TIGER I LATE/LATE COMM. w/ZIMM. Michael Wittmann

Plastic model kit to build a Pz.Kpfw. VI Ausf. E Tiger I late production/late production Command Version Commander Michael Wittmann

• Scale 1:35
• with 1 figure Michael Wittmann
• Can be built as a late or late command version
• All hatches can be displayed open or closed
• Segment tracks with mounting jig
• Clear, metal and photo-etched parts included
• Four marking options
• with embossed Zimmerit
• unbuilt, unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

The late production Panzerkampfwagen VI Version E Tiger I represented the final development stage of the Tiger I and was manufactured from the beginning of 1944 until the end of production in August 1944. Although the official name remained unchanged, the experiences of the front led to numerous changes in details. The most noticeable feature was the introduction of steel-tired castors, which replaced the previous rubber-tired casters. This measure saved scarce raw materials and simplified production. In addition, the late Tigers had the already familiar low commander's cupola with seven angle mirrors, a Zimmerit coating against limpet mines (until September 1944), the close-in defense weapon on the turret roof and numerous simplified manufacturing details. The 8.8 cm KwK 36 L/56 remained unchanged and continued to make the Tiger an extremely dangerous opponent at long distances.

The execution of the command (Tiger I command tank) was often difficult to distinguish externally from a normal Tiger. It had additional radios and antennas to ensure communication with higher-level staff and other units. This reduced the ammunition supply carried slightly. The most famous version was the Sd.Kfz. 267 or Sd.Kfz. 268, which served as company or battalion command vehicles. Despite their leadership role, these vehicles were fully combat capable and had the same armament and armor as the standard version.

The name of the tank commander Michael Wittmann is inextricably linked to the late production series. Wittmann belonged to the heavy SS Panzer Division 101 and became one of the most famous German tank commanders of the war after his successes on the Eastern Front and at Villers-Bocage in Normandy. During his last mission in Normandy in August 1944, he drove a Tiger I command tank with the turret number “007”. This tank belonged to the late production series and had the characteristic steel rollers. On August 8, 1944, Wittmann's Tiger was destroyed during the fighting near Gaumesnil/Cintheaux, killing the entire crew.

Wittmann's "007" is particularly interesting for model builders because it combines many typical features of a late command tank: steel rollers, late commander's cupola with angle mirrors, Zimmerit coating, additional radio equipment and the distinctive turret number "007". However, there are only a few secured photos of this vehicle, which is why individual details are interpreted differently in the literature.