To counter this threat, Nazi Germany built on the already existing "Sturmgeschütz" ("assault gun") range of armored vehicles. These relatively inexpensive assault guns had no turrets and were under the control of the artillery branch, and were essentially armored artillery cannons mounted on or in a tank chassis. Originally short barreled, these vehicles were upgraded with longer, higher velocity cannons, which made them more effective against armor without taking much away from their direct fire infantry support mission. As a result, they were used effectively against Soviet armored thrusts on the Eastern front. Additionally, Germany also developed the "Jagdpanzer" ("hunting tank") range of armored vehicles, very similar in design to assault guns but with the main purpose being the destruction of enemy armor. They could also function as mobile assault guns when required, blurring the line between the two designs.