Artilleriewagen (German)

Description

During the Second World War, Germany employed a range of armoured trains designed to support military operations, particularly in areas where railways remained vital for transport and control. These trains combined mobility, protection, and firepower, making them useful for patrols, anti‑partisan duties, and securing key supply routes across occupied territories.

A typical German armoured train consisted of several specialised wagons arranged around a central armoured locomotive. The locomotive itself was heavily plated to withstand small‑arms fire and shrapnel, and its vulnerable components—such as the boiler and crew compartments—were enclosed within thick steel casings. Despite the added weight, these locomotives were engineered to maintain enough power to move long, heavily protected trains through contested regions.

Among the most important components were the Artilleriewagen (artillery wagons). These carried medium‑calibre guns, often 75 mm or 105 mm pieces, mounted in rotating turrets or casemates. Their role was to provide direct fire support against enemy positions, ambushes, or fortified obstacles along the line. The armour on these wagons allowed them to engage threats that would have destroyed ordinary rail vehicles.

To counter air attacks—an increasing danger as the war progressed—German armoured trains incorporated Flak cars equipped with anti‑aircraft guns. These ranged from single 20 mm cannons to quadruple mounts capable of laying down dense defensive fire. Positioned to give wide arcs of elevation and traverse, they protected the train from strafing runs and low‑flying aircraft.

Complementing these were gun cars, which carried machine guns, anti‑tank weapons, or mixed armaments for close‑range defence. They were essential for repelling infantry assaults, guarding track repair crews, and deterring sabotage.

• Original file: DeweyCat Productions
• Painting: MarDav Miniatures
• These models are designed for modellers and collectors. They are not toys and are not suitable for children.
• Model supplied unassembled and unpainted. Additional finishing may be required during assembly.
• Finished colour of the product may vary from images shown.
• Photos and dimensions are at 28mm unless noted otherwise.
• All dimensions are complete with weapons unless otherwise stated.
• Other scales and dimensions may be available upon request.
• Models supplied at scales smaller than 20mm may be an alternative design more suitable for small scale prints. These are designed by Bergman or TigerAce1945