What is a Wespe?

What is a Wespe?

The Wespe is a self-propelled howitzer of Nazi German origin. It was widely used during the last years of World War 2. The Wespe was developed to provided mobile indirect fire support for armored units. It was developed at the same time as the larger Hummel, which is armed with a larger caliber howitzer.

How fast can a Wespe go?

The Wespe was largely based off the Panzer II, having a similar hull and armor of 5-30mm, and using the same kind of engine, which allowed it to reach a maximum speed of 40km/h (25mph). However, its armament was heavily modified to fit a large 105mm cannon, which suited its other specifications and compensated for its lack of armor.

What was the Wespe in WW2?

The Wespe was officially called “10.5 cm Leichte Feldhaubitze 18 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II” by the Waffenamt, but known by every foot soldier as the “Wespe” (“Wasp”). This self-propelled artillery was the most famous and durable in service in the German Army throughout the war, but not the most produced.

What is the difference between the Wespe and the 18m?

The 10.5 cm le.F.H. 18M introduced an improved recoil system, had a muzzle brake, and had a new type of long-range shell, but otherwise, it was the same artillery piece. The modified main gun of the Wespe and the 10.5 cm le.F.H. 18M are quite similar due to the muzzle brake and could have been easily misidentified as the same weapon.