Difference between revisions of "Panther F"
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{{About | {{About | ||
|about = German medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}''' | |about = German medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}''' | ||
Line 5: | Line 4: | ||
|usage-1 = other uses | |usage-1 = other uses | ||
|link-1 = Panther (Disambiguation) | |link-1 = Panther (Disambiguation) | ||
− | |usage-2 = other | + | |usage-2 = other versions |
|link-2 = Panther tank (Family) | |link-2 = Panther tank (Family) | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{Specs-Card | ||
+ | |code=germ_pzkpfw_V_ausf_f_panther | ||
+ | |images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}} | ||
}} | }} | ||
== 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 ''' | + | The '''Panzerkampfwagen V Ausführung F (Panther F)''' ([[Abbreviations#.28DE.29 Sd.Kfz. Index|Sd.Kfz. Index:]] '''Sd.Kfz. 171''') is the fourth production variant of the iconic [[Panther tank (Family)|Panzerkampfwagen V Panther medium tank family]]. In November 1943, Rheinmetall designed a new turret with a narrow front plate 120 mm (4.72 in) thick. From a distance, the narrow turret presented a smaller target for the enemy. In March 1944, the design was revised under the name Schmale Blende Turm-Panther. This was one of several designs that were eventually dubbed "Schmalturm" (narrow turret). The Schmale Blende appears to be a modification that served as one of numerous proposals for the [[Panther II|Panzerkampfwagen V Ausfuehrung II (Panther II)]]. This updated turret design weighed less than the original Panther turret (from 7,665 kg to 7,565 kg) and reduced the area of frontal armour while maintaining interior crew space. It also reduced production time by around 30-40%. However, due to the end of World War II, the Panther F did not see serial production, but eight hulls and three turrets were completed in 1945. |
+ | |||
+ | Introduced in the Closed Beta Test for Ground Forces before Update 1.41, the Panther F is one of the redesigned Panthers that would eventually become the Panther II. However, due to the conclusion of World War II and Germany's lack of practically all resources, the Panther F did not see combat. Players can experience this one-of-a-kind Panther with much better turret cheek protection. Trap shot problems have also been resolved as the redesigned turret has no surface for shells to ricochet into the hull. It is also the first Panther tank to include an optical rangefinder, which allows players to measure ranges much faster than before, up to more than 2 kilometres. | ||
== General info == | == General info == | ||
=== Survivability and armour === | === Survivability and 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?'' | + | {{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.'' --> | ||
+ | |||
+ | '''Armour type:''' | ||
+ | |||
+ | * Rolled homogeneous armour | ||
+ | * Cast homogeneous armour (gun mantlet, cupola) | ||
− | '' | + | {| class="wikitable" |
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | | Hull || 80 mm (55°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 50 mm (56°) ''Lower glacis'' || 50 mm (30°) ''Top'' <br> 41.5 + 5 mm ''Lower'' || 40 mm (24°) || 25 mm | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | | Turret || 120 mm <br> 100 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 60 mm || 60 mm || 40 mm | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | | Cupola || colspan="4" style="text-align:center" | 80 mm | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | |} | ||
+ | |||
+ | From the hull up, the F variation of the Panther is similar to previous models. However, the biggest and most noticeable change is seen in the turret design. Instead of the transverse-cylindrical mantlet of the [[Panther D|D]] and [[Panther A|A]] models or the chinned mantlet of the [[Panther G|G]] model, the Panther F features a brand new trapezoidal turret named the ''Schmalturm'' (or "Narrow Turret"). This new turret features a bevy of positives over its previous iterations, including beefier armour and the removal of the prominent shot trap caused by the cylindrical nature of the previous model's mantlet. Although this new turret is a welcome addition, it is not without its weaknesses. The Panther will occasionally be facing enemies that can and will penetrate its turret from the front, namely the [[M26]], [[T26E1-1]], [[Tiger II (P)|Tiger II]], [[IS-2 (1944)|IS-2]], [[Tortoise]], [[AMX M4]]. | ||
=== Mobility === | === Mobility === | ||
− | ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' | + | {{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.'' --> | ||
+ | |||
+ | {{tankMobility|abMinHp=930|rbMinHp=531}} | ||
+ | |||
+ | As expected of the Panther series, it features excellent mobility as a result of its very high power to weight ratio. However its mobility has been toned down a few notches due to the limiting of the engine to improve engine lifespan, which is unfortunately useless as reliability has no function in War Thunder. It is also important to note that the reverse has not improved from its lethargic 3 km/h, but the Panther's ability to neutral turn helps tremendously when trying to escape. | ||
+ | |||
+ | === Modifications and economy === | ||
+ | {{Specs-Economy}} | ||
== Armaments == | == Armaments == | ||
+ | {{Specs-Tank-Armaments}} | ||
=== Main armament === | === Main armament === | ||
− | ''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.'' | + | {{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.'' --> | ||
+ | {{main|KwK44 (75 mm)}} | ||
+ | |||
+ | The KwK44 is an incredibly effective gun when engaging enemy armour due to its penetration. Although not as effective as the later legendary [[KwK43 (88 mm)|KwK43]], it's enough to penetrate most enemies it will face, resulting in many two-shot kills with the help of the PzGr 39's explosive filler. The penetration combined with the excellent accuracy makes it an ideal sniping cannon. | ||
+ | |||
+ | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%" | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! colspan="5" | [[KwK44 (75 mm)|75 mm KwK44]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds) | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer | ||
+ | ! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced | ||
+ | ! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! ''Arcade'' | ||
+ | | rowspan="2" | 82 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 14.28 || 19.76 || 24.00 || 26.55 || 28.24 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 6.70 | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! ''Realistic'' | ||
+ | | 8.93 || 10.50 || 12.75 || 14.10 || 15.00 | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | |} | ||
+ | |||
+ | ==== Ammunition ==== | ||
+ | {{:KwK44 (75 mm)/Ammunition|PzGr 39/42, PzGr 40/42, Sprgr. 42}} | ||
+ | |||
+ | ==== [[Ammo racks]] ==== | ||
+ | [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] | ||
+ | <!-- '''Last updated:''' --> | ||
+ | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! Full<br>ammo | ||
+ | ! 1st<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! 2nd<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! 3rd<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! 4th<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! 5th<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! 6th<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! 7th<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! 8th<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! 9th<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! 10th<br>rack empty | ||
+ | ! Visual<br>discrepancy | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | | '''82''' || 80 ''(+2)'' || 74 ''(+8)'' || 62 ''(+20)'' || 50 ''(+32)'' || 38 ''(+44)'' || 26 ''(+56)'' || 22 ''(+60)'' || 12 ''(+70)'' ||4 ''(+78)'' || 1 ''(+81)'' || style="text-align:center" | Yes | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | |} | ||
+ | '''Note''': | ||
− | + | * Right side empty: 50 ''(+32)'' shells. | |
− | '' | + | * Both sides empty: 22 ''(+60)'' shells. |
=== Machine guns === | === Machine guns === | ||
− | ''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.'' | + | {{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.'' --> | ||
+ | {{main|MG42 (7.92 mm)}} | ||
+ | |||
+ | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%" | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! colspan="5" | [[MG42 (7.92 mm)|7.92 mm MG42]] | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | ! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | | Coaxial || 3,000 (150) || 1,200 || N/A || N/A | ||
+ | |- | ||
+ | |} | ||
== 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).'' --> |
+ | |||
+ | The Panther is a great "hunter," locating weak (slow, damaged, or alone) tanks and taking them out is by far its greatest capability. Mobility is a big advantage and the tanker should use it to their advantage, especially when fighting higher-rank vehicles. You should find a suitable location as soon as possible; when you do this, you can easily push off advancing enemy tanks while heavier allies join the action. Just when you notice that you have strong opposition it is time to retreat. Your role is not to fight directly but rather spot weaknesses in the enemy defence. Once you learn how to take advantage of its speed and gun, you'll easily take out enemy targets by surprise. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Despite its slower turret traverse speed and mobility over the Panther A, it receives better turret armour, a rangefinder and faster reload. | ||
+ | |||
+ | Most of the heavy tanks that the Panther faces are not fast enough to counter its attacks. However, this does not mean that they are harmless. Be careful when approaching the enemy and always try to have the advantage. It is not advised to attack enemy heavy tanks directly or frontally; this is where they have most of their armour, and the Panther will probably not be able to penetrate it. It is better to retreat and try to find an alternative route before engaging the enemy. | ||
+ | |||
+ | The Panther has no anti-air capabilities, so it is best to find cover if there are enemy aircraft nearby that are equipped with bombs or rockets. | ||
+ | |||
+ | If the map allows it and you prefer this kind of playstyle, the Panther F also excels at sniping. Although having a slower turret traverse speed and mobility compared to the Panther A, the F version trades it for better turret armour, a rangefinder and faster reload. The distance will make your armour almost impenetrable to a lot of guns while being able to use the rangefinder, high muzzle velocity and great optics to pick off enemies. | ||
=== Pros and cons === | === Pros and cons === | ||
− | '' | + | <!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' --> |
'''Pros:''' | '''Pros:''' | ||
− | * | + | |
+ | * Flat mantlet removes the shot trap which plagued earlier models | ||
+ | * Nigh impenetrable turret cheeks when facing from the front | ||
+ | * 75 mm KwK44 is an accurate and powerful gun | ||
+ | * Explosive filler on PzGr 39 shell allows for easy one- or two-shot kills | ||
+ | * APCR shell can allow the tank to compete with the heavier armour found in an uptier | ||
+ | * Features excellent, although toned down mobility as well as neutral steering | ||
+ | * Hull can become even more difficult to penetrate when angled properly | ||
+ | * Slightly faster reload than the previous models of Panthers | ||
+ | * Optical rangefinder, allows you to measure the range faster than the normal rangefinder and up to 2,200-2,500 m (depending on your crew qualification) | ||
'''Cons:''' | '''Cons:''' | ||
− | * | + | |
+ | * Turret is a massive weak spot | ||
+ | * Hull suffers similarly to turret; although good by itself, it becomes paper when facing higher tier guns | ||
+ | * 75 mm KwK44 can become difficult to use as a sniper in an uptier | ||
+ | * Pitiful reverse speed | ||
+ | * Slower turret traverse than the Panther A and G | ||
+ | * Turret cheeks can be penetrated by high penetration guns (German 88 mm or US 90 mm) | ||
== History == | == History == | ||
− | ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the | + | <!-- ''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).'' --> |
− | + | {{break}} | |
− | In the autumn of 1944, production of a new variant of the Panther was planned, the Ausf. F variant. This version had stronger front | + | {{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'}}|expand=true}} |
+ | {{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}} | ||
+ | In the autumn of 1944, production of a new variant of the Panther was planned, the Ausf. F variant. This version had stronger front armour on its hull (80 mm), its sides (50 mm), and the front part of its roof (25 mm). The Schmalturm 605 turret, developed by the company Daimler-Benz AG, was slightly smaller than the standard Panther turret. This allowed the forward armour to be reinforced up to 120 mm, at an inclination of 20°. The sides of the new turret had a thickness of 60 mm and an inclination of 25°, and the thickness of the gun mantlet reached 150 mm. Stereoscopic rangefinders produced by the company Zeiss were mounted on the sides of the turret. The vehicle was armed with a 75 mm KwK42/1 L/70 or KwK44/1 L/70 gun in a new mantlet. | ||
A project was launched to equip the Panther with the longer 75 mm KwK L/100. Instead of a directional machine gun, the radio operator/gunner used an MP 44 assault rifle. Production plans stipulated that production Ausf. F tanks would only be released with road wheels with internal shock absorbers. During mass production, the tank was supposed to be fitted with a periscope sight with an optical stabilizer. Each tank could, if necessary, be equipped with an FG 1250 night vision device. | A project was launched to equip the Panther with the longer 75 mm KwK L/100. Instead of a directional machine gun, the radio operator/gunner used an MP 44 assault rifle. Production plans stipulated that production Ausf. F tanks would only be released with road wheels with internal shock absorbers. During mass production, the tank was supposed to be fitted with a periscope sight with an optical stabilizer. Each tank could, if necessary, be equipped with an FG 1250 night vision device. | ||
In October 1944, production of the Ausf. F was set to launch in the Daimler-Benz plant in Berlin in March 1945. But by January 1945, a single Panther Ausf. G prototype with a Schmallturm turret was ready. Due to the overall difficulty of Germany's situation at the time, only a few prototypes with a narrow turret and 8 tank hulls had been constructed by the end of the war. Some sources indicate that several Ausf. F variants were completed by Daimler-Benz between April 20 and 23, 1945, and they may have been used in combat operations. | In October 1944, production of the Ausf. F was set to launch in the Daimler-Benz plant in Berlin in March 1945. But by January 1945, a single Panther Ausf. G prototype with a Schmallturm turret was ready. Due to the overall difficulty of Germany's situation at the time, only a few prototypes with a narrow turret and 8 tank hulls had been constructed by the end of the war. Some sources indicate that several Ausf. F variants were completed by Daimler-Benz between April 20 and 23, 1945, and they may have been used in combat operations. | ||
+ | {{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_pzkpfw_V_ausf_f_panther 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.'' | ||
Line 64: | Line 187: | ||
== 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.'' | ||
+ | {{TankManufacturer MAN AG}} | ||
{{Germany medium tanks}} | {{Germany medium tanks}} |
Latest revision as of 09:35, 22 October 2024
This page is about the German medium tank Panther F. For other uses, see Panther (Disambiguation). For other versions, see Panther tank (Family). |
Contents
Description
The Panzerkampfwagen V Ausführung F (Panther F) (Sd.Kfz. Index: Sd.Kfz. 171) is the fourth production variant of the iconic Panzerkampfwagen V Panther medium tank family. In November 1943, Rheinmetall designed a new turret with a narrow front plate 120 mm (4.72 in) thick. From a distance, the narrow turret presented a smaller target for the enemy. In March 1944, the design was revised under the name Schmale Blende Turm-Panther. This was one of several designs that were eventually dubbed "Schmalturm" (narrow turret). The Schmale Blende appears to be a modification that served as one of numerous proposals for the Panzerkampfwagen V Ausfuehrung II (Panther II). This updated turret design weighed less than the original Panther turret (from 7,665 kg to 7,565 kg) and reduced the area of frontal armour while maintaining interior crew space. It also reduced production time by around 30-40%. However, due to the end of World War II, the Panther F did not see serial production, but eight hulls and three turrets were completed in 1945.
Introduced in the Closed Beta Test for Ground Forces before Update 1.41, the Panther F is one of the redesigned Panthers that would eventually become the Panther II. However, due to the conclusion of World War II and Germany's lack of practically all resources, the Panther F did not see combat. Players can experience this one-of-a-kind Panther with much better turret cheek protection. Trap shot problems have also been resolved as the redesigned turret has no surface for shells to ricochet into the hull. It is also the first Panther tank to include an optical rangefinder, which allows players to measure ranges much faster than before, up to more than 2 kilometres.
General info
Survivability and armour
Armour type:
- Rolled homogeneous armour
- Cast homogeneous armour (gun mantlet, cupola)
Armour | Front (Slope angle) | Sides | Rear | Roof |
---|---|---|---|---|
Hull | 80 mm (55°) Front glacis 50 mm (56°) Lower glacis |
50 mm (30°) Top 41.5 + 5 mm Lower |
40 mm (24°) | 25 mm |
Turret | 120 mm 100 mm Gun mantlet |
60 mm | 60 mm | 40 mm |
Cupola | 80 mm |
From the hull up, the F variation of the Panther is similar to previous models. However, the biggest and most noticeable change is seen in the turret design. Instead of the transverse-cylindrical mantlet of the D and A models or the chinned mantlet of the G model, the Panther F features a brand new trapezoidal turret named the Schmalturm (or "Narrow Turret"). This new turret features a bevy of positives over its previous iterations, including beefier armour and the removal of the prominent shot trap caused by the cylindrical nature of the previous model's mantlet. Although this new turret is a welcome addition, it is not without its weaknesses. The Panther will occasionally be facing enemies that can and will penetrate its turret from the front, namely the M26, T26E1-1, Tiger II, IS-2, Tortoise, AMX M4.
Mobility
Game Mode | Max Speed (km/h) | Weight (tons) | Engine power (horsepower) | Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton) | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Forward | Reverse | Stock | Upgraded | Stock | Upgraded | ||
Arcade | 51 | 4 | 45.5 | 930 | 1,145 | 20.44 | 25.16 |
Realistic | 46 | 4 | 531 | 600 | 11.67 | 13.19 |
As expected of the Panther series, it features excellent mobility as a result of its very high power to weight ratio. However its mobility has been toned down a few notches due to the limiting of the engine to improve engine lifespan, which is unfortunately useless as reliability has no function in War Thunder. It is also important to note that the reverse has not improved from its lethargic 3 km/h, but the Panther's ability to neutral turn helps tremendously when trying to escape.
Modifications and economy
Armaments
Main armament
The KwK44 is an incredibly effective gun when engaging enemy armour due to its penetration. Although not as effective as the later legendary KwK43, it's enough to penetrate most enemies it will face, resulting in many two-shot kills with the help of the PzGr 39's explosive filler. The penetration combined with the excellent accuracy makes it an ideal sniping cannon.
75 mm KwK44 | Turret rotation speed (°/s) | Reloading rate (seconds) | |||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mode | Capacity | Vertical | Horizontal | Stabilizer | Stock | Upgraded | Full | Expert | Aced | Stock | Full | Expert | Aced |
Arcade | 82 | -8°/+20° | ±180° | N/A | 14.28 | 19.76 | 24.00 | 26.55 | 28.24 | 8.71 | 7.70 | 7.10 | 6.70 |
Realistic | 8.93 | 10.50 | 12.75 | 14.10 | 15.00 |
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 |
PzGr 40/42 | APCR | 228 | 224 | 204 | 182 | 162 | 145 |
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° | |||
PzGr 40/42 | APCR | 1,120 | 4.75 | - | - | - | 66° | 70° | 72° | |||
Sprgr. 42 | HE | 700 | 5.74 | 0.2 | 0.1 | 725 | 79° | 80° | 81° |
Ammo racks
Full ammo |
1st rack empty |
2nd rack empty |
3rd rack empty |
4th rack empty |
5th rack empty |
6th rack empty |
7th rack empty |
8th rack empty |
9th rack empty |
10th rack empty |
Visual discrepancy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
82 | 80 (+2) | 74 (+8) | 62 (+20) | 50 (+32) | 38 (+44) | 26 (+56) | 22 (+60) | 12 (+70) | 4 (+78) | 1 (+81) | Yes |
Note:
- Right side empty: 50 (+32) shells.
- Both sides empty: 22 (+60) shells.
Machine guns
7.92 mm MG42 | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Mount | Capacity (Belt) | Fire rate | Vertical | Horizontal |
Coaxial | 3,000 (150) | 1,200 | N/A | N/A |
Usage in battles
The Panther is a great "hunter," locating weak (slow, damaged, or alone) tanks and taking them out is by far its greatest capability. Mobility is a big advantage and the tanker should use it to their advantage, especially when fighting higher-rank vehicles. You should find a suitable location as soon as possible; when you do this, you can easily push off advancing enemy tanks while heavier allies join the action. Just when you notice that you have strong opposition it is time to retreat. Your role is not to fight directly but rather spot weaknesses in the enemy defence. Once you learn how to take advantage of its speed and gun, you'll easily take out enemy targets by surprise.
Despite its slower turret traverse speed and mobility over the Panther A, it receives better turret armour, a rangefinder and faster reload.
Most of the heavy tanks that the Panther faces are not fast enough to counter its attacks. However, this does not mean that they are harmless. Be careful when approaching the enemy and always try to have the advantage. It is not advised to attack enemy heavy tanks directly or frontally; this is where they have most of their armour, and the Panther will probably not be able to penetrate it. It is better to retreat and try to find an alternative route before engaging the enemy.
The Panther has no anti-air capabilities, so it is best to find cover if there are enemy aircraft nearby that are equipped with bombs or rockets.
If the map allows it and you prefer this kind of playstyle, the Panther F also excels at sniping. Although having a slower turret traverse speed and mobility compared to the Panther A, the F version trades it for better turret armour, a rangefinder and faster reload. The distance will make your armour almost impenetrable to a lot of guns while being able to use the rangefinder, high muzzle velocity and great optics to pick off enemies.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flat mantlet removes the shot trap which plagued earlier models
- Nigh impenetrable turret cheeks when facing from the front
- 75 mm KwK44 is an accurate and powerful gun
- Explosive filler on PzGr 39 shell allows for easy one- or two-shot kills
- APCR shell can allow the tank to compete with the heavier armour found in an uptier
- Features excellent, although toned down mobility as well as neutral steering
- Hull can become even more difficult to penetrate when angled properly
- Slightly faster reload than the previous models of Panthers
- Optical rangefinder, allows you to measure the range faster than the normal rangefinder and up to 2,200-2,500 m (depending on your crew qualification)
Cons:
- Turret is a massive weak spot
- Hull suffers similarly to turret; although good by itself, it becomes paper when facing higher tier guns
- 75 mm KwK44 can become difficult to use as a sniper in an uptier
- Pitiful reverse speed
- Slower turret traverse than the Panther A and G
- Turret cheeks can be penetrated by high penetration guns (German 88 mm or US 90 mm)
History
Archive of the in-game description | |
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In the autumn of 1944, production of a new variant of the Panther was planned, the Ausf. F variant. This version had stronger front armour on its hull (80 mm), its sides (50 mm), and the front part of its roof (25 mm). The Schmalturm 605 turret, developed by the company Daimler-Benz AG, was slightly smaller than the standard Panther turret. This allowed the forward armour to be reinforced up to 120 mm, at an inclination of 20°. The sides of the new turret had a thickness of 60 mm and an inclination of 25°, and the thickness of the gun mantlet reached 150 mm. Stereoscopic rangefinders produced by the company Zeiss were mounted on the sides of the turret. The vehicle was armed with a 75 mm KwK42/1 L/70 or KwK44/1 L/70 gun in a new mantlet. A project was launched to equip the Panther with the longer 75 mm KwK L/100. Instead of a directional machine gun, the radio operator/gunner used an MP 44 assault rifle. Production plans stipulated that production Ausf. F tanks would only be released with road wheels with internal shock absorbers. During mass production, the tank was supposed to be fitted with a periscope sight with an optical stabilizer. Each tank could, if necessary, be equipped with an FG 1250 night vision device. In October 1944, production of the Ausf. F was set to launch in the Daimler-Benz plant in Berlin in March 1945. But by January 1945, a single Panther Ausf. G prototype with a Schmallturm turret was ready. Due to the overall difficulty of Germany's situation at the time, only a few prototypes with a narrow turret and 8 tank hulls had been constructed by the end of the war. Some sources indicate that several Ausf. F variants were completed by Daimler-Benz between April 20 and 23, 1945, and they may have been used in combat operations. |
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
Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:
- topic on the official game forum;
- other literature.
Maschinenfabrik Augsburg-Nürnberg Aktiengesellschaft (MAN AG) | |
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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 |