The German Panzer IV Ausf. E was a refined early-war variant of the Panzer IV series, produced between 1940 and 1941 with several improvements to armour protection and battlefield survivability. It retained the short-barrelled 7.5cm KwK 37 L/24 gun, ideal for infantry-support roles, but introduced increased armour thickness—most notably a 50mm frontal plate, replacing the earlier 30mm armour. Additional enhancements included revised hull vision ports, improved turret traverse mechanisms, and strengthened side armour for better all-round defence. Powered by the reliable Maybach HL 120 TRM engine, the Ausf. E maintained a top speed of around 40 km/h, allowing it to operate effectively in fast-moving operations.
Serving in the Balkans, North Africa, and the early stages of Operation Barbarossa, the Panzer IV Ausf. E proved durable and adaptable, often working alongside Panzer III units to deliver high-explosive fire support needed to break through defensive positions. Though eventually outclassed by advancing Allied armour, it formed a crucial bridge between the early Panzer IV models and the more heavily armed and armoured mid-war variants. The Ausf. E helped establish the Panzer IV as the backbone of Germany’s armoured forces for the remainder of the war.
 
Multi part resin model.
 
Printed by Imperator Models on License from Wargame 3D.