The German armored car 'Schwerer Panzerspahwagen Sd.Kfz. 234/2' known as "Puma", was developed and produced by the German war machine in the closing years of WW2. The vehicle proved to be an excellent mix of mobility, protection and firepower which was built upon the operational experience gained by the Wehrmacht in the early stages of the conflict. From 1939 onwards the German army had used armored vehicles very effectively for advanced reconnaissance tasks, and also in a ground support role for its troops. The "Puma" was initially a reconnaissance vehicle, but due to its KwK 39 L / 60 50 mm gun it could also be used equally effectively in offensive actions against infantry and other armored vehicles. It was deployed in limited numbers on both the Eastern and Western fronts. The highly effective independent suspension system of the eight wheels and the powerful engine, enabled the Puma to reach speeds of up to 90 km/h on all types of battlefield terrain.