The Panzerschreck, a formidable anti-tank rocket launcher from World War II, was also known by the earlier, official name Ofenrohr, which translates to "stove pipe." The name "Panzerschreck" itself was a popular designation for the weapon, famously meaning "tank fright," "tank's fright," or "tank's bane."
Understanding the Panzerschreck
The Panzerschreck was an 88 mm reusable anti-tank rocket launcher developed by Nazi Germany during World War II. Its formal designation was Raketenpanzerbüchse 54 (abbreviated as RPzB 54).
Key Nicknames and Names
The weapon carried several names throughout its service, reflecting both its official designations and its popular perception:
- Panzerschreck: This was the most widely recognized and popular name for the weapon. It directly translates to "tank fright," "tank's fright," or "tank's bane," highlighting its intended purpose and the fear it aimed to instill in enemy tank crews.
- Ofenrohr: An earlier and more official name for the Panzerschreck was "Ofenrohr." This German word literally means "stove pipe," likely a descriptive nickname given to the weapon due to its resemblance to a large, tubular pipe.
- RPzB 54: This abbreviation stood for Raketenpanzerbüchse 54, the formal and official designation for the weapon.
Here's a quick overview of the names associated with this potent anti-tank weapon:
| Name/Designation | Type of Name | Meaning/Translation |
|---|---|---|
| Panzerschreck | Popular Name | Tank fright, Tank's bane |
| Ofenrohr | Earlier, Official Name | Stove pipe |
| Raketenpanzerbüchse 54 (RPzB 54) | Formal Designation | Rocket Anti-armor Rifle Model 54 |
The Panzerschreck was instrumental in anti-tank warfare on the Eastern Front and in Western Europe, providing German infantry with a powerful portable weapon against Allied armor. For more information, you can refer to the Panzerschreck Wikipedia page.
