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SdKfz 223 (Leichter Panzerspahwagen)

1936 WORLD WAR 2

History of SdKfz 223 (Light Armored Vehicle)

The SdKfz 223 was part of a larger family of German light armoured vehicles starting with the SdKfz 221 (detailed elsewhere on this page). Each vehicle played a specific role on the German battlefield and was adopted by hundreds. The SdKfz 223 is used as a command and communications vehicle (CC2) and differs from the other main models (SdKfz 221, SdKfz 222) by a large foldable antenna frame mounted above the vehicle's gun emplacements. Like the previous 221 and 222 series vehicles, the SdKfz 223 series benefits from its special armored vehicle chassis, which gives it the strength required for service.

In addition, the same Horch V8 gasoline engine gives the system the off-road touring capability required in modern mechanized warfare. The total number of SdKfz 223 vehicles produced was 567, with production from 1936 to January 1944.

Unlike the original SdKfz 221, the SdKfz 223 had a crew of three (instead of two), consisting of a driver, commander and dedicated machine gunner.

The design of the SdKfz 223 is closely related to the design of the original SdKfz 221 and less so to the design of the SdKfz 222 series. It can be distinguished by its antenna frame as well as the stepped rear fuselage upper part - features not found in the SdKfz 221 variant.

Unlike the rectangular hatch of the 221 line, the tapered hatch also covers the engine compartment.

The heart of the SdKfz 223 family is a 4x4 wheeled armoured vehicle with light armour protection for reconnaissance and communications missions. It was armed with only one standard Army 7.92mm MG34 machine gun for local defense, although early production installed pre-1938 MG13 series cannons. 1,050 x 7.92mm bullets were carried on board. Special communication and radio equipment is installed on the vehicle. Early models had a 30-watt Fu-10 radio, while later models replaced it with an 80-watt Fu-12 radio.

The right side of the fuselage is equipped with a spare tire for replacement in case of damage. The left side of the case contains an external storage box. Beginning in 1942, the SdKfz 223 series received a more powerful engine for increased performance, as well as a stiffer chassis (Ausf.

B variant is being produced). Its armor was upgraded to 30mm thick along the front fairing.

Dimensions include 4.56m long, 1.95m wide and 2m high. Its listed weight is 4.4 tons. Top speed on the road hits 46 mph and a range of up to 185 miles, less on off-road trips.