Marder III M

The first Marder III was the Marder III using the captured Russian Model 36 76.2 mm L/54.8 gun. As soon as the 7.5cm PaK 40 became available, this model was phased out of production. The Marder III Ausf H armed with the PaK 40 gun replaced it. Like its predecessor the Marder III H's engine was positioned at the back of the vehicle, so the fighting compartment was positioned centrally.

In 1942 all Panzer 38(t) production was switched to self-propelled guns.

This allowed the hull layout design to be modified eliminating many of the elements required for tanks. The Marder III Ausf M had the fighting compartment placed back further, and the engine moved to the centre of the vehicle, making the overall length of the vehicle, including the gun, shorter that the Ausf H and eliminating the need to clamber over the engine deck to serve the gun.

Production was ordered in February 1943 with a target of 150 per month, but this target wasn't reached with the highest production being 144 in October/November. Production was terminated in October 1943 in favour of the Hetzer, though numbers were produced up to May 1944.

It was produced by BMM in Prague.

The Marder III M was issued to Panzerjager Abteilungs of Panzer, Panzergrenadier and Infantry division and saw action on all fronts from May 1943.

Marder III M

Number Produced: 975
Date of Production: April 1943 - May 1944
Crew: 4
Length: 4.95m
Width: 2.15m
Height: 2.48m
Weight: 10500kg
Engine: Praga AC, L6, 7.8 litres, 150hp@2600rpm
Range: 190km
Speed: 42 km/h
Armour: 6-15mm
Armament: 7.5cm PaK 40
Traverse: 21 degrees L to 21 degrees R Elevation: -5 degrees to +13 degrees
Secondary Armament: 1 x 7.92mm MG34 (loose)

In Flames Of War

You can form a Tank Hunter Platoon from Marder III Ms to support most German forces.

The Marder III M is armed with the PaK 40 with a Range of 32"/80cm, ROF 2, AT12 and FP 3+. The vehicle itself is fully-tracked, though has light armour (F0, S0, T0) and only a AA MG for self-defence.

Designed by Evan Allen
Painted by Jeremy Painter