I would like to suggest the addition of the Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf. A equipped with the Italian 20 mm Breda cannon, used during the Spanish Civil War.
This vehicle was a rare field conversion of the German Panzer I, modified in Spain to improve its firepower against light armored vehicles and soft targets.
Historical background
During the Spanish Civil War (1936–1939), several German Panzer I tanks supplied to Nationalist forces were locally modified.
A very small number of these vehicles (reportedly around 4 units according to historical sources) were fitted with the Breda 20 mm automatic cannon, replacing the original twin MG 13 machine guns.
This modification was done to compensate for the Panzer I’s weak original armament and to increase its effectiveness against lightly armored Republican vehicles.
The result was a very improvised but noticeably more powerful light tank variant.
Armament:
- Main gun: Breda 20 mm automatic cannon
- Ammunition: HE and AP rounds (depending on Breda variants used)
- Original MG 13 machine guns removed
This vehicle could be implemented as:
- Rank I light tank
- Premium or event vehicle
- Or part of a potential Spanish /Germany / Italian sub-tree
Gameplay value
- Unique variant of an already existing vehicle (Panzer I)
- Introduces a 20 mm autocannon on a German ultra-light chassis
- Fast but extremely fragile gameplay style
- Historically rare and interesting modification
- Suitable for event or collector vehicles
Sources
- Historical photographs of Panzer I Breda conversions in Spain
- Documentation on Spanish Civil War armored vehicle modifications
- Information on the Italian Breda 20 mm cannon and its vehicle applications
Conclusion:
The Panzer I Breda 20 mm would be a valuable addition to War Thunder as a historically interesting and unique low-tier vehicle, offering a fun and unconventional gameplay experience.
What do you think?
Question posed by Laystraideur