The Jagdpanzer 38 (Sd.Kfz. 138/2), originally the Leichter Panzerjäger 38(t), known mostly post-war as Hetzer, was a German light tank destroyer of the Second World War based on a modified Czechoslovak Panzer 38(t) chassis.
The vehicle was also called the Panzerwagen IV auf Zugwagen. To cut down any ambiguity, there was a "Panzerturm-IV auf Panzer Zugwagen" which was not only on rail, but existed as dug-in variant (panzerturm). The latter was conceived during the final battles of WW2. Generally tanks were previous items, but due to engine breakage, parts missing or just a tank being destroyed and unable to be repaired but with the hull mostly intact as the turret, it was tempting to have these buried impromptu "tank-busting" bunkers. Many were mismatch of parts typical of the "panzerturm" like an Ausf E hull with Ausf J turret. Some even received zimmerit. Panzerturm came in many places and types, but northern Italy was the most common ground for these. Low on the ground, they were a harder target to hit.
The Panzerlok BR57 was a crucial part of the German military's armored train strategy during World War II. It was designed to provide protection for the locomotive and its cargo, making it an effective tool for the Wehrmacht.
The military history of the German Railway Gondola is deeply intertwined with the Second World War, particularly during the German invasion of the Soviet Union.
