The Sd.Kfz.251/17 was the Anti-Aircraft Gun modification of widely used Sd.Kfz.251 halftrack.
Photographic evidence shows different models using the Sd.Kfz.251 Ausf C chassis.
Most photographed (although only 10 pieces and two command vehicles were constructed) is the "Luftwaffe-Fla ausführung" (air force anti-aircraft version), ( LEADWARRIOR kit LW35015 ).
It involved considerable rebuilding of the superstructure: the sides have been extended to give the gun a 360 degrees rotation freedom. The sides also can be lowered to create a platform.
The Machine Guns were dismounted, it is believed that they were transported inside the vehicle. The box with spare gun barrels was installed in place of front Machine Gun.
The official records first list the Sd.Kfz.251/17 in October 1944. 11 were available on the eastern front. In November there were 15 (different types).
The command vehicle got the same collapsible sides. The command-vehicles were similar to the AA vehicle but without the gun. Unlike the FlaK machines, the front machine gun (MG-34 or MG-42) remained in place.
These command vehicles were equipped with additional radio FU-10, consisted of 30-W.S. transmitter with a frame-antenna, and Torn.E. b receiver.
One command vehicle leads 4 flak vehicles
Sd.Kfz.251/17 Ausf C, Command Vehicle.
FlaK vehicle (LW35015 kit)- left, and Command vehicle - right.
Torn.E.b. receiver. 30-W.S. Transmitter and EUa-4 Dynamotor.
