LK I

Infobox Weapon
name= Leichter Kampfwagen


caption=
origin=Germany
type=Light tank
is_vehicle=yes
length=5.1 m
width=1.9 m
height=2.5 m
weight=6.9 t
suspension=unsprung
speed=14-18 km/h
vehicle_range=70 km
primary_armament=7.92 mm machinegun
secondary_armament=
armour=8-14 mm
engine=Daimler-Benz 4-cylinder
engine_power=60 hp
pw_ratio=
crew=3

The Leichter Kampfwagen ( _en. light combat car) or "LK I" was a German light tank of the First World War.

History

The LK I was designed by Joseph Vollmer. It was based on a Daimler car chassis, using the existing axles to mount sprocket and idler wheels. Its design followed automobile practice, with a front-mounted engine and a driving compartment behind it. It was the first German armored fighting vehicle to be equipped with a turret, armed with a 7.92 mm Maxim machinegun.

Only prototypes were produced in mid 1918, and 800 vehicles were ordered.

External links

* [http://www.achtungpanzer.com/1stpzs.htm Achtung Panzer! First Panzers 1917-1918]