- This is an article about Company of Heroes 2.
- Are you looking for the Panther article for the original Company of Heroes?
The Panzerkamphwagen V Panther , was a German medium tank used during the second world war. First used in 1943 at the Battle Of Kursk , it was designed as a direct counter to the Soviet T34. Equipped with a 7.5cm Kwk 42 (L/70) gun and sloped armour , a first for German tanks , making it a formidable foe on the battlefield. The Panther we see in game for the Wehrmacht is the Panther D variant.
Obtaining and Threats
The Panther tank is accessible to Wehrmacht forces by first upgrading to Battle Phase 3 ( 100 manpower, 45 fuel ) and then constructing a Heavy Panzer Korps ( Building cost: 260 manpower, 75 fuel ). On the field , the Panther wields similar mobility to that of the Panzer 4 , but with increased armour and a more powerful gun. Whilst the tank has stronger armour , the sides and rear are still vulnerable. Meaning t34's can still damage you if they successfully flank your Panther.
However , soviet vehicles such as the Su-85 and T34-85 remain a large threat on the battlefield. As they can penetrate your frontal armour with relative ease. The same applies for the IS-2 and ISU-152. But they will nearly almost always penetrate the armour and do even more damage. If you see an IS-2 or ISU-152 equipped Soviet commander , be wary of your Panthers , as they will often be targeted.
Most other vehicles will easily fall victim to your Panthers , but some should still be watched for. The American M36 and M10 tank destroyers have good range and relatively good penetration , making them threats to your Panther. A pack of M10's will quickly overwhelm a lone panther and you will most likely lose the tank. The M26 Pershing poses a great threat too , as its 90mm gun will slice into your tank like a knife through hot butter. Not to mention the Pershings strong armour , preventing much damage being returned. Some British tanks pose an immediate threat to Panthers : The Sherman Firefly , Churchill Mk.7 and the Comet. Both the firefly and comet are equipped with 17 pounder guns and the churchil with a high velocity 75mm gun, both of which can penetrate the frontal armour most of the time.
Tactics and Strategies
The panther is an excellent tank on its own , being able to handle medium and light tanks woth relative ease , Heavier or more advanced tanks pose a greater challenge. Placing panthers in groups of 2 or 3 are vicious , and can force retreats and kill tanks quickly. The downside to this is that Panthers are expensive , and losing your pack will hurt. If your team has a tiger on the field , supporting it with Panthers works well , preventing the Tiger form being rushed. If you are short of fuel , but still have relatively good munitions , use infantry to bolster your attacks. Panzer Grenadiers armed with Panzerschreck's are a good choice , as they provide good AT whilst still holding a good infantry role. Better still is you have them pre made and vetted before you role out your armour.
( Nearly Done Now , Feel free to edit as im still a noobie. RainbowDash1612 )