A motorcycle dispatch rider converses with the commander of a kleine Panzerbefehlswagen (Sd.Kfz.265), probably during the opening stages of “Operation Barbarossa” in June of 1941. At this time, the vehicle would have been painted in overall dunkelgrau RAL 7021; there are no markings visible. This vehicle has the added “Rahmenantenne” (frame antenna), which was sometimes seen in service after the campaigns of 1939 and 1940. Note how the posts that support the frame are themselves reinforced with strips connecting them to the superstructure. The motorcyclists are wearing their gas mask canisters slung across their chests, a common practice. The motorcycle combination in the background is based on the BMW R75, which is identified by the characteristic framework foreward of the fuel tank; the near one is a DKW NZ 350.
In a second view of the same kleine Panzerbefehlswagen, a solo-motorcycle dispatch rider as well as a Panzer crewman (sensibly wearing his steel helmet while away from his mount!) quickly scribble information from the commander of the panzer. The motorcycle is a DKW NZ 350. Note the extensive stowage on the panzer, including: small logs wired together to help in overcoming soft ground, spare road-wheel, box, tarp, etc. This panzer has a stowage locker behind the superstructure, which carries a black balkenkreuz with a white outline.
Source :
Book "Panzer Vor: German Armor At War 1939-45" by Frank V. De Sisto
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