Intro
Discover the top 10 greatest tanks of World War 2, featuring iconic vehicles like the German Tiger, Soviet T-34, and American M4 Sherman. Explore their design, firepower, and impact on the battlefield, as we rank the most influential tanks that shaped the course of history. Tank warfare, armored warfare, and military history enthusiasts, dive in!
World War 2 was a conflict that showcased the importance of tanks in modern warfare. With thousands of tanks deployed on both sides, the war saw the introduction of some of the most iconic and effective tanks in history. In this article, we will explore the top 10 greatest tanks of World War 2, considering factors such as firepower, armor, mobility, and impact on the war.
10. Panzer III (Germany)
The Panzer III was a German medium tank that played a significant role in the early years of World War 2. With a 5cm KwK 38 L/42 gun and 30mm armor, it was a formidable opponent on the battlefield. The Panzer III was also known for its reliability and mobility, making it a popular choice among German tank crews.
Key Features:
- 5cm KwK 38 L/42 gun
- 30mm armor
- Top speed: 40 km/h
- Crew: 5
9. M3 Lee (USA)
The M3 Lee was an American medium tank that saw action in North Africa and the Pacific. With a 75mm M3 L/31 gun and 51mm armor, it was a versatile tank that could engage both enemy tanks and infantry. The M3 Lee also had a distinctive design, with a sponson-mounted gun that allowed for a wider field of fire.
Key Features:
- 75mm M3 L/31 gun
- 51mm armor
- Top speed: 42 km/h
- Crew: 6
8. Crusader (UK)
The Crusader was a British cruiser tank that saw action in North Africa and Italy. With a 57mm QF 6-pdr gun and 49mm armor, it was a fast and agile tank that could outmaneuver enemy opponents. The Crusader also had a reputation for being highly reliable and easy to maintain.
Key Features:
- 57mm QF 6-pdr gun
- 49mm armor
- Top speed: 43 km/h
- Crew: 5
7. T-34 (USSR)
The T-34 was a Soviet medium tank that is widely considered one of the best tanks of World War 2. With a 76.2mm ZiS-5 gun and 45mm armor, it was a highly effective tank that could engage both enemy tanks and infantry. The T-34 also had a reputation for being highly reliable and easy to maintain.
Key Features:
- 76.2mm ZiS-5 gun
- 45mm armor
- Top speed: 55 km/h
- Crew: 4
6. Panther (Germany)
The Panther was a German medium tank that is widely considered one of the best tanks of World War 2. With an 88mm KwK 36 L/56 gun and 80mm armor, it was a highly effective tank that could engage both enemy tanks and infantry. The Panther also had a reputation for being highly reliable and easy to maintain.
Key Features:
- 88mm KwK 36 L/56 gun
- 80mm armor
- Top speed: 46 km/h
- Crew: 5
5. M4 Sherman (USA)
The M4 Sherman was an American medium tank that saw action in North Africa, Europe, and the Pacific. With a 75mm M3 L/40 gun and 51mm armor, it was a highly effective tank that could engage both enemy tanks and infantry. The M4 Sherman also had a reputation for being highly reliable and easy to maintain.
Key Features:
- 75mm M3 L/40 gun
- 51mm armor
- Top speed: 38 km/h
- Crew: 5
4. Churchill (UK)
The Churchill was a British infantry tank that saw action in North Africa, Europe, and Italy. With a 75mm OQF Mk V gun and 102mm armor, it was a highly effective tank that could engage both enemy tanks and infantry. The Churchill also had a reputation for being highly reliable and easy to maintain.
Key Features:
- 75mm OQF Mk V gun
- 102mm armor
- Top speed: 24 km/h
- Crew: 5
3. Tiger I (Germany)
The Tiger I was a German heavy tank that saw action in North Africa, Europe, and the Soviet Union. With an 88mm KwK 36 L/56 gun and 100mm armor, it was a highly effective tank that could engage both enemy tanks and infantry. The Tiger I also had a reputation for being highly reliable and easy to maintain.
Key Features:
- 88mm KwK 36 L/56 gun
- 100mm armor
- Top speed: 38 km/h
- Crew: 5
2. IS-2 (USSR)
The IS-2 was a Soviet heavy tank that saw action in Europe and the Soviet Union. With a 122mm D-25T gun and 120mm armor, it was a highly effective tank that could engage both enemy tanks and infantry. The IS-2 also had a reputation for being highly reliable and easy to maintain.
Key Features:
- 122mm D-25T gun
- 120mm armor
- Top speed: 37 km/h
- Crew: 4
1. M26 Pershing (USA)
The M26 Pershing was an American heavy tank that saw action in Europe and the Pacific. With a 90mm M3 L/50 gun and 102mm armor, it was a highly effective tank that could engage both enemy tanks and infantry. The M26 Pershing also had a reputation for being highly reliable and easy to maintain.
Key Features:
- 90mm M3 L/50 gun
- 102mm armor
- Top speed: 48 km/h
- Crew: 5
Gallery of WW2 Tanks
WW2 Tanks Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the best tank of World War 2?
+The best tank of World War 2 is a matter of debate among historians and military enthusiasts. However, the Tiger I and IS-2 are often considered two of the best tanks of the war.
What was the most produced tank of World War 2?
+The most produced tank of World War 2 was the T-34, with over 84,000 units produced.
What was the fastest tank of World War 2?
+The fastest tank of World War 2 was the M26 Pershing, with a top speed of 48 km/h.
In conclusion, the top 10 greatest tanks of World War 2 were a diverse range of vehicles that played a significant role in the outcome of the war. From the highly effective Tiger I to the reliable M4 Sherman, each tank had its unique strengths and weaknesses. By understanding the key features and characteristics of these tanks, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of armored warfare in World War 2.