Document drawn up by the Chef H Rüst u BdE Department which responds to a series of topics discussed during a meeting held at the end of January 1944 in relation to issues of production and development of different types of weapons. In the translated excerpt the Wa Prüf 6 announces the cancellation of the developments of different types of Kleinstpanzer in favor of the production of the 38t.
Note :
As is characteristic of these dates, the document perfectly reflects the existing ambiguity in relation to the function of the new vehicle: on the one hand the name "light tank destroyer" is used, on the other hand it is attributed the function of an "assault gun" and his destiny is in the Infantry.
Original Document
http://www.panzer-elmito.org/cazacarros ... 944_D.html
Small tank destroyers (Klein-Panzerjäger) :
Generalmajor Beißwänger (Gen d Chef H Rüst):
The use of this type of designation is not desirable, the introduction of model designations is essential.
Oberst Crohn (Wa Prüf 6):
For Germany the Romanian development is not interesting, the production of the le.Pz.Jäg. 38t (see point 6) is decided. For this reason the projects Hetzer, Rutscher, carriers of demolition charges on Püppchen and the like are canceled.
New le.Pz.Jäg. 38t (Infantry assault gun)
Oberst Crohn (Wa Prüf 6):
His presentation will take place on 26.01. in the Headquarters with a new bathtub and new gearbox, same armament as the Pz.Jäg. IV. The start of its production is scheduled for April. An increase in its production is expected until December 1944 until reaching 1000 vehicles per month.