Armoured trains

[markgame]

This is getting to be one of my favorite threads .

Would someone enlighten us on what would be considered the normal operational use of armored trains? For instance, would the train halt to return fire if fired upon by partisans? Also, were there special devices or techniques used to detect or disarm potential mines or explosives on or under the rails?

I'll post any information I come across as well.

[PatG]

My admittedly limited source (German armoured trains in WWII - Schiffer Military Volume 17) states that attempts to use them offensively to capture bridges etc in the early war were unsucessful. It seems that they were often used as support - especially in anti partisan operations. Code limitations mean they cannot move and passengers cannot fire while loaded so your best bet is to assume the train has come to a halt, and off load your squaddies. Note that some passenger cars were equipped with disembarking boxes - basicly a hatch in the floor - to allow infantry to safely unload under fire. Only real game effect would be to increase survivability (I think).

Unarmed flat cars were used at either end of the train to detonate mines etc. Sometimes troops and support weapons were added on top with ersatz armour.

[PatG]

And for today's offering:

Somua S-35 tank carrier

Panhard 38(f) Armoured car with radio aerial - had both rail and road wheels.

Wooden flat with sandbags and infantry

Gondola with sandbags and infantry

New SPWW2Trains readme with some design notes.
And a new bmp of the set.

Usual cautions about compatibility and corruption apply - use at your own risk.