Osprey New Vanguard 1 : King Tiger Heavy Tank 1942-1945

As the war progressed and Germany was forced increasingly onto the defensive, the need for fast-moving mobile forces lessened and the requirement was for slower, better protected and better armed AFVs. After debacles against the T-34, Hitler and the Panzerwaffe were determined not to be unprepared again, and the upshot was the production of the heaviest and largest tank to see combat during the Second World War, the Tiger II or Konigstiger (King Tiger). Delayed because of attempts to standardise parts with the new Panther II design, the first prototype appeared in October 1943 and the production tank first saw action in May 1944. Tom Jentz and Hilary Doyle examine this formidable weapon. The problems and controversies surrounding its design and production are discussed as are the modifications made to it during production. Each unit that was equipped with the Tiger II is listed and the theatre of operations to which it was posted detailed. The book is excellently backed up by a selection of photographs, colour plates and by the excellently detailed centrefold portrait. The book is full of technical information about this important vehicle and makes good use of tables to show, at a glance, the effectiveness of the Kingtiger's armour and gun, thus successfully establishing its battlefield survivability. An excellent book, especially for those interested in the more technical aspects of the Tiger II. Illustrations by Peter Sarson.

Contents

• Design and Development
• Official Designations
• Firepower
• Mobility
• Battlefield Survivability
• Operational History