DML Military 6430 SdKfz 165 Hummel Initial Prod. 1:35

The Sd.Kfz.165 Hummel, Initial Production, was a self-propelled artillery vehicle used by Nazi Germany during World War II.

It was a notable piece of artillery equipment known for its mobility and firepower.

Key features and details about the Sd.Kfz.165 Hummel, Initial Production, include:

Purpose: The Hummel was designed to provide mobile artillery support to German armoured units. It was intended to deliver indirect fire from a self-propelled platform, making it more mobile and adaptable on the battlefield.

Armament: The primary armament of the Hummel was a 15 cm sFH 18/1 howitzer, which could fire a variety of artillery shells, including high-explosive and anti-tank rounds. This howitzer had a respectable range and hitting power.

Mobility: The vehicle was mounted on a modified Panzer IV chassis, which provided good mobility for an artillery piece of its size. The combination of mobility and firepower allowed the Hummel to quickly reposition and support German armoured advances.

Crew: The Hummel had a crew of typically six personnel, including the driver, gunner, and crew members responsible for loading, aiming, and firing the howitzer.
Production: The Initial Production version of the Hummel refers to the early models of this self-propelled artillery piece. As production continued, there were some improvements and modifications made to later versions.

Combat Use: The Hummel saw action on the Eastern Front and in other theatres of World War II, where it was used in various offensive and defensive operations. Its ability to provide artillery support to armoured units made it valuable in combined arms warfare.

Challenges: While the Hummel was effective in its role, it faced challenges when confronted with enemy tanks and anti-tank weaponry, as it was not designed for direct combat with armoured vehicles.

The Sd.Kfz.165 Hummel, Initial Production, represents a historical artifact from World War II, highlighting the innovative use of self-propelled artillery to support German armoured units.

Its combination of firepower and mobility made it a valuable asset on the battlefield, although it was not without its vulnerabilities when facing enemy armour.