Existing comment:
Sturmpanzer IV "Grizzly Bar" (self-propelled 150 mm assault gun), German.
Initial production 1943.
The "Grizzly Bear" had a tough, armored "hide" and its 150 mm howitzer had a tremendous "bite." This vehicle, which was based on the chassis of the Panzer IV tank, had a crew of five. With a range of only 4675 yards, the howitzer was designed as a close-range, direct-fire weapon for use in street fighting and supporting infantry. The Grizzly Bear could move 10 mph cross country and had a top road speed of 25 mph. The Germans deployed Grizzly Bears in the independent battalions composed of 45 assault guns. Grizzly Bear battalions saw heavy action on the Eastern Front and they participated in the Battle of the Bulge. Another battalion fought near Anzio and Nettuno in Italy, where this particular vehicle was captured. |