German Super Soldier-Vampir Rifle

The German Zielgerät 1229 “Vampir” was an experimental active-infrared night-sighting system associated with the Sturmgewehr 44. Its infrared illuminator and battery burden limited practicality, and it was not a universal infantry capability. Development belonged to Germany’s late-war experiments in night fighting, alongside infrared equipment intended for armored vehicles.

The apparatus paired a sight with an infrared lamp mounted above the rifle, while a separate battery supply added weight for the soldier. Such equipment addressed the tactical problem of observing and aiming in darkness, but its active beam could also become detectable to an opponent with suitable infrared equipment. Contemporary German work on tank-mounted infrared systems pursued a related goal. Production late in the war and the collapse of German supply and training systems limited opportunities for organized deployment. It remained a specialized technological experiment rather than a new infantry standard.

Finish and color

Supplied unpainted and printed in the selected color. Choose from the available product color options.

Tabletop use

Suitable for period-appropriate custom scenarios in Global War 1936, Global Empires, and compatible Axis & Allies games. Use suitable scenario or house rules for unit statistics and any technology upgrades. This piece does not supply additional game rules.

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