1:35 Befehlspanzer # 4. Bef.PzKpfw IV Ausf F, G, H, Pz.Beob.Wg. IV Ausf J.

Befehlspanzer, command and observation vehicles on the PzKpfw IV chassis in 1:35

A decal set from the Star Decals brand in 1:35 scale. The name bounds the theme exactly: the Bef.PzKpfw IV command tanks in the Ausf F, G and H versions and the Pz.Beob.Wg. IV Ausf J artillery observation vehicle. The set holds markings; you build the model separately.

Command and observation vehicles

A command tank looked like an ordinary machine at first sight, but inside it was different. To fit a further radio set and its operator into the hull, the space for ammunition shrank and part of the internal equipment was rearranged. From outside the vehicle gave itself away by its antenna fit. With the Pz.Beob.Wg. IV observation vehicle the difference went further still: it served artillery observers, a dummy barrel replaced the gun in it and the space freed up was taken by optical and signals equipment. That is exactly why the marking of these vehicles has a logic of its own. It combines the ordinary tactical numbers of a unit with additions that give away that this is a machine of a staff or of an observation team.

Procedure in application

On the angular surfaces of the turret and hull of the PzKpfw IV there is usually no trouble with seating. The more complicated places are the transitions on the side covers and on the Schürzen, if your model has them. There it is better to divide a decal and seat it in parts than to bend it by force over an edge. Unify the base with gloss varnish, use a softener once it has dried and finally seal everything with a matte varnish. Keep to the manufacturer's directions on the packaging.

Suitable for

• modelers of German armored equipment in 1:35 scale
• builders of staff and observation vehicles, not just fighting machines
• dioramas with a command post or an observation post
• models of the PzKpfw IV in the Ausf F, G, H and J versions