"Luchs" Panzer II Ausf. L

This German reconnaissance tank was produced from September 1943 to January 1944. Only 104 machines of this model were produced.

Previous models had increased armor thickness, and a 20mm KwK 38 cannon was introduced. But for this machine a new version of the chassis was developed. The engine compartment held a Maybach HL66P 180 hp, which drove the tank at speeds up to 50 km/h.

Nevertheless, this tank was not popular among the troops. Its weak armor and outdated weaponry did not recommend it for normal service, although it was sometimes favored by Luftwaffe commando units. Many that remained were used as tractors and dismantled for their weapons.