The Brummbar was ordered in early 1942 and was designed by Alkett with Krupp's cooperation. Krupp were responsible for modifying the Panzer IV chassis while Alkett designed the sloped armour superstructure. The Brummbar housed the 15cm StuH43 and was designed to provide close infantry support. They first saw service at Kursk in 1943 within Sturmpanzerabteilung 216. Three further Sturmpanzerabteilung detatchments were also formed during the war and served on the Eastern and Western fronts.