The Schwerer Ladungsträger Borgward B IV was the third in a series of remotely-controlled demolition vehicles used by Germany during World War II. It weighed almost 3.5 tons and carried a 450KG demolition charge.
Description[]
The B IV was a tracked vehicle that was driven close to the target by the operator, who then dismounted and guided the vehicle the rest of the way by radio. Once at the target, the demolition charge was released and the vehicle backed away to a safe distance before detonation. Weighing almost 3.5 tons, its was nevertheless thinly armoured and susceptible to enemy fire. It was far larger than the previous two remote demolition vehicles, the Goliath and the Springer, this had the effect of making it a far easier target.
Variants[]
- Borgward B IV Ausf A
Main variant produced. Approximately 600 produced between May 1942 and June 1943[1].
- Borgward B IV Ausf B
260 produced from June-November 1943. Featured upgraded radio equipment. 400KG heavier.
- Borgward B IV Ausf C
Final variant, approximately 300 produced between Dec 1943 and Sept 1944. Uprated 6 cylinder, 78hp engine and increased armour. Chassis was lengthened to 4.1m.
- Panzerjäger Wanze
50 or so Ausf B and C models were converted late in the war to carry 6x Panzerschreck to be used against armour. These were used to little effect during the Battle of Berlin.[2]
History[]
Designed originally as an ammunition carrier and then trialled as a remote controlled minesweeper, it was found to be unsuitable for both roles. The B IV was converted into a remote-controlled demolitions vehicle after 1st Panzer Division success in the Battle of France with converted Panzer 1 Ausf. B. Over all the versions produced, they had little impact, as they were too large, slow and the operator was too vulnerable whilst setting up for the remote control phase of the attack.