Originally designed as an anti-aircraft gun, the German ’88’ saw service on all fronts during WWII. Firing 20 high-velocity rounds a minute with an effective horizontal range of over 10km (6 miles), it earned a fearsome reputation as an anti-tank gun.
This picture depicts the Flak 37 during the North African campaign, fitted with a frontal shield and manned by Luftwaffe personnel. The 88 enjoyed much success on the open desert plains despite its large size.
The Flak 37 was the final production version of the 88 and was visually identical to the previous Flak 36 except for its new directional dials to improve gun adjustment.
By Ibrahim Zamir
Empire of History 