FORCES OF VALOR - GERMAN SELF-PROPELLED HOWITZER WESPE Hungary, 1945, 1:72 85096

The Sd. Kfz. 124 Wespe (German for "wasp"), also known as Leichte Feldhaubitze 18 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II ("Light Field Howitzer 18 on Panzer II” chassis), was a German self-propelled artillery vehicle developed and used during WWII. It was based mainly on the Panzer II tank.  In 1940, during the Battle of France, it was apparent that the main tank of the German forces, the Panzer II, was unsuitable as a tank. Though mechanically sound, it was both under-gunned and under-armoured. Thus, when the need arose for a self-propelled artillery vehicle, the Panzer II was a natural choice, removing the vehicles from front line service and extending their usable lifespan.

The design for the Wespe was produced by Alkett, and was based on the Panzer II Ausf. F chassis. Production of the vehicles was carried out at various plants, mainly occupied in Poland. The conversion process itself proved relatively simple, involving the replacement of the Panzer II turret with a 105 mm leFH 18 howitzer and a gun-shield. The Wespe first saw combat in 1943 on the Eastern Front, and proved so successful that Hitler ordered all Panzer II production to be reserved for the Wespe alone, dropping other projects such as the Marder II self-propelled anti-tank gun. They were allocated to the armoured artillery battalions (Panzerartillerie Abteilungen) of Panzer divisions along with heavier Hummel self-propelled guns. The Wespe had major success because of its ability to fit in with the German plan of Blitzkrieg by having a great mobility along with firepower.

The Wespe stayed in production from February 1943 until middle1944. By that time, 682 pcs had been produced, with an additional 158 pcs built as weaponless ammunition carriers.

Forces of Valor® replica is of a German Self-Propelled Howitzer Wespe that was deployed in Hungary in 1945.

• Constructed of both die cast metal and plastic.
• Chassis and barrel are metal.
• Elevating barrel.
• Tracks roll.
• Rotating turret.
• Working treads.
• Accurate markings and insignia.
• Comes with commander figure.
• No ties or screws for 2013 new packaging, double blister construction.

Length: 2.75 inches

Width: 1.25 inches

Height: 1.25 inches

Weight: 0.1 lb.

Ages: 14+

Model Number: 85096