadovaného otvoru by mohla byť možnosť. Evidentne ide o plnohodnotný predpripravený trup s vyvŕtanými otvormi pre zavesenie pojazdových kolies. Rovnako predpokladám, že by mohlo ísť o nepancierovaný skelet.

Čelný pancier nemá otvor pre kanón, možno bol vytvorený neskôr ? V súvislosti s nejasným pôvodom prvého prototypu vozidla "Starr" ma napadá špekulatívna myšlienka, či tento skelet nebol použitý pre jeho výrobu. Existujú informácie a fotografie o prvej trojici prototypov a dokonca existuje fotografia prvého sériového vozidla (321004 viď. nižšie) a tie majú štandardné otvory pre kanón. Tak odkiaľ sa nabrala ďalšia korba s charakteristickými detailami prototypov, ktorá bola použitá pri výrobe prvého prototypu "Starr" ?. Vzhľadom na to, že musela byť použitá pancierová platňa s menším otvorom pre kanón v čase rozbiehajúcej sa výroby bolo skôr nepravdepodobné, že sa vyrobila extra platňa, rovnako ako použitie modifikovanej štandardnej platne s pôvodným otvorom. Kdežto použitie tejto korby bez otvoru je asi najlogickejšia možnosť. Rýchle vypálenie plameňom, či vyfrézovanie požadovaného otvoru by mohla byť možnosť. Evidentne ide o plnohodnotný predpripravený trup s vyvŕtanými otvormi pre zavesenie pojazdových kolies. Rovnako predpokladám, že by mohlo ísť o nepancierovaný skelet.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Postup prác na prvom prototype

Postup prác na prvom prototype
Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Veľká číslica 2 označuje buď druhú vyprodukovanú korbu, ktorá ale nemusí byť korbou druhého prototypu. Jej význam mi nie je jasný. Skelet prechádza strojovým opracovaním otvorov na horizontálnej vyvrtávačke.

Veľká číslica "2" označuje buď druhú vyprodukovanú korbu, ktorá ale nemusí byť korbou druhého prototypu. Jej význam mi nie je jasný. Skelet prechádza strojovým opracovaním otvorov na horizontálnej vyvrtávačke.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Prvá nahrubo zostavená korba vo firme Poldi Kladno

Prvá nahrubo zostavená korba vo firme Poldi Kladno
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Prvá nahrubo zostavená korba vo firme Poldi Kladno

Prvá nahrubo zostavená korba vo firme Poldi Kladno
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#719049 Version : 0
...
Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Všimnite si akési profily v otvore masky pod kanónom. U bežného vozidla ich v týchto miestach nevidieť. Všimnite si i vystupujúce polohovacie kolíky na maske kanóna. U iných vozidiel boli zapustené alebo zarovnané. Veľké číslo 2 evokuje možnosť, že je to druhý prototyp. Možno ide o korbu z fotiek v príspevku vyššie, kde je opracovávaná na horizontálnej vyvrtávačke. Nasvedčovalo by tomu i koleso bez perforačných otvorov, ale... Kriedou je na spodnom čelnom pancieri podobné, no nie identické označenie aké mal tretí prototyp. V tomto prípade je to číslo 998 a rímske číslo XII. Podobným trojčíslom boli počas výroby označované vozidlá, kde posledné trojčíslo pochádzalo z jeho výrobného čísla vozidla Fgst.Nr. Toto však nie je tento prípad, pretože výrobné čísla prototypov uvádzane zdrojmi nekorešpondujú s touto metódou označovania.

Všimnite si akési profily v otvore masky pod kanónom. U bežného vozidla ich v týchto miestach nevidieť. Všimnite si i vystupujúce polohovacie kolíky na maske kanóna. U iných vozidiel boli zapustené alebo zarovnané. Veľké číslo "2" evokuje možnosť, že je to druhý prototyp. Možno ide o korbu z fotiek v príspevku vyššie, kde je opracovávaná na horizontálnej vyvrtávačke. Nasvedčovalo by tomu i koleso bez perforačných otvorov, ale... Kriedou je na spodnom čelnom pancieri podobné, no nie identické označenie aké mal tretí prototyp. V tomto prípade je to číslo "998" a rímske číslo "XII". Podobným trojčíslom boli počas výroby označované vozidlá, kde posledné trojčíslo pochádzalo z jeho výrobného čísla vozidla Fgst.Nr. Toto však nie je tento prípad, pretože výrobné čísla prototypov uvádzane zdrojmi nekorešpondujú s touto metódou označovania.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Netuším o ktorý prototyp ide. Vozidlo má dizajn hnacieho kolesa bez perforačných otvorov. Vozidlo je holostavba bez blatníkov, držiakov, či konzolí. Chýba mu i oporná kladka pásov (predpokladám, že bola domontovaná neskôr). Uvažujem, či to nie je prvý prototyp ešte pred dokončením. Číslo 2 možno označuje druhý vyrobený trup. Prvým mohol byť nahrubo poskladaný skelet bez otvoru pre kanón. Ale je to len moja domnienka.

Netuším o ktorý prototyp ide. Vozidlo má dizajn hnacieho kolesa bez perforačných otvorov. Vozidlo je holostavba bez blatníkov, držiakov, či konzolí. Chýba mu i oporná kladka pásov (predpokladám, že bola domontovaná neskôr). Uvažujem, či to nie je prvý prototyp ešte pred dokončením. Číslo "2" možno označuje druhý vyrobený trup. Prvým mohol byť nahrubo poskladaný skelet bez otvoru pre kanón. Ale je to len moja domnienka.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#40422 Version : 0
2nd prototype
The remaining pair of prototypes were completed soon after the first prototype was produced in 4/1944. Attached is the 2nd prototype serial number 321002 according to the source below. The prototype lived to see the end of the war and was in the last German convoy leaving central Prague on 9/5/1945. The tank fighter's right rear tensioning wheel broke off and was left behind by the retreating Germans on the French Avenue. The fighter was used in the Tank Fighter School in Milovice.


Tomáš Jakl - Prahou pod pancířem povstalců, České květnové povstání ve fotografii Svazek Ivydavateľstvo Mladá fronta, year of publication 2010, ISBN: 978-80-204-2273-6

Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#719037 Version : 0
3rd prototype
The remaining pair of prototypes were completed soon after the first prototype was produced in 4/1944. The third prototype serial number 321003 is known is from a series of photos of testing.
The prototype lived to see the end of the war and was in the last German column leaving central Prague on 9/5/1945. According to the source below, this prototype was left on Moravská Street near the post office.


Tomáš Jakl - Prahou pod pancířem povstalců, České květnové povstání ve fotografii Svazek Ivydavateľstvo Mladá fronta, year of publication 2010, ISBN: 978-80-204-2273-6
Vladimír Francev, Charles K. Kliment, Milan Kopecký - Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer, MBI, Publishing House, Prague, year of publication 2001, ISBN 80-902238-9-3
Thomas L. Jentz, Hilary Louise Doyle - Panzer Tracts No. 9, Jagdpanzer (Jagdpanzer 38 to Jagdtiger), year of publication 1997, ISBN: 0-9648793-3-6

Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Prototyp 321003 je vpravo, Praha 9.5.1945, ulica Moravská

Prototyp 321003 je vpravo, Praha 9.5.1945, ulica Moravská
Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#719042 Version : 0
Parallel to the prototypes, mass production was already underway in 4/1944, producing 20 tank fighters in that month. This series was presented to Adolf Hitler on the occasion of his birthday on 20/4/1944. The fighters were presented on a highway near Schloss Klessheim (castle), near Salzburg, Austria (somewhere between Berchtesgaden and Munich). After the static demonstration, they then took part in a parade.
An interesting feature of this series is the modification of the original heavy gun screen, where additional armour protection was welded to the bottom of the cannon. Another interesting feature is the grips of the side armour protectors (schurzens) that held them on the outside. Another production had handles that held the schurzens from the inside. The cannon was not in camouflage color, but probably in the base color.
After the parade was over, the fighters were moved to the factory for completion. They were then handed over to the German authorities at the end of 4/1944. The latter subsequently distributed them to test and training centers.
An interesting feature was the modification of the armour screen (shield) of the gun. In the lower part of the heavy screen additional protection was welded to protect the gun's storage area. The gun barrels were probably in the basic colour. Another interesting feature are the side schurzen mounts.


Vladimir Frantsev, Charles K. Kliment, Milan Kopecký - Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer, MBI, Publishing House, Prague, year of publication 2001, ISBN 80-902238-9-3
www.ebay.de
www.hitler-archive.com
www.facebook.com
www.bundesarchiv.de

Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Stíhače majú modifikované pancierové clony kanónov. V jej spodnej časti mali navarenú dodatočnú ochranu. Atypické sú i úchyty schürzenov. Hlavne kanónov sú pravdepodobne v základnej farbe.

Stíhače majú modifikované pancierové clony kanónov. V jej spodnej časti mali navarenú dodatočnú ochranu. Atypické sú i úchyty schürzenov. Hlavne kanónov sú pravdepodobne v základnej farbe.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Bližším predstavením prešiel prototyp (?) Jagdpanzer 38(t) Starr

Bližším predstavením prešiel prototyp (?) Jagdpanzer 38(t) Starr
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#719046 Version : 0
Curiously, in an effort to lighten the front end of the fighters, the program manager for BMM Ing. Alexey Mikhailovich Surin drilled holes in some of the less vulnerable areas, which were then to be plugged with 5mm thick sheet metal. If it was found that in this way the armour protection of the fighters would be degraded, 22 vehicles were modified in this way. The vehicles were marked "Not to be used at the front!" and were sent to the training units.
The front end of the vehicle was improved by lightening the gun empennage, using a lightened gun visor, and strengthening the chassis suspension.


Citace :

The Pz.Jäger vehicles constructed in my presence had a terribly heavy front end, I was investigated for this in Berlin and as the construction was led by Schäde and Sauer I managed to prove that I was not to blame and recommended Mr. Schäde to order the cutting of holes in the armour components, and Mr. Schäde sent us a telegram giving permission to carry out this cutting if necessary. I immediately ordered the holes in 3+50 vehicles to be cut and sealed with 5 mm plates. This cutting was carried out until my departure (July 1944) and was carried out on 22 vehicles. After my departure, the Ordnance Office committee from Berlin stopped the cutting and ordered the springs to be reinforced. Vehicles with cut holes were marked with a far visible sign "Not to be used at the front."1)



For a long time I had no idea in which place of the vehicle such modification could have been performed. I noticed an interesting detail in a few rare pictures of vehicles with modified gun visors with additional welded on protection and atypical schürzen mounts. It is a sort of recess on the sides of the gun guard collar. One photo of such an early Jagdpanzer 38(t) from the collections of the Patton Museum at Fort Knox shows a large hole at the location of this recess. Is it possible that this is what the lightweighting effort ? Maybe sabotage is also covered by the effort to lighten the design ?


Vladimir Frantsev, Charles K. Kliment, Milan Kopecký - Jagdpanzer 38(t) Hetzer, MBI, year of publication 2001, ISBN: 80-902238-9-3
Patton Museum, Fort Knox archive
Lee Archer, Felipe Rodna - Panzerwrecks, In Focus 1: Jagdpanzer 38, year of publication 2016, ISBN: 9781908032133
1)manuscript Ing. Surin, dated 12.3.1946, in which he explains his activities during the war (citation provided is from Vladimir Francev)

Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Vozidlo pridelené WaPrüf 6 na testovanie alebo pridelené k výcvikovej jednotke. Vpredu má namaľované výrobné číslo 321004 (?). Znamenalo by to, že ide o prvé sériové vozidlo.

Vozidlo pridelené WaPrüf 6 na testovanie alebo pridelené k výcvikovej jednotke. Vpredu má namaľované výrobné číslo 321004 (?). Znamenalo by to, že ide o prvé sériové vozidlo.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Identické vozidlo ako na predchádzajúcej fotografii pridelené WaPrüf 6 na testovanie alebo pridelené k výcvikovej jednotke.

Identické vozidlo ako na predchádzajúcej fotografii pridelené WaPrüf 6 na testovanie alebo pridelené k výcvikovej jednotke.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Vozidlo pridelené WaPrüf 6, ktoré bolo určené na testovanie. Na boku má akýsi nápis. Možno ide o zmienený nápis Nepoužívať na fronte!.

Vozidlo pridelené WaPrüf 6, ktoré bolo určené na testovanie. Na boku má akýsi nápis. Možno ide o zmienený nápis "Nepoužívať na fronte!".
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Fotka z Patton Museum, Fort Know. Úsťová brzda pravdepodobne pochádza z britského tanku Valentine XI.

Fotka z Patton Museum, Fort Know. Úsťová brzda pravdepodobne pochádza z britského tanku Valentine XI.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Veľký otvor na mieste, kde mali tieto kuriózne vozidlá vybranie. Bol tento otvor zakrytý spomínaným 5 mm plechom ? Išlo o pokus o odľahčenie konštrukcie, či sabotáž ? Fotka z Patton Museum, Fort Know. Úsťová brzda pravdepodobne pochádza z britského tanku Valentine XI.

Veľký otvor na mieste, kde mali tieto kuriózne vozidlá vybranie. Bol tento otvor zakrytý spomínaným 5 mm plechom ? Išlo o pokus o odľahčenie konštrukcie, či sabotáž ? Fotka z Patton Museum, Fort Know. Úsťová brzda pravdepodobne pochádza z britského tanku Valentine XI.
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#683703 Version : 0
The name "Hetzer" does not officially belong(!) to this type.
This naming should have officially belonged to the serial form of the intended light tank fighter E-10.


The naming "Hetzer" figured in the description of the Lt. H.Schröder (an employee of the Army Ordnance Office ????) to the specifications for the new Panzerjäger dated 1 November 1943 (D 97/1+). This description was written one month before the final specifications for the Jagdpanzer 38(t) were commissioned (16.12.1943). Nowhere in the specifications for the Jagdpanzer 38(t) was the combat designation "Hetzer" mentioned. However, the naming "Hetzer" became widespread among soldiers and was subsequently adopted by General Guderian and figured in his report on this type of tank fighter to Adolf Hitler.


Jentz, Doyle - New Vanguard No.1 Tiger II & No.5 Tiger I
https://www.panzertracts.com/PZanswers.htm

Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#25968 Version : 0
And some period photos (my archive) from Dolní Krupa 1945. It is possible that the machines belong to 46th Infantry Division.
One of them shows an interesting conversion with a Flak in the open battlespace at the rear. The other or this same machine so modified is photographed in Moravia in Přerov.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) - vzadu s Flakem,..

vzadu s Flakem,..
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#196337 Version : 0
Jagdpanzer 38(t) early version from the outdoor display of the museum in Ontario, Canada (CFB Borden Military Museum)


Own photo

Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#214590 Version : 0

This post has not been translated to English yet. Please use the TRANSLATE button above to see machine translation of this post.

.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Hetzer bojové skupiny Milovice (Kampfgruppe Milowitz), Praha 9. 5. 1945. Tento Hetzer byl jedním ze tří vůbec prvních vyrobených strojů tohoto typu, neboť byl vybaven pancířem kanonu se zvlněným okrajem. Dopoledne 9. 5. 1945 zůstal stát v Praze na Francouzské třídě. Při překonávání barikády mu upadlo kolo, patrně následkem opotřebení jeho osy po intenzivním využívání stroje ve Škole tankových stíhačů v Milovicích. Vozidlo bylo bez označení, kamufláž tvořily pásy středně zelené a červenohnědé na podkladě evropské žluté. Stroj byl navíc pokryt větvemi.

Hetzer bojové skupiny Milovice (Kampfgruppe Milowitz), Praha 9. 5. 1945. Tento Hetzer byl jedním ze tří vůbec prvních vyrobených strojů tohoto typu, neboť byl vybaven pancířem kanonu se zvlněným okrajem. Dopoledne 9. 5. 1945 zůstal stát v Praze na Francouzské třídě. Při překonávání barikády mu upadlo kolo, patrně následkem opotřebení jeho osy po intenzivním využívání stroje ve Škole tankových stíhačů v Milovicích. Vozidlo bylo bez označení, kamufláž tvořily pásy středně zelené a červenohnědé na podkladě evropské žluté. Stroj byl navíc pokryt větvemi.
Published with authors permit

URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#432428 Version : 0
Insurgent Hetzers. Prague May 1945.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#40423 Version : 0

Diskuse

Concerning the unidentified photograph.
I came across this and a series of other photographs whilst viewing the digitised images of original glass negatives on the Regional Archives in Opava Sbirka fotodesk Tatra online.
The vehicle is a JagdPz38(t); one of two used to test installation of Tatra V8 and V12 air-cooled diesels.

Digitálny archív Zemského archívu v Opavě

Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Photo taken September 1944.  Tatra 103 V12 air-cooled diesel.  Test installation in JagdPz38(t)

Photo taken September 1944. Tatra 103 V12 air-cooled diesel. Test installation in JagdPz38(t)
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#611329 Version : 0
Fantastic picture!
According to the information about the owner of these photos and according to the details of the hall, I estimate that this is a shot from the factory hall of the Tatra Kopřivnice company.
Interestingly, in the background there is a wheeled armor plate of identical shape with a large mounting hole Bergepanzer 38 (t) If it were the interior of the Tatra production hall, which, however, did not deal with the assembly of these tank fighters, it is questionable what was the significance of this board. Equally interesting would be the information on the purpose of the rescue vehicle Bergepanzer 38 (t). Have the same attempts been made to assemble this engine?
Another interesting detail is that you do not see a hole in the front armor for mounting the cannon. Was it a solid armor plate?
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#611733 Version : 0

Citace - brano :

Another interesting detail is that you do not see a hole in the front armor for mounting the cannon. Was it a solid armor plate?[/Quote]
Friend,
I dare to oppose. The plate, leaning against the vehicle in the background of the slide, is a plate from the rear of the vehicle and is "waiting" for welding. The cut-out shown in the armor is likely to make it easier to maintain the drive unit.

Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Barevně vyznačeny shodné tvary výřezů v pancéřových deskách.

Barevně vyznačeny shodné tvary výřezů v pancéřových deskách.
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#611782 Version : 0

Citace - Jiří Tintěra :

Citace - brano :

Another interesting detail is that in front armor do not see the hole for mounting the cannon. Was it a solid armor plate?[/Quote]
Friend,
I dare to oppose. The plate, leaning against the vehicle in the background of the slide, is a plate from the rear of the vehicle and is "waiting" for welding. The cut-out shown in the armor is likely to make it easier to maintain the drive unit.[/Quote]

I meant the missing hole in the frontal armor see. the older photo. Resp. I'm looking at it now, and it's probably the engine bulkhead, not the frontal armor.
P.S. Do you know anything more about this assembly Jirko?

Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Zhruba v týchto miestach označených červene by sa mal objaviť otvor pre kanón.

Zhruba v týchto miestach označených červene by sa mal objaviť otvor pre kanón.
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#611783 Version : 0
The 'hole' you circle is not the front of the vehicle. It is the bulkhead between the engine compartment and the rest of the vehicle. This photo from the Tatra Archives clearly shows this.

Digitálny archív Zemského archívu v Opavě

Jagdpanzer 38(t) - JagdPz38t with test installation of Tatra V12 103 diesel.  December 1944.

JagdPz38t with test installation of Tatra V12 103 diesel. December 1944.
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#611788 Version : 0
Additional information is provided in the attached image.

Digital Archive of the Provincial Archive in Opava

Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#611840 Version : 0

Citace - brano :

P.S. Do you know anything more about this assembly Jirko?[/Quote]
Friend,
I asked Radek Zavadil and he wrote to me: "... Vláďa Francev described it in the Hetzer publication. I think he summarized the main ideas on the topic very well. While researching in the archive, I came across some information about the installation of the Tatra engine in Hetzer, but it was certainly not so fundamental as to change the Government's conclusions. Moreover, my activities in the archive ended in 2011. "
I found out that there is no mention of Tatra engines in the 2006 Hetzer booklet, so it will be an older survey study that I do not own.
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#612130 Version : 0
Thanks Jirko.

38d: Great, great photos. Thank you.
In the background Bergepanzer 38 (t) is photographed as well as the Tatra engine. Even the original photograph of the vehicle photographed from behind is, in my view, the Bergepanzer. (Great, great photos. In the background is photographed Bergepanzer 38 (t) as well as the Tatra engine. Even the original photo of the vehicle photographed from behind is this Bergepanzer.)
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Podľa mojeho odhadu ide o Bergepanzer 38(t) so vznetovým motorom Tatra V12.

Podľa mojeho odhadu ide o Bergepanzer 38(t) so vznetovým motorom Tatra V12.
Jagdpanzer 38(t) - Podľa mojeho odhadu ide o Bergepanzer 38(t) so vznetovým motorom Tatra V12. V zakrúžkovanom detaile vidieť typické ventilátory. Chýbajúca zadná pancierová doska je opretá o pojazdové kolesá. Vidieť ju na predošlých fotografiách.

Podľa mojeho odhadu ide o Bergepanzer 38(t) so vznetovým motorom Tatra V12. V zakrúžkovanom detaile vidieť typické ventilátory. Chýbajúca zadná pancierová doska je opretá o pojazdové kolesá. Vidieť ju na predošlých fotografiách.
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#612137 Version : 0
Well spotted! I hadn't noticed the fans on the rear vehicle.
I can't remember where I saw reference to 2 JagdPz38t test vehicles. This is what Spielberger says: "Early tests with air-cooled Diesel motors in the Jagdpanzer 38 at the motor vehicle test centre of the Army Weapons Office in Kummersdorf in 1944 were made, and 8- and 12-cylinder Tatra diesel motors, as well as the ZF AK 5-80 gearbox, were installed. No major problems occurred."
The vehicle in the background may or may not be a Bergepanzer 38. Spielberger also refers to a Reconnaisance Tank 38 with 4 versions. 3 of these seem to use the Bergepanzer hull. He says such a vehicle was tested at Kummersdorf in September 1944. The vehicle in the background could be one of these test vehicles. It would be convient to use such vehicle, considering the war situation.
Thanks should go to the Tatra Archives for their help in showing me how to access their online collection.
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#612204 Version : 0
Objednávky Heereswaffenamtu (WaPrüf 6) z roku 1944 na testovanie vozidiel v Heeresversuchstelle für Panzer und Motorisierung (armádne skúšobné centrum pre tanky a motorizáciu) v Kummersdorfe:



     
Oddelenie
Číslo objednávky
Testovacie vozidlo
Poznámka
Pz. Ia
7/44
Aufklärungspanzer 38 so vznetovým motorom Tatra a 7,5 cm kanónom K 51
Aufklärungspanzer 38(t) - Gerät 564 ???
Pz. IIIa
23/44 (21.7.1944)
Vznetový motor Tatra a prevodovka AK 5-80 pre Jagdpanzer 38 (t)
Predbežný experiment mal prebehnúť na tanku Pz.Kpfw.IV
Pz. IIIa
16/17/44 (17.6.1944)
8-valcový vznetový motor Tatra na Jagdpanzer 38 (t)
Testovanie malo prebehnúť na polygóne v Berka
Pz. IIIe
1/45 (10.1.1945)
12-valcový vznetový motor Tatra a prevodovka AK 5-80 pre Jagdpanzer 38 (t) (skúšobná platforma pre Jagdpanzer 38D)

F 1
65/44 (3.11.1944)
12-valcový vznetový motor pre Jagdpanzer 38 (t) a polopásové ťahače Sd.Kfz.8 a Sd.Kfz.9




Walter J. Spielberger - Die Panzer-Kampfwagen 35(t) und 38(t) und ihre Abarten einschließlich der tschechoslowakischen Heeresmotorisierung 1920-1945, Motorbuch Verlag Stuttgart, 2.vydanie, rok vydania 1990, ISBN: 3-87943-708-4
i.pinimg.com

Jagdpanzer 38(t) - V ľavej časti fotografie je zachytený Jagdpanzer 38(t). Pravdepodobne ide o rovnaké vozidlo, aké je zachytené na predchádzajúcej fotokolekcii s namontovaným vznetovým motorom.

V ľavej časti fotografie je zachytený Jagdpanzer 38(t). Pravdepodobne ide o rovnaké vozidlo, aké je zachytené na predchádzajúcej fotokolekcii s namontovaným vznetovým motorom.
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#612268 Version : 0
Thanks for the chart.
I have the English language version of that book. That's where I was quoting from.
The dates I was quoting were from the Tatra Archive for the photos.
URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#612285 Version : 0
To complete and summarize the topic, I am attaching photographs of a tank destroyer with an 8-cylinder Tatra V 912 diesel engine.


Digital Archive of the Provincial Archive in Opava

Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#661498 Version : 0
To complete and summarize the topic, I attach photos of a tank destroyer with a 12-cylinder Tatra 103 diesel engine.


Digital Archive of the Provincial Archive in Opava

Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


Jagdpanzer 38(t) -


URL : https://www.valka.cz/Jagdpanzer-38-t-t241330#661499 Version : 0
Discussion post Fact post
Attachments


Join us

We believe that there are people with different interests and experiences who could contribute their knowledge and ideas. If you love military history and have experience in historical research, writing articles, editing text, moderating, creating images, graphics or videos, or simply have a desire to contribute to our unique system, you can join us and help us create content that will be interesting and beneficial to other readers.

Find out more