Sd Kfz 250/7 (8cm) (GE205) Early Version The SdKfz 250 series was introduced to carry a half squad for the Panzeraufklarungsschwadron or Armoured Reconnaissance Company and like the Bigger SdKfz 251 it was used as the basis for many similar variants. After the success of the bigger Sd Kfz 251/2 Mortar carrier the same GW34 8cm mortar was fitted into it’s smaller sibling the Sd Kfz 250/7. The /7 version was built in both the Alte (old) and Neu (new) versions of the Sd Kfz 250, the Neu version first started appearing in October 1943.

The main modifications carried out were to add a reinforced base plate in the rear of the Halftrack to allow the 8cm schwerer Granatwerfer 34 to be fired from the vehicle and the addition of ammunition storage. The forward MG mount was removed because the mortar fired to the front of the vehicle.    A normal base plate for the mortar was carried externally on the rear of the vehicle so that the weapon could be dismounted to fire if necessary.

In Flames of War Two of these Halftracks, along with an observer team in another Sd Kfz 250, are used to equip the mortar squad of the Aufklarungsschwadron heavy platoon. Up to six can also be found in the armoured mortar platoon to provide even heavier support for your armoured reconnaissance troops, if you choose to replace your trucks with the extra protection and mobility provided by armoured halftracks.

The 8cm mortar will provide you with HE fire as well as the ability to fire smoke rounds, always popular for that bit of extra concealment at the critical moment! As with the standard Sd Kfz 250 halftrack you also get the benefit of the rear mounted AA mg for protection from roving aircraft. The armour of the halftrack will help keep out small arms fire but stay away from any serious AT capability.    Designed and Painted by Evan Allen