Camouflage Guide AK

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

1945 german colors

Original Idea, Design Supervision, and Cover Design: Mig Jimenez Publisher: AK Interactive Editor: Fernando Vallejo Rendering Artist: Claudio Fernandez Concept Development and Project Manager: Carlos Cuesta Layout: PER Texts: Mig Jimenez and Carlos Cuesta English Translation: Iain Hamilton and Rick Lawler Photos courtesy of Bill Auerbach and Lee Archer Special thanks to: Iain Hamilton, Bill Auerbach, Tom Jentz, Thomas Hartwig, and Mirko Bayerl

Claudio Fernandez would like to dedicate this book to Paulina, Claudio Agustín, Gabriel Tomás y Christian Printed in Madrid (c) 2012 AK Interactive. All right reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, actual or future, including photocopy, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publishers.

Prologue Modelers often rely upon black and white photos for reference and motivation when constructing and painting their models, and this is especially true of the modeler who is interested in World War II subjects. Period photographs can be an important source of information to the modeler, showing the vehicles, events and personalities who took part and fought in the largest conflict in human history. However, the very nature of the black and white image can be a challenge for the modeler as he is supplied with only partial information. In fact, it often requires an expert to extract all of the information contained in a black and white image; determining a specific color from a shade of grey often takes a trained eye. However, without the important color information a modeler is at a disadvantage, leaving them no choice but to guess at the real life colors shown only as shades of grey. Color brings life to our models, and if fact many consider painting the most important step in the modeling process. It is the use of color, and more importantly the use of the proper colors that place our models into their historical context. At this point it is important to acknowledge that certain modelers prefer techniques that emphasize an artistic approach to color, while other modelers prefer techniques that attempt to match period colors exactly. I don’t say that one style is more valid than the other, but simply acknowledge that modelers use different methods to interpret reality; some more expressive and others more realistic.

While this book will be useful to all types of modelers, I feel that it will be particularly useful to the modeler who strives to apply realistic colors to their models. Our teams of experts, Carlos Cuesta and Claudio Fernadez, have searched through hundreds of documents and done extensive research in order to bring the black and white photo into the color world. The vehicle color profiles and interpretations presented within these pages are the result of very careful study, ensuring that this presentation is the most accurate interpretation of the colors found on German vehicles in 1945, the final year of the war.

Finally, I would like to explain why this book is focused solely on the German 1945 vehicles.

The answer is simple; it is a very fascinating period of history. Perhaps more than any other year of the war, 1945 was the most dramatic

2

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

for the desperate German army as it was forced to employ every possible resource in order to continue the fight. All types of vehicles were employed in the transport supplies and soldiers, and even pressed into front line service.

And yet, even at this desperate hour, the Reich was able to develop new technologies and new weapons systems. Historian often limit their discussion to these new tanks, rockets or light weapons, but the colors and camouflages developed in these dark days was also impressive and who’s influence can still be seen today on our modern weapons. The colors and schemes

developed were done so out of desperate necessity. By 1945 the tide of the war had changed against the Reich, overwhelming superiority by the enemy had forced the German army to be on a defensive posture. Becoming invisible to enemy aircraft and anti-tank gunners became a priority and so it comes as no surprise to learn that even during these final months of the war the German army devoted a great deal of energy and resources painting and camouflaging their vehicles. In 1945 the variety of colors and patterns used by the German army was very extensive, and it is almost impossible to find two

vehicles painted in the same manner – and this is why this particular year is so attractive to modelers. It has been my dream from many years to be able to offer a compilation of 1945 German vehicle profiles, and now, thanks to the efforts of these two authors – Carlos and Fernando – my dream is realized. This book is meant as a reference for modelers and I hope that you find it useful, but it also for enjoyment; for looking back at a time in history where German tanks were full of color.

Mig Jimenez

Technical information German late war colors base on historical evidence, color photos of the era, RAL catalogs, H.M. October 31st, 1944: Coating of Equipment of the Ground Forces; Heeresverordnung no. 52, Coating of Equipment of the Ground Forces and Maschinenfarbe DIN 1844, ohne offizielle Anweisung ordinance.

RAL 7028 Dunkelgelb Aus 1944 DG III SHADOW

BASE COLOR

RAL 7028 Dunkelgelb Aus 1944 DG I

LIGHT

SHADOW

LIGHT

SHADOW

LIGHT

SHADOW

RAL 8017 Schokobraun SHADOW

BASE COLOR

BASE COLOR

RAL 7028 Mid war version LIGHT

SHADOW

LIGHT

SHADOW

LIGHT

SHADOW

RAL 8012 Rotbraun

RAL 6011 B Resendagrün SHADOW

BASE COLOR

BASE COLOR

LIGHT

RAL 7021 Dunkelgrau

RAL 6011 Resendagrün BASE COLOR

BASE COLOR

BASE COLOR

LIGHT

RAL 6003 Olivgrün BASE COLOR

LIGHT

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

3

Introduction Before you continue surfing through the next pages of this book, I would like to explain to you few points regarding the purpose of this book. As many of you already know, I am a modeller, and most of my efforts in my professional career have been to help other modellers to improve their skills and motivate them to continue in this great hobby. I am not historian, my background is in the arts, psychology, graphic, design and marketing. The interpretation of the real photos is always a bit subjective, but it possible to apply objective analysis to black and white photos in order to extract usefulcolor information. Sometimes our conclusion of a colormight not correspond with the opinion of a war historian or that of a person who dedicated his life to the study of German tanks. It is not my intention to decide if a vehicle should only be painted in a certain color, or to critique any particular model. The purpose of this book is twofold: First, to provide to modellers a fountain of inspiration and ideas to create new models, and Secondly, to provide entertainment to the lovers of German armour, history and the events related to Second War World. The pages of this book were created from the artist point of view – using an objective perspective. We have made a serious commitment to studying every aspect of the colors used by the German army during the final days of the war. Our goal was to provide the reader with a good point of reference for the interpretation period photographs. As you will see the task of interpretation can be at times tricky, and perhaps you may disagree with our findings and draw your own conclusions. We feel that this type of debate, one based upon critical analysis, can be very positive for the modeller as we continue to unravel the secrets of the past. The color information and interpretations presented in this book are the result of the extensive research as performed by Carlos Cuesta. The task, however, is not simple due to information that was incomplete or misleading, or new evidence would later be found that would conflict with prior conclusions. At times we might believe that a color is shades lighter due to a coating of dust. Other times a camouflage scheme might appear as darker color due to reflection.

Many times we only have a poor photograph to base our interpretations upon. In all cases careful study is required. Claudio Fernandez gave form and life the research by creating

4

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

the excellent illustrations found throughout this edition. I also wanted to give you an extra chapter that includes the Paper Panzers, a subject that has become very popular amongst modellers. With perhaps the exception of the Maus, a few blueprints and Claudio’s imagination are all that can guide us as we explore these 1946 panzers. The Paper Panzer section is totally subjective and cannot be based upon photos of any actual vehicles, but please keep in mind that even when using our imaginations we can base our painting choices on the knowledge we have learned by studying the actual 1945 panzers.

ing interviews with veterans in whom he has learned many details of the tanks and crews.

In recent conversations with Mirko we spoke about the tank colors in 1945 in which we were able to agree through the actual tank parts and paint chips the real colors used on German vehicles during the war. From these pages, I want to give him thanks for all his work researching and studying all of these aspects in the history which are important for all modellers.

It is also very important that we use the experi-

plex painting processes used in the factories and on the battlefield we can create a useful guide for modellers to motivate them to paint some of their unpainted kits. Now, there are no excuses for lack of references due to the lack of color references. I hope that you enjoy this work from Claudio and Carlos.

ence and opinions of people who are involved with the study of Military History. These people have direct information from veterans or artefacts that show the original colors of tanks and equipment. Mirko Baryerl is one of these people. Mirko has studied in depth the history of the battles that took place in the battles in Hungary in the closing days of the war, includ-

1

Coming to a conclusion on exact colors is not an easy task even for the an expert, however, if we use the information that exists from real tank parts and by reading about the com-

Mig Jimenez

(pic. 1) The first step to create Color Profiles is to correctly interpret the black and white photos. Studying the different intensities of grays shades, we can determine which is the corresponding color for each shade of grey.

Occasionally, shadow can be incorrectly interpreted as another color in the camouflage pattern. This is why we must also analyze the light effects, sun position, dust and many other factors.

2

(pic. 2) In this example of a Marder III H seen in Hungary during 1945, the photo shows very low contrast between colors. This can make us think the darker color is RAL 8012, which is lighter than RAL 8017. (pic. 3) However, based on historical information and giving attention to how dark the color appears in the upper areas around the antenna, we can conclude the color was RAL 8017.

3

(pic. 4) In this case, a heavy coat of dust makes the color looks lighter.

If we convert this final rendering with a dust coat into a black and white image, we will obtain the same result that can be seen in the historical photo.

Finally it is important note that often it is impossible determinate with certainty what colors appear on the vehicle in a black and white photo. Sometimes the best we can do is give an interpretation of the black and white image based on the information we have. However in the end we believe it is better to enjoy painting a subjective and uncertain interpretation than obsess with historical accuracy and miss the opportunity to have fun and enjoy each kit!

4

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

5

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panzer III Repainted Pz III in RAL 7028 DG III after years of service in 7021 Panzer Grey. Frontal portion of the mudguard reserves the original color. The Balkenkreuz also presents an unusual color 8012. At the end of the war the Germans used all vehicles and paints available.

Panzer III This Pz III from the early days of the war was reissued under an update program. Among the other alterations, the gun has been updated and the vehicle was repainted with this curious scheme. It also presents an unusual Balkenkreuz in RAL 8017 with black trim. RAL 7028 DG III and 8017.

Panzer III N Its 7.5 cm KwK 37 L/24 gun gave them the role of support to the rest of the vehicles in its unit. This survivor was repainted with RAL 7028 DG III, 6011, and 8012 colors. This paint scheme was characteristic of the end of the war and not when it was originally manufactured.

6

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panzer III N Pz III SdKfz 141/2 Ausf. N with 3 Schürzen. This was the last version of this vehicle and it went out of production in 1943.

The base color is dunkelgelb RAL 7028 DG III over which large spots of reseda grün 6011B and rotbraun 8012 has been applied.

Panzer IV D This survivor belongs to a training unit and in the last days of war it was repainted in RAL 7028 DG III. In the rear of the vehicle it has a structure to support Triebgas cylinders, an alternative fuel to gasoline commonly used for heavy vehicles in training facilities.

Panzer IV H The Pz IV Sd.Kfz. 161 was the most used medium tank by Germans during WWII. It fought on all fronts and its capacity to adapt to new roles and modifications made it the only tank to have been produced during the entire war. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

7

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panzer IV H The variation of camouflage we find on the Schürzen of the Pz IV is very wide. In this case the Pz IV presents a RAL 7028 DG III base with 6011 and 8012 spots.

Panzer IV J Pz IV J with turret Schürzen. The camouflage is composed of RAL 7028 DG III base color, 6011 B and 8012. The suspension is very dirt and this affects the base color. Also noticeable is the spare wheels are painted in a middle war version of 7028.

Panzer IV J Belonging to 24 Panzer Division, this Pz IV J has all of the sides covered with spare tracks. The predominant color is darker version RAL 8017. This color was introduced during the middle of war. The brighter color is 7028 DG III.

8

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panzer IV J Pz IV J of an unknown unit abandoned in Silesia during the winter of 1945. It camouflaged with large bands of RAL 6011 over 7028 DG III.

Panzer IV J Pz IV, J 4 Company, 11th Panzer Regiment belongs to the 6th Panzer Division. It presents a base color RAL 7028 DG I with large bands of 6011 and 8017. Of interest is how the camouflage pattern has been applied to the wire mesh Schürzen.

Panzer IV J Late production Pz IV J with only three return rollers and wire mesh Schürzen. The colors are RAL 6011B and 8012 over 7028 DG III. The vehicle is not weathered which enables us to see the colors clearly in their original state.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

9

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panzer IV J Most likely the upper hull and wheels of this vehicle were painted primer red 8012 in the factory, and then bands of 7028 DG III and 6011 were apply over this base. But the lower hull seems to have been painted in a 7028 DG III base color. It was common for the components of a vehicle to arrive at the assembly point already primed, this is shown in the different aspect of the upper and lower hull.

Panzer IV J Pillbox Turret PzIV J turret used during the Berlin defense. These turrets were used buried in the ground. This method offers a less visible target and does not require a chassis or an experienced crew. Both of these resources were in short supply by the end of the war. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8017.

Panzer IV An old Pz IV which has been through an update program. Noticeable is the primer color RAL 8012 that appears under the antenna guard once this piece has been removed, after repainting the rest of the vehicle in RAL 7028 DG III, 6011B y 8017.

10

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panzer IV H In the winter of 1945 not many vehicles were camouflaged with white paint as in previous years . The much lighter 7028 late war versions and less combat on the wide open and snow covered plains found on terrain such as the Soviet Union made it less necessary. However, for this Pz IV H it appears to have been necessary. Under the white camouflage can be see the base color 7028 from mid war over which 6011B and 8012 from the late days of war have been applied.

Panzer IV H This Pz IV was initially painted with RAL 7028 middle war version.

Later, when new colors were introduced at the end of 1944, the vehicle was updated with bands of 6011 and 8012. This fact gives the vehicle a more dark and “mustard” aspect than other 1945 vehicles.

Panzer IV H This Pz IV H has a different camouflage pattern on the turret than the pattern seen on the hull Schürzen, but with the same colors. The dust and dirt has darkened the base color RAL 7028 and also affected the 6011 and 8012 camouflage giving them a more faded and dull color.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

11

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panzer IV H RAL 6011B and 8017 brush strokes cover this Pz IV H turret, which was surrendered in the Kurland pocket. However the hull has been painted with spray gun. Base color is 7028 DG III. Noticeable is the unusual black Balkenkreuz with red edge, especially when compared with the numeral with white edge.

Panzer IV J Pz IV Ausf. J with wire mesh Schürzen. This Schürzen protected the hull from anti-tank explosive rounds by separating an explosion from the vehicle. It is noticeable that the gun has lost the muzzle brake. The colors are RAL 6011B, 8012 and 7028 DG III.

Panzer IV J An example of a Pz IV J with the disc camouflage pattern in RAL 6011B and 8012 over 7028 DG III. The wire mesh Schürzen was introduced as substitution of metal plates in an attempt to reduce weight and manufacturing cost.

12

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panzer IV J Pz IV J with dots ambush camouflage. This camouflage pattern was designed to imitate European vegetation and break up the vehicle’s silhouette. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Panzer II turretless Pz II hull. Although completely obsolete in 1945, the mechanical reliability of the Pz II kept them in use. Removing the turret, as in this example, enabled the Pz II to be converted into a cargo or ammunition tractor. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Panzer 38 (t) Pz 38 (t) destroyed in Eastern Prussia in February 1945. This vehicle was completely obsolete by then and was a long survivor. After many long years of service, the Pz 38 (t) must be repainted, in this case in RAL 7028 DG III, 6011B y 8012.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

13

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panther G Disc camouflage pattern apply by M.A.N. factory on a Panther G. This camouflage was applied with masks of circles connected by the border. The objective was to obtain a more complex camouflage. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Panther G Panther G of 9 Panzer Division. It presents a camouflage applied in M.H.N. factory made of large diagonal stripes of three different colors, which cross the vehicle from side to side. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Panther G Panther G seen in Prusia. It wears a disc camouflage pattern of green 6011 and primer red 8012 circles over a 7028 DG I base color.

14

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panther G Panther G of “Kurmark” Panzer Division. Its camouflage is made by diagonal and very uniform parallel bands crossing the vehicle from side to side.

However the wheels have been left unpainted. It is noticeable how the dust on the lower parts of the vehicle affects the camouflage colors. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8017.

Panther G Panther G of “Käther” Kampfgruppe during the Berlin area defense. The Swastika is not a standard symbol and it is very unusual to find. The blue color makes it even more unusual. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

Panther G Befehlspanther Ausf. G seen in the Znojmo train station, Czechoslovakia. Its camouflage is faded spots of RAL 8012 and 6011. For an unknown reason it shows two different numbers on the turret, but both markings are painted in the same style. Base color is 7028 DG III.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

15

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panther G Panther G in Czechoslovakia during the spring 1945. The additional track links on the turret were intended to give some more protection, but they do not save the vehicle from being destroyed by Russian Troops. The Schürzen are camouflaged in a very different style and may be salvaged from a different vehicle. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Panther G Panther G with winter camouflage over RAL 7028 DG III and green 6003. At the end of the war, it was far less common to find vehicles in white camouflage due to the lack of resources and the urban terrain. It was more common to find vehicles in white camouflage during previous winters in the wide open and snow covered plains of the Soviet Union.

Panther G Panther G final production with a parallel tri-tonal striped camouflage. This example was destroyed in Breslau area in the spring of 1945. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

16

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panther G Panther G belonging to the 24th Panzer Regiment that fought in Hungary camouflaged in this surprising and unusual scheme. The crew used quite extensive efforts to camouflage this vehicle imitating trees. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Panther G The very well-known R01 Panther G of “Hermann Göring” Panzer Division, seen in Prussia. It is interesting that the Schürzen show a disc camouflage patter and the rest of the vehicle is painted in the same colors but in a standard tri-tonal camouflage without the disc pattern. RAL 7028 DG III, 6003 and 8017.

Panther G Panther G with a complex camouflage of “ambush” style made with dots. The base color is a RAL 7028 DG III and over it a pattern of 6011 and 8012 has been applied. Lastly dots in 7028 DG III have been painted over camouflage colors and 6011 over the base color.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

17

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panther G Turrets 3 Panther G turrets in different colors mounted on the factory trolleys in M.H.N. facilities. Seen here are the chalk marks made by the factory workers making notes and identification markings. The first is painted in RAL 7028 DG III, second in 7028 DG I, and third in red 8012.

Panther G hull Panther G hull during the manufacturing process, probably in the M.H.N. factory. The difference between the two different shades of late war RAL 7028 can be seen on the wheels. The first and third outer wheels are painted the darker DG I variant, while the rest of the vehicle is painted in DG III variant.

Panther G Panther G of Kampfgruppe Peiper lost in the fight for Stoumont during The Bulge offensive. This example gives an excellent example of how camouflage pattern was applied in the M.A.N. factory. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

18

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panther G One of the last 25 Panthers of M.A.N. the factory. Notice the last steel wheel without the rubber steering band. At the end of the war some vehicles left the factories in a two tone camouflage of RAL 8012 and 6011.

Panther G Panther G in a tri-tonal camouflage with white zigzag bands of winter camouflage. The contrast between white and RAL 7028 DG III is very low, in spite of this the white paint helps to hide the dark RAL 6011 and 8017 in a snow covered landscape.

Panther G Panther G of SS-Pz.Rgt.1 assigned to Kampfgruppe Peiper during Battle of The Bulge offensive and lost in La Gleize. As with other vehicles from this Kampfgruppe, it shows a typical camouflage from the M.A.N. factory. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

19

/

1945

/ german colors /

Panther G Panther G from Pz.Rgt.130 covered with many spare tracks links with the intention of obtaining some additional protection on the sides of the vehicle.

The exposed sides were far more vulnerable than the sloped front of the Panther. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Panther G Late production Panther G as can be seen by the elevated air intake on the motor compartment and the “Flammvernichter” exhaust pipes. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Panther G IR Panther G with dot camouflage and infrared visor. This camouflage was applied in Daimler-Benz factory during a short period at the end of 1944. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8017.

20

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Tiger I Tiger I E of “Müncheberg” Panzer Division in Berlin, May 1945. The base color was RAL 7028 middle war version when it was manufactured. A pattern of 6011 and 8012 from the end of the war has been applied later in the vehicles service life, giving the vehicle a distinct and unique appearance.

Tiger I Tiger I with Zimmerit. It is likely that this vehicle belongs to a training unit activated to fight in the defense of Germany. The tank was repainted with late war colors without removing the Zimmerit which was in great conditions due to its use far from the front. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Tiger I Tiger I of “Müncheberg” Panzer Division destroyed during the Berlin defense. The mudguards have been removed and the vehicle has been repainted in late war colors RAL 7028 DG I, 6011B and 8012. The swastika was not a usual symbol on armored fighting vehicles.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

21

/

1945

/ german colors /

Tiger II Tiger II of 501 s.SS.Pz.Abteilung seen in The Bulge and destroyed months later in Hungary. The mudguards once removed have left undercovered an area primed in red RAL 8012. The white 331A marking is a soviet capture identification. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Tiger II The front area of this Tiger II has burned leaving the chassis of this vehicle completely blackened. This also caused the suspension to appear completely lowered and the gun is in the recoil position. This vehicle belonged to 501 s.SS.Pz.Abteilung. The white numbers are a captured mark. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Tiger II Tiger Ausf. B, Sd.Kfz. 182 also known as Tiger II o King Tiger in RAL 7028 DG I base color and Brown 8017. The mudguards left a mark after being removed.

22

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Tiger II Tiger II of 503 Abteilung destroyed by its crew in Jindřichův Hradec. This vehicle presents the remains of a white camouflage on some areas. It is difficult to see because RAL 7028 DG III is very clear and the white paint is very faded. The wheels have been removed for scrap after the vehicles was rendered inoperable. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

Tiger II The camouflage of this Tiger II is comprised of a RAL 8012 and 6011B pattern over 7028 DG III. On the frontal area under the driver´s hatch rust streaks can be seen. The turret was completely covered with spare track links in an attempt of give even more armor to its 70 tons.

Tiger II This Tiger II presents an ambush dot camouflage with faded edges. This complex camouflage scheme was intended to break up the lines and shape of the vehicle. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

23

/

1945

/ german colors /

Tiger II Tiger II of 511 s.H.Pz.Abteilung with ambush dot camouflage. This vehicle was one of the last to have been manufactured in the Henschel factory. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Tiger II Tiger II in tri-tonal camouflage RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012. Here we can see clearly the difference in color in the area under the mudguards once uncovered. This is due to the difference in how the dirt and weather have affected this area which was once protected from the environment by the presence of the fenders.

Tiger II The suspension of this Tiger II has completely sagged after the vehicle was destroyed. Its camouflage is covered with white paint, but red primer RAL 8012 appears where the Zimmerit has fallen away. The white number 300 was painted by soviet soldiers after capture the vehicle.

24

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Tiger II This Tiger II was destroy near Kassel, Germany. This curious camouflage is popularly known as “Octopus” due to the similarity with tentacles and suckers of this animal. The frontal plate also presents a reverse swastika and small skull and crossbones in red of unknown origin. Also it is noticeable how the camouflage bands do not correspond from the area under mudguards and the rest of the vehicle, with no apparently explanation for this. We can see the vehicle after it has been destroyed and a reproduction of how it would appear before it was burned out. RAL 7028 DG III and 6003.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

25

/

1945

/ german colors /

Elephant Elephant from 614 schwere Heeres Panzerjäger Kompanie. Shown in Germany April 1945, possibly the last survivor of its class. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

Hetzer Hetzer with the gun and mantelet in primer red, probably assemble in the factory after painting the rest of the vehicle. The white 117 in the front portion of the vehicle is a captured marking made by the Red Army. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

Hetzer The disc camouflage scheme can be found on many different vehicles such as this small Hetzer seen in Hallovile, France, in November 1944. The gun has not been painted and presents the guns heat resistant primer paint in grey color. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

26

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Hetzer The Hetzers painted in the Skoda factory such as this, all present a very similar camouflage when direct the factory with the same pattern on each vehicle in the same places. The RAL 7028 used was the clear DG III variant. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8017.

Jagdtiger Sd.Kfz. 186 Heavy tank hunter Jagdtiger Sd.Kfz. 186 in tri-tonal scheme with bands of winter camouflage. Noticeable is the unusual Balkenkreuz depicted with a black center and primer red border. This Balkenkreuz can be seen in some vehicles at the end to the war. RAL 7028 DG I, 6011 B and 8017.

Jagdtiger Sd.Kfz. 186 The Jagdtiger was a tank-hunter based on a Tiger II chassis. This specific vehicle is paint in RAL 7028 with a hard edge pattern in RAL 8017 and 6011 B.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

27

/

1945

/ german colors /

Jagdtiger Sd.Kfz. 186 Jagdtiger with RAL 7028 DG I stripes over primer red base 8012. Some vehicles at the end of the war left the factories so quickly they did not time to apply conventional camouflages.

Jagdtiger Sd.Kfz. 186 Jagdtiger of 653 Pz.Jg.Abteilung assigned to Kampfgruppe Göggerle and destroyed by the 10th Armour Division of the U.S. Army. The missing mudguards reveal an area free of dirt once removed, which affects the camouflage colors that were under the mudguards. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Jagdpanther Jagdpanther in a base coat of 7028 DG I, used from the end of 1944 to the end of the war. Over this base, a pattern of 8017 and 6003 has been applied with a spray gun. These two colors were use from February 1943 until the end of the war. RAL 7028 DG III, 6003 and 8017.

28

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Jagdpanther Jagdpanther likely from the Pz.Jg.Abt.655 with a camouflage pattern consisting of alternating bands in three colors. It is common to see Jagdpanthers with a Balkenkreuz in this forward position. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Jagdpanther Jagdpanther from Pz.Einsatz-Abt.20 with an odd camouflage. The wheels have been left unpainted and present the primer red RAL 8012 which is probably how it left the assembly line. The gun has not been painted and remains in the grey primer they were paint in gun factories. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Jagdpanther This Jagdpanther shows a hard edge camouflage in three colors: RAL 7028 DG I, 8017 and 6011 B. This last shade of 6011 is recognized as a more vivid and brilliant color.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

29

/

1945

/ german colors /

Jagdpanzer IV L/70 (V) This Jagdpanzer IV L/70 (V) probably left the factory in a hurry at the beginning of 1945 in primer red RAL 8012. To hide so vivid a color in the middle of the winter, the vehicle was painted with 7028 DG III stripes once in the battlefield.

Jagdpanzer IV L/70 (V) This Jagdpanzer has lost a track and the rear wheel. Once the crew abandoned the the vehicle in the battlefield, the engineers have paint a red mark -X509/A. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011B and 8012.

Jagdpanzer IV L/70 (V) The gun barrel of this Pz IV 70 (V) presents a grey primer color probably because it was a replacement substitute for the original. Also, the two frontal wheels are the steel rim style, which is very common in these Pz IV 70 (V) vehicles at the end of the war. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

30

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Jagdpanzer IV L/70 (V) The Pz IV 70 (v) was a tank-hunter modification of a Pz IV hull. Since it was a turretless vehicle, it was perfect for ambushes. Also, this design made the manufacturing less expensive and simple. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Jagdpanzer IV L/70 (V) Disc camouflage pattern was also used on the Pz IV 70 (V). This vehicle has a replaced gun barrel and steel rim frontal wheels, very common in the last months of war. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Jagdpanzer IV L/70 (V) Pz IV 70 (V) with all the Schürzen and painted in a tri-tonal camouflage in colors RAL 7028 DG III, 6011B y 8012.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

31

/

1945

/ german colors /

Jagdpanzer IV/70 (A) Jagdpanzer IV/70 (A) (Sd.Kfz.162/1) produced by Alkett until March 1945. This example has suffered a change in the gun that explains why it is camouflaged in a different style. The Balkenkreuz is not standard and presents a primer red edge. It is noticeable that the frontal wheels do not have rubber rim. Gun is in RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012. Hull is in RAL 7028 DG III and 6011 B.

Jagdpanzer IV L/70 (V) The 11 Panzer Division used Jadgpanzers IV with disc camouflage as show in this example. Due to its small surface area of the gun, the circle masks could not be applied to paint this complex pattern. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Marder II Sd. Kfz. 131 Marder II Sd. Kfz. 131 as seen in Hungary in the winter of 1945, belonging to the 1st or 3rd Panzer Division. The dirt on the lower surfaces of this vehicle gives the color a different aspect to the color used in the entire vehicle as base tone: the RAL 7028 DG III. The camouflage consists of bands of 8012 and 6011.

32

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Marder III (Sd.Kfz.139) This Marder III (Sd.Kfz.139), belonging to 2 Pz.Jäger-Ersatz und Ausbildungs Abteilung 9 of 2 Panzer Division, has seen better times since it was made in 1942 or 43. After months left in the field, the rust has begun to corrode the chassis and camouflage. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

Marder III Ausf.M, Sd.Kfz. 138 Marder III Ausf.M, Sd.Kfz. 138 of 1st company of 346 Pz. Jg. Abt, 346 Infantry Division. It shows the incredible number of 32 victories, signified by the white rings on the gun barrel. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Nashorn “Nashorn” belonging to 669 Pz. Jg. Abt. as seen in Czin 1945. This Czechoslovakian tank-hunter is armed with a 8.8 Pak 43 (L/71) gun. RAL 7028 DG III and 6003.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

33

/

1945

/ german colors /

StuG III G StuG III G in RAL 7028 DG III and 6011. Although these colors are very clear, the dust and dirt have weathered and darkened the colors considerably.

StuG III G StuG III G in color base RAL 7028 DG III with lines of resenda grün 6011. The lower portion of Schürzen appears very damaged and scratched due to contact with vegetation and obstacles.

StuG III D At the end of the war any old vehicle could be used in an attempt to stop the enemy. In this case an old and repainted StuG III D has been sent to the front. This motor air-intake was common of StuGs used in Greece and south Soviet Union. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

34

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

StuG III E This StuG III E of “Ferdinand von Schill” Panzer Division has been repainted with brush strokes of RAL 6011 and 8012 over a base color 7028 DG I.

Stug III G The last manufactured StuG III G, such as this example featured a radio-controlled machine gun over the casemate. The dust accumulated in the Schürzen makes the camouflage appear faded and the base colors heavily altered. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

StuG III G StuG III G of the 311 Sturmgeschütz Brigade in Bohemia during the spring 1945. Some StuG from this unit wear additional metal plates covering the casemate. This up armor was a front line field modification. RAL 7028 DG III and 6011 B.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

35

/

1945

/ german colors /

StuG III G This StuG III G was abandon in Nový Bydžov central square, Czechoslovakia. Casemate is completely covered with a thick coat of concrete. Also its remaining Schürzen presents a strange spot of 8017 camouflage that appears more splashed than painted. RAL 7028 DG I, 6011 and 8017.

StuG III G StuG III G with an unusually thick Balkenkreuz. The base color is RAL 7028 DG I and it is covered with a 6011 and 8012 pattern. This example features a large white Balkenkreuz

StuG III G StuG III G with waffle pattern Zimmerit on the hull and standard parallel strips in the mantelet of the gun. It is painted with late war colors RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

36

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

StuG III G This StuG III G has been up armored with spare tracks embedded in a concrete layer over the driver’s compartment. The casemate sides are cover with Ostketten tracks to increase lateral protection of the vehicle. RAL 7028 DG III and 6011.

StuG III G This StuG III G was painted in the factory in primer red RAL 8012. Over this color spots of available colors 6011 and 7028 DG III were apply covering less than half of the vehicle, just as work orders directed.

StuG III G The gun of this StuG III G late has come from another vehicle as it presents a completely different camouflage than the rest of the vehicle. The grease and dirt has darkened completely some areas in the lower hull. RAL 7028 DG III and 6011.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

37

/

1945

/ german colors /

StuG IV StuG IV with a variation of the disc camouflage pattern. Small dots of green RAL have been applied on the areas where the base tones RAL 7028 DG III is not cover with circles. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8017. Noticeable are the solid colored but alternating colored road wheels.

StuG IV This curious StuG IV has square Zimmerit. The gun and saukopf have been changed but the previous muzzle brake has been kept in place. Concrete has been added over the casemate with spare tracks embedded in an attempt of increase the armor of the vehicle. RAL 7028 DG I, 6011 and 8012.

StuG IV Sturmgeschütz IV, with Schürzen modified to pivot on the supports by the crew. The vehicle is painted in RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

38

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

StuH 42 G StuH 42 G in RAL 7028 DG III base color and hard edge spots in RAL 6003 and 8017. The muzzle brake has been removed showing the 8012 primer red paint applied when the vehicles was manufactured.

StuH 42 G StuH 42 with spots in RAL 6011 which have been very scratched and damaged. This allows us to see the 7028 DG I base tone under the RALL 6011. The vehicle has been left almost completely clean and free of weathering to let us see the colors clearly.

SU-100 SU-100 captured from the Russians and assigned to the 4 Panzer Division during the Danzig defense in march 1945. It has been repainted with German late war colors and a large Balkenkreuz to avoid confusion with vehicles operated by the Red Army. RAL 7028 DG III and 6011.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

39

/

1945

/ german colors /

Sd.Kfz. 7 Sd.Kfz. 7 seen in Stettin in the spring of 1945. It has a Champaign cargo canopy while the vehicle itself is painted with two different shades of late war RAL 7028, DG I and DG III

Sd.Kfz. 7/1 Sd.Kfz. 7/1 with a Flak 38 de 2cm. The additional armor in the front of the vehicle and the gun are paint in Panzer Grey RAL 7021 from the early days of the war, probably salvaged from a different vehicle. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

Sd.Kfz. 7/2 Sd.Kfz. 7/2 with 3.7 cm FlaK 36 L/98 anti-aircraft gun in an uparmored versión. The camouflage is composed by spots applied with a spray gun in RAL 8012 and 6011 over 7028 DG III base.

40

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Sd.Kfz. 8 Sd.Kfz. 8 with a camouflage in colors RAL 7028 DG I, 8012 and 6011 imitating vegetation. The vehicle is free of weathering which enables us to distinguish the camouflage colors.

Sd.Kfz. 250/9 Ausf A Sd.Kfz. 250/9 Ausf A. For some unknown reason, only two strips of RAL 6011 B have been painted over the 7028 DG III base color, on the motor compartment. The red marks IC and 462 were paint by the US Army after knocking it out.

Sd.Kfz. 250 Neu A small Sd.Kfz. 250 neue art with MG 34 machine gun. The RAL 7028 DG I base color gives the vehicle a dark aspect. Over the base color small spots of 6011 and 8012 have been applied.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

41

/

1945

/ german colors /

Sd.Kfz. 251 C Sd.Kfz. 251 C. The interior of the tool storage compartment is in primer red which was applied in the factory. This contrasts with the red camouflage.

Even if both are RAL 8012, they are likely from different batches and suffered different conditions and exposure to the elements. The MG. mantlet is painted in middle war colors and probably came from a different vehicle. Chassis colors are RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

SdKfz 251 D Sd.Kfz. 251 D in tri-tonal camouflage. For an unknown reason a 322 number in black and White has been painted over the previous 442 in red and White.

This is further proof of how the chaos of war affected the ability to paint and markings of German vehicles. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Sd.Kfz. 251/21 Sd.Kfz. 251/21 with MG151 after being captured by the Soviet Army in the Prague area. The Russian soldiers have covered the German symbols such as Balkenkreuz with blue paint. RAL 7028 DG III and 6011.

42

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Sd.Kfz. 251/21 Sd.kfz 251/21 D. This vehicle was equipped with an ensemble of 3 15 mm. machine guns. The vehicle is very clean and the camouflage of fine strips of RAL 6011 and 8012 over a 7028 DGI base color can be easily seen.

Sd.Kfz. 251/22 Sd.Kfz. 251-22 Ausf. D with a 7,5 cm Pak gun. The camouflage is typical of factory application at the end of the war. Noticeable is the gun painted in RAL 7028 DG I in contrast with the DG III of the rest of the vehicle.

Sd.Kfz. 251 D Sd.Kfz. 251 D painted in RAL 7028 DG I base color. Over the base colors, fine strips of two shades of brown used by German Army during the war have been applied, the red brown 8012 and the more dark brown 8017. It wears a white and black marking of unknown use under the lateral driver’s visor.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

43

/

1945

/ german colors /

Sd.Kfz. 251/1 D Sd.Kfz. 251/1 D in an eye-catching camouflage where each zone is painted in a different way. Over the RAL 7028 DG III large spots and dots of green 6011 have been applied and some strips of 8012, causing the base color to almost disappear.

Schwerer Wehrmachtschlepper sWS Supply vehicle and cargo tractor Schwerer Wehrmachtschlepper (sWS in initials). This is an early production vehicle recognizable by the lack of an armored cab and motor compartment. The colors are RAL with a wide band of 7028 DG I all along of the vehicle and in a finer stripe in 8012 inside the previous.

sWS with 3.7 cm FlaK 43 SWS with 3.7 cm FlaK 43 anti-aircraft gun. This vehicle presents the version with armored cab and motor compartment. The camouflage olivegrün RAL 6003 has been applied with a brush over 7028 DG III

44

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

sWS Panzerwerfer 42 Panzerwerfer 42 auf sWS of 78 Artillery Regiment of 7 Panzer Division. Its camouflage is composed of colors RAL 8012 and 6011B stippled with a brush over the 7028 DG III base color.

sWS Panzerwerfer 42 Panzerwerfer 42 auf sWS of 11 Nebelwerfer Brigade asigned to 5 Panzer Division, seen in Oriental Prussia during the spring of 1945. The Nebelwerfer 42 had 10 rocket launcher tubes of 15 cm. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

sWS Panzerwerfer 42 Panzerwerfer 42 auf sWS with an odd striped camouflage. The Nebelwerfer 42 rocket-launcher of this vehicle has been removed and now it is just an ammunition vehicle. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

45

/

1945

/ german colors /

Geschützwagen 38M (Sd.Kfz. 138/1) “Grille”: Geschützwagen 38M (Sd.Kfz. 138/1) “Grille”: painted in a disc camouflage pattern. It is probable that this is one of the last vehicles of its kind to be made, while the use of this camouflage coincides in time with the manufacture of this vehicle. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8017.

Sturmpanzer IV “Brummbär” Sturmpanzer IV “Brummbär” assault gun with disc camouflage scheme in Brown RAL 8017 and green 6011 over a base color RAL 7028 DG III. Notice the appearance of color change on the Schürzen due to dust even though they are painted the same. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8017as the upper surfaces.

Sturmpanzer IV “Brummbär” Sturmpanzer IV “Brummbär” assault gun of 219 Sturmpanzer Abteilung in Hungary in the spring of 1945 with a disc camouflage pattern. The front wheels are steel rimed and look as though the original rubber rimmed version have been substituted. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

46

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

88 flak 36/37 Even if it was not very usual some anti-aircraft guns wear late war camouflage colors. In this case we can see a 88 flak 36/37 painted in 3 tones RAL 7028 DG I, 6011 and 8012.Also not that the support trailer is depicted in a different and clearer 7028 DG III, probably from a different origin.

Hummel Hummel likely from the I./Pz.Art.Rgt.41 of 6th Panzer Division. The middle of casemate has been repainted in the dark 6003 for an unknown reason.

RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 6003.

Hummel Self-propel gun “Hummel” painted by hand in a tri-tonal camouflage and personalized with the name “Heidi”. This vehicle was based on a Pz. IV chassis. RAL 7028 DG I, 6011 and 8012.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

47

/

1945

/ german colors /

Hummel The “Hummel” was another of the many vehicles to use a disc camouflage scheme. The main problem of this self-propel 15 cm. gun was that it carried only 18 rounds of ammo and had to be resupplied constantly. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Hummel Panzerfeldhaubitze 18M auf Geschützwagen III/IV (Sf) Sd.Kfz. 165 also known as “Hummel” with an odd camouflage where the RAL 8012 looks to be the shadows projected by the green 6011. Base color is RAL 7028 DG III.

48

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Sd.Kfz. 124 “Wespe” Sd.Kfz. 124 “Wespe” self-propelled gun of Grossdeutschland Panzer Division seen in Prusia during the spring of 1945. This vehicle was based on a Pz II hull and carried a 10.5 cm leFH 18M L/28 gun. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

Sturmtiger Sturmtiger destroyed in Ebendorf, Germany, during the spring of 1945. It probably belongs to Stu.Mrs.Bttr.1 002. This vehicle shows a different version of disc camouflage pattern over which new masks have been applied making the pattern even more complex. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

49

/

1945

/ german colors /

Opel Blitz Opel Blitz in transport configuration with a canopy covering the cargo area. This canopy was camouflaged with RAL 8017 However, due to the fabrics flexibility the paint begins to chip from the cloth easily. RAL 7028 DG I and 8017.

Opel Blitz Opel Blitz with a Flakvierling 38 de 2 cm anti-aircraft gun. The lateral tables in the cargo area have been recycled from another vehicle. This can be recognized with the difference of the camouflage and the marks left from the supports of the previous vehicle once removed. RAL 7028 DG I, 6011 and 8012.

Opel Blitz The Opel Blitz was a popular and very widely used vehicle of German Army during WWII. This example is painted in RAL 7028 DG III, 6011B y 8012. In the cargo compartment, a 3.7 cm anti-aircraft gun has been mounted.

50

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Opel Maultier Opel Maultier with 3.7 cm. anti-aircraft gun. Spots of green RAL 6011 and red 8012 have been paint over the darkest version of late war 7028, this is the DG I.

Sd.Kfz. 234/2 “Puma” Reconnaissance vehicle Sd.Kfz. 234/2 “Puma” surrendered in Pilsen to the 16 Armour Division of the US Army in may of 1945. The turret is covered with a web of rope used to hook vegetation as camouflage over the monochromatic RAL 7028 DG III paint scheme.

Sd.Kfz. 234/1 Sd.Kfz. 234/1 in a olivegrün RAL 6003 over dunkelgelb 7028 DG III this example was used by the 4 Panzer Division.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

51

/

1945

/ german colors /

Sd.Kfz. 234/4 Schwerer Panzerspähwagen Sd.Kfz. 234/4 in a tri-tonal camouflage with colors from the end of the war. In the lower sides of the vehicle it can be seen clearly how the tones change when they are covered in dust. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Sd.Kfz. 234/1 Reconnaissance vehicle Sd.Kfz. 234/1. This 8 wheeled vehicle had a 2 cm KwK 38 L/5 gun and a 7,92 mm machine gun. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8017.

Sd.Kfz. 231/8-Rad Survivor Sd.Kfz. 231/8-Rad after several years of war since this vehicle was manufactured from 1936 to 1943. This vehicle had double driver controls which made it very mobile and quick in advances and retreats during its reconnaissance missions. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

52

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Sd.Kfz. 232/8-Rad Sd.Kfz. 232/8-Rad with the name “Scharnhorst” of 17 SS Panzer Grenadier Division surrenders near Münster. It wears a wire mesh to hold foliage as additional camouflage. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Raupenschlepper Ost or RSO Tracked truck Raupenschlepper Ost or RSO in the short form. Literal Translation “Caterpillar Tractor East”.

This small cargo truck was designed to function in the East where mud and snow made the roads impossible to use.

RAL 7028 DG I, 6011 and 8012.

Borgward IV radio-control demolition vehicle Borgward IV radio-control demolition vehicle with a base color RAL 7028 DG I, the darkest of 7028 shades used at the end of the war, and fine stripes in RAL 6011.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

53

/

1945

/ german colors /

Bergepanzer III Bergepanzer III with an unusual disc camouflage pattern in which the colors appear faded and mixed. The usual appearance for this type of camouflage is complete opaque colors. RAL 7028 DG III, 6003 and 8017.

Möbelwagen The large lateral amour doors of “Möbelwagen” let us see clearly the complexity of forms of the disc camouflage pattern. This specifically has two steel road wheels without rubber band, common in the late war period. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

54

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

1945

/ german colors /

Möbelwagen 3.7 cm FlaK auf Fahrgestell Pz.Kampfwagen IV (sf) (Sd.Kfz. 161/3), usually known as “Möbelwagen”. These vehicles were made with the chassis of a Pz. IV and mounted a 3.7 cm. anti-aircraft gun protected by lateral armored doors which could be open or closed (as in this example) according to the needs of the crew. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Flakpanzer IV Ostwind The Flakpanzer “Ostwind” was armed with a 3.7 cm FlaK 43/1 gun. This example is presented with a jagged striped camouflage of alternate colors RAL 7028 DG I, 6011 y 8012.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

55

/

1945

/ german colors /

Wirbelwind This Wirbelwind is another good example of a vehicle recovered and reissued after mounting an anti-aircraft turret. The difference between late war colors in the hull and middle war colors in the turret can be easily distinguished. Turret is in RAL 7028 mid war, 6003 and 8017. Hull is in RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

Wirbelwind Flakpanzer IV “Ostwind” of 501 SS-schwere Panzer Abteilung seen in Hungary in 1945. The vehicle has the turret painted in RALL 7028 DG I and 6003 while the hull is painted in 7028 DG III, 8012 and green 6011. It is likely that the turret was recovered from another vehicle, which would explain the appearance of different of colors.

56

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

57

/

paper panzers /

E-50 Coelian Self- propelled anti-aircraft gun prototype, Coelian, over a E-50 hull. The camouflage of the fender in tones 6011 and 8012 is very scratched enabling us to see the 7028 DG I base colour.

Coelian Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun named Coelian with Panther G hull in three different camouflage tones: 7028 DG III, 8017 and 6003. The turret is painted in red colour 8012.

Coelian Coelian in ambush camouflage RAL 7028 DG III, 6003 and 8017, with 3 Schürzen in RAL 8012. This prototype was designed to be equipped with two 3.7 centimetres. Flak 43 anti-aircraft guns over a medium hull, in this case a Panther. On the turret, it is possible to see marks of victory for 12 enemy planes.

58

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

paper panzers /

E-10 Tankhunter prototype E-10 with tri-tonal camouflage 7028 DG III, 8012, & 6011. At first, it was to be the army’s light tankhunter with a 7,5 centimetre canon , which would substitute the Hetzer version.

E-25 Tankhunter E-25. This vehicle was intended to substitute the tankhunters based on the Pz III and Pz IV. It is painted with base colour 70280 DG III and hard edge bands in 8017 and 6011. It wears a black Balkenkreuz which is common during the last months of the war.

E-25 Tankhunter medium E-25 in base colour RAL 6011 with camouflage stripes painted 8017 and split rings painted with templates in colour 7028 DG III.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

59

/

paper panzers /

E-100 The superheavy tank E-100 was projected to be built with the turret of a Maus tank and a enlarged King Tiger hull. This image enables us to see the red colour of the primer 8012 in the areas which have been exposed when the lateral fenders have been removed. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012.

E-100 Superheavy tank E-100 with a camouflage in RAL 6003 and 7028 DG III known as Octopus. This name comes from the similarity between the green circles in the Dünkelgelb bands and the tentacles and suckers of the Octopus.

E-100 E-100 with a disc camouflage in RAL 6011 and 8012 over 7028 DG III. The large caliber of its gun makes possible the application of this camouflage on the barrel due to its size.

60

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

paper panzers /

E-75 The E-75 Standpanzer was going to be the heavy tank of the German army, replacing the King Tiger. Note the dark grey colour of the gun. This was the colour of the heat resistant baked enamel primer of the German guns. RAL 7028 DG I, 6003 and 8012.

E-75 This E-75 presents a hard edge camouflage in two tones: RAL 7028 DG III and RAL 6011. Its size of more than 75 tons gives the impression that its Balkenkreus and numerals, although they have a good size, seem very small in comparison.

E-75 In this example of E-75, we can see a camouflage composed of large bands of Olivgrün 6003 and Redoxide 8012 separated by Dünkelgelb 7028 DG III. On the turret, an infra-red sight is placed for night operations.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

61

/

paper panzers /

E-50 The Paperpanzer E-50 Standardpanzer was intended to substitute the Panther in its roll of medium tank. In this case, the tank has an infra-red sight on the turret for night operations. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8017.

E-50 This E-50 shows the hull in RAL 8012 while the turret is painting with hard edge bands of RAL 7028 DG I and 6003. This is due to a recycled and re-used turret over a hull which was made quickly without any time to paint it due to heavy bombardment.

Kugelblitz The Kugelblitz was the last Flakpanzer on the chassis of a Pz IV. The turret hasn’t been painted and it has still the original prime red colour, which has been marked with a simple white Balkenkreus. Chassis is painted in RAL 7028 DG I, 6011 and 8017.

62

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

paper panzers /

Geschützwagen Tiger für 17 cm K72 (sf) The Geschützwagen Tiger für 17 cm K72 (sf) was destined to be a heavy sell-propelled gun based on the Tiger B. The black Balkenkreuz typical of the end of the war is large, although it appears very small in comparison with its 13 meters of length and 3.15 of height. Chassis in RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8017. Wheels in RAL 8012.

Geschützwagen Tiger für 17 cm K72 (sf) This Geschützwagen Tiger für 17 cm K72 (sf) is painted in base colour 7028 DG I, which is darker than the version that was used in the middle of the War. Here we can see the difference between the dark green RAL 6011 of the end of the war and the RAL 6003.

Notice that the muzzle of the gun is shown in primer red 8012.

Leopard Reconnaissance light tank Leopard VK 1602. It is painted in two different RAL 7028 (DG I and DG III) and 8017. The colours and pattern give it the appearance of a real feline. The number I shows that it is the second vehicle of the Reconnaissance Abteilung chief. This vehicle was always to have a long distance radio.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

63

/

paper panzers /

Löwe The elaborated camouflage of this Löwe presents a basis of RAL 7028 DG III over which has been applied a camouflage using circles templates to paint with 8012. After which bands of 6011 Green are applied over the previous steps. Notice the infra-red sight in prime red colour.

Löwe This Löwe shows a turret and a camouflage hull which are very different. Most likely this is the consequence of the recycling of the turret of a damaged vehicle. RAL 8012, 7028 DG III and 6011.

Löwe PanzerKampfwagen VII Löwe, super-heavy tank of 90 tons. It is camouflaged with RAL 7028 mid version, 7028 DG III and brown 8017.

64

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

paper panzers /

Waffenträger 8.8 cm PAk 43/3 Experimental prototype Waffenträger 8.8 cm PAk 43/3 used by the 3th Panzerjagër Abteilung of the Division “Ullrich von Huttem” during the defence of Berlin. RAL 7028 DG III, 8012 and 6011 B.

Maus With 188 tons, the Panzerkampfwagen VII Maus is the heaviest tank that has ever been made, but it never passed the tests phase. Its main armament was a gun of 128 mm in addition to a coaxial of 75 mm. RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 B and 8012.

Panther II Panther II with a fictitious camouflage based on rings and strips of RAL 8017 over 7028 DG III. The rear section of the gun is painted in RAL 7028 used in the middle of the war for unknown reasons.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

65

/

paper panzers /

Panther II The Panther II with three different green tones used by Germany in Europe. The darkest tone is the RAL 6003 used since February 1943 until the end of the war. The brightest tone is RAL 6011 B. The wheel in red RAL 8012 appears to be a replacement installed after camouflaging.

Panther II The gun 88 KwK l/71 and the infra-red sight of this Panther II makes that it is a fantastic vehicle for the night war. Two of the lateral Schürzen haven’t been primed or painted and they show the metal completely rusted. RAL 7028 DG III and 6003.

VK4502 The VK4502 in camouflage with diagonal bands in 3 colours, RAL 7028 DG III, 6011 and 8012. The wheels have been painted in green. Most likely the base colour applied in the factory.

66

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

67

/

paper panzers /

Leopard Leopard based on Mig’s model and photos, shown here in three types of green colours used by Germans during the War in European Theatre: RAL 6003, 6011 and 6011 B.

68

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

paper panzers /

VK4502 The render of a VK4502 which Mig Jimenez used as a basis to paint one of his models. The muzzle of the gun has been substituted and it is painted in RAL 7028 common of the middle of the war. It is paint in RAL 8012 and stripes of white camouflage.

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

69

/

paper panzers /

Panther II Panther II based in MIG’s replica. In the first version, we can see a vehicle painted in RAL 7028 DG III and green colour 6011 with its numeral and Balkenkreuz in white silhouette.

In the second version, we can see the same vehicle captured by the Allies who added markings in American Olive Drab Green, white stars, some personal phrases and an American radio antenna.

70

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

/

paper panzers /

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

71

Bibliography: Histor.ws R12-Central Restoration/Colors/Paletts [on line] 2012 <http://histor.ws/bmwr12/eng/resta-06b.php> [consult: May 2012] Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 1. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2004. 98 p. ISBN 978-0-97541830-7 Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 2. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2006. 98 p. ISBN 978-0-97541831-4 Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 3. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2006. 98 p. ISBN 978-0-97541832-1 Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 4. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2007. 98 p. ISBN 978-0-9555940-0-7 Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 5. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2007. 98 p. ISBN 978-0-95559401-4 Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 6. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2008. 98 p. ISBN 978-0-95559403-8 Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 7. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2008. 98 p. ISBN 978-0-95559404-5 Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 9. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2009. 98 p. ISBN 978-0-95559406-9

Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 10. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2010. 98 p. ISBN 978-0-95559407-6 Auerbach, Bill and Archer, Lee. Panzerwrecks 12. Monroe, New York: Panzerwrecks, 2011. 98 p. ISBN 978-1-90803203-4 Duel in the mist: The Leibstandarte during the Ardennes offensive.

Vol. 1: Kampfgruppe Peiper. Stoumont, December 19th, 1944.

Nexcastle upon Tyne: AFV Modeller ltd., 2007. 294 p.

ISBN 978-0-9555413-0-8.

Kolmyjec, Maksym and Moszczanskij, Ilja. Panzerwaffe 1945 vol.I. Warszawa: Wydawnictwo Militaria, 2004. 78 p. ISBN 83-7219-184-0 Kolmyjec, Maksym and Moszczanskij, Ilja. Panzerwaffe 1945 vol.II. Warszawa: Wydawnictwo Militaria, 2004. 84 p. ISBN 83-7219-199-9 Kolmyjec, Maksym. Panzerwaffe 1945 vol.III. Warszawa: Wydawnictwo Militaria, 2005. 76 p. ISBN 83-7219-236-7 Solarz, Jacek. Panzerwaffe 1945 vol.IV. Warszawa: Wydawnictwo Militaria, 2007. 84 p. ISBN 83-7219-276-9 Solar, Marek; Dolezal, Petr and Kos, Vladimar. AFV Photo Album.

Stockholm: Canfora Grafisk Jorm & Forlag, 2011. 224 p.

ISBN: 978-91-976773-6-3 Trucks & Tanks Magazine. Marselle, 2009, num 11. ISSN 1957-4193

CAMOUFLAGE PROFILE GUIDE

1945 german colors