SdKfz 251 Half-Track 1939-45

Description

Following in the best traditions of German ingenuity in design and construction of armoured vehicles, the SdKfz 251 firmly realised the concept of a competent cross-country tactical vehicle for armoured infantry units. So successful was this half-track that not only did a modified version of it remain in use with Czech forces well into the 1980s but also, ironically, the armoured infantry tactics that the Germans pioneered with it were adopted by Allied forces in the Second World War and helped them to achieve the eventual defeat of Germany. This book covers the genesis and development of the SdKfz 251, and details the numerous modifications and variations that sprang from combat experience.

Bruce Culver, born in 1940, was for many years a professional medical illustrator, while still pursuing his interest in the history of Second World War armoured vehicles and colour scheme practices. He has been an active member of IPMS USA, and is probably best known for his highly praised books Panzer Colours and Panzer Colours 2. He has contributed to numerous Osprey titles over the years, chiefly dealing with military vehicles. Jim Laurier is a native of New Hampshire. He graduated with honours from the Paiers School of Art, Connecticut, in 1978 and has worked as a freelance illustrator ever since, completing assignments in a wide variety of fields. Jim has a keen interest in military subjects, both aviation and armour, and is a Fellow member of the American Society of Aviation Artists, the New York Society of Illustrators and the American Fighter Aces Association. Bruce Culver, born in 1940, was for many years a professional medical illustrator, while still pursuing his interest in the history of Second World War armoured vehicles and colour scheme practices. He has been an active member of IPMS USA, and is probably best known for his highly praised books Panzer Colours and Panzer Colours 2. He has contributed to numerous Osprey titles over the years, chiefly dealing with military vehicles.