Befehlzeigers

The Befehlswagen, also known as the Befehlswagen, was a variant of the German Tiger I heavy tank produced during World War II. It was used as a command tank, giving high-ranking officers a mobile and well-armed command post. The Befehlswagen was developed from the standard Tiger I medium, with several modifications aimed at providing a workspace for the commander.

Its primary responsibility was to serve as a command center, coordinating and directing the activities of other tanks within its unit. It featured a modified chassis with an open-top turret, which held the commander's radio equipment. Additional modifications included a switch box for command radio sets, maps, and other tactical equipment. This setup was designed to provide the commander with clear communications and improved situational awareness.

The Befehlswagen was equipped with the same Panzer VIII 8.8 cm L/56 cannon as the standard Tiger I, but its primary function made the firepower secondary to its command and control role. The Befehlswagen fought on multiple fronts, including the Eastern and Western Fronts. According to various sources, the production of the Befehlswagen was somewhat limited, likely due to the specialized nature of the vehicle.

Little to no existing documentation provides details on the number of produced Befehlswagens, which has led to a somewhat limited understanding of its usage. However, the existence of these command tanks demonstrates the resourcefulness and flexibility of the German military in adapting their existing production capabilities to meet different tactical needs during the war.