StuG.III Ausf.G early production with Winterketten

Plastic kit for a Sturmgeschütz III variant G, early production with winter tracks

• 1:35 scale
• Metal gun barrel included
• segment tracks
• Decals for 2 marking variants
• Hatches can be shown open or closed
• including photo-etched parts
• unbuilt, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The early production Sturmgeschütz III Ausf. G was introduced from the end of 1942 and became the most produced variant of the Sturmgeschütz series. It was based on the chassis of the Panzerkampfwagen III and armed with the powerful 7.5 cm StuK 40 L/48 assault gun, which could be used effectively against enemy tanks as well as for infantry fire support.

Typical features of the early Ausf. G included the redesigned superstructure with the laterally offset commander's cupola, the welded commander's cupola with vision blocks, the early gun mantlet, and the still relatively simple arrangement of tools and equipment. Many vehicles of this production phase did not yet have Zimmerit coating or side skirts, which were only introduced later as standard equipment.

The so-called winter tracks (winter tracks/Eastern track extensions) are particularly striking. These were widened track links with side extensions that reduced ground pressure and improved traction on snow, ice, and muddy terrain. They were primarily used on the Eastern Front, where the difficult ground conditions during the autumn and winter months often limited the vehicles' mobility.

The Sturmgeschütz III Ausf. G with winter tracks proved itself, especially on the Eastern Front, as a reliable and effective combat vehicle. The combination of strong armament, low silhouette, good mobility and the improved terrain characteristics of the winter tracks made it an important component of the German tank and assault gun units.