The following intelligence report on the German 150-mm self-propelled gun (Sturmpanzer IV) was originally published in Tactical and Technical Trends, No. 41, December 30, 1943. [DISCLAIMER: The following text is taken from the U.S. War Department publication Tactical and Technical Trends. As with all wartime intelligence information, data may be incomplete or inaccurate. No attempt has been made to update or correct the text. Any views or opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of the website.]

GERMAN 150-MM SP ASSAULT HOWITZER In Tactical and Technical Trends, No. 25, p. 42 et seq. three models of 75-mm self-propelled assault guns were described. In issue No. 36 a description will be found of the German 105-mm SP Assault Howitzer 42. Now another and extremely powerful model of a 150-mm (5.9 in) assault howitzer, mounted on a Pz Kw 4 (8 bogie) chassis has been reported. A description of this weapon, believed to be the Brumbear (Grizzly Bear) is taken from a specimen captured on the Eastern Front, and the data are thought to be reliable (see accompanying sketch). Weight (probably)       29 tons (US) Armament (probably) 150-mm (5.9 in) 15-cm s.I.G. (heavy infantry howitzer) Ammunition 24 rounds Armor:      fighting compartment 100-mm (3.94 in)    chassis 40 - 50-mm (1.58 - 1.97 in) Maximum speed 24.8 mph Range 80.6 miles Motor 320 hp Maybach Crew 5 This howitzer mount is designed for attacks against fortifications and accompanies both tanks and infantry in the attack. Although used against tanks also, it has not been reported as very effective. The gun is believed to be furnished only with HE shell. Additional 4- to 6-mm (.18 to .24 in) side armor plate is also provided on this mount for protection against hollow-charge shells.

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