The 43-ton Panther used by Germany was an impressive medium tank, of which production commenced in January 1943. One variant that was needed was an observation post tank, and these were known as the Pz.Beob.Wg.V. (which is short for Panzerbeobachtungswagen V). Rheinmetall was awarded a development contract in 1942, and one of its proposals was to replace the original 7.5cm armament with a 5cm KwK.39/1 gun and a machine gun in a Topfblende (pot mantlet) in place of the usual arrangement. The design included a built-in rangefinder, a T.B.F.2 observation periscope mounted in the turret roof, and a T.S.R.1 spotting periscope. The commander’s cupola was also an interim design featuring seven periscopes.

Dragon’s kit of this Pz.Beob.Wg. Panther mit 5cm KwK.39/1 variant adds further interest to the already extensive Panther family. The turret front plate, Topfblende mantlet, commander’s cupola and periscope cover on the turret roof are all newly tooled. These all combine to give this artillery observation vehicle a distinctive look. Builders will find that the kit assembles easily and accurately thanks to the high-quality pedigree of Dragon’s existing Panther family, plus the easy-assembly DS tracks.