This Panzerkampfwagen III Ausf.E of F was at one time fitted out as a “Tauchpanzer” for fully submerged operation. A number of different panzers were so converted for the aborted invasion of the United Kingdom, code-named “Operation Seelöwe” (Sealion); some were used by the 18. Panzer-Division to cross the Bug River in the initial stages of the invasion of the Soviet Union, “Operation Barbarossa”. This panzer is identified as a submersible by the flange around the rim of the turret front plate (where a canvas cover was fixed to seal the mantle area), as well as the cover on the engine air intake grills. There is a storage bin on the turret rear as well as a Notek head-lamp on the fender, both retro-fitted items. The markings on the turret side consist of a divisional insignia (upright “Y” with three horizontal strokes) in yellow and a tactical number (101), designating the panzer as belonging to the 1. Kompanie, in white. A white-outlined Balkenkreuz, with black center, is below the turret on the side of the superstructure. It was common for the insignia of Panzer-Regiment 18 to be displayed on the turret stowage bin’s rear face.
Source :
Book "Panzer Vor: German Armor At War 1939-45" by Frank V. De Sisto
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