Intro
Explore the forgotten heroes of WWII in our in-depth article on French World War 2 tanks. Discover the development, design, and combat history of iconic tanks like the Char B1, Renault R-35, and Somua S-35. Learn how these armor-plated warriors played a pivotal role in the early battles of the war, despite being overshadowed by their German counterparts.
The French military has a rich history of producing innovative and effective tanks, but many of their World War 2-era tanks are often overlooked in favor of their German and American counterparts. Despite this, French World War 2 tanks played a significant role in the war, particularly during the early years of the conflict.
One of the most iconic French World War 2 tanks is the Renault R-35, which was used extensively during the Battle of France in 1940. The R-35 was a light tank, weighing in at around 10 tons, but it was heavily armored and featured a powerful 37mm gun. Despite its impressive specifications, the R-35 was ultimately outgunned and outmaneuvered by the German Panzer III and Panzer IV tanks.
French Tank Development
Prior to the outbreak of World War 2, the French military had invested heavily in tank development, with a focus on creating heavily armored and well-armed vehicles. The French believed that tanks would play a crucial role in future conflicts, and they sought to create a fleet of tanks that could withstand the rigors of modern warfare.
The French also developed a number of other tanks during this period, including the Char B1 and the Somua S-35. The Char B1 was a heavy tank, weighing in at around 28 tons, and featured a powerful 75mm gun. The Somua S-35 was a medium tank, weighing in at around 20 tons, and featured a 47mm gun.
French Tank Tactics
The French military developed a number of innovative tactics for using tanks in combat, including the use of combined arms teams and the deployment of tanks in a "CASCADE" formation. The CASCADE formation involved deploying tanks in a series of waves, with each wave providing covering fire for the next.
Despite these innovations, the French military ultimately struggled to effectively deploy their tanks in combat. The French were slow to adopt new technologies, and their tanks were often outdated and outgunned by their German counterparts.
The Battle of France
The Battle of France, which took place in May and June 1940, was a decisive defeat for the French military. The German army, led by General Erwin Rommel, used a combination of tanks, infantry, and air power to break through the French lines and capture key cities and territories.
The French military was unable to effectively counter the German advance, and their tanks were often used in piecemeal fashion, rather than as part of a coordinated strategy. The French were also hampered by a lack of air support, and their tanks were frequently targeted by German aircraft.
The Aftermath of the Battle of France
The defeat of the French military in the Battle of France had significant consequences for the country and its people. The French government was forced to sign an armistice with Germany, and the country was occupied by German forces for the remainder of the war.
Despite the defeat, the French military continued to play a role in the war, particularly in the colonies and in the French Resistance. The French also developed a number of new tanks, including the Renault R-40 and the AMX-13, which were used in combat against German forces.
Legacy of French World War 2 Tanks
Despite their limitations, French World War 2 tanks played a significant role in the war, particularly during the early years of the conflict. The French military's emphasis on tank development and tactics helped to shape the course of modern warfare, and their innovations continue to influence tank design and strategy to this day.
The French also continued to develop and deploy new tanks after the war, including the AMX-30 and the Leclerc. These tanks were used in a number of conflicts, including the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan.
Conclusion
French World War 2 tanks may not be as well-known as their German and American counterparts, but they played a significant role in the war and helped to shape the course of modern warfare. The French military's emphasis on tank development and tactics continues to influence tank design and strategy to this day, and their legacy can be seen in the modern tanks that are used by armies around the world.
French World War 2 Tanks Image Gallery
What was the most common French tank used during World War 2?
+The most common French tank used during World War 2 was the Renault R-35.
What was the main weakness of French tanks during World War 2?
+The main weakness of French tanks during World War 2 was their lack of mobility and firepower compared to German tanks.
What was the significance of the Battle of France in World War 2?
+The Battle of France was a decisive defeat for the French military, leading to the occupation of France by German forces for the remainder of the war.