One other variant of Panther tanks was an observation post tank known as the Pz.Beob.Wg.V. Some 41 such vehicles were converted from regular Panther tanks in late 1944-45. The conversion entailed removing the main 7.5cm KwK.42 armament and plating over the front of the turret. On this plate was mounted a dummy wooden gun and mantlet in the center, and to the right a ball-mounted MG34 machine gun. The Panther is an attractive-looking tank, and Dragon’s new 1/35 scale kit of this Pz.Beob.Wg. variant adds further interest to its silhouette.
The dummy turret front plate, mantlet and gun are newly tooled. The turret roof has been modified with new hatch and ventilators too, giving it a distinctive look. Another characteristic of the Pz.Beob.Wg.V. Ausf.D – a star antenna on the rear deck – is also present. Dragon’s kit of this Panther observation post tank is an exciting addition to this German cat family. Builders will find it assembles easily and accurately thanks to the high-quality pedigree of Dragon’s existing Panther family and the convenience of things like DS tracks.