The German Flakpanzer IV “Wirbelwind” was a widely used self-propelled anti-aircraft vehicle introduced in 1944 to protect German armoured units from increasing Allied air attacks. Built on the reliable Panzer IV chassis, it mounted a distinctive open-topped, nine-sided turret armed with quadruple 2cm FlaK 38 autocannons—a setup capable of an exceptional combined rate of fire that made the Wirbelwind highly effective against low-flying aircraft. The turret design offered good protection from small-arms fire and shrapnel while providing the crew excellent visibility and rapid traverse to track fast-moving targets.
 
In addition to its anti-aircraft role, the Wirbelwind proved devastating against infantry and lightly armoured vehicles, making it a valuable support asset during defensive operations. It served on both the Eastern and Western Fronts from 1944 to 1945, often accompanying Panzer divisions to shield them from Allied fighter-bombers. Although eventually overshadowed by the more heavily armed Ostwind, the Wirbelwind remained one of Germany’s most practical and effective late-war Flakpanzers, combining reliability, firepower, and ease of production.
 
Multi part resin model.
 
Printed by Imperator Models on License from Wargame 3D.