8.8cm Raketenwerfer 43 (Puppchen)

History of the 8.8cm Bazooka 43 (Puppchen)

During World War II, the introduction of armored cars and tanks revolutionized the battlefield, necessitating the development of effective anti-armor weapons. Initially slow to recognize the value of tanks, the Germans eventually grasped their potential and began devising weapons to counter them. This period saw the emergence of large-scale tank battles, particularly during the invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941.

To address the need for potent anti-tank weaponry, German engineers created the 8.8cm Rocket Launcher 43, nicknamed "Puppchen" (meaning "Dolly"). This portable launcher featured an 8.8 cm caliber missile capable of penetrating even the toughest tank armor. Mounted on a two-wheeled frame with a protective gun shield, Puppchen was relatively compact and transportable.

Unlike conventional cannons, Puppchen lacked a recoil mechanism and instead relied on its own weight to absorb firing forces. It offered versatility in aiming and was effective against tanks, making it a significant development in anti-armor warfare during World War II.

Specification

Basics

Years in Service: 1943

Origins: Nazi Germany

Categories: Anti-tank missile launcher

Manufacturer: National Arsenal - Nazi Germany

Operator: Nazi Germany

Roles

Anti-Tank/Anti-Tank/Anti-Material

Designed to engage at long range and defeat armored/enemy tanks.

Dimensions and Weight

Overall Length: 2,972 mm (117.01 at)

Barrel length: 1,486 mm (58.50 inches)

Cured weight: 315.26 lbs (143.00 kg)

CARTRIDGE & FEED

Caliber(s)*: 88mm (8. 8cm)

Rounds / Feed: Single-Shot; Reusable

PERFORMANCE

Max Eff. Range: 1,150 ft (351 m | 383 yd)

Muzzle Velocity: 460 ft/sec (140 m/sec)

VARIANTS

8. 8cm Raketenwerfer 43 ("Puupchen") - Base Series Designation.