Discover the Untold Stories of United States Tanks and Tank Destroyers That Turned the Tide in the Second World War

The Role of United States Tanks and Tank Destroyers

When we think of the major players in the Second World War, images of soldiers storming the beaches of Normandy and fighter planes soaring through the sky often come to mind. However, the contributions made by tanks and tank destroyers should not be underestimated. These formidable machines played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the war. Let's dive into the history and significance of these powerful weapons.

The Sherman Tank: America's Workhorse

One of the most iconic tanks of the Second World War was the M4 Sherman. Its reliability, versatility, and superior numbers made it America's workhorse on the battlefield. Equipped with a 75mm gun and powered by a 500-horsepower engine, the Sherman was no pushover. Its welded armor provided decent protection against most German tanks.

However, the Sherman did have some limitations. Its armor was thinner compared to the heavily armored German tanks, making it vulnerable to their more potent firepower. Nevertheless, the Sherman's mobility and rapid production made it a crucial part of the Allied forces during the war.

United States Tanks and Tank Destroyers of the Second World War

by Michael Green (Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	95762 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	273 pages

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The M18 Hellcat: Lightning Fast Tank Destroyer

When it came to tank destroyers, the M18 Hellcat was unmatched in its speed and agility. Built with a 76mm gun, the Hellcat could take out enemy tanks with ease. With a top speed of 55 miles per hour, it was the fastest armored vehicle of the war.

The Hellcat's ability to outmaneuver enemy tanks while delivering deadly blows from its gun made it a formidable opponent. Its thin armor, however, meant that it had to rely on speed and agility to survive on the battlefield. Despite this drawback, the Hellcat proved to be a highly effective tank destroyer.

The Heavy Hitters: M26 Pershing and M36 Jackson

As the war progressed, the United States introduced heavier tanks and tank destroyers to counter the advanced German tanks. The M26 Pershing, armed with a powerful 90mm gun, boasted superior firepower and armor compared to its predecessors.

On the tank destroyer front, the M36 Jackson emerged as a fearsome opponent. Equipped with a 90mm gun, it had the capability to penetrate the armor of even the heaviest German tanks. Its sloped armor design provided increased protection, making it a force to be reckoned with on the battlefield.

Legacy and Impact

The United States tanks and tank destroyers played a crucial role in turning the tide of the Second World War. Despite facing tough challenges from German counterparts, these American war machines held their ground and contributed significantly to Allied victories.

Their impact extended beyond the war itself. The knowledge gained from their design and performance laid the foundation for future tank development, shaping the modern armored vehicles we see today.

In

The United States tanks and tank destroyers of the Second World War may have been overshadowed by other aspects of the war, but their contributions should not be overlooked. From the reliable Sherman tank to the lightning-fast Hellcat, these war machines played a pivotal role in the Allied victory. Their legacy lives on, reminding us of the bravery and ingenuity of those who fought on the battlefield.

United States Tanks and Tank Destroyers of the Second World War

by Michael Green (Kindle Edition)

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	95762 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	273 pages

FREE

This comprehensive and superbly illustrated book describes in authoritative detail the characteristics and contribution to victory of these formidable American fighting vehicles.

Only after the Nazis invaded Poland and France did the United States Government authorize mass production of tanks. By the end of the War American industry had built nearly 90,000 tanks, more than Germany and Great Britain combined.

The first big order in May 1940 was for 365 M2A4 light tanks, the initial iteration of the Stuart series, with almost 24,000 constructed. The Stuart series was supplemented by almost 5,000 units of the M24 Chaffee light tank. There was also the failed M22 Locust light tank intended for airborne operations.

The M4 series of medium tanks, best known as the Sherman, were the most numerous with some 50,000 in service with not only the American military but British and other Allied armies. It was not until later in the war that the M26 Pershing heavy tank was built.

Initially the US Army doctrine saw tanks as primarily for the exploitation role. Later the concept of tank destroyers evolved to counter large scale German armored offensives. These defensive AFVs included the half-track-based 75mm Gun Motor Carriage M3 and the full-tracked M10, M18, and M36.

This comprehensive and superbly illustrated book describes in authoritative detail the characteristics and contribution to victory of these formidable fighting vehicles.