(Light tank)
Panzer II played an important role in the early years of World War II, beginning with the invasion of France and it was also tested in the Spanish Civil War. Panzer II was to supplement Panzer I as a vehicle with heavier armament capable of firing armor-piercing and high explosive rounds. Panzer II was larger than Panzer I but was still a light training tank and entered combat service due to the delays in production of Panzer III and Panzer IV as such it was designed as a stopgap while other tanks were developed.
Overall, Panzer II just like Panzer I was ineffective as a combat tank but was an important step in the development of more powerful panzers. In other words, it was a good light tank and effective light reconnaissance tank that provided German designers and manufacturers with more tank building experience.
In continuation of its service, Panzer II did not prove to be very effective in combat, although it was the main battle tank of the Panzertruppen until 1940/41. By the end of 1942, it was largely removed from frontline duty and production of the tank itself ceased by 1943. Its chassis was used for several other armoured vehicles for training on secondary fronts and for patrolling occupied Europe.
