No panzer divisions took part in “Operation Weserübung”, the invasion of Norway. However, a small number of panzers were deployed as part of “Panzer-Abteilung z.b.V.40”. By 25 April 1940, after seeing combat, the unit reported 29 Panzerkampfwagen I, 18 Panzerkampfwagen II and four Kleiner Panzerbefehlswagen, as well as three Neubau-Panzerkampfwagen IV as being operational. Some of its panzers came from Panzer-Regiment 15 or 31 from 5. Panzer-Division, which is indicated by the over-painted markings on the turret. These consisted of a segmented yellow-black-yellow band at the base of the turret. In this photo, the band as well as the tactical number (possibly “29”) have been over-painted. The insignia of 3. Kompanie / Panzer-Abteilung z.b.V.40 is on the superstructure rear plate along with a white-outline balkenkreuz. This is a 2.serie/La.S chassis as denoted by the view-port to the left of the balkenkreuz. It has the retro-fitted armored cowls over the air intakes as well as “Nebelkerzenabwerfvorrichtung” (smoke candle deployment rack) on the hull rear.
Source :
Book "Panzer Vor: German Armor At War 1939-45" by Frank V. De Sisto
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