Beutepanzer

The Germans used Beutepanzers to gain insight into enemy technology and to augment their own armored forces.

Beutepanzers were usually repainted to sport distinctive national emblems and unit insignia in order to reduce friendly fire from other Central Power forces.

By the end of the war, a total of 170 Beutepanzers were still in running condition with 35 reported to be battle ready.

In October 1940, the Heeresamt ordered two of each Beutepanzer type to be delivered to the Army Weapons Office for evaluation.

Additionally, roughly 1,800 modern (non-FT-17s) French tanks were captured during the May–June campaign and returned to service as Beutepanzers, alongside a similar number destroyed beyond repair.