The Panzerkampfwagen 38(t) was originally a Czech tank of pre-World War II design. After Czechoslovakia was taken over by Germany, it was adopted by the German Army, seeing service in the invasions of Poland and Russia. Production ended in 1942, when its armament was deemed inadequate. In all, over 1400 were manufactured. The chassis continued to be produced for Hetzer and Marder III tank destroyers, turretless assault guns, anti-tank guns and anti-aircraft guns.

The (t) stands for tschechisch, the German word for Czech; the Czechoslovak military designation was LT vz 38. Manufacturer's designations included TNH series, TNHPS, LTP and LTH). The special vehicle designation for the tank in Germany was Sd.Kfz. 140.

The Aufklärungspanzer 38(t) - Sd.Kfz.141/1 was a reconnaissance conversion fitted with a "Hangelafette" turret (20 mm KwK 38 L/55 gun and MG42 - used in armored cars) or armed with 75 mm KwK 37 L/24 (and MG42) gun mounted in the modified superstructure. Only 50 to 70 Aufklarungspanzer 38(t) with 20 mm gun were built from late 1943 to early 1944 and only 2 Aufklarungspanzer 38(t) with 75 mm gun were built in 1944.

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