The wreck of Tiger 831

Tiger 831 fell into Russian hands when the German army abandoned Kharkiv on 12 February 1943. It had been halted on this street the previous day. It's surprising that the Russians did not take it away or even use it for target practice, but by this time they already had two Tigers captured, so the need was not great.

Many parts have been removed from the tank. Its engine hatch lies on the ground near to us, with its locks and sealing latches visible on its upturned lower face. The Germans, who have recaptured the city, are examining the tank and will remove many more of its useful parts.

This spot was identified from a reconnaissance photo taken in 1941. The small house at extreme right of the photo is marked [3] here. The two buildings on the left with sloping roofs are at [5]. A yellow line on the photo goes directly to the factory chimney in the distance.