Cristini, Luca Stefano (Hrsg.) The Weapons Encyclopedia. Tank, Aircraft, AFV, Ship, Artillery, Vehicles, Secret Weapon. Band 50: Panzer V "Panther"

The debate among historians and enthusiasts regarding which tank was the best of World War II continues to this day. While rankings and comparisons may vary, one name consistently appears among the top contenders: the Panzer V Panther. Developed in response to an unexpected threat, it quickly rose to become one of the most feared and respected vehicles of the conflictcapable of engaging heavier tanks and, in many respects, foreshadowing the concepts that would come to dominate post-war tank technology. The vehicle's official designation was *Panzerkampfwagen V Panther*, assigned the military identification number Sd.Kfz. 171. Its development was driven largely by encounters with the Soviet T-34 during the invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941. Despite its undeniable qualities, the Panther's entry into service was overshadowed by significant problems. Most of these defects were resolved between late 1943 and early 1944; from that point onward, the Panther established itself as one of the most feared tanks of the entire conflict.