Officially known as the Sturmpanzer 43, the German infantry nicknamed it 'Brummbar' (Grouch) and held it in high esteem. Built on the chassis of the Panzer IV and armed with a 150mm short howitzer it entered service in April 1943 and quickly gained a reputation as a great asset in urban conflict, as well as against armoured bunkers. Around 300 were built by the end of the war.