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{{short description|German light tank of the 1930s and World War II}}
{{Infobox weapon
| name = ''Panzerkampfwagen'' II<br />[[Sd.Kfz.]] 121
| image = Panzer II Saumur.JPG
| image_size = 300
| caption = PzKpfw II Ausf. C at the {{Lang|fr|[[Musée des Blindés]]}}
| origin = Nazi Germany
| type = [[Light tank]]
| is_vehicle = yes
| service = 1936–1945
| wars = [[World War II]]
| designer = 
| design_date = 1934–1936
| manufacturer = 
| unit_cost = {{Reichsmark|52,640|link=yes}} (Ausf. B)
| production_date = 1935 – January 1944
| number = 1,856 (excluding conversions)
| variants = 
| spec_label = Ausf. c-C
| crew = 3 (commander/gunner, driver, loader)
| length = {{convert|4.81|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| width = {{convert|2.22|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| height = {{convert|1.99|m|ftin|abbr=on}}
| weight = {{convert|8.9| tonnes|LT|abbr=on}}
| armour = {{convert|5|–|15|mm|abbr=on}}{{sfn|Jentz|1996|p=278}}
| primary_armament = 1 × [[2 cm KwK 30|2 cm KwK 30 L/55]] ''Ausf. a–F''<br />1 × 2 cm KwK 38 L/55 ''Ausf. J–L''
| secondary_armament = 1 × [[7.92 x 57 mm Mauser|7.92&nbsp;mm]] [[MG 34|Maschinengewehr 34]]
| engine = [[List of WWII Maybach engines|Maybach HL62 TRM]] 6-cylinder [[petrol]]
| engine_power = 140 PS (138 hp, 103 kW)
| suspension = [[Leaf spring]]
| speed = {{convert|39.5|km/h|mph|abbr=on}}{{sfn|Jentz|1996|p=278}}
| fuel_capacity = {{convert|170|L|gal|abbr=on}}{{sfn|Jentz|1996|p=278}}
| pw_ratio = 15.7 PS (11.6 kW) / tonne
| clearance = {{convert|0.35|m|ftin|abbr=on}}{{sfn|Jentz|1996|p=278}}
| vehicle_range = Road: {{convert|190|km|mi|abbr=on}}{{sfn|Jentz|1996|p=278}}<br /> Cross country: {{convert|126|km|mi|abbr=on}}{{sfn|Jentz|1996|p=278}}
}}

The '''Panzer II''' is the common name used for a family of [[Nazi Germany|German]] [[tank]]s used in [[World War II]].<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|last=Suciu|first=Peter|date=2021-03-08|title=Why Nazi Germany Relied So Much on the Panzer II Tank|url=https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/why-nazi-germany-relied-so-much-panzer-ii-tank-179611|access-date=2021-12-30|website=The National Interest|language=en|archive-date=2021-10-22|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211022112154/https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/why-nazi-germany-relied-so-much-panzer-ii-tank-179611|url-status=dead}}</ref> The official German designation was '''''Panzerkampfwagen'' II''' (abbreviated '''''Pz.Kpfw. II''''').<ref name=":1" />

Although the vehicle had originally been designed as a stopgap while larger, more advanced tanks were developed, it nonetheless went on to play an important role in the early years of World War II, during the [[Invasion of Poland|Polish]] and [[Battle of France|French campaigns]].<ref name=":1" /> The Panzer II was the most numerous tank in the German Panzer divisions at the beginning of the war.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Niehorster |first1=Leo |title=Dr. |url=http://www.niehorster.org/011_germany/afv-strengths/_afv_39-09-01.htm |website=WWII Orders of Battle and Organizations |access-date=4 August 2018}}</ref> It was used both in [[North African campaign|North Africa]] against the Western Allies and on the [[Eastern Front (World War II)|Eastern Front]] against the Soviet Union.

The Panzer II was supplanted by the [[Panzer III]] and [[Panzer IV|IV]] medium tanks by 1940/1941.<ref name=":3">{{Cite web|title=SdKfz 121 Panzer II|url=https://www.militaryfactory.com/armor/detail.php?armor_id=245|access-date=2021-12-30|website=www.militaryfactory.com|language=en-US}}</ref> By the end of 1942, it had been largely removed from front line service and it was used for training and on secondary fronts.<ref name=":3" /> The turrets of the then-obsolete [[Panzer I]]s and Panzer IIs were reused as gun turrets on specially built defensive bunkers,<ref>{{cite web|last1=Stannius|first1=Mark|title=Tank turrets|url=http://www.atlanticwall.dk/tt.html|website=The Atlantic Wall in Denmark|publisher=Mark Stannius|access-date=28 December 2014}}</ref> particularly on the [[Atlantic Wall]]. Production of the tank itself ceased by January 1944, but its chassis remained in use as the basis of several other armoured vehicles, chiefly [[self-propelled artillery]] and [[tank destroyer]]s such as the [[Wespe]] and [[Marder II]] respectively.<ref name=":3" />

{{TOC limit}}

==Development==
{{Expand section|date=March 2009}}
In 1934, delays in the design and production of the [[Panzer III]] and [[Panzer IV]] medium tanks were becoming apparent.<ref name=":2">{{Cite web|title=Panzer II Light Tank|url=http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_panzer_II.html|access-date=2021-12-31|website=www.historyofwar.org}}</ref> The [[Panzer I]] had no weapons capable of defeating armor and thus no chance of success against enemy tanks so a stopgap tank was developed.{{sfn|Jentz|1996|pp=29-30}} Designs for a stopgap tank were solicited from [[Krupp]], [[MAN SE|MAN]], [[Henschel]], and [[Daimler-Benz]]. Design work on the Panzer II began on 27 January 1934.{{sfn|Jentz|1996|p=33}} The first experimental model was ready in February 1935.{{sfn|Jentz|1996|p=33}} The final design was based on the [[Panzer I]], but larger, and with a [[Gun turret|turret]] mounting a 20 mm [[autocannon]] anti-tank gun and [[leaf spring]] suspension<ref name=":2" /> Production began in 1935, but it took another eighteen months for the first combat-ready tank to be delivered.<ref name=":2" />

==Design==
===Armour===
The Panzer II was designed before the experience of the [[Spanish Civil War]] of 1936–39 showed that protection against [[armour-piercing shell]]s was required for tanks to survive on a modern battlefield. Prior to that, armour was designed to stop machine gun fire and high-explosive shell fragments.

[[Image:Bundesarchiv Bild 101I-382-0248-33A, Im Westen, Panzer II und Panzer I.jpg|thumb|An uparmored Panzer II on the Western front with a Panzer I in the background, May 1940]]
The Panzer II Ausf. A to C had 14&nbsp;mm of slightly sloped [[Rolled Homogeneous Armour|homogeneous steel armour]] on the sides, front, and back, with 10&nbsp;mm of armour on the top and bottom.<ref name=":2" /> Most of them were later given increased armour in the front of the vehicle, most noticeable by the changed appearance of the front hull from rounded to boxy shape.<ref name=":2" /> Starting with the Ausf. D , the front armour was increased to 30&nbsp;mm.<ref name=":2" /> The Ausf. F had 35&nbsp;mm front armour and 20&nbsp;mm side armour.<ref name=":2" /> This level of protection was still only proof against small arms fire.<ref>{{cite book|last1=Tucker|first1=Spencer|title=Tanks:An Illustrated History of Their Impact|date=2004|publisher=ABC-CLIO inc|location=Santa Barbara USA|isbn=1-57607-995-3|page=76|edition=First}}</ref> This amount of armour could be penetrated by towed anti-tank weapons, such as the Soviet [[45 mm anti-tank gun M1937 (53-K)|45mm]], the British [[Ordnance QF 2-pounder|2-pounder]] and the French [[47 mm APX anti-tank gun|''canon de 47'']].

===Armament===
Most tank versions of the Panzer II were armed with a [[2&nbsp;cm KwK 30]] L/55 [[autocannon|auto-cannon]]. Some later versions used the similar [[2&nbsp;cm KwK 38]] L/55 or L/65.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf L/ Luchs (Lynx)/ VK1303|url=http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_panzer_II_ausf_L.html|access-date=2021-12-31|website=www.historyofwar.org}}</ref> This auto-cannon was based on the [[2 cm FlaK 30]] [[anti-aircraft gun]], and was capable of firing at a rate of 600 rounds per minute (280 rounds per minute sustained) from 10-round magazines. A total of 180 shells were carried.<ref name=":3" />

The Panzer II also had a [[7,92 x 57 mm|7.92&nbsp;mm]] [[MG 34|''Maschinengewehr'' 34]] [[machine gun]] mounted coaxially with the main gun.<ref name=":2" />

===Mobility===
[[File:Bundesarchiv Bild 101I-265-0003-18A, Russland, Panzer II.jpg|thumb|A Panzer II during [[Operation Barbarossa]] in 1941 moves along a road outside a village.]]
All production versions of the Panzer II were fitted with a 140&nbsp;PS (138&nbsp;HP), gasoline-fuelled six-cylinder [[List of WWII Maybach engines|Maybach HL62 TRM]] engine and [[ZF Friedrichshafen|ZF]] transmissions. Models A, B, and C had a top speed of 40&nbsp;km/h (25&nbsp;mph).<ref name=":3" /> Models D and E had a [[torsion bar suspension]]<ref name="panzerkampfwagen1">Panzer Tracts No.2-3 Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf.D, E, and F By Thomas L. Jentz, Hilary Louis Doyle. Panzer Tracts, 2010</ref> and a better transmission, giving a top road speed of 55&nbsp;km/h (33&nbsp;mph) but the cross country speed was much lower than previous models, so the Model F reverted to the previous leaf spring type suspension. All versions had a range of {{convert|200|km|mi|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":4">{{Cite web|title=Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf A, B and C|url=http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_panzer_II_ausf_A_B_C.html|access-date=2021-12-31|website=www.historyofwar.org}}</ref>

===Crew===
The Panzer II had a crew of three men.<ref name=":4" /> The driver sat in the forward left hull with the gearbox on the right. The commander sat in a seat in the turret, and was responsible for aiming and firing the cannon and co-axial machine gun, while a loader/radio operator sat on the floor of the tank behind the driver. He had a radio on the left and several 20mm ammunition storage bins.

==Variants==
===Development and limited production models===
[[File:Panzer II c.svg|thumb|right|Panzer II Ausf. c]]
;Panzer II Ausf. a (Pz.Kpfw. IIa)
Not to be confused with the later Ausf. A (the sole difference being the capitalization of the letter A), the Ausf. a was the first version of the Panzer II to be built (albeit in limited numbers), and was subdivided into three sub-variants. The Ausf. a/1 was initially built with a cast idler wheel with rubber tire, but this was replaced after ten production examples with a welded part.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web|title=Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf a/1, a/2 and a/3|url=http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_panzer_II_ausf_a.html|access-date=2022-01-02|website=www.historyofwar.org}}</ref> The Ausf. a/2 improved engine access problems.<ref name=":5" /> The Ausf. a/3 included improved suspension and engine cooling.<ref name=":5" /> In general, the specifications for the Ausf. a models was similar, and a total of 75 were produced from May 1936 to February 1937 by [[Daimler-Benz]] and [[MAN SE|MAN]].<ref name=":5" /> The Ausf. a was considered the 1 Serie under the LaS 100 name.

;Panzer II Ausf. b (Pz.Kpfw. II b)
Again, not to be confused with the later Ausf. B, the Ausf. b was the second limited production series embodying further developments, primarily a heavy reworking of suspension components resulting in a wider track and a longer hull.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|title=Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf b|url=http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_panzer_II_ausf_b.html|access-date=2022-01-02|website=www.historyofwar.org}}</ref> Length was increased to 4.76&nbsp;metres but width and height were unchanged.<ref name=":6" /> Additionally, a [[List of WWII Maybach engines|Maybach HL62 TR]] engine was used with new [[drivetrain]] components to match.<ref name=":6" /> Deck armour for the superstructure and turret roof was increased to 10–12&nbsp;mm.<ref name=":6" /> Total weight increased to 7.9&nbsp;tonnes.<ref name=":6" /> Twenty-five were built by Daimler-Benz and MAN in February and March 1937.<ref name=":6" />

;Panzer II Ausf. c (Pz.Kpfw. II c)
As the last of the developmental limited production series of Panzer IIs, the Ausf. c came very close to matching the mass production configuration with the replacement of the six small road wheels with five larger independently sprung road wheels and an additional return roller.<ref name=":6" /> The tracks were further modified and the fenders widened.<ref name=":6" /> Total length increased to {{Convert|4.81|m|ftin|abbr=on}}and width to {{convert|2.22| m|ftin|abbr=on}},.<ref name=":6" /> At least 25 of this model were produced from March through July 1937.<ref name=":6" />

===Main production models===
;Panzer II Ausf. A, B and C

The first true production model, the '''Ausf. A''', included an armour upgrade to {{convert|14.5|mm|in|abbr=on}} on all sides, as well as a 14.5&nbsp;mm floor plate, and an improved transmission. It entered production in July 1937 and was superseded by the '''Ausf. B''' in December 1937, which introduced only minimal changes.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|title=Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf A, B and C|url=http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_panzer_II_ausf_A_B_C.html|access-date=2022-01-02|website=www.historyofwar.org}}</ref>

[[Image:PanzerIISaumur.jpg|thumb|PzKpfw II Ausf. C at the {{Lang|fr|[[Musée des Blindés]]}}]]

A few minor changes were made in the '''Ausf. C''' version, which became the standard production model from June 1938 through April 1940.<ref name=":7" /> A total of 1,113 examples of Ausf. c, A, B, and C tanks were built from March 1937 through April 1940 by [[Alkett]], [[FAMO]], Daimler-Benz, [[Henschel]], MAN, MIAG, and [[Krauss-Maffei Wegmann GmbH & Co KG|Wegmann]].<ref name=":7" /> These models were almost identical and were used in service interchangeably. This was the most widespread tank version of the Panzer II. Earlier versions of Ausf. C have a rounded hull front, but many had additional armour plates bolted on the turret and hull front.<ref name=":7" /> Some were also retro-fitted with commander's cupolas.<ref name=":7" />

;Panzer II Ausf. D and E
With a completely new [[torsion bar suspension]]<ref name="panzerkampfwagen1"/> with four road wheels, the '''Ausf. D''' was developed as a tank for use in the light divisions.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|title=Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf D and Ausf E|url=http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_panzer_II_ausf_D_E.html|access-date=2022-01-02|website=www.historyofwar.org}}</ref> After the [[invasion of Poland]] the light divisions were converted to [[Panzer division (Wehrmacht)|Panzer divisions]]. Only the turret was the same as the Ausf. C model, with a new hull and superstructure design and the use of a Maybach HL62TRM engine driving a seven-gear transmission (plus reverse).<ref name=":8" /> The design was shorter (4.65 m) but wider (2.3 m) and taller (2.06 m) than the Ausf. C. Speed was increased to 55&nbsp;km/h.<ref name=":8" /> A total of 43 Ausf. D tanks were built from October 1938 through March 1939 by MAN, and they served in Poland.<ref name=":8" /> They were withdrawn in March 1940 for conversion to the flame tank Panzer II (''Flamm'').<ref name=":8" /> The '''Ausf. E''' differed from the Ausf. D by having lubricated tracks; seven chassis were completed.

;Panzer II Ausf. F
Continuing the conventional design of the Ausf. C, the Ausf. F superstructure front was made from a single piece of armour plate with a redesigned visor.<ref name=":9">{{Cite web|title=anzerkampfwagen II Ausf F|url=http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_panzer_II_ausf_F.html|access-date=2022-01-02|website=www.historyofwar.org}}</ref> Also, a dummy visor was placed next to it to confuse enemy gunners.<ref name=":9" /> The hull was redesigned with a flat {{convert|35|mm|in|abbr=on}} plate on its front, and the armour of the superstructure and turret were built up to {{convert|30|mm|in|abbr=on}} on the front with {{convert|15|mm|in|abbr=on}} to the sides and rear.<ref name=":9" /> There was some minor alteration of the suspension and a new commander's cupola as well. Weight increased to 9.5 tonnes.<ref name=":9" /> From March 1941 to July 1942, 509 were built; this was the final major tank version of the Panzer II series.<ref name=":9" />

[[File:Een Flammpanzer II Flamingo van Panzer Abteilung (F) 100 in de Axelsestraat AC005973.jpg|thumb|right|Panzer II (''Flamm'') known as the "Flamingo" in the West European campaign.]]
;Panzer II (''Flamm'')
Based on the same suspension as the Ausf. D and Ausf. E tank versions, the Flamm (often wrongly referred to as "Flamingo"<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.lemaire.happyhost.org/char/complet/498.html#100709 |title=LemaireSoft's Bergepanzer II |access-date=2007-07-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070108225546/http://www.lemaire.happyhost.org/char/complet/498.html#100709 |archive-date=2007-01-08 |url-status=dead }}</ref>{{Failed verification|reason=The source doesn't mention the Flammpanzer "wrongly" being called the Flamingo.|date=December 2023}}) used a new turret mounting a single [[MG34]] machine gun, and two remotely controlled [[flamethrower]]s mounted in small turrets at each front corner of the vehicle.<ref name=":0">{{Cite book|title=Tanks and Other Fighting Vehicles of World War II|last=White|first=B T|publisher=Peerage Books|year=1983|isbn=0907408354|pages=138}}</ref> Each flamethrower could cover the front 180° arc, while the turret traversed 360°.

The flamethrowers were supplied with 320 litres of fuel and four tanks of compressed [[nitrogen]]. The nitrogen tanks were built into armoured boxes along each side of the superstructure. Armour was 30&nbsp;mm to the front and 14.5&nbsp;mm to the side and rear, although the turret was increased to 20&nbsp;mm at the sides and rear.<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|title=Panzerkampfwagen II Flamm Ausf A und B|url=http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_panzer_II_flamm.html|access-date=2022-01-02|website=www.historyofwar.org}}</ref>

Total weight was 12 tonnes and dimensions were increased to a length of 4.9 m and width of 2.4 m although it was a bit shorter at 1.85 m tall.<ref name=":10"/> A FuG2 radio was carried.

One hundred and fifty-one Panzerkampfwagen II (F) (''Flamm'') vehicles were built from April 1940 through March 1942.<ref name=":10"/> Initial production of Ausf. A vehicles was based on 46 Panzer II Ausf.<ref name=":10"/> D/E chassis that were never completed as tanks, in March 1940 the 43 still existing Panzer II Ausf. D were recalled for conversion and from August 1941 until the cancellation in March 1942 a further 62 Ausf. B vehicles were made from new-production Ausf. D chassis (out of an order for 150 vehicles).<ref name=":10"/> The Panzer II (F) was deployed in the USSR, but was not very successful due to its limited armor, and survivors were soon withdrawn for conversion to [[Marder II]] tank destroyers in December 1941.<ref name=":10"/>

It is unknown when exactly the Flammpanzer II got the name "Flamingo", however it most likely originated some time after World War 2 and was never officially used for the vehicle.{{cn|date=January 2024}}

;Panzer II Ausf. L "Luchs"
[[Image:PzIIL.Saumur.000a4p5p.jpg|thumb|Panzer II Ausf. L in the [[Musée des Blindés]], [[Saumur]]]]
{{main|Luchs (tank)}}

A light reconnaissance tank, the Ausf. L was the only Panzer II design with the ''Schachtellaufwerk'' overlapping/interleaved road wheels and "slack track" configuration to enter series production, with 100 being built from September 1943 to January 1944 in addition to the conversion of the four Ausf. M tanks.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web|title=SdKfz 123 Panzerspahwagen II (Luchs)|url=https://www.militaryfactory.com/armor/detail.php?armor_id=919|access-date=2022-01-05|website=www.militaryfactory.com|language=en-US}}</ref> Originally given the experimental designation VK&nbsp;1303, it was adopted under the alternate name ''Panzerspähwagen'' II and given the popular name ''Luchs'' ("[[Lynx]]").<ref name=":11" /> The ''Luchs'' was larger than the Ausf. G in most dimensions (length 4.63 m; height 2.21 m; width 2.48 m).<ref name=":11" /> It was equipped with a six speed transmission (plus reverse), and could reach a speed of {{convert|60|km/h|abbr=on}} with a range of {{convert|290|km|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":11" /> The FuG12 and FuG ''Spr a'' radios were installed, while 330 rounds of 20&nbsp;mm and 2,250 rounds of 7.92&nbsp;mm ammunition were carried.<ref name=":11" /> Total vehicle weight was 11.8 tonnes.<ref name=":11" /> It had 30&nbsp;mm of armour on the front of the hull and 20&nbsp;mm of armour on the sides and back and the same on the turret.<ref name=":11" /> It accommodated four crew members, the commander (gunner), driver, loader and the radio operator.<ref>{{Cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=BYIlDwAAQBAJ&q=panzer+ii |title=Axis Tanks of the Second World War |last=Green |first=Michael |date=2017-07-30 |publisher=Pen & Sword Military |isbn=9781473887039 |language=en}}</ref>

===Self-propelled guns on Panzer II chassis===
;15&nbsp;cm sIG 33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)
{{Main|15 cm sIG 33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)}}
One of the first gun mount variants of the Panzer II design was to emplace a [[15 cm sIG 33]] heavy infantry gun on a turret-less Panzer II chassis.<ref name=":12">{{Cite web|date=2016-08-12|title=15 cm sIG 33 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Sf)|url=https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/nazi_germany/15-cm-sig-33-auf-fahrgestell-panzerkampfwagen-ii-sf/|access-date=2022-01-05|website=Tank Encyclopedia|language=en-US}}</ref> The prototype utilized an Ausf. B tank chassis, but it was quickly realized that it was not sufficient for the mounting.<ref name=":12" /> A new, longer chassis incorporating an extra road wheel was designed and built, named the Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II.<ref name=":12" /> An open-topped 15&nbsp;mm thick armored superstructure sufficient against small arms and shrapnel was provided around the gun.<ref name=":12" /> This was not high enough to give full protection for the crew while manning the gun, although they were still covered directly to the front by the tall gun shield. Only 12 were built in November and December 1941.<ref name=":12" /> These served with the 707th and 708th Heavy Infantry Gun Companies in [[North Africa]] until their destruction in 1943.<ref name=":12" />

;7.62&nbsp;cm PaK 36(r) auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II Ausf. D/E (Marder II) (Sd.Kfz. 132)
{{Main|Marder II}}
After a lack of success with conventional and flame tank variants on the Ausf. D/E chassis, it was decided to use the remaining chassis to mount captured Soviet antitank guns.<ref name=":13">{{Cite web|date=2020-06-06|title=7.62 cm PaK 36(r) auf Fgst. PzKpfw.II(F) (Sfl.) (Sd.Kfz. 132) 'Marder II' -|url=https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/nazi_germany/sdkfz-132_marder_ii.php|access-date=2022-01-05|website=Tank Encyclopedia|language=en-US}}</ref> The hull and suspension was unmodified from the earlier models, but the superstructure was built up to provide a large, open-topped fighting compartment with a [[M1936 Gun|Soviet 76.2 mm antitank gun]], which, while not turreted, did have significant traverse.<ref name=":13" /> Only developed as an interim solution, the vehicle was clearly too tall and poorly protected, but had a powerful weapon.<ref name=":13" />

;7.5&nbsp;cm PaK 40 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Marder II) (Sd.Kfz. 131)
{{Main|Marder II}}
While the 7.62&nbsp;cm PaK 36(r) was a good stopgap measure, the 7.5&nbsp;cm PaK 40 mounted on the tank chassis of the Ausf. F resulted in a better overall fighting machine.<ref name=":14">{{Cite web|date=2020-04-25|title=Pz.Kpfw.II als Sfl. mit 7.5 cm PaK 40 'Marder II' (Sd.KFz.131) - Tanks Encyclopedia|url=https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/nazi_germany/sdkfz-131_marder_ii.php|access-date=2022-01-05|website=Tank Encyclopedia|language=en-US}}</ref> New production amounted to 576 examples from June 1942 to June 1943, as well as the conversion of 75 tanks after new production had stopped.<ref name=":14" /> The work was done by Daimler-Benz, FAMO, and MAN.<ref name=":14" /> A much improved superstructure for the 7.62&nbsp;cm mounting was built giving a lower profile.<ref name=":14" /> The Marder II served with the Germans on all fronts through the end of the war.<ref name=":14" />

;5&nbsp;cm PaK 38 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II
Conceived along the same lines as the Marder II, the 5&nbsp;cm PaK 38 was an expedient solution to mount the 50&nbsp;mm antitank gun on the Panzer II chassis. However, the much greater effectiveness of the 75&nbsp;mm antitank gun made this option less desirable. Production quantity is unknown.

;Leichte Feldhaubitze 18 auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II (Wespe)
{{Main|Wespe}}
[[File:SdKfz124.jpg|left|thumb|A ''Wespe'' at the [[Deutsches Panzermuseum]] in [[Munster, Lower Saxony|Munster]], Germany]]
After the development of the ''Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II'' for mounting the sIG 33, [[Alkett]] designed a version mounting a 10.5&nbsp;cm [[10.5 cm leFH 18|''leichte Feldhaubitze 18/2'']] field howitzer in an open-topped superstructure.<ref name=":15">{{Cite web|title=Sd.Kfz 124 Wespe|url=https://www.tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/germany/Sd.Kfz-124_Wespe.php|access-date=2022-01-05|website=www.tanks-encyclopedia.com}}</ref> This was Germany's only widely produced self-propelled 105&nbsp;mm howitzer.<ref name=":15" /> Between February 1943 and June 1944, 676 were built by FAMO, and it served on all major fronts.<ref name=":15" />

;Munitions Selbstfahrlafette auf Fahrgestell Panzerkampfwagen II
To support the Wespe in operation, 159 Wespe chassis were completed without installation of the howitzer, instead functioning as ammunition carriers.<ref name=":15" /> They carried 90 rounds of 105&nbsp;mm calibre.<ref name=":15" /> These could be converted to normal Wespes by installation of the leFH 18 in the field if needed.<ref name=":15" />

===Limited production, experiments and prototypes===
;''Panzerkampfwagen II mit Schwimmkörper''
One of Germany's first attempts at developing an [[amphibious tank]], the ''Schwimmkörper'' was a device built by [[Gebr Sachsenberg]] that consisted of two large pontoons, with one attached to each side of a Panzer II tank.<ref name=":16">{{Cite web|title=Panzer II mit Schwimmkörper|url=https://www.wehrmacht-history.com/heer/amphibious-vehicles/panzer-ii-mit-schwimmkoerper.html|access-date=2022-01-05|website=www.wehrmacht-history.com}}</ref> The tanks were specially sealed, some modifications to the engine exhaust and cooling were needed, as was an inflatable rubber ring used to seal the turret during amphibious operation.<ref name=":16" /> A propeller; linked by a universal joint to an extension, was linked to the tank's engine to provide motive power, steering in water being effected by a rudder mounted behind the propeller. Speeds of up to 6&nbsp;mph in dead calm were claimed, as was the ability to cope with conditions up to sea state 4.<ref name=":0" /> Once ashore the pontoons were detachable.<ref name=":16" /> The modified tanks were issued to the 18th Panzer Regiment, which was formed in 1940. However, with cancellation of [[Operation Seelöwe|Operation Sealion]], the plan to invade England, the tanks were used in the conventional manner by the regiment on the [[Eastern Front (World War II)|Eastern Front]].

;Panzer II Ausf. G (PzKpfw II G)
The fourth and final suspension configuration used for the Panzer II tanks was the five overlapping road wheel configuration termed ''Schachtellaufwerk'' by the Germans.<ref name=":2" /> This was used as the basis for the redesign of the Panzer II into a reconnaissance tank with high speed and good off-road performance.<ref name=":2" /> The Ausf. G was the first Panzer II to use this configuration, and was developed under the experimental designation VK 9.01.<ref name=":2" /> There is no record of the Ausf. G being issued to combat units, and only 12 full vehicles were built from April 1941 to February 1942 by MAN. The turrets were subsequently issued for use in fortifications. Two were converted to use the 50mm Pak 38 and troop-tested on the Eastern Front.

;Panzer II Ausf. H (Pz.Kpfw. II H)
Given experimental designation VK 9.03, the Ausf. H was intended as the production model of the Ausf. G, with armor for the sides and rear increased to 20&nbsp;mm and a new four speed transmission (plus reverse) similar to that of the PzKpfw 38(t) nA.<ref name=":17">{{Cite web|date=2019-03-14|title=Panzer II Ausf. H & Ausf. M (VK9.03) - Tanks Encyclopedia|url=https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2-germany-panzer-ii-ausfc-h-ausf-m-vk9-03/|access-date=2022-01-05|website=Tank Encyclopedia|language=en-US}}</ref> Only two prototypes were ever completed by the time of cancellation in September 1942.<ref name=":17" />

;''Brückenleger auf Panzerkampfwagen'' II
After failed attempts to use the [[Panzer I]] as a chassis for a bridge layer, work moved to the Panzer II, led by [[Magirus]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Brückenleger auf Panzer II Ausf. B|url=https://www.wehrmacht-history.com/heer/engineer-vehicles/brueckenleger-auf-panzer-ii-ausf-b.html|access-date=2022-01-05|website=www.wehrmacht-history.com}}</ref> It is not known how many of these conversions were made, but four were known to have been in service with the [[7th Panzer Division (Wehrmacht)|7th Panzer Division]] in May 1940.

;Panzer II Ausf. J (Pz.Kpfw. II J)
Continued development of the reconnaissance tank concept led to the much up-armoured Ausf. J, which used the same concept as the [[Panzer I Ausf. F]] of the same period, under the experimental designation VK 16.01.<ref name=":18">{{Cite web|date=2016-10-27|title=Panzer II Ausf. J (VK 16.01)|url=https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/germany/panzer-ii-ausf-j|access-date=2022-01-05|website=Tank Encyclopedia|language=en-US}}</ref> Heavier armour was added, bringing protection up to 80&nbsp;mm on the front (similar to the maximum armour found on the [[KV-1]] model 1941 Soviet heavy tank<ref>World War II Database</ref>) and 50&nbsp;mm to the sides and rear, with 25&nbsp;mm roof and floor plates, increasing total weight to 18 tonnes.<ref name=":18" /> Equipped with the same [[List of WWII Maybach engines|Maybach HL45 P]] as the Pz.Kpfw. I F, top speed was reduced to {{convert|31|km/h|abbr=on}}.<ref name=":18" /> Primary armament was the [[2 cm KwK 38]] L/55 gun.<ref name=":18" /> 22 were produced by MAN between April and December 1942, and seven were issued to the [[12th Panzer Division (Wehrmacht)|12th Panzer Division]] on the [[Eastern Front (World War II)|Eastern Front]].<ref name=":18" />

;''Bergepanzerwagen auf Panzerkampfwagen'' II ''Ausf''. J
A single example of an Ausf. J with a jib in place of its turret was found operating as an [[armoured recovery vehicle]].<ref name=":18" /> There is no record of an official program for this vehicle.

;Panzer II Ausf. M (Pz.Kpfw. II M)
Using the same chassis as the Ausf. H and the turret and superstructure of the Ausf. L "Luchs", the Ausf. M would have had four crew; however, no examples are known to have been constructed.<ref name=":17" />

;''Panzerkampfwagen'' II ''ohne Aufbau''
One use for obsolete Panzer II tanks that had their turrets removed for use in fortifications was as utility carriers. A number of chassis not used for conversion to self-propelled guns were instead handed over to the Engineers for use as personnel and equipment carriers.<ref name="Thomas125">{{Cite book |title=Hitler's Light Panzers at War: Rare Photographs from Wartime Archives |last=Thomas |first=Paul |publisher=Pen and Sword |year=2015 |isbn=9781473854871 |location=Yorkshire, United Kingdom |pages=125, 126}}</ref>

;''Panzer Selbstfahrlafette'' 1c
Developed in prototype form only, this was one of three abortive attempts to use the Panzer II chassis for mounting a 5&nbsp;cm PaK 38 gun, this time on the chassis of the Ausf. G.<ref name=":19">{{Cite web|date=2019-05-07|title=Panzer Sfl. Ic. - Tanks Encyclopedia|url=https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2-germany-panzer-sfl-ic/|access-date=2022-01-05|website=Tank Encyclopedia|language=en-US}}</ref> Two examples were produced which had similar weight to the tank version, and both were put in front-line service, but production was not undertaken as priority was given to heavier armed models.<ref name=":19" />

[[File:VK 1602 Leopard.svg|right|thumb|A blueprint for the planned VK 16.02]]
; VK 16.02 “Leopard”
{{main|VK 1602 Leopard}}
The VK 16.02 was intended to be the [[5 cm KwK 39]]-armed replacement for the Ausf. L, with a [[List of WWII Maybach engines|Maybach HL157 P]] engine driving an eight speed transmission (plus reverse).<ref name=":20">{{Cite web|date=2016-10-17|title=Gefechtsaufklärer Leopard (VK16.02)|url=https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2-german-prototypes/gefechtsaufklarer-leopard-vk16-02/|access-date=2022-01-05|website=Tank Encyclopedia|language=en-US}}</ref> While the hull was based on that of the Pz.Kpfw. II J, it was redesigned after the [[Panzer V Panther]], most noticeably with the introduction of fully sloped frontal armour.<ref name=":20" /> Was rejected after developers realized that Panzer IVs and Vs could do similar work without the need for a new vehicle.<ref name=":20" />

==Users==
* {{flag|Nazi Germany}}
* {{flag|Romania}} (uncertain) – two tanks captured at the [[Ploiești]] oilfields after [[King Michael's Coup]]; they were probably Panzer IIs{{sfn|Axworthy|Scafeș|Crăciunoiu|1995|p=191}}
* {{flag|Slovak Republic (1939–1945)|1939|name=Slovak Republic (1939 - 1945)}} 
* {{flag|Norway}} (Leftover stock)

== See also ==
* [[List of World War II military vehicles of Germany]]
* [[List of armoured fighting vehicles of World War II]]

== Footnotes ==
{{reflist}}

==References==
{{commons category|Panzerkampfwagen II}}
* {{cite book |title=Third Axis – Fourth Ally: Romanian Armed Forces in the European War, 1941-1945 |first1=Mark |last1= Axworthy |first2= Cornel |last2=Scafeș |first3= Cristian |last3=Crăciunoiu |author-link3=:ro:Cristian Crăciunoiu |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FhawQwAACAAJ |date=1995 |publisher=Arms and Armour |location=London |isbn=9781854092670}}
* {{cite book|author1=Peter Chamberlain|author2=Hilary L. Doyle|year=1993|title=Encyclopedia of German Tanks of World War II|publisher=Arms and Armour|isbn=1-85409-214-6}}
* {{cite book | last = Jentz | first = T. | year = 1996 | title = Panzertruppen: The Complete Guide to the Creation & Combat Employment of Germany's Tank Force 1933–1942 | publisher = Schiffer | isbn = 978-0-8874-0915-8 }}
* {{cite book|author=Thomas L. Jentz|year=1998|title=Tank Combat in North Africa: The Opening Rounds|publisher=[[Schiffer Publishing]]|isbn=0-7643-0226-4}}
* {{cite web|title=Germany's Panzerkampfwagen II, Sd.Kfz. 121|work=World War II Vehicles|url=http://www.wwiivehicles.com/germany/tanks-light/pzkpfw-ii.asp|access-date=February 3, 2004|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120513135125/http://wwiivehicles.com/germany/tanks-light/pzkpfw-ii.asp|archive-date=May 13, 2012|url-status=dead}}
* German Light Panzers 1932-42 By Bryan Perrett, Terry Hadler. Osprey Publishing, 1998
* {{cite web |title=Kliment Voroshilov |work=World War II Database |url=http://ww2db.com/vehicle_spec.php?q=312|access-date=November 14, 2014}}

{{WWIIGermanAFVs}}
{{Interwar tanks|style=wide}}
{{WWII tanks|style=wide}}

{{Authority control}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Panzer II}}
[[Category:Light tanks of Germany]]
[[Category:World War II tanks of Germany]]
[[Category:Light tanks of the interwar period]]
[[Category:Cavalry tanks]]
[[Category:World War II light tanks]]
[[Category:History of the tank]]
[[Category:Military vehicles introduced in the 1930s]]