E-75 Jagdtiger II – Assault Gun Variant of the E-50/75 Series

The E-75 Jagdtiger II was a heavily armored tank destroyer developed as part of the E-50/75 series, intended to replace earlier turreted heavy tanks by prioritizing firepower, armor, and production efficiency. By eliminating the turret, the design allowed for a larger-caliber gun and thicker frontal armor, making it one of the most powerful defensive and breakthrough vehicles of its time.

A total of 450 units were produced, and the Jagdtiger II was deployed in key engagements where long-range firepower and impenetrable armor were critical.

Design and Features

The E-75 Jagdtiger II was designed for frontline defense and anti-armor dominance, featuring:

• Reinforced hull armor, with 200-250mm frontal armor, exceeding the protection of turreted heavy tanks.
• A fixed casemate structure, simplifying production while improving durability and weight distribution.
• Two main armament options, allowing for mission-specific adaptations.

Armament Configurations

The E-75 Jagdtiger II was available in two primary configurations, both emphasizing long-range lethality:

1. 105mm L/68 high-velocity gun

   • Muzzle velocity: ~1,200 m/s
   • Effective penetration: ~250mm at 1,000m
   • Ammunition capacity: ~50 rounds
   • Faster reload time, providing higher rate of fire for engaging multiple targets.

2. 128mm Pak 44 L/55

   • Muzzle velocity: ~1,000 m/s
   • Effective penetration: ~280mm at 1,000m
   • Ammunition capacity: ~38 rounds
   • High-impact shell, capable of destroying any enemy armor in a single hit.

Both guns were mounted within a reinforced mantlet, with limited traverse (10° left/right) but exceptional accuracy and armor penetration.

Armor and Protection

The E-75 Jagdtiger II featured one of the thickest armor profiles of any tank destroyer, designed to withstand all contemporary anti-tank weapons:

• Frontal Armor: 200-250mm sloped at 45°, making it nearly impenetrable to direct hits.
• Side Armor: 100mm with additional spaced armor skirts for increased RPG/HEAT resistance.
• Rear Armor: 80mm, offering limited protection against flanking attacks.

Mobility and Performance

Despite its heavily reinforced armor, the E-75 Jagdtiger II maintained reasonable mobility for its class, thanks to a reinforced drivetrain and high-power engine:

• Engine: Maybach HL 234, 1,200 hp
• Top Speed: 40 km/h (road), 28 km/h (off-road)
• Operational Range: 180 km
• Weight: ~80 tons
• Crew: 6 (Commander, Gunner, Loader x2, Driver, Radio Operator)