Panzer IV D

Background
The Panzerkampfwagen IV Ausführung D (Designated as Sd.Kfz. 161.) is a Medium Tank in Post Scriptum.

Introduced in 1939 and designated as an infantry support vehicle, it was armed with the short-barreled 7,5cm KwK 37 L/24. The doctrine at the time dictated that the more nimble Panzer III was to take the anti-tank role with its quick firing 5cm cannon.

The '''Panzer IV Ausf. D''' mainly saw action in the invasion of France. In reality, modern combat outpaced the designated role of the '''Panzer IV Ausf. D''' as it had to face heavy armored French and British tanks like the Matilda and Renault B1. Without dedicated anti-tank support many '''Panzer IV Ausf. D''' were lost to enemy tanks as their cannons were inadequate to deal with these heavy foes. The experience of these confrontations lead to further improvements in the firepower department of Panzer IVs and Panzer IIIs.

Strategy
The Panzer IV '''Ausf. D' in Post Scriptum'' shares the strengths and weaknesses of its real life counterpart. Due to its rather weak armor and inferior AP firepower, it has to be handled with care. The Panzer IV '''Ausf. D''' can unleash heavy suppression on enemy infantry, as its 7,5cm cannon can fire in quick succession, but has to be aware of enemy AT Rifles and tanks. The main playstyle should be in an infantry-support role or as support for friendly tanks.

The Panzer IV '''Ausf. D''' is unable to penetrate its French and British counterparts' frontal armor. Experienced commanders may manage to flank enemy tanks which is the only way to engage enemy tanks successfully. However, crews should beware of the enormous drop of the shells. With access to smoke shells, it can provide cover for friendly infantry, or blind enemy positions and vehicles.