[Copied from Tank encyclopedia]

The Kettenkrad officially called SdKfz 2, was, in fact, an abbreviation of "Kleines Kettenkraftrad HK 101". Ketten meaning "tracks", and kraftrad "motorcycle", later shortened. The other official designation was SdKfz 2, for "Sonderkraftfahrzeug" or "special purpose vehicle". It was first specified by the RML as an airborne tractor for paratroopers and glider-borne infantry, to fit inside the hold of a Junkers 52, with excellent off-road capabilities, being capable of carrying two infantrymen and up to 500 kgs of munitions as well as towing a small multipurpose trailer (Sd.Anh.1), with a cable drum mounting device, or alternatively mortar, machine-guns, ammunitions, etc. NSU Werke AG from Neckarsulm was the first to design a successful prototype through Heinrich Ernst Kniepkamp idea (NSU chief engineer), ready for trials in June 1939, and patented.

Layering:

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Front wheel Main body Bottom road wheels Upper road wheels Front Sprocket Caterpillar tracks
#German #WW2 #Military #tank