Osprey New Vanguard 37 : Sturmgeschutz Ausf F, G, and H Assault Gun 1942-1945

Following on from New Vanguard 19, which detailed the earlier, short-barrelled versions of Germany's ubiquitous assault gun, Tom Jentz and Hilary Doyle detail the later long-barrelled variants. As a result of the heavy losses in armoured vehicles, and tanks in particular, on the Eastern Front the assault gun units played an increasingly vital role in supporting the beleaguered infantry and countering Allied armour. The Sturmgeschütz was one of the most numerous and successful German armoured vehicles. Total production of the Ausf G alone was close to 7000 vehicles; a further 1299 were equipped with the 10.5cm gun as self-propelled howitzers. Serving in every theatre and on every front the Sturmgeschütz provided the backbone of Germany's armoured forces during the long fighting-retreat of the final years of the war. Text by Hilary Louis Doyle with illustrations by Peter Sarson.

Contents

• Design and Development - The Long 75mm and 105mm Howitzer
• Production Modifications and Improvements 1942 to 1945
• Production History - Manufacturing Plants of Alkett and MIAG
• Combat Capabilities
• Operational History
• Tactical Employment
• Organisation
• Combat History Examples
• Commentary on the Colour Artwork
• Index