Panzer Iii Ausf F German Medium Tank - 1/72 Scale

Model Description:
This download contains a highly detailed model of an early-production Panzer III AusF F, featuring the 3,7cm cannon and the most common component layouts found on the vehicle which differentiate it subtly from the Panzer III AusF E. Documentation and references for the real vehicle were rigorously studied to make the model as geometrically accurate as possible, except in the cases where printability would have to be sacrificed (such as the fender thickness).

Historical Description:
The Panzer III was originally designed as the primary German battle tank, meant to engage with the opposition's armored units directly. This role was rapidly usurped by the Panzer IV, originally an infantry support tank. The earlier models (A-G) featured the 3,7cm KwK 36 L/45 anti-tank gun. As time went on the vehicle was progressively upgraded with increased armoring and firepower.
 
The Panzer III AusF F was the first version of the vehicle to see appreciable production numbers, with around 450 being produced between 1939 and 1941. The AusF F was very similar to the AusF E, featuring the same 6-road wheel/side torsion bar suspension that was debuted on the E, and would become the standard for all future versions. The most noticeable external differences between two versions being the presence of "neck" armor around the turret on the F and the addition of ventilation ports for the steering brakes. The layout of the return rollers was very slightly modified to correct an issue that the E had with the track impacting the forward shock absorbed during cross-country travel.
 
The Panzer III AusF F saw service in almost all major actions at the beginning of the Second World War, including participation in France, North Africa, and the initial invasion of the Soviet Union.

In Armored Advance:
In armored advance the Panzer III AusF F provides a cheap unit that is fairly mobile and has some survivability in the form of health points. The armor is insufficient to stop all but the weakest of guns. Its cannon is insufficient for dealing its' opponent's more heavily armored units; however, it can see success combating lighter vehicles. In matches modeled after historical scenarios, the Panzer III F will be more successful due to combating other light vehicles, where its cannon becomes adequate and its higher health pool will enable it to skirmish with other units successfully. When positioned against more advanced vehicles however, it will be less efficient, with health depleting rapidly and its' firepower being unable to do much, if any damage to the opposition.