Dragon 1/35 Sd.Kfz.251/23 Ausf.D Reconnaissance Vehicle # 6985

The Sd.Kfz.251/23 Ausf.D Reconnaissance Vehicle was a German half-track used for reconnaissance purposes during World War II.

It was a variant of the Sd.Kfz.251, which was a versatile and widely used armored personnel carrier by the German military.

The Ausf.D variant was specifically designed for reconnaissance duties, featuring an open-topped superstructure with improved visibility for the crew.

It had a crew of two, including a driver and commander/reconnaissance officer.

The primary armament of the Sd.Kfz.251/23 Ausf.D was a 2 cm KwK 38 autocannon mounted in the front of the vehicle.

This autocannon provided effective firepower against enemy infantry and light vehicles. Additionally, the vehicle was equipped with a machine gun for defense against infantry attacks.

The reconnaissance vehicle variant retained the half-track design, providing it with good mobility both on roads and off-road terrain.

Its tracks allowed it to traverse difficult terrain, ensuring it could accompany armored units and provide vital reconnaissance information.

The Sd.Kfz.251/23 Ausf.D played a crucial role in the German reconnaissance efforts during World War II.

Its speed and agility allowed it to quickly gather intelligence on enemy positions, movements, and strengths. It often operated ahead of German armored formations, providing valuable information to guide strategic decisions and identify potential threats.

Despite its advantages, the Sd.Kfz.251/23 Ausf.D was not heavily armored, making it vulnerable to heavier enemy fire.

However, its primary purpose was reconnaissance rather than engaging in direct combat, so its speed and ability to quickly assess the situation were its main assets.

Overall, the Sd.Kfz.251/23 Ausf.D Reconnaissance Vehicle was a reliable and effective platform for German reconnaissance units during World War II.

Its combination of mobility, firepower, and reconnaissance capabilities made it a valuable asset on the battlefield, contributing to the German military's operational success.