Intro
Discover the M26 Pershing Medium Tank specifications, a game-changing WWII vehicle that revolutionized armored warfare. Explore its impressive technical details, including firepower, mobility, and armor, and learn how it influenced the development of post-war tanks, making it a crucial milestone in the evolution of main battle tanks and tank warfare strategies.
The M26 Pershing was a medium tank used by the United States during the final months of World War II and the Korean War. Developed as a replacement for the M4 Sherman, the M26 Pershing was designed to provide a balance of mobility, firepower, and armor protection.
The M26 Pershing was powered by a Ford GAF V-8 gasoline engine, which produced 500 horsepower. The tank's transmission was a five-speed forward and one-speed reverse General Motors CD-500 cross-drive. The Pershing's top speed was approximately 30 miles per hour, making it one of the fastest tanks of its time.
Armament and Firepower
The M26 Pershing was armed with a 90mm M3 gun, which was capable of firing armor-piercing, high-explosive, and smoke rounds. The tank's main armament was complemented by a.50-caliber M2 machine gun mounted on the turret roof and a.30-caliber M1919 machine gun mounted coaxially with the main gun.
Main Gun Specifications
- Caliber: 90mm
- Length: 4.72 meters (15.5 feet)
- Muzzle velocity: 853 meters per second (2,799 feet per second)
- Effective range: approximately 1,000 meters (3,300 feet)
Armor Protection
The M26 Pershing's armor protection consisted of welded steel plates ranging in thickness from 25mm to 102mm. The tank's frontal armor was sloped to provide maximum protection against anti-tank projectiles.
Armor Thickness
- Frontal armor: 102mm (4 inches)
- Side armor: 50mm (2 inches)
- Rear armor: 25mm (1 inch)
- Top armor: 25mm (1 inch)
- Bottom armor: 25mm (1 inch)
Mobility and Performance
The M26 Pershing was designed to provide a balance of mobility and firepower. The tank's Ford GAF V-8 gasoline engine produced 500 horsepower, allowing the Pershing to reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.
Performance Specifications
- Top speed: 30 miles per hour (48 kilometers per hour)
- Range: approximately 100 miles (160 kilometers)
- Climbing ability: 30 degrees
- Fording ability: 4.5 feet (1.37 meters)
Service History
The M26 Pershing saw limited service during World War II, with the first tanks arriving in Europe in February 1945. The Pershing played a significant role in the Korean War, where it was used by the United States Army to counter North Korean and Chinese armor.
Variants and Upgrades
Several variants of the M26 Pershing were developed, including the M26A1, which featured a new turret design and improved armor protection. The M26 was also upgraded with new engines, transmissions, and fire control systems.
Legacy
The M26 Pershing played a significant role in the development of post-war American tanks, including the M48 Patton and M60 Patton. The Pershing's combination of mobility, firepower, and armor protection made it a formidable opponent on the battlefield.
Gallery of M26 Pershing Medium Tank Images
M26 Pershing Medium Tank Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the primary armament of the M26 Pershing?
+The primary armament of the M26 Pershing was a 90mm M3 gun.
What was the top speed of the M26 Pershing?
+The top speed of the M26 Pershing was approximately 30 miles per hour.
What was the armor thickness of the M26 Pershing's frontal armor?
+The armor thickness of the M26 Pershing's frontal armor was 102mm.
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