21cm Nebelwerfer 42 – RARE FIND
Recreate one of the Wehrmacht’s less commonly modelled rocket artillery systems with this detailed 21cm Nebelwerfer 42. Introduced during the Second World War, this distinctive towed launcher combined a compact artillery carriage with five large-calibre rocket tubes. It is an excellent choice for adding unusual German artillery equipment to a collection or battlefield scene.
Historical Role
The 21cm Nebelwerfer 42 was operated by German Nebeltruppen as a mobile area-bombardment weapon. Its rockets were intended to deliver concentrated high-explosive fire against troop positions, defensive works and assembly areas. Batteries could fire coordinated salvos before relocating to reduce the danger of counter-battery fire, particularly important because rocket launch signatures could reveal the firing position.
Distinctive Appearance
The launcher is immediately recognisable by its cluster of five substantial tubes mounted on a two-wheeled, split-trail carriage. Compared with conventional field artillery, the open tube assembly, elevated firing frame, small shield and compact towing arrangement give it a purposeful mechanical appearance. These details create a strong silhouette in either firing or transport settings.
Variant Differences
Developed as a larger-calibre counterpart to the better-known 15cm Nebelwerfer 41, the 21cm model replaced the earlier launcher’s six smaller tubes with five considerably larger tubes on a broadly similar towed-carriage layout. The larger rocket provided a heavier artillery effect and greater reach, while the five-tube arrangement is the clearest visual distinction for modellers.
Modelling Uses
This model suits late-war Wehrmacht artillery batteries, Eastern or Western Front dioramas, model railways with military loading scenes, wargaming displays and specialist collectors. It receives the RARE FIND badge because the 21cm Nebelwerfer variant is less commonly modelled than other German rocket launchers.
Fun Fact
The same basic 21cm rocket was adapted for Luftwaffe use as the Werfer-Granate 21, carried in launch tubes beneath fighter aircraft for attacks on Allied bomber formations.
Available Scales
1:87, 1:76, 1:72, 1:48 and 1:35.
Finish Options
Cleaned Resin Grey, Grey Primed - Ready for Painting, and Historical Base Colour.
Very small details may vary slightly depending on the scale selected.
