E-100 Super Heavy Tank Ausf. G (105mm Twin Guns)
The E-100 Super Heavy Tank Ausf. G is a specialized multi-role heavy tank variant developed as part of the E-100 series, featuring twin 105mm high-velocity cannons for enhanced firepower. Designed as a fire-support and breakthrough unit, this version was intended to engage enemy heavy armor and fortified positions while retaining the strong defensive capabilities of the original E-100 platform.
With a total production of approximately 150 units, this variant was introduced in limited numbers but demonstrated outstanding combat effectiveness, particularly in long-range engagements and defensive strongpoints.
Development and Design
The E-100 Super Heavy Tank was originally conceived as an ultimate heavy tank, offering extreme armor protection and firepower. The Ausf. G variant was developed as an alternative to the 128mm or 150mm single-gun configurations, incorporating dual 105mm high-velocity cannons to significantly increase the rate of fire and sustained battlefield effectiveness.
The twin 105mm gun system allowed the Ausf. G to:
- Deliver rapid successive shots, reducing enemy response time
- Engage multiple targets simultaneously
- Maintain continuous suppressive fire in defensive operations
The turret design was modified to accommodate the dual-gun setup, slightly reducing internal ammunition storage but providing superior firepower output. Armor remained among the thickest of any heavy tank, ensuring survivability against enemy counterattacks.
Operational Role
The E-100 Ausf. G was primarily deployed in heavy fire-support roles, excelling in:
- Engaging enemy heavy tanks with sustained firepower
- Breaking fortified enemy positions
- Long-range defensive fire support
Its superior armor and high-caliber weaponry made it a formidable force, although its massive size and weight limited mobility compared to medium or heavy tanks.
Combat Performance
Despite its limited production, the E-100 Ausf. G proved highly effective in strategic defensive battles, where its firepower and armor allowed it to hold key positions and disrupt enemy advances. Its twin-gun system gave it a unique advantage in tank duels, particularly when firing in quick succession to disable enemy armor before they could retaliate.
Power and Mobility
The E-100 Ausf. G retained the 1,200-horsepower engine, but due to its massive 140-ton weight, its top speed was limited to 30 km/h. The reinforced suspension system was upgraded to support the increased turret weight, though its maneuverability remained low compared to lighter tanks.
Crew and Protection
The E-100 Super Heavy Tank Ausf. G operated with a six-person crew, including:
- Commander – Battlefield coordination
- Primary Gunner – Controls the twin 105mm cannons
- Driver – Manages movement and positioning
- Loader (x2) – Ensures continuous ammunition feed
- Engineer/Operator – Monitors mechanical systems and assists with field repairs
Armor protection was exceptionally thick, featuring 200mm frontal armor, making it one of the most resilient tanks ever fielded.
Specifications
- Weight: 140 tons
- Crew: 6 (Commander, Gunner, Driver, 2 Loaders, Engineer/Operator)
- Armor: 200mm sloped frontal armor
- Primary Armament: Twin 105mm high-velocity cannons
- Secondary Armament: Dual 30mm defensive autocannons
- Mobility System: Tracked heavy chassis with reinforced suspension
- Power System: 1,200 hp engine
- Maximum Speed: 30 km/h
- Production Quantity: Approximately 150 units
- Combat Role: Fire support, anti-heavy armor, strategic defense
