K5 Rail Gun: Krupp's WWII Behemoth

The German 8 cm Kanone 5 Eisenbahngeschütz (railway gun), known by various names, was the most successful and widely used of Germany's railway gun designs. It was capable of shelling England from positions in France, Italy, Russia, and Holland. This book presents 80 period black-and-white photos and over 150 full-color photos of the only surviving examples, illustrating the nuances of their construction.

Format: Hardback
Length: 128 pages
Publication date: 28 April 2023
Publisher: Schiffer Publishing Ltd

The German 8 cm Kanone 5 Eisenbahngeschütz (railway gun), commonly abbreviated K5(E), was a remarkable and widely employed railway gun design from Germany. Renowned by various names, including Anzio Annie, Anzio Express, and Leopold, this formidable weapon system played a pivotal role in the military strategies of Germany during World War II.

With a caliber of 8 cm, the K5(E) was designed to strike targets from long distances, utilizing the strength of railways to provide mobility and rapid deployment. Its sheer size and power made it a formidable asset on the battlefield, capable of shelling England from positions in France.

During the war, Germany produced a total of 24 K5(E) weapons, which were extensively used on various fronts. These weapons saw action in France, Italy, Russia, and Holland, demonstrating their versatility and effectiveness. The K5(E) was not only used for direct artillery strikes but also as a support weapon for infantry units, providing cover and suppressing enemy forces.

To showcase the operation and use of these formidable weapons, this book features a collection of 80 period black-and-white photos. These photos provide a visual glimpse into the era and the technological advancements of the time. Additionally, over 150 full-color photos of the only surviving examples of the K5(E) are included. These photos offer a detailed look at the construction and design of these massive weapons, highlighting the nuances and intricacies that went into their manufacture.

The K5(E) was a testament to Germany's engineering prowess and its ability to adapt and innovate in the face of war. Its success on the battlefield and its widespread use across multiple fronts solidified its place as one of the most influential and effective railway gun designs of the era. This book serves as a valuable resource for historians, military enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the history of World War II and the technological advancements that shaped it.

Weight: 908g
Dimension: 237 x 237 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780764366444