Heuschrecke IVb

The German high command very much wanted a self-propelled howitzer that retained the ability to dismount the cannon and use it as towed artillery, as well. Considerable effort over a number of years by a variety of firms went into this objective, however none were considered true successes. Krupp’s attempt to solve this problem involved mounting a 10.5cm light field howitzer on an extensively modified Hummel chassis. The engine and cooling system were moved to the rear of the vehicle, in positions much as they were on the Panzerkampfwagen IV. A new glacis and superstructure was fabricated by Stahlindustrie and installed by Krupp.