Panzertruppe, Panzer I, 1934-1941: Rare Photographs from Wartime Archives

During the 1930s, Germany defied the Treaty of Versailles by rebuilding its military and pioneering new forms of mechanised warfare. This detailed study traces the development of the German tank during this crucial time, from experimental prototypes to Adolf Hitler's first mass-produced tank, the Panzer I a tank that would help German forces train for and execute their Blitzkrieg operations. The performance of this small, lightly armed tank was limited, nevertheless it participated in the opening campaigns of the war, including the invasions of Poland, Denmark and Norway, the Low Countries, France and Russia. It provided a valuable training platform for Panzer crews and helped pave for the way for the subsequent heavier and more powerful German models. Covering the design innovations of the various models and variants, as well as their combat history and performance, this is a fascinating look at the Panzer I during pre-war training and later operational service. Part of the Images of War series, combining a treasure trove of rare and unpublished photographs with well-researched text, this is a valuable source for students of the war, modellers and anyone fascinated by military technology, armoured warfare and the evolution of the tank. AUTHOR: Over the last twenty-five years, David Mitchelhill-Green has roamed the world in search of lost stories from the Second World War. His photographic investigations have featured in the British military magazine After the Battle. With a Masters degree in Military History, Davids extensive knowledge of the war has also appeared in numerous newspaper features and encyclopedia entries. Years spent in Japan culminated in the co-authoring of the book Castles of the Samurai, with Jennifer Mitchelhill in 2003. David lives in Melbourne, Australia.