I am working on a StuG IV that served with the 17th SS Panzer Grenadier
Division in Normandy and had a couple of questions. Would these vehicles
have had the concrete armor added to the front or was that a later
innovation? Also, all of the pictures I have seen of StuG IVs in Normandy,
show them sans schurzen (rails are there though). Is this a coincidence, or
did they not use schurzen on them in the 17th SS during the summer of 1944.

Thanks in advance.

Hi Adam, you will find that most StuG IV's ( Sd Kfz 167 ) did have Zimmerit and
also some were given additional protection, provided by 6 inch thick
concrete slabs in the front of the superstructure and driver's cab.
( Yes, this would have been seen during the Summer of 1944 )
.......As far as the armor side skirts ( schurzen ) there were also some with & some without.
Also they had the cast "Saukopfblende " gun mantlet.
HOPE THIS HELPS.
- ralph

Adam, I'd say go an add the cement. Looking at this pic of one in Italy in '44, looks like it was an accepted practice.

Stug IV image

Hi,

I'll check the SS Armour book I've and if I find anything about that unit and vehicle I'll let you know.