Yeramba

June 29, 2013, 8:57 pm

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The Yeramba was an Australian self-propelled howitzer built after the end of the Second World War in the late-1940s. They were produced by mounting the 25 pounder gun howitzer on an American M3A5 Grant tank hull, and were converted by the Ordnance Factory in Bendigo from 1950 to 1952. The Yeramba was withdrawn from service in 1957 after becoming obsolete and remains the only self-propelled artillery introduced into service by the Australian Army. Type Self-propelled artillery Place of origin Australia Service history In service 1950–1957 Used by Australia Production history Designed 1949 Produced 1950–1952 Specifications Weight 28.5 long tons (29.0 t) Length 18 feet 11 inches (5.77 m) Width 8 feet 11 inches (2.72 m) Height 8 feet (2.4 m) Crew 6 (Commander, Driver, and 4 gun crew) Armor 1.5 inches (38 mm) Main armament QF 25 pdr (87.6 mm) Mk II Secondary armament Two 0.303 (7.7 mm) Bren LMG Engine Twin GM 6-71 diesel 375 horsepower (280 kW) Power/weight 13 hp/ton Suspension Vertical Volute Spring Operational range 125 miles (201 km) Speed 25 miles per hour (40 km/h)
The Yeramba was an Australian self-propelled howitzer built after the end of the Second World War in the late-1940s. They were produced by mounting the 25 pounder gun howitzer on an American M3A5 Grant tank hull, and were converted by the Ordnance Factory in Bendigo from 1950 to 1952. The Yeramba was withdrawn from service in 1957 after becoming obsolete and remains the only self-propelled artillery introduced into service by the Australian Army. Type Self-propelled artillery Place of origin Australia Service history In service 1950–1957 Used by Australia Production history Designed 1949 Produced 1950–1952 Specifications Weight 28.5 long tons (29.0 t) Length 18 feet 11 inches (5.77 m) Width 8 feet 11 inches (2.72 m) Height 8 feet (2.4 m) Crew 6 (Commander, Driver, and 4 gun crew) Armor 1.5 inches (38 mm) Main armament QF 25 pdr (87.6 mm) Mk II Secondary armament Two 0.303 (7.7 mm) Bren LMG Engine Twin GM 6-71 diesel 375 horsepower (280 kW) Power/weight 13 hp/ton Suspension Vertical Volute Spring Operational range 125 miles (201 km) Speed 25 miles per hour (40 km/h)

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43M Zrínyi

June 29, 2013, 9:05 pm

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Following the success of assault guns on the World War II Eastern Front, the Hungarians developed their own model, based on the chassis of the Turán tank. There were two designs, the 44M Zrínyi I, incorporated a long 43M 75mm gun, but it did not pass the prototype stage. The 40/43M Zrínyi II was armed with a 40M 105mm L/20 howitzer. The Zrínyi II design was a traditional infantry support vehicle. The Zrínyi I was hoped to fulfill an anti-tank role. Between 40 and 66 Zrínyi II units were produced between August 1943 and July 1944 and a single Zrínyi I prototype. There is only one surviving Zrínyi II in the Kubinka tank museum near Moscow. Type Assault gun Place of origin Kingdom of Hungary Service history Used by Kingdom of Hungary Wars World War II Production history Manufacturer Manfred Weiss Produced 1943–1944 Number built 1 Zrínyi I (protoype), 40–66 Zrínyi II Variants Zrínyi I Zrínyi II Specifications (Zrínyi II) Weight 21.6 t Length 5.68 m (18 ft 8 in) Width 2.99 m (9 ft 10 in) Height 2.33 m (7 ft 8 in) Crew 4 Armour 13–75 mm (0.51–3.0 in) Main armament 105 mm MÁVAG 40/43M L20.5 howitzer with 42 rounds Engine Manfred Weiss V8 cylinder 260 hp Operational range 220 km (140 mi) (road) Speed 43 km/h (27 mph) (road)
Following the success of assault guns on the World War II Eastern Front, the Hungarians developed their own model, based on the chassis of the Turán tank. There were two designs, the 44M Zrínyi I, incorporated a long 43M 75mm gun, but it did not pass the prototype stage. The 40/43M Zrínyi II was armed with a 40M 105mm L/20 howitzer. The Zrínyi II design was a traditional infantry support vehicle. The Zrínyi I was hoped to fulfill an anti-tank role. Between 40 and 66 Zrínyi II units were produced between August 1943 and July 1944 and a single Zrínyi I prototype. There is only one surviving Zrínyi II in the Kubinka tank museum near Moscow. Type Assault gun Place of origin Kingdom of Hungary Service history Used by Kingdom of Hungary Wars World War II Production history Manufacturer Manfred Weiss Produced 1943–1944 Number built 1 Zrínyi I (protoype), 40–66 Zrínyi II Variants Zrínyi I Zrínyi II Specifications (Zrínyi II) Weight 21.6 t Length 5.68 m (18 ft 8 in) Width 2.99 m (9 ft 10 in) Height 2.33 m (7 ft 8 in) Crew 4 Armour 13–75 mm (0.51–3.0 in) Main armament 105 mm MÁVAG 40/43M L20.5 howitzer with 42 rounds Engine Manfred Weiss V8 cylinder 260 hp Operational range 220 km (140 mi) (road) Speed 43 km/h (27 mph) (road)

Verdeja

July 1, 2013, 12:09 am

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Verdeja was the name of a series of light tanks developed in Spain between 1938 and 1954 in an attempt to replace German Panzer I and Soviet T-26 tanks in Spanish service. The program was headed by major Félix Verdeja Bardales and led to the development of four prototype vehicles, including a self-propelled howitzer armed with a 75 millimeter (3 in) gun. It was designed as an advanced light tank and was one of the first development programs which took into account survivability of the crew as opposed to the protection of the tank itself. The tank was influenced by several of the light tanks which it was intended to replace, including the Panzer I and T-26, both of which were originally used during the Spanish Civil War. The Verdeja was considered a superior tank to the T-26 after a lengthy testing period, yet was never put into mass production. Type Light tank Place of origin Spain Specifications Weight 6.5 tonnes (14,300 lb) Length 4.498 m (14 ft 7 in) Width 2.152 m (7 ft 1 in) Height 1.572 m (5 ft 8 in) Crew 3 Armor 7–25 mm (0.3–1.0 in) Main armament 45 mm L/44 Mark I modelo 1939 Secondary armament 2x Dreyse 7.92 mm MG-13 machine guns Engine Ford V-8 model 48 85 hp (114 kW) Power/weight 13.08 hp/tonne Suspension leaf spring Operational range 220 km (137 mi) Speed 44 km/h (27 mph)
Verdeja was the name of a series of light tanks developed in Spain between 1938 and 1954 in an attempt to replace German Panzer I and Soviet T-26 tanks in Spanish service. The program was headed by major Félix Verdeja Bardales and led to the development of four prototype vehicles, including a self-propelled howitzer armed with a 75 millimeter (3 in) gun. It was designed as an advanced light tank and was one of the first development programs which took into account survivability of the crew as opposed to the protection of the tank itself. The tank was influenced by several of the light tanks which it was intended to replace, including the Panzer I and T-26, both of which were originally used during the Spanish Civil War. The Verdeja was considered a superior tank to the T-26 after a lengthy testing period, yet was never put into mass production. Type Light tank Place of origin Spain Specifications Weight 6.5 tonnes (14,300 lb) Length 4.498 m (14 ft 7 in) Width 2.152 m (7 ft 1 in) Height 1.572 m (5 ft 8 in) Crew 3 Armor 7–25 mm (0.3–1.0 in) Main armament 45 mm L/44 Mark I modelo 1939 Secondary armament 2x Dreyse 7.92 mm MG-13 machine guns Engine Ford V-8 model 48 85 hp (114 kW) Power/weight 13.08 hp/tonne Suspension leaf spring Operational range 220 km (137 mi) Speed 44 km/h (27 mph)

Vickers A1E1 Independent

July 1, 2013, 12:17 am

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The Independent A1E1 is a multi-turreted tank that was designed by the British armaments manufacturer Vickers between the First and Second World Wars. Although it only ever reached the prototype stage it influenced many other tank designs. The A1E1 design can be seen as a possible influence on the Soviet T-100 and T-28 tanks, the German Neubaufahrzeug tanks, and the British Medium Mk III and Cruiser Mk I (triple turret) tank designs. The Soviet T-35 tank was based extremely closely on its plans and layout. Type Tank Place of origin United Kingdom Production history Manufacturer Vickers Number built 1 Specifications Weight 33 long tons (34 t) Length 24 ft 11 in (7.59 m) Width 8 ft 9 in (2.67 m) Height 8 ft 11 in (2.72 m) Crew 8 Armour 13-28 mm Main armament QF 3 pounder gun (47 mm) Secondary armament 4 × 0.303 Vickers machine gun Engine Armstrong Siddeley V12 petrol 370 hp (280 kW) Transmission 4 forward, 1 reverse Suspension coil spring bogies Operational range 95 miles Speed 20 mph (32 km/h)
The Independent A1E1 is a multi-turreted tank that was designed by the British armaments manufacturer Vickers between the First and Second World Wars. Although it only ever reached the prototype stage it influenced many other tank designs. The A1E1 design can be seen as a possible influence on the Soviet T-100 and T-28 tanks, the German Neubaufahrzeug tanks, and the British Medium Mk III and Cruiser Mk I (triple turret) tank designs. The Soviet T-35 tank was based extremely closely on its plans and layout. Type Tank Place of origin United Kingdom Production history Manufacturer Vickers Number built 1 Specifications Weight 33 long tons (34 t) Length 24 ft 11 in (7.59 m) Width 8 ft 9 in (2.67 m) Height 8 ft 11 in (2.72 m) Crew 8 Armour 13-28 mm Main armament QF 3 pounder gun (47 mm) Secondary armament 4 × 0.303 Vickers machine gun Engine Armstrong Siddeley V12 petrol 370 hp (280 kW) Transmission 4 forward, 1 reverse Suspension coil spring bogies Operational range 95 miles Speed 20 mph (32 km/h)

Bishop

July 1, 2013, 12:20 am

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The Bishop was a British self-propelled artillery vehicle based on the Valentine tank. A result of a rushed attempt to create a self-propelled gun armed with the 25 Pounder gun-howitzer, the vehicle had numerous problems, was produced in limited numbers and was soon replaced by better designs. The rapid manoeuvre warfare practiced in the North African Campaign led to a requirement for a self-propelled artillery vehicle armed with the 25 pounder gun-howitzer. In June 1941 the development was entrusted to the Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company. A prototype was ready for trials by August and 100 were ordered by November 1941. The result was a vehicle designated Ordnance QF 25-pdr on Carrier Valentine 25-pdr Mk 1 and universally known as Bishop. Type Self-propelled artillery Place of origin United Kingdom Service history In service 1942 Used by British Commonwealth Wars Second World War Production history Designed 1941 Manufacturer Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company Produced 1942-43 Number built 149 Specifications Weight 17.5 t (38,580 lb) Length 18 ft 6 in (5.64 m) Width 9 ft 1 in (2.77 m) Height 10 ft (3.0 m) Crew 4 (Commander, gunner, loader, driver) Elevation -5° to +15° Traverse 8° Armour hull: 0.31 - 2.36 in (8-60 mm) superstructure: 0.51 - 2 in (13-51 mm) Main armament QF 25 pounder gun-howitzer with 32 rounds Secondary armament 0.303 inch Bren light machine gun Engine AEC A190 diesel 131 hp (98 kW) Power/weight 7.4 hp/tonne Suspension coil sprung three-wheel bogies Operational range 90 mi (145 km) Speed 15 mph (24 km/h)
The Bishop was a British self-propelled artillery vehicle based on the Valentine tank. A result of a rushed attempt to create a self-propelled gun armed with the 25 Pounder gun-howitzer, the vehicle had numerous problems, was produced in limited numbers and was soon replaced by better designs. The rapid manoeuvre warfare practiced in the North African Campaign led to a requirement for a self-propelled artillery vehicle armed with the 25 pounder gun-howitzer. In June 1941 the development was entrusted to the Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company. A prototype was ready for trials by August and 100 were ordered by November 1941. The result was a vehicle designated Ordnance QF 25-pdr on Carrier Valentine 25-pdr Mk 1 and universally known as Bishop. Type Self-propelled artillery Place of origin United Kingdom Service history In service 1942 Used by British Commonwealth Wars Second World War Production history Designed 1941 Manufacturer Birmingham Railway Carriage and Wagon Company Produced 1942-43 Number built 149 Specifications Weight 17.5 t (38,580 lb) Length 18 ft 6 in (5.64 m) Width 9 ft 1 in (2.77 m) Height 10 ft (3.0 m) Crew 4 (Commander, gunner, loader, driver) Elevation -5° to +15° Traverse 8° Armour hull: 0.31 - 2.36 in (8-60 mm) superstructure: 0.51 - 2 in (13-51 mm) Main armament QF 25 pounder gun-howitzer with 32 rounds Secondary armament 0.303 inch Bren light machine gun Engine AEC A190 diesel 131 hp (98 kW) Power/weight 7.4 hp/tonne Suspension coil sprung three-wheel bogies Operational range 90 mi (145 km) Speed 15 mph (24 km/h)

M8 Armored Gun System

July 1, 2013, 9:44 am

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The United Defense M8 Armored Gun System was a light tank that was intended to replace the M551 Sheridan in the 82nd Airborne Division, as well as being expected to replace TOW-equipped Humvees in the 2d Armored Cavalry Regiment (2nd ACR). The M8 project was eventually canceled. Its role in the 2nd ACR was eventually taken by the Stryker. In the 1980s, the United States Army began looking for a replacement for their M551 Sheridan tanks. Several attempts over the years to update or replace them had proved unsuccessful. The Armored Gun System (AGS) competition was initiated and in 1992 FMC/United Defense's vehicle was selected. A total of six prototypes were eventually built for the US Army under the designation of the XM8 AGS. The M8 was later type-classified by the US Army in late 1995 and initially slated for production in 1996. United Defense had reportedly sought overseas customers, without success. In late 1997 they parted with FNSS_Defence_Systems to offer the M8 AGS to the Turkish Land Forces Command. As of 2006, Taiwan at one point expressed interest as a replacement for its fleet of M24 Chaffee/M41 Walker Bulldog light tanks but would not commit following cancellation by the US. Type Light tank Place of origin United States Specifications Weight 19.25 tons (Level I Armor) 22.25 tons (Level II Armor) 24.75 tons (Level III Armor) Length 8.9 m Width 2.69 m Height 2.55 m Crew 3 (Commander, Gunner, Driver) Armor Titanium Main armament XM35 105 mm rifled gun (30 rounds) Secondary armament 7.62 mm Coaxial MG (4500 rounds) Commander: 12.7 mm M2 Browning (210 rounds) Engine Detroit Diesel Corporation DDC 6V 92TIA 550 hp at 2400 rpm (JP-8), 580 hp at 2400 rpm (diesel) Power/weight 29.1 hp/ton (32.1 hp/tonne) (Level I) Suspension Hydropneumatic Fuel capacity 150 gal. Operational range 280 mi (451 km) Speed Road: 45 mph (72 km/h) Off road: 30 mph (48 km/h)
The United Defense M8 Armored Gun System was a light tank that was intended to replace the M551 Sheridan in the 82nd Airborne Division, as well as being expected to replace TOW-equipped Humvees in the 2d Armored Cavalry Regiment (2nd ACR). The M8 project was eventually canceled. Its role in the 2nd ACR was eventually taken by the Stryker. In the 1980s, the United States Army began looking for a replacement for their M551 Sheridan tanks. Several attempts over the years to update or replace them had proved unsuccessful. The Armored Gun System (AGS) competition was initiated and in 1992 FMC/United Defense's vehicle was selected. A total of six prototypes were eventually built for the US Army under the designation of the XM8 AGS. The M8 was later type-classified by the US Army in late 1995 and initially slated for production in 1996. United Defense had reportedly sought overseas customers, without success. In late 1997 they parted with FNSS_Defence_Systems to offer the M8 AGS to the Turkish Land Forces Command. As of 2006, Taiwan at one point expressed interest as a replacement for its fleet of M24 Chaffee/M41 Walker Bulldog light tanks but would not commit following cancellation by the US. Type Light tank Place of origin United States Specifications Weight 19.25 tons (Level I Armor) 22.25 tons (Level II Armor) 24.75 tons (Level III Armor) Length 8.9 m Width 2.69 m Height 2.55 m Crew 3 (Commander, Gunner, Driver) Armor Titanium Main armament XM35 105 mm rifled gun (30 rounds) Secondary armament 7.62 mm Coaxial MG (4500 rounds) Commander: 12.7 mm M2 Browning (210 rounds) Engine Detroit Diesel Corporation DDC 6V 92TIA 550 hp at 2400 rpm (JP-8), 580 hp at 2400 rpm (diesel) Power/weight 29.1 hp/ton (32.1 hp/tonne) (Level I) Suspension Hydropneumatic Fuel capacity 150 gal. Operational range 280 mi (451 km) Speed Road: 45 mph (72 km/h) Off road: 30 mph (48 km/h)

Panzer 58

July 1, 2013, 11:50 pm

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After Switzerland had only been equipped with fighting vehicles of foreign production as the Hetzer, 1953 funds for the development of a own battle tank were approved in the year. The first prototype was completed in 1957 and was designated as a tank 58 from the Eidgenoessische Konstruktionswerkstaette. As the main armament was a 90mm cannon build in. A second prototype had a British 20-pounder (83.4 mm) gun. Another ten tanks with a 105 mm cannon were then manufactured from 1960-1961. Type Main battle tank Place of origin Switzerland Service history In service 1958 - 1964 Used by Switzerland Production history Designed 1953 Manufacturer Eidgenössische Konstruktionswerkstätte Thun Produced 1957 - 1961 Number built 12 (all versions); Variants 1.Prototype, 2.Prototype, Serialversion, Targettank61 Specifications Weight 35.1 tonnes Length 6.9 m (270 in), Gun in driving mode:8.49 m (334 in) Width 3.06 m (120 in) Height 2.85 m (112 in) Crew 4 Main armament 1.Prototype 9,0cm, 2.Prototype 8,4cm, Serialversion 10,5cm. 44 gun rounds Secondary armament 6x Nbw 51 8cm, 12 rounds, 1x 7,5mm Flab MG 3400 rounds,1x 20mm MG 240 rounds Engine 8 Zylinder V90° Mercedes Benz 837 Suportengine 4 Zylinder in line Mercedes Benz OM 636 600 PS, 38PS Power/weight 12.3 kW/T Suspension Plate springs in swinging arms Ground clearance 1100 mm Operational range on street350 km (220 mi), off-road 160 km (99 mi) Speed on street 55 km/h (34 mph), off-road30 km/h (19 mph)
After Switzerland had only been equipped with fighting vehicles of foreign production as the Hetzer, 1953 funds for the development of a own battle tank were approved in the year. The first prototype was completed in 1957 and was designated as a tank 58 from the Eidgenoessische Konstruktionswerkstaette. As the main armament was a 90mm cannon build in. A second prototype had a British 20-pounder (83.4 mm) gun. Another ten tanks with a 105 mm cannon were then manufactured from 1960-1961. Type Main battle tank Place of origin Switzerland Service history In service 1958 - 1964 Used by Switzerland Production history Designed 1953 Manufacturer Eidgenössische Konstruktionswerkstätte Thun Produced 1957 - 1961 Number built 12 (all versions); Variants 1.Prototype, 2.Prototype, Serialversion, Targettank61 Specifications Weight 35.1 tonnes Length 6.9 m (270 in), Gun in driving mode:8.49 m (334 in) Width 3.06 m (120 in) Height 2.85 m (112 in) Crew 4 Main armament 1.Prototype 9,0cm, 2.Prototype 8,4cm, Serialversion 10,5cm. 44 gun rounds Secondary armament 6x Nbw 51 8cm, 12 rounds, 1x 7,5mm Flab MG 3400 rounds,1x 20mm MG 240 rounds Engine 8 Zylinder V90° Mercedes Benz 837 Suportengine 4 Zylinder in line Mercedes Benz OM 636 600 PS, 38PS Power/weight 12.3 kW/T Suspension Plate springs in swinging arms Ground clearance 1100 mm Operational range on street350 km (220 mi), off-road 160 km (99 mi) Speed on street 55 km/h (34 mph), off-road30 km/h (19 mph)

Stridsvagn 103

July 1, 2013, 11:52 pm

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The Stridsvagn 103 (Strv 103), also known as the S-Tank, was a Swedish post-war main battle tank. It was known for its unconventional turretless design, with a fixed gun traversed by engaging the tracks and elevated by adjusting the hull suspension. Turretless armoured fighting vehicles are more commonly classified as tank destroyers, but serve a different purpose. The Strv 103 was designed and manufactured in Sweden. Type Main battle tank Place of origin Sweden Service history In service 1960s - 1990s Used by Swedish Army Production history Designer Sven Berge Designed 1956 Manufacturer Bofors AB Produced 1967 - 1971 Number built 290 Variants A, B, C, D Specifications Weight 103 B: 39.7 t (43.8 short tons; 39.1 long tons) 103 C: 42.5 t (46.8 short tons; 41.8 long tons) Length 9 m (29 ft 6 in) (incl. gun) Width 103 B: 3.60 m (11 ft 10 in) 103 C: 3.80 m (12 ft 6 in) Height 2.14 m (7 ft 0 in) Crew 3 (Commander, gunner/driver, rear driver)[1] Armor 90-100 mm Main armament Bofors 105 mm L/62 rifled gun with 50 rounds Secondary armament two fixed 7.62 mm KSP 58 machine guns one anti-aircraft 7.62 mm KSP 58 machine gun Engine 103 A: Rolls-Royce K60 diesel, 240 hp (179 kW) and Boeing GT502 gas turbine, 300 hp (223 kW) 103 B: Rolls-Royce K60 diesel, 240 hp (179 kW) and Caterpillar 553 gas turbine, 490 hp (365 kW) 103 C: Detroit diesel 6V53T, 290 hp (216 kW) and Caterpillar 553 gas turbine, 490 hp (365 kW) Power/weight 18.3 hp/tonne (B and C) Transmission 2 forward and 2 reverse speeds Suspension Gas-hydraulic hydropneumatic suspension Operational range 390 km (240 mi) Speed 50 km/h (31 mph) maximum road
The Stridsvagn 103 (Strv 103), also known as the S-Tank, was a Swedish post-war main battle tank. It was known for its unconventional turretless design, with a fixed gun traversed by engaging the tracks and elevated by adjusting the hull suspension. Turretless armoured fighting vehicles are more commonly classified as tank destroyers, but serve a different purpose. The Strv 103 was designed and manufactured in Sweden. Type Main battle tank Place of origin Sweden Service history In service 1960s - 1990s Used by Swedish Army Production history Designer Sven Berge Designed 1956 Manufacturer Bofors AB Produced 1967 - 1971 Number built 290 Variants A, B, C, D Specifications Weight 103 B: 39.7 t (43.8 short tons; 39.1 long tons) 103 C: 42.5 t (46.8 short tons; 41.8 long tons) Length 9 m (29 ft 6 in) (incl. gun) Width 103 B: 3.60 m (11 ft 10 in) 103 C: 3.80 m (12 ft 6 in) Height 2.14 m (7 ft 0 in) Crew 3 (Commander, gunner/driver, rear driver)[1] Armor 90-100 mm Main armament Bofors 105 mm L/62 rifled gun with 50 rounds Secondary armament two fixed 7.62 mm KSP 58 machine guns one anti-aircraft 7.62 mm KSP 58 machine gun Engine 103 A: Rolls-Royce K60 diesel, 240 hp (179 kW) and Boeing GT502 gas turbine, 300 hp (223 kW) 103 B: Rolls-Royce K60 diesel, 240 hp (179 kW) and Caterpillar 553 gas turbine, 490 hp (365 kW) 103 C: Detroit diesel 6V53T, 290 hp (216 kW) and Caterpillar 553 gas turbine, 490 hp (365 kW) Power/weight 18.3 hp/tonne (B and C) Transmission 2 forward and 2 reverse speeds Suspension Gas-hydraulic hydropneumatic suspension Operational range 390 km (240 mi) Speed 50 km/h (31 mph) maximum road

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Panzer 61

July 2, 2013, 7:38 pm

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The Panzer 61 was a Swiss Cold War era medium tank. The tank had a weight of 36.5 tons and was powered by a 630 hp diesel engine which gave it a top road speed of 31 mph. The primary armament of the Panzer 61 was a 105 mm main gun. During the early 1950s the Swiss Army tried to buy modern tanks to reinforce the armoured forces which, due to the war in Korea, proved to be impossible. As a stop-gap solution, the army bought AMX-13 light tanks from France and decided to start the development of a Swiss-built main battle tank. This led to a vehicle called Panzer 58. This tank had most of the characteristics of the later Panzer 61 with the exception of its main gun. The Panzer 58 was fitted with a British Ordnance QF 20 pounder. The Swiss Army took delivery of 10 preproduction models. In 1961 the parliament decided to buy 150 of the improved Panzer 61 which were delivered between 1965 and 1967, produced at the Eidgenoessische Konstruktionswerkstaette (today RUAG Land Systems) facility at Thun. Type Medium Tank Place of origin Switzerland Service history In service 1965 - 1994 Used by Switzerland Production history Designed 1950s Manufacturer Eidgenössische Konstruktionswerkstätte Thun Produced 1965 - 1967 Number built 150 Specifications Weight 39 tonnes Length 9.45 m (31 ft 0 in) Width 3.06 m (10 ft 0 in) Height 2.72 m (8 ft 11 in) Crew 4 Armour up to 120mm RHA Main armament 1 x 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7 with 56 rounds Secondary armament 2 x 7.5mm Swiss Machine Gun with 3200 rounds Engine Mercedes-Benz 8 cylinder V diesel engine 630 hp Suspension torsion bar Ground clearance 400 mm Operational range 250 km (160 mi) Speed 55 km/h (31 mph)
The Panzer 61 was a Swiss Cold War era medium tank. The tank had a weight of 36.5 tons and was powered by a 630 hp diesel engine which gave it a top road speed of 31 mph. The primary armament of the Panzer 61 was a 105 mm main gun. During the early 1950s the Swiss Army tried to buy modern tanks to reinforce the armoured forces which, due to the war in Korea, proved to be impossible. As a stop-gap solution, the army bought AMX-13 light tanks from France and decided to start the development of a Swiss-built main battle tank. This led to a vehicle called Panzer 58. This tank had most of the characteristics of the later Panzer 61 with the exception of its main gun. The Panzer 58 was fitted with a British Ordnance QF 20 pounder. The Swiss Army took delivery of 10 preproduction models. In 1961 the parliament decided to buy 150 of the improved Panzer 61 which were delivered between 1965 and 1967, produced at the Eidgenoessische Konstruktionswerkstaette (today RUAG Land Systems) facility at Thun. Type Medium Tank Place of origin Switzerland Service history In service 1965 - 1994 Used by Switzerland Production history Designed 1950s Manufacturer Eidgenössische Konstruktionswerkstätte Thun Produced 1965 - 1967 Number built 150 Specifications Weight 39 tonnes Length 9.45 m (31 ft 0 in) Width 3.06 m (10 ft 0 in) Height 2.72 m (8 ft 11 in) Crew 4 Armour up to 120mm RHA Main armament 1 x 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7 with 56 rounds Secondary armament 2 x 7.5mm Swiss Machine Gun with 3200 rounds Engine Mercedes-Benz 8 cylinder V diesel engine 630 hp Suspension torsion bar Ground clearance 400 mm Operational range 250 km (160 mi) Speed 55 km/h (31 mph)

Panzer 68

July 2, 2013, 7:40 pm

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The Panzer 68 was a Swiss main battle tank developed by the 'Eidgenoessische Konstruktionswerkstaette Thun' in the late 1960s. The Panzer 68 was based on the Panzer 61 whose initial development dates back to 1951. The development started immediately after the successful introduction of the Panzer 61. Improvements consisted of wider tracks, stabilized gun, and the introduction of a second machine gun instead of the coaxial 20mm gun of early Panzer 61 models. In 1968, hence the name, the Swiss parliament decided to buy 170 vehicles. Deliveries of the Panzer 68 started in 1971. In 1977 a second batch was manufactured. In the years between 1978 and 1983, a third and fourth batch followed. The last two lots were called either AA3 and AA4 or Panzer 68/75. The most important change was the introduction of a bigger turret. Type Main battle tank Place of origin Switzerland Service history In service 1971 - 2003 Used by Switzerland Production history Designed 1960s Manufacturer Eidgenössische Konstruktionswerkstätte Thun Produced 1971 - 1983 Number built 390 (all versions); 195 68/88 Variants Panzer 68; Panzer 68/75; Panzer 68/88 Specifications Weight 40.8 tonnes Length 9.49 m (374 in) Width 3.14 m (124 in) Height 2.72 m (107 in) Crew 4 Armour up to 120 mm RHA Main armament 1 x 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7 gun with 52 rounds Secondary armament 2 x 7.5 mm Swiss Pz Mg 51/71 machine gun with 4000 rounds Engine MTU 8 cylinders V engine 485,4 kW Power/weight 12.3 kW/T Suspension torsion bar Ground clearance 400 mm Operational range 200 km (120 mi) Speed 55 km/h (34 mph)
The Panzer 68 was a Swiss main battle tank developed by the 'Eidgenoessische Konstruktionswerkstaette Thun' in the late 1960s. The Panzer 68 was based on the Panzer 61 whose initial development dates back to 1951. The development started immediately after the successful introduction of the Panzer 61. Improvements consisted of wider tracks, stabilized gun, and the introduction of a second machine gun instead of the coaxial 20mm gun of early Panzer 61 models. In 1968, hence the name, the Swiss parliament decided to buy 170 vehicles. Deliveries of the Panzer 68 started in 1971. In 1977 a second batch was manufactured. In the years between 1978 and 1983, a third and fourth batch followed. The last two lots were called either AA3 and AA4 or Panzer 68/75. The most important change was the introduction of a bigger turret. Type Main battle tank Place of origin Switzerland Service history In service 1971 - 2003 Used by Switzerland Production history Designed 1960s Manufacturer Eidgenössische Konstruktionswerkstätte Thun Produced 1971 - 1983 Number built 390 (all versions); 195 68/88 Variants Panzer 68; Panzer 68/75; Panzer 68/88 Specifications Weight 40.8 tonnes Length 9.49 m (374 in) Width 3.14 m (124 in) Height 2.72 m (107 in) Crew 4 Armour up to 120 mm RHA Main armament 1 x 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7 gun with 52 rounds Secondary armament 2 x 7.5 mm Swiss Pz Mg 51/71 machine gun with 4000 rounds Engine MTU 8 cylinders V engine 485,4 kW Power/weight 12.3 kW/T Suspension torsion bar Ground clearance 400 mm Operational range 200 km (120 mi) Speed 55 km/h (34 mph)

Stingray light tank

July 3, 2013, 1:37 pm

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The Stingray light tank, or economy main battle tank, is a type of tank, produced by Textron Marine & Land Systems division (formerly Cadillac Gage). It was specifically designed to use as many existing components of other American armored fighting vehicles as possible to keep costs down. It was originally developed for the U.S. Army's Armored Gun System competition. Thailand is the only user. Type Light tank Place of origin United States Service history Used by Thailand Specifications Weight 22.6 metric tons Length (With gun forward) 9.3 meters Width 3 meters Height 2.7 meters Crew 4 (commander, driver, gunner, radio operator/loader) Armor 23 mm Main armament L7A3 105 mm rifled tank gun Secondary armament 7.62 mm co-axial machine gun, 12.7 mm AA machine gun Engine Detroit Diesel Allison 8V-92TA 535 hp (399 kW), liquid cooled turbo charged 2 stroke V-8 diesel engine 550 hp (410 kW) Suspension Independent trailing arm torsion bar Operational range 300 miles (480 km) Speed 70 km/h
The Stingray light tank, or economy main battle tank, is a type of tank, produced by Textron Marine & Land Systems division (formerly Cadillac Gage). It was specifically designed to use as many existing components of other American armored fighting vehicles as possible to keep costs down. It was originally developed for the U.S. Army's Armored Gun System competition. Thailand is the only user. Type Light tank Place of origin United States Service history Used by Thailand Specifications Weight 22.6 metric tons Length (With gun forward) 9.3 meters Width 3 meters Height 2.7 meters Crew 4 (commander, driver, gunner, radio operator/loader) Armor 23 mm Main armament L7A3 105 mm rifled tank gun Secondary armament 7.62 mm co-axial machine gun, 12.7 mm AA machine gun Engine Detroit Diesel Allison 8V-92TA 535 hp (399 kW), liquid cooled turbo charged 2 stroke V-8 diesel engine 550 hp (410 kW) Suspension Independent trailing arm torsion bar Operational range 300 miles (480 km) Speed 70 km/h

Antonov A-40

July 3, 2013, 1:46 pm

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The Antonov A-40 Krylya Tanka (Russian: крылья танка, meaning "tank wings") was a Soviet attempt to allow a tank to glide into a battlefield after being towed aloft by an airplane, to support airborne forces or partisans. A prototype was built and tested in 1942, but was found to be unworkable. This vehicle is sometimes called the A-40T or KT. Instead of loading light tanks onto gliders, as other nations had done, Soviet airborne forces had strapped T-27 tankettes underneath heavy bombers and landed them on airfields. In the 1930s there were experimental efforts to parachute tanks or simply drop them into water. During the 1940 occupation of Bessarabia, light tanks may have been dropped from a few meters by TB-3 bombers, allowing them to roll to a stop with the gearbox in neutral. The biggest problem with air-dropping vehicles is that their crews drop separately, and may be delayed or prevented from bringing them into action. Gliders allow crews to arrive at the drop zone along with their vehicles. They also minimize exposure of the valuable towing aircraft, which needn't appear over the battlefield. So the Soviet Air Force ordered Oleg Antonov to design a glider for landing tanks. Glider tank type Crew 2 Designer Oleg Konstantinovich Antonov USSR SOVIET Aeronautical Industries constructor of State First flight date September 2, 1942 Commissioning program date deleted 1 specimens Developed by T-60 Dimensions and weights Perspective drawings Length 12.06 m Wingspan: 18 m 85.8 m2 wing area 2,004 kg unladen weight Max takeoff weight 7,804 kg Tank capacity T-60
The Antonov A-40 Krylya Tanka (Russian: крылья танка, meaning "tank wings") was a Soviet attempt to allow a tank to glide into a battlefield after being towed aloft by an airplane, to support airborne forces or partisans. A prototype was built and tested in 1942, but was found to be unworkable. This vehicle is sometimes called the A-40T or KT. Instead of loading light tanks onto gliders, as other nations had done, Soviet airborne forces had strapped T-27 tankettes underneath heavy bombers and landed them on airfields. In the 1930s there were experimental efforts to parachute tanks or simply drop them into water. During the 1940 occupation of Bessarabia, light tanks may have been dropped from a few meters by TB-3 bombers, allowing them to roll to a stop with the gearbox in neutral. The biggest problem with air-dropping vehicles is that their crews drop separately, and may be delayed or prevented from bringing them into action. Gliders allow crews to arrive at the drop zone along with their vehicles. They also minimize exposure of the valuable towing aircraft, which needn't appear over the battlefield. So the Soviet Air Force ordered Oleg Antonov to design a glider for landing tanks. Glider tank type Crew 2 Designer Oleg Konstantinovich Antonov USSR SOVIET Aeronautical Industries constructor of State First flight date September 2, 1942 Commissioning program date deleted 1 specimens Developed by T-60 Dimensions and weights Perspective drawings Length 12.06 m Wingspan: 18 m 85.8 m2 wing area 2,004 kg unladen weight Max takeoff weight 7,804 kg Tank capacity T-60

Tsar Tank

July 3, 2013, 1:56 pm

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The Tsar Tank (Russian: Царь-танк), also known as the Netopyr' (Нетопырь) which stands for pipistrellus (a genus of bat) or Lebedenko Tank (танк Лебеденко), was an unusual Russian armoured vehicle developed by Nikolai Lebedenko (Николай Лебеденко), Nikolai Zhukovsky (Николай Жуковский), Boris Stechkin (Борис Стечкин), and Alexander Mikulin (Александр Микулин) from 1914 onwards. The project was scrapped after initial tests deemed the vehicle to be underpowered and vulnerable to artillery fire. It differed from modern tanks in that it did not use caterpillar tracks—rather, it used a tricycle design. The two front spoked wheels were nearly 9 metres (27 feet) in diameter; the back wheel was smaller, only 1.5 metres (5 feet) high, triple wheel, to ensure maneuverability. The upper cannon turret reached nearly 8 metres high. The hull was 12 metres wide with two more cannons in the sponsons. Additional weapons were also planned under the belly. Each wheel was powered by a 250 hp (190 kW) Sunbeam engine. The vehicle received its nickname because its model, when carried by the back wheel, resembled a bat hanging asleep. The huge wheels were intended to cross significant obstacles. However, due to miscalculations of the weight, the back wheel was prone to be stuck in soft ground and ditches, and the front wheels were sometimes insufficient to pull it out. This led to a fiasco of tests before the high commission in August 1915. The tank remained in the location where it was tested, some 60 kilometres from Moscow until 1923 when it was finally taken apart for scrap. Place of origin Russian Empire Service history In service 1914-1915 (experimental) Used by Russian Empire
The Tsar Tank (Russian: Царь-танк), also known as the Netopyr' (Нетопырь) which stands for pipistrellus (a genus of bat) or Lebedenko Tank (танк Лебеденко), was an unusual Russian armoured vehicle developed by Nikolai Lebedenko (Николай Лебеденко), Nikolai Zhukovsky (Николай Жуковский), Boris Stechkin (Борис Стечкин), and Alexander Mikulin (Александр Микулин) from 1914 onwards. The project was scrapped after initial tests deemed the vehicle to be underpowered and vulnerable to artillery fire. It differed from modern tanks in that it did not use caterpillar tracks—rather, it used a tricycle design. The two front spoked wheels were nearly 9 metres (27 feet) in diameter; the back wheel was smaller, only 1.5 metres (5 feet) high, triple wheel, to ensure maneuverability. The upper cannon turret reached nearly 8 metres high. The hull was 12 metres wide with two more cannons in the sponsons. Additional weapons were also planned under the belly. Each wheel was powered by a 250 hp (190 kW) Sunbeam engine. The vehicle received its nickname because its model, when carried by the back wheel, resembled a bat hanging asleep. The huge wheels were intended to cross significant obstacles. However, due to miscalculations of the weight, the back wheel was prone to be stuck in soft ground and ditches, and the front wheels were sometimes insufficient to pull it out. This led to a fiasco of tests before the high commission in August 1915. The tank remained in the location where it was tested, some 60 kilometres from Moscow until 1923 when it was finally taken apart for scrap. Place of origin Russian Empire Service history In service 1914-1915 (experimental) Used by Russian Empire

Fiat 2000

July 4, 2013, 12:56 pm

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The FIAT 2000 was an Italian heavy tank of the First World War. During World War I, Italy did not field any armoured units, due to a lack of tanks. The only solution at the time was to begin production of original designs. The order to design and produce the first Italian tanks was accepted by the FIAT automobile company in 1916. The prototype of the new tank was displayed to a military commission on 21 June 1917; its mechanical systems were complete but its superstructure was added later, being represented on the prototype by a wooden mockup with a conical open turret and dummy gun. The final configuration of the superstructure was not completed until 1918. The FIAT 2000 was a substantial vehicle, of comparable dimensions to the British Mark V tanks, and weighing 40 tons as compared to the Mark V's 28 tons. The driver was seated at the front, with very good overall vision consisting of a large port forward and small lateral loopholes. The layout of the FIAT 2000 differed to the other tanks then in use, especially the British ones. The engine was separated from the crew; not placed behind the crew compartment as modern tanks, but below it. The mechanical layout was also interesting and innovative, comprising a FIAT Aviazione A12, liquid-cooled 240 hp engine with 6 cylinders driving the tracks through a transverse transmission. The fuel capacity was 600 - 1,000 liters, but this gave only 75 km range on paved roads. Type Heavy tank Place of origin Italy Production history Number built 2 Specifications Weight 40 t Length 7.4 m (24 ft 3 in) Width 3.1 m (10 ft 2 in) Height 3.9 m (12 ft 10 in) Crew 10 Armor 15-20 mm Main armament 1 x 65 mm cannon Secondary armament 6 x 6.5 mm machineguns Engine FIAT Aviazione A12 240 hp Power/weight 6 hp/t Suspension leaf spring Operational range 75 km (47 mi) Speed 7 km/h (4.3 mph)
The FIAT 2000 was an Italian heavy tank of the First World War. During World War I, Italy did not field any armoured units, due to a lack of tanks. The only solution at the time was to begin production of original designs. The order to design and produce the first Italian tanks was accepted by the FIAT automobile company in 1916. The prototype of the new tank was displayed to a military commission on 21 June 1917; its mechanical systems were complete but its superstructure was added later, being represented on the prototype by a wooden mockup with a conical open turret and dummy gun. The final configuration of the superstructure was not completed until 1918. The FIAT 2000 was a substantial vehicle, of comparable dimensions to the British Mark V tanks, and weighing 40 tons as compared to the Mark V's 28 tons. The driver was seated at the front, with very good overall vision consisting of a large port forward and small lateral loopholes. The layout of the FIAT 2000 differed to the other tanks then in use, especially the British ones. The engine was separated from the crew; not placed behind the crew compartment as modern tanks, but below it. The mechanical layout was also interesting and innovative, comprising a FIAT Aviazione A12, liquid-cooled 240 hp engine with 6 cylinders driving the tracks through a transverse transmission. The fuel capacity was 600 - 1,000 liters, but this gave only 75 km range on paved roads. Type Heavy tank Place of origin Italy Production history Number built 2 Specifications Weight 40 t Length 7.4 m (24 ft 3 in) Width 3.1 m (10 ft 2 in) Height 3.9 m (12 ft 10 in) Crew 10 Armor 15-20 mm Main armament 1 x 65 mm cannon Secondary armament 6 x 6.5 mm machineguns Engine FIAT Aviazione A12 240 hp Power/weight 6 hp/t Suspension leaf spring Operational range 75 km (47 mi) Speed 7 km/h (4.3 mph)

FV101 Scorpion

July 4, 2013, 1:00 pm

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The FV101 Scorpion is a British armoured reconnaissance vehicle. It was the lead vehicle and the fire support type in the Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance (Tracked), CVR(T), family of seven armoured vehicles. Manufactured by Alvis it was introduced into service with the British Army in 1973 and served until 1994. More than 3,000 were produced and used as a reconnaissance vehicle or a light tank. Type Reconnaissance vehicle Place of origin United Kingdom Service history In service 1973- (Retired in 1994 by the UK) Used by Users Wars Iran–Iraq War[citation needed] Falklands war Gulf war Production history Manufacturer Alvis Vehicles Ltd, Telford, England Variants Scorpion 90 Specifications Weight 17,800 lb (8.074 tonnes) Length 5.288 m (17 ft 4.2 in) Width 2.134 m (7 ft 0.0 in) Height 2.102 m (6 ft 10.8 in) Crew 3[1] Armour 12.7 mm welded aluminium Main armament ROF 76mm L23A1 gun 90 mm in Scorpion 90 Secondary armament Coaxial 7.62 mm L43A1 machine gun Engine Cummins BTA 5.9 litre (diesel) 190 hp (140 kW) Power/weight 22.92 hp/tonne Transmission David Brown TN15 Suspension Torsion-bar Operational range 756 km (470 mi)[1] Speed 72.5 km/h (45.0 mph) L23A1 gun Place of origin United Kingdom Service history In service 1973-present Production history Manufacturer Royal Ordnance Specifications Length 2.157 m (7 ft 0.9 in) Calibre 76 mm (3.0 in) Rate of fire 6 rounds per minute Effective range 2,200 m (2,400 yd)
The FV101 Scorpion is a British armoured reconnaissance vehicle. It was the lead vehicle and the fire support type in the Combat Vehicle Reconnaissance (Tracked), CVR(T), family of seven armoured vehicles. Manufactured by Alvis it was introduced into service with the British Army in 1973 and served until 1994. More than 3,000 were produced and used as a reconnaissance vehicle or a light tank. Type Reconnaissance vehicle Place of origin United Kingdom Service history In service 1973- (Retired in 1994 by the UK) Used by Users Wars Iran–Iraq War[citation needed] Falklands war Gulf war Production history Manufacturer Alvis Vehicles Ltd, Telford, England Variants Scorpion 90 Specifications Weight 17,800 lb (8.074 tonnes) Length 5.288 m (17 ft 4.2 in) Width 2.134 m (7 ft 0.0 in) Height 2.102 m (6 ft 10.8 in) Crew 3[1] Armour 12.7 mm welded aluminium Main armament ROF 76mm L23A1 gun 90 mm in Scorpion 90 Secondary armament Coaxial 7.62 mm L43A1 machine gun Engine Cummins BTA 5.9 litre (diesel) 190 hp (140 kW) Power/weight 22.92 hp/tonne Transmission David Brown TN15 Suspension Torsion-bar Operational range 756 km (470 mi)[1] Speed 72.5 km/h (45.0 mph) L23A1 gun Place of origin United Kingdom Service history In service 1973-present Production history Manufacturer Royal Ordnance Specifications Length 2.157 m (7 ft 0.9 in) Calibre 76 mm (3.0 in) Rate of fire 6 rounds per minute Effective range 2,200 m (2,400 yd)

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M1 Combat Car

July 4, 2013, 1:05 pm

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The M1 Combat Car was a light tank used by the U.S. Cavalry in the late 1930s. After the Spanish Civil War, most armies, including the U.S. Army, realized that they needed "gun" armed tanks and not vehicles armed merely with machine guns. So the cavalry tried to upgrade the armor protection and firepower on the M1 Combat Car and opted for a single, larger turret, and the twin machine gun turrets were replaced by one larger turret with a 37 mm gun, and armor reached 25 mm. Other upgrades included improved suspension, improved transmission, and better engine cooling. The M1 was the immediate predecessor of the M2 light tank. Type Light tank Place of origin United States Service history In service 1937-1943 Used by United States Philippines (1937-1942) Production history Manufacturer Rock Island Arsenal Produced 1937-? Number built 113 Specifications Weight 8,523 kg (18,790 lb) Length 4.14 m (13.6 ft) Width 2.4 m (7 ft 10 in) Height 2.26 m (7 ft 5 in) Crew 4 Armor 16mm Main armament .50 cal machine gun Secondary armament .30 cal machine gun Engine Continental automobile W-670 7-cylinder gasoline 250 hp (190 kW) Suspension Vertical volute spring Operational range 161 km (100 mi) Speed 72 km/h (45 mph)
The M1 Combat Car was a light tank used by the U.S. Cavalry in the late 1930s. After the Spanish Civil War, most armies, including the U.S. Army, realized that they needed "gun" armed tanks and not vehicles armed merely with machine guns. So the cavalry tried to upgrade the armor protection and firepower on the M1 Combat Car and opted for a single, larger turret, and the twin machine gun turrets were replaced by one larger turret with a 37 mm gun, and armor reached 25 mm. Other upgrades included improved suspension, improved transmission, and better engine cooling. The M1 was the immediate predecessor of the M2 light tank. Type Light tank Place of origin United States Service history In service 1937-1943 Used by United States Philippines (1937-1942) Production history Manufacturer Rock Island Arsenal Produced 1937-? Number built 113 Specifications Weight 8,523 kg (18,790 lb) Length 4.14 m (13.6 ft) Width 2.4 m (7 ft 10 in) Height 2.26 m (7 ft 5 in) Crew 4 Armor 16mm Main armament .50 cal machine gun Secondary armament .30 cal machine gun Engine Continental automobile W-670 7-cylinder gasoline 250 hp (190 kW) Suspension Vertical volute spring Operational range 161 km (100 mi) Speed 72 km/h (45 mph)

Super Sherman

July 10, 2013, 3:04 pm

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The Sherman M-50 and the Sherman M-51, both known abroad as the Super Sherman, were modified versions of the American M4 Sherman tank that served with the Israel Defense Forces from the mid-1950s to early 1980s. The M-51 was also referred to as the Isherman (i.e. Israeli Sherman). However, the designations Super Sherman and Isherman were never used by the Israeli Defense Forces. In 1953, an Israeli delegation visited France to examine the new AMX 13 light tank. The tank was armed with the high-velocity 75 mm gun CN 75-50, a development of the German 7.5 cm KwK 42 L/70 (used in the Panther tank). While the gun was satisfactory, the armor of the French tank was considered too light. Eventually, Israel did purchase the AMX 13, however in a parallel development it was decided to graft the powerful French gun onto the available, familiar and better-armored hull of the American M4 Sherman, the standard tank of the IDF armored units in the early 1950s. The project started in 1954, and in 1955 a prototype turret was sent from France to Israel. In March 1956 Israeli Ordnance Corps facilities started to convert tanks, using guns received from France. The gun was known in Israel as the M-50 and as a result the upgunned Sherman was designated Sherman M-50. The M-50 was similar to the Sherman Firefly in that it had the original turret of the "old" type (as used by the 75 mm gun M3 armed Shermans), which was fitted with a large counterweight at the rear end.
The Sherman M-50 and the Sherman M-51, both known abroad as the Super Sherman, were modified versions of the American M4 Sherman tank that served with the Israel Defense Forces from the mid-1950s to early 1980s. The M-51 was also referred to as the Isherman (i.e. Israeli Sherman). However, the designations Super Sherman and Isherman were never used by the Israeli Defense Forces. In 1953, an Israeli delegation visited France to examine the new AMX 13 light tank. The tank was armed with the high-velocity 75 mm gun CN 75-50, a development of the German 7.5 cm KwK 42 L/70 (used in the Panther tank). While the gun was satisfactory, the armor of the French tank was considered too light. Eventually, Israel did purchase the AMX 13, however in a parallel development it was decided to graft the powerful French gun onto the available, familiar and better-armored hull of the American M4 Sherman, the standard tank of the IDF armored units in the early 1950s. The project started in 1954, and in 1955 a prototype turret was sent from France to Israel. In March 1956 Israeli Ordnance Corps facilities started to convert tanks, using guns received from France. The gun was known in Israel as the M-50 and as a result the upgunned Sherman was designated Sherman M-50. The M-50 was similar to the Sherman Firefly in that it had the original turret of the "old" type (as used by the 75 mm gun M3 armed Shermans), which was fitted with a large counterweight at the rear end.

Super Sherman

July 10, 2013, 3:04 pm

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The Sherman M-50 and the Sherman M-51, both known abroad as the Super Sherman, were modified versions of the American M4 Sherman tank that served with the Israel Defense Forces from the mid-1950s to early 1980s. The M-51 was also referred to as the Isherman (i.e. Israeli Sherman). However, the designations Super Sherman and Isherman were never used by the Israeli Defense Forces. In 1953, an Israeli delegation visited France to examine the new AMX 13 light tank. The tank was armed with the high-velocity 75 mm gun CN 75-50, a development of the German 7.5 cm KwK 42 L/70 (used in the Panther tank). While the gun was satisfactory, the armor of the French tank was considered too light. Eventually, Israel did purchase the AMX 13, however in a parallel development it was decided to graft the powerful French gun onto the available, familiar and better-armored hull of the American M4 Sherman, the standard tank of the IDF armored units in the early 1950s. The project started in 1954, and in 1955 a prototype turret was sent from France to Israel. In March 1956 Israeli Ordnance Corps facilities started to convert tanks, using guns received from France. The gun was known in Israel as the M-50 and as a result the upgunned Sherman was designated Sherman M-50. The M-50 was similar to the Sherman Firefly in that it had the original turret of the "old" type (as used by the 75 mm gun M3 armed Shermans), which was fitted with a large counterweight at the rear end.
The Sherman M-50 and the Sherman M-51, both known abroad as the Super Sherman, were modified versions of the American M4 Sherman tank that served with the Israel Defense Forces from the mid-1950s to early 1980s. The M-51 was also referred to as the Isherman (i.e. Israeli Sherman). However, the designations Super Sherman and Isherman were never used by the Israeli Defense Forces. In 1953, an Israeli delegation visited France to examine the new AMX 13 light tank. The tank was armed with the high-velocity 75 mm gun CN 75-50, a development of the German 7.5 cm KwK 42 L/70 (used in the Panther tank). While the gun was satisfactory, the armor of the French tank was considered too light. Eventually, Israel did purchase the AMX 13, however in a parallel development it was decided to graft the powerful French gun onto the available, familiar and better-armored hull of the American M4 Sherman, the standard tank of the IDF armored units in the early 1950s. The project started in 1954, and in 1955 a prototype turret was sent from France to Israel. In March 1956 Israeli Ordnance Corps facilities started to convert tanks, using guns received from France. The gun was known in Israel as the M-50 and as a result the upgunned Sherman was designated Sherman M-50. The M-50 was similar to the Sherman Firefly in that it had the original turret of the "old" type (as used by the 75 mm gun M3 armed Shermans), which was fitted with a large counterweight at the rear end.

Chieftain tank

July 10, 2013, 3:09 pm

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The FV 4201 Chieftain was the main battle tank of the United Kingdom during the 1960s and 1970s. It was one of the most advanced tanks of its era, and at the time of its introduction in 1966 had the most powerful main gun and most effective armour of any tank in the world. The Chieftain also introduced a supine (reclining backwards) driver position, enabling a heavily sloped hull with reduced height. Type Main battle tank Place of origin United Kingdom Service history In service 1966 – 1995 Used by UK, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman Wars Iran–Iraq War, Iraq-Kuwait War Production history Manufacturer Leyland Motors Specifications Weight 55 long tons (62 short tons; 56 t) Length 35 ft 4 in (10.77 m) - gun forward 7.5 m (24 ft 7 in) - hull Width 12 ft 0 in (3.66 m) Height 2.9 m (9 ft 6 in) Crew 4 Armour Glacis: 120 mm (4.7 in) (72°) Hull sides: 38 mm (1.5 in) (10°) Turret: 195 mm (7.7 in) (60°) Main armament L11A5 120 mm rifled gun Secondary armament 2 x L7 Machine Gun Engine Leyland L60 (multifuel 2 stroke compression-ignition) 750 hp (560 kW) 12 Cyl, 26.1 litres. Power/weight 11.1 bhp/ton (at sprocket) Transmission TN 12 Suspension Horstmann Ground clearance 1 ft 10 in (0.56 m)) Fuel capacity 195 Imperial gallons) Operational range 500 km (310 miles) on roads Speed Road: 48 km/h (30 mph) Off road: 30 km/h (19 mph)
The FV 4201 Chieftain was the main battle tank of the United Kingdom during the 1960s and 1970s. It was one of the most advanced tanks of its era, and at the time of its introduction in 1966 had the most powerful main gun and most effective armour of any tank in the world. The Chieftain also introduced a supine (reclining backwards) driver position, enabling a heavily sloped hull with reduced height. Type Main battle tank Place of origin United Kingdom Service history In service 1966 – 1995 Used by UK, Iran, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman Wars Iran–Iraq War, Iraq-Kuwait War Production history Manufacturer Leyland Motors Specifications Weight 55 long tons (62 short tons; 56 t) Length 35 ft 4 in (10.77 m) - gun forward 7.5 m (24 ft 7 in) - hull Width 12 ft 0 in (3.66 m) Height 2.9 m (9 ft 6 in) Crew 4 Armour Glacis: 120 mm (4.7 in) (72°) Hull sides: 38 mm (1.5 in) (10°) Turret: 195 mm (7.7 in) (60°) Main armament L11A5 120 mm rifled gun Secondary armament 2 x L7 Machine Gun Engine Leyland L60 (multifuel 2 stroke compression-ignition) 750 hp (560 kW) 12 Cyl, 26.1 litres. Power/weight 11.1 bhp/ton (at sprocket) Transmission TN 12 Suspension Horstmann Ground clearance 1 ft 10 in (0.56 m)) Fuel capacity 195 Imperial gallons) Operational range 500 km (310 miles) on roads Speed Road: 48 km/h (30 mph) Off road: 30 km/h (19 mph)

M47 Patton

July 17, 2013, 11:12 pm

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The M47 Patton is an American medium tank, the second tank to be named after General George S. Patton, commander of the U.S. Third Army during World War II and one of the earliest American advocates of tanks in battle. It was a further development of the M46 Patton tank. The M47 was the U.S. Army's and Marine Corps' primary tank, intended to replace the M46 Patton and M4 Sherman medium tanks. The M47 was widely used by U.S. Cold War allies, both SEATO and NATO countries, and was the only Patton series tank that never saw combat while in US service. Although roughly similar to the later M48s and M60s, these were completely new tank designs. Many different M47 Patton models remain in service internationally. The M47 was the last US tank to have a bow-mounted machine gun in the hull. Type Medium tank Place of origin USA Service history In service 1952–early 1960s (USA) Production history Manufacturer Detroit Arsenal Tank Plant American Locomotive Co. Produced 1951–1953 Number built More than 9.000 Specifications Weight 48.6 short tons (44.1 t) combat ready Length 27 ft 11 in (8.51 m) Width 11 ft 6.25 in (3.51 m) Height 11 ft (3.35 m) Crew 5 (commander, gunner, loader, driver, assistant driver) Armor 4 in (100 mm) Main armament 90 mm gun M36 71 rounds Secondary armament 2 × .50 cal (12.7 mm) M2 machine gun (one roof-mounted, one coaxial with the 90mm cannon) .30 cal (7.62 mm) M1919A4 machine gun (in flexible mount at right front of hull) Engine Continental AVDS-1790-5B V12, air-cooled, Twin-turbo gasoline engine 810 hp (600 kW) Power/weight 17.6 hp/tonne Transmission General Motors CD-850-4, 2 ranges forward, 1 reverse Suspension Torsion bar suspension Fuel capacity 233 US gal (880 l; 194 imp gal) Operational range 100 mi (160 km)(In average conditions) Speed 37 mph (60 km/h)
The M47 Patton is an American medium tank, the second tank to be named after General George S. Patton, commander of the U.S. Third Army during World War II and one of the earliest American advocates of tanks in battle. It was a further development of the M46 Patton tank. The M47 was the U.S. Army's and Marine Corps' primary tank, intended to replace the M46 Patton and M4 Sherman medium tanks. The M47 was widely used by U.S. Cold War allies, both SEATO and NATO countries, and was the only Patton series tank that never saw combat while in US service. Although roughly similar to the later M48s and M60s, these were completely new tank designs. Many different M47 Patton models remain in service internationally. The M47 was the last US tank to have a bow-mounted machine gun in the hull. Type Medium tank Place of origin USA Service history In service 1952–early 1960s (USA) Production history Manufacturer Detroit Arsenal Tank Plant American Locomotive Co. Produced 1951–1953 Number built More than 9.000 Specifications Weight 48.6 short tons (44.1 t) combat ready Length 27 ft 11 in (8.51 m) Width 11 ft 6.25 in (3.51 m) Height 11 ft (3.35 m) Crew 5 (commander, gunner, loader, driver, assistant driver) Armor 4 in (100 mm) Main armament 90 mm gun M36 71 rounds Secondary armament 2 × .50 cal (12.7 mm) M2 machine gun (one roof-mounted, one coaxial with the 90mm cannon) .30 cal (7.62 mm) M1919A4 machine gun (in flexible mount at right front of hull) Engine Continental AVDS-1790-5B V12, air-cooled, Twin-turbo gasoline engine 810 hp (600 kW) Power/weight 17.6 hp/tonne Transmission General Motors CD-850-4, 2 ranges forward, 1 reverse Suspension Torsion bar suspension Fuel capacity 233 US gal (880 l; 194 imp gal) Operational range 100 mi (160 km)(In average conditions) Speed 37 mph (60 km/h)