German half-track Sd.Kfz.251/7 ‘Pionerpanzerwagen’ Ausf. D 1.35 Dragon-7605

The Sd.Kfz. 251/7 Ausf. D, known as ‘Pionierpanzerwagen,’ was a specialized variant of the German armored half-track Sd.Kfz. 251, used during World War II. This vehicle was specifically designed to support combat engineer units, providing both transportation and construction and demolition capabilities on the battlefield.

Equipped with removable ramps on the sides to facilitate crossing obstacles and ditches, the Pionierpanzerwagen also carried bridging equipment, explosives and specialized tools. Its standard armament included two MG34 or MG42 machine guns for self-defense and fire support.

Introduced in 1943, the Ausf. D featured a simplified design to facilitate mass production, with fewer components and a more robust structure. It was deployed on all combat fronts, from the Eastern Front to North Africa, playing a crucial role in assault and fortification operations.