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{{Italic title}}
{{title lang|de}}
{{More footnotes|date=September 2011}}
{{More footnotes needed|date=September 2011}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2020}}
{{Infobox weapon
{{Infobox weapon
|is_vehicle=yes
|is_vehicle=yes
|name=''Sturmmörserwagen'' 606/4 ''mit'' 38 cm RW 61
|name={{lang|de|Sturmmörserwagen}} 606/4 {{lang|de|mit}} 38 cm RW 61
| image= File:Sturmtiger ’19 red’ (s-n 205543) – Patriot Museum, Kubinka (38240137396).jpg
| image= File:Sturmtiger ’19 red’ (s-n 205543) – Patriot Museum, Kubinka (38240137396).jpg
| image_size = 300
| image_size = 300
|caption=A ''Sturmtiger'' on display at the [[Kubinka Tank Museum]] in Russia
|caption=A {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} on display at the [[Kubinka Tank Museum]] in Russia
|origin=Nazi Germany
|origin=[[Nazi Germany]]
|type=Heavy [[assault gun]]
|type=Heavy [[assault gun]]


<!-- Service history -->
<!-- Service history -->
| service = August 1944–1945
|service = August 1944–1945
| used_by =
|used_by =
| wars = World War II
|wars = [[World War II]]
|length={{convert|6.28|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|length={{convert|6.28|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|width={{convert|3.57|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
|width={{convert|3.57|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
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|suspension=[[torsion-bar]]
|suspension=[[torsion-bar]]
|speed={{convert|40|km/h|abbr=on}}
|speed={{convert|40|km/h|abbr=on}}
|fuel_capacity = {{convert|540|L|abbr=on}}
|vehicle_range={{convert|120|km|abbr=on}}
|vehicle_range={{convert|120|km|abbr=on}}
|primary_armament=380 mm RW 61 rocket launcher L/5.4 <br/> (14 rounds)
|primary_armament=380 mm RW 61 rocket launcher L/5.4 <br/> (14 rounds)
|secondary_armament=100 mm grenade launcher <br/> (using [[S-mine|SMi 35]] leaping mines){{citation needed|date=September 2015}} <br/> {{convert|7.92|mm|abbr=on}} [[MG 34]] machine gun
|secondary_armament=7.92 mm [[MG 34]] machine gun(600 rpm)
|armour=max. 150 mm (superstructure front, at 47° from vertical) <br/> min. 62 mm
|armour=max. 150 mm (superstructure front, at 47° from vertical) <br/> min. 62 mm
|engine=[[Maybach HL230]] P45 [[V-12 engine|V-12]], water-cooled gasoline
|engine=[[Maybach HL230]] P45 [[V-12 engine|V-12]], water-cooled gasoline
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}}
}}


'''''Sturmtiger''''' (German: "Assault Tiger") was a [[World War II]] [[Nazi Germany|German]] [[assault gun]] built on the [[Tiger I]] chassis and armed with a 380mm rocket-propelled mortar. The official German designation was '''''Sturmmörserwagen 606/4 mit 38&nbsp;cm RW 61'''''. Its primary task was to provide heavy fire support for infantry units [[urban warfare|fighting in urban areas]]. The few vehicles produced fought in the [[Warsaw Uprising]], the [[Battle of the Bulge]] and the [[Operation Veritable|Battle of the Reichswald]]. The fighting vehicle is also known by various informal names, among which the ''Sturmtiger'' became the most popular.
{{langnf|de|'''Sturmtiger'''|Assault Tiger}} was a [[World War II]] [[Nazi Germany|German]] [[assault gun]] built on the [[Tiger I]] chassis and armed with a 380mm rocket-propelled mortar. The official German designation was '''{{lang|de|Sturmmörserwagen 606/4 mit 38&nbsp;cm RW 61}}'''. Its primary task was to provide heavy fire support for infantry units [[urban warfare|fighting in urban areas]]. The few vehicles produced fought in the [[Warsaw Uprising]], the [[Battle of the Bulge]] and the [[Operation Veritable|Battle of the Reichswald]]. The fighting vehicle was known by various informal names, among which the {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} became the most popular.


==Development==
==Development==
The idea for a heavy infantry support vehicle capable of demolishing heavily defended buildings or fortified areas with a single shot came out of the experiences of the heavy urban fighting in the [[Battle of Stalingrad]] in 1942. At the time, the [[Wehrmacht]] had only the ''[[Sturm-Infanteriegeschütz 33B]]'' available for destroying buildings, a ''[[Sturmgeschütz III]]'' variant armed with a [[15 cm sIG 33]] heavy infantry gun. Twelve of them were lost in the fighting at Stalingrad. Its successor, the [[Brummbär|''Sturmpanzer IV'']], also known by Allies as ''Brummbär'', was in production from early 1943. This was essentially an improved version of the earlier design, mounting the same gun on the [[Panzer IV]] chassis with greatly improved armour protection.
The idea for a heavy infantry support vehicle capable of demolishing heavily defended buildings or fortified areas with a single shot came out of the experiences of the heavy urban fighting in the [[Battle of Stalingrad]] in 1942. At the time, the [[Wehrmacht]] had only the {{lang|de|[[Sturm-Infanteriegeschütz 33B]]}} available for destroying buildings, a {{lang|de|[[Sturmgeschütz III]]}} variant armed with a [[15 cm sIG 33]] heavy infantry gun. Twelve of them were lost in the fighting at Stalingrad. Its successor, the {{lang|de|[[Brummbär|Sturmpanzer IV]]}}, also known by Allies as {{lang|de|Brummbär}}, was in production from early 1943. This was essentially an improved version of the earlier design, mounting the same gun on the [[Panzer IV]] chassis with greatly improved armour protection.


While greatly improved compared to the earlier models, by this time infantry anti-tank weapons were improving dramatically, and the Wehrmacht still saw a need for a similar, but more heavily armoured and armed vehicle. Therefore, a decision was made to create a new vehicle based on the Tiger tank and arm it with a 210&nbsp;mm [[howitzer]]. However, this weapon turned out not to be available at the time and was therefore replaced by a 380&nbsp;mm rocket launcher, which was adapted from a ''[[Kriegsmarine]]'' [[depth charge]] launcher.
While greatly improved compared to the earlier models, by this time infantry anti-tank weapons were improving dramatically, and the Wehrmacht still saw a need for a similar, but more heavily armoured and armed vehicle. Therefore, a decision was made to create a new vehicle based on the Tiger tank and arm it with a 210&nbsp;mm [[howitzer]]. However, this weapon turned out not to be available at the time and was therefore replaced by a 380&nbsp;mm rocket launcher, which was adapted from a {{lang|de|[[Kriegsmarine]]}} [[depth charge]] launcher.


In September 1943 plans were made for [[Krupp]] to fabricate new Tiger I armored hulls for the ''Sturmtiger''. The Tiger I hulls were to be sent to [[Henschel & Son|Henschel]] for chassis assembly and then to [[Alkett]] where the superstructures would be mounted. The first prototype was ready and presented to [[Adolf Hitler]] in October 1943. Delivery of the first hulls would occur in December 1943, with the first three ''Sturmtiger'' completed by Alkett by 20 February 1944.
In September 1943 plans were made for [[Krupp]] to fabricate new Tiger I armoured hulls for the {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}}. The Tiger I hulls were to be sent to [[Henschel & Son|Henschel]] for chassis assembly and then to [[Alkett]] where the superstructures would be mounted. The first prototype was ready and presented to [[Adolf Hitler]] in October 1943. Delivery of the first hulls would occur in December 1943, with the first three {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} completed by Alkett by 20 February 1944.


Due to delays, Hitler did not request production of the weapon until 19 April 1944; twelve superstructures and weapons would be prepared and mounted on rebuilt Tiger I chassis. The first three production series ''Sturmtiger'' were completed by Alkett in August 1944. Plans to complete an additional seven from 15 to 21 September 1944 were presented to Hitler in a conference on 18–20 August 1944. Ten ''Sturmtiger'' were produced in September, along with an additional five in December 1944.<ref name="Jentz 1999">Jentz 1999 {{Page needed|date=September 2010}}</ref>
Due to delays, Hitler did not request production of the weapon until 19 April 1944; twelve superstructures and weapons would be prepared and mounted on rebuilt Tiger I chassis. The first three production series {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} were completed by Alkett in August 1944. Plans to complete an additional seven from 15 to 21 September 1944 were presented to Hitler in a conference on 18–20 August 1944. Ten {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} were produced in September, along with an additional five in December 1944.<ref name="Jentz 1999">Jentz 1999 {{Page needed|date=September 2010}}</ref>


Hitler had laid great importance on the special employment of the ''Sturmtiger'' and believed it would be necessary to produce at least 300 rounds of ammunition per month.<ref name="Jentz 1999"/>
Hitler had laid great importance on the special employment of the {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} and believed it would be necessary to produce at least 300 rounds of ammunition per month.<ref name="Jentz 1999"/>


==Design==
==Design==
The ''Sturmtiger'' was based on the late model Tiger I, keeping its hull and suspension. The front of the Tiger's superstructure was removed to make room for the new fixed [[casemate]]-style fighting compartment housing the rocket launcher. This was located directly at the front of the vehicle, giving it a boxy appearance.
The {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} was based on the late model Tiger I, keeping its hull and suspension. The front of the Tiger's superstructure was removed to make room for the new fixed [[casemate]]-style fighting compartment housing the rocket launcher. This was located directly at the front of the vehicle, giving it a boxy appearance.


Compared to the Tiger tank, the ''Sturmtiger'' was much shorter overall, only {{convert|6.28|m|ftin|abbr=on}} compared to the Tiger's {{convert|8.45|m|ftin|abbr=on}}, due largely to the fact that it did not have the long main gun of the latter which protruded far in front of the hull. It also was slightly lower than the Tiger at {{convert|2.85|m|ftin|abbr=on}} compared to {{convert|3|m|ftin|abbr=on}}.
Compared to the Tiger tank, the {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} was much shorter overall, only {{convert|6.28|m|ftin|abbr=on}} compared to the Tiger's {{convert|8.45|m|ftin|abbr=on}}, due largely to the fact that it did not have the long main gun of the latter which protruded far in front of the hull. It also was slightly lower than the Tiger at {{convert|2.85|m|ftin|abbr=on}} compared to {{convert|3|m|ftin|abbr=on}}.


===Armour===
===Armour===
Since the ''Sturmtiger'' was intended for use in urban areas in close range street fighting, it needed to be heavily armoured to survive. Its sloped (at 47° from vertical) frontal armor therefore was {{convert|150|mm|in|abbr=on}} thick, while its superstructure side and rear plates were {{convert|82|mm|in|abbr=on}} thick.<ref name=AFVWW114>Livesey 2007, pp. 114–115.</ref> The hull front was {{convert|100|mm|in}} or {{convert|150|mm|in}} if it had an additional armor plate fitted. This pushed the weight of the vehicle up from the {{convert|57|t|ton|abbr=on}} of the Tiger I to {{convert|68|t|ton|abbr=on}}.
Since the {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} was intended for use in urban areas in close range street fighting, it needed to be heavily armoured to survive. Its sloped (at 47° from vertical) frontal armor therefore was {{convert|150|mm|in|abbr=on}} thick, while its superstructure side and rear plates were {{convert|82|mm|in|abbr=on}} thick.<ref name=AFVWW114>Livesey 2007, pp. 114–115.</ref> The hull front was {{convert|100|mm|in}} or {{convert|150|mm|in}} if it had an additional armor plate fitted. This pushed the weight of the vehicle up from the {{convert|57|t|ton|abbr=on}} of the Tiger I to {{convert|68|t|ton|abbr=on}}.


[[File:Scheme of Sturmtiger armour.svg|thumb|Armor layout of ''Sturmtiger'']]
[[File:Scheme of Sturmtiger armour.svg|thumb|Armor layout of {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}}]]
[[File:Sturmtiger frontal.jpg|thumb|right|''Sturmtiger'' in the ''[[Deutsches Panzermuseum]]''. In the front is the main 380 mm caliber rocket-propelled projectile.]]
[[File:Sturmtiger frontal.jpg|thumb|right|{{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} in the {{lang|de|[[Deutsches Panzermuseum]]}}. In the front is the main 380 mm caliber rocket-propelled projectile.]]
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|-
|-
! Armor thickness
! Armour thickness
! Location
! Location
! Slope<br/>(angle from vertical)
! Slope<br/>(angle from vertical)
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| 28&nbsp;mm
| 28&nbsp;mm
| hull floor
| hull floor
| -
|-
|}
|}


===Armament===
===Armament===
The main armament was the 380&nbsp;mm ''Raketen-Werfer'' 61 L/5.4, a [[breech-loading]] barrel, which fired a short-range, rocket-propelled projectile roughly {{convert|1.5|m|ftin|abbr=on}} long. There were a variety of round types with a weight of up to {{convert|376|kg|lb|abbr=on}}, and a maximum range of up to {{convert|6000|m|abbr=on}}, which either contained a high explosive charge of {{convert|125|kg|lb|abbr=on}} or a [[shaped charge]] for use against fortifications, which could penetrate up to {{convert|2.5|m|ftin|abbr=on}} of reinforced concrete. The stated range of the former was {{convert|5650|m|yd|abbr=on}}. A normal charge first accelerated the projectile to {{convert|45|m/s|ft/s|abbr=on}}, the {{convert|40|kg|lb|abbr=on}} rocket charge then boosted this to about {{convert|250|m/s|ft/s|abbr=on}}.
The main armament was the 380&nbsp;mm {{lang|de|Raketen-Werfer}} 61 L/5.4, a [[breech-loading]] barrel, which fired a short-range, rocket-propelled projectile roughly {{convert|1.5|m|ftin|abbr=on}} long. There were a variety of round types with a weight of up to {{convert|376|kg|lb|abbr=on}}, and a maximum range of up to {{convert|6000|m|abbr=on}}, which either contained a high explosive charge of {{convert|125|kg|lb|abbr=on}} or a [[shaped charge]] for use against fortifications, which could penetrate up to {{convert|2.5|m|ftin|abbr=on}} of reinforced concrete. The stated range of the former was {{convert|5650|m|yd|abbr=on}}. A normal charge first accelerated the projectile to {{convert|45|m/s|ft/s|abbr=on}}, the {{convert|40|kg|lb|abbr=on}} rocket charge then boosted this to about {{convert|250|m/s|ft/s|abbr=on}}.


The design of the rocket system caused some problems. The hot rocket exhaust could not be vented into the fighting compartment nor could the barrel withstand the pressure if the gasses were not vented. Therefore, a ring of ventilation shafts was put around the barrel which channeled the exhaust and gave the weapon something of a [[pepperbox]] appearance.
The design of the rocket system caused some problems. The hot rocket exhaust could not be vented into the fighting compartment nor could the barrel withstand the pressure if the gasses were not vented. Therefore, a ring of ventilation shafts was put around the barrel which channeled the exhaust and gave the weapon something of a [[pepperbox]] appearance.
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Due to the bulkiness of the ammunition, only fourteen rounds could be carried internally, of which one was already loaded, with another in the loading tray. The rest were carried in two storage racks. To help with the loading of ammunition into the vehicle, a loading crane was fitted at the rear of the superstructure next to the loading hatch. Even then, the entire five-man crew had to help with the loading.
Due to the bulkiness of the ammunition, only fourteen rounds could be carried internally, of which one was already loaded, with another in the loading tray. The rest were carried in two storage racks. To help with the loading of ammunition into the vehicle, a loading crane was fitted at the rear of the superstructure next to the loading hatch. Even then, the entire five-man crew had to help with the loading.


It was intended that each ''Sturmtiger'' would be accompanied by an ammunition carrier built on the same Tiger I chassis, but only one carrier was completed.<ref name=AFVWW114 />
It was intended that each {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} would be accompanied by an ammunition carrier built on the same Tiger I chassis, but only one carrier was completed.<ref name=AFVWW114 />


Located at the rear of the loading hatch was a ''[[Nahverteidigungswaffe]]'' launcher which was used for close defence against infantry in addition to a frontal mounted 7.92&nbsp;mm [[MG 34]] [[machine gun]].
Located at the rear of the loading hatch was a {{lang|de|[[Nahverteidigungswaffe]]}} launcher which was used for close defence against infantry in addition to a frontal mounted 7.92&nbsp;mm [[MG 34]] [[machine gun]].


<gallery widths="200">
<gallery widths="200">
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==Combat service==
==Combat service==
[[File:Sturmtiger 2.jpg|thumb|A ''Sturmtiger'' captured by American forces, April 1945]]
[[File:Sturmtiger 2.jpg|thumb|A {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} captured by American forces, April 1945]]


The ''Sturmtiger'' was intended to serve as a heavy infantry support vehicle, rendering assistance with attacks on heavily fortified or built-up areas. By the time the first ''Sturmtiger'' were available, however, Germany had lost the initiative, with the Wehrmacht being almost exclusively on the defensive rather than the offensive.
The {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} was intended to serve as a heavy infantry support vehicle, rendering assistance with attacks on heavily fortified or built-up areas. By the time the first {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} were available, however, Germany had lost the initiative, with the Wehrmacht being almost exclusively on the defensive rather than the offensive.


Three new Panzer companies were raised to operate the ''Sturmtiger'': ''Panzer Sturmmörser Kompanien (PzStuMrKp)'' ("Armored Assault Mortar Company") 1000, 1001 and 1002. These originally were supposed to be equipped with fourteen vehicles, but this figure was later reduced to four each, divided into two platoons.
Three new Panzer companies were raised to operate the {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}}: {{lang|de|Panzer Sturmmörser Kompanien (PzStuMrKp)}} ("Armored Assault Mortar Company") 1000, 1001 and 1002. These originally were supposed to be equipped with fourteen vehicles, but this figure was later reduced to four each, divided into two platoons.


''PzStuMrKp'' 1000 was raised on 13 August 1944 and fought during the [[Warsaw Uprising]] with two vehicles, as did the prototype in a separate action, which may have been the only time the ''Sturmtiger'' was used in its intended role. ''PzStuMrKp'' 1001 (commanded by Captain von Gottberg) and 1002 (commanded by Lieutenant Zippel) followed in September and October. Both ''PzStuMrKp'' 1000 and 1001 served during the [[Ardennes Offensive]], with a total of seven ''Sturmtiger''.
''PzStuMrKp'' 1000 was raised on 13 August 1944 and fought during the [[Warsaw Uprising]] with two vehicles, as did the prototype in a separate action, which may have been the only time the {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} was used in its intended role. ''PzStuMrKp'' 1001 (commanded by Captain von Gottberg) and 1002 (commanded by Lieutenant Zippel) followed in September and October. Both ''PzStuMrKp'' 1000 and 1001 served during the [[Ardennes Offensive]], with a total of seven {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}}.


After this offensive, the ''Sturmtiger'' were used in the defence of Germany, mainly on the [[Western Front (World War II)|Western Front]].
After this offensive, the {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} were used in the defence of Germany, mainly on the [[Western Front (World War II)|Western Front]].


During the [[Battle of Remagen|battle for the bridge]] at [[Remagen]], German forces mobilized ''Sturmmörserkompanie'' 1000 and 1001 (a total of 7 units) to take part in the battle. The ''Sturmtiger'' were originally tasked with using their howitzers against the bridge itself, though it was discovered that they lacked the accuracy needed to hit the bridge. During this action, one of the Sturmtigers in ''Sturmmörserkompanie'' 1001 near [[Düren]] and [[Euskirchen]] allegedly hit a group of stationary Sherman tanks in a village with a 380mm round, resulting in nearly all the Shermans being put out of action, and their crews killed or wounded. This is the only tank-on-tank combat a Sturmtiger is ever recorded engaging in.<ref>Kleine, E. and Kühn, V. "Tiger: the History of a Legendary Weapon", 1942-45. p.245</ref><ref>Schnieder, Wolfgang, "Elefant Jagdtiger Sturmtiger: Rarities of the Tiger Family" Schiffler Military History September 1990, p45</ref> After the bridge fell to the Allies, ''Sturmmörserkompanie'' 1000 and 1001 were tasked with bombardment of Allied forces to cover the German retreat, as opposed to the bunker busting for which they were originally designed.{{citation needed|date=June 2016}}
During the [[Battle of Remagen|battle for the bridge]] at [[Remagen]], German forces mobilized {{lang|de|Sturmmörserkompanie}} 1000 and 1001 (a total of 7 units) to take part in the battle. The {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} were originally tasked with using their mortars against the bridge itself, though it was discovered that they lacked the accuracy needed to hit the bridge. During this action, one of the Sturmtigers in {{lang|de|Sturmmörserkompanie}} 1001 near [[Düren]] and [[Euskirchen]] allegedly hit a group of stationary Sherman tanks in a village with a 380mm round, resulting in nearly all the Shermans being put out of action, and their crews killed or wounded. This is the only tank-on-tank combat a {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} is ever recorded engaging in.<ref>Kleine, E. and Kühn, V. "Tiger: the History of a Legendary Weapon", 1942-45. p.245</ref><ref>Schnieder, Wolfgang, "Elefant Jagdtiger {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}}: Rarities of the Tiger Family" Schiffler Military History September 1990, p45</ref>


==Survivors==
==Survivors==
*A Sturmtiger (chassis number 250174) is on display at the ''[[Deutsches Panzermuseum]]'' at [[Munster, Lower Saxony|Munster]]. This vehicle is currently on loan from the ''[[Wehrtechnische Studiensammlung]]'' in [[Koblenz]] which acquired it from the Aberdeen Proving Ground Collection.
*A {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} (chassis number 250174) is on display at the {{lang|de|[[Deutsches Panzermuseum]]}} at [[Munster, Lower Saxony|Munster]]. This vehicle is currently on loan from the {{lang|de|[[Wehrtechnische Studiensammlung]]}} in [[Koblenz]] which acquired it from the [[Aberdeen Proving Ground]] Collection.
*A Sturmtiger (chassis number 205543) is on display at the [[Kubinka Tank Museum]] in Russia. This vehicle is believed to have been captured by advancing Red Army units in the Elbe area in April 1945.
*A {{Lang|de|Sturmtiger}} (chassis number 205543) is on display at the [[Kubinka Tank Museum]] in Russia. This vehicle is believed to have been captured by advancing Red Army units in the Elbe area in April 1945.
*A 380&nbsp;mm ''Raketen-Werfer'' (rocket launcher) is in the collection of the [[Bovington Tank Museum]].
*A 380&nbsp;mm {{lang|de|Raketen-Werfer}} (rocket launcher) is in the collection of the [[Bovington Tank Museum]].


==See also==
==See also==
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* {{Cite book|last=Livesey |first=Jack |title=Armoured Fighting Vehicles of World Wars I and II |year=2007 |publisher=Southwater |isbn= 978-1-84476-370-2 }}
* {{Cite book|last=Livesey |first=Jack |title=Armoured Fighting Vehicles of World Wars I and II |year=2007 |publisher=Southwater |isbn= 978-1-84476-370-2 }}
* Trojca, Waldemar and Jaugitz, Markus. ''Sturmtiger and Sturmpanzer in Combat''. Katowice, Poland: Model Hobby, 2008 {{ISBN|978-83-60041-29-1}}
* Trojca, Waldemar and Jaugitz, Markus. ''Sturmtiger and Sturmpanzer in Combat''. Katowice, Poland: Model Hobby, 2008 {{ISBN|978-83-60041-29-1}}
* [http://www.panzer-archiv.de/sturmgeschuetze/deutschland/sturmtiger/sturmtiger.htm Panzer-Archive]
* [http://www.panzer-archiv.de/sturmgeschuetze/deutschland/sturmtiger/sturmtiger.htm Panzer-Archive] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180505205439/http://www.panzer-archiv.de/sturmgeschuetze/deutschland/sturmtiger/sturmtiger.htm |date=5 May 2018 }}
* "Frontline Illustration : Sturmtiger", 1999, Moscow, Russia
* "Frontline Illustration : Sturmtiger", 1999, Moscow, Russia


==External links==
==External links==
{{Sister project links|auto=1}}
{{Commons category|Sturmtiger}}
* "[http://www.lonesentry.com/ordnance/sturmmorser-38-cm-rocket-tiger-chassis.html Sturmmörser: 38 cm Rocket Projector on Tiger Chassis]", U.S. Ordnance Report, 1945.
* "[http://www.lonesentry.com/ordnance/sturmmorser-38-cm-rocket-tiger-chassis.html Sturmmörser: 38 cm Rocket Projector on Tiger Chassis] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180822041157/http://www.lonesentry.com/ordnance/sturmmorser-38-cm-rocket-tiger-chassis.html |date=22 August 2018 }}", U.S. Ordnance Report, 1945.
* [http://www.panzerworld.net/panzersturmmorser.html Panzersturmmörser (Sturmtiger)] Panzerworld.net
* [http://www.panzerworld.net/panzersturmmorser.html Panzersturmmörser (Sturmtiger)] Panzerworld.net
* [http://www.tankmuseum.ru/german-sturmtiger/ Sturmtiger in Kubinka tank museum]
* [http://www.tankmuseum.ru/german-sturmtiger/ Sturmtiger in Kubinka tank museum]
* [http://sturmvogel.orbat.com/sturmtiger.html Sturmtiger Units of the Wehrmacht]
* [http://sturmvogel.orbat.com/sturmtiger.html Sturmtiger Units of the Wehrmacht] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111211050227/http://www.sturmvogel.orbat.com/sturmtiger.html |date=11 December 2011 }}
* [http://www.achtungpanzer.com/sttig.htm Sturmmörser Tiger] at Achtung Panzer!
* [http://www.achtungpanzer.com/sttig.htm Sturmmörser Tiger] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070310212540/http://www.achtungpanzer.com/sttig.htm |date=10 March 2007 }} at Achtung Panzer!
* [http://www.onwar.com/tanks/germany/tfsturmtiger.htm Sturmtiger] OnWar.com
* [http://www.onwar.com/tanks/germany/tfsturmtiger.htm Sturmtiger] OnWar.com
* [http://www.wwiivehicles.com/germany/self-propelled/sturmtiger.asp World War II Vehicles]
* [http://www.wwiivehicles.com/germany/self-propelled/sturmtiger.asp World War II Vehicles]
* [http://the.shadock.free.fr/Surviving_Tigers.pdf Surviving Tiger tanks] - A file presenting photos of the Tiger tanks (Tiger I, Kingtiger, Jagdtiger and Sturmtiger) still existing in the world
* [http://the.shadock.free.fr/Surviving_Tigers.pdf Surviving Tiger tanks] - A file presenting photos of the Tiger tanks (Tiger I, Kingtiger, Jagdtiger and Sturmtiger) still existing in the world
* {{youtube|id=P_LmNrj_Adw|title=How to use a Sturmtiger}} - Video discussing a February 1945 German Army manual on how to deploy the Sturmtiger.
* {{youTube|id=P_LmNrj_Adw|title=How to use a Sturmtiger}} - Video discussing a February 1945 German Army manual on how to deploy the Sturmtiger.


{{WWIIGermanAFVs}}
{{WWIIGermanAFVs}}


{{Authority control}}
{{Authority control}}
{{Subject bar
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| portal2=Tanks
| portal3=World War II
| commons=y
| commons-search=Sturmtiger
}}


[[Category:World War II assault guns]]
[[Category:World War II assault guns]]

Latest revision as of 09:18, 26 May 2024

Sturmmörserwagen 606/4 mit 38 cm RW 61
A Sturmtiger on display at the Kubinka Tank Museum in Russia
TypeHeavy assault gun
Place of originNazi Germany
Service history
In serviceAugust 1944–1945
WarsWorld War II
Production history
DesignerAlkett
Designed1943–1944
ManufacturerAlkett
ProducedOctober 1943 – January 1945
No. built18 (using rebuilt Tiger I chassis)
Specifications
Mass68 tonnes (75 short tons; 67 long tons)
Length6.28 m (20 ft 7 in)
Width3.57 m (11 ft 9 in)
Height2.85 m (9 ft 4 in)
Crew5
driver
machine gunner / radio operator
loader
2nd loader
commander / gunner
Armormax. 150 mm (superstructure front, at 47° from vertical)
min. 62 mm
Main
armament
380 mm RW 61 rocket launcher L/5.4
(14 rounds)
Secondary
armament
7.92 mm MG 34 machine gun(600 rpm)
EngineMaybach HL230 P45 V-12, water-cooled gasoline
700 PS (690 hp, 515 kW)[1]
Power/weight10.77 PS/tonne
Suspensiontorsion-bar
Fuel capacity540 L (120 imp gal; 140 US gal)
Operational
range
120 km (75 mi)
Maximum speed 40 km/h (25 mph)

Sturmtiger (German for 'Assault Tiger') was a World War II German assault gun built on the Tiger I chassis and armed with a 380mm rocket-propelled mortar. The official German designation was Sturmmörserwagen 606/4 mit 38 cm RW 61. Its primary task was to provide heavy fire support for infantry units fighting in urban areas. The few vehicles produced fought in the Warsaw Uprising, the Battle of the Bulge and the Battle of the Reichswald. The fighting vehicle was known by various informal names, among which the Sturmtiger became the most popular.

Development[edit]

The idea for a heavy infantry support vehicle capable of demolishing heavily defended buildings or fortified areas with a single shot came out of the experiences of the heavy urban fighting in the Battle of Stalingrad in 1942. At the time, the Wehrmacht had only the Sturm-Infanteriegeschütz 33B available for destroying buildings, a Sturmgeschütz III variant armed with a 15 cm sIG 33 heavy infantry gun. Twelve of them were lost in the fighting at Stalingrad. Its successor, the Sturmpanzer IV, also known by Allies as Brummbär, was in production from early 1943. This was essentially an improved version of the earlier design, mounting the same gun on the Panzer IV chassis with greatly improved armour protection.

While greatly improved compared to the earlier models, by this time infantry anti-tank weapons were improving dramatically, and the Wehrmacht still saw a need for a similar, but more heavily armoured and armed vehicle. Therefore, a decision was made to create a new vehicle based on the Tiger tank and arm it with a 210 mm howitzer. However, this weapon turned out not to be available at the time and was therefore replaced by a 380 mm rocket launcher, which was adapted from a Kriegsmarine depth charge launcher.

In September 1943 plans were made for Krupp to fabricate new Tiger I armoured hulls for the Sturmtiger. The Tiger I hulls were to be sent to Henschel for chassis assembly and then to Alkett where the superstructures would be mounted. The first prototype was ready and presented to Adolf Hitler in October 1943. Delivery of the first hulls would occur in December 1943, with the first three Sturmtiger completed by Alkett by 20 February 1944.

Due to delays, Hitler did not request production of the weapon until 19 April 1944; twelve superstructures and weapons would be prepared and mounted on rebuilt Tiger I chassis. The first three production series Sturmtiger were completed by Alkett in August 1944. Plans to complete an additional seven from 15 to 21 September 1944 were presented to Hitler in a conference on 18–20 August 1944. Ten Sturmtiger were produced in September, along with an additional five in December 1944.[2]

Hitler had laid great importance on the special employment of the Sturmtiger and believed it would be necessary to produce at least 300 rounds of ammunition per month.[2]

Design[edit]

The Sturmtiger was based on the late model Tiger I, keeping its hull and suspension. The front of the Tiger's superstructure was removed to make room for the new fixed casemate-style fighting compartment housing the rocket launcher. This was located directly at the front of the vehicle, giving it a boxy appearance.

Compared to the Tiger tank, the Sturmtiger was much shorter overall, only 6.28 m (20 ft 7 in) compared to the Tiger's 8.45 m (27 ft 9 in), due largely to the fact that it did not have the long main gun of the latter which protruded far in front of the hull. It also was slightly lower than the Tiger at 2.85 m (9 ft 4 in) compared to 3 m (9 ft 10 in).

Armour[edit]

Since the Sturmtiger was intended for use in urban areas in close range street fighting, it needed to be heavily armoured to survive. Its sloped (at 47° from vertical) frontal armor therefore was 150 mm (5.9 in) thick, while its superstructure side and rear plates were 82 mm (3.2 in) thick.[1] The hull front was 100 millimetres (3.9 in) or 150 millimetres (5.9 in) if it had an additional armor plate fitted. This pushed the weight of the vehicle up from the 57 t (56 long tons; 63 short tons) of the Tiger I to 68 t (67 long tons; 75 short tons).

Armor layout of Sturmtiger
Sturmtiger in the Deutsches Panzermuseum. In the front is the main 380 mm caliber rocket-propelled projectile.
Armour thickness Location Slope
(angle from vertical)
150 mm superstructure front 47°
150 mm
( 100 mm) 		hull front
(without the additional plate) 		25°
82 mm superstructure side and rear
upper hull side and rear 		20°
none
70 mm hull front top 80°
62 mm lower hull front 65°
62 mm lower hull side
lower hull rear 		none
48°
28 mm hull floor

Armament[edit]

The main armament was the 380 mm Raketen-Werfer 61 L/5.4, a breech-loading barrel, which fired a short-range, rocket-propelled projectile roughly 1.5 m (4 ft 11 in) long. There were a variety of round types with a weight of up to 376 kg (829 lb), and a maximum range of up to 6,000 m (20,000 ft), which either contained a high explosive charge of 125 kg (276 lb) or a shaped charge for use against fortifications, which could penetrate up to 2.5 m (8 ft 2 in) of reinforced concrete. The stated range of the former was 5,650 m (6,180 yd). A normal charge first accelerated the projectile to 45 m/s (150 ft/s), the 40 kg (88 lb) rocket charge then boosted this to about 250 m/s (820 ft/s).

The design of the rocket system caused some problems. The hot rocket exhaust could not be vented into the fighting compartment nor could the barrel withstand the pressure if the gasses were not vented. Therefore, a ring of ventilation shafts was put around the barrel which channeled the exhaust and gave the weapon something of a pepperbox appearance.

Due to the bulkiness of the ammunition, only fourteen rounds could be carried internally, of which one was already loaded, with another in the loading tray. The rest were carried in two storage racks. To help with the loading of ammunition into the vehicle, a loading crane was fitted at the rear of the superstructure next to the loading hatch. Even then, the entire five-man crew had to help with the loading.

It was intended that each Sturmtiger would be accompanied by an ammunition carrier built on the same Tiger I chassis, but only one carrier was completed.[1]

Located at the rear of the loading hatch was a Nahverteidigungswaffe launcher which was used for close defence against infantry in addition to a frontal mounted 7.92 mm MG 34 machine gun.

  • Raketensprenggranate 4581 motor details.
    Raketensprenggranate 4581 motor details.
  • Raketensprenggranate 4581 schematic.
    Raketensprenggranate 4581 schematic.

Combat service[edit]

A Sturmtiger captured by American forces, April 1945

The Sturmtiger was intended to serve as a heavy infantry support vehicle, rendering assistance with attacks on heavily fortified or built-up areas. By the time the first Sturmtiger were available, however, Germany had lost the initiative, with the Wehrmacht being almost exclusively on the defensive rather than the offensive.

Three new Panzer companies were raised to operate the Sturmtiger: Panzer Sturmmörser Kompanien (PzStuMrKp) ("Armored Assault Mortar Company") 1000, 1001 and 1002. These originally were supposed to be equipped with fourteen vehicles, but this figure was later reduced to four each, divided into two platoons.

PzStuMrKp 1000 was raised on 13 August 1944 and fought during the Warsaw Uprising with two vehicles, as did the prototype in a separate action, which may have been the only time the Sturmtiger was used in its intended role. PzStuMrKp 1001 (commanded by Captain von Gottberg) and 1002 (commanded by Lieutenant Zippel) followed in September and October. Both PzStuMrKp 1000 and 1001 served during the Ardennes Offensive, with a total of seven Sturmtiger.

After this offensive, the Sturmtiger were used in the defence of Germany, mainly on the Western Front.

During the battle for the bridge at Remagen, German forces mobilized Sturmmörserkompanie 1000 and 1001 (a total of 7 units) to take part in the battle. The Sturmtiger were originally tasked with using their mortars against the bridge itself, though it was discovered that they lacked the accuracy needed to hit the bridge. During this action, one of the Sturmtigers in Sturmmörserkompanie 1001 near Düren and Euskirchen allegedly hit a group of stationary Sherman tanks in a village with a 380mm round, resulting in nearly all the Shermans being put out of action, and their crews killed or wounded. This is the only tank-on-tank combat a Sturmtiger is ever recorded engaging in.[3][4]

Survivors[edit]

See also[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ a b c Livesey 2007, pp. 114–115.
  2. ^ a b Jentz 1999 [page needed]
  3. ^ Kleine, E. and Kühn, V. "Tiger: the History of a Legendary Weapon", 1942-45. p.245
  4. ^ Schnieder, Wolfgang, "Elefant Jagdtiger Sturmtiger: Rarities of the Tiger Family" Schiffler Military History September 1990, p45

References[edit]

  • Chamberlain, Peter, and Hilary L. Doyle. Thomas L. Jentz (Technical Editor). Encyclopedia of German Tanks of World War Two: A Complete Illustrated Directory of German Battle Tanks, Armoured Cars, Self-propelled Guns, and Semi-tracked Vehicles, 1933–1945. London: Arms and Armour Press, 1978 (revised edition 1993). ISBN 1-85409-214-6
  • Jentz, Thomas L., Panzer Tracts No. 8 "Sturmgeschuetz - s.Pak to Sturmmoerser", Darlington Productions, Inc, 1999, ISBN 1-892848-04-X
  • Livesey, Jack (2007). Armoured Fighting Vehicles of World Wars I and II. Southwater. ISBN 978-1-84476-370-2.
  • Trojca, Waldemar and Jaugitz, Markus. Sturmtiger and Sturmpanzer in Combat. Katowice, Poland: Model Hobby, 2008 ISBN 978-83-60041-29-1
  • Panzer-Archive Archived 5 May 2018 at the Wayback Machine
  • "Frontline Illustration : Sturmtiger", 1999, Moscow, Russia

External links[edit]

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