251/9 Command Vehicle?

[Frank Frey]

Was the SdKfz 251/9 ever used as a command vehicle?

[Helen]

Hi Frank, I suppose anything is possible with German units at the time. Lack of command vehicles were always replaced by other variations to suit the operational capability. I would go with what you feel fits the scenario that you intend to facilitate.

Good luck Frank.

Helen

[aecurtis]

Take a look at the diagrams and data in Panzertracts No. 15-3.  After fitting in the 7.5cm and ammunition storage, there's not a lot of room for the additional radios normally found on a command vehicle.  Each 251/9 was fitted with a single short-range Fu.Spr.Ger.f set and a single 2-meter antenna, for communications within the platoon.

That particular section of the Panzertracts volume is fairly unique, as it quotes at length from a 1943 pamphlet detailing the tactical employment of the gun platoon.  Interesting reading, but suggests that this would be too useful and flexible an asset to turn over to a commander!

Allen

[Frank Frey]

Alan,

Thanks for the info and the heads up to Panzertracts. I'd never heard of them until now. I suspect that they will be getting some business from me.

Frank Frey

[aecurtis]

Hi, Frank:

Yep, Jentz and Doyle do a pretty good job.  If you haven't looked for it yet:

http://www.panzertracts.com/

They're not an absolute 100& solution, but they're a lot better at digging up primary references than others.  So I'd always be inclined to recommend their booklets as pretty comprehensive references.  They're often way too technical for me--until I do looking for a technical detail!  Lots of nice pics, too, and exceptional diagrams.

Allen

[Helen]

Thanks Allen for the intel, that is good reference.

Cheers,

Helen

[Galland]

Take a look at the diagrams and data in Panzertracts No. 15-3.  After fitting in the 7.5cm and ammunition storage, there's not a lot of room for the additional radios normally found on a command vehicle.  Each 251/9 was fitted with a single short-range Fu.Spr.Ger.f set and a single 2-meter antenna, for communications within the platoon.

That particular section of the Panzertracts volume is fairly unique, as it quotes at length from a 1943 pamphlet detailing the tactical employment of the gun platoon.  Interesting reading, but suggests that this would be too useful and flexible an asset to turn over to a commander!

Allen

Good and comprehensive answer, that covers about everything in this question! .)