Hi.

I know the Kursk engagement started almost the beginning of July, and that the Panther D was then available.

My question is:

Near the end when the Soviets went on the offensive and the whole thing dragged on until the end of August, was there enough time for any A models to arrive as reinforcement? I know they started production the same month that Kursk ended, but it leaves a small window of 'maybe" so I'm asking.

My gut says no, not enough time, but I defer to more knowledgeable persons.

Thanks

I can pretty much say no for sure on this. I'd of course want to check before going on record but I'm pretty positive.

The D Panther was produced until September, 1943. The A Panther production began in August, 1943, so I would not see any on the eastern front in that month.

The 2SS 'Panzergrenadier' Division Das Reich did receive its Panther D battalion in August, 1943, but I think it arrived toward the latter part of the month, maybe some did take part in the fourth battle of Kharkov.