The Panhard AMD 178, nicknamend Pan-Pan, was an advanced 4×4 reconnaissance vehicle, with a crew of 4. With an effective main gun of 25 mm and a 7.5 mm coaxial gun. The AMD class Automitrailleuse de Découverte was a specialized long range reconnaissance vehicle with a range of 400 kilometers. It had 5 to 8 mm of armor.
Panhard AMD 178 Reconnaissance vehicle
The Panhard AMD 178 was a French armored reconnaissance vehicle developed in the late 1930s by Panhard et Levassor. It was designed to meet the French Army’s need for a highly mobile, well-armored reconnaissance vehicle that could operate in diverse battlefield conditions, including urban, forested, and rural terrain. The AMD 178 saw service during World War II, primarily in reconnaissance and light combat roles.
Powered by a 6-cylinder gasoline engine producing 90 horsepower, the Panhard AMD 178 could reach a top speed of about 55 km/h (34 mph) on roads, with a range of around 300 km (186 miles). Its fully tracked design gave it exceptional off-road capability, allowing it to maneuver easily across rough terrain.
The vehicle’s main armament consisted of a 25mm Puteaux SA 34 anti-tank gun, which was capable of engaging lightly armored enemy vehicles, as well as a 7.5mm MG34 machine gun for close defense. The armor of the AMD 178 was up to 40mm thick, providing protection against small arms fire and shell fragments, though it was vulnerable to heavier weapons.
With a crew of 3 (commander, driver, and gunner), the Panhard AMD 178 played a significant role in reconnaissance, scouting, and light combat operations. It was used by both French and German forces during the war, showcasing its effectiveness in early World War II reconnaissance missions.
The Germans used them as Panzerspähwagen and as schienenwagen or rail vehicle.
