Difference between pages "Scouting" and "Sd.Kfz.234/4"

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{{Specs-Card
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|code=germ_sdkfz_234_4
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|market=Sd.Kfz.234/4
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}}
  
{{DISPLAYTITLE:Scouting}}
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== Description ==
<div class="object-info clearfix" align="justify">
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
[[File:GarageImage_Sd.Kfz.2344.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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{{Break}}
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (full name: ''Schwerer Panzerspähwagen 7.5 cm Sonderkraftfahrzeug 234/4 Panzerabwehrkanonenwagen'') is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} German tank destroyer {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica"]] in the [[Operation_S.U.M.M.E.R.|"Operation S.U.M.M.E.R."]] event of 2017 that lasted from 28 July to 28 August, unlocked after obtaining 7 tanker Marks of Distinction.
  
'''Scouting''' refers to special traits of certain lightly armoured vehicles, which allows them access to extra abilities. This perk is available only to light tanks of ranks II and above, as well as a select few tank destroyers.
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The Sd.Kfz.234/4 is easily picked out by its long gun and gun shield. If recognized, the enemies will see the vehicle as an easy target (in high BR's), but also as a deadly priority target!
  
__TOC__
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This armoured car is a lot of fun to play. The long 75 mm gun and the 234 chassis work very well hand in hand. The best way to play this mini-beast is to get on the enemies flanks as fast as possible (terrain permitting) and hide in the bushes. Take shots with hit probabilities, but hold fire more uncertain hit chances. Remember that the 234/4 can be and will be torn up by 12.7 mm machine gun fire, assume the position has been spotted after firing and move out via reverse. Do not engage in a straight-up gun battle or the 234/4 becomes scrap metal.
  
==Scout traits ==
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The 75 mm gun is strong enough to destroy most tanks with one hit, meanwhile the 234/4 has a great speed of 30-40 km/h forwards and backwards to relocate. Because of this, it is possible (though not necessarily needed) to use the 75 mm and return fire while making haste. Terrain foliage such as bushes are great assets for concealment, shadows as well so use them and stay hidden.
  
=== Active Scouting===  
+
== General info ==
 +
=== 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? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 +
'''Armour type:'''
  
The first benefit afforded to these vehicles is called '''Active Scouting.''' This is an activatable ability that allows the tank to scout enemy positions and relay that information to allied vehicles. This rewards the scout with Research Points and Silver Lions. The key to use Active scouting is, by default, '''V''', and can be changed in controls under the Tank tab, then under Miscellaneous. The mechanic works differently based on gamemode;
+
* Rolled homogeneous armour
 +
* Cast homogeneous armour (Gun mantlet, Vision ports)
 +
* Structural steel (Side skirts)
  
[[File:Active Scouting Ability.png|thumb|The icon for Active scouting as seen in-game]]
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{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 +
|-
 +
| Hull || 30 mm (40°) ''Front plate'' <br> 15 mm (70°), 30 mm (55°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 30 mm (35°) ''Lower glacis'' || 8 mm (34-35°) ''Top'' <br> 8 (19-35°) + 4 mm  || 10 mm (21-46°) || 5 mm
 +
|-
 +
| Gun shield || 4 + 4 mm (18-29°) || N/A || N/A || N/A
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
  
* '''ARCADE -''' To scout a hostile ground vehicle, target the enemy using the 'Lock Target' keybind—found under Common—and press your Active scouting key. You and your teammates will now be able to see and select the enemies' marker in the world and on the minimap at all times for the next 30 seconds.
+
* Wheels provide 10 mm of armour thickness.
* '''REALISTIC''' - To scout a hostile ground vehicle, enter your Binoculars, or use your sight (Sniper Mode), and place your crosshair directly atop your target before pressing the Active scouting key. You and your teammates will see a small red arrow above the target that updates periodically, with their location updating on the minimap in tandem, for the next 30 seconds.
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* Belly armour is 12.7 mm thick.
 +
* Can be hull broken.
  
Only one player can scout a target at a time, with another scout attempt on an already scouted target only successful once 30 seconds have passed since the previous successful scout. In realistic battle mode, if you use Active scouting while your crosshair is '''not''' placed over a hostile ground vehicle, your ability will go on a lengthy cooldown before it can be used again.  
+
The best way to deal with this tank is to catch it out of position and/or from behind. Because of its low armour values, it can be easily penetrated with 12.7 mm Mg fire or HE shells to the open roof. Most AP and APHE shots will simply over-penetrate the vehicle's front armour and will not do much to the crew compartment unless aimed at specific crew locations or it hull-breaks the Sd.Kfz.234/4. As such, explosive ammunition or machine gun fire are the more preferred methods of elimination.
  
Whenever a target you have an active scout on is killed by an ally during the 30 second window, you receive an additional reward of Research Points and Silver Lions, on top of the smaller reward you received for successfully scouting the target. You also receive an additional, in-match bonus for your efforts, based on gamemode;
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=== Mobility ===
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''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.''
  
* '''ARCADE -''' You are rewarded with an additional artillery strike and an air strike point. Reward is granted only if the destroyed enemy was not clearly visible to your ally before the scouting or their destruction, or if the attacker is your squadmate.
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{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 298|rbMinHp= 186}}
* '''REALISTIC -''' The Spawn Point (SP) cost of all aircraft in your line-up is reduced by 7%. If you have the 'Airstrike' modification, the reduction is 14% instead.
 
  
=== Team Repairs ===
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== Armaments ==
Any vehicle with the capability of Active scouting, that has the 'Parts' modification installed, also has the ability to aid in the repair of any allied vehicles including those that are not in the player's squad. Whenever an allied vehicle is repairing themselves, the player will see a wrench icon above their tank. Moving their own tank close to their ally and then holding their own Tank repair key increases the speed at which that allied vehicle is repaired by a large amount.
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=== Main armament ===
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<!-- ''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|PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm)}}
  
=== Modifications ===
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
Vehicles with the capability of Active scouting also have access to two unique modifications— the first of which is '''Airstrike—'''which grants a different benefit based on the gamemode;
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|-
 +
! colspan="5" | [[PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm)|75 mm PaK40/3 L46]] || 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" | 36 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+22° || rowspan="2" | ±20° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 12.3 || 17.06 || 20.7 || 22.9 ||24.4|| rowspan="2" | 7.6 || rowspan="2" | 6.8 || rowspan="2" | 6.2 || rowspan="2" | 5.9
 +
|-
 +
! ''Realistic''
 +
| 8.3 || 9.8 || 11.9 || 13.2 || 14.0
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
* '''ARCADE''' '''-''' At all times, players with this modifications can join an existing air battle as an Attacker or Bomber, as well as the standard option of spawning a Fighter. Spawning an additional Attacker or Bomber allows the enemy team to spawn one additional Fighter in exchange.
+
==== Ammunition ====
* '''REALISTIC -''' Doubles the reward for an ally killing a scouted target from an SP reduction of 7% of all aircraft in your line-up, to a 14% reduction.
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{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
! 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
 +
|-
 +
| Hl.Gr 38B || HEAT || 80 || 80 || 80 || 80 || 80 || 80
 +
|-
 +
| PzGr 39 || APCBC || 151 || 148 || 135 || 121 || 108 || 96
 +
|-
 +
| PzGr 40 || APCR || 182 || 177 || 159 || 140 || 122 || 107
 +
|-
 +
| Sprgr. 34 || HE || 10 || 10 || 10 || 10 || 10 || 10
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
{| 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%
 +
|-
 +
| Hl.Gr 38B || HEAT || 450 || 4.4 || N/A || 0.1 || 872.1 || 62° || 69° || 73°
 +
|-
 +
| PzGr 39 || APCBC || 792 || 6.8 || 1.2 || 14.0 || 28.9 || 48° || 63° || 71°
 +
|-
 +
| PzGr 40 || APCR || 990 || 4.1 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 66° || 70° || 72°
 +
|-
 +
| Sprgr. 34 || HE || 550 || 5.74 || 0.1 || 0.1 || 686 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
 +
! colspan="7" | Smoke shell characteristics
 +
|-
 +
! Ammunition
 +
! Velocity<br>(m/s)
 +
! Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 +
! Screen radius<br>(m)
 +
! Screen deploy time<br>(s)
 +
! Screen hold time<br>(s)
 +
! Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 +
|-
 +
| K.Gr.Rot Nb. || 540 || 6.2 || 13 || 5 || 20 || 50
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
There is also a second modification— '''Improved Optics—''' which increases the spotting range of the crew. As with Airstrike, this has different effects based on the gamemode;
+
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 +
[[File:Ammoracks_Sd.Kfz.2344.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! Full<br>ammo
 +
! 1st<br>rack empty
 +
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 +
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 +
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 +
|-
 +
| '''36''' || 31&nbsp;''(+5)'' || 13&nbsp;''(+23)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+35)'' || style="text-align:left" | No
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
* '''ARCADE''' - Increases the range at which markers will appear for enemy vehicles.
+
Left empty: 31&nbsp;''(+5)''
* '''REALISTIC'''- Sometimes, your crew will point you in the general direction of an enemy vehicle with a small red arrow on the border of your screen. Increases the range at which this triggers.
 
  
== List of scout vehicles ==
+
<!--==== [[Optics]] ====
''As of v.1.95.0.107''
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} Optics
 +
|-
 +
!
 +
! Default magnification
 +
! Maximum magnification
 +
|-
 +
! Main Gun optics
 +
| X4.7 || X5.0
 +
|-
 +
! Comparable optics
 +
| colspan="2" | ___
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
-->
 +
 
 +
=== 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.'' -->
 +
{{main|MG42 (7.92 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | [[MG42 (7.92 mm)|7.92 mm MG42]]
 +
|-
 +
! Mount
 +
! Capacity<br>(Belt capacity)
 +
! Rate of fire<br>(shots/minute)
 +
! Vertical<br>guidance
 +
! Horizontal<br>guidance
 +
|-
 +
| Pintle || 2,000 (150) || 1,200 || ±20° || ±45°
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
== 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).'' -->
 +
Move fast and get into a spot that gives:
 +
 
 +
# Great cover, either hard cover or visual cover (so rocks and or bushes are great)
 +
# Great visibility
 +
# Ease of egress
 +
# The ability to get deadly side shots
 +
 
 +
=== Modules ===
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! Tier
 +
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 +
! Protection
 +
! colspan="3" | Firepower
 +
|-
 +
| I
 +
| Tires
 +
|
 +
| Parts
 +
| Horizontal Drive
 +
|
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
| II
 +
| Suspension
 +
| Brake System
 +
| FPE
 +
| Hl.Gr 38B
 +
| Adjustment of Fire
 +
| Airstrike
 
|-
 
|-
! '''[[File:USA flag.png|60px|border|link=Category:USA ground vehicles]]<br>[[:Category:USA ground vehicles|USA]]'''
+
| III
! '''[[File:Germany flag.png|60px|border|link=Category:Germany ground vehicles]]<br>[[:Category:Germany ground vehicles|Germany]]'''
+
| Filters
! '''[[File:USSR flag.png|60px|border|link=Category:USSR ground vehicles]]<br>[[:Category:USSR ground vehicles|USSR]]'''
+
|
! '''[[File:Britain flag.png|60px|border|link=Category:Britain ground vehicles]]<br>[[:Category:Britain ground vehicles|Britain]]'''
+
| Crew Replenishment
! '''[[File:Japan flag.png|60px|border|link=Category:Japan ground vehicles]]<br>[[:Category:Japan ground vehicles|Japan]]'''
+
| PzGr 40
! '''[[File:China flag.png|60px|border|link=Category:China ground vehicles]]<br>[[:Category:China ground vehicles|China]]'''
+
| Elevation Mechanism
! '''[[File:Italy flag.png|60px|border|link=Category:Italy ground vehicles]]<br>[[:Category:Italy ground vehicles|Italy]]'''
+
|
! '''[[File:France flag.png|60px|border|link=Category:France ground vehicles]]<br>[[:Category:France ground vehicles|France]]'''
+
|-
! '''[[File:Sweden flag.png|60px|border|link=Category:Sweden ground vehicles]]<br>[[:Category:Sweden ground vehicles|Sweden]]'''
+
| IV
 +
| Transmission
 +
| Engine
 +
|
 +
| Improved optics
 +
| K.Gr.Rot Nb.
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" |This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase
 
|-
 
|-
| {{Specs-Link|us_m3_bradley|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_m5a1_stuart|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_m5a1_stuart_canadian_5st_arm|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_m24_chaffee|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_m24_chaffee_tl|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_m41_walker_bulldog|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_m50_ontos|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_m56_scorpion|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_m551|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_t18_e2|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_t92|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|us_t114|short}}
 
| {{Specs-Link|germ_begleitpanzer_57|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|germ_pzkpfw_II_ausf_H|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|germ_ru251|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|germ_bmp_1_ddr|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|germ_sdkfz_234_2|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|germ_sdkfz_234_4|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|germ_thyssen_henschel_tam|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|germ_le_kpz_m41|short}}
 
| {{Specs-Link|ussr_asu_57|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_asu_85|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_bmp_1|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_bmp_2|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_bmp_3|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_bt_7a_f32|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_object_685|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_object_906|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_pt_76b|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_t_80|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|ussr_type_62|short}}
 
| {{Specs-Link|uk_armored_car_aec_mk_2|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|uk_rooikat_76|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|uk_fv510_isv|short}}
 
| {{Specs-Link|jp_m24_chaffee|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|jp_m41_walker_bulldog|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|jp_type_16|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|jp_type_60_atm|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|jp_type_60_sprg|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|jp_type_89|short}}
 
| {{Specs-Link|cn_m24_chaffee|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|cn_pt_76|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|cn_type_62|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|cn_type_63_I|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|cn_type_86|short}}
 
| {{Specs-Link|it_ab_43|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|it_fiat_6616_cockerill|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|it_aubl_74_60_70m|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|it_b1_centauro|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|it_b1_centauro_romor|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|it_fiat_6614_106sr|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|it_oto_r3_106sr|short}}
 
| {{Specs-Link|fr_amc_35|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|fr_aml_90|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|fr_amx_10rc|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|fr_amx_13_75|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|fr_amx_13_fl_11|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|fr_amx_13_hot|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|fr_amx_13_75_ss11|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|fr_amx_13_90|short}}<br>{{Specs-Link|fr_bat_chat_25t|short}}
 
|
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
== External Links ==
+
=== 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:'''
 +
 
 +
* Premium bonus
 +
* Adequate ammo supply for prolonged combat
 +
* Can move forward and backwards with equal speed
 +
* Lower profile than the [[Marder III H]]
 +
* Essentially a Marder III H on wheels
 +
* Eight-wheel drive gives it good surface traction and handling, much better manoeuvrability
 +
* Doesn't have the tendency to get flipped when turning like the Marder III H
 +
 
 +
'''Cons:'''
 +
 
 +
* Very weak armour, can be penetrated by aircraft weapons and heavy machine guns
 +
* Open-topped, making it very vulnerable to attacks from the air or artillery
 +
* Can be disabled by aircraft simply by ramming it
 +
* Limited gun traverse
 +
* Crew compartment is littered with ammo
 +
* Is longer than the Marder III H
 +
* Vehicle will be immobilized if one driver is knocked out despite having two drivers in its layout
 +
* Unlike other German tanks, it has a very bad gun depression only -5°
 +
 
 +
== 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).'' -->
 +
===Development===
 +
The blitzkrieg tactics in Poland and France gave the Germans a new appreciation of mobile and lethal reconnaissance vehicles. The Germans especially valued the armoured cars due to their speed, firepower, and their pre-war build-up as they were not restricted by the Versailles Treaty. The Germans started with armoured cars like the Sd.Kfz.231 family, each with different armaments. However, these vehicles had its flaws and in August 1940, Germany sought a replacement following the conclusion of the Battle of France.
 +
 
 +
The new vehicle was built off an improved Sd.Kfz.232 chassis made in monocoque construction by Büssing-NAG, its armoured body was made by Deutsche Edelstahlwerke, the turret by Daimler-Benz and Schichau, and air-cooled diesel engines by Ringhoffer-Tatra-Werke AG. The monocoque chassis design was built with an eight-wheel steering system, six forward and reverse gears, as well as having an additional driver seat in the rear for quick reversal get-aways. This construction led to '''Sd.Kfz.234''' family. Vehicle construction first started in 1943 as the [[Sd.Kfz.234/2|Sd.Kfz.234/2]], which had a turret originally intended for the VK 1602 Leopard mounting a [[KwK 39 (50 mm)|5 cm L/60]] gun, construction continued on this vehicle until mid-1944. The Sd.Kfz.234/2 earned the nickname "Puma" from the soldiers using it.
 +
 
 +
Production for Sd.Kfz.234/2 shifted towards other armaments in 1944 that replaced the original. This produced variants such as the Sd.Kfz. 234/1 which replaced the turret with an open-top one carrying a [[KwK 30 (20 mm)|2 cm KwK 38]], this was produced between mid-1944 to early 1945. Right besides that, the Sd.Kfz.234/3 was produced with an open-top structure to mount a [[KwK 37 (75 mm)|75 mm howitzer]], this was produced from mid-1944 until the end of 1944. At the Sd.Kfz.234/3's production end, it was replaced by the [[Sd.Kfz.234/4|Sd.Kfz.234/4]], also known as the "Pakwagen", that had the armament replaced by a [[KwK 40 (75 mm)|7.5 cm PaK 40]] anti-tank gun. This last variant was produced from the end of 1944 to the capitulation of Germany in World War II. A total of 478 Sd.Kfz.234 armoured cars were produced, 200 of the 234/1, 101 of the 234/2, 88 of the 234/3, and 89 of the 234/4.
 +
 
 +
===Combat usage===
 +
The Sd.Kfz.234 cars were originally intended for the conflicts in North Africa. However, the engine development took abnormally long to complete and by the time it was ready, the North African theatre had concluded. Nevertheless, they served in the Western and Eastern front with success, but was impeded by its low production count.
 +
 
 +
The Sd.Kfz. 234/2 variant was arguably the most popular, as the staple of the 234 family. The vehicle served in the Panzer Lehr Division, 1st and 2nd SS Panzer Division, 2nd, 7th, 13th, and 20th Panzer Division. The Sd.Kfz.234 in the recon companies were allocated in 19 or 25 vehicles per division, further split into platoons up to six vehicles and one as the headquarters. However, due to their low production numbers, this allocation was rarely kept in full strength in the war,
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The Sd.Kfz.234 first saw combat in Normandy after D-Day in the stationed Panzer Lehr and 2nd Panzer Division in the Sd.Kfz.234/2 variant. The divisions used these vehicles in recon roles until their withdrawal behind the Seine River, with Panzer Lehr having 8 Sd.Kfz.234/2 of the original 26 it had. These divisions were rebuilt in the fall of 1944 with the Sd.Kfz.234/1 and Sd.Kfz.234/3 after the 234/2 ceased production.
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== Media ==
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<!--Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.-->
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{{Youtube-gallery|b7EikSPup3Q|'''The Shooting Range #58''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 08:00 discusses the Sd.Kfz.234/4.}}
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== See also ==
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''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
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* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
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== External links ==
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<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
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* ''other literature.'' -->
  
* [https://warthunder.com/en/news/5193-development-new-opportunities-for-light-vehicles-en [Development<nowiki>]</nowiki> New opportunities for light vehicles!]
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* [[wt:en/news/4862/current|[Devblog] Sd.Kfz.234/4 Schwerer Panzerspähwagen]]
  
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{{Germany tank destroyers}}
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{{Germany premium ground vehicles}}
[[Category:Game mechanics]]
 

Revision as of 10:41, 9 August 2020

Sd.Kfz.234/4
germ_sdkfz_234_4.png
Sd.Kfz.234/4
Show in game
MARKET

Description

GarageImage Sd.Kfz.2344.jpg


The s.Pz.Sp.Wg. (7,5 cm) Sd.Kfz.234/4 (full name: Schwerer Panzerspähwagen 7.5 cm Sonderkraftfahrzeug 234/4 Panzerabwehrkanonenwagen) is a premium gift rank III German tank destroyer with a battle rating of 4.3 (AB) and 4.7 (RB/SB). It was introduced during Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica" in the "Operation S.U.M.M.E.R." event of 2017 that lasted from 28 July to 28 August, unlocked after obtaining 7 tanker Marks of Distinction.

The Sd.Kfz.234/4 is easily picked out by its long gun and gun shield. If recognized, the enemies will see the vehicle as an easy target (in high BR's), but also as a deadly priority target!

This armoured car is a lot of fun to play. The long 75 mm gun and the 234 chassis work very well hand in hand. The best way to play this mini-beast is to get on the enemies flanks as fast as possible (terrain permitting) and hide in the bushes. Take shots with hit probabilities, but hold fire more uncertain hit chances. Remember that the 234/4 can be and will be torn up by 12.7 mm machine gun fire, assume the position has been spotted after firing and move out via reverse. Do not engage in a straight-up gun battle or the 234/4 becomes scrap metal.

The 75 mm gun is strong enough to destroy most tanks with one hit, meanwhile the 234/4 has a great speed of 30-40 km/h forwards and backwards to relocate. Because of this, it is possible (though not necessarily needed) to use the 75 mm and return fire while making haste. Terrain foliage such as bushes are great assets for concealment, shadows as well so use them and stay hidden.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
  • Cast homogeneous armour (Gun mantlet, Vision ports)
  • Structural steel (Side skirts)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 30 mm (40°) Front plate
15 mm (70°), 30 mm (55°) Front glacis
30 mm (35°) Lower glacis
8 mm (34-35°) Top
8 (19-35°) + 4 mm
10 mm (21-46°) 5 mm
Gun shield 4 + 4 mm (18-29°) N/A N/A N/A

Notes:

  • Wheels provide 10 mm of armour thickness.
  • Belly armour is 12.7 mm thick.
  • Can be hull broken.

The best way to deal with this tank is to catch it out of position and/or from behind. Because of its low armour values, it can be easily penetrated with 12.7 mm Mg fire or HE shells to the open roof. Most AP and APHE shots will simply over-penetrate the vehicle's front armour and will not do much to the crew compartment unless aimed at specific crew locations or it hull-breaks the Sd.Kfz.234/4. As such, explosive ammunition or machine gun fire are the more preferred methods of elimination.

Mobility

Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 98 98 11.7 298 401 25.47 34.27
Realistic 90 90 186 210 15.9 17.95

Armaments

Main armament

Main article: PaK40/3 L46 (75 mm)
75 mm PaK40/3 L46 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 36 -5°/+22° ±20° N/A 12.3 17.06 20.7 22.9 24.4 7.6 6.8 6.2 5.9
Realistic 8.3 9.8 11.9 13.2 14.0

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
Hl.Gr 38B HEAT 80 80 80 80 80 80
PzGr 39 APCBC 151 148 135 121 108 96
PzGr 40 APCR 182 177 159 140 122 107
Sprgr. 34 HE 10 10 10 10 10 10
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%
Hl.Gr 38B HEAT 450 4.4 N/A 0.1 872.1 62° 69° 73°
PzGr 39 APCBC 792 6.8 1.2 14.0 28.9 48° 63° 71°
PzGr 40 APCR 990 4.1 N/A N/A N/A 66° 70° 72°
Sprgr. 34 HE 550 5.74 0.1 0.1 686 79° 80° 81°
Smoke shell characteristics
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s)
Projectile
Mass (kg)
Screen radius
(m)
Screen deploy time
(s)
Screen hold time
(s)
Explosive Mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
K.Gr.Rot Nb. 540 6.2 13 5 20 50

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Sd.Kfz.234/4
Full
ammo
1st
rack empty
2nd
rack empty
3rd
rack empty
Visual
discrepancy
36 31 (+5) 13 (+23) (+35) No

Left empty: 31 (+5)


Machine guns

Main article: MG42 (7.92 mm)
7.92 mm MG42
Mount Capacity
(Belt capacity)
Rate of fire
(shots/minute)
Vertical
guidance
Horizontal
guidance
Pintle 2,000 (150) 1,200 ±20° ±45°

Usage in battles

Move fast and get into a spot that gives:

  1. Great cover, either hard cover or visual cover (so rocks and or bushes are great)
  2. Great visibility
  3. Ease of egress
  4. The ability to get deadly side shots

Modules

Tier Mobility Protection Firepower
I Tires Parts Horizontal Drive
II Suspension Brake System FPE Hl.Gr 38B Adjustment of Fire Airstrike
III Filters Crew Replenishment PzGr 40 Elevation Mechanism
IV Transmission Engine Improved optics K.Gr.Rot Nb.
This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Premium bonus
  • Adequate ammo supply for prolonged combat
  • Can move forward and backwards with equal speed
  • Lower profile than the Marder III H
  • Essentially a Marder III H on wheels
  • Eight-wheel drive gives it good surface traction and handling, much better manoeuvrability
  • Doesn't have the tendency to get flipped when turning like the Marder III H

Cons:

  • Very weak armour, can be penetrated by aircraft weapons and heavy machine guns
  • Open-topped, making it very vulnerable to attacks from the air or artillery
  • Can be disabled by aircraft simply by ramming it
  • Limited gun traverse
  • Crew compartment is littered with ammo
  • Is longer than the Marder III H
  • Vehicle will be immobilized if one driver is knocked out despite having two drivers in its layout
  • Unlike other German tanks, it has a very bad gun depression only -5°

History

Development

The blitzkrieg tactics in Poland and France gave the Germans a new appreciation of mobile and lethal reconnaissance vehicles. The Germans especially valued the armoured cars due to their speed, firepower, and their pre-war build-up as they were not restricted by the Versailles Treaty. The Germans started with armoured cars like the Sd.Kfz.231 family, each with different armaments. However, these vehicles had its flaws and in August 1940, Germany sought a replacement following the conclusion of the Battle of France.

The new vehicle was built off an improved Sd.Kfz.232 chassis made in monocoque construction by Büssing-NAG, its armoured body was made by Deutsche Edelstahlwerke, the turret by Daimler-Benz and Schichau, and air-cooled diesel engines by Ringhoffer-Tatra-Werke AG. The monocoque chassis design was built with an eight-wheel steering system, six forward and reverse gears, as well as having an additional driver seat in the rear for quick reversal get-aways. This construction led to Sd.Kfz.234 family. Vehicle construction first started in 1943 as the Sd.Kfz.234/2, which had a turret originally intended for the VK 1602 Leopard mounting a 5 cm L/60 gun, construction continued on this vehicle until mid-1944. The Sd.Kfz.234/2 earned the nickname "Puma" from the soldiers using it.

Production for Sd.Kfz.234/2 shifted towards other armaments in 1944 that replaced the original. This produced variants such as the Sd.Kfz. 234/1 which replaced the turret with an open-top one carrying a 2 cm KwK 38, this was produced between mid-1944 to early 1945. Right besides that, the Sd.Kfz.234/3 was produced with an open-top structure to mount a 75 mm howitzer, this was produced from mid-1944 until the end of 1944. At the Sd.Kfz.234/3's production end, it was replaced by the Sd.Kfz.234/4, also known as the "Pakwagen", that had the armament replaced by a 7.5 cm PaK 40 anti-tank gun. This last variant was produced from the end of 1944 to the capitulation of Germany in World War II. A total of 478 Sd.Kfz.234 armoured cars were produced, 200 of the 234/1, 101 of the 234/2, 88 of the 234/3, and 89 of the 234/4.

Combat usage

The Sd.Kfz.234 cars were originally intended for the conflicts in North Africa. However, the engine development took abnormally long to complete and by the time it was ready, the North African theatre had concluded. Nevertheless, they served in the Western and Eastern front with success, but was impeded by its low production count.

The Sd.Kfz. 234/2 variant was arguably the most popular, as the staple of the 234 family. The vehicle served in the Panzer Lehr Division, 1st and 2nd SS Panzer Division, 2nd, 7th, 13th, and 20th Panzer Division. The Sd.Kfz.234 in the recon companies were allocated in 19 or 25 vehicles per division, further split into platoons up to six vehicles and one as the headquarters. However, due to their low production numbers, this allocation was rarely kept in full strength in the war,

The Sd.Kfz.234 first saw combat in Normandy after D-Day in the stationed Panzer Lehr and 2nd Panzer Division in the Sd.Kfz.234/2 variant. The divisions used these vehicles in recon roles until their withdrawal behind the Seine River, with Panzer Lehr having 8 Sd.Kfz.234/2 of the original 26 it had. These divisions were rebuilt in the fall of 1944 with the Sd.Kfz.234/1 and Sd.Kfz.234/3 after the 234/2 ceased production.

Media

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
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
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)
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