Ostwind
Bring a distinctive late-war German armoured vehicle to your collection with the Flakpanzer IV Ostwind. Built on the proven Panzer IV chassis, this self-propelled anti-aircraft tank combined tracked mobility with heavier anti-aircraft firepower. It carries the RARE VARIANT badge because the Ostwind was a comparatively scarce late-war German anti-aircraft tank.
Historical Role
The Ostwind was intended to provide mobile air defence for Wehrmacht armoured formations threatened by Allied aircraft. Its 3.7 cm Flak 43 offered greater range and hitting power than lighter anti-aircraft weapons while retaining the ability to engage lightly armoured vehicles and ground targets when required. Its Panzer IV chassis allowed it to accompany other tracked vehicles across difficult terrain.
Distinctive Appearance
The vehicle is immediately recognisable by its tall, open-topped, six-sided turret and prominent 3.7 cm anti-aircraft gun. Angular armour plates surround the fighting compartment, while the familiar Panzer IV hull, suspension and road-wheel arrangement remain clearly visible beneath the specialised turret.
Variant Differences
The Ostwind was developed from the Panzer IV medium tank chassis. The standard enclosed tank turret and main gun were removed and replaced by a rotating, open-topped armoured turret mounting a single 3.7 cm Flak 43. This created a much taller and more angular silhouette, with the gun elevated for anti-aircraft engagement. The conversion existed to give armoured units a mobile weapon capable of delivering heavier anti-aircraft fire.
Modelling Uses
An excellent choice for late-war European dioramas, the Ostwind can accompany Panzer formations, supply columns or defensive positions. It also makes a striking addition to model railways, wargaming displays and collections focused on unusual Wehrmacht vehicles. Larger scales highlight the open fighting compartment, while smaller scales suit formation scenes and compact layouts.
Fun Fact
“Ostwind” translates as “East Wind,” continuing the evocative wind-themed names used for several German anti-aircraft vehicle projects.
Available Scales
Available in 1:87, 1:76, 1:72, 1:48 and 1:35 scales.
Finish Options
Choose from Cleaned Resin Grey, Grey Primed - Ready for Painting, or Historical Base Colour.
Very small details may vary slightly depending on the scale selected.
