Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger II "Königstiger"

The Tiger 1 is definitely the iconic tank of the European Theatre of World War II. The Panzerkampfwagen VI Tiger Ausf. B is the improvement on the Tiger 1, and is dubbed the "Königstiger", which literally means  "Bengal Tiger" in German, but to the allies, the words are transliterated into "King Tiger". It was reported to be the most powerful combat tank of the period.  The name King Tiger did conjure an image of a highly superior heavy tank, much feared by the allies.

The tank may only became significant during the later stages of the war, but planning had already began in 1941 and the first 13 productions were out in 1943. Throughout 1944, 377 were produced and further 100 within the first three months of 1945, as by that time there were insufficient fuel and crew members left to operate such a heavy tank.

The first turrets were desugned and built by Krupp for Porsche (Porsche Turret) , and later  Krupp for Henschel, the Production Turret. The Tiger II was powered by 12 cylinder Maybach HL 230 P30 engine producing 700hp with an 8-speed Maybach OLVAR EG 40 12 16 B gearbox (8 forward and 4 reverse). The gun used was the huge (at the time) 88mm KwK 43 L71 tank gun. The picture shows the King Tiger with the Porsche turret.

The tank is notable for its sheer size and curved turret and mantlet. While only a few was produced, the Tiger II was a force to be reckoned with.