The German Panzer III Ausf. H was a significant step forward in the evolution of the Panzer III series, entering service in 1940–1941 with major improvements to both firepower and protection. Most notably, it introduced the more powerful 5cm KwK 38 L/42 main gun, giving it far better performance against early Allied armour than the earlier 3.7cm weapon. Armour was also strengthened, with the frontal hull and turret increased to 50mm, often supplemented by additional bolted-on plates for even greater protection. The tank retained the reliable Maybach HL 120 TRM engine and torsion-bar suspension, providing good mobility and a top speed of around 40 km/h.
The Panzer III Ausf. H saw action in the Balkans campaign, North Africa, and the early stages of Operation Barbarossa, where its upgraded armament allowed it to remain competitive against many enemy tanks. Although it would soon be surpassed by later Panzer III variants with longer 5cm guns, the Ausf. H represented an important transitional model—balancing firepower, armour, and mobility at a time when German armoured forces were rapidly expanding.
 
Multi part resin model.
 
Printed by Imperator Models on License from Wargame 3D.