He graduated from the Stalin Academy for Motorization and Mechanization in 1938,[1] assuming command over the 48th Light Tank Brigade in November of that year.

[5] At November 1942, Panov was sent to Tambov, where the 2nd Guards Army was forming, and assigned to command its Armored and Mechanized formations.

On 15 December, the Army was sent to Stalingrad, halting von Manstein's assault and playing a pivotal role in Operation Little Saturn.

[7] During Operation Bagration, the Corps crossed the Polesia marshes in harsh conditions, spearheading the Bobruysk Offensive.

On 2 July 1944, it met with 2nd Guards Tank Corps of the 3rd Belorussian Front outside Minsk, encircling the German forces inside the city.