Difference between revisions of "Panzer IV/70(A)"
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− | {{Specs-Card|code=germ_pz_IV_L70_A}} | + | {{About |
+ | | about = German tank destroyer '''{{PAGENAME}}''' | ||
+ | | usage = the other version | ||
+ | | link = Panzer IV/70(V) | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{Specs-Card | ||
+ | |code=germ_pz_IV_L70_A | ||
+ | |images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_PanzerIV70(A).jpg}} | ||
+ | }} | ||
== Description == | == Description == | ||
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' --> | <!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' --> | ||
− | + | The '''Panzer IV/70(A)''' ([[Abbreviations#.28DE.29 Sd.Kfz. Index|Sd.Kfz. Index:]] '''Sd.Kfz. 162/1''') is the second variant of the [[Pz.IV (Family)|Panzer IV medium tank]]-based tank destroyer family. Hitler ordered Alkett (A), the StuG III's manufacturer, to redesign the [[Jagdpanzer IV]] superstructure to accommodate the new main armament in July 1944 so that 75 mm Panzerjägerkanone 42 L/70 tank gun could be sent to the front as soon as possible. Due to the new armament being larger than the previous one, additional vertical steel plates had to be welded onto the chassis to compensate for height differences when mounting the redesigned superstructure onto the original Panzer IV medium tank chassis. From August 1944 to March 1945, only 278 were constructed. | |
− | |||
− | The ''' | ||
− | + | Introduced in [[Update 1.41]], the Panzer IV/70(A) should only be used for defensive roles. Its primary armament is among the best for this class. With its high penetration and muzzle velocity, it can easily defeat all but the most resilient tanks. However, frontal protection is highly variable when under fire. If at all possible, steer clear of conflict and let the other players take the hits so that the player can decide when and how to engage. Always maintain a safe distance from the adversary and stay out of the main areas of combat. | |
− | + | It was first introduced as a [[wt:en/news/668--en|premium pack]] but removed from the store after the [[wt:en/news/5232-shop-winter-sales-special-bundle-and-gift-certificates-en|2018 Winter sale]]. It was reintroduced in 2018 for [[wt:en/news/5852-special-news-war-thunder-s-birthday-discounts-and-gifts-en|War Thunder's 6th Anniversary]] as a premium purchasable for Golden Eagles and again removed after the [[wt:en/news/7408-news-happy-birthday-war-thunder-en|9th Anniversary Sale]]. | |
== General info == | == General info == | ||
=== Survivability and armour === | === Survivability and armour === | ||
+ | {{Specs-Tank-Armour}} | ||
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' --> | <!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' --> | ||
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=== Mobility === | === Mobility === | ||
+ | {{Specs-Tank-Mobility}} | ||
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' --> | <!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' --> | ||
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Forward speed is sufficient, topping out at 40 km/h (approximately 25 mph) but the reverse speed of -7 km/h (approximately -4 mph), while acceptable, isn't anything special. This vehicle isn't a speed demon and isn't built for lightning fast flanking manoeuvres. It's much more comfortable behind the lines, acting like an anti-tank gun with treads that responds to threats rather than spearheading assaults. | Forward speed is sufficient, topping out at 40 km/h (approximately 25 mph) but the reverse speed of -7 km/h (approximately -4 mph), while acceptable, isn't anything special. This vehicle isn't a speed demon and isn't built for lightning fast flanking manoeuvres. It's much more comfortable behind the lines, acting like an anti-tank gun with treads that responds to threats rather than spearheading assaults. | ||
+ | |||
+ | === Modifications and economy === | ||
+ | {{Specs-Economy}} | ||
== Armaments == | == Armaments == | ||
+ | {{Specs-Tank-Armaments}} | ||
=== Main armament === | === Main armament === | ||
+ | {{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}} | ||
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' --> | <!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' --> | ||
{{main|PaK42 (75 mm)}} | {{main|PaK42 (75 mm)}} | ||
− | At this rank, the L/70 cannon can punch through almost any vehicle that may be encountered, with the US Sherman Jumbo and | + | At this rank, the L/70 cannon can punch through almost any vehicle that may be encountered, with the US Sherman Jumbo and Soviet IS tanks being the only real tough nuts. |
The lack of a turret means the player should not be overly aggressive. The vehicle cannot turn particularly fast. The gun traverse is limited, so a fast vehicle can easily get behind it. This tank should stay back and use the excellent muzzle velocity and penetration of the L/70 cannon to destroy targets from afar. Stay in cover, or behind the team's mediums and heavies, and provide fire support. But don't be an obvious target. | The lack of a turret means the player should not be overly aggressive. The vehicle cannot turn particularly fast. The gun traverse is limited, so a fast vehicle can easily get behind it. This tank should stay back and use the excellent muzzle velocity and penetration of the L/70 cannon to destroy targets from afar. Stay in cover, or behind the team's mediums and heavies, and provide fire support. But don't be an obvious target. | ||
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==== Ammunition ==== | ==== Ammunition ==== | ||
− | { | + | {{:KwK42 (75 mm)/Ammunition|PzGr 39/42, Sprgr. 42, PzGr 40/42}} |
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− | | PzGr 39/42 | ||
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==== [[Ammo racks]] ==== | ==== [[Ammo racks]] ==== | ||
− | [[File:Ammoracks_PanzerIV70(A).jpg|right|thumb| | + | [[File:Ammoracks_PanzerIV70(A).jpg|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] |
+ | <!-- '''Last updated: 2.7.0.229''' --> | ||
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | ||
|- | |- | ||
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! Visual<br>discrepancy | ! Visual<br>discrepancy | ||
|- | |- | ||
− | | '''60''' || | + | | '''60''' || 34 ''(+26)'' || 7 ''(+53)'' || 1 ''(+59)'' || No |
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
+ | '''Notes''': | ||
+ | |||
+ | * Racks disappear after you've fired all shells in the rack. | ||
+ | * To go into battle with the left flank empty of ammo, pack fewer than 34 ''(+26)'' shells (rack 1 empty). | ||
=== Machine guns === | === Machine guns === | ||
+ | {{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}} | ||
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' --> | <!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' --> | ||
{{main|MG42 (7.92 mm)}} | {{main|MG42 (7.92 mm)}} | ||
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This way the player can use the bushes to hide the Pz IV/70. If any opponent appears in the sight, the player can kill it easily with the great penetration, velocity and damage of the main cannon. If the enemy notices the player, either go back in cover until they are distracted, or utilise the sturdy frontal armour and be a "heavy tank". It can bounce quite some shells, given that the enemy's guns aren't strong enough. | This way the player can use the bushes to hide the Pz IV/70. If any opponent appears in the sight, the player can kill it easily with the great penetration, velocity and damage of the main cannon. If the enemy notices the player, either go back in cover until they are distracted, or utilise the sturdy frontal armour and be a "heavy tank". It can bounce quite some shells, given that the enemy's guns aren't strong enough. | ||
− | As the match progresses, the player can use the Pz IV/70 as a medium tank since it has good top speed and traverse. Go cap some points and help the teammates to push. With its low profile, the Pz IV/70 can find a comfortable corner around a point and ambush any point-cappers. Now the situational awareness comes into place, as this vehicle is turretless, meaning it cannot respond quickly to close-quarter sudden encounters. Also note that the side armour is extremely thin, so even if the player thinks they're just angling a little bit, shells like the | + | As the match progresses, the player can use the Pz IV/70 as a medium tank since it has good top speed and traverse. Go cap some points and help the teammates to push. With its low profile, the Pz IV/70 can find a comfortable corner around a point and ambush any point-cappers. Now the situational awareness comes into place, as this vehicle is turretless, meaning it cannot respond quickly to close-quarter sudden encounters. Also note that the side armour is extremely thin, so even if the player thinks they're just angling a little bit, shells like the Soviet 85 or 122 mm will still penetrate with ease. |
'''Enemies worth noting:''' | '''Enemies worth noting:''' | ||
* [[IS-2]], [[ISU-122]], [[SU-152|SU]]/[[ISU-152]]: The Pz IV/70 relies on its frontal armour a lot to survive, so the biggest threats are generally the vehicles with high penetration. These machines with high calibre guns pose the biggest threat, as their APHEBC shells will slice through the Pz IV/70's frontal armour like butter, and their damage is more than enough to kill all the crew inside. Try and finish them off first before they see you. If they do, quickly go to a nearby cover and either call for help, or wait until they fire / are distracted. | * [[IS-2]], [[ISU-122]], [[SU-152|SU]]/[[ISU-152]]: The Pz IV/70 relies on its frontal armour a lot to survive, so the biggest threats are generally the vehicles with high penetration. These machines with high calibre guns pose the biggest threat, as their APHEBC shells will slice through the Pz IV/70's frontal armour like butter, and their damage is more than enough to kill all the crew inside. Try and finish them off first before they see you. If they do, quickly go to a nearby cover and either call for help, or wait until they fire / are distracted. | ||
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=== Pros and cons === | === Pros and cons === | ||
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* Excellent firepower: decent rate of fire and good accuracy for the main gun. Stock shell has great penetration and damage, and can easily penetrate and one-shot most opponents like T-34-85, [[M4A2]] / A3, [[IS-1]], etc | * Excellent firepower: decent rate of fire and good accuracy for the main gun. Stock shell has great penetration and damage, and can easily penetrate and one-shot most opponents like T-34-85, [[M4A2]] / A3, [[IS-1]], etc | ||
− | |||
− | |||
* Decent top speed of 40 km/h with good acceleration means excellent cross country performance | * Decent top speed of 40 km/h with good acceleration means excellent cross country performance | ||
− | * Adequate gun depression of | + | * Adequate gun depression of 5 degrees for a compact hull. |
'''Cons:''' | '''Cons:''' | ||
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* Lacks a turret which limits its combat potential and makes it vulnerable to flankers like [[M18 GMC|M18]] | * Lacks a turret which limits its combat potential and makes it vulnerable to flankers like [[M18 GMC|M18]] | ||
* Closely packed crew meaning a penetration from any angle will likely to destroy the tank. | * Closely packed crew meaning a penetration from any angle will likely to destroy the tank. | ||
− | * Poor | + | * Poor overall armor inadequate against almost all guns in and below its br. |
* The downward side of the gun mantlet is prone to trapshots (shell ricocheting down into the hull roof) which is lethal. | * The downward side of the gun mantlet is prone to trapshots (shell ricocheting down into the hull roof) which is lethal. | ||
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== History == | == History == | ||
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After World War II ended, the Jagdpanzer IV's design still saw service with the German Bundeswehr as the ''[[JPz 4-5|Kanonenjagdpanzer]]'', which has nearly the same design as the Jagdpanzer IV, but most notably with a 90 mm gun. Some captured Jagdpanzer IVs were given out by the Soviet Union to Romania and Syria, but Romania scrapped all the German armour by 1954 and Syria used them in conflicts against Israel until 1967. | After World War II ended, the Jagdpanzer IV's design still saw service with the German Bundeswehr as the ''[[JPz 4-5|Kanonenjagdpanzer]]'', which has nearly the same design as the Jagdpanzer IV, but most notably with a 90 mm gun. Some captured Jagdpanzer IVs were given out by the Soviet Union to Romania and Syria, but Romania scrapped all the German armour by 1954 and Syria used them in conflicts against Israel until 1967. | ||
− | + | {{break}} | |
− | This variant of the anti-tank gun was developed in two different versions by the companies Vomag AG and Alkett. Though similar in combat power and | + | {{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}} |
+ | {{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}} | ||
+ | This variant of the anti-tank gun was developed in two different versions by the companies Vomag AG and Alkett. Though similar in combat power and armour protection, these machines were significantly different in appearance. | ||
− | Alkett's variant was designated the Panzer IV/70 (A). It featured a highly- | + | Alkett's variant was designated the Panzer IV/70 (A). It featured a highly-armoured cabin mounted on the chassis and hull of a Pz.Kpfw. IV Ausf. J tank. Its combat weight was 28 tons, with a height of 2350 mm. The sides of the chassis were covered with Schurzen side skirts, which were initially all-metal and later mesh. From August 1944 to March 1945, the Nibelungenwerke factory produced 278 of these vehicles. |
The Panzer IV, Panzer IV/70 (A), and Panzer IV/70 (V) also had a commander's version produced, with a crew of five men, reduced ammunition, and an additional radio station. | The Panzer IV, Panzer IV/70 (A), and Panzer IV/70 (V) also had a commander's version produced, with a crew of five men, reduced ammunition, and an additional radio station. | ||
The powerful armament of these vehicles made them quite popular with the Wehrmacht's anti-tank divisions. These self-propelled guns were widely used in combat operations during the final part of the war. | The powerful armament of these vehicles made them quite popular with the Wehrmacht's anti-tank divisions. These self-propelled guns were widely used in combat operations during the final part of the war. | ||
+ | {{Navigation-End}} | ||
== Media == | == Media == | ||
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' --> | <!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' --> | ||
− | [ | + | |
+ | ;Skins | ||
+ | |||
+ | * [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_pz_IV_L70_A Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.] | ||
== See also == | == See also == | ||
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:'' | ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:'' | ||
+ | |||
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;'' | * ''reference to the series of the vehicles;'' | ||
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' | * ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' | ||
== External links == | == External links == | ||
− | ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:'' | + | <!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:'' |
* ''topic on the official game forum;'' | * ''topic on the official game forum;'' | ||
− | + | * ''other literature.'' --> | |
− | * ''other literature.'' | + | |
+ | * [[wt:en/news/7114-shop-restoration-of-original-content-en|[Shop] Restoration of original content]] | ||
{{Germany tank destroyers}} | {{Germany tank destroyers}} | ||
{{Germany premium ground vehicles}} | {{Germany premium ground vehicles}} |
Revision as of 09:39, 22 November 2023
This page is about the German tank destroyer Panzer IV/70(A). For the other version, see Panzer IV/70(V). |
Contents
Description
The Panzer IV/70(A) (Sd.Kfz. Index: Sd.Kfz. 162/1) is the second variant of the Panzer IV medium tank-based tank destroyer family. Hitler ordered Alkett (A), the StuG III's manufacturer, to redesign the Jagdpanzer IV superstructure to accommodate the new main armament in July 1944 so that 75 mm Panzerjägerkanone 42 L/70 tank gun could be sent to the front as soon as possible. Due to the new armament being larger than the previous one, additional vertical steel plates had to be welded onto the chassis to compensate for height differences when mounting the redesigned superstructure onto the original Panzer IV medium tank chassis. From August 1944 to March 1945, only 278 were constructed.
Introduced in Update 1.41, the Panzer IV/70(A) should only be used for defensive roles. Its primary armament is among the best for this class. With its high penetration and muzzle velocity, it can easily defeat all but the most resilient tanks. However, frontal protection is highly variable when under fire. If at all possible, steer clear of conflict and let the other players take the hits so that the player can decide when and how to engage. Always maintain a safe distance from the adversary and stay out of the main areas of combat.
It was first introduced as a premium pack but removed from the store after the 2018 Winter sale. It was reintroduced in 2018 for War Thunder's 6th Anniversary as a premium purchasable for Golden Eagles and again removed after the 9th Anniversary Sale.
General info
Survivability and armour
The IV/70 (A) is strong but has weak armour for the rank. Try to trade blows with most enemy vehicles as the armour simply doesn't provide comprehensive protection. This, coupled with the very vulnerable, large flanks makes it highly unsuitable as a front line assault vehicle.
All in all, the side of the IV/70 (A) is a goldmine of weak spots for an accurate player. The tall-slab sided IV/70 (A) is very vulnerable to flanking fire as the side armour is only 40 mm thick. For those aiming at the sides, it is very easy to search for ammunition rack, using the rods on the side of the hull as reference points. From there, aim down a tad below the top of the mesh skirts, and an ammunition hit/detonation is almost certain.
Even parts of the front armour are a little lacking; certainly inferior to the Panzer IV/70(V). The sloped upper superstructure gives an effective thickness of around 125 mm, very good for this battle rating, but it has an unsloped 80 mm hull and an 80 mm lower hull that is only very slightly sloped. Avoid firing at the gun mantlet. It is heavily sloped and in excess of 200 mm equivalent flat armour.
From behind, it is advisable to aim for the large, flat rear superstructure above the engine deck. The Commander and Gunner can be eliminated with a single well-placed shot. After the Gunner is taken out, aim for the engine to prevent the vehicle from turning to engage Panzer IV/70(A).
Armour type:
- Rolled homogeneous armour
- Cast homogeneous armour (Gun mantlet)
- Structural steel (Side skirts)
Armour | Front (Slope angle) | Sides (Slope angle) | Rear (Slope angle) | Roof |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hull | 20 mm (84°), 80 mm (47°) Front glacis 80 mm (55°) Lower glacis |
30 + 5 mm | 22 mm (5-16°) | 20 mm |
Superstructure | 80 mm (9-50°) Front plate 75 + 75 mmGun mantlet |
40 mm (18°) | 30 mm | 20 mm |
Notes:
- Suspension wheels are 15 mm thick and tracks are 20 mm thick.
- The hull sides are protected by an extra 5 mm thick plate to provide protection against HEAT and HE rounds.
Mobility
Game Mode | Max Speed (km/h) | Weight (tons) | Engine power (horsepower) | Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton) | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Forward | Reverse | Stock | AoA | Stock | Upgraded | Stock | Upgraded | |
Arcade | 44 | 9 | 28 | 0.45 | 426 | 572 | 15.19 | 20.07 |
Realistic | 40 | 8 | 265 | 300 | 9.45 | 10.53 |
Forward speed is sufficient, topping out at 40 km/h (approximately 25 mph) but the reverse speed of -7 km/h (approximately -4 mph), while acceptable, isn't anything special. This vehicle isn't a speed demon and isn't built for lightning fast flanking manoeuvres. It's much more comfortable behind the lines, acting like an anti-tank gun with treads that responds to threats rather than spearheading assaults.
Modifications and economy
Armaments
Main armament
At this rank, the L/70 cannon can punch through almost any vehicle that may be encountered, with the US Sherman Jumbo and Soviet IS tanks being the only real tough nuts.
The lack of a turret means the player should not be overly aggressive. The vehicle cannot turn particularly fast. The gun traverse is limited, so a fast vehicle can easily get behind it. This tank should stay back and use the excellent muzzle velocity and penetration of the L/70 cannon to destroy targets from afar. Stay in cover, or behind the team's mediums and heavies, and provide fire support. But don't be an obvious target.
75 mm PaK42 | Turret rotation speed (°/s) | Reloading rate (seconds) | |||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mode | Capacity | Vertical | Horizontal | Stabilizer | Stock | Upgraded | Full | Expert | Aced | Stock | Full | Expert | Aced |
Arcade | 60 | -5°/+15° | ±10° | N/A | 7.04 | 9.75 | 11.84 | 13.09 | 13.93 | 9.62 | 8.51 | 7.84 | 7.40 |
Realistic | 4.76 | 5.60 | 6.80 | 7.52 | 8.00 |
Ammunition
Penetration statistics | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ammunition | Type of warhead |
Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm) | |||||
10 m | 100 m | 500 m | 1,000 m | 1,500 m | 2,000 m | ||
PzGr 39/42 | APCBC | 192 | 188 | 173 | 156 | 140 | 126 |
Sprgr. 42 | HE | 13 | 12 | 11 | 11 | 11 | 11 |
PzGr 40/42 | APCR | 228 | 224 | 204 | 182 | 162 | 145 |
Shell details | ||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Ammunition | Type of warhead |
Velocity (m/s) |
Projectile mass (kg) |
Fuse delay (m) |
Fuse sensitivity (mm) |
Explosive mass (TNT equivalent) (g) |
Ricochet | |||||
0% | 50% | 100% | ||||||||||
PzGr 39/42 | APCBC | 935 | 6.8 | 1.2 | 14 | 28.9 | 48° | 63° | 71° | |||
Sprgr. 42 | HE | 700 | 5.74 | 0.2 | 0.1 | 725 | 79° | 80° | 81° | |||
PzGr 40/42 | APCR | 1,120 | 4.75 | - | - | - | 66° | 70° | 72° |
Ammo racks
Full ammo |
1st rack empty |
2nd rack empty |
3rd rack empty |
Visual discrepancy |
---|---|---|---|---|
60 | 34 (+26) | 7 (+53) | 1 (+59) | No |
Notes:
- Racks disappear after you've fired all shells in the rack.
- To go into battle with the left flank empty of ammo, pack fewer than 34 (+26) shells (rack 1 empty).
Machine guns
7.92 mm MG42 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Mount | Capacity (Belt) | Fire rate | Vertical | Horizontal |
Hull | 600 (150) | 1,200 | -2°/+5° | ±5° |
Usage in battles
This vehicle is very much a defensive weapon that should only be on the offensive if the situation is desperate. The gun it is armed with is one of the best at this rank. In terms of penetration and muzzle velocity, it will make short work of all but the toughest tanks. When taking fire, however, the IV/70(A)'s protection is inconsistent at best. Shots that strike the sloped upper superstructure are likely to bounce, but anywhere else and the shell will almost certainly penetrate at closer ranges. It is best to avoid confrontation if possible and let the other members of the team take the damage to allow the player to pick and choose the engagement. Ideally, the enemy won't have a chance to return fire. Allow room between the Panzer IV/70(A) and the enemy, and avoid traversing high-traffic areas; instead, keep an eye on them from a distance and let the enemy come towards the Panzer IV/70(A).
Urban areas should be avoided if possible. Entering such an area is an invitation for the enemy to flank, and the closeness of the engagements negates the main advantage of this tank: the gun. Engaging the enemy at close range doesn't utilise the L/70's excellent penetration at range.
Arcade battles
In Arcade battles, with the shot indicator showing the player where shots will land, the high-velocity L/70 can accurately hit targets at long ranges, and targets on the move as the shells arrive quickly at the target. The penetration indicator, which changes colour based on the chance of successful penetration, is a problem for the IV/70 (A). It highlights the weak areas of the tank to enemy players, making the weak spots obvious.
Arcade tends to be faster-paced than Realistic and Simulator, so the lack of a turret may be a large detriment as being flanked is quite common in this mode.
Realistic/Simulator battles
With a lack of markers above tanks and larger combat zones, Realistic and Simulator suit this vehicle well. Taking up a concealed firing position and engaging enemies from a distance is what this tank excels at. Be mindful of flanking attacks though, if consideration of exposed flanks and careful checking of these areas is not performed, it will likely be too late to respond to an enemy on a flank or behind. Keeping with the 'anti-tank gun with treads' analogy, zooming across the map and looking for enemies is not how this tank should be played. Let the enemy do the work because this tank is very poorly suited to assaulting. Usage of the binoculars is highly advised as they allow a zoomed-in 360-degree view without having to move the vehicle.
At the start of the match, the Panzer IV/70(A) is best used as a sniper for most of the times. The player can adapt their tactics from the StuG IIIs and the Jgdpz. 38t. A good way to get kills is to find a spot that:
- provides hard cover
- overlooks a key street / passage way
- has bushes to hide in
- is not too close to the frontline
This way the player can use the bushes to hide the Pz IV/70. If any opponent appears in the sight, the player can kill it easily with the great penetration, velocity and damage of the main cannon. If the enemy notices the player, either go back in cover until they are distracted, or utilise the sturdy frontal armour and be a "heavy tank". It can bounce quite some shells, given that the enemy's guns aren't strong enough.
As the match progresses, the player can use the Pz IV/70 as a medium tank since it has good top speed and traverse. Go cap some points and help the teammates to push. With its low profile, the Pz IV/70 can find a comfortable corner around a point and ambush any point-cappers. Now the situational awareness comes into place, as this vehicle is turretless, meaning it cannot respond quickly to close-quarter sudden encounters. Also note that the side armour is extremely thin, so even if the player thinks they're just angling a little bit, shells like the Soviet 85 or 122 mm will still penetrate with ease.
Enemies worth noting:
- IS-2, ISU-122, SU/ISU-152: The Pz IV/70 relies on its frontal armour a lot to survive, so the biggest threats are generally the vehicles with high penetration. These machines with high calibre guns pose the biggest threat, as their APHEBC shells will slice through the Pz IV/70's frontal armour like butter, and their damage is more than enough to kill all the crew inside. Try and finish them off first before they see you. If they do, quickly go to a nearby cover and either call for help, or wait until they fire / are distracted.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Excellent firepower: decent rate of fire and good accuracy for the main gun. Stock shell has great penetration and damage, and can easily penetrate and one-shot most opponents like T-34-85, M4A2 / A3, IS-1, etc
- Decent top speed of 40 km/h with good acceleration means excellent cross country performance
- Adequate gun depression of 5 degrees for a compact hull.
Cons:
- Lacks a turret which limits its combat potential and makes it vulnerable to flankers like M18
- Closely packed crew meaning a penetration from any angle will likely to destroy the tank.
- Poor overall armor inadequate against almost all guns in and below its br.
- The downward side of the gun mantlet is prone to trapshots (shell ricocheting down into the hull roof) which is lethal.
History
Development
In September 1942, the Wehrmacht arms bureau called for a new type of assault vehicles. The specifications listed were 100 mm front armour, 40-50 mm on the sides, wide tracks, a top speed of 26 km/h, ground clearance of 50 cm, and a very low firing position. The design was to be armed with the 75 mm Pak 42 mounted on the Panther tanks. Though this project was originally conceived over a completely new chassis, the Panzer IV was chosen to be used instead. The design was to have a low silhouette and an enclosed casemate fighting compartment after experiences with the Marder IIIs showed that such features were necessary for a successful fighting vehicle.
The Panzer IV chassis was converted into the Jagdpanzer IV, which featured new designs to the original. The utilization of the Panzer IV chassis was met with much criticism by General Heinz Guderian, who saw the diverting of Panzer IV tank resources as unnecessary since the current assault gun StuG III was more than adequate in the role and Germany still needed reliable tanks that it could use. The vertical front hull armour was replaced with large sloped armour plates, ammunition and fuel were moved to accommodate the new superstructure design, and the auxiliary engine that once powered the Panzer IV turret was removed. The superstructure had 80 mm thick sloping armour that gives it an effective 100 mm thick. To simplify the production of this vehicle, the superstructure was essentially made of large interlocking plates that are welded together. The vehicle had a crew of four, the commander, gunner, loader, and driver. The vehicle was armed with a 75 mm gun, though originally suppose to be the one from the Panther, shortages forced the mounting of older guns such as the 75 mm Pak 39 L/48 cannon, which were less powerful than the Panther's PaK 42, but were still lethal. Due to the different gun mounts, three main variants were produced from the Jagdpanzer IV, the original Jagdpanzer IV (with the 75 mm Pak 39 L/48 cannon), the Panzer IV/70 (V), and the Panzer IV/70 (A) (Both of which have the 75 mm Pak 42 L/70 cannon).
The Panzer IV/70 (A), mounting the 75 mm Pak 42, was produced by Alkett, a manufacturer of the StuG III (hence the "A"). It was produced from August 1944 to March 1945 and was made for the purpose of simplifying the design for easier manufacturing and increased the production rate. To make production easier, the design used an unmodified Panzer IV chassis, while the previous two used a modified superstructure built up from the suspension. The unmodified chassis gave the Panzer IV/70(A) the flat frontal hull known on the Panzer IV design, with which the sloped armour is built on top of. This, in turn, caused the overall height of the vehicle to be increased by 50 cm, which gave it a much bigger silhouette, but was done to simplify production and send more of the 75 mm Pak 42 L/40 to the front lines as quickly as possible. The Panzer IV/70 (A) was more of an interim solution in order to fulfil battlefield demands, only about 278 units were produced before production ended. The early version had Zimmerit anti-magnetic paste added to the vehicle. However, the Zimmerit was removed after September 1944 due to rumours that they were causing vehicle fires. Other modifications were made to the design over time, but the biggest change in its production was the addition of Schürzen side armour plates.
Combat usage
The Jagdpanzer IV (the name was interchangeable between all of its variants) was first issued on March 1944 and was employed in an anti-tank role in the Western and Eastern Front. The Jagdpanzer IV participated in the Normandy Campaign, Battle of the Bulge, and the Soviet Offensives on the Eastern Front. Their overall performance was very successful as tank destroyers and only sub-par in other roles that are usually taken by tanks or assault guns, as the high-velocity 75 mm cannon it mounts were unsuitable for anti-infantry and fortification purposes. However, they were soon put in positions of tanks due to shortages of capable fighting vehicles in German inventory. One of the popular Jagdpanzer IV aces was SS-Oberscharführer Rudolf Roy who was attached to the 12th SS Tank Destroyer Battalion. He was killed while looking out of his Jagdpanzer IV hatch during the Battle of the Bulge.
After World War II ended, the Jagdpanzer IV's design still saw service with the German Bundeswehr as the Kanonenjagdpanzer, which has nearly the same design as the Jagdpanzer IV, but most notably with a 90 mm gun. Some captured Jagdpanzer IVs were given out by the Soviet Union to Romania and Syria, but Romania scrapped all the German armour by 1954 and Syria used them in conflicts against Israel until 1967.
Archive of the in-game description | |
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This variant of the anti-tank gun was developed in two different versions by the companies Vomag AG and Alkett. Though similar in combat power and armour protection, these machines were significantly different in appearance. Alkett's variant was designated the Panzer IV/70 (A). It featured a highly-armoured cabin mounted on the chassis and hull of a Pz.Kpfw. IV Ausf. J tank. Its combat weight was 28 tons, with a height of 2350 mm. The sides of the chassis were covered with Schurzen side skirts, which were initially all-metal and later mesh. From August 1944 to March 1945, the Nibelungenwerke factory produced 278 of these vehicles. The Panzer IV, Panzer IV/70 (A), and Panzer IV/70 (V) also had a commander's version produced, with a crew of five men, reduced ammunition, and an additional radio station. The powerful armament of these vehicles made them quite popular with the Wehrmacht's anti-tank divisions. These self-propelled guns were widely used in combat operations during the final part of the war. |
Media
- Skins
See also
Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:
- reference to the series of the vehicles;
- links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.
External links
Germany tank destroyers | |
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Pz. I Derivatives | Panzerjäger I |
Pz. II Derivatives | 15cm sIG 33 B Sfl |
Pz. 38(t) Derivatives | Marder III · Marder III H · Jagdpanzer 38(t) |
Pz. III Derivatives | StuG III A · StuG III F · StuG III G · StuH 42 G |
Pz. IV Derivatives | Jagdpanzer IV · Panzer IV/70(A) · Panzer IV/70(V) · Dicker Max · Nashorn · Brummbär · VFW |
Pz. V Derivatives | Jagdpanther G1 · Bfw. Jagdpanther G1 |
Pz. VI Derivatives | Sturer Emil · Elefant · Ferdinand · 38 cm Sturmmörser · Jagdtiger |
Wheeled/Half-track | 8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl. · Sd.Kfz.251/9 · Sd.Kfz.251/10 · Sd.Kfz.251/22 · Sd.Kfz.234/3 · Sd.Kfz.234/4 · 15 cm Pz.W.42 |
ATGM Carrier | RakJPz 2 · RakJPz 2 (HOT) · Wiesel 1A2 |
Other | Waffenträger · M109G · JPz 4-5 · Raketenautomat · VT1-2 |
Germany premium ground vehicles | |
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Light tanks | Pz.II C (DAK) · Pz.Sfl.Ic · Pz.Sp.Wg.P204(f) KwK · Sd.Kfz. 140/1 · Sd.Kfz.234/1 · Ru 251 · SPz 12-3 LGS · TAM 2IP |
Medium tanks | Nb.Fz. · Pz.III N · Pz.Bef.Wg.IV J · ▀M4 748 (a) · ▀T 34 747 (r) · Ersatz M10 |
mKPz M47 G · Turm III · Leopard A1A1 (L/44) · Leopard 2 (PzBtl 123) · Leopard 2A4M | |
Heavy tanks | ▀Pz.Kpfw. Churchill · ▀KV-IB · ▀KW I C 756 (r) · ▀KW II 754 (r) |
VK 45.01 (P) · ␠Tiger · Pz.Bef.Wg.VI P · Tiger II (H) Sla.16 | |
Tank destroyers | Sd.Kfz.234/3 · Sd.Kfz.234/4 · Sd.Kfz.251/10 · Sd.Kfz.251/22 · 15 cm Pz.W.42 |
Brummbär · Panzer IV/70(A) · VFW · Bfw. Jagdpanther G1 · Elefant · 38 cm Sturmmörser |