Development of the German Landwasserschlepper (Land Water Tractor) started in 1936, but the first 7 vehicles were completed in July 1940. An additional 14 vehicles were produced by March of 1941. It was designed by Rheinmetall-Borsig as an amphibious vehicle for the use by engineers but it lacked storage and loading and unloading access. To overcome this problem, special 10 and 20-ton amphibious trailers were made. It carried a 3 to 5 men crew and 20 passengers. Another problem was that it was unarmoured and could not operate effectively in the combat area. The LWS saw service in Russia and North Africa.