German self-propelled assault gun STUG III Ausf. G COBI 2676 World War II 1:28

MODEL STUG III (STURMGESCHÜTZ III) Ausf. G | COBI 2676

A construction set of the German assault gun (SdKfz 142) from the Battle of Anzio in 1944. The model features an adjustable gun elevation, rubber‑rimmed wheels and fully functional tracks. The model can easily be rolled. The roof of the superstructure can be removed to view the crew compartment and the recoil system of the gun. Inside you will find ammunition, a submachine gun and a FuG 15 radio. Under the rear cover sits a Maybach engine, which can be removed from the tank and displayed separately. Spare road wheels and a supply crate are mounted on the engine deck. Wooden crates and two shovels are placed on the sides of the model. The hatch of the fighting compartment opens for easy seating of the German artilleryman figure.

Did you know: 

The StuG III assault gun, also known as SdKfz 142, was developed by Daimler-Benz in 1938. The idea itself, however, originated earlier, based on a concept created by Erich von Manstein known as “Sturmartillerie”. The fixed turret with a 75 mm gun was welded onto the chassis and hull of the famous Panzer III tank, which greatly simplified service logistics in harsh field conditions. According to the original design, assault guns were supposed to have an open roof, but this proved unsuitable during tank trials.

At the beginning of 1942, the German factories Daimler Benz and MIAG began producing the modernized version G (Sd.Kfz 142/1), which was newly equipped with a second defensive machine gun and a protective shield called the “Pig’s Head”. The sight received a new cover that eliminated a vulnerable spot for the crew. The biggest change, however, was the redesign of the cabin. The angular lines were replaced, the cabin widened and the sides sloped. These modifications were intended to increase crew protection, allow installation of a modern radio and increase ammunition storage.

In early March 1943, the German armament office ordered the installation of additional 30 mm side armor to protect the vehicle and crew from Soviet anti‑tank rifles. Newly produced StuGs were coated with 70 kg of anti‑magnetic Zimmerit paste. This was interesting because the Soviets did not have their own magnetic mines, and the number supplied by the USA was low. Vehicles with anti‑magnetic coating were likely intended mainly for the Western Front. Independently of official instructions, field mechanics further reinforced the armor, and some vehicles were even seen with concrete appliqué.

After changes on the Eastern Front, StuGs were used mostly in defensive roles, supported by the installation of smoke launchers. However, these were often damaged, and the generated smoke leaked into the cabin so heavily that it forced the crew to abandon the vehicle. After combat experience, the smoke launchers were discontinued. Despite minor shortcomings, the StuG proved to be an extremely effective weapon and, with 10,001 units produced, became one of the most widespread types of German armored vehicles.

Captured vehicles were also used by the Czechoslovak Army under the designation ShPTK 40/75N.

The last units were retired from service by the Finnish Army as late as 1966.

Technical specifications:

• dimensions: length 6.85 m, width 2.95 m, height 2.16 m
• weight 23,900 kg
• armor 16–80 mm
• power unit: V‑12 Maybach HL 120 TRM petrol engine, 220 kW
• maximum speed 40 km/h
• fuel capacity 310 l
• range 165 km
• main armament: STUK 40 L/48 75 mm gun (54 rounds)
• secondary armament: MG 34 machine gun, 7.92 mm
• crew 4

From the memories of Corporal Jack Miller (45th Infantry Division, US):

“From Anzio I remember three things. Mud, and more mud, which we called wadi, and my first encounter with a StuG. I was sleep‑deprived and had been suffering from terrible stomach cramps for two days. That day I was on an advanced outpost when the cramps struck again. I spotted a pile of junk overgrown with bushes and tall grass near an abandoned barn. Instead of the expected relief came a real shock. It wasn’t junk at all, but a well‑hidden German StuG. The crew was waiting for nightfall to withdraw unnoticed. Luckily, they didn’t notice me, but I still remember how my ears pounded with fear when they started the engine.”

About the COBI construction set:

• the COBI 2676 set is made of 955 high‑quality ABS bricks
• number of figures: 1
• collection: World War II
• scale 1:28
• pad printed – no stickers
• highly detailed design
• made in the EU
• compatible with other construction brands
• recommended age 10+