By 1943, confronted by heavier enemy tanks in increasing numbers, German field commanders were asking for a more potent tank destroyer, building on the success of the Sturmgeschütz programme. Coincidentally, at this time the Tiger II was well into the development stage and experiments were being undertaking with the huge 12.8cm L/55 gun, originally designed as an anti-aircraft weapon, and the two were eventually combined as the Panzerjäger Tiger ausf B, better known as the Jagdtiger. Going into combat for the first time in January 1945 these massive vehicles were almost impervious to any anti-tank gun in service at the time and the 12.8cm weapon could penetrate the thickest armour. It was the largest armoured fighting vehicle to see action during the Second World War and Hitler was so impressed with these gigantic tank killers that he was briefed on the progress of individual vehicles on a daily basis. Drawing on official documentation and unit histories Dennis Oliver investigates the formations that operated these deservedly famous vehicles and uses archive photos and extensively researched colour illustrations to examine the markings, camouflage and technical aspects of the Jagdtigers that fought in the last battles of the war. A key section of his book displays available model kits and aftermarket products, complemented by a gallery of beautifully constructed and painted models in various scales. Technical details as well as modifications introduced during production and in the field are also examined, providing everything the modeller needs to recreate an accurate representation of these historic vehicles. AUTHOR: Dennis Oliver is the author of over twenty books on Second World War armoured vehicles including Kanonenwagen Sdkfz 251/9 and 251/22 German Army and Waffen-SS Western and Eastern Fronts, 1944-1945, Pakwagen Sdkfz 234/3 and 234/4 German Army and Waffen-SS Western and Eastern Fronts, 1944-1945 and Jagdpanther Tank Destroyer: German Army, Western Europe 1944-1945. 100 colour, 100 b/w illustrations
