Panzerkampfwagen II or Panzer II Ausf L “Luchs” reconnaissance tank Sd.Kfz. 123 – The Tank Museum Bovington – England. Photographed at The Tank Museum in Bovington, England 2017.
The Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf L “Luchs” was a German light tank developed during World War II, designed for reconnaissance and infantry support roles. It was an evolution of the earlier Panzer II series, featuring improved mobility, armor, and armament. The Luchs was equipped with a 20mm KwK 38 L/55 autocannon, which was effective against infantry and light vehicles, as well as a coaxial MG34 machine gun. Its hull and turret were protected by 30mm of steel armor, offering moderate protection against small arms fire and shrapnel, though it remained vulnerable to heavier anti-tank weapons.
Powered by a Maybach HL 120 TRM 6-cylinder engine, the Luchs produced 265 horsepower, giving it a top speed of around 55 km/h (34 mph), which was quite fast for a vehicle of its size. The tank’s mobility was further enhanced by a sophisticated suspension system, which allowed it to traverse rough terrain, making it highly suited for reconnaissance missions and rapid assaults.
With a combat weight of approximately 11.5 tons, the Luchs was lightly armored but highly maneuverable, with a crew of three. It had a relatively low production rate, with only 100 units built in 1943-1944. The Luchs was used primarily in reconnaissance and rapid deployment roles on both the Eastern and Western fronts.
