Flakpanzer IV/ 2cm Vierling

History: The Wirbelwind was developed as a mount for anti-aircraft guns on Pz Kpfw IV chassis which had been returned from the front for major overhaul. They were intended to supplement production of the M6belwagen. In the autumn of 1944, production of the Wirbelwind ceased, since the 2cm Flakvierling was not proving so effective as the 3.7cm FlaK. 

Specific features: The turret was removed from normal Pz Kpfw IV and replaced by an open-topped turret, in which the Flakvierling 38 was mounted. Some vehicles had only 50mm frontal armour since early Ausf F to G were converted for use as the chassis. 

Combat service: Issued to the Flugabwehrzug (AA platoons) of Panzer regiments in Panzer divisions.

Type	Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun
Place of origin	Nazi Germany
Specifications
Weight	22 tonnes (48,501 lbs)
Length	5.89 m (19 ft 4 in)
Width	2.88 m (9 ft 5 in)
Height	2.76 m (9 ft 1 in)
Crew	5 (commander/gunner, two loaders, driver, radio operator)
Armor	10 - 80 mm (.39 - 3.14 in)
Main armament	2 cm Flakvierling 38 quad AA
Secondary armament	1x7.92 mm Maschinengewehr 34
Engine	12-cylinder Maybach HL 120 TRM 300 PS (296 hp, 221 kW)
Power/weight	13.6 PS/tonne
Payload capacity	3,200 rounds 2 cm 1,350 rounds 7,92 mm
Suspension	leaf spring
Operational range	200 km (124 mi)
Speed	40 km/h (25 mph)