The SdKfz 553 KaiserKäfer with Gerät 58 was a specialized anti-infantry variant of the original KaiserKäfer A, designed for enhanced battlefield suppression. Developed as a response to growing infantry-based threats, this variant replaced the twin 75mm auto-loading cannons with the Gerät 58 rotary autocannon system, significantly increasing its rate of fire and effectiveness against infantry, light vehicles, and fortified positions.
A total of 800 units were produced, making it a limited but highly effective combat asset. It retained the bipedal mobility, 40-80mm armor protection, and 40-50 km/h speed of the base model but focused on urban warfare and anti-personnel engagements. Due to its high rate of fire and adaptability, the Gerät 58 variant remained in active service long after the war, with many units undergoing further modifications for security and riot control roles.
Specifications:
- Weight: 25-30 tons
- Armor: 40-80mm frontal armor
- Primary Armament: Gerät 58 rotary autocannon
- Secondary Armament: Twin-barreled 30mm remote-controlled autocannon (underside-mounted)
- Mobility System: Bipedal hydraulic leg system
- Maximum Speed: 40-50 km/h
- Production Quantity: 800 units
- Role: Anti-infantry suppression, urban warfare
The SdKfz 553 KaiserKäfer with Gerät 58 solidified its place as one of the most effective infantry-suppression mechs, influencing later specialized anti-infantry mech designs worldwide.