SDKFZ 231/234 (8 RAD) Panzerspahwagen

Designed with the modeller, preservationist and the wargamer in mind, Ian Allan Publishing's 'In Detail' series is intended to provide readers with a comprehensive history of the type of tank, self-propelled gun and military transport featured. Each volume will include a detailed history of the unit in service, along with information on variants, markings, unit alllocations etc. Alongside the comprehensive illustrative section, which includes detailed shots of models in colour, the book will also include scale drawings and comprehensive guidance notes on camouflage. As a valuable part of its Blitzkrieg tactics, the German army deployed light armoured cars in the forward reconnaissance role. The success of these vehicles led to the requirement for a heavy armoured car - the SdKfz series. This advanced design eight-wheel drive and steering entered service in 1938 and was unique in another way; it was the first military vehicle to have two driving positions - a front and a rear. Development continued through the war years and in 1942 the 234 series entered service. These were much improved vehicles with better armour and more powerful armament. The 231/234 series spurred the US Army to develop its own eight-wheel armoured car, the Boarhound. A direct descendant of the 8 Rad, the Schwerer Panzersphawagen Luchs, remains in service with the German Army of today.

Terry Gander
Softcover 96 pages