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Difference between revisions of "Strike Witches: Road to Berlin"
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=Pistols= | =Pistols= | ||
==Browning M.25== | ==Browning M.25== | ||
− | The [[ | + | The [[FN Model 1922|Browning M.25]] (the Dutch military designation for the FN Model 1922, in .380 ACP) is seen in the holsters of two officers at the Schelde Fort, a coastal artillery installation at the mouth of the river of the same name. The pistols themselves are not seen outside their holsters, however this was the standard sidearm of the Dutch military at the time. |
− | [[Image:FN Model 1922.jpg|thumb|none| | + | [[Image:FN Model 1922.jpg|thumb|none|300px|FN Model 1922 - .32 ACP]] |
[[Image:SWrtbM251.jpg|600px|thumb|none|The base commander and his subordinate can both be seen with holsters, while the three other soldiers in the room are unarmed. (Ep.2)]] | [[Image:SWrtbM251.jpg|600px|thumb|none|The base commander and his subordinate can both be seen with holsters, while the three other soldiers in the room are unarmed. (Ep.2)]] | ||
[[Image:SWrtbM252.jpg|600px|thumb|none|A closer shot of the two officers as the subordinate attempts to call for reinforcements, showing more detail of their uniforms, including the holsters for their M.25s. (Ep.2)]] | [[Image:SWrtbM252.jpg|600px|thumb|none|A closer shot of the two officers as the subordinate attempts to call for reinforcements, showing more detail of their uniforms, including the holsters for their M.25s. (Ep.2)]] | ||
==Colt M1873== | ==Colt M1873== | ||
− | General Gerald S. Patton carries a custom [[Single Action Army]] revolver very similar to the one carried by the real George S. Patton. Patton's revolver is an engraved 4.75" Civilian model with ivory grips, though the ''World Witches'' depiction differs in being gold-plated rather than nickel. Charlotte Yeager also carries an M1873 Civilian (blued with wood grips) in a left-handed shoulder holster (presumably for easier access if her BAR is still in her right hand) which she lends to Gertrud Barkhorn as a lightweight backup weapon for a sortie against a particularly dangerous Neuroi | + | General Gerald S. Patton carries a custom [[Single Action Army]] revolver very similar to the one carried by the real George S. Patton. Patton's revolver is an engraved 4.75" Civilian model with ivory grips, though the ''World Witches'' depiction differs in being gold-plated rather than nickel. Charlotte Yeager also carries an M1873 Civilian (blued with wood grips) in a left-handed shoulder holster (presumably for easier access if her BAR is still in her right hand) which she lends to Gertrud Barkhorn as a lightweight backup weapon for a sortie against a particularly dangerous Neuroi. |
− | [[Image:PattonPistol 02.jpg|thumb|none| | + | For a photo of Gertrud's actress Mie Sonozaki posing with a Single Action Army, see the [[Talk:Strike Witches: Road to Berlin#Behind The Scenes|Talk Page]]. |
− | [[Image:ColtSAA475barrel.jpg|thumb|none| | + | |
+ | [[Image:PattonPistol 02.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Two custom Single Action Army revolvers with 4.75" barrel, ivory grips, and engravings - .45 Long Colt. The bottom is the 'hero gun' from ''[[Patton]]'', while the top is the actual SAA carried by Patton.]] | ||
+ | [[Image:ColtSAA475barrel.jpg|thumb|none|300px|Colt M1873 "Civilian" - .45 Long Colt]] | ||
[[Image:SWrtb18731.jpg|600px|thumb|none|General Patton holds his Colt after firing three rounds into a map table in the allied headquarters in Amsterdam, frustrated at having to delay Operation Southwind due to losing the port at Antwerpen. (Ep.3)]] | [[Image:SWrtb18731.jpg|600px|thumb|none|General Patton holds his Colt after firing three rounds into a map table in the allied headquarters in Amsterdam, frustrated at having to delay Operation Southwind due to losing the port at Antwerpen. (Ep.3)]] | ||
[[Image:SWrtb18732.jpg|600px|thumb|none|With that apparently not being enough to vent his frustration, Patton then slams his fist down on the table, showing a surprisingly detailed shot of the bottom of the revolver. The Japanese subtitles listing his name and position are unfortunately not removable. (Ep.3)]] | [[Image:SWrtb18732.jpg|600px|thumb|none|With that apparently not being enough to vent his frustration, Patton then slams his fist down on the table, showing a surprisingly detailed shot of the bottom of the revolver. The Japanese subtitles listing his name and position are unfortunately not removable. (Ep.3)]] | ||
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=Rifles= | =Rifles= | ||
− | ==Mosin | + | ==Mosin Mod. 1891/30== |
− | An Orussian soldier is briefly seen with a [[Mosin Nagant Rifle|Mosin-Nagant | + | An Orussian soldier is briefly seen with a [[Mosin Nagant Rifle|Mod. 1891/30]] in Berlin. Though often colloquially called "Mosin-Nagant" in the West, this is a misnomer created by legal disputes over the rifle's design, and how those disputes were reported on in Western/English sources of the time period. |
− | [[File:M9130.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Mosin | + | [[File:M9130.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Mosin Mod. 1891/30 - 7.62x54mmR]] |
− | [[Image:SWrtbM911.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Karlsland soldiers wave a flag over Berlin, in an homage to the famous photograph of Russian soldiers doing the same in our universe. One of the two Orussian soldiers further away is leaning on his rifle, presumably a Mosin | + | [[Image:SWrtbM911.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Karlsland soldiers wave a flag over Berlin, in an homage to the famous photograph of Russian soldiers doing the same in our universe. One of the two Orussian soldiers further away is leaning on his rifle, presumably a Mosin. (Ep.12)]] |
==Boys Mk I*== | ==Boys Mk I*== | ||
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=Machine Guns= | =Machine Guns= | ||
==Bren Mk 1 (M)== | ==Bren Mk 1 (M)== | ||
− | In addition to continuing to be the standard weapon of Pierrette-Henriette Clostermann, a [[Bren | + | In addition to continuing to be the standard weapon of Pierrette-Henriette Clostermann, a [[Bren gun|Bren Mk 1 (M)]] is also used by Yoshika Miyafuji while defending the Venezian battleship ''Doge''. It is odd that a Venezian ship would have Britannian weapons onboard, though this is likely a matter of production simplicity; with Francesca Lucchini not using Romagnan/Venezian/Italian weapons, there wouldn't be reference material (including a 3D model) already available for use in what is ultimately a single episode appearance. This is supported by a Twitter post from series creator/artist Humikane Shimada, mentioning that he would have liked the Helvetian/Swiss Bf 109 flown by Yoshika in the first two episodes to be a D or E variant, but a new 3D model and other reference material would have been excessive for a single appearance (as such, Yoshika flies a Bf 109 F, likely an F-4). |
[[Image:Bren gun.JPG|thumb|none|400px|Bren Mk 1 (M) - .303 British]] | [[Image:Bren gun.JPG|thumb|none|400px|Bren Mk 1 (M) - .303 British]] | ||
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==Browning M1918A2== | ==Browning M1918A2== | ||
− | The [[Browning Automatic Rifle]] returns as Charlotte Yeager's primary weapon, and is also used by Liberion tank crews, seen when they take refuge inside the Zoo Tower. | + | The [[M1918A2|Browning Automatic Rifle]] returns as Charlotte Yeager's primary weapon, and is also used by Liberion tank crews, seen when they take refuge inside the Zoo Tower. |
[[Image:BAR.jpg|thumb|400px|none|Browning M1918A2 - .30-06 Springfield]] | [[Image:BAR.jpg|thumb|400px|none|Browning M1918A2 - .30-06 Springfield]] | ||
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==MG 42== | ==MG 42== | ||
− | The witch variant of the [[ | + | The witch variant of the [[MG 42]], fitted with Patronentrommel 34 drum mags, remains the standard weapon of Minna-Dietlinde Wilcke, Gertrud Barkhorn, Erica Hartmann, and Eila Juutilainen. In addition, Charlotte Yeager briefly borrows Minna's MG 42, after entering a battle unarmed. With Mio Sakamoto having officially left the unit, Gertrud has been promoted to the rank of Squadron Leader. |
[[File:MG42 Left.jpg|thumb|none|400px|MG 42 - 7.92x57mm Mauser]] | [[File:MG42 Left.jpg|thumb|none|400px|MG 42 - 7.92x57mm Mauser]] | ||
− | [[File:Strike Witches design MG 42.jpg|thumb|none|400px|MG 42 design artwork; the text at top-left describes | + | [[File:Strike Witches design MG 42.jpg|thumb|none|400px|MG 42 design artwork; the text at top-left describes operation of the magazine release, comparing it to the tab on an aluminum drink can]] |
[[Image:SWrtbMG421.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Gertrud Barkhorn dual wielding MG 42s during the battle with the iceberg, with Minna off to the left. (Ep.2)]] | [[Image:SWrtbMG421.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Gertrud Barkhorn dual wielding MG 42s during the battle with the iceberg, with Minna off to the left. (Ep.2)]] | ||
− | [[Image:SWrtbMG422.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Eila Juutilainen holds her MG 42 as | + | [[Image:SWrtbMG422.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Eila Juutilainen holds her MG 42 as she and Sanya Litvyak rejoin the Strike Witches. (Ep.2)]] |
[[Image:SWrtbMG423.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Erica Hartmann zooms in from above to finish off the iceberg Neuroi with her MG 42. (Ep.2)]] | [[Image:SWrtbMG423.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Erica Hartmann zooms in from above to finish off the iceberg Neuroi with her MG 42. (Ep.2)]] | ||
[[Image:SWrtbMG424.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Trude proudly holds her MG 42s after blasting an entire row of targets at the firing range, as Yoshika and Lynette give Shizuka a tour of the new Den Helder base. (Ep.3)]] | [[Image:SWrtbMG424.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Trude proudly holds her MG 42s after blasting an entire row of targets at the firing range, as Yoshika and Lynette give Shizuka a tour of the new Den Helder base. (Ep.3)]] | ||
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==Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai== | ==Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai== | ||
− | The fictional witch variant of the [[Type 99 cannon|Type 99]], the Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai, is used by Yoshika Miyafuji and Shizuka Hattori. | + | The fictional witch variant of the [[Type 99 cannon|Type 99]], the Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai, is used by Yoshika Miyafuji and Shizuka Hattori. With Shizuka joining the main cast and Yoshika having (mostly) regained her magic, the Type 99 gets considerably more time to shine than in ''Operation Victory Arrow'' or ''The Movie''. |
− | [[image:Type_99-1.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Type 99 Mark 1 | + | For the rather lengthy technical explanation of the witches' Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai variant, [[Strike Witches#Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai|see its first season entry]]. |
− | [[Image:Strike Witches design Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai (13. | + | |
+ | [[image:Type_99-1.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Type 99 Mark 1, flexible configuration - 20x72mmRB]] | ||
+ | [[Image:Strike Witches design Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai (13.2x96mm Hotchkiss) design artwork; the text at lower-centre indicates the location of the charging button]] | ||
[[Image:SWrtbT991.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Yoshika gives Shizuka a helping hand through an obstacle course, both of them carrying training Type 99s. (Ep.3)]] | [[Image:SWrtbT991.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Yoshika gives Shizuka a helping hand through an obstacle course, both of them carrying training Type 99s. (Ep.3)]] | ||
[[Image:SWrtbT992.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Unable to get a shot in, Shizuka evades fire from Perrine during a mock battle. (Ep.3)]] | [[Image:SWrtbT992.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Unable to get a shot in, Shizuka evades fire from Perrine during a mock battle. (Ep.3)]] | ||
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=Launchers & Other= | =Launchers & Other= | ||
==Fliegerhammer== | ==Fliegerhammer== | ||
− | Night witch Aleksandra Litvyak's weapon of choice remains the Fliegerhammer rocket launcher, | + | Night witch Aleksandra Litvyak's weapon of choice remains the Fliegerhammer rocket launcher, inspired by the [[Luftfaust|Fliegerfaust]] and designed by Erica's twin sister Ursula Hartmann. |
+ | |||
+ | For additional details, [[Strike Witches#Fliegerhammer|see its first season entry]]. | ||
[[Image:Luftfaust-cp.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Fliegerfaust (replica) with 9-rocket clip - 20mm]] | [[Image:Luftfaust-cp.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Fliegerfaust (replica) with 9-rocket clip - 20mm]] | ||
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[[Image:SWrtbFH18.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Aleksandra and Eila look on in disbelief after the group discovers Wolf's true form. (Ep.12)]] | [[Image:SWrtbFH18.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Aleksandra and Eila look on in disbelief after the group discovers Wolf's true form. (Ep.12)]] | ||
− | == | + | ==helmet gun== |
The genius and eccentric Ursula Hartmann returns with more of her inventions, this time including an incredibly obscure firearm design: A helmet-mounted gun. Specifically, this was a very real patent filed by an American inventor by the name of Albert Bacon Pratt in the 1910s. | The genius and eccentric Ursula Hartmann returns with more of her inventions, this time including an incredibly obscure firearm design: A helmet-mounted gun. Specifically, this was a very real patent filed by an American inventor by the name of Albert Bacon Pratt in the 1910s. | ||
− | [[Image:Helmet_gun_patent.jpg|thumb|none| | + | [[Image:Helmet_gun_patent.jpg|thumb|none|200px|Albert Bacon Pratt's helmet gun, patent drawing]] |
[[Image:SWrtbHG1.jpg|600px|thumb|none|''"The helmet gun. It's a helmet, with a gun on it."'' (Ep.9)]] | [[Image:SWrtbHG1.jpg|600px|thumb|none|''"The helmet gun. It's a helmet, with a gun on it."'' (Ep.9)]] | ||
− | [[Image:SWrtbHG2.jpg|600px|thumb|none| | + | [[Image:SWrtbHG2.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Ursula then shows off her midair sound amplifier; this combo of earpieces and goggles is inspired by a real world German design from WWI. Before the advent of radar, much larger and far more absurd-looking acoustic locators were also used in WWII. (Ep.9)]] |
==Panzerfaust 250== | ==Panzerfaust 250== | ||
− | The Panzerfaust 250 appears as another of Ursula's creations. The | + | The [[Panzerfaust 250]] appears as another of Ursula's creations. The PzF 250 was to be a major evolution of the Panzerfaust series, introducing a reusable tube and a pistol grip assembly, but in our reality while the plans were completed, none were built before the war's end. The design was seized by the Russians, who used it to develop the [[RPG-2]], which then became the ubiquitous [[RPG-7]]. |
− | [[Image:Panzerfaust_250_drawing.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Panzerfaust 250 concept drawing | + | [[Image:Panzerfaust_250_drawing.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Panzerfaust 250 concept drawing]] |
[[Image:SWrtbPzF2501.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Still wearing her previous gadgets, Ursula pulls out a Panzerfaust 250, referring to it by name. (Ep.9)]] | [[Image:SWrtbPzF2501.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Still wearing her previous gadgets, Ursula pulls out a Panzerfaust 250, referring to it by name. (Ep.9)]] | ||
[[Image:SWrtbPzF2502.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Erica complains Ursula brought more weird stuff, though Gertrud disagrees, seeing promise in the PzF 250. This shot also gives a glimpse of the pistol grip assembly. (Ep.9)]] | [[Image:SWrtbPzF2502.jpg|600px|thumb|none|Erica complains Ursula brought more weird stuff, though Gertrud disagrees, seeing promise in the PzF 250. This shot also gives a glimpse of the pistol grip assembly. (Ep.9)]] | ||
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=506th Joint Fighter Wing, Noble Witches cameo= | =506th Joint Fighter Wing, Noble Witches cameo= | ||
− | The Noble Witches make another cameo, and as with ''Operation Victory Arrow'' it's again as a formation of contrails in the sky. Unlike their previous cameos, however, this time the entire 506th appears, making this the first animated appearance of B-unit. Based in Dijon, B-unit is comprised of four Liberion witches: Geena Preddy (M2 Aircraft), Marian Carl (M1919A6), Jennifer DeBlanc ([[Hispano-Suiza HS.404|HS.404]]), and Carla Luksic ([[ | + | The Noble Witches make another cameo, and as with ''Operation Victory Arrow'' it's again as a formation of contrails in the sky. Unlike their previous cameos, however, this time the entire 506th appears, making this the first animated appearance of B-unit. Based in Dijon, B-unit is comprised of four Liberion witches: Geena Preddy (M2 Aircraft), Marian Carl (M1919A6), Jennifer DeBlanc ([[Hispano-Suiza HS.404|HS.404]]), and Carla Luksic ([[Browning M2 Water Cooled]]). |
[[File:SWrtb506th1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Shizuka watches the 506th JFW fly nearby, as both squadrons prepare for Operation Southwind. The Brave Witches and Ardor Witches are also involved, fighting at their respective frontlines. (Ep.11)]] | [[File:SWrtb506th1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Shizuka watches the 506th JFW fly nearby, as both squadrons prepare for Operation Southwind. The Brave Witches and Ardor Witches are also involved, fighting at their respective frontlines. (Ep.11)]] | ||
− | [[File:SWrtb506th2.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Assorted official art of B-unit. '''First:''' Geena Preddy with her M2 Aircraft and P-51D Mustang | + | [[File:SWrtb506th2.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Assorted official art of B-unit. '''First:''' Geena Preddy with her M2 Aircraft and P-51D Mustang, alongside Carla and Marian, fighting Lerche and torpedo Neuroi. '''Second:''' Marian Carl in a white dress with her M1919A6 and F4F-4 Wildcat, with Heinrike, Kunika, and Jennifer also in fancy dresses. '''Third:''' Jennifer DeBlanc on a night patrol with her HS.404 and F7F-3N Tigercat, together with Heinrike. '''Fourth:''' Carla Luksic with her M2 Watercooled and P-51D Mustang, mowing down torpedo Neuroi with her enormous machine gun. (Art)]] |
=Vehicle-Mounted & Stationary Weapons= | =Vehicle-Mounted & Stationary Weapons= | ||
==MG 17== | ==MG 17== | ||
− | In the opening scenes of the season, during the fall of Karlsland in 1940, Bf 109 G-2 fighters are seen attempting to take down a Neuroi; the Bf 109s are armed with a pair of [[ | + | In the opening scenes of the season, during the fall of Karlsland in 1940, Bf 109 G-2 fighters are seen attempting to take down a Neuroi; the Bf 109s are armed with a pair of [[MG 17]]s above the engine. |
[[File:MG 17.jpg|thumb|none|400px|MG 17 - 7.92x57mm Mauser]] | [[File:MG 17.jpg|thumb|none|400px|MG 17 - 7.92x57mm Mauser]] | ||
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==MG 151/20== | ==MG 151/20== | ||
− | The Bf 109s are also equipped with a single [[MG 151 | + | The Bf 109s are also equipped with a single [[MG 151|MG 151/20]], mounted through the propeller hub. The Neuroi invasion of Berlin is established as taking place on June 5, 1940. In the real world, this is the same date Germany initiated the second phase of its invasion of France, ''Fall Rot''; this was two days after the end of the British evacuation at Dunkirk, and one day after Winston Churchill's famous ''"We shall fight on the beaches"'' speech. Within the ''World Witches'' universe, that evacuation would take place a year later in June, 1941, as seen in a flashback in the first season, as well as the ''Erica Hartmann 1941'' manga. |
[[File:MG-151.jpg|thumb|none|400px|MG 151/20 - 20x82mm]] | [[File:MG-151.jpg|thumb|none|400px|MG 151/20 - 20x82mm]] | ||
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==Browning M2 Aircraft== | ==Browning M2 Aircraft== | ||
− | B-17G Flying Fortress bombers make recurring appearances throughout the season, most notably during a raid over Berlin, in which the Strike Witches deploy from the bomb bay of one of the B-17s. Bristling with defensive armament, B-17Gs are equipped with a total of thirteen [[ | + | B-17G Flying Fortress bombers make recurring appearances throughout the season, most notably during a raid over Berlin, in which the Strike Witches deploy from the bomb bay of one of the B-17s. Bristling with defensive armament, B-17Gs are equipped with a total of thirteen [[Browning M2 Aircraft]] machine guns, five in flexible configuration and eight fixed in turrets. |
The B-17s that take part in the raid on Wolf are also equipped with fuel-air bombs, to dissipate Wolf's protective cloud. In reality, fuel-air explosives were initially developed by Germany during WWII, under the project name ''Hexenkessel'', which rather fittingly translates to "witch's cauldron". This type of weapon did not see notable combat use until being further developed by the United States during the Vietnam War, and the type of bomb seen here is modelled after the BLU-72, a type of American fuel-air bomb that dates to the late 1960s; while highly anachronistic in reality, it appears that within this universe the technology was developed much faster, likely as a result of collaboration between Karlsland and Liberion. | The B-17s that take part in the raid on Wolf are also equipped with fuel-air bombs, to dissipate Wolf's protective cloud. In reality, fuel-air explosives were initially developed by Germany during WWII, under the project name ''Hexenkessel'', which rather fittingly translates to "witch's cauldron". This type of weapon did not see notable combat use until being further developed by the United States during the Vietnam War, and the type of bomb seen here is modelled after the BLU-72, a type of American fuel-air bomb that dates to the late 1960s; while highly anachronistic in reality, it appears that within this universe the technology was developed much faster, likely as a result of collaboration between Karlsland and Liberion. | ||
− | [[File:M2 aircraft flexible.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Browning M2 Aircraft, flexible - .50 BMG]] | + | [[File:M2 aircraft flexible.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Browning M2 Aircraft, flexible configuration - .50 BMG]] |
− | [[File:M2aircraft.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Browning M2 Aircraft, fixed - .50 BMG]] | + | [[File:M2aircraft.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Browning M2 Aircraft, fixed configuration - .50 BMG]] |
[[File:SWrtbM21.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Pierrette escorting the flight of B-17s in the fog over Kiel, as they prepare to carpet bomb the city. The forward dorsal turret, operated by the flight engineer, features a pair of fixed M2 Aircraft; the radio operator's dorsal flexible M2 is absent, something consistent on the B-17 model in ''Road to Berlin''. (Ep.8)]] | [[File:SWrtbM21.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Pierrette escorting the flight of B-17s in the fog over Kiel, as they prepare to carpet bomb the city. The forward dorsal turret, operated by the flight engineer, features a pair of fixed M2 Aircraft; the radio operator's dorsal flexible M2 is absent, something consistent on the B-17 model in ''Road to Berlin''. (Ep.8)]] | ||
[[File:SWrtbM22.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Gertrud and Erica with the B-17s as the fog starts to clear, just in time to allow for precision bombing of Neuroi positions, preventing damage to the valuable port facilities. The asymmetrically-mounted pair of flexible M2s in the nose can be seen here; both are operated by the navigator. (Ep.8)]] | [[File:SWrtbM22.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Gertrud and Erica with the B-17s as the fog starts to clear, just in time to allow for precision bombing of Neuroi positions, preventing damage to the valuable port facilities. The asymmetrically-mounted pair of flexible M2s in the nose can be seen here; both are operated by the navigator. (Ep.8)]] | ||
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==Browning M1919A4== | ==Browning M1919A4== | ||
− | [[ | + | [[Browning M1919A4]] machine guns are mounted in M4A3 Sherman tanks, along with their M3 cannon. Each tank is equipped with an M1919A4 in a coaxial mount, another in a bow mount, and interestingly a "spare" Browning attached to the rear of the turret; many of the Shermans also feature a T34 Calliope rocket launcher. A Sherman fitted with a mine plow (repurposed as a farming tool) is prominently used by Perrine while she, Yoshika, and Shizuka visit the Dutch royal family at the Kasteel De Haar. |
[[File:M1919A4.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Browning M1919A4 - .30-06 Springfield]] | [[File:M1919A4.jpg|thumb|none|400px|Browning M1919A4 - .30-06 Springfield]] | ||
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==MG 34 Panzerlauf== | ==MG 34 Panzerlauf== | ||
− | Alongside the Shermans, the allied tank force is also made up of Tiger Is, which are equipped with a pair of [[ | + | Alongside the Shermans, the allied tank force is also made up of Tiger Is, which are equipped with a pair of [[MG 34 Panzerlauf]]s, similarly in coaxial and bow positions, as well as an 8.8cm KwK 36 cannon. In addition to the Shermans and Tigers, the key to the whole operation is the ludicrously enormous Ratte, a 1000-ton tank classified as a ''Landkreuzer''. The Ratte's turret is taken from a ''Scharnhorst''-class battleship, with the centre gun removed; in service as tank-mounted weapons, these cannons would have been designated as the 28cm KwK 34. The Ratte also features a single 12.8cm KwK 44 (same as on the Jagdtiger and Maus) mounted in the forward hull, two Kugelblitz turrets each fitted with a pair of 3cm FlaK 103 cannons on the forward engine deck, two Coelian turrets with a 5.5cm FlaKZwilling 58 twin cannon each at the rear, and finally eight MG 34 Panzerlauf machine guns around the front and sides of the hull. |
− | [[File: | + | [[File:MG 34 Panzerlauf 2.jpg|thumb|none|400px|MG 34 Panzerlauf - 7.92x57mm Mauser]] |
[[File:SWrtbMG341.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Eila walks on top of a Tiger I in the opening credits; the Lange Jaap lighthouse can be seen in the background. (OP)]] | [[File:SWrtbMG341.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Eila walks on top of a Tiger I in the opening credits; the Lange Jaap lighthouse can be seen in the background. (OP)]] | ||
[[File:SWrtbMG342.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Tiger Is and M4A3s roll out from Kiel, giving a good look at the bow-mounted MG 34, as well as the coaxial MG 34 in the turret above it. (Ep.9)]] | [[File:SWrtbMG342.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Tiger Is and M4A3s roll out from Kiel, giving a good look at the bow-mounted MG 34, as well as the coaxial MG 34 in the turret above it. (Ep.9)]] | ||
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==Rheinbote, on 8.8cm FlaK 41 mount== | ==Rheinbote, on 8.8cm FlaK 41 mount== | ||
− | A Rheinbote rocket is used as a target during a test of the Me 163 Komet striker; the rocket's launch platform is a modified mount for an 8.8cm FlaK 41 anti-aircraft gun. In reality, Rheinbote using repurposed gun mounts as launch platforms did happen, though photographs are scarce. The specific setup seen in ''Road to Berlin'', down to its colour scheme | + | A Rheinbote rocket is used as a target during a test of the Me 163 Komet striker; the rocket's launch platform is a modified mount for an [[8.8 cm FlaK 41|8.8cm FlaK 41]] anti-aircraft gun. In reality, Rheinbote using repurposed gun mounts as launch platforms did happen, though photographs are scarce. The specific setup seen in ''Road to Berlin'', down to its colour scheme is an exact match to a model kit, which likely served as the animators' reference material. |
− | The 8.8cm FlaK 41 itself was an evolution of the 8.8cm FlaK 36 (or 8.8cm KwK 36 as the Tiger I's gun) with a longer barrel and cartridge, and was a direct competitor to the 8.8cm PaK 43 (or 8.8cm KwK 43 as the Tiger II's gun). The original FlaK 36 used an 88x571mmR shell, the PaK 43 used an 88x822mmR shell, while the FlaK 41 used an even longer 88x855mmR shell. | + | The 8.8cm FlaK 41 itself was an evolution of the 8.8cm FlaK 36 (or 8.8cm KwK 36 as the Tiger I's gun) with a longer barrel and cartridge, and was a direct competitor to the [[8.8 cm PaK 43|8.8cm PaK 43]] (or 8.8cm KwK 43 as the Tiger II's gun). The original FlaK 36 used an 88x571mmR shell, the PaK 43 used an 88x822mmR shell, while the FlaK 41 used an even longer 88x855mmR shell. |
[[File:88mm FlaK 41.jpg|thumb|none|400px|FlaK 41 - 88x855mmR]] | [[File:88mm FlaK 41.jpg|thumb|none|400px|FlaK 41 - 88x855mmR]] | ||
Line 368: | Line 374: | ||
[[File:SWrtbF412.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The Rheinbote's engines ignite, as Minna prepares to pursue in the Komet. Rocketry is a recurring theme in this episode, featuring the PzF 250, V 2, Me 163, Rheinbote, and a mention of the Strike Witches' use of rocket boosters in the [[Strike Witches 2|second season]]. This focus on the next generation of technology also serves as contrast to Minna (and Gertrud) approaching the end of their time as witches. (Ep.9)]] | [[File:SWrtbF412.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The Rheinbote's engines ignite, as Minna prepares to pursue in the Komet. Rocketry is a recurring theme in this episode, featuring the PzF 250, V 2, Me 163, Rheinbote, and a mention of the Strike Witches' use of rocket boosters in the [[Strike Witches 2|second season]]. This focus on the next generation of technology also serves as contrast to Minna (and Gertrud) approaching the end of their time as witches. (Ep.9)]] | ||
− | ==12.8cm | + | ==12.8cm FlaKZwilling 40== |
− | Four 12.8cm | + | Four [[12.8 cm FlaKZwilling 40|12.8cm FlaKZwilling 40]] twin anti-aircraft cannons are seen mounted on the roof of the Flakturm Tiergarten (Tiergarten flak tower), commonly nicknamed the Zoo Tower due to being constructed close to the Berlin Zoo. While the real Zoo Tower was constructed in 1941, and only reequipped with these cannons in 1943, within the ''World Witches'' universe it was constructed before the second Neuroi war in anticipation of their return. |
− | [[File:Flak-Zwilling40.jpg|thumb|none|400px| | + | [[File:Flak-Zwilling40.jpg|thumb|none|400px|FlaKZwilling 40 - 128x958mmR]] |
[[File:SWrtbFZ401.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A stitched image of the tower, as Yoshika suggests to Patton that they should take refuge there. (Ep.11)]] | [[File:SWrtbFZ401.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A stitched image of the tower, as Yoshika suggests to Patton that they should take refuge there. (Ep.11)]] | ||
[[File:SWrtbFZ402.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The four AA batteries on the roof, all haphazardly pointing in different directions; evidently the fortress saw combat during the initial invasion of Berlin. (Ep.11)]] | [[File:SWrtbFZ402.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The four AA batteries on the roof, all haphazardly pointing in different directions; evidently the fortress saw combat during the initial invasion of Berlin. (Ep.11)]] | ||
− | [[File:SWrtbFZ403.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A | + | [[File:SWrtbFZ403.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A FlaKZwilling 40 behind Yoshika, who is surprised to see the Neuroi have left and the dome is becoming transparent. (Ep.12)]] |
[[File:SWrtbFZ404.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Excellent detail on another of the twin AA guns, as the Neuroi return. Abandoned and exposed to the elements for nearly six years, all of the guns are thoroughly rusted. (Ep.12)]] | [[File:SWrtbFZ404.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Excellent detail on another of the twin AA guns, as the Neuroi return. Abandoned and exposed to the elements for nearly six years, all of the guns are thoroughly rusted. (Ep.12)]] | ||
[[File:SWrtbFZ405.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Rather than drawing his SAA, Patton shows that discretion is the better part of valour, while Yoshika instead takes up an MP 40 and covers the General. (Ep.12)]] | [[File:SWrtbFZ405.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Rather than drawing his SAA, Patton shows that discretion is the better part of valour, while Yoshika instead takes up an MP 40 and covers the General. (Ep.12)]] | ||
− | [[File:SWrtbFZ406.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A view from the roof after the dome is eliminated as more Neuroi burst from the ground, giving another look at three of the rusted | + | [[File:SWrtbFZ406.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A view from the roof after the dome is eliminated as more Neuroi burst from the ground, giving another look at three of the rusted FlaKZwilling 40s. (Ep.12)]] |
==Naval Weapons== | ==Naval Weapons== | ||
− | The ''Littorio''-class battleship ''Doge'' features | + | The ''Littorio''-class battleship ''Doge'' features prominently in the battle with the iceberg Neuroi in the first two episodes. While there was no ship of the class named ''Doge'' in reality, it is certainly the ''World Witches'' universe equivalent to the ''Vittorio Veneto'', as its namesake battle in the Great War never took place due to the first Neuroi invasion. The ''Doge'' actually first appeared in the series ten years previous to ''Road to Berlin'', named on a briefing map as part of the fleet assembled for Operation Mars in [[Strike Witches 2#Naval Weapons|''Strike Witches 2'']]. While most of her armament is the same as listed on the second season page, due to having a new 3D model she does differ in a few ways. Notably, the aircraft catapult has been moved from the stern to the bow, requiring removal of the four [[Breda 37/54 cannon|Breda 37/54 Modello 1938]] twin autocannons that previously occupied that position. In exchange, two additional 37mm Breda emplacements were added just forward of the rear main turret. |
[[File:SWrtbN1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The Naval Arsenal in Yoshika's hometown of Yokosuka in the closing credits, with [[Strike Witches#Naval Weapons|aircraft carrier ''Akagi'']] and several smaller ships in port, including two submarines on the left. This is the only appearance of Fuso itself this season. (ED)]] | [[File:SWrtbN1.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The Naval Arsenal in Yoshika's hometown of Yokosuka in the closing credits, with [[Strike Witches#Naval Weapons|aircraft carrier ''Akagi'']] and several smaller ships in port, including two submarines on the left. This is the only appearance of Fuso itself this season. (ED)]] | ||
− | [[File:SWrtbN2.jpg|thumb|none|600px| | + | [[File:SWrtbN2.jpg|thumb|none|600px|''Doge'' fires her nine 381mm main guns at the iceberg, as Yoshika arrives on the scene. Despite the catapult having been moved to the bow, the crane that retrieves seaplanes as well as the rails that lead into the aircraft hangar are still placed at the rear of the ship, which doesn't seem overly helpful. (Ep.1)]] |
− | [[File:SWrtbN3.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The camera pans along ''Doge'''s deck, showcasing three of her twelve 90mm AA cannons, mounted in single turrets. These cannons are seen firing during the battle, though it can be difficult to spot. One of the newly-added twin 37mms sits near the | + | [[File:SWrtbN3.jpg|thumb|none|600px|The camera pans along ''Doge'''s deck, showcasing three of her twelve 90mm AA cannons, mounted in single turrets. These cannons are seen firing during the battle, though it can be difficult to spot. One of the newly-added twin 37mms sits near the ship's boats, with another out of frame on the opposite side. (Ep.1)]] |
[[File:SWrtbN4.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A profile view of the battleship, as she trains her guns on the iceberg Neuroi. (Ep.2)]] | [[File:SWrtbN4.jpg|thumb|none|600px|A profile view of the battleship, as she trains her guns on the iceberg Neuroi. (Ep.2)]] | ||
− | [[File:SWrtbN5.jpg|thumb|none|600px|''Doge'' | + | [[File:SWrtbN5.jpg|thumb|none|600px|''Doge'' sends another volley of shells at the behemoth, firing each barrel sequentially. (Ep.2)]] |
[[File:SWrtbN6.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Engines failing, Yoshika plummets onto the ''Doge'''s forward deck. Another of the sixteen twin 37mm AA guns is visible here. (Ep.2)]] | [[File:SWrtbN6.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Engines failing, Yoshika plummets onto the ''Doge'''s forward deck. Another of the sixteen twin 37mm AA guns is visible here. (Ep.2)]] | ||
[[File:SWrtbN7.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Muzzle flash from the two port-side secondary 152mm triple turrets casts some wonderful shadow and light on the ''Doge''. (Ep.2)]] | [[File:SWrtbN7.jpg|thumb|none|600px|Muzzle flash from the two port-side secondary 152mm triple turrets casts some wonderful shadow and light on the ''Doge''. (Ep.2)]] |
Latest revision as of 03:27, 15 April 2024
Two months into her medical studies at the University of Lausanne in Helvetia, Yoshika Miyafuji receives a visit from Mio Sakamoto and Keisuke Hijikata in early November, 1945, though their reunion is quickly interrupted by news of a potential Neuroi attack on a Venezian battleship captained by the father of one of Yoshika's local friends. Flying from the Alps to the coast, Yoshika, and later the rest of the Strike Witches attempt to stop a Neuroi from crashing a massive iceberg into the port of Antwerpen in Belgica, however their efforts fail and the port facilities are destroyed.
With the loss of the deepwater port at Antwerpen, humanity's plans for a push on occupied Karlsland, with the goal of retaking Berlin, must be put on hold for several months until the port can be rebuilt. In the meantime, the 501st JFW is reassembled and stationed in Den Helder, Nederland. With Mio having aged out of her magic several months prior, the Imperial Fuso Navy now officially assigns a replacement, one Shizuka Hattori. With other members not far off aging out themselves, the Strike Witches must prepare for the upcoming operation to liberate Berlin, deep in the heart of Neuroi-occupied territory.
Strike Witches: Road to Berlin is a follow-up to Strike Witches: The Movie; it is the first story to be set after the events of The Movie since that film released in 2012.
For more in-depth explanations of the lore and setting of the World Witches universe, see the first season's page.
Warning: Some descriptions and images are notable spoilers for the series, read at your own risk.
The following weapons were used in the anime series Strike Witches: Road to Berlin:
Pistols
Browning M.25
The Browning M.25 (the Dutch military designation for the FN Model 1922, in .380 ACP) is seen in the holsters of two officers at the Schelde Fort, a coastal artillery installation at the mouth of the river of the same name. The pistols themselves are not seen outside their holsters, however this was the standard sidearm of the Dutch military at the time.
Colt M1873
General Gerald S. Patton carries a custom Single Action Army revolver very similar to the one carried by the real George S. Patton. Patton's revolver is an engraved 4.75" Civilian model with ivory grips, though the World Witches depiction differs in being gold-plated rather than nickel. Charlotte Yeager also carries an M1873 Civilian (blued with wood grips) in a left-handed shoulder holster (presumably for easier access if her BAR is still in her right hand) which she lends to Gertrud Barkhorn as a lightweight backup weapon for a sortie against a particularly dangerous Neuroi.
For a photo of Gertrud's actress Mie Sonozaki posing with a Single Action Army, see the Talk Page.
Submachine Guns
MP 40
MP 40 submachine guns are carried by Karlsland troops and tank crews; one of them is taken by Yoshika Miyafuji and used in a last stand atop the Zoo Tower in Berlin. An MP 40 magazine is also seen among other clutter in Erica Hartmann's room.
Rifles
Mosin Mod. 1891/30
An Orussian soldier is briefly seen with a Mod. 1891/30 in Berlin. Though often colloquially called "Mosin-Nagant" in the West, this is a misnomer created by legal disputes over the rifle's design, and how those disputes were reported on in Western/English sources of the time period.
Boys Mk I*
Lynette Bishop continues to use a Boys Mk I* anti-tank rifle in her role as the 501st's designated marksman. She notably makes use of her Boys to put a stop to the shenanigans caused by an ancient clay fertility idol roaming around the Strike Witches' base.
Machine Guns
Bren Mk 1 (M)
In addition to continuing to be the standard weapon of Pierrette-Henriette Clostermann, a Bren Mk 1 (M) is also used by Yoshika Miyafuji while defending the Venezian battleship Doge. It is odd that a Venezian ship would have Britannian weapons onboard, though this is likely a matter of production simplicity; with Francesca Lucchini not using Romagnan/Venezian/Italian weapons, there wouldn't be reference material (including a 3D model) already available for use in what is ultimately a single episode appearance. This is supported by a Twitter post from series creator/artist Humikane Shimada, mentioning that he would have liked the Helvetian/Swiss Bf 109 flown by Yoshika in the first two episodes to be a D or E variant, but a new 3D model and other reference material would have been excessive for a single appearance (as such, Yoshika flies a Bf 109 F, likely an F-4).
Browning M1918A2
The Browning Automatic Rifle returns as Charlotte Yeager's primary weapon, and is also used by Liberion tank crews, seen when they take refuge inside the Zoo Tower.
Browning M1919A6
As always, Francesca Lucchini uses a Browning M1919A6, fitted with a custom-mounted detachable ammo box.
MG 42
The witch variant of the MG 42, fitted with Patronentrommel 34 drum mags, remains the standard weapon of Minna-Dietlinde Wilcke, Gertrud Barkhorn, Erica Hartmann, and Eila Juutilainen. In addition, Charlotte Yeager briefly borrows Minna's MG 42, after entering a battle unarmed. With Mio Sakamoto having officially left the unit, Gertrud has been promoted to the rank of Squadron Leader.
Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai
The fictional witch variant of the Type 99, the Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai, is used by Yoshika Miyafuji and Shizuka Hattori. With Shizuka joining the main cast and Yoshika having (mostly) regained her magic, the Type 99 gets considerably more time to shine than in Operation Victory Arrow or The Movie.
For the rather lengthy technical explanation of the witches' Type 99-2 Model 2 Kai variant, see its first season entry.
Launchers & Other
Fliegerhammer
Night witch Aleksandra Litvyak's weapon of choice remains the Fliegerhammer rocket launcher, inspired by the Fliegerfaust and designed by Erica's twin sister Ursula Hartmann.
For additional details, see its first season entry.
helmet gun
The genius and eccentric Ursula Hartmann returns with more of her inventions, this time including an incredibly obscure firearm design: A helmet-mounted gun. Specifically, this was a very real patent filed by an American inventor by the name of Albert Bacon Pratt in the 1910s.
Panzerfaust 250
The Panzerfaust 250 appears as another of Ursula's creations. The PzF 250 was to be a major evolution of the Panzerfaust series, introducing a reusable tube and a pistol grip assembly, but in our reality while the plans were completed, none were built before the war's end. The design was seized by the Russians, who used it to develop the RPG-2, which then became the ubiquitous RPG-7.
506th Joint Fighter Wing, Noble Witches cameo
The Noble Witches make another cameo, and as with Operation Victory Arrow it's again as a formation of contrails in the sky. Unlike their previous cameos, however, this time the entire 506th appears, making this the first animated appearance of B-unit. Based in Dijon, B-unit is comprised of four Liberion witches: Geena Preddy (M2 Aircraft), Marian Carl (M1919A6), Jennifer DeBlanc (HS.404), and Carla Luksic (Browning M2 Water Cooled).
Vehicle-Mounted & Stationary Weapons
MG 17
In the opening scenes of the season, during the fall of Karlsland in 1940, Bf 109 G-2 fighters are seen attempting to take down a Neuroi; the Bf 109s are armed with a pair of MG 17s above the engine.
MG 151/20
The Bf 109s are also equipped with a single MG 151/20, mounted through the propeller hub. The Neuroi invasion of Berlin is established as taking place on June 5, 1940. In the real world, this is the same date Germany initiated the second phase of its invasion of France, Fall Rot; this was two days after the end of the British evacuation at Dunkirk, and one day after Winston Churchill's famous "We shall fight on the beaches" speech. Within the World Witches universe, that evacuation would take place a year later in June, 1941, as seen in a flashback in the first season, as well as the Erica Hartmann 1941 manga.
Browning M2 Aircraft
B-17G Flying Fortress bombers make recurring appearances throughout the season, most notably during a raid over Berlin, in which the Strike Witches deploy from the bomb bay of one of the B-17s. Bristling with defensive armament, B-17Gs are equipped with a total of thirteen Browning M2 Aircraft machine guns, five in flexible configuration and eight fixed in turrets.
The B-17s that take part in the raid on Wolf are also equipped with fuel-air bombs, to dissipate Wolf's protective cloud. In reality, fuel-air explosives were initially developed by Germany during WWII, under the project name Hexenkessel, which rather fittingly translates to "witch's cauldron". This type of weapon did not see notable combat use until being further developed by the United States during the Vietnam War, and the type of bomb seen here is modelled after the BLU-72, a type of American fuel-air bomb that dates to the late 1960s; while highly anachronistic in reality, it appears that within this universe the technology was developed much faster, likely as a result of collaboration between Karlsland and Liberion.
Browning M1919A4
Browning M1919A4 machine guns are mounted in M4A3 Sherman tanks, along with their M3 cannon. Each tank is equipped with an M1919A4 in a coaxial mount, another in a bow mount, and interestingly a "spare" Browning attached to the rear of the turret; many of the Shermans also feature a T34 Calliope rocket launcher. A Sherman fitted with a mine plow (repurposed as a farming tool) is prominently used by Perrine while she, Yoshika, and Shizuka visit the Dutch royal family at the Kasteel De Haar.
MG 34 Panzerlauf
Alongside the Shermans, the allied tank force is also made up of Tiger Is, which are equipped with a pair of MG 34 Panzerlaufs, similarly in coaxial and bow positions, as well as an 8.8cm KwK 36 cannon. In addition to the Shermans and Tigers, the key to the whole operation is the ludicrously enormous Ratte, a 1000-ton tank classified as a Landkreuzer. The Ratte's turret is taken from a Scharnhorst-class battleship, with the centre gun removed; in service as tank-mounted weapons, these cannons would have been designated as the 28cm KwK 34. The Ratte also features a single 12.8cm KwK 44 (same as on the Jagdtiger and Maus) mounted in the forward hull, two Kugelblitz turrets each fitted with a pair of 3cm FlaK 103 cannons on the forward engine deck, two Coelian turrets with a 5.5cm FlaKZwilling 58 twin cannon each at the rear, and finally eight MG 34 Panzerlauf machine guns around the front and sides of the hull.
Bofors 40mm L/60
The Karlsland trio start off the season at the Saint-Trond airbase in Belgica, which as always is defended by large AA batteries that seem to be oversized twin-mounted Bofors guns; the base appears to have gained an additional four turrets since its previous appearance. Numerous AA guns also defend the Noble Witches' A-unit base in Sedan (where Pierrette and Lynette are staying), though the B-unit base in Dijon (being visited by Charlotte and Francesca) has no visible AA weapons. In addition to these bases, Aleksandra and Eila had been spending their time at a base in Libau, Orussia.
Coastal Artillery
The Schelde Fort, defending the waterway into Antwerpen, is equipped with numerous artillery installations which are put to use in an attempt to destroy the iceberg Neuroi. While no such fortress existed in our reality, given its location it could be considered a thematic reference to the allied amphibious assault that took place there in 1944. The 501st JFW base in Den Helder also features several coastal batteries. In much the same way as the Brave Witches' base in Petersburg is this universe's version of the Peter and Paul Fortress, the Strike Witches' base in Den Helder is equivalent to Fort Erfprins, a fortress from the early 1800s that is still in use as a naval barracks.
Rheinbote, on 8.8cm FlaK 41 mount
A Rheinbote rocket is used as a target during a test of the Me 163 Komet striker; the rocket's launch platform is a modified mount for an 8.8cm FlaK 41 anti-aircraft gun. In reality, Rheinbote using repurposed gun mounts as launch platforms did happen, though photographs are scarce. The specific setup seen in Road to Berlin, down to its colour scheme is an exact match to a model kit, which likely served as the animators' reference material.
The 8.8cm FlaK 41 itself was an evolution of the 8.8cm FlaK 36 (or 8.8cm KwK 36 as the Tiger I's gun) with a longer barrel and cartridge, and was a direct competitor to the 8.8cm PaK 43 (or 8.8cm KwK 43 as the Tiger II's gun). The original FlaK 36 used an 88x571mmR shell, the PaK 43 used an 88x822mmR shell, while the FlaK 41 used an even longer 88x855mmR shell.
12.8cm FlaKZwilling 40
Four 12.8cm FlaKZwilling 40 twin anti-aircraft cannons are seen mounted on the roof of the Flakturm Tiergarten (Tiergarten flak tower), commonly nicknamed the Zoo Tower due to being constructed close to the Berlin Zoo. While the real Zoo Tower was constructed in 1941, and only reequipped with these cannons in 1943, within the World Witches universe it was constructed before the second Neuroi war in anticipation of their return.
The Littorio-class battleship Doge features prominently in the battle with the iceberg Neuroi in the first two episodes. While there was no ship of the class named Doge in reality, it is certainly the World Witches universe equivalent to the Vittorio Veneto, as its namesake battle in the Great War never took place due to the first Neuroi invasion. The Doge actually first appeared in the series ten years previous to Road to Berlin, named on a briefing map as part of the fleet assembled for Operation Mars in Strike Witches 2. While most of her armament is the same as listed on the second season page, due to having a new 3D model she does differ in a few ways. Notably, the aircraft catapult has been moved from the stern to the bow, requiring removal of the four Breda 37/54 Modello 1938 twin autocannons that previously occupied that position. In exchange, two additional 37mm Breda emplacements were added just forward of the rear main turret.