Difference between revisions of "VK 3002 (M)"

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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=germ_vk_3002m
 
|code=germ_vk_3002m
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.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.'' -->
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Drone Age"]].
+
The '''VK 3002 (M)''' is a medium tank prototype created for the German Wehrmacht during World War II by the Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg (MAN) in response to a proposal by the Ministry of Armaments and War Production for a 30-ton tank to be used by the German Army in 1941. Daimler-Benz also created its project, known as the VK 3002 (DB), as a competitive prototype. Germany expected to face a weaker opponent when it attacked the Soviet Union in June 1941. The Wehrmacht was taken by surprise by the [[T-34 (Family)|T-34]]'s sloping armour and the heavily armoured [[KV-1 (Family)|KV-1]]. German Generaloberst Heinz Guderian first proposed that a direct replica would be the most efficient way to combat the T-34. The Army Weapons Department rejected this due to difficulty in creating sufficient quantities of diesel engines and steel alloy. The Daimler-Benz VK 3002 (DB) was first ordered into production with an initial goal of 200 tanks, mainly due to Hitler's preference for the design. The Waffenprufamt 6 committee, on the other hand, preferred the more traditional (in terms of German design and engineering) MAN VK 3002 (M) and placed orders for it in May 1942, before secretly cancelling the VK 3002 (DB) order. While the VK 3002 (DB) could have been less expensive and easier to construct, the Waffenprüfamt 6 committee preferred the MAN VK 3002 (M)'s roomier turret and more cutting-edge suspension. The MAN VK 3002 (M) also used the same engine as the Tiger I heavy tank, making production and maintenance easier. It also had larger tracks, which would aid in ground pressure on soft terrain. The VK 3002 (M) was built but never saw combat.
  
−
The prototype model by Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg (MAN) for what would become the [[Panther D|Panther tank]], the {{PAGENAME}} features all the basic characteristics the Panther would receive, with a steep sloping front armour, high-penetrating 75 mm gun, and good mobility but not in turns. The VK 3002 (M) featured a 60 mm front plate and 50-80 mm turret front armour, which were the original armour plate thickness of the Panther prototype prior to its uparmoring into 80 mm and 100 mm respectively in the production vehicles.  The grind on this tank is somewhat painful until you obtain the engine and transmission upgrade.  The turret traverse is slow even after the horizontal upgrade.  Tank has poor turning ability in close quarters.
+
Introduced in [[Update "Drone Age"]], the VK 3002 (M) is the prototype for what would ultimately become the iconic [[Panther tank (Family)|Panzerkampfwagen V Panther medium tank family]] for the German Army during World War II. The VK 3002 (M) tank was designed ahead of its time and includes various advanced features, such as overlapping road wheels that disperse pressure more evenly when going over soft terrain. When compared to Allied tanks, the VK 3002 (M) has unrivalled firepower and precision thanks to its long-barrelled 75 mm Kampfwagenkanone (KwK) 42 L/70 tank gun. However, since the turret is cranked by hand, the traverse speed is poor, and close-quarters battles with enemy tanks in towns are not encouraged. To make the most of this tank's powerful main gun, use it as a long-range sniper.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Tank-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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The armour layout is very similar to a standard Panther, though significantly weaker for the front plate (60 mm instead of 80 mm thick) and the turret (80 mm for the turret front and 50 mm for the mantlet instead of the 100 mm on the Panther A). It is adequate against low-velocity projectiles, but its armour should not be relied upon much, unless the distance between you and the target is large. Unlike the Panther A, angling on the VK 3002 is helpful, angling some 15-20 degrees will make the hull almost entirely immune to Soviet 85 mm cannons, which the tank will commonly face. The same procedure goes against most American cannons. Of course, if they aim at the turret, you'll end up penetrated, but the good thing is that this prototype shares the same good post-penetration survivability of a Panther, due to the driver and machine gunner being far from the turret, even the "fat" Soviet 85 mm APHE rounds will not usually knock it out from a turret penetration.
+
The armour layout is very similar to a standard Panther, though significantly weaker for the front plate (60 mm instead of 80 mm thick) and the turret (80 mm for the turret front and 50 mm for the mantlet instead of the 100 mm on the Panther A). It is adequate against low-velocity projectiles, but its armour should not be relied upon much, unless the distance between you and the target is large. Unlike the Panther A, angling on the VK 3002 is helpful, angling some 15-20 degrees will make the hull almost entirely immune to Soviet 85 mm cannons, which the tank will commonly face. The same procedure goes against most American cannons. Of course, if they aim at the turret, you'll end up penetrated, but the good thing is that this prototype shares the same good post-penetration survivability of a Panther, due to the driver and machine gunner being far from the turret, even the Soviet 85 mm APHE rounds will not usually knock it out from a turret penetration.
  
−
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
+
Despite having thick armour, the VK 3002 (M) is not impenetrable. It has a very powerful upper front armour plate, yet an experienced player will rarely approach one from the front. Instead, they'll attempt to flank the vehicle, which is exceptionally easy when the VK is attacking alone. The tank's frontal armour, as powerful as it is, can still be penetrated at short distances by well-aimed shots from tanks commonly seen at its BR, such as the [[T-34-85]] or the [[IS-1]]. However, it can deflect most rounds fired at it from afar, further improving the VK 3002 (M)'s long-distance combat capabilities.
−
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
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−
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
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'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
 +
* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret)
 +
* Cast homogeneous armour (cupola)
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || ___ mm || ___ mm ''Top'' <br> ___ mm ''Bottom'' || ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Hull || 60 mm (55°) || 40 mm (40°) ''Top'' <br> 40 mm ''Bottom'' || 40 mm (30°) || 10-16 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
+
| Turret || 80 mm (12°) ''Turret front'' <br> 99-158 mm (7-56°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 45 mm (21°) || 45 mm (25°) || 16 mm (5°)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
+
| Cupola || 110 mm || 110 mm || 110 mm || 16 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{{Specs-Tank-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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In a straight or nearly straight line the tank has decent mobility. However, the tank slows appreciably in turns and close quarter turning is painfully slow.  Reverse speed is slow as well. Because close quarter mobility is not a strong point with this tank you should try to keep your distance from the enemy; otherwise enemy medium tanks and light tanks will flank you easily.
+
The VK 3002 (M) has reasonable forward mobility, but sharp turns cause it to slow down significantly. Furthermore, the neutral steering found on Panther tanks is absent, and the reverse speed is subpar. Because close quarter mobility is not a strong point with this tank, you should aim to keep your distance from the enemy. Otherwise, enemy medium and light tanks will flank you easily since your turret traverse speed is also too slow to allow you to react.
  
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 1,007|rbMinHp= 575}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 1,007|rbMinHp= 575}}
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{{main|KwK42 (75 mm)}}
 
{{main|KwK42 (75 mm)}}
  
−
The VK 3002 (M)'s 75mm cannon grants the vehicle an edge over most other vehicles seen at it's BR, especially at longer ranges thanks to it's high shell velocity and low projectile mass. The aforementioned characteristics of this gun, paired with its relatively long reload and the VK 3002 (M)'s poor turret rotation speed, render the vehicle a powerful opponent on longer ranges, but a lackluster tank in close combat due to its lack of flexibility most other mediums at it's BR have. The reload speed of 9.4s and turret rotation speed of 3.8 m/s allows the VK 3002 (M) to be easily flanked by more agile opponents, and destroyed due to it's thin side armor. The player's ammunition load should be composed of mostly the stock APCBC shells, with a few HE rounds in case one meets a vehicle vulnerable to them.  
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The VK 3002 (M)'s 75 mm cannon grants the vehicle an edge over most other vehicles seen at its BR, especially at longer ranges thanks to its high shell velocity and low projectile mass. The characteristics of this gun, paired with its relatively long reload and the VK 3002 (M)'s poor turret rotation speed, render the vehicle a powerful opponent on longer ranges, but a lacklustre tank in close combat due to its lack of flexibility most other mediums at its BR have. The stock reload speed of 9.6s and turret rotation speed of 7.9°/s allows the VK 3002 (M) to be easily flanked by more agile opponents, and destroyed due to its thin side armour. The player's ammunition load should be composed of mostly the stock APCBC shells, with a few HE rounds in case one meets a vehicle vulnerable to them.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 79 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
+
| rowspan="2" | 79 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || 5.7 || 7.9 || 9.6 || 10.6 || 11.3 || rowspan="2" | 9.62 || rowspan="2" | 8.51 || rowspan="2" | 7.84 || rowspan="2" | 7.40
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 3.6 || 4.2 || 5.1 || 5.6 || 6.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:KwK42 (75 mm)/Ammunition|PzGr 39/42, Sprgr. 42}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | 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 || 11 || 11 || 11 || 11 || 11 || 11
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | 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 || 0.1 || 725 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.25.1.125''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! 6th<br>rack empty
 
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''79''' || 72&nbsp;''(+7)'' || 66&nbsp;''(+13)'' || 60&nbsp;''(+19)'' || 56&nbsp;''(+23)'' || 52&nbsp;''(+27)'' || 42&nbsp;''(+37)''
+
| '''79''' || 76&nbsp;''(+3)'' || 70&nbsp;''(+9)'' || 64&nbsp;''(+15)'' || 58&nbsp;''(+21)'' || 51&nbsp;''(+28)'' || 45&nbsp;''(+34)''
 
|-
 
|-
 
! 7th<br>rack empty
 
! 7th<br>rack empty
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!
 
!
 
|-
 
|-
−
|32&nbsp;''(+47)'' || 22&nbsp;''(+57)'' || 12&nbsp;''(+67)'' || 5&nbsp;''(+74)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+78)''|| No
+
| 41&nbsp;''(+38)'' || 31&nbsp;''(+48)'' || 21&nbsp;''(+58)'' || 11&nbsp;''(+68)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+78)''|| No
 
!
 
!
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes''':
 +
 +
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
 +
* If you pack 21&nbsp;''(+58)'' shells, it will keep most of the hull empty of ammo.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
{{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|MG34 (7.92 mm)}}
 
{{main|MG34 (7.92 mm)}}
  
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! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Coaxial || 2,700 (150) || 900 || N/A || N/A
+
| Coaxial || 2,700 (150) || 900 || - || -
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
The VK 3002 (M) serves as a proper and useful introduction to the Panther line. Its lacklustre reload speed and poor turret traverse speed restrict it to a more passive playstyle, while the high muzzle velocity and low projectile mass allow it to excel at long-distance engagements. However, most maps will force the player to fight in tight, often urban environments. On those maps, the VK 3002 (M) works best when used as a support vehicle, owing to its low versatility yet high frontal armour and a powerful cannon. Staying close to teammates allows the VK to fight without the fear of being flanked, which should be the player's main concern. Leading an assault or pushing deep behind enemy lines should generally be avoided, unless the match is close to being over and the player has to act fast in order to score any more points.
 +
 
 +
When fighting a VK 3002 (M), the player should try to avoid frontal engagements and use the opponent's poor mobility to flank the vehicle and destroy it with what is usually a single shell to the 40 mm thick side armour, enough to detonate the ammunition magazine. When driving a Heavy Tank with limited mobility, the player should instead attempt to hit the VK's gun mantlet, which in most cases will immediately knock out all three crew members manning the turret, rendering the VK 3002 (M) defenseless. If that's impossible, a single shell to the commander's cupola will knock out two, and occasionally all three of the turret crew. Heavy Tanks with powerful enough cannons, such as the [[Tiger H1]] can usually penetrate the VK 3002 (M) directly from the front, knocking out most if not all of the tank's crew members with ease. In a medium tank, the player can generally allow themselves to attempt a flanking attack, which is significantly easier in RB, thanks to the player's invisibility on the minimap. In urban environments, most medium tanks are at an advantage of speed and agility, which as a result lets the player get behind the VK, allowing it to take out its turret crew with one shot, then follow it up with a round to the side armour, detonating the ammunition. In a light tank or SPAA, the player's high mobility allows it to easily flank the VK, provided they have the element of surprise, and attack its thin side armour to knock out the vehicle. If that's impossible, the player should destroy the VK 3002 (M)'s gun barrel with continuous fire, then its track, after which they should either look for a way to attack the enemy from the side and rear, or back away.
 +
 
 +
A frontal engagement against the VK 3002 (M) should be started with the element of surprise, as the VK's long 75 mm can easily knock out most tanks at its BR with only one shell to the front. Ensuring that the enemy player driving the VK 3002 (M) is not currently paying attention to your position, or is preferably fighting another ally, can solve this problem.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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* Poor -4 km/h reverse speed can prevent the player from retreating into cover
 
* Poor -4 km/h reverse speed can prevent the player from retreating into cover
 
* Side & rear armour are flat and thin (~40 mm), easily penetrable by SPAAs and light vehicles (e.g. [[ZSD63/PG87|ZSD63]], [[M24 (Family)|M24]], etc)
 
* Side & rear armour are flat and thin (~40 mm), easily penetrable by SPAAs and light vehicles (e.g. [[ZSD63/PG87|ZSD63]], [[M24 (Family)|M24]], etc)
−
* Slow turning ability
+
* Slow turning ability (no neutral steering)
 
* Slow turret traverse
 
* Slow turret traverse
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
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''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
+
The VK 3002 (M) was MAN's attempt at designing a breakthrough medium tank, which was needed at the time due to the Pz. III and IV's inability to effectively combat the T-34. On May 13th, 1942, the tank's design, alongside with Daimler-Benz's version, were submitted to the Ministry of Armaments and War Production. Despite the Daimler-Benz prototype's lower cost, the MAN design was chosen due to the more spacious turret and more modern suspension. Furthermore, the MAN variant used the same engine as the [[Tiger H1]], which helped with production and maintenance. The newly chosen design was slightly modified, and then entered production under the official designation - '''Pz. Kpfw. V''' [[Panther D]].
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==

Revision as of 13:08, 27 April 2024

RANK 5 FRANCE
Somua SM PACK
VK 3002 (M)
germ_vk_3002m.png
GarageImage VK 3002 (M).jpg
ArtImage VK 3002 (M).jpg
VK 3002 (M)
Germany flag.png Germany
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
5.0 5.0 5.0
Class:
Research:26 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:76 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The VK 3002 (M) is a medium tank prototype created for the German Wehrmacht during World War II by the Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg (MAN) in response to a proposal by the Ministry of Armaments and War Production for a 30-ton tank to be used by the German Army in 1941. Daimler-Benz also created its project, known as the VK 3002 (DB), as a competitive prototype. Germany expected to face a weaker opponent when it attacked the Soviet Union in June 1941. The Wehrmacht was taken by surprise by the T-34's sloping armour and the heavily armoured KV-1. German Generaloberst Heinz Guderian first proposed that a direct replica would be the most efficient way to combat the T-34. The Army Weapons Department rejected this due to difficulty in creating sufficient quantities of diesel engines and steel alloy. The Daimler-Benz VK 3002 (DB) was first ordered into production with an initial goal of 200 tanks, mainly due to Hitler's preference for the design. The Waffenprufamt 6 committee, on the other hand, preferred the more traditional (in terms of German design and engineering) MAN VK 3002 (M) and placed orders for it in May 1942, before secretly cancelling the VK 3002 (DB) order. While the VK 3002 (DB) could have been less expensive and easier to construct, the Waffenprüfamt 6 committee preferred the MAN VK 3002 (M)'s roomier turret and more cutting-edge suspension. The MAN VK 3002 (M) also used the same engine as the Tiger I heavy tank, making production and maintenance easier. It also had larger tracks, which would aid in ground pressure on soft terrain. The VK 3002 (M) was built but never saw combat.

Introduced in Update "Drone Age", the VK 3002 (M) is the prototype for what would ultimately become the iconic Panzerkampfwagen V Panther medium tank family for the German Army during World War II. The VK 3002 (M) tank was designed ahead of its time and includes various advanced features, such as overlapping road wheels that disperse pressure more evenly when going over soft terrain. When compared to Allied tanks, the VK 3002 (M) has unrivalled firepower and precision thanks to its long-barrelled 75 mm Kampfwagenkanone (KwK) 42 L/70 tank gun. However, since the turret is cranked by hand, the traverse speed is poor, and close-quarters battles with enemy tanks in towns are not encouraged. To make the most of this tank's powerful main gun, use it as a long-range sniper.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull60 / 40 / 40
Turret80 / 45 / 45
Crew5 people
Visibility125 %

The armour layout is very similar to a standard Panther, though significantly weaker for the front plate (60 mm instead of 80 mm thick) and the turret (80 mm for the turret front and 50 mm for the mantlet instead of the 100 mm on the Panther A). It is adequate against low-velocity projectiles, but its armour should not be relied upon much, unless the distance between you and the target is large. Unlike the Panther A, angling on the VK 3002 is helpful, angling some 15-20 degrees will make the hull almost entirely immune to Soviet 85 mm cannons, which the tank will commonly face. The same procedure goes against most American cannons. Of course, if they aim at the turret, you'll end up penetrated, but the good thing is that this prototype shares the same good post-penetration survivability of a Panther, due to the driver and machine gunner being far from the turret, even the Soviet 85 mm APHE rounds will not usually knock it out from a turret penetration.

Despite having thick armour, the VK 3002 (M) is not impenetrable. It has a very powerful upper front armour plate, yet an experienced player will rarely approach one from the front. Instead, they'll attempt to flank the vehicle, which is exceptionally easy when the VK is attacking alone. The tank's frontal armour, as powerful as it is, can still be penetrated at short distances by well-aimed shots from tanks commonly seen at its BR, such as the T-34-85 or the IS-1. However, it can deflect most rounds fired at it from afar, further improving the VK 3002 (M)'s long-distance combat capabilities.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret)
  • Cast homogeneous armour (cupola)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 60 mm (55°) 40 mm (40°) Top
40 mm Bottom 		40 mm (30°) 10-16 mm
Turret 80 mm (12°) Turret front
99-158 mm (7-56°) Gun mantlet 		45 mm (21°) 45 mm (25°) 16 mm (5°)
Cupola 110 mm 110 mm 110 mm 16 mm

Notes:

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB62 / 5 km/h
RB and SB55 / 5 km/h
Number of gears7 forward
1 back
Weight35.0 t
Engine power
AB1 240 hp
RB and SB650 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB35.4 hp/t
RB and SB18.6 hp/t

The VK 3002 (M) has reasonable forward mobility, but sharp turns cause it to slow down significantly. Furthermore, the neutral steering found on Panther tanks is absent, and the reverse speed is subpar. Because close quarter mobility is not a strong point with this tank, you should aim to keep your distance from the enemy. Otherwise, enemy medium and light tanks will flank you easily since your turret traverse speed is also too slow to allow you to react.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 62 5 35 1,007 1,240 28.77 35.43
Realistic 55 5 575 650 16.43 18.57

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB1 054 → 1 426 Sl icon.png
RB1 239 → 1 676 Sl icon.png
SB1 570 → 2 124 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications24 800 Rp icon.png
44 800 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 100 Ge icon.png
Crew training22 000 Sl icon.png
Experts76 000 Sl icon.png
Aces400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces320 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
70 / 110 / 120 % Sl icon.png
142 / 142 / 142 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
1 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 100 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
1 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 100 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ger.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
1 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 100 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
115 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Main armament

75 mm KwK42 cannon
Ammunition79 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
9.6 → 7.4 s
Vertical guidance-8° / 20°
Main article: KwK42 (75 mm)

The VK 3002 (M)'s 75 mm cannon grants the vehicle an edge over most other vehicles seen at its BR, especially at longer ranges thanks to its high shell velocity and low projectile mass. The characteristics of this gun, paired with its relatively long reload and the VK 3002 (M)'s poor turret rotation speed, render the vehicle a powerful opponent on longer ranges, but a lacklustre tank in close combat due to its lack of flexibility most other mediums at its BR have. The stock reload speed of 9.6s and turret rotation speed of 7.9°/s allows the VK 3002 (M) to be easily flanked by more agile opponents, and destroyed due to its thin side armour. The player's ammunition load should be composed of mostly the stock APCBC shells, with a few HE rounds in case one meets a vehicle vulnerable to them.

75 mm KwK42 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 79 -8°/+20° ±180° - 5.7 7.9 9.6 10.6 11.3 9.62 8.51 7.84 7.40
Realistic 3.6 4.2 5.1 5.6 6.0

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
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°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the VK 3002 (M)
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty
79 76 (+3) 70 (+9) 64 (+15) 58 (+21) 51 (+28) 45 (+34)
7th
rack empty 		8th
rack empty 		9th
rack empty 		10th
rack empty 		11th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
41 (+38) 31 (+48) 21 (+58) 11 (+68) 1 (+78) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • If you pack 21 (+58) shells, it will keep most of the hull empty of ammo.

Machine guns

7.92 mm MG34 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition2 700 rounds
Belt capacity150 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate900 shots/min
Main article: MG34 (7.92 mm)
7.92 mm MG34
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 2,700 (150) 900 - -

Usage in battles

The VK 3002 (M) serves as a proper and useful introduction to the Panther line. Its lacklustre reload speed and poor turret traverse speed restrict it to a more passive playstyle, while the high muzzle velocity and low projectile mass allow it to excel at long-distance engagements. However, most maps will force the player to fight in tight, often urban environments. On those maps, the VK 3002 (M) works best when used as a support vehicle, owing to its low versatility yet high frontal armour and a powerful cannon. Staying close to teammates allows the VK to fight without the fear of being flanked, which should be the player's main concern. Leading an assault or pushing deep behind enemy lines should generally be avoided, unless the match is close to being over and the player has to act fast in order to score any more points.

When fighting a VK 3002 (M), the player should try to avoid frontal engagements and use the opponent's poor mobility to flank the vehicle and destroy it with what is usually a single shell to the 40 mm thick side armour, enough to detonate the ammunition magazine. When driving a Heavy Tank with limited mobility, the player should instead attempt to hit the VK's gun mantlet, which in most cases will immediately knock out all three crew members manning the turret, rendering the VK 3002 (M) defenseless. If that's impossible, a single shell to the commander's cupola will knock out two, and occasionally all three of the turret crew. Heavy Tanks with powerful enough cannons, such as the Tiger H1 can usually penetrate the VK 3002 (M) directly from the front, knocking out most if not all of the tank's crew members with ease. In a medium tank, the player can generally allow themselves to attempt a flanking attack, which is significantly easier in RB, thanks to the player's invisibility on the minimap. In urban environments, most medium tanks are at an advantage of speed and agility, which as a result lets the player get behind the VK, allowing it to take out its turret crew with one shot, then follow it up with a round to the side armour, detonating the ammunition. In a light tank or SPAA, the player's high mobility allows it to easily flank the VK, provided they have the element of surprise, and attack its thin side armour to knock out the vehicle. If that's impossible, the player should destroy the VK 3002 (M)'s gun barrel with continuous fire, then its track, after which they should either look for a way to attack the enemy from the side and rear, or back away.

A frontal engagement against the VK 3002 (M) should be started with the element of surprise, as the VK's long 75 mm can easily knock out most tanks at its BR with only one shell to the front. Ensuring that the enemy player driving the VK 3002 (M) is not currently paying attention to your position, or is preferably fighting another ally, can solve this problem.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High speed on flat terrain and satisfactory agility
  • Deadly cannon with 192 mm maximum penetration, can frontally penetrate any tank it can face (e.g. IS-2, M4A3E2, Churchill VII, etc)
  • 75 mm cannon has flat trajectory and high shell velocity, beginner-friendly for long range engagements
  • Frontal armour is immune against some lower-tier tanks like T-34-76, 75 mm M4, M24, etc.
  • Has smoke grenades, helpful to conceal the tank

Cons:

  • Has big and tall silhouette of the Panther family, very easy to get hit
  • Frontal armour can still get penetrated by most common foes (e.g. T-34-85, Avenger, M36, M18, etc)
  • Poor -4 km/h reverse speed can prevent the player from retreating into cover
  • Side & rear armour are flat and thin (~40 mm), easily penetrable by SPAAs and light vehicles (e.g. ZSD63, M24, etc)
  • Slow turning ability (no neutral steering)
  • Slow turret traverse

History

The VK 3002 (M) was MAN's attempt at designing a breakthrough medium tank, which was needed at the time due to the Pz. III and IV's inability to effectively combat the T-34. On May 13th, 1942, the tank's design, alongside with Daimler-Benz's version, were submitted to the Ministry of Armaments and War Production. Despite the Daimler-Benz prototype's lower cost, the MAN design was chosen due to the more spacious turret and more modern suspension. Furthermore, the MAN variant used the same engine as the Tiger H1, which helped with production and maintenance. The newly chosen design was slightly modified, and then entered production under the official designation - Pz. Kpfw. V Panther D.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #325 - Metal Beasts section at 00:29 discusses the VK 3002 (M).

See also

Related development

External links


Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg Aktiengesellschaft (MAN AG)
Medium tanks 
Panther  VK 3002 (M) · Panther A · Ersatz M10 · Panther D · Panther F · Panther G · Panther II
Export/captured 
USSR  ▂T-V
France  Panther "Dauphiné"

Germany medium tanks
Pz.III  Pz.III B · Pz.III E · Pz.III F · Pz.III J · Pz.III J1 · Pz.III J1 TD · Pz.III L · Pz.III M · Pz.III N
Pz.IV  Pz.IV C · Pz.IV E · Pz.IV F1 · Pz.IV F2 · Pz.IV G · Pz.IV H · Pz.IV J · Pz.Bef.Wg.IV J
Pz.V  VK 3002 (M) · Panther A · Panther D · Panther F · Panther G · Ersatz M10 · Panther II
M48 upgrades  M48A2 G A2 · M48 Super
Leopard 1  Leopard I · Leopard A1A1 · Leopard A1A1 (L/44) · Leopard 1A5 · C2A1 · Turm III
Leopard 2  PT-16/T14 mod. · Leopard 2K · Leopard 2AV
  Leopard 2A4 · Leopard 2 (PzBtl 123) · Leopard 2A4M · Leopard 2 PL · Leopard 2A5 · Leopard 2 PSO · Leopard 2A6 · Leopard 2A7V
Trophies  ▀M4 748 (a) · ▀T 34 747 (r)
Other  Nb.Fz. · KPz-70
USA  mKPz M47 G · M48A2 C
USSR  ◊T-72M1

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