Though not as celebrated in literature (or propaganda) as the much feared Tiger, the Panther tank was arguably the more effective of Germany’s two World War II-era “cats.” Sometimes known as the Panzerkampfwagen V, the Panther was introduced in 1943 as Germany’s new medium tank, intended to replace both the Panzer III and Panzer IV, both of which proved outclassed by the Soviet T-34 and KV-1. The tank had excellent firepower and protection for its day, but early Panthers especially were plagued with mechanical issues, many of which were the result of the vehicles being rushed into production and into the field where they were manned by troops who lacked adequate training on the tanks – all in a feverish effort to stem the Soviet counter offensive in 1943.

The development, production and combat use of this iconic fighting vehicle are covered in this all-new 80-page “In Action soft-cover book illustrated with over 180 vintage photos, combined with detailed line drawings and inspiring color profiles.

By David Doyle