The Great War

Austro-Hungary
Belgium
British Empire
France
German Empire
Italy
Russia
USA

Part I: Introduction

The tank concept can actually be traced back to the Renaissance period. The first to put
it on paper and effectively build a model (possibly at a 1:2 scale) for proper military
purposes was the Florentine genius, Leonardo Da Vinci. His tank mainly originated
from a series of protected-ram experiments and a proposal to Leonardos protector, the
powerful Condottiere Ludovico il Moro (then Duke of Milan). It was not intended to
attack fortifications, but to break the pike and shot formation, a solid, mobile and
massive human fortress formed of a large number of pikemen surrounded by smaller
detachments of arquebusiers.

This formation had dominated the battlefield for almost three centuries and was very
effective, as the arquebusiers delivered continuous fire while being protected by a
massive wall of pikes against cavalry and infantry alike. The wooden structure of
Leonardos tank was sloped and was thick enough to absorb bullets and deflect

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cannonballs, while at the same time delivering a punishing fire all around from its many
light culverins (a simplistic type of medieval musket/cannon).

The main problem was actually the way such a wooden monster could be moved. Only
human or animal power was available back then, and even if Leonardo showed, in his
drawings, cranks and shafts for two men, these would have been far from sufficient for
pulling the sheer weight of this mobile fortress while permitting it to fire at the same
time. Modern calculations and reconstitutions, based on Leonardos unique manuscript,
showed it would have weighed nearly 2 tons.

Another strange feature, but faithful to Leonardos drawings, was a purely mechanical
propulsion. While mastering clockwork devices, Leonardo had produced some robots,
including a walking lion which was displayed at Francis I court. However, the tank
wouldnt have been equipped with such a device, as it would have had to cope with
difficult terrains under adverse conditions. Ludovico il Moro, although impressed, never
ordered such a contraption built.

Part II: The Deadly Equation

Nobody was prepared for the bloody stalemate which prevailed during the First World
War. Officers from all countries had in mind brash pictures of daring offensives with
waving flags and blaring trumpets, epic cavalry charges and massive infantry squares
marching under fire, bright uniforms, tactical genius and glory. This was quite a
romantic view which was familiar to the commoners, the very same ones who then
embarked with happiness and chants onto the trains. But, quickly, the grim reality of an
attrition war became apparent, with death on an industrial scale. The early French
offensives sank before the whirling staccato of the German Mauser machine-guns. After
a full retreat, the German offensive was miraculously stopped on the Marne, a few
dozen miles north-east of Paris. From Belgium to Switzerland, all the opponents
entrenched themselves. Artillery, barbed wire and machine guns took their toll on every
offensive. On the German side, some attempts to break the stalemate included assault
squads equipped with portable machine guns and grenades, as well as gas and
flamethrowers. To blow up the trenches, artillery was insufficient, so another vicious
weapon was used: the mine (in fact already in use since late medieval times).

Despair started sinking in after it was seen that all major offensives, like those of
Nivelle in 1916, the Von Moltke offensive at Verdun or the dreadful Somme offensive
by Sir Douglas Haig, were literally drawn in blood. To deal with this deadly equation,
various experiments were made, some of them quite odd-looking or simply pathetic- the
personal iron armor, the portable iron shield, a wooden structure covered with iron and
then machines, the electric tank, the mobile fortresses, the automatic wheels and
pedrails to blow up the barb wire. None showed any promise.

The idea of the tank, in the modern meaning of the word, appeared simultaneously in
France and in Great Britain. In the latter, it was due to Lt. Col. Ernest Swinton, and in
the former due to Col. Jean Baptiste Estienne. Both advocated the use of the Holt
Tractor, which was then largely in use with the Allies as a gun tractor. This led to
further developments and, despite many setbacks, culminated in 1916 when the first
operational tanks were put to the test.

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Part III: The Holt Tractors

The invention of the Caterpillar track and its practical application by Benjamin Holt
gave birth to a new land transportation system with great torque and pulling power, up
to agricultural tasks and with good military potential. Internationally known and widely
used by agriculturally-reformed large farms, but also moving and transporting logs in
the New World, the Holt tractor was already a mechanical legend. The flagship model,
the 120 Holt, had been marketed since 1914. It was purchased in large numbers, first by
Great Britain and then France, to be used as an artillery tractor. Nearly 10,000 were
used. So, it was natural to choose a large tractor to pull the weight of an armored box,
its equipment and fuel. It took little time to discover the best suitable model for the
worst terrains.

The Holt 120 (for 120 hp), which was much more capable than the model 70, was
chosen to tow a weight of 10 tons. The problem encountered by the engineers who tried
to adapt the tractor to this new task, was the quick onset of issues with the resistance of
the track shoes. This was particularly clear on the testing of the Lincoln machines
(Little and Big Willie). The former was created especially for the test of extra-large
pads, able to bear the brunt required, but also a suitable suspension system. Tests were
thus conducted on both sides of the Channel, the British with their prototype Big
Willie creating the basis of their first operational tank, the Mk.I. The French, under the
leadership of Colonel Estienne, quickly devised the Schneider CA, but production was
not without difficulty.

Great Britain was the first to deploy its Mk.I tanks during the Somme offensive,
especially at Flers-Courcelette, on Sept. 16, 1916, where 49 tanks were deployed.
Looking more specifically at this model, the Holt chassis had, after many changes to
specifications, been completely reworked. Being initially too short, it was considered
unsuitable for crossing trenches. It had nevertheless preserved the Caterpillar
suspension, and many other details of the Big Willie, the prototype of the Mk.I, also
known as the Mother. Weighing nearly 30 tons, with a Foster-Daimler engine
delivering about 105 hp, the Mk.I could move only with agonizing slowness. The
weight was the result of a complete redesign of the chassis for the best possible crossing
capabilities. In this case, the huge tracks, going all the way around the machine,
enclosed a narrow central hull hosting the eight-man crew.

Part IV: 1916 First Blood

These two models, the Mark I and Schneider CA-1, were the first tanks in operational
history. It took almost a year and a half of painful technical development and testing,
strong will from a few promoters, and administrative battles and support from the
highest level for this idea to be born. The concept was developed in parallel in the
United Kingdom and in France. The latter had a slight advantage at first, but the former
managed to produce and deploy their tanks faster. These famous diamond-shaped
models remain, by far, the best known visual icons of the conflict.

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 Starting with the Mother, the prototype of the series, the British built close to 2,000
units in five versions until 1919, by sticking to their proven formula and constantly
improving it. The French however, made the choice of having multiple separate designs.
The first, given by Joffre to Schneider, the second, designed by the army, for the army,
by Saint Chamond and the third, developed from private funds, the Renault FT. Finally,
the design choice of the latter would set a new standard and impose a great leap forward
in tank design.

For the British vehicles, the main armament was not located in a turret (this was tested,
but rejected for reasons of stability), but in a barbette, hosting a naval gun, the famous
6 pounder (57 mm) that was common on the deck of any ship, from destroyers to the
largest battleship. The concept had been well-proven and the weapon was available in
large quantities. The barbette was the preferred system, placed into the center of the
lozenge. W G Wilson, who led the project, as specified by the army, split the Mk.I into
two different series. 250 Mark Is were males, armed with two 6-pdr pieces, and the
others females equipped only with machine guns. The latter exchanged their
expensive water-cooled Vickers with more recent models, the Lewis and the Hotchkiss
air-cooled machine guns. Besides the four operators for the guns, the other four

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crewmen were dedicated to maneuvering operating the gearbox, brakes and
differentials for the two tracks. It was a complex system, which posed coordination
difficulties, mostly because of the unbearable environment- scorching heat, deafening
noise, petrol fumes, oil and toxic exhaust gases (there was no wall separating the engine
from the crew). To this was added the internal finish of the armor plates, made up of
boiler steel. Where there was an impact, even if the projectile did not penetrate, an
internal metal explosion was triggered, filling the crowded interior with shrapnel. In
fact, crews quickly adopted a complete protective outfit (thick leather belt, leather
helmet with chain-mail, etc).

The French, meanwhile, devised a tank that looked more like the experimental Little
Willie. Ultimately, the Schneider CA was basically an armored box with a frontal gun
and machine-gun ports and ballmounts, mounted on a modified 75 Holt chassis. The
original idea of Col. Estienne envisioned it as an armoured transport vehicle, embarking
troops in an armoured carriage, crossing no-mans land safely, and deploying them
right at the entrances of the enemy trenches. However, after tests, the engine was found
incapable of supporting the weight of the main armoured body. The idea was deemed
impractical and abandoned, returning to a pure tank, for clearing machine gun nests,
fortified positions, and preceding and supporting the infantry assault. The length of the
tractor train, although already increased, was found to be insufficient for crossing wide
trenches, but a tail sabot contributed some improvement. In addition, the vehicle was
high, with relatively low ground clearance. The 55 hp Schneider engine was barely able
to propel the fourteen tons it had to carry. Only 150 had been built by mid-1917, as the
project suffered delays, when the production lines stopped and shifted to a supply
model. With the opening of the training school at Beaulieu, the high attrition rate due to
insufficient maintenance in adverse conditions was significantly reduced, but inadequate
armor and poor placement of fuel tanks contributed to its precipitous withdrawal.

Part V: 1917 Full armor on the Western Front

The engagements of 1917 brought utter disillusionment, but also a lot of hope about the
future of the tank. Since the first offensive actions on the Somme, the German Army
had learned how to deal with this new threat and gained the upper hand, while using
their artillery or improvising at infantry level. It was indeed shown that, despite its
apparent inefficiency against tank armor, machine-guns could cause spalling, which
meant that the poor quality plates fractured into small pieces, similar to shrapnel. These
injured the crew and disabled the transmission, engine, or other mechanical parts.
Throwing a grenade over the less protected roof was also found quite effective. But the
most efficient way to destroy these lumbering targets was light, agile, field artillery.
German gunners quickly learned to destroy tanks while remaining out of reach of direct
fire, and artillery observers learned how to anticipate the movement of these vehicles
during an artillery barrage.

The first French tank battle took place on April, 16, 1917, during the Nivelle Offensive.
It involved most of the Schneiders available (132), engaged at once at Berry-au-Bac.
This was a complete disaster, as the German gunners had already received instructions
on how to deal with tanks and were ready for them. For the few that reached a practical
firing range (most had been lost due to poor maintenance, breakdowns, or just bogged
down en route), the German gunners targeted an obvious weak point, the badly-placed
front fuel tank. One by one, all survivors of the muddy lunar-like landscape were

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blasted away, before even getting into position to cause some damage. Because of this,
they were later called mobile crematoria. This was just a footnote in the immense and
futile slaughter of soldiers which was part of these series of massed frontal assaults.
However, they achieved some objectives by May, with the capture of 187 guns, taking
of 28,500 prisoners, and inflicting around 160,000 German casualties for some 200,000
French casualties. Despite their poor results, the Schneiders and St. Chamonds (92 in
all) were once more engaged at the Battle of La Malmaison in October. But the results
were similar, and due to the soaked terrain, the attrition rate was even greater. Few tanks
reached the German lines. After this, the French Army, led by General Ptain, as he
himself put it, preferred waiting for the tanks (the numerous and promising Renault
FTs) and the Americans.

On the British side, in June and July in Flanders, around 200 tanks were engaged, with
mixed results. By November, the British Army led another major offensive with 187
tanks, at the battle of Cambrai. It was the first time the new Mark IV was deployed in
such numbers. This tank was improved in every way over its predecessors, including
armor able to withstand the German armor-piercing bullets. In total, 476 tanks would be
deployed in these offensives, and 178 lost, some of which were later recovered by the
Germans, after their successful counter-offensive, using Sturmtruppen. By December 3,
Sir Douglas Haig ordered a general retreat from the Hindenburg Line. The territorial
gains were real, but they largely involved better coordination between infantry and
artillery to succeed. British Colonel J.F.C. Fuller, chief of staff of the Tank Corps, had
his troops succeed on the battlefield despite a horrendous attrition rate, and tanks indeed
helped to secure a breakthrough, although this was later wasted by the complete absence
of coordination with infantry. Some were also engaged in urban combat, to their
dismay.

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First experiences during the early months of 1917 had shown how much the Allied
tanks were prone to breakdowns, and that they were severely underpowered and
vulnerable against gunfire. But they also proved, first thanks to the element of surprise,
and thereafter because the Germans were unable to formulate a response, that their
concept was sound and they could possibly make the long-awaited breakthroughs.
During the last months of 1917 new models were being developed. The British had
improved the Mk.I/II and were able to deliver a brand new mass-production model, the
Mk.IV. It would be the spearhead of all offensives in the British sector. At the same
time, the man behind the Mark I, William Tritton, devised a new kind of machine, the
light tank. With the standard Mark I clearly being too slow to operate in the way they
were originally meant to function, he designed a cavalry tank, which was fast enough to
exploit breakthroughs. This was the Mark A Whippet. But late 1917 and mid-1918
offensives showed the effectiveness of combined-arms tactics that employed infantry
support and (real) cavalry alongside tanks.

Part VI: 1918 The Last Offensives

As the lessons drawn from battle experience were properly digested and integrated, two
new models were introduced. On the British side, the Mark V with Wilsons epicyclic
gearing, which greatly simplified steering (one driver was now sufficient), and later
lengthened versions, the stars, to cross the large German anti-tank trenches. On the
French side, this was the nimble Renault FT. This revolutionary design was a Ford-
inspired industrial mass-production vehicle and helped to secure the right number of
tanks at the right time. Although the FT was not able to sustain gunfire and was too
small to effectively cross large trenches, the combination of gun-armed and MG-armed
vehicles and new tactics of close support with infantry helped to achieve far better
results than before. The little Renault was there to overwhelm the enemy.

The Battle of Villers-Bretonneux was just one of these events, which occurred on April,
24, 1918. It saw the first tank-to-tank engagement of the war, and the first in history.
Although the Germans were confident in their antitank tactics and their own assault

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squads, the Kaiser authorized tank development, which led to the A7V, as well as other
German types which were never ready on time. The Sturmpanzerwagen A7V was a
colossus of a tank- of the box-type. Based on a short Holt chassis, this lumbering
beast was even slower than an infantryman walking at normal pace, but impressive,
with one gun and bristling with machine-guns. On that day, a single one was spotted by
a Mark IV platoon. The platoon comprised one male gun version and two female,
MG-armed only. After two near-misses and one hit, both females disengaged, and the
male resumed the gunfight. After very close near-misses, the A7V disengaged, thus
ending this rare encounter in a draw.

With the combination of new tanks available en masse, and fresh American troops, the
Allies seemed to gain advantage in the last months of the war, just after the German
great summer offensive, which saw few tanks engaged. The German high command
showed how small, well-trained and well-equipped elite infantry squads could secure a
quick breakthrough and deep penetration in enemy territory, without using any tanks.
However, after this advance without clear objectives, and over-extended lines, the Allies
took the offensive again, and their counter-attack led to the near destruction of these
experienced forces. Despite the great successes that had been achieved and the
combination of infantry, artillery, aircraft, and tanks reached its zenith near the end of
1918, the Germans still inflicted punishing losses to the French and British tank units.
At the battle of Amiens in August, for example, no less than 72% of the Allied Tank
Corps was destroyed in the first four days of the offensive. By the 64th day of the battle,
41% of British tanks engaged had been destroyed in action. On November 5, only 8
were left for the whole the British tank corps. Most losses were attributed to direct
artillery fire, new grenades, new AP ammunition, and mortars. The technology of the
time prevented the use of thicker armor, due to the lack of engine power.

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In France, grand plans for the last armoured offensive, of a massive scale, were put on
paper by Col. Fuller and Col. Estienne, the latter speaking of swarms of light tanks to
overwhelm the enemy. The Renault FT, of which over 14,000 units had been envisioned
to be produced in France, USA, and Italy, was to be at the forefront of these offensives.
Two new tanks were in active development by 1918, the gargantuan FCM-1 and a
rhomboid tank with tracks running along its full length, in the British fashion, and the
Saint Chamond 2. At the same time, the British had also been innovative. They built the
first self-propelled artillery, the Gun Carrier Mark I (carrying the BL 60-pounder field
gun), lengthened variants of the Mark V, and the stars designed to pass the very large
trenches of the Hindenburg line. William Tritton and Major Wilson worked on rival
projects, the Mark B and the Mark C, both replacements for the Whippet. At the same
time, a joint-venture between the UK and the USA, for a new heavy model to be built
en masse, mostly in the United States, had successfully passed all tests and was ready
for pre-production: the Mark VIII Liberty tank.

However, the German revolution came as a real surprise. Berlin was in full revolt, the
Kaiser was deposed, and the soldiers on the front felt betrayed, leaving no choice but a
humiliating Armistice. Subsequently, nearly all previous tank mass-production series
were cancelled. However, some models were produced through the early twenties, in
order not to lose the benefit of costly research and development. The Mark B Whippet
and Mark C Hornet had 152 units delivered by 1922 and 151 units of the Mark VIII
Liberty by 1923. In France, 10 FMC-1 had been finally delivered at an astronomical
cost by 1923. No modern tank was to be planned in France before 1930, and only
cosmetic changes to the basic FT took place (like the Renault NC 1/2/3).

Part VII: Winter Wars Russia & Poland

The Versailles Treaty, signed on June 28, 1919, had redefined the map of Europe. Three
so-called buffer states were drawn on the Baltic coast: Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia.
Poland was restored to its former historic borders, occupying most of Prussia and large
extents of the western Russian territories and was given the Danzig Corridor to ensure
access to the Baltic Sea. Since the Revolution of 1917, the Russian Soviet Federative
Socialist Republic was in a state of latent civil war. No Bolshevik committee was
invited to the Paris Peace Conference. Even more so, the Allies were inclined to
militarily support the exiled, loyalist White Russian faction. Before the new territorial
gains of Poland, an improvised force of the Ukrainian Peoples Army clashed with the
newly born Republic of Zakopane, which will become later part of the Second Polish
Republic (Rzeczpospolita Polska). This was the beginning of a full-scale war, with two
major battles, at Lviv and Przemysl, both in 1918. Border conflicts also occurred during
this period with the Czechs, culminating in a full-scale war with Czechoslovakia in
January 1919. Soon, Poland was declared an independent and sovereign state. The
Bolsheviks felt this as a direct threat from their old natural enemy, and the Red Army
rushed to the borders. This was the beginning of the Polish-Soviet war of 1919 which
spanned two years and ended with the treaty of Riga in 1921.

During this event, the Polish state received military advisers and councilors (mostly
former French and British officers, including the young De Gaulle), and of course
weapons- rifles, ammunition, Schneider 75 mm guns, but also some French FT tanks.

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Leonardo Da Vinci was apparently the first to design a wooden tank, which lacked only
a suitable propulsion mechanism to turn it into reality. Although impressed by it,
Ludovico Sforza, the Duke of Milan, never ordered any to be built. The tank had to wait
for four more centuries before appearing on the battlefield.

However, the very idea of an armored mobile device could be

traced back to the Bronze Age, with the first battering rams,
later with the sophisticated siege assault towers of the
Assyrians and, 400 years after, with the huge Helepolis of
Demetrius Poliorcetes (known as The Besieger). Read more
about ancient Hellenistic siege towers.

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By the beginning of the war, there were already concepts of tanks starting to take shape.
Just like the beginning of the automotive industry, many technologies were explored
with the same confidence and ingenuity. Therefore steam-powered, electric, even
remote-controlled tanks were envisioned, as well as the way to provide traction, open to
all fantasies. The pedrail concept, for example, was the great alternative to tracks,
proceeding from the same idea, but with bigger elements. To crush barbed wire, many
concepts were tried, including the skeleton tank, with very large overall tracks and the
crew compartment inside, of which several variants were tested, including the monster
of them all, the Russian Tsar tank and its gigantic metallic wheels.

The vehicle pictured above is the French Levavasseur project (1903). With a crew of
three, an 80 hp engine, full caterpillars, this canon autopropulseur would have crossed
the battlefield with ease, but it was eventually buried by the Artillery Technical
Committee in 1908. In Lincolnshire in Great Britain, the firm Hornsby built the first
functional caterpillars, later to attract great interest from the Admiralty, for possible
armed developments.

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H.G. Wells Land Ironclads novel, first published in Strand Magazine in 1903, had a
tremendous impact on the head of the British Land Battleship committee in 1915, Sir
Winston Churchill. These armored monsters were steam-driven and rolled on eight pairs
of giant pedrail wheels.

This wartime project, the Flying Elephant, was closer to the concept of land battleship
than ever. After conceiving the Mark I in 1915, William Tritton envisioned a new kind
of shell-proof tank. Such requirements called for a massive, heavy hull with 51 mm (2
in) armor plates and the associated powerplant, which, in turn, needed room. As a result,
the Tank Supply Committee approved a single prototype in June, plans being ready by
August 1916. Although the overall dimensions were not so impressive (8.36 m/27 ft
long), it weighed 200 tons and had another pair of belly inner-tracks for better traction.
The plans were later modified and the armor halved to regain some agility. Twenty units

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were initially planned for production, but then the whole project was halted. Here is the
1/35 scale model reconstitution at Bovington.

The Stothert & Pitt prototype pedrail landship chassis on trials, in 1915-16, at the
Trench Warfare Dept. It weighed 32 tons unladen, but could still run at 15 mph (24
km/h), thanks to two 100 hp engines. This vehicle came from Murray Sueter and B.J.
Diplock, the two coming up with the idea of a 25-ton armored tractor in 1914. By 1915,
R.E. Compton designed an armored and tracked APC, and later Churchill himself,
enamored with HG Wells idea, ordered no less than 12 landships of the Diplock and
Wheeled type. Diplock, nevertheless, developed the caterpillar track in 1910, starting
from the pedrail wheel and later pedrail track, giving low friction and low ground
pressure. The HG Wells idea stuck to the Royal Naval Air Service and, later, to the
Army Staffs minds for much of the duration of the war. Since the Mark I, all British
tanks were massive and slow, with naval-inspired barbettes. Until 1918 and the arrival
of the Whippet, the light tank idea, suited to replace the traditional cavalry, was not in
the minds of the generals, but of the engineers, like William Tritton. Despite this, many
pedrail-type tanks were tried, including on the French and German sides, but none made
it into production.

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The Boirault Machine, an experimental French pedrail rotating frame formed of six
large 43 m (13ft1 x 9ft10) metallic frames linked together, with a central powerplant
inside. The idea was to literally crush barbed wire, but it proved underpowered, fragile,
and nearly impossible to steer.

The French Frot-Laffly landship was basically an armored compactor with several
machine-gun portholes. On 18 March 1915, it was tried and successfully crushed, as
intended, lengths of barb wire, but mobility was reduced.

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The Fortin (Fort) Audiot-Gabet looked modern with its electrical propulsion,
revolving turret and 37 mm (1.46 in) cannon, but trials showed it was impractical, since
electrical power was supplied through a cable. A single shot to this cable and it was
stopped. Moreover, the available length of the cable barely allowed even for the short
distance to the enemy trenches.

In the same idea of a compactor, with heavy rollers to crush barb wire, the Breton-Prtot
machine was tried in January 1915. It had a powered saw to cut through wires and large

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rollers to crush what was left and enlarge the gap for infantry to follow. It was armored,
but the crew was left largely unprotected, and had a Hotchkiss 37 mm (1.46 in) naval
gun installed at the rear. However, the lack of mobility of the original Bajac agricultural
tractor doomed any production. Jeffery tractors were also considered, but, by mid-1915,
it was too late, as the tank design was well-advanced and more promising.

The Holt tractor was instrumental as an artillery tractor, used to carry pieces of
ordinance too heavy for horse-drawn carriages on the worst terrain. It was based on the
caterpillar track patent. Since these machines were already well known, well-used and
purchased in large quantities, with many already-available spare parts, it was not long
before engineers and officers tried to have armored boxes hastily mounted on top. But
this burden proved too much for the extremely muddy and cratered landscape.
Nevertheless, fortune tanks have been made since during the thirties, forties, and
occasionally during civil wars, until recently.

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The famous Souain experiment, led in December 1915, was considered to be the first
serious army trials of an armored Baby Holt to be derived as a tank platform. Provision
for the Breton wire cutters were installed to a provisional wooden hull. General Philippe
Ptain was present at these successful trials, which did much to promote the ideas of
Col. Estienne.

The British Tritton Trench-Crosser, tried in May 1915. This machine was equipped with
two 8-foot large tractor wheels, and carried girders on an endless chain, which were
lowered and provided a solid grip for the wheels to cross trenches. Cumbersome and
complicated, it was abandoned.

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In July 1915, a double-articulated chassis, based on the US Bullock Creeping Grip
caterpillar tracks, was tried. This was a relatively sound idea, since this prototype was
deemed more agile, but the trials failed nevertheless.

The Killen-Strait tractor was a strange mix tested on 30 June 1915, with a tricycle
configuration of two rear tracks and a single front one, which provided steering, and an
armored Delaunay-Belleville automobile chassis. Field tests showed the concept to be a
dead end as far as trench crossing was concerned.

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William Trittons Lincoln number one machine, with Bullock tracks and creeping grip
tractor suspension. As a secret project, it is covered by a tarpaulin when not in use. This
experiment was also named Little Willie, and led to the larger Big Willie, or
Mother, the ancestor of the entire British rhomboid tank families.

Austro-Hungarian armored cars and tanks

Models:

Austro-Daimler Panzerwagen
Junovicz P.A.1
Romfell P.A.2

The German-speaking Austro-Hungarian Empire entered the war as a natural ally of the
Central Powers. But, contrary to the German Empire, it was an uneasy bicephalic
kingdom ruling over a dozen of minorities with vastly different cultures and languages.
Political tensions were high and the memory of the Balkan war was still fresh.

The spark

In the Balkans in particular, nationalistic undergound movements triggered bombings

and a famous assassination. The Archduke Franz-Ferdinand was murdered by young
Serb activist and anarchist Gavrilo Prinzip, operating for the Mlada Bosna, supported by
the larger black hand movement in Sarajevo. The Archduke was, on 28 June 1914,
visiting the city in an open coach, passing by narrow streets with a distracted protection,
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and was already attacked by a group of 6 nationalists including Prinzip. A grenade was
launched but missed, but the Archduke resumed his visit to the hospital, while the group
scattered.

Later on, Prinzip, alone, found the convoy one more time and drew his pistol. The
Archduke was shot at very close range and fatally wounded. He died the same day.
Prinzip was immediately arrested and thrown in jail pending trial. Soon after, anti-
Serbian riots erupted, largely organized by Muslim-origin Schutzkorps militias. Actions
also erupted against Serbs in Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The alliance mechanics

As everybody knows, that was the spark that would consume all Europe and beyond for
four years. By the simple mechanics of alliances, the Central Powers and the
Entente joined in and, during that fatal summer (July-August 1914), mobilization was
declared everywhere and grand plans of offense or defense were rapidly re-opened.

Austro-Hungary did its fair share of conscription too, although some minorities tried to
avoid it. Operations were directed at first again Serbia, when the ultimatum expired, and
were followed by military operations. Russia was allied to Serbia and rapidly prepared
to intervene, although mobilization was slow (partly due to the lack of railroads and its
huge territory). Germany then reacted, conforming to its alliance with Austro-Hungary
and soon France (because of its alliance with Russia), weary of revenge and motivated
to retake the bordering Aslace-Lorraine region, joined the war, preparing to face
Germany, its hated arch-enemy since 1870. The Prussian military head of staff knew
full well that Russia needed time to mobilize and choose to strike first in France, using a
carefully planned attack, years in the making on maps (Prussian officers considered
warfare as a science), the so-called Schlieffen plan.

At the same time, the British Empire could have opted out of what was largely seen as a
continental struggle, after all, protected by the channel and the most powerful fleet in
the world. But, at the same time, relations eased with arch-enemy France, especially
since the joint operation in Crimea in 1853-56, and despite an incident in Fachoda on
Colonial matters, a concorde existed between the two countries. Beyond that, if
France had failed and the German militarist regime would have spread on all the
continent, the official policy of maintaining balance between the great powers would
have been shattered and the Empire would have faced, alone, a continental superpower.
So, all these major powers were thrown into the conflict that raged more than 100 years
ago, and dragged their colonial empires and resources with them.

The Austro-Hungarian Empire at war

So, as we ween above, the Empire found itself the first at war among European nations,
against Serbia. The contest was, on paper, won in advance. Indeed, the Serbian army
was ill-equipped and largely outnumbered, but stood its ground and concentrated
artillery correctly, inflicting crippling casualties on the Hungarians at the Battle of Cer
and the Battle of Kolubara on 12 August and after. After that, a sizeable fraction of the
Army was stationed on the borders, preventing these forces from joining with the ones
already protecting against Russia or Italy (which, although part of the Central Powers,
remained neutral until 1915).

~ 20 ~
The Army and early operations

Compared to the well-oiled Prussian military machine, the Austro-Hungarian army was
seen as less modern, lacking artillery, modern transportation, with a rigid organization
and notoriously finicky and inefficient administration, and with officers still relying on
largely obsolete 1860s-1870s tactics. Austro-Hungarian troops, despite their diversity,
fought relatively well, but more so in defense rather than offense.

Against Russia

Russia was found mostly preoccupied with Germany at first, which was nearer to
Poland and the roads to Moscow, and was unable to launch sizable attacks or to pierce
through the Austro-Hungarian defenses.

Against Italy

The same situation was repeated on one of the most difficult terrain of the war, high in
the frozen peaks and treacherous valleys of the Alpine frontier against Italy. This
mountain war was largely a stalemate, the Italians being constantly on the offensive,
but without much success. Because of the terrain on this particular theater of operation,
neither side saw any advantage in using armored cars or tanks, but both had plans for
these towards the end of the war.

Caporetto

The Austro-Hungarian army was found at least partly on the offensive, well supplied
with German hardware, under Svetozar Boroevi, and with the help of German troops
commanded by Otto von Below, during the final phases of the Battles of the Isonzo
(late 1917). The town of Kobarid (in moden Slovenia, better known as Caporetto) was
taken, re-taken, lost and re-taken again by both sides and eventually leveled and
considered, at the time of the offensive, a quiet sector. The German military though it
was perfect terrain for launching a massive gas attack on 24 October. Indeed, German
troops spearheaded the attack, using storm troopers for infiltration in the Mount Matajur
and the Kolovrat Range, with close artillery support, advancing 25 km in enemy
territory and seizing strong points and key positions.

~ 21 ~
Other sectors of the Italian line had to send reinforcement, weakening the whole
defensive line in the process, while the Central Powers offensive resumed. At the end,
fearing being cut off, some units retreated, or tried a defensive retreat ordered by
Marshal Luigi Cadorna and this gradually transformed, with an all-out attack on the
whole line and artillery pounding, into a fullblown a rout. This was a catastrophy for the
Italians, who lost some 40,000 men wounded or killed, whereas 265,000 were captured
and 300,000 missing, drifters or deserters. Later on, retreating forces held of the enemy
offensive for some time during the Battle of the Piave River. Following Caporetto,
Cadorna, who was quite harsh and hated by the troops, was sacked and replaced by
Armando Diaz and Pietro Badoglio. Italy then took defensive positions until the end of
the war.

Tanks? Burstyn Tank

An engineer born in Austro-Hungary, Gnther Burstyn, designed a very strange tank

early on, in 1911, which was tailored to cross trenches of all sizes. This was the Burstyn
Motorgeschtz. It was relatively small, with a fully revolving turret armed with a light
47 mm (1.85 in) Skoda gun, and a crew of two. The great advantage of this
experimental design were the articulated arms linked to the rear and front axles that
could swing freely on the terrain, using massive coils. Basically, these arms were raised
when crossing bad terrain to avoid being stuck in obstacles, and lowered on the ground
to allow trench crossing. The choice of this kind of solution offered the possibility to

~ 22 ~
use a smaller vehicle, yet with a more powerful power-to-weight ratio, which was vital
for mobility in general.

It was an excellent compromise, and showed features (except the articulated arms) that
would be commonplace with tanks like the FT at the end of the war and to this day, and
therefore would probably merit to be considered a landmark in tank history. Needless to
say, the officers and general staff were not impressed and blocked any further
production.

~ 23 ~
Tanks Encyclopedia rendition of the type.

~ 24 ~
An Austrian army officer, K.u.K Genie-Oberleutenant Gnther Burstyn (born 6/7 1879
in Bad Aussee, Steiermark, died 15/4 1945 in Korneuburg, Niedersterreich) inspired
by the sight of the American Holt agricultural tractor with crawler tracks, designed a
~ 25 ~
small tracked vehicle, which he called a Motorgeschtz (motor-gun), built it in model
form, and sent this and the design to the Austrian War Office in October 1911. Had it
been built the vehicle would have been 3.5m long, 1.9m wide and 1.9m high. Cross-
country speed would have been about 8 km/h, road speed 29 km/h. It would be
propelled by a 60HP Truck Engine. The four subsidiary wheels, two at each end on
arms, could be lowered as required, the rear pair being driven as an aid to traction and
the front pair, which could be pivoted, being intended for steering. It was supposed to
have an armament of a small calibre fast fire gun (30-40mm calibre). Its tactical use
would be close support of Infantry Attacks, for suppression of enemy MGs, and also
frontal attacks against enemy artillery positions.

The Austro-Hungarian War Office returned the designs to Burstyn saying they might be
interested if a commercial firm could build it: Burstyn had no industrial contacts and so
let the matter drop. Also, the War Office declined to finance any further work.
Meanwhile the German War Department asked to see the design, but were not
enthusiastic even though a leading German military periodical keenly endorsed the idea.
A further complication arose when Burstyn in 1912 sought to patent the design and was
told that this could not be granted as it infringed existing patents, including those for
agricultural tractors. (He eventually was granted a patent, no Zl. 252 815 DRP.) Thus
discouraged, Burstyn allowed the idea to drop, and it never progressed beyond paper.

~ 26 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Burstyn Motorgeschuetz
Start design: 1911
Date of construction of the first prototype:
Stage of completion: remained at the project level.

~ 27 ~
During the last decades of the Austro-Hungarian Empire officers are several interesting
projects of combat armored vehicles were presented its multi-ethnic army, some of
which were embodied in metal. However, for the most part it concerned armored
vehicles to which the officials of the Ministry of War were treated very skeptical, and
army generals before the war removed the few existing copies of these machines. Do
not be so conservative military authorities, possibly as early as August 1914, Austria-
Hungary could literally enter the tanks into the territory of Russia. However, while
events unfolded quite differently.

As has become clear, we will speak about the project lieutenant Burshtyn Gunter
(Gunter Burstyn) - Hungarian nationality, but devoted to his common homeland.
Perhaps in anticipation of future battles with the active use of trenches and barbed wire
Burshtyn has developed an advanced draft of combat tracked vehicle, now known under
the nazvaninem Burstyn Motorgeschuetz, which would fully come "to the court" five or
six years later, somewhere in France. According to the filed in October 1911 for
consideration by the Commission of the Ministry of War project future tank was to have
small dimensions (length 3500 mm, width 1900 mm) and equipped with a chassis type
Holt. The housing design has a box and was close to classical. In front of the building
has space for the driver and the vehicle commander, who also served as an artilleryman.
Above them was placed a cylindrical tower with a diameter of 1300 mm, the bow which
was an instrument in the fixed frame. Just behind the main tower was located aft
superstructure which had placed a machine gun, serving a single crew member, whose
place was set back while moving smoothly along the longitudinal axis of the body.
Accordingly, the main tower was deprived of the possibility to conduct a circular firing.
It is possible that the course of creative thought Burshtyn influenced fleet else to explain
the appearance of the tower "ship" type is very difficult.

At the stern was mounted petrol engine capacity of 60 hp, which was supposed to
provide the speed of 29 km / h on the road and 8 km / h cross country. Data on the
transmission has not been preserved, but it is believed that could be used by an
upgraded transmission Holt tractor. Planting the tank crew was made through the doors
in the sides korupsa.

~ 28 ~
However, the most interesting element was the undercarriage. Applied to one side it
included 5 road wheels with individual spring suspension, each spring has been
protected by a metal "glass". Apparently, the guide wheels must be positioned in front
and lead - behind. Since the tank was to operate on rough terrain with a minimum
number of good roads (that expanse of Austria-Hungary and Russia was very
important), but also be able to overcome the wide trench, Burshtyn developed a special
mechanism. Front and rear lifting beam is four for the additional wheels. According to
the project on the battlefield, they would help to cope with various obstacles, and on the
march the tank rises on beams and moved "on-road". Accordingly, additional rear
wheels were leading, and the front - rotating. In fact, it was one of the first projects in
the world wheeled-tracked combat vehicle. Burshtyn intended to use his tank, not only
as a means to support the infantry and cavalry, but also for assault purposes: the
suppression of machine-gun points, the fight against the enemy artillery, etc.

In general, the draft of the Austro-Hungarian of the tank can be considered successful. If
successful Burshtyn had to solve a few problems: the transmission of power to the
additional wheels, the rational distribution of ammunition, power plant cooling and
visibility from the driver's seat. Of the major drawbacks can be noted the high ground
pressure and the absence of a circular firing, but still it has also been quite solved.

After reviewing the draft military officials decided not to risk public money and offered
to do Burshtyn construction of the prototype, with the support of one of the commercial
firms. Not having any links with the major manufacturers and without having their own
means of Lieutenant was forced to abandon its project. However, tracked combat
vehicle became interested in the Prussian military department at the end of 1911. Since
the project was not wearing a status of "top secret" and was considered more as an
expensive toy information about it was published in a German military publications.
Despite the overall positive opinion of the officials again gave a negative response,
which ultimately is actually buried, though "raw", but promising development.

Unsuccessful attempts were first Burshtyn issue a patent for his invention. According to
the patent office of the two countries in the project used the chassis of an agricultural
tractor, which violated the rights of its developers. However, Burshtyn managed to
prove otherwise - February 28, 1912 he received the German patent No.Zl.252815 DRP,
and then April 25 - Austrian No.53248 . However, all the effort were in vain, and the
Austro-Hungarian tank remained in the project. Four years later, the Germans
thoroughly forgotten about the Burshtyn and went their thorny path that led them to the
creation of the famous, but equally unsuccessful A7V ...

Armoured cars

Austro-Daimler Panzerwagen (1904)

Also a possible landmark in armored vehicle history, this was the first modern armored
car. It predated, by a year, the Russo-French Charron (produced in a small series), and
had an entirely armored body, carefully modeled, with a hemispheric turret at the rear. It
was armed with one or two machine-guns. The driver and co-driver/commander
positions could be raised to see above the roof. It is still unclear if only one or two such

~ 29 ~
vehicles were built, but the Army was not impressed and no production order ever
came.

Junovicz P.A.1 (1915)

The only armored car really built in a series (just a few in fact), this vehicle was
improvized by the officer with the same name. It had six machine-gun ports and was
relativey heavy. A single armored car unit, the K.u.K. Panzerautozug No.1 was
mobilized at the end of the war with two Junovicz, one Romfell, one captured Lancia IZ
and one ex-Russian Austin on the Italian Front.

Romfell P.A.2

This last WWI Austro-Hungarian model had only a single vehicle built, but it became
operational anyway.

Austro-Daimler Panzerwagen

Austria-Hungary (1904) Armored car 2 built

One of the first armored cars

Among the very first armored vehicles in history, two can be truly seen as path openers:
the French Charron 1906 and the Austro-Daimler 1904. Indeed, both had all the
ingredients of modern armored cars: a fully armored body and a 360 traversing turret
armed with a machine gun. There was, however, a major difference between the two,
the Austro-Hungarian model being fitted with a 44 suspension, providing some off-
road capabilities. It was designed under Paul Daimlers supervision, the son of the
famous Gottlieb Daimler, chief engineer of the Osterreichisches Daimler Motoren AG.
Unfortunately, these designs were way ahead of their time, and their potential was not
recognized due to the military mentality of their era. The car industry was just too
young, traditional views on cavalry were still predominant and still thought efficient,
due to the lack of contrary evidence. Things began to change during the events in
Mexico (Pancho Villa) and later, in 1912, in the Balkans war.

~ 30 ~
Design

Factory specifications included four wheel drive and a particular fully armored, fully
enclosed curved body, 3-3.5 mm (0.12-0.14 in) thick. Its other particularity was a dome-
shaped rotating turret with 4 mm (0.16 in) of armor, that housed one or two machine-
guns. Two versions were built, one with twin apertures and a half open rear and the
other, fully enclosed, with just a single machine-gun port. It was propelled by a 35
hp@1050 rpm, gasoline 4-cylinder water-cooled, 4.41 liters engine. The driving
compartment was not separated from the main fighting one. Both the driver and co-
driver seats were adjustable in height, and could be raised to see from over the
rooftop. The field of view from inside the vehicle was quite limited, with no side slits
and just two small front windows with shutters. There were two access doors. The 44
arrangement comprised shafts and differentials at the front and rear. While the Daimler
Panzerwagen showed some ability for climbing moderate slopes, off-road capabilities
were average.

Fate

The Austro-Daimler was demonstrated to the German Imperial Army at the Kaiser
Maneuvers of 1905, and to the Austro-Hungarian Army in 1906. Neither of these
countries ordered it. Although perhaps two were built (or a single one modified between
1904 and 1905), this Panzerwagen was never ordered or built in series, contrary to the
French Charron, designed in 1906 by a Russian officer. But it preceded it as the worlds
first turreted armored car and should, therefore, be considered a landmark in armored
vehicle history. As an anecdote, Sergio Leones A Fistful of Dynamite showed one
during one of its key action sequences.

Dimensions 4.1 x 2.1 x 2.7 m (13.5 x 7.2 x 8.1 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 3.24 short tons (2.9 long tonnes)

Crew 3 (driver, commander, machine-gunner)

Propulsion Daimler, 4-cyl. water-cooled, 4.41 l, 30-35 hp@1050 rpm

Speed 14-28 mph (24-25 km/h)

Armament 1 or 2 water cooled Maxim machine guns (7.62 mm/0.3 in)

Armor Maximum 3-4 mm (0.12-0.16 in)

Production 1 or 2

~ 31 ~
The early version of the Austro-Daimler, with a single machine gun and fully enclosed
turret, in green livery. Some photos may also indicate a pale grey/blue or even white
livery.

~ 32 ~
Paul Daimler, son of the famous Gottlieb Daimler, was the chief engineer of the
Osterreichisches Daimler Motoren AG until 1905, and it was under his supervision that

~ 33 ~
the Austro-Daimler Armoured Car was built. This vehicle had a specification including
four wheel drive, an enclosed hull of a curved shape, and a dome-shaped rotating turret.

The engine was a 35hp Daimler; drive, by shafts and differentials at the front and rear,
was to all four wheels. The armour was only 3 to 3 mm thick on the body, and 4mm
on the turret. This kept the weight to around 3 tons, which, in turn, contributed to the
car's impressive (for the time) top speed of 28mph, and the vehicles reasonably good
hill-climbing ability. The fuel tanks gave a radius of action of 155 miles.

Seats for the driver and co-driver could be raised or lowered by about 12 inches, so that
when not in action they could see over the top of the armour. This was a big help,
because when the car was closed up for action, visibility from inside the vehicle was
poor.

The turret was originally built with just one port, for the Maxim water cooled machine
gun. In 1905 this was changed, and two slightly smaller ports were added, for two
Maxims side by side.

~ 34 ~
The Austro-Daimler armoured car was demonstrated to the German Imperial Army at
the Kaiser Manoeuvres in 1905, and again to the Austro-Hungarian Army at their
manoevres in 1906. But it was not adopted by either country. The Austro-Daimler
armoured car has the dubious honour of being the first turreted armoured car, and
undoubtedly influenced later designs.

Technical Information

3.24 US tons (2.9

Weight
tonnes)
Length 13ft 5in. (4.1m)
Width 7 ft 2in. (2.1m)
Height 8 ft 10in. (2.7m)
Daimler, 4-cylinder,
Engine watercooled, 35hp,
1050rpm
Max
28mph (45 kph)
Speed
1, later 2, Water
Armament cooled Maxim
Machine Guns
Armour 3mm, turret 4mm

~ 35 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Austro-Daimler Panzerwagen <
Start of planning: 1904
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1905
Stage of completion: built one instance.

Almost simultaneously with the construction of the Russian armored Nakashidze

structure, built in France by Charron, in the Austro-Hungarian Empire began work on
designing its own armored vehicle. The initiator of its creation was Paul Daimler - son
of a famous industrialist and chief engineer of the company Osterreichisches Daimler
Motoren AG Gottlieb Daimler, who offered more than the original design.

~ 36 ~
Assuming that the armored vehicle will move not only on dirt roads, but also on soft
ground, Daimler has chosen all-wheel drive (4x4) chassis and 35-horsepower gasoline
engine of his own company. The move would allow significantly improve the driving
performance of the car, loaded with armor and weapons.

The body is going through a dowel of several sections, with some armor plates was
characterized by curved shapes, which gave very armored car "aesthetic" look and at the
same time contribute to a better bullet resistance. Thickness of body armor plates ranged
from 3 to 3.5 mm. In any case, it was bulletproof and protected by rifle and machine-
gun fire at ranges up to 100 meters.

As an overview of the environmental situation in the firing position was carried out only
in two small flap in front of the compartment, the visibility was severely limited. To get
rid of this shortcoming, Daimler equipped the machine special mechanical device picks
up the driver's seat and his assistant of 12 inches (30.5 cm) - in addition to the roof was
cut rectangular hatch and both members of the crew got so much better field of view.
An unconventional approach proved Daimler and installing weapons. The only 7.62-
mm machine gun Maxim type installed in the tower dome shape with a thickness of 4
mm armor plates - shooting out of it was carried out through the slot in the front.

Construction of the armored car, now called Austro-Daimler Panzerwagen

(abbreviated Austro-Daimler PzWg) was completed in 1905. After some time it was
first shown on the maneuvers of the German army, and in 1906, Austro-Daimler
participated in the maneuvers of the Austro-Hungarian army. Although the car has
shown very good performance, attitude on the part of the military leadership of both
countries was more than skeptical. Preference is then given to the cavalry and artillery,
which is believed to be able to crack any defenses. In addition, Austro-Daimler
Panzerwagen not like the Austro-Hungarian emperor by the fact that he published a lot
of noise with the engine running, scattering these horses. Trying to finalize Daimler
armored car by installing two machine guns (model 1906) in the tower kpolozhitelnomu
result failed.

The General Staff was still confident that armored military machines are not needed and
therefore the question of serial construction of Austro-Daimler PzWg (as originally
anticipated postroyit small party of 6 armored vehicles) was not raised. Such short-
sighted cost subsequently Astro-Hungary is very expensive, since the First World War,
this country entered without any armored vehicles in general.

~ 37 ~
SPECIFICATIONS light armored cars
Austro-Daimler Panzerwagen sample 1906

Combat weight ~ 3000 kg

CREW, pers. 2-3
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 4100
Width 2100
Height mm 2700
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 7.71-mm machine gun Vickers
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
housing forehead - 3.5 mm
board housing - 3.5 mm
food body - 3.5mm
RESERVATIONS
Tower - 4 mm
roof - 3 mm
the bottom - 3 mm
Of Daimler, carburetor, in-line, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled
ENGINE
power 30-35 hp 1050 vol. / min
TRANSMISSION mechanical type: 4-speed gearbox and demultiplikat
4x4; Shed wheels, pneumatic tires, suspension leaf
CHASSIS
springs
SPEED 24-25 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles

~ 38 ~
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
not installed
COMMUNICATION

Junovicz P.A.1

Austria-Hungary (1915) Armored car 5 built

One of the few Austro-Hungarian armored cars

The Austro-Hungarian army failed to see the potential of armored cars prior to the war.
After some demonstrations, they decided against the use of armored cars as
incompatible with current cavalry tactics and any military doctrine in existence. The
empire, especially Aurostria, had limited industrial capabilities, except for a few
renowned manufacturers. The Army started to show interest in this type of vehicle after
the outbreak of war. This was mostly due to the enthusiasm shown by the Russians and
Italians, then opponents of the Austro-Hungarians. The matter progressed so slow that a
young officer, Hauptmann Junovicz, decided to take the matter in his own hands. He
devised an improvised vehicle, hand-built, on an existing chassis. The one chosen was
the Fiat 40 PS lorry, a sturdy vehicle produced locally under licence. This vehicle was
known as the Junovicz armored car. Except for the crude, improvised Junovicz,
another armored car, small and refined, carefully handcrafted, known as the Romfell
was accepted into service.

Design of the Junovicz AC

The Junovicz looks relatively clumsy and unsophisticated at first glance. It was
essentially a standard truck chassis with a slab-sided, boxy armored hull. This was made
of a framework which held in place bolted armor plating, 7 mm (0.275 in) thick at the
front and 5 mm (0.2 in) on the sides. The overall weight was estimated to more than 4
tons. Each was armed with two/three Schwarzlose Model 1912 cal 0.3 (7.62 mm)
machine-guns. One was placed at the front of the vehicle, while the other one or two

~ 39 ~
could be swapped between either of the four pistol ports on the sides. The crew
probably consisted of 5-6 men, depending on the armament carried. Its ordnance
designation seems to have been Panzer Auto 1: P.A.1.

Variants and wartime action

Three main variants are known:

the first three Junovicz were constructed on Fiat 40 PS chassis, delivered in 1915.
a fourth one was built on a Bussing 36 PS chassis in 1917.
a fifth was derived from a Saurer 34 PS chassis the same year.

Operational records are unknown. There are few photos of the Junovicz, showing them
painted in an uniform (presumably) standard light olive livery. It is probable that the
1917 versions were painted in a dull grey pattern, more available at that time. The
photos shows no markings but a simple matriculation above the radiator. An account
from 1918 tells us that a platoon of armored cars, the K.u.K. Panzerautozug No.1, was
engaged on the Italian front, with one Romfell, two Junovicz, one captured Lancia IZ
and one ex-Russian Austin. These were kept in reserve in the vicinity of Udine, to be
used later in the supposed future breakthrough at the Piave.

Early type Junovicz (1915), with the standard (probably) olive livery.

Junovicz armored car specifications

Dimensions 5.70 x 1.90 x 3.50 m (18.7 x 6.2 x 11.4 ft.in)

Total weight, battle ready 4 tons

Crew 5 (driver, commander, 2 machine-gunners, loader)

Propulsion 4-cyl Gas. FIAT 12L, 40 bhp at around 2000 rpm

~ 40 ~
Speed 35 kph (21 mph)

Range 350 km (217 mi)

Armament 2-3 x Schwarzlse model 07/12 machine-guns

Armor Maximum 7-5 mm (0.3-0.2 in)

Production -Fiat type 3

In World War One many designs of armoured car were tested and tried. Some were
thoughtfully planned and were successful. Many others were little more than
improvisations, barely fulfilling requirements and with poor performance, ultimately
having little impact and leaving little trace. One of these armoured rarities of the Great
War was the Austro-Hungarian Junovicz armoured car.

~ 41 ~
Before the war, the Austro-Hungarian Army had actually been offered a couple of
armoured fighting vehicles; the Daimler armoured car (built in 1905), and the so called
Burstyn Tank (non-functioning, scale model shown in 1911). Other nations had also
shown off a plethora of armoured cars, and some of these were available to buy.
However, the Austro-Hungarian Army refused to get involved with armoured cars. This
decision proved to be wrong, almost as soon as the war started; the main opponent of
the Austro-Hungarian Army, Russia, was most willing to develop and use armoured
cars. And soon the Austro-Hungarian Army would also face the Italians, whose Army
also used armoured cars.

As a consequence of this meeting with foes equipped with these new weapons of war, in
1915 no less than two new Austro-Hungarian armoured car designs saw the light of day.
The first was the was the sleek and sophisticated Romfell. The second was the clumsy
and un-sophisticated Junovicz, the Romfell's ugly sister! This was essentially a standard
heavy automobile chassis given a slab-sided, box-like armoured body. It was more of an
improvised fighting vehicle than an armoured car proper - like the armoured lorries that
later could be seen in the Spanish Civil War, or during the fighting in the Balkans in the
late 1990s.

~ 42 ~
The man behind this vehicle was a Hauptmann by the name of Junovicz - hence the
name. The official name seems to have been "Panzer Auto 1: P.A.1". The basis were
standard lorries of different makes. (This fact, that different types of lorries were used as
basis for the Junovicz, shows the improvised nature of the vehicle, and that it with all
probability was hand-made, each vehicle in some way being unique.) The first three
Junovicz were built on Fiat 40 PS Lorries. In 1917 two more were built: one on a
Bssig 36 PS and one a Saurer 34 PS.

The armour plating was fairly thick: 7mm on the front, 5mm on the sides. The literature
states that they weighed some 3 tons. It seems likely that that was the weight of the
lorries they were based upon, and the armour plating would have added at least one ton
to this. (The Fiat, Bssig - proper name Fross-Bssig and the Saurer all belonged to the
same category: 3ton Subventionslastautos.) It had a motor of some 40hp, giving it a top
speed of 35 mph. It had a maximum range of 340km. It was some 5.7m long and 1.9m
wide, and the height is given as 3.5m (which also seems a bit hard to believe, judging
by photos). Each vehicle was armed with two Schwarzlose M.7/12 HMG's: one to the
front, and another one to either of the sides. The crew consisted of five men.

Of the operational history of these five Junovicz very little is known. We know that the
Austro-Hungarian Army used armoured cars in both the Balkans and in Russia. The
only verified sighting of the Junovicz is on the Italian front in 1918, where it was a part
of K.u.K. Panzerautozug No.1, a unit that consisted of one Romfell, two Junovicz, one
ex-Italian Lanzia IZ and one ex-Russian first-series Austin. The unit was based in the
mid-sections of the Italian Front. This unit saw very little combat in Italy, if any, as the
terrain often prohibited this. The K.u.K. Panzerautozug No.1 was held in reserve in the
vincinity of Udine, and were supposed to be used following up that big breakthrough on
the Piave that actually never materialised in 1918.

~ 43 ~
Official designation: Junovicz Panzerwagen PA1
Alternative notation: "Panzer Auto 1"
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1916
Stage of completion: 5 copies built.

Series Austro-Hungarian armored vehicles, developed under the leadership of

Hauptmann Yunovich, appeared in 1916, were taken as the basis for the different
chassis trucks, mostly 3-ton, which was established hull of a streamlined shape. For
example, the first three armored assembled chassis FIAT trucks, two more - at Bussig
chassis and one - on Saurer chassis. Since production was not a serial, but rather
primitive, each machine was a kind individual. Officially, they were designated as the
"Panzer Auto 1" (PA1). The crew consisted of 5 people. Reservation was powerful
enough at that time: the frontal part of the closed bronelisty 7 mm, depth - 5 mm. The
usual R.A.1 armed with one 7.92-mm machine gun Schwarzloze M7 \ 12 in the frontal
and another of the same gun was portable and intended to fire the board cuts. Given that
the mass of armored vehicles approaching the 5 tons of "running" they pretty quickly.
R.A.1 Maximum speed was 56 km / h, power reserve on the highway - 450 km.

On the use of armored vehicles Yunovich very little is known. At the end of 1917 they
were in the Balkans, and a few mmesyatsev them was transferred to the collapsing
Russian front (presumably South-West). Since 1918, two R.A.1 handed over to the KuK
1 Panzerautozug, a part of which were also two Romfell, and one trophy Lancia IZ
and Austin Putilovets. The unit was on the Italian front in the reserve and was intended
for the next attack, which did not take place, so that the remaining months of the time
R.A.1 used for security purposes.

SPECIFICATIONS army armored vehicles

Junovicz PA1 sample 1917
~ 44 ~
Combat weight ~ 6000 kg

CREW, pers. 5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 5700

Width 1900

Height mm 3500

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 7.92-mm machine gun Schwarzloze M7 \ 12

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 5 mm
board housing - 5 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 5 mm
roof - 5 mm
bottom -

ENGINE The FIAT, carburetor, liquid-cooled, 40 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type: 4-speed gearbox and Splitter

CHASSIS 4x2; Shed wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED 56 km \ h

Cruising on the highway 340 km

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION not installed

~ 45 ~
Romfell P.A.2

Austria-Hungary (1915) Armored car 2 built

A modern and distinctive armored car

Although, by all accounts, only one or two were ever built, the Romfell is a one of a
kind military vehicle. With its distinctive inward-sloping body, circular turret, disc
wheels, solid tires and radio, it was the most modern and appealing among the armored
cars of the time in 1915. The mystery concerning their handmade production can be
glanced at in the few photos taken. Two of these show the Romfell with different
radiator grills. In the absence of reliable records, it could mean either a wartime
modification or that two different vehicles were built.

~ 46 ~
 The second type of Romfell armored car, possibly built on a FIAT chassis.

Development of the Romfell

In 1905, the very promising Daimler armored car was dismissed by the Austro-
Hungarian general staff as not fit for service. It is said that the vehicle had scared the
horse of at least one dignitary in an official demonstration. Emperor Franz Ferdinand
himself declared these vehicles unfit for military operations. However, after 1914, the
Austro-Hungarian Army soon realized its error. The trigger came from the Russians,
who largely developed armored cars units for their operations, and the Italians quickly
followed in 1916. What is frequently forgotten is that the Eastern Front was largely
mobile, contrary to the Western Front.

Previously, the sole Austro-Hungarian wartime armored car was the Junovicz P.A.1,
which was a bit of a failure. By contrast, the Romfell almost looked like from another
galaxy. It was built on a commercial car chassis and served well for the duration of the
conflict. Like the Junovicz, the Romfell was dictated by immediate needs. It was a
private initiative starting much lower in the hierarchy, proposed by officers that simply
took the matter into their own hands: Hauptmann and Engineer Romanic and
Oberleutenant Fellner. Their names were combined to christen the vehicle. According to
Peter Jung, who unearthed most data about these forgotten vehicles, two models were
built. The futuristic paper project was submitted and approved by the military.
A prototype was authorized, to be delivered in the early summer of 1915 and tested in
September to November 1915.

~ 47 ~
 Blueprint of the 1915 Romfell-Benz

The first model allegedly used a Mercedes Motorcar (Personenkraftwagen) chassis, with
the registration A VI 865, propelled by a 95 hp motor with chain-transmission. It was
low and almost a sportscar, which gave the first 1915 vehicle an even more appealing
look and efficient low silhouette. The supposed second 1917 or 1918 model used a M09
Samson Seilwindenwagen or a FIAT chassis with a 4-cylinder 75 hp engine. The first
vehicle was built at the Armys Automobil Ersatzdepot, being ready for trials in August.

Design

By far the most immediately recognizable trait of the Romfell was its inwards-curved
body, with no right angles or flat surfaces. This inwards-shape had the advantage of
burying the ricochet rounds into the ground instead of bouncing them into the
air. Thus, it was safer for accompanying infantry or cavalry, at least in theory. There are
many reasons why this design was not used on other machines, one of them being it was
too labor-intensive. Most armored cars in those days had a flat/slab-sided armor or
outwards angling, with central spine. Most automotive components had to be mounted
on or near the chassis, and the smaller area in the lower part of the chassis could be
problematic, while the larger area of the upper part could seem like a waste.

The armored body was riveted, 6 mm (0.25 in) thick, with a reverse, pronounced rear
slope. The front driver/co-driver compartment had three armored shutters (one central
for a possible optional second machine gun, never seen on photos), double-piece side
hatches, with a additional small double hatch over the drivers compartment. The fully
revolving, cylindrical turret was mounted in the center-rear of the vehicle, with a sloped
roof and single sliding hatch for observation while buttoned-up. The only machine-gun
was an air-cooled Schwarzlose M07/12, with a supply of 3000 rounds. According to
photos, it was given a special mount with a very high elevation (near to vertical), for
AA fire. There was also a shield around the machine-gun. For mobility, the vehicle had
a four-wheel drive, dependent spring suspension and solid rubber tires. Range is
estimated to be about 100 to 150 km (60-90 mi) and top speed 26 km/h (16 mph) on
road. Equipment, remarkably, also included a Morse telegraph from Siemens & Halske.

~ 48 ~
The blueprint also showed a towing hook for a small trailer, also featuring the inwards
shaped armor.

Modern reconstruction by Hungarian reenactors Credits: Taken from Flickr

Fate

Operational history for the model is rather foggy. The 1915 vehicle could have been
used in both the Balkans and Russia. There is a photo of one model on the Italian front
in 1918, as part of K.u.K. Panzerautozug No.1. This unit also consisted of two
Junovicz and two captured vehicles, a Lanzia IZ and first-series Austin. It operated in
the vicinity of Udine, on the central Italian Front. The second model, according to Jung,
was possibly rebuilt, using a captured 2-ton FIAT chassis. This led to the supposition
that even more Romfells were built on these FIAT chassis just before the end of the
war.

The Romfell may have been impressive and groundbreaking, but it was nevertheless a
bit of a disappointment in operations. It was slow, too heavy for its chassis, with
reduced if any off-road capabilities. Still, according to Peter Jung, one Romfell also fell
into the hands of Romanian troops in the end of 1919, under the name Resita.

Romfell Panzerwagen specifications

Dimensions 5.67 x 1.8 x 2.4 m (187x511x710)

Total weight, battle

3 tonnes
ready

~ 49 ~
Crew 3 (driver, commander, machine-gunner)

Propulsion Mercedes, 95 hp, with chain-transmission

Speed 26 km/h (15 mph)

Armament 1 7.92 mm (0.31 in) Schwarzlose M.07/12 machine-gun,

3000 rounds

Maximum armor 6 mm (0.25 in)

Production 1, 2 or more

The first model Romfell, as it appears in photos. There are few differences, except the
radiator grille and the wheel, to separate it from the supposed second model.

~ 50 ~
~ 51 ~
World War One was a period of modernization and experimentation, not least in the
field of Armoured Fighting Vehicles. This was especially true of armoured cars, which
of course were a technically much simpler vehicle than tracked tanks, to build and to
tinker with. Many designs were tested and tried, some original, some real duds, others
stop-gaps or obvious improvisations, intended to quickly fill the need for armoured
support. Many were little more than one-offs, built by small firms looking for a contract
or just experience, and (although sometimes both technically advanced and tactically
viable) leaving, sadly, little trace. One of these armoured rarities of the Great War is the
Austro-Hungarian Romfell Armoured Car.

Before the war, the Austro-Hungarian Army had actually been offered several armoured
fighting vehicle designs. First the Daimler armoured car, built in 1905, and tested by
them, but rejected. (One of the reasons for its rejection was a failed demonstration,
ending in scandal because the vehicle scared off the horses of several of the high
potentates attending the demonstration, and making the old emperor Franz Joseph
himself very indignant, stating emphatically to his entourage that this thing was
henceforth "not to be used for military purposes".) Another rejected design was the so
called Burstyn Tank, designed by K.u.K. Genie-Oberleutenant Gunther Burstyn. It was
a remarkably modern design, with trench-crossing capability and a revolving turret. A
working prototype was never built, but this design was also rejected by the Austro-
Hungarian Army, who refused any funding, meaning that it was never developed
further. (What efforts that went into armoured vehicles were instead invested into
Armoured Trains, a decision not impossible to understand, as it was a concept that had
already been tested technically, and that also made tactical sense, considering the wide
fronts that the Austro-Hungarian Army was facing.)

These decisions proved themselves sadly wrong pretty much as soon as the war started.
The Austro-Hungarian Army's main opponent, Russia, was most willing to develop and
use armoured cars. And soon the Austro-Hungarian Army would also face the Italians,
whose Army also used armoured cars. As a consequence, in 1915 two Austro-
Hungarian armoured car designs saw the light of day. The first was the relatively un-
sophisticated Junovicz, which was essentially a standard automobile chassis given a

~ 52 ~
slab-sided, box-like armoured body, sporting five crew members and two Schwarzlose
M07/12 HMG's. The second was the sleek and sophisticated-looking Romfell.

The persons behind the Romfell were two low-ranking Army officers, a Hauptmann and
Engineer Romanic and a Oberleutenant Fellner - their names of course combined in the
name of the vehicle. They too used an already existing commercial vehicle chassis as
the base. As to what chassis was used, there are conflicting accounts. The now deceased
Peter Jung, who has done almost all the research that there is on the Romfell, actually
left two different versions behind. The first was that the first Romfell was built using a
Mercedes Motorcar (Personenkraftwagen), with the registration "A VI 865", and having
a 95hp motor with chain-transmission, . The second that the chassis used was a M09
Samson Seilwindenwagen with a 4-cylinder 75hp motor. The first alternative looks the
most likely, technically speaking. That very first Romfell was built during the summer
of 1915 in Budapest, and should actually be viewed as a Hungarian initiative. The
actual building was done in, and by, the Army's Automobil Ersatzdepot in Budapest,
also using resources of private firms when necessary. The vehicle was finished in the
final weeks of August 1915.

It was a remarkably modern and even elegant design, with curved sides. It sported a low
turret with all-round traverse, four-wheel drive and solid rubber tyres. The armament
was one Schwarzlose M07/12 HMG, with an ammo supply of 3000 rounds. The
Schwarzlose was primarily intended for land targets, but could be elevated very freely
as well, giving the vehicle some Anti-Aircraft capability. The range of the Romfell was
between 100 and 150km. The max speed 26km/h. Another modern feature was that it
had a wireless, in form of a morse telegraph from the firm of Siemens & Halske. The
armour was 6mm thick, and the overall weight of the Romfell was around 3 tons. It was
5.67m long, 2.48m high and 1.8m wide.

~ 53 ~
Only one was built in 1915. Of the first Romfell's operational history almost nothing is
known, except that it could have been used in both the Balkans and in Russia. The only
certain sighting of the first Romfell is on the Italian front in 1918, where it was a part of
K.u.K. Panzerautozug No.1, a unit that consisted of this one Romfell, two Junovicz, one
ex-Italian Lanzia IZ and one ex-Russian first-series Austin. The unit was based in the
vicinity of Udine, in the mid-sections of the Italian Front.

Another Romfell was built in late 1917, or perhaps 1918. It obviously used another
chassis: according to Jung, a M09 Goliath with a 6-cylinder 90hp motor. Again
according to Jung, one or even both were rebuilt using captured 2-ton Fiat chassis - it is
possible that these Fiat chassis were the basis for even more Romfells that could have
been under construction when the war ended. Anyway, these rebuilds suggest a
probable problem with the Romfell: that it was a bit too heavy, making it either a bit too
slow, or reducing its use beyond good roads. (Notice that there is some confusion as to
the actual performance of the first vehicle. One source states that the first Romfell
weighed no less than 7 tons, which of course is too heavy for such a vehicle.)

Below you can see a Romfell. The place is the Army Barracks in Klagenfurt. The date is
unknown. In the middle of the picture, with his arms crossed, is the commander of the
Panzerwagenzug, Fhnrich Jack. The head of the commander, Zugsfhrer
Schroderbck, is popping out of the hatch of the vehicle. The names of the others are
unknown.

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Pantserwagen GMC
Start design: 1929
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1929
Stage of completion: 8 specimens built.

~ 54 ~
Throughout World War I in the Austro-Hungarian army and I have not received a single
batch of the armored car of its own production, although all preconditions for it
appeared long before its beginning. In 1904, a promising armored vehicle, based on a
conventional truck chassis was developed by Austro-Daimler company engineers. By
design, Austro-Daimler much outscored their counterparts and at the same time had a
good performance. Adopting it prevented quite a stupid reason: on maneuvers 1905
armored car engine roar scared his horse that made a very negative impression on the
Austro-Hungarian monarch Franz Joseph. And so it happened that in the war on
Austria-Hungary entered without armored vehicles. To create them returned only in
1915

One of the best armored car project was designed Hauptmann Romanik (Romanic) and
chief lieutenant Fellner (Fellner) - hence its name appeared - Romfell. Now no exact
data as to what chassis was used for the construction of the first prototype. According to
some sources it was a Mercedes Motorcar (Personenkraftwagen) with an engine
capacity of 95 hp and a chain transmission, on the other - M09 Samson
Seilwindenwagen 4-cylinder 75-horsepower engine. Of all created at the time of the
armored cars had just Romfell futuristic shape. Its body was about 6-mm armor plates,
the angles it is practically absent. Armament, consisting of a 7.92-mm machine gun
Schwarzlose M07 \ 12 ammunition cartridges 3000, housed in a tower with a circular
firing, located on the roof of the fighting compartment. Angle vertical lay guns also
allowed to fire at air targets. Unusually for the time it was decided to equip the machine
wireless telegraph company Siemens & Halske. The crew consisted of three people.

armored car project was approved Automobil Ersatzdepot (army road department) and
in the early summer of 1915 was an order for its construction. Romfell first met in
Budapest with the participation of several private companies supply various
components and assemblies. Machine weight was about 3 tons (according to some
sources - more than 7), with the maximum speed does not exceed 26 km \ h and a
cruising range on the road proved to be no more than 150 km. Romfell tests were
carried out from September to November 1915 There is evidence that since 1917 it has
been used in the Balkans, and then was transferred to the Russian front, and after its
collapse Romfell sent to fight against Italian troops. As part of the division KuK
Panzerautozug No.1 this armored vehicle was operated until November 1918 mainly for
security purposes.

Mass production of armored vehicles Romfell never deployed, not citing their slowness,
and the weakness of the arms and the difficulty in manufacturing. Nevertheless, in 1917
(according to other sources - in the autumn of 1918) it was released a few armored
vehicles, which are used for the construction of the chassis M09 "Goliath" with a 6-
cylinder engine and two more copies were produced on the chassis of captured Italian 2-
ton truck Fiat. Their use of the information is not present. There is evidence that one of
Romfell in late 1919 was in Romania, where he was named "Resita".

SPECIFICATIONS army armored vehicles

Romfell Panzerwagen sample 1916

~ 55 ~
Combat weight ~ 4000 kg

CREW, pers. 2

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 5670

Width 1800

Height mm 2480

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 7.92-mm machine gun Schwarzloze M7 \ 12

allowance of ammunition 3000 cartridges

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 6 mm
board housing - 6 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 6 mm
roof - 6mm
bottom -

ENGINE The FIAT, carburetor, 4-cylinder with a capacity of 75 \ 90 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type: 4-speed gearbox and Splitter

CHASSIS 4x2; Shed wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED 26 km \ h

Cruising on the highway 100-150 km

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION not installed

~ 56 ~
Ehrhardt 7.7cm BAK L / 30

Anti-aircraft armored vehicle

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Ehrhardt 7.7cm BAK L / 30
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: built a small series.

Since 1917 and the Austro-vengersaya army until the end of the war has 6 anti-aircraft
batteries on osnaschnii which are self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon. They were the prototype
for the German ZSU the sample that were used at the front in 1914. There is currently no
definition of the precise title of these machines, so in Ehrhardt 7.7cm BAK L / 30, further
designation will be used.

The design of self-propelled guns conventionally divided into two parts. First - this
chassis from Ehrhardt commercial truck 4x2. The second - anti-aircraft gun 7.7cm BAK
L / 30, which is mounted on a column book-rests mounted on the transport platform.
Behind the cab were boxes of ammunition and equipment. Near ukladyalis tripod for
rangefinder. About booking information was not kept.

~ 57 ~
To say anything definite about the combat use of these machines is difficult since
almost complete lack of reliable information. Presumably 7.7cm BAK L / 30 used on
the Italian front in the final phase of the fighting. In the postwar period, all ZSU were
disposed of.

SPECIFICATIONS anti-aircraft armored vehicle

Ehrhardt 7.7cm BAK L / 30, the sample 1917

Combat weight ~ 8000 kg

CREW, pers. 7-8

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 77-mm anti-aircraft gun Krupp 7.7cm BAK L / 30

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES gun sight

~ 58 ~
 RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Ehrhardt, Carburetor

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2; tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION not installed

7.7cm BAK L / 30 \ Panzerkampfwagen Ehrhardt M1906 Anti-aircraft armored

vehicle

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Panzerkampfwagen Ehrhardt M1906, 7.7cm BAK L / 30
~ 59 ~
Start design: 1906
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1906
Stage of completion: built one instance.

In 1906, the Austrian branch of the engineers of the company Ehrhardt developed the
world's first anti-aircraft armored vehicle. As a basis chassis light trucks were used with
4x2. Chassis front was driven wheels and chain drive to the rear axle wheels. The
suspension has been implemented through the leafy semi-elliptical leaf springs on both
axles. The machine was equipped with a 50-horsepower gasoline engine Ehrhardt, thus
ensuring speed on good roads to 45 km \ h.

Originally developed body, who was going to a nickel sheet steel with a thickness of 3
mm (according to other sources - 5 mm). On the roof of the body established a small
single tower. Armament consisted of armored vehicles barreled 50-mm anti-aircraft gun
Rheinmetall 50mm BaK M1906. The maximum elevation angle is 70 , minimum -5 .
Anti-aircraft missile could "throws" to a height of 7800 meters, which was prohibitive
value for all aircraft and aerostats that time. Guidance on the horizontal limited
superstructure in the rear part of the case and was only 30 in both directions.
Ammunition, which included 100 shots to be placed in special boxes inside the case.
Full crew consisted of 5 people: the driver, the assistant driver and three gunners.

On testing and application of anti-aircraft armored Panzerkampfwagen Ehrhardt

M1906 (also use the designation 7.7cm BAK L / 30) information is very vague and
imprecise. According to most Western sources that the car showed good performance,
but the Austro-Hungarian army refused to take it on board. The main reason was the
hostile attitude to the leadership of the General Staff armored car, although in some
cases also indicates weak armor and insufficient guidance angles in the horizontal plane.
In favor of this version say memories of Henry Erhadta, published in his book "The
blow of the hammer." About anti-aircraft armored vehicle was said that: "In 1906 at
the Berlin Motor Show which opened at the time I showed the protected armored
infantry fire and grenade shrapnel car with a gun to hit the balloon, however, my
project is termed an unnecessary game and rejected it.".

~ 60 ~
Thus, the main preference was given to non-armored vehicles, in which the body on
special open platform that can be installed the same caliber guns and towed artillery.

There are also reports that in 1910 the company Ehrhardt was offered an upgraded
version based on the all-wheel drive chassis (4x4) with the installation of 65-mm anti-
aircraft gun with a barrel length of 35 calibers and without armored shields. However,
the Austrian Defense Ministry and the aftermath of this development without attention.

SPECIFICATIONS anti-aircraft armored vehicle

Austro-Daimler Panzerwagen sample 1906

Combat weight 3200 kg

CREW, pers. 5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 5500

Width 2000

Height mm 3100

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 50-mm anti-aircraft gun Rheinmetall 50mm BaK M1906

allowance of ammunition 100 shots

~ 61 ~
aiming DEVICES gun sight

housing forehead - 5 mm
board housing - 5 mm
food body - 5 mm
RESERVATIONS
Tower - 5 mm
roof - 5 mm
bottom -

ENGINE Ehrhardt, Carburetor, 50 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2; Shed wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED 45 km \ h

Cruising on the highway 160 km

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION not installed

~ 62 ~
German Empire

Tanks and armored cars Around 250 armored military vehicles by September
1918

Models:

Bssing A5P
Ehrhardt E-V/4
Flakpanzer A7V
Sturmpanzerwagen A7V

Unarmored vehicles:

A7V Schtzengrabenbagger LMG trench digger

berlandwagen Gelndewagen A7V

A long and difficult start

While the British and the French were prompt to built their first operational tanks, the
German high command was doubtful at best of their capabilities. That was until mid-
1917 when came the successes that proved any well-coordinated attack using tanks in a
proper way could break through and create havoc in rear lines. They had some reasons
not to urge tank production. First, infantry, like the strmptruppen (elite assault squads)
were a simple and much cheaper way to achieve this breakthrough, as they had shown
on many occasions throughout 1917 and particularly during the 1918 spring offensives.
The military blockade also played a role, limiting the abilities of an already exhausted
industry to produce enough materials and manpower to build swarms of tanks, reducing
the chances to launch tank offensives at full force. There was also repugnance for this
new dishonorable weapon as stated in propaganda and newspapers, coming from the
ancient and very deep traditional ways of the Aristocratic Prussian officer, that
dominated both the head of staff and the Kaiser himself.

However, the Germans were also naturally fond of new technologies of war and besides
this official view, an army engineering department (Allegemeine Kriegsdepartement 7,
Abteilung Verkehrswesen) was quickly created to study tank designs and produce one.

~ 63 ~
Under the cover of a small department responsible for road safety, it was mirroring the
British unified Landship Committee which drove the entire British tank development.
In fact high command had already requested designs for an armored vehicle before the
war. But all designs were rejected. This was to change in September 1916, when the
British Mark Is, fielded with great secrecy in France, were put in action for the first
time. Their psychological effect, despite the losses and tactical failure of the entire
operation, largely surpassed any other aspect. This side-effect came into serious
consideration as in mid-1917 very low morale, disobedience and even full scale mutiny
became a problem of many Allied units, the product of a four years gruesome war of
attrition.

The first tank design Sturmpanzerwagen A7V

In fact many project were sent to the committee during 1917 and only a few were
selected. The A7V was the project of engineer Joseph Vollmer. First the committee had
to choose a suitable basis for mobility on the battlefield. The natural choice was the
Holt chassis. The Germans knew they had been used by the Allies as a basis for their
own tanks. Holt tractors were already used by the Austrian army, and built in numbers
at Budapest under licence. This was also the most proven tracked vehicle available.
After trials J. Vollmer not only decided to built a lengthened version of the chassis, he
also chose a twin engine to propel the entire vehicle. A wooden mockup was tested in
spring 1917, followed by an unarmored tank. Armament and armor were fitted later.
The early single-plate Rchling armor was relatively thick (up to 30 mm/1.18 in at the
front) but made of traditional soft steel. It was inferior to French and British armor. The
main gun finally chosen was the Belgian Nordenfelt quick firing gun, short, light and
compact, with almost no recoil. It was sturdy and available in large quantities, taken
from various Belgian arsenals in 1914.

The first A7Vs were ready for action in March, were their advantages became clear. All
were equipped with a gun, in a good, straithforward position. They had good sprung
tracks, thick armor and had plenty of ammunition for their numerous machine-guns.
Plus they were tall and impressive, perfect for the desired psychological effect, and had
an excellent power-to-weight ratio, being fast for their size, faster than anything the
Allies could field. But their disadvantages also became clear in April, especially during
the single attack Villers-Bretonneux on the 21st, were all available machines (18 in all),
were put in action together. Several broke down at the beginning of the action, other
were ditched in trenches and the muddy terrain, and only three, which were the most
advanced, met enemy troops and especially the three British tanks which followed
them. This was the first -and only- tank-to-tank battle of the war to end all wars. But
this epic duel ended in a draw. The two female British tanks retired, as well as the two
other A7Vs, damaged by infantry bullets and shrapnel. However, the only which fought
the British male, after taking three hits (the British 6-pdr was notably faster and more
accurate), was evacuated. The British male was lost soon under heavy mortar fire. But
the result of the entire commitment of the A7V was deceiving at best. The combination
of very low ground clearance (20 cm/7.87 in), high gravity center, low tracks and hull
overhanging, proved definitely to the Germans, as it did for the French, the lack of
capability of the armored boxes based on Holt chassis to cope with a heavily cratered
terrain and large trenches or even muddy soil.

Other projects

~ 64 ~
After this failure, the already suspicious staff ordered other designs to be studied
quickly, cancelling the initial order for 100 A7Vs. The A7V-U, with full-length tracks,
was designed after the capture of many Mark IV tanks. It became obvious that this
concept was far more capable of dealing with the real conditions on the battlefield. In
fact, around 50 Mark IVs were captured during the aftermath of the battle of Cambrai, a
British failed offensive in late 1917. They were salvaged, repaired and the ones unable
to be refitted in running conditions, left as spare parts reserves for the others. Most of
theses were refurbished by the BAKP 20, equipped with new German weapons
including the freshly arrived 5.7 cm (2.24 in) Belgian QF guns in socle-mounts,
repainted with new units marks and large Maltese crosses. Then they were sent to
specially trained assault squads, operating as the Mark IV Beute or Beutepanzer
Mark IV (Captured Mark IV tank). Nearly all females were converted to males in
the process, with some also equipped with a 13 mm (0.52 in) T-Gewehr heavy antitank
rifle in place of their initial forward Lewis machine-gun. They also added an extra
safety escape hatch to the cupola-roof. They were used in summer offensives, in batches
of three, sometimes with reserve tanks, and an overall high rate of attrition. They proved
slower than the fast pace of the Strmtruppen they were supposed to cover and usually
broke down often. All of the Beute Mark IVs left in the field for various reasons were
blown up and their weapons salvaged. This tank had a valuable impact on German
designs, notably the short-lived A7V-U.

This mid-1918 project was not operational on time. Production started in September,
but no units were equipped by October as it was scheduled. By November, this was all
over. The A7V-U looked like a much taller and larger version of the Mark IV. It was ten
tons heavier and much less maneuverable, despite being equipped with the same engine
and transmission of the A7V. However, this design was not the only one which had
reach the general staff. Several other projects were tested, notably the Treffaswagen, a
kind of armored tractor with massive front wheels, designed to crush barb wire. A
prototype, built by Hansa-Lloyd works of Bremen was tested in February-March 1917,
but the project was cancelled in favor of the A7V. In May 1917, officers assisted to the
first trials of a rather unconventional prototype using the pedrail solution at Hansa-
Lloyd works of Bremen.

This Orionwagen, as it was named, had a turtle-back sheet-metal protection with a

small rear driver compartment over a chassis fitted with eighteen track feet on each side.
The steering was assumed by a front steel wheel. The concept was not new. It was based
on the prewar standard Orion produced 4 ton lorry, an unusual but potent solution that
made its mark commercially. Each foot had a large spring in between the top and
bottom track pad which helped moving forward as well as assuming the role of
suspension of the whole system. The 45 hp (33.6 kW) engine soon proved not up to the
task because the finished prototype was heavier than expected. It failed in some tests
like crossing trenches and passing various obstacles. The concept however had strong
supporters inside the OHL and development continued as a field transport. The second
prototype was more successful. It was developed in late 1917, had no steering front
wheel, was more compact and propelled by a more powerful engine. It was also covered
by sheet metal and was projected to have a rear fully traversed turret equipped with up
to four machine-gun or a 2 cm (0.79 in) Tankabwehrkanone Becker M.11. But as the
OHL was now set on the A7V, no order came. The team behind decided however to
produce a new design for 1919, hoping for further orders. This Orionwagen III was an

~ 65 ~
enhanced version of the latter, equipped with two turrets, one carrying the 20 mm (0.79
in) Becker M.11 and the other two Mauser machine guns.

WWI German super heavy tanks

K-Wagen (1918)

A scaled down mockup was produced. Final version specifications: 120 tons, 13 x 6 m
(42.619.7 ft), 477 mm (3.03 in) guns.

WWI German heavy tanks

Sturmpanzerwagen A7V (1917)

20 built total.

Sturmpanzerwagen A7V-U (1918)

Full-length track version of the A7V with guns in sponsons. Prototype only.

WWI German medium tanks

Sturmpanzerwagen Oberschlesien (1918)

Two unfinished prototypes. 19 tons, 137/57 mm (1.46/2.24 in) gun.

Orionwagen (1917)

Two pedrail prototypes built.

Bremer Marienwagen Gepanzert (1916)

Single tracked prototype derived from an Ehrhardt armored car.

WWI German light tanks

Leichter Kampfwagen LK.I (1918)

Two prototypes only. No turret, fixed superstructure with a single 7.7 mm (0.3 in)
machine-gun.

Leichter Kampfwagen LK.II (1918)

Two prototypes only. Fixed superstructure with 37/57 mm (1.46/2.24 in) gun. 10
Stridsvagn m/21 bought by Swedish government after the war.

WWI German armored cars

Ehrhardt E-V/4

~ 66 ~
43 built, three Mauser 7.7 mm (0.3 in) machine guns.

Bssing A5P

3 built, three Mauser 7.92 mm (0.31 in) Mg08 with no less than eleven hatches and a
crew of ten.

Cutaway drawing of the interior of a Strmpanzerwagen A7V.

The Strmpanzerwagen A7V-U. Designed by the same bureau which signed the A7V,
the A7V-U (U stands for Umlaufende Ketten, or full-length tracks), this 40 ton
monster was designed to have better trench crossing capabilities and was to be ready on
time for the winter offensives. While the prototype was ready by June 1918, the
production was delayed until September and none were delivered before the armistice.

~ 67 ~
A disabled A7V shown here after the war, perhaps in 1920. Weighing more than 30 tons
most of these tanks were scrapped in situ rather than being towed away.

The K-Wagen mockup, profile. This armored giant would have been the biggest tank
ever built, if the war would have lasted enough.

~ 68 ~
The Orionwagen, the first prototype of a pedrail tank.

The second prototype of the Orionwagen, which was to be equipped with a machine-
gun turret. Production was planned for 1919.

~ 69 ~
Bremen Marienwagen Gepanzert, a prototype based on the Ehrhardt armored car. One
was built in 1916 for evaluation.

The Leichter Kampfwagen II, a gun armed version of the LK I. Only two prototypes
were built, but a small production run was realized after the war for Sweden.

~ 70 ~
The Bssing A5P, one of the three designs ordered by the German head of staff. Only
three units of the A5P were built. It was a massive vehicle, weighing 10 tons, with a
crew of nine and propelled by a truck engine. All three served on the Eastern Front.

Only 43 Ehrhardt E-V/4s were built (three prototypes and two series of twenty units).
The last series was built in 1919 and participated in the German revolution.

Early German Armoured Cars

~ 71 ~
Germany like England, France and Belgium during the early stages of the First World
War were scrambling to exploit the new form of mobility "namely the automobile" as a
military weapon. The German high command was not impressed by the early examples
of armoured cars offered. Such as the Opel Darracq 1906, Ehrhardt Ballon Abwehr
1906, Austro-Hungarian Daimler Panzerwagen 1904-1905, and the Daimler
Panzerkraftwagen auf 5.7 cm Flak. Therefore, these vehicles were never put into
production. Before the advent of the Bssig, Erhardt and Daimler armoured
monstrosities, the German army acquired standard civilian vehicles, such as the Benz,
Daimler and foreign made vehicles such as the Renault. They as other nations did
placed rudimentary armour around the most vulnerable areas, such as the engine and
crew department.

Although early versions were lucky to have enough armour to protect the engine cowl
and the driver. Some vehicles were quite elaborate, and were well thought out. With
better armour, and firing slits so the crewman could place his rifle through the opening
and fire, while not being totally exposed. Also during these early stages of development
, the armies of Europe thought they needed search lights, therefore we see a lot of early
war vehicles, such as the Armoured Car carrying these as well as machine guns.

~ 72 ~
The majority of vehicles were nothing but a mismatch of armour plates hear and there to
give some sort of rudimentary protection to its crews. The German army was also very
fast in turning captured Armoured Cars, from England, France, Belgium and Russia
against there former owners. The German High Command saw the need for better
protection for its crews so they set forth searching for replacements for its rag tag
armoured car units. The Bssig, Ehrhardt, Daimler and the Panzerkraftwagen
Mannesmann Mulag came from this need really too late to be of much use on the
Western Front. By the time they went into production as we know, the war had ground
to a halt and mobility was very limited. Therefore, the High Command decided to
search for other means of mobility. A few such ideas were the Bremer Marienwagen I-
III, Benz Brauer, and ultimately the A7V. And even these vehicles were unable to
navigate the horror of No Mans Land.

Ehrhardt E-V/4

German Empire (1915) Armored car 53 built

Origin of the Ehrhardt armored car

~ 73 ~
The Ehrhardt E-V/4, also called Straenpanzerwagen or, literally, street armored
vehicle, was one of the three prototypes of armored cars ordered by the War Ministry.
At the origin, some German cars had already been used as balloon-busters, the Ballon
Abwehr Kanonen (BAK), usually lorries with an improvised AA gun as a payload.
However, when fighting in Belgium, both infantry and cavalry were harassed by
successful platoons of Minerva armored cars, that showed the German officers what this
type of vehicle could do. So, the three most recognized German car makers of the time,
Ehrhardt, Daimler and Bssing, were contacted in early 1915 to each deliver a
prototype. All three vehicles were tested in the Baltic, and then sent to the western front.
The Bssing was a double-ended behemoth, of which only two more vehicles besides
the prototype were apparently produced, while the Daimler and Ehrhardt vehicles
showed similar appearance and general characteristics. Contrary to Allied vehicles at
that stage in the war, they were not hastily converted touring cars, but proper military
vehicles. Twenty Ehrhardt E-V/4s were ordered and delivered to the Army in 1915.

The Ehrhardt 1915

Contrary to the two others, Ehrhardt was mostly known a weapons maker, but was
found in charge of building these vehicles, whereas the two other manufacturer were
busy with other tasks. However, the design that emerged was really tailor-made on the
Armys demands. So, the vehicle looked clumsy and bulky, with an engine at the front
and a massive symmetric hull littered with single and double-piece port hatches, with
vision slits used to bear machine guns. The armored hull was bolted to a Daimler-BaK
Plattformwagen M1914, also used to carry a Krupp Flak 7.7-cm cannon. It was a four-
wheel drive vehicle, with a Daimler 80hp engine. The original radiator was replaced by
a purpose-built one on the Pz.Wg Kr. Ehrhardt M1917, remotely opened by a lever from
the drivers seat, and with adapted armored grids. For night rides, a narrow headlight of
Bssing type was placed at the opposite of the driver.

~ 74 ~
The hull was made of riveted and bolted plates, 9 mm (0.35 in) thick at the front and
sides, and there was a central fixed turret with four ports. There was a crew of nine in
the cramped internal space, and three up to four machine guns could be fired
simultaneously from the sixteen ports.Being massive, their manufacturers were aware of
their limitations, and both expected to improve their abysmal off-road performances by
giving them double wheels on each side of the rear, protected by surrounding armored
mudguards, while the the single wheels at the front were given metal flanges (like some
artillery tractors), in an attempt to reduce ground pressure. However, the front wheels
and leaf springs shock absorbers were left from the original vehicle.

The Ehrhardt 1917

The first series of 13 vehicles, designated Panzerkraftwagen Ehrhardt 1915, was

delivered in 1915-16, and used by the Panzer Kraftwagen MG Zge 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6,
each counting two vehicle plus a support truck. But they could do little on the Western
Front, so they were quickly sent to the Eastern Front, using to great effect the wide
expenses of the front, where their mobility could really count, in Romania in 1917 and
on the Ukrainian front in 1918. Some were lost in action, and the German high
command soon asked Ehrhardt for more vehicles (twenty in total), which were
manufactured and delivered as the Panzerkampfwagen Ehrhardt 1917.

These vehicles had a completely revised frontal armor, but war lessons triggered other
improvements that reduced their weight by 1.75 tons. Underneath protection was
enhanced with another armored plate protecting the transmission, headlamps were
enclosed in armored boxes, front vision ports offered better protection, the rear double
wheels were protected by an armored mudguard and, moreover, the central turret was
now fully revolving. A tall extensible aerial for a wireless radio was also carried, at the
expense of the crews already tight space.

The Ehrhardt 1918

Both series served on the Eastern front until the end of 1917, when the Revolution
broke out, and then were repatriated to serve as police duty vehicles in major cities.
They were found so useful in this new duty, that an additional 20 vehicle batch was
ordered and delivered in 1919, albeit manufactured with poor quality plates. In the
numerous riots and large urban fights that followed in the German cities and, in
particular, Berlin, their height allowed them to tower over the crowd, giving police
officers better control of the rioters. They were famously and quite extensively used by
the Freikorps in the Berlin streets against armed bands. But German and Polish
fighters also used them in the so called Silesian Uprisings, until 1921. The two Polish
Ehrhardts (possibly captured or given by the French as war repairs following the
armistice conditions) and served for years. As for the German vehicles, they were still in
the ordnance list of the police in 1939.

Ehrhardt EV4 specifications

Dimensions 5.3 x 2 x 2.85 m ( 17.3 x 6.5 x 9.35 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 7.12 to 7.75 tons

~ 75 ~
Crew 8-9 (driver, commander, gunners, radio)

Propulsion 6-cylinder Daimler petrol, 80 hp, 10.3 hp/tonne

Speed 61.3 km/h (38 mph)

Range (road) 250 km (160 mi)

Armament 3 x MG 08 or MG 15 7.62 mm (0.31 in) machine guns

Armor 6-9 mm (0.24-0.35 in)

Total production 53

Panzerwagen Ehrhardt 1915 on the Eastern front, in 1916.

~ 76 ~
Camouflaged Panzerwagen Ehrhardt model 1917 in 1918.

Ehrhardt EV/4 model 1918 with the Freikorps, Berlin streets, 1919.

~ 77 ~
When it was decided in late 1916 to form further German armoured car units a
production order for new cars was given to the Ehrhardt firm alone because both
Daimler and Bssing were fully engaged with other war work.

The first twelve Ehrhardt armoured cars built in 1917 were used to create Panzer
Kraftwagen MG Zge 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 - smaller units than the first experimental one,
each equipped with two armoured cars and supporting transport. Twenty more Ehrhardt
armoured cars were ordered later in 1917.

~ 78 ~
These new cars were very similar to the 1915 prototype, but incorporated some of the
lessons learned from operational use of all three makes of experimental vehicle. Most
important was that the weight was reduced by nearly 1.75 tons. Underneath protection
was added, provision was made for the turret to rotate instead of being fixed; and the
vision ports were better protected. The radiator armour was revised, with horizontal
grilles similar to those of the Daimler 1915 model, adjusted by a lever from the driver's
seat, and the headlamps were enclosed in armoured boxes. The rear wheels also were
enclosed. Wireless equipment with a tall extensible aerial was included. This apparatus,
which could only be used when the car was stationary, was generally unpopular with the
crews because it took up valuable space inside. Although large cars, the interior was
rather cramped when carrying the normal crew of 8-9 men.

Some of the cars were used with success first against Romania in 1917 and then on the
Ukranian front in 1918. After the war, with internal unrest and danger on the Eastern
frontiers, twenty more cars of this type were constructed in Germany in 1919. These
were almost identical to the 1917 model, with only minor external changes, but the
rundown German steel industry could only provide armour of poor quality which
offered inferior protection.

~ 79 ~
Ehrhardts were also used by both German and Polish fighters in the so called Silesian
Uprisings, which was a series of military insurrections during the years 1919-1921, by
Polish people in the Upper Silesia region against the Germans, in order to force them
out the region and join it with Poland. (Two of the Polish Ehrhardts were taken in
combat, but it is possible that some Ehrhardts also were given to the Polish by the
French, either handed over by the Germans following the armistice or actually
confiscated by the Allied Military Control Commission.) The majority of Polish
Armored Cars were left in the paint scheme of their former owners, i.e. Feldgrau, but
renamed, and with a red/white shield added. For more info on this click here.

Weight 7.75 tons

Max. Armour 9mm

Max, Road
33 km/hr
Speed

2 x 7.62 Maxim
Armament
MGs (plus 1 spare)

Crew 10

~ 80 ~
The E-V/4 Panzerkraftwagen Ehrhardt was one of the first examples of a type of
high and flatsided armoured car design that the Germans used almost until the start of
the Second World War for internal policing duties. It weighed nearly 9 tons, had a crew
of eight or nine, and carried an armament of up to three machine-guns.

History

Conception and design

The very first German armoured cars were special large car or truck chassis adapted to
carry a skyward-looking artillery piece for use against observation balloons. These
vehicles were collectively known as Ballon Abwehr Kanonen (BAK), though none were
taken into large-scale use.

The Belgians were the first to demonstrate the potential of the armoured car in mobile
warfare, with the Minerva Armoured Car. German infantry and cavalry were at times
distinctly inconvenienced by the hit-and-run tactics employed by the Belgian armoured
cars. Having suffered somewhat at the hands of these vehicles, the German Army
decided to produce its own armoured car, but without any practical experience they
approached the car manufacturing companies Ehrhardt, Daimler and Bssing, and
ordered a prototype armoured car from each.

During 1915, the three companies produced the ordered prototypes. In all three cases,
the companies chose to ignore the fact that the Belgian armoured cars were little more
than converted touring cars, and developed what they perceived to be more suitable
vehicles. As a result, all three prototypes were massive vehicles, the largest of which
were the Bssing. This vehicle used a 'double-ended' layout that could at least pose a
tactically useful high ground clearance. The Ehrhardt and Daimler designs were very
similar. Both placed the engine in the front, surrounded by armour, and had a large box-
like body at the rear with a turret or cupolas on the top. Both sported a clumsy
appearance, and was far too heavy for the effective fulfillment of the operational tasks
the German Army demanded of them.

The Daimler and Ehrhardt prototypes were both reliant on the use of double wheels on
each side of the rear, and had flanges on the single wheels at the front of the vehicle, in
an effort to reduce ground pressure and so enhance the cross-country mobility of the
vehicle to a useful degree. All three cars had a crew of eight or nine men, carried an
armament of at least three machine guns, and possessed a maximum armour thickness
of 9 mm.

Operational history

Along with some improvised conversions, the three prototypes were formed into one
unit and sent to first the Baltic and then to the Western Front. Conditions on both fronts
were so bad that armoured cars could achieve very little, and the vehicles were
eventually deployed on the Russian part of the Eastern Front, where they could at least
use their mobility to some effect. It was then that there emerged a need for more
vehicles, and so Ehrhardt was contracted to build a further 20 vehicles. These vehicles
were 1.72 tons lighter than the original Panzerkraftwagen Ehrhardt 1915. Designated
the Panzerkampfwagen Ehrhardt 1917, these vehicles were completed with revised

~ 81 ~
frontal armour. The vehicles were sent to the Eastern Front and served there until the
end of the fighting there late in 1917, 2 of them taking part in Battle of Mreti
against the Romanians, however with little success, as the Germans failed to break the
Romanian front. Thereafter they were retained in Germany for internal policing duties.
They were so successful in this role that an additional 20 vehicles were ordered and
produced in 1919. The E-V/4 was in fact considered just what internal policing
required, for its height gave it the capacity to tower over crowds and offer police units
better control of riots. E-V/4's were in use almost until World War II.

The requirement for armoured cars were so high that by 1918, the Germans were forced
to employ numbers of captured armoured cars of Rolls-Royce or other make, and the
Ehrhardt vehicles were never around in sufficient numbers. On the Eastern Front the
cars were never able to make much of a tactical impression, and so the design is now
little known and few operational details have survived.

Type Armoured car

Place of origin Germany

Weight 7.12 - 7.75 tonnes

Length 5.3 m

Width 2m

Height 2.85 m

Crew 8 or 9

Armor up to 9 mm

Main Usually 3 machine guns

armament

petrol
Engine
80 hp (59 kw)

Power/weight 10.3 hp/tonne

Suspension four-wheel drive

Operational 250 km
range

Speed 61.3 km/h

Official designation: Panzerkampfwagen Ehrhardt E / V-4

Alternative notation:
~ 82 ~
Start of planning: 1915
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1915
Stage of completion: built a small series.

Of the two types of armored vehicles, are mass-produced in Germany during the First
World War, the machine Panzerkampfwagen Ehrhardt E / V-4 are among the best.
The task for their development have been issued at the beginning of 1915 to the fall of
the first prototype was ready. Unlike France, Britain, Italy and Russia, the German
engineers have developed a special chassis that can easily withstand a well-armored
hull, crew and numerous powerful weapons.

Given the experience of the Allies on the use of the first German armored cars equipped
Ehrhardt 5-7 mm armor, that reliably protects the crew and engine from hitting bullets
caliber rifle at a distance of 200 meters. Headlights and rear wheels were covered with
armored covers.

In the armored vehicle was mounted 4-cylinder petrol engine Ehrhadt liquid-cooled 85
hp, for better cooling which tmpolzovali front blinds controlled from the cab. Chassis E
/ V4 was borrowed from the commercial truck 4x4. Despite the use of hard (tubeless)
tires armored vehicle turned out rather "spirited": when driving on the highway its
maximum speed was 59.5 km \ h and reached a cruising range of 250 km. Transmission
included 8-speed manual gearbox provides 4 forward speed and the same earlier. The
capacity of the fuel tank housed in the casing was 190 liters.

Armament E / V4 sample in 1915 included three 7.92 mm machine guns, each of which
is serviced by machine-gun crew of two people. Peepholes machine gun and cutouts are
arranged so as to provide a circular field of view and a field of fire 360 . In addition,
the roof of the fighting compartment housed a cylindrical tower.

~ 83 ~
armored crew was truly a record - with technicians and machine guns, he could consist
of 8-9 people. An interesting feature was the installation of a radio station, but the
machine did not like the members of the crew, as he held a lot of space and often fails.

The tests of the first prototype E / V-4 began in July 1915 and ended quite well,
allowing to send the armored car for the first frontline test in the Baltic Sea, and then on
the Eastern Front. In the fall of 1916 to it pribavilois three more machines of the same
modifications included in the group Panzerkampfwagen MG-Zug 1 and has achieved
considerable success.

It is not superfluous to talk a little bit about the single at the time armored division of
the German army. Panzerkraftwagen-MG-Zug 1 was formed in August 1915, more than
in the experimental procedure as "strong-willed" decision of the General Staff of the
army was left without armored vehicles, apart from a few anti-aircraft vehicles, long
before the outbreak of the First World War. The structure of the new group went
prototypes of new armored vehicles.

The summer of 1915 armored vehicles Panzerkraftwagen-MG-Zug 1 went to the

Eastern Front for testing in combat conditions. Unfortunately, any specific information
about their actions against the Russian army otstutstvuet mean the loss of archival
documents in the course of the Second World War. But judging by the fact that all three
cars safely back from the front, their use could be considered successful. Shortly after
this unit was transferred to the Western Front at Verdun, where armored vehicles
operated from March 3, 1916 By this time the composition of the division has been
expanded and included three armored vehicles (Ehrhardt E / V-4 (model 1915), Daimler
model 1915 and Bussing A5P) , tanker, two support cars, and three radios and auxiliary
machines. Personnel included 3 officers and 47 enlisted men. It is alleged that by
December 1916, Panzerkraftwagen-MG-Zug 1 additionally received two Belgian
armored car captured RadPz Minerva 1914 (used until June 1918) and one Daimler

~ 84 ~
MG-Wagen 1914. To say anything about the latter type of machine it is difficult, since
no information about him has survived.

Later Panzerkraftwagen-MG-Zug 1 was again sent to the Eastern Front, where during
1917-1918. He fought on the territory of Ukraine and Romania. Meanwhile, in
Germany formed yet at least ten armored car groups, armed with five of them received
captured armored vehicles:

PzKraftwagen-MG-Zug 7 - one Minerva

PzKraftwagen-MG-Zug 8 - One Armstrong-Whitwotrh-FIAT and one Peugeot (to
November 1918, there were only two FIAT)
PzKraftwagen-MG-Zug 9 - two-Garford Putilovets
PzKraftwagen-MG-Zug 10 - two Lancia
PzKraftwagen-MG-Zug 11 - two Lancia

After the signing of the armistice a few of the least suitable to operate machines
dalneyschih cancel reservation, and the rest were deployed to maintain order during the
revolutionary events in Germany in 1919-1921.

But back to the armored vehicles Ehrhardt. Reviews of E / V4 was the most positive,
although there was congestion of the chassis and the low permeability of the soft ground
and broken roads. The army demanded armored cars in large quantities and in a short
time the company received an order for 12 machines, which began to perform in the
same year.

Ehrhardt first 1917 model year (in foreign sources often called Panzerkampfwagen
Ehrhardt model 1917) had a lightweight design and weighed less than 1720 on the
first sample. However, the armored car was slightly less powerful engine, 80 hp power
razvivashy at 1200 for \ min. The chassis is still used tubeless tires in size 160h1220
mm. In order to improve the protection of book frontal part of the body slightly altered,
with 30 cm was able to reduce the length and height of the machine. Armament E / V4
was significantly strengthened - fully loaded E / V4 carried six guns MG08 (!).

On the front of the new modification Ehrhardt came in the spring of 1917, when the
acquisition of new broneotryadov. In particular, from 12 cars ordered most of the used
part of Panzerkraftwagen-MG-Zug 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6, who fought on the Romanian front
in Palestine and on the side of the Turkish army. At the end of 1917 it had received an
additional order for another 20 vehicles, but it did not have time to perform.

In the spring of 1918, when Soviet Russia signed a separate peace with Germany, the
General Staff of the German Army found it necessary to go on the offensive on the
Eastern Front, the more so that the enemy is rarely organized resistance. So all Ehrhardt
E / V-4 were sent to the Ukrainian front, where he established the power of the hetman,
but the actual masters of the situation were the Germans and the Austrians. A few
months armored vehicles were deployed in Nikolaev and Kiev, but the closer to the fall
of several cars were transferred to the Caucasian front. During this time, there was a
total loss of one battle - in the battle of Kozynka (75 km from Kharkiv) one E / V-4
sample in 1917 was captured by the Red Army units and then fought on the side of the
"red". However, the picture remained the only E / V-4 sample 1915, the army captured
the Don September 16, 1918 in the village of Varlamovka (kryney at least, so reads the

~ 85 ~
inscription on his tower). How does this machine came to the "white" is unclear, since
no information was not found on this subject in German sources. Perhaps, "Ehrhardt"
previously went to the Red Army after the withdrawal of the Germans from the
Ukraine, and was involved in the fighting in the south of Russia. In any case, more
about E / V-1915 sample 4 goda unknown.

The fate of the remaining armored Ehrhardt was unenviable. Not being able to evacuate
the entire technique of the Germans in the beginning of 1919 were forced to blow his
own hands in Nikolaev of the machines. The other half was put out of action in the
Georgian port of Poti - apparently their evacuation is not possible. Subsequently, the
body of one of the "erhadtov" was set to zheleznozhorozhnuyu platform and used by the
Georgian army as a makeshift bronevagona.

It would seem that all the "erhadty" fought on the Eastern Front had been destroyed, but
a few surviving E / V-4 came to the attention of the Commission on Disarmament,
which is ordered to transfer their newly made allies. So two armored vehicles were in
service with the Polish Army. In 1919-1921 gg. Polish and German army used these
machines in Upper Silesia, when broke the territorial dispute between the two countries.
At the same time the German side participated armored vehicles in 1919, the sample,
and the Polish - 1917 sample year. Both models performed well in combat, and
remained in the Polish army until 1925

In most geranium "erhadty" have served longer. After the November Revolution of
1918, the country was on the brink of collapse, are taken away on the part of the various
parties, the national associations and the neighboring states. To preserve the integrity of
the government of the Weimar Republic the country (the so-called long former German
Empire) to deal with the people in revolt with the help of the army and police. In 1919
in Berlin were concentrated large forces, including armored vehicles, Garford
Putilovets, Austin, Pierce-Arrow (Russian assembly "marine" version), as well as tanks
and A7V Mk.IV in machine gun versions. Since their number was very limited terms of

~ 86 ~
surrender Allies allowed Germany to release for the purposes of police 20 more
armored Ehrhardt. From a sample of machines in 1917, they had very little external
differences, and not equipped with radio. Armament remained the same, but the armor
was of lower quality and do not provide the same protection to the crew. Nevertheless,
Ehrhardt continued to be used until the mid-1920s. Sometimes attracted to participate in
the maneuvers carried out by the German army. According to German data by the end
of 1921 the army and police still has 15 machines of this type, which are sent to
razbronirovaku only in the early 1930s.

One armored vehicle of this type has got the Dutch army. According to one version,
during the retreat of the summer of 1918 the German army a few E / V-4 crews were
thrown near belgiskoy border and were subsequently handed over to the Netherlands.
According to another version, one armored vehicle was purchased quite legally in
Germany Ehrhardt 1917 sample year in 1919. Perhaps it could be upgraded on request
of the Dutch car, pokolku his body shape has strong differences from the standard
version. It was also strengthened broniorovanie: housing forehead defending 12 mm
armor, side feed and tower - 6 mm. Chassis has all-wheel drive (according to Western
sources), with koesnoy 4x4, rear dual wheels and tubeless tires. It is interesting that the
mass of Golan armored vehicles is estimated at 3300 kg - (!) That is 2 times less than
that of the E / V-April 1917 sample At the present time in respect of this option is
sometimes used the designation Radpanzer Ehrhardt-Siderius.

More than 10 years Ehrhardt used for its intended purpose, and the Dutch company
engineers HIHSiderius partial modernization of the machine was carried out. According
to the most reliable information Ehrhardt initially equipped with 60-mm cannon in a
cylindrical tower deployed ago that allowed the use of armored vehicle as a means of
fire podderzhik infantry. Then, in 1932, followed by a new phase of improvements,
after which the armored car was 37-mm anti-aircraft gun, and worn-out gear replaced by
a new one. Operation Ehrhardt-Siderius (room M-27011) continued until a new armored
vehicles DAF M39, after which the car was dismantled completely worn out.

~ 87 ~
 Ehrhardt E / V-4 Ehrhardt E / V-4
(Model 1915) (Model 1917)
Combat weight 8745 kg 7491 kg
CREW, pers. 8-9
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 5613 5300
Width 2007 2000
Height mm 3480 2850
Clearance, mm 350
three 7.92-mm machine gun Six 7.92-mm machine guns
WEAPONS
Maxim MG08 Maxim MG08
allowance of
? 3
ammunition
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
board housing - 5 mm
RESERVATIONS Tower - 5 mm
housing forehead - 7 mm
ENGINE Ehrhardt, carburetor, 4-cylinder, 85 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type with 8-speed gearshift
CHASSIS 4x4: listovh suspension springs, bullet-proof tires
SPEED ~ 50 km \ h 59.5 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ~ 200 km 250 km
overcome obstacles

~ 88 ~
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Ehrhardt 5.0cm BAK \ Ehrhardt normales LKW-Fgst self-propelled unit

Official designation: Ehrhardt normales LKW-Fgst

Alternative notation: Ehrhardt 5.0cm BAK
Start design: 1906
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1906
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

Construction of armored vehicles in Germany were engaged long before the First World
War. The first experiments on bookings conventional cars not occurred by the
Reichswehr soul, but a few samples still were adopted and then successfully operated.

One of these machines could be a self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon, developed in

1906 by the specialists of Ehrhardt on chassis of own manufacture. Actually, all the
design changes were limited to the installation of 50-mm guns of the company Krupp
protivoaerostatnogo column book-rests on the installation immediately behind the
driver's seat. Protection of crew jobs otstutsovalo, but the weapon could be rotated 360
degrees car was equipped with 50-horsepower gasoline engine mounted in the bow and
had the hood with frontal shutters.

~ 89 ~
Testing self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon, dubbed Ehrhardt normales LKW-Fgst
(or just Ehrhardt 5.0cm BAK), began in 1906. In general, the machine is good
impression of arbitrariness, but the command of the Kaiser's army reacted to the gun
mount is very cool. In those years, it was thought that there is nothing better
buksirumyh artillery systems and various innovations perceived nothing more than
"expensive toys". As a result, a prototype Ehrhardt normales LKW-Fgst even after the
upgrade was rejected and subsequently dismantled.

SPECIFICATIONS PROTIVOAEROSTATNOY self-propelled

Ehrhardt normales LKW-Fgst sample 1906

Combat weight ~ 6000 kg

CREW, pers. 4

~ 90 ~
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 4500
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 2200
Clearance, mm ?
one 50-mm cannon protivoaerostatnaya Krupp 5.0cm
WEAPONS
BAK
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES gun sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE Ehrhardt, petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS 4x2: single wheels, suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Ehrhardt Plattformkraftwagen self-propelled unit

Official designation: Ehrhardt Plattformkraftwagen

Alternative notation: Ehrhardt 6.5cm BAK
Start design: 1908
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1908
Stage of completion: built a small series.

~ 91 ~
The next step after the appearance of a very successful, but rejected by the army self-
propelled unit with a 50 mm gun, was the emergence of a more powerful version,
equipped with a large-caliber gun. This time razrabotkchiki considered "remarks" the
military and decided to take the path of least resistance. As it turned out, this move
proved to be the only correct one.

In 1908 he was offered the option to install protivoaerostatnogo guns Krupp 6.5cm
BAK L / 35 on an open platform. More specifically, the platform has been implemented
half-closed, since it protects the sides of armored panels that reclined in a combat
situation, creating more space for the gun crew. As a base used by Daimler commercial
truck 4x4 (double rear wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs) and manual
transmission with 4-speed transmission.

Information about the name of this car apart. In some foreign sources, it is referred to as
Ehrhardt Plattformkraftwagen, in others - like Ehrhardt 6.5cm BAK. In Soviet
print media used names like "65-mm gun L-35 on the chassis Ehrhardt" in different
variations.

During the 1908-1910 biennium. ZSU prototype passed reinforced tests under the
supervision of military specialists. The handbook Werner Oswald indicated that
Ehrhardt Plattformkraftwagen in its current form was adopted, and even produced a
small series. In addition, the experience of its creation is very useful in the construction
of variants with a 77-mm gun, which appeared in 1913.

SPECIFICATIONS PROTIVOAEROSTATNOY self-propelled

Ehrhardt Plattformkraftwagen sample 1908
Combat weight ~ 6000 kg
CREW, pers. 4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 4500
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 2200

~ 92 ~
Clearance, mm ?
one 65-mm cannon protivoaerostatnaya Krupp 6.5cm
WEAPONS
BAK L / 35
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES gun sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE Ehrhardt, petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS 4x2: single wheels, suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

~ 93 ~
Bssing A5P

German Empire (1916). Armored car 3 built

About Bssing

The original company was founded by Heinrich Bssing (18431929), in Braunschweig

in 1903. Its first model was a truck. The company was made famous for its reliable
worm drive models, largely exported and built under licence abroad, and later heavy
duty trucks with another innovation, a rigid three-axle chassis. It earned, in 1910, a
contract based upon an army specification for artillery tractors and supply trailers. By
1914 Bssing was the leading manufacturer of trucks and was well placed in the eyes of
the army for all kind of heavy vehicles. In 1914, it was among the three companies
selected by the army for the new standard armored car model.

After the war, Bssing diversified its activities towards automobile industry, acquiring
the Automobil Fabrik Kornnick AG at Elbing, and later Neue Automobil Gesellschaft
(NAG), in 1934, thus becoming the Bssing-NAG company. It was made famous in
1923 introducing the first full-size bus, diesel trucks in 1931-32 and the first underfloor-
engined trucks in 1936. During WWII, Bssing once again produced 6 to 8WD armored

~ 94 ~
cars for the Wehrmacht. It also produced trolley buses before and after the war. The
company was finally integrated into MAN AG in 1971.

The Bssing armored car design

To respond to the November 1914 OHL specification, the three chosen companies,
Bssing, Daimler and Ehrhardt designed 4WD armored car prototypes for evaluation.
Having more experience with trucks than cars, Bssing designed a massive vehicle,
sporting as requested a 4WD drive, and propelled by its own standard heavy duty six-
cylinder, developing 90 hp (67.14 kW). This was not superfluous given the dimensions
of the prototype, nearly 9.5 m long, 2.1 m wide and 3.5 m tall (32x7x11.4 ft). These
dimensions were dictated by two fully operating driver compartments and redundant
steering, rear and front, allowing an instant reversal of direction, a solution also
rendered mandatory because of its more than generous wheelbase and immense turning
radius.

The fighting compartment sported no less than eleven hatches for light Mg08 machine-
guns, one on each side of the front and rear driver position, four on the sides, four on the
central turret side and one on the top for the commander. The crew of ten, was
composed of a commander, mechanic, two drivers and six machine-gunners and
servants, whom were trained to dismount/remount their weapon on any side which
required concentration of firepower.

The Bssing A5P in action

Despite their 4WD drive, the A5P was fitted with four big rim wheels which rendered
any off-road drive too bumpy in operations. Moreover, the 3 delivered armored trucks
lacked speed (only 34 km/h 21 mph on road), off-road capabilities and handling, due
to an overweight and oversized body. This led to the OHL to choose the far more agile
Ehrhardt E-V/4 instead. However these three machines were too precious to be wasted
and pressed into service as the Panzerkraftwagen-Mg-Abteilung 1, which participated in
the Romanian 1916 campaign, and soldiered throughout the Eastern campaign in
Ukraine in 1917-18. Their fate is unknown.

~ 95 ~
Origin of the Bussing armored car

By the fall of 1914 the OHL (Imperial army ordnance bureau) emitted a specification
for a new model of a 4WD armored car. Bssing, experienced with heavy duty trucks,
proposed a behemoth. Although they lost the bid, the vehicle remains one of the biggest
armored vehicles of WWI, and the biggest armored car to date.

One of the few known and most famous photos taken of the Bssing A5P

Bssing A5P specifications

~ 96 ~
Dimensions 9.5 x 2.1 x 3.5 m (31.176.8911.48 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 10.3 tons

Crew 10

Propulsion 6-cylinder Bssing Otto petrol, 90 hp

(67.14 kW)

Speed 34 km/h (21.1 mph)

Range (road) 240 km (150 mi)

Armament 3 x Mg08/Mg15na 7.92 mm (0.31 in)

machine guns

Armor 6-9 mm (0.24-0.35 in)

Total production 3

The colossal symmetrical Bussing A5P as it appeared prior to 1918. There were no less
than 11 hatches for the three machine-guns it carried.

~ 97 ~
During the early months of WW1, most of the opponents of the German Army fielded
Armoured Cars, and the OHL, reluctantly impressed, ordered the construction of similar
vehicles. The order was given in a sort of competition to the three firms of Daimler,
Ehrhardt and Bssig. The vehicle constructed by Bssig in 1915, the A5P, was quite a
behemoth, some 9.5 meters long, and weighing 10.2 tons, but only equipped with a 6-
cylinder motor, giving it a top speed of 35 km/h. It was equipped with 3 MGs and
manned by a crew of no less than nine. As the Ehrhradt was found to be superior no
more than this single copy was built, but it was used on the Eastern Front, by the
Panzerkraftwagen-MG-Zug 1, for example in Romania in 1916, and in the Ukraine in
1918.

The Bssing A5P was an armoured car produced in Germany during World War I.

History

The Bssing company had received its first orders of military vehicles in 1910,
producing artillery tractors and supply trailers. By November 1914, the German Army
had become aware of the potential of the armoured car by the hit-and-run tactics
employed by the Belgians with the Minerva. The Oberste Heeresleitung decided to
produce its own armoured vehicle and the manufacturing companies Ehrhardt, Daimler
and Bssing were requested to develop an armoured car with all-wheel drive.

During 1915, Bssing delivered the ordered prototype. In contrast to the Belgian
armoured cars, the A5P was a massive vehicle, using a 'double-ended' layout that could
at least pose a tactically useful high ground clearance. Its powerplant was Bssing's
successful 6-cylinder truck engines. It had a large steel armoured body and was crewed
by 10 men. 6 of the crew operated three 7.92 mm machine guns, usually the MG 08 or
MG 15nA. Some vehicles even received two 20 mm cannon.

In 1916, the A5P began production. Nevertheless, the German Army considered the
Ehrhardt design more effective to fulfil the demanded operational tasks. As a result,
production was stopped after three cars built. These A5P served in a column on the
Romanian Front in 1916 and on the Russian front Front in 1917.[1]

Specifications

~ 98 ~
 Country of origin: Germany
Crew: 10
Weight: 22,600 pounds (10,300 kg)
Dimensions: Length: 31.17 feet (9.50 m), Width: 6.89 feet (2.10 m), Height:
11.4 feet (3.5 m)
Range: 150 miles (240 km)
Armour: 69 mm
Armament: 3x 7.92 mm MG 08 machine guns
Powerplant: 1x 6-cylinder Bssing 'Otto' petrol, developing 90 hp
Performance: Maximum road speed: 21 miles per hour (34 km/h)

Type Armoured car

Place of origin Germany

Manufacturer Bssing AG

Produced 1916

Number built 3

Weight 22,600 pounds (10,300 kg)

Length 31.17 feet (9.50 m)

Width 6.89 feet (2.10 m)

Height 11.4 feet (3.5 m)

Crew 10

Armor 69 mm

Main 3x 7.92 mm MG 08 machine

armament guns

6-cylinder Bssing 'Otto'

Engine petrol
90 hp (66 kw)

Power/weight 8.7 hp/tonne

Operational 150 miles (240 km)

range

Speed 21 miles per hour (34 km/h)

~ 99 ~
Official designation: Bssing A5P
Alternative notation:
Start of planning: 1915
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1916
Stage of completion: built a small series.

It may seem strange, but the beginning of the First World War, the German army,
considered by the degree of technical equipment almost the first in the world, almost did
not have armored vehicles to arms. German General Staff believed then that these
"expensive toys" are good mostly for protection, but certainly not for the rapid attacks.
This, however, does not mean that work on armored vehicles in Germany is not carried
out at all, or they were very few. Just the opposite - from 1904 to the military
commission business were presented at least a dozen cars, such as Opel halbgepanzerter
Wagen (1906), Ehrhardt (1906) and Daimler (1908-1911 gg.). As a rule, they were
ordinary commercial armored vehicles with a partially armored open-top body, armed
with two machine guns, three or protivoaerostatnymi guns caliber 20 to 71 mm. None of
these cars into production did not go.

The sudden "epiphany" occurred only in winter 1915 and the reason for this was the
successful use of the French light armored vehicles improvised Minerva, Renault and
Peugeot. Although their reservations and armament was frankly weak against infantry
formations they acted quite well, and in addition, these machines can be used for
reconnaissance and communications. The terms of reference, with the requirement to
not only catch up but also surpass the allies in this area have been issued to three
companies: Daimler, Ehrhardt and Bssing. Last came to solve this problem the most
radical.

Armored car Bssing A5R turned out the most unwieldy of all the other built in the
period from 1914 to 1918. Its length is more than 9 meters and weight in full running
order than 10 tons! The machine frame is made entirely symmetrical with two control
stations, so to distinguish where the front and back where it was only possible on a bit-
shifted side door.

~ 100 ~
A5R Armament consisted of three rigidly fixed in the tower and housing 7.92 mm
machine guns MG08, and six more of these portable guns. With that, the machine is
also equipped with hard rubber tires can be assumed that its driving characteristics are
low, but thanks to a 6-cylinder engine A5R accelerated on the highway and 35 km \ h.
True, he walked with difficulty over rough terrain.

Assessing presented in 1916, prototypes of the German army opted for Ehrhardt
company car, at the same time issuing a small order Daimler company. Armored car
Bssing company, by virtue of its features into production not entered. The only sample
A5R in late 1916, was sent to the Eastern Front in the Panzerkraftwagen-MG-Zug 1.
For some time he fought in Romania, and in 1918 armored car was transferred to
Ukraine. Up until the beginning of 1919 A5R was on the occupied territory, while
Germany did not order the evacuation of the troops. Since it is impossible to evacuate
all equipment armored car platoon had to give up part of the machines in Nikolaev,
previously completely brought them down. Apparently, such a fate befell A5R as
including armored vehicles reached the Caucasus (where the German troops were sent
to Europe), he did not appear.

Combat weight 10300 kg

CREW, pers. 10
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 9500

~ 101 ~
Width 2100
Height mm 3500
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS three 7.92-mm machine gun Maxim MG08
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
housing forehead - 9 mm
board housing - 9 mm
food body - 9mm
RESERVATIONS
Tower - 6 mm
roof - 6mm
the bottom - 6 mm
Bussing "Otto", carburetor, 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled,
ENGINE
90 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
wheel formula 4x4: suspension leaf springs, tires
CHASSIS
tubeless
SPEED 34 km \ h
Cruising on the highway 240 km
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

~ 102 ~
Panzerautomobile Daimler army armored vehicle

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Panzerautomobile Daimler
Home Design?
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1909
Stage of completion: built one instance.

In 1909, German "collection" of armored vehicles received one of the first armored
vehicles, the development of which was of an enterprising character. The basis was
taken the firm Daimler commercial truck 4x2 and engine capacity of 45 hp on which it
was installed a fully enclosed casing sheets 3,5 mm thick armor. In the front part and
the sides were made with large windows, closes in firing position with armored panels.

A detailed technical description of the machine is not available, but based on the
available information it can be concluded that Panzerautomobile Daimler (at least this
is how it is called in a number of foreign sources) intended for the army and participated
in the Kaiser's maneuvers in 1909. Presumably its main task was to transport troops and
ammunition. The further fate of the car is unknown.

~ 103 ~
SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles
Panzerautomobile Daimler sample 1909

Combat weight ~ 2000 kg

CREW, pers. 2-3

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 3500

Width ~ 1800

Height mm ~ 2100

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS ?

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Of Daimler, carburetor, power of 45 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

wheel formula 4x2: suspension leaf springs, wheels,

CHASSIS
single, tubeless tires

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The slope, deg. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF ?

~ 104 ~
COMMUNICATION

Panzerkampfwagen Daimler / 15 army armored vehicle

Official designation: Panzerkampfwagen Daimler

Alternative notation:
Start of planning: 1914
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1915
Stage of completion: built a small series.

In October 1914, under the strong impression of the use of light armored allies, the
German High Command ordered to start work on the creation of new types of combat
vehicles. In contrast to the British and the French attitude of the Germans to the
reservations and armament of armored vehicles was more serious. According to the
specifications issued by the machine was supposed to carry at least three machine guns
with a circular field of fire, and the thickness of the armor plates are stipulated in the
range of 5-9 mm. Weight and size of the crew played a minor role here. The relevant
terms of reference were issued to firms Daimler MFb, Ehrhadt and Bussing, who in
early 1915 presented prototypes of the armored cars.

~ 105 ~
Prototype Panzerkampfwagen Daimler has turned out the most conservative. The
selected chassis truck for him with the 4x2 has undergone minor changes: was slightly
reinforced frame, used tubeless tires and the front wheels are installed additional rim to
improve patency. The machine was installed 4-cylinder gasoline engine Daimler M1464
80 hp at 1200 for \ min.

The body of the armored car had a very simple form and going out of the armor plates
with a thickness of 5 to 7 mm. For firing from machine guns and sidearms in the sides
and in the rear plate five rectangular recesses covering the bivalve armor shields were
made. Weapons Panzerkampfwagen Daimler models in 1915 (in the foreign literature
it is often called Panzerkampfwagen Daimler M1915) consisted of three 7.92 mm
machine guns Maxim MG08. The roof has been installed add-in designed to monitor the
surroundings. On it are also two additional lights were installed. An interesting feature
of the armored cars was the use of the radio station, but to use it could only be in the
parking lot.

The only prototype Panzerkampfwagen Daimler was sent to the Eastern Front, where he
enrolled at the disposal of Panzerkampfwagen-MG-Abteilug 1 - according to German
data continued its use from 1916 to 1919. On the future of this machine information
costs, but there is every reason to believe that Panzerkampfwagen Daimler M1915 was
lost during the fighting in the Baltic States.

Orders for serial production company Daimler has not received as a winner was
declared car Ehrhard E / V-4. Nevertheless, Panzerkampfwagen Daimler construction
experience proved useful after the war, when the police force was required to create a
simple and powerful armored vehicle.

SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Daimler sample 1915

~ 106 ~
Combat weight 8849 kg

CREW, pers. 5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 5740

Width 2057

Height mm 2845

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS three 7.92-mm machine gun Maxim MG08

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 7 mm
board housing - 7 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 7mm
Tower - 7 mm
roof - 5 mm

Daimler M1464, carburetor, 6-cylinder, liquid-cooled,

ENGINE
80 hp at 1200 for \ min

TRANSMISSION mechanical type 10-speed gearshift

wheel formula 4x4: suspension leaf springs, tires

CHASSIS
tubeless

SPEED 60 km \ h

Cruising on the highway 250 km

overcome obstacles

The slope, deg. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

~ 107 ~
The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Daimler 5.7cm BAK Self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon

Official designation: Daimler 5.7cm BAK

Alternative notation: Panzerkraftwagen Daimler 5.7cm BAK
Start design: 1908
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1908
Stage of completion: two prototypes built.

After just two years after the release of 50-mm self-propelled protivoaerostatnoy
Ehrhardt German company Daimler has created a much more sophisticated self-
propelled. While there is no absolute clarity with modifications of this machine, as in
the various Western sources provided different information about the name and type of
weapons.

However, used the chassis of the truck with the wheel formula 4x4, the German
engineers have developed the body, collected from 3.5 mm of rolled armor plates using
a dowel. Armored vehicles equipped with tubeless wheels of hard rubber tires. Located
in front of the petrol engine Daimler has air cooling, in connection with which an
armored hood was front flap and side ventilation slots. In the middle part of the
management department was located, where the driver's seat and his assistant. Behind
them it was equipped with armored compartment for ammunition and equipment.

The main weapon of self-propelled short-was 65-mm cannon protivoaerostatnoe Krupp

5.7cm L / 30 BAK, it has been found in the semi-closed tower, the thickness of armor
which was similar to the body. Tower provided a circular firing, but in front of it was
greatly reduced due to the driver's cab.

~ 108 ~
Tests of anti-aircraft armored vehicle, often called Panzerkraftwagen Daimler 5.7cm
BAK, successfully completed in 1909, but the German Army leadership reacted to this
very cool car. Then the General Staff preferred to confine the usual tools on the horse-
drawn and mechanized, armored considering unreliable and excessively expensive
means.

SPECIFICATIONS anti-aircraft armored vehicle

Daimler 5.7cm BAK sample 1908

Combat weight ~ 6000 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 4500

Width ~ 2000

Height mm ~ 2200

Clearance, mm ?

one 57-mm cannon protivoaerostatnaya Krupp 5.7cm

WEAPONS
BAK L / 35

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES gun sight

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Ehrhardt, petrol

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x4: single wheels, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The slope, deg. ?

Wall height, m ?

~ 109 ~
The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Daimler-Motoren-Gesselschuft Plattformwagen self-propelled unit

Official designation: Daimler-Motoren-Gesselschuft Plattformwagen

Alternative notation: Daimler 7.7cm BAK
Start design: 1909
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1909
Stage of completion: built several prototypes.

In 1908, the firm Daimler reposed his version of self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon.
Based on the sad experience of colleagues from Ehrhardt company, it was decided to
abandon the many innovations and simplify the design of the machine, while preserving
the security of the crew and engine compartment.

~ 110 ~
The first prototype ZSU, known as Daimler-Motoren-Gesselschuft Plattformwagen
and Daimler 7.7cm BAK modell 1908 was an all-wheel drive truck with a 4x4.
Presumably bonnet going from armor plates 3.5 mm thick. The driver's cabin as such
was absent, since space for the driver and his assistant were made public. Abandoning
expensive and not very reliable towers (which, moreover, uhudschali visibility for the
gunner) developers installed 77-mm cannon protivoaerostatnoe on an open platform.

The first model was admitted to the test at the end of 1908 (according to other sources -
1909) years. The findings were very encouraging, but military experts insisted on the
removal of a number of structural defects that have been fixed in the 1910 model.
Updates ZSU different offset ago instrument as amended boeukladki and other
accommodation in the calculation of the stowed position. In addition, it was introduced
high side and a more powerful engine. The third modification, released in 1911,
received the armor plates on the driver's cabin door.

Despite all the improvements carried out by the early models of 77-mm self-propelled
anti-aircraft and have not been taken into service of the German army. Nevertheless, the
experience of working on this machine is very useful when creating an improved
version of its 1913 model.

Combat weight ~ 6000 kg

CREW, pers. 5-6

~ 111 ~
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 6000
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 2200
Clearance, mm ?
one 77-mm cannon protivoaerostatnaya Krupp 7.7cm
WEAPONS
BAK
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES gun sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE Daimler, petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x4: front-wheel single, dual rear wheels, tubeless tires,
CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs
SPEED ~ 40 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Daimler Plattformwagen Ausfhrung 1909 self-propelled unit

~ 112 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Daimler Plattformwagen Ausfhrung 1909, 5-7cm Flak auf
Daimler Panzerdraftwagen
Start design: 1909
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1909
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

To date, there is no consensus as to who initiated this self-propelled gun was developed
and at what stage of its development work was interrupted. The book BTWhite "Tanks
and other Armoured Fighting Vehicles 1900 to 1918", published in 1969, this machine
is identified as 5-7cm Flak auf Daimler Panzerdraftwagen. Release Date opoedelena
1909, but without more information. Due to the fact that the British author's book is
replete with inaccuracies and some not polnstyu reflects the history of the many
armored vehicles, self-propelled with respect to this time will be used the name of
Daimler Plattformwagen Ausfhrung 1909.

~ 113 ~
Presumably, the work began in 1909. To create this self-propelled chassis that was used
as for the 65 \ 77-mm gun mount. In other words, the army used prolnoprivodny truck
4x4. German engineers have developed the body, collected from 3.5 mm of rolled armor
plates using a dowel. Armored vehicles equipped with tubeless wheels of hard rubber
tires. Located in front of the petrol engine Daimler has air cooling, in connection with
which an armored hood was front flap and side ventilation slots. In the middle part of
the management department was located, where the driver's seat and his assistant.
Behind them it was equipped with armored compartment for ammunition and
equipment. An interesting detail was the folding top cab driver, who was going from
multiple armor plates. On transport platform ustanavivals tower, which was the frontal
ozognut. In the turret was made a door for boarding-disembarking calculation and
supply of ammunition. Ammunition consisted of 130-140 shots. Inside was mounted
large-caliber cannon, although foreign sources provided evidence that it could be a 71-
mm or 77-mm cannon protivoaerostatnaya. However, in all three cases, it is unclear
what kind of guns meant, because by 1909 has the following systems artilleriskimi these
calibers:

10.5cm L / 40 SK - Marine rapid-fire gun with a barrel length of 40 calibres;

10.5cm Feldhaubitze 98/09 - field howitzer;
10,5cm L / 30 Belagerungs-K - field gun with a barrel length of 30 calibres;
7.7cm Feldkanone 96 nA - field gun with a barrel length of 27 calibres;
7.7cm L / 27 BAK 08 - protivoaerostatnoe gun with a barrel length of 27 calibres;
7.1cm L / 28 BAK 08 - protivoaerostatnoe gun with a barrel length of 28 calibers (?).

Thus, the issue with 57-mm cannon remains open - it is possible that a prototype has
been built yet. At the same time, a 105-mm gun did not resemble at least the length of
the barrel and dimensions, and the 71-mm gun is present only in the brochures of the
First World War and the interwar period. There remain 77-mm gun, but a very specific
recoil device, similar to the weapon caliber 76.2 mm, makes it difficult to identify. In
addition, some time ago there was a picture on the Internet improvised self-propelled
guns on a wheeled chassis with the same recoil device and armored shields. This image
has been attributed as a 7,1cm BAK L / 30 Krupp. Nevertheless, a number of features
can be assumed that both of these machines were equipped with 77-mm guns
protiaerostatnymi. In this case, the first option is most likely, is the development model
ZSU the sample in 1914, but with a completely closed tower.

~ 114 ~
In any case, in spite of the large dimensions of the outer breech of the gun it took up too
much space, which greatly hampered the work of the crew. It is possible that this factor
has become central to the fate of the self-propelled. However, in the book of Werner
Oswald, "Complete Catalogue of military vehicles and tanks in Germany 1902-1982"
states that the tower "Daimler" was used in 1914 on the front.

Combat weight ~ 8000 kg

CREW, pers. 5-6

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 6000

Width ~ 2000

Height mm ~ 2500

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 77-mm gun Krupp 7.7cm BAK L / 30

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES gun sight

RESERVATIONS ?

Of Daimler, petrol, zhodkostnogo cooling power of 50

ENGINE
hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x4: front-wheel single, dual rear wheels, tubeless tires,

CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

~ 115 ~
Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The slope, deg. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Daimler Plattformwagen Self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon

Official designation: Daimler Plattformwagen

Alternative notation: Krupp-Daimler 7,7cm FlaK, Krupp-Daimler 7,7cm BAK,
Daimler-Krupp Geschutzwagen 14, Kraftwagen 14
Start of planning: 1913
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1914
Stage of completion: mass manufactured before 1918

~ 116 ~
The first year of the Great War ended badly for Germany. Wedged into the territory of
France by German troops occupied a considerable area, but did not achieve the main
goal - to defeat the army and allies to capture Paris. In the context of the beginning of
"trench warfare" has become an increasingly important role to play Air Force, through
which the two warring sides easily opened direction and deployment of enemy forces.
At the first stage the greatest troubles brought not airplanes and dirigibles and balloons -
last used very actively, constantly hovering over the battlefield and adjusting artillery
fire. The usual flak does not always have time to appear in the right place, and then the
army leadership to recall the anti-aircraft armored vehicles Ehrhardt and Krupp-
Daimler, so blithely rejected before. War Department immediately initiated the creation
of a new, more powerful self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon, entrusted with this task the
company Ehrhardt.

~ 117 ~
the first sample of this armored vehicle was presented in the end of 1914. Using the
chassis of the truck with the wheel formula 4x4 and carbureted engine 90 hp Ehrhardt
company experts have decided not to install the hull of - open battle with the enemy had
not assumed and also saves weight. An armor panel only protects the engine hood and
side. The cab of the machine was made completely open, and in the middle of the
placed boxes with stacking for shells. Aft on the column book-rests installation was
mounted 77-mm anti-aircraft gun Krupp company.

After a short trial period, the Defense Ministry issued an order for a small batch of these
machines, which are now called Panzerkraftwagen Krupp-Daimler 7,7cm FlaK
(later the name was changed to Daimler 7,7cm Sonderflak, but is now used a lot of
other symbols). During the 1914-1918 biennium. These anti-aircraft self-propelled guns
were used, for the most part, on the Eastern Front, and several "Daimler" were trophies
of the Russian Army and later used against the Germans. To say anything specific about
their combat application is quite difficult, because most of the German archives had
been destroyed during the Second World War.

No less actively developed career self-propelled anti-aircraft guns after the November
Uprising in 1918. Withdrawn from the front of the machine (for police purposes to use
at least one Daimler 7,7cm Sonderflak) attracted to the suppression of popular uprisings
in Berlin, which peaked in March - April 1919, with the right of the driver installed on
the pin 7.92-mm machine gun MG08. What a protection jobs crew and armament to
"Daimler" is still missing.

Barely able to restore order in central Germany, in the autumn of the same year, anti-
aircraft machine were moved to Prussia, where a volunteer was formed Freikorps -
German Corps volunteers in the Baltic States. The purpose of this division was the
expulsion of the Bolshevik armies and local nationalists and the establishment in the
territory of Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia of a single state with a pro-German
government. Act on the main line Eiserne Division ( "Iron Division") has received at
their disposal two captured Russian armored vehicles and two self-propelled anti-
aircraft guns Daimler 7,7cm Sonderflak, who wore the title "Maks" and "Moritz".

~ 118 ~
Which began Oct. 8, 1919 attack in Latvia is developing well - up until 13 October,
these machines are used constantly in fights on the highway Mitau - Riga and
participated in the second capture of the Latvian capital. However, at the end of the year
the situation changed dramatically in the Baltic States. German Corps volunteers had to
leave Riga and retreat into their territory, leaving with all the equipment. So both the
"Daimler" were trophies of the Latvian army and were immediately taken into service.
After overhaul these machines were before the 1930s., Is due to the strong depreciation
of the chassis and outright obsolescence should not have sent for scrapping. To this day
not a single sample Daimler 7,7cm Sonderflak not preserved.

SPECIFICATIONS anti-aircraft armored vehicle

Panzerkraftwagen Krupp-Daimler 7,7cm FlaK sample 1914

Combat weight 8000 kg

CREW, pers. 10
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 6275
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 2200
Clearance, mm ?
one 77-mm cannon protivoaerostatnaya Krupp 7.7cm
WEAPONS
BAK L / 35
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES gun sight
housing forehead - 4-5 mm
board housing - 3.5-4 mm
RESERVATIONS
food body - 3.5-4 mm
roof - 3 mm

~ 119 ~
 the bottom - 3 mm
Of Daimler, petrol, zhodkostnogo cooling capacity of 80
ENGINE
hp at 1200 for \ min
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x4: front-wheel single, dual rear wheels, tubeless tires,
CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs
~ 40 km \ h on the highway
SPEED
30-32 km on dirt road
Cruising on the highway ~ 100 km
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Kraftwagen 19 Self-propelled artillery unit

Official designation: Kraftwagen 19

Alternative notation:
Start design: 1918
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1919
Stage of completion: built a small series, cancel reservation in the mid-1930s.

~ 120 ~
The experience of the German anti-aircraft self-propelled units in 1914-1918. I suggest
that in combat conditions ZSU often have to travel over rough terrain. Accordingly, it
took the presence of a new, more powerful chassis. The use for these purposes the
chassis of commercial vehicles was not a rational decision, and then, at the end of 1918,
was approved by the option to install a 75-mm and 77-mm anti-aircraft guns at the
Krupp-Daimler KD 1 artillery tractors.

The choice of this particular machine was not accidental, because it has all-wheel drive
chassis with a 4x4. All the wheels were made of wood and not equipped with rubber
tires and metal rim. Thus, the rear axle wheels are larger in diameter and had developed
lugs.
~ 121 ~
Series tractors manned petrol 6-cylinder Mercedes 100 hp The power plant was
protected armored hood with frontal controlled blinds. Front fastened drum winch
mechanism working on the engine. Cable 16 mm had a pulling force of up to 5 tons, and
its total length is 150 meters.

As part of the transmission had a manual transmission, is allowed 8 speeds forward and
2 reverse speeds. Fuel consumption was about 3 liters per kilometer, so the fuel tank of
200 liters enough only 80 km.

In the transport area was installed anti-aircraft gun 7.7cm BAK (Ballon-Abwehr-
Kanone ) L / 27 firm Krupp, but there was also the option to install 7.5cm FlaK 14 L /
36 . Initially, any protection tools and calculating missing, but introduced a curved front
broneschit over time. For ease of maintenance flap were made to expand the gun
platform. ZSU crew consisted of 7-8 persons: 6 artillery, the driver and his assistant.

For high quality traction it had to pay a high mass. If the tractor itself weighed 8000 kg,
the weight of the gun mount in full running order (with a weapon, ammunition and
other equipment) rose to 11,000 kg. Still, driving performance remained at a high level.
The machine can move over rough terrain, and its maximum speed when driving on
paved roads is about 30 km \ h. Reversing the car could travel at a speed of 8-8.5 km \ h.

The won 855 of them and a few units were sold in Bulgaria during the First World War, was
released in 1050 tractors KD 1. German Army until November 1918. In the postwar period,
about a dozen cars were converted into improvised armored cars, but much more success fell
to the lot ZSU. A significant part of Kraftwagen 19 was equipped with 77-mm anti-aircraft
guns, the available in sufficient quantities and can fire both air and ground targets.

Since 1919 self-propelled anti-aircraft Kraftwagen 19 began to come to equip the

German army. At the beginning of the 1920s. these machines are periodically used to
maintain order in the suppression of revolutionary actions. However, the most active
period of their use came in the 1924-1933 years., When the Reichswehr secretly
conducted military maneuvers. Later Kraftwagen 19 were used for the training of
personnel and were subsequently dismantled.

~ 122 ~
SPECIFICATIONS self-propelled
Kraftwagen 19 sample 1919

Combat weight ~ 11250 kg

CREW, pers. 10

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 6265

~ 123 ~
Width 2170

Height mm 3000

Clearance, mm 400

WEAPONS one anti-aircraft gun 7.7cm BAK L / 27

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES optical machine-gun sight

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE The Mercedes, petrol, 6-cylinder, 100 hp

TRANSMISSION Mechanical type: 8-speed gearbox (8 + 2)

4x4: Single wooden wheels with metal rims, suspension leaf

CHASSIS
springs

SPEED 30-35 km \ h forward travel 8-8.5 km \ h in reverse

Cruising on the highway 80 km

overcome obstacles

The slope, deg. 25

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Ehrhardt Plattformwagen Ausfuhrung 1911 self-propelled unit

~ 124 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Ehrhardt Plattformwagen Ausfuhrung 1911, Ehrhardt
Plattformwagen mit Vierrab-Antrieb, Rheinmetall 7.7cm leichte Kraftwagen BAK L /
27
Start design: 1911
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1911
Stage of completion: built several prototypes.

Having failed with earlier anti-aircraft machines, which were installed on 50-mm and
65-mm guns, Ehrhardt company engineers decided to change tactics. For their next
development, they decided to use a more powerful chassis and, accordingly, intensified
arms. It was developed at least two basic models, differing only option chassis and
installation of anti-aircraft system.

Ehrhardt Plattformwagen Ausfuhrung 1911 - the first model, also known under the
designation Rheinmetall 7.7cm leichte Kraftwagen BAK L / 27. As you might guess
from the name, the machine is equipped 77-mm anti-aircraft gun with the firm Krupp
barrel length of 27 calibres on the column book-rests installation.

~ 125 ~
Ehrhardt Plattformwagen mit Vierrab-Antrieb - further development of the first
model, also used the name leichte Kraftwagen-FlaK L / 27M. The most significant
difference was the new chassis. Reservation hood and gun platform has also been
changed, a more powerful gun Krupp 7.7cm BAK with a length of 35 caliber barrel. A
small party of anti-aircraft "erahrdtov" was released during the 1914 Externally, the car
is not much different from the more numerous "Daimler", but were equipped with guns
Rheinmetall C14 7,7cm L / 27. In our vremeya in relation to self-propelled guns of this
type is sometimes used Ehrlardt Kraftwagen name 14, indicating the type of all-wheel
drive truck chassis Army.

At the end of the war, attempts were made to set on the chassis Ehrhardt other types of
artillery systems, but not much success they differed. Similarly, it can be said about the
presence of samples with 7.62-mm guns, one of which was used in the course of the
revolutionary events of 1918-1919.

Combat weight ~ 6000 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 6900

Width ~ 2000

Height mm ~ 2200

Clearance, mm ?

~ 126 ~
 one 77-mm cannon protivoaerostatnaya Krupp 7.7cm
WEAPONS
BAK L / 35

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES gun sight

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Ehrhardt, petrol, zhodkostnogo cooling power of 50 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x4: front-wheel single, dual rear wheels, tubeless tires,

CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The slope, deg. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

~ 127 ~
~ 128 ~
Benz Plattformwagen mit Krupp 8.8cm FlaK L / 45 Self-propelled anti-aircraft
weapon.

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Benz Plattformwagen mit Krupp 8.8cm FlaK L / 45
Start design: 1918
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: built a small series.

In the second half of the fighting on the Western Front, the Entente countries
significantly stepped up its action aviation, becoming a great mix of use of medium and
heavy bombers. German protivoaerostatnye guns caliber 77 mm longer cope with its
task, as neither on rate of fire, nor the technical characteristics, they do not meet current
requirements. Thus, Germany needed a new, more powerful gun.

~ 129 ~
Development of appropriate artillery system began in late 1916, when a Krupp and
Ehrhardt-Rheinmetall companies have been contracted to design and build heavy anti-
aircraft guns for the Army. Both prototypes were presented in the spring of 1917, with
the firm Krupp suggested that the army just three versions (8cm, 8.8cm, and 10.5cm),
while Rheinmetall focused work only on 80-mm gun. Comparing the samples army
chose 8.8cm the K-Flak , however, until the end of the war still was released 10 more
guns caliber 105 mm guns and 78 80mm caliber. Because the documentation is stored
on the company Ehrhardt company was destroyed during an air raid, survived only
information about the 60 built 88-mm gun company Rheinmetall. It should be noted
that, among other analogues German anti-aircraft gun was the best. The initial velocity
of the projectile was 718 m \ s, the maximum shooting height - 6263 meters, the
maximum angle of vertical guidance - 70 . Rate of fire could reach up to 15 rounds per
minute.

However, this gun had one drawback - a large mass in the battle, and in the stowed
position. To solve it was proposed to use an old, but well-proven method - to set 8.8cm
K-Flak in the heavy truck transport platform. Of all the available options for the most
appropriate seemed Krupp-Daimler KD 1 artillery tractor, but the choice was made in
favor of the 5-ton Benz. It's hard to say how many of these were built ZSU. It is
possible that the 88-mm gun samozodnoe generally been collected in an instance of a
single. At least, the only mention of it relates to August 1918 - after the end of the final
battle of the Marne American troops remains of cars equipped with 88-mm gun and a
massive armored shields were found. It seems self-propelled gun was destroyed by a
direct hit bombs.

SPECIFICATIONS anti-aircraft armored vehicle

Benz Plattformwagen mit Krupp 8.8cm FlaK L / 45 sample 1918

Combat weight ~ 8000 kg

~ 130 ~
 CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 6500

Width ~ 2000

Height mm ~ 2200

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 88-mm anti-aircraft gun 8.8cm FlaK L / 45

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES gun sight

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Benz, petrol

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x4: single wheels, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The slope, deg. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION ?

Opel halbgepanzerter Wagen staff armored car

~ 131 ~
Official designation: Opel halbgepanzerter Wagen
Alternative designation: Opel-Kriegswagen fur hohere Truppenfhrer
Start design: 1906
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1906
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

One of the first version of its armored vehicles for the Army introduced in 1906, the
company Opel. It was the headquarters polubronirovanny armored car. For the first time
Opel has demonstrated its project at an automobile exhibition in the same year.

For construction of this machine is now known as the Opel halbgepanzerter Wagen chassis
conventional car has been used 4x2, which was mounted open-topped armored corps,
protects only the crew. Top can be installed removable roof. Standard weapons included one
or two Mauser guns. In addition, there was a door in Borovo loopholes for shooting rifles or
pistols. The crew would consist of two persons (the driver and his assistant) and in the back
there was a 3-4 vozmzhnost transportation officers.

~ 132 ~
The German command did not show much interest in an Opel car, mainly due to
mistrust of the new kind of technology that eventually left the armored car in one piece.
However, armored Opel served for propaganda purposes - its image is often used to
brosheyurah those years.

SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Opel halbgepanzerter Wagen sample 1906

Combat weight ~ 3000 kg

CREW, pers. 4-5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 4000

Width ~ 1900

Height mm ~ 1800

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one or two gun Mauser

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

~ 133 ~
 housing forehead - 5 mm
RESERVATIONS board housing - 5 mm
food body - 5 mm

ENGINE Carburetor

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2: pneumatic tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The slope, deg. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION ?

Panzerkamfwagen Mannesmann-Mulag staff armored car

~ 134 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Panzerkamfwagen Mannesmann-Mulag
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1916
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

In 1916, the company from Aachen was developed and implemented the project
armored car based on the chassis of freight army vehicle Mannesman-Mulag. This was a
specialized vehicle designed for the transport of officers - in fact, the "Mannesmann"
was the first to staff armored car.

In general, the concept of reservations was similar to armored car Daimler / 15 and
Ehrhardt / 15. On a metal frame chassis was established body box structure, which
presumably armor plates were attached to the wooden frame using bolts and rivets. The
layout of the body remained quite traditional. In front, a fully armored hood is
powerplant. To gain access to the engine hatch had four (two on each side on the top
side and inclined panel). In front of the hood was installed blinds. The driver's cabin has
also been fully armored. Before places the driver and his assistant were one hatch closed
by two-folding panels. On board were one door. More than half the length of the
machine occupied the transport department, which has been equipped for staff purposes.
However, this does not exclude the possibility of using the machine as a fully armored.
On the sides there are two loopholes with two-folding panels, and a large aft door was
made. In addition, there were skylights in the roof. The front and back of the cabinet is
installed by a spotlight beam.

~ 135 ~
Chassis 4x2 spitsovannymi equipped with wooden wheels with rubber tires. Single-
wheel drive front axle was controlled, dual wheels of the rear axle - leading. Each
bridge is equipped with shock absorption on chetvertellepticheskih springs.

Due to the lack of information is not yet possible to say exactly how was the fate of this
interesting armored vehicles. only general information is given in foreign sources.
Presumably, the "Mannesmann" still participated in the fighting on the Western Front,
and was pulled after the armistice signed in November 1918

SPECIFICATIONS staff armored car

Panzerkamfwagen Mannesmann-Mulag sample 1916

Combat weight ~ 7000 kg

CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 6500
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 3000
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS -
allowance of ammunition -
aiming DEVICES -
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE carburetor, liquid cooling, capacity of 42 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2: front-wheel single, dual rear wheels, tubeless tires,
CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?

~ 136 ~
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

SdKfz 3 Mannschaftswagen

In the Versailles peace agreement, that ended World War One, the seven Divisions of
the (much reduced) German Army was henceforth expressly forbidden to have tanks or
even Armoured Fighting Vehicles. There was, though, a loophole of sorts. Each of the
Divisions were allowed to have armoured wheeled vehicles for the purpose of
transporting personnel - the name for these was Mannschafttransportwagen, MTW.
They were not to be used as Fighting vehicles (they were not to have any armament).

A vehicle intended for this purpose was designed in 1919 by the firm of DMG. They
were then built by Daimler. Many of its parts were identical to those used in the
Armoured Car built for the police forces, the so called Schupo-Sonderwagen/21. This
explains many similarities between the two vehicles. It was given the formal name
Sonderkraftfahrzeug 3 (Special Motor Vehicle number 3).

It was not a very successful vehicle. It weighed 10.6 tons, had a crew of nine, a range of
some 350km, a maximum armour of 12mm and a maximum speed of 45 km/h. It had
four-wheel drive, but because of its weight and comparatively weak motor (only a 4
cylinder watercooled Daimler M1574) the SdKfz 3 had very poor off-road capability. In
fact, it was pretty much bound to the roads. This, and its lack of armament, meant that

~ 137 ~
the usage for the vehicle wasnt that big. A few were converted to Radio vehicles, and
also, during maneuvers, in spite of regulations, they were sometimes equipped with a
single MG 08.

I have found no information on how long these vehicles were in service, but we know
that the very similiar Daimler/21 Schupo-Sonderwagen was used at least up until 1936,
at that at least one was destroyed during the fighting in Berlin 1945!

Flakpanzer A7V

German Empire (1917-18)Anti-aircraft SPG 3 built

The rise of a Flakpanzer

In WW1, the Germans used the A7V chassis as a starting point to develop several other
variations. Although most would be used for the A7V berlandwagen rough terrain
tracked supply vehicle, others were used to create unique vehicles, such as a trench
digging machine and the anti-aircraft version known as the A7V Flakpanzer.

Plans were also made to produce an A7V Funkpanzer wireless communication tank
fitted with a Graben-Funkstation 16 radio transmitter and large circling antenna on the
roof.

In order to combat the ever more numerous amounts of aircraft in the skies, German
Army needed something that could fend off the enemy aviators, but also be able to
relocate to a more defensible position if necessary. Little is known about this mysterious
A7V Flakpanzer save for a few photographs. Three prototypes were being trialed in the
closing stages of World War One.

1918 trials of the A7V Flakpanzer anti-aircraft tank. Two ammunition boxes can be
seen with their lids open behind each gun. Both guns are in the full recoil position
Photo Thomas Anderson

~ 138 ~
The A7V Flakpanzer is the earliest recorded tracked anti-aircraft vehicle in history. The
fate of these machines is unknown. It is possible that they were captured by the Allies
and scrapped or they were dismantled and the parts were used for other things.

The guns themselves were positioned at each end of the platform. Ammo boxes were
placed around the driving position and just under the guns themselves. The Flakpanzer
A7V was very similar to the Uberlandwagen. It also had the A7V chassis and
suspension, with the engines mounted centrally. The driving compartment was placed
above them. This compartment was open and unarmored, but had a tarpaulin holder, to
be used in bad weather.

The cargo bays were extended well over the front and rear of the vehicle, making the
Flakpanzer longer. Each of these bays held an anti-aircraft gun mounted on a pedestal.
These guns could traverse 360 degrees and could also elevate to fire at enemy planes.

Also present were two elevated guard rails, which seem to have had a double purpose.
They could keep the crew from falling off the vehicle and serve as sitting places when
moving. Under them were the ammunition compartments, which could be accessed
from the outside of the vehicle, when the wooden side panels were lowered.

The crew consisted of around 10 men. Four men were needed to service each gun.
There was also a driver and a commander, although it is not clear if these positions
werent somehow amalgamated.

The Armament

There is no verified information on the armament used by the Flakpanzer. However, it

is believed that two of the prototypes were equipped with captured Russian M1902/30
76.2 mm (3 in) field guns. They were mounted on a new trunnion and elevation
assembly to enable high-elevation. This allowed the gun to be fired at enemy aircraft

The Germans had captured copious amounts of such guns from the Tsarist Empire and
pressed them into service. They even manufactured the ammunition for them.

The third prototype A7V Flakpanzer was equipped with a German Krupp-manufactured
gun. It is believed that it was a 7.7 cm (3.03 in) German leichte Feld Kanone (l.F.K.)
1896 n/a (7.7cm light field cannon). Only one gun was fitted to this vehicle.

Whether these guns were effective against their intended targets remains a mystery, as
no paperwork related to these guns use has been found.

~ 139 ~
Gelndewagen A7V at the factory with the cargo wooden panel sides in the down
position

A7V chassis development

The situation in 1915 1916 was dire, as Germany, Britain and France had settled into
a stalemate. In order to solve the bloody equation formed by the artillery-barbed wire-
machine gun combination, both Britain and France began development of a vehicle that
had the ability to cross trenches with ease and be able to withstand enemy machine gun
fire. This tracked vehicle would eventually revolutionize the battlefield. Thus the tank
was born.

Although the tanks suffered from mechanical failures and inadequate crew training, they
had a major physiological impact on the German soldiers. German intelligence
subsequently submitted reports to the Oberste Heeresleitung (German supreme
command or OHL for short), which then lobbied the War Ministry for an equivalent.
However, some of the senior officers of the time were more focused on artillery and
infantry tactics rather than the development of the tank or similar armored vehicles.

The committee, headed by chief designer Joseph Vollmer, rejected the trench crossing
rhomboid shape track system as used on the British tanks because they wanted to build
a chassis that could be used on a tank and a prime mover heavy artillery gun tractor.
This approach lead to problems.

Two Caterpillar-Holt tractors were obtained and adapted to build a working prototype.
It had a better speed than the very slow British tanks but its trench crossing abilities
were not as good.

Eventually, the Heeresleitung got some funding from the war ministry to make an
equivalent. After months of testing and building, they came up with the A7V. The OHL
ordered 100 chassis to be built. The rest were used to develop several A7V variants
including the berlandwagen and an Anti Aircraft version, called the Flakpanzer A7V.

Germany only produced 20 A7V tanks in World War One. Britain and France built over
8,000 tanks between 1916 1918. In the battles of 1918 the German Army used more
captured British tanks than they did tanks built in Germany.

~ 140 ~
The Germans were not very imaginative when they gave a name to their first tank. The
letters A7V stand for the committee of the Abteilung 7 Verkehrswesen (7th Transport
Department) of the Prussian War Office.

Flakpanzer A7V Specifications

76.2 mm (3 in) Russian Field Gun M1902/30 or

Armament
7.7 cm (3.03 in) German leichte Feld Kanone (l.F.K.) 1896 n/a

Crew 9-10

Propulsion 2 x 6 inline Daimler petrol, 200 bhp (149 kW)

Speed ~15 km/h (9 mph)

Range on/off road ~80/30 km (49.7/18.6 mi)

Total production 3

Three A7V tank chassis were used to build Flakpanzers motorised anti aircraft battery
prototypes Photo Thomas Anderson

~ 141 ~
Captured Russian 76.2 mm (3 in) Model 1902 guns were mounted on the A7V chassis
with a new trunnion and elevation assembly to enable the gun to fire at enemy aircraft.

This photo of is believed to be the third A7V-Flakpanzer self-propelled anti-aircraft

battery prototype. It was only fitted with one gun, a German 7.7cm leichte Feld Kanone
(l.F.K.) 1896 n/a

~ 142 ~
76.2 mm (3 in) Russian Field Gun M1902/30 at the Finnish Artillery Museum.

7.7 cm (3.03 in) German leichte Feld Kanone (l.F.K.) 1896 n/a (light field cannon).

~ 143 ~
Sturmpanzerwagen A7V

German Empire (1917)Heavy tank 20 built. High command skepticism

In 1916, both the British and the French introduced tanks on the battlefield and
gradually improved their performances and design through frontline experience. But
still, even by 1917, the German high command still considered they could be defeated
by using special rifle bullets and artillery, in direct or indirect fire. The impression they
had was mixed, seeing their breakdowns and apparent difficult crossing of the heavily
cratered no mans land. But the psychological effect on an unprepared infantry was such
that this new weapon had to be seriously taken in consideration.

The traditional view still prevailed, seing infantry as the most versatile way to make a
breakthrough, notably the famous elite assault squads, or strmtruppen, equipped
with grenades, small arms and flame-throwers. They proved successful during the
spring offensive and further hampered the need for a tank.

Designed by Joseph Vollmer

~ 144 ~
Despite initial resistance against tanks, their first, shocking appearance on the battlefield
in the fall of 1916, led, in September of the same year, to the creation of a study
department, the Allgemeines Kriegsdepartement, 7 Abteilung, Verkehrswesen.

This 7th branch was responsible for all the information gathering on Allied tanks and
for formulating both anti-tank tactics and devices and specifications for a possible
indigenous design. Based on these specifications, the first plans were drawn by Joseph
Vollmer, a reserve captain and engineer. These specifications included a top weight of
30 tons, use of the available Austrian Holt chassis, ability to cross ditches 1.5 m (4.92
ft) wide, to have a speed of at least 12 km/h (7.45 mph), several machine guns and a
rapid-fire gun.

~ 145 ~
The chassis was also to be used for cargo and troop carriers. The first prototype built by
Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft made its first trials on April 30, 1917, at Belin
Marienfeld. The final prototype was ready by May 1917. It was unarmored but filled
with 10-tons of ballast to simulate the weight. After successful trials in Mainz, the
design was modified once more to incorporate two more machine-guns and a better
observation post. Pre-production started in September 1917. Production started in
October with an initial order of 100 units and a training unit was formed in the process.
By then, this machine was known after its studying department, the 7 Abteilung,
Verkehrswesen (A7V), Sturmpanzerkraftwagen meaning assault armored motor
vehicle.

The only operational German tank of WWI

When the A7V was first introduced in the two first operational units, Assault Tank
Units 1 and 2, it had already revealed some flaws, notably the relatively thin underbelly
and roof (10 mm/0.39 in), not able to resist fragmentation grenades. The overall use of
regular steel and not an armored compound, for production reasons, meant that the
effectiveness of the 30-20 mm plating was reduced. Like contemporary tanks, it was
vulnerable to artillery fire.

It was overcrowded. With seventeen men and an officer, the crew comprised a driver, a
mechanic, a mechanic/signaler and twelve infantrymen, gun servants and machine-gun
servants (six loaders and six gunners). Of course, the restricted interior wasnt
compartmented, the engine was situated right at the center, diffusing its noise and toxic
fumes. The Holt track, using vertical springs, was hampered by the overall weight of the
tall structure and its very low ground clearance and large overhang at the front meant
very poor crossing capabilities on a heavily cratered and muddy terrain. With this
limitation in mind, these first two units (ten tanks each) were deployed on relatively flat
grounds.

~ 146 ~
The amount of ammunition carried was considerable, further reducing the internal
space. Around 50-60 cartridge belts, each with 250 bullets, plus 180 rounds for the main
gun, split between special HE explosive rounds, canisters and regular rounds. In
operation more shells were loaded, up to 300. During operations, a single tank was
converted as a female with two Maxim machine guns replacing the main gun. As
initially no engine was powerful enough to move the 30 tons of the A7V in the
restricted allocated space, two Daimler petrol 4-cylinder engines, each delivering about
100 bhp (75 kW), were coupled together.

This solution produced the most powerful tank of the war, with a speed even greater
than British late tanks (Mk.V). 500 liters of fuel were stored to feed this engine, but due
to the enormous consumption, the range never exceeded 60 km (37.3 mi) on road. Top
speed off-road was limited to 5 km/h (3.1 mph) at best. The driver had very poor vision.
The A7V was committed mostly on open terrains and roads, just like armored cars,
were its speed and armament could reveal its true potential. Last but not least, the A7Vs
were all hand-built and of great manufacture quality (and very high cost). Every model
had unique features as no standardization was achieved.

~ 147 ~
The A7V in action

The first five squads of A7Vs from the 1st Assault Tank Unit were ready by March
1918. Led by Haumptann Greiff, this unit was deployed during the attack on the St
Quentin canal, part of the German spring offensive. Two broke down but successfully
repelled a localized British counter-attack. On April 24, 1918, however, during the
Second Battle of Villers-Bretonneux, three A7V leading an infantry attack met three
British Mark IVs, a male and two females. As the two females, damaged, were
unsuccessful in damaging the German tanks with their machine-guns, they withdrew,
and left the leading male (Second Lieutenant Frank Mitchell) dealing with the leading
A7V (Second Lieutenant Wilhelm Biltz), in what was to become the first tank-to-tank
duel in history. However, after three successful hits, the A7V was knocked-out and the
crew (with five dead and several casualties) promptly bailed out.

~ 148 ~
The disabled tank was recovered and repaired later. The victorious Mark IV roamed the
German lines, creating havoc and was joined later by several Whippets. But after
murderous mortar fire, this attack was stopped in its tracks. Three Whippets were
destroyed, as well as the Mark IV. This attack included all available A7Vs, but some
broke down, other toppled into holes and were captured by British and Australian
troops. The entire attack was deemed a failure, and the A7V removed from active
service. The 100 machines order was cancelled and several were scrapped in November.

Aftermath

The commitment of all available tanks with poor results increased the resistance from
the German high command. Some successes were achieved by the most numerous
German tank in service during the spring offensives, the Beutepanzer Mark IV and V.
Almost 50 captured British Mark IVs or Vs were pressed into service under German
markings and camouflage. They showed the advantage of full-length tracks over
difficult terrains. They influenced, along with the few captured Whippets Mark A light
tanks, the design a new enhanced model, the A7V-U. U stands for Umlaufende Ketten
or full-length tracks, a German-made but British-looking rhomboid tank.

Its featured two 57 mm (2.24 in) guns in sponsons and had a tall observation post
similar to the A7V. Although the prototype was ready by June 1918, this 40-ton
monster proved to have a high center of gravity and poor maneuverability. However
twenty were ordered in September. None were completed by the armistice. All other
paper projects (Oberschlesien), mockups (K-Wagen) and prototypes of the light LK-I
and II also laid unfinished in November 1918. Starting late in the war, the Germans
never had the opportunity to fully develop their tank arm both tactically and technically.

~ 149 ~
This was achieved, mostly clandestinely, but successfully, during the twenties and early
thirties. Nevertheless this early and deceiving attempt was a landmark in German
development.

The first German tank

The only German tank to ever roam the battlefields of France and Belgium during WWI
was nicknamed by the British the moving fortress. Big, tall and symmetrical, with

~ 150 ~
sloped armor, surprisingly fast, bristling with machine-guns, it was indeed more akin to
a moving fortification than a real tank. As it was basically an armored box based on
the Holt chassis its crossing abilities were far from equal to the contemporary British
Mark IV or V. With only 20 built of the 100 initially ordered, it was more a propaganda
tool than an effective breakthrough apparatus.

A7V replica on display at the Munster Panzer Museum. All A7Vs were christened by
their crews. The Nixe for example took part in the famous duel at Villers
Bretyonneux, in March 1918. The Mephisto was captured on the same day by
Australian troops. It is now displayed at Brisbane Anzac museum. Other tanks were
named Nixe II, lotti, Hagen, Alter Fritze, Siegfried, Hercules, Faust,
Schnuck, Elfriede or Adalbert.

~ 151 ~
The German WW1 Sturmpanzerwagen A7V tank had problems negotiating some
trenches

An A7V at Royes, during the spring offensives, March 1918.

~ 152 ~
A7V specifications

Dimensions 7.34 x 3.1 x 3.3 m (24.0810.1710.82 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 30 to 33 tons

Crew 18

Propulsion 2 x 6 inline Daimler petrol, 200 bhp (149

kW)

Speed 15 km/h (9 mph)

Range on/off road 80/30 km (49.7/18.6 mi)

Armament 1xMaxim-Nordenfelt 57 mm (2.24 in) gun

67.5 mm (0.29 in) Maxim machine guns

Armor 30 mm front 20 mm sides (1.18/0.79 in)

Total production 20

The StPzw A7V number four, one of the five tanks under command of Hauptmann

~ 153 ~
Greiff committed to the attack of St. Quentin canal (British sector), part of the March
1918 offensive.

A7V Sturmpanzer

Several designs for cross-country armoured "landships" - both tracked and wheeled -
were submitted to the German High Command both before the war and right up to the
time the first British tanks went into action on 15 September 1916. The morale effect of
this attack was out of all proportion to its tactical success, which was small, and led
German Army commanders on the Western Front to press for a German equivalent. The
High Command had already had some inkling of what was going on in England but now
took action for the first time to promote the development of a German landship by
appointing a committee composed of engineering experts from leading heavy
engineering and automotive firms to study this question. The committee was known for
security purposes as "Allegemeine Kriegsdepartement 7, Abteilung Verkehrswesen" or
"General War Department 7, Traffic Section".

This video clip has been made by PDA

~ 154 ~
A general specification was laid down and as a first step towards design the committee
obtained a Holt tractor from Austria: this American-designed caterpillar tractor (built
under licence in Budapest) was at that time the only suitable tracklaying vehicle
available to Germany for experiment. It is interesting to note here that the Holt had also
inspired Colonel Swintons landship proposals put before the War Office in Britain and
also formed the basis for the French heavy tanks.

After trials of the Holt tractor, a lengthened version of the chassis was designed by Josef
Vollmer, powered by two Daimler engines of 100 h.p. each (the original proposals for
one 80-100 h.p. engine being recognized as inadequate) and, fitted with a wooden
mockup of an armoured hull, was first demonstrated in the Spring of 1917. There were
some changes in the original requirements laid down for armour and armament because
the protection was intended to be 30mm thickness overall, but this was later altered, to
reduce total weight, to 30mm at the front only, the remainder varying between 15 mm.
and 20 mm. For the main armament, different guns were tested and the choice
eventually fell on the 57mm Nordenfelt, a weapon taken from the Belgians, of which a
small supply was available. However, only one gun was fitted (at the front) instead of
the original intention of having a shell-firing weapon at both ends. In addition six water-
cooled machineguns (MG08) were carried - two on each side and two at the rear.

The design was accepted and the tank (known as A7V from a contraction of the design
committees title) was put into series production, the contracts having already been

~ 155 ~
awarded. One hundred vehicles were ordered, of which only twenty were finally
completed as tanks, the first of these being ready in October 1917.

The first action in which the A7Vs took part was at St Quentin on 21 March 1918; the
first tank versus tank action on 24 April. This encounter showed one fundamental
advantage of the German tanks in that all were equipped with a gun, the British Tanks
Mark IV, Female version, equipped with machine-guns only, being helpless against the
57mm gun of the A7V. The central placing of the A7Vs main gun was also a better
feature than the sponson mountings of the British tanks. The design of the A7V was
better than that of the British vehicles in some of the details, sprung tracks for example,
and in some of the wider conceptions, such as thicker armour and a higher
power/weight ratio. Its engine was also relatively powerful, making it almost twice as
fast as corresponding British tanks (9 km/h), if moving on dry, flat and hard ground.
And its armour was thick: in places it was triple the maximum thickness found in tanks
like the Schneider CA 1.

Overall, however, the A7V was far less successful as a battle vehicle. The most serious
fault was in cross-country performance and trench-crossing ability which were poor
because of the high centre of gravity and low tracks with the hull overhanging at front
and rear. Also, due to the large transmission housing, the vehicle had a ground clearance
of only 20cm (!), which meant that it could get stuck almost anywhere. And technically
there were many weak points in the vehicle, and it broke down often. The Nordenfelt
guns had a lower rate of fire than the British 6-pdrs. Early tanks had mechanical faults
and the armour plate was badly fitted and in some cases of inferior quality. These faults
were corrected later (some tanks had single large side plates instead of several sections,
for example) but the basic design could not be altered. The Germans made as much use
as possible of captured tanks and the A7Vs successor was modelled on the layout of
the British machines.

~ 156 ~
~ 157 ~
~ 158 ~
~ 159 ~
A7V "Hedi"

The A7V "Hedi" was not a modified standard production vehicle. It was built AFTER
the war, probably using the chassis from a Gelndewagen - that fully tracked softskin
transport version of the A7V. The lower parts of the vehicle was as per standard, with
long mudguards. The superstructure was modified. It had no gun, nor - as far as can be

~ 160 ~
ascertained - any MG positions on the sides. Instead it had two small rotating MG
turrets to the front corners, and two on the back corners.

Up until now, it has been assumed that "Hedi" was a unique, one-off modification. But
now we know that she had at least one mate! As can be seen in this sensational photo.
(It was recently found in the personal effects left by a deceased newspaper man. It is
now in the collection of Herr Mario Doherr.) Thus far, nothing is known of when and
where. Rainer Strasheim has analyzed it, and states that the tank closest to the camera is
"Hedi7quot;, also, that one of the soldiers standing near the left side tank seems to wear
a collar badge of "Grenzschutz Ost".

~ 161 ~
The roof was more sloping than the standard A7V roof, the slopes coming from all
sides, and meeting in the center, where there was no square driver/commander cupola,
but instead two small observation domes. These were probaby too small to be used for
driving, so the driver must have been moved to front part of the vehicle instead. (A sort
of protruding driver compartment can also be seen there.) It has also been speculated
that the body was not made out of armoured plate, but only mild steel. "Hedi" had no
external exhaust pipes.

"Hedi" was no Battle Tank proper, but mainly used for what is now called "Urban
Pacification". The Year following the end of the War was as we all know very turbulent
in Germany, with Revolution, Civil War and Unrest rocking the country. "Hedi" was
used in action in Berlin in 1919, by troops loyal to the Goverment. Where the other
"Hedi" (could we call it "Hedi 2"?) was used is still unknown.

Type Tank

~ 162 ~
Place of origin German Empire

21 March 1918 16 October

In service
1918

Used by German Empire

World War I
Wars
German Revolution

Designer Joseph Vollmer

Designed 1916

Number built 20

33 t (32 long tons; 36 short

Weight
tons) battle weight

Length 7.34 m (24 ft 1 in)

Width 3.1 m (10 ft 2 in)

Height 3.3 m (10 ft 10 in)

Crew A minimum of 18

Hull Front: 30 mm (1.2 in),

rear & sides: 15 mm
(0.59 in), top:6 mm
(0.24 in)[1]
Armor
Command copula Front:
20 mm (0.79 in), rear &
sides: 15 mm (0.59 in), top
5 mm (0.20 in)[1]

57 mm gun
Main (initially with 180 rounds;
armament
later 300)

Secondary 6 7.9 mm machine guns

armament 36,000 rounds

2 Daimler-Benz 4-cylinder
Engine
200 hp (149 kW) total

~ 163 ~
Power/weight 6.5 hp/tonne

Adler gearboxes and

Transmission
differentials

Suspension Holt track, vertical springs

Operational 3080 km (1950 mi)

range

15 kilometres per hour

Speed (9.3 mph) on roads
4 mph cross-country

The A7V was a tank introduced by Germany in 1918, during World War I. One hundred
chassis were ordered in early 1917, 10 to be finished as fighting vehicles with armoured
bodies, and the remainder as the berlandwagen cargo carriers.[citation needed] The number
to be armoured was later increased to 20. They were used in action from March to
October 1918, and were the only tanks produced by Germany in World War I to be used
in combat.[2]

History

Following the appearance of the first British tanks on the Western Front, the
Allgemeines Kriegsdepartement, Abteilung 7 Verkehrswesen ("General War
Department, Section 7, Transportation"),[3] was formed in September 1916.

The project to design and build the first German tank was placed under the direction of
Joseph Vollmer, a reserve captain and engineer. It was to have a mass of around 30
tons, be capable of crossing ditches up to 1.5 metres wide, have armament including
cannon at the front and rear as well as several machine-guns, and reach a top speed of at
least 12 km/h. The running gear was based on the Holt tractor, copied from examples
loaned by the Austrian Army. After initial plans were shared with the army in
December 1916, the design was extended to be a universal chassis that could be used as
a base for both a tank and unarmoured berlandwagen ("over-land vehicle") cargo
carriers.

The first prototype was completed by Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft at Berlin-

Marienfelde and tested on 30 April 1917. A wooden mockup of a final version was
completed in May 1917 and demonstrated in Mainz with 10 tons of ballast to simulate
the weight of the armour. During final design, the rear-facing cannon was removed and
the number of machine-guns was increased to six. The first pre-production A7V was
produced in September 1917, followed by the first production model in October 1917.
The tanks were given to Assault Tank Units 1 and 2, founded on 20 September 1917,
each with five officers and 109 NCOs and soldiers.[4]

Naming

~ 164 ~
The tank's name was derived from that of its parent organization, Allgemeines
Kriegsdepartement, 7. Abteilung, Verkehrswesen.[2] In German, the tank was called
Sturmpanzerwagen, (roughly "armoured assault vehicle").

Design

The A7V was 7.34 metres (24.1 ft) long, 3 metres (9.8 ft) wide, and the maximum
height was 3.3 metres (11 ft). The tank had 20 mm of steel plate at the sides, 30 mm at
the front and 10 mm for the roof;[4] however, the steel was not hardened armour plate,
which reduced its effectiveness. It was thick enough to stop machine-gun and rifle fire,
but not larger calibre rounds.

The crew normally consisted of up to 17 soldiers and one officer: commander (officer,
typically a lieutenant), driver, mechanic, mechanic/signaller, 12 infantrymen (six
machine gunners, six loaders), and two artillerymen (main gunner and loader).

Armament

The A7V was armed with six 7.92 mm MG08 machine guns and a 5.7 cm Maxim-
Nordenfelt cannon mounted at the front. Some of these cannons were of British
manufacture and had been captured in Belgium early in the war; others were captured in
Russia in 1918 and appear to have included some Russian-made copies.

~ 165 ~
5.7-cm Maxim-Nordenfelt gun from A7V "Schnuck", at the Imperial War Museum,
Manchester, UK

Ammunition

Between 40 and 60 cartridge belts, each of 250 rounds (a total of 10,000 to 15,000
rounds), were carried; as well as 180 shells for the main gun, split 90:54:36 between
canister, antitank, and explosive. These were the official figures up to 300 rounds for
the main gun were stowed for combat.

The "female" variant had two more machine guns in place of the main gun. It is
believed that only chassis number 501 saw combat as a female before being converted
to accommodate the 5.7 cm gun.[4]

~ 166 ~
Propulsion

Power came from two centrally mounted Daimler 4-cylinder petrol engines delivering
75 kW (101 hp) each; the A7V carried 500 litres (110 imp gal) of fuel. The top speed
was about 15 kilometres per hour (9.3 mph) on roads and 5 kilometres per hour
(3.1 mph) across country. The 24 wheel suspension was individually sprungan
advantage over the unsprung British tanks.

Compared to that of other World War I tanks, the A7V's road speed was quite high, but
the vehicle had very poor off-road capability and a high centre of gravity, which made it
prone to getting stuck or overturning on steep slopes. The large overhang at the front
and the low ground clearance meant that trenches or very muddy areas were impassable.
The driver's view of the terrain directly in front of the tank was obscured by the
vehicle's hull, which meant that there was a blind spot of about 10 metres. However, on
open terrain, the A7V could be used to some success, and offered more firepower than
the armoured cars that were available. The power-to-weight ratio was
5.1 kW/ton(6.8 hp/ton), trench crossing: 2.1 m (6 ft 11 in), ground clearance: 190 to
400 mm (7.5 to 15.7 in).

Combat history

St. Quentin Canal

The A7V was first used in combat on 21 March 1918. Five tanks of Abteilung I under
the command of Hauptmann Greiff were deployed north of the St. Quentin Canal. Three
of the A7Vs suffered mechanical failures before they entered combat; the remaining
pair helped stop a minor British breakthrough in the area, but otherwise saw little
combat that day.

~ 167 ~
Villers-Bretonneux

The first tank against tank combat in history took place on 24 April 1918 when three
A7Vs (including chassis number 561, known as "Nixe") taking part in an attack with
infantry incidentally met three Mark IVs (two female machine gun-armed tanks and one
male with two 6-pounder guns) near Villers-Bretonneux. During the battle, tanks on
both sides were damaged. According to the lead tank commander, Second Lieutenant
Frank Mitchell, the female Mk IVs fell back after being damaged by armour-piercing
bullets. They were unable to damage the A7Vs with their own machine guns. Mitchell
then attacked the lead German tank, commanded by Second Lieutenant Wilhelm
Biltz,[5] with the 6-pounders of his own tank and knocked it out. He hit it three times,
and killed five of the crew when they bailed out. He then went on to rout some infantry
with case shot. The two remaining A7Vs in turn withdrew. As Mitchell's tank withdrew
from action, seven Whippet tanks also engaged the infantry. Four of these were knocked
out in the battle, and it is unclear if any of them engaged the retreating German tanks.
Mitchell's tank lost a track towards the end of the battle from a mortar shell and was
abandoned. The damaged A7V was later recovered by German forces.

Three detachments (Abteilungen) of five tanks each were at Villers-Bretonneux at the

head of the four German divisions committed over a 4-mile front. One tank refused to
start, but the 14 that saw action achieved some success, and the British recorded that
their lines were broken by the tanks. Two A7Vs toppled over into holes, and some
encountered engine or armament troubles.

After a counter attack, three fell into Allied hands. One was unusable and scrapped, one
was used later for shell testing by the French, and the third was eventually recovered by
Australian and British troops.

Other actions
~ 168 ~
In May, A7Vs used in an attack on the French near Soissons, during the Third Battle of
the Aisne were unable to cross a wide trench known as the "Dardanelles".[6]

On 15 July, at Reims (during the Second Battle of the Marne), the Germans put eight
A7Vs and 20 captured Mk IVs against the French lines. Although 10 of the Mk IVs
were lost in this action, no A7Vs were lost.

The final use in World War I of A7Vs was in a small but successful action on 11
October 1918, near Iwuy.

Assessment

The A7V was not considered a success, and other designs were planned by Germany.
However the end of the war meant none of the other tanks in development, or planned
ones, would be finished (such as the Oberschlesien, the 120-ton K-Wagen, and the light
LK I or LK II).

The extremely limited production of 20 made a very minor contribution, and most of the
tanks (about 50 in total) that were fielded in action by Germany in World War I were
captured British Mark IV tanks (Beutepanzer).[7] In contrast, the French had produced
over 3,600 of their light Renault FT, the most numerous tank of World War I, and the
British over 2,500 of their heavy Mark I to V* tanks.

After the war

~ 169 ~
1921 Panzer tank badge

Two lightly armoured vehicles broadly resembling the A7V, one of which was named
"Hedi", were used by a Freikorps tank unit to quell civil unrest in Berlin in 1919, and
were constructed after the war, using the chassis from berlandwagens and armed with
four MG08/15 machine guns.[8]

Some sources say that several A7Vs were handed over by France to Polish forces and
used during the Russo-Polish war of 1920.[9] However, the fate of each A7V that saw
service in WWI is known, and there is no known official record or photographic
evidence of A7Vs in Polish service.[10][11]

The design of the A7V is featured on the tank badge of 1921, awarded to commemorate
service in the German Panzer forces of 1918.

Surviving example

The only surviving A7V is Mephisto, which was abandoned by its crew during the
Battle of Villers-Bretonneux in April 1918. It was recovered three months later by
Australian and British troops, and taken to Australia in 1919 as a trophy. The vehicle
stood outside the old Queensland Museum in Bowen Hills under an open-sided shelter
for many years until being moved into the new Queensland Museum on Southbank in
1986. It was damaged by floodwater in 2011, and taken for restoration to the
Workshops Rail Museum, North Ipswich, Queensland, Australia, until placed on
display at the Australian War Memorial, Canberra, in July 2015, where it is expected to
remain until 2017 before returning to Brisbane.[17]

The cannon from A7V 504 Schnuck is on display at the Imperial War Museum North in
Manchester.
~ 170 ~
Replicas

A running replica was built in 2009 by Bob Grundy of British Military Vehicles,
Wigan, UK, a company that specialises in the restoration of old military vehicles. The
replica is constructed of plywood and angle iron, using the engine, transmission and
tracks from two Fordson County Crawlers tracked agricultural vehicles and is
painted to represent A7V number 504, Schnuck. It was purchased by the The Tank
Museum, Bovington, in November 2012. It is on display inside the Museum, and takes
part in outdoor displays alongside the Museum's replica British Mark IV that was
constructed for the film War Horse.[18]

A static replica is in the Deutsches Panzermuseum in Munster. It is named Wotan, but is

largely based on the surviving example, Mephisto.

A mobile mock-up of an A7V appears in the East German feature film Trotz Alledem
(1972), the story of Karl Liebknecht and the 1919 Spartacist rising in Berlin.[19]

A mobile mock-up is among the vehicles at the Milovice Tankodrome in the Czech
Republic.[20]

Mephisto is a German A7V tank captured by Australian troops, of the 26th Battalion
(composed mainly of Queenslanders), led by two tanks from the Gun Carrier Company.
One of only 20 built, it is the last surviving example of the first German tank and at
present is displayed at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, Australia.

Description

The front of "Mephisto"

~ 171 ~
Mephisto, chassis serial number 506, is not in running order.

Unlike modern tanks, the A7V has no turret. Instead, it has a cupola for the commander
and driver, and its main gun, a 57mm Maxim-Nordenfelt, is carried in a mounting in the
front, allowing limited traverse. Six Maxim 08 machine guns are carried in mountings,
two on each side and two to the rear.

The name "Mephisto" is painted on the end facing of the box-shaped tank, as almost all
German tanks in WW1 were given individual names.

Capture and transport to Australia

The tank was lost at the Second Battle of Villers-Bretonneux on 24 April 1918. The
battle for the area saw the Australian, British and German forces in a fluid situation,
moving around the tank, which had been abandoned after falling into a ditch.

The 26th Battalion of the 7th Brigade, mostly from Queensland,[1] hatched a plan to
capture it. In July 1918, under cover of an artillery barrage, the Australian infantry and
two British vehicles (either Gun Carriers or Mark IV tanks) moved forward and dragged
it back to their lines; the Germans were still in sight of the tank and firing at them. They
had to don gas masks after poison gas was deployed.

The probable 26th Battalion working party involved in the recovery of Mephisto on
22nd July 1918 consisted of Sergeant F.R.Hanson, Privates J.Battley, G
Bradley,T.Clark, H.J.Dray, E.J.Frost, A.W.Heit, J.J.Kennedy, T.M.Kingston, R.J.Lewis,
A.G.Masters, W.Sam and G.H.White.

Following its capture Mephisto was transported to the 5th Tank Brigade demonstration
ground at Vaux-en-Amienois near Amiens. During its stay there it was decorated with
"soldier-art" paintings of a British lion with its paw on an A7V, many soldiers' names,
details of its capture and recovery, the colour patch of the 26th Battalion and the rising
sun badge of the Australian Imperial Force (A.I.F.) The words "TANK BOYS" and the
names of 13 soldiers (mainly from other Australian units) were hammered onto the
front, left side and rear armour. From Vaux-en-Amienois Mephisto was railed to the
Tank Corps Gunnery School at Merlimont and then shipped from Dunkirk to London.
Proposals for it to be displayed as a "war trophy" in Australia were raised and on the
2nd April 1919 it was loaded on the SS Armagh at Tilbury. The ship was supposed to
deliver it to Sydney, with plans for it to go to the war memorial in Canberra's display,
but it was diverted to Brisbane arriving in June, 1919 at the Norman Wharf. Two steam
traction engines moved it from the ship to the Queensland Museum, dragging it on its
tracks. A7V 504/544 "Schnuck" that had been knocked out by a " friendly/German fire"
incident near Fremicourt in August 1918 was captured by elements of the New Zealand
Division and taken to Britain as a war prize. "Schnuck" was displayed at Horse Guards
Parade 1918/19 and in 1919 was given to the Imperial War Museum. It was scrapped in
1922 but the main gun and its mount were retained and today form part of the Imperial
War Museum's collection in London.

Exhibition

~ 172 ~
The Queensland Museum, where it was housed, changed location a number of times,
and the tank at one point was housed outside, where it was exposed to the elements, and
parts were removed from it by the public.[2] After many years it was eventually moved
inside the museum and put behind glass in a temperature controlled environment that
protected it from the public.

Following the 2011 Brisbane Floods, Mephisto was removed from the Queensland
Museum to an undisclosed location for restoration work. It was claimed that the vehicle
would be returned to the museum during 2012.[3] However, in March 2013 it was
revealed that the vehicle was temporarily housed at the Workshops Rail Museum at
North Ipswich where it was placed on temporary display.[4] In June 2015, Mephisto was
transported to the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.[5][6] It is scheduled to return to
the Queensland Museum in 2018.[7]

~ 173 ~
A7V Sturmpanzerwagen

Heavy tank

Official designation: A7V Sturmpanzerwagen

Alternative notation:
Started in: 1916
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: during the 1918 built 20 series of tanks is applied only on the
Western Front.

The first application of British tanks had on the German command is not strong enough
impact in the autumn of 1916. Imperfection "lozenges" has created a false impression
that tracked combat vehicles do not have enough combat value. However, completely
deny the possibility of the use of tanks in the composition of the ground forces the
Germans still did not dare. After a series of unsuccessful experiments had the idea to
create a universally tracked chassis that is equally well suited to the construction of its
base of tractors and tanks simultaneously. Then still was not obvious that this path is a
dead end for combat vehicles of this kind of "universality" is fraught with the most
negative consequences, so in the first German tanks had already been programmed
extremely low permeability by regions and low maneuverability.

A key date was November 13, 1916, when the technical committee for the creation of
tracked armored fighting vehicles was organized. The commission was appointed
General Friedrichs, who at that time was the head of the 7th department of the General
Management of the Ministry of War (Abteilung 7 Verkerhswessen). Shorten it was
called A7V and later the name was transferred to the tank. With regard to the
designation of tracked combat vehicles, the first to use the English word "tank" and only
in October 1918 he was given an official name Sturmpanzerwagen. The Commission
consists of a large number of talented engineers, including Captain Josef Volmer, under
the general direction which created the design team of 40 people.

Requirements to the tank have been issued for 15 November: a maximum speed of 10-
12 km \ h, the width of crossing the moat - 1.5 meter rise - 30 . In general, this
specification was quite realizable, if not for a number of nuances. Designers have
~ 174 ~
decided to design the chassis 'longitudinal' scheme with the central placement of the
engine and controls. This required the creation of a very high body, which immediately
created problems centering tank. The advantage of this scheme is that unless better
protection of the chassis, but the book has turned out too thin and could not get the full
effect of the congestion of the tank. Sama chassis, with reference to one side, consisted
of the following components:

- Three trucks with five road wheels each, each carriage was suspended on coil springs
to the cross beams

- Six supporting rollers

- The steering wheel of the front position with the screw track tension mechanism

- Rear drive wheel arrangement

- Krupnozvenchataya caterpillar steel shoe

According to the calculations for the required speed machine weighing about 20 tonnes
had to be equipped with 200-horsepower engine. Such engines have existed and have
been used in airships, so their delivery means more problems. Then the firm Daimler
offered to install two engines at 100 hp each running on a separate caterpillar. The
scheme has been made so that the running only one of them, the second run can be in
motion. Running can be done in three ways: electric starter, pumping fuel mixture pump
and a U-shaped handle for 3 people. Engine cooling is accomplished by two tubular
radiators, which were placed at the front and rear walls of the hood, with the blowing of
the four fans.

Exhaust pipes deduced outside through silencers. Two fuel tank capacity of 250 liters
each, were located at the front of the housing. From the crew compartment, they were

~ 175 ~
separated by metal partitions, and defended the bottom 10 mm cast armor. Accordingly,
the drive and control of each track were a separate unit, which included the main clutch,
bevel gears forward and reverse, drum brakes (used to rotate the tank) and a 3-speed
gearbox of the tractor type with sliding gears at speeds of 3, 6, 5 and 12 km \ h.

The first version of the A7V tank suggested a box body with a small area in the front
and rear, as well as the front of the frame to overcome the wider ditches. Armament was
to consist of 57-mm cannon in the nose installation, two 20-mm automatic cannon
embrasures Becker in the back and four 7.92 mm machine guns MG08 in the pistol
ports with ammunition belts from 40-60 of 250 rounds each. At the request of the
military department, each machine gun and gun crew consisted of two tankers.
Including the commander and crew of the driver is increased up to 18 people, although
it could do the 10th. During the construction of the tank revealed that 20 mm will not be
able to put the cannon, so they were replaced by machine guns.

The assembly of the first chassis was completed in the spring of 1917, but more on
January 16, the chassis layout with a wooden body shown in Berlin-Marienfelde. Three
days later, on January 20th, the Defense Ministry ordered 100 chassis, which received
numbers from 500 onwards, and for bookings meant only 10 of them. Ready Running
gear, provided on April 30, and on May 14th it passed the "demonstrations" to members
of the Bids in Mainz. Time is not waiting - in April on the battlefield came first French
tanks, although their combat application was unsuccessful, it became clear that the
Allies would only increase production of armored vehicles.

Meanwhile, chassis testing, which lasted until the summer of 1917, revealed a large
number of technical problems in the removal of which took several months. The first
sample A7V in an unfinished form shown Kaiser June 19, and its assembly completed
in October. The order for 100 chassis has been confirmed, but the number of tanks was
adjusted to 38. It was soon decided that the A7V not fully satisfy the requirements and
the order for the tanks was reduced to 20 units.

~ 176 ~
body of two established producers to accelerate mass production. The Krupp company,
armored chassis numbers 540-544, provided a body whose side were collected from five
separate sheets, and the roof - four individual and one cross. In turn, the company
Rochling, which produced Reservations chassis numbers 502 and 505-507, proposed a
Solid board sheets. The armor thickness of 20 mm provide protection against armor-
piercing bullets of any caliber and large fragments. Theoretically, bronelisty could
withstand the hit of the shells field artillery of small caliber, but in fact this was not
achieved. In turn, to strengthen the offensive capability, with an option for installing a
77-mm gun, but because of the great length of the rollback to give it up.

Thus, the 57-mm gun of Maxim-Nordenfeld captured back in October 1914 in the
fortress of Antwerp, have become the main weapon A7V. The ammunition consisted of
100 high-explosive rounds, 40 armor piercing and 40 grapeshot. If the initial velocity of
487 m \ with armor-piercing shell could penetrate a vertical sheet of armor thickness of
20 mm. Tanks with the firm Krupp buildings column book-rests equipped with
installations that have been designed for tanks A7VU not adopted for serial production.
These settings provide very modest sector guidance: 45 horizontally in both directions,
and 20 up and down vertically. Guidance was carried out using a telescopic sight,
through the main viewing and the two additional side slit. Tank number 501 in the
experimental procedure were armed with six guns, but then the two front yet been
replaced by 57-mm cannon. For fire control instruments used light signals, but the rest
of the crew received instructions from the commander only voice and gestures.

Build tanks lasted until September 1918, and due to numerous manual adaptations
almost every one of them had individual differences. The first series includes tanks with
numbers 501, 502, 505-507 and 540-544. The second series of tanks included with the
numbers 525-529 and 560-564, which were equipped with Krupp and buildings
Rochling respectively.

~ 177 ~
The rest of the unarmoured chassis used for its intended purpose - as a transporter
tractor berlangwagen with a large platform, the front and rear edges of which were
given away for the bypass track, and in the middle stood a covered cabin to the engine
compartment and the cab. These machines can be mounted spotlights - one under the
platform of front and rear and two rotary - cutting the ceiling.

Because the chassis was considered multifunctional several specialized tracked vehicles
have been built on its basis. In particular, the mobile radio projects Funkwagen
Artilleriezugmaschine and artillery tractor. Approximately 60 to 80 chassis were built
in the earthmoving machinery options and Schutzengrabenbagger excavators,
equipment for which the company supplied "Orrenshtayn und Koppel" (Berlin) and
"Vezerhyutte" (Bad Osenhauzen).

Another chassis used in early 1918 to build heavy tank A7VU. This machine was
created under the influence of the British "rhombus", received the chassis completely
covering the body and the arms placed in the side sponsons. The tank appeared on the
mobility of overweight and greatly inferior to their counterparts, including A7V,
therefore, from its series production declined.

The central location of the driver's compartment has pushed the idea of German
designers create based A7V chassis self-propelled anti-aircraft installation. This fighting
machine known under the designation Panzerflak, was equipped with a closed cab and
the installation of two 77-mm anti-aircraft guns on open platforms (some sources also
indicated that they were equipped with captured 76.2-mm guns captured by the Russian
army). The exact number of such units are hard to self-propelled, but they were at least
two units. Presumably, Panzerflak used on the Western Front in the summer and autumn
of 1918. Subsequently, all the cars on the chassis base A7V were demolished by the
decision of the Allied Commission.

Combat weight 30000 kg

CREW, pers. 18
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 7350
Width 3060
Height mm 3300
Clearance, mm 200
one 57-mm gun type Maxim-Nordenfeldt and six 7.92-mm
WEAPONS
machine guns Schwarzloze MG 08/15
allowance of 180 shots
ammunition 10000-15000 rounds
aiming DEVICES telescopic gun sights and telescopic sights for guns
housing forehead - 30 mm
board housing - 20 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 20 mm
roof - 15 mm
the bottom - 10 mm
Two of Daimler, 4-cylinder, carburetor, liquid-cooled, 100 hp
ENGINE
maximum power each with about 800-900 \ min.
~ 178 ~
TRANSMISSION mechanical type: 3-speed gearbox, final drive odnoryadey
(On one side), three trucks with 5 opornyymi rollers, support
rollers 6, rear wheel drive and front teeth engage the steering
CHASSIS wheel; blocked suspension trucks on helical springs;
krupnozvenchataya metal caterpillar of 48 trucks 500 mm wide
and 254 mm pitch
SPEED 12 km \ h on hard ground
Cruising on the
?
highway
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent,
18
hail.
Wall height, m 0.455
The depth of the ford,
0.80
m
The width of the den, m 2.20
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

The order of the formation of two assault divisions to 5 tanks each was issued the 20th
of October 1917. Despite the lack of armored 1st branch was officially formed already
the 5th January 1918. Set in crews produced a differentiated way: drivers and mechanics
- from the engineering troops, gunner and loader - of artillery, machine-gun crew - from
the infantry commanders - from the infantry and automobile parts. To establish
cooperation between them was a particularly difficult task, since each of the
representatives of the branches of service had their own opinion about how to use tanks.
Education crews conducted in the training center of Sedan.

By the time the Germans had captured about 100 tanks, most of which are British
Mk.IV both types ( "male" and "female"), which were captured in the summer of 1917
in the course of a successful counter-attack at Cambrai. It was subsequently captured
several French Schneider CA1 and Saint-Chamond, but the Germans used them just for

~ 179 ~
studying. Thus, the main strike force in the course of the coming offensive in Picardy
were A7V and Mk.IV. Assault compartments with numbers from "1" to "3" were
equipped with tanks A7V (five more tanks left in reserve), and department numbers
from "12" to "17" received the trophy Mk.IV. During the preparation for combat use is
out of order # 502 chassis, body and arms had to be installed on the chassis # 503. For
the same reasons the tank chassis 544 replaced on the chassis # 504.

To learn how to use it's own tanks, the German command had a very vague idea. The
instructions were clearly told that tanks and infantry should move separately to the
Marines do not fall under the withering fire of artillery. How could this end for
attacking compounds Germans learned a little later, when the time has been
irretrievably lost.

The offensive in Picardy was conducted in the period from March 21 th to 4 th April
1918. In the area of the front length of 765 km in the fight entered the 59 divisions, with
the support of 19 tanks, including the trophy. On the first day of the operation at Saint-
Quentin went into battle A7V 4 and 5 captured Mk.IV - despite the fact that only two
machines could perform combat missions, they made a great impression on the enemy.

During the second phase of the offensive took place the first tank battle in history.
Events unfolded during the April 24 near the settlement of Villers-Bretonneux. In the
offensive zone of the 2nd Army Command has 13 German tanks, divided into three
groups. The first group consisted of tanks # 526, 527 and 560 and operated with 228-th
Infantry Division advancing on Villers-Bretonneux, the second group (tanks 501,
505, 506, 507, 541 and 562) were on the southern outskirts of the 4th Guards division,
and the third group (tank number 525, 542, 561 and 504), together with the 77th reserve
division advancing on the village of Kashi. Tank 506 stuck on the ground, but the rest
of the cars were able to capture the village and start moving to Kashi with the third
group. There are three German tanks suddenly emerged on the three British Mk.IV (one
"male" and the two "female"), which carried out a counterattack that even knowing
about the presence of armored vehicles of the enemy. Location A7V on the battlefield
was such that only the tank 561 "Nikse" entered into direct combat contact, and the
other two could not help him, even with machine gun fire. German artillery also kept

~ 180 ~
silent for fear of hitting their cars, and the British infantry was totally devoid of anti-
tank weapons. Thus, it held a sort of chivalrous duel "one on one", which is in the initial
phase had a ratio of "three on three". The main role is played by the best crew training.

Within a few minutes of battle, firing away, the German tank crews managed to hurt
two British machine gun "female" who were forced to withdraw. In turn, the crew of
"male" fired several shots with a stroke, and then moved on to shooting from the spot.
The Germans were also fired from the place, trying to use as a weapon, and machine
guns with armor-piercing bullets. In fact, the fight ended after when one of three shells
caught in the A7V, broke the oil cooler. In turn Mk.IV got hit in the caterpillar and was
immobilized. German crew thought it more prudent to withdraw, that was the basis for
the British consider themselves winners in this battle.

But the second fight that occurred east of the village of Kashi little later, much less is
known. On the same day A7V with the number 525 ( "Siegfried") entered into battle
with seven medium tanks Mk.A, which were also thrown at "patching holes" in the
defense. The Germans were again fired up and was hit by a British tank, the other three
gunners shot down and three more were injured Mk.A.

The Germans also suffered April 24 significant losses. The same ill-fated 506 was
captured by Australian infantry and towed to the rear (now a museum exhibit). Tank
542 overturned when passing through a funnel - the crew left the car, which is May
15 British towed by two French soldiers Mk.IV and 37th Moroccan Division.

In the course of the last German offensive on the River Ain in the fight entered the 15
tanks. The first day of the offensive (May 27) ended with mixed success. Tankers
managed to overcome the first line of defense in the area Voeckler - Berry-au-Bac, but
then they had to stop in front of a wide moat and a further attack was carried out only by
the forces of infantry and artillery. Day May 31 tanks of the 1st Assault separating out
the attack at Rheims, and on June 1, tanks from the 2nd Branch attacked positions at
Fort Pompelo. The losses were quite high and amounted to 8 cars, most of whom were
evacuated to the rear for repair. Destroying a tank appeared 529 "Nixe II".

Repeated attacks on Reims was made on July 15th, the day of the so-called "second of
the Marne." German offensive in almost all sectors of the front did not reach their goals,
and the tanks of the 1st and 2nd divisions failed to "crack" the French defense, which
did not hit by an artillery barrage. In addition, several A7V blown up by mines.

Further, the use of German tanks was of an episodic nature, which has been associated
with several causes. One of them became the failures of the A7V in the summer
fighting, though they were motivated largely inadequate training of crews and command
errors, which are considered to tanks only "auxiliary tool" for the infantry. On the other
hand, in the second half of 1918 are expected to appear far more combat-ready
machines, such as light LK-II tanks, so that the age A7V was already actually measured.

In the meantime, began to retreat set for tankers with new challenges. In order to ensure
transition to the new position on August 31 tanks of the 1st and 2nd divisions were sent
to the counter near the settlement Freminkur that brought new losses. Tanks 504
"Schnuk" and 528 "Hagen" killed in battle, and were recorded as irrecoverable losses,

~ 181 ~
562 "Herkules" was damaged by shrapnel bombs (probably, it was the first time in
history) and 563 "Wotan" came out of the system.

In the fall of German army retreated to the line of defense "Siegfried", a breakthrough
which meant a military disaster for Germany. To strengthen its position in the defense
were deployed last combat-ready tanks. In an effort to curb the offensive allied forces
German Command organized on October 7 a new counter-attack near the town of Saint-
Etienne, where part of the 3rd Army were supported by tanks of the 3rd Assault
department. The battle ended not in favor of the Germans, and all the tanks were hit and
then evacuated. The next day, the battle went 15 A7V and Mk.IV, which were
introduced in the German front at the break Cambrai. The appearance of the tanks in
this sector came as a surprise to the Allies and caused an easy panic, which only
managed to soothe after two cars were hit.

The last day A7V use in the 1st World War is considered the 11 th of October in
Cambrai area at the localities of Saint-Aubert Yves. Breakthrough British troops are
able to eliminate, but it was worth the 3rd separation tank losses 560. Thereafter A7V
was taken to the reserve and in battle is no longer used, and on November 11 th,
Germany signed an armistice with the Allies.

The further fate of A7V tank was, to put it mildly, unfortunate. Four cars passed
scrapped in October-November 1918, and the rest was dismantled in early 1919. But it
turned out that the Allies greatly hastened the destruction of the defeated enemy
equipment. Revolutionary actions in Germany in the spring of 1919 created the
preconditions for the overthrow of the very unpopular German government that require
immediate intervention greatly abbreviated parts of the Reichswehr. Since the rebels got
their hands on automatic weapons there was a question on the use of armored vehicles.
Accordingly, part of the Freikorps, to attract to suppress the uprising, received their
disposal tanks, among which were two reserved conveyor berlandwagen, the
construction of which has been agreed with the allies. Armament of these machines, one
of which was known as "Hedi", consisted of four to six machine guns MG.08, which are
mounted in the units of a new type, provides a wider arc of fire. Also, instead of a large
cabin was installed two cylindrical cap. The crew consisted of 8-10 people. Tanks were
used on the streets of Berlin until June 1919, after which they also went for scrap.
Below is a full list of German tanks A7V, who during his career, like ships, in their own
names changed several times:

501 "Gretchen" - thrown around Saint-Cecile (Sainte-Cecile) in Belgium, scrapped in

1919

502 - not armed and was transformed into a Gelandewagen, scrapped in October 1918

503 "Faust", "Kronprinz Wilhelm" , "Wilhelm", "Heiland" - scrapped by the

Germans in October 1918

~ 182 ~
504 "Schnuck" - defeated in battle August 31, 1918, and captured by the New Zealand
infantry, later shown at the Horse Guards Parade in London and was in 1919-1922. in
the Imperial War Museum exhibition.

505 "Baden I", "Prinz August Wilhelm", "August Wilhelm" - scrapped in 1919 allies

506 "Mephisto" - damaged in battle in Villers-Bretonneux (Villers-Bretonneux) April

24, 1918 and captured the Australian infantry. In July, the tank was repaired and towed
to the rear. He is currently an exhibit Australiam War Museum in g.Kanberra
(Australia).

507 "Cyklop", "Prinz Eitel Friedrich ", "Eitel Friedrich", "Imperator" - after the
armistice was transferred Freikorps and scrapped in 1919

525 "Siegfried" - scrapped the Allies in 1919

526 "Alter Fritz" - to put the Germans scrapped in June 1918

527 "Lotti" - defeated in battle, June 1, 1918 near the town of Fort la Dea Pompilius
(Fort de la Pompelle)

528 "Hagen" - defeated in battle August 31, 1918 near the city of Freminkur
(Fremicourt), later captured by the British infantry, and was shown at the Horse Guards
Parade in London. It scrapped in 1919

529 "Nixe II" - defeated in battle August 31, 1918 near the city of Reims and captured
the American infantry. Subsequently refurbished and sent to the United States, where he
became an exhibit of Aberdeen Proving Grounds Museum. Scrapped in 1942

540 - scrapped the Allies in 1919

541 - scrapped the Allies in 1919

542 "Elfriede" - cast crew in action April 24, 1918 near Villers-Bretonneux (Villers-
Bretonneux), captured by the French infantry, and demonstrated in the Place de la
Concorde (Paris).

543 "Bulle", "Prinz Adalbert" , "Adalbert" - scrapped the Allies in 1919

560 - defeated in battle October 11, 1918 near the city of Yiwu (Iwuy).

561 "Nixe" - broke down in combat April 24, 1918 near Villers-Bretonneux (Villers-
Bretonneux) and destroyed by German troops.

562 "Herkules" - put on by the Germans after the battle scrapped 31 August 1918

563 "Wotan" - scrapped the Allies in 1919. At the end of the 1980s. its full-size replica
of which is now an exhibit in the Deutsches Panzermuseum Mnster (Germany) was
built.

~ 183 ~
564 "Prinz Oskar", "Oskar" - scrapped the Allies in 1919

This A7V tanks story could have ended if not for one circumstance. In foreign sources
(and in Russian, too), you can find the statement on the use of German tanks A7V
Polish troops in the war against Soviet Russia in 1919-1920. For example, the British
magazine "Profile User" in 1970, published the following revelations (not specifying,
however, their source): "After the war, a few surviving A7V were transferred to Poland
and played a role in the Polish-Soviet War of 1919-1920. Five tanks took part in the
Battle of Warsaw. A7V officially remained in service in Poland until 1921 "

Interesting information, is not it? It looks pretty nice, especially on the Polish side,
managed to somehow enter into the army Sway so difficult to operate the machine. But
this raises several questions. Firstly, the German A7V was built just 20 copies and the
fate of each of them is not a secret - they were destroyed by the Germans and the Allies
during 1918-1920. So the Germans managed to build at least another 5 tanks and
prepare for them a lot of spare parts. Where, then watched the Allied Commission on
Disarmament, Germany? For example, the tanks were still gathered, then captured by
the French and the Poles transferred. Here comes the second question - where there was
prepared by the technical staff, and most importantly in the Polish army - the crews for
the tanks? Suppose they have prepared in Germany, though it seems unlikely, given the
particularly friendly relations between Poland and France. The third question - if the
Polish A7V actually used against the Red Army, then why did not survive a single
eyewitness of the outlandish spectacle. After all, not to notice the huge A7V or
confused it with some other tank was simply impossible. Do not come to us any photos
of German tanks that were on the Polish service, which is also rather strange. Most
likely, the Polish A7V - no more than a myth created by foreign authors on the basis of
unverified information.

A7V/U Tank

The very inferior cross-country performance of the A7V was apparent at an early stage:
the capture of British Mark IV tanks at Cambrai in November 1917 enabled the German
engineers to examine the British machines in detail and better appreciate the good
points of their design as well as their weaknesses. The great feature of the British tanks

~ 184 ~
was their ability to move across shell-torn and entrenched ground - a feature owing
much to the overall tracks and low centre of gravity helped by the armament being
placed in side sponsons. The British machines were designed only for a short life and
for ease of production, however, and lacked refinements and did not even have sprung
tracks.

It was at first proposed that an exact copy of the British Tank, Mark IV should be put
into production in Germany where drawings could have been made up from dimensions
taken from captured vehicles. This suggestion was impracticable, first because of the
difficulty in many cases of manufacturing identical components and, secondly, would
have been wasteful of effort in that most if not all of the materials already in production
for the A7V could not continue to be used.

~ 185 ~
The best solution for the A7V committee was to design a new tank on the lines of the
British tanks, but utilizing as many of the original A7V components as possible. The
result was known as A7V/U - the suffix denoting "umlaufende Ketten", or "tracks going
all around". This tank, the prototype of which appeared in June 1918, was generally
similar to the British tanks in appearance, although the side sponsons necessitated by
the use of overall tracks were placed rather further to the rear. The fact that the tracks
were sprung and the relatively high power of the twin Daimler engines uprated to a total
of 300 h.p. gave the A7V/U on trials a maximum speed of about 12 km/h around
twice that of the British heavy tanks. Its suspension was based on Holt tractor (just as
A7V) and was 8.5m long. Improvements over the A7V included increased armour
protection and better ventilation. Armament consisted of two Nordenfeld 57mm guns
mounted in side sponsons along with four to six 7.92mm Maxim 08/15 machine guns.
Armor protection ranged from 20mm to 30mm and entire tank weighted 39.6 tons.
A7V/U was operated by the crew of 7 men.

~ 186 ~
The trials of the A7V/U showed that its heavier weight (as mentioned, nearly 40 tons)
made it clumsy in action and limited its tactical employment and, furthermore, the track
was liable to be shed by the design of the guide rails. These faults could be overcome,
however, and twenty A7V/Us were ordered on 12 September 1918 although the end of
the war put a stop to their production.

~ 187 ~
~ 188 ~
There were also plans to make two variants: A7V/U2 was to be a version with smaller
sponsons and machine gun mounted in a cupola, while A7V/U3 was to be armed only
with machine guns. These projects never materialised.

A7V-U: (umlaufende Ketten = "tracks running all the way round"). An attempt to
reproduce the all-terrain capability of the British tanks, the A7V-U was still based on
the Holt chassis but had a rhomboidal hull and all-round tracks. The cab was similar to,

~ 189 ~
but bigger than, that on the A7V and was mounted on top of the forward part of the hull.
Two 57 mm guns were carried in sponsons similar to the British type. The prototype
was built in June 1918; trials showed that it was nose-heavy and had a high centre of
gravity, and the 40-ton weight caused manoeuvrability problems. On the assumption
that the problems could be rectified, 20 were ordered in September 1918, the same
month work on the design was halted.[4]

Drawings for two improved designs were prepared, but the war ended before any were
produced.

Thirty chassis were assigned for completion as berlandwagen supply carriers, but not
all were completed before the end of the war.

Official designation: A7VU Sturmpanzerwagen

Alternative notation:
Started in: 1917
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: on the left, dismantled in September 1918, the prototype level,

The appearance of the first British tanks Mark I in September 1916 initially did not
make a strong impression on the Kaiser's army command believes that the initial effect
of their use unexpected pass quickly and then all by itself, "calm down." They were
strongly disagree "trench" Officers who have seen with their own eyes how much
damage can cause only one "diamond", which broke the German trenches. Awareness
of the apparent lag behind the enemy in technical terms it is the generals in the head too
late. Only after testing captured in April 1917, tanks Mk.IV strategy of the General Staff
made the conclusion that the German army was in dire need of combat tracked all
terrain vehicle.

As you might guess, the work turned out of nowhere. The summer of 1917 have passed
sea trials of prototype tank A7V, and production is more "universal" chassis, according
to the German generals are equally suitable for tanks and tractor. The project, developed
in June 1917, is an analogue of "Diamonds", but adapted to the specifics of the German.
As a result, the light appeared very controversial fighting vehicle under the designation

~ 190 ~
A7VU (sometimes found variants A7V-U Sturmpanzerwagen), combines the
developments on the German and British tanks. Tests of the first prototpa planned a
September 1, 1917, but for various reasons the appearance of the tank took place at 9
months behind schedule.

The basis of the chassis was chosen for the design of the tank A7V with serial number
524. The modifications had to spend quite a lot. First of all, the chassis has got a
diamond shape. Guide wheels and track tensioning mechanism is now placed over the
body and were made far in advance. The length of the supporting surface decreased, and
the total number of rollers 15 to 24. The rollers were grouped into 4 pieces in three on
each side of the trolley, which in turn are equipped with damping spring for vertical
springs. Drive wheel gearing teeth were located behind and slightly raised above the
ground. The upper rollers are missing, and tracked branch support rails. Use only two
"natyazhny" wheels on each side, entrenched behind the top-spot in the break tracks.
Track chain in construction remained almost similar to the tank A7V: the width of the
metal truck - 500 mm, pitch - 254 mm, the number of trucks was 48 pieces.

Tank Corps riveted construction, designed "from scratch" in general repeated the British
"diamond", but looked even more angular. The front of the wedge-shaped armor has
received two horizontal sheet 20 mm thick installed at a considerable slope. The upper
armor plates mounted at an angle of 50 , has two cutouts for inspection hatches, closed
two horizontal flaps. Hatches were intended for the driver, a place which, together with
controls housed on the left side, and the tank commander. Additionally, on the sides of
the body did more in one machine gun embrasure and hatch, so that visibility in A7VU
tank was clearly better than Mk.IV. The left side was the only door for boarding and
disembarkation of the crew.

The middle part of the body has been busy fighting compartment and power plant. On
the roof of the cabin set high in the form of elongated wide truncated pyramid. In its
frontal and rear plate was made by two small hatch that could be used for surveillance
and firing machine guns and personal weapons. Then, almost in the center of the body,
was set parallel to the two engines Daimler 100 hp Each and liquid cooling system. Fuel
tanks placed in the space between the bottom and the floor of the crew compartment.
Exhaust pipes with silencers was taken to the roof of the enclosure. Given the complete
lack of anti-tank mines allies such technical course looked quite appropriate. On each
side of the engine is a massive sponsons. This solution is not too now looks good, but
the British "diamonds" have sinned and lack the same designers for this occasion is not
particularly worried.

The choice of weapons, as opposed to the history of A7V tank was faster. For A7VU
been developed column book-rests installation, which was mounted 57-mm cannon
kaponirnaya Maxim-Nordenfeldt. Several dozen such weapons along with ammunition
Germans captured back in October 1914 in the fortress of Antwerp and now they have
found more or less good use. It should be noted that the guidance angles in the
horizontal plane 110 , column book-rests installation proved to be more convenient to
maintain. The guns were placed in front of the sponsons. Behind them, in the side walls,
two embrasure were 7.92 mm machine guns Schwarzloze MG 08/15. Another two-
machine gun of the same type were transported in the packing and shooting one of them
could be carried out through a hatch in the hull superstructure. Full tank crew was 7
people: the driver, commander, and four artillerichta mechanic. Compared with A7V his

~ 191 ~
"diamond" brother looked less massive and it seemed that the path has been chosen
correctly. In fact, A7VU had still a lot of shortcomings.

Test first and only prototype A7VU, yet without sponsons and arms, began June 25,
1918, when the situation on the Western Front for the German not changed for the
better. Initial results have produced contradictory impression. On solid ground we
managed to overclock the tank up to 16 km \ h, but a complete redesign of the body and
decrease the bearing surface with the tank tracks played a cruel joke. Tank weight by
almost 10 tonnes - in a fully equipped state of its total weight was 38900 kg. As a
consequence, the increased load on the ground, and the resistance movement was at
40%, than the A7V, and without that do not shine a good road performance. At the same
time, the speed of movement in the area was about 4-5 km \ h, which was at the level of
the British tanks of the period. In addition, A7VU could overcome trenches up to 3.7
meters in width and vertical wall about 1 meter in height. From benefits also noted
better than the "rhombus", the visibility of the driver and commander, as well as a more
favorable angle pointing guns, even though a significant shift towards the stern
sponsons.

Assessing the potential fighting qualities A7VU Military Commission concluded that
the proposed form of the tank does not meet your requirements. The tests, which lasted
three months, was completed September 12, 1918, after the rate ordered the closure of
all the works on A7VU. As a result, the tank prototype was dismantled. The fate of the
upgraded chassis 524 remains unclear. It is possible that it also was dismantled before
the armistice.

SPECIFICATIONS heavy tanks

A7VU sample 1918

Combat weight 39800 kg

CREW, pers. 7

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 8380

Width 4690

Height mm 3200

Clearance, mm 200

two 57-mm cannon type Maxim-Nordenfeldt in side sponsons,

WEAPONS
four 7.92-mm machine gun Schwarzloze MG 08/15

~ 192 ~
allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES telescopic gun sights and telescopic sights for guns

housing forehead - 20 mm
board housing - 14 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 14 mm
roof -
bottom -

Two of Daimler, 4-cylinder, carburetor, liquid-cooled, 100 hp

ENGINE
maximum power each with about 600-900 \ min.

TRANSMISSION mechanical type: 4-speed gearbox, single-row final drive

(On one side) 24 supporting the roller 7 supporting rollers, rear

wheel drive and front teeth engage the steering wheel; elastic
CHASSIS
suspension on vertical springs; krupnozvenchataya metal
caterpillar, truck width of 500 mm, 254 mm pitch truck

16 km \ h on the highway
SPEED
4.8 km \ h in the area

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m 3.00

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 193 ~
57mm Gun from Sturmpanzer #504 "Schnuck"

A great deal of misleading and incorrect information has been written about the guns
with which the A7V was equipped, and much of it is still in circulation, in old literature
and, disappointingly, on several websites. Various accounts state them to have been
Belgian, Russian, or a mixture of both. Some describe them as "Sokol" guns, giving the
impression that that was the manufacturers name. None of this seems to be true.

They were, indeed, captured in both Belgium and Russia, but were not made there.
There is no evidence of an ordnance manufacturer in either country by that name, and
the word Sokol doesnt appear in any contemporary German sources. The Sokolov
wheeled carriage for the Russian Maxim machine-gun might have added to the
confusion, but I can find no details of the origin of that name, presumably that of the
inventor.

The misunderstanding arises from the German for the two types of mounting used to fit
the gun in the A7V: Bocklafette and Sockellafette. Die Lafette means the gun carriage.
Der Bock is one of those versatile German words that means, amongst many other
things, a rack or trestle, even a clotheshorse or vaulting horse, so clearly some sort of

~ 194 ~
framework. Der Sockel (the S is pronounced like Z) means a base, pedestal, or stand.
The equivalent English word is "socle" a base or plinth for a statue or column.

German dictionaries include Sockelgeschtz, a pivot-gun, so it does seem to be a fairly

common word, and German troops undoubtedly abbreviated the two terms in everyday
use. The problem may have arisen simply from an Allied soldier writing the word down
phonetically and not being sure to what exactly the expression referred. The
misapprehension must have somehow found its way into works on the subject.

There is one final reference to this matter later on.

So what make were the guns and where did they come from?

Max Hundleby, in The German A7V Tank, is in no doubt. The Belgian and Russian
governments each bought a batch of these guns from their country of manufacture,
which was Great Britain.

The manufacturer was The Maxim-Nordenfelt Company, formed when Hiram Maxims
arms company essentially took over that of Thorsten Nordenfelt, in 1888. Nordenfelt
had moved to England from Sweden some 20 years earlier, working in the steel
industry. He diversified into armaments and was soon designing and producing a wide
range of guns and even submarines. His name is most often linked with the Nordenfelt
Gun, a similar weapon to the Gatling, but he only manufactured it; was patented by
Helge Palmcrantz, another Swede. Nordenfelt made several models of quick-firing
guns, from 37mm to 57mm, to counter the new threat of the torpedo boat. So, like the
British 6-pounder, the gun was at first a naval weapon. The particular 57mm gun was a
development of the Naval 6-Pounder gun as a fortress gun and had little in common
with the earlier Naval gun.

(Nordenfelt left the company in 1890. As is often the case in this period, his story is
interwoven with others. He moved to France and designed the screw breech for the
Schneider 75mm).

The company then became Vickers, Sons, and Maxim. At some point Belgium and
Russia had bought quantities of the 57mm, and these duly fell into German hands, the
Belgian batch early in the War and the Russian guns in March 1918.

The former were put to a number of uses. When the Germans were looking for a gun to
equip the A7V, they considered but rejected the 2cm Becker canon. Then the 57mm
came to their attention and it proved ideal. The Bocklafette was designed to
accommodate it in the A7V.

~ 195 ~
 The Bocklafette from #506 "Mephisto"

The gun was also designated for the A7V/U, which was under development at the same
time, and the Sockellafette was designed at the Spandau ordnance works for mounting it
in the sponsons. Although the project was eventually abandoned, it was discovered that
the mount was suitable for the A7V and, as it happened, the captured British Tanks.
Over time the Bocklafette was phased out and replaced by the Sockellafette in all A7Vs.

In addition, after the Tank offensive at Cambrai, 150 of the guns were mounted on
socles on the back of motor lorries, and proved to be effective anti-tank weapons.

In the early stages of A7V production, all the guns had come from the Belgian stock,
but the Russian ones became available in the Spring of 1918. These were now used to
arm the British Tanks and to refit A7Vs.

A7V #504 was originally completed as a cargo-carrying Gelndewagen but became a

fighting Tank when the chassis of another vehicle failed and the armoured body was
transferred. It was then fitted with a Russian 57mm and named Schnuck.

~ 196 ~
Schnucks career was short. She took part in the successful attack at Villers-Bretonneux
in April 24th, 1918, and in the indecisive action at Reims on June 1st. On August 31st, at
Frmicourt, after a 20Km trek to get into position, she and A7V Hagen were hit by their

~ 197 ~
own artillery. She was only very slightly damaged, but her crew abandoned her. The
attack failed and Schnuck was captured by New Zealand troops.

~ 198 ~
~ 199 ~
The New Zealanders, unlike the Australians, did as they were told and handed their
trophy over to the British. Schnuck and Hagen were exhibited for a time in London after
the War and then broken up, but Schnucks 57mm gun was acquired by the Imperial
War Museum. It spent many years not at the main museum in London, where there is a
stunning collection of Great War artifacts, but at the branch in Cambridgeshire, which is
predominantly an aircraft museum.

However, in 2002 a new museum opened in Manchester and the gun was transferred to
form part of the exhibition. It is one of only two which survive. The other is, of course,
in Mephisto in The Queensland Museum.

~ 200 ~
The 57mm in its original state and as displayed. The object above the gunners left hand
is a steel plate forming the recoil shield. The two wheels are for traverse and elevation,
and the firing handle is on the right.

A7V Schtzengrabenbagger LMG trench digger

German Empire (1917-18) Tracked Trench.Cutting Vehicle 1 built

The Pioniertruppe A7V-Schtzengrabenbagger

Only 20 A7V German tanks were built during World War One but a lot more chassis
were constructed. Some were turned into tracked supply vehicles called A7V-
Gelndewagen and three were used as A7V-Flakpanzer prototype test vehicles. The
Germans purchased two standard length Holt caterpillar-tractor chassis at the beginning
of their A7V tank development but found they gave poor trench crossing capability so
they lengthened one and used that as their A7V tank tracked chassis. All future A7V
tracked chassis were built to this extended chassis specifications.

The standard length Holt caterpillar-tractor chassis that remained was converted into a
prototype tracked trench digging vehicle. It is believed only one vehicle was produced.

Side view of the A7V-Schtzengrabenbagger LMG trench digger (source Georg

Garbotz)

~ 201 ~
It was used behind the front line to cut trenches. It was not armoured in anyway so it
could not be used anywhere near the enemy. The crew and the vehicle would have no
protection from small arms fire and artillery shells. It therefore had limited use. It was
ideal for cutting defensive frontline trenches and rear communication trenches on pre-
planed lines of withdrawal away from enemy fire.

German Pioniertruppe (Pioneer troops) would have used this machine. They were
already involved in planning, strengthening and excavating trench systems. This earth
digging and moving machine would have made their work easier and got the job done
quicker.

The German engineering company Lbecker Maschinenbaugesellschaft (LMG) based in

Lubeck in northern Germany was known for building Grabenbaggern earth excavation
machines for laying pipes and digging drainage ditches. They mounted their equipment
on the Holt caterpillar-tractor A7V tank chassis.

Rear view of the A7V-Schtzengrabenbagger LMG trench digger (source Georg

Garbotz)

The development of the A7V tank chassis

The situation in 1915 1916 was dire, as Germany, Britain and France had settled into
a stalemate. In order to solve the bloody equation formed by the artillery-barbed wire-
machine gun combination, both Britain and France began development on a vehicle that
had the ability to cross trenches with ease and be able to withstand enemy machine gun
fire. This tracked vehicle would eventually revolutionise the battlefield. Thus the tank
was born.

~ 202 ~
Gelndewagen A7V at the factory with the cargo wooden panel sides in the down
position. Notice that the Holt caterpillar chassis has been lengthened compared to the
one used on the A7V-Schtzengrabenbagger LMG trench digger

Although the tanks suffered from mechanical failures and inadequate crew training they
had a major physiological impact on the German soldiers. German intelligence
subsequently submitted reports to the Oberste Heeresleitung (German supreme
command or OHL for short), which then lobbied the war ministry for an equivalent.
However, some of the senior officers of the time were more focused on artillery and
infantry tactics rather than the development of the tank or similar armored vehicles.

The committee, headed by chief designer Joseph Vollmer, rejected the trench crossing
rhomboid shape track system as used on the British tanks because they wanted to build
a chassis that could be used on a tank and a prime mover heavy artillery gun tractor.
This approach lead to problems.

Two Caterpillar-Holt tractors were obtained and adapted to build a working prototype.
It had a better speed than the very slow British tanks but its trench crossing abilities
were not as good.

Eventually, the Heeresleitung got some funding from the war ministry to make an
equivalent. After months of testing and building, they came up with the A7V. The OHL
ordered 100 chassis to be built. The rest were used to develop several A7V variants
including the berlandwagen and an Anti Aircraft version, called the Flakpanzer A7V.

Germany only produced 20 A7V tanks in World War One. Britain and France built over
8,000 tanks between 1916 1918. In the battles of 1918 the German Army used more
captured British tanks than they did tanks built in Germany.

The Germans were not very imaginative when they gave a name to their first tank. The
letters A7V stand for the committee of the Abteilung 7 Verkehrswesen (7th Transport
Department) of the Prussian War Office.

Specifications

~ 203 ~
Crew 3

Propulsion 2 x 6 inline Daimler petrol, 200 bhp (149 kW)

Speed 15 km/h (9 mph)

Range on/off road 80/30 km (49.7/18.6 mi)

Total production 1

A7V-Schtzengrabenbagger LMG tracked trench cutting machine. Photo taken 28th

October 1918 (source NARA)

~ 204 ~
A7V-Schtzengrabenbagger LMG trench cutter with its bucket jib in the raised
position.

A7V-Schtzengrabenbagger LMG trench digger. Photo taken during digging trials.

A7V-Schtzengrabenbagger Model

This amazing model of a A7V-Schtzengrabenbagger tracked trench digging machine

based on the A7V tank Chassis was scratch built by Alexander Shuvayev.

~ 205 ~
Scratch built model by scratch built by Alexander Shuvayev.

Scratch built model by scratch built by Alexander Shuvayev.

~ 206 ~
Scratch built model by scratch built by Alexander Shuvayev.

berlandwagen Gelndewagen A7V

German Empire (1917-18) Tracked Supply Vehicle 30 built

The German WW1 rough terrain supply vehicle

The situation in 1915 1916 was dire, as Germany, Britain and France had settled into
a stalemate. In order to solve the bloody equation formed by the artillery-barbed wire-
machine gun combination, both Britain and France began development on a vehicle that
had the ability to cross trenches with ease and be able to withstand enemy machine gun
fire. This tracked vehicle would eventually revolutionise the battlefield. Thus the tank
was born.

Although the tanks suffered from mechanical failures and inadequate crew training they
had a major physiological impact on the German soldiers. German intelligence
subsequently submitted reports to the Oberste Heeresleitung (German supreme
command or OHL for short), which then lobbied the war ministry for an equivalent.
However, some of the senior officers of the time were more focused on artillery and
infantry tactics rather than the development of the tank or similar armored vehicles.

~ 207 ~
A7V Gelendewagen with taller wooden side panels.

The committee, headed by chief designer Joseph Vollmer, rejected the trench crossing
rhomboid shape track system as used on the British tanks because they wanted to build
a chassis that could be used on a tank and a prime mover heavy artillery gun tractor.
This approach lead to problems.

Two Caterpillar-Holt tractors were obtained and adapted to build a working prototype.
It had a better speed than the very slow British tanks but its trench crossing abilities
were not as good.

Eventually, the Heeresleitung got some funding from the war ministry to make an
equivalent. After months of testing and building, they came up with the A7V. The OHL
ordered 100 chassis to be built. The rest were used to develop several A7V variants
including the berlandwagen and an Anti Aircraft version, called the Flakpanzer A7V.

Germany only produced 20 A7V tanks in World War One. Britain and France built over
8,000 tanks between 1916 1918. In the battles of 1918 the German Army used more
captured British tanks than they did tanks built in Germany.

The Germans were not very imaginative when they gave a name to their first tank. The
letters A7V stand for the committee of the Abteilung 7 Verkehrswesen (7th Transport
Department) of the Prussian War Office.

~ 208 ~
Gelndewagen A7V at the factory with the cargo wooden panel sides in the down
position

The need for a tracked supply vehicle

The battlefield conditions during World War One were horrendous. The muddy, crater
filled terrain proved too difficult and at times dangerous for both men and animals
carrying supplies being moved to the front. The German Army felt a need to come up
with a way of moving these vital supplies quickly but also safely.

In February 1918 the initial modified order for 100 A7V tanks was changed to just 20
finished units. The remaining A7V production chassis was diverted into making prime
movers, tracked supply vehicles that could also tow guns and other broken down tanks,
and anti aircraft vehicles.

The prime mover supply vehicle based on the A7V chassis had a number of different
names. The Germans made distinctions between Strassenwagen = Road vehicle. This
vehicle crossed rough undulating ground and was called three different names A7V
Gelndewagen (Terrain vehicle), A7V Rauoenlastwagen (Caterpillar vehicle) and A7V
berlandwagen (Overland Vehicle).

The first eight A7V Gelndewagen vehicles (chassis numbers 508 515) were
completed by September 1917. In November 1917 they were in use with the German
Armee Kraftwagen Kolonne (Raupe) III AKK(R)111 (111th Tracked Army Motor
Vehicle Column) in Northern France. By September of 1918 thirty were in services,
with the AKK(R)111 and the AKK(R)1122 Army transport columns.

The A7V berlandwagens carrying capacity was approximately 3 4 tons (2.7 3.6
tonnes). Although it was able to deal with the muddy terrain, it had limited success due
its slow speed, poor rough terrain handling and lack of protection for the crew.

~ 209 ~
The vehicle chassis number was painted on the right hand side at the front just under the
over hanging cargo compartment. Only the number 5 can be clearly seen. This vehicle
has a no drivers compartment canopy just wire rails on which a bad weather tarpaulin
could be thrown over. It has the taller wooden side panels. The number 8 on a light
background in a bordered circle may be the tactical symbol of the German Armee
Kraftwagen Kolonne (Raupe) II22 AKK(R)1122.

Those that did make trips to the front were well received by the soldiers, as the supplies
that the berlandwagen brought intact to the frontline were vital to the men. These
supplies would range from clothes to medicine to munitions and at times food. The fate
of these A7V berlandwagens after World War One is unknown, it is possible that they
were used sometime afterwards before being broken up and scrapped.

The twin Daimler 100hp engines were mounted side by side in the centre with the
driving compartment, arranged for drive in either direction, placed on a platform above
the engines. The driver did not have an armoured cab. The seats in the control position
swivelled and the controls were duplicated for driving in either direction without the
need for turning the vehicle around.

There was a canopy above the drivers head. In some vehicles rails were added to
support a tarpaulin cover over the load spaces. These rails went from the top of the
canopy down to the four corners of the vehicle.

The walls of the drivers cab were only about 2ft (0.6m) tall. He had four large open
window that had no glass. In bad weather canvas sheeting was unrolled from the top of
the canopy and secured to the bottom of the window opening to give the driver and
crew some protection from the elements. The driver and the crew were very vulnerable.

~ 210 ~
Unlike the British that used armoured tanks as supply vehicles that could travel right up
to the front line under enemy fire, the German A7V berlandwagen supply vehicles had
to stay out of range of Allied rifles and machine guns.

The suspension was derived from the Holt tractor suspension, the American tractor
which had also provided the early inspiration for British and French tanks. The A7V-
Uberlandwagen had a front and a rear cargo bay, with wooden panels on the side. Later
versions had taller panels. For ease of loading and unloading the wooden panels could
be unhitched and swing down on their hinges.

Two tow hooks were fitted to the front and back. These were used to tow wheeled
vehicles and guns. They were also intended to be used to help tow broken down,
knocked out or stuck in the mud German, British or French tanks back to safety.

Proving ground adjacent to the Damiler Plant near Berlin. This vehicle was used to train
drivers and mechanics of the German Armee Kraftwagen Kolonne (Raupe) III
AKK(R)111. The side walls on this vehicle are of the short variety.

Vehicle faults

Early reports were favourable but the A7V berlandwagens suffered from the same
mechanical and design problems as the A7V tanks: they had poor cross country
performance and low ground clearance. Radiators and backboards were damaged if the
load that was being carried was not sufficiently tied down. When the vehicle traversed
very undulating ground the heavy load would slide around at fast speeds and hit the
sides of the cargo areas causing damage.

The front and back of the cargo area extended past the tracks. This was problematic if
the vehicle happened to descend into a big shell crater or trench. The nose of the vehicle
got stuck in the mud wall on the other side of the depression. The tracks could not get a
proper grip to drive up the wall. This was a design fault.

~ 211 ~
Fuel consumption was another big issue, especially in 1918 when fuel supplies were
low. The A7V berlandwagen required 10 litres of petrol/gasoline to travel one km. A
wheeled truck only required 3 litres of fuel to cover the same distance. As a result they
were not heavily used.

Specifications

Dimensions 7.34 x 3.1 x 3.3 m (24.0810.1710.82 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 30 to 33 tons

Crew 3

Propulsion 2 x 6 inline Daimler petrol, 200 bhp (149

kW)

Speed 15 km/h (9 mph)

Range on/off road 80/30 km (49.7/18.6 mi)

Total production 30

You can clearly see the bad weather tarpaulin window covers rolled up just under the

~ 212 ~
roof of the drivers canopy in this photo and the wire cargo compartment cover rails
which go from the top of the canopy down to the four corners of the vehicle.

The drivers canopy and cargo cover rails are missing from this vehicle. Also the crew
are formally dressed suggesting that this vehicle is being used for driver training.

Ammunition being unloaded from an berlandwagen A7V near the front line.

~ 213 ~
Fully loaded berlandwagen A7V taking supplies up to the front on a sunny day in
Northern France. The AKK(R) 111 unit swastika tactical symbol is painted on the front
and the sides of the vehicle.

An berlandwagen A7V belonging to the AKK(R) 111 crossing a small trench during
driver training.

~ 214 ~
A pair of A7V Gelandewagens in service with the AKK(R) 111 believed on a training
run and no load is being carried. The swastika sign in a white octagon insignia was the
AKK(R) 111 tactical symbol. (photo NARA)

An A7V Gelandewagen prime movers function was to bring supplies to frontline troops
over rough terrain. In this photo senior German officers were being shown what it could
do with a full load. (Photo NARA)

~ 215 ~
An berlandwagen A7V undergoing trials at the proving grounds of Daimler-Werkes in
Berlin-Marienfelde. The side boards are of the smaller type. In the background a
building of Fritz Werner Werkzeugmaschinen AG in Berlin-Marienfelde.

berlandwagen A7V waiting to be scrapped. It is believed that this photograph was

taken in the early 1920s, in England. Several of these machines were taken for
examination & testing.

~ 216 ~
"Landkreuzer" \ "Landpanzerkreuzer"

Projects of heavy tanks

Official designation: "Landkreuzer" and "Landpanzerkreuzer"

Alternative notation: absent
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: remained at the prototype level.

~ 217 ~
Projects armored vehicles German engineer Friedrich Goble (Friedrich Goeble)
according to the degree of originality rightfully occupy one of the first places. The first
such project appeared immediately before the First World War. In 1913, Goble, based
on 4-ton truck NAG company, has developed the walking (!) Armored vehicle, calling it
Landkreuzer (Land Cruiser). To move this walking tank was using six legs (three on
each side) in the style of children's toys, swaying from side to side. About arming
Landkreuzer information is not preserved, but we can assume that it can consist of
several 7.92 mm machine guns. Because the money for a full-size sample building
lacked Goble assembled a working model and offered her the German army.
Commercial Commission, evaluate projects, put forward their own demands:. Speed 12
km \ h, turning radius - 15.24 m Both conditions were not feasible due to the nature of
the machine running, virtually eliminates the possibility of a reversal. From
Landkreuzer further development of the project had to be abandoned in view of its
technological imperfection and hopelessness.

The failure of the walking machine went Goble benefit. In 1915, when it launched a
tank program, a German engineer proposed a second project in the UK, this time on
crawlers. Introduced commercially Commission Landpanzerkreuzer tank model was
too small to make a positive impression. From it immediately refused, but soon built
Goble third demo model. Another "land cruiser" had a chassis with a caterpillar as a
tank Porohovschikova design. The housing assembled from steel sheets along the sides
connecting at an acute angle. The nose and tail section was sharpened like a battering
ram to the tank can easily overcome the barbed wire.

In May 1917 Landpanzerkreuzer was presented at the sea trials ended Goble for another
failure. The army no longer willing to spend money on projects that do not have a
practical use, the more so at this time, work began on the full tank Sturmpanzerwagen
A7V, so from Goble services have decided to abandon. The story of the third "land
cruiser" finally ended in June 1917, the Engineer has helped the German Crown Prince,
who had heard about the vain attempts to bring Landpanzerkreuzer to mind. It was he

~ 218 ~
who ordered the re-organize the demonstration, for which Goble completely reworked
chassis, giving up one track and replacing it with huge rollers. However, and this option
has appeared unclaimed army, although estimates Goble if Landpanzerkreuzer was built
in life-size, the tank would have a length of 118 feet (36 meters), a height of 17 feet
(5.18 m) and a weight of about 550 tons! armor thickness was 4 inches (10.16 cm).

The latest project Goble became a fighting machine, by the layout of the approximate to
the modern tanks, rear engine and front control compartment. Reservation does not
exceed 4 inches. The General Staff of the German army did not consider it necessary to
fund this project, putting an end to the tankostroitelnoy Goble career.

~ 219 ~
SPECIFICATIONS TANK
"Landpanzerkreuzer" sample of 1917

Combat weight ~ 3000 kg

CREW, pers. 1

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 4500

Width ~ 1800

Height mm ~ 1800

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS ?

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES -

RESERVATIONS prototype is not armored

ENGINE Carburetor

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS odnogusenichnaya with 4 reels

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION not installed

~ 220 ~
Treffaswagen

A project put forward in 1916-1917, by the request of the German War Ministry, was
placed upon the commercial firm of Hansa-Lloyd works of Bremen. They were to
design a battlewagon, Germanys one and only "big wheel" design, which progressed
further than its British counterpart.

The Treffas-Wagen was finished on February 1, 1917.It had two large steel wheels,
about 11ft in diameter, on each side of a rectangular armoured body. At the rear was a
large castor like roller for steering. In front of the body was a 2cm TUF gun, with
machine guns on either side for firing into trenches. The crew consisted of four men. It

~ 221 ~
weighed 18tons. One prototype was built, and thoroughly tested during February and
March of 1917.

Meanwhile the decision was made in favor of the A7V. The Treffas-Wagen was not
developed any further, and was dismantled in October of 1917.

Official designation: Trefass-Wagen

Alternative notation: absent
Started in: 1916
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: the only prototype built.

~ 222 ~
History of German tank not less surprising than the French, especially since both
countries engineers have created a lot of amazing, and at the same time, the structures
unfit for action, before they were built according to the successful tanks. One of these
creations of design thought was wheeled tank Treffas-Wagen. Its history began in the
autumn of 1916, when the German High Command ordered to begin work on the
creation of a combat vehicle, is not inferior to the British tanks on the effectiveness
Mk.I.

Determined not to emulate the British, the construction of which had a lot of failures,
the Germans went on their own way put even more of their own. The development of a
tank company engaged in Hansa-Lloyd of Bremen. Crawler chassis although promised
a better patency, was time-consuming to produce, so the German war machine was
carried out under the scheme vysokolesnogo tank is very similar in design firms Holt
American steam tank. The basis of the undercarriage were two huge wheels with a
diameter of about 3.35 m. To change the direction of movement served as the nose
wheel, rendered as if the bracket is far ahead and more like a drum. The crew,
consisting of 4 people, housed in the casing between the main wheels, as if between
huge millstones. Access inside was carried out through a hatch in the rear, and with an
overview of the driver's seat has been very limited because of the design features.
Armament consisted of two 20-mm guns mounted on the sides in the "kronshteynovoy"
of the case. Total weight Trefass-Wagen was 19 tons.

It was assumed that the tank cannon fire will ironing entrenched enemy infantry and at
the same time be able to overcome the "moonscape" of the battlefield. In fact,
everything was much more difficult. The first prototype was built by February 1, 1917
and was tested before the end of March. Its handling characteristics were significantly
lower than the Mk.I, and firepower, he was not much more than usual armored car.
Summarizing the data the German War Office refused to further support Trefass-Wagen
project, concentrating its efforts on the tank A7V. Nobody needs to wheeled tank a few
more months, he stood motionless and in October 1917 it was dismantled the metal.

SPECIFICATIONS heavy tanks

Trefass-Wagen sample 1917

Combat weight 19000 kg

CREW, pers. 3-4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS Two 20-mm cannon in the housing
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type

~ 223 ~
CHASSIS 2 top roller diameter of 3.35 m, 1 rear roller bearing
SPEED ?
POWER RESERVE ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Orion-Wagen
On May 14, 1917 the Germans held a demonstration at Mainzer Sand for the OHL,
following the Bremer-Wagen spectacle on May 5th, 1917. Von Hindenburg and
Ludendorff were not present; they had lost faith in German tank concepts after the
disappointing Bremer-Wagen demonstration. An OHL Supreme Army Command
(Oberste Heeres Leitung) representative was present, Lieutenant Colonel Max Brauer,
head of staff section O-H. L.C. M. Brauer had some influence with Ludendorff and was
an influence on German arms production and Colonel Meyer, the Chefkraft. On this
day, the A7V prototype wooden mock up was demonstrated and performed satisfactory.
The Orion-Wagen, Treffas-Wagen and the Dur-Wagen were also demonstrated, but
failed to win approval.

The results of the Orion demonstration were published in the Mainzer Protokoll (Record
of the Mainz Evaluation): "The Orion-Wagens performance at the evaluation was not
very admirable. The track system continually slipped and eventually broke. After repair
and tightening of the track linkage, it performed ok. Crushing barbed wire and passing
through the obstacles provided on the course with ease. It was not very successful in
navigating over trenches, getting stuck frequently. The speed and pulling performance
was hampered by its relatively weak 45 Hp engine."

~ 224 ~
Talk had already began on the replacement of the engine prior to the evaluation.
However, time did not permit. "How far the fifty ordered Orion-Wagen are suitable for
armouring remains to be seen. The chassis are expected in late summer. The
peculiarities of the Orion drive with its feet make it doubtful whether it can actually
cross wire entanglements.".

Although the Motor Transport experts very early stated that the Orion track system
would not work sufficiently under field conditions. The project had some High ranking
friends in the OHL, which saw that the project was not cancelled. An order for 50
vehicles was placed, but only 29 completed and 16 were accepted for Army service.

After the Mainz evaluation, the Orion-Wagen tank project was withdrawn, but it was
continued and developed as a tracked transporter.

Orion-Wagen I Prototype One

The original Orion-Wagen tank design was thought to be based on a Orion Plough or
Landwirtschaftlicher Traktor Orion, this in incorrect. It was based on a standard Orion
produced 4 ton Lkw (lorry), to which a set of the very odd footed Orion type tracks
were added. The Orion type track feet were extremely complicated. Each foot had a

~ 225 ~
large spring in between the top and bottom track pad; which would compress when the
Orion tracks rolled around, and helped with the forward drive propulsion. These feet
were attached to a steel band running around the track causers. The Orion-Wagen
Prototype One was also aided in steering by a large steel wheel attached to the front,
reminiscent to the Holt style steering wheel. The Orion-Wagen produced for the trials at
Mainz was armoured in sheet metal, no armament was present on the prototype, but
provisions were allocated for 4 Maxim machine guns. One machine gun per side of the
drivers position, one in the rear in the center of the entrance door, and one was
envisioned to be fitted into the nose, over the front steering wheel. The Orion-Wagen
was never fitted with its armor or armament. The Orion-Wagens performance at the
evaluation was not very adequate.

Official designation: Orion-Wagen

Alternative notation: absent
Started in: 1916
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: remained at the prototype level.

The history of German tanks Series Orion-Wagen began in 1916, when the German
General Staff began to frantically search for a suitable tracked chassis to build your own
tank. By the end of the year the army command considered about a dozen projects, most
of which were real Treffas-Wagen, Dur-Wagen, Marienwagen and Orion-Wagen. The
latest development is different in that its chassis was originally designed as a tank,
though German designers managed to make it into some big mistakes. Chassis Orion-
Wagen consisted of two components: direct caterpillar drive and front wheel control.
Given the uniqueness of shoe designs which somewhat resembled a centipede twisted
into a ribbon, and a narrow front wheel, flotation tanks left much to be desired. The
configuration of the hulls as it was difficult to call the good, as the arrangement for
Orion-Wagen was more like a tractor. The crew of two people placed in the rear of the
engine power of 45 hp installed in the front. Armament Orion-Wagen was to consist of
four 7.92 mm machine guns (one next to the driver, a second rear and two on the sides).
Booked prototype had.

As in 1916, more tank-building in Germany is gaining momentum no one knew exactly

how to behave in a tank in the real world. A strong blow to the designers initiatives was
struck May 14, 1917, when a large gathering of senior officials has been shown
Marienwagen. Its capabilities as a fighting machine made so depressing impression that
Hindenburg and Ludendorff came to the conclusion about the uselessness of this type of
combat vehicle. It had great difficulty to convince the high command to the contrary, a

~ 226 ~
demonstration of the benefit of the other prototypes of German tanks passed more
successfully. The prototype test results Orion-Wagen were set out in the Mainzer
Protokoll - an official document, which evaluated produced tanks running tests.

The tests of the first prototype took place with varying success. At the first attempt of
independent movement Orion-Wagen crashed chassis. Revised Track Shoe situation has
improved, but more or less calm tank could move only on level ground, as soon as the
Orion-Wagen tried to overcome even a small trench, he often stuck in her front wheel.
Exit seemed to install a more powerful engine, but his searching and making changes in
the structure did not have time. By this time, the army managed to issue an order for 50
armored chassis, the truth very soon it will be halved. Given the nature of Orion-Wagen
was collected 29 cars of which 16 were transferred to the operation. The only part of the
army, which in 1918 received the Orion-Wagen, was Armee-Kraftwagen-Kolonne
(Raupe) 1116. As it turned out, in the role of transporters, they, too, were of little use,
even after replacing the engine more powerful 100-hp. An attempt to remove or replace
the front wheel without success and in the end of 1918 almost transporters were
dismantled, and their engines are "moved" to the tanks A7V.

Combat weight ~ 5000 kg

CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 7000
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 2000
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS four 7.92-mm machine gun in the hull
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
RESERVATIONS ? / Td>
ENGINE Carburetor with a capacity of 45 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS half-track with the front guide wheel
SPEED ~ 10 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF COMMUNICATION ?

~ 227 ~
Orion-Wagen II Prototype Two

~ 228 ~
A second prototype was developed in late 1917; in this version the front steering wheel
was removed. A completely new approach was taken on this design. Armament was
also to be 4 Maxim machine guns, as well as a Male version was planned to include a
2cm Tankabwehrkanone Becker M.11, a gun originally designated to be placed in the
A7V. These versions were projected to have a fully rotatable turret, they were offered as
an alternative arrangement to the first prototype. But, by then, the OHL was set on the
A7V, and no interest could be found. A single prototype was produced, and sheet metal
was used to cover the track system, no other armor was placed.

Orion-Wagen III

~ 229 ~
This version was designed for use in the Plan for 1919. Even though it never reached
the prototype stage, it did make it to the design and drawing stage. It was envisioned to
carry two turrets, the main turret was to hold a 2cm Tankabwehrkanone Becker M.11.,
and the secondary turret behind the main turret would house a Maxim machine gun. The
Orion-Wagens structure would be rearranged slightly in the rear to house the secondary
turret. These versions resembled the LK (Leichte Kampfwagen) Light fighting vehicle
series, LKI and LKII.

Orion-Wagen (Zugmaschinen)

One Armee-Kraftwagen-Kolonne (Raupe)-A.K.K.R. 1116 was equipped with the

Orion-Wagen in 1918. But results in the field soon proved the motor transport experts
right, the vehicle was unusable, The Orion-Wagens were altered, by removing the large
track system, replacing the front wheel to a standard Lkw type tire, and redesigning the
Orion track system, to the same specifications as the Benz-Brauer Half-Track design,
except it retained its peculiar track feet.

Also the engines which started out as 45 hp were replaced with 100 hp Daimler engines,
the same ones used in the A7V. Speed would have been around 8 Km/Hr and it would
have weighed 7 metric tons. After they were decommissioned, the engines were
removed, and used as spares for the A7V Marienwagens.

~ 230 ~
Official designation: Orion-Wagen
Alternative notation: absent
Started in: 1916
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: remained at the prototype level.

When it became clear that the tank of the Orion-Wagen does not work, the designers
started to create a completely different car, but at the same "sorokonozhnom" chassis.
Project Orion-Wagen II, developed in late 1917, is quite different from the previous
one. He received a hull of a new form of completely covering the chassis. The crew and
armament remained the same, but this time it was the setting of a rotating tower with a
circular firing. It can be installed as a 7.92-mm machine gun and 20mm cannon 2cm
Tankabwehrkanone Becker M.11.

A third option (Orion-Wagen III) in the whole repeating Orion-Wagen II, but it was
mounted aft of the second tower. It is placed a bit lower and was equipped with a 7.92
mm machine gun, while the tower in front-mounted 20 mm cannon. It was planned that
its production could start in 1919. According to its settlement data Orion-Wagen II and
Orion-Wagen III correspond to light tanks LK-I \ LK-II. However, both projects have
been rejected by the German command.

SPECIFICATIONS Assault Tank

Orion-Wagen II sample 1917

Combat weight ~ 7000 kg

CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 7000
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 2000
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 7.92-mm machine gun in the turret
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
RESERVATIONS ? / Td>
ENGINE Carburetor
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS ?
SPEED ~ 10 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?

~ 231 ~
 MEANS OF COMMUNICATION ?

Marienwagen gepanzert

Before the war the German Army had started investigating the possibility of introducing
a cross country truck, to be used as a carrier for a anti-balloon gun or simply as a tractor
for heavy artillery pieces. Consequently they were interested when they heard of such a
design, the Marienwagen, made by the engineer Hugo G. Bremer.

In June 1915 Bremer was given the go ahead. The Marienwagen cross-country lorry,
produced in the Daimler factory at Berlin-Marienfelde, was a pretty complicated
vehicle, that went through several re-designs and test (not all successful), and which
appeared in several forms, some semi-tracked, others full-tracked, although the basis of
them all was the Daimler four-ton lorry.

After the first British tanks had appeared during the later stages of the Battle of The
Somme in 1916, the shocked Germans searched meet this new and unexpected threat

~ 232 ~
with vehicles of the same kind. One of the first ideas (which was a desperate stop-gap
measure really) was to turn the Marienwagen into a sort of tank, and an order was
issued to convert ten lorries into AFVs. The order stated that these 10 AFVs were to be
delivered in the end of February 1917.

The work of turning these fully tracked lorries into armoured vehicles was led by Josef
Vollmer, senior engineer of the VPK, the Motor Transport Inspection Service. The aim
was to substitute an armoured hull in place of the normal lorry cab and body, and
armouring the engine. The lorry transmission in the MarienWagen was adapted to
drive the rear pair of tracks, which were of rudimenary design, sprung on semi-elliptic
leaf springs. The front pair of tracks were also sprung on semi-elliptics: they were used
only for steering and were not driven.

~ 233 ~
The result of this work was the armoured Marienwagen, or as it was called officially
Marienwagen I mit Panzeraufbau. This can be seen as the first German tank, since it
was completed by the early Spring of 1917. But it was not a tank technically speaking,
only tactically. It was, in fact, more of an armoured personnel carrier: it had no fixed
armament, although ports were provided for the use of the crews weapons. (The
vehicle was to be equipped with two HMGs and two 20mm Bekker AA guns, plus a
flame thrower and other close combat weapons, to be used outside the vehicle.)

~ 234 ~
Officials had already in october 1916 declared that the Marienwagen was not suitable to
be used as a AFV, but work continued despite this. (Also, the Prussian War Office
pressed ahead with the work on setting up on setting up the very first armoured units of
the German Army, the ancestors of the famed Panzer Divisions!: Sturm-
Panzerkraftwagen-Abteilung 1 and 2).

A Marienwagen with a mock-up armoured superstructure was to von Hindenburg,

Ludendorff and other members of the General Staff at Mainzer Sand on 11 March 1917.
It was a disaster. (It was underpowered, and because of its height it also had a very high
centre of gravity, of course making it very prone to toppling over.) The generals were
very disappointed with what they saw, and as a result, Ludendorff lost all interest in
further German tank development. Without his interest and support the whole area was
left to "quarrels and rivalries of subordinate authorities" (Hundleby and Strasheim), with
the effect that the further development of German tanks were much delayed. And the
whole plan of using the Marienwagen as an AFV was finally scrapped.

Later on, as a private venture, a semi-tracked version of the Marienwagen (for which a
much more satisfactory type of rear track had been developed) was fitted with the
armoured hull and turret of an Ehrhardt armoured car. This was only an experimental
vehicle, but is interesting in foreshadowing the impressive development by the Germans
of armoured halftracks in WW2.

~ 235 ~
Official designation: Marienwagen I mit Panzeraufbau
Alternative notation:
Started in: 1916
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

Even before the war, the German army began to be interested in the opportunity to
purchase a vehicle that can travel over rough terrain. At the same time considered the
possibility of its use as a conveyor for transportation of equipment and artillery, or as a
self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon to fight enemy balloons. The project of such a
machine in 1914. Engineer Hugo G.Bremer offered. Army Commerce Commission was
satisfied with the work presented and after improvements initiated in June 1915 the
construction of the prototype. Assembling the off-road transporter was made on the
Daimler factory in Berlin-Marienfilde, after which the car was given semi-official name
Marienwagen.

The basis taken a 4-ton truck, equipping it with two pairs of tracks, of which the rear
was leading, and served as a front for the rotation. The engine was placed in front, the
driver's cockpit placed behind him. While they were running tests Germans "wait"
appearance of British tanks on the Somme. In order to somehow compensate for the
clearly identify the technical advantage of the British German command began
feverishly to choose its own counterpart. As one of such options considered the
possibility of booking tractor chassis. By this time it had ordered 10 pre-production
conveyors Marienwagen, which had to be put to February 1917, some of them are
supposed to be used for this purpose. Booking work was carried out under the
supervision of engineer Joseph Follmer, head of Germany's transport inspection. On
conveyor installed angular armored body, protects the engine and crew. Armament
consisted of two 20-mm semi-automatic gun and a flamethrower, while provided for the
installation of machine guns caliber smaller. After these improvements machine called
Marienwagen I mit Panzeraufbau.

~ 236 ~
While the construction of the first prototype was a command already skeptical of the
possibility of its combat use. The reason for this was the successful disinformation
carried out by British counterintelligence. In October 1916, the military were quick to
abandon Marienwagen, but since the order was close to execution had no choice but to
wait for the bottom line.

In the spring of 1917 the first prototype of an impromptu heavy tank was almost ready
for testing, only the real armor on him and have not installed, replacing its usual iron
sheets. To demonstrate the capabilities Marienwagen collected a lot of high-ranking
officers of the German General Staff, among whom were generals Hindenburg and
Ludendorff. March 11 tank prototype was rolled out to the landfill Mainzer Sand, but
instead of the expected success Marienwagen creators waiting fiasco. The engine
proved underpowered, because of what the tank was moving very slowly and with
difficulty maneuvering even on flat terrain. In addition, a high center of gravity of the
body shifted markedly upwards, thus increasing the likelihood of tipping Marienwagen
when crossing obstacles. There was also the question of arming the tank and its more
rational arrangement. Summing these data General Staff noticeably lost interest in the
tanks, which greatly hindered the work on a more perfect project A7V. General
Ludendorff was generally against adopting tracked armored vehicles.

History Marienwagen ended after only a few months. A trial on the prototype of an
armored tank tried to install a tower of armored Ehrhardt, but this work has had no
value. Summer Marienwagen tank to the metal, but the fate of the others remains
unknown transporters built.

SPECIFICATIONS heavy tanks

Marienwagen I mit Panzeraufbau sample of 1917

Combat weight ~ 20000 kg

CREW, pers. 6-7
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 7000
Width ~ 2500
Height mm ~ 3300

~ 237 ~
Clearance, mm ?
two 20-mm automatic gun and a flamethrower
WEAPONS
(draft)
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead - ~ 9 mm
housing board - ~ 9 mm
RESERVATIONS
food body - ~ 9 mm
roof and bottom - ~ 9 mm
ENGINE Carburetor
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS four crawler section with the suspension leaf springs
SPEED ~ 3 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Leichte Kampfwagen (LK) Series

History of the LK II

After the engineering design work for the A7V tank and tracked lorry had been done,
Joseph Vollmer turned his attention to the development of a light armoured vehicle in
May of 1917. He thought that the A7V and its rhomboid brother, the A7V-U, already
had reached, if not exceeded, the limit of usefulness in terms of size, weight and
performance. He disagreed with the ongoing plans to build a far larger vehicle, the K-
Grokampfwagen (K-Wagen), and went on to construct a small fighting vehicle for one
driver and one or two machine gunners. To accelerate production and utilise already
existing material, he aimed at recycling the engines and gear works of mothballed
passenger cars of the 40 60 HP class, of which he believed about 1,000 to be
available. In September 1917, the Chief of Motor Transport (Chefkraft), Colonel
Hermann Meyer, endorsed this project, which now received the name Leichter
Kampfwagen (Bauart Vollmer) abbreviated LK.

This video of the Swedish version of the LK II, the Strv m/21, has been made by PDA.

During spring, summer and autumn of 1917, however, tank construction was no priority
for the German Supreme Command (Oberste Heeresleitung OHL). This only changed
at the end of November, when, after the shock of the British tank attack at Cambrai, a
short-lived frenzy of activities to enhance and accelerate German tank production arose.

~ 238 ~
In this context, on December 29th, 1917, Meyer placed his proposal to mass produce
light tanks. He estimated that some 500 to 600 machines could be procured with
delivery starting in March 1918.

A first test vehicle was to be ready by the end of January.

The tank would have a maximum velocity of 30 km/h, carry a crew of three, be armed
with one machine gun (and another one in reserve). Armour would be 8 mm hardened
steel (without additives). This armour thickness could stop all ordinary "soft" infantry
projectiles, but those with steel core only above 300m distance; it was chosen because
the weight of thicker armour was believed to overtax the commercial car engines.

Meyer also pointed out that the French were known to be working on a light tank in the
five to six ton class.

OHL rejected this proposal on January 17th, 1918. The 8 mm armour was not considered
proof against infantry bullets. The enemy possessed steel core ammunition with a
performance simular to the one the Germans used. Despite their high velocity, the
vehicles were expected to be put out of action rapidly.

What OHL really wanted is documented by making available 30 additional armoured

bodies for the A7V tank (thus raising the number of projected vehicles to 68) and
charging Chefkraft to explore the possibilities to copy and mass produce the British
rhomboids.

The latter mission would keep Chefkraft and his staff very busy the following months,
but all conferences with Daimler and Krupp would come to nothing because the idea
was finally dropped in favour of LK II production.

Meyer, who accepted the decision against the LK without protest, did, however, not
entierly abandon light tank development. On January 20th, 1918, he ordered:

i. to place no production orders for LK-Wagen

ii. to complete test vehicles as soon as possible

~ 239 ~
 iii. to examine how the LK-Wagen armour could be made resistant against steel
core bullets.

Vollmer only succeeded in having his first LK chassis ready by early March 1918. Test
runs showed that a velocity of 16 18 km/h could be attained, but also demonstrated
that the original 14 cm wide track plates were too small and had to be replaced by plates
25 cm wide.

The armoured body for the test vehicle was delivered on April 7th, the 25cm wide tracks
became available on April 20th. Weight of the tank (without crew) was 6.35 metric tons.

In parallel, Vollmer developed a new vehicle with 13mm maximum armour thickness,
25cm track plates, better speed transformation, and improved manoeuvrability the LK
II. Ground clearance was to be 40cm, the tanks bottom would receive 3mm armour
plates. Weight was calculated to be 8 tons.

Subsequently, the original LK was now designated LK I.

At this moment, things did become a little bit confused. On April 26th, 1918, OHL
received reports about interrogations of French prisoners of war. These revealed
detailed information about the French Renault tank, the FT17.

The German tank situation was rather poor right then: A7V tank production had been
cancelled already, captured British Mk.IVs came into service only in small numbers at a
time and did not fulfil the expectations that had been placed in them.

Suddenly, the Chefkraft proposal to mass produce light tanks was remembered again.
The head of OHL operations section II, Lieutenant-Colonel Max Bauer, became
interested as well. Bauer was a very influential man who also had close ties with the
Krupp company. In August of 1918, Bauer would be given overall control of the
German tank construction programme, but already now he exercised dominating
informal control not least because he was the one who decided about priorities in
allotment of resources.

Consequently, Krupp was asked to forward a proposal for a light tracked vehicle. As
Bauer at that time was mainly concerned in the dire lack of horses for the field artillery,
the Krupp proposal of May 22nd was less a tank than a lightly armed and armoured
artillery tractor, far less capable of surviving enemy small arms fire than the LK I.

On June 13th, a conference was held at the Krupp principal office in Essen. Chefkraft
and Vollmer presented the LK I running around on Krupps proving ground, Krupp
showed drawings of their "Kleiner Sturmwagen".

On June 23rd, mass production was ordered by OHL. While Bauer still wanted
mechanised limbers ("Kraftprotzen"), Chefkraft wanted tanks but compromised to
receive Bauers endorsement. At the same time, Bauer did recognise that the LK was
the only solution that was advanced far enough to enter mass production in a timely
fashion. A small batch of Krupp vehicles was ordered in addition to a series of several
hundred LKs, which were to have towing hooks for guns or mine throwers.
Furthermore, trials for the construction of a LK tank with a 5.7 cm gun were to be

~ 240 ~
started. This is the first mention of a cannon armed LK - although.the opinion that only
gun armed tanks had a chance of success in combat had already been expressed in April,
after the experiences made during the battle of Villers-Bretonneux. To placate Bauer
even further, two turretless LK II Kraftprotzen variants were subsequently designed but
remained blueprints only.

The first LK II prototype chassis became ready by the end of June 1918. It would seem
that the LK I prototype was taken as sufficient example for the machine gun armed
variant, while the first LK II chassis was immediately used for the cannon armed
prototype, thus skipping the construction of a machine gun armed LK II prototype.

On July 17th, the Berlin war ministry formulated that orders for 670 LK II had been
placed so far, and that increased production seemed possible. 2,000 tanks could be ready
until June 30th, 1919; and 2,000 more until December 1919 4,000 in all.

On July 19th, Chefkraft approved that the LK II would form the basis for further
development. There would be two types:

- a machine gun armed LK-Protze with revolving turret, and

- a 5,7 cm cannon armed LK-Wagen.
The LK II inherited the engines and gear works of the mothballed passenger cars that
had already been a feature of the LK I.

On July 23rd, Krupp and Daimler provided a new proposal for a "Kleiner Sturmwagen"
jointly to be produced by both companies. This vehicle was to be somewhat larger and
more powerful than the initial Krupp project, armed either with a machine gun or a 5.2
cm cannon. But by now, decisions had already been made in favour of LK II production.

~ 241 ~
On August 8th, 1918, Chefkraft reportet to OHL that, based on the decisions taken on
June 13th, 270 LK II and 33 Krupp vehicles would be procured until April 1919, and that
starting in April 1919 200 light tanks could be produced each month.

Orders had been placed for machine gun armed vehicles only, as the cannon armed
variant was still under development.

On August 29th, a report established that the 5.7 cm cannon, the same weapon that was
used in the A7V, A7V-U and the captured Britsh Mk.IV males, could not be used in the
LK II. The vehicle was found too frail for this gun, the high weight of the gun also made
the tank tail heavy and thus difficult to steer cross country.

On August 30th, A7V Abteilung 3, engaged in tank familiarisation training for Army
Group Herzog Albrecht on a training ground near Saarburg, received an LK tank for
appraisal and use in the exercises. Unfortunately, the Abteilung 3 war diary does not
reflect whether this was the machine gun armed LK I or the gun armed LK II prototype,
nor have any pictures turned up so far. The LK was only used in one demonstration
exercise, on September 7th, where it ran the show together with A7V 505. Thereafter it
seems to have been withdrawn to Berlin again. Given the timing, it would appear that
this vehicle was the LK II gun type, sent for field testing after the home agencies had
completed their examinations.

Until September 1st, 1918, the construction programme had already grown to 580 LK IIs
plus only 20 Krupps, and on this day was raised again to now 800 LK IIs.

Immediately afterwards, the number of LK IIs ordered was raised again to 1,385, plus
65 Krupps, all to be delivered in spring of 1919, with an option to order even more.

~ 242 ~
On September 30th, OHL decided that the new 3.7 cm cannon, currently under
development at Krupp, would form the armament of the LK II gun tank, and that about
2/3 of the vehicles should have guns and 1/3 machine guns. Whether the gun type
would have a revolving turret or a casemate like the 5.7 cm test piece remained open.
The TOE for Abteilungen 201 to 204 (the ones to be ready until end of April 1919, or at
least half of them, as this number had now gone up again from 400 to 800) just lists 100
machine gun armed tanks for each detachment, thus reflecting that no production of gun
armed tanks had yet been ordered.

In the meanwhile, the skipping of the LK II machine gun armed prototype had
backfired. When production started, it was found that cooling of engine and crew
compartment was inadequate. The solution to this problem, which was finally found by
adding a fan, dragged along until October 1918. It was this fan that now led to the
inverted nose of the production vehicle.

Only on October 10th, 1918, did the first production vehicle leave the assembly line.

On October 2nd, Krupp and Daimler could finally present a test vehicle of their Kleiner
Sturmwagen, but this did not influence the production orders any more.

Shortly before the end of the war, Joseph Vollmer proposed the LK III, which put
engine and gearbox to the rear, the turret to the middle and the driver to the front of the
vehicle, thus achieving the classic layout of modern tanks that had already been
implemented in the French Renault FT17 a year before.

How many LK II MG types actually were completed, remaines an open question. In

November 1918, all contracts concerning construction or repair of tanks or armoured
cars were cancelled.

~ 243 ~
However, a note of the war ministry in Berlin dated September 30th, 1919, records that
90 light tanks on tracks
58 armoured cars with four wheel drive, and
30 makeshift armoured cars on normal 4 ton lorries
had been ordered for Grenzschutz Ost (border protection in the east).

The orders for 38 Daimler D.Z.V.R and 20 Ehrhardt armoured cars with four wheel
drive can be traced to early February 1919. The order for the makeshift lorries cannot
have been placed much later, if not already in December of 1918. All these wheeled
vehicles had actually been procured, although the D.Z.V.R.s only were delivered in
early 1920. This would indicate that the light tanks had been ordered in the same time
frame.

In early 1920, the Hungarians bought one LK II MG type, shortly afterwards another
one, somewhat later in the same year twelve more were purchased "very cheaply from
demobilised materials of German Army". All 14 vehicles were given to the Budapest
based Hungarian Police Recruits School (RUISK) and were kept hidden until 1928, the
armoured bodies stored away in railway wagons. In the early 1930s, only seven tanks
were still serviceable.

In 1921, Sveden bought (at least) another ten LK II MG types. The LK II producer
Steffens & Heymann, Berlin-Charlottenburg, offered 15 "Raupenschlepper" (tracked
tractors), which were in fact LK II. Ten (?) of these were acquired and shipped to
Sveden, where they were assembled and taken into use as Stridsvagn M21 in early
1922.

~ 244 ~
In its final configuration, the LK II had a crew of three, could attain a maximum speed
of 14 km/h, had a range of 60 70 km, could cross trenches 2 m wide, but was not
considered capable of negotiating badly churned up terrain. Armour was to be 12 14
mm front, sides and rear, 8 mm on the top surfaces and 3mm on the floor. The two fuel
tanks (150 litres together) had an extra armoured hull of 8 mm.

Total weight of the vehicle with crew, weapons and ammunition was 8.5 metric tons.

The Leichter Kampfwagen (English: light combat car) or "LK I" was a German light
tank prototype of the First World War. Designed to be a cheap light tank as opposed to

~ 245 ~
the expensive heavies coming into service at the time. The tank only reached the
prototype stage before the end of the war.

Type Light tank

Used by Imperial German Army

Weight 6.9 t

Length 5.1 m

Width 1.9 m

Height 2.5 m

Crew 3

Armor 8-14 mm

Main 7.92 mm machinegun

armament

Daimler-Benz 4-cylinder
Engine
60 hp/44.7 kW

Suspension unsprung

Operational 70 km
range

Speed 14-18 km/h

History

The LK I was designed by Joseph Vollmer. It was based on a Daimler car chassis, using
the existing axles to mount sprocket and idler wheels. Its design followed automobile
practice, with a front-mounted engine and a driving compartment behind it. It was the
first German armored fighting vehicle to be equipped with a turret, armed with a 7.92
mm MG08 machine gun.

Only two prototypes [1] were produced in mid 1918, but no vehicles were ordered. It
was designed as an experimental cavalry tank to pave the way to LK II.[2]

The final designations were:

"LK II Wagen mit MG im Drehtrum" (LK II vehicle with MG in rotating turret) and
"LK II Wagen mit 3,7 cm Kanone" (LK II vehicle mit 3,7 cm cannon)

~ 246 ~
LK II

Type Light tank

Place of origin Germany

Weight 8.75 t

Length 5.1 m

Width 1.9 m

Height 2.5 m

Crew 3

Armor 8-14 mm

Main 37mm Krupp/57mm Sokol

armament

Daimler-Benz 4-cylinder
Engine
60 hp

Suspension unsprung

65-70 km
Operational

~ 247 ~
 range

Speed 14-18 km/h

The Leichter Kampfwagen II (English: light combat car) or "LK II" was a
development of the LK I with the same layout, but incorporating a rotating turret on the
rear superstructure armed with a 37mm Krupp or 57mm Maxim-Nordenfelt gun. Its
armor was 8 to 14mm thick, which increased its total weight to 8.75 tons. Power was
provided by a Daimler-Benz Model 1910 4-cylinder 55-60 hp gasoline engine, giving a
maximum speed of 14 to 18 km/h with range of 6570 km.

A version armed with one or two 7.92mm Maxim 08/15 machine guns was also planned
but progressed no farther than a project.

Only two prototypes were produced by June 1918, and were followed by orders for 580
tanks, which were never completed.

Stridsvagn m/21-29

Type Light Tank

Place of origin Sweden

In service 1922-1939

Used by Sweden

~ 248 ~
 Designer AB Landsverk

Manufacturer AB Landsverk / NOHAB

Number built 10

9.7 short tons (8.8 t; 8.7 long

Weight
tons)

Length 5.7 m (19 ft)

Width 2.05 m (6.7 ft)

Height 2.52 m (8.3 ft)

Crew 4

Armor 4-14 mm

Main ksp m/14 (2)

armament

Benz 1910
Engine
55 hp

16 km/h (9.9 mph) to

Speed
18 km/h (11 mph)

Following the war, the Swedish government purchased parts for 10 examples in secrecy
for the sum of 200,000 Swedish kronor. The parts were shipped as boiler plates and
agricultural equipment and then assembled in Sweden as the Stridsvagn m/21 (Strv
m/21 for short), which was essentially an improved version of the LK II prototype. The
Strv m/21 was powered by a sleeve valve type engine located in the front, the driver and
crew being in the rear. The suspension and running gear was protected by armored
skirts. Ten of these tanks were built and were armed with a single 6.5 mm machine
gun.[1]

In 1929, five were rebuilt to create the Strv m/21-29 variant which was armed with a
37mm gun or two machine guns and was powered by a Scania-Vabis engine. The Strv
m/21-29 was an upgraded version of the fm/21. The modifications included a more
powerful engine, a new alternator, and external lighting.[2] One of these improved
vehicles was driven by Heinz Guderian during a visit to Sweden in 1929.

The Germans later bought a main share of the Landsverk Company and made Otto
Merker the main designer and in 1931, it produced the Strv m/31 (L-10), which was the
first tank produced in Sweden.

~ 249 ~
The Strv m/21-29 remained in service until 1938. A surviving example can be seen at
the Deutsches Panzermuseum at Munster, Germany, and both strv m/21 and strv m/21-
29 was displayed at the Axvall Tank Museum in Sweden.

One Strv m/21-29 is in the early stages of being restored to full working order in
Sweden.[3]

K-Wagen

In June 1917, before the first A7Vs were even completed, the German War Ministry
ordered the construction of a new colossal super-tank, the biggest tank ever designed:
the K-Wagen! (K standing for Kolossal, meaning...colossal.) The K-Wagen was thought
as a enormous moving fortress bristling with guns and MG:s, to be used in breakthrough
situations. The weight was some 150 tons, and it would be powered only by two small
200 HP motors! (Later on these two tiny motors were switched for two 650 HP motors.)
The enormous weight of the vehicle of course made it impossible to move any longer
distances, so it was to be transported by rail in four parts of some 30 tons each, only to
be put together behind the front line, at the point were it was to be employed. The K-
Wagen was also supposed to have a trench crossing capacity of some 4 meters, and no
less than four 77mm cannons. The design was done by Vollmer.

~ 250 ~
Almost from the very beginning of the project sceptical voices was heard. The sheer
size of the vehicle made it difficult to produce, as no standard components or techniques
could be employed. So it was decided that the tank was to be built by companies with
experience from building bridges(!) and the tracks came from power shovel
construction. Soon it was also discovered that the tank was too heavy, so the length was
reduced to 13 meters, which at least cut the weight with some 30 tons. The original
order was for ten vehicles. The weight was some 120 tons! It has been called
"completely nonsensical", but two prototypes were actually under construction when the
war ended - one was nearly finished. People doubting the whole idea were silenced by
being told that von Hindenburg himself wished it to be built.

Technical Data
Weight 120 tons
Max.
30mm
Armour
Max. Road
7.5 km/hr
Speed
4 x 77mm
Armament 6 x 7.92mm
MG 08/15
Crew 18 - 22

~ 251 ~
 Type Super-heavy tank

Place of origin German Empire

Weight 120 t

~ 252 ~
 Length 13 metres (43 ft)

Width 6 metres (20 ft)

Height 3 metres (9.8 ft)

Crew 27

Armor 30 mm

Main 4 x 77 mm guns
armament

Secondary 7 x 7.92 mm MG08

armament

2 x V6 Daimler
Engine
650 hp

Suspension unsprung

7.5 kilometres per hour

Speed
(4.7 mph)

The Grokampfwagen or "K-Wagen" (short for G.K.-Wagen) was a German super-

heavy tank, two prototypes of which were almost completed by the end of World War I.

History

In June 1917, before the first A7V tanks had been completed, the German War Ministry
ordered the development of a new superheavy tank intended to be used in break-through
situations. Design work was carried out by Joseph Vollmer, a reserve captain and
engineer working for the Verkehrstechnische Prfungskommission ("Transport-
technologies Board of Examiners" of the army), and a Captain Weger.

On June 28 1917 the War Ministry approved the draft design and ordered ten examples,
five to be built by the Riebe ball-bearing factory in Berlin and five by Wegmann & Co.
of Kassel.

The vehicle originally weighed 165 tons but this was reduced to a more practicable 120
tons by shortening the length. The huge size and mass of the K-Wagen made it
impossible to transport, so it was decided that it would be split into sections for
transport by rail, to be reassembled behind the front line near where it was to be used.

Two prototypes were built at the request of Hindenburg, and were almost complete by
the end of the war.

Description

~ 253 ~
The hull of the K-Wagen consisted of six modules that could be transported separately
by rail: the control room, the fighting room, the engine room, the transmission room and
the two sponsons. The commander could give orders to the crew by means of electric
lights: fire control was comparable to that of a destroyer, the Germans seeing the
vehicle as a veritable "landship". The drivers would have had to steer the vehicle
blindly, directed by the commander.

The K-Wagen was to be armed with four 77 mm fortress guns and seven MG08
machine guns and had a crew of 27: a commander, two drivers, a signaler, an artillery
officer, 12 artillery men, eight machine gunners and two mechanics. At the beginning of
the project the incorporation of flamethrowers was considered but later rejected.

The K-Wagen never became operational as under the conditions of the Armistice
Germany was forbidden to possess tanks. One of the tanks, "Ribe"[verification needed] was
complete at the end of the war, but it never left the factory and was scrapped under the
watchful eyes of the Military Inter-Allied Commission of Control.

~ 254 ~
Official designation: K-Wagen, Kolossal-Wagen, K-Wagen, Kolossal
Alternative notation: Grokampfwagen
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: two unfinished prototypes were dismantled after the war.

Shortly before testing a prototype armored tracked Marienwagen I mit Panzeraufbau,

that the tank can be called a stretch, in March 1917, Command Headquarters, in
conjunction with the Inspectorate of motor forces, the German army has formulated the
requirements for the type of super-heavy tank weighing up to 150 tons. Upon request, as
the power plant was supposed to use two petrol engine capacity of 250-300 hp
Reservation was 30 mm, which was supposed to provide protection against fire field
artillery caliber of not more than 75-80 mm. In turn, the German tank armament would
include four guns caliber 57-77 mm installed four 7.92-mm machine gun MG08 and
two flamethrower. The length of the tank would be significantly higher than 10 meters,
which would make it possible to overcome the trenches up to 4 meters. Development of
the project was assigned to one of the most talented German R.Follmeru engineers who
conducted parallel work on heavy tank A7V and light LK-I.

Super-heavy tank, the draft of which the War Department already approved the June 28,
1917, got several names. Most often used designations Kolossal-Wagen, K-Wagen or
Kolossal, but sometimes found the name Grokampfwagen ( "grosskampfvagen" - a
great fighting machine). Initially, the design and construction of 10 cars took a year, but
soon SGK reduced this period to 8 months, with significantly expanded program. It was
assumed that at least 100 of the revised draft of tanks will be built in 1918. The price of
one K-Wagen was originally estimated at 500,000 German marks, that in a difficult
economic situation in Germany was just an astronomical sum.

Of course, the design of K-Wagen was not without the influence of British diamond-
shaped tanks. They did not have high mobility, but carrying heavy weapons and were
able to easily overcome ditches and trenches up to 3 meters. Hence there was an
arrangement with an elongated body and completely covering its tracks, as well as the
deployment of weapons in the side sponsons. In general, the arrangement K-Wagen get
the original, with the placement of the crew in the two-tier division of the body into four
compartments.

The front of the building was given over to the place for the three machine-gun units,
two of which were placed on the sides and one in the front broneliste slightly offset to
the left.

In the middle part of the body was fighting compartment, which was aligned with the
management of the department. Places both drivers were out of machine gun and had no
(!) Inspection devices. Tank management is performed by the commander, who, along
with an artillery officer was on the upper level and were protected by a cylindrical turret
with six armored observation slits and the top hatch. Since the tank to be fitted with a
radio station in the center of the crew compartment was located place for a radio
operator. The sides were great sponsons, each of which was designed for the installation
of two 77-mm guns kaponirnogo type semi-automatic gate and two 7.92-mm heavy
machine guns. Tilting of the gun was mounted on a rotating pedestal with a semi-
cylindrical shield and fencing breech. Pointing a weapon at the target was carried out
using a telescopic sight and coaxial flywheels. The front of the sponsons were designed

~ 255 ~
in such a way as to maximize the firing of guns sector. In fact, when an existing
deployment of weapons, provides nearly circular firing, except for a narrow sector of
the stern.

The third and fourth compartments was the power pack. As a result of the calculations,
it was found that even a 300-horsepower engine will not give sufficient power density,
so the stake on two engines Diamler-Benz power of 650 hp For their service there were
two mechanics. Exhaust pipes with silencers and radiators to be displayed on the roof at
the rear of the chassis. Near the engines were fuel tanks total volume of 3000 liters.
Above engines displayed two exhaust pipes. To access the air cooling system and the
hot air output by the four motors intended ventilating hatch in the roof and the body,
three on each of the sponsons. The fire of the machine-gun fodder plants also had to
drive mechanics.

Tank K-Wagen turned really was great in all respects. His full crew should include,
according to various sources, from 22 to 27 (!) People. The latter option has the
following composition: the commander, two drivers, an artillery officer, 12 artillerymen
(charging, gunners, podnoschiki ordnance), eight gunners (two persons per gun) and
two mechanics. Why was it necessary to complete K-Wagen, literally a crowd of
tankers will not be difficult to understand, given the conservative management
Command Headquarters. According to the old warriors to serve a full-time tools
required payment. Apparently, to avoid tank decided not to do. The same goes for guns
- for them, as in the infantry needed a shooter and loader.

No less original turned undercarriage K-Wagen. In contrast to the same British

"lozenges" with flanged rollers on the type of rail is not fastened to the body of the tank,
and to the tracks of the caterpillars. Truckee were components and assembled with bolts
and rivets. Track set in motion a chain drive wheel aft position and moved on rails
covering the entire body. The upper branch of the caterpillars, with front and rear
descending branches were covered with an armored roof, curved transition into
broneekrany.

While there were design and research SGK has revised its opinion on the super heavy
tanks and their number. Now, instead of 100 cars were required to make only 10. In
April 1918, the War Department signed a contract for the supply of the first five K-
Wagen tanks Riebe ball bearing plant in Berlin-Weissensee, and five others were to
receive from the Company Wagonfabrik Wegman from Kassel.

~ 256 ~
It's hard to say how the German command are going to use super-heavy tanks. If the
weapons to the K-Wagen did not arise, then the part of the high-speed performance and
mobility on the ground, there was no certainty. The situation was aggravated not only
the huge mass of the tank, which is fully let his self-nomination to the front lines, but
also a complete lack of review by the driver. As a result, October 18, 1917 Department
of Experimental Inspection of automobile troops made the logical conclusion that the
use of K-Wagen as a breakthrough tank is unacceptable. Ten build machines now had to
engage in battle purely defensive, especially since the situation on the Western Front
was formed in Germany the worst way.

Despite many technical shortcomings tanks construction progressed rapidly and two K-
Wagen was almost collected by 11 November. According to various reports of their
condition is estimated from 70 to 90% complete. Photographs of the time for the most
part to confirm this version. After the armistice, the need for super-heavy tanks
completely disappeared. However, the representatives of Germany appealed to the allied
command with a request to finish at least one K-Wagen and hold in 1919 its tests. The
British are not strongly objected to the continuation of the German tanks with the
expectation of future profits, but for the French it was a matter of principle. The hatred
of everything German was with them is so high that almost all the captured German
weapons they sent for scrapping, handing over only a small part of their newly made
allies in Eastern Europe. The same unenviable fate and tanks K-Wagen - in early 1919,
both unfinished prototype sent for scrapping.

DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS super-heavy tank

"K-Wagen" sample in 1918

Combat weight 150000 kg

CREW, pers. 22-27

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 12800

Width 5900 (with the sponsons)

Height mm 3300

Clearance, mm ?

kaponirnye four 77-mm cannon and seven 7.92-mm heavy

WEAPONS
machine gun Schwarzloze MG08

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES telesopicheskie gun sights, optical machine-gun sights

RESERVATIONS housing forehead - 30 mm

board housing - 30 mm

~ 257 ~
 food body - 30 mm
roof - 10 mm (?)
the bottom - 10 mm (?)

ENGINE Daimler-Benz, liquid-cooled, 400 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type:

road wheels are fastened to the composite track shoes, rear

CHASSIS
wheel drive, Rail cover body

SPEED 7.5 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
not installed
COMMUNICATION

Sturmpanzerwagen Oberschlesien

Place of origin Germany

~ 258 ~
Weight ~19 t

Length 6.7 m (7.3 yd)

Width 2.34 m (2.56 yd)

Height 2.9 m (3.2 yd)

Crew 5

Armor 14 mm (0.55 in)

Main 1 x 57 millimetres (2.2 in) or

armament 37 mm (1.5 in) cannon

Secondary 2 x 8 mm machinegun
armament

Argus As III[1]
Engine
190 hp (140 kW)

Power/weight 10 hp/t (7.3684 kW/t)

Operational 60 km (37 mi), ~100 km

range (62 mi) paved road(s)[2]

16 km/h (9.9 mph) on roads

Speed
9 km/h (5.6 mph) off road

The Sturmpanzerwagen Oberschlesien ("Upper Silesia assault armoured wagon" from

German: der Sturm, the storm, the assault; German: der Panzer, gepanzert the armour,
armoured; German: der Wagen the vehicle, wagon) was a German tank project of the
First World War. It was a radical design for a fast-moving, lightly armored assault tank.

The Oberschlesien included a track which was placed under the tank and only wrapped
around half of it. The design sacrificed armor for the sake of speed and only required a
180 hp engine for the 19 ton body, giving it a projected ground speed of 16 km/h
(9.9 mph).

The tank featured such advanced features as a main cannon mounted on top of the tank
in a central revolving turret, separate fighting and engine compartments, a rear-mounted
engine and a low track run.

History

Towards the end of the First World War it was clear that the only operational German
tank, the A7V, was too expensive to produce and had too large a crew. Therefore, it was

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decided that a lighter tank was required which could spearhead assaults and which could
be mass-produced.

Thirteen companies bid for the contract and in the middle of 1918, construction of a
design by Captain Mller was assigned to the Oberschlesien Eisenwerk of Gleiwitz,
which had partially completed two prototypes by October. The project received the
pseudonym Oberschlesien (Upper Silesia).

Neither the ordered test models, nor the improved "Oberschlesien II" already planned
were finished before the end of the war.

Official designation: "Oberschlesien" and "Oberschlesien II"

Alternative notation: absent
Started in: 1917
Year of construction of the first prototype: not built
Stage of completion: the end of 1918 were ready only sketches and scale models.

Despite the failure of the summer offensive in France, the German High Command did
not despair and continued to search for ways to stabilize the front, not only due to
transfer infantry units, but also the delivery of new equipment. During the last months
of the war to the several interesting projects have been submitted, but the greatest
interest was the development of the company Oberschlesishe Huttenwerke (Upper
Silesian Steel Works).

The tank had the designation "Oberschlesien" ( "Upper Silesia", although sometimes
found the name "Dominatrix") and belongs to a class Sturmpanzerwagen - assault
armored vehicles. In other words, the modern classification of this type was the middle
tank with a powerful cannon and machine gun armament. In case of success of the
project "Oberschlesien" had to be replaced are not too good A7V. The project is like a
military, not only for its simplicity but also a rational arrangement.

The tank had the designation "Oberschlesien" ( "Upper Silesia", although sometimes
found the name "Dominatrix") and belongs to a class Sturmpanzerwagen - assault

~ 260 ~
armored vehicles. In other words, the modern classification of this type was the middle
tank with a powerful cannon and machine gun armament. In case of success of the
project "Oberschlesien" had to be replaced are not too good A7V. The project is like a
military, not only for its simplicity but also a rational arrangement.

In contrast to other German tanks, projects which could bring to realization,

Oberschlesishe Huttenwerke engineers chose this option placing the basic units of the
tank, which has been provided an optimum combination of indicators such as firepower,
mobility and protection. The resulting body was arranged as follows.

In the bow there is a control room, which housed the place of the driver, which is
installed over the head with a cylindrical cutting observation slits. Before him, on the
top front of the compartment, it was made a big two-folding hatch designed for
boarding and landing of the crew. The middle part of the body was completely
dedicated to fighting compartment, made by a two-tiered scheme. On the first floor
there was a large superstructure, which is also a turret box to the top of the tower and
close the rear wall of the lower of the two towers installed along the longitudinal axis of
the body. The small tower mounted on a single 7.92-mm machine gun Schwarzloze
MG08. Home twin tower was equipped with 57-mm cannon and a small kaponirnoy
commander's cupola, is on its roof. Thus, a complete tank crew consisted of 5 people: a
driver, two gunner, commander and gunner. Ammunition for the gun was 50 shots to
the machine gun - 8000 rounds. The aft located petrol engine Argus AS3 180
horsepower, transmission, fuel tank of 1000 liters, as well as cooling and lubrication
systems.

Reservation assault tank "Oberschlesien" it was difficult to call the powerful - the
frontal part of the body was protected 14 mm armor, side and feed - 10 mm. However,
this was enough to protect against any caliber bullets and destruction of small
fragments.

But especially the original turned undercarriage. With reference to one side, it included
four chetyrehkatkovye truck with a stiffer suspension, guides (they - tension) wheel
positioned in front and behind, and drive wheel placed in the middle of the hull. It was
spitsovannym, had a somewhat smaller diameter with respect to sloths and was located
slightly above them. All open chassis components fully armored. Such technical
progress has enhanced permeability through an area and chassis protection in general.

~ 261 ~
Estimated weight "Oberschlesien" first draft was 19-20 tons that is theoretically
possible to obtain a maximum speed of 16 km \ h when driving on paved roads. In
addition, it expects good maneuverability.

Approval of the project is likely to held in June-July 1918, however, the preparation of
working drawings and construction so unusual at the time the machine would take a lot
of time. Then in October the firm Oberschlesishe Huttenwerke developed a simplified
project called "Oberschlesien II". It differs from the first model was to use as a base
chassis Holt tractor. What kind of modification was chosen for improvements under the
tank chassis is not yet clear, but to bring this work German engineers were not able to
its logical conclusion - November 11, 1918, Germany signed an armistice with the
Entente. Designing Oberschlesishe Huttenwerke company of tanks was discontinued, so
that no one could not collect a test sample. Before our time survived only copies of
sketches.

DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS Assault Tank

"Oberschlesien" sample in 1918

Combat weight 19000 kg

CREW, pers. 5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 6200

Width 2340

Height mm 2965

Clearance, mm 600

WEAPONS one 57-mm cannon and two 7.92-mm machine gun MG08

allowance of ammunition 50 rounds and 8,000 rounds of ammunition

aiming DEVICES telescopic sights (only design)

Tower - 10 mm
housing forehead - 14 mm
RESERVATIONS board housing - 10 mm
food body - 10 mm
roof - 10 mm

Argus AS3, gasoline, liquid cooling, capacity 180 l.s.pri

ENGINE
1400 \ minutes.

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TRANSMISSION mechanical type

(On one side) 16 of rollers assembled in 4 trucks, front and

CHASSIS
rear guide wheels, the average drive wheel

SPEED 16 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ~ 100 km

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

French Beutepanzers
The Germans intensive use of British Mk IV Tanks is well-known. In fact, they used
more Mk IVs than their own tank, the A7V. Most of these Beute Mk IV's had been
captured during the Battle of Cambrai, and they were refurbished, repainted and in
many cases rearmed, all in special workshops. (The Mk IV was the first type captured in
reasonable working order.) In fact, the Germans had plans to produce a copy of the Mk
IV. They also took 10-15 Whippets in all, but only two runners. (Here I want to quote
Rainer Strasheim:
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"In summer of 1918, it was known as the new "English" design - Germans didnt use the
term "British" at that time - and the armies facing the British were keen to learn more
about it. So, normally, an Abt. moving out for demonstrations might be given a non-
running Whippet to show around. Only Abt.13 received - to their own very surprise - a
runner - the one which later became the Freikorps "53". However, they had been told
they would get a non-runner. When they got the runner instead, the whole training
scheme was upset, because everybody wanted to drive and test the new vehicle.")
They were much impressed by the Whippet, but by all accounts never used it in combat
during the War. (As mentioned above, one Whippet, "53", was used in the internal
fighting in Berlin in January 1919.) They never captured any Mk V's. (A Mk V marked
"Hanni" can be seen in the famous Russian Tank Museum in Kubinka, but that is not
the original "Hanni", but one of the Mk Vs used in the Russian Civil War, later
repainted to resemble a Beute Panzer.) One Mk V was taken from the Soviets during the
Fighting in Russia during WW2, and paraded in Berlin. It was retaken by them in
1945.)

Much less has been known of the German usage of French Tanks. It is known that they
did capture some. In the photo below can be seen the French FT-17 Hargneuse III,
fitted with was seems to be a mock turret, and tested with Abteilung 14. (In the
background the Beute Mk IV Liesel can be seen.) "Hargneuse" can only have been
captured during the German advance to the Marne after 27th May, 1918, so, the date is
probably August-September 1918. Also, the German Tank Expert Rainer Strasheim has
found out, that the German Army captured at least one St Chamond, called Petit Jean
Pas Kamerad (Pas Kamerad can be translated into "No Mercy") and that it was in
running condition. In the book "Beutepanzer im Ersten Weltkrieg" by Fred Koch the
author states that Pas Kamerad was used only for trials, and that the French 75mm gun
was replaced by a Belgian 5.7cm gun and one Hotchkiss MG by a 13 mm Tankgewehr.
Note that Rainer Strasheim has only found evidence of this tank being in
"reconstruction", and that theres no evidence that this vehicle ever received the
armament mentioned. The photos below all show Pas Kamerad, and all come from the
collection of Mario Doherr, who has very kindly supplied them. The files ARE big, but
they show VERY good detail, including the optical signal system of the tank. The
fourth photo is from the Collection of Tim Rigsby.

~ 264 ~
Also, Steve Zaloga in his research has found that the Germans also captured and used in
combat one Schneider CA.1, the one showed in the photo below - credits to NARA. It
appears to be a late variant Schneider, with applique armour. It was knocked out by 1st
Division 75mm Artillery near Froissy on 20 July 1918. (It has blown up, and the back
of the roof is missing altogether - a common enough fate for these tragically vulnerable
Tanks.) The lack of all German markings, and the fact that the Tank is equipped with
the original 75mm howitzer, points to this being a Tank captured and used as is,
probably on local initiative. It could also very well be, that it is simply a
misidentification on the American part. Anyway, Rainer Strasheim states that
"Although it might be possible, that the Germans may have captured one or several
running Schneiders, theres certainly no documentation about it, neither written nor
pictorial".

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~ 266 ~
~ 267 ~
Beute Mark IV

As we all know, the most numerous tank used by the Germans in WW1 was not
German at all, but British! Especially after the Battle of Cambrai in late 1917, the
Germans found themselves in possession of both the Battlefield and quite a large
number of knocked out and abandoned Mk IVs, and they started an operation of
collecting all these vehicles, some of of which were ready to use, others only good for

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spares. Due to the fact that the A7V programme proceeded slowly, it was decided to use
these to equip German ATDs (Assault Tank Detachments) with these tanks.

Repaired and rebuilt, they were used under the designation "Schwerer Kampfwagen
(Beute)" or as we tend to call it "Mk IV - Beute". The modifications introduced were
small. To quote from Rainer Strasheim and Maxwell Hundlebys The German A7V
Tank and the Captured British Mk IV Tanks of WW1:

"In early April 1918, the 5.7 cm Belgian QF guns in socle-mounts started to arrive at
BAKP 20. As they were delivered in complete form by the Prussian Artillery Workshop
at Spandau, the installation caused little problem, and after a short time all Male tanks
in service with the "captured" ATDs were gun equipped. On June 5th, the OHL
demanded that all captured tanks were to be armed with guns. A corresponding number
of guns was ordered, but the measure was never translated into reality. BAKP 20,
however, evolved a method to replace the bow machine gun of the Mark IV with a 13
mm anti-tank rifle. In the autumn of 1918, some Female tanks were fitted out with the
13 mm T-Gewehr. Except for the armament, the Germans usually left the Mark IV tanks
as they were. The only alteration was the fixing of an escape hatch to the cupola-roof of
most vehicles."

~ 269 ~
The Mark IVs were not overly popular. Due to their slow speed, they often had
problems keeping up with the fast-moving German Stormtroopers. But it was often the
only tank readily available. The rate of attrition was great. With a good supply of
captured tanks, vehicles damaged or stuck were not usually salvaged. If they were still
useable, the guns and machine guns were removed, and the tanks themselves were
either blown up or abandoned. This is the major reason why so few detachments
equipped with Beute Mark IVs were formed, although they had so many tanks in store.
BAKP 20 could simply not repair vehicles as fast as the detachments used them up.
Also, the Beute Mark IV s often suffered from mechanical failures, as was also the case
with those still in British service. To keep the fighting strength of the detachments, it
therefore was very common to add one or two reserve tanks to the normal establishment
from late summer of 1918.

The following is from Rainer Strasheim in response to a proposal by Peter Kempf to

build a Beute Mark IV with MG 08/15 armament without unditching rails.

Theres only one Beute Mk.IV (that I know about) without rails and using the 08/15
machine guns. Thats No. 155 of the Kokampf armoured force seen in Germany 1919.

~ 270 ~
All other Beute Mk.IV in France and Belgium in 1918 used rails and British Lewis
guns. In fact, by the use of different types of rails its possible to discern certain
Abteilungen or to date pictures.

I know theres a famous Tank Museum picture that seems to show a female Mk. IV
with a 08/15 sticking out of her sponson. However, on close examination, this is more
likely to be a piece of lumber and the muzzle of an oil can. The vehicle, Wagen 118, is
seen during the rehearsal for an exercise in September 1918, on a training ground north
of Cambrai. Its the No. 3 Tank of Abteilung 13, the Commander was Leutenant Korb.

~ 271 ~
For the use of Tank Gewehre (antitank rifles) there seem to be two variations. The first
one uses one AT rifle in lieu of the bow machine gun. The second one (apparently the
official one) uses two AT rifles, each one replacing one machine gun in each sponson.
Photographically, theres only proof of variation 1. British reports, however, state that
variation 2 was found on some vehicles captured late in the war. However, the use of
AT rifles would also indicate a vehicle painted in Buntfarben-Anstrich and using
Balkenkreuze.

If you intend to build No. 155, this vehicle belonged to the tank training detachment
near Berlin and therefore received her Buntfarben-Anstrich in Germany. Therefore,
colours may differ from what was used in Northern France and Belgium.

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~ 273 ~
~ 274 ~
~ 275 ~
~ 276 ~
~ 277 ~
Minerva armored car

Belgium (1914) Armored car approx. 35 built

The Belgian Army, pioneering the use of armored cars

By 1914, the good road network and flat terrain of Belgium favored large-scale use of
armored cars. In 1912, the Belgian Army was already pioneering small patrol units of
regular road cars equipped with machine-guns. In August 1914 two car chassis were
handed over to Lt. Henkart to be armored and then donated back to the Belgian Army.
The most well known of these vehicles was the Minerva, built at Antwerp. The sturdy

~ 278 ~
and powerful 16CV chassis was shipped naked (without bodywork) to Cockerill
works, located in Hoboken, and equipped with 4 mm (0.15 in) armored plates.

Design of the Minerva

To cope with the extra weight, double wheels were added to the rear drivetrain. For
better rigidity, there were no doors, the crew having to climb into the vehicle. The
single open-top superstructure (also called bathtub) housed the driver, commander,
gunner and gun servant (although the crew could be from three to six including
sharpshooters). The superstructure was flat at the front and rounded at the end, whilst
the ring mount for the machine-gun was placed at the rear and allowed it to traverse
fully. The machine-gun, a standard air-cooled 8 mm (0.31 in) Hotchkiss model 1912 or
1914, was protected by a shield. The engine hatch was armored, as well as the radiator,
by a small twin hatch.

Evolution and wartime action

Around thirty Minerva were converted as armored cars in 1914, before the factory was
captured during the German advance; by 1916, the design was completely revised. The

~ 279 ~
open-top was fully enclosed, the machine gun now relocated aft under an armored
cupola and two side doors added. At least one was equipped with a Puteaux 37 mm
(1.46 in) gun, however it is not know how many of this version were made. They were
used in small three-cars platoons of the motorized cavalry units, chiefly for
reconnaissance, fire support for infantry and long missions behind the German lines. It
seemed their off-road capabilities were rather limited. The Germans captured four
models 1914, and modified them. They were used during the invasion of Romania, and
at least one was used in Berlin during the 1919 events. Others were transferred to the
Russians and fought briefly in 1917. Their robust capabilities allowed some of them to
remain in service until 1933-35 with Gendarmerie units.

Minerva specifications

Dimensions 4.901.752.3 m (16.15.97.6 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 4 tons

Crew 3-6

Propulsion 4-cyl Gas. Minerva 8L, 40bhp at 2500 rpm

Speed 40 km/h (25 mph)

Range 150 km (90 mi)

Armament 1 x Hotchkiss Model 1909 machine-gun

Armor Maximum 4 mm (0.15 in)

Total production 35

~ 280 ~
~ 281 ~
The Army of Belgium was quite to the forefront when it came to motorization before
1914, and they were the first to field Armoured Cars in any quantity. From the
beginning of the war they used Machine Gun equipped motor cars in combat, and, from
mid-August, many of them were equipped with armour plating, of some 5mm thickness.

Most of these were based on a standard motor car, model 38CV with a 4-cylinder
engine, manufactured by the Antwerp firm of Minerva. The only modification was that
double back wheels were substituted for the standard single ones, to better carry the
extra weight. The vehicle was open-topped, and lacked entry doors - the crew had to
climb in and out over the sides. The engine was of course armoured as well, with two
doors in front of the radiator. Later marks - produced from 1916 - had the fighting
compartment fully enclosed. Armament was one 8mm Hotchkiss machine gun,
protected by a semi-circular shield. The total weight was some 4 tons, the maximum
speed around 40kph.

~ 282 ~
The colour plates above, show a light khaki colour scheme, but other sources state that
many of the Minervas of this mark were painted a mid-grey, with either the insignia
"S.M." - Service Militaire - or the word "MINERVA" in capital letters painted on the
back, front and sides.

Roughly 25 to 30 vehicles of model 1914 were built, until the Minerva Factory was
overrun by the Germans in October 1914. This AFV was basically sound, and the last
vehicles were not withdrawn from the Belgian Army until 1935! (There were later
marks of this vehicle that had an enclosed fighting compartment, while some were
equipped with turrets or even 37mm guns.) The German Army used four captured
Minervas, and some of them were employed - together with other German armoured
cars - in the invasion of Rumania. A detachment of Belgian Armoured Cars also
participated in the war on the Eastern Front, supporting the Russians, until they were
pulled out in 1917.

~ 283 ~
Official designation: Minerva
Alternative notation:
Start of planning: 1914
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1914
Stage of completion: built a small series.

~ 284 ~
The idea of a car used as a means of fighting dates back long before 1918, but only the
first world war made real the dream of war. At the beginning of the conflict cars were
used as transportation for the rear carriage. Lieutenant Charles Ankara was the father of
the Belgian armored car. As an officer of the General Staff orders, he used his personal
vehicle for reconnaissance and transmission of orders. Not wanting to expose
themselves to danger, he decides to book your car. The attempt was successful, and
commanding officer decided to use the experience. According to the instructions in the
workshops Kokerilya Obokene engaged in book "Minerve", and soon the pilot batch is
sent to the front.

The first maneuver during the war, "Minerva" used the Allies on the Western Front,
which are very good. With the establishment on the Western Front trench warfare
Entente armored cars were out of work. And several avtobronevyh. Belgian and British
troops, armed with armored vehicles "Minerva" and "Lanchester" were deployed in
1915 - in Russia. They were located in Kiev, Kaluga and St. Petersburg. World War I
has died down, but the "Minerva" has remained in the Belgian army.

In 1919 year, "Minerva" gets an armored roof and cabin in the rear, allowing the crew to
fire a machine gun standing at the same time being protected by armor. In 1928 armored
car gets New, and hull of a rotating dome-shaped tower, which was mounted a machine
gun or a 37 mm gun. It was already almost a different car. But the old, the sample 1914,
"Minerva" was armed. The remaining "Minerva" was used for the police, in particular,
in 1933, the suppression of strikes Brussels.

In 1935, the already obsolete machines were still in service with the Belgian army.

~ 285 ~
SPECIFICATIONS army armored vehicles
Minerva sample 1914

Combat weight ~ 3000 kg

CREW, pers. 3-4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 5000
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 3000
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 8-mm machine gun Hotchkiss
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -
ENGINE petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2; Shed wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf
CHASSIS
springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?

~ 286 ~
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
not installed
COMMUNICATION

~ 287 ~
SAVA Armoured Car

Some of the first enclosed versions of Belgian armoured cars were built by about
October 1914, including the turreted S.A.V.A.

~ 288 ~
This step was said to have been brought about by public opinion in Belgium after the
distinguished crew of an open top armoured car, commanded by Prince Baudouin de
Ligne, had all been killed during a raiding expedition to destroy a bridge behind the
German lines. The improvement of enclosing the car and adding a turret was, in any
event, a logical one, and the same line of development was also followed in the British
and French armoured cars of the same period.

The chassis was provided by the Societe Anversoise pour Fabrication de Voitures
Automobiles (S.A.V.A.) of Antwerp - a firm which was founded in 1910 and was
bought up by Minerva in 1923. It was a powerful sporting vehicle, suited to carry the

~ 289 ~
weight of the armour which was constructed by the Cockerill firm of Seraing, near
Liege.

The engine and the crew compartment were both fully enclosed. The frontal protection
was enhanced by the armour in front of the driver being a curved plate, sloping up from
the bonnet to merge with the roofline. The turret ring followed the curve of the rear of
the hull, and the turret itself was dome-shaped and open at the rear. Small side doors in
the hull beneath the turret were provided to give access to the interior of the car.

It was armed with one Hotchkiss air-cooled machine-gun. Other equipment included a
large spotlight on the left side of the bonnet, in addition to the usual headlamps.

~ 290 ~
Easily confused with the SAVA, was the very similar looking enclosed version of the
Minerva, with a half-dome turret and armoured in a generally similar way.

Production ceased in October 1914, when the Factory was overrun by the advancing
German Army.

Official designation: SAVA

Alternative notation: SAVA Model Type 1, SAVA Model Type 2, SAVA Model Type
3
Start of planning: 1914
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1914
Stage of completion: built a small series.

~ 291 ~
In parallel with the establishment of manufacture armored Minerva Belgian industry
began production more perfect specimen knees combat vehicle. Chassis zaimstvovavali
of sports cars manufactured by Societe Anversoise pour Fabrication de Voitures
Automobiles ( SAVA) is located in Antwerp. The first role played primarily in high
modiblnost damage protection, due to which the design of future armored imposed
some restrictions.

The chassis was quite standard: two bridges with single wheels (rear axle veduyuschy,
pnesmaticheskie tires) and the suspension on the leaf springs. The problem of the
general security of Belgian designers decided much better than in the case of Minerva.
The engine was in a completely closed box-shaped hood with frontal wings to cool. The
fighting compartment, which was carried out with the combined management of the
department, had a vertical board, but a rounded roof and back of the case. The rest of
the body occupies a small area transport. On the roof of the tower body established
hemispherical shape, which was opened at the rear. It became a "Vizin card" of armored
vehicles. The tower was installed 8-mm machine gun Hotchkiss. For the embarkation
and disembarkation of crew served two small doors on the sides of the driver's seat. The
crew consisted of a driver and two gunners.

The first sample of the armored car SAVA, known today as the Model Type 1 was
constructed in September 1914 and took an active part in the defense of Antwerp.
According to foreign sources, while the second sample (Model Type 2) was built, and
with hemispherical tower, and ended with the release in October 1914, when it was
released in the Model Type 3 variant crazy.

During the 1915-1916 biennium. SAVA armored vehicles, slozhivshieysya into force
on the Western Front of the situation, used occasionally. Subsequently, two of them
have been dismantled, and the third (in the version with the tower) in the early postwar
years, used to "maintain order" in the Rhine and Ruhr area. Career of the armored car
supposedly ended in 1923.

~ 292 ~
Combat weight ~ 3000 kg
CREW, pers. 3-4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 5000
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 3000
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 8-mm machine gun Hotchkiss
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -
ENGINE petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2; Shed wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf
CHASSIS
springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
not installed
COMMUNICATION

Mors army armored vehicle

~ 293 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Mors
Start design: 1921
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1921
Stage of completion: built one instance.

Armored Mors, like Minerva, were the first Belgian combat vehicles have been used
successfully in the initial period of the 1st World War. In fact, they were booked chassis
of cars without a roof. booking thickness varied in the range of 7-8 mm. Mors-type
machines armament consisted of one 8-mm Hotchkiss machine gun mounted behind the

~ 294 ~
armored shields. The crew could include 3-4 people. On staged armored Mors 4-
cylinder gasoline engines power machines by Minerva 35-38 hp

On the Western Front Mors armored service was over very quickly - to the beginning of
1915 they completely replaced by Minerva is, and then natspuil period of trench
warfare, where armored vehicles no place. At the same time it was decided to form a
Belgian ekmpeditsionny body to be sent to Russia. In the spring of 1915 of the Belgian
volunteers in Paris was created Corps des Autos-Canons-Mitrailleuses, which took
place on Russian papers as the Belgian Avtobronedivizion. Although the bulk of the
personnel and weapons arrived in October and November 1915, to the front the
volunteers were only in January 1916 Of the 13 available at that time armored vehicles,
at least two treated Mors type. Across Vilim their use continued until 1917 until Mors
have been replaced by more modern armored vehicles.

~ 295 ~
TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles
Mors was obr.1915

Combat weight 3500 kg

CREW, pers. 3-4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 5000

Width ~ 2000

Height mm ~ 3000

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 8-mm machine gun Hotchkiss in the open turret

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 8 mm
RESERVATIONS board housing - 8 mm
feed -8 mm housing

~ 296 ~
 bottom -

ENGINE 4-cylinder, gasoline, power 35-38 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2; Shed wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ~ 40 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION not installed

~ 297 ~
WWI Italian tanks

Around 200 armored vehicles by November 1918

Models

FIAT 2000
FIAT-Terni Tripoli
Lancia Ansaldo IZ/IZM

Introduction

Italy mostly fought the Great War on a mountainous terrain, impracticable for tanks and
armored cars alike. However, for patrols in short sectors, subjected to possible
incursions by Uhlans and Austrian cavalry units, armored cars were built and operated.
FIAT undertook the conception of tanks from 1917, when it became obvious, following
the success of the French and British, that it would be the next innovation to break the
stalemate. Italian forces also lost considerable forces in fruitless frontal assaults against
Austro-Hungarian machine-gun nests, and tanks were more suited to climb these sloped
and bring decisive fire support than armored cars.

The FIAT 2000

FIAT was the industrial giant of Northern Italy, the only choice to develop a 100%
national tank. In between, French Renault FTs were purchased and tested with success
in 1918, ultimately inspiring the first mass produced (interwar) Italian tank, the FIAT
3000. In the meantime, Italy built two prototypes of the FIAT 2000, its first national
tank, which was massive and had some similarities with the German A7V like the
vertical compartimentation. It was well armed with a 65 mm two-men turret howitzer
and six machine guns in sponsons, all served by a crew of 10.

Together with purchased Renault FTs, these two 40 tons tanks formed the 1 Batteria
autonoma carri dassalto used in Libya against local guerrilla tribesmen; However, due
to the average cross-country performances of these heavy tanks, the unit was not able to
catch up with the more mobile cavalry. The experience gained in this theater of
operation will give the general staff the impression that faster, lighter tanks were
preferable and this category, also cheaper and technically easier to built, was the focus
~ 298 ~
of the Italian tank industry represented by FIAT-Ansaldo in the 1920s and 1930s. It was
not before 1941 that studies for a heavy tank will arrive again, leading eventually to the
Carro Armato Pesante P26/40 of 1943, which was even never used by Italian Units,
then surrendering. The German forces used it until 1945, and was not even near the 40
tons of the original FIAT 2000, weighing only 26 tons. It would take years before a
heavier tank would enter service with the Italians, like the Leopard-based Italian OF-40
in 1980

Armored Cars

The Lancia IZ upon delivery. It boasted an impressive firepower with three machine
guns mounted in a twin top turret arrangement, later modified due to stability problems.
Surviving IZMs were used until 1945.

Late in the game with Tanks, Italy would instead use with more proficience armoured
cars like the Lancia-Ansaldo IZM, certainly one of the best armoured car of the war.
Some were captured by the German Empire and Austro-Hungary but these were also
used by after the war by Austria, Albania and even Afghanistan. In fact, the IZM were
also used for the duration of the interwar for colonial service and in WW2 by Italy,
Germany, Hungary and even the Yugoslav insurgents in 1944-45. It could be
recognized due to its large two-men turret and twin heavy machine gun, plus third one
in a top turret arrangement (on the IZ, later deleted for stability with the IZM), and up-
running wire cutters.

~ 299 ~
The Fiat-Terni Tripoli designed for Colonial service in 1918 was still around in 1941.

At the end of the war, the Libyan conquest and pacification required a colonial
armored car which was elaborated with Terni, the FIAT-Terni Tripoli. It was also to
serve in WW2 in Libya, rearmed as an Anti-Aircraft armoured car.

Semovente 105/14 SPG

In the final months of WW1, the Italian Army, which had developed a keen interest in
armoured vehicles, aquired four FT-17's from France: two with cast Girod turret (1 MG,

~ 300 ~
1 cannon) and two with riveted Omnibus turret (both equipped with MG). The Italians
first just wanted to produce a simple copy, but soon started modifying and improving
the existing FT design, a process that eventually would end in perhaps the best tank of
the early Twenties, the FIAT 3000.

Also, in the end of 1918, the idea came up to use the existing FT chassis for a Self-
Propelled Gun. The Girod cannon armed FT-17 no 66947 was selected for prototype
work. The project was led by an Engineer named Bennicelli, and was done by Ansaldo.
It was a simple conversion: the turret was removed, and a 105mm Howitzer installed in
its place, facing backwards. Also, the vehicle had no space for the ammunition, which
had to be transported separately, which of course limited its tactical useability (at least
as long as there was no separate fully-tracked supply vehicle, i.e. also a FT-17 supply
variant). In april 1919 the first Semovente 105/14 was shown off, in presence of the
King, at the Stadio di Roma. The Italian Army had plans to order 12 Semoventi 105/14,
but nothing came of this.

Testuggine Corazzata Ansaldo Turrinelli (Modello I) Heavy tank

~ 301 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Testuggine Corazzata Ansaldo Turrinelli
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype:
Stage of completion: stayed in a project in mind the high technological complexity.

In 1916-1917 gg. Italy's Defense Ministry has received for consideration a number of
projects mnogogusenichnyh combat vehicles developed by different engineers, but the
one submitted by Ansaldo - company management was committed not against their
implementation, with the appropriate order and financing. The founder of the two most
feasible projects united by a similar chassis design, an engineer tournelle.

The first one, which had the name of Testuggine Corazzata Ansaldo Turrinelli
(currently added to it Modello I, to distinguish it from the second project), it was
carried out on the concept of "rolling the fort", something interfering with the German
A7V. There is no doubt that such an idea is often visited the head engineers of different
countries, but it was the Italians treated it more creatively. The body of the tank in
longitudinal section was almost semi-circular, which in combination with 50-60 mm
book ensures high survivability on the battlefield. On each side there were embrasures
for two machine guns. The main armament, which consisted of 37-65 mm caliber guns,
housed in two towers, installed in the front and rear of the chassis. On the roof of the
housing, exactly in the center, was the commander's cabin. Proceeding from the above
features, the tank crew tournelle 1st model could consist of 10 members: commander,
driver, gunner and four four gunner.

But the most interesting part of the tank was its undercarriage. Tournelle decided to use
two crawler tracks on each side with two large rollers and track the chain of the order of
800-900 mm in width. To improve vertical overcoming obstacles in front of each
section of the metal drum was installed. Power on the tracked section was transferred
from two petrol engines (200 hp each) through the electric powertrain. However,
preliminary drawings, made in the scale of 1:20, tournelle presented scheme can be
overcome various obstacles, which are very clearly shows the advantages of
mnogogusenichnoy chassis of its own design.

However, projects are very complex in terms of technology, but for all the engineering
refinements had to pay weight, which is very optimistic determined at 20 tons. In fact,
the implementation of such projects has shown that even 40 tons is not the limit.
Apparently, the Italian Defense Ministry about something that guess, so the project
tournelle treated with understanding, but did not order a prototype and "burying" it is an
interesting development in the archive.

DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS heavy tanks

Testuggine Corazzata Ansaldo Turrinelli (Modello I) of the sample in 1916

Combat weight ~ 20000 kg

CREW, pers. ~ 10

DIMENSIONS

~ 302 ~
 8000 (Full)
Length mm
7020 (on the body)

4650 (Full)
Width
4150 (on the body)

Height mm 3080

Clearance, mm 220

WEAPONS two guns 75-76 mm caliber

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead - 50 mm
board housing -
food body -?
RESERVATIONS
roof -
bottom -
towers -

ENGINE Two gasoline, inline, liquid-cooled, 200 hp each

TRANSMISSION electric type

on one side, two crawler section with two large road wheels and
CHASSIS
track each band of about 800-900 mm

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

~ 303 ~
Testuggine Corazzata Ansaldo Turrinelli (Modello II) Heavy tank

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Testuggine Corazzata Ansaldo Turrinelli
Start of planning: 1917
Date of construction of the first prototype:
Stage of completion: stayed in a project in mind the high technological complexity.

In 1917 he presented the second draft tournelle mnogogusenichnogo tank, which is now
known as Testuggine Corazzata Ansaldo Turrinelli (Modello II) . Unlike the first
model, which appeared a year earlier, according to a new tank concept was more like a
modern automatic control system, which is very clearly expressed in his appearance.

We can say that the overall layout of the second project tournelle corresponded to the
classical. In front of the cabin was massive with a sloping frontal armor plates and
vertical sides, where the separation of management and fighting compartment are
aligned. At the rear there were engine-transmission compartment, which housed the
gasoline engine and transmission of electric type, operates on generator Soller-
Mangiapan.

Track sections have a completely new design. There were leading and guiding the
wheels raised off the ground, as well as track rollers of 7 pieces (5 basic small diameter
and two "end" of larger diameter). The width of the shoe track tape has become much
smaller and was estimated at about 250 mm. The front and back of the body, exactly in
the longitudinal axis, install one metal drum, intended to improve to overcome vertical
obstacles.

Despite the fact that the project Testuggine Corazzata Ansaldo Turrinelli second version
was much improved from its implementation also refused, because by the time the
Italian army was preparing for the supply of tanks from France.

DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS heavy tanks

Testuggine Corazzata Ansaldo Turrinelli (Modello II) sample of 1917

Combat weight ~ 20000 kg

CREW, pers. ~ 10

~ 304 ~
DIMENSIONS

Length mm 6600

Width 3150

Height mm 2500

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one cannon caliber 75-76 mm (?)

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead - 50 mm
board housing -
food body -?
RESERVATIONS
roof -
bottom -
towers -

ENGINE Two gasoline, inline, liquid-cooled, 200 hp each

TRANSMISSION electric generator with type Soller-Mangiapan

on one side, two crawler sections each with front wheel and rear
CHASSIS wheel rails, 5 small and 2 large road wheels, caterpillar belt of steel
Shoe width 250 mm

SPEED ?

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

~ 305 ~
The width of the den,
?
m

MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Pomilio Armored fighting vehicles

Official designation:
Alternative notation?
Start design: 1918
Date of construction of the first prototype:
Stage of completion: the project was inadequate in view of technical realization.

The design idea, as we all know, is not always rational, especially when it comes to new
types of equipment. It would seem, at the very end of the 1st World War, after the
appearance of tanks as Renault FT-17 and Mk.A "Whippet", the engineers had to
emerge quite clear perception of the world needs the front, but the Italians this thesis is
hardly treated. The next example of a "gloomy Italian genius" can serve as a project
engineer Carlo have mercy (Carlo Pomilio), which he submitted in 1918.

Developed Italian combat vehicle at a stretch be called a tank. The draft was based on
the very distinctive chassis with central wheel (drum), around which the housing was
built. The power unit is located within the housing and the wheels simultaneously. To
improve the overcoming of obstacles in front and behind was set for one additional
drum. The main armament consisted of two guns was installed in dogs on the sides of
the body.

For obvious reasons, have mercy on the tank design sketches is not passed. Many
questions evoked the mobility of the tank, even on a flat surface and rationality weapons
placement. However, the idea of a central wheel was not bad and was used for other
purposes in the future.

DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS combat vehicles

Pomilio sample 1918

~ 306 ~
Combat weight ?

CREW, pers. ?

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS ?

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
food body -?
RESERVATIONS
roof -
bottom -
towers -

ENGINE ?

TRANSMISSION ?

one main wheel is driven by a carbureted engine and two

CHASSIS
auxiliary rollers

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

~ 307 ~
MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

Gussalli Armored fighting vehicles

Official designation:
Alternative notation?
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype:
Stage of completion: the project was inadequate in view of technical realization.

It is very unusual project "walking tank" was proposed by the captain of artillery Gusalli
Luigi (Luigi Gussalli) in 1916. The design of this machine is based on the mover of the
original design, use two pairs of skis moving synchronously. Housing conditionally
divided into two parts - the lower the power plant was located, to transmit power to the
propeller, and the top was installed add-arms. Given the nature of the fighting on the
Western Front, such a scheme has promised some advantages, but the technical
implementation was clearly inadequate, so the project did not come out of the stage of
preliminary drawings and scale models.

DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS combat vehicles

Gussalli sample 1916

Combat weight ?

CREW, pers. ?

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

~ 308 ~
Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS ?

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
food body -?
RESERVATIONS
roof -
bottom -
towers -

ENGINE ?

TRANSMISSION ?

CHASSIS two pairs of skis, driven by carburettor engine

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION ?

~ 309 ~
Pavesi Autocarro Tagliafili Engineering armored car

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Pavesi Autocarro Tagliafili
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: 2 built prototype (?).

His special contribution to the development of armored vehicles made Italian designers, the
train of thought which largely coincided with the "global trends", but have their own unique
"flavor". As Italy entered the 1st World War in 1915, some time the question of the presence
of tracked armored vehicles is not compromised at all. Only after the Italian command is aware

~ 310 ~
of the severity of the fighting in the south of the Western Front, to remedy the situation,
certain measures have been applied. In the first place then were wheeled armored vehicles,
the creation of which the Italians have succeeded more than others. However, for "trench
warfare" needed special equipment - in particular, the need to overcome the barbed wire
armored vehicles.

The solution to this problem is proposed in 1915, the firm Pavesi, which is based on
Pavesi-Tolotti Tipo A wheeled tractor developed a unique in its kind combat vehicle.
The idea was that on the tractor chassis to install a box-shaped hull of the bow which
establishes two cylindrical superstructure with circular rotation towers. The towers were
installed dvuhstvolny guns Villar-Perosa M1915 (according to other sources it was the
FIAT-Revelli M1914) and another machine gun was placed in the rear of the hull.
Reservation is in the range of 3.5-4 mm, for busy small-arms fire was clearly not
enough. The main purpose of this was to overcome engineering armored wire fences,
which in the front part of the body was attached two devices to cut it.

Very interesting was the chassis design that comparison with the original version has
been changed. The machine was a three-axis, two axis with large wheels located at the
front and one with narrow wheels at the rear. Two front axle contacted the total
suspension with plate springs. That is, the tractor chassis deployed stern back and the
engine compartment was located in the stern of the hull.

The first prototype of the machine, which had the name Pavesi Autocarro Tagliafili,
began to build in the first half of 1916 and finished the following year. On tests she had
done in May 1917. As it turned out, the idea of using a tractor chassis is not the best.
When moving the machine on a flat surface speeds up to 6 km \ h, but the overall
driving performance have been very modest. On the mobility of cross-country
indicators fell with catastrophic force and actually "autokarro" could only move straight.

~ 311 ~
In view of existing circumstances, the engineering design of the machine has been
revised towards simplification. The new version of the standard used biaxial chassis and
modified chassis. Deck in front of was saved, but instead of two closed machine gun
turrets on the starboard side was set a "barbetnogo" type with a frontal armored shields.
Armament was reduced to a single machine gun.

Test the updated model Pavesi Autocarro Tagliafili also held in 1917, but at the time
they start it was clear that the wheel base of the tractor is not suitable to build on its base
of engineering machinery such purpose. Moreover, France has provided the Italian army
is one of the first tanks FT-17 test, so that the fate of "provolkorezov" had already been
completely solved. As a result, the project was closed and demolished prototypes.

~ 312 ~
SPECIFICATIONS ENGINEERING armored vehicles
Pavesi Autocarro Tagliafili sample 1916

Combat weight ~ 6000 kg

CREW, pers. 5-6

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

~ 313 ~
Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

three 9-mm twin-barrel gun Villar-Perosa M1915 or three 6.5-mm

WEAPONS
machine gun FIAT-Revelli M1914

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead - 4 mm (?)

board housing - 4 mm (?)
food body - 4 mm (?)
RESERVATIONS
roof - 3.5 mm (?)
the bottom - 3.5 mm (?)
Tower - 4 mm (?)

ENGINE Carburetor

TRANSMISSION ?

three axes, the six single wheel (drive on the front axle, rear axle -
CHASSIS
rotating)

SPEED 6 km \ h on hard ground

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
?
COMMUNICATION

~ 314 ~
FIAT 2000

Italy (1919) Heavy Tank 2 built

The first Italian tank

The FIAT 2000 was the first Italian tank. Already being developed in 1916, it
was presented on 21 June 1917 as a mock-up to a military commission and became
operational in 1918. At first, the government approached the Allies asking for tanks to
be supplied directly. However, this never came to fruition, as tanks were already in
short supply on the western front. The army turned to FIAT to produce a local design.
The result was a 40-ton monster, which is considered the heaviest tank of the First
World War.

~ 315 ~
Fiat 2000 Prototype Tank trials 1918 (photographer unknown)

Design

A bit like the German designs of the same era, which were no more than armored boxes
on tracks, the FIAT 2000 separated the engine and drivetrain completely from the crew,

~ 316 ~
thanks to a vertical compartmentalization (and not horizontal like British and French
designs). This choice made the vehicle more comfortable for the crew, but much higher
and heavier.

This armoured box, dotted with machine guns and firing ports, plus a turret on top,
was not perfectly symmetrical, as the driver was located in a protruding central cabin
at the front, which was given a large armored shutter and a periscope.

The 6 forward and 2 reverse gearbox and low range transmission were installed directly
under him, and it was transversal in order to save space. The engine was located in the
rear section, but the choice was innovative: A powerful but compact FIAT Aviazione
A12 engine, water-cooled, 6 cylinders, producing 240 hp.

The radiator was installed behind with exhaust grilles on the wall. For its 40 tons, it
gave 6 hp/t, which was enough for the FIAT 2000 to cruise at infantry pace on even
ground. The top speed was 7 km/h (4.3 mph) for a 75 km operational range (47 miles),
thanks to two gravity-feeding tanks with 600 l total capacity (160 US or 130 imperial
gallons).

The drive-train comprised a mix of four two-wheels bogies on each side, two single
track tender wheels, and a large front idler and rear drive sprocket. The tracks were
made of heavy links, relatively narrow, and protruding both from the rear and front,
allowing good grip on uneven terrain and avoiding overhang problems.

~ 317 ~
The bogies were suspended on robust leaf spring assemblies and the ground clearance
was 40 cm (1 ft 4 in). Six 6.5 mm (0.25 in) FIAT-Revelli Model 1914 machine guns
were located on barbettes, giving an excellent coverage of all angles. In addition to the
main gunner, driver, six machine gunners and commander, there was also a
loader/mechanic, raising the crew number to ten men.

The boxy hull had a sloped upper side section, sloped front and rear plates and a large
hemispheric turret housing the 65 mm (2.55 in) compact fortress 65/17 howitzer. The
gun had full 360 traverse and 10/+75 depression/elevation, allowing it to also provide
fire support in mountainous areas.

The hull was assembled by riveting 15 to 20 mm (front) (0.59-0.79 in) thick hardened
steel plates on a frame. There two access doors on each side, while the engine could be
reached through doors in the floor of the fighting compartment, which was divided into
two sections. The front one was tall enough to allow for a man to stand, while the rear
~ 318 ~
one was stepped up because of the height of the aviation engine, and allowed only a
kneel-down position. The turret was topped by a small mushroom type fume
extractor.

Active service

All in all, and despite arriving too late in the war, the Fiat 2000 was an excellent tank
with several innovative features, like the aviation engine, full compartmentalization,
drivers periscope, well-balanced tracks, not too heavy, but efficient for cross-country
performances, good protection and consistent firepower. But, above all, it was the
second to feature a turret, after the Renault FT, and the first to feature a two-man turret,
roomy enough for a gunner and loader to stand inside.

The rear section was modified to increase protection, with the ventilator relocated to the
roof and the machine gun positions swapped to two on each side, three at the rear and
two in front. The order of 50 was cancelled and the two prototypes were briefly
displayed for their propaganda value.

They were later sent to Libya to fight guerrilla forces, in the very first Italian tank unit,
the 1 Batteria autonoma carri dassalto completed by several FT tanks purchased from
France. It did well, although penalized by its average speed of 4 km/h (3 mph) cross
country against fast and mobile horse-mounted guerrillas.

After the pacification, one remained in Tripoli, while the other was sent back in Italy
and displayed in front of the King at the Stadium in Rome in 1919, performing field
trials with success. It however failed to convince the general staff and there were no
more heavy tank produced by Italy before 1942 and the Carro Armato Pesante P26/40.

~ 319 ~
The tank that returned to Italy was displayed again in the Forte Tiburtino, and at Campo
Dux parade in 1934, repainted and given two 37/40 mm (1.46 in) modern guns at the
rear. It was later converted as a monument in Bologna. Its fate and that of the one left in
Tripoli are unknown.

FIAT 2000 specifications

7.4m x 3.1m x 3.9m
Dimensions
(243 x 102 x 121 ft.inches)

Total weight, battle ready 40 tons

Crew 10 (commander, driver, gunner, loader, 6 machine gunners)

Propulsion Fiat Aviazione A.12 wc, 6-cylinder, petrol, 240 hp, 6 hp/t

Suspension 24 leaf spring bogies

Speed (road) 7 km/h (4.5 mph)

Range 75 km (47 mi)

65 mm (2.55 in) howitzer

Armament
6 x 6.5 mm (0.25 in) FIAT-Revelli M1914 machine-guns

Armor 15 mm sides to 20 mm front (0.6-0.8 in)

Total production 2 in 1918

~ 320 ~
The FIAT 2000 in camouflage in service in Libya, 1919.

~ 321 ~
~ 322 ~
~ 323 ~
Technical cutaway of the FIAT 2000

Fiat 2000 tank being put through its paces in front of an audience. The Fiat company
name is painted on the front and sides of the tank. (photographer unknown)

~ 324 ~
The rear of the Fiat 2000 tank was as heavily armed as the front of the tank.
(photographer unknown)

~ 325 ~
The driver sat in the middle of the vehicle at the front in an armoured compartment.
(photographer unknown)

Libyan Colonel Gaddafi issued some commemorative stamps showing the Fiat 2000
taking part in the battle of El-Tangi and Bir Tagreft.

Official designation: FIAT 2000

Alternative notation: Fiat Tipo 2000, Carro Pesante
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: built one prototype and four series of tanks, partially used in Italy
and Libya.

In the first half of the 20th century by the Italian tank builders succeeded only twice, as
the saying goes, "to get into the bull's-eye," and to create a truly modern fighting
vehicles meet the current requirements. One of them was a heavy tank FIAT in 2000,
the development of which began almost immediately after the entry of Italy into the
war.

About what was to become the first Italian tank, then there were a lot of opinions, but
most of them boiled down to the idea of construction of a fully armored tracked vehicle
that can both support the infantry in the attack and to hold a "sweep" of the enemy
trenches. Accordingly, it was necessary to provide tank protection from fire of field
artillery, and to equip it with weapons with the greatest possible fire sectors - the result
is a kind of "rolling the fort."

~ 326 ~
This concept seemed very attractive, especially given the nature of the position of
hostilities on the Western Front. Even on its southern sector, where its forces competed
Italian and Austro-Hungarian army (and the second in 1914-1915. Had no armored
vehicles), after a rough start offensive stalled on both sides, and within two years the
situation there remained virtually unchanged. Thus, Italy needed a tank, capable of
overcoming great obstacles and equipped with cannon and machine gun armament.
Experience coalition allies once again to convince the Italians that the British
"diamonds" and the French "Tanks support" on the modified tractor chassis are not the
best solution. The first has a very immodest dimensions, low mobility on the ground,
low operational reliability and too vulnerable chassis. In the second general security it
was better, but the French tanks layout was more of a negative quality, ultimately led to
the tragic end of regularities of these machines at an early stage of their application.

At the beginning of 1916 by Italian designers of the company FIAT was presented quite
promising project armored tracked vehicle, which, if successful, could become a serious
competitor to British diamond-shaped tanks. Summing up the information obtained,
without even waiting for, they took the path of their German colleagues. However, the
Italian "movable fort" had a number of very significant differences and obvious
advantages. In particular, it intended to equip the tank with a circular turret rotation. But

~ 327 ~
the most important difference was the original chassis, the first prototype of which was
presented at the first trial June 21, 1917.

The design of this purely experimental sample is a combination of British and French
experience, but with the Italian "twist". As you know, the Italian shipbuilders of the
early 20th century had a craving for symmetry - the same course went and tank builders.
To ensure the greatest possible cross-country in both directions (forward and backward),
they are absolutely symmetrical chassis has been developed, which occupied about 50%
of the total height of the tank. With reference to one side, it consisted of the following
components:

- Four dvuhktakovye truck suspension on semi-elliptic leaf springs;

~ 328 ~
- Two tension rollers (front and rear) on the spring leaf springs;

- The front drive wheel;

- Back the steering wheel;

- Trough to support the upper caterpillars branches.

- Krupnozvenchataya track with steel chain tracks 450 mm wide, each truck equipped
with a pillow-developed grouser and the rails on which the rollers rolled flanged.

installed body layout of the conventional steel on a prototype. An open top body was
covered only with canvas, stretched on wooden racks on the sides. The layout was
similar to the "classical": front - Department of Management, in the middle part -

~ 329 ~
"fighting compartment", and the stern was installed gasoline engine and transmission.
The drive to the drive wheels ensured Gall chains.

Prototype chassis reinforced passed tests at the site near Turin during the second half of
1917. During this time the prototype design made several changes and established a
simulation of the upper body and the squat tower of conical shape made of plywood.
Pre-approved version of the installation of three machine guns in the front hull and four
machine guns on the sides. However, armed with the prototype was never found.

In general, the selected course of Italian engineers has received full confirmation - a
prototype has good dynamic qualities (compared to the British and French tanks), and
also showed good cross-road and mountain terrain. Nevertheless, the Italian General
Staff did not hurry developers with the beginning of serial production. The fact is that
during 1917 there were active negotiations with France on the supply of assault tanks
CA1 and light FT-17 tanks. The French have sold a few samples of both types,
however, the Italians came to the conclusion that they needed better tanks, after which
the supply of foreign technology in general declined. Thus, only in February 1918, the
company FIAT has received approval from the High Command at the beginning of
serial production. By this time, the tank received the official designation of FIAT in
2000, to which is added the name Carro Pesante in a number of western sources,
which can be translated as "heavy tank".

FIAT 2000 serial tank design was quite traditional for this period, although it had a
number of interesting nuances. So, based on housing construction lay a steel frame on
which, by means of bolts, rivets, and parts of the crepe sheets of rolled armor steel.
Vertical bronelisty had a thickness of 20 mm, the horizontal - 15 mm.

Alternative turned the tank layout , in a fairly strong degree resembling the layout of
German tank A7V. The crew was housed in three tiers, and consisted of 10 members:
the commander (aka driver), shooter, loader and 7 gunners. In front of the driver's seat

~ 330 ~
was located, protected by a separate wheelhouse with a specific curved frontal armor
plates. The driver drove the tank by means of the steering column, which was connected
by a special coupling with brake drums. Unlike tankov- "contemporary" Italian sample
was much better visibility. To observe the terrain on the march used the hatches on the
sides and in its cutting front part of which were covered with lids armored observation
slits. In combat conditions, monitoring was carried out by a periscope.

In fact, the rest of the upper part of the case was assigned to a combat unit. To improve
the fire sector have changed the location of the 6.5-mm machine gun FIAT-Revelli
mod.1914. Now they were located as follows: two on each side, two on the corners of
the front and two at the corners of the rear part of the body and one in the aft broneliste.
Automatic machine guns operated by the recoil barrel with a short course, food was
made from box magazine 50 rounds of rifle equip clips. Combat rate of machine guns
was 400 rounds per minute. BRACKET MOUNT machine gun was mounted on the
bracket to the housing wall and included a cylindrical rocker panel and the rotary plate
in the shape of half of a truncated cone, the permissible angle of the horizontal guidance
100-110 .

On the roof of the body established hemispherical tower, in the frontal part of which
was mounted 65-mm mountain guns with a barrel length of 17 calibers (Cannone 65/17
modele 1913). Guidance tools were manual, but the presence of a telescopic sight and
the possibility of vertical guidance in the range of -10 to + 75 made of FIAT in 2000
is very dangerous opponent for ukryvsheysya infantry in the trenches. They fired high
explosive projectiles weighing 4.3 kg, which had an initial velocity of 345 m / s and a
maximum range of 6800 meters. In addition, the pistol ports of reduced size have been
kept to the firing of personal weapons (three on each side and two in the aft broneliste),
equipped with armored shutters.

In the rear of the chassis, under the stepped floors, installed air 6-cylinder petrol engine
FIAT A-12 240 hp, which is equipped with a carburetor Solex MOVT and liquid
cooling system is filled with water. Top engine was protected with metal plates, and

~ 331 ~
behind it were the heat sink and fan. Two of the muffler to be displayed on the sides of
the body. The air for cooling the power plant fed by armored shutters installed in the
rear broneliste. Transmission consisted of the main clutch and the gearbox, the rotation
of which was transmitted through the bevel gears on cross shafts with friction clutches
serving rotation mechanism. Fuel tank capacity of 600 (according to other sources -
1000) liters of petrol was in the middle of the hull.

Chassis tank did not differ from the 1917 sample, the prototype. Additional armor
protection leading and guiding rollers have not caught, since the space between them is
often clogged with dirt. It should also be noted that the length of the supporting surface
of the caterpillar chain and shoe 2150 mm width 450 mm could provide an acceptable
pressure on the ground in a better protection of the chassis.

In the first production tests FIAT 2000 showed slightly worse results than the first
prototype, but even in this case, the combat capabilities of its own tank Italians
evaluated much higher than that of the French-made tanks. For example, in full combat
weight of 42 tonnes and a maximum length of 7.4 meters could tank trench width of 3.5
meters, a wall height of 0.9-1.1 meters and a ford depth of 1 meter in the presence of a
relatively hard and flat bottom. Also during public demonstrations, the FIAT 2000
could break a brick wall 3.5 meters thick and 60 cm wide, and to blame the tree with a
diameter of about 50 cm barrel.

Meanwhile, the war on the Western Front, somewhat surprisingly for the Entente,
already prepared to carry out "Plan 1919", he became closer to its logical conclusion.
The first waver Austrians, who after failing to advance gradually began to retreat to
their own territory in June 1918. However, largely contributed to the success of the
Italian expansion of the Austro-Hungarian army under the influence of nationalist
movements in the "patchwork empire".

Implement your own large-scale plan for the construction of tanks Italy, in such
circumstances, I found it unnecessary. If earlier it was planned to release hundreds of
heavy FIAT 2000 tanks and light FIAT 3000, in the last months of the war order

~ 332 ~
significantly reduced. Ultimately, with the FIAT firm was awarded the contract for the
construction of 4 series of heavy tanks, two of which had to hand over in November
1918. The other two tanks were issued during 1919.

A few tank fleet was reduced in the special unit of assault machines "(Reparto Speciale
di marcia carri d'Assalto) under the command of Mazhzhiore Korsale (Maggiore
Corsale). Then, in December 1918, the 1st independent battery assault vehicles (1
Batteria autonoma carri d'assalto) was created, which was formally subordinate to the
General Staff of motor control and completed in accordance with their instructions. In
fact, the "masters" of tanks became the Royal Artillery, which is more in line with the
Italian military doctrine provides for the use of tanks exclusively for the direct support
of the infantry. Battery State consisted of two officers and 17 volunteers from the lower
ranks. Tanks partitioned between platoons (sections), each of which included one and
three FIAT 2000 Renault FT-17. Also in the battery including one assault and one of
assault tank CA1, used only for training of personnel.

The first place of dislocation was Turin, but soon the tanks was transferred to Verona
where the battery joined another FT-17. Rave reviews somewhat subsided after the
receipt of the information obtained during the operating tanks. The biggest complaints
caused undercarriage - a small dynamic rollers move did very perceptible shaking
machine, and fix this flaw without fundamental changes in the design of the chassis was
impossible. FIAT 2000's speed were also far from ideal. On paved roads the tank could
not develop a speed of more than 7.5 km \ h, and technical secondary speed does not
exceed 6 km \ h. The performance of the engine and the quality was very low. When
using more than 4-5 hours of cooling system could not cope with the load, which caused
severe overheating of the power plant and the increase in temperature in the fighting
compartment. However, it turned out to be truly exorbitant fuel consumption - a huge
800-liter fuel devastated after 75 kilometers.

Then it became clear that the height and width of the tank are not optimal. Centering
turned out too high and used FIAT 2000 on the rough mountainous area was unsafe.
Another unpleasant "surprise" was the presence of only one door, designed for boarding
and landing of the crew in the tank. In the absence of any hatch in the hull tank

~ 333 ~
evacuation, even in case of fire (and this danger was present in the entire period of
operation of the tank), it was a very difficult task. In the course of the exercise of the
crew work was complicated by not only heat, but also the accumulation of powder gases
after the shots from guns and machine guns. Since the ventilation fan was carried out
only to perform a complete "airing" it was possible only after stopping the tank and the
opening of hatches and doors - in combat conditions, this would lead to fatal
consequences.

Also, engineers did not take care about providing communications tank. Inside the crew
compartment tankers can communicate only with gestures, and in the battle "slave"
tanks were to focus on the maneuvers of "leading" or generally act independently.
Among other things, mass claims was presented to the arming. Jobs for service guns
were declared unsuccessful, and feed the machine-gunners had to fire in the literal sense
of "kneeling" that the move had a negative effect on the accuracy. The design of the
tower was also criticized - firing sector declined over the horizon a massive roof shell,
high altitude "hemisphere" was redundant and tower control was difficult.

Nevertheless, FIAT 2000 tanks were regarded as completely combat-ready fighting

machine. To prove it in February 1919, a heavy tank and three FT-17 were sent to
Tripolitania (Libya), where the Italian troops were trying to break the resistance of the
rebel Arab tribes. A number of foreign sources claims that the FIAT 2000, took part in
several operations 1919-1920., But without further details. It is possible that the heavy
tank was used as a deterrent, but we can not exclude the fact of the possibility of its use
as a self-propelled gun fire support. Subsequently, the FIAT 2000 remained in Tripoli,
joining the "independent artillery section", where he finished his career in the 1930s. He
was selected to the metal.

At the same time the first two series of the tank did not leave the limits of Italy and the
1 st April 1919, they, along with the FT-17 machine-gun and a pilot 105-mm self-
propelled guns based on the same chassis, were demonstrated at the military parade in
Rome. After that, tanks FIAT 2000 intensively exploited a couple of years, and were
sent to a "second line" with the increasing number of light tanks FIAT 3000. These cars
were the basis of the Italian armored forces until the mid-1930s. Last, the fourth FIAT
in 2000 was sent to the landfill near Rome, where it was used for various kinds of tests,
but vsposledstvii joined his "brothers."

Sunset career first Italian tanks turned out to be quite ordinary. Completely outdated
machines in 1932-1933. We are trying to modernize by reinforcing arms. In one of the
tanks, on an experimental basis, instead of the nose machine guns installed two 37-mm
cannon (Cannone da 37/40), it is theoretically possible to use "movable forts" as anti-
tank weapons. However, their large size and overall wear design finally convinced of
the futility of war carried out improvements.

Finally FIAT 2000 tanks removed from service in 1934. Two cars were sent on their
own in Fort Tributino - trip outputs a voltage, since the threat of fire engines occurred
several times. Not surprisingly, after the arrival of both tanks immediately sent for
scrapping. The third FIAT 2000 previously equipped with 37-mm cannon, partially
dismantled and equipping dummy weapons, have established as a monument in the
courtyard of the barracks of the 3rd Tank Regiment (3 Reggimento carristi) in

~ 334 ~
Bologna. Unfortunately, this museum exhibit to this day has not been preserved.
Presumably, the tank was destroyed during the fighting in Italy in 1944.

Combat weight 42000 kg

CREW, pers. 10
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 7400
Width 3100
Height mm 3800
Clearance, mm 540
one 65-mm mountain gun (Cannone da 65/17) and seven 6.5-
WEAPONS
mm machine gun FIAT-Revelli mod.1914
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES telescopic sights for guns, telescopic sights for guns
Tower - 20 mm
housing forehead - 20 mm
board - 20mm
RESERVATIONS
food - 20 mm
roof - 15 mm
the bottom - 15 mm
FIAT A-12, 6-cylinder, V-type, in-line, carburetor, liquid-
ENGINE
cooled, 240 hp at 1400 \ min.
mechanical type: the main clutch, gearbox and transverse
TRANSMISSION
shafts with friction clutches
(On one side) 8 track roller collected 4 trucks, front drive and
CHASSIS rear steering wheel, the upper trough supports,
krupnozvenchataya track with a width of 450 mm shoe
7.5 km \ h on the highway
SPEED
6 km \ h srednetehnichesky
Cruising on the highway 75 km
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. 40
Wall height, m 1.10
The depth of the ford, m 1.00
The width of the den, m 3.50
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 335 ~
Considering the fact that during WW1 Italys main fighting was done in the alpine areas
on the border to Austria-Hungary it is not remarkable that their efforts when it came to
tracked armoured vehicles was not en par with those of Britain and France. Considering
the weak industrial base of Italy, it can be called quite impressive, when you remember
the circumstances.

~ 336 ~
While the Italians were quick to start experimenting with Armoured Cars, the first
Italian Tank project proper was not begun until 1916, and was mainly the work of a
certain captain Luigi Cassali: his idea was to build an armoured machine capable of
moving cross-country, sporting two machinegun equipped turrets. Such a vehicle was
actually built, by the company of Pavesi, who had experience in cross-country vehicles.
This project - the FIAT 1000? - was abandoned after test had proved the limits of that
particular design vehicle. A new project, the FIAT 2000, started instead in August 1916.
The actual construction begun some two months later, in October 1916. (The project
was semi-private, and begun before tha Army even issued requirements for it.) The first
vehicle was ready in June 1917. (Hence the alternative name "Type 17".) The protoype
initially lacked MG mounts and had a cylindrical turret with flat roof. The turret was
soon replaced with a domed construction. The design was really quite imaginative for
its day and age. It was the first operational tank with a turret. The driver had a position
offering an excellent view at the front, and could use either a large hatch, when out of
danger, or a periscope when subjected to fire - an arrangement much superior to say, the
British system of visions slits. The engine was placed well to the rear, making it and the
petrol tanks less exposed to damage. The crew had plenty of room, as most of the
mechanical components were placed under the floor. This compares favourably to
contempory British, German and French designs.

The Fiat 2000 was very heavily armed. The 65mm gun was short (L/17) but the traverse
of the turret was 360 degrees, and the gun could be depressed down to -10 degrees and
elevated to a position of +75 degrees, giving the gun a very wide field of fire.) It sported
no less than seven 6.5mm Fiat MGs, paced in mountings with a 100 degree traverse.
There were three MG:s on each side, and one directly to the rear. Almost all angles of
approach were thus covered, leaving only a very small blind-spot directly to the front.
The running gear consisted of ten road wheels. Eight of these were grouped together in
pairs, on bogie units placed were low, skirting the tracks. These bogie units were sprung

~ 337 ~
with elliptical leaf springs. The two remaining road wheels were placed between the end
bogie units and the drive sprockets. The armour was considerable: it varied from 15mm
to 20mm. This and the heavy armament made the vehicle very heavy at 40 tons. Power
was provided by an 12 cylinder aero engine, FIAT A12, with an output of some 240 hp.
This gave the FIAT 2000 a maximum speed of some 7 km/hr, quite good compared to
other WW1 tanks. The large radius of the track front and the considerable length of the
vehicle itself gave it adequate trench crossing and parapet climbing capabilities. It was
however very high, making it both unwieldy and unstable.

The two vehicles of the intial order were completed before the end of the war in 1918,
but it is uncertain if they were ever used in combat in that conflict. Four more vehicles
seems to have appeared in 1919. Some vehicles were later modified, having their front
MGs substituted for 37mm guns. It was in service up until 1934. They were based in
Rome, and mainly used for parades, fairs and sometimes manoeuvres. At least one
FIAT 2000 was employed in Libya, seeing combat in anti-guerrilla duties against Arab
insurgents, and one was also lost there.

Weight 40 tons
Height 3.785 m
Length 7.378 m
Width 3.092 m
Ground
54 cm
Clearance
Track Width 45 cm
Max. Armour 20 mm
Min. Armour 15 mm
Fiat 6-
Engine cylinder A12
petrol
Fuel Capacity 600 l
240 hp at
Engine Output
1200 rpm

~ 338 ~
 Trench
3 - 3.5 m
Crossing
Max. Obstacle
0.9 - 1.0 m
Height
Max. Slope 35 - 40
Max. Fording
1m
Depth
Max. Road
7.5 km/h
Speed
Min. Speed 1.3 km/h
Max. range 75 km
Crew 10
Main
65mm gun
Armamment
Secondary 7 x 6.5mm
Armament MGs

The Fiat 2000 was an Italian heavy tank designed and produced by Fiat during World
War I. Only two were built as it never entered serial production. It was one of the
largest designs of its time.

History

~ 339 ~
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.

Description

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, water-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.

The tracks were longer than the hull, but were lower in comparison to the wrap-around
type found on the British 'rhomboidal' tanks and thus lower in weight.

The armour was of clean design, being made of riveted steel plates. It was 15 mm thick
on the sides and 20 mm on the front.

Armament originally consisted of the turret mounted gun and ten machineguns (three on
each side and four in front), but this left the rear of the tank undefended and tended to

~ 340 ~
contaminate the interior with propellant fumes, so it was decided to install a ventilator
in the roof and alter the machinegun positions to two on each side, three at the rear, and
two in front.

Perhaps the most interesting feature of the tank's weaponry was the turret; apart from
the Renault FT, this was the first tank to have a rotating turret mounted above the hull.
The turret was made of four pieces rivetted together and had room enough for two crew
members. Its weapon was a 65/17 howitzer (of 65mm caliber with a barrel 17 calibers
long). Thanks to the tall turret and the space available beneath it, the gun's elevation was
-10/+75.

Service

This tank was often called 'the heaviest World War I tank' but this is not strictly
accurate, since the FIAT 2000 never actually saw combat in World War I. Also, the
modest order for 50 tanks was never completed, the only tanks produced being two
prototypes.

After the war the FIAT 2000 was displayed as one of the weapons used 'to defeat the
enemy' and the two prototypes completed were sent to Libya to fight guerrilla forces,
together with other tanks bought from France, in a special unit, the Tank battery (1
Batteria autonoma carri d'assalto).

In Libya, the FIAT tank proved capable of an average speed of 4 km/h, and so, after two
months its career ended, being unable to keep up with rapid movement of the enemy.
One remained in Tripoli and the other was sent to Italy in the spring of 1919, where it
performed before the King at Rome Stadium. The tank put on a convincing display: it
climbed a 1.1 m wall, then faced another 3.5 m wall, which it knocked down with its
weight. Then a trench of 3 m width was successfully crossed and several trees were
knocked down. This impressive performance failed to revive interest in the heavy tank
and so it was abandoned.

The surviving FIAT 2000 at Rome was left in a depot for several years, until it was sent
on the orders of Colonel Maltese to Forte Tiburtino, risking to catch fire during the
travel. In 1934 it was seen again in a Campo Dux parade, having been repainted and
even rearmed, with two 37/40 mm guns instead of the forward machine guns. It was
later reportedly transformed into a monument at Bologna, after that its fate is unknown,
like the other tank.

Type Heavy tank

Place of origin Italy

Wars Pacification of Libya

Number built 2

Weight 40 t

~ 341 ~
 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

Front/sides 20 mm
Armor (0.79 in)
Top 15 mm (0.59 in)

Main 1 x 65 mm gun
armament

Secondary 6 x 6.5 mm Fiat-Revelli

armament Mod. 1914 machine guns

Fiat Aviazione A.12

water-cooled inline six
Engine
cylinder (petrol)
240 hp

Power/weight 6 hp/t

6 forward and 2 reverse

Transmission
ratios gearbox, low range

Suspension Leaf springs

Ground clearance 0.4 m (1 ft 4 in)

600 L (160 US gal;

Fuel capacity
130 imp gal)

Operational 75 km (47 mi)

range

Speed 7 km/h (4.3 mph)

The Fiat 2000 was an Italian heavy tank designed and produced by Fiat during World
War I. Only two were built as it never entered serial production. It was one of the
largest designs of its time.

~ 342 ~
Fiat 3000

The Fiat 3000 was the first tank to be produced in series in Italy. It was to be the
standard tank of the emerging Italian armored units after World War I. The 3000 was
based on the French Renault FT.

~ 343 ~
History

Although 1,400 units were ordered, with deliveries to begin in May 1919, the end of the
war caused the original order to be canceled and only 100 were delivered. The first Fiat
3000s entered service in 1921 and were officially designated as the carro d'assalto Fiat
3000, Mod. 21 (Italian for "Fiat 3000 assault tank, Model 21"). Tests of the Model 21
revealed that the armament, consisting of two 6.5 mm machine guns, was inadequate,
and adoption of a 37 mm gun as main armament was urged.

The up-gunned version of the 3000, armed with a 37/40 gun, was tested in 1929 and
was officially adopted in 1930 with the designation of carro d'assalto Fiat 3000, Mod.
30. The Model 30, in addition to its improved armament, also differed from the Model
21 in that it had a more powerful engine, improved suspension, different engine
compartment silhouette, and the external stores were stowed differently. Some Model
30s were also produced with two 6.5 mm machine guns as main armament, as on the
Model 21, in lieu of the 37 mm gun. A limited number of Model 21 vehicles were
exported to Albania, Latvia, Hungary, and Abyssinia (Ethiopia) prior to 1930.

The designations of these tanks were changed prior to the outbreak of World War II, in
accordance with the identification system that was adopted throughout the war by the
Italians. The Model 21 was redesignated L5/21, and the Model 30 was redesignated
L5/30.

The Fiat 3000 (Model 21) was first used in action in February 1926 in Libya, and
subsequently also saw action against the Ethiopians in the Second Italo-Abyssinian War
in 1935. The Italians did not employ any of these tanks in Spain during the Spanish
Civil War, however. With Italy's entry into World War II in June 1940, a limited
number of Fiat 3000s still in service with the Italian Army were employed operationally
on the Greek-Albanian front. They were also among the last Italian tanks to oppose the
Allies, as in July 1943, when the Allies landed in Sicily, two Italian tank companies on

~ 344 ~
the island were still equipped with the 3000. One company was dug in and their
vehicles were used as fixed fortifications, while the other company was used in a mobile
role to respond to the amphibious landing during the Battle of Gela, with few of the
tanks surviving the Allied drive.[1]

Type Light tank

Place of origin Italy

In service 1921-1945

Italy
Ethiopia
Used by Albania
Hungary
Latvia

Pacification of Libya
Ethiopian coup d'tat of 1928
Second ItaloAbyssinian
Wars
War
Slovak-Hungarian War
World War II

152 (100 mod 21, 52 mod

Number built
30)

Weight 6 tonnes

Length 4.29 m (168.9 in)

Width 1.65 m (65.0 in)

Height 2.20 m (86.6 in)

Crew 2

Armor 6 mm-16 mm

2x 6.5 mm machine guns

Main 3000A
armament
1x 37 mm 3000B

Secondary 1x 6.5 mm machine gun

armament

~ 345 ~
 Fiat 4-cylinder
Engine
50 hp

Suspension vertical springs

Operational 100 km (62 mi)

range

Speed 21 km/h (13 mph)

Italy was not among the first to enter the game of armoured vehicles, which is no
surprise, considering that much of that countrys fighting was done in the alpine regions
on the border to Austria-Hungary. But with that in mind, the Italian effort is still quite
impressive. In 1917 the Italians started developing their own tank, the Fiat 2000, which
- by chance and not by design - came out as a A7V-clone, although better in
performance than its teutonic counterpart.

The Italians also imported a small number tanks from France: the Schneider CA.1 and
the Renault FT17. They soon realised that the Schneider was a dud, and instead decided
to manufacture a simple copy of the FT17. In the process of setting up the production -
done by FIAT, assisted by Ansaldo and Breda -, the tank was given a large number of
improvements and redesigns, and out came something that was actually better than the
vehicle it started out to copy.

This video comes courtesy of PDA:

Among the improvements was a double barreled 6.5mm MG and a more powerful
motor mounted in a lower, traverse position. This and the fact that it was lighter than the
FT17 resulted in, among other things, a much improved speed. (It was three times as
fast as the FT17.) It is safe to say that during the early 20s the FIAT 3000 was one of
the very best tanks in the world.

~ 346 ~
All the extensive redesigns resulted in many delays, which led to that the first prototype
was not completed until 1920, with the first tanks entering service not until 1923. But
the FIAT 3000 then soldiered on in both the Abyssinan and Libyan wars, but by then it
had been upgunned and had its suspension much improved. The last FIATs were used in
the fighting in Sicily in 1943, but only as a stopgap measure, as by then it was obsolete.
But its long service is a testimony to the soundness of the design.

~ 347 ~
Official designation: Carro Assalto FIAT 3000
Alternative notation:
Start design: 1918
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1919
Stage of completion: commercially produced in the 1919-1930 biennium.

History of FIAT 3000 light tank

Of 1917-1919.

~ 348 ~
In 1917 the Italian army, has already had time to suffer a series of serious defeats on the
Austrian front, I decided to take a radical strengthening of its armored forces by
purchasing tanks. From then existing patterns of greatest interest for some reason
caused the tank fire support Schneider CA1, a copy of which was purchased in the same
year. In tests carried out on a hilly terrain French car left not the best impression,
although the army command found them satisfactory, and decided to purchase CA1
party. Meanwhile, the signing of the contract was delayed in mind the difficult situation
on the Western Front. The French side in every way delay the negotiations, focusing on
priority needs for its own army, resulting in a second sample CA1 arrived in Italy in
May 1918, however, with him have been received three light tanks Renault FT-17, the
fighting qualities which were much better. Italy has demanded the supply of these tanks,
requesting just 1400 cars. Of course, to perform such a big order French companies
could not, therefore, been developed tank assembly on the Italian version of the FIAT
factories of firms, and Ansaldo Breda. Previously it was planned that the rate of the
monthly edition of 200 vehicles from 1 May 1919, but the war ended much earlier and
considerably cut down the order. Now, plan production amounted to only 100 tanks,
supplies which were to begin with September 1919.

During this time the Italian engineers, it was concluded that the structure FT-17 is far
from optimal. French tank had a very good alignment and is often turned over in
overcoming the deep trenches and vertical walls. The composition of weapons and high-
speed quality FT-17 also required improvement. So there was a plan to build its own
version of a light tank, called the FIAT 3000.

By and large, in the design of major changes had not planned to make. Undercarriage
track roller 8 kept on board semi-detached four trucks, the number of support rollers to
reduce to 5 and the driving wheel was larger diameter. Also underwent revision beam,
on which are mounted track tensioning system (coil spring) and the steering wheel. The
suspension remained balance-sheet with semi springs, hooded armor plate. Caterpillar
truck included 52 and generally not much Unlike FT-17 tracks. However, in later
versions, track shoes were made not smooth, thus ensuring a better grip.

~ 349 ~
Italian riveted hull tank going from rolled armor plates from 6 to 16 mm - so body
armor remained at FT-17, but unlike the original 3000 FIAT body shape was more
simple. First of all, it affected the bow, received spryamlnnye bronelisty side and top
armor plates was carried out whole. Aft was significantly shorter due to the reassembly
of the engine compartment: Italian 4-cylinder engine capacity of 50 hp FIAT It was not
installed along and across. In addition, the tank received a simplified gearbox. The
engine is started from the outside using the handle, while the tank commander could run
it from the crew compartment by using magneto. The radiator is placed on top of the
engine and the fuel tank is directly adjacent to the aft armor plates.

Exhaust pipes from FIAT 3000 tanks had two (in FT-17 - one on the right side), which
is output to both sides and are protected armored casing. By the stern of the hull is also
attached a jack and a "tail" to overcome the wide trenches and ditches. The design of the
"tail", which is attached to the body bolt, has a truss, with a curved metal plate on its
outer part. Although housing FIAT 3000, according to the firm, was made airtight in the
fighting compartment installed a pump to remove the water. On the outer side of the
housing there are four lashing rings capable of withstanding a load of 1 ton.

Electrical equipment and lighting in the FIAT 3000 was absent, so the dark period of
the day the crew could only rely on their own strength. Devices internal and external
communications are not established due to the tightness in the fighting compartment.
Communication between the driver and the commander of the tank was carried out by
means of gestures.

The layout of the crew compartment has not undergone any changes. The commander of
the tank is still not only commanded the machine, but also served as a gunner and
loader. From the engine compartment armored fighting compartment separated by a
partition fire. On the floor were boxes of spare parts and tools for a cleaning weapons.

~ 350 ~
Armament FIAT 3000 first modification consisted of two 6.5-mm machine guns SIA,
set in a 9-sided tower with an upper sloping armor plates and a small mushroom-shaped
commander's cupola on the roof. The tower was able to circular rotation, but the angle
of the vertical guidance guns ranged from + 24 to -17 . Unlike the FT-17 Italian tank
tower was enlarged size, making the crew working conditions more comfortable. The
stern was made broneliste butterfly hatch for the landing and evacuation of the crew.
Ammunition of the 50 stores for machine guns (2000 rounds) was placed on the sides of
the crew compartment. Shooting can be carried out simultaneously from both guns and
separately. Observations from the tank was carried out only through the peepholes,
located in the front of the chassis (two in the side "cheeks" and one in the hatch of the
driver) in the commander's cupola. Guidance was carried out using an optical collimator
sight mounted in the front broneliste tower between two machine guns.

Thanks to completions held Italian tank was much more "nimble" his French prototype.
In testing the first prototype, carried out in June 1920, on solid ground FIAT maximum
speed of 3000 reached up to 26 km \ h, while the FT-17 "squeezed out" of not more than
8 km \ h. Mobility and portability at the Italian tanks were also better. However,
representatives of the Italian army, were present at the site during testing it was noted
that the machine-gun armament of the tank is no longer fully meets the current
requirements and it is desirable to replace them with 37-mm cannon. This meant that the
FIAT 3000 will have to contend not only with the infantry of the enemy, but also with
tanks and field fortifications.

While unfolded production delivery time is constantly adjusted, because the first
production cars were produced only in 1921. The Italian army took tanks into service
under the designation Carro d'assalto FIAT 3000 mod.21 - ie the "assault vehicle
FIAT 3000 Model 21" or more simply FIAT 3000A (the latter term is most often found
in contemporary literature).

~ 351 ~
Despite a lot of advantages over the FT-17 Italian Tank "suffered" a lot of problems. At
night, a column of tanks moving head for a machine on which you install the headlamp.
In the case should be given a voice command runs behind the car. Of course, this
scheme does not suit made tank, completely devoid of connection and lighting at night,
but during the entire period of operation of FIAT 3000, this situation has not changed.

Many difficulties caused work with twin machine guns, the main problem which was in
the process of reloading. Significantly simplify the process to machine guns SIA was
not possible, so already in 1922 by specialists from Arsenal in Turin proposed to
establish the British machine guns Lewis caliber 7.62 mm, but this project did not find
support then. Only in 1937 machine gun variants FIAT 3000A got Spark aircraft guns
FIAT mod.1929, staffed 40-cartridge stores with a total 3,440 ammunition cartridges.
Tanks of this modification is sometimes referred to as Carro d'assalto FIAT 3000
mod.21 IIa serie. Incidentally, due to the characteristic of protective machine gun
shells, visually increases the diameter of the barrel, some authors believe oshibchno
their 37-mm guns.

On the question of placing guns back after the big maneuvers 1927-1928 gg. French
version with a 37-mm gun Puteaux SA18 Italians did not accept referring to its low
ballistic qualities. At the same time, Arsenal in Turin was studying the possibility of
installing Canonne da 37/40 of the same caliber. The first prototype was tested on
maneuvers in 1929 and earned a positive evaluation. This weapon was much greater
than on the SA18 muzzle velocity that allows you to fight with light armored vehicles at
distances up to 500 meters. Ammunition was 68 shots.

Make significant changes in the design of the tank is not required. Twin machine guns
were dismantled, and in their place, with a shift to the right, mounted 37-mm cannon.
Ammunition, as before, was placed on the sides of the crew compartment. The tank was
installed as the new engine produces 63 hp In addition, the chassis has new track shoes,

~ 352 ~
reinforced suspension and an additional bulwark that protected her open items. By the
way, not all serial tanks equipped with jacks and "tails".

As such, the new tank was accepted for service under the designation Carro d'assalto
FIAT 3000 mod.21 or FIAT 3000B. Interestingly, in the absence of the required
number of instruments of the tank model 1930 equipped with machine guns. The exact
number of tanks cannon built remains unknown, although the most significant data of
100 tanks FIAT 3000A and 52 tanks FIAT 3000B was built until 1931.

As soon solve all the problem with the equipment FIAT 3000 tanks radios failed, the
process stretched out over several years. Actually, this problem is not posed, since the
installation of even the most compact receiver "ate" a lot of space inside the crew
compartment. However, modification of the machinery FIAT 3000 mod.1930 station
yet received. As a rule, these were the tanks of the battalion commander, mouth, or
offices that could easily have been recognized by an impressive external antenna - U-
shaped metal frame was attached to the tower and the antenna itself extends from the
frame to the rear of the armor plates, taking an arcuate shape. Since 1935, the radio
stations are also equipped with a machine gun of the machines earlier series.

In 1930-ies. piloted at FIAT 3000 tried to establish a 105-mm howitzer and paired
installation of two 37-mm guns, but both options were rejected and in mass production
are.

FIAT 3000 in the ranks of the Italian Army 1919-1945 gg.

The first division, consisting entirely of tanks FIAT 3000, was established in 1921.
According to the organization, and it looked like a battalion consisted of three
"squadrons", but the number of cars in them was less than 20. By February 1924 the
number of tanks increased to 24, with , two training centers for training tank was
created in Rome.

~ 353 ~
In fact, the tank troops in Italy did not exist - as in France subordinate infantry tanks.
However, as a formal "infantry" unit, Panzer Group was subordinate to the 13th
Artillery Regiment. The first commander of the group was an infantry colonel Grassi
Noah (Noe Grassi), in March 1924 he was replaced by Colonel artillery Maltez Enrico
(Enrico Maltese). It is thanks to their efforts, the Italian army had his own theory of the
use of armored forces.

June 9, 1924 the band changed their place of deployment - the new base became
Tiburtino Fort (Forte Tiburtino), which is still preserved street "armed wagons" ( "del
carro armato"). By the end of the year, with an increase in the rate of release, the
number of tanks increased to 62.

Finally the "infantry" status for tankers has been fixed in a special document, issued
August 28, 1926 In addition to the organizational issues are regulated by the rules of
wearing uniforms.

10 years after the start of serial production of FIAT 3000 machines of this type were
considered obsolete, but due to lack of new technology, they still accounted for a
considerable part of the tank fleet of Italy. As of the 1936 FIAT 3000 tanks were
composed of the following units:

I support the infantry battalion of tanks (battaglione carro di rottura) 3rd Tank Regiment
(Reggimento Fanteria Carrista) in Rome;

II and V of the battalions of tanks support the infantry of the 4th Tank Regiment in
Bologna;

III Corps Support Battalion tanks of the 2nd Tank Regiment in Verona;

IV battalion of tanks support the infantry of the 1st Tank Regiment in Vetselli

~ 354 ~
For the first time to test the tanks of its own production in the Italian Army combat it
happened in 1926 in Libya, where he spent force "pacification" of local Arab tribes.
Furthermore they were used on a large scale in the 1935-1936 biennium. during the war
with Abyssinia (Ethiopia), which was sent to about 300 FIAT 3000 tanks and tankettes
CV3 / 33. Special feats of light tanks are not available, but the crews of his work was
performed quite well. The most successful they had acted on the southern front, where
with the help of tanks, aircraft and infantry were captured city Goroheya and Naegeli.
But in general the situation does not look so promising.

Very quickly it became clear that arrived in Abyssinia Italian tanks "blind" - peepholes
provide only the driver's view ahead, and commanders of the machines involved
shooting and directly commanded, are not always able to conduct full-fledged
monitoring. Develop a top speed on the mountain roads tanks too could not - their
technical secondary speed when driving on the terrain rarely exceed 7-10 km \ h, but in
a marching motion tanks were often used as armored cars, going in head echelons
marching order. All this made of FIAT 3000 good goal even without the presence of
anti-tank weapons.

cases were recorded when the Abyssinian war ran up to the tanks back and jumping to
the engine-transmission compartment, stones brought down the barrel of guns and
swords slaughtered the crew through peepholes. Sometimes tanks poured kerosene and
set on fire. Some of the tanks were put out of action after being hit by a well-disguised
"elephant pit" and ditches.

Much earlier, in 1924, in a similar situation were Spanish tankers who fought on the FT-
17 tanks, but the Italian command has not made any conclusions from this bitter lesson.
Apparently it was thought that the Abyssinians themselves flee at the sight of tanks. In
the presence of the Abyssinians cannon position for Italian tankers even more
compounded by the worse. For example, during the fighting on 15-16 December with
the troops race (commander) Immru Italians lost 10 tanks. In January next year, when

~ 355 ~
attempting a raid along the River Webi Shabelle, was lost 6 more cars. It is also the case
when 600 Abyssinians with two anti-tank guns kept the onslaught of 30 Italian tanks,
and at night went out of their environment. All these facts do not honor obsolete tanks,
but the irretrievable losses among FIAT 3000 were low, and some machines failed to
return captured.

In December 1939, when the Italian Army equipment began to arrive medium tanks
M11 \ 39, the older "Fiats" began to take on a second line. In the same year marking the
tanks changed to L5 / 21 and L5 / 30. The total number of tanks of this type are now
estimated to be 90 copies of all modifications. For example, 10 machines (three
compartments 3 and 1 tank commander) were transferred to the border guards of the 5a
Compagnia Carriste di Frontiera de la GAF. From the winter of 1940 began building up
troops near the border with the potential opponents countries, in connection with which
the 2 nd and 4 th units (which were part of the II and IV Corpi d 'Armata) is located
along the border with France, 5- e department (XV CdA) was transferred to the
Italian-Yugoslav border, 1st branch (XXXV CdA) were in Albania, and the third
branch on the islands in the Aegean sea. In the ensuing fighting tanks FIAT 3000 did
not participate, while in the rear, waiting for a replacement on the new machines.
Nevertheless, they still had a chance in July 1943 "to revive old."

After the defeat in Libya and Tunisia, the Italian army had lost quite a large number of
tanks, which made use of for the defense of Sicily all available armored vehicles there.
By this time the FIAT 3000 tanks were at the disposal of two branches 9 cars each, but
their technical condition was so bad that they could hardly be used even for the training
of crews. Precise data on their combat application no. The most common states that the
tanks were buried in the ground and used as armored emplacements. At least a few of
these boats was found by Allied forces after the capture of Sicily.

~ 356 ~
FIAT 3000 in the armies of other countries

1935-1945 gg.

With regard to export sales, at the beginning of the 1930s. FIAT 3000B few units were
sold in Albania. Of course, after the occupation of the country, they again became part
of the Italian army.

One modification of the tank FIAT 3000A Greece was granted for the test, but further
orders it is not followed. Also, in a single copy FIAT 3000A has also been sold to
Denmark. In 1926, during a demonstration in Turin, this tank became interested in the
delegation of this country, which vrmiya badly in need of new equipment. Compared
with the FT-17 Italian machine has higher speed characteristics under the same
production costs. As a result, the tank was purchased for 30,500 kroons during 1927-
1932. It used extensively for testing of joint action with the infantry. Since 1932 he was
replaced by Carden-Lloyd Patrol Tank Mk.IV (FP-4 \ FP-5), and the FIAT 3000 ended
his career as a target on the range.

In 1925 FIAT 3000A tank modification was proposed by the army of Abyssinia. After
the arrival of "gift" of the sample, which was purchased in the company FIAT friends
Abyssinia Corley, followed by the decision to buy in 1930, three more cars. Their
further use of the information could not be found. We only know that, together with
tanks arrived Italian techniques and instructors.

In December 1934 Abyssinian FIAT 3000A used during the border conflict with the
Italians in the Ogaden. The use of these tanks during the war with Italy until
information could not be found. According to recent reports, all four of the tank is
located in the capital of Abyssinia (g.Addis Ababa), where they were captured by the
Italians.

~ 357 ~
The largest batch of FIAT 3000A acquired Latvia. Purchase Order 6 tanks was issued
in 1926, and in September 1927 they arrived in Riga. Latvian FIAT 3000A equipped
with a single machine gun (4 tanks) in a ball mount, or a 37-mm gun Hotchkiss (2
tanks). These machines are made up of one tank companies, successfully rose to the
annexation of the country of the USSR, and in 1940 were included in the 12th
mechanized corps of the Red Army. By the time of the war with Germany, the Latvian
"Fiats" did not live - they passed the scrap metal in May 1941.

By the way, the Red Army a chance to get acquainted with the tank FIAT 3000A fell
back in the 1920s. It is not clear the nature of its appearance in the USSR. Often it
indicates that this tank was captured during the Soviet-Polish war in 1919-1921., But at
that time FIAT 3000A only entered series production. According to another version, the
tank was purchased in 1928 at the Polish Communists and the money sent to the Soviet
Union to become familiar with the new technology. In any case, the only Soviet FIAT
3000A went very intensive tests and its design has been recognized by more successful
than that of the FT-17 tank. Now schmitat it decided that it is "fiat" posluchzhil basis for
the creation of the MC-1 Soviet tanks, although this theory is controversial.

Further traces of this machine are lost - as of 1933 FIAT 3000A attributed to the
category of "the car obsolete designs decommissioned, but held in custody."

Combat weight 5900 kg

CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
3750 (on the body)
Length mm
4290 (with the "tail")
Width 1670
Height mm 2200
Clearance, mm 280
WEAPONS one 37-mm gun Model 30 37/40
allowance of
68 shots
ammunition

~ 358 ~
aiming DEVICES telescopic sights for guns, telescopic sights for guns
housing forehead - 16 mm
board housing - 16 mm
roof body - 6 mm
RESERVATIONS
food body - 20 mm
Tower - 16 mm
roof and bottom - 15 mm
The FIAT, 4-cylinder, carburetor, inline, liquid cooling;
ENGINE
power of 63 hp at 1700 rev / min
mechanical type: cardan shaft, the main clutch, 5-speed
TRANSMISSION
gearbox, differential
(On one side) 8 track roller of small diameter on the side,
semi-detached pairs in four trucks, suspended from the
CHASSIS
longitudinal beam on the leaf spring springs 5 support rollers,
rear driving wheel location
SPEED 21 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway 130 km
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. 20
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m 0.60
The width of the den, m 1.32
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Isotta Fraschini RM army armored vehicle

~ 359 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Autoblindo Isotta Fraschini mod.1911
Start design: 1911
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1911
Stage of completion: one prototype built for service was not taken.

The first Italian armored be designed and built in 1911 by experts of the company
Isotta-Fraschini (Milan) under the direction of engineer Giustino Cattaneo. Work was
carried out on its own initiative and in part were an experiment hodoy adaptation of the
commercial truck 4x2 for the installation of an armored corps. The chassis is left
unchanged, with the front Shed (with extra rims for improved road) and rear dual
wheels with tubeless tires.

~ 360 ~
Booking was rather modest and should not exceed 4 mm. Such light protection is partly
offset by an almost complete "blindirovaniem" rear wheels, protecting them from
damage. Armament consisted of two 6.5-mm machine guns, one of which was placed in
a cylindrical tower on the roof of the housing, and the second was from behind and
firing through a recess in the stern broneliste. weight armored vehicles in a fully
equipped condition was approximately 3000 kg. Crew - 3 people.

Commercially armored car company Isotta-Fraschini RM was not built, and remained
only in the form of two prototypes. However, one of the cars was sent in 1912 in Libya
and took a limited part in the fighting against the Turkish troops.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Isotta Fraschini sample 1911

Combat weight ~ 4000 kg

CREW, pers. 3
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 6.5-mm machine gun
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES optical sight for gun
housing forehead - 4 mm (?)
board housing - 4 mm (?)
food body - 4 mm (?)
RESERVATIONS
Tower - 4 mm (?)
roof - 4 mm (?)
the bottom - (4 mm?)
ENGINE Carburetor
~ 361 ~
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS 4x2; rubber-coated wheels
SPEED ~ 25 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

~ 362 ~
FIAT Arsenale army armored vehicle

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Autoblinda FIAT Arsenale mod.1912
Start of planning: 1912
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1912
Stage of completion: one prototype built for service was not taken.

1912 became a very fruitful for Italy, in terms of creating new types of armored
vehicles. Almost simultaneously with the company Isotta-Fraschini FIAT company's
specialists have developed the armored car of his own design.

As in the previous case, we used the chassis of the truck 4x2 rear wheels with a gable.
However, in contrast to the Isotta-Fraschini, tubeless tire was not, as usual - pneumatic.
Suspension included amotrtizatsiyu on the leaf springs.

~ 363 ~
The body was made from sheets of rolled armor steel. Coil was no protection. Hood
became a reporter with a fully armored frontal unmanageable blinds. Technological
hatches on the hood absent pozhtomu for access to the engine had to withdraw armored
panels. On the roof of the four-sided tower housing installed in the front of the
compartment which mounted a 6.5-mm machine gun. On top of the tower also mounted
spotlight. The crew consisted of 3 persons. Embarkation and disembarkation of the car
was made through boovye door.

Unfortunately, the details and the armored car FIAT sample 1912 built Artillery Arsenal
Force Turin (which is why the name of this machine is sometimes referred to as
Autoblinda FIAT Arsenale 1912), could not be found. We only know that this
machine is adopted is not accepted. Presumably the only example of armored vehicles
FIAT sample 1912 can be used in the final stages of the war in Libya.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

FIAT Arsenale sample 1911
Combat weight ~ 4000 kg
CREW, pers. 3
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 6.5-mm machine gun
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES optical sight for gun
forehead housing - (6 mm?)
RESERVATIONS board housing - 6 mm (?)
food body - 6 mm (?)

~ 364 ~
 Tower - (6 mm?)
roof - 6 mm (?)
the bottom - (6 mm?)
ENGINE FIAT, Carburetor
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS 4x2; rubber-coated wheels
SPEED ~ 25 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Bianchi armored car

~ 365 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Automitragliatrice Bianchi mod.1912
Start of planning: 1912
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1912
Stage of completion: one prototype built for service was not taken.

As you know, in the early 20th century in Europe there have been several local wars, the
purpose of which was territorial conquest. Obtained by Russian independent Balkan
states continued to fight with badly weakened Turkey, which is already difficult to
restrain their onslaught. This fact in 1911, took advantage of Italy, had long dreamed of
to reclaim African colonies - in particular, Libya. Italo-Turkish War of 1911-1912
years. It passed on a narrow section of the coastal strip and ended with the defeat of
Turkey. No new tactics it has not been used for one exception - here the first time went

~ 366 ~
into battle planes and armored cars. The idea to use armored vehicles was not new, as
even in 1909, the same as Turkey received from France a few armored vehicles armed
one Hotchkiss machine gun. Though they were intended for the government-in armored
vehicles in the hands of the Young Turks, and then were used against the government
troops. All reservations of these machines was to broneschite behind which sat a
machine gunner.

The Italians came to this issue more seriously. Taking the truck company Bianchi are
designed specifically for him an armored body made the project of Baron Antonio de
Marchi (Antinio De Marchi), completely protects vital aggregates and crew. The body,
externally strongly resembled Isotta-Frascini sample of 1911, was made of rolled armor
plates 6 mm thick. Frontal sheet has, at the same time, a considerable angle, although
bortvye bronelisty installed only vertically.

Armament consisted of two 6.5-mm machine guns, placed in a cylindrical tower with a
circular firing in the rear of the hull. Chassis has undergone minor changes. To avoid
lumbago wheels tubeless tires have been used, the rear wheels were covered with
armored shields. On the front wheels have added additional rim as tubeless tires
seriously worsened patency of off-road use. Gross weight armored vehicles was
approximately 3000 kg.

In the spring of 1912 the Italian command has ordered to send to Libya, for which there
was a war with Turkey, armored cars and Isotta-Frascini FIAT for front-line trials.
Precise data on their use is not able to find, but this time the fighting is almost
completed and the arrival of armored vehicles have no effect on their progress could not
have.

~ 367 ~
Following these events, the army command several cooled to the armored vehicles and
the beginning of the First World War not commercially produced none of the proposed
models. However, in early 1915 there was a modernized version of Bianchi. Compared
with the original version has been slightly modified bow of the hull, removed side and
head-blinds, added broneschitki to the front wheels, modified form of flaps of the rear
wheels, and a shorter body (by reducing the length of the feeding department) was
established rail to overcome barbed wire . This option Automitragliatrice Bianchi
mod.1915 also equipped with a cylindrical tower with a 6.5-mm machine gun.

The third model Automitragliatrice Bianchi (then already used Autoblinda designation)
was introduced in 1916. The main difference was the absence of an updated armored
towers, instead of which the open top fighting compartment installed machine gun with
armored shields the usual (and sometimes even without it). Feeding machine gun is not
dismantled.

~ 368 ~
In May of 1915, when Italy officially entered the war, the army possessed a minor
amount of armored vehicles of all types which are used on the Austrian-Italian front
during 1915-1916.

Despite the fact that the amount of built Automitragliatrice Bianchi was only 4 copies of
their appearance and experience of combat use in Libya and on the Italian front had a
significant influence on the design ideas in Europe. Subsequently, the design of the case
and some of the technical solutions applied in the construction of a better armored
Lancia 1Z sample 1915

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Bianchi sample 1912

Combat weight ~ 4000 kg

CREW, pers. 3
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 6.5-mm machine gun
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES optical sight for gun
forehead housing - (6 mm?)
board housing - 6 mm (?)
food body - 6 mm (?)
RESERVATIONS
Tower - (6 mm?)
roof - 6 mm (?)
the bottom - (6 mm?)
ENGINE Carburetor
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS 4x2; rubber-coated wheels
SPEED ~ 25 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

~ 369 ~
FIAT-Terni Tripoli

Italy (1918) Armored car 14 built

Development

The FIAT-Terni Tripoli, also known as armored car Terni, FIAT or FIAT Tripoli
Libya, was an armored car used in colonial areas controlled by the Royal Army during
the interwar period. It was born at the Terni steelworks of OTO (Livorno) in 1918. This
was an early constituent of the future OTO-Melara consortium. However, the northern

~ 370 ~
Italian front was not favorable for armored cars. At the end of the conflict, the general
staff emitted specifications for an armored car intended for use in the colonies. These
were put into service at the end of the war and stayed so until early 1942.

Design

The FIAT-Terni Tripoli was more than twice lighter than the Lancia IZ, as well as faster
and more agile. It was based on the Fiat 15b Military, a two-axle rear-wheel drive
chassis with a wheelbase of 3.07 meters (9 ft 12 in), 1.4 meters (4 ft 7 in) wide. The
wheels were steel discs, with a single front axle and a rear twin axle (24
configuration). The engine was the Fiat 53A, 4,398 cc petrol, which developed 36 hp at
1,600 r/min. The armored body was made of cold steel plates 6 mm (0.24 in) thick,
forming a combination of two cylinders, one housing the engine at the front and a
vertical one, containing the main driving and fighting compartment, and a rear flattened
storage tail with a fixed spare wheel. The main compartment was provided with two
side doors, while the front driver and co-driver received their own sight slits with
armored flaps. A crew of four men were housed in the cramped space of the turret and
drive compartment, without separation. The engine radiator grille was protected by
armored shutters. The large, two-man fully revolving turret received a single Fiat-
Revelli Mod. 1914 6.5 52 mm (0.25 in) machine gun. The production turret roof was
flat, but the prototype had sloped sides and mudguards on the rear wheels.

The FIAT-Terni Tripoli in action

A first batch of 12 armored cars was sent to Libya, for the Royal Corps of Colonial
Troops in Cyrenaica and Tripolitania, and were engaged in the reconquest. The Tripoli
served in mixed units with Lancia IZs and FIAT lorries armed with guns, part of the
armored squadrons of the III and IV Battalion Cacciatores de Africa (African
hunters). After the pacification, the FIAT-Terni stayed in service, taking up colonial
police tasks and patrols against possible insurgency. By the mid-thirties, better, more
modern vehicles succeeded this model, which joined the reserve.

However, with the outbreak of World War II, the colonial forces of the Royal Army
were found short of motorized vehicles. Thus, the 6 to 8 surviving Tripoli vehicles were
stripped of their chassis, and the bodies were mounted on more modern Fiat SPA-38R
truck chassis. The turrets were open-topped and Breda-Safat 12.7 mm (0.5 in) heavy
machine guns, removed from obsolete aircraft, were installed. These vehicles were
assigned to the special Armored Brigade Babini in the anti-aircraft role, but all were
lost in the initial months of the campaign in North Africa.

FIAT Terni Tripoli specifications

Dimensions 4.54 x 1.70 x 1.80 m (14ft7in x 5ft7in x5ft11in)

Total weight, battle ready 1.4 tons (3086 lbs)

Crew 4 (driver, co-driver/commander, gunner,loader)

~ 371 ~
Propulsion FIAT 53A 4-cyl. petrol engine, 4.3 l, 36 bhp at 1600 rpm

Speed 65 km/h (39 mph)

Operational range 300 km (186 mi)

Armament FIAT-Revelli 8 mm (0.31 in) machine-gun

Armor Max. 6 mm (0.2 in)

Total production 14 in 1918

Tripoli in Libya, 1920s.

~ 372 ~
Modified Tripoli of the armored squadron Babini in 1941.

~ 373 ~
The Fiat-Terni armoured car (also called Fiat leggera or tipo Tripoli) was named thus
because it was manufactured in the steel works in Terni in Umbria. It was designed in
the steel factory of the Socit Terni at the end of 1918. It was a simple, but robust and
reliable machine, using the proven chassis and engine of the famous Fiat 15 Ter truck. It
was small: 4.54m long, 1.70m wide and 3.07m high, and was armed with one M1914
Fiat-Ravelli water-cooled HMG . (At least one was fitted - probably as an experiment -
with a turret from a British Lanchester Armoured Car. See the second photo, below.)

~ 374 ~
It was designed to be used in the Italian Colonies. 12 were sent to Libya in 1919,
together with a number of Lanzia 1ZM, and they together formed two Armoured Car
Squadrons, the 4 and 5 Cacciatori. It was later used in the operations that resulted in
the occupation of the Oasis of Giarabub and the Oasis of Cufra. It was also used as an
escort vehicle for the supply lines, but showed itself to be a good scout car, even
functioning well in collaboration with the air reconnaissance. When Italy entered WW2
in 1940, some 10 Fiat Terni armoured cars were still operating in Libya, although, by
then some of these had had their armament somewhat upgraded.

Official designation:
Alternative notation: FIAT Terni, FIAT Tipo Tripoli
Start design: 1918
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: 12 units built.

In 1918, the forces of Terni steel plant engineers, the project was implemented one of
the most original of armored vehicles during the First World War. Taking the truck
chassis FIAT 15ter it established the armored corps, which consisted of three parts.

Nasal portion housed four-cylinder engine (4298 cc cubic capacity.), Transmission, and
cooling system of the gas tank has been designed as a truncated cone (in cross section)
with a flat bottom, provided that a sufficiently good thin pulestoyskost reservations. To
access the units of the engine compartment there were two hatches on the sides. The
motor is cooled by the radiator was carried out, which was protected by controlled
shutters in the frontal hood.

In the middle part of the case management department was located, which was
combined with a fighting compartment. This part of the body had a cylindrical cross-
section, with two doors for the landing of the crew on the sides and a cylindrical tower
on the roof. Armament armored cars was modest and consisted of only one 8-mm gun

~ 375 ~
turret. The crew consisted of two people: the driver and the vehicle commander (he also
served as an arrow).

The aft part of the hull, by and large, served as the vehicle compartment. In contrast to
the above sections it bronelisty connected at right angles, and only the upper armor
plates have a significant slope. There fastened spare wheel and entrenching tools.

Chassis truck 4x2 has not changed. From her completely borrowed the frame and power
plant. The front wheels were Shed, rear - gable.

The first prototype with the number 14160, built at the end of 1918, consistent with the
present technical description, except for the tower, which is taken from a British
armored car "Lanchester". All other production machines got a tower of cylindrical
shape. Together with the name of their Autoblinda FIAT Terni also referred to as the
FIAT Tipo Tripoli.

In foreign sources indicate that in 1919, Libya established two squadrons, one of which
is armed with 12 armored vehicles Tripoli, and the other - armored vehicles Lancia
1ZM. Later, in 1923, they were joined by a third squadron two "Lanchester", two
Lancia 1ZM and two other Tripoli. The service of these machines was rather peaceful.
After acceptance testing in Libya armored periodically used in military maneuvers,
although in 1926 they were used to capture oases Kurfa (Curfa) and Dzharabub
(Giarabub). By July 1940, when Italy got involved in another war, in service with the
Italian Army still had about a dozen Tripoli. Their long as it was not possible to find a
technical condition and further application details, but judging by the photos
sohranivshimmsya several cars were modernized. Standard hulls were installed on the
new chassis and the tower replaced the installation barbetnogo type krupnokalibrenym
gun. In the initial phase of hostilities, but after the failure of the Italian attack, two of
them went to the British troops.

~ 376 ~
SPECIFICATIONS Wheel HEAVY TANK
Ansaldo modello 1929

Combat weight ~ 4000 kg

CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 4545
Width 1700
Height mm 3070
Clearance, mm ?
one 6.5-mm machine gun FIAT-Revelli mod.1914 in
WEAPONS
the tower
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES optical sight
forehead housing - (6 mm?)
board housing - 6 mm (?)
RESERVATIONS
top and bottom plate - (6 mm?)
Tower - (6 mm?)
The FIAT, carburetor, 4-cylinder working volume of
ENGINE
4298 cc.
TRANSMISSION mechanical type: 4-speed gearbox, propshaft
CHASSIS 4x2; pneumatic tires, suspension leaf springs
SPEED ~ 40-45 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?

~ 377 ~
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Lancia Ansaldo IZ/IZM

Italy (1916) Armored car 120 built total

Past Italian armored cars

The Lancia Anslado was the last, most famous and most numerous Italian armored car
of the Great War. However, long before that, like many countries, Italy experimented
with a series of makeshift armored cars which were rushed into service and deployed on
bordering roads near to the Alps. Notable models were the Bianchi (1914) and later the
Autocarro SPA-9000C da 102/35, the first Italian SPG and eventually specialized AA

~ 378 ~
vehicle. But there is little information about these models. Italian car companies
contributed to some designs, but none was as successful as the Lancia IZ and by 1916,
they were the most modern and well-armed in service on the Allied side.

The Lancia IZ

Development started following an army specification for a modern, heavily armed

vehicle, in 1915. By mid-1916 Lancia had chosen its well-proven truck chassis which
was already in army service. Lancia built an armored superstructure with a roomy turret
on top of the rear compartment. This model was characterized by a second machine gun
turret on top of the first, giving the vehicle an overall height of 2.80 m (9.18 ft) (2.4
m/7.87 ft with the single turret). The main turret housed two Breda 8 mm (0.31 in)
machine guns, giving the IZ formidable firepower for the time. Ten of these were
manufactured and pressed into service at the fall of 1916, and early war experience led
to the addition of two cutting rails to deal with barb wire.

The Lancia IZM

The success of this first model quickly led the army to order 110 more, produced by
Lancia and Ansaldo. Because of stability concerns and other internal problems, the extra
top turret was eliminated. The IZM (for modificato) was revealed in mid-1917. Apart
from their appearance, the two models were quite similar, with the IZM relocating the
spare tires to the sides (instead of the rear) and minor modifications in the cooling vents
and the engine hood armor, simplified visions slits and bumpers, and an updated Lancia
chassis. The IZM rear fighting compartment was equipped with an extra port for a third
machine-gun, and a rack for a liaison bicycle.

The IZ/IZM in action

Word War One

~ 379 ~
The mountainous terrain of the frontline with the Austro-Hungarian forces was not
suited for Regio Esercitos armored cars, however, they patrolled the north-eastern
frontier, the Paive river sector and the Alpine foothills. Their role was to guard against
Austrian incursions, playing an important part in the rearguard action covering the
retreating Italian forces at Caporetto in 1917. Users include American troops, who
trained on these machines and the German and Austrian forces which captured some
after Caporetto.

Interwar

During the late twenties and thirties, most IZMs were sent to the Italian colonies in
Erythrea (East Africa) and Libya. Some took part in the Ethiopian campaign (1935) as
advanced reconnaissance units, and a small detachment of the Corpo Truppe Volontarie
Italia fought in Spain in 1936-38, supporting the Nationalists. They were hopelessly
outdated and easy prey for the Russian BA-3/6, equipped with a formidable tank turret.
Some were also sold to the Albanian Kingdom, constituting the only armored force
available in the region.

World War Two

Despite being obsolete, these machines were still in service in Lybia and other East
African colonies when the war broke out. Most fought in Eastern Africa where they met
vintage British and Australian armored car models, but were lost in the process. Some
were deployed with Italian troops in police and anti-partisan operations in the Balkans,
primarily in Yugoslavia. By November 1943, those which survived were captured and
pressed into German service. Some were sent to the Hungarians. Most were destroyed
or captured in 1944 during the Yugoslavian uprising and Allied conquest of Italy. One
IZM has survived and is on display at the Museo storico della Motorizzazione Militare
in the Cecchignola Province of Rome.

Lancia-Ansaldo IZM specifications

Dimensions 5.4 x 1.85 x 2.4 m (17ft8in x 6ft05in x 7ft10in)

~ 380 ~
Total weight, battle ready 3.8 tons (8377 lbs)

Crew 6 (Driver, co-driver commander, 2 gunners, mechanic)

Propulsion Lancia V6 petrol, 35/40 bhp at 3000 rpm

Speed 60 km/h (37.3 mph)

Operational Range 300 km (186 mi)

Armament 2-3 Breda 8 mm (0.31 in) machine-guns

Armor Max. 8 mm (0.31 in)

Total production 110 IZM in 1918

The original Lancia-Ansaldo IZ (only ten produced) was equipped with a second turret
on top of the main one, raising the height of the whole vehicle to 2.8 m (9 ft 3 in). Due
to the narrowness of the vehicle and stability issues, this was dropped for the next IZM
model. Nevertheless, when introduced in 1916, this was the most modern and heavily
armed armored car possessed by any army.

~ 381 ~
IZM equipped with special tires, during the war of Abyssinia. This one is the tenth from
the second squadron. The white rectangles painted on the turret were part of a tactical
symbol to distinguish individual vehicles inside a platoon. It was later simplified with
integrated colors.

Lancia Ansaldo IZM in colonial duty livery, Libya, 1938.

~ 382 ~
IZM attached to the XXXXIX Tank Battalion serving in the Aegean Islands during
WWII. This one was captured by the Germans in November 1943. It seems that some
IZM were also built for Austria during the interwar years. They included modified
bumpers, extra storage boxes and were equipped with a twin Schwartzlse machine-
guns.

~ 383 ~
Lancia 1Z freshly built at the factory.

~ 384 ~
German Lancia 1ZM Panzersphwagen, PK 501 used by the Wehrmacht operating in
Italy after the capitulation of november 1943 (Bundesarchiv).

IZM exposed at the Museo storico della motorizzazione militare di Roma-Cecchignola.

The Lancia was the most important Italian armoured car of the First World War - it was
built in some numbers and used against the Austrian and later German forces on the
front on the north-east borders of Italy. Some were captured by the Germans and used to
equip some armoured car units of their own, and Lancia armoured cars were used to
train and equip American troops in Italy.

~ 385 ~
The basis of these cars was the Lancia 1Z 25/35-h.p. light truck chassis with pneumatic
tyres, dual at the rear. The construction of the armoured cars was undertaken by the
Ansaldo engineering firm, of Turin, and the vehicles were, in fact, sometimes known as
Ansaldos or Ansaldo Armoured Cars.

The layout of the design was fairly conventional, the only really unusual feature being
the small turret (with one Saint Etienne water-cooled machine-gun) superimposed on
the larger turret equipped with another two Saint Etienne machine-guns of the same
type. The ground clearance of the Lancia armoured car was particularly good for a car
of the period.

~ 386 ~
~ 387 ~
A feature also used in other Italian armoured cars was the rails, incorporating wire
cutters at the tip of the rails, to enable the vehicle to pass through wire obstacles
stretched across roads. The Lancia armoured car had a roomy hull (of chrome-nickel
steel) and this was needed to accommodate the large crew consisting of the car
commander, driver, three gunners and a mechanic.

The car weighed about 3950kg loaded including 25,000 rounds of ammunition. The
engine of about 60bhp (35hp nominal) gave a maximum speed of 70kph, and the car
had a radius of action of about 500km. It had a crew of 6 men. The length was 5.24m,
the width 1.9m, the height 2.89m, and the wheel base 3.57m.

~ 388 ~
The 1Zm model of the Lancia 1Z armoured car was almost identical in appearance to
the first type except that the small turret was eliminated and the third machine-gun was
mounted instead in the back of the hull, facing rearwards. Lancia 1Z & 1Zm armoured
cars were long in service and some were still in use by the Italian Army in East Africa
in the Second World War. They were also used in the Spanish Civil War.

The Lancia 1Z and the Lancia 1ZM were two variations of an Italian armoured car
built during World War I and which saw limited service during that war, the interwar
period, and during World War II.

Design

The Lancia 1Z armoured car was built by Ansaldo of Italy starting in 1916 and was the
most common of the early Italian armoured cars. Based on a Lancia truck, the armoured
car was an advanced design for its day. For firepower the vehicle was equipped with
twin turret mounted machine guns. The initial ten vehicles featured a further small turret
on top with yet another machine gun. This gave the vehicle considerable firepower for
the time. As a result of experiences in World War I, steel rails were installed over the
top of the vehicle for cutting wire.

Having had good results with the early car, another production run of a slightly
modified version (the Lancia 1ZM) or "Model 1918" was ordered. The major difference
between the 1Z and 1ZM was that the 1ZM did not have the top turret with the extra
machine gun.

The Lancia 1ZM was the second batch of Ansaldo-Lancia armoured cars built. 110 cars
of the improved model were ordered in 1917 and all were delivered before the end of
1918. Sometimes difficult to identify from the original Lancia 1Z ("Model 1916"), the
most obvious difference is the removal of the top machine gun turret. This left the 1ZM
with just the one larger, twin machine gun turret. Other features that will help are that
the first 1ZM's usually have two spare tyres mounted on the right side of the vehicle (on
the 1Z they were under the rear). The cooling vents and front armour of the engine
compartment are slightly different and there are fewer vision ports in the armoured crew
compartment. The front bumpers were also simplified. However, some of the original
1Z series were modified to initial 1ZM standard by the removal of the extra top turret

~ 389 ~
and up-dating the chassis. This makes it possible to find photos of 1ZM armoured cars
with both 1Z and 1ZM features. American troops on the Italian Front during World War
I trained with and used some of these vehicles.

In combat

1Z Armored Car during the World War 1 Battle of Vittorio Veneto

The Lancia 1Z/1ZM armoured car saw little combat in World War I due to the
mountainous terrain in which the Italian Royal Army (Regio Esercito) fought. However,
a few were deployed in the northern parts of the country where they saw combat against
the Austro-Hungarian Army.

After World War I, Lancia 1Z/1ZM armoured cars were sent to North Africa and to East
Africa for policing duties. A few cars were also sent to the Albanian Kingdom where
they were to form the sole armoured force of the country for many years. Some Lancia
1Z/1ZM played a minor role during the Italian invasion and the occupation of Ethiopia.
Some Lancia 1Z/1ZM were sent to Spain during the Spanish Civil War and were used
by the Italian Corps of Volunteer Troops (Corpo Truppe Volontarie Italia, or CTV).
These armoured cars were already hopelessly outdated by this point and performed
poorly against the Spanish Republican forces.

A few obsolete Lancia 1Z/1ZM armoured cars were still in use with the Italian Royal
Army during World War II. In 1940 and 1941, several vehicles served with the Royal
Army during the East African Campaign. In some instances, operable machines were
pressed into service by other Axis forces after the Armistice of Cassibile in September
1943. In the service of the forces of Nazi Germany, the vehicle was identified as the
Panzersphwagen 1ZM (i).

~ 390 ~
Operators

Italy
Albania
Kingdom of Afghanistan
Austria
Austria-Hungary
German Empire 1871-1918
Hungary 1918-1940
Nazi Germany

Type Armoured car

Place of origin Italy

Used by Italy, others

World War I
Second Italo-Ethiopian War
Wars
Spanish Civil War
World War II

Manufacturer Ansaldo for Lancia

Produced 1916 (1Z), 1918 (1ZM)

Number built 10 (1Z), 110 (1ZM)

Weight 3.70 tonnes

Length 5.40 m

Width 1.824 m

Height 2.40 m with single turret

Crew 6

Armour 9 mm

Main Two machine guns

armament

Secondary One machine gun (1Z only)

armament

Engine One petrol engine.

~ 391 ~
 35/40hp

Operational 300 km
range

Speed 60 km/h on-road.

Lancia 1Z
Type Light military truck

Place of origin Italy

~ 392 ~
 Used by Royal Italian Army

Italo-Turkish War
Wars
First World War

Manufacturer Lancia

Produced 19121916

Number built 91

Length 5,100 mm (200 in)

Width 1,750 mm (69 in)

Lancia tipo 61
Engine 4,490 cc I4 petrol
70 hp

Payload capacity 2.2 t

Transmission 4-speed gearbox

Suspension Leaf springs

Speed 60 km/h (37 mph)

The Lancia 1Z was a light military truck produced by Italian manufacturer Lancia
between 1912 and 1916. From a mechanical standpoint it was closely related to the
1913 35 HP Theta passenger car. It was Lancia's first military vehicle.[1]

Development and service history

At the outbreak of the Italo-Turkish War of 1911, the Royal Italian Army, whose
motorisation had only begun a few years before, was chiefly equipped with Fiat 15
trucks. After positive experience on the field, the army handed out additional
procurements contracts of trucks for tactical and logistical use, to both Fiat and other
manufacturers. One of them was Lancia, which developed the 1Z and began deliveries
in 1912, in time for the vehicle to see war service on the harsh terrains of Libya.
Production and army use continued into the First World War.

In 1916 Ansaldo and Lancia jointly built an armoured car on the 1Z chassis, named
Automitragliatrice Lancia Ansaldo 1Z. These were the Royal Italian Army main
armoured vehicle, and were used in riot control and later in the war to quickly exploit
infantry breakthroughs. An improved type, the Lancia Ansaldo 1ZM, was produced in
1918.

~ 393 ~
In 1915 Lancia introduced the Jota truck, which used the same 4.5-litre engine but had a
dedicated chassis; production of the 1Z truck subsequently ended during 1916.

The 1Z as self-propelled artillery platform

In 1917 the 1Z truck was selected as carrier for 75/26 A.V. guns to form self-propelled
anti-aircraft artillery; designated Autocannone da 75/27 A.V., the weapon system
consisted of an anti-aircraft gun permanently installed in the bed of a partially armoured
1Z. The pintle mounted 75/26 A.V. (Anti Velivolo, anti-aircraft) was based on the 75/27
Mod. 1906[a] field gun modified for use in the anti-aircraft role.[2] The initial order of 50
guns was later halved to 25, to form six mobile batteries or Autobatterie, which were
delivered in Summer 1918; the experiment was short lived, as the weapon did not prove
satisfactory in the field and the guns were soon dismounted to be used in static
positions.[2]

The Italian artillery arm also used the 1Z as a gun platform in a self-propelled artillery
role carrying 75/27 Mod. 1911 guns portee-style.[2] Six batteries were formed in late
1918, and from 1920 to 1928 were assigned to the horse artillery branch.[2]

Specifications

The 1Z was powered by the Tipo 61 4,940 cc side valve, monobloc head inline-four
cylinder engine, with 70 hp at 2,200 rpm.[3] The chassis was a conventional ladder
frame with solid axles on semi-elliptic leaf springs; brakes were on the transmission and
on the rear wheels. The transmission was a Tipo 105 4-speed gearbox with a multi-plate
dry clutch. Main differences from the Theta's mechanicals were wider axle tracks, and
tyres and metal disc wheels more suited to military use.[3] The vehicle had a top speed
of 60 km/h (37 mph), and could carry 2.2 tons of cargo.[1]

Official designation: Lancia 1Z \ 1ZM

Alternative notation:
Start of planning: 1915
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1915
Stage of completion: commercially produced until 1920, remained in service until the
spring of 1945

History of the creation and design of armored Lancia 1Z

Of 1915-1917.

The successful start of construction of armored vehicles in Italy, as well as evidence of

their use during the Italo-Turkish War of 1912, became to the European public a big
surprise. Despite the fact that none of the three prototypes and was not adopted for serial
production, the positive role they played. Even before Italy's entry into the First World
War the company Lancia presented the project of a completely new armored vehicles, in
which the design took into account not only positive quality of earlier models, but also
used technological solutions, some time to overtake her.

~ 394 ~
The basis for the armored car was the Lancia 1Z commercial truck chassis (1 Zeta),
adopted for mass production in 1912. On earlier models of the sample 1910-1911 gg. he
differed lengthened to 3350 mm wheelbase, while the rest of his radical design has not
changed. Chassis 4x2 was driven wheels of the front axle and the drive wheels of the
rear axle. Pneumatic tires, suspension leaf springs. The machine was equipped with a
transmission with a manual 4-speed transmission, borrowed from the Eta model. The
first copies of the Lancia 1Z were equipped only with single wheels, but later received a
series of dual rear axle wheels. Such modification and became a base for the
construction of a prototype armored car of the same name.

Was pioneering housing construction and arrangement of arms. The body armor plates
was going out with a thickness of 2.5 mm to 6 mm in the steel frame using rivets and
bolts. The layout was a classic. Front housed an armored hood, under which was placed
a gasoline 4-cylinder engine Lancia 1Z, a displacement of 4960 cc. and 60 hp Cooling
system - liquid. In the front part of the hood and roof installed unmanaged armored
shutters. Upper bronelisty hood can be removed for maintenance of the power plant.

The remaining length of the hull took the fighting compartment, combined with the
management of the department. Front, almost exactly in the longitudinal axis of the
chassis, the driver's seat. Behind him started directly fighting compartment, which
housed the crew, the overall composition of which reached up to 6 people. At the stern
there is a second control station. To improve bulletproof windshields horizontal hull
plates installed at great angles. At the same time, bronelisty sides and stern were strictly
vertical.

Unconventional Italian engineers came to the placement of weapons. On the roof of the
fighting compartment installed main cylindrical tower, the size of which is strongly
advocated the width of the hull, which is why on the sides had to add additional
sections. In it, in separate units serving a single machine guns, was mounted on a single
7.62-mm machine gun Maxim. The maximum elevation angles guns ranged from -15
to + to 35 . Above them was placed a small single tower with another similar 7.62-mm

~ 395 ~
machine gun. Theoretically, such a scheme is provided Sector simultaneous firing at
about 180-200 , but in practice tiered weapons led to unnecessary distress.

Chassis has not changed, but for the prototype was specifically designed protection,
consisting of armored shields filmed partially closes the wheels of both axles. In
addition to this, it was considered the first experience of fighting on the Western Front.
Appeared in great abundance barbed wire brought a lot of "inconvenience" is not only
the soldiers - ordinary armored vehicles and overcome them with great difficulty. In
order to improve the combat effectiveness in the Lancia 1Z we decided to establish the
design of the two curved rails, which are mounted on the front hull and further
strengthened the longitudinal beam in the front. With the help of this simple device
intended to destroy not only the barbed wire, but small road obstacles, which generally
justified.

The first prototype armored Lancia 1Z was presented at the test site in Udine in August
1915. The general opinion of the representatives of the army was very positive, but it
was noted that the machine is difficult to control when reversing, too cumbersome, and
has a high ground pressure. In addition, there is insufficient review of all places of the
crew.

Most of these shortcomings were eliminated on the machines 1 Series (Lancia 1Z Serie
I), released in the same year. Visibility has been improved by the introduction of
additional manholes around the perimeter of the body - if the prototype was only 4 of
the hatch, then the serial number of their sample was adjusted to 14. Also suffered side
shutters in the lower part of the hood sides and removed the armor protection of the
front axle wheels.

The first production aircraft entered service of the Italian Army in July 1916 and already
at that time was held the second phase of improvements. Upgraded armored cars
Lancia 1Z Serie II equipped with mutated "rails", a smaller number of manholes in the

~ 396 ~
body, as well as the ability to install the French 8-mm machine guns St.Etienne. A total
of 20 of these machines were built, which came into operation from 11th March 1917.
In foreign sources total number of armored vehicles of the first series is estimated to be
37 units.

However, to truly become a mass modification Lancia 1Z Serie III, better known as
Lancia 1ZM. At this time the changes were significant. First of all, it was dismantled a
small machine gun tower, instead of which there was a normal sunroof, and machine-
gun installation "moved" in the aft hull plates. Next, the shape-board shutters on the
hood has been changed and, finally, the old guns such as Maxim planned to gradually
be replaced by domestic 6.5-mm machine guns FIAT-Rivelli sample 1914. In addition
to laying transported four rifles Chauchat Mle 1915 CSRG with ammunition cartridges
in 1200. All this allowed to reduce weight and to some extent improve the dynamic
quality of armored vehicles, although the main drawbacks of this did not save.

Lancia 1ZM Model released beginning in November 1917, but in January 1918 an
initial order for 35 machines was increased by another 100 units. The vast majority of
them was equipped with machine guns Maxim, as set up production of domestic
machine-gun designs in the required amount to the Italians until November 1918 did not
succeed. In fact, the massive rearmament process was carried out only in 1924. Before
the war, he managed to collect 101 (according to other sources - 113) armored cars of
this modification, formed the basis of the Italian armored forces until 1922. However,
due to lack of a decent replacement, Lancia 1ZM continued to serve more than 20 years.
During this time, in the armored structure does not make any radical changes. Only in
1918 to replace the French rifles came Italian SIA Mod.1918, and in 1935 was replaced
with tubeless tires, pneumatic, made of bullet-proof rubber.

~ 397 ~
Operation and use of combat armored Lancia 1Z 1915-1943 gg.

In 1915, the armored cars Lancia 1Z to the front and did not get. In addition to the
modest number of military action unfolded on the ground did not favor the use of
armored vehicles, so that the Italian command decided to "save" until next year.
Nevertheless, even during the 1916 three armored car squadron, almost entirely
equipped Lancia 1Z, used in combat is extremely rare. During this period, the most
striking action with the participation of Italian armored vehicles from the 1st Squadron
was the fight about Sugano Val (Val Sugana). This battle for the Lancia 1Z work crews
began only in the course of the next (tenth) Battle of the Isonzo River, which began in
May 1917. Italian forces conducted offensive Goritsky Army Group and the 3rd Army
with the active support of artillery and aviation. Despite the relatively modest role of
armored vehicles in this operation, the fact of the use of Lancia 1Z was successful.
However, remember they are not only fighting qualities, but also the use of anti-
insurgent population in the province of Catanzaro that took place on August 21-17.
Subsequently, armored vehicles are also actively used in the suppression of the so-
called "bread riots" in the territory of the northern part of Italy. At the same time, Lancia
1Z part in the 10th Battle of the Isonzo river, which was held once again, once again
proved to be very modest in August 1917.

The most difficult test for the Italians was the 11th Battle of the Isonzo, better known as
the Battle of Caporetto. In the first days of the Austro-German offensive (24-26 October
1917) on the position of the Italian forces attacked hundreds of thousands of missiles,
including the chemical. Command and control is completely disrupted and defense
collapsed. Using the convenient moment, and panic reigned in the enemy's troops, the
Austro-Germans widened the breach on the edge to 28-30 km. In this situation, an
armored car squadrons were left to themselves, and some crews even began to act on
their own initiative. It is only natural that such a disruption of the negative impact on
combat effectiveness - of the armored Italians had just quit. Precise data on the losses
among Lancia 1Z not, but we can speak about a dozen cars.

~ 398 ~
A kind of "rehabilitated" Lancia 1Z able only in the summer of 1918, during the
reflection of the last Austro-German advance - thanks to a dense network of roads
armored vehicles could just throw on the desired sections of the front. It should also be
noted that at the time the Italian army had 15 squadrons of armored car. The apogee of
the combat use of Lancia 1Z and Lancia 1ZM was the Battle of Vittorio Veneto, which
began in late October 1918. It was then, on October 24th, the Italian command issued a
document "Norme d'impiego delle squadriglie di Automitragliatrici", which determines
the rules for the use of armored vehicles in combat. Taking into account the bitter
experience of previous battles the Italians tried to do earlier mistakes, but to a greater
extent the success of the operation was accompanied by the expansion of the Austro-
Hungarian army.

For example, shortly before the signing of the armistice a few armored vehicles went to
the station Carnia, where their crews captured two generals together and two military
echelon. At the same time, three Lancia 1ZM from the 7th Squadron were able to catch
up with the retreating Austrian troops and the capture of about 200 soldiers, along with
a convoy of supply. After that, the Italians moved to Trieste, where they were able to
capture the three-tier, and 60 artillery pieces. Fighting 7th Squadron completed the
seizure of Staff of the 58th Division of the Austrian.

Less successfully operated the 12th squadron provides support for parts of the 3rd
Cavalry Division "Lombardia". Armored vehicles were sent for Nogaredo, where in a
difficult situation were units from Cavalry Regiment "Lancieri di Montebello". While
under continuous artillery fire squadron commander Captain Venturelli decided to act
quickly - despite the fact that the battle was lost four cars, the Austrians managed to
stop the promotion. Then pretty tacky squadron sent to the rear, and the news of the
armistice and his crew received on 3 November 1918 in Udine. For bravery and
considerable success in the Battle of Vittorio Veneto actions deserve special armored
car squadrons welcomed by the High Command.

A very small amount of Lancia 1ZM took part in combat operations on the territory of
Albania. So, in June 1918, on the Albanian land arrived 38th Infantry Division, which

~ 399 ~
included a 2nd armored car squadron of six Lancia 1ZM. However, his participation in
the fighting at the final stage of the war was more symbolic.

As you know, since 1912 Albania was almost a colony of Italy and because any
outbreak of nationalism strongly suppressed. During the suppression of another
"people's" revolt, vspyhnushego in Vlora in October 1920, the Italian army used
armored vehicles from the 15th Squadron, recently arrived once again to carry out
police duties. Subsequently, Albania sent several Lancia 1ZM (according to some
sources - 4 units), which passed the national army.

According to the latest data for 1939, when the country's population of 1 million people,
the Albanian armed forces numbered about 19,000 soldiers and officers. By that time it
had the following compounds: The Royal Guard, the Royal Border Guard, 12 Army
infantry battalions (really combat-ready can be considered 9 of them), 22 artillery
batteries (had on Italian guns equipment 12 65 mm, 6 75-mm mountain guns, 2 105 mm
and 2149 mm) and 9 engineer companies and one branch of armored vehicles in the
MDM number of "several" Lancia 1ZM and FIAT 3000. during the Italian invasion,
held April 7-12, 1939, the Albanian army It had very little resistance, and all the armor
once again went to the Italians.

After the First World War was conducted rearrangement of the remaining bronechastey.
Most combat-ready armored concentrated near the capital, formed from 35 cars seven
new squads. At least one Lancia 1ZM participated in the first "march on Rome", held in
1920. Vdalneyshem Italians do things in order in the colonial possessions, and in Italy
this type of armored vehicles since 1934 carried out only police functions.

The greatest problems brought outrage of Arab tribes in Libya, to "calm" which in 1919
was sent not only a great military force, but also eight armored vehicles. A year later
they were joined by three light tank Renault FT-17 and one heavy FIAT 2000 and in

~ 400 ~
1923 came three more Lancia 1ZM. In Libya, they remained throughout the period of
the so-called Reconquista and were put in the reserve only in 1929.

In 1937, the Italian government, was seriously worried uprisings residents at home and
aggressive Japanese intentions decided to protect the lives and property of its citizens
with the help of "San Marco" battalion, which is supported by the separation of the four
Lancia 1ZM. Armored briefly stationed in Tianjin, and wait for the occupation of the
city by Japanese troops in September 1943. Then the Japanese doastolos 4 cars.

During the Spanish Civil War helped Italians Frankists not just tanks. In mid-1936, as
part of military assistance, together with the Italian "volunteers" from CTV (Corpo
Truppe Volontarie Italia) came to the front, eight armored vehicles, including a two-
towered Lancia 1Z. Disembarked in Cadiz on 22 November this separation was soon
sent to the front, but the first few battles have shown that Lancia 1ZM unsuitable for
modern warfare. Thin armor poorly protected even from bullets caliber rifle, which
subsequently led to the irretrievable loss of five machines. However, Italian armored
vehicles took an active part in the battles for Alicante and Satander and fought in
Catalonia. Surviving two armored Lancia 1ZM and the only Lancia 1Z took part in the
military parade, held on 21 February 1939 in Barcelona.

For the first time since 1918 armored cars Lancia 1ZM again used in large-scale
military operations in the course of the campaign on the occupation of Abyssinia
(Ethiopia). The first six cars arrived in the Italian Somalia as early as 1926, but for the
invasion of the neighboring country will need much greater force. Reinforcements
arrived in the first half of 1936, and 33 armored vehicles were divided into two groups.
First, advancing on the northern front from Eritrea, it was equipped with a 9 Lancia
1ZM and 3 two-towered Lancia 1Z Serie II. The second group, which operated on the
southern front, had 21 armored car Lancia 1ZM. During 1936 the Italians a few cars had
been lost, but there is no exact data. In 1938 the modernization was carried out efforts of
the local command - armored vehicles received new 8-mm machine guns FIAT mod.14
/ 35 with air cooling.

Lancia 1ZM remained in the territory of North-East Africa and even managed to take
part in battles with the forces of the British Commonwealth in 1941. All the "African"
armored vehicles were destroyed or disposed of before the end of the war.

As of June 1940, the Italian army has 43 armored vehicles Lancia 1ZM, but a long time,
they were in reserve or used for training of personnel. Only a handful of cars brought to
counterinsurgency operations in the Balkans, and in September 1943, a few preserved
specimens have been captured by the Germans and re-commissioned. Perhaps the only
Italian branch, to resist the former ally, became the 319 th Infantry Battalion (CCCXIX
battaglione fanteria carrista), stationed in the occupied Greek island of Rhodes. The
Germans managed to capture two damaged cars, but they are not subjected to
restoration.

To date, only a few copies survived Lancia 1ZM. One of them is the Museum of War
(Trieste, Italy), and the second, evacuated from Afghanistan, sent to the restoration of
Dresden. Also, two Lancia 1ZM replica was built. First created for filming the movie
"The Lion of the Desert" and now rusting somewhere in Libya. The second, more exact
copy, is the showpiece of the museum in Rome.

~ 401 ~
Exports and trophies 1917-1945 gg.

Export deliveries of armored cars Lancia 1ZM, surprisingly, turned out to be extremely
poor. Two machines of this type in 1919 were sent with the 6th Division of the Italian
players in the newly formed Czechoslovakia. Over the years they have been used on the
territory of present-day Slovakia, where there were persistent fighting with the
Hungarian Red Army. After the end of hostilities, both armored vehicles were handed
over to the Czechoslovak army. It was noted that Lancia 1ZM were equipped with
machine guns Vickers-Terni. Czechoslovak machines remained in service until the end
of the 1920s. But in the last years of operation they were used only for training. It
should also be noted that the armored cars Lancia 1ZM used Czechoslovak Division,
who fought on the side of Italy during 1918.

Another Lancia 1ZM was sold to Afghanistan. The machine bore standard camouflage
and black, red and green stripes on the tower. The fate of the Afghan Lancia 1ZM not
clear. Apparently, the armored car was used until the end of the 1930s., After which he
was sent to the item "temporary storage", where he was gradually dismantled the metal.
In 2007, German soldiers found only polurazobrannom housing Lancia 1ZM.

The first country to receive Lancia 1Z and Lancia 1ZM as trophies, of course, was the
Austro-Hungarian Empire. In total, the Austrians managed to capture at least a dozen
Italian armored vehicles, but not all of them were in a state of combat readiness. The
biggest trophies were obtained by the autumn of 1917 during a catastrophic defeat for
Italy at Caporetto. Some of the captured Lancia 1ZM immediately went into battle
against their former masters, but most of them still "settled" in the rear.

Interestingly, one of the cars, which had apparently undercarriage damage, was
subjected to "modernization". Instead of the standard hull of the chassis was
"transplanted" to the undercarriage of the truck Berna-Perl Switzerland. Also captured
armored vehicles were rearmed with 7.92mm machine guns Schwarzloze MG.08.

~ 402 ~
After the war, several cars (at least two copies of) the Allies allowed to leave the
Austrian army. These armored vehicles were operated for about 10 years and were
finally written off only in 1928 due to wear design and the lack of spare parts. There is
also anecdotal evidence that there Lancia 1ZM in the Hungarian army.

As previously mentioned, several Lancia 1ZM became trophies of the German army.
More or less precise information on their application refers to 1944, when the number of
captured armored vehicles were included in the police regiment SS "Bozen" (SS-
Pol.Rgt.Bozen), stationed in South Tyrol. The first battalion as a gain received several
units of Lancia 1ZM and more modern AV.41.

Until May 1944 the floor led military action against the Italian and Yugoslav partisan
units in the region of Istria. . Further, in the period from June 1944 to January 1945,
"Bozen" unit participated in operations in the area of the city, Paul and Trieste-Abbazia
and patrolled the road of Santa Lucia - Isonzo. Since February, the regiment based near
g.Aydussiniya that east of Gorizia, and from March to the end of "Bozen" war units
were fighting near Tolmin and in the upper Soca, though by this time the combat-ready
armored Lancia 1ZM the Germans left.

Combat weight 4200 kg

CREW, pers. 6
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 5400
Width 1800
Height mm 2400
Clearance, mm ?
three 6.5-mm machine guns FIAT mod.14 and four rifles
WEAPONS
Chauchat Mle 1915 CSRG
allowance of ammunition 15,000 rounds of ammunition for machine guns and
aiming DEVICES optical sights
housing forehead - 6 mm
board housing - 6 mm
food body - 6 mm
RESERVATIONS
Tower - 6 mm
roof - 6mm
the bottom - 2.5 mm
Lancia 1Z, carburetor, 4-cylinder working volume of
ENGINE
4960 cc., 60 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type: 4-speed gearbox, propshaft
CHASSIS 4x2: tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs
SPEED 50 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway 200 km
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. 14
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m 0.80

~ 403 ~
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Russian Empire

Around 1,000 armored military vehicles by October 1917

Models:

Armstrong-Withworth 1913
Austin armored car
Austin Kgresse
Austin-Putilov
Charron model 1905 armored car
Izhorski-FIAT
Mgebrov armored cars
Mgebrov-Renault
Poplavko-Jeffery
Putilov-Garford
Russo-Balt Type C
Tsar tank

Context before 1905

Important reforms were introduced by Count Dmitry Milyutin during his long career
which spanned from 1861 to 1881. He strove to create a modern army out of a system
which inherited from the Napoleonic Wars the organisation, tactics and recruitment.
The first step was the recruitment, with a levy system and military districts division. He
also instituted permanent barracks for the troops, a proper military education and
elementary education, for all draftees. The Tsar later approved compulsory military
service for all 20 year-old males, for a 6-month long term engagement, which created a
large army of experienced reservists in case of war, while retaining a small professional

~ 404 ~
standing army. This was done in 1871 and, by 1877, these reforms were seen in action
during the Russo-Turkish war.

Later, during the Boxer rebellion, 100,000 Russians attempted to secure Manchuria and
several clashes or full scale battles erupted in China itself, when the Russians attempted
to secure their possessions. Thus tensions were high with China in 1900, but it was
unlikely that it would lead to a war with Japan as well. At the same time the army
budget was decreased, to the point that only 18% of the state budget was spent for it,
and the lions share was taken by massive naval rearmament, which left the infantry
badly equipped in 1905. At the same time, the Tsar sought to acquire, for the first time,
modern equipment for the army and purchased French Charron armored cars, the first
Russian armored vehicles in service.

Consequences of the Russo-Japanese war

The crushing defeats of Tsushima, the battle of Mukden and the siege of Port Arthur,
combined with poor living conditions for the troops -both infantry and navy- culminated
with a full scale mutiny within the navy (onboard the Potemkin), and around 400
mutinies from the infantry. Morale was constantly lowered by requests for maintaining
order. Over 1500 civilian protests were crushed by the cavalry and infantry in a short
period of time. These events shook the army to the core and revolutionary ideas began
to percolate with more efficiency than ever. However, by sheer brutal discipline,
aristocratic officers generally succeeded to maintain order until 1914, when the war
broke out with Germany.

A lack of automotive industry

By the time armored vehicles were necessary, local conditions were lacking for such an
endeavor. There were local automotive workshops performing assemblies of foreign
components for a few wealthy aristocrats, but no real industry before the appearance of
the Russo-Balt wagon Factory (RBVZ) in Riga, Latvia. The latter was able, in 1908, to
manufactures lorries and trucks in numbers. Until 1915 and its evacuation, 450 vehicles
had been delivered so far. Engineer Dvinistkiy proposed a project of a steam-powered
armored car, soon judged impractical. The first concrete attempt came during the Russo-
Japanese war from a Cossack officer of the Manchurian Army, M. Nakashidze. He
began work on a turreted vehicle, but the War Ministry, although impressed, doubted
the capacity of building such vehicles locally from scratch and turned to French
manufacturer Charron, Girardot & Voigt to deliver a prototype. It was later adopted
after successful trials to the Izhorskiy factory at Kolpino, near St Petersburg. However,
ten more Charrons were ordered and only eight were received, two being stolen by the
Germans in the meantime.

The war of 1914

At that time the Tsar had send requests to foreign industrial companies to send armored
cars projects or to make offers for already existing models, and many were bought at the
same time. Also, in 1914 the first Russian tank was devised (Vezdekhod or Go
Anywhere), a snail-like small tank, with a single central track and steering wheels, but
also a fully rotating turret. Despite being ahead of its time, the project was rejected by
the Stavka (the general headquarters) since they estimated the army had no need for

~ 405 ~
these machines. They were badly criticized afterwards when in 1916, the British and,
soon after, the French unleashed hundreds of tanks on the battlefield. Tank development
was launched again, with the full support from the head of staff; but it was already too
late.

Most Russian armored cars were based on foreign models, modified or entirely
produced locally. The most used was the famous Austin-Putilov, based on local built
Austin trucks, armored and equipped by the Putilov Arsenal and Imperial Works. Other
providers were FIAT, Armstrong-Withworth, Isotta-Fraschini, Sheffield Simplex,
Austin (UK), Jeffery, Lanchester, Renault, White, Peerless and perhaps Ford. Generally,
these were small series of 3 to 15 machines acquired early in the war. These armored
cars were of all sizes, generally with one or multiple turrets.

A talented French engineer, Adolphe Kgresse, devised a new kind of flexible tracks.
This led to a small series of all-terrain vehicles and conversions for the Tsar and general
staff starting in 1906, and later gave birth to the worlds first armored half-track car, the
Austin-Kgresse. It was well suited for the Asiatic front and Russian roads and climate
in general. They were popularly called tanks by the army, despite their mixed nature.
Around 60 would be delivered until the fall of 1917. Another model, the Putilov-
Bullock, was also built in limited numbers.

Gradually, locally produced components were preferred to predominantly British

models. There was a pool of small manufacturers in the vicinity St Petersburg,
namely Obukhov Works, Izhorsky Factory and Putilov Works, the most famous.
Izhorksy built nearly 120 vehicles based on foreign chassis (FIAT, Pierce-Arrow &
Peerless), including their own half-track models based on the Palmers & Lombard
agricultural tractor. Putilov was more prolific, turning 250 vehicles based on Austin and
Packard chassis. But despite the optimistic prospects of the war ministry, which hoped
to accept in service 200 armored cars and 50 half-tracks each year, at the end of the war
there were a total of 300 armored vehicles split into 52 units.

The Russian armored cars in action

Tactical organization of these vehicles called for small platoons of two broneavtomobil
(cars with machine-guns) and a single pusheshniy broneavtomobil (gun car) to deal with
heavier targets. Each detachment was composed of 100 men, had 21 lorries and support
vehicles and formed companies of 12 light and three heavy armored cars. They were
attached to rifle divisions and called to perform many tasks, from traditional scout and
reconnaissance patrols to close fire support.

Armored cars were used in numbers, with over 30 different types in use and many more
tested, sometimes operationally, but usually in limited numbers. This cruel lack of
standardization provoked a shortage of spare parts and an ordnance nightmare to deliver
the right ammunition. Plus, having by design a high ground pressure, these vehicles
were limited in range and speed by the poor quality of the roads encountered in Western
Russia, Belarus and Ukraine, doomed by the snow in winter and thick mud in autumn
and spring. Only by the fall of 1916 the general staff decided to adopt true western-
style tanks and at the same time gave a new dynamic to various local tank projects. The
unusual Vezdekhod was funded, but so were more disturbing projects like the gigantic,
even grotesque tricycle called Tsar Tank. A project of M. Lebdenko, head of the

~ 406 ~
experimental laboratory of the war ministry, this vehicle was built and tested in the
summer 1915, but soon fell under heavy criticism because of its sheer size, lack of
power and protection. Eventually orders were made at the beginning of 1917 for the
French Renault FT, British Mark V and Whippet. There were also projects to build
some under license, but none had been delivered when the regime collapsed.

Revolution and Civil War

The war ended with the revolution in October 1917, Kerensky taking power through a
provisional government and asking for an armistice. But the peace quickly gave way
to a brutal struggle between the RKKA (The Workers and Peasants Red Army) and a
coalition of western troops already stationed on the Eastern front and counter-
revolutionary units. This will degenerate into a full scale civil war between the reds
and the whites, the last supported by the western powers. If the first were keen to
capture and re-use as many disparate and worn-out armored cars as they could, the latter
had nothing but a few armored trains, but were later given western tanks of the latest
models. In January 1919, the whites under General Wrangel launched an assault on
Odessa, supported by French FTs. One of these was later captured by the Red Army. It
was the basis for future tank development. In April 1919, the whites under Wrangel
and Deniken were given 57 tanks, mainly Mark Vs with British crews. These were
lately captured, notably because of the lack of experience and training of the Russian
crews. By 1921 the Reds had gradually captured around 80 tanks. A new story could
begin, that of Soviet tank development.

Light armored cars

Nakashidze-Charron

A vehicle designed by the Russian officer Nakashidze and built in 1906 on a Charron-
Girardot-Voight landaulet. The first vehicle ever to have this standard armored car
configuration with a fully revolving turret at the rear and armored windshields.

Armstrong-Withworth 1913

Ordered by the Russian army to the British manufacturer AW before the war. Two
turrets and different models.

Izhorsky FIAT

Designed by officer Izhorsky on the FIAT 12PS 5,3 t 42 lorry chassis, 60 hp and 60
kph. 47 built, 2 turrets and armed with 2 x 7.62 mm (0.3 in) machine-guns, protected by
5 to 8 mm (0.2-0.3 in) of amour, crew 4 or 5.

Medium armored cars

Captain Vladimir Mgebrov, who had a considerable influence on Russian armored cars
design, does deserve a few words. Born in Moscow in 1886, he served during the
opening of the war in a training automobile company, soon reformed as the Military
driving school, later transferred to the 1st Spare Car Company.

~ 407 ~
He was a prolific and gifted inventor, leading to the creation of the bulletproof glass and
rifle grenade, but also about 20 armored cars, some built in series and some unique,
with armor designs meant to improve their all-angle protection. These were no
prototypes and served actively not only until 1917, but also during the Civil War. Capt.
Mgebrov was also a war hero, posthumously awarded the Order of Saint George, IV
Degree (he died on August 21, 1915, while leading a counter-attack with his new rifle
grenades). Outside the 11 Mgebrov-Renault, he built 5 more types of armored cars
based.

Mgebrov Renault

Built using Renault lorries chassis, apparently in 11 units, with a well-studied sloped
armor.

Mgebrov White

Same kind of vehicle based on the White chassis, with a less sloped armor, but a 37 mm
(1.45 in) naval gun.

Mgebrov Benz

Conceived by Officer Mgebrov in 1915. Very similar to the Mgebrov Renault.

Mgebrov Isotta-Fraschini

Based on an Isotta-Fraschini chassis.

Russo-Balt type C (S)

8 built in 1914. 4 t, 40 hp, 42 vehicle, speed 20 km/h (12 mph), 5 crew, 3-5 mm (0.2-
0.3 in) protection, armed with 3 x 7.62 mm (0.3 in) machine-guns.

Nekrasova armored car

10 built in 1915, armed with a QF 37 mm (1.45 in) gun and 3 x 7.62 mm (0.3 in)
machine-guns.

Russo-Balt type T

1916, 10 built, 11 tons AA lorries armed with a 76 mm (3 in) flak gun.

Austin Putilov

Or Russian Austin as designated. 33 built in 1919-1920. Armed with two turrets en

chelon.

Armstrong-Withworth-FIAT

Based on Fiat 3-1/2 tons trucks.

~ 408 ~
Heavy armored cars

Pierce-Arrow

Similar to the British vehicle, armed with a Vickers QF 2-pdr AA.

Putilov-Garford

Based on the US Garford 5-ton lorry, modified and equipped at Putilov works with a 75
mm (2.95 in) field gun in the rear turret and two machine guns in forward sponsons.
Around 12 produced in 1914.

Half-tracks armored cars

Austin-Kgresse

12 were built from in 1919-1920.

Putilov-Bullock

About 10 built.

Tanks

Vezdhekod Tank

Single track configuration. Just 1 prototype built and tested in March-December 1915.
Cancelled, then reopened in October 1916. No production known nor operational
service.

The Nakashidze-Charron M1906, the very first serie of Russian armored cars.

~ 409 ~
Armstrong-Withworth 1913, here a Russian copy built in 1915 on a FIAT chassis.
Captured in Vladivostock in 1919 by the Japanese.

The Putilov Austin, a highly successful and prolific model.

~ 410 ~
The Austin Kgresse, worlds first armored half-track.

The heavy Putilov Packard on duty, sporting a 40 mm (2-pdr) quick-fire gun, for
infantry support and AA defense alike.

~ 411 ~
An Izhorsky-Peerless truck with a 40 mm (1.57 in) gun mounted on it, mostly used
during the Russian Civil War (1919-1921) against air targets.

A Lanchester in Russian service. Many others served with the RNAS in Russia, manned
by British crews. The Russian version had a 37 mm (1.46 in) quick firing naval gun.

~ 412 ~
The twin turret Armstrong-Withworth FIAT, partly built locally.

The Poplavko-Jeffrey armored truck, heavily protected for its time with up to 16 mm
(0.63 in) of armor.

~ 413 ~
The Russo-Balt M armored car. Around 15 were built.

The Putilov-Garford armored truck.

~ 414 ~
The Izhorsky-FIAT.

The Mgebrov-Isotta-Fraschini, more conventional than the Renault, and more powerful.

~ 415 ~
The Mgebrov-White armored car.

The distinctive, wedge-shaped Mgebrov Renault armored car.

Aarmored Car Vonlyarlyarskogo

~ 416 ~
No less original and fresh design solutions than those Mgebrova differed armored
Ensign Vonlyarlyarskogo. In March 1915, according to his design, forces shops
Bronevoi department Military automotive school, was booked car "Renault". Built
machine had almost no right angles in the joints of armor plates (perhaps with the
exception of the sides), and the case was going to of several curved and cylindrical
sections. Especially faired Vonlyarlyarsky gave aft, as in most cases, armored cars went
into battle in reverse, and the second control station on this machine is not provided.
The armament consisted of a 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim" installed in the tower and
one machine gun of the same type in the aft sponson.

Tests armored Vonlyarlyarskogo were successful and in 1915 during the planned
reservation is two more samples at the Izhora plant, but due to the complexity in
manufacturing and high cost, which amounted to 5900 rubles, from the development of
the project abandoned. The further fate of the armored car Vonlyarlyarskogo remains
unclear.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Ulyatovskogo obr.1916 city

Combat weight ~ 2500kg

CREW, pers. 3-4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE Carburetor
TRANSMISSION mechanical type

~ 417 ~
 CHASSIS 4x2: single wheel, suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Armored Car Ulyatovskogo

The development of threads of light armored artillery continued in 1916, when on the
initiative of General N.M.Filatova and Ensign Ulyatovskogo project was built a
prototype of the new machine in its class. The assembly held workshops Forces Officers
Infantry School. Chassis armored car, in the absence of "free" chassis was assembled
from individual units of broken cars. Housing and car reservations Ulyatovskogo
remotely resembled armored "Pierce-Arrow" (Pierce-Arrow), only the geometric
dimensions of the armored car turned out much less.

The first version of the armored car was a 7.62 mm machine gun mounted in the rear of
the hull, and to reduce the height of the machine gunners were placed in the supine
position. After some time, the armed forces, replacing the gun on the "short gun
obr.1913 of" caliber 57 mm. However, in this case the mass of the armored car
increased to 3,000 kg, making it unfit to use it as a full-fledged fighting machine. Tests
armored Ulyatovskogo took place in mid-1916, but without achieving the desired
results from its series-built abandoned.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Ulyatovskogo obr.1916 city

Combat weight ~ 2500kg

CREW, pers. 3-4
DIMENSIONS

~ 418 ~
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
one 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910
WEAPONS
kortkostvolnaya or one 57-mm cannon, the obr.1913
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE Carburetor
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS 4x2: single wheel, suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Russo-Balt type C Armored car

Have earned positive reviews, but did not receive further development of the project
armored Nakashidze, yet had a noticeable vlyainie on the motorization of the Russian
army. In August 1914 the Minister of War of the Russian Empire Adjutant General
Sukhomlinov, based on the requirements of the Grand Duke Nikolai Nikolaevich,
ordered the creation of a "machine-gun armored car battery" and the construction of

~ 419 ~
twenty armored vehicles. The work was entrusted to the Life Guards Chasseur
Regiment Colonel Dobzhansky and Staff-Captain Nekrasov, under whose leadership the
first Russian serial armored car was designed.

For the construction of armored car was selected the most massive and reliable at the
time the chassis of the car Russo-Balt C24 \ 40 seriii XIII-bis. For this purpose,
contributed eight chassis: number 530, 532, 533, 534, 535, 538, 539 and 542.

The project is one of the most original buildings of the armored car of the First World
War, which is made from a special hardening hromonikilevoy armor, developed a
mechanical engineer Grauer, following the instructions of Dobzhansky. Frontal and side
plates raspolgalis a rational angles, which somewhat complicates the assembly, but
increased their bulletproof. Armor plates were attached to the steel frame of rolling over
with the help of bolts and rivets. The thickness of the vertical front and rear armor plate
was 5 mm, side - 3.5 mm, the roof - 3 mm. This reservation scheme would protect the
crew from defeat caliber rifle bullets at a distance up to 200 meters. Planting in the
armored car crew carried out through a single-leaf door in the side of the lower armor
plates.

The crew consisted of five persons: the officer (commander), the driver and three
gunners. Armament consisted of three 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim" model 1910,
mounted on the body sides and in front of the compartment on the left side. For their
installation Colonel Main Artillery Directorate A.Sokolvym two types of machines and
sliding panels has been developed. Full boekmplekt was pretty impressive - 9000
rounds. armored car curb weight does not prevyschala 2960 kg.

There is also an option broneavtombilya "Russo-Balt" with an open body, which was
mounted on the column book-rests units two 7.62 mm and had a third portable and
small series was released 76.2-mm self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon.

~ 420 ~
The total volume of issue was small - only 15 cars. The first seven chassis was
converted in the period from 24 August to 1 October 1914 and for 9 October, "Russo-
Balt" and two other armored vehicles were sent to the North-Western Front. There they
were received at the disposal of the 1st automotive machine-gun company, the
formation of which completed on 16 October. It is in this connection will be
inextricably linked to the fate of the first mass-produced Russian armored vehicles -
Russo-Balt machine gun and cannon-Packard.

History 1st APR began on August 17, 1914, when War Minister V.A.Suhomlinov
suggested Colonel of the Life Guards Chasseur Regiment, Alexander Nikolayevich
Dobrzhanskaya form "armored machine-gun car battery." Some experience in this
regard has already had, as early as 1910-1911 years. funds have been allocated for the
purchase of vehicles for the army and the beginning of the First World War there were
already several thousand trained drivers and technicians. Dobzhansky set to work very
briskly, and very soon, with the active assistance of the commander of the 1st Training
P.I.Sekreteva car company, began a set of personnel and materiel. On August 19th the
resolution of Minister of War was officially "the beginning of the existence and
development of armored vehicles of the 1st machine-gun automotive company."

Preparatory process and, indeed, the very formation of the 1st APR completed in just
six weeks. In addition to the armored Russo-Balt of the companies included cannon
Packard and Mannesmann-Mulago. In total, to September 19, 1914 managed to collect
four platoons:

1st platoon - two Russo-Balt type C (numbers 1 and 2, the chassis 530 and 534) and
one-Mannesmann Mulago (number 10, chassis 2003)

2nd platoon - two Russo-Balt type C (numbers 3 and 4, the chassis 532 and 538) and
one-Packard (No. 20)

3rd platoon - two Russo-Balt type C (numbers 5 and 6, the chassis 534 and 535) and
one-Packard (number 30)

4th Platoon - two Russo-Balt type C (numbers 7 and 8, the chassis 539 and?) And one
Mannesmann-Mulago (number 40, chassis 1878)

~ 421 ~
In addition, the composition of the Company included two 3-ton truck (German and
English Benz Oldice) armed with 37 mm automatic cannon Maxima Nordenfelt but not
booked due to lack of time. September 22 the commander of the 1st APR became
Colonel Dobzhansky. Accordingly, the platoon commander Lieutenant-appointed
captains B.L.Podgurskogo, B.A.Shulkevicha, S.A.Deybelya and P.V.Gurdova.

On the front of the 1st APR went 19th October 1914. By this time, two Russian army
suffered a crushing defeat in Prussia and began to fall back, leaving a significant portion
of the territory of Poland. This problem area of the front company arrived at the end of
the month and was soon transferred to the operational control of the headquarters of the
2nd Army. The next two weeks Russo-Balt crews were preparing to participate in the
counter-offensive, launched on September 29. During the Warsaw-Ivangorod defensive
and offensive operations against German and Austrian armies in Poland, the enemy was
driven back to the starting line. Armored vehicles went into battle on November 9,
joining the owicz detachment Lieutenant General V.A.Slyusarenko.

The greatest effect of their application had been made on 10 November. On this day, six
machine-gun armored cars under the command of Captain B.A.Shulkevicha broke
through enemy occupied city Strykow and two cannon fire attack vehicle supported the
9th and 12th infantry regiments Turkestan. Subsequently, though with considerable
delay, the commander of the 2nd Platoon was awarded Swords to the Order of St.
Stanislaus III degree.

No less distinguished and the commander of the 4th platoon Gourde. Despite the fact
that the front line has stabilized somewhat, both sides have undertaken periodically by
enemy action marginalization from the vantage point. During 20-21 November in the
Polish city of Pabianice Germans managed to break through the Russian defense fragile,
posing a threat to the rear exit. Early in the morning we went out to meet the enemy
armored vehicles of the 1st APR. Further events have evolved a way described. Having
met the enemy on the approaches to the highway Lassa two machine-gun armored
vehicles forced the enemy to lie down. Came to the rescue cannon "Mannesmann"
discovered by the Germans heavy fire, but resistance from both sides was too great. A

~ 422 ~
few hours later Gourde decided to withdraw from the battle, as armored vehicles
received numerous hits from small arms, and among the crews had a lot of injuries.
However, a further German advance was stopped for a few days, and gourdes was
presented the Order of St. George IV-degree with the following wording:

"... Because in the battles of n. Pabianice 20 and November 21, 1914 with 4 armored
vehicles moved forward on the highway Lusk without cover and approached by 150
steps to the advancing column of the enemy, he struck her a lot of damage, and led her
into a full disorder, continuing to operate despite the fact that the captain Gourde and all
Gunners were injured, with all the cars, although damaged, were removed from the
battlefield "

Despite the positive feedback in the battles of 1914 at the armored vehicles of the 1st
ACR it had identified a number of serious shortcomings. Chief among them was the
lack of security. If in the first weeks of application could count on a certain moral effect,
then later the Germans are accustomed to the presence of the Russian army in a large
number of armored vehicles and artillery attempted to pull to the place of their
occurrence. In addition, the armor thickness of 5-6 mm protected against bullets at a
distance up to 300 meters. In the melee bronelisty penetrated by bullets of 7.92 mm
caliber and 9 mm bleed. Also, in terms of the autumn slush, revealed a lack of cross-
country vehicles. Outside the roads they tried not to use at all.

By combining the experience gained in the first battles, certain tactical methods have
been developed, and the 11th February 1915 by order of the Supreme Commander of
the number 7 was introduced, "Instructions for the combat use of armored vehicles."
This document describes in detail the actions of armored vehicles under attack, defense
and the enemy's pursuit.

In March 1915 came the first replenishment - company received four new armored gun.
Over the past six months, irrecoverable losses amounted to only a "Packard", who was
killed together with the crew captain Gurdova Dobrzhankovo the village. Service
"Russo-Balt" continued on the Western Front until the late autumn of 1916, when it was
reformed in the 1st armored division. The further fate of this compound, the completion
in September 33 th car with machine gun department, was quite rough. Until the
summer of 1917, the 1st Armored Division was in Finland, covering stationed there

~ 423 ~
from the Russian part of the possible landing of the German assault. However, the
Finnish Government maintained loyalty to the Russian up to the October Revolution
and the help of armored cars are not needed. In October 1917, the combat-ready
machines, mostly "Austin", was transferred under Dvinsk (now Daugavpils Latvia),
where the Germans successfully advancing almost without encountering resistance from
the demoralized Russian troops. Universal chaos affected the 1st Armored Division.
Received almost no support from the General Staff of the North-Western Front armored
carriages were in a stalemate. The war was going, and there was no one to fight. And
even more so the former Tsarist officers did not want to fight on the side of the
Bolsheviks. All this has led to considerable losses in materiel and personnel, which
make up was impossible. The history of the once legendary 1st automotive machine-gun
company ended tragically - left in Dvinsk vehicles were captured by the Germans in
March 1918 and partially put into operation after repair. However, "Russo-Balt" among
them was gone.

Another page in the history of armored Russo-Balt type C was the service as part of the
Caucasian Native Division, arrived at the South-Western Front in November 1914. On
the number of "Russo-Balt" division transmitted exact data could not be found yet.
Perhaps everything was limited to only one machine, which, among other things, a little
different design housing (modified front). As the fate of "native" armored vehicles also
very difficult to say. The only picture of the "Russo-Balt" was published in the
magazine "Niva" in the spring of 1916 - that is, in theory, this armored car could take
part in the Brusilov breakthrough. It is possible that in the beginning of 1917, "Russo-
Balt" was destroyed during the retreat of Russian troops.

After the revolution career few remaining armored Russo-Balt type C has been very
busy. Several armored vehicles fell into the hands of "red" and was operated until the
end of the Civil War. One of the machines (539) twice passed from hand to hand. In
the summer of 1919 the armored vehicle, which belonged to 21 th avtobroneaotryadu
(ABO), it was abandoned by the crew in the battle of the beams Shklyanskaya and was

~ 424 ~
captured by the Whites. However, after only three months, the same "Russo-Balt" again
passed into the hands of the Red Army when he was rescued from the "white" 32nd
ABO 1st Cavalry Army. By the end of the war armored vehicles, "Russo-Balt" there are
very few. As of 1921, consisting of 41 of the ABO including one car and two more were
in charge of the liquidation commission. In a short time they finally withdrew from the
Red Army and cancel reservation.

Thus, to date none of the "Russo-Balt" has survived. However, in 2009 the specialists of
instrumentation workshops "Imperial" on the original drawings from the archives of the
Museum, and other RGAKFD was made a full-size model of the original armored car.
On an ongoing basis, it is in the open exhibit of the Central Museum of Contemporary
History of Russia and periodically "Russo-Balt" attracted to various military-historical
reconstructions. Fortunately, the chassis had a full, though not 100% authentic.

SPECIFICATIONS BRONETRAKTORA
Russo-Balt type C specimen 1915

Combat weight 2960 kg

CREW, pers. 5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 4500

Width 1980

Height mm 2000

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS three 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910

allowance of ammunition 9000 cartridges in the tape

~ 425 ~
 aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 5 mm
food body - 5 mm
RESERVATIONS
side housing - 3.5 mm
roof shell - 3 mm

ENGINE carburetor, liquid-cooled, 40 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2: single wheel, suspension leaf springs

SPEED 20 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ~ 100 km

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Armored Siberian Army

~ 426 ~
Time of Troubles in Russia has always led to catastrophic consequences for its peoples
and economies. Destroyed former connection stopped businesses and millions of people
are left to their own devices, in particular, and a lot of good professionals. But there
were those who refused to submit to fate and continued to work, even in such
conditions. A striking example of this are implemented in practice projects on bookings
of various equipment, performed by engineers of pre-revolutionary "school" for the
needs of Old Army. Just look at the results of these studies, it becomes clear - the tsarist
government bear progressive views Russia as early as 1918 have acquired hundreds of
armored vehicles and bronetraktorov own production, the majority of the parameters are
not inferior to the first tank.

Recently, there was a lot of historical research, which involve bronetraktora Gulkevichy
design, as well as their equivalent of the machine of the Don Army and the Wrangel
army. But so far there is no specific information on armored vehicles, which is engaged
in the manufacture in the Far East.

In these "blind" the edge of the former Russian Empire military equipment almost came
during the First World War. At least until 1919 no local army armored vehicles did not
have. The situation greatly changed with the arrival of Allied troops and its allies, with
whom he returned to his homeland, Admiral Kolchak. The situation in the border
regions of Russia when the Bolsheviks evolved not the best and a potential dictator had
not made much effort to seize power first in Siberia (Omsk the capital), and then in the
Far East.

The army of Kolchak, very numerous, but well equipped, in addition, almost did not
have armored vehicles. About a dozen of the available by the time the armored cars had
a high degree of wear and engine design, which prevented their combat operation.
Apparently, with the objectives to make up this deficiency, in 1919 he initiated the
construction of armored vehicles on their own projects. In contemporary sources, they
are called "Fiat Omsk", although in fact to Omsk they had nothing to do, since they
were based on the most likely sources, still in Vladivostok. In the light of the
description of further developments will be more correct to call them "Siberian Army
armored vehicles", which is much closer to reality.

Who gave it terms of reference and who conducted the design of these machines have
yet been set. Also, there is no consensus as to the base of commercial vehicle was used
for the booking. The most common statement that it could be polutoratonnye American-
FIAT, but there is also an opinion that instead booked a US truck company Hurlburt . In
this regard, it should be noted that the Kolchak army received both types of machines,
however, the length of the wheelbase does not correspond to what you can see in the
photos. So, clarify this issue has yet to be made.

Also, sometimes you can find the information that in the Far East, 15 of these armored
cars were built - this is not true - in fact, this figure represents the total number of
armored vehicles that existed at the end of 1919 in the possession of Kolchak's army.

In any case, chassis borrowed from a commercial truck was 4x2. The front wheels are
driven, single, rear - double top. Protection undercarriage was missing, so it was
believed that the vitality spitsovannyh wheels with tubeless tires in field conditions
would be acceptable.

~ 427 ~
Interestingly hulls of design. Conventionally, the Amur Army armored vehicles can be
divided into two types - sponsons (2 copies) and tower (1 copy). General they had only
reservation is the engine compartment, on the front doors are closed in combat radiator,
and two side cover on hinges, designed for engine maintenance.

In the first type of machines directly Corps had formed sections and virtually all
bronelisty fastened to the frame (probably wooden) with rivets. The only exception is
the upper armor sheet set at a sufficiently large angle, almost right up to the roof -
between them just enough space for the two inspection hatches, closing into firing
position with armored doors. Most likely to start production of the towers was not
possible in 1919, so we decided to go to a reliable and proven way by projecting side
sponsons. Together, they were a single unit, is fastened on top of the fighting
compartment. In each of the sponsons was cutout for installation of Maxim machine
gun type or Vickers, lockable semicircular flap. Sector guidance of each of the machine
guns was approximately 180-200 , so that together they provided a circular firing.

The second type of "Amur" armored car was different, besides the shortened chassis
base, and more hulls modified configuration. From sponsons cars from distinguished
characteristic influx of bent bronelista to manage the department. body itself was
markedly higher, and instead of two separate inspection hatches used general broneschit
with observation slits, leans up. Instead sponsons this armored car was a small single
tower of cylindrical shape, which lays down a machine gun type of Maxim.

There is another interesting point related to the armored car 3. The book "Tanks and
other Armoured Fighting Vehicles 1900 to 1918" (author BTWhite), published in 1970
in the UK, there is a color picture and a description of absolutely identical cars.
According to the author, it is Armstrong Whithworth Armored Car, built in 1913,
commissioned by the Russian government. However, it is known that in addition to
armored vehicles and armored Charron-Benz trolley no other foreign supplies were not.
In addition, the machine has already shown in the figure with the number "3" and a sign
avtopulemetnoy companies that match the appearance of the period 1919-1920. So,
White probably something messed up with "Armstrong" wishful thinking.

As the story "Amur" armored inextricably linked with the history of the Far East is not
superfluous to familiarize the reader with the political situation prevailing there in early
1919.

Intervention in Russia, weakened by civil war, characterized by massive "influx" of

troops is not only the Entente, and their allies. Apart from the British, French and
Americans in Vladivostok and Khabarovsk were quartered Italians unit Canadians,
Vietnamese (as part of the colonial French army) and, of course, Japanese. However,
the largest group possessed Czechoslovak Corps, hurrying through the Far East to his
home. By the way, there were several thousand Hungarians and Germans from the
former POWs. The position of the Bolsheviks "Czechs" have not, however, the White
Army they entertained warm feelings.

Relations with the Czechs Kolchak went wrong from the start. After the Omsk coup of
21st December 1918 the representatives of the White Army tried to win them to his
side, but without any success. The Russian branch of the Czechoslovak National
Council in quite bluntly rejected those proposals, rightly believing that the Russian

~ 428 ~
immediately pulled them in their civil war. However, some of the Czechoslovak troops
during the 1919 still attracted to counterinsurgency raids. Appointed in mid-July, the
head of the chief of the Amur Territory General S.N.Rozanov, distinguished himself
earlier in the course of the uprising in Krasnoyarsk, was also unable to find a common
language the former POWs. Provision for Kolchak's White Army was complicated by
the fact that Vladivostok was busy with numerous allies, among whom there was no
understanding in terms of what should be done to maintain the anti-Bolshevik
government. An even greater disaster was the lack of consensus within the White Army.
A series of uprisings in Siberia once again confirmed this fact. Things reached the point
that the 21 th September 1919 the Allied Committee demanded to withdraw Russian
troops from Vladivostok ...

Under such conditions, it was clear that another revolt can not be avoided and Rozanov
has taken a number of preventive measures. In particular, the island was transferred
Russian company training instructors, and several other departments. In addition, on full
alert all available armored vehicles were brought that up to this time, quietly bore
"guard" service. They've often patrol streets and guard the residence of the general,
proved to be very visionary man - 17 th November 1919 a rebellion broke out
Gaydovsky. Czechoslovak troops, with the support of not only the Socialist-
Revolutionaries, but also a number of parts of the White Army, presented a united front,
almost overthrew the government of Kolchak. If it were not proactive local military
leadership all so certainly would have ended, but the Czech General Hyde and his
colleagues are out of luck - the uprising was not supported by the locals, and three days
later it was suppressed. Even after the above events Rozanov sent a telegram 3153
(November 19th) as follows:

"Colonel Tripe sent me Lieutenant Surazhkevicha a bugler, passing through them orders
for the withdrawal of the detachment in the area of Station Square, decided to meet us at
the station. [...]

Colonel Tripe learned that:

~ 429 ~
1) housed in the Black River (near the station Ocean) Battalion of Marine riflemen came
out of obedience to the officers. One of the officers there was killed by soldiers. This
battalion intends to go to the city to help to gaydovtsam but

2) against the battalion sent from an armored car "

Which armored car was sent for action is now against the insurgent battalion hard to
say. However, even in this case the White Army armored vehicles participating in the
November event was almost symbolic. According to the memoirs of Lieutenant Colonel
K.N.Hartlinga, a direct participant in the events of those days (he commanded a
company Training School instructor), the following happened.

After the departure of Johnson, he appeared on the station square armored car fired
several shots from a machine gun, and quickly disappeared. It was a provocative trick
captain and ensign Chunikhina Andreev. Chunikhin had to delay the movement on the
eve of Marine riflemen on their way from the station to the Ocean gaydovtsam. He did
not, reported that his armored car is defective. Now, however, he again failed to comply
with orders - start at the disposal of Colonel scars, since, according to him, his gun
"stuck." Judging by the fact that only one gun jammed, then it could be a car with the
number "3". However, this episode did not affect the course of events. Despite the short
shrift with the rebels military units Kolchak government did not last after three months.
In its current form it does not suit anyone, including the "guests", so it is not surprising
that on 31 January 1920 in Vladivostok occurred another coup. However, the power of a
few suddenly moved to the Bolsheviks under the leadership of Sergei Lazo, that does
not suit in the first place Japan.

Up until the beginning of April, the remains of the armored forces of the former
Kolchak's army, inherited the new government continued to carry the city patrols and
protection of important objects. In February-March, armored vehicles were involved in

~ 430 ~
another important revolutionary task - to take part in rallies and demonstrations. But
overall it was fairly quiet.

The situation changed when the power in their own hands have decided to take the
Japanese. Using Nicholas incident as a pretext, in the night of 4 to 5 April 1920,
Japanese troops occupied Vladivostok in fact, arresting the leaders of the Provisional
Government. Almost no resistance to them has not been rendered. One can say with
confidence that in April, the Japanese captured at least armored cars with the numbers
"1" and "3". How and where they were used then it remains unclear. It is likely that
during 1920 they are also used for security purposes (which is indirectly evidenced by
preserved photographs), and then destroyed, so that they do not again fall into the hands
of the Red Army.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Siberian Army of obra.1919

Combat weight ~ 4000 kg

CREW, pers. 3-4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", in obr.1910 sponsons (1

WEAPONS and 2)
one 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim" obr.1910 of the tower (3)

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Carburetor

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x2, front-wheel-driven, single, dual rear wheels leading; tubeless

CHASSIS
tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

~ 431 ~
Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Anti-aircraft armored vehicle chassis Russo-Balt type T

Russia's first self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon appeared in late 1914, after the
outbreak of the First World War, although its design work began a year earlier. Its main
and only instrument was the 3-inch (76.2-mm) gun design engineer Putilov Lander and
GAU officer Captain Tarnavskii, established in 1913. Initially, this anti-aircraft gun had
only a fixed installation, but, having studied German experience construction
experienced protivoaerostatnoy SAU with 65-mm cannon GAU experts have come to a
decision on the establishment of a similar machine.

Order 12 protivoaerostatnyh guns, intended for installation in cars, Putilov plant was in
August 1914. By December, four 3-dyuymovka was released that allowed under the
direction of Captain Tarnavsky begin forming the first anti-aircraft battery car. For this
purpose, Russian-Baltic plant in Riga built a batch of 5-ton truck "Russo-Balt" type T,
pre-book a cab driver and the engine hood. The instrument was installed in the back of
the car, which had a small board and special stops, which fell to the ground when
shooting. The composition of the 1st separate battery for the shooting of the Air Fleet
(abbreviated as we call it OBSVF), except self-propelled anti-aircraft guns, including
four caissons (transporter of munitions and fuel) on the chassis of "Russo-Balt" type M.
They also had an armored cab the driver, but the reservation is carried out at the Putilov
factory.

~ 432 ~
After a short trial period March 20, 1915 1st OBSVF commanded Tarnavsky left for the
front. Continuously being at the front until February 1917 this division showed a very
good efficacy, especially given the relatively low intensity of use of aircraft by both
parties at that time. It is known on the German plane shot down May 30, 1915 at
Pultusk, and on June 12 1916, during a raid 10 German airplanes on the position of the
5th Army, the battery has lined three of them. After the revolution traces of the 1st
OBSVF lost - the battery may have been disbanded.

During the 1915-1916 biennium. Army received several 76.2-mm anti-aircraft guns on
the chassis unarmored 5-ton truck "White" has started formation of at least two new
anti-aircraft batteries. Their participation in the First World War to find information has
not yet succeeded, but there is evidence that the summer of 1917 it was one of the most
combat-ready units, continued to fight until the complete collapse of the Russian army.

~ 433 ~
Also, in June 1915, experiments were conducted to install a 57-mm guns with a barrel
length of 40 calibres on an armored chassis 3-ton freight car Austin. Test machines were
successful, however, the serial production of self-propelled anti-aircraft gun system with
this did not take place because of a fire at a military warehouse in Brest-Litovsk (now
Brest, Belarus), where almost all stocks were destroyed by guns. ZSU only sample was
transferred to the autumn of 1915 in the 1st division traktoronogo.

SPECIFICATIONS anti-aircraft armored vehicle

Russo-Balt type of T obr.1916

Combat weight ~ 5000 kg

CREW, pers. 6
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one anti-aircraft gun of 76.2 mm of obr.1913
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE Carburetor
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels,
CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?

~ 434 ~
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 435 ~
Pierce-Arrow cannon armored car

By order of the Naval Department, for the protection of coastal fortifications, the
summer of 1916 Izhora plant received an order to design and build several armored
vehicles. To do this, two 5-ton truck Pierce-Arrow, which put the hull of were used. In
the rear of the machine has been installed completely closed tower with 76.2 mm
mountain gun of the sample in 1904, and two sponsons with 7.62-mm machine gun
"Maxim", the obr.1910

In the fighting, "Pierce-Arrow" did not participate - instead they were sent to the front
armored marine modification "Garford" armed with 76.2-mm gun protivoshturmovoy.
Until the autumn of 1917, these machines were used only as a part of training in the
Marine reserve armored division.

~ 436 ~
After the collapse of the Russian army of the former fortified went to the local Latvian
and Estonian authorities. Among other military equipment Latvians got one, "Garford"
and Training "Pierce-Arrow". Last time was used in the War of Independence, and was
named "Viesturs". The service of this machine in Latvia continued until the mid-1920s.

The second "Pierce-Arrow" Naval Department in early 1918 became the trophy of the
Germans. The car, which was in no better condition, repaired and sent to the rear. Here
armored vehicle was used to crush the communist uprisings of 1918-1919. in Berlin and
other German cities.

Combat weight 9000 kg

CREW, pers. 5

~ 437 ~
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 6100
Width 1850
Height mm 2400
Clearance, mm ?
Wheelbase mm ?
One 76.2-mm mountain gun obr.1904 city and two 7.62-
WEAPONS
mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES optical gun and machine-gun sight
housing forehead - 9 mm
board housing - 9 mm
RESERVATIONS feed - 9 mm (?)
roof - 5 mm (?)
bottom -
ENGINE Petrol, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2: front-wheel driven, single, rear wheel drive twin,
CHASSIS
tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs
SPEED ~ 40 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
missing
COMMUNICATION

~ 438 ~
Fiat-Omsky armoured car

Fiat-Omsky in Vladivostok, 1919

The Fiat-Omsky was a light armoured car of the White Army in the Russian Civil War
1917-1923. It was based on a Fiat "Tipo 55" frame supplied from the United States of
America. A series of about 15 units was built. This is the only serial armoured car built
by the Russian White Army.

~ 439 ~
Armstrong-Withworth 1913

United Kingdom/Russian Empire (1913) Armored car 36 built

One of the first Russian armored cars

Very little is known about this Armstrong-Withworth armored car. It was never
accepted in service by the British Army. Additionally, this model is often confused with
the later AFSR Armstrong-Whitworth-FIAT, which served in numbers in General
Wrangels White Army in 1919-1920. A prototype was ordered as early as 1913,
tested in exercises, and a batch of 36 vehicles was received in the fall of 1915. A series
of photos, dating back to 1919, show a captured vehicle resembling the Armstrong-
Withworth, also adding to the confusion.

Armstrong-Withworth model

Basically, the Armstrong-Withworth was an armored version of the standard AW 4-

cylinder commercial car, the chassis receiving a framework covered by metal plates, of
unknown thickness, perhaps 3 to 5 mm (0.12-0.2 in) which were common at the time,
being the usual iron plate thickness. For extra thickness, boiler plates were used. All
were bolted on the frame. The configuration was straightforward, with the drivers
compartment forward, and one access door on each side. The fighting compartment was
just behind, with a single, fully revolving drum turret operated by a standing man. The
standard armament was a Vickers 7.9 mm (0.31 in) liquid-cooled machine gun. The
suspension used leaf springs, and the wheels were wooden spoked commercial models,
which proved problematic on very bad, stumpy roads. It was characterized by an
epicyclic pre-selector gearbox, designed by Walter Gordon Wilson, which also
collaborated with William Tritton on the famous Little Willie.

Operational history

The Armstrong-Withworth model 1913s were received from 1915 to the end of 1916.
By that time, many better models were already in service, including the locally built
Austin-Putilov, and the former compared miserably according to the crews, as it was
plagued by defects. The high center of gravity, the high ground pressure and the
performances of the car were abysmal on soft ground. Their fate is unknown, since
information about them is very conflicting. Pictures show a captured Armstrong-
Withworth in Manchuria, with Japanese soldiers in Vladivostock in 1919. However,
after further investigation, these photos show a Russian copy realized in 1915 on a
FIAT chassis. Three were made, the first was a single turret version, the two others
sporting two Vickers machine-guns in sponsons.

The information available in the table below is unsure.

Armstrong-Withworth 1913 specifications

Dimensions (L-W-H) 3.91.72.4 m (12.85.587.87 ft)

~ 440 ~
Total weight, battle ready 3.8 tons (8377 lbs)

Crew 3-4 (driver, commander, 1 or 2 gunners)

Propulsion AW 4-cylinder, 20 bhp (15 kW) at 2500 rpm

Speed 45 km/h (28 mph)

Operational Range 200 km (124 mi)

Armament 1 or 2 Vickers cal .05 in (7.9 mm) machine-guns

Armor 3-5 mm (0.12-0.2 in)

Total production 36 in 1913-14

First model, Armstrong-Withworth 1913 with a single turret. Some sources state that a
twin machine-gun version was also part of the deliveries, with both machine-guns in
sponsons. But since little photographic evidence exists, it could have also been a 1915
or 1919 copy.

This vehicle was not part of the original batch, but one of three Russian copies built in
1915, probably at Dalzavod works in Vladivostock, on a FIAT chassis.

~ 441 ~
~ 442 ~
~ 443 ~
Austin armored car

United Kingdom (1914) Armored car 180+ built

The British-Russian Austin armored car is one of the most successful and prolific
models of World War One. It was used chiefly by the Russian Empire, and also
modified locally. Two Russian models were also built locally by Putilov, and are

~ 444 ~
studied separately on the Russian section. At the origin, the development of this
armored car was quickstarted by a Russian committee which came to Great Britain to
purchase local models, including one with a good overhead protection and two machine
gun turrets. The Austin Motor Company quickly produced a demonstrator to meet these
requirements.

The Austin 1914

This model was accepted into service as the Austin 1st series on 29 September 1914, as
48 were ordered, at 1,150 pounds apiece, by the Russian government. It was based on
the Austin 30hp Colonial chassis, with a rear axle drive, 30 hp engine and spoked
wheels. However, rubberine-filled self-sealing tires were also carried for war
operations. In addition, two Maxim machine guns turrets were mounted rear of the
drivers cab in tandem, both covering 180 degree of lateral angle and combining their
fire on the front and rear. The body was made of armor plates 3.54 mm (0.14 in) thick
bolted to a body frame over the chassis. The crew of four counted the commander,
driver and two machine-gunners, whom could enter the vehicle through a left side door
or a rear two-leaf door. At their arrival at Izhorski Works they were stripped of their
armor, which was replaced with 7 mm (0.28 in) thick plates. This made them much
heavier, adding some stress on the axles and engine, reducing their speed and agility.
But the Russians were quite satisfied with this model compared to others and asked for
a new improved series. Possibly in 1917-18, extra series I bodies were used on White
armored car chassis.

The Austin series II

On March, 6, 1915 a new series was ordered with improved armor. This time, a stronger
1.5 ton truck chassis and more powerful engine (50 hp) were chosen to take the burden
of heavier plates. But the main configuration was unchanged, but the cab roof was
modified to allow a better traverse and arc of fire for the turrets. However, to stiffen the
rear section, the rear doors were eliminated, to the dismay of Russian officers. Back in
Russia, the 60 vehicles were taken over and a rear driving post was added, with an
additional hatch and extra side shields for the machine-guns.

The Austin series III

Ordered on 25 August 1916, this series was the fruit of war operations experience, and
was similar to the second one, except for a modified rear hull with driving post and side
MG shields and bulletproof glass on the front vision slots, the side windows were
eliminated. By the fall of 1917, yet another series, called model 1918 or 1918 Pattern,
was ordered with a reinforced chassis and double rear wheels, but events prevented their
delivery. These were the only vehicles used by the British Army. It seems their armored
body was also reused on Peerless lorries after the war.

In service

The Austin was used for a long time (1914 1939) by many nations. The first customer,
Russia, organized them in automobile machine gun platoons modeled after early war
experience. The lead platoons comprised three Austins, four staff cars, three support
trucks (workshop, tanker) and four motorcycles, with a complement of 46 soldiers. The

~ 445 ~
regular platoon had only two Austins and a Garford-Putilov for artillery support, a staff
car, a truck and a motorcycle. However, in August 1916 these units were reorganized
into more sizable forces, armored automobile battalions, each attached to an army and
formed from two to five platoons. By the time of the Civil War, the Austins were used
by both sides, although the Red Army had the bulk of it (and most Putilovs), organized
into armored automobile units of similar strength to a lead platoon. By 19120-21,
RKKA vehicles were deployed in the Soviet-Polish war. A few were captured. The
British-built vehicles were kept in service until 1931 and the Putilovs until 1933.

The last batch of Austins (1918 Pattern) was exclusively used by the 17th (Armoured
Car) Battalion of the British Tank Corps, with doubled rear wheels and Hotchkiss
machine guns. This unit was active in France from March 1918 to the German
surrender. These vehicles distinguished themselves at the Battle of Amiens, capturing a
German headquarters 10 miles (16 km) into enemy territory and creating havoc with
reserve and support units. This was also the first unit to cross the Rhine. Other vehicles
were sent into the Far East and Caspian Sea region. After this, some were deployed in
Ireland. Their bodies were reused on Peerless lorry chassis and kept in service until
1939. Other users includes the Imperial Japanese Army (a few), the Polish Army (20,
captured), the Finnish Army (3, captured), Estonia (2), Latvia (1), Romania (1), the
Mongolian Peoples Army (3), the Germans Freikorps in 1919 (4, Kokampf armored
units), the Austrian Army (1) and Bulgaria (1, captured in 1916).

Austin series II specifications

Dimensions 16 ft x 6.8 ft x 9.4 ft (4.90 x 2.03 x 2.84 m)

Total weight (as built), battle

5.3 tons (11680 lbs)
ready

Crew 4 (commander, driver, 2 machine-gunners)

Propulsion 4-cyl Gasoline inline, 4 stroke, 50 hp (17 kW) 9

hp/t

Speed 35 mph (56 km/h)

Suspensions 4 x 2 leaf springs

Range 200 km (125 mi)

Armament 2 x Maxim Water cooled cal.303 (7.7 mm) machine

gun

Armor Maximum 6 mm (0.25 in)

~ 446 ~
Total production (all combined) Over 168

Austin Armoured car, series I (1914) in Russian service. Original specs were 2.66 tons,
road speed 50-60 km/h and range 250 km.

Austin Armoured car series II, 5.3 ton, road speed 60 km/h and range 200 km.

Austin series III in Russia, with a famous bi-tone livery in 1916. Same specs as the
series II.

~ 447 ~
Austin serie III in 1916.

Polish White-Austin Mars in 1920.

Austin series 1918 in British service, RIC Barracks at Ennis, Country Clare in
November 1919.

~ 448 ~
~ 449 ~
~ 450 ~
~ 451 ~
~ 452 ~
~ 453 ~
Austin Kgresse

Russia (1918) Armored half-track 12 built. The Russian half-track

The Austin Kgresse was one of only two armored half-track models developed during
the war by the Russian. The concept seemed tailor-made for this humongous country,
almost devoid of roads and on which the existing roads were plagued by deep snow in
winter, heavy dust in summer and deep mud in between. Nevertheless, based on the
local-built Austin-Putilov chassis, the half-track concept was embraced by the Tsar

~ 454 ~
himself, who had one such vehicle in his garage. But despite its promises, the half-track
concept never really resurfaced in Soviet designs, being replaced by the Christie system
using convertible roadwheels. Ironically, the Germans, French and Americans soon
saw the potential of the formula and embraced it.

The Kgresse tracks system

The concept of light rubber tracks matted with an adequate bogie suspension system
was invented by Adolphe Kgresse, a French military engineer, also inventor of the dual
clutch transmission. He moved in 1905 to Saint Petersburg, improved the imperial car
park, and created the first private half-track car for the Tsar, which also had skis mated
on the front roadwheels for the Tsars winter hunts. The Russo-Balt C24-30 was
followed by a Packard Twin-6 with the same system, and eventually the wartime
Austin-Kgresse.

The Austin-Kgresse

The vehicles were converted from some of the Austin armored cars assembled locally at
Putilovski Works, Saint Petersburg. However, production was halted by the 1917
October revolution, and resumed in March 1918 under supervision of the Red Army. 33
Austin-Putilovs were ultimately built before 1920, and 12 of those were converted to
the half-track system. The hulls were identical to the regular Austin-Putilovs used by
the Red Army, but the Kgresse system replaced the rear axle, comprising an articulated
bogie with a large drive wheel at one end and and idler at the other and. Several small
guide wheels were in between. The tracks were made of reinforced flexible rubber belts
with metal treads that gave a better grip. Thanks to this, traction was excellent on all
soft grounds, but the system barely tolerated high speeds and was quick to wear. The
total weight was 5.8-5.9 tons, road speed about 25 km/h (15 mph) and road range 100

~ 455 ~
km (60 mi). In addition, there were roller arms at the front and rear of the front axle and
tracks, allowing the vehicle to climb vertical obstacles or trenches with ease.

In action

As stated before, the Austin-Kgresse, or Putilov-Kgresse, was only used by the Red
Army, as all 12 were delivered between July 1919 and March 1920, due to the lack of
spare parts. They participated in the Civil War against the white Russians, and the
PolishSoviet War in 1920-21, where most were destroyed or were never repaired due
to a chronic lack of resources in the 1920s.

Austin-Kgresse specifications
Dimensions (L-W-H) 4.9 x 2.03 x 2.84 m (16 x 6.8 x 9.4 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 5.8 tons (12,800 lbs)

Crew 4-5 (driver, commander, gunners, mechanic)

Propulsion Austin 4-cyl wc, gasoline, 50 hp (37 kW), 9.5 hp/ton

Speed 25 km/h (12 mph)

Operational range (road) 100 km (60 mi)

Armament 2 x 7.62 mm (0.3 in) Maxim machine-guns, 5000 rounds

~ 456 ~
Suspension Front axle wheels, rear tracks

Armor 6.5 mm (0.2 in)

Total production 12 in 1920

Camouflaged Austin-Kegresse with the trench-crossing extension rollers, 1922.

Austin-Kegresse Ukrainets in Zhytomyr, 1920, Polish-Russian war.

~ 457 ~
Russo-Balt C24-30 belonging to the Tsars garage, designed in 1913.

Austin-Kegresse Ukrainets in Zhytomyr, 1920, Polish-Rusian war.

~ 458 ~
Kgresse 1913 design.

It is interesting to note, that some of the best and most interesting WW1 AFVs were
produced by nations other than the "major powers". The Russians were in the forefront
when it came to armoured cars, which they used in fairly large numbers from 1914 on.
One of the drawbacks of all WW1 armoured cars, was that they were generally
underpowered and rather heavy, which made it difficult for them to move beyond the
roads.

This was of course noticed by the Russian Army and they started thinking about ways
of overcoming this. Back in 1909 the director of the Tsars garage in Tsarskoye Tselo,
Francis A. Kegresse, had designed a light track system to be used with the Russo-Balt
~ 459 ~
automobiles - not to be confused with the Russo-Balt armoured cars - and in 1913 this
system was used with great success on a number of vehicles. (The Russian Army
ordered a whole series for their own use.)

In 1915 the order came to use the Kegresse system on the British designed Austin
armoured cars. The trials with these vehicles started in August 1916, and as this went
very well, 50 vehicles were ordered. The prototype vehicle was an Austin Second
Series, but the final design was really just the Putilov-Austin armoured car with the
Kegresse track system instead of the normal rear wheels. Weight was 5.8 tons.
Maximum armour thickness was 8mm. Maximum road speed was 25kph. Armament
consisted of two 7.62mm Maxim MGs and there was a crew of 5 men.

This means that the Russian Army was the first to use armoured halftracks
operationally, but as they were not completed until 1919, they were never used in
WW1. Instead they were employed during the Civil War, by all sides. They were
impressed into Trotskijs Red Army, they were used in the fight against the Allied
Interventionist Forces, and finally in the Russo-Polish War of the early 20s. During the

~ 460 ~
Russo-Polish War some Austin-Kegresse halftracks were captured, and used by, the
Poles.

~ 461 ~
~ 462 ~
The history of one of the most extraordinary armored vehicles of World War I began in
1909, when the head of the technical part of the imperial garages A.A.Kegress built and
successfully tested the world's first car with a half-track chassis. Of course, this car was
far from perfect, but in the next five years Kegress managed to bring his invention to a
high state of technical reliability.

If the winter in 1911 was tested the car with skis and circuits designed for driving on
snow, then the next year the Royal Force technicians managed to equip the garage
tracks one of the "Mercedes", selected by the Tsar Nicholas II for the experiments.

With the outbreak of World War I (then it was called the Patriotic) Kegress given the
rank of warrant officer of the Russian army and allowed to continue work on the half-
track machines, but for military purposes. New motor sleigh sample collected on Rbvz
was presented February 27, 1915 When the total weight of approximately 3,000 kg
(weight tracked undercarriage was 450 kg) half-track was able to develop on the
highway the maximum speed to 40 km \ h. The car was moving confidently not only on
good roads (part of the path passed through the streets of St. Petersburg and Nevsky
Prospect), but also on loose snow on rough terrain. Appreciation this machine has
earned by Nicholas II, who in his diary, after reviewing the half-track sledge, wrote the
following:

"February 22, 1915. At two o'clock I went with Alex in the car testing on runners of
Kegressa. We sat down and went to skate on the ice field and through ditches and drifts.
He passed well throughout. The experiments were quite successful. "

However, the "privilege" (patent) 26751-A on "car-sled moving through endless

belts with pressure rollers and fitted with swivel runners on the front axle," Kegress

~ 463 ~
received two months before the war began - May 31, 1914 By essentially, they became
the prototype of the future armored car.

Just caterpillar mover consisted of the following elements: a solid strip of rubberized
fabric with rubber tread, four dual core and two support rollers, driving and guiding
wheels. Suspension - balancer. Traction to the drive wheel was carried out using a chain
drive. Adjusting chain tension and the tape was made using a screw-type tensioner. The
transmission of the armored car as a rotation mechanism of caterpillar tracks differential
base of the machine has been stored. It drives the front wheels on both sides were
attached additional drums that do not interfere with the wheels rolling on a good road
when the wheels sank into the ground, they took over some of the load, reducing the
specific pressure. To facilitate movement over rough terrain armored vehicle was
equipped with a special reel, placed in front and behind the caterpillar tracks and the
front wheels.

After receiving a positive test data sledge-car Kegress has equipped its propeller several
chassis by Russo-Balt car C24 \ 30. But this time the test run did not go so smoothly. As
it turned out, leading drums often skidded on the rubber band, and between them were
stuffed caterpillar snow and mud. All this led to the rupture of a caterpillar or popping it
from the guides.

However, Vice President IRAO V.V.Svechin took the initiative to equip the new chassis
overlooking five cars for the Medical Service in August 1915. The project was
approved and 16 October for these needs has been allocated 32,800 rubles of the State
Treasury. Remaking machines instructed Rbvz evacuated this time from Riga near
Moscow. However, the plant's management declined to this task, explaining it by the
current loading and agreed to provide IRAO only structural drawings. In this regard, the
assembly decided to move the machine to the Putilov factory, where work is carried out
under the supervision of an engineer brigade B.G.Haritonovicha with the support of the
Kegressa and mechanics workshops A.Elizarova Petrograd military.

All five machines ordered in July 1916 were included in the health column named
Crown Prince and sent to the northern front. The first reviews of the half-track sledge-
car were very positive. Thus, the chief of staff of the Army, General Belyaev, which
operated the machine, in an official written feedback about their work certified "motor
sleigh during the experiment really striking freely take all the obstacles that were for
ordinary cars definitely impassable."

On the basis of this report and other evidence, the military-technical management issued
an order for the Putilov factory assembly 182 tracked propulsion and install them on
armored cars. The project of such a machine, it was initially supposed to use in winter
conditions, was submitted to the GVTU Commission in October 1915, however, the
main control had an opinion on the matter. After a preliminary assessment of the
possibilities of such a chassis in an official response to the designer was told the
following:

~ 464 ~
"... It is highly desirable to test Kegressa device on vehicles of different systems, and
especially the possibility of their use for the armored vehicles that can make a big
difference."

By this time, experts from the Military automotive school raised the question of
replacing the unreliable rubber bands on the strips of wire ropes - a few would be
heavier overall weight of the car, but much would shed life. Work in this area began
before the February Revolution of 1917, however, the modified chassis could equip
only one "Packard", who was captured by the Bolsheviks and was used only in
Petrograd. The case, first of all, was complicated by the lack of a suitable chassis for
this purpose. The first of 60 ordered armored cars "austin", the chassis of which was
borrowed, he 1.5-ton truck and distinguished good performance, the Defense Ministry
received in the spring of 1916 and first introduced them to build conventional armored
vehicles. Working half-track armored car went faster in August 1916, when Kegress
finally able to submit to the test the first prototype, yet without weapons. There is also
evidence that in October 1917 half-track chassis was set to 30-40 trucks, but more
precise information on this subject is absent.

In order to clarify driving performance cars "Kegress" in August and September 1916
an extensive testing program was set up, at first under the Tsar's village, and then in
Mogilev province, where an armored car "wrapped" about 286 miles on the road. The
real test for "Kegressa" became a rally Mogilev - Tsarskoye Selo. The car, loaded to
combat weight 332 pounds (5312 kg), has passed 725 miles (773 km) in 34 hours and
15 minutes. Military Commission, was present at the same time, noted the following:

"... Car ... left the road to the virgin lands, moved to the roadside ditch, then went at a
significant rate over the soft grassy ground, freely and smoothly overcoming various
irregularities.
... Climbed Mount Pulkovo straight down the slope, wet topsoil. When lifting the driver
was able to place put the second speed. It was observed overheating motor. Finally, the

~ 465 ~
car effortlessly switched small hummocky marsh, where in some places the water
completely covered the ground. No damage was not noticed except bend the left guide
arcs ... "

It was further expressed the following opinion:

"... The need of the army in cars that could take place on the road, it is large and urgent,
and therefore, according to the Commission, should take all measures for the early
production of Kegressa devices for the required number of vehicles of all types: armor,
trucks and cars."

During this time Kegress developed a rigorous activity, intending to equip a new type of
chassis heavier cars, such as the 3-ton truck "Packard" while intending to create a
tracked trailer for it. In addition, it was supposed to equip the semi-tracked armored
chassis type "Fiat-Izhora" assembly which is produced at the Izhora plant. Technical
Committee GVTU went on to include the item on the development of the propulsion
unit to the chassis "ERF" Reservation which was held at the Putilov factory. There has
also been the idea that in the near future on the half-track course of the entire fleet of the
Russian Army will be delivered. However, the real order, issued by the army, was 300
units, in and of itself is not enough.

Unfortunately, Kegress failed to fulfill these plans. Mainly for the program affected the
absence of the required number of chassis, deliveries of which began only in the winter
of 1917 and during the two revolutions work even over conventional armored cars were
very slow. Exactly how many machines such as "Austin Kegress" managed to collect
during this time remains unknown, but at least one "Fiat" was still given for alterations
in the half-track armored car. After October 1917 A.A.Kegress moved to France, where
during the interwar period was engaged in the implementation of its chassis at the
company Citroen and Schneider. In Soviet Russia, where the front actually collapsed,
and the army was demobilized, about the construction of armored vehicles at the time of
forgotten ...

On the question of the resumption of the production of half-track armored car returned
only a year later, when the situation around the central part of Soviet Russia still
remains difficult. This opportunity came at the beginning of 1919, when at the same
time with the construction of conventional armored vehicles such as "Austin" Putilov
plant was commissioned to build machines on the half-track course. Most likely, in this
way the Soviet government sought to compensate for the complete lack of a part of the
Red Army tanks, and at the same time to fill up the ranks of the few broneotryadov. To
make it easier was the fact that even by February 1917 and the project was made
Kegressa 30 tracked propulsion, awaiting only the chassis.

The chassis for armored vehicles and procurement of basic components and assemblies
produced Putilov factory, then "Kegress" went on the Izhora plant, where they
established hulls, the available permanently at the plant in the amount of two pieces.
Directly mounted Housing held 5 days, but the final assembly and debugging
mechanism takes much more time. In this case itself is derived from the "Austin" 2
Series endures, however, minor improvements.

~ 466 ~
The assembly of the first "Kegressa" just completed the summer of 1919, presenting it
to the test on July 2nd. Apparently, according to the main characteristics of half-track
armored car satisfied the requirements of the Red Army leadership and the end of
March 1920 12 copies were built. After this assembly "Kegress" has been discontinued
due to lack of the chassis, although Putilov was 22 finished tracked propulsion, intended
for installation on armored vehicles "Austin".

During the series-built Soviet engineers tried to enhance the firepower of the armored
car, setting it instead of 7.62-mm machine guns two 37-mm cannon type Hotchkiss - the
same as in the French Renault FT-17 tanks. The results of this experiment, carried out in
November-December 1919, the data has not been preserved, as, indeed, and other
advanced designs, built on the chassis "Kegressa".

However, after that the topic "Kegress" in no hurry to leave, because the armored car
was ranked as one of the most combat-ready, and put it on almost level with the light
tanks. To understand this logic is not difficult - half-track armored car had the same
armor protection, the French tanks, "Reno", surpassing their machine-gun version of the
armament. In addition, the Russian car has better high-speed data and a high level of
traffic on its construction costs were lower and the process held (in normal conditions)
less time. It is therefore not surprising that at the end of 1919, Lenin repeatedly ordered
to resume production "Kegress". For example, December 15, he sent the following
telegram to Petrograd:

"Can we order quickly two heavy sled and two lungs for the Southern Front? Hastily.
Answer. "

Apparently, no response was an automatic 23 December a second message:

~ 467 ~
"Why is there no longer Kegress? Lent, say more than 100? "

However, the third time it was not possible to organize the assembly of half-track
armored vehicles. On the combat use of "Austin Kegress" Information remains
extremely little. Machinery release of 1917, most likely, in the battles on the Eastern
Front and took part not subsequently used by warring parties during the Civil War.

As for the assembly of cars of 1919-1920., That they were distributed between the auto-
armor units (ABO) of the Red Army. Probably the first experience of combat use
"Kegress" took place in the autumn of 1919. In a letter to headquarters of the 6th
broneotryada where armored vehicles were handed over, it was reported that these
machines performed well in combat conditions. For example, on October 25, three
"Kegressa" together with a team of the 2nd Infantry Division in the area of Tsarskoye
Selo successfully supported the infantry attack against the troops of General Yudenich.

More actively "Kegress" fought in the Soviet-Polish war waged by Poland with the
support of the Entente, the Polish Army supplied the set of ammunition and weapons,
including armored vehicles and tanks. In addition to foreign technology Poles have
several armored vehicles "Putilov-Garford", "Geoffrey-Poplavko" and "Austin",
captured in 1917 in the then Russian army. Against qualitatively stronger enemy
command of the Red Army put up "Austin", then formed the basis broneotryadov. So,
in March 1920, on the Western Front came 6th ABO, which included a 4 "Kegressa" (
"Ukrainian", "a St. Petersburg", "Putilovets" and another car, whose name remains
unknown). Already on March 21, these machines participated in the offensive
undertaken by units of the 58th Infantry Division in the Zhitomir region, but the Poles
have prepared for "Kegress" unpleasant surprise. Attracted to repel the attack armored
"Dziadek" ( "Grandfather", a former Russian "Putilov-Garford") fire his 76 mm cannon
shot down two Soviet armored car. One of them ( "Ukrainian", writing on the board,
"All Power to the Soviets") was captured by Polish troops, and the other damaged car
were evacuated. A month later, on April 26 during the fighting near Zhitomir itself was
damaged and captured the second "Kegress" - this time the victim was the Poles'
Putilovets ", carrying on board the inscription" Death to the bourgeoisie. "

Both captured armored car passed soon overhaul and continued to serve until the end of
the 1920s. as part of an armored car platoon "Zagloba". The first captured "Kegress"
called "Lis" ( "Fox"). In Poland, such as armored cars "Kegress" were called "polczolg",
which literally translates as "polutank". After the completion of the active period of
operation of several cars passed in the tank school in Modlin Fortress. In September
1939, when the German troops approached the Polish fortifications, one of the armored
cars thrown into the Vistula River, and the second set as the monument was again a
trophy, but managed to survive until the present day.

In the Soviet Union armored half-track operation continued until complete deterioration
of the material. At least in 1933 as part of the Red Army armored forces are still the
number four "Kegressa", but because of the extremely dilapidated state of their chassis
were planning to put on a wheel stroke and then used as a training machine. Most likely,
this work has not been carried out, and the remaining armored cancel reservation.

~ 468 ~
As for the motor sleigh, their story ended several years after the end of the war. In July
1921, VI Lenin sent a note to the Supreme Economic Council: "Please fix sent to
Petrograd sledge-car Kegressa as directed by Gil T, repaired in special workshops
Putilov.". One of these machines, Rools-Royce "Silver Goast", equipped with a 35-
horsepower engine, was renovated in the fall and subsequently served as the CEC
garage. It is on this "Kegress" In I.Lenin made his last trip in the winter of 1921-1922.

Combat weight 5800 kg

CREW, pers. 5
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 4900
Width 1700
Height mm 2400
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910
allowance of ammunition 4000 cartridges
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
housing forehead - 7 mm
board housing - 7 mm
food body - 7mm
RESERVATIONS forehead towers - 7 mm
board towers - 6 mm
roof - 6mm
the bottom - 5 mm
"Austin", 4-cylinder, carburetor, liquid-cooled, 50
ENGINE
hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS 4x2: single wheel, suspension leaf springs
SPEED 40 km \ h
Cruising on the highway 100 km

~ 469 ~
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. 25-30
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m 0.60
The width of the den, m 1.60
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Packard cannon armored car

The success of the first combat use of the cannon armored "Mannesmann-Mulago",
"Benz" and "Oldays" allowed to continue working in this direction. At the end of 1914
Izhora Plants was issued a technical specification for bookings of two 3-ton trucks of
the American company "Packard". In many ways, the reservation scheme and
placement of weapons has been borrowed from the earlier machines, but here Izhora
engineers dared to combine a bit of combat capabilities of both types.

~ 470 ~
"Packard" had riveted hull of the sheets of 4-mm armor, fully protects against bullets
caliber rifle at ranges up to 200 meters only to the engine compartment and the cab
driver. The main armament consisted of 37 mm Marine rapid-Maxim-Nordenfeld gun
housed in the body, which had a low board. The gun was protected by a box-shaped 5
mm armored shields. The absence of high-side, oddly enough, turned out to be an
advantage - a 37-mm gun had guided the angle of the horizon within 300 .

In addition to laying transported 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim" obr.1910 of which

could lead both sides shooting, and from loopholes in the driver's cab. Ammunition
"Packard" was very impressive. Since 1200 it is transported shells, 8000 rounds of
ammunition and 48 kg of TNT, in case of traffic obstructions or undermining the
bridges.

On both machines installed 32-hp engine is proprietary and manual transmission with
chain drive to the rear axle. Total weight was 5760 kg armored crew - 7 people.

On the front "Packards" went the spring of 1915. Armored vehicles handed over to the
1st car machine-gun company, taking a baptism of fire on the territory of present-day
Poland.

Actions machine gun, machine gun, even without the support of armored vehicles and
infantry, had been very successful character. For example, in a battle near the village of
Bromerzh two "Packard", came very close to the barbed wire of the Germans, almost
point-blank shot by enemy fortifications and killed its garrison of up to companies.
Subsequently, one of these machines is called "Captain gourdes", in honor of the dead
of the first Knights of St. George 1st APR.

~ 471 ~
During the 1915-1916 biennium. gun armored cars constantly participated in the
fighting on the Western Front at Lodz, Sochaczew, Prasnyshem and Pultusk. Stepping
into the territory of Belarus in September 1916 1st APR was renamed the 1st Armored
Division and placed under the supervision of the 42nd Corps. This unit was transferred
to Finland, but in the summer of 1917. "Packards" were sent to Petrograd, where, in
July, they are involved in the suppression of the Bolshevik insurrection.

October 1917 became the 1st Armored Division decisive month. A few days before the
Revolution armored transferred under Dvinsk (Daugavpils, modern Latvia), where the
German offensive was developing most rapidly. Here the remains of the crews of the 1st
Armored Division waited for the arrival of the German troops, who in the spring of
1918 captured both the "Packard". In the battle they were not used against the Russian
army, because due to the difficult political situation in Germany armored vehicles were
sent to the rear. In March 1919, "Packards," as in the previous year, participated against
communist speeches in Berlin. The Germans are a bit upgraded armored vehicles,
setting them on a 20-mm automatic cannon Bekker and two 7.92-mm machine gun
Schwarzloze. According to some "Packards" were scrapped in the early 1920s.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS cannon armored car

Packard was obr.1915

Combat weight 5760 kg

CREW, pers. 7
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
one 37-mm gun of Maxim-Nordenfeld and one or two
WEAPONS
7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910
~ 472 ~
allowance of ammunition 1200 and 8000 rounds of ammunition, 50 kg of TNT
aiming DEVICES optical sight
housing forehead - 4 mm
board Copus - 4 mm
RESERVATIONS
food body - 4 mm
gun shield - 5 mm
ENGINE carburetor, liquid cooling, capacity of 32 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels,
CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Austin-Putilov

Russia (1918) Armored car 33 built

The Soviet Austins

~ 473 ~
Russia was a customer and prolific user of the Austin series, imported from Austin
Motor Co. Ltd, Great Britain since 1914. Production was reserved entirely for Russia
(and on Russian specs). The latest, the series III, was ordered on 25 August 1916 and
integrated the sum of experience collected since the beginning of the war. These were
delivered in early 1917, yet in the meantime another order came for an enhanced series
(which would have been the fourth) to be delivered in late 1917. The Revolution
erupted before and the vehicles were kept in British service.

In 1916, the decision was taken to order only the chassis from Austin, and the armored
body was to be completed locally by the Putilovski Works at Saint Petersburg.
Therefore, 60 Series III chassis were ordered and shipped. It was estimated their
completion took place in July 1917. However, the turmoil of the Revolution brought all
work to a halt, as stated by Staff-Captain Ivanov. It was eventually resumed by a few
workers and the first two vehicles rolled out in March 1918, while Russia was no longer
at war. Due to the lack of equipment, spare parts, even gasoline, all vehicles were
transferred by rail to the Izhorski Works. Production resumed there from the summer of
1919 to spring 1920, after 33 vehicles had been delivered in total. Interestingly enough,
the designation Austin-Putilov (- Ostin-Putilovets) is not attested
in any document, but was coined later by historians. Instead they were called
Russkij Ostin or Russian Austins.

Design

The vehicles created by Putilovski Works and later Izhorski Works were virtually
identical, integrating many ideas developed for the undelivered Austin series IV. They
were characterized by a bulky, heavier hull and thicker armor (7.5 mm instead of 6.5
mm) and by diagonally opposed turrets with Maxim liquid-cooled machine guns. These
gave a better field of fire, but also allowed the installation of a door on the right side of
the vehicle. Overall weight was now 5.2 tons and the road speed remained about the
same, with a maximum of 55 km/h (34 mph). The range was 200 km (125 mi). These
Austin-Putilovs, just like the Austin series III they were derived from, were twice
heavier than the 1914 series I Austins (2.66 tons)!

The vehicle had a crew of five. The commander sat next to the driver in the front, while
two machine-gunners and one loader/mechanic were housed in the rear fighting
compartment. In addition, there were duplicate steering controls at the rear for reverse
driving, hence the protruding rear. Vision was provided by a large armoured folding
windshield and side armoured shutters with four pistol ports. As customary, the
machine-guns were protected by blocking screens in order to avoid any collisions when
traversing. They had revised mounts, allowing full elevation and enabling them to
provide AA fire. The interior was layered with felt in order to protect the crew from
metal splintering. The front road wheels were also protected by fenders.

At the same period, the Austin-Kgresse was developed, as the first military half-track.
Both shared the same chassis and hull. Originally, 39 Kgresses were planned, whereas
ten Austins would have been delivered each month until 15 June 1917. The whole
schedule was thrown off because of the late delivery of chassis. The first arrived in late
January, and 20 had been obtained by February 1917.

In action

~ 474 ~
These vehicles were pressed into service by the Red Army in the Civil War, in
motorized platoons called armored automobile units (
or bronevoy avtomobilniy otryad), with three MG-armed cars, one gun/MG-
armed, four staff cars, five trucks, plus a tanker, workshop trucks and four motorcycles.
They saw action against the white Russians, but also independent groups or Ukrainian
warbands and armies, and some were captured and reused by those. They also
participated in the Polish-Russian war of 1920, and at least one was captured and stayed
in service with the Polish Army until the 1930s.

By 1921, the RKKA (the future Red Army) had only 78 Austins still in use, Putilovs
included. The last ones were retired from service in 1933. Today, the Vrag Kapitala
(Enemy of the Capital) is displayed at the Artillery Museum in Saint Petersburg, falsely
attributed to be the one on which Lenin stood for his famous speech. However, that
vehicle also exists, and it is housed at the Kubinka tank museum near Moscow. Another
one is displayed at the Izhorski Works, in Kolpino, St. Petersburg.

Austin-Putilov specifications
Dimensions (L-W-H) 4.9 x 2.03 x 2.84 m (16 x 6.8 x 9.4 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 5.2 tons (10,400 lbs)

Crew 5 (driver, commander, gunners, loader/mechanic)

Propulsion Austin 4-cyl wc, gasoline, 50 hp (37 kW), 9.5 hp/ton

Speed 55 km/h (34 mph)

Operational range (road) 200 km (124 mi)

Armament 2 x 7.62 mm (0.3 in) Maxim machine-guns, 5000 rounds

Suspension 24 leaf springs

Armor 4 to 7.5 mm (0.16-0.25 in)

Total production 33 in 1920

~ 475 ~
Styenka Razin, 1920. It was captured by the 55th Infantry Regiment of the 14th
Wielkopolska Infantry Division during the Soviet-Polish war and renamed
Poznaczyk. It was reused in the Wielkopolski Armored Car Platoon.

Another Austin-Putilov, in 1920, during the Polish-Soviet war. As customary, these

vehicles were individually named by their crews. It seems nearly all have been delivered
with a neutral grey paint, or possibly pale olive, photos can\t really tell, but it\s
unlikely as the paint would have been available from the Naval stocks.

~ 476 ~
Series 3 Austin serving with the Cossacks, Civil War era (notice the front hood
roundel). The series 3 was much heavier than the previous series 1 and had two turrets
in a tandem arrangement.

~ 477 ~
The Vrag Kapital, a surviving Austin-Putilov currently at the Artillery Museum in
Saint-Petersburg.

~ 478 ~
Captured Austin-Putilovets Poznaczyk near Bobruysk, Poland, 1920.

The Austin-Kgresse, developed using the standard Austin-Putilov chassis and hull. It
was the worlds first military half-track.

All told, the Imperial Russian Army fielded over 300 armoured cars during the Great
War. Most of these were made in Russia, often by simply putting an armoured body
over different makes of truck chassis. But some were imported "ready-made", like the
British Austins.

The Austin Armoured Car, a heavy but sturdy vehicle, with characteristic twin turrets,
was built by the Austin Motor Co. Ltd, to the order of the Russian Goverment in 1914.
These armoured cars were used in combat, and on the basis of this, the Russians, in
1916, initiated a rebuilt variant of the vehicle. The armoured plating was made thicker,
and also the turret arrangement was altered, into a special staggered configuration.
(They had noticed that the two tandem turrets often blocked the field of fire for each
other.) It was also equipped with a duplicate steering arrangement facing towards the
rear - which gave it the extended, almost bonnet-like rear.

~ 479 ~
The armour thickness varied between 7.5mm and 4mm. The vehicle had a crew of five,
and with fuel, supplies and ammo it weighed a total of 5.2 tons. Its top speed was about
55kph.

~ 480 ~
A total of 60 Austin-Putilovs were produced, up to the Spring of 1920. None were
finished in time to be used in the Great War, but they saw widespread use during the
Russian Civil War, especially by the budding Red Army, its profile a part of the
Bolshevik iconography, with Lenin holding speeches from the roof of one (which in
fact never happened).

(A curious detail is that this machine is frequently titled in Soviet literature as the
"Austin-Putilov" yet this term does not exist in a single document of that time period. In
fact, in 1918 to 1921, these armoured cars were often termed by the Russians simply as
"Austins").

The Austin Putilov was built at the same time as the Izhorski-Fiat armoured cars at
Russian works, making use of the Austin chassis, which had some advantages. On 25
August 1916, a deal was closed with Austin for the delivery of 60 chassis with double
steering controls (other than that they did not differ from the previously used Austin 2nd
series). The dual-steering chassis were adapted for armoured machines of the Austin 3rd
series.

~ 481 ~
In Russia the chassis armor application was done by the Putilov Works, which had
provided designs to the Armoured Department of Military Motor-Car School in
September 1916. According to the order; from the 60 armoured cars, 39 were to have
Kegresse half-tracks, which had already been successfully tested on the Austin 2nd
series. Initially the works were to follow a production schedule: "10 pieces by 15
January 1917 and then 10 per month until the delivery of the last armored car on 15
June, on condition that the chassis would be delivered three months from the date of
order" (i.e. November).

Delivery date of finished A/C:

15 January 1917 10
15 February 10
15 March 10
15 April 10
15 May 10
15 June 10

Total 60

~ 482 ~
However, because the chassis did not start to arrive in Russia until after January 1917
(by February only about 20 pieces had arrived), work on the armoured cars was delayed,
and after the February Revolution work ceased altogether. Staff-Captain Ivanov
observed the building of the combat machines at the Putilov works and wrote this report
on 18 March 1917. "At present there stand at the Putilov factory the chassis of the
Austins preparing to be armoured, which by July should have delivered 60 pieces. None
of them are armoured and no progress is being made". Production began to move again
by August 1917, and by March 1918 two chassis were armoured with another three half
finished. (at this point, Bolshevik Russia was out of WWI.) It was clear at that time that
for, "Lack of fuel, necessary amount of workers and enterprise nationalization" the
Putilov Works were in no condition to be producing Austins. Therefore production was
handed over to the Izhorski works, where they were produced from the summer of 1919
to spring 1920.

The Putilov Works Austins were not ready in time to be used in the fighting of the First
World War. But were very active in the battles of the Russian Civil War.

In constructing the Putilov Austin the designers took into account the experiences of
combat of the English machines of this type. Foremost, the cars were designed with
diagonally positioned turrets and anti-aircraft machineguns with tooling to elevate them
to about 80 degrees. In order to avoid bullets finding their way through the chinks
between the body and turret (as happened with the English Austins), the turret base had
double plates. The drivers in both the front and rear steering positions had a better view
for moving in battle. The inside of the body was layered with felt for the crews
protection against metal splintering off the armour from hits on the outside (spall).

Of course, once Russia was no longer an ally to the Entente all the deliveries of more
chassis and completed armoured vehicles stopped. However, the problem of early
deliveries can be judged from the work results of a representative in the Arkchangelsk
Reserve Armored Divizion in January 1917. The "aforesaid representative worked well
to find and to load for dispatch to Petrograd, fifteen Fiat chassis, five Austin chassis for

~ 483 ~
armoring, five light-weight Austins and, later, by chance, two trucks and eleven motor-
cycles... The representative was sent on an official journey to find that the Austin
chassis for armouring, and the completed Austin armoured cars, which were thought to
have been sent to Russia in November, were in fact still in England."

In connection with that, shipment could not come through Archangel (Romanov-on-
Murmansk - present day Murmansk - was not then built) and the White Sea in the
winter months because it was ice-bound, the first transports with chassis and armored
machines arrived only in the spring of 1917. The stormy political events of this spring
affected the armoured cars' assembly and armouring at Izhorski, Putilov, and
Obukhovsk works, and even in the workshops of the Officer Rifle school. Meetings,
strikes, demonstrations, Bolshevik anti-war agitation had completely crippled these
workshops by July 1917.

Two of these Putilov Austins survive today. One, with the name "Vrag Kapitala"
(Enemy of Capital), stands in the Tank Museum in Kubinka (it was formerly on display
at Moscows Revolution Museum, and then at St Petersburgs Military Historical
Museum of Artillery, Engineering and Communications Troops), and has for the longest
time been been known as the legendary armoured car which V.Lenin came forward on
in April 1917. However, the leader of the "World Proletariat" never could have stepped
on this machine because the armored car only left the factorys workshop in August
1919! The other surviving Austin Putilov is in the grounds of the Izhorski Works, in
Kolpino, St. Petersburg.

~ 484 ~
By 1916, it became apparent that some supplies from abroad to equip fully the Russian
army armored vehicles will not succeed. To avoid dependence on foreign suppliers in
Russia, the armored forces of the Military Department of Automotive School (BO
VAS), GVTU and individual engineers, several projects domestic armored vehicles
have been developed. One of the most successful designs was the Austin firm bookings
chassis design.

The choice in favor of the construction was done on purpose. Since 1915, the Russian
army got adopted armored vehicles of the same company, which, for all their
shortcomings have become the best examples of the First World War. In principle, the
project engineers YOUR BO largely repeated the British car, but with some significant
modifications.

For the construction of the Russian model to be used a modified chassis so-called
Austin the 2nd series with two control stations. Hulls also borrowed from the British
sample, however, the towers have changed the layout. On the new machine are placed
diagonally - right to shift forward, the left offset ago. The lower turret armor plate
extension has also been redesigned and got a small bevel angle. The roof of the driver's
compartment, to avoid falling into the gap between the liner and the tower housing
(which often resulted in the seizure of the last in the British "Austin"), was completed
gable. In addition, there were anti-aircraft machine-gun machine with an elevation angle
of 80 degrees, the inside wall of the crew compartment sheathed in felt and improved
overview on both control stations. The engine, transmission and a reservation was left
as a standard "Austin" 2 Series.

~ 485 ~
The contract for the supply of 60 chassis was signed August 25, 1916, and bookings car
project developed by engineers Putilov, was ready by September. It was assumed that
39 of them will have a half-track chassis type "Kegress", which tests were successfully
completed by the autumn. Order placed in the same enterprise, intending to get the first
10 cars, by 15 January 1917, and the others - with the rate of 10 cars per month, but
with the proviso that the chassis will be delivered three months prior to their
reservation.

However, further work much delayed due to the complicated by the political situation in
the country and the disruption of supplies of components from the United Kingdom.
The first 20 chassis arrived only in February 1917, but the Putilov factory, constantly
tormented by strikes and outright sabotage, until August was unable to proceed with the
installation of the armor and weapons. Moreover, the representative of the Reserve
Armored Division in Arkhangelsk, where the equipment arrived by sea, found out the
next item - to January 1917, the British were loaded onto the ship just 5 chassis, and the
other (considered already delivered) are still at the Austin plant. Only in the spring they
arrived in Russia, but the collapse of the Empire led to almost a complete halt of work
on them.

Reminded of "Russian Austin" only in December 1917. Soviet power had to come back
to the formation of military units under the imperial pattern with "involvement" in
which former officers of the Russian army. A large part is paid bronesilam, especially
since the bulk of the armored vehicles remained in the hands of the Bolsheviks. The
available car had somewhere to repair, and replenish depleted composition Armored
Division could be based only on its own strength. And then it turned out that the Putilov
plant is not able to cope even in scanty orders for manufacturing armored vehicles, as it

~ 486 ~
does not have the required number of equipment and skilled workers. By March 1918
Putilovtsi could finish only two cars and three more were in nearly finished state.

This work was commissioned when the Izhora plant, where in the summer of 1918 to
spring 1920. held unit hulls on several dozen chassis as the Austin, as well as other
companies - only 33 cars were built. The name "Austin Putilovets" (or "Austin Putilov"
- there are different variations of the same by value) fixed for these machines in the
modern literature, and while they were on the documents as "Russian Austin."

Contrary to claims occurring "Austin" issued at the Putilov and Izhora plants in the First
World War took part did not, because none of the machines of the type just was not
ready. Since the spring of 1918, these armored vehicles were involved to fight the
counter-revolution in the territory controlled by the Bolsheviks (the central part of
Russia), as well as the acquisition of new avtobroneotryadov they began to "crawl"
across the country.

Most of their massively applied in the south, near Petrograd during the Polish-Soviet
War of 1919-1920. It is here that the Poles managed to capture about a dozen "Austin"
of all types, among whom was at least one Putilov armored vehicle bearing the name
"Stenka Razin" and belonged to the 1st ABO 55th Infantry Regiment. His whole state in
virtually captured soldiers of the 14th Infantry Division of Wielkopolska, having beaten
"Austin" in battle near Bobruisk, which occurred May 22, 1920 The car was
immediately renamed "Poznanczyk" and incorporated into the newly created
Wielkopolska armored car Platoon under the command of Lieutenant Felix Peto. In
July, armored fought against the Red Army, after which the "Austin" was sent near
Warsaw, and in August it was included in the 2nd armored car platoon.

During the Civil War Four "Austin" was captured by the Estonians, who then used them
actively in the war for independence. These armored cars have lived the longest - in
June 1940, they commandeered the Red Army, but since the technical condition of
vehicles data left much to be desired, it was decided about recycling.

On arms of the Red Army armored cars "austin" remained until 1931. As of 1 March,
the total number of machines of this type was estimated at 73 units, of which at least 40
have been "Austin" British-built. In particular, the 12 machines possessed 1st
avtobronedivizion Caucasus the Red Army, on the 3 cars were registered for
motootryadami 11 th and 45 th Infantry Division of the Leningrad IN and the Military
Technical Academy, one "Austin" was in Orel Armored School and armor squadron
SCWO, 4 - in the composition courses Bronekomandnyh LVO and 49 - in stock 37.
Since 1929 legacy "Austin" were replaced by the BA-27, and by 1933 almost all of the
cars were scrapped or cancel reservation. Around the same time, the Polish army and
took them with weapons. So far, only one survived, "Russian Austin" model 1918,
established as a monument in Pitersburg.

Combat weight 5200 kg

CREW, pers. 5
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 4900
Width 2000

~ 487 ~
Height mm 2580
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun Maxim obr.1905 or 1910
allowance of ammunition 6000 cartridges
aiming DEVICES telescopic sight
housing forehead - 7 mm
board housing - 7 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 7mm
Tower - 7 mm
roof - 4.5 mm
ENGINE Austin, carburetor, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 50 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2 with pneumatic tires, size 920x120 mm filled
CHASSIS
composition "Avtomassa"
SPEED 55 km \ h
Cruising on the highway 200 km
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m 0.60
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

"Benz" Armored Car - trolley

On special request, the Russian Amur railway "Benz & Co" company branch has
developed and produced only a sample of "armored car", destined for use as
bronedreziny. According to the specifications, issued October 11, 1911, this car had a
4.5 mm thick book and armament of one 7.62 mm machine gun. Armored car also
received from the truck chassis 4x2 and 2-cylinder petrol engine with capacity of 35-40
hp Total weight was 1920 kg, which was relatively small for a car of this type.

~ 488 ~
We can say that the company "Benz" engineers approached the design of the creative
process - armored corps had fairly complex form with rational angles of inclination
armor plates. Toward the aft cylindrical tower was located, where the machine gun was
installed. The crew of 6 people.

By August 1912, the company has provided the armored car, the trolley to the customer
by sending him to Khabarovsk. On her trial information is not preserved, but further
orders on the railroad "Benz" was not followed. Partly due to the huge cost of the
machine, which reached 11,500 rubles - for comparison, the most expensive Russian
armored booked on draft Ensign Vonlyarlyarskogo cost in 5900 rubles. According to
the documents, he also held as "Benz armored bus." It was planned that the train
armored vehicle will be used to protect against attacks ways hunghutz (Chinese gangs
of robbers operating in the Far East and Manchuria), but the war started soon little
changed those plans.

In October 1914, "Benz" War Office requisitioned to serve the "military-car duties."
The car was loaded onto the platform and sent to the front, but there was a fault in the
Urals (what exactly - was not specified, possibly armored vehicle was damaged during
transportation) and for several years the traces of "Benz" were lost. Again, this car
appeared in June 1918 in Omsk, where she was captured parts of the Czechoslovak
Corps in the "red". In the only surviving photograph of the time "Benz" captured on x \
d platform, so it is difficult to say whether he was in a state of "on the go", or used as a
firing point in the composition of tier. In any case, more than the armored car is not
mentioned anywhere.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles, railcars

"Benz" was obr.1912

Combat weight 1920 kg

CREW, pers. 6
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?

~ 489 ~
 one 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim" obr.1902 of the
WEAPONS
tower
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
housing forehead - 4.5 mm
board Copus - 4.5 mm
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
Tower -
ENGINE Benz, carburetor, power 35-40 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2, beskarmenye tires, wheels spitsovannye (village),
CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m -
The depth of the ford, m -
The width of the den, m -
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

"Hansa-Lloyd" Bylinski Armored car

After the construction and successful combat use of armored vehicles "Disgraced" and
"Obukhovets" performed on the chassis of cars "Mercedes", the captain Bylinski took
the initiative to produce a third sample. To deal progressed quickly, he spoke directly to
Lieutenant General Orlov, who had the title of Prince and the entrance to the Emperor's
entourage. That's what Bylinski wrote in his address:

"... Since the beginning of its work on the creation of the armored platoon, I was
referring to an appeal to Your Excellency to this request why the names of its combat

~ 490 ~
vehicles gave the letter" O ", to be able to machine name of your Excellency to give the
name" Orlets "..."

It is unknown what has helped more so flattering letter or persistence captain (and
perhaps, both), but in August 1915 the booking is 1.5-ton truck "Hansa-Lloyd" was
completed at the Obukhov factory, previously inherited the Russian army as a trophy.
From previous samples "Orlets" differed greatly. Form the bow of the hull was
simplified by eliminating the curved armor plates. The fighting compartment can be
divided into two parts. In the middle of the front machine gun tower was installed
machines. In the rear part, it is much lower was the second tower, which had a field of
fire of 300 degrees. Armament consisted of two 7.62-mm machine guns.

In September 1915, on the orders of GVTU all three cars were sent to the North-
Western Front, where they were widely used until the February Revolution. Their
continued operation prevented the lack of spare parts, because of what armored vehicles
in April 1917 had to be sent to Petrograd for repair. Here, the "Hansa" left until the
beginning of next year until the revolutionary events calmed down and found means to
repair the machine. With him, however, he had to dismantle the two towers, installing in
their place a 37-mm gun of Maxim-Nordenfeld. During the Civil War, the armored car
was only used to patrol the streets of Petrograd, and was soon cancel reservation.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

"Hansa-Lloyd" Bylinski obr.1915 city

Combat weight ~ 5000 kg

CREW, pers. 3-4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
~ 491 ~
WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun Maxim obr.1905 or 1910
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES telescopic sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS 4x2, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

"Mercedes" Bylinski Armored car

Another project armored vehicle introduced in the spring of 1915 Captain Bylinski.
According to the proposal put forward by the Russian officer on equity was planning to
build a few cars of its own design and shape of these "separate auto-cannon, machine
gun platoon." This project was approved by the headquarters of the 10th Army, which is
allocated for this purpose, two cars "Mercedes" equipped with engines power 45 hp
Implement the project had at the Obukhov steel plant where Bylinski off spring of the
same year.

The two armored vehicles were booked by June and immediately submitted to the test.
Bylinski approached their work creatively, trying to give contours machines more
streamlined shape. Its total reservation scheme is somewhat reminiscent of the design
Mgebrova, only they looked not so futuristic. Frontal sheet engine compartment closed
slightly tilted armor plates, and on top of the hood was protected by a semi-cylindrical

~ 492 ~
section. The rest of the housing also has sloping sheets 5-6 mm thick, made of
chromium-nickel-steel vannadievoy.

Placing weapons was very original. In the middle of the hull was installed 37-mm gun
of Maxim-Nordenfeld that could only firing to the side and back through the tailgate.
The cylindrical tower was 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim. The fighting compartment
separated from the driver's compartment armor fences. Additionally, the installation was
two 7.62-mm submachine gun sample 1902.

Although the rear control post was absent, provided for reversing - it had special
inspection hatches and periscope were installed on the roof. Inside the car placed

~ 493 ~
additional fuel tanks and two electric starter (main electrical and mechanical spare).
Frame chassis has been strengthened to compensate for the increased load on it.

June 15, 1915, both cars came to the test, where the present Commission, which
received most of the officers of the fighting. According to them, armored cars Bylinski
showed their best side, possessing powerful weaponry, speed and reliability of the
design. At the end of the month, they were sent to the disposal of the 13th Army of the
North-Western Front, previously dubbed "Disgraced" and "Obukhovets".

Armored vehicles have proven themselves in the battles on the hill-Lublin area, which
operated the 3rd Cavalry Division, but their number was clearly insufficient and
Bylinski requested the construction of a third car to Prince Orlov, the entrance to the
Emperor's entourage. In response to this, funds were allocated for a reservation and
captured 1.5-ton vehicle "Hansa-Lloyd", equipped with an engine capacity of 24 hp

The further fate of "Mercedes" Bylinski remains unclear. Until April 1917, they
continued to be used at the front, and then they were transferred to the workshops of the
2nd Regiment of the indigenous Savelova. Most likely the car were here before the
completion of the Civil War and were subsequently cancel reservation.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

"Mercedes" of Bylinski obr.1915

Combat weight ~ 5000 kg

CREW, pers. 3-4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?

~ 494 ~
WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun Maxim obr.1905 or 1910
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES telescopic sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS 4x2, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The slope, deg. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Armored Car Nekrasov \ Russo-Balt type D

While unfolding the construction of armored vehicles, which later became known as
"Russo-Balt" Captain Nekrasov was tasked to develop a version of the armored car with
gun armament. The basis for these were the cars Russo-Balt D24 \ 40 XVI-Series (six
chassis) and the Russo-Balt C24 \ 40 seriii XIII-bis (four chassis). Reservation and
installation weapons made according to the project A.Bratolyubova engineer who has
developed a new housing design, virtually devoid of sloping armor plates, but allows
you to install a small-caliber gun. For this purpose, the Obukhov steel plant were placed
5 mm bronelisty, the assembly of which was carried out in specialized workshops
Bratolyubova. Wheels car is solid, with additional shrouds for increased cross-country
capability. Their diameter approximately equal to the diameter of the rim, and if the
wheels left the ground, the surface twice as big bands maintained car.

~ 495 ~
Armament consisted of two armored vehicles with 37-mm cannon Hotckiss, installed in
the front hull, and three on-board machine guns. The angle of each firing of the guns
was 90 degrees, which was quite acceptable, but used them shoulder rest considered
irrational. They fired shrapnel steel, cast-iron grapeshot and grenades, which consisted
of 75 spherical bullets with a range of lesions up to 200 meters. The sighting distance
when firing from a gun is not more than 2000 meters. Since the number of trunks
increased machine crew has increased to six.

Six months later, on 23 February 1915, the first seven cars (three Russo-Balt C24 \ 40
with two 37-mm guns in the frontal, three Russo-Balt D24 \ 40 and one on the chassis
of "Renault") were sent for tests. Their results were not comforting and soon Nekrasov
and brotherly introduced improved model, equipped with a rotating tower with beveled
roof sheets. The thickness of the armor plates was 4-5 mm. In front of the tower placed
two machine guns "Maxim", the back was another. Only four cars of the second series
(three chassis D24 \ 40 and one on the chassis C24 \ 40) was collected, received the
name "Oleg", "Yaroslav", "Svyatoslav" and "Victorious." In contemporary sources, this
type of armored vehicles are sometimes referred to as the "Russo-Balt type D".

~ 496 ~
Icpytaniya armored Nekrasov-Bratolyubova second installment took place from
February 28 to March 11, 1916 and completed relative success. If booking and arm
machines did not cause any complaints, they are inferior to the armored car type
"Austin" in the rest. Armored cars were severely overloaded and insufficiently stable.
When driving observed rocking body, and the rate was only 26-28 km \ h. In addition,
the installation of guns recognized are not entirely successful.

Nevertheless, the army took them in the spring of 1916, but the front did not send. The
armored cars were reclassified and transferred uchebyne in enhancing the car dealer.
Here, at the beginning of 1917, they have become "trophies" of the Bolsheviks and
brought to protect the Smolny during the October Revolution. Subsequently, these
armored vehicles took part in the battles against the North-Western Army of General
Yudenich autumn of 1919, and the car with the name "George" was handed over to the
detachment of sailors Guard aerobatic flight school and renamed the "Rurik". After the
Civil War, surviving armored cars were written off and cancel reservation.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Nekrasov was obra.1916

Combat weight ~ 5000 kg

CREW, pers. 3-4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

~ 497 ~
Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

the first option, two 37-mm cannon and a 7.62mm machine gun
"Maxim"
WEAPONS
the second option: three 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim" in a
rotating turret

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 5.5 mm

board housing - 4 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 4 mm
Tower - 5 mm
roof -

ENGINE carburetor, liquid-cooled, 40 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x2: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels, suspension leaf

CHASSIS
springs

SPEED 28 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ~ 100 km

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 498 ~
Charron model 1905 armored car
This is the first armored car, entered service with the Russian army. The
project was developed in 1904 podesaulom Siberian Cossack regiment MA
Nakashidze. The machine was built by the French firm and Charon in 1905,
delivered to Russia. The choice of this company was not accidental, because
in 1902 it was one of the first Charon introduced armored vehicle.
The body was made of armored steel 4.5 mm thick. Machine Gun
"Hotchkiss" caliber 8 mm mounted in a rotating turret. Another gun, a spare
stored inside korpusa.Privod from the engine to the rear axle is performed.
The wheels are made of steel plates, as common in those years on cars
spoked wheels do not have the necessary strength. Tire rubber, solid. The
car features a large clearance (the distance from the lowest point of the
machine to the ground), which has a positive effect on patency. To overcome
the trenches and ditches on the sides of the body are transported easily
removable bridges rut.
In 1906 armored Nakashidze made a test run on the route St. Petersburg -
Oranienbaum - Wreaths, during which moved along the highways and
byways, as well as arable land. Very encouraging results were shown during
the trial firing. In the same year the car was shown at Krasnoselskikh
maneuvers. The Special Commission recognized the armored car is quite
useful for intelligence, communications, combat cavalry, as well as for the
prosecution of the retreating enemy.

Clearly understanding the needs of the Russian army in armored cars in

France the government ordered 10 vehicle chassis, which were supposed to
book already in Russia. In 1908, all cars were built and shipped to the
customer, but managed to get only 8 instances as 2 supposedly "lost" in
Germany. Nevertheless, it became the first armored Nakashidzarmored
vehicles of the Russian army. Unfortunately, their use during the First World
War is not known. Armored remaining in France in 1914-1915. used as
"hunters airships."

France/Russia (1906)Armored car around 16 built

Charron, Girardot & Voigt

Charron, Girardot, and Voigt were three former cycling champions, associated in 1901
to produce their first four cylinder, 3300 cc, chain transmission car at Puteaux, near
Paris. The firm first known as CGV, or more simply Charron built several models,
including the worlds first eight-cylinder in line in 1903. In 1906 the first drive shaft
transmission model was out. However, the company was acquired by a British group

~ 499 ~
and renamed Charron Ltd after the departure of Girardot. During the Great War, the
firm was one of the few producing vehicles, all having in common an awkward engine
cooling configuration, as the radiator was placed behind the engine. Charron
disappeared following the 1929 crisis.

The first modern armored car built in series

In 1902, the company developed a partially armored model for the armys needs, which
was the worlds first true production armored car. It was equipped with an armored, 3
mm (0.12 in) thick bath-tub style gunner platform, located at the rear. The Hotchkiss
standard machine gun had some traverse and elevation which did not require a true
turret. But the vehicle was essentially unarmored. In 1903 this model was tested by the
French military, but not accepted in service. Later, two improved models from a
Russian design were presented in 1904 and received positive results as one was
purchased by the army and sent to Morocco. The second was acquired by its original
customer, Russia and used against rioters in St. Petersburg, with great success.

A Russian design

Georgian engineer and officer M.A. Nakashidze designed the first Russian armored car
back in 1905, full of practical experience gained during the Russo-Japanese war. This
was a completely enclosed model, both engine and crew compartment, with 4-8 mm
(0.16-0.32 in) of armor, a combat weight of 2.7 tons, a 360 revolving turret, and
capable of 50 km/h (31 mph) on flat ground. It was accepted by the Russian War
Ministry for service but still, no local factory was able to built it. At the same time, Paul
Daimler built the Austro-Daimler armoured car, which was the very first with a
revolving turret, and sloped armor. It was never ordered by the Austro-Hungarian army
though, but was quite influential.

~ 500 ~
The Nakashidze design was subcontracted to the French Charron carmaker.
Commandant Guye adapted the model from the 15 CV touring car in 1906, which had
also a 6 mm (0.24) thick hinged front armored panel, and four large windows with steel
panels which slid up to cover them. The main armament was a model 1902 air-cooled
Hothckiss machine-gun protected by a U shaped shield. The wheeltrain was unchanged:
four spoked wheels, protected, and leaf-spring suspensions. The tires were filled by a
liquid and could still run 10 minutes after being shot at. Another innovation was an
engine starter from the inside. The front low-slung radiator was a common feature on
CGV models. There was also a single gas headlight mounted on the radiator and a
spotlight mounted inside the body. Another characteristic were the two removable steel
channels placed over the rear wheels for crossing ditches.

The prototype performed well during the autumn 1906 maneuvers. In Russia, the twelve
built and shipped by rail in 1908 were called the Nakashidze-Charron. Two seemed to
disappear en route in Germany, apparently seized and tested thoroughly by the
German army.

Wartime use

Four vehicles were used by the French army at the outbreak of WWI, mainly to hunt
enemy observation balloons. Tests were even performed with 75 mm (2.95 in) AA
guns. However, the CGV had a poor power-to-weight ratio and thus limited mobility.
But the concept was an instant success. Despite the fact that Charron stopped any
development of this model to concentrate on civilian vehicles, other companies like
Hotchkiss and Panhard, opened enthusiastically to this new business, building close
copies of the Charron. They were followed by De Dion Bouton, Latil, Renault and
Peugeot in 1914-15.

Four Hotchkiss copies of the CGV were delivered to Turkey in 1912, and most of these
came into rebel hands and were then turned by the Greeks against their former owners.

~ 501 ~
French Charron automitrailleuse modele 1906. Russian vehicles were called
Nakashidze-Charron

~ 502 ~
~ 503 ~
Charron specifications
Dimensions 4.8 x 1.70 x 2.4 m (15.755.587.87 ft)

Total weight 3 tons

Crew 3-4 (driver, commander, gunners/loader)

Propulsion 4-cyl Gas. CGV, 35 bhp (26 kW)

Top speed (road) 45 km/h (28 mph)

Range Around 100 km (62 mi)

Armament 1 Hotchkiss M1902 machine gun

Armor 4 to 8 mm (0.16 to 0.32 in)

Total production 16 between 1902-1906

~ 504 ~
Izhorski-FIAT

Russian Empire (1917) Armored Car 47 to 81 built

~ 505 ~
Based on an American FIAT chassis

The Izhorski-Fiat was the product of a strange mix of a F.I.A.T. Automobile Company
(1910) chassis built by the American plant based at Poughkeepsie, NY with an armored
hull designed and assembled at the Izhorski works of Petrograd in mid-1916 for a
delivery estimated in November. According to the Navy Ministry archives, the Russian
Government awarded a contract to the American FIAT company for 90 chassis in 21
February 1916. They arrived gradually at the end of the year, and were taking over by
the Izhorski works, which eventually managed to complete the first prototype on
December, 2, 1916. The first drive-tests were conducted between the 3rd and 16th
December. Later, the workshops manufactured some 47 vehicles (from 51 chassis) from
January 1917 (before the revolution) until the 1st of April 1918. Of this total, perhaps
41 were used by the Russians, then the Bolsheviks, one was sent to the Belgian Legions,
8 to the British armored car legion in Russia and one to Adolphe Kgresse for a
conversion as a half-track (never finished). However, according to others sources, 74 or
even 81 were built in all, comprising 45 vehicles built after the Revolution (Armored
Units of the Russian Civil War Bullock, Sarson).

However, there was also a series of Armstrong Withworth armored hulls (41) also
mounted on this chassis earlier ,in 1915. The Armstrong-Whitworth-FIATs were
entirely made in Great Britain. In fact, 10 Armstrong-Whitworth armored cars were
based on Jarrot-Letts chassis and later, between 1915-1916, 30 Armstrong-Whitworth
armored bodies were mated with FIAT chassis according to some sources. These were
substantially different from the Izhorski-FIATs, despite some likeness.

~ 506 ~
Design

The FIAT-Izhorski was a relatively classic design for the time, with a riveted steel hull
mounted on the hull. The vertical faces had 7 mm (0.28 in) of armor, while the
horizontal ones had 4-5 mm (0.16-0.2 in). The chassis was a 42 lorry, with 12PS
engine protected by two folding plates attached in front in a V, in order to let air
circulate in the triangular gap created with the radiator. The vehicle had a compact main
compartment for the driver and co-driver, with the machine-gunners standing just
behind in turrets placed in chelon. Access was granted by small side doors located
almost directly on top of the rear mudguards. The central compartment featured a bulge,
meant to allow the two turrets (the left turret was slightly forward) to rotate without
blocking each other. Each had a small hatch on top and periscopic sights for observation
when firing. They each housed a Maxim liquid-cooled machine gun protected with
special slit covers. The mounts were specifically modified to allow 80 of elevation, to
allow them to be used for anti-aircraft fire, a rare feature for turret machine guns at the
time.

There were 5 crew members, comprising the driver, co-driver (officer), two machine-
gunners and a loader/mechanic. The chassis was propelled by a sturdy 72 hp engine,
which gave a top speed of 70 km/h (44 mph). It weighed 5.3 tons when combat
ready, giving a 13.58 hp per ton power-to-weight ratio. Cross-country performances
were average, mostly due to the front-wheel drive, with the axles suspended by leaf
springs and spoked wheels, mostly suited for flat-hard surfaces.

~ 507 ~
Service history

Like so many Russian armored cars, the FIAT-Izhorsky ended in the hands of several
operators during the war, Civil War and the aftermath. The 1917 models were only
briefly used by the Russian Army until the events of October. Captured by the
Bolheviks, they served mostly with the reds during the Russian Civil War, while a
few were briefly captured by White Russians. At least two fell into German hands in
Ukraine, later helping to restore order in Berlin with the Freikorps. These prominently
displayed, like most of the Freikorps vehicles, the skull and bones insignia. One was
used by the Spartacists in Munich and another might have been mounted on a Benz
chassis, named Lttchen. At least one closely related Armstrong-Whitworth-FIAT
found its way in the hands of the Bolshevik Finns and later captured by the Finnish
Army. The only surviving vehicle today is displayed at the Army Museum in Moscow.
Lithuania, Estonia and Latvia all had at least one in service, while Poland managed to
captured two in the 1919-1920 war.

Izhorsky-Fiat specifications
Dimensions 4.50 x 1.90 x 2.65 m (177x75x104 in)

Total weight, battle

5.3 tons (10,600 lbs)
ready

Crew 4-5 (driver, co-driver, 2 gunners, loader)

Propulsion 12PS FIAT 6-cyl 60-74hp petrol, 14 hp/ton

Suspension 24 leaf springs

~ 508 ~
Speed (road) 70 km/h (40 mph)

Range 140 km (est.) (200 mi)

Armament 2 x7.65 mm Maxim MGs, 6000 rounds

4-5 mm (top, bottom, rear) to 8 mm sides and front (0.16-0.3

Armor
in)

Total production 47-81 in 1917-1918

Izhorski-FIAT in Russian service, February 1917.

In Bolshevik service, 1918. The vehicle is often confounded with the Armstrong-
Withworth-FIAT armored cars built in the UK, also based on the same US-built FIAT
chassis, but delivered earlier.

~ 509 ~
Front view of the Izhorski-FIAT, date unknown, possibly soon after completion of the
prototype, trials of 1916 or early production, due to the bare metal aspect and no signs
being displayed

The Russian Armstrong-Withworth-FIAT (1915), often confounded with the Izhorski-

FIAT.

The Imperial Russian Army was something of a pioneer when it came to the use of
armoured cars during WW1. Already before the war they had made studies regarding
the use of armoured cars, and when the war broke out, they were quick to employ them.
All in all, the Imperial Russian Army fielded over 300 armoured cars during the war.

Quite a few of these were imported. It turned out, however, that the Russians made so
many improvements and modifications to these imports, that it soon became more
rational to order the chassis only from abroad and then build their own bodies
~ 510 ~
domestically. Beginning about 1916, the Italian Fiat company sold to Russia a
conventional touring car chassis with 60hp motor, and pneumatic tires, doubled at the
rear to carry additional weight. Then, 6mm thick armor was fitted to them in the Izorski
factory. The vehicles weighed some 5.2 tons, had a crew of 5, an armament of 2 MGs
and were capable of a speed of 60kph forwards, or 14kph in reverse.

~ 511 ~
Approximately 74 of the Izorski-Fiat cars were built and they were used first by the
Imperial forces, and then by the Soviet army through the 1920s. Two Izhorski-Fiats
were captured by the Germans in 1917 in the Ukraine. The Germans placed one
Izhorski-Fiat body on a new chassis (unknown type, but maybe Benz?), this vehicle was
given the name, "Lottchen". The other Isorski-Fiat was "original" and took part in the
fighting in Munich with "Spartacist" 1919/1920. Lithuania also had one Izhorski-Fiat,
"Zabias", Latvia had two, "Strelnieks" and "Sargs", and Estonia had one, "Wambola".
Poland had two or three, or maybe more, all captured in the Soviet-Polish War.

Aproximative replica of the FIAT-Izhorsky in Moscow.

~ 512 ~
~ 513 ~
~ 514 ~
~ 515 ~
Combat weight 5300 kg
CREW, pers. 3-4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 4600
Width 1900

~ 516 ~
Height mm 2650
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim"
allowance of ammunition 6000 cartridges
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
housing forehead - 8 mm
board housing - 8 mm
food body - 8 mm
RESERVATIONS
Tower - 8 mm (?)
roof - 5 mm
bottom -
ENGINE carburetor, air cooling, maximum 60 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels,
CHASSIS
pneumatic tires, suspension leaf springs
SPEED 60 km \ h
Cruising on the highway 140 km
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 517 ~
At the end of 1914, the leadership of the Russian army, completely satisfied the actions
of armored Russo-Balt, expressed great interest in the supply of more modern machines.
One of these armored vehicles has been developed by engineers of the Izhora plant, and
if the production of hulls with special difficulties have arisen, the chassis situation was
quite different. Most of the Russian car for this purpose is almost not good and as a
result the technique had to be ordered from abroad. One of the most appropriate time
counted trucks produced by FIAT under an American license. Initially, the Italians
carried out the order to France, but given the situation at the front "Fiats" sent to Russia.
As it turned out, it was not the best option, but nothing is better then failed to pick up.

hulls Izhora production plant design and layout has been very successful and
subsequently its elements are used in the manufacture of enclosures for armored
"Austin" 2 Series. This was collected from rolled sheets of steel armor thickness of 5
(roof) up to 7 mm (forehead and board, according to other data - 8 mm), which provided
a modest protection. Regular rifle bullet punched board sheet with a minimum distance
of about 50 meters (75 steps), armor-piercing - from 150-200 meters (350 steps).
Theoretically, 5-mm book roof of the fighting compartment was supposed to protect
from the explosion of a hand grenade, and to avoid the danger of the crew so-called
secondary fragments, which are formed at a penetration of armor, the inner surface of
the side panels to sheathe felt.

However, it was at the Izhora design and undoubted merits. The radiator was protected
by armored door double-leaf thickness 7 mm, which opened special rods without
leaving the car. Entrance doors, intended for planting crew, positioned on both sides.
several manholes was carried out to review. One was located in the frontal part of the
body and had tilted sections, performed one-piece or two-step also. The rest of the

~ 518 ~
manholes were carved into the front door and in the rear of the hull. All doors, hatches,
closed slit from inside and outside can be opened only with a special key. Also in
conventional hulls were peepholes with adjustable clearance, with some production
vehicles equipped with glass blocks. Booking Weight "fiat" amounted to 1,200 kg, and
the total weight was close to 5300 kg.

Driving performance "fiat" did not shine. The fully curb the armored car could not
move on soft ground, wade streams and rivers to overcome barbed wire and a gradient
of more 15-18 degrees. The only advantage that this machine was only a higher ground
clearance, but it did not play a special role in combat. In addition, the chassis "fiat" is
clearly not fit for military purposes, different rear differential insufficient strength and
the booking machines had to be replaced.

On the armored car was mounted petrol engine capacity of 60 hp, the launch of which
was carried out with the help of electric starter or the handle on the outside of the hand.
The fuel tank capacity of 80-100 liters, with an average fuel consumption of about 0.8
liters per kilometer, ranged from 100 to 140 km. On the highway, "Fiat" developed a
speed of 60 km \ h, the lane - no more than 40 km \ h, and on the reverse - the order of
15-18 km \ h. On the armored car tires were set such as "airless tire" with the filling of
the internal volume of glycerine gelatin mixture provides improved bullet resistance and
mileage up to 3000-5000 km.

Armament was quite standard for those years. Two Maxim machine gun obr.1910 of
7.62 mm were placed in the two cylindrical towers diagonally opposite, had 290-degree
arc of fire and dead space 30 steps. sample machines in 1916 were equipped with
cylindrical towers with side bevels.

Such an arrangement provides a smaller width of the hull of the armored car and, as a
result, a smaller area is striking. Tower mounted on brackets and rollers, and the arrows
placed on the canvas belts or seats with bases embedded in the floor of the car. Each

~ 519 ~
gun was equipped with two side protective panels. Since the cooling of "Maxima" was
only the liquid in its casing in the gun turret placed additional water tank connected to
the housing by means of a hose. The total ammunition consisted of 24 machine-gun
belts with 250 rounds of ammunition, of which 4 were with tape armor-piercing
ammunition. Next to the gun, a machine gun for the box has a special steel basket.

armored crew consisted of five men. The space for two drivers were placed control
room, in the fighting compartment was commander of the machine and two machine-
gunner.

Release of armored vehicles, which became known as the "Fiat-Izhora" (often found
another name - "Fiat-Izhora", which is also correct) was established in the end of 1915
and 47 cars have been collected before the October Revolution. At about the same time
they got to the front and worked mainly in the western direction.

Despite its small number of service "Fiats" it continued for many years after the
revolution. The majority of the armored cars of this type remained in "red", but several
cars were in the hands of the Whites and other groups, to oppose the new government.
For example, in 1919 in the division HSH Prince AP Lieven (North-Western Army,
formed in the Baltics) had one "Fiat", which bore the name "Russia". On using it know
only one fact, when the armored vehicle has successfully supported the attack on the
village of Volyn Regiment Lukovo near Petrograd, which allowed not only to take a
locality, but also to capture prisoners and machine guns. However, a few days later,
when the "fiat" was sent to another sector of the front, the situation has changed and
Lukovo again had to leave. In the future, this armored car used in various sectors of the
front, while in January (according to other sources - in February) 1920 Command
broken Northwestern army is not transmitted "Russian" Estonians, who immediately
took her into service at the same time renamed in "Wambola". In Estonia, the "Fiat" was
operated prior to the beginning of the 1930s.

As part of the Red Army "Fiats" were much longer. During the Civil War they were
used mostly in the European part of Russia and the neighboring states, which became
independent for a while. During this period, three armored steel trophies Baltic armies.
The first was captured by the Latvians in 1918 and renamed the "Staburags". For some
time it has been used to combat the "red", and after the war, "Fiat" for the most part
operated as a training machine. After the incorporation of Latvia into the Soviet Union
of the Latvian armored cars remained in service and was subsequently distributed

~ 520 ~
between Territorial Rifle Corps. By the end of 1940, there were three armored vehicles
as part of the 181st mixed division - perhaps among them was the only "Fiat".

Lithuanians lucky few more. In May 1919, when the Red Army tried to establish Soviet
power in the Baltic States, part of the 1st Infantry Regiment reached the highway
Ukmerge - Utena (the southern part of Lithuania). Act a part in his single "Fiat" was
careless enough to fire at the village Klinenay group of Lithuanian soldiers who wisely
withdrew, having arranged an ambush on his way out of the fallen trees. armored car
crew was forced to surrender, and the machine itself immediately became a part of the
Lithuanian army under the name "Zaibas", which means "lightning". This armored
vehicle was serial number 6739, and most likely, was released in 1916. With the help of
the Lithuanians cleared from the remnants of the Bolshevik section of the city of Utena,
and in 1920, "Fiat" briefly led the unsuccessful battles with the invading Polish troops.
"Lightning" continued to be enrolled in the Lithuanian army until the autumn of 1939
and, according to Western sources, the armored car soon went to the Germans annexed
Klaipeda, where he was at that time. At least the other information could not be found
on the fate of the Lithuanian "fiat", but in any case the Baltic armored cars were the
most long-lived.

Another Izhora "Fiat" was captured by the Poles in 1918, and later for quite a long time
operated in one of the armored units. In 1920-ies. he was transferred to the category of
training, and then transferred to a museum exhibit in the Modlin Fortress, located near
Warsaw. Here, in September 1939, "Fiat" again became a trophy, but this time the
Germans.

As for the Izhora "Fiats" remaining in "red", they exploited to the end of the 1920s. And
then preserved cars began to pass in the training units and warehouses. As of March 1,
1931 they had at least 44 copies, mostly in the state is not on the move. According to
one armored car was on course LVO in Orel Armored School and Rostov Highway
Institute, another 3 were transferred to the Leningrad Institute of the road, 37 were sent
to the warehouse 37 and two expelled from the Red Army. Soon they completely
removed from service and sent for scrap. The only preserved to our time "Fiat-Izhora" is
on display in the Kubinka tank museum.

Mgebrov armored cars

Russian Empire (1915) Armored car ~ 4 built

Designed by staff captain Mgebrov

The history of these little known vehicles can be traced back to 1914, when the private
funds of a certain Mr. Merkulyev were used to build three cars based on several chassis
two Benz cars and a Pierce Arrow. They were intended for an armored car
intelligence team. They were covered with an improvised type of armor, and formed
into the second armored unit (company Dobrzhansky), later transferred to the 8th Army.
The committee formed for their reception judged the armor unsatisfactory, and sent
them to the Izhora Works in St Petersburg, headed by staff officer V. Mgebrov. He
~ 521 ~
devised completely new armored bodies, offering full protection. More chassis were
also provided, and they received revolving turrets with the same machine-guns, with the
exception of the White, which was also equipped with a Hotchkiss 37 mm (1.46 in) QF
naval gun. Mister Merkulyev has also financed part of the work done for the conversion
of these vehicles.

The Mgebrov-Benz

Of the two Benz vehicles donated by Merkulyev, the smaller of them, a race car with a
150 hp engine, was deemed unfit for armoring. The other one, with a 100 hp engine,
was among the first vehicles to be converted by Mgebrovs team. The vehicle entered
service, along with the White and Pierce-Arrow, with the 29th platoon, and was sent to
the Caucasus Army on 21 November 1915. They returned to Petrograd in June of the
next year for repairs. However, the Mgebrov-Benz was deemed as too cramped, and it
was decided to convert it for railway use. It arrived in Savelovo, an important railway
depot north of Moscow, in February 1917. Its engine was removed to be used on a
trolley. No further information is available about the fate of the vehicle, and the only
remaining visual reference is a drawing of the conversion made by Merkulyev.

The Mgebrov-Piece-Arrow

The original vehicle was produced in September 1915 by Pierce-Arrow Motor Car Co.
in Buffalo, New York, and the purchase was funded by private donation. The vehicle
was apparently also a racecar initially, and had a Pierce-Arrow, gasoline 13,514 CC,
120 hp engine. It had a crew of 5, the chassis was a 42 configuration, and after
conversion at the Mgebrov factory it was covered with sloped plates 4 to 7 mm (0.16-
0.27 in) thick, riveted. The armament was comprised of two 7.62 mm (0.3 in) Maxim
M1910 machine-guns in half-turrets, in a similar configuration to the Mgebrov-Benz
and White. As usual, there was a small conning tower behind, meant to direct fire with
more precision. The vehicle served with the Caucasus Army from November 1915 to

~ 522 ~
June 1916, after which it returned to Petrograd for repairs. It was deployed on the
South-Eastern Front in the spring of 1917 and participated in some battles. Afterwards,
its fate is unknown.

The Mgebrov-White

After the 150 hp Benz race car was rejected, Merkulyev donated an American 1,5 ton
truck White TBC (Standart B truck). It was also converted by the staff-captain of
the Military Automobile School (in Petrograd), Vladimir Mgebrov. While it featured
most of the features of the other Mgebrov designs, the White had another limited-
traverse turret mounted at the rear of the vehicle, in a lower position, which was
equipped with a Hotchkiss 37 mm (1.46 in) QF naval gun. It served alongside the
Mgebrov-Pierce-Arrow both in the Caucasus and on the South-Eastern Front.

The Mgebrov-Isotta-Fraschini

The Isotta-Fraschini chassis had a more interesting history. Two armored cars
were ordered by the Italian Army in 1912 from the Milanese car plant, intended for
service in the colonies. They were built on top of a 4-ton truck chassis with a new, more
powerful engine. One of them was sent to North Africa, but the other ended up in Great
Britain, after an attempt to sell it to the British Department of Naval Aviation. There, it
was bought by a Russian commission and arrived in Russia in December 1914.
However, its design was deemed unsuitable and it was rebuilt. The chassis received 7
mm (0.27 in) thick armor plates and two 7.62 (0.3 in) Maxim 1910 machine-guns in
half-turrets, each covering a 45 angle.. It could apparently reach 65 km/h (40 mph)
with an overall weight of 6 tons and a crew of 5. Due to the height of the radiator, the
hull largely looked bulkier than other Mgebrov creations. It was 5620 mm long, 2800
mm wide, 2820 mm high. It was tested successfully in the autumn of 1916 in the
shooting polygon of the Officer School, then sent into service and named Skull.
During the Revolution, it was affected to the state 5 Red section OA in Saratov, March
2, 1919.

~ 523 ~
Common features

The Mgebrov armored cars share some characteristics which make them easy to
distinguish from other designs. Most important of these is the angular nature of the
armor, meant to better deflect bullets and shrapnel. Also characteristic is the large turret
with two machine-guns and a commander cupola, which was however dropped on later
Mgebrov-Renaults. While it might seem that it is fixed, the whole thing could rotate 360
degrees. The fighting compartments were all cylindrical, wider than the turrets and the
rest of the vehicle.

Mgebrov-White in Russian service, 1915.

The sole Mgebrov-Isotta-Fraschini in Russian service, 1915.

~ 524 ~
~ 525 ~
~ 526 ~
~ 527 ~
One of the most extraordinary armored vehicles, created during the First World War,
can be considered "White", "Benz" and "Pierce-Arrow". The initiator of its creation was
a retired Colonel engineer troops Cheremzin that back in November 1914 made a
proposal to create an armored reconnaissance car team. For this purpose, the Defense
Ministry has allocated 4 cars, which have received a reservation for the type of French
"Peugeot" and "Renault" - that is completely absent from the top protection. The big
drawback is not considered, because the main task of armored vehicles was not a direct
clash with the enemy, and intelligence areas.

In early 1915, General Brusilov asked to deliver armored vehicles built in the 8th Army,
but the commission formed for their acceptance, considered unsatisfactory reservation
scheme. As a result, three cars were sent to Petrograd, where at the Izhora plant held
their perebronirovku. These were the most "White", "Benz" and "Pierce-Arrow", which
received the case and "branded" dvuhpulemetnye towers collected the project captain
Mgebrova.

Of these three the most stood out car on the chassis of "White", which was borrowed
from the 1.5-ton truck. It is possible to place in the rear of the second tower body of
cylindrical shape, which established the 37-mm naval gun Gochkiss. Rear cannon
installation, thus, had a good field of fire. In addition, the armored battle went
backwards, which gave him in this regard, certain advantages.

Apparently, the weight characteristics of machines allowed to leave "Wight" intact all
the innovations, from which had to give up on the "Reno". Hull form to improve
process was performed not as a wedge while the bow bronelisty still located under the
rational angles. Chassis "White" had a rear dual wheels, providing better driving
performance on rough terrain.

~ 528 ~
machines Perebronirovka held at the Izhora plant and funds allocated Merkul'ev Russian
businessman. Work progressed quickly and by the autumn of 1915, all three armored
vehicles were ready to be sent to the front.

By this time (September 15) on the basis of the Automotive Intelligence Team of the
29th machine-gun squad car was formed, soon sent to Tiflis at the disposal of the
Caucasian Army fought against the Turks. Summer of 1916, the material part of the
platoon returned to Petrograd for repairs, after which the machine "White" and "Pierce-
Arrow" back to the front, and "Benz" (referring to the strong of overweight design), sent
February 17, 1917 at the disposal of the commander of the 2nd indigenous park, where
the car was supposed to be converted into bronedrezinu. About their further fate of the
exact information is not provided.

The last armored car, booked on the project Mgebrova, became the car on the chassis of
the truck Russo-Balt type E5 \ 35 (442). It was built Forces Training workshops
automotive company commissioned by the 125th Infantry Regiment of the Kursk and
was called "Kuryanin". Second helm and a tower installed at the Izhora plant, after
which armored few months was in limited operation. In October 1917, "Kuryanin"
returned to Petrograd for maintenance, after which the machine can be sent to the front.
However, for several years the traces of this armored car lost. Recent data on the
"Kuryanine" refer to January 3, 1922 - at the time the machine was on the 1st an
armored tank-car repair plant in Fili (former factory Russo-Balt). What sluchsilos with
"Kuryaninom" history is silent after the Civil War.

~ 529 ~
Combat weight 3400 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 7 mm
board Copus - 7 mm
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
Tower -

ENGINE Of Renault, carburetor, liquid-cooled, 40 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x2: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels, suspension leaf

CHASSIS
springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

~ 530 ~
overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 531 ~
"Reno" Mgebrova Armored car Mgebrov-Renault

By booking Renault cars ( "Renault") Captain Mgebrov began in the summer of 1915,
with the support of pre-GVTU and Izhora Plant Directorate. The project is the world's
first armored car with a "rational" angle of inclination armor plates had several unusual
features for that time.

They served as a basis for non-standard chassis cars, armored cars and the party selected
in France Colonel Sekretova Commission in autumn 1914. Actually type "armored"
polubronirovannye these wagons could carry a stretch, so arrived in the spring of 1915
in the order of the army, "Reno" most of the time only used for the transport of
ammunition to the front lines. They were chosen to complete the reservation.

Mgebrov developed the original layout of the armor plates, which are at a maximum
thickness of 7 mm were bulletproof, the equivalent of 9-10 mm armor. Use one of the
characteristics of "Renault" (radiator arrangement for engine) Mgebrov gave the bow
machine sharp-nosed shape is more like a chisel. Armament machines, consisting of
two 7.62 mm machine guns "Maxim" is a 3-seat tower complex shape, still attached to
the round turret sheet. This sheet is fastened by means of racks to the floor of the crew
compartment and rotated on four cast-iron rollers. Total weight of the whole structure

~ 532 ~
was 122 pounds (about 2 tons, the total mass of the machine is equal to 3.4 tonnes) and
to rotate the tower manually is almost impossible. To compensate for the Herculean
load Mgebrov developed a unique mechanism of special heel, serving as the axis of
rotation and assume part of the load. On the heel was located a large diameter gear
wheel on which to run in gear, shaft that passes through the rack and ended the helm.
By the same rack fastened seat vehicle commander, the disposal of which there was a
small commander's cupola. Seats shooters were attached to the movable racks on the
floor, but due to the special design of their firing embrasures sector ranged from 0 to 90
. Internal communication between the commander and the driver is provided by the
negotiation of the pipe.

Works booking first prototype "Renault" started in September 1915 and was completed
in the spring of next year. On testing the armored car came out April 30, 1916, showing
the high speed (up to 55 miles per hour) and disgusting mobility on rough terrain.
Because of the strong overload chassis "reno" Mgebrova hardly able to walk on the soft
or snow-covered ground. The rest of the tactical and technical performance met the
requirements GVTU.

To rid the car of excess weight captain Bazhanov was drafted installation of two towers
of armored cars "austin", thereby reducing congestion from 1088 to 416 kg. This car
was ready in the summer of 1916 and all subsequent 10 "reno" rebuilt on its pattern and
transferred to the front.

The further fate of "reno" reserved for the project Mgebrova remains hazy. According to
the latest one car (chassis 46384) was handed over to the Belgian Armored Division
and took part in the fighting in the South-Western Front. At least half of the armored
cars of this type was in the hands of the Bolsheviks, and was used in the Civil War.
According to the audit of armored vehicles, conducted in 1929, on December 10 troops
had 4 more "reno". Subsequently, due to the strong technical wear and tear, these
machines have been cancel reservation.

~ 533 ~
TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles
"Reno" was Mgebrova obra.1916

Combat weight 3400 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 5100

Width 2320

Height mm 2300

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 7 mm
board Copus - 7 mm
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
Tower -

ENGINE Of Renault, carburetor, liquid-cooled, 40 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x2: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels, suspension leaf

CHASSIS
springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

~ 534 ~
The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Russian Empire (1915) Armored car 11 built total

Designed by Staff captain Mgebrov

Staff captain Mgebrov was a Russian officer who sought to convert a series of Renault
and White chassis, available in Russia in 1915, to armored cars. He tested his ideas
about sloped armor and fitted two cars with extremely well sloped armor which gave
these vehicle their visual trademark. This concept was named after its creator,
Mgebrov-Renault. In a number of sources it was called Reno Mgebrova. It was one
of the most recognizable, striking armored cars of the Russian Empire during the First
World War, but not one of the most successful. It was actively tested to locate the most
rational angles, increasing their bulletproof performances without excessive armor
thickness. The first was completed in 1915 at the Izhorskij based on a rear-wheel (4 2)
Renault chassis.

Design

Several sources state the chassis dimensions as 5.1 m (16.73 ft) long, 2.3 m (7.54 ft)
wide, 2.32 m (7.61 ft) high, with a 4 m (13.12 ft) wheelbase. According to other visual
sources, it was over 5.80 m (19 ft) long. The results of these tests were two prototypes,
one equipped with a single turret, while the other had two smaller ones. 11 cars were
built by the Izhorsky Works.

~ 535 ~
A characteristic feature of all these machines was the large angles at which the armor
plates were placed, which increased the effectiveness of the body armor. The second
unusual feature was the triple turret arrangement of the original design. The two gunners
fired through large portholes, covered by mobile armored flaps which allowed an
increased traverse while the turrets were hand-cranked by the commander. Two Maxim
model 1910 machine guns had a field of fire of about 90 degrees on the front and
respective angles, but the entire structure could rotate 360.

Because of the 3.4 ton overall weight, the basic chassis was heavily overloaded. After
tests carried out at the end of April 1916, it was decided to redesign the entire vehicle.
This was performed under the guidance of the Chief of Military armored automotive
school captain Bazhanov, from Izhorskij, and the initial bulky three-man turret was
replaced with two single turrets, placed in echelon. The extra machine-gun posts were
eliminated and the armor was thinner in various angles. As a result, the weight was
reduced to 2.74 tons, thus reducing the stress 2.5 times. After being converted, these
vehicles could reach speeds up to 55 km/h (34 mph) on flat ground. The conversion of
the whole series started eventually in 1917, just before the Revolution.

Active service

The 12 vehicles were actively used by the Russian army during World War I, and later
by the two opposing sides in the Civil War. Individual machines were part of the Red
Army until 1930, when they were phased out. All photos from the time show the two
small turrets. Few if no details about their active unit commitments are known.

Mgebrov-Renault in Russian service, 1915. The first model had two machine-guns in a
large, bulky rotating superstructure instead of a turret.

~ 536 ~
Mgebrov-Renault specifications
Dimensions (L-W-H) 5.1 x 2.3 x 2.32 m (16.737.547.61 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 3.4 tons (7495 lbs)

Crew 3 (driver, commander, gunner)

Propulsion Renault 14HP 4-cyl, air-cooled, 30bhp

Speed 25 km/h (12 mph)

Operational range (road) 120 km (74 mi)

Armament 2 x 7.62 mm (0.3 in) Vickers machine-guns, 5000 rounds

Suspension 42, dependent leaf spring suspension

Armor 6.5 mm (0.2 in), sloped

Total production 11 in 1915

Mannesmann-Mulago cannon armored car

~ 537 ~
The first battle took place on the Eastern Front in the summer and autumn of 1914, at
times acquires positional, showed that the actions of armored vehicles armed only with
machine guns are not sufficiently effective against bunkers and other long-term trench
fortifications. To overcome the obstacles of this kind has been presented several
projects armored vehicles armed with guns the caliber of 37-57 mm. One of the best
options was recognized project bookings 4-ton truck of the German company
Mannesman-Mulag - several machines of this type were received shortly before the war
and were in good condition.

Russian engineers have decided to go simple and reliable way. Chassis, engine and
transmission car left unchanged by setting only armored hull form is quite simple. Sheet
4-mm armor joined almost at right angles, protecting only the engine compartment and
the cab driver. Body armored vehicles, where the installation of box-column book-rests
5 mm armored shields placed 47-mm naval gun Hotchkiss, was covered with a low
sides. The choice in favor of the gun was not accidental. Even before World War I navy
was dismantled 47 mm cannon from the ships, since the tasks (Mine shooting) they
handled with great difficulty. Thus was formed a large surplus is not only guns, but also
ammunition. Even after the war, in 1922, it was issued a technical specification for the
development of a 45-mm gun, under which the intended use podtochennaya 47-mm
ammunition, the designation BR-241.

Additional small arms armored vehicles included two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim"
obr.1910 city, one of which was installed in the driver's cab and the second could jibe
from side to side, for which specific cuts were made.

As an experiment, 3-ton trucks, "Benz" and "Oldays" were installed 37-mm automatic
cannon Maxima Nordenfeld, and any reservations for these machines was missing. This
gun had good performance in the defeat of the trench fortifications and manpower. The
composition of ammunition were shrapnel steel or cast iron grenades that allowed to hit
the target at a distance of 2 km and a canister with a distance of aimed fire up to 200
meters.

~ 538 ~
In the 1 st car machine-gun company "Mannesmann-Mulago" and two non-armored
cannon car sent to the front in mid-October 1914, and in November they went into
battle under Ldzyu (territory of present-day Poland). The appearance of the gun
armored car was an unpleasant surprise for the Germans, especially since no tactics to
combat armored vehicles did not exist. Below is an example of a fight involving
"Mannesmann-Mulago":

"During the fighting, 9 and 10 November 1914 in the part of owicz detachment, six
machine-gun company cars broke through the enemy-occupied town of Strykow and
two cannon fire attack supported the 9th and 12th infantry regiments Turkestan. The
Germans, caught between two fires, were knocked out of the city, having suffered very
heavy losses.

November 20 the whole company has been placed in an ambush on the road to break
through between the 5th Army and the left flank of the 19th Corps and Pabianice. At
dawn on November 21 with five armored vehicles have been destroyed two regiments
of German infantry, who tried to break into the coverage of the left flank of the 19th
Corps, and automatic gun blew the front, going on the battery position. "

The ensuing battle at Pabianice turned heavy losses for both sides. The battle began
about 3 o'clock in the morning, when the Germans overthrew the left flank of the
defending here Butyrka Regiment and took to the immediate approaches to Lassa
highway. In an effort to maximize hold the enemy captain Gourde two armored vehicles
came out to meet the German infantry, opening heavy fire from four guns. Since the
battle took place at an extremely close range (50-100 meters) rifle bullets pierced the
armor of vehicles, injuring nearly all the crew members. Around 7:30 am gourdes using
the wounded gunners rolled damaged both cars to their original positions. During this
battle the captain was awarded the Order of the Holy Great Martyr and St. George of IV
degree.

Not less well acted and unarmoured machine gun. So in the chronicle of the 1st
avtopulemetnoy company describes the steps captain Miklashevsky:

"Going to the trenches with fur at 1500m, Captain Miklashevskii opened fire on the
trenches, shelters against the wall of the hut burned down, under heavy rifle fire. Having
~ 539 ~
spent all their ammunition (800) in the reflection of the two rescued enemy attacks, the
captain returned to the crossroads Miklashevskii Paporotnya.

Reporting that the captain worked Miklashevskii gun in an open truck, "delivered on the
platform.

In late 1914, the first cannon armored vehicle was damaged by the Russian army in
battle and out of order. Meanwhile, at the Izhora plant started two more bookings
"Mannesmann-Mulago," the truth equipped with engines of 42 hp, which were
commissioned in the beginning of 1915. On their fate has remained very little
information. Apparently the machine gun were part of the army until October 1917, as

~ 540 ~
long as they do not fall into the hands of the Bolsheviks. At least at the parade in honor
of the first anniversary of the Socialist Revolution, held on November 7, 1918, he was a
"Mannesmann-Mulago." Another car (possibly the same), in 1921 was listed on the
balance sheet of the 1st Bronevoi tank-car repair factory in Moscow. After the Civil
War, this armored car was disassembled for metal in mind the full depreciation of
construction and lack of spare parts.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS cannon armored car

Mannesmann-Mulago obra.1914 city
Combat weight 5700 kg
CREW, pers. 5
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
one 47-mm naval gun Hotchkiss and one or two 7.62-mm
WEAPONS
machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES optical sight
housing forehead - 4 mm
board Copus - 4 mm
RESERVATIONS
food body - 4 mm
gun shield - 5 mm
ENGINE carburetor, liquid cooling, capacity of 42 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels,
CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Poplavko-Jeffery

Russian Empire (1915) Armored car 31 built total

Designed by Capt. Poplavko

~ 541 ~
This series started with a single vehicle, converted by Captain Victor Poplavko in
November 1915, and deployed on the South-Western Front. As part of the 26th platoon
this vehicle was nicknamed The Witch. It was an improvised armored truck was
based on an American Jeffery 2-ton 26 truck chassis. It was used as a supply and fire
support vehicle, and for the recovery of damaged armored cars. The armored car proved
to have excellent traction and cross-country characteristics. However, it was only
partially armored, with the engine hood and radiator, front and side cab being covered.
Poplavko decided to improved its recovery capabilities and added a winch with steel
cables, and even a light collapsible bridge for crossing trenches. On January 27, 1916,
first tests were performed by lieutenant Ustinov. Equipped with a wire-cutter at the
front, the vehicle succeeded to break through four successive rows of barbed wire and
destroyed a wooden wall. The wire cutter was later improved in late April 1916, and the
vehicle was demonstrated to the General Staff of the 7th Army. He convinced the staff
to launch a full conversion of all existing Jeffery trucks in service, and turned the tide in
trench warfare.

Tests and production of the Jeffery Poplavko

On May 10, 1916, the Witch was tested again in the presence of Colonel Polyansky,
Chief of Engineers of the 7th Army, and other staff officers of the 2nd Army Corps.
Equipped with its new devices, it overcome 4 rows of stakes and barb wire up to 2.5
inches (6.35 cm) thick, firmly planted into the ground 0.5-0.75 m (1.5-2.5 ft) deep. The
pathway created was sufficient for an assault squad to follow, and also crossed the
trench. An enthusiastic report came from Colonel Polyansky to the 7th Army General,
and Poplavko departed to Petrograd with his modified Jeffery, for more trials.
According to these results, the Commission on armored cars decided, on August 8,
1916, to convert 30 Jeffery chassis at the Izhorski factory. At the end of September, the
conversion was done and on the 6th of October they were paraded to members of the the
State and representatives of the General Staff.

Izhorski production design

In accordance with the requirements, these vehicles had fully enclosed armor made of 7
mm (0.27 in) armor plates, riveted together on a steel frame. The large driving cab
housed the driver and commander, the latter being given a machine-gun, fired through a
porthole. Maintenance and access to the engine was possible from inside the cab. At its
sides and rear, three other machine-gun ports were placed, for four Maxim Sokolov
liquid-cooled MGs in all (in practice only three ports were used), operated by two

~ 542 ~
machine-gunners. The former cargo bay was fully enclosed in a armored cradle, storing
spare parts, fuel and ammunition. However, it could be adapted, if necessary, to carry
several infantrymen. Access was done through a right side door. A wire-cutter made of
angle-steel profiles was attached to the front chassis beam and the wheels were
equipped with additional extensions for driving in mud. The 32 liter engine was capable
to propel the Jeffery-Poplavko up to 35 km/h (22 mph), but with the great torque
necessary to overcome all obstacles. In addition, there was a double axle drive, at the
front and rear, which gave an excellent turning radius.

Operational service: The Western front

The vehicle had a crew of four, including the two machine-gunners providing fire
support, and could carry up to 10 infantrymen armed with daggers and hand grenades.
The Poplavko-Jeffery would tear apart barb wire and land right on the trench, allowing
the infantry to jump into it and clean it. Portable bridges then allowed the troops to
gap the trenches and the vehicles to pass through and carry on the offensive to the next
defensive line. On 10 September, 1916 a special purpose armored car automotive
division was created for the 30 armored Jeffery-Poplavko vehicles, with four modified
to deal with with snow. Also in the unit were four support trucks, 1 mobile workshop
and 9 recce motorcycles. Command was given to captain Victor Poplavko. This unit
was divided into three platoons of 10 trucks each, then three units of 3 vehicles each and
a commanding officer. On October 16, the Division joined the South-Western Front and
the 11th Army. Throughout December 1916, 15 vehicles participated in rehearsal
attacks. But the general offensive was delayed and the use of the division postponed. In
January 1917, however, the Russian command ordered the forming of three similar
divisions for the Southwestern and Romanian fronts. For this, 90 more Jeffery chassis
had to be found and converted. Preliminary work started at Izhorski on 14 February
1917, with an expected monthly delivery rate of 15 cars by March-April. However, only
one was built in June, and the order was cancelled.

But, by June and July 1917, the vehicles acted as conventional armored cars, helping the
17th Army Corps to cover its retreat from the German breakthrough, well helped in the
rasputitsa with their front and rear axle drive. In October 2, 1917, it was decided that
the vehicles of the special purpose division will be converted back as ordinary armored
cars.

The Civil War

After the October Revolution, the Division served with the Ukrainian Central Council,
freshly independent. It was short-lived, and the Jeffery-Poplavko went to the Red Army.
The vehicles quickly fell into disrepair and lack of maintenance. As a result, only a few
remained operational. By May 1919, of the only 13 armored cars registered as part of
the Southern Front, only one Jeffery-Poplavko survived. Further reports stated that over
the 369 armored vehicles were enlisted in the Red Army in 27 different companies, but
only 9 were of the Jeffery-Poplavko type. One of these vehicles was tested with a
Sheffield-Simplex turret. By 1922, only one of these vehicles was registered in the Red
Army, latter scrapped. 2-3 vehicles were captured by the Whites Russians. One was
used by the Czechoslovak Corps, Called Janosik, and was later recaptured by the Red
Army. Earlier, five had been captured by German troops near Tarnopol in the summer
of 1917, and two took part in the 1919 Berlin streets battles. In the summer of 1919,

~ 543 ~
Polish troops also captured two vehicles, sent to Warsaw for repairs. One, nicknamed
Wnuk served in the war of 1920.

Poplavko-Jeffery specifications
Dimensions (L-W-H) 5 x 2.3 x 2.32 m (16.73 x 7.54 x 7.61 ft)

Total weight, battle ready 3.4 tons (7495 lbs)

Crew 4 (driver, commander, 2 machine-gunners)

Propulsion Jeffery 4-cyl. air-cooled 30 l, 30 hp

Speed 35 km/h (22 mph)

Operational range (road) 120 km (75 mph)

Armament 2 x 7.62 mm (0.3 in) Vickers machine-guns, 5000 rounds

Suspension 42, in dependent leaf spring suspension

Armor 6.5 mm (0.2 in), sloped

Total production 31 in 1916

Poplavko-Jeffery in Russian service, in the special purpose division, December 1917,

equipped with its wire-cutter skid. The superstructure could hold up to four machine-
guns, but usually only one or two ports were used at a time.

~ 544 ~
 Janicek, briefly operated by Czech troops, allied to the White Russians, under the
command of General Janin during the Russian Civil War. This vehicle was recaptured
by the Red Army.

Probably the most famous photo of this vehicle, taken with its crew posing, in service
with the special purpose armored car Division, South-Western Front, summer 1917

~ 545 ~
Jeffery-Poplavko on trials .

This is probably one of the lesser-known, but highly original armored vehicles built in Russia
during the First World War. The history of this armored car actually started in 1913, when an
American company Thomas Jeffery Co. (G.Kenosha, Wisconsin) was created one of the first all-
terrain vehicles Jeffery Quad 4017 (hereinafter it will be referred to in abbreviated form - JQ
4017). The peculiarity of its construction was 4x4 and individual brake on each wheel. On the

~ 546 ~
test machine showed excellent patency characteristics, relative ease of operation and
maintenance. In JQ 4017 soon they were purchased armies of the United States, Britain,
France, Canada, Argentina, Spain and Russia. The main modification was the flatbed truck, but
also made ambulances, mobile field workshops and Ammunition Carrier. According to various
sources until 1918 inclusive were produced 11490 \ 21490 cars of all modifications and the
total number JQ 4017 reached 41,000 by the end of the production!

In the United States based on the 4017 JQ released several versions of armored cars,
some of which was sold to the British, and later used in India, although the details of
their combat use almost nothing is known.

After the formation of the new Polish state several JQ 4017 went to the Poles. During
the war with the Soviet Union, most vehicles used as mobile workshops. By 1936, the
Polish army there were still 9 trucks and possibly well-preserved specimens were then
used in the war in 1939

But back to the Russian modifications. Like other countries, Russia increased the
volume of purchases of machinery abroad immediately after the war. Among other
equipment from the United States has been delivered and a few JQ 4017, the first of
which arrived in the 26th armored car platoon in November 1915 squad was one of the
most well-equipped divisions of the royal army, and was armed with armored vehicles
such as Austin and Garford. He commanded a platoon captain Victor floats, it was he
who first examined the advantages of all-wheel drive car and ordered the book partly JQ
4017, that he was able to deliver another armored car fuel and carry out easy repair \
evacuation to the battlefield. The first sample, commissioned by floats and received the
name "Wizard" and has been used successfully in the ensuing fighting.

This led the captain to turn the idea into a fully armored truck. At the beginning of 1916
he offered Poplavko army headquarters to use as an armored breakthrough means.
According to the original concept Poplavko armored vehicles with 10 people on board,

~ 547 ~
armed with "swords, daggers," Mauser "and hand grenades" were to break through the
first line of defense and to clean the trenches of the enemy soldiers.

Liked the idea of the General Staff and in the spring of 1916 the machine "Wizard" has
passed a series of tests, the results of which 8 August has been made an order for the
release of 30 armored cars Jeffery-float. Production at the plant were placed in Izhora,
where by the end of September 1916 gathered all the ordered machines. The second
order for 90 armored vehicles, issued in January 1917, was not implemented because of
the outbreak of the revolution, only one armored car June 16, 1917 entered the order
reserve armored battalion. From the design of the machine serial version differed lack of
cover for the landing, but could carry a few people in the rear.

Received the army armored vehicles formed the Armored Vehicle Division of Special
Purpose. The compound involved all 30 armored cars Jeffery, 4 trucks, 4 cars, 4 tankers,
car repair 1 and 9 motorcycles. Badon consisted of 3 departments with 10 armored cars,
platoon consisted of 3 sections with 3 cars.

The compound was ready for combat operations in the autumn of 1916, but the
command has decided to keep all the machines in secret and none of the armored
vehicles has not been tested in practice before spring 1917 Undoubtedly, the share of
armored cars Jeffery-Poplavko had the most difficult to cover fate retreating Russian
troops. Affixed 11th Army operating in the band of the Southwestern Front, armored
vehicles have begun to actively apply from mid-June 1917. In a memorandum to the
army headquarters stated that these machines are well in battles with the Germans, but
the overall situation at the front is not allowed to use armored cars for its intended
purpose. They are often used as a conventional armored vehicles.

During the retreat of the 17th Army Corps July 8-9, the machine Badon successfully
covered infantry, retreating to Tarnopol, and saved a lot of gear, acting as a tow. During
the fighting, two armored cars were destroyed by artillery fire, and 3 more were injured

~ 548 ~
of varying severity and were subsequently destroyed their own crews. According to
German data as trophies to the enemy got 5 cars, but it could be armored cars on which
it was written above.

In general, the armored cars Jeffery-Poplavko proven to be a good side. They had better
maneuverability and a good book. However, there is difficulty in maintenance and some
design flaws, do not allow you to use armored capabilities at full capacity. In particular
it was noted that the absence of partitions between the cockpit and the engine a positive
effect on access to the latter, but for the same reason, increased temperature and fumes
jobs driver and gunner. Install machine guns also admitted not too successful, because
the angles of traverse each of them does not exceed 15 degrees.

After the collapse of most of the cars went to the Bolsheviks of the Russian army. They
are actively used until the end of 1920, is not yet completely replaced by machines such
as "Austin". By 1922, at the balance sheet RKAA including 13 armored vehicles, but
most of them were out of order. Machinery, inherited the Germans, have been used for
its intended purpose in 1919. Then two armored cars took part in the suppression of the
Communist uprising in Berlin. Poles also got two armored car. One captured in 1919 in
Kremenets, the second - in Zbarazh. One machine was named "Wnuk" and later used
against the Red Army. For example, together with the armored car "Dzidaek" (former
Russian Garford Putilovets) was successfully used in raiding operations in Zhitomir,
held on 25-26 April 1920 After the conclusion of the truce in March 1921 Jeffery-
Poplavko machines were sent to Krakow and, likely disassembled metal. At the very
least, their fate unknown.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Jeffrey-Poplavko obra.1916 city

Combat weight ~ 8000 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 4520

~ 549 ~
Width 2000

Height mm 2140

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 7 mm
board Copus - 7 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 5 mm
roof - 5 mm
Dnishev - 5 mm

Buda enjoys a, carburetor, water-cooled, 4-cylinder with a

ENGINE
capacity of 32 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type with a 4-speed gearshift

CHASSIS 4x4: single wheel, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED 35 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

~ 550 ~
Armored Izhora factory 1st motorcycle company

During 1915 Izhora factory level.The several individual orders for armored vehicles for
the Russian army. In particular, it was built the only armored vehicle designed 1st
motorcycle company. Structurally, it looked like the car that had been sent to the 1st
machine-gun company, differing from them by the absence of towers and taller and
shorter body in the area of the crew compartment.

Details of the combat use of the armored car is still not clarified. Presumably, it can be
used on the rear communications. After 1917 the car passed into the hands of "red" and
continued to be used even for a year.

Sources:
M.Baryatinsky, M.Kolomiets "armored Russian army 1906-1917". Moscow.
Technology-Youth. 2000

SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Russo-Balt type C specimen 1915

Combat weight ~ 3000 kg

CREW, pers. 2-3
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 400

~ 551 ~
Width ~ 1900
Height mm ~ 2100
Clearance, mm ?
Wheelbase mm ?
WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine gun sights
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2: single wheel, pneumatic tires, suspension leaf
CHASSIS
springs
SPEED ~ 40 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
missing
COMMUNICATION

Armored Izhora factory 1st machine-gun company

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Armored Car Izhora factory armored car Russo-Balt type C
Start of planning: 1915
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1915
Stage of completion: two copies built.

~ 552 ~
During the First World War at the Russian factories and workshops are well mastered
the so-called "single-piece" production of armored vehicles, under which was not
elaborated Army specification. Thus, for example, especially for the 1st machine-gun
company in early 1915 Izhora plant engineers two similar armored car was
manufactured, the construction surpassed not only domestic development, but also most
of their foreign counterparts. According to the most spreading of data to rework the
chassis of the truck Pierce-Arrow was used. According to other sources, for the purpose
of the two chassis Russo-Balt car type C was used by second option seems the most
likely, as armored wheeled base more in line with exactly this type.

Reservation was conducted taking into account the development of captain Mgebrova.
Case has armor plates with large angles in front of the case, although the board
remained on the vertical. To access the power plant provided a large two-folding hatch
in the front broneliste hood and two smaller on the sides. Planting crew of 3 people, was
carried out through a small door in the left side. Armored car armed with a 7.62 mm
machine gun "Maxim", set in a cylindrical tower at the rear of the housing. Above the
driver's seat was equipped with a small cylindrical dome, designed to monitor the
surroundings. It was developed two options for booking , neznachiteno differed from
each other. The second of them was distinguished by additional hatches for access to the
engine and a smaller door. reservation thickness could vary between 5-6 mm. In
general, the armored cars were quite successful. These shortcomings can be attributed
only to the low immunity of the chassis and the absence of a fully circular firing sector.
However, if we take into account the fact that during the 1st World War II armored
vehicles went into battle alone reverse, the second flaw is losing its relevance.

Chassis, likely byza borrowed from the most widespread model of Russo-Balt C 24/40.
All wheels were single and were equipped with pneumatic tires. The transmission brake
is a belt-type, and the brakes of the rear wheels - shoe. Wheel Suspension sensitive, and
if the front axle it was on longitudinal leaf springs, the rear had two longitudinal and
one transverse leaf springs.

~ 553 ~
On the combat use of these machines is the information could not be found. The lists of
armored vehicles of the Russian army, sent to the front, they were not significant.
Apparently, in the 1 st machine-gun company Izhora "Russo-Balt" is used only for the
purposes of security and training of new crews. However, the fall of 1917 they still sent
to the North-Western Front, where the German advance was particularly successful.
Mechanical transmission included a manual 4-speed transmission.

In the spring of 1918, after the total collapse of the Russian army, two armored car
became trophies of the German army. The machines were seized in the Baltic States in a
fairly tolerable condition, but their fighting qualities were evaluated by the Germans as
low. To trophies are not idle doing nothing they were subjected to a small repair was
sent to Berlin, where in the spring of 1918, at the zoo, opened a large exhibition of
captured weapons. True, there were less than six months broneavtombili. The joy of the
Germans from the almost unimpeded capture vast Russian territories was marred by a
severe defeat on the Western Front. Already in October 1918 began mass uprising in the
country with a clear "red" slope. The unrest lasted a few months and one of the
highlights was the Spartacist uprising in January 1919. To the "red plague" not bred
European allies were allowed to re-enter Germany in order armored vehicles, including
the trophy. Against the rebels in the fight went to the former Russian "Garford", "Fiats",
"Peerless" "Packards" and "Austin". Not escaped this fate and armored vehicles of the
1st machine-gun company, though by that time managed to put into operation only one
of them. The machine is called "Lotta" (second version of the booking) and for some
time has been used to perform policing functions, and in the early 1920s. two armored
cars were scrapped for metal wear in mind the technical design and otstutstviya parts.

SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles Russo-Balt type C specimen 1915

Combat weight ~ 4500 kg

~ 554 ~
CREW, pers. 3

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 5000

Width ~ 1900

Height mm ~ 2000

Clearance, mm ?

Wheelbase mm ?

WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim" obr.1910 of the tower

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES machine gun sights

housing forehead - 6 mm
board housing - 6 mm
food body - 6 mm
RESERVATIONS
Tower - 6 mm
roof - 6mm
bottom -

ENGINE Russo-Balt, gasoline, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 40 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x2: spitsovannye wheels with pneumatic tires, size 880x120 mm, the
CHASSIS brake drum; front wheel suspension on longitudinal leaf springs, rear
wheel suspension of two longitudinal and one transverse springs

SPEED ~ 40 km \ h

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

~ 555 ~
The depth of the ford,
?
m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
missing
COMMUNICATION

Putilov-Garford

Russian Empire (1914) Armored truck 48 built total

~ 556 ~
Origins

With the outbreak of World War I, the army, through the newly formed GVTU, tried to
press on the burgeoning domestic industry to produce armored vehicles. On September
19, 1914, the first armored division of the Russian Imperial Army was created. This was
the 1st Armored Cars Company, staffed entirely by domestic vehicles like the Russo-
Balt type C, with heavier fire support provided by three trucks carrying guns. One of
these, the Mannesmann-Mulago, was armored. In action, it demonstrated the high
relevance and effectiveness of gun-armed armored vehicles, but also revealed the
numerous shortcomings of such a conversion. Indeed the body armor was far from
complete and the exposed gun was only protected by a traditional shield. Nevertheless,
the GVTU decided that the formation of new platoons will include in their composition
more technically advanced armored trucks.

~ 557 ~
The design process began in the fall of 1914 at the Putilov factory. Initiator and inspirer
of the project was a Major-General N. Filatov, which then held the post of Chief Officer
of the Infantry school. In his mind, this armored truck was supposed to strengthen the
quality of armored cars platoons on the battlefield. He also personally drafted the future
armored vehicles of the Russian Army.

Design

As a base for the project, a biaxial RWD (42) 5 ton truck was chosen, then produced
by the American Garford Motor Truck Co. This truck had a top speed of 35 km/h (22
mph), and an empty mass of 3,931 kg. This model had already attracted the attention of
the Army for its high payload, allowing the use of thicker armor and heavier weapons,
including artillery. The other decisive factor was the presence of these trucks in Russia
by the middle of December 1913 in Petrograd, previously purchased by the General
Commission and waiting in the garage of the Military automotive school. However, the
initial choice of a 76 mm (2.99 in) gun model 1910 was at first dismissed as imposing
significant modifications of the truck chassis and a number of other technical problems
need to be addressed.

~ 558 ~
Comparative tests were carried out at the Infantry Officers School in November 8, 1914,
with the Maxim 37 mm (1.46 in) autocannon, the Hotchkiss 47 mm (1.85 in) rapid-
firing and the 57 mm (2.24 in) Nordenfeld, all three well-proven calibers used by the

~ 559 ~
navy to destroy torpedo boats at short range. The 76 mm (2.99 in) was nevertheless
selected. It was a revised version of the compact and light 3-inch mountain gun Model
1909, mounted on a new and lighter molded carriage. Serial production of this weapon
began at the Putilov factory in 1911 and continued until mid-1915, with 407 guns built
in all. It usually shared its ammunition shells with the Model 1909 mountain gun, but
with a reduced charge. Maximum initial velocity of the 6.5 kg HE shell was about 381
m/s (1250 ft/s), and for the canister shot about 274 m/s (900 ft/s). The gun was mounted
on the rear platform in a pedestal made of iron sheet with welded joints. A cupboard-
shaped armored turret was attached to the platform by 12 bolts. The traverse was
conducted in short stops using a simple optical sight. Effective firing range was about
3000 m (9840 ft) and ammunition storage sufficient for 44 shots, 12 of them housed in
the turret,\ and 32 in the machine-gun fighting compartment. The gun barrel itself was
protected by an U shaped shield. Auxiliary armament comprised three 7.62 mm (0.3 in)
Maxim machine-guns model 1910 with the usual water-cooled barrel. Two were placed
in side sponsons, and the third in the rear turret, side by side with the gun. These were
fed by tape cartridges with 250 rounds each, 20 tapes in all (5,000 cartridges).

The armored body was developed by NM Filatov and had an innovative design,
featuring rolled steel sheets produced at Izhorskogo Plant, with a thickness of 6.5 mm
(0.25 in), immune against the 7.62 mm (0.3 in) Russian Mosin rifle model 1891 and
7.92 mm (0.31 in) German Mauser rifle model 1898, but also armor-piercing rifle
bullets. Assembly was performed by rivets fastened to a metal frame attached to the
chassis. The body armor was mostly vertical although several elements had a slight
slope. Thickness differed from the Army and Navy models, as followed: body front 6.5
mm/9 mm, sides 6.5/7 mm (0.26/0.28 in), radiator 6.5/7 mm (0.26/0.28 in), bottom 6.5
~ 560 ~
mm (0.26 in), roof housing 6.5 mm (0.26 in), forehead turret 6.5/13 mm (0.26/0.52 in),
side sponsons 6.5/7 mm (0.26/0.28 in).

The hull was divided into three sections. The front section comprised the engine,
armored two-hatch radiator, the driver and commander seats behind, with the fuel tanks
in between to reduce the overall length. Both could see through armor flaps and
additional round pistol ports sights on the sides. There was also a hatch in the roof of
the drivers compartment where the commander could stand.

In the middle was placed the main fighting compartment with the sponson machine-
guns which could fire within an arc of 110, and most of the ammunition storage and
tooling. The rear was occupied by the main gun turret with a large sloping front plate, a
traverse angle of 260, which could be accessed through a butterfly hatch in the roof. It
could communicate with the machine gun compartment for resupply.

The engine was a carburetor gasoline 4-cylinder air-cooled with capacity of 30 (army)
or 35 liters (navy), served by a five-speed gearbox (4 forward/1 reverse). Due to the
weight of the armored body, maximum speed was just 18 km/h (11 mph), and only 3
km/h (1.86 mph) in reverse, causing turmoil in operations due to the tactics used. To
this end, the transmission was modified and a special reversing clutch, operated by a
lever from the driver seat was installed. With this coupling all four forward gears
became reverse ones, and the rear, front one. A mirror inspection device, located on
the right side of the cab and operating like a periscope was fitted to help the driver but
later proved ineffective in combat. The engine could be started both from the outside
and inside by an electric starter. Fuel tank capacity was 132.4 liters. The transmission
chains on the rear axle were protected by armored casings, and the axle rested on
doubled artillery-type army spoked wheels. Chains could be mounted for better grip in
the snow.

Production

Production began at the Putilov factory in late March 1915. The GVTU initial order was
for 30 armored trucks, and by August 1915, nineteen had already been delivered and
another eleven were in various stages of completion. The last car was commissioned on
September, 28.
~ 561 ~
But already on September 2nd, 1915, Putilov received an order for 18 more intended for
the Naval Department. These were to be used to protect the marine fortress of Reval
(later Tallinn). These had a number of significant differences, mainly with the body
thickness and construction, according to some sources a new extended chassis and also
apparently a more powerful engine (35 hp). Ammunition was increased to 60 shells and
9000 rounds for the machine-guns. However, these extra chassis were to be purchased
in the United States and only reached Petrograd in February 13, 1916, which
~ 562 ~
significantly delayed their delivery. The very last of this second series was delivered in
early December 1916. Combat weight was increased from 8.6 to 11 tons and their
dynamic characteristics deteriorated. Later modifications comprised a rear wheelhouse
intended to improve the rearward driver vision. Already in mid-1915 field makeshift
conversions were made with redundant aft controls. The first Putilov-built reverse set
was ready by the end of January 1916, accepted after testings and conversions were
gradually carried out in 1916.

Active service

On April 16 the first batch of Garford-Putilovs was put at the disposal of the passive
defense. After two and a half weeks to train the crews, on May 3rd, 1915, this unit was
sent to the South-Western Front, at the disposal of the 5th Company of armored cars.
Organizational structure of AC platoons consisted of two Austin-Putilov and one
Garford (some platoons had three Austins), as well as auxiliary and technical, fuel
and supply trucks, staff cars, and scouting motorcycles.In total the Army was provided
thirty of these AC platoons, which were nearly all assigned a proper name (ex. the 5th
Platoon was the The Immortals or Fearless, 6th Platoon the Siberians, Terrible,
Zabaikalets, Kolyvanets, Bayan etc.). Navy platoons operated within the
motorized artillery division of the sea fortress of Peter the Great, also with proper unit
names.

~ 563 ~
From 1915, the Putilov-Garford units served in almost all areas of the Russian-
German front. Despite rather weak handling characteristics, especially off-road and on
soft ground, these armored truck were popular because of their firepower. The Navy
versions actively participated in the battles of Reval at the end of World War I. The 1st
Siberian Rifle Corps units under the names of Revelets and Invincible supported
until the end of 1917 the 11th and 77th infantry regiments, defending the capes of Olay,
Rolbum, Borenberg and Radenprays. However, due to the collapse of the army and
general retreat, both units were captured by the Germans in generally good condition
and after minor repairs, put back into operations. In early October 1917 two other
Marine units participated in the Moonsund battle, during which 1st Rank Captain
P.Shishko distinguished himself during the defense of Orissaarskuyu dam. During the
retreat two armored cars were blown up in order to avoid their capture by the enemy.

~ 564 ~
Losses were surprisingly low. In August 1916 commander reports stated that only about
15% of their armored trucks had been lost in action.

A Garford Putilov in use by German Freikorps forces.

~ 565 ~
During the Civil War, captured Garford-Putilovs were largely used by the warring
parties, but mostly by the Bolsheviks. One of the first use by the Whites was in the
Yaroslavl uprising which began in July 1918. These armored trucks participated in
almost all major operations of the Civil War on both sides, and many machines were
renamed according to the preferences of their new owners, like Karl Marx, Trotsky,
Kornilovite and Drozdovets. In 1920, as part of the 42nd Consolidated heavy
detachment of the Red Army, six acted on the Kakhovsky bridgehead. These red
vehicles acted as a mobile anti-tank reserve whereas the whites were given British
and French tanks for the task. With the defeat of the White Armies more ex-Tsarist
armored trucks fell into the hands of the Red Army, ultimately no less than 30 of
Army and Navy types.

But because of the severe lack of spare parts and maintenance, by December 1921 this
fell to 26, of which only 15 were active, and 11 reported in repairs. They were badly
worn, especially the undercarriage. By 1923 it was decided to completely remove the
chassis of some and turn them into railcars. This task was given to the Bryansk
Engineering Plant, converting 21 Garford-Putilovs. In 1931, the ABTU Commission
declared all types of WWI era armored vehicles obsolete. Subsequently all surviving

~ 566 ~
Garford-Putilovs were dismantled and the armor plates transferred for other uses in
the Red Army.

During the years 1916-1918 German troops captured at least five Garford-Putilov
armored cars. At least three were rearmed with German machine guns (probably
MG.08) and were included in the German armored division Kokampf (Freikorps).
During the revolutionary events in Germany (1918-1921), these were used in the
suppression of communist uprisings in major German cities, like Berlin. Poland also got
three former Russian Garford-Putilov. The first was captured in February 1919 in the
region of Vladimir-Volyn-Kovel. The second was captured at about the same time and
also joined the Zagoba platoon. A third vehicle called Uralets fought on the
Bobruisk-Mogilev road. Later, another renamed Genera Szeptycki, was included in
the Wielkopolski Pluton Samochodw Pancernych or Wielkopolska platoon of
armored cars. It was sent to Warsaw, at the disposal of third armored car division, and
in 1921 came to Grodno. According to the inventory in 1925, all three were transferred
to Krakow, where they joined the 5th Armored Car Division. In 1927 they were
gradually decommissioned. Latvia also got its share of these vehicles, like the
Kurzemnieks, camouflaged in the 1920s, acquired during the fighting in November-
December 1918. But later alliances shifted and German troops encountered fire from a
Latvian Garford under the name of Lacplesis, which covered the retreat of the
infantry. One was captured and immediately incorporated into the German Freikorps
and used against their former owners on the approaches to Riga. It was used later in
Berlin against the Spartacus rebels and scrapped afterwards. According to other
reports backed by photographs all volunteer army armored Freikorps trucks, including
former Lacplesis, were turned to the Latvian, and one continued to wear the German
notation and was renamed Kurzemnieks.

~ 567 ~
 Imperial Russian Sokol II in 1915.

Latvian Kurzemiesk with a three-tone camouflage, circa 1920.

German Freikorpss Garford-Putilov, with the distinctive skull and crossbones.

~ 568 ~
A Putilov-Garford during the winter of 1915-16.

The original U.S. Garford 42 5-ton Lorry.

~ 569 ~
4-view drawing of the Putilov-Garford

Probably one of the very few Putilov-Garford ever camouflaged, the Latvian
Kurtzmnieks in 1920.

~ 570 ~
As mentioned elsewhere, the Russians were pioneers when it came to armoured cars,
much more so than, say, the Germans, and already in 1914 they had started the work on
several different new designs. One of these was the Putilov-Garford, perhaps the most
heavily equipped armoured car seeing service during the Great War. The design was
done by the prolific Putilov ("Poutiloff" in some older texts) factory in Petrograd, and
was based on the chassis of a truck made by the Garford Motor Truck Company of
Ohio, USA.

The Putilov works built two versions of the Putilov-Garford; 30 were built for the army
on a Garford HtK 68 chassis (short), and 18 were made on a Garford HtK 111 chassis
(long) for the navy. Both versions had a 35hp motor with chain drive to the rear wheels.

The main armament was a 76.2mm gun mounted in the turret, at the rear of the vehicle,
with 270 degrees traverse. In the turret a 7.62 machine gun could also be fitted, and an
additional two Maxim machine guns were mounted in sponsons on both sides of the
hull, firing forward and to the sides.

The vehicle was approximately 19 ft long, 7 ft 6 in wide and 9 ft high. Armour

protection ranged between 7 mm and 9mm. All this added up to a pretty imposing
weight of 8.6 tons for the army version, and about 11 tons for the navy version. The
vehicle was tough to control as, in addition to being just plain heavy, it was top heavy,
so it was pretty much confined to roads, which of course limited its tactical value.

Despite its faults, the Putilov-Garford was still a rather successful design, its thick
armour and heavy armament impressing both friend and foe alike. It was perhaps the
only armoured car that could meet and knock out tanks, which they did, especially
during the Russian Civil War, when they were employed with effect by the Bolsheviks
against the British tanks supplied to the Whites. First the Tsarist Army used it (the
Putilov-Garfords chief claim to fame is the fact that it was the first Russian vehicle to
enter Tehran in 1915), then Reds and Whites and other involved factions, including the
Poles and the Latvians in their War to liberate themselves.

Five or six captured Putilov-Garfords were also employed by Germans during their
Revolution or Civil War in 1918-1919. They fought on the streets of Berlin and
Munich, suppressing the Spartakist revolts and, amongst others, eliminated the Bavarian
Soviet Republic.

~ 571 ~
During the 1920s, surviving vehicles were converted into armed railway trolleys by the
Red Army, who simply removed their rubber tires and fitted new steel wheels. In this
capacity they soldiered on until 1941, when the last Putilov-Garford were destroyed by
the Germans.

~ 572 ~
Garford-Putilov armoured cars were a type of armoured fighting vehicle produced in
Russia during the First World War era. They were built on the frames of Garford Motor
Truck Co. lorries imported from the United States.

Although considered to be a rugged and reliable machine by its users, the Garford-
Putilov was severely underpowered. With a total weight of about 11 tons, and only a 30
hp engine, the vehicles had a top speed of approximately 1011 mph (1618 km/h). The
design was also overloaded (top-heavy), and therefore had very limited (if any) off-road
capability.

Armanent consisted of a single 76.20mm cannon in a turret with 270 degrees of traverse
at the rear of the vehicle, and 2 or 3 7,62 mm machine guns. 2 of these machines guns
were in casemate like mounts towards the front of the vehicle, but the guns could not
provide full frontal cover at short range.

Besides the countries that emerged from the ruins of the old Russian Empire, Garford-
Putilov armoured cars were also deployed by German forces. The Germans captured
several of the vehicles, and put them to some use towards the end of World War I, and
post-Armistice in the "Freikorps.

~ 573 ~
The initiator and inspirer of the process of creating armored vehicles armed with guns
was a major general N.M.Filatov, during the war, worked as chief of Infantry Officers
School. One of his first projects was the most successful. The basis was taken 4-ton
two-axle truck firm Garford Motor Truck Co., specialized in the construction of cars of
this class. "Garford" drew the attention of the military, above all, good performance
carrying capacity, which allowed "hang" on him more armor and weapons.

truck chassis has been significantly modified. The tactics of using armored vehicles of
that time was to nominate a backing to the front edge of enemy positions and the
subsequent retreat. To ensure the car enough speed to move in both directions had to
install a special bushing, control arm with the driver's seat. Thus, in the reverse, forward
gears become back, and vice versa. On bronemavtomobile installed carburetor engine is
liquid-cooled 30 hp The engine is started by the driver by means of a pneumatic system.

Interior lighting was provided lamps operating on battery power, the current provided
by the onboard 12V network. In case of failure of the electrical system involved
conventional kerosene lamps.

The body of the armored car was the original design and technology can be divided into
three sections. In front of the driver's compartment is housed with the controls. Place the
driver and his assistant were on the engine and fuel tanks that was not safe for the crew,
but reduces the length of the machine. The fighting compartment was in the middle: in
the side sponsons have set one 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim" obr.1910 city, and the
free space between them took a box for 32 artillery shells and weapons possessions. At
the back of the gun body of cylindrical shape tower was installed with a large sloping
front plate, which was placed 76.2 mm protivoshturmovaya gun.

Initially, this type of weapon used in various fortifications (including castles), is

intended not only for defense, but also to accompany the troops during raids. At its
creation took as a basis the main components (barrel, breech) 3-inch mountain guns
obr.1909 of which established a new carriage, lighter, but not folding. Serial production
of the new weapon began in 1911 at the Putilov and lasted until the middle of 1915 -
during which time it was collected 407 copies of the two parties.

For "Garford" 76.2-mm gun protivoshturmovaya fit perfectly. With a good performance
in the shelling of field fortifications, it had little impact and roll back the barrel.
ammunition from mountain guns are usually used, but with a reduced charge as a serf

~ 574 ~
guns long range is not required. The maximum initial velocity of the projectile,
depending on the grade of gunpowder, was 274-280 m \ s. On "Garford" gun was
mounted on a pedestal made of steel sheet with welded seam. In the upper part of the
stone vklepana copper head serving for bearing pin passing through the cabinet, and the
support for the bottom of the machine. The pin serves as the rotation axis of the bottom
of the machine to which it is fixedly connected with rivets. Lower support pin serves as
the bronze bearing, riveted to the round place, employee support pedestals. Stand 12 is
attached to the armored car bolted platform. Lower the machine cast in bronze with
elongated Khobotova part of the box section, where a bronze upper arc guide the
machine with a rotating mechanism. On the upper wall of the machine, slightly higher
arc guide is a window for passage of a screw lifting mechanism. The front wall of the
lower head part of the machine has a flat rectangular flange to which privertyvaetsja
armored tower, riding on a circular chase on three rollers. In addition to the gun, the
tower was installed another 7.62-mm machine gun and bandoliers arranged for 12
cannon shots. The total was 44 ammunition shells and 5,000 rounds of ammunition in
20 tapes.

All machine-gun loopholes and peepholes closed armor flaps. From inside the fighting
compartment, in order to avoid destruction of the crew secondary fragments, trimmed
with felt and canvas. Machine gun department could isolate itself from the driver's
canvas curtain, and, if necessary, and outboard shields.

In this sample, it was decided to reserve 30 cars, the first of which left the shop Putilov
May 5, 1915, and fully complied with the order by October. Now these armored
vehicles called "Garford Putilovets", but in the years of the First World War was called
simply "Garford".

Armored car arrived on arms and machine-gun platoon under state 20. Each unit of
this kind consisted of two armored cars "austin" and one machine gun (some have three
"Austin"), not counting auxiliary-technical trucks and motorcycles. Almost every
armored vehicle in the AR is assigned its own name:

~ 575 ~
5th Platoon - "Immortal", 6 th - "Siberian", 12th - "Svyatogor", 14th - "Dobrynya", "15
th -" Lincoln ", 16th -" Zabaikalets " 17 - "Kolyvanets", 18 - "Rokot", 19 th - "Pushkar",
20th - "Stormbreaker", 21 th - "Hero", 22 th - "Mihaylovets", 24th - "The Count
Rumyantsev ", 26th -" The Beast ", 28th -" Resolute ", 32 minutes -" Funny, "34th -"
Dragon ", 36th -" Bayan ". Total "Garford" were armed with 30 auto-machine-gun
platoon (not specified 7-11, 13, 23, 30-33 and 35 minutes), the names of other machines
are still unknown.

Although not good driving characteristics, "Garford" were popular among the troops,
mainly due to its powerful protivoshturmovogo guns. The following are excerpts from
the reports of commanders APV, who fought at the front in 1915.

The report commander of the 15th machine-gun platoon of motor:

"On the night of 20 on October 21 entrusted to me under my leadership platoon took

part in a reinforced reconnaissance 408th Regiment. According to the instructions of the
commander of the regiment gun car "Lincoln" and machine-gun "Hell" we were to
support the attack of the regiment at the time of the approach to a barrage of enemy.
After receiving an order by phone push cars, I have instructed the commander of "Ivan
the Terrible" Ter-Akopov lieutenant and commander of the "Hellfire" lieutenant Isaev
regarding fighting. "Terrible" and "Hell" were put forward at the same time. When he
reached the enemy trenches, "Terrible" opened fire, open the machine-gun fire was not
possible because of the possible destruction of our troops.

During the battle, "the Terrible" and "Hell" are under heavy artillery and machine-gun
fire of the enemy. At the end of reconnaissance troops began to retreat for the district.
Putilovku, "the Terrible" as I was told by gunfire cover the withdrawal of our troops and
oppose the transition to the offensive of the enemy. I think the action platoon officials
deserve the awards. "

Guard Captain Platkovsky ".

The report of cannon commander Branch 20th platoon:

"Stormbreaker" had to go about 70 miles, with a stiff upper lip, he went, taking the
steep ascents joking, for example at the village. Podgorica. This rise twice as much
Pulkovo.

Lieutenant Krasnopolskiy ".

The report commander of the 19th platoon:

"With the occupation D. Teofipolki arrived at the western edge of the car" Pushkar
"under the command of Captain Schultz and Lieutenant Pleshkova." Pushkar "fired an
artillery observation point at the enemy D. Victorovka, then the fire of enemy artillery
stopped. Seeing the column of cavalry with horse battery , moving to the south,
"Pushkar" opened fire on it, and then turned back and went on his career ... The next fire
"Pushkar" was broken up by ditching the enemy on the crest of the north-west
Victorovka.

~ 576 ~
The report commander of the 13th platoon:

"The gun in the armor parts needed. The existing 3-inch gun on its ballistic qualities
indispensable. Despite the great burden that is" Garford ", thanks to its low-power and
low-speed, compared with the rest of the combat part of a platoon, it is necessary,
preferring tactical side issue, to conclude on the need to continue to give out in armored
platoons "Garford" provided always posing rear steering.

Tsvetkovskaia "Captain.

As is clear from these reports, armored cars, "Garford" showed high combat
effectiveness, but at the same time several serious shortcomings were detected. In
addition to low cross-country reversing in combat conditions proved to be very difficult.
The driver was not easy to drive, guided only by the side mirrors mounted on the body.
Hence there was a requirement to equip "Garford" rear control station.

This work began in the fall of 1915, and much faster bearings field repair shops, which
on its own has upgraded four machines. Meanwhile, at the Putilov factory, by order of
the Commission on armored vehicles at GVTU, it began production of working
drawings and kits for the rear control station equipment. Already in January 1916 the
first of the modified armored cars entered the testing, the results of which KBA was the
act as follows: "Back the driver sitting at the wheel sideways, holding the eye to the slit
in the rear of the armored vehicle body, so for a small slit get a good overview of the
area . The steering wheel is made removable for chauffeur should be arranged special
chair, which is the plant is not satisfied. to send commands, the rate of change, action on
the cone (grip), brake and accelerator from the rear chauffeur to the front there is a
voice tube with a mouthpiece. The car went back swing around the front garden of St.
Michael's Square ... Consider ordering 30 rear steering for all cars available in the army,
despite the fact that the 4-car system "Garford" already arranged rear manage their
platoons. rear fabrication Putilovsky management the plant will be sent to the army,
together with the instructors spare broneroty that will set them in place and train the
personnel. "

~ 577 ~
Later, in August 1916, so the AR commanders spoke of "Garford":

"1. 3-inch gun is excellent;

2. grenade shrapnel and excellent;

3. The system must facilitate (400 pounds);

4. The need to have a strong motor (40 hp);

5. The need to provide speeds of up to 40 miles;

6. The motor must be made easily accessible for inspection and correction.

The battles are necessary and grenade shrapnel, as every battle is a combined shooting.
Participated in the battles, "Garford" all wounded (falling bullets, exploding bullets and
fragments), but no holes. There have been cases in the battle that "Garford" drove 200
or less steps. Machine-gun fire from "Garford" is in each of his departure. "

A little before 2 September 1915, Putilov plant received an order to produce 18 more
armored vehicles intended for the Naval Department. From the army, "Garford" they
had some big differences.

Instead of the standard base used elongated chassis 5-ton truck, although housing
construction remained unchanged. body armor was brought to 7-9 mm, the tower - to 8-
13 mm. Armament remained the same, but the ammunition was increased to 60 rounds
and 9,000 rounds of ammunition. Full version of sea combat weight armored car was
about 11 tons.

The order was made in December 1916, after which most of the collected machines
Bronevoi handed over to the artillery division of the land front Sea Fortress of Peter the
Great, who took an active part in the battles of Revel in the final stages of World War II.
On the northern front, "Garford" suffered heavy losses. For example, imparted 1st
Siberian Rifle Corps machine "Revelets" and "Invincible" until the end of 1917 was
maintained at defending capes Olay, Rolbum, Borenberg and Radenprays 11th and 77th
strelokvye shelves. Subsequently, due to the collapse of the army, both had to give up
the armored car, and "Invincible" was awarded to the Germans in almost the whole state
and after the repair has been re-commissioned. As for the other machines, to the
summer of 1917 they began to speak from the front and subsequently participated in the
civil war. General irrecoverable losses "Garford" at this time is estimated at 7 machines.

After the revolution of armored cars were pilfered the warring parties, but most of them
remained in the hands of the Bolsheviks. One of the first facts of using "Garford"
against the new government can be considered Yaroslavl uprising, which began in July
1918. Despite the small force volunteers and local police detachments succeeded in a
few days to completely clean the city from the Bolsheviks and the July 6 joined them
Armored Division Lieutenant Suponina, which included 25 officers, several machine
guns and two "Garford". Despite the initial success of the uprising, it was not supported
by sufficiently White armies acting in the central part of Russia. By July 12 the position
of the rebels has deteriorated - Yaroslavl constantly bombarded artillery and armored

~ 578 ~
train "red", was bombed by aircraft. These days, "Garford" was used as a mobile firing
points, but due to lack of ammunition fired rarely. After capturing the city the fate of
these machines is not clear - perhaps they were captured by the Red Army units.

Subsequently, "Garford" participated in almost all the major operations of the Civil War
on both sides. In the end of the 38 built armored vehicles in the hands of the Red Army
was not less than 30. As of December 1921 their number was reduced to 26 (15 on the
go, and 11 repairs), and in 1923, due to the large depreciation of the chassis and
complete lack of spare parts, it was decided to put the car on the train running, turning
them into bronedreziny. This task was assigned Bryansk Engineering Plant, but how
many "Garford" could be converted so it is not clear.

Finally, the fate of "Garford" was decided in 1931, when the decision of the
Commission ABTU armored cars older types were to cancel reservation. Now quite
often you can find information about "Garford" captured the summer of 1941 the
German troops. It is alleged that there is a trophy photos, which show the captured
machines, both whole and lined. However, there does not specify where these pictures
were taken, and the photos themselves, too, are not shown.

Perhaps there is an error. In 1917-1918. at least five, "Garford" German steel and
trophies were sent to the rear for repair. The most common photo abandoned by Russian
troops "Invincible" marine modification - because no date could make the wrong
conclusion that the vehicle was used during the Second World War. During the
revolutionary events of 1918-1921 in Germany. three "Garford" division "Kokampf",
re-equipment of the German machine guns instead of guns, took part in the suppression
of the communist revolts in major German cities - for example, the spring of 1919, they
can be found in Berlin. After adopting its own production of armored vehicles German
Army sent "Garford" on storage and subsequent disposal.

~ 579 ~
Another army, actively operated gun armored cars during this period, was Poland. The
collapse of the Russian Empire and the ensuing battles with units of the Red Army
allowed the Poles to capture a lot of military equipment of the Russian army, including
three "Garford".

The first of them was captured in February 1919 in the region of Vladimir-Volyn -
Kovel and renamed the "Dziadek" ( "Father"). Apparently, happiness Poles was so great
that almost immediately they formed Pluton Pancerny "Dziadek" (Armour Platoon
"Grandfather"), the main strike force which was captured and became "Garford". The
greatest success in its share fell March 21, 1920, when the reflection of the onset of the
58th Infantry Division near Zhitomir calculation tools could knock out half-track
armored car "Austin Kegress". However, on March 26 Kostoryshevym 'Garford' himself
was hit by artillery and long out of order. Apparently this armored car was 26 April
1920 in the "hunt" for "Austin" Red Army, who burst into the Zhytomyr and single-
handedly led the fight against a numerically superior enemy.

A second armored car was seized around the same time and received the name
"Zagloba", also entered in the Bronevoi Platoon. A third machine ( "Uralets" marine
modifications, later renamed "General Szeptycki") was the trophy after a battle on the
road Bobruisk-Mogilev in n \ n Stolopische. According to Polish data, while the infantry
attack they managed to destroy armored vehicles, "Fiat" and "Lanchester", another car
was damaged and "Garford" was captured after slid into a ravine and could not get out
on their own. Valuable trophy was towed to Bobruisk, where it was repaired and later
transferred to the WPSP (Wielkopolski pluton samochodow pancernych). After some
time, he was sent to Warsaw, where "General Szeptycki" was registered for the 3rd
armored car division, and in 1921 armored car was in Grodno. According to the lists in
1925, all three machines were sent to Krakow, where they were part of the 5th armored
car division. Presumably "Garford" was removed from the arms of the Polish Army in
1927, and finally was dismantled in the early 1930s.

It is interesting to fate, "Garford" in Latvia. How do these armored vehicles into the
hands of the Latvians is not entirely clear - on the most reliable information, "Garford"
(at least - one) were captured in the Red Army during the fighting in November and
December 1918, when, after the declaration of independence "red" tried to establish
Latvia Soviet power. Initially, the Germans helped the Latvians, by which the allies had
hoped to drop the Bolsheviks from the Baltic borders. Initially, the fight took place with
varying success, but in June 1919, parts of the Landwehr and German volunteers
managed to clean Latvia from the "red" and enter the territory of Estonia. This provoked
a new conflict in which Latvian and Estonian army units in the area smashed g.Tsesis
Landwehr troops under the command of Major Fletcher. However, less than three
months, both in the territory of Latvia invaded Western army Bermont-Avalov formed
in Germany from German volunteers and Russian prisoners of war, and in fact consisted
of personnel officers. Already 9 October 1919 the German "Iron Division" has
successfully developed an offensive deep into the country, coming out on the highway
Mitau - Riga. Here, German troops clashed with the Latvian "Garford" ( "Lacplesis"),
who tried to gun-gun fire to cover the retreat of their infantry. Using the slow pace of
the car is one of the German-Bavarian officers climbed fast jump on him and several
shots from a pistol killed the driver and commander. Having lost control of the armored
car slid into a ditch, then the rest of the crew surrendered. Trophy "Garford" was
immediately included in the Freikorps and fought against the former owners in the

~ 580 ~
district of Riga. However, at this point the data differ. According to some sources the
armored car was sent to Germany, where it was used against the "Spartacus" and
subsequently dismantled the metal. According to other data (backed up by photographs)
all armored Freikorps, including former "Lacplesis", went to Latvians in November
1919, with the "Garford" for some time continued to wear the German symbols and was
later renamed the "Kurzemnieks". Thus, the Latvian army could have only one,
"Garford", which replaced three titles during 1919. Subsequently, the armored actively
exploited in Latvia before the start of the 1930s. And then "Kurzemnieks" sent for
temporary storage. After Latvia joined the USSR found its Soviet military commission,
but hardly worn out "Garford" was used in the fighting in 1941.

Putilov-Garford specifications
Dimensions (l-w-h) 5.7 x 2.3 x 2.8 m ( 18.7 x 7.54 x 8.2 ft)

Total weight, battle

8.6 tons (18,990 lbs)
ready

Crew 5 (driver, commander, gunner, 2 machine-gunners)

Propulsion Garford 4-cyl, air-cooled 30 bhp/ 4-cyl 20 bhp @2500 rpm

Speed 18 km/h (28 mph)

Operational range
120 km (74 mi)
(road)

Armament Main: 1 x 76 mm (2.99 in) M1910 gun

Secondary: 3 x 7.62 mm (0.3 in) Vickers machine-guns, 5000
rounds

Suspension 42 axles, dependent leaf spring suspension

Armor 6.5 mm (0.2 in)

Total production 48 between 1916-18

8600 kg (Army)
Combat weight
11000 kg (Marine)
CREW, pers. 8-9
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 5700
Width 2300

~ 581 ~
Height mm 2800
Clearance, mm ?
one 76.2 mm gun protivoshturmovaya obr.1910 city and
WEAPONS
three 7.62 mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910
Army version: 44 rounds and 5,000 rounds of ammunition;
allowance of ammunition Marine version: 60 rounds and 9,000 rounds of
ammunition
aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight
Army version:
housing forehead - 6.5 mm
board housing - 6.5 mm
food body - 6,5 mm
Tower -
roof - 4 mm
RESERVATIONS
Marine version:
housing forehead - 7-9 mm
board housing - 7-9 mm
food body - 7-9 mm
Tower - 9-13 mm
roof -
ENGINE carburetor, 4-cylinder, air-cooled, 30 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels, suspension
CHASSIS
leaf springs
SPEED 18-20 km \ h
Cruising on the highway 120 km
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

ERF \ FWD Armored car

~ 582 ~
Russian Civil War of 1918-1922. It contributed significantly to the development of
armored vehicles, and on both sides. While in Soviet territory were trying to set up
production of "Austin" in the Russian province, local engineers to be creative miracles.
In this regard, and in view of the circumstances, certainly he led the South of Russia. It
is here that created the foundation of the future "White" armies and fighting with the
Soviets acquired the greatest scope. While waiting for help from the Entente engineers
of local businesses, in cooperation with the former tsarist officers are not sitting idly by,
and have taken very effective steps to enhance infantry equipment. Armored fighting
vehicles was then collected a little, but almost every one of them was on a high enough
level of performance not inferior to many analogues, and not only built before the
revolution. Unfortunately, the fate of many of them remains unknown, but this is their
story only gets more interesting.

In a number of such instances, among which you can also specify wheeled-tracked
bronetraktory and self-propelled artillery on tractor chassis, it was quite remarkable
examples of armored vehicles. In late 1918, the project engineers Tikhoretsky
workshops bookings chassis commercial truck American company ERF (FWD) was
developed. As you might guess from the name, this car had one important difference -
both bridges were leading. With the wheel formula 4x4 in substantially increased
patency of off-road, which was very important in the Russian context. What kind of
model has been subjected to refinement it is now difficult to establish. Apparently it
could be a FWD model B load capacity of 1.5-3.0 tons, which have mastered release in
1913. In this model, installed in-line 4-cylinder 6.5-liter engine capacity of 56 hp
Wisconsin was placed under the front seat. The structure was part of a three-stage
transmission gearbox with constant mesh gears, made in the block with the transfer case
and interaxle lockable differential, located in the central part of the chassis. Driving
axles with forged square beams were attached to the longitudinal leaf springs. Brake
with 2-circuit mechanical drive all the wheels equipped with external pads. Its top speed
was 16 km / h for driving on paved roads.

Thus, the sample was chosen for bookings appropriate. No wonder even in 1916 the
Russian Defense Ministry issued an order to supply 20 armored gun (largely similar
"Garford") on the same basis, but the revolution managed to build only one prototype.
Now, however, the situation was somewhat different, and the installation of 76.2 mm
protivoshturmovoy cannon had to be abandoned due to their absence. Instead, the

~ 583 ~
project involved a fully armored transport platform - it increased the size of the
machine, but allow use of larger fighting compartment for the transport of troops. On
the roof was installed two towers, apparently borrowed from the broken (or cancel
reservation) armored "Austin". However, it is possible that Tikhoretsky workshops two
new towers which had been collected by the sample. I equip two armored turret
machine guns such as "max" with side shields stem and shell. The crew would consist
of 4-6 people: commander, driver and gunner 2-4.

Called "Rossiya" on FWD chassis armored fighting on the side of the "white"
presumably as part of the Volunteer Army during the 1918-1919 biennium. At least on
the only surviving photograph the scene of action is defined as the South of Russia, but
at the time a part of the Don army armored vehicle with such a name did not appear. It
is possible that "Russia" was thrown or destroyed in 1919 during the retreat.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

ERF \ FWD obr.1918 city

Combat weight ~ 6000 kg

CREW, pers. ~5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Wisconsin You, Petrol, 4-cylinder 6.5-liter capacity of 56 hp

mechanical type: three-stage gearbox with constant mesh gears, made

TRANSMISSION in the block with the transfer case and interaxle lockable differential,
brakes 2-contour driven all

4x4: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels, tubeless tires,

CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs

~ 584 ~
SPEED ?

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

"Trehkoleska" Armored car

During the combat use of armored vehicles, "Garford" armed with 76.2-mm gun
protivoshturmovoy commanders avtopulemetnyh platoons and crews often complained
about the low speed and low driving performance of these machines, which was a
consequence of a heavily overburdened chassis. Fix the problems in the landing gear
had not been possible, but it prompted the creator of "Garford" Major General Filatov
the idea to develop a lighter and a mobile machine.

Thus began the design of a unique three-wheeled armored vehicles, construction of

which began in December 1915 in the workshops of Infantry Officers School in
Oranienbaum. Filatov suggested two options - with two machine guns "Maxim" and one
76.2 mm gun protivoshturmovoy. It is still unknown how much money was spent on
this project, but in April 1916, was ready a gun and nine machine-gun armored cars.

~ 585 ~
Both versions received fully armored body with a thickness of 4-6 mm armor plates.
Chassis components collected from different machines can not be repaired and
disassembled for spare parts. Leading were the wheels of the rear axle and the front
wheel rotation was carried out.

Filatov armored vehicles used on several types of engines ( "Case", "Gupmobil"

"Maskvil" etc) where the power was varied 16-25 hp The height of the machines has
been very small, although the gun modification had little modified body and additional
openers, placed on the ground for more stable shooting. Armament was located only in
the rear part, as armored vehicles were supposed to go into battle in reverse.
Ammunition was located along the hull sides.

Demonstration "trehkolesok" members of the armored vehicles and GAC

representatives of the Commission took place April 22, 1916. Machines have received
accolades in May and June came to the test. It turned out that more light machine gun
variant (1800 kg against 2600 kg at the gun) has better maneuverability, although both
versions showed roughly equal driving performance.

Izhora plant received an order for 20 armored vehicles in the on the basis of the results
obtained machine-gun version . In the process of construction Filatov slightly improved
design of the machine, reducing its fighting weight of up to 1400 kg, and armament
reduced to a single machine gun. The first production armored vehicle has been tested
by 13 October 1916, and at least 8 copies were collected before the new year. On the
pace of further release of information has not been preserved, but there is reason to
believe that the entire consignment has been handed over to October 1917.

In October 1916, "trehkoleski" were sent to the front. They are equipped with 1st (two
machine-gun machine), 7th (two machine-gun), 8th (two machine guns and a cannon)
and 9th (one machine-gun machine) armored car divisions. According to reports BAA
commanders in recent battles with German troops "trehkoleski" proved to be a good
side.

~ 586 ~
During the Civil War armored Filatov almost equally they were captured by the Red
Army and the White Army. One of the first facts of their operational use on the "red"
can be considered as sending 21 August 1918 the detachment of three cars under the
command Adzhanalova in Baku to assist the local Bolshevik government. In early 1920,
also sent to the front only "trehkolesku", having as part of the auto-armor and machine-
gun detachment guard Smolny. Canopy 1918 one armored vehicle of this type was in
possession of the Volunteer Army, which operated in the south of Russia. His combat
use of information has not been preserved, but judging by the reports "trehkoleska"
cancel reservation was in April 1919, "due to wear and tear and combat unsuitability".

In the Red Army armored Filatov remained in service a few years - as of February 1922,
in the disposal of Office armored forces of the Red Army still had four such machines.

~ 587 ~
TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles
"Trehkoleska" obra.1916 city

1400 kg
Combat weight
(Serial version of the machine gun)

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 6 mm
board Copus - 6 mm
RESERVATIONS
food body - 6 mm
roof - 4 mm

~ 588 ~
ENGINE Carburetor

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS wheel formula 2x1: single wheel, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

~ 589 ~
Fiat "Sokol"

Armored car

Among the lesser-known projects implemented armored period of the Russian Civil
War of 1918-1922. almost covered the activities of engineers working on the territory of
the Don Cossacks. It's hard to say exactly how much and what kind of cars were
fighting on the side of the "white" of the Cossacks, but absolutely one thing is clear - the
work carried out by specialists with experience on bookings of vehicles. It is possible
that some of them previously worked at the enterprises of Moscow and Petrograd,
where the production and repair of armored vehicles was established.

One of the little-known machines is the armored car under his own name "Falcon." Data
on it, except for a couple of photos and a few short comments, almost did not survive. It
is assumed that it served as the basis for a commercial 1.5-ton truck FIAT. The
construction of this machine has been completed in the second half of 1918 at the
"reinforcement" in Rostov, and used items from other armored vehicles, including
German trophy. However, in the latter case, it does not specify which ones.

If we consider that by the time of delivery of the equipment, the Entente has not yet
begun, the chassis for armored car borrowed from serial FIAT-15ter, produced in
Russia by Italian license since 1917 in the factory AMO. Perhaps this was one of the
slightly more than 100 collected by the time the truck models. If this assumption is
correct, then the driving characteristics "Falcon" had to be better than the mass-
produced armored vehicles such as "Fiat" Izhora plant.

With a wheelbase of 3070 mm and an engine 36 hp "Original" of the truck had a stock
of 250 km course and developed a speed of 50 km / h at a rate of 28 liters of gasoline
per 100 kilometers. Given the weight of the total mass of the reservation armored cars
increased from 2160 kg to 2500-2600 kg. shell Reservation was done originally and
armored vehicles looked like scheme Pierce-Arrow, collected two copies of the same
Izhora plant in 1915, but differ more angularity. Apparently the sheets of rolled armor
steel (although it is possible that its role is carried out and the ship's boiler steel) up to 9
mm thick bolted and riveted on a wooden frame. As far as possible the Don engineers
have tried to improve the bullet resistance body, making the sloping front and rear
bronelisty superstructure above the cab. It is very likely that these details have got to the
"legacy" of a broken "Austin".

The fighting compartment, which is installed on the roof of the single cylindrical tower
(also very similar to the tower from the "Austin"), housed at the rear of the vehicle, on

~ 590 ~
the former site of the transport platform. At the height of the body at this point reached
the level of the viewing window of the driver, so that the fire was limited to about 260-
280 over the horizon. The upper frontal broneliste also establishes a single lamp,
performs the role of the spotlight.

Equips "Falcon" tower and the front (installed in the embrasure to the left of the driver's
seat) guns such as Maxim caliber 7,62 mm, protected by armored side panels.
Protection undercarriage was missing, but the wheels were made with stamped (or
cast?) Disks, equipping tubeless "hard" tire. The suspension has been a standard for
chetvertellipticheskih leaf springs.

Perhaps painting armored car was completely dark green color. On the left side on top
of the word "Sokol" was applied, and under it, in smaller type, a name written,
"Podesaul Arakantsev". On the front plate of the engine compartment was painted
Russian tricolor badge.

Set as well fought, "Falcon", and after that on board adorned name Arakantseva, has not
yet succeeded. Until we found out that podesaulov with that name could be several, but
perhaps here we are talking about Alexander Arakantsove, received the title May 12,
1918, and is an active member of the "White movement" in the south of Russia. He
could be a commander of armored vehicles, since the date of his death was listed in
1944.

Information about the combat use of "Falcon" has been preserved, but on the basis of
preserved data we can make the assumption that vehicles of this type have been built
more than one. From available materials it is known that in August 1918, at the
initiative of Colonel SV Denisov, as a part of the Don army started forming armor parts,
the structure is similar to the machine-gun avtovzvoda old model. As of September
1919 Armored Division consisted of three companies, with 7 armored vehicles and one
bronetraktorom. The composition of these units was as follows:

1st Squad: armored cars, "Ust-Bear" (such as "Austin" 1 Series 2 machine gun),
"Ataman Kaledin" and "Guarding" (such as "Austin" 2 Series, number 3622, 2 machine
guns, was in service since 1916 and until the end of 1917 was part of the 28th machine
gun avtovzvoda);

2nd squad: armored cars, "Sokol" (such as "Fiat", 2 machine gun) "Pecheneg" (such
as "Fiat", 2 machine guns) and bronetraktor "Colonel Bezmolitvenny" (1 gun and 6
machine guns, 11 person crew; in order. April 1919);

3rd Squad: armored cars "Lugano-Mityakinets" (such as "Austin", 2 machine guns),

"Ust-Belokalitvinets" and "Partizan" (such as "Austin", 2 machine guns, was in
Berdyansk).

In addition, is the composition of groups were listed armored "Cossack" (such as

"Austin", 2 machine guns) and "flashes" (type "Lanchester" was equipped with a 37 mm
gun and one machine gun) and bronetraktor "Astrahanets" put into operation in April

~ 591 ~
1919. During this period, in the Red Army were captured armored vehicles "General
Keltchewsky" (such as "Austin", 2 machine guns) and "General Sidorin" (type
"Garford" 1 gun, 2 machine guns). Armored Car "Ataman Bogaevsky" (such as
"Austin" 3 Series, 2 gun) was transferred to the command of the English Donets.

Thus, the type of armored vehicles, "Fiat" there were two units in the Don Army. If you
consider that any Izhora "fiat" in the "white" in the area of fighting was not, then the
conclusion is one - at the "reinforcement" still collected two cars. In any case, the career
of Rostov "Fiats" proved to be very short-lived - during the retreat to Novorossiysk Don
Army Armored Division lost all armor, partially abandoning partially destroying the
remaining armored vehicles.

Sources:
Armored Car "Falcon" Don army on the chassis of "Fiat"
Armored in southern Russia
Wikipedia: List of armored vehicles of the Russian Empire

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Fiat "Sokol" was obr.1918

Combat weight ~ 3000 kg

CREW, pers. 3-4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

~ 592 ~
Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim", the obr.1910

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES machine-gun sight

housing forehead - 9 mm
board Copus - 9 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 9mm
roof -
Tower - 9 mm

ENGINE The FIAT, carburetor, liquid cooling, capacity of 36 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x2: front-wheel drive, single, dual rear wheels, suspension leaf

CHASSIS
springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

"Fiat-Omsk" Light armored vehicle

The collapse of the Russian Empire, initiated by the Bolsheviks after the
October Revolution of 1917, naturally led to the formation of numerous
independent states, including on Russian territory immediately. To seize
power in various regions of the country a new "Russian rulers" do our best to
provide the army with new equipment, not only due to help them Entente.

~ 593 ~
During the First World War with the most successfully used armored vehicles
of different types, including a cannon. However, since December 1917, when
the "white" have set about creating their own armies, the majority of armored
vehicles remained in the hands of the Bolsheviks and their sympathizers
local governments. To compensate for the lack of them in the course of the
Civil War were widely used improvised armored vehicles, the most massive
of which can be considered "Fiats" issued in Omsk. According to the most
reliable data, the task of producing them put in the end of 1918 the General
Staff of the army of Kolchak, recently arrived from the United States and who
had good relations with its allies. According to other sources, these armored
cars were built in 1919-1920. in Vladivostok. Unfortunately, the name of the
designer who developed the reservation scheme is not yet known.
According to available data, Omsk armored vehicles have chassis from the
Fiat trucks, which were brought from the United States, and is available in
two versions.

The first of them was equipped with a so-called "short" hulls with distinctive
curved frontal sheet. Armament, consisting of a 7.62-mm machine gun
"Maxim" housed in a single cylindrical tower, installed on the roof of the
enclosure. Based on the minimum dimensions armored crew could consist of
two persons.

The second version was closer to "Austin" and "Izhora Fiat". Along the length
of casing it was almost equivalent to the first modification, but the front sheet
has a large angle of inclination. Armament armored vehicles was reinforced
by the installation of a 7.62-mm machine guns in the two towers, located at
the sides of the sector and provides a circular firing. Judging by the
photographs of those years, the lower part of the tower may have a beveled
front panel. Chassis modifications both had a 4x2 with front single and rear
double wheels with tubeless tires of hard rubber.

On the number of built armored vehicles, which are now generally called
"Fiat-Omsk", as well as their combat use of precise data are not preserved.
Perhaps we can talk about 10-15 machines, which during 1919-1920. White
Guard units were used against the Red Army. The further fate of "Fiats" quite
vague. Presumably at the end of that year, at least two cars were two-tower
modifications to Vladivostok and used DDA army, another of the same
armored vehicle fell into the hands of the Japanese. After the establishment
of Soviet power in the Far East, these machines do not pass on the
documents. Perhaps "Fiats" sent to be scrapped in 1921 or 1922.

Combat weight ?
CREW, pers. 2-3
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?

~ 594 ~
 Height mm ?
one - two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim",
Armament <
the obr.1910
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES mechanical sight
RESERVATIONS 6 mm
ENGINE Carburetor
TRANSMISSION mechanical
CHASSIS 4x2
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?

Russo-Balt Type C

Russian Empire (1915) Armored car 8 built total

The Russo-Balt Company

The only proper Russian major manufacturer, car maker and, later, warplane-maker,
was Russo-Balt (or Russo-Baltique), founded in 1903 at Riga, then the industrial center
of Imperial Russia, with German and Russian private funds. This was at first a
subsidiary of the German Company Van der Zypen & Charlier based in Cologne and
known in 1874 as the Russo-Baltic wagon Factory. Cars were built from 1909 at the
railway car factory RBVZ, until 1915 when the company was evacuated near Moscow
(after the revolution taking the name of BTAZ.). By 1909 the company launched the 24-
30 and later the Type C, which was declined in many variants. This was a reliable
model which was chosen, due to its availability, to create one of the first Russian
armored cars before the war, in 1912.

Design

It is possible that engineer Dobzhansky supervised the conversion or what was the
appearance of the 1912 model. However, by September 1914, the preliminary design of
the armored car Type C was done by Dobzhansky and the Captain of the Staff Corps of
Naval Architects, AY Grauen. It was originally a four-seat S24/40 (series XIII-bis),
keeping only the front ones, the rear being covered with a fighting platform. The sides
were covered with sloped riveted plates (possibly boiler plates) around a steel frame.
The driver sat on the left, seeing through a small sight slit. At his right was seated the
co-driver, manning one of the machine-guns. It was in a semi-fixed position protruding
from a folding panel pierced in the center. At the rear plate there was another one,
centered, and two side panels with apparently slightly offset machine-guns to allow the
two machine-gunner to fire simultaneously from each side. These panels allowed some
traverse. There was a small storage box above the driver/co-drivers seats, and a large
double articulated hatch on the fighting compartment top. This was the only access to
the car. Due to the lower height of the fighting compartment, it is likely that the gunners
sat too, possibly on leather straps. Despite the lack of a turret, these four ports allowed

~ 595 ~
to cover almost 360 degrees. Due to the cramped interior its more likely that only two or
three machine-guns were manned at the same time, and one (possibly the side one)
repositioned on another port if needed. At first only eight vehicles were converted, on
the N530, 532 (?), 533, 534, 535, 538, 539, and 542 chassis completed by early
October 1914, possibly the Type C.

Production and Active service

Little is known about the beginning of the vehicles, which were apparently formed into
the very first Russian armored unit in operation. During the fall of 1914, the Russian
automobile corp composed of 15 Russo-Balt and several Putilov-Garford trucks. These
were split into small detachments counting two Russo-Balts and one Putilov-Garford for
gun support. They were highly successful and led to many other armored car
conversions, for more similar units, from 1915 to 1917. The fate of these vehicle is
unknown. Other variants of the vehicle were the C24-30 series half-track, used for
reconnaissance and ambulance, and a heavy-duty AA version of the T40-65 truck with a
lendera-Ternavskogo QF 37 mm (1.46 in) gun. The vehicle was unarmored, equipped
with large folding side pedestal legs and was assisted by a M24-40 supply carrier.

Russo-Balt C specifications
4.46 x 1.60 x 2 m (14.635.256.56 ft) (according to our own
Dimensions (L-w-h)
chart)

Total weight, battle approx. 2.5 tons (5511 lbs)

~ 596 ~
ready

Crew 4-5 (driver, co-driver, commander, 1-2 extra gunners)

Propulsion Russo-Balt C 40 HP, 4-cyl, air-cooled

Speed 20 km/h (11 mph)

Operational range
100 km (62.13 km)
(road)

Armament 3-4 x 7.62 mm (0.3 in) Vickers machine-guns, 5000 rounds

Suspension 42, dependent leaf spring suspension

Armor 6.5 mm (0.2 in), sloped

Total production 8

Russo Balt C in Russian service, 1915.

~ 597 ~
A modern reconstruction in action.

~ 598 ~
~ 599 ~
~ 600 ~
~ 601 ~
Armored car Isotta Fraschini,

~ 602 ~
Official designation: Isotta Fraschini,
Alternative notation:
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: built one prototype, the White Army was used until 1919

Setup Project hulls on the chassis of freight cars Isotta-Frascini was designed by staff
captain Mgebrova in 1916-1917 gg. Like the rest of the machine, "Isotta" received the
body of the original design, it is not technological in manufacturing due to its complex
shape with a rational arrangement of armor plates, but who had a better bullet
resistance. Armored armament consisted of two 7.62mm machine guns such as "max",
were in separate facilities and provides a circular firing, except for a narrow sector of
the front and rear. Above the fighting compartment, to observe the surroundings, it was
installed commander's cupola. Chassis machine kept 4x2, using "hard" tires, which
considerably worsened patency potyazhelevshy "Isotta" cross country. For additional
protection of the rear dual wheels closed semicircular armored housings.

~ 603 ~
It was built, at least one sample of the armored car, after the revolution turned into the
hands of the Whites and the name "Cherep" (1567) took part in the battles on the
Volga front in mid-1919

ERIC SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Isotta-Fraschini sample 1917

Combat weight 6000 kg

CREW, pers. 3-6
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 5620
Width 2850
Height mm 2800
Clearance, mm ?
Wheelbase mm ?
WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun Maxim obr.1910 of towers
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES machine gun sights
housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS feed -
roof -
bottom -
ENGINE Petrol, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2: front-wheel driven, single, rear wheel drive twin,
CHASSIS
tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs
SPEED 65 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?

~ 604 ~
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
missing
COMMUNICATION

Tsar tank

Russian empire (1914) Experimental vehicle 1 prototype built

The Tsar Tank (Russian: -), also known as the Netopyr' () which
stands for Pipistrellus (a genus of bat) or Lebedenko Tank ( ), was an
unusual Russian armoured vehicle developed by Nikolai Lebedenko (
), Nikolai Zhukovsky ( ), Boris Stechkin (
), and Alexander Mikulin ( ) from 1914 onwards. The
project was scrapped after initial tests deemed the vehicle to be underpowered and
vulnerable to artillery fire.

History

It differed from modern tanks in that it did not use caterpillar tracksrather, it used a
tricycle design. The two front spoked wheels were nearly 9 meters (27 feet) in diameter;
the rear-mounted third wheel was only 1.5 metres (5 feet) high. The upper cannon turret
reached nearly 8 meters high. The hull was 12 metres wide with two more cannon in
sponsons. Additional weapons were also planned under the belly. Each wheel was
powered by a 250 hp (190 kW) Sunbeam engine.[1]

The huge wheels were intended to cross significant obstacles. However, due to
miscalculations of the weight, the rear wheel was prone to getting stuck in soft ground

~ 605 ~
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.

A weird behemoth

The Tsar tank, also known as the Lebedenko tank or Netopyr, is probably one of the
weirdest armored fighting vehicles in history, and it seems more in place in a science
fiction novel or steampunk nightmare than real-life. While not a tank in any way, as it
had no tracks, the Tsar tanks huge wheels were yet another answer to the problem of
passing over rough terrain and other obstacles. A set of rear wheels were meant to
stabilize the tank, while the front wheels, powered by a 250 hp engine each, would
easily pass over most obstacles.

The idea was first envisioned by engineer Nikolai Lebedenko, and he also received help
from Nikolai Zhukovsky, Boris Stechkin and Alexander Mikulin. A scale model with a
spring motor was presented to the Tsar of the Russian Empire, and he was impressed by
its ability to climb some thick books laid in front of the model. He decided to fund the
project, and the tank earned the name of its sponsor, who would ultimately sink 250,000
rubles into it, which is equivalent to several tens of millions of dollars today.

A single prototype was built. The hull resembled a tuning fork, with the two 9 m wheels
mounted on the arms. Each of them was powered by a 250 hp engine. At the center of
the hull a large structure was added, containing a top turret and sponsoons. These would
have held the Tsar tanks crew, ammunition and armament, probably a myriad of
cannons and machine-guns. The vehicle had to be dismounted into several parts in order
to be transported.

~ 606 ~
The prototype was shipped to a proving ground 60 km from Moscow, where it was
demonstrated in front of a commission. However, it soon got bogged down and it was
not retrieved. The whole project was shut down along with the whole concept of ferris-
wheel-tank, especially due to the costs and inefficiency of the concept. The prototype
remained on the spot until 1923, when it was scrapped.

Would it have worked?

It is often stated that the Tsar tank was underpowered, but explaining its failure is not
that simple. 500 hp, for the time, was a huge amount of power and even given the
weight of the vehicle, its power-to-weight ratio would have been better than any other
tank at the time, even the light Whippet. However, the way that power was transmitted
to the wheels was crude. But the biggest problem of the Tsar tank was its weight
distribution. Due to some miscalculations in the design phase, too much weight rested
on the rear wheels, which, indeed, got stuck during the tests.

Due to the sheer dimensions of the vehicle, it would have been very prone to damage
from artillery, especially the rather fragile front wheel. Also, the armament would have
had very limited arcs of fire due to being blocked by the front wheels. But the
pure psychological effect of seeing such a beast rolling towards the trenches would
have been tremendous.

Tsar tank specifications

Dimensions 17.8 x 9 x 12 m (58 x 30 x 39 ft)

~ 607 ~
Weight ~60 tons (132,000 lbs)

Crew 10

Propulsion 2 x 240 hp Maybach

Speed (road) 17 km/h (11 mph)

Armament Machine-guns and guns

Production 1 prototype

~ 608 ~
~ 609 ~
The Russian Lebedenko or "Tsar Tank", is without doubt the most strange Armoured
Fighting vehicle ever constructed. It should, however, not be dismissed purely as
another hare-brained scheme, but must be seen against the backdrop of the early tank
development that was taking place at this time, and that in all countries was very
experimental, and leading to many curious and non-functional designs.

The history of the Lebedenko starts in 1914 with the engineer N. Lebedenko, who was
at that point employed in a private firm that worked for the Russian War Department,
designing artillery devices. Lebedenko, with the aid of N. Zhukovskiy and his nephews,
B. Stechkin and A. Mikulin, came up with the idea (originally thought as a sort of
enlarged gun carriage) of a motor driven battle machine, weighing some 40 tons,
running on one small double-wheel, and two very large spoked wheels, almost 9 metres
in diameter, in a tricycle arrangement. The big wheels were attached to the hull, shaped
like a tuning-fork, which tapered down to the double wheel, mounted in the rear, which
provided the means for steering the vehicle. The designers hoped that this original

~ 610 ~
configuration would make it possible for the vehicle to cross practically all obstacles.
They initially called the vehicle "Nepotir", but it came to be known as the Lebedenko,
after the designer. (Sometimes it was nicknamed "The Tsar", after the financier.)

But who would finance this project? A small working wooden model of the Nepotir was
made, driven by a spring motor taken from a gramophone. Then the model was
demonstrated to Tsar Nicholas II, who was much impressed when the toy made it across
some scale obstacles, i.e. a number of thick books! He promptly ordered the designers
to go ahead with the project, and allocated the needed funds himself. Construction of
the full-scale Lebedenko started.

The drive assembly consisted of two 240hp Maybach engines, salvaged from German
Zeppelins, one for each big wheel. The wheels (designed by Zhukovskiy) had a T-
shaped metal mid-section. A wooden overlay was then fastened to the shelf of the T-
beam. The drive itself was very simple. Each engine drove an automobile wheel, which
was in turn pressed down (by means of a railway carriage spring) until it touched the
wooden overlay of the big wheel, and by counterrotating, the automobile wheel
transferred the energy from the engine to the big running wheel. (In case of over-
heating, the driving wheels disengaged and protected the engine from seizing.) It was
thought that the Nepotir should be able to reach a top speed of some 17 km/h which
would have been impressive compared to other WW1 AFVs. The hull of the vehicle
would have one top-mounted centrally placed turret, equipped with MGs and/or light
cannons, giving the Lebedenko a total height of some 12 metres. In addition to this, at
the outer flanks of the hull, small MG sponsons were to be placed. There was also a
small weapons turret placed underneath the belly of the beast.

The construction progressed quickly, and at the end of July 1915 the Nepotir was ready
for its first trials. Because of its weight and size, it was designed to be transported in
sub-assemblies, to be assembled again before action at the front (like it was later
envisioned for the huge German K-Wagen). This procedure was followed, and the sub-
assemblies were transported to the testing ground, some 60km from Moscow. At the

~ 611 ~
reassembly it was found out that the weight of the machine exceeded calculations by
some 50%, due to the use of thicker metal. In August the test began in front of a high
commission. It started well. The vehicle moved well over some firm ground, crushed a
tree, but then went into a soft patch where the small rear double-wheel got stuck in a
ditch. Soon it was obvious that the engines were too small, as they were unable to free
the beast.

After this fiasco two of the designers, Mikulin and Stechkin, worked on equipping the
vehicle with more powerful engines, but this plan was never fulfilled. The military had
decided against the project. It was simply too expensive, it had thus far cost some
250,000 roubles. Also the vehicle (and then primarily its wheels) was deemed to be too
vulnerable to artillery fire, which probably was quite true. (And by this time both
France and Britain were near to completing new types of all-terrain armoured fighting
vehicles, running on caterpillar tracks.)

The Lebedenko stood there, bogged down, for the rest of the war and was finally
scrapped in 1923.

WWI reanimated an idea of the Middle Ages. The idea was based on a simple fact: it is
easier to hold the line than to attack. An attacking side needs protection. There were
armored vehicles invented for that purpose, but they were useless on bad roads. The
passability of a wheel directly depends on its diameter, so engineers decided to make
huge wheels for armored vehicles. This idea first occurred to Captain Nikolay
Lebedenko, the head of the Moscow military and technical laboratory. Nikolay
Lebedenko suggested the project of a very unusual military vehicle in May of 1915. It
was an armored vehicle with huge wheels, which looked like a gun-carriage. Engineers
Boris Stechkin and Alexander Mikulin (they later became famous Russian
academicians) started working on the project.

Mikulin remembers: "Nikolay Lebedenko invited me to come to his office, he locked

the door and whispered to my ear: 'Professor Nikolay Zhukovsky referred you as a
skilful engineer. Do you agree to work on the project of the machine that I invented?
Such machines will help to break through the whole German front just within one night,
and Russia will win the war.'"

It is worth mentioning that Lebedenko was not the only person, who suggested a project
of an armored vehicle with huge wheels. However, it was Nikolay Lebedenko, who

~ 612 ~
managed to realize his project in real life. The wheels of his vehicle were nine meters in
diameter. The machine weighed about 40 tons, it was nine meters high, 17 meters long
and 12 meters wide. Yet, the machine was not equipped with guns, for the Central
Artillery Department provided guns only for the projects, that were considered ready for
practical usage.

The machine was tested in August of 1917. It moved, broke an old, large, birch tree on
its way and got stuck in the ground with its rear roller. Another test took place in 1918,
but it was not a success either. Nikolay Lebedenkos further fate is not known. Like a
lot of other people, he vanished in the turmoil of post-revolutionary events in Russia.
Academician Boris Stechkin thinks that Lebedenko probably died. Lebedenkos
machine was called the Tsar Tank. It did not take an honorable place next to the Tsar
Bell or the Tsar Cannon. The Tsar Tank rusted in the woods, until it was dismantled in
1923. That was the end of the inglorious history of the first Russian self-propelled
armored vehicle.

Such unlucky inventors as Nikolay Lebedenko became a real disaster for the Russian
military in the beginning of the 20th century. There were too many projects of wonder
arms. For example, an engineer offered to use boiler metal for producing rolls of six
meters in diameter, which would be tens of meters long. As an inventor thought,
soldiers could roll those rollers in front of them. Rollers were also supposed to be
outfitted with machine-guns at its ends. The inventor wrote all that in a letter, which
was completed with a touchy request "Please, let me know, if there anything else that
I can invent to fight the enemy." However, the engineer did not specify the way, how
soldiers were supposed to turn those huge rollers or roll them up hills.

Those so-called inventors could not boast of their engineering knowledge, although
experienced engineers suggested unreal monsters sometimes too. For instance, there
was an interesting project of an "upgraded tortoise", which was suggested by engineer
Navrotsky. The machine was supposed to weigh 192 tons, to move with the help of
three rolls and to have an unimaginable complex of ordnance 16 guns and ten
machine-guns.

~ 613 ~
European engineers also dreamed of designing such movable fortresses. Major of the
Royal Naval Aviation Service Hetterington projected a "land cruiser" in the beginning
of 1915. The British defense monster was supposed to have three wheels of 12 meters in
diameter, six guns and 12 machine-guns. The project was considered at the committee
for land cruisers: the mass of the giant cruiser made up one thousand tons. The director
of the ship-building department refused to build such a monster.

A certain time later, British designers liked the caterpillar ordnance idea, which pushed
the "huge wheels" idea into the background, and resulted in the invention of a caterpillar
tank. Winston Churchill was one of proponents of the novelty. A new model of an
English tank was named after him during WWII. However, the invention of caterpillar
tanks did not stop Russian engineers from designing something new and extraordinary.
In 1928, a Russian engineer recommended the Russian military command to subdue the
enemy with the help of a self-propelled two-wheeled vehicle. The diameter of its wheels
was 12 meters. Yet, the whole project was briefly described on several sheets of paper,
which did not allow to get to essence of it.

The success of caterpillar tanks reduced the interest to big-wheeled armored vehicles.
Yet, the idea of a big wheel still excited engineers minds even in WWII. The German
company Krupp got back to the old idea in 1944 and constructed a 40-ton armored self-
propelled vehicle. Its wheels were 2,5 meters in diameter. There was only one vehicle
like that built, though. It is currently exhibited in a defense technology museum
(Kubinka) in the Moscow region.

~ 614 ~
Developer: Lebedenco
Started in: 1914
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1915
The reason for the completion of works: besperspektivnot project wheeled tank.

Combat vehicles Lebedenco designs can be rightly regarded as the world's first
vysokokolesnym tank, the idea of which it became popular in the 1920s. Apparently,
the initial project has matured more in 1914, with the idea to make a tank with huge
wheels prompted its Asian carts that crossed the wide ditches easily. True then
Lebedenco did not design team with qualified professionals, without whose help its
implementation impossible. Within a few months of the talented Russian inventor was
able to win over the B.Stechkina and then A.Mikulina. The latter was made an open
offer "Do you agree to develop a machine invented drawings me! With the help of these
machines in one night is a breakthrough all-German front, and Russia won the war ... ".
To refuse such an adventurous and at the same time exciting venture Mikulin did not
consider it necessary.

Wheel tank was decided to make a huge gun carriages. Two front wheels with spokes
have a T-section and a diameter of 9 meters - so large caused by the fact that this
machine was to overcome the wide ditches and trenches, as well as high vertical walls.
To the shelf brand, covered timber by rail springs pressed two rubber-coated roller (car
wheels), which are rotating in opposite directions, cranked by friction impeller. Rollers
were connected to the shaft of the engine via the conical gear pairs. In the case of
impeller jamming on any obstacle rollers probuksovyvaya rim, performed the function
of the safety clutch. Directional control was carried out with the help of the rear guide
trolley, on which rested the tail frame. Rear roller consisting of three rollers with a
diameter of 1.5 meters, is leading. Rollers had driven by two high-speed engines
Maybach, developed capacity of 240 hp at 2500 \ minutes. These motors were removed
from downed in 1914 the German "Zeppelin", and together with Mikulin designed
powertrain assumed to be installed on the tank.

~ 615 ~
The body of the tank, thanks to the efforts Lebedenco, who sought to maximize the
firepower of the acquired pronounced cross-shaped when viewed from the front. At the
top and bottom of the cylindrical towers located where expected occupancy 8-10
machine gun "Maxim", with the top tower was raised to a height of 8 meters, and at the
same time acted as a review felling. (- 76.2 mm according to other sources) guns with
firing angles of 180 degrees on each side sponsons with two 37-mm were made.

According to the project reservation housing is 5-7 mm, the towers - 8 mm. However,
these figures had to be changed soon. Maximum design speed of the tank was 16.8 km \
h (ie 28 meters per minute, for a machine of this size is very good indicator), technical
secondary - 10 km \ h, range - about 60 km.

Thanks to his connections in high society Lebedenco managed to enlist the support of
Prince Lvov, and get an audience with the emperor. Specially made for the purposes of
demonstration model scale of 1:30 have had to Nicholas II great effect - for half an hour
the Emperor and the inventor of the crawled on the floor, were cut to a small copy of the
tank easily creeps through scattered on the floor volumes of "Codes of Laws of the
Russian Empire." After that, it was ordered to allocate funds and opening accounts in
the financing of the project. Most of the costs assumed the "Cities Alliance" and GVTU.

Incidentally, the name "Bat" this car has received for that when you carry over the rear
wheels, it looked like a bat with folded wings, dangling from the ceiling. Also tank
Lebedenco called "mastodon", due to its enormous size, but the title of "King-tank"
emerged after the revolution.

Assembling machine parts carried in the arena at the Khamovniki barracks, and the
wheels were made near Dmitrov. After that, units and tank units moved into the forest at
the station of Dmitrov Orudevo 60 km from Moscow. It cleared the installation site, was
surrounded by barbed wire, brought narrow-gauge railways. Installation was carried out
in the strictest secrecy and security of the site is constantly carried Cossack patrols.

The manufacturing process has not been without troubles. Due to the acute shortage of
armor steel instead of 5-7 mm of the proposed project had to use armor plates of 8-10
mm. Of course, this increases the security of the tank, but its mass is increased from 45
to 60 tons.

The tank began to gather at the end of July 1915 for each section, just as it is supposed
to do on the front. The assembly of "bat" was completed in August and in the presence
of representatives of the army started its sea trials. Details of these events have been
repeatedly described in various sources differ only information about the presence of
weapons (there is every reason to believe that the tank received two 37-mm cannon and
two pulemetova, but without ammunition).

Apparently not trusting your child "outsider" mechanics took the driver's seat Mikulin
and Stechkin fulfill the role of minder, start the engine. The car moved on the wooden
flooring to the applause and shouts of "Hurrah!" At the bottom of the assembled people.
Having got in the way of birch was immediately broken, partly confirmed the
calculations of the designers of "all-terrain" of the tank. However, it was too early to
rejoice - as soon as the floor is over "Bat" was able to drive on soft ground about 10
meters, then the rear roller firmly stuck in just any shallow pit. No matter how trying

~ 616 ~
Mikulin and Stechkin power "Maybach" is clearly not enough. Subsequent attempts to
pull "the bat" were unsuccessful in view of the large weight of the tank. Realizing that
the project fails, the group Lebedenco agreed that for the wheel motors tank capacity is
required no less than 300 hp For the development of the new 2-stroke engine, called
ABMS again took Mikulin and Stechkin. The funds of the military department, and with
the help of the company "and from the Weser" they managed to collect a prototype. His
tests conducted in 1916, were far from encouraging - after 1.5 minutes of operation, the
engine is out of order due to the deformation of the connecting rods and housing. It
became evident that for developing long-term motor need too much time and the
autumn of 1916 came the first news of the combat use of British diamond-shaped tanks,
the combat effectiveness of which was estimated then much higher than in the tank
Lebedenco.

By this time, the Defense Ministry has radically changed its attitude to the "bat" by
abandoning its further financing. Here Lebedenco "remembered" all the flaws of his
tank, related primarily to the running gear. And indeed, when the projectile hit in the
spokes and, even worse, in the wheel hub, the machine is completely immobilized.
Make it was easier, given the miniscule movement speed "bat" on the battlefield and his
huge size. In addition, even 10-mm book did not protect the crew and engines of any
caliber shells. Of course, it would be possible to increase the armor, mounted on the
main wheels solid wheels, and the diameter and width of the rear roller to increase, but
the military deal with these issues considered superfluous.

There is also an opinion that Lebedenco tank project was considered a failure in
advance, and it was built only to prove the utter bankruptcy of future tanks as fighting
machines. Ostensibly this was done in the interests of British intelligence, tends to leave
Russia technically in the background, but no documents in this regard has not yet been
found.

As for the "bat", the only sample up to the February Revolution was under guard. After
complication of the political situation in the former Russian Empire, the new
government finally ceased to be interested in a giant tank, not who brought nothing but
a waste of money. In such circumstances, continue to work on obviously hopeless
machine did not make sense, and "Bat", left in the woods outside Moscow, a few years
stood idle. Locals gradually took away the car piece by piece, until they were available
to disassemble the tank for scrap in 1923. Like this story Lebedenco tank could finish,
but ...

A few years ago (in 2006), by local searchers of "Kosmopoisk" on the supposed site
parking "bat" were found small pieces of metal parts and a cylindrical tower with a
diameter of 2 meters with round holes. Naturally, no internal equipment is kept, but the
description of eyewitnesses it could well be a machine gun turret. Perhaps some parts
lying on a local farmstead. So what else it is hoped that Lebedenco tank can become a
museum piece at least in the form of fragments of its design.

45000 kg (estimated)
Combat weight
~ 60000 kg (actual)
CREW, pers. ~ 10
DIMENSIONS

~ 617 ~
Length mm 17800
Width 12000
Height mm 9000
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS two 37-mm cannon and two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim"
allowance of ammunition ? 8000-10000 shells and cartridges
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead - 10 mm
board housing - 10 mm
tail boom - 8 mm
RESERVATIONS towers - 8 mm
feed - 8 mm
the bottom - 8 mm
roof - 8 mm
ENGINE two the Maybach, carburetor, rated at 250 hp at 2500 \ min
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
two front wheels with a diameter of 9 meters and the leading
CHASSIS rear roller with a diameter of 1.5 meters, the suspension
blocked the helical springs
16.8 km \ h (maximum)
SPEED (project)
10 km \ h (secondary technical)
Cruising on the highway ~ 60km
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 618 ~
The Mendeleyev Tank

In most countries participating in the Great War there soon evolved, quite
independently, ideas of breaking the rigid trench systems by using a tracked, armoured
and gun equipped vehicle. But the idea was quite new, and the form of this new vehicle
was not in any way given. In many countries there circulated ideas about true
"Landships", huge, seemingly irresistible vehicles that seemed to be more inspired by,
say, HG Wells or Jules Verne than by true reason. The Russian Mendeleyev Tank was
one of these.

The designer behind this design was a naval engineer named V.D. Mendeleyev. From
1903 until 1906 he worked in the hipbuilding department of the Kronstadt Institute of
Naval Engineering, and at shipyards in Petersburg until 1916. Mendeleyev's background
sure showed in his designs: the "Armoured Land Cruiser" he proposed in 1915 used

~ 619 ~
heavy armoured plating, evidently of the kind used on war ships (150-100mm thick), an
engine from a submarine (the whole thing had a vague submarine-ish look) and a
120mm Naval gun. (Note however, that this gun had not a rigid mount, as has been put
forward by some, but a modern recoil system - the whole system was to be found inside
the tank.) It was a VERY big thing, weighing some 170 tons, making it one of the
biggest AFVs ever proposed. (It would have been even heavier than the German 150 ton
K-Wagen.) It would have been served by a crew of eight.

The calculated speed of this monster was an impressive 22-24 km/h, which would have
been good, if ever it was realized. An obvious drawback - that can be seen in many
early tank designs - is the configuration of the front of the tracks, giving it a very poor
climbing capacity. Had it ever been used, it would probably have suffered the same fate
as so many French St Chamond tanks: it would have got stuck! The trench crossing
capacity would have been nearly nil. Most possibly the most remarkable features of the
design was that the running gear was retractable! The road-wheels were mounted on a
pneumatic suspension system that could lower the hull to the ground, thus covering the
running gear and converting the tank into a static blockhouse.

As far as we know, no vehicles of this type were ever built. (There is some speculation
that work might have started on a prototype.) A vehicle of similar configuration but of
much more reasonable dimensions was, however, proposed.

The Mendeleyev: Another Russian Tank that Never Was

It is a well known fact, that Russian industry in the beginning of the twentieth century
strongly lagged behind the industry of Europe. Nevertheless, the development of the
country showed impressive progress. Together with growth of manufacture, Russian
engineers had been developed a number of interesting projects in different areas of
technology, including military ones. One interesting AFV project was offered by
Russian engineer Vasiliy Mendeleyev (1886-1922). He was the son of the well known

~ 620 ~
Russian scientist Dmitriy Mendeleev. Vasiliy Mendeleyev had graduated from the
Kronshtadt Marine Engineering School, and worked as the engineer at a ship-building
factory.

Over the course of several years (1911-1915) and without any assistance, Mendeleev
worked in his own time on the AFV project. One of variants of this machine, with
weight about 170 tons, was to be be armed with 120-mm gun placed in the forward part
of the armored hull, and with a machine gun in the rotating turret. It carried a
ammunition load of 51 shells. The thickness of the armored protection of the hull, was:
front: 150 mm, sides and rear: 100 mm. Maximum speed: 24 km/hour. It was to have a
crew of 8. The tank was never built.

Inside the armored hull, beside the engine, gear box, gun and the internal equipment, the
running gear was placed. It was to be powered by a powerful petrol engine. The petrol
tanks were to be placed in the aft part of the machine, in an isolated compartment. The
gear box was mechanical, with four forward gears and one for reverse. The direction of
rotation of the cranked shaft of the engine could also be changed.

The tank had a special gas suspension, which not only eased the travel of the vehicle
when on the move, but that also allowed for the tank to move with the hull half-lowered
hull, and even completely lower the hull when stopped, if necessary. The idea of the

~ 621 ~
inventor, was that the full or partial lowering of the hull would protect the most
vulnerable part of the machine, the running gear, from enemy fire.

Lowering the hull to the ground also protected the running gear from the harmful effects
of the powerful recoil of the gun. Movement over long distances was to be done by rail,
but the AFV was supposed to have a special device that allowed it to be moved upon the
rails, and even move by its own, or with the help of a locomotive. To facilitate steering
of the tank, V.D.Mendeleyev suggested add apply pneumatic servo-drivers to the main
friction clutch, a box of transfers and the mechanism of turn. On a case the pneumatic
servo-drivers failed reserve mechanical drives were the be provided. The working of the
gun was also be done with mechanical help, with increased the rate of fire. The
machine-gun turret, that could be rotate 360 degrees, could also be lowered into the
hull, again with the aid of a pneumatic device. A pneumatic device was also used for the
adjustment and tension of the tracks.

Position for firing the gun (the hull is lowered to the ground).

All these pneumatic devices were provided with necessary quantity of compressed air
with the aid of a special compressor, driven by the engine of the tank. Four operating
posts were provided, which allowed any of members of crew to operate machine, in
case the driver was wounded or killed or the steering apparatus provided to him was
damaged. There were plans of making a second variant of the Mendeleyev Tank, but
only sketchy data is known. It was supposed to have a larger gun with a calibre of up to
127 mm, two machine-gun turrets instead of on, plus an armour with thickness up to 50
mm.

~ 622 ~
The 120-mm Canet gun, which Mendeleyev planned to use as main armament.

But was it really necessary to protect the machine with so much armour, and to arm it
with such a large-calibre gun in 1911? Tanks of WWI were protected much more
poorly, and the calibre of tank guns did not exceeded 75 mm. Mendeleyevs tank is not
to be seen as a tank proper, but more a mobile artillery position or big self-propelled
gun, primarily used for the destruction of fortifications. In other words, it was thought
of as a gigantic Bunker-buster. (This idea would later surface, in the form of the also
unpractical but impressive KV-2.) It could not really be used as a tank due to its limited
mobility. However, all this at all does not belittle the merits of talented Russian
engineer V.D. Mendeleyev. His project was a truly original work which contained a
number of truly courageous and innovative features, and some of them has been realized
later on.

Technical Data

Weight 173,2t; weight of the reservation 86,46 ?: Weight of armament: 10,65t. Crew 8
men. Length with gun: 13 m. Length of the hull: 10 m Height with the machine-gun
turret up: 4,45m. Height with the MG turret lowered: 3,5 m. Height of the hull: 2,8 m.
Main gun ammo: 51 shells. Thickness of the armour: 150 mm (front) and 100 mm
(sides, back & roof). Capacity of the engine: 250 h.p. Maximum speed: 24 km/h.
Ground pressure: 2,5 kg per sq.sm.

Developer: D.Mendeleev
Started in: 1911
Year the first prototype:
The project is rejected due to the high complexity TECHNICAL

~ 623 ~
"Armored vehicle" designed engineer V.D.Mendeleevym, can be considered one of
the most developed projects super-heavy tank of the First World War, except for almost
built in the late 1918, the German "K-Wagen". Work on this fighting machine, more
appropriate extra-heavy self-propelled guns fire support, was launched in 1911, but only
24 August 1916 the project was submitted to the Commission GVTU. Unlike the other
proposals, the periodic tank differed very careful study. Description tank was divided
into several chapters: internal deployment of personnel, specification, table of weights,
calculation of the bearing surface, the passage (transportation) on the railway line.

Assuming that the tank should be a real "land battleship" Mendeleev decided to borrow
some design solutions from shipbuilders. The body of the machine, according to the
draft, had pronounced a box-like shape. Frontal and stern sheets, as well as the side
panels are solid rubber, and the roof was about five cross-sections of the sheet.
Immunity tank too little inferior battleships - the thickness of armor in the frontal part of
150 mm, sides and stern - 100 mm. As conceived by Mendeleev as thick armor needed
for protection against armor piercing projectiles caliber up to 6 inches (152.4 mm), but
theoretically it could withstand getting heavier ammunition. body frame was also
designed like a ship and consisted of stringers and frames.

No less impressive was the service. In front of the chassis to install column book-rests,
which resembled a ship's construction, was established 120 mm Canet gun with a
movable flat mask. Ammunition was located in a kind of "powder room" 46 shells were
laying in, on the trolley 4 and 1 in the breech gun. Feed shells carried by the suspended
monorail and trolleys. Light small arms consisted of one 7.62 mm machine gun
"Maxim", set in the pull-out tower on the roof of the enclosure. The thickness of the
walls of the tower was 8 mm.

The power plant consisted of carburetor engine "automotive type" liquid-cooled power
of 250 hp and pneumatic starting. It is located in the rear part closer to the left side.
Closer to the center of the body, under the armored deck, were the fuel tanks. the tank
has a mechanical transmission with 4-speed gearbox (3 + 1) and the differential.

Chassis tank was more than the original design. Assuming that the machine will have to
operate off-road, Mendeleev proposed to equip each of the 6 board of rollers air
suspension with vertical cylinders. On each side they are joined into a single system,
providing maximum ride and horizontal stability of the tank on the terrain. The total
length of the bearing surface of caterpillars was 6 meters, which determines the high
pressure on the ground, was 2.78 kg \ sm.kv.. The guide and drive wheels were in the
shape of pentagons, engaging the tracks for the shoe truck. In view of the fact that the
track is almost completely covered the body, the driving wheel located behind the top.
Since the return of the sea 120-mm gun was large enough when firing machine casing
~ 624 ~
was lowered to the ground. The stern hull leaf door, which served as the landing of the
crew has been performed, and to load ammunition.

Full tank crew consisted of 8 people: the commander, the chief mechanic, steering,
gunner, machine gunner and three gunner. All crew members have jobs other than the
commander, who was "a master of all trades." During the battle he was to be monitored
through the loopholes, to lead the crew work, adjust fire a gun and shoot from the
enemy infantry with a pistol. When moving the machine commander moved in the
forward part of the driver, which in turn "in the absence of the danger of battle is on the
roof of the car in the front part of it," and in a combat situation - inside the machine.

Control starting the engine, main clutch, transmission, turn, track tension, air intake
shutters, lifting turret carried a pneumatic system comprising a compressor and
compressed air cylinders. Inside the tank had lighting, consisting of 16 light bulbs.

Despite such a detailed study D.Mendeleeva project has not been carefully considered
in the military, already overloaded current work. Rather, its role was played by the
gigantism of the tank and its glut of different innovations, but these "illnesses" suffered
almost every project tracked armored vehicles of the time. Introduced later a second
version of the tank was much easier, differing 50mm booking, and was armed with a
127-mm naval gun and two 7.62mm machine guns in separate towers. Unfortunately, a
detailed technical description and sketches of the tank has not been preserved.

With regard to the first project, there were several significant flaws. For example, the
huge mass of the tank, according to the calculations is 170 tons, would have caused a lot

~ 625 ~
of problems in its operation. In conjunction with the proposed option powerplant that
gave the power density of only 1.5 hp \ t, it is almost entirely would eliminate the use of
tanks in a "lunar landscape". It turns out that the alleged driving performance
(maximum speed - up to 14 km \ h gradeability - 25 , -10 meter turning circle) proved
to be too optimistic. Furthermore, the chassis of the tank, with all its attractions, was too
expensive and complex to manufacture. Not much was a rational arrangement of the
small machine gun turret, which had a large "dead zone" when shooting straight-
forward and reverse. In addition, the spray tank commander duties would negatively
impact on the management of the car and the crew. It also remains unknown in what
capacity Mendeleev was going to apply the "Armored Vehicles" - all the main
parameters of his tank longer corresponded to the heavy self-propelled guns, which
during the Second World War were widely used during the storming heavily fortified
defensive lines.

Nevertheless, a construction of "armored vehicle" Mendeleev was very real. Of course,

it was possible to reduce the caliber of the main weapon and armor thickness (at the
same time reducing weight), to review the placement of the machine-gun armament and
responsibilities of crew members, only do it during the tumultuous revolutionary events
of 1916-1917. I do not become one.
Combat weight 173 200 kg
CREW, pers. 8
DIMENSIONS
10000 (on the body)
Length mm
13000 (with a gun)
Width ?
4450 (with polnyatoy tower)
Height mm
3500 (on the roof of the building)
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 120-mm gun Kane and one 7.62-mm machine gun
allowance of
51 shells and 10,000 rounds of ammunition (presumably)
ammunition
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead - 150 mm
housing board - 100 mm
RESERVATIONS Tower - 8 mm
roof -
bottom -

~ 626 ~
ENGINE Carburetor, 150 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type with four-speed gearbox and a differential
(On one side) 6 road wheels with pneumatic shock absorption,
CHASSIS support rollers 5, the upper steering wheel front and rear
upper drive wheel, caterpillar krupozvenchataya steel shoe
SPEED 14 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. 25
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

"Self-propelled armored tower 8-inch howitzer" Heavy self-propelled artillery unit

Drizhenko

Developer: Lieutenant Drizhenko

Started in: 1916
Year the first prototype: not built
The project is rejected because TECHNICAL nedorabotannost

At the end of 1916 "collection" GVTU replenished project "self-propelled armored

turret for 8-inch howitzer," made naval engineer lieutenant Drizhenko Admiralty
Plant. For tanks it had a very indirect relationship, as the main objective of this war
machine was to fight the enemy fortifications. In other words, it presented a draft
Drizhenko extra-heavy self-propelled artillery, which had in its design some original
solutions.

Housing ACS box form, for design reasons, was a "double armored box, which
resembles a cross section of the wagon" with booking a thickness of 10 mm. Her bow
provided for the installation of 203.2 mm howitzer in the middle part of the body
housed payment guns and ammunition, in the back - two gasoline engine 180 hp, each
of which is driven by a caterpillar on one side. In the case of the appearance of enemy
infantry on the roof of the housing equipped with two 7.62-mm machine gun.

Chassis self-propelled included (applied to one side) 20 of rollers with a diameter of

270 mm, semi-detached to the trolley 4, the front guide and a rear drive wheel. The
suspension was pneumatic, pneumatic chambers communicating with one side of the
trolley. Caterpillar teeth engagement with the truck width of 800 mm, consisted of
"sleepers", joined at the edges of the chains, rails. The estimated length of the
supporting surface was 6 meters, so to improve maneuverability when cornering
Drizhenko provided an automatic rise of extreme suspension trolleys. For protection
against dust served vozduhopritokov system of curved plates, and elastic chambers
"harmonics". Also prezhpolagalos presence of electric lighting and ventilation.

~ 627 ~
Other parameters of "self-propelled armored towers" were as follows: weight 46 tons,
crew - 6 people, the power density of the power plant - 7.8 hp / t, speed - 12 miles per
hour (14 km \ h) ground pressure - 0.5 kg / sm.kv.. As can be seen, in terms of some
ACS Drizhenko strongly resembled the project "armored car" engineer
V.D.Mendeleeva, differing for the better considerably less weight and more powerful
weapons.

Consideration of the draft was held at the Graduate School of Automotive and did not
cause much excitement in the military. The military pointed to the overall complexity of
the design, undeveloped transmission and control mechanism, the unreliability of
pneumatic systems. However, the summer of 1917 the project passed professionals
Main Artillery Directorate, which held its comparison with Allied tanks. At the same
time it emphasized that the tanks are fighting "at a distance of no more than 2-3 miles,"
which "is not allowed another kind of fire as direct fire." Thus, the project of self-
propelled howitzers Drizhenko with easy booking recognize irrational and decided to
give preference to the usual artillery tractor-drawn.

CURRENT TACTICAL AND TECHNICAL DATA

"Self-propelled armored turret for 8-inch howitzer"

Combat weight 46000 kg

CREW, pers. 6
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 8100
Width 3800
Height mm 3400
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS a 203.2-mm howitzer and two 7.62-mm machine gun
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead - 10 mm
board housing - 10 mm
body feed (top) - 10 mm
RESERVATIONS
body feed (bottom) - 6 mm
roof - 6mm
the bottom - 4 mm
ENGINE two carburetor, rated at 180 hp each
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
(On one side) of 20 road wheels interlocked in 4 to 5 trucks,
CHASSIS front steering and rear drive wheel, caterpillar
krupnozvenchataya steel Shoe width 800 mm
SPEED 14 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?

~ 628 ~
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
COMMUNICATION

Tank project Rybinsk plant

Developer: Rybinskmy plant

Started in: 1916
Year the first prototype:
The project does not raelizovan due to disruption of production

One of the most mysterious projects of the first Russian tanks can rightly be considered
the so-called "Rybinsk plant tank." The first mention of it is found in the book
Mostovenko "Tanks", published in 1956. In it, the author cited the calculated technical
characteristics of the two tanks, and sections of them, which was called "armored tractor
high-power."

According to the first draft of the tank weighed 20 tons, crew of 4 persons and booking
of 10-12 mm. The layout of the tank was a bit precarious. In front of the case, exactly
on the central axis was located a driver. To his right was mounted machine gun (type
not specified, but it could be a 20-mm automatic cannon), served by a machine gunner.
In the middle part of the case was the engine compartment, where ustanvlivalsya engine
200 hp In the aft compartment was equipped with a gun with a 107-mm gun.

The tank of the second project was much lighter and weighed 12 tons. Chassis, engine
and overall design are likely to remain unchanged. Design speed was estimated at 12
km \ h. It changes the composition of armament - 107 mm instead involves the use of a
high-velocity 75-mm guns.

As can be seen and presented sketches, both projects have been worked out nice, but no
mention of them in the archives there is no (!). Now extended version of that "Rybinsk
tanks" was an April Fool's joke Academy of Armored Forces officers who have
published these projects in an academic paper. Nevertheless, every reason to believe the
Rybinsk plant tank still existed.

~ 629 ~
In early 1917, the Russian Defense Ministry beginning "test the waters" of the Allies
with a view to possible purchase of new armored vehicles. As part of the tank in the
spring of that year, it was agreed to supply 390 Schneider CA-1, but after a more
detailed assessment of their combat capabilities opt for light FT-17 was made in
September. Of course, to implement these plans in 1917 it failed due to the general
disruption of power, but a little earlier by representatives of the company "Russian
Renault" made a very tempting offer.

Preliminary design of the tank on the tractor chassis was introduced in the autumn of
1916 GVTU. In many ways, it matches the second project described Mostovenko, even
though the firm did not submit sketches. There is also information that in Rybinsk going
to build tanks, the basis for which can serve as a Colonel Etienne project from 1915,
rejected by Louis Renault, which then conducted active negotiations. We should not
exclude the possibility that this is the basis for the development of easy to "Rybinsk
tank", just before its practical implementation is not reached. GVTU refused to allocate
funds for the construction of at least one prototype, as the project "Russian Renault" did
not have a detailed description and is presented only in general terms.

CURRENT TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS TANK Rybinsk plant of

obr.1917

Combat weight 12000 kg

CREW, pers. 4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 4900 (on the body)
Width 2000
Height mm 2000
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 75-mm cannon and heavy machine gun
allowance of ammunition stock ognesmesi 30 rounds and 2,500 rounds of ammunition
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead - 12 mm
board housing - 10 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 10 mm
roof -
bottom -
ENGINE Carburetor, 200 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
(On one side) of rollers 10 semi-detached 4 truck, the front
CHASSIS
drive wheel, caterpillar krupnozvenchataya steel shoe
SPEED 12 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?

~ 630 ~
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

T-18, the first Soviet Tank

The T-18 is notable for being the very first Soviet designed and produced tank. (Up
until the introduction of this tank, the RKKA - Red Army - had used only foreign
designs, captured during the Civil War, like the Mk V, the FT and the Whippet.) The
story of the T-18 starts in 1926, when a high placed conference ordered the design of a
small "Escort" tank, replacing the FTs and FT clones (KS-1) in Soviet service.

~ 631 ~
The FT/KS-1 was considered too heavy, too expensive, and possessing a less than
optimal armament. As the competence of Soviet industry still left much to be desired,
foreign designs were looked into, specifically the Italian FIAT 3000, probably the best
tank in the world at that time, being much lighter, better armed, and faster than the

~ 632 ~
design it was supposed to copy, the French FT. Many original details of the FIAT 3000
were copied and used by the Soviet designers in the so called OAT Bureau (that did the
actual design), so one could say that the Soviet T-18 was a clone of a clone.

There were many difficulties both in the design, and the building of the new tank -
which was done in the "Bolshevik" plant in Leningrad. The first design was called the
T-16, but was so problematic, that it was immediately redesigned - e.g. both the hull and
the running gear were lengthened, and the engine and transmission were modified. The
result of this was the T-18 (also called MS-1).

The prototype T-18 was finished in late spring of 1927, and shipped to Moscow, where
it underwent its first trials. In February 1928 an order was placed for 108 T-18 for the
RKKA. The first production batch was delivered in time to participate in the parades
held in Moscow and Leningrad in November 1929. The production, however, went
ahead at a slow pace, the bottleneck being the supply of engines, and up until the end of
1929, only 96 tanks had been delivered.

The T-18 was a disappointment. Although it had better trench crossing capacity than the
T-16 (which was almost a joke in this respect) it was still very limited. In order to
improve it, a trench-crossing tail was fitted, which did help slightly, but it still had
problems. An attempt was made to fit a skid at the front as well, but that severely
reduced the forward view of the driver, and the idea had to be abandoned. The engine
was too weak, giving it a top speed of less than the 25kph that was aimed for, the fuel
tank too small, the cross-country performance poor. A meeting in 1929 decided to,
"Terminate the production of the T-18, as it was obsolete for the conduct of combat
operations under new conditions".

~ 633 ~
However, until new designs arrived, it was necessary to try to improve the T-18, for
instance by redesigning the track plates and idler wheels, and increasing the engine
power. The turret was given a rear, "box-like" bustle. This was called the, "T-18 Model
1930", but it was just a small improvement. (Speed was still too slow.) Production was
not halted until 1931, when the new T-26 was ready to take its place.

The T-18 was first used in combat during the border disputes with China, in 1929. All
in all, 959 were manufactured, and at the outset of Operation Barbarossa (June 1941,
during WW2) some 160 T-18s were still in service. Many were employed simply as
static pillboxes (their 37mm guns replaced by 45mm ones) but not too few were used in
actual combat against the German invaders, and this obsolete design not surprisingly
suffered heavy casualties during the summer and autumn of 1941. It was last used in the
Battle of Moscow in late 1941, by the 150th Tank Brigade, which (surprisingly so) still
had nine T-18 in service in February 1942.

~ 634 ~
Technical Details of the T-18 mod. 1930:
Weight (loaded), 5680kg
Crew, 2
Armament, 1 x 37mm PS/1 Gun, 1 x 7.62mm DT MG
Engine output, 40hp
Armour, max 16mm, min 8mm
Length, 4.35m
Height, 2.12m
Width, 1.76m

Developer: KB OAT
Started in: 1926
Year the first prototype: 1927
Tanks T-18 were navooruzhenii Red Army until 1942. Partially altered in armored gun
emplacements.

~ 635 ~
Barely begun testing "small" tank T-16, which had come to replace the captured Renault
FT-17 and their domestic counterparts, have identified several major shortcomings, with
the presence of which this war machine could not be put into service of the Red Army.
First of all, problems relating to the work of the power plant and transmission, most
often fail. In addition, the driving characteristics of the T-16 were much lower than
expected - the tank with the labors overcame the trench width of 1.5 meters, and with a
little more speed possessed comparable to FT-17 maneuverability. This is absolutely not
satisfied with the leadership of the Red Army, wanting to get a more reliable and
modern machine.

Meanwhile, in KB OAT drafted an improved version of the tank, named T-18, which
also added the MS-1 index ( "small support type 1"). The design of this machine is as
follows.

Chassis, compared with T-16, has been lengthened by one support roller with
independent vertical spring suspension. Now, on one side accounted for 7 of rollers,
support rollers 3 with a sheet amortization, front steering and rear wheel drive.
Melkozvenchataya caterpillar, consisting of 49-53 trucks Chiron 300mm, shifted from
the T-16. They were the teams and consisted of a cast base with a lug and groove for
engagement with the drive wheel. On the outer part of them naklepyvalas steel sole with
side inlet to increase the bearing surface when driving on loose ground. Beyond the sole
riveting also spur for improved traction. Truckee mated tubular steel finger. From the
loss of a finger on both sides was held bronze bushings, secured with locking pins.

The power plant consisted of a tank-row carburetor carburetor engine type MC air-
cooled, developed and modified by the famous Russian engineer Mikulin. Motor had 4
vertically arranged cylinder and develops maximum output of 35 hp engine start can be
operated with the electric starter or using a magneto. An interesting feature of MS have
been combined in one motor and gearbox unit connected in turn, with a friction clutch
and a satellite, to thereby track different rotation speed when rotating the tank. PSC has
a 5-speed (4 forward and 1 reverse) with the transfer of torque to the drive wheel with a
rotation brake.

Electrical equipment included a 6-volt battery, magneto and dynamo-magneto, which

fed the headlight, horn, tail lamp, lamp electrical panel and two portable lamps.
Electricity was done under the "tubes Begrmana", but later abandoned by her, going to
the armored cable. Later, a second series of machines, in the power supply system has
been introduced to reheat.

The body of the tank has undergone a purely "cosmetic" changes that will not affect his
appearance. Sheets of Cato armor steel with a thickness of 3 mm to 16 mm were joined
by rivets on the frame. In front of the case was tricuspid hatch, two of which reclined
section in the side and one up. In the open position the leaf were recorded. In the middle
part of the fighting compartment, it was a round neckline at the tower. On both sides of
her neck were made for refilling tanks, closed armored caps. Engine-transmission
compartment, the rear has been located, equipped with removable armored covers, and
rear armor plate were made holes through which air flows into the engine. This
approach to the cooling of the power plant is significantly improved its security, but for
the same reason often overheated motor. Like all light tanks of the time T-18 is
equipped with a special device called a "tail", which is attached to the aft armor plates.

~ 636 ~
This design has become fashionable since the First World War and was a two triangular
trusses, which are mounted between the steel plate - equipped with a "tail" of small tank
sizes can overcome ditches and trenches on two feet wider. In the stowed position, the
same "tail" was used as a "body" to carry one or two soldiers.

Installed on the T-18 tower structurally resembled faceted tower of the FT-17, which
was not surprising, given the similarity of the two machines. It was collected from six
armor plates 8 mm thick, mounted at a slight angle. The roof had a hole for observation
tower with viewing slots, closes the top mushroom cap. Armor plates hull and turret had
a thickness of 16, and the roof and the bottom 3 mm. At the bottom of the door
emergency exit was located. For ventilation in the side of the tower is a small hatch
closed by a circular or rectangular (tanks sample 1930) cover.

The tank's armament remained for the time standard. In the left front edge of the tower
mounted snub 37-mm gun type Gochkiss in the mantle result, helps to build a weapon
within a 35 horizontal by 30 and -8 vertically. The sight was quite simple and
consisted of the diopter and front sight. Pointing guns carried out the gunner using
shoulder rest. Although "gochkiss" was finalized in 1929, the forces of the Obukhov
plant engineers, this artillery system still had a number of major shortcomings. For
example, in the "inherited" from the French original has got a small initial velocity of
the projectile, giving little chance to defeat enemy tanks. In addition, the lack of an
optical sight is practically excluded from the firing stroke. However, there has been an
instrument of rate of 10-12 rounds per minute, and shrapnel shells allowed to effectively
deal with manpower and fortifications of the enemy at close range.

In the right front edge was 6.5 mm double-barreled gun, developed by designers V.
Fedorov, D. Ivanov and H. Shpagin. Two machine guns were placed in the trunk of a
single receiver placed in a ball bearing. Its locking mechanism allows for the need to
carry a machine gun in the rear face of the left tower of the sample in 1927 tanks. Power
it carried out two magazine capacity of 25 rounds each. The machine gun was equipped
with a shoulder rest, pistol grip and diopter sight. Ball joint permitted to point the gun in
the range of 64 horizontally and from + 30 and -8 vertically. Total ammunition
consisted of 104 shots (which included hand grenades with cast-iron and steel cases)
and 2016 rounds of ammunition.

Later, when the tank modernization Fedorov gun was replaced with a 7.62-mm machine
gun DT with a round magazine with 63 cartridges. From the usual DP he was
distinguished only by the absence housing on the trunk and a retractable metal stock.
Used diopter sight allows to deliver aimed fire at ranges of 400, 600, 800 and 1000
meters.
The only instrument of observation used on the T-18, was the periscope monocular type
( "armored Eye"), located in the folding panel driver's hatch and closes the top lid and
hulls. The most common observation of the surroundings was carried out through
peepholes in the housing tower and the commander's cupola.

Chassis T-18, with reference to one side, was 6 road wheels with rubber tires, semi-detached
three trucks on the spring shock absorber with a roller, a tension roller mounted on an inclined
damper, three supporting rollers, the front guide and a rear drive wheel. Guide track tension
wheel carried, mounted on the spacer with a rotary crank rod with the rod. The caterpillar of

~ 637 ~
the tank remained melkozvenchatye, with a width of track 300 mm, which provides ground
pressure by an average of 0.37 km \ sm.kv..

As such, the plant "Bolshevik" showed the tank to the customer. Demonstration of the
new car took place in mid-May 1927, but in combat tests she was admitted at once. To
begin the tank eliminate minor flaws, but to get the full armament and failed. In
addition, the tank immediately wanted to paint a standard green paint, but OAT
followed categorical order: "to paint the tank only after adopting ...", so that the
machine remains covered only the light brown soil, which subsequently became the
standard for all other experienced machines. Apparently, there is no superstition, it has
not done - after all painted T-16 proved to be too "raw".

Presumably 20-25 May tank passed field acceptance tests on one of the grounds of
Moscow, with the way the tank transported using rail car platform in the back of a
truck, trailer, and on his course - in all cases the results were positive. Shortly before
that, the car was given the designation "Small Tank support mod. 1927 MS-1 (T-
18)."

A special commission was formed to tank tests, which included representatives of the
Supreme Economic Council Mobupravleniya, OAT, the plant "Bolshevik",
Artupravleniya, Staff of the Red Army. Tests were conducted 11-17 June 1927, in the
area of the village. Romashkovo - Art. Nemchinovka (Moscow) mileage over rough
terrain. The tank was still "armed" only the layout of the 37-mm gun as a weapon in a
timely manner has not been submitted. In tests Jumping T-18 behaved no better - the
biggest challenge for him was a trench or ditch width 2 meters and a depth of about 1.2
meters. When you try to overcome the car stuck firmly and pull it was only possible
with the help of another tank or tractor that in combat conditions it was impossible to
do. On the other hand, the T-18 was more "nimble" than the FT-17 and the FIAT 3000,
developing a maximum road speed of 18 km \ h. In addition, in comparison with foreign
analogues Soviet tank had the best armor and a little more power reserve. From the
combination of the descriptions shown T-18 made a better impression than his older
"brother" T-16, which made it possible to recommend it for service armored units of the
Red Army.

After the next stage of improvements February 1, 1928 he was issued an order to build
108 tanks, of which the autumn ought to pass 30 cars. Their assembly is performed at
the plant "Bolshevik" and the means to manufacture military vehicles allocated
OSOAVIAKHIM. Fixed plan was not carried out in time, so the first 30 tanks were
produced only in 1929 and 7 November they took part in a military parade in Moscow
and Leningrad.

Since the rate of release of the T-18 (due to objective reasons - lack of equipment and
qualified personnel) to "Bolshevik" remained low in April 1929 decided to assemble
tanks connected Motovilikhinsky Machine-Building Plant (former Perm Artillery).
According to the customer's power of two enterprises had enough, so the plan for the
years 1929-1930. increased to 300 machines that were obviously "unaffordable" figure.
Thus, in 1929, the two plants were to deliver 133 tanks, but only managed to release 96.
The assembly and acceptance of the other tanks moved to the next year.

~ 638 ~
Meanwhile, outside Moscow hosted another "round" test run - this time looking for
ways to improve its driving characteristics. Since the tank has not been able to
overcome the 2-meter ditch brewing trapezoid need for a radical revision of the way in
the direction of its elongation. Do it in the shortest possible time was not possible, and
then, on a proposal M.Vasileva and by order of the Chief of armored forces of the
Leningrad District S.Kohanskogo, one of the series of T-18 was equipped with an
additional "tail", which was placed in front of the tank. The machine immediately
earned the nickname "Rhino" and "push-pull" for a distinctive appearance, but the
biggest advantages of this step is not given. The tank is now really could overcome
ditches in width to 1.8 meters, but at the same time greatly deteriorated overview from
the driver's seat and on the improvement of this had to be abandoned. In a letter to the
leadership of the Red Army Corps Commander Kochanski noted "... the desirability
provided for the MS-1 tanks possibility of fastening directing arrows with wheels for ...
lifting wire, barriers and improve the patency of ditches." The project of the "nose
wheel extension" for the T-18 was made by M. cornflower blue, but it is unknown
whether it was made "in the metal".

Modernization of "small tank support"

1929-1937 gg.

We do not have time to take the T-18 into service of the Red Army, as the summer of
1929 the tank was almost considered obsolete. Indeed, indicators of production "of
small tanks escort" is not much different from those of the FT-17 or the FIAT 3000,
surpassing them in fact only in mobility. According to the adopted on July 18 System
Tank tractor-upscale car armoring, armament tank T-18 was considered to be
inadequate conduct of modern warfare. It was planned to completely replace within the
next 2-3 years, "the main tank support" T-19, developed by the design team was
assigned S.A.Ginzburga, and new foreign sample machines. However, until this time
deduct the T-18 no one was going. In one of the paragraphs of the USSR RVS solutions
include the following:

"Until the construction of the new tank to prevent armed Red Army tank MC-1. AU FF
Red Army to take all measures to increase the tank's speed to 25 km / h."

Since the factory "Bolshevik" began the first phase of modernization of T-18, setting it
on a more powerful (40 hp) engine, 4-speed gearshift, entered the 4th supporting roller,
crawler chains such as "Eagle Claw" and gryazezaschity rinks. On tanks later series, a
new cast drive wheel with external gearing.

Tower redesigned, eliminating the rear machine gun and replace it rectangular feed
niche in which it was planned to establish a radio station (in fact it was never installed).
In addition, the upgraded tanks used onboard sunroof tower with a rectangular lid. It
was also planned to strengthen the artillery weapons, through the installation of a new
37-mm cannon B-3, but the old "gochkiss" left in the end.

As such, the tank received the designation "MS-1 (T-18) of the sample in 1930" and
was accepted for serial production. However, no specific improvements have not
brought these innovations. Quite the contrary - the mass of the tank and only increased
to achieve the desired speed of 25 km \ h naturally failed. a new version of "tank

~ 639 ~
support" has also been developed, which was held under the designation T-20 and T-18
"superior", but it is also a serial not.

Another attempt to modernize the T-18 was made in 1933. By this time in the USSR in
bulk built light tank T-26, whose suspension for a light combat vehicle has been very
successful. So the idea to create a "hybrid" of the T-18 series with elements of the
chassis of T-26. From the "twenty-six" borrowed three trolleys with 6 rollers and plate
amortization, we installed a new large drive wheel, and instead of the standard 4 support
rollers set 3 larger diameter. The rest of the T-18 experienced consistent series of tanks,
the 1930 sample.

The prototype of this tank entered the trial May 19, 1933, but the effect has been
received rather negative. Because of the uneven loading on the support rollers Machine
"squat" when starting and "nodding" when braking - it led to the premature wear of
suspension. According to an updated road performance T-18 was even worse than the
mass-produced cars. When you try to move to the third gear stalling the engine, and the
rise in the 30 turned to the tank insurmountable.

More seriously the question of modernization came in 1937. As shown by events in

Spain were too lightly armored machines vulnerable to the fledgling anti-tank artillery,
so in the Soviet Union by an active program for the construction of tanks with
protivosnaryadnym booking, including light types. However, the Red Army's balance
sheet continued to be more than 1000 units of obsolete equipment, the lion's share of
which were "small tanks support" different options. By this time in the operation were
not all of them - due to the strong depreciation of the chassis and the engine-
transmission installation of the machine or transferred to warehouses, or were in the
territory of military units in the partially dismantled form and use them in a combat
situation it was not possible . However, sent to be melted more than 800 tanks T-18 did
not dare. Instead, GABTU management has set the task to modernize the combat
vehicles. It was supposed to equip the T-18 engine GAZ-M1 and the transmission of a
floating tank T-38, the obr.1936 that entailed reworking the engine compartment.
Changed and chassis: the new rails have been installed and the drive wheels, instead of
4 supporting rollers left only 2. There was also upgraded tower - feed niche (as
unnecessary) eliminated, and on the roof instead of the mushroom cap appeared cone
cover carbon steel, allowed to slightly reduce the weight.

Once again addressed the issue of strengthening the weapons, but then the optimal
solution is not found, and so is still a 37-mm "gochkissom" and one 7.62-mm machine
gun DT. The prototype tank, called the T-18M, was built at the plant 37
im.Ordzhonikidze. For this serial T-18 was used, which was subjected to the above
listed improvements. However, the new engine is to give abandoned and had to use a
"shabby", taken from the T-38.

The tests took place in March 1938 and did not bring the desired results. Instead
incorporated in the design maximum speed of 30-35 km \ h could develop the entire
24.3 km \ h, with the old engine was not able to work on the 4th transfer. A more
serious problem was shifted back center of gravity. Now Tank "yuzil" when braking on
a wet road and difficult overcome even a slight slope.

~ 640 ~
Comparing the figures in GABTU decided that the idea of a complete modernization of
the T-18 itself is completely outdated, and existing tanks would have to be used for
other purposes ...

The total volume of production of T-18, despite its obsolescence, was quite large. By
November 1930, the plant "Bolshevik" has handed over 259 tanks, and the time in the
late 1931 release of the completion of their number reached 959 units. After that, the
plant was transferred to the production of light tanks T-26.

T-20 - the successor to the "small tank support"

1930-1931 gg.

Unable to reach significant improvements in the T-18 model 1930 a new stage of
modernization of the tank was carried out. In particular, the new machine, designated as
T-20 (sometimes called "T-18 enhanced") supposed to do the following:

- Increase engine power up to 60 hp .;

- As far as possible to improve the cannons;
- Increase gun ammunition;
- Increased fuel tank capacity from 110 to 160 liters;
- Reduce the empty weight of the tank (which may be reduced thickness armor
protection to 15-7 mm);
- To unify the tank with rollers Rollers T-19;
- To simplify the process of managing the tank;
- Reduce the number of imported parts.

Other changes included the elimination of the cast extension in the bow and front
"tensioning" rollers, changing carriages suspension layout, simplifying the body shape
and fenders. This would establish a more capacious fuel tanks and improved weight
distribution on the tank tracks.
Another feature of the T-20 was welded housing - riveted construction had already been
considered too time consuming, costly and complicates the design of the tank, so under
the guidance of an experienced head shop factory "Bolshevik" I.Shumilina
N.I.Dyrenkova and engineer at the Izhora plant in the middle 1930 several buildings
were constructed of welded. On firing trials they endured shelling from a distance of 37
mm tank gun, but the shelling 45-mm shells at the buildings there were numerous
cracks in the connection joints and destruction themselves bronelistov. Although the
advantages of a welded structure were clear, in mass production, this method has spread
to only a few years later. Booking body remains the same.

The power plant for the T-20, which received the designation MS-1F, was filed October
14, 1930. Instead of the planned 60 hp the engine was able to develop a maximum
power of 56 hp at about 2350 \ min., although profitability MS-1F was slightly above
stated. Like its predecessor, this engine has 4 cylinders and used petrol 2nd grade.

Unlike mass-produced T-18, the new tank had to get from the tower designed tank
support infantry T-19, but its prototype has not yet been made, and therefore decided to
limit the serial tower with a standard set of weapons.

~ 641 ~
Upgraded surveillance equipment. Instead monocular periscope was installed loophole
covered with bulletproof glass "simplex triplex" yellowish. Also introduced the
"aviation" instead of arms control column, which was subsequently set out to replace
the steering wheel a car.

Without waiting for the start of the test T-20 Red Army leadership has prepared
roadmap just 350 new tanks, but did not manage to execute it.

Construction of the prototype T-20 tanks and 15 pre-production was to be completed by

November 7, 1930, but even the spring of 1931 the prototype was in the "semi-assembled"
state. Completion of the work prevented a political purges and disassembly of the company,
and load orders. In addition, in 1931 it was decided to begin serial production tanks BT-2 and
T-26, so that the need for an improved T-18 is no longer felt. From the serial production of the
T-20, then completely abandoned and unfinished machine gave to adaptations in the "60-
horsepower tractor middle of the Red Army."

Tests and experiments

1929-1937 gg.

T-18 attempted to adjust not only for use as a "tank support", but also for various
experiments. One of the first, in March 1930, has been tested long-distance version of
the tank. Who knows if there were Soviet engineers are familiar with the works of the
Japanese Major Nagayama, who a year ago presented a prototype remote-controlled
tracked combat vehicle, which served as the basis for the Fordson tractor. But in any
case, the Soviet remote-controlled tank proved to be more perfect, if only because that
was used when creating a batch tank chassis and weapons.

When you save a standard prototype T-18 administration was equipped with special
equipment "Bridge-1" by means of which the tank to carry out "turn left" commands,
"right turn" and "stop." prototype testing began on March 23 and were found to be
successful. When the speed of 2.5-4 km \ h Tank confident control statements that
convinced the Soviet specialists in the right direction of works carried out by them.

On completion it took more than two years, so the second prototype appeared only in
1933 (a year later he received the designation TT-18). At this time the tank was
dismantled all regular government, instead of the tower there was a fixed cabin and the
driver's seat placed a new 16-team management system, developed in 1932. Now the
tank can perform much more complex commands: make different turns, change the
speed, run, turn off the engine, undermine carried on board an explosive charge to carry
dymopusk and spraying of toxic substances. As you can see, "teletanks" had much more
functionality than the production machines, but they were and significant disadvantages.

January 8, 1933 5 of 7 produced TT-18 were sent to the Special Detachment 4 IN

Leningrad, where they were to undergo joint testing with similar engines, made on the
basis of tankettes T-27 and T-26 light tanks, the obr.1931 after 10 days the amplified
test the following results were obtained:

~ 642 ~
- The maximum range of the TT-18 Control is from 500 to 1000 meters in the presence
of clear weather;

- At great distances and rough terrain control tank becomes impossible, since the
operator is almost does not see the situation in front of the machine;
- Tank hardly moves in a straight line, since the high silhouette and a narrow track it
from knocks and bumps, constantly turning to the side; - Fire tests were not carried out,
since the TT-18 had no weapons.

However, the remote-controlled tank T through 18 showed very reasonable throughput

and ease in executing the instructions. It should be noted that "teletank" T-27 also
showed the best performance and not on set of characteristics for further work has been
selected the T-26. However, there was more developed project management radiotanka
mechanized units, but a detailed description of the machine has not been preserved.

Not spared the T-18 and experiences on the use of chemical weapons. In December
1930, one of the tanks was equipped with a set of spray agents and smoke-screens. The
complex consisted of a cylinder capacity of 60.5 liters, in which the liquid chemical
agent was under the pressure of 16 atmospheres, or for setting dymzaves - smoke-
forming mixture. The equipment weighed 152 kg and was mounted on the "tail" of the
tank. Hours complex when one cylinder was 8-8.5 minutes, which allows the tank is
moving at a speed of 10-12 km / h infect or "generate smoke" land area length 1.6-1.7
km.

Tests "chemical" T-18 continued until the beginning of 1934 and were discontinued in
favor of a more reliable and perfect HT-26, which was adopted. However, on the basis
of the T-18 project flamethrower tank OT-1 was developed. On it ognesmesi tank
placed on the "tail" of the tank, and place a 37-mm cannon took the hose. The fate of
this project remains unclear - according to some one prototype was built in 1931.

There was also a project "sapper assault tank", which was equipped with a wooden
bridge crossing for cars and small tanks over streams and anti-tank trenches up to 4
meters, special drill for the manufacture of mechanical pits and saw wood. Prior to the
implementation of this metal version of the T-18 is not reached.

self-propelled unit

1930-1932 gg.

No less interesting was the project of self-propelled chassis serial T-18. So far, it is
assumed that the question of creation of ACS in the Soviet Union became closely
engaged in only after "love" on the battlefield with the German 75-mm self-propelled
guns StuG III, but it is not so. Work in this area began in 1924, just at the time proposed
to use as a basis for tractor chassis (for lack of a suitable tank). With the advent of the
T-18 and T-27 design ACS moved to a new level. Since the chassis "small tank
maintenance" as well, and wedgies, was not suitable for the installation of large-caliber
guns, they planned to establish a cannon caliber 37 - 76.2 mm. At a meeting in the
spring of 1930 in the GAC this question was voiced again and October 2 RVS USSR
adopted a "Resolution of the PBC on the experimental system of armored vehicles in
terms of self-propelled artillery. In it ordered factories and design office to design and

~ 643 ~
manufacture to the October 1, 1931 a few different types of combat vehicles, including
six self-propelled units. On such machines, said the following.

"... - Tankette similar to the characteristics of the machine-gun support wedges, but with
weapons in the form of a 37-mm cannon BM. Appointment wedgies - anti-tank combat
enemy tanks;

- Self-propelled gun (artillery support) mehanizirovannyh parts. Purpose - training and

support of a tank attack, fighting against tanks. Chassis Small Caliber 76mm tank.
Weight no more 7,5tn. Speed 25-30 klm per hour. Armor 7-10 mm. The elevation angle
of not less than 30 grams. Horizontal guidance of at least 12 grams.

- Self-propelled gun divisional support. Purpose - Preparation and support of the

infantry attack, the fight against obstacles, fortifications and gun emplacements.
Average tractor chassis. Weight 7.5-9 tons, the speed of the 20-25 klm, armor protection
- gun shield thickness of 7-8mm, armament 76.2 mm divisional gun mod. 1902/30
years. Installation must be transported 3-4 person team and 40 shots. Consider the
possibility of creating on the same chassis as the 122-mm self-propelled howitzer.

- Self-propelled anti-aircraft machine gun. Purpose - protection parts on the march and
in battle against an attack aircraft (fly-by). The chassis is a small tank, or the middle of
the tractor. Weight 77.5 t. Speed - 25-30 km. Armor - 7-10 mm. Armament -
chetyrehstvolny universal machine gun 7.62 mm. Installation must be transported at
least a 2-person team and 4000 cartridge.

- Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun mount. Purpose - defense and mechanized infantry

units on the march and in battle from the light and bombers, as well as a mobile anti-
tank means a large distance. The chassis is a small tank, or the middle of the tractor.
Weight 7-7.5 tons. Speed - 25-30 km. Armor - 7-10 mm. Armament - twin 37-mm anti-
aircraft gun. Installation must carry at least 2 people and 100 rooms gun shots.

- Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun mount a large distance. Purpose - the Defence Staff,
the deployment of reserves places nodal railway stations from enemy raids heavy
bomber. Chassis - maneuverable tank, or heavy tractor, the weight of 10-12 tons, the
speed -. 15-20 klm, armor - 8-15mm ... "

However, as early as November 1929 Designer AANII K.M.Ivanov commissioned by

UMM RKKA produced not only project support motomehchastey ACS based on the T-
18, and the conveyor ammunition for it. In a prototype was captured French tank
Renault FT-17BS fire support. His Soviet analogue design series remained the tank, but
instead of the tower in front of the case sets a high armored cabin shaped like a
truncated pyramid. As it was set to 76.2 mm regimental cannon sample 1927, to reduce
the rollback which sets slotted muzzle brake P.N.Syachintova design. Ammunition self-
propelled gun was 4-6 shots, machine gun armament was absent. At the same time
considering options installation 37-mm gun high power PS-2 and 45-mm tank gun of
the sample of 1930 (which was planned for installation on tanks T-24).

Designed after a tractor-transporter ( "supply tank") on the basis of T-18 is equipped

with armor plates broneyaschikom 5-7 mm thick 10 trays for 50 rounds of 76.2-mm
caliber or 16 trays with 169 shells for a 37-mm or 45- mm guns mounted in the turret

~ 644 ~
box. Instead of shell trays could carry the equivalent amount of zinc ammunition boxes.
The tower thus dismantled, fuel tanks are cleaned inside the body, and the crew
consisted of a driver. It was assumed such cars will be built at the rate of one to the
battery (4 ACS).

Consideration and protection projects took place in February 1930. Proposed options for
self-propelled guns like the military. There was even appointed period of
implementation in the metal SAU T-18 - the decision was taken on June 11 and
stipulates delivery of the prototype by 10 October 1930, but due to the small
transportable ammunition and features of the chassis and the body (narrow gauge
chassis and a high center of gravity) from further work on the conversion of the T-18
self-propelled gun refused. It was decided to focus on the promising chassis accompany
tanks T-19, and then the T-26.

During the 1931-1932 biennium. attempts were made to accommodate the T-18 self-
propelled wagon receiver for 122-mm and 152-mm howitzers. Barrel gun mounted on a
tank-tractor and carriage can be transported on a special trailer.

The first experience with the T-18 was a failure - one of the tanks loaded with ballast,
equal weight barrel 152mm howitzer obr.1910, taking into account the hitch mast, but
the "conveyor belt" could hardly move, even on the highway, and on soft ground
movement all became impossible.

Operation and combat use of the MS-1 tanks

1929-1941 gg.

Of the 959 built T-18 (MS-1) of all modifications most of the tanks was sent to the
acting part for its intended purpose. In May 1930, "small tanks escort" was sent for
manning a tank brigade, in which included one tank regiment equipped with T-18, a
reconnaissance regiment with armored cars BA-27, an artillery regiment and a number
of military units and logistics.

Shortly before that, "small tanks" began airing in the tank regiments. By the beginning
of 1930 there were already two - 2nd Independent Tank Regiment was at the disposal of
LVO, 3rd separate tank regiment - the disposal of CVM.

Moscow regiment to November 1, 1924 was named "heavy squadron of tanks" and was
fully staffed by foreign tanks captured during the Civil War. Since 1929, at his disposal
began to receive the first samples of the T-18, which quickly replaced the trophy Mk.V
"Ricardo" and Mk.A "Whippet". At the same time one company "small tanks" has been
submitted to the CER, where they took part in battles against Chinese troops. Combat
service T-18 was not here very long - already in 1932 they began to replace the T-26,
transforming the outdated equipment in the category of educational machines. In
addition, since 1933, due to the acute shortage of weapons, tanks began with outdated
weapons disassembly to install it on BT-2 tanks and T-26, the first issue of the series.
Finally, the T-18 had been withdrawn from parts of the front line in the end of 1934.

Anticipating such a turn of events during the 1930-1931 biennium. 103 cars were
handed over to the Osoaviahima and other military-technical schools, where they were

~ 645 ~
used for training tank crews. The remaining tanks were transferred to the jurisdiction of
the military districts across the country.

During the interwar period, the T-18 tanks were engaged in combat only once. It is, of
course, on the Sino-Soviet conflict on the CER. He was the initiator of the Chinese side,
which, taking advantage of the weakness of the military group, the Soviet troops in the
Far East, said its claim to a larger portion of the route, along with the key stations. In the
summer of 1929, after a series of provocations, the Chinese troops occupied the territory
for which the CER was held, stating that the agreement on the joint use of the road by
1924 has been imposed on them against their will. The complexity of the situation on
the Soviet-Chinese border was aggravated by the fact that in China there were about
70,000 former White Guards, and the ruler of Manchuria openly supported by the
Japanese government and Chiang Kai-shek.

To stop the provocations and restore railway communication in the autumn of 1929 in
the Trans-Baikal profits considerable military forces, including the air force and the
company from 9 T-18 (sample 1927) 3rd single tank regiment. Actually there were 10
tanks at the beginning, but when unloading one of them was so badly damaged that it
had to use as a source of spare parts.

The history of the use of T-18 in combat is described in detail in the article "MS-1:
combat use" posted on the website The Russian Battlefield. Let us dwell only on the
most important points.

~ 646 ~
For the defeat of the Soviet command Manchurian group had planned to carry out an
operation in the area Dzhalaynor station in order to break through fortified enemy and
release it to the rear. On the home base were 8 cars, but to the "front line" got only 6.
The tanks were to act in conjunction with the 107th and 108th infantry regiments, which
in the morning on November 17 attacked the enemy in the area of hills 9 and "Iron."
Despite the lack of coordination between the branches of the military attack was
successful and did not suffer losses tanks. The other two cars came to the location of the
106th regiment and "tracks and menacing look," helped the infantry to break through
the Chinese intermediary line of defense.

The next day, November 18, a company of eight T-18 took the fight, supporting the
advance of the 108th Infantry Regiment from the hills "mother" and "daughter", while
losing one car, lined with grenades.

This was followed by all the fortifications at the station of Manchuria, which stormed
the infantry of the 108th Infantry Regiment. This time, the attack involved a division of
the seven, but the whole of the battle returned only four: one T-18 is stuck right in front
of the Chinese positions and was hit by grenades, the second fell into the trench, and a
third flew caterpillar.

At the combat use of light tanks in Manchuria it was completed. Reviews were
generally positive. Tanks are well supported by infantry units, suppressing enemy
pockets of resistance machine-gun fire. However, it was noted that the training of crews
is not enough, there has been no interaction between the tanks and the shells 37 mm gun
proved almost ineffective against permanent fortifications. It was also felt to be
unnecessary tracked combat vehicles, but fortunately for him if not heeded.

By January 1938 all the T-18 were transferred to the category of cars unsuitable for
combat use. Of the 862 remaining by the time the tanks (which is 89% of the total), only
196 were in charge of landfills, factories, educational institutions and warehouses. The
rest of the formal number of military districts, with the exception of the Central Asian
and Trans-Baikal. Their main mass were "stored" and was partially dismantled. In the
first place with the tanks were shooting weapons, items and power unit chassis.
However, to give to the facility as a large number of military vehicles, even if
incomplete, it was extremely unwise. Then they found another use - to transfer the T-18
at the disposal of Urs and use them for alterations in the BOT - armored gun
emplacements.
The corresponding decree was signed on 2 March 1938 - the report to Marshal
Voroshilov, the presence of obsolete equipment, stated the following.

"In the Red Army, there are different types of obsolete tanks, prototypes of domestic
production, the samples obtained abroad and captured, among them: T-18 - 862 pcs.
Ricardo - 15 pcs. (Heavy tanks Mk.V ** and Mk.V "Composite")
Vickers 12 tons -. 16 pcs. (Medium tanks Vickers "Medium Mk.II")
T-24 - 24 pcs.
T-41 - 8 pcs.
T-33 - 1 pc.

~ 647 ~
T-34 - 1 pc.
Reno - 2 pcs. (Light tanks Renault FT-17)
Carden-Loyd - 4 pieces (small tanks Carden-Lloyd Mk.VI).
All these tanks are not on the go, without weapons stored at the district and central
warehouses, and the troops are not used ...
T-18, located in the Red Army and civilian university and other types of tanks above I
consider it necessary to use as follows: ...

2. Focus on NIABT range and store as museum exhibits all types of tanks:
Ricardo - 1
T-24 - 2
T-41 - 2
T-33 - 1
T-34 - 1
Vickers 12 tons -. 2
Reno - 2
Carden-Loyd - 2
T-18 - 2
3. Transfer Uram districts and NKVMV
T-18 - 700 pcs.
T-24 - 22 pieces ... "

Since only a small number of tanks still had weapons and ammunition for 37-mm tank
guns sorely lacked, it was decided to equip the T-18 guns 20K caliber 45 mm. This
significantly increased the firepower of old cars and allow them to fight any enemy
armored vehicles, although counter-T-18 battle was still contraindicated. Externally,
these machines differ a long-barreled gun in a mask of a new form.

The first to such "modernization" started back in 1934 in the Leningrad Military
District, but then the process is not wearing a mass character. Then came the OKDVA
where by 1938 the remaining two tanks of this type were decommissioned. With unfit
for action T-18 chassis dismantled and dig in the ground for the tower, turning, so the
tank in the BOT. During the conflict with Japan a few of these points were used to repel
the attacks of the Japanese troops at Lake Hassan.

By the beginning of October 1938 only in the Belarusian PSB was to convert 171 tank
(54 have been delivered from the MBO and 117 were part of the district), although the
distribution of their supposed to have 200 units. The rest, 10 October 1938, the situation
was as follows:

Engineering Management 1st DVF Army - from a warehouse and 37 CVM 200
tanks delivered;

Engineering Management 2nd DVF army - a total of 60 tanks (18 of the Siberian
Military District, 40 from a warehouse and 37 of OKDVA 2);
Kiev PSB - a total of 240 tanks of the planned 250 (8 - from ZakVO, 10 - from the
Urals Military District, 29 - from a warehouse number 37, 30 - of the North Caucasus

~ 648 ~
Military District, 53 - of the HVO, 101 - from PriVO and 9 T-18 was a part of KOVO);
Leningrad IN - 150 tanks (apparently they were registered for the same district).

According to the established order Pillbox bronebashennogo type have been completed
communications, sighting devices and additional ammunition. Base installation
supposed to be built of concrete, with appropriate additions and equipment (ventilation
system and intercoms). Apparently, in respect of the T-18 these rules, in order to save
money, we decided not respected. Tanks just dig in the ground, or even put the
"ambush" or in open areas without any masking. Additional ammunition was not
provided, but there were a standard tank sights TOP-1.

Despite the relative ease of rework process of transformation of T-18 was stretched up
to the war with Germany. For example, a German photographer, dating from the fall of
1941 and made at Leningrad, clearly shows that part of the old incomplete tanks
(including "Vickers" and T-24), who had converted to BOT, was just thrown. However,
the T-18, who managed to renovate and re-equip took a very active part in the initial
period of the Great Patriotic War.

According to rough estimates, by the beginning of 1941 for conversion in the BOT
prepared 450 buildings with towers, and another 150 tanks can be returned to the system
and used as a mobile weapon emplacements. For example, as part of Osovetskaya SD
(District Fortress Osowiec on the Bialystok bulge), who held to the front of the order of
35 km, there have been 36 bronebashennyh units with 45-mm guns, including the
towers of the T-18 and T-26. In addition, in its composition includes two tank
companies (1-I consisted of 25 tanks and located in Kolno, 2nd was 18 tanks and was in
the area Belyashevo), although it is not known how many tanks they were in a state of
"on the go" . During June 22-24, the machine of the 2nd company had a few fights with
mechanized divisions of German troops. According to reviews of T-18 proved to be a
good side, but during the retreat all "urovskie" tanks and the installation had to leave the
opponent.

Vladimir-Volyn SD (KOVO) was not best prepared for defensive action, as the
construction and equipping of more than half of bunkers and strong points were not yet
completed. Furthermore, this was not fortified regular tanks. Nevertheless, launched at
noon on June 22 87th Infantry Division received as a gain of five T-18. Their
acceptance was held at the station Ustilug, but because these machines do not have
weapons and engines during the June 23-24, they had to set the DT machine guns and
moved to the area of operations for the use as fixed emplacements. However, by the
evening of June 24th Division was surrounded and was almost completely destroyed.
The use of T-18 is known, that the tanks have been installed can not be found on the
firing positions, but the details of their operational use.

In the band Minsk UR bronebashennyh several dozen plants were concentrated,

although the bulk of them were based on the towers of the T-26. However, older T-18
also had a chance to do some fighting. The most well-known fact the battle conducted
by the crew of BHT in the composition and rank of Sergeant Gvozdev Lupova June 23,
1941. Serving the firing point with the 45-mm gun mounted to protect the bridge on the
river near Drut n \ n Belynichi Soviet gunners shot down three German tanks, one
armored personnel carrier, a few cars, and scattered to the infantry company. The enemy

~ 649 ~
offensive in this sector has been delayed by almost a day, for which the crew was
introduced to the Order of the Red Banner.

A small number of T-18 was also used in the composition of the 9th mechanized corps.
After a heavy defeat in the area of Lutsk-Brody-Rivne housing (more precise division
unknown) in g.Sarny in the north of Rivne region on June 29, received a replenishment
of 42 light tanks, including a company of 14 T-18 and one commander's T-26 . Most of
this equipment lost during the counter-attack, but on July 2, 9 th Mechanized Corps still
including two T-18, one of which was neboesposoben. Regarding the use of the T-18 as
part of the 150th Tank Brigade, that should be treated very carefully to such
information. As is often stated, during the Battle of Moscow, this division has nine T-
18, that the documents were registered before November 1942 First of all, it is not clear
the origin of these tanks, because at that time in Moscow IN this type of tanks suitable
for independent travel is simply not left. In addition, on December 4, 1941 as part of
combat-ready brigades there were a total of 12 T-26 and T-34, and the remaining tanks
were being repaired. Perhaps the T-18 were received before the onset of the Moscow
area in unsuitable for a combat operation and were listed only on paper. One should not
exclude the fact of typing errors in the document.

Do not keep the information about the T-18, placed at the disposal NIBT. Rather, like
other outdated technology, in October-November 1942, both tanks re-armed and
involved with the defense of the landfill, and after the war they were sent for scrapping.

During the war, all the BOT based on the T-18 were completely destroyed or disposed
of. Save managed only a few tanks remained in the Far East. Currently, there are no less
than eight of museum exhibits T-18 (MS-1):

~ 650 ~
Combat weight 5300 kg
CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
4400 (with the "tail")
Length mm
3470 (without the "tail")
Width 1180
Height mm 1370
Clearance, mm 315
one 37-mm cannon ( "Gochkiss", "Gochkiss type 3" \ 2K or
WEAPONS
PS-1) and one 6.5-mm twin-barrel gun Fedorov in the tower
allowance of ammunition 96 rounds and 1800 rounds of ammunition
aiming DEVICES diopter sight for guns and machine gun sight for
housing forehead - 16 mm
board housing - 16 mm
food body - 16 mm
forehead towers - 16 mm
RESERVATIONS board towers - 16 mm
feed towers - 16 mm
roof enclosure - 8 mm
roof of the tower - 8 mm
the bottom - 8 mm
MS, carburetor, a 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled with a capacity
ENGINE
of 35 hp at 3500 rpm \ min
mechanical type: 4-speed gearshift (3 forward and 1
TRANSMISSION
reverse), the main and side clutches
CHASSIS (On one side) 6 road wheels with a vertical spring shock

~ 651 ~
 absorption, a tensioning roller, support rollers 3, the front
guide and a rear drive wheel
14.7 km \ h (on the highway)
SPEED
8 km \ h (secondary technical)
Cruising on the highway 120 km on the highway
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. 36-40
Wall height, m 0.50
The depth of the ford, m 0.80
The width of the den, m 1.70
MEANS OF
missing
COMMUNICATION

Vezdekhod

~ 652 ~
 Type Prototype tank

Place of origin Russian Empire

Length 3.6 m

Width 2m

Height 1.5 m

2-cyl petrol
Engine
10 hp

Speed 26.5 mph

The Vezdekhod (Russian: ) was the first true tank to be developed by Imperial
Russia. The word Vezdekhod means: "He who goes anywhere" or "all-terrain vehicle".
It did not however progress further than a pre-production model, due to problems in the
design.

Design

In August 1914, a 23-year-old Russian aircraft designer Aleksandr Porokhovschikov

(Rus: ) offered to build a vehicle with cross-country
capability. The working drawings and estimate were finished by January 1915, and on
January 13 approval was given to proceed with construction, the project being
supervised by Colonel Poklevskij-Kozello.

The Vezdekhod had a welded frame which ran on a wide single track made from
rubberized fabric stretched over four drums, with a fifth drum tensioning the track from
above. Two small wheels were placed on the sides of the track, and could be lowered to
steer it, being controlled by a steering wheel. The machine was propelled by a 10 hp
petrol engine driving through the rear drum. Porokhovikov intended that the
Vezdekhod should run on the back drum and its wheels while on firm ground, while on
soft ground it would lie down on its track. Preliminary automotive testing began on 18
March.

~ 653 ~
Technical drawing of a Vezdekhod tank.

Construction of the prototype began in February 1915 with the first tests on a paved
road being carried out in May, with further tests proceeding until the end of the year. In
cross-country trials the Vezdekhod was reported to be capable of a speed of 40 Verst
per hour (26.5 mph) with simulated armor weight but proved impossible to steer using
the wheels provided for that purpose and the project was therefore rejected, the Military
Technical Department forbidding further work on it after December 1915.

The actual performance of Vezdekhod is debated, but according to the test commission
Report No. 4563: "It appears that Vezdekhod is a sound and practical idea; it can
achieve a speed of 25 Verst/hour (16.57 mph). In addition, Vezdekhod can ascend a
slope of 40 degrees inclination, cross a trench three metres wide, and a vertical
obstacle of 3/4 metre. All significant holes and rough surfaces were crossed wherever
tests were carried out. Vezdekhod steers easily during fast motion, and turns very
satisfactorily. In all, Vezdekhod crosses terrain and obstacles impassable to
conventional motor vehicles."

The project was reopened in October 1916 but no further progress was made.[1]

History

The original blueprints, and possible photographs have been lost to history, perhaps due
to the Revolution of 1917. After Russian newspapers published news about the first
British Tanks in World War I, Porokhovschikov argued that the Vezdekhod was the
rightful first tank. After the Revolution, Soviet propaganda promoted the idea that
Vezdekhod was the first tank.

The Vezdekhod - a legend of Soviet military history

In the literature of the 1960s and 70s, it was usually stated that the Vezdekhod was the
first prototype of the tank, but the inert imperial administration prevented the inventor

~ 654 ~
from turning the prototype into a real, viable, tank. Even images of the high-grade
fighting machine were shown. Actually, the Vezdekhod did not get further than a pre-
production model, and the reason for this was simply the problems with the design.
Most of the detail in the history of the Vezdekhod can be found in Leonid Fedoseyev's
book "Tanks of the First World War".

In August 1914, 23-year old aircraft inventor Alexander Porokhovshchikov offered to

build a cross-country vehicle. Drawings and the estimate were ready by 9th January
1915. On 13th January, the OK was given for construction to begin. The supervision of
the project was done by the military engineer, polkovnik (colonel) Poklevskij-Kozello.

The welded skeleton of the Vezdekhod ran on a single, wide, caterpillar track, made
from rubberized fabric. This caterpillar track was stretched over four drums. The fifth
drum pressed the caterpillar track from above. Two small wheels were placed on the
sides of the caterpillar; they were controlled by a steering wheel. The machine had
streamlined surfaces with a big air inlet in front.

~ 655 ~
The carburettor engine (capacity 10 h.p.), through the gear-box, rotated a back drum.
Ground pressure should have been no more than 0.05 kg /sq.m. Three ring flutes on the
drums prevented the slipping of the caterpillar track. One of the ideas of the innovator,
was that on firm ground the machine should move on the back drum and wheels. On
soft ground, the machine would lay down on the caterpillar. The wheels should operate
as a rudder on a ship, or a plane.

Construction of the machine began in February, 1915. The first tests on hard road were
done on the 18th of May. Tests proceeded up until the end of that year. In cross-country
trials, the vehicle did not show the properties that the inventor had promised. It quite
simply, was not possible to steer the machine using the wheels. The project was thus
rejected. It is necessary to note, that in the project no words were spoken about
armament. In the spring of 1915 Porokhovshchikov also offered the project of "the iron
armor". It was made from two sheets of iron with a layer of a dried sea grass between
them. A Ford automobile was armoured for testing purposes with this "iron armor". But
note that the project of the "iron armor" was not connected with the Vezdekhod.

~ 656 ~
When Russian newspapers published the news about the first British tanks,
Porokhovshchikov declared that he was the inventor of the tank, with the Vezdekhod
being the very first tank. He did develop the project Vezdekhod-2 with a turret and 3
machine guns. However, that project was so crude, that it was rejected out of hand.

After the Revolution the idea that the first tank was invented in Russia was picked up by
the Soviet propaganda and became a Soviet myth. Porohovshchikov himself was

~ 657 ~
executed by the NKVD, either in 1941 or 1943, for "expenditure of public funds for
unnecessary inventions".

Developer: A.A.Porohovschikov
Started in: 1915
Year of construction of the first prototype: 1915
The project has not been developed because of the extreme imperfection of
nevozomozhnosti and use of the machine in combat conditions.

About "the first Russian tank" design Porohovschikova in the national historical and
technical literature written many articles, most often describe this machine with a
positive point of view and with the explicit claim to world leadership. With a few
reasons described in these sources is difficult to disagree, however, whether the "Tank
Porohovschikova" was the first in the world and the reality was it really his combat use?

The history of this amazing machine seems to have begun in August 1914. Go to war
with technically equipped germankoy Russian army put itself in unflattering terms. The
only advantage, which could take advantage of the royal army, was aviation, but its use
is not very literate. But in terms of equipping the troops truck Germany ahead of Russia
considerably, allowing you to quickly transfer troops to the desired area. To reduce this
backlog Russian Defense Ministry has taken several significant steps, including the
deployment of designing armored vehicles armed with machine guns and cannons. A
more radical option of equipping the army armored combat vehicles has been proposed
staff captain Porohovschikova. At the beginning of the war, he turned to the Special
Committee on the strengthening of the fleet, promising to create a cross-country
armored vehicle on tracks. No significant documents Porokhovshchikov if not provided,
and only 9 of January at a reception at the chief of logistics of the North-Western Front,
General Danilova from the inventor had already finished the drawings and construction
estimates combat vehicle called "SUV". Apparently, preliminary calculations
Porohovschikova liking senior military leadership, the more so that in addition to high
cross was promised flotation machine.

~ 658 ~
Permission to build "ATVs" was received January 13, 1915, and the project data have
been stipulated in a special report 8101. Work began in an auto repair shop in Riga,
where available Porohovschikova were provided with the necessary means and 25
artisans from the People's Militia. Monitoring of construction machinery led the head of
the Riga department of housing allowance troops military engineer Colonel Poklevsky-
Kozell.

The design "ATVs" was unusual. Welded frame relied on the one wide caterpillar made
of rubberized fabric, stretched over four drums, the front drum is considerably elevated
above the supporting surface. Fifth drum pressed caterpillar on top. Rear drum is
leading, rotating it passed through the gearbox and driveshaft from the carburetor
engine 10 hp Ground pressure was to be only about 0.05 kg / sm.kv.. On either side of
the tracks placed two columns with small wheels that the driver was driving with the
helm - was carried out in such a way turn the whole body.

The machine was equipped with a streamlined body with a niche vozduhozabornika
ahead. Interestingly, the book "ATV" was multilayered: it consisted of cemented facial
2-mm steel sheet of cushioning pads and hair algae, and another steel sheet with a total
thickness of 8 mm.

Originally undercarriage was performed. In a good way, "rover" was to move to the rear
wheels and the drum, and on loose ground "lie down" on the caterpillar. Such a scheme,
with relative ease, had a global disadvantage - "SUV" in fact could only move in a
straight line, since the rotation of the guide wheel to the left and right could lead to a
complete failure. However, while this only guessed and construction machines, which
began in February 1915, was completed after 4 months.

Prototype "ATVs" was a more experimental chassis on which was installed a wooden
mock body dogruzhennogo to the estimated mass of ballast bags. Construction hulls ran

~ 659 ~
parallel with the assembly of the chassis, and its individual elements are fired, and then
installed on the passenger chassis to check for bullet resistance.

The first tests "ATVs" held May 18 - the car was pretty confident on a good road to the
caterpillar, but the transition to the wheel is not produced. After minor improvements
have decided to hold a formal demonstration of "all-terrain vehicle", which took place
on July 20, 1915 Contrary to calculations Porohovschikova possibilities of his car were
very far from the fighting. Worse, the steering gear on the move proved to be extremely
unreliable and tests, in some cases, the driver had to use the sixth. chassis design has
been recognized as imperfect as the caterpillar often jumps from the drums. Already
during the tests Porokhovshchikov tried to eliminate this disadvantage by making three
annular guide chute and on the inner surface of the caterpillar - three centering
protrusions respectively. However, this did not save the caterpillar slip on the drums.
crew placement in the car ( "shoulder to shoulder") is also not optimal. With this
arrangement, vehicle commander, who was also a machine gunner, would interfere with
the driver. In addition, installing even a machine gun "Maxim" in the cylindrical tower
and ammunition (in different sources it had range from 8,000 to 10,000 rounds of
ammunition) was extremely difficult because of the great tightness inside the case. The
only advantage was a high rate of "All Terrain Vehicles", was 40 miles per hour (about
43 km \ h) on the hard ground.

The prototype, with interruptions, continued to be tested until December 1915, then
Lieutenant General Kovalenko was sent to the appropriate report. In particular, it
pointed out that "built a copy of" All Terrain Vehicles "did not show all the qualities
that are due to report number 8101, for example, could not walk on loose snow depth
of about 1 foot (30 cm), and the test course on the water has not been made ..."

Meanwhile, Porohovschikova car is not considered a combat, in the absence of her

reservations and armament, and it figured in the documents as a "self-propelled" - ie a
car. In recognition of the designer, the first prototype created by him "Russian tank"
actually had a number of shortcomings, but they were the reason for his departure from
the project. According to him, it was possible to achieve much better results if the
"SUV" had a greater distance between the drums, more powerful engine and a
corrugated Track.

From further work on "ATVs" decided to give up, especially during this time it was
spent 18090 rubles. War Department Porohovschikova obliged to return to the treasury
of the money allocated for the construction of the machine, and the "rover" to send to
GVTU. However Porokhovshchikov in no hurry to fulfill these requirements. He even
held up for some time in his 15 craftsmen and dedicated to him at the time of the
development branch of the company "Ford". On repeated reminders from GVTU he
replied on 13 June that "the cost of" ATVs "expressed in the amount of about 18 000,
and the whole is covered with overruns ... ... from personal funds." However, the
documents submitted by them showed that the expenditure amounted to 10 118 rubles
85 kopecks, and here Porokhovshchikov included money to buy two pistols, seven
popes, etc. down to "tips couriers in Petrograd."

Here the story "ATVs" might have ended, but Russia in November 1916 came the first
news of the use of the British tanks on the Somme River, the allies have brought
unprecedented success. The General Staff were worried that the Russian army is still

~ 660 ~
nothing more valuable has not received except armored cars on the chassis of
commercial vehicles, which resulted in a sincere interest get adopted at least some full
tank. In January 1917, negotiations began with the British and the French procurement
tracked combat vehicles, but have agreed to cooperate only recent. There handy
Porokhovshchikov arrived with a new project called "All Terrain Vehicle 2" or
"SUV '16"

According to the presented to them 17 January 1917 documentation and scale model
that was really tank to wheel-tracked progress. In contrast to the "rover 2"
predecessor was equipped with an improved chassis. On the rear axle (leading) of the
drum car wheels were firmly planted with more than the drum diameter. Two-wheel
drive (front wheel), by which both the car performed rotations, seated on the second
axis of the drum. When driving on the road with a solid cover of "ATV-2" was based
only on the ground and the wheels moved, like a car; Caterpillar rewound idle. In loose
soil the wheel immersed in the soil, the caterpillar sat on ground and begins movement
on tracks. Rotation in this case carried out by the same wheels, and that when moving
on wheels.

Also introduced a new Porokhovshchikov his invention - "armored cockpit" of the three
independently rotating belts, "Maxim" in each machine gun was mounted. Another
"Maxim" was placed in front hull next to the driver. The armor protection did not
exceed 8 mm.

In view of the large number of urgent cases armor branch of automotive spare parts
GVTU considered this project only on 20 September. The report did technical engineer
L.E.Zemmering department, who pointed to a number of shortcomings. As an example,
the opinion Bronevoi department:

"Relatively" armored cabin ";

a) too small height of the individual zones ...

b) The work of the three machine-gunners at the same time one can not board due to
insufficient cutting radius,

c) Heavies three work in opposite directions are not the same reason,

d) can not be thermosyphon cooling device of machine guns,

d) do not specify the location of the seat structure and gunners,

e) unacceptable skating tower on the rack on the casters. "

Regarding the propulsion: "In view of the fact that when driving on normal roads,"
rover "to the ordinary car has no advantages, but rather only has disadvantages, such
as: the absence of differential presence of one tape instead of two, and so on, and
when driving on loose soil the car does not go, because of the presence of the mass of
the various obstacles arising from the imperfection of the structure, the inevitable slip
tape on the drum and the impossibility of turns, the Commission finds that the project

~ 661 ~
"ATVs" Porohovschikova constructor in its present form does not deserve any
attention. "

Thus, the project is "The ATV 2" approval is not received, all further work on the
Russian tanks were stopped after the revolution. Actually tracked vehicles
Porohovschikova design high-grade tanks can be called a stretch. In our projects,
Russian izobrtatel made a lot of mistakes and miscalculations (though in 1915-1916.
They were not yet apparent) that the two buried the "tank" even before the construction
of armored prototype. Yes, and "the first tank in the world", as they call the "SUV" in
the Russian-speaking military-historical circles, he, too, was not - witness the projects
and prototypes of French armored tractors of the same period.
Combat weight 3500 kg
CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 3600
Width 2000
Height mm 1500 (without towers)
Clearance, mm -
WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun "Maxim"
allowance of ammunition 8000 - 10,000 rounds of ammunition
aiming DEVICES optical machine-gun sight
housing forehead - 8 mm
RESERVATIONS (for the board housing - 8 mm
project) food body - 8 mm
Tower - 8 mm
ENGINE "Volt", carbureted 2-tsilinrovy, capacity of 10 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
odnogusenichnaya, with three supporting, one tension and
CHASSIS
one pinch drum, rear drum - Senior
SPEED 43 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

"The mobile battery Improved Turtle"

~ 662 ~
The project is self-propelled installation aritteriyskoy Navrotskiy

Developer: Engineer Nawrocki

Started in: 1916
Year the first prototype:

No less original was the project engineer Navrotskiy "mobile battery Improved
Tortoise" presented in early 1917 This project was distinguished by the original
chassis, consisting of one master spherical roller and two additional smaller diameter
wheels. Despite the similarity Nawrocki did not know about the built Lebedenco
wheeled tank, as well as about the results of his tests. However, the general principle of
using a similar chassis, capable of overcoming deep ditches and trenches, then had a lot
of followers.

On the question of weapons Nawrocki came more than seriously. According to the
creator of the mobile battery was armed with two 203-mm howitzers, two 152.4-mm
cannon, eight 76.2-mm guns and ten 7.62-mm machine guns. Armament was placed on
the body brtam in the upper tower and two on-board sponsons, which gave "mobile
battery" even greater similarity to the tank Lebedenco.

The mass of this combat vehicle approaching 192 tons, the truth about the engines that
were to move the battery is not reported. Thus, the supposed creation of super-heavy
self-propelled artillery.

In spring 1917 GVTU Navrotskiy Commission reviewed the project, but practical
implementation is not reached. Quite naturally, many questions arose in the
determination of the dynamic characteristics of the ACS and its operational capabilities.
In addition, the chassis "fire monitor" type has already proved its complete failure, and
its enormous size made of "mobile battery" perfect target.

CURRENT TACTICAL-TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS self-propelled artillery

"Improved Turtle" was obr.1917

Combat weight 192000 kg

CREW, pers. ~ 20
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?

~ 663 ~
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
two 203 mm howitzer, two 152.4-mm cannon, eight 76.2-
WEAPONS
mm guns and ten 7.62-mm machine guns
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE Carburetor
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
wheel, with large front (spherical) and rear (small) drive
CHASSIS
rollers
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Breakthrough Tank Troyanova

Developer: Engineer L.S.Troyanov

Started?
The tank remained at the stage of the project due to the high technical complexity.

Perhaps the most avant-garde design of the tank breakthrough was the development of
the Leningrad designer L.S.Troyanova. According to the description and preliminary
sketches Tank consisted of two crawler chassis with steam engines of 1500 hp between
which a cross-platform. She mounted a tower with a 203-mm gun, and on each of the
chassis were towers with 152-mm guns. The tank can be put on a train running, turning
it this way in an armored train. Actually, the idea of such a "composite tank" was not
new, as early as 1915 in the UK there was a project "combat vehicle Pedreyl" similar
arrangement. Soviet designer developed the project further, providing for separate use
of each of the chassis as individual combat units.

The project is under consideration, but was rejected in view of technological

complexity.

CURRENT TACTICAL AND TECHNICAL DATA

Super-heavy tank BREAKTHROUGH obr.1915 of Troyan

Combat weight ?
CREW, pers. ?

~ 664 ~
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
one 203-mm gun on the platform and two 153-mm
WEAPONS
guns in the towers
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES optical sights
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE two steam
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
CHASSIS component: two crawler chassis connected platform
SPEED ?
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

WWI US armor

Armored cars & tanks Around 1,600 armored military vehicles until 1920

Models

~ 665 ~
 Jeffery No.1 & Jeffery-Russel
Tank Mark VIII International Liberty
US M1917 Light Tank

Prototypes

Holt Gas-Electric Tank

White 42 Model 1917

From neutrality to war (1915-1917)

Despite the sinking of the Lusitania in 1915, the virulent campaign of the hawks led
by Teddy Roosevelt, the sabotage of Black Tom and the Kingsland Explosion in New
Jersey, Woodrow Wilsons neutrality position, sustained by the majority of the opinion,
stood firm. But after 1915, the Preparedness Movement (aligned with the Republicans)
grew fond of the idea of stronger naval and land forces for defensive purposes. An
Atlanticist foreign policy establishment emerged, first calling for an UMT or
universal military service, but opinion hardly followed. As a response, the democrats
led by Wilson endorsed the idea of a long-term naval building program to get on par
with the Royal Navy around 1920. This plan was largely supported by the admirals,
largely approved of the ideas of Alfred Thayer Mahan advocating an all-battleship fleet,
whereas destroyers were needed due to German ASM warfare.

But, in the meantime, the army was payed scant attention and there were some doubts
about the readiness of the national guard. Eventually, Secretary of War Lindley
Garrison militated to put the emphasis on large federal reserves. As a national debate
reached new heights, in May 1916, it was decided the Army was to double in size
(11,300 officers, 208,000 men) as well as the national guard, bolstered to reach 400,000
as summer camps were raised. But this was far away from what the preparedness
movement stood for.

In June 1916, however, following the battle of Jutland and despite the naval plan
eventually obtaining concessions, the naval aviation plan was funded, and most
importantly, a state owned armor-plate factory was developed. This general timidity
encouraged the German Empire in its unrestricted submarine warfare, which eventually
could only lead to war, but the delay required to get the US army/navy to have
sufficient strength to intervene decisively in Europe was worth the price.

Until then, armored cars never received much attention from the army, although early
experiments took place with the cavalry in 1914. Many car companies, from the Detroit
giants to more modest personal-held factories, were all capable of delivering armored
cars on a relative short notice. However, building armored plates was only reserved the
newly-created Detroit Arsenal. Its first creation was the Jeffery armoured car number 1,
which was sent in 1916 in Mexico to deal with Pancho Villa, alongside other models
from various manufacturers.

April 6, 1917

~ 666 ~
For the White House to declare war on Germany, it needed a hostile
environment. Germany did resume unrestricted ASM campaign in January 1917, but the
casus belli was obtained through Zimmermann Telegram intercepted by British
intelligence, promising money to Mexico if it joined the war alongside Germany. It was
promptly passed to the US embassy, sent to the White House, and it stirred up a lot
of scandal in the press. It took seven more U.S. merchant ships which were sunk before
Wilson called for a declaration of war to be approved by Congress. The Soviet
revolution only added credit to this position and lifted previous apprehensions related to
fighting alongside an autocratic monarchy.

Preparations for war

Germanys cold calculation for winning the war on the western front almost paid off,
due to the combination of Americas unpreparedness to send troops on the continent
before spring 1918, and the Bolshevik revolution and subsequent peace treaty with
Russia, which freed large amounts of experienced German troops from the eastern front
after the winter of 1917. But it nevertheless failed to effectively cut off links the supply
lines between the USA, Great Britain and France solely with U-boats. In between,
preparations reached full strength at home: The home front, which saw a systematic
mobilization of men and materials, although there was much confusion in the first
months.

With the Selective Service Act, 2.8 million men were called to arms. In the spring of
1918, the first 100,000 troops arrived in France and were welcomed by the battle-weary
Allies, who just repelled the massive last-ditch German spring offensive of 1918. At a
rate of 10,000 per month, they reached one million in the summer, and two millions at
the armistice. The doughboys were only supported by aviation and artillery though,
and the unwillingness to take good account of the Allied experience led to very high
casualties in the first operations.

~ 667 ~
Jeffery number one used in Pershings 1916 punitive expedition against Pancho Villa in
Mexico. For the anecdote, the only US armored side-cars took part in the expedition,
like the 1915 armored Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Armored cars

Although machine-gun-armed softskin vehicles were tested in 1898-1900, like the

Davidson-Duryea Light 3-Wheeled Car or the Davidson Auto Battery Armored Car,
real armored car development started in 1915 and many more or less known
manufacturers joined the fray, mostly for export, but in some case for the AEF engaged
in France, including King, White, Jeffery, Dodge, Davidson-Cadillac, and Ford. Mack
and Locomobile furnished mostly supply trucks, and information about armored cars
built on these chassis are pretty scarce. Other truck builders which produced for the
western front were Brockway, Diamond T, FWD, Garford, Gramm-Bernstein, Indiana,
Kelly-Springfield, Packard, Pierce-Arrow, Republic, Selden, Service, Sterling, U.S.
Motor Truck Co. and Velie among others.

King ACs: The first AFVs in service with the US Army (1915), never
shipped to France. USMC 1st armored car squadron Quantico.
Davidson-Cadillac: From NW cadets Mil Academy Illinois, used for promotion
in the USA (1915).
Jeffery AC: N1 used in Mexico, others sold to the British Authorities of India.
White ACs: Several 42 prototypes built, from the M1916 to the M1918. Used
by the National guard and signal corps.
Ford ACs (indirect): 11 based on British Ford T in the USA, 16 by the Polish
(1920 war with Russia)
Dodge ACs: Three in action in Mexico 1916.

USAs first tanks

At the time, General Pershing and his staff, confronted with a high casualty rate, were
poised to consider some hard-gained lessons from the Allies.. Some officers considered
tanks with great interests. Gen. John J. Pershing himself, as Commander in Chief of the
American Expeditionary Forces, requested, on September 1917, that 600 heavy and
1,200 light tanks be produced in the United States. Already in many offensives, French
or British tanks were deployed in support of the American infantry (under joint
command). However, among the types in use, only one type was lent to the US troops in
sufficient numbers, the Renault FT, although with provisional French crews. Quite
quickly, the staff wanted to have trained US crewmen to stay fully independent and
under Captain Dwight Eisenhowers supervision, many of these tanks were shipped to
Maryland, Camp Meade, with the 65th Engineer Regiment, to create the first American
Armoured unit.

~ 668 ~
Renault FT with US troops in the Argonne, 1918. In mid-March, this unit was renamed
1st Battalion, Heavy Tank Service and was prepared to be shipped back in France in the
late March. Eisenhowers talents were however not lost, and he was kept at home to
supervise the tank training center at Camp Colt in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. The 1st
Battalion was back on the frontline in early April and participated, until November, in
many American offensives. Lt. Col. George Patton, in particular, militated for the use of
domestic tanks, and as a stopgap solution the Renault FT was chosen for licence
production. Patton will eventually become the first active US tank officer in France. He
was Pershings officer in the Mexican Punitive Expedition of 1916, conducting the first
motorized attack with three Dodge ACs accompanied by the 6th Infantry Regiment. He
then joined France and reported to General Garrard in November 1917, testing a
Renault FT at the Champlieu test grounds. He then headed the 1st Provisional Tank
Brigade in August 1918. Later renamed the 304th light tank brigade, it was part of
Colonel Samuel Rockenbachs Tank Corps joined to the AEF.

The AEF had armored support for the last six weeks of the war, but the attrition rate
suffered by engaged units was staggering. The tank corps was left with only fifty
serviceable vehicles at the end of the Meuse-Argonne campaign. First actions of the
AEF tank corps took place in the Saint-Mihiel salient in September 1918. The latter was
divided into three tank corps, Patton heading the 1st one (304th brigade) with 144
Renaults obtained from the French, participating in the battle for St Mihiel. In addition,
there was an addition of a heavy tanks corps provisioned with British-built Mk.Vs,
operating with the American 27th and 30th Division before the end of the war. Since
1917, various constructors submitted designs, the diesel-electric Holt being one of the
most promising. In the end, only Ford stayed into the loop, eventually leading to the 3-

~ 669 ~
ton model. But only the M1917, 6 ton type was made available in enough quantity to be
operated in the meantime.

Patton in France, 1918 alongside Renault FT tanks of the 304th Tank Brigade on
November 6, 1918.

Postwar prospects for tanks

The armistice halted all project and orders and only the most promising and advanced
project were concluded: Around 900 6-ton M1917 light tanks were delivered until 1920
and 100 Mark VII Libery heavy tanks (with the 67th Infantry Tank Regiment). The
Army was reorganized, the tank corp was dissolved and the tanks were affected to
various infantry units in 1920. The only intervention seeing tanks engaged in a semi-
independant way occurred in the U.S. Marine Expeditionary Force to Tientsin in April
1927. After 1928, most tanks were mothballed or scrapped. But since 1922 by law all
tanks had to be part of the Infantry. The wall street crash and economic crisis nailed
down any further prospects until the mid-1930s. Only prototypes were tested in
between, but report to the ww2 section for more.

US Ordnance Holt Armored Tractor

~ 670 ~
After America's entry into the First Mirovouyu war commissioned by the US Army
Ordnance Corps Supply has initiated the development of a number of special armored
vehicles. The experience of fighting on the Western Front showed that the army in dire
need of more mechanization, and in particular this applies to the cavalry. Particular
attention is paid to protection of artillery tractors, which are not rarely disabling of
similar explosions of bombs and shells. Thus, the US Army took bronetraktora able to
tow a guns and ammunition.

Bookings were the objects of a 5-ton and 10-ton tractor (Holt 5-ton Holt and 10-ton tractor),
which was developed by Benjamin Holt especially as artillery tractors for 4.7 "or 155 mm heavy
guns. However, the basis for 10 -Tons machines served well commercial sample Model 55. in
1918, for them and was designed trailer. Fully Armored only the engine compartment. to gain
access to the engine and the radiator made a double leaf hatches on the sides and in the
frontal hood. The driver only armored sides.

Chassis 5-ton tractor, with regard to one side, consisted of 4 road wheels with a stiffer
suspension, 2 support rollers, guide front and rear drive wheel and krupnozvenchatoy
tracks drawn from the steel tracks. For the 10-tonner used reinforced chassis, which
included 6 rollers and support rollers 5. The company's register of this model
identifitsiretsya as a 10-ton Model 55 or Artillery Tractor T-16.

~ 671 ~
The first prototype was ready in 1918, but after the war became unnecessary
bronetraktory army. In 1919, barely the start of series production, they built the program
completely turned. In the US Army 10-ton bronetraktory served until 1924, after which
they returned to the manufacturer. The company tried to sell Holt built samples to
private customers, the machines razbronirovka not performed. How the idea was a
success hard to say now, because no information could not be found on this issue. To
date, at least two former bronetraktora preserved. One of them was exploited until 1982
and is now in Heidrick Museum (Woodland, CA). At the same foreign sources indicated
that the tractor is in working condition. The second is represented in private collections
in Alaska, but its technical condition leaves much to be desired.

SPECIFICATIONS BRONETRAKTORA
US Ordnance Holt 10-ton Armored Tractor sample of 1917

~ 672 ~
Combat weight ?

CREW, pers. 1

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS -

allowance of
-
ammunition

aiming DEVICES -

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Holt M-11 gasoline, 4-cylinder, 40 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

(On one side): 6 road wheels with a stiffer suspension, 5 support

CHASSIS rollers, front steering wheel, rear wheel drive, krupnozvenchataya
caterpillar steel shoe

SPEED 6.4 km \ h

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den, ?

~ 673 ~
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

"Suttont Skunk"

The history of armored forces in China during the civil wars of the first half of the 20th
century studied sufficiently small. In addition to the supply of French tanks FT-17, the
British "Vickers", German Pz.Kpfw.I, Italian CV 3/33 and the Soviet T-26, the Chinese
seem to receive nothing more, but it is not so. Back in the late 1920s. the first attempts
were made to establish a makeshift assembly improvised tracked combat vehicles, but
first they appeared only a few years later samples. Through analysis of several foreign
sources can make a more complete picture of the events then taking place.

Of course, the Chinese were aware that the fastest way to get a tracked armored vehicle
is a tractor Reservation. However, even this experience they have proved insufficient.
The impetus to the development were the actions of American businessmen who have
long been famous for their ability to sell the needy all right and not right.

The fact that in the years 1918-1919. the US Army has received a few dozen
polubronirovannyh artillery tractor Holt. Machines were successful on the war to which
they were prepared, suddenly it ended quickly. Left unclaimed "Holt" have been sold to
private owners and manufacturers. It would seem that this could have been stopped, but
during the Great Depression Caterpillar company (which joined Holt) had desperately
maneuvering to offer a wider range of products. It was then, and useful experience for
Reservations tractors.

At the end of the 1920s. one of agricultural tractors Holt was equipped with not only the
hulls with embrasures for two machine guns caliber rifle, but also had the opportunity to
install a variety of equipment designed for the production of smoke screens or spraying
of toxic substances. Work was carried out at the company Henry Disston Steel Works,
which has all the necessary equipment for the production of armored steel. In addition,

~ 674 ~
the company also became known for the production of small series of own
bronetraktorov. The development bronetraktora engaged Sattont General Frank (Frank
Sutton), and as he saw the potential buyers it is China, where more than 30 years were
almost continuous wars.

The design of this machine was close to the 10-ton Model 55 Artillery Tractor. Chassis
10-ton tractor, with regard to one side, consisted of 6 road wheels with a stiffer
suspension, four support rollers, guide front and rear drive wheel and krupnozvenchatoy
tracks drawn from the steel tracks. Reservation of the engine compartment remains
unchanged, a new development was only fighting compartment protection, which could
be placed two or three (?) Tanker. At the same time, the driver was located along the
longitudinal axis of the body and have an inspection hatch in the front broneliste
superstructure. On either side of him were placed loopholes for machine guns, and body
sides had two slits for firing rifles or pistols. But the main "highlight" of the project was
the installation in the housing 3-inch trench mortars, shoot back while moving. Not
surprisingly, the demonstration was called by its creators "Suttont the Skunk" (
"Skunts Sattont").

New American bronetraktor was sent to China, where it was proposed to establish a
market, but there are traces of it are lost. It would seem that the story could end here, if
not creative thinking the Chinese themselves. After Nankiskomu to the (central)
government came to the full realization of the need for troops in armored vehicles,
began intensive research aimed not only at its purchase abroad. A sober assessment of
their own forces, Marshal Liu Hsang (Liu Hsiang), which belongs to the championship
and the creation of an armored car Tank Corps (Armored Car and Tank Crops of
Chongqing), decided to start its own production bronetraktorov. The initial samples
tractors Cletrac firms have been selected, a total of five pieces. Four bronetraktora
started on the chassis Cletrac 20, equipped with two 7.71-mm machine guns Lewis. The
fifth tank was constructed on the basis of the heavier Cletrac 30 and had an armament of
37mm cannon and a 7.71 mm machine gun Lewis. What were these unique fighting
vehicles now we can only speculate, but it is possible that they served as a prototype for
the same "Suttont Skunk", has a simple and cheap construction. Up to the present day
photos of Chinese bronetraktorov not kept or were absent altogether. There is also no
information on their combat use. One can only assume that bronetraktory used to
maintain order in the inland areas.

SPECIFICATIONS BRONETRAKTORA
"Suttont Skunk" sample of 1929

Combat weight ~ 10000 kg

CREW, pers. 2-3

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 3100

Width ~ 2000

~ 675 ~
Height mm 2438

Clearance, mm ~ 400

WEAPONS -

allowance of
-
ammunition

aiming DEVICES optical sights

RESERVATIONS two 7.62-mm machine gun and one 76.2-mm trench mortar

ENGINE Holt, petrol

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

(On one side): 6 road wheels with a stiffer suspension, four support
CHASSIS rollers, front steering wheel, rear wheel drive, krupnozvenchataya
caterpillar steel shoe

SPEED ~ 6 km \ h

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Early US tanks designs

Tracklayer "Best" 75 Infantry Tank

~ 676 ~
Official designation: Tracklayer "Best" 75
Alternative notation: CLB 75
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: two prototypes built.

In 1917, apparently under the influence of the first reports on the application on the
Western Front armored tracked vehicles, the US firm CLBest presented his vision of the
tank. The basis was taken as an ordinary tractor Best 75 Tracklayer. Needless to say, the
machine is reliable and unpretentious, but it is clearly not suited for military purposes.
Nevertheless, the engineers of CLBest was completely different opinion.

The first version of the future tank was relatively simple box-shaped hull of. Tractor
layout demanded placing the driver's compartment in the stern of the hull with the
installation of a squat cabin roof. Despite the presence of six manholes visibility in the
future tank gets disgusting. Apparently, in order to "compensate" the limited review, the

~ 677 ~
Americans have decided to place the main armament around the power plant. As a
result, the layout of the gun was installed in the front hull and two machine guns placed
on the sides in the chamfered "armor plates".

Directly tractor itself was a well-known Holt 75 Model 1909, manufactured by CLBest
under license. The tractor has been so successful that it is widely used in the US and the
British Army until 1919 inclusive, and during the Civil War Holt 75 was delivered to
Russian "white" armies. Recent examples of these machines, the truth is not the army,
were written off only in 1945! Tractors of this model equipped with gasoline engines
Holt working volume of 1440 cc., Which develops power of 75 hp at about 550 \ min. It
should be noted that the chassis of the tractor Best 75 was simple enough and
technically it can be divided into four major units:

- Tracked part (three supporting rollers on each side, and two support wheels, front
steering and rear wheel drive);

- Part of the wheel (used to control the movement of the tractor, as friction clutches then
simply absent);

- Chassis frame;

- Power plant (placed in front and usually closed to the hood)

- Department of Management.

The fate of this tank, named Best tracklayer 75, remained rather vague. Clearly there
was only one - the American army came to the conclusion that such a monster it is
absolutely not necessary after an inspection of the prototype of the non-armored. By and
large, this car appeared in early 1917, could be considered more bronetraktorom than a
full tank.

~ 678 ~
However, the company did not despair and CLBest issued "on the mountain" the second
version of its wheeled-tracked "tank", which became better known as Tracklayer
"Best" 75 and CLB 75. As is known, the amount of change of terms of places does not
change - it happened in this case. Improvements touched first case, which has become
more like a submarine of Captain Nemo from the Soviet film. Sure, the engineers took
care not only about high bullet resistance, but also made it possible to use the tank for
forging flaws in wire and other obstacles. Partly for this reason can be explained
pronounced sharpened nose of the housing. Given this specificity of the air supply to the
radiator input provided two holes on the upper part of the body. "Tank" Management
also remains purely tractor - with the help of the steering wheel, which is now fastened
on the long arm.

Of course, now there was nothing to think about installing weapons front. Instead, the
American engineers visited a great idea to move it to a tower installed in the rear of the
hull instead of the box-like superstructure. As conceived by the creators of the tank in
the cylindrical shape tower could accommodate at least two guns. On the machine-gun
armed with the data has not been preserved, but given the presence of six more tower
"windows" can be assumed that it is also envisaged, and.

The first prototype tank CLB 75, assembled from ordinary iron, was ready by mid-
1917. No matter how reliable tractor chassis for the battlefield it is absolutely would not
do, and also in the USA have already managed to appear more successful tank designs.

And yet, there was a prototype and it should somehow apply. The US Army Propaganda
Department on this issue figured out very quickly - it does not matter that the CLB 75 is
well able to ride in a straight line, because it can be used to demonstrate the
achievements of the military industry. And so it did. As a result, the tank prototype "lit
up" in the series of photos made in the course of the maneuvers of the California
National Guard, which took place in 1917 near San Francisco. There was even a booklet
published with color pictures, which depicted the CLB 75 as a combat vehicle.

~ 679 ~
However, on this his modest career ended. What happened to the CLB 75 then say quite
difficult. prototype is likely after the war was to the metal.

SPECIFICATIONS Infantry Tank

Tracklayer "Best" 75 specimen in 1917

Combat weight ~ 13000-15000 kg

CREW, pers. ~5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 7500

Width ~ 2000

Height mm ~ 3000

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 37-mm guns and several machine guns 7.62 mm caliber (?)

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES ?

RESERVATIONS the prototype was made of non-armored

ENGINE Holt, petrol, cubic capacity 1440 cc., 75 hp at about 550 \ min

~ 680 ~
TRANSMISSION mechanical type

wheel of the front steering wheel, steel, spitsovannoe

Tracked portion (on one side): 3 wheels with a stiffer
CHASSIS
suspension, 2 support rollers, front steering wheel, rear wheel
veduzee, krupnozvenchataya caterpillar

SPEED ~ 3-5 km \ h on the highway

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 681 ~
The Steam Tank (Tracked) (1918)

Designed by an officer of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this model was very much
influenced by British designs of the star type, like the Mk.V*. The project was started
by General John A. Johnson, and manufactured by the Stanley Motor Carriage
Company in Watertown, Massachusetts with two railway cars boilers, with a combined
power of 500 hp. Steam was seen as ideal, as petrol engines were to feeble for the
weight they had to carry. Plus, this project was to be specialized as a flame thrower tank
(range 90 feet/27 m), and the pressure of the weapon was also driven by steam. There
was, in addition, an auxiliary 35 hp (26 kW) gasoline engine. Each steam engine
propelled a single track up to 4 mph (6 km/h) and it had a 2 forward 2 reverse speeds
gearbox. The steam tank was impressive, weighing in excess of 50 tons, 34 feet 9 in
(10.6 m) in length and 10 feet 5 in in height (3.2 m). It also had mud clearing spikes and
four machine-guns (Browning M1917) in sponsons. There were 8 crewmembers and the

~ 682 ~
bolted hull was protected by a maximum 13 mm (0.51 in). The prototype was
demonstrated in Boston in April, before being shipped in France to be tested, named
America. No serial production followed, as serious cooling problems were identified.

This large tank weighed 50 American tons (45 tonnes), had -inch thick (maximum)
armour, a crew of 8, and had two 2-cylinder steam angines developing a total of 500hp,
which moved it at 4mph (maximum). It was 34ft 9in (10.6m) long, 12ft 6in (3.8m)
wide, and 10ft 4in (3.2m) high. It was based on the British rhomboids, but had a
distinctive shape all its own. Perhaps the most noteable feature of it was the mud-
clearing spikes on the front horns.

Its main armament was a new flame-thrower designed by Captain Henry Adams, an
officer in the US Army Engineer Corps. A seperate 35hp petrol engine provided
1,600lbs per sq in of pressure, to shoot the flame up to 90 feet (27m). As fitted, the
flame projector was in the front plate, but it was proposed to later relocate this to a
small turret above the front cab. However, there is no photographic evidence to show
this actually happened. The tank also had a secondary armament of four 0.30-in
machine guns in the sponsons.

Two 2-cylinder steam engines provided the motive power, and in the planning stage it
was hoped they could also provide pressure for the flame projector, however, it was
discovered that they did not provide sufficient pressure and a separate engine was
installed for the flame thrower. The main engines, one per track, were activated by two
kerosene burning boilers.

The Steam Tank was built in Boston and demonstrated in April 1918. It took part in
some parades, but often broke down, as this passage from The Tech, volume 38,
number 6, illustrates, "While on her way to the christening exercises, which were
scheduled to take place at 5 o'clock Wednesday (17th April, 1918 -Ed) afternoon at
Copley Square before a gathering of public officials and Army and Navy officers, the
"America" stalled on the Cambridge bridge and it was some time before the
~ 683 ~
mechanicians could coax her to move again. This was due to some misadjustment of the
mechanism and the huge caterpillar engine was removed to the garage for repairs, and
the christening was postponed until Thursday."

It seems the tank did get shipped to France (probably because the US Tank Commission
was based in Paris and would not accept any tank for operational service with US forces
until they had seen it and tested it) as there is this article, allegedly posted by a
journalist in Paris, in The New York Herald of Saturday, June 22, 1918. "The first tank
constructed in America will be ploughing its way across the battlefield in France to
spread terror in Hun trenches. It has taken months to construct it, at a cost of $60,000. It
is a giant in size, however, and is expected to overcome almost any obstacle that can be
placed in its path by the enemy. The tank was constructed in a city near Boston. It
crawled into Boston under its own power and was christened in historic Copley Square.
Some idea of the tremendous size may be gained from the fact that a man may stand
erect under the peak of its stern, which is but half the height of the land craft. It will be
known as the America."

The Steam Tank (Track Laying) was not adopted by the US Army and did not enter
service. Only the one example was built. Although little is known about the fate of the
tank, it is believed she may have languished until perhaps the early 1930s before being
broken up for scrap.

~ 684 ~
Place of origin United States

Weight 50.8 t

Length 10.6 m

Width 3.8 m

Height 3.2 m

Crew 8

Armor 13 mm

flamethrower
Main

~ 685 ~
 armament

Secondary four .30 cal. machine guns

armament

2 steam
Engine
500 hp (373 kW)

Power/weight 9.8 hp/tonne

Suspension unsprung

Operational ?
range

Speed 6 km/h

The Steam Tank (Tracked) was an early U.S. tank design of 1918 imitating the design
of the British Mark IV tank but powered by steam.

The type was designed by an officer from the U.S. Army's Corps Of Engineers. The
project was started by General John A. Johnson with the help of the Endicott and
Johnson Shoe Company and financed by the Boston bankers Phelan and Ratchesky (it
cost $60,000). Expertise was called in from Stanley Motor Carriage Company in
Watertown, Massachusetts, that produced steam cars. The engines and boilers of two
Unit Railway Cars were built in. Earlier fighting vehicles projects had employed steam
power because petrol engines were not yet powerful enough; the Steam Tank however
used it for the main reason that it was meant to be a specialised flame thrower to attack
pillboxes and the original design had this weapon driven by steam. When the main
device to build up sufficient pressure became a 35 hp (26 kW) auxiliary gasoline
engine, the two main 2-cylinder steam engines with a combined power of 500 hp
(370 kW) remained, each engine driving one track to give a maximum speed of 4 mph
(6 km/h). The transmission allowed two speeds forward and two in reverse. The steam
engines used kerosene for fuel.

The flame thrower, located in the front cabin, had a range of 90 feet (27 m); additionally
there were four .30 cal. machine guns; two in a sponson at each side. The length of the
vehicle was 34 feet 9 inches, the width 12 feet 6 inches and the height 10 feet 4.5
inches. The tracks were 24 inches wide. Each track frame carried mud clearing spikes,
sometimes mistaken for battering rams. The tank had a weight of about fifty short tons.
There was to have been a crew of eight, on the assumption there were a commander, a
driver, an operator of the flame thrower, a mechanic and four machine gunners.

Only one was completed in Boston and demonstrated in April 1918, in several parades
also, on one occasion breaking down in front of the public. The prototype was in June
shipped to France to be tested with much publicity to bolster allied morale and
was named America. The flame thrower nozzle was moved to a rotating turret on the
roof of the cabin. There was also another steam-powered AFV project (the Steam Wheel

~ 686 ~
Tank) that didn't use tracks but was three-wheeled, hence the designation "(Tracked)" or
"(Track-laying)". The design combined serious cooling problems with a dangerous
vulnerability due to its two steam boilers and large fuel reservoirs needed to heat the
two main engines, and feed both the auxiliary engine and the flame thrower.

Official designation:
Alternative designation: Steam Tank Tracked
Start of planning: 1917
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: built one prototype, the project closed in 1919.

Perhaps of all the tanks prototypes built during the First World War, none has been so
close to the beginning of serial production, as "steam tracked tank" (Steam Tank
Tracked). The prototype for its creation, of course, became the British "rhomboid" tanks
sample 1916-1917 gg. Americans have closely followed the developments in Europe
and the end of 1917 Corps of Engineers (US Army's Corps Of Engineers) of the US
Army received the terms of reference for the development of a similar combat vehicle.
Obviously, the project has a high priority at the highest levels since the direct initiator
of its creation was the General John A.Dzhonson (John A. Johnson) with the direct
support of Endicott and Johnson Shoe Company. The financing of design works carried
out the Boston bankers Phelan (Phelan) and Racheski (Ratchesky), which allocated a
total of $ 60,000.

The chosen scheme involves undercarriage crawler with branches covering the entire
body, board sponsons and a flamethrower in the upper front broneliste. The project was
worked out fairly quickly, allowing the spring of 1918 to assemble the first prototype of
a heavy tank. In contemporary sources he referred to as the Steam Tank (Track Laying)
or Steam Tank Tracked.

As you might guess, the main "highlight" of the tank design was the steam power plant.
The choice in favor of it was due to the fact that at that time was not created a
sufficiently powerful and compact internal combustion engine. Thus, it was decided to
equip the prototype with two 2-cylinder steam engines with a total capacity of 500 hp,
each of which had a drive on your driving wheel undercarriage. The kerosene used as

~ 687 ~
fuel. The development of engines took firm Stanley Motor Carriage Company from
Watertown (Watertown), Massachusetts.

Chassis "diamond-shaped" type was carried out by analogy with the British tanks, but
still had a few differences. The front part was made elongated, with semielliptical
bottom contours for a better field of overcoming obstacles. The back of the other way
around, as it was "trimmed" immediately behind the engine. On each side of the tank
was 40 (?) Of rollers of small diameter, the rear drive wheel is lowered almost to the
ground and the front steering wheel mounted on sponsons level. Supporting wheels
were missing, because their role is performed rails, but was above the drive wheel by
two tension rollers. Track chain consisted of krupnozvenchatyh steel shoe width of 24
inches (610 mm). As a result, Steam Tank looks longer corresponded to the British
heavy tanks Mk.IX. In addition, the established front two small frame, intended to
prevent damage to the chains tracked.

The layout of the housing is also not very different from the UK "rhombus". In front of
a small add-on, which is a place for the driver (on the right), flamethrower (left) and the
tank commander was performed (behind them). The middle part of the body has been
given over to the fighting compartment with the placement of two small machine gun
sponsons on the sides. It also housed the ammunition. In total, the crew consisted of 8
people. Planting was carried out in a tank through two onboard hatch or through a hatch
at the front of the superstructure body. Two steam engine and the transmission is in the
rear of the chassis. To facilitate access to the units of the power plant behind a large
rectangular hatch was made.

As the "main battery" as planned requirements specification, we choose a flamethrower,

which was created under the leadership of Captain Henry Adams (Henry Adams).
Unlike other systems for emission ognesmesi not used compressed air cylinders, and a
separate petrol engine capacity of 35 hp, provides the pressure of 1600 pounds per
square inch. This saves weight, but is somewhat more complicated structure.

~ 688 ~
Ognemetaniya distance was 27 meters, which at that time was a very good indicator.
Additional armament consisted of four machine guns Browning caliber 7.62 mm,
housed in the side sponsons.

The first prototype of the caterpillar of the steam tank has been introduced to the general
public at the parade in Boston the 17th April 1918 and bore the proud name of
"America". The machine is not equipped with weapons, but made a strong impression
on the townsfolk, who were able to witness firsthand the achievements of the US
military industry. On this day, everything would be fine, if the power plant of the tank
performed flawlessly - driving no more than a kilometer Steam Tank At Cambridge
broke the bridge in front of the amazed public. According to Western sources, the
reason for failure was the wrong adjustment motors.

In the correction of faults it took some time, after which the Americans dare to send
tanks to France, where Allied troops launched a successful counter-attack. Along the
way, we decided that the flamethrower is better to move to a separate turret on the roof
of the superstructure in order to provide a more acceptable arc of fire. However, the idea
of a flamethrower itself and not justified. As it turned out, the power of 35-horsepower
engine was not enough to create the necessary pressure. Another problem was the
excessive weight of the tank, which amounted to about 45 tons. However, on the road
paved tank could reach the speed of 4 miles per hour, and its driving performance is not
much inferior to the British heavy "Diamonds".

Loading of the ship took place, apparently, at the end of May 1918. After arriving in
Europe, the American newspaper "New York Herald" informed its readers that on 22
June was held to familiarize journalists with the American miracle of engineering.
That's only then buzz around the Steam Tank noticeably subsided. In combat conditions

~ 689 ~
to test it and decided not to because of the precarious construction of the power plant. In
addition, the presence of tanks and Mk.V * Mk.VIII "Liberty" the need for a complex
machine with steam engines disappeared by itself. The further fate of Steam Tank is not
known. It is possible that the prototype was shipped back to America, where he
dismantled the metal.

SPECIFICATIONS Heavy Infantry Tank

Steam Tank Tracked sample 1918

Combat weight 45000 kg

CREW, pers. 8

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 10600

Width 3200

Height mm 3800

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS a flamethrower, and four 7.62-mm machine gun in the side sponsons

allowance of
?
ammunition

~ 690 ~
aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead - 13 mm
board housing - 13 mm
food body -?
RESERVATIONS
sponsons -?
roof -
bottom -

two steam Stanley Motor Carriage, 2-cylinder, with a total capacity of

ENGINE
500 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

(On one side) 40 of rollers, 2 rear tension roller, the upper support rail
CHASSIS perezhnee steering wheel, rear wheel drive, krupnozvenchataya track
with a width of 610 mm shoe

SPEED 6.4 km \ h on the highway

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

~ 3.50
m

MEANS OF
not installed
COMMUNICATION

~ 691 ~
Holt Three-Wheeled Steam Tank (1918)

~ 692 ~
Another experimental steam tank was built by the well-known tractor manufacturer
Holt. It was a massive tractor, being driven backwards with two large wheels at the
front, and a roller trailing behind for steering. The front main wheels were powered by
the steam engine fuelled by kerosene-fired boilers. The rear three-wheeled roller also
helped trench-crossing. The front, tall, boxy superstructure housed not only the boilers
(2 cyl, 75 hp) and reciprocating engine, but also a 75 mm (2.95 in) howitzer and two
12.7 mm (0.5 in) machine-guns in sponsons, had a crew of 6 and was well armored, at
16 mm (0.63 in). Only one was built, but never left US soil.

The Steam Wheel Tank was the third heavy tank designed in the United States during
the First World War. Its predecessors were the Holt Gas Electric, built in a joint venture
by Holt and General Electric; the Steam Tank, built by the Army Corps of Engineers in
conjunction with Stanley Steamer, famous for their Steam Cars.

~ 693 ~
The Steam Wheel Tanks design was laid down between late 1916 and early 1917. One
prototype was completed in February of 1918, and was put through a series of
evaluation test between March and May of 1918, at Aberdeen Proving Ground,
Aberdeen, Maryland. Some reports of these tests state the Steam Wheel Tank became
stuck after 50 ft, and thus ended its evaluation. This statement is not accurate. The
Steam Wheel Tank would get bogged down under its weight. However, once enough
pressure was build up in its two kerosene fired boilers, it would pull itself free.

The Steam Wheel Tank was designed on the basis of the early "Big Wheel" Landships,
put forth by Great Britain in 1915 (see below). It also resembles the German "Treffas-
Wagen" of 1917. It had two large 8 ft by 3 ft wheels, located at the rear on each side of
the superstructure. They were made out of several sheets of pressed steel. (They were
not specially built wheels, they were used on Holt combines of that period). At the
front, was a roller type wheel, (resembling a metal barrel ) used for steering. To this a
small steel skid plate was attached to aid in trench crossing.

Power for this vehicle was achieved by two Doble 2 cylinder 75hp steam engines.
Produced by Abner Doble, famous for his Doble Steam Cars, the engines were
produced in association with the General Electric Company in 1916.

~ 694 ~
The engines were mounted horizontally, each running its own wheel, drive was taken
from the pistons to driving and roller pinions, which engaged internal gears fixed to the
rear wheels. Steam Generators were carried in front of each engine and were fired by
kerosene. Presumably the steam generators were of Doble's design using an
supercharged firebox and very long steam pipe which gave a rapid buildup of steam
pressure. The condensor, typical of Doble designs, was behind a set of armoured slats at
the front of the vehicle. Air flow through the condensor was ensured by a steam driven
fan. Exhaust was through two small openings in front of the main housing near the front
of the vehicle.

~ 695 ~
A crew of six was planned to man the Steam Wheel Tank. Main armament was two 6
Pounder guns in the small sponsons on each side of the main compartment and a pair of
Browning machine guns in ball mountings on the sides of the hull. The Steam Tank was
22 ft 3 in long, 10 ft 1 in wide and 9 ft 10 in high. Armour was .23" to .63", weight was
17 tons.

The Steam Wheel Tank is known as many names: the 3 Wheeled Steam Tank, the Holt
Steam Tank; but, its official name as designated by the Army is the Steam Wheel Tank.

The main armament of the Steam Wheel Tank is often quoted as a single 75mm
mountain howitzer mounted in what was believed to be the front of the hull. The
vehicle, in fact, travelled with the small steering wheels in front. However, Steve Zaloga

~ 696 ~
has pointed out that the APG data sheet for this vehicle states the armament is 2 x 6
Pounder guns and 2 x 30cal machine guns. The relevant data sheet was found in the
publication "Automotive Historical Records, Volume III, Tanks and Combat Cars",
Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, 1945. The assertion that the Steam Wheel Tank
had a 75mm howitzer appears to have come from an image of the tank in a 1924
Aberdeen display where the gun from the Holt Gas-Electric tank was displayed in front
of the Steam Wheel Tank.

To modern thinking the idea of a steam engine driving a tank may seem strange but
steam engines had had over a century of development by the time of WW1 and were
light and powerful. The sophistication of the Doble steam system may be seen in the
Doble cars. Only a tiny number of these cars were built but they were much superior to
internal combustion engined cars of the time.

~ 697 ~
~ 698 ~
 Place of origin United States

Weight 17 tons

Length 22 ft 3 in

Width 10 ft 1 in

Height 9 ft 10 in

Crew 6

Armor .23" to .63"

Main 2 six-pounder cannon

armament

Secondary 2 machine guns

armament

Engine 2 steam

Operational ?
range

The Steam Wheel Tank was a U.S.-produced, prototype armoured fighting vehicle
built by the Holt Manufacturing Company (now Caterpillar Inc.). Developed sometime
between late 1916 and early 1917, it was the third tank to be designed in the U.S. The
prototype was completed in February 1918 and was evaluated between March and May
1918 at Aberdeen Proving Ground. It performed poorly, and was not developed further.

Design

Although it is often assumed that the vehicle was a tadpole configuration, with two
driving wheels at the front, a senior Holt executive and the Aberdeen Proving Ground's
report state that it was a delta configuration, with the large wheels at the rear, and that
the vehicle drove like a conventional agricultural tractor.[1]

The two driving wheels were eight feet in diameter with three-foot-wide treads, and a
four-foot diameter roller, used for steering, was sited at the front. The rear wheels were
made from pressed-steel sheet, the same as those used on Holt agricultural machinery of
the period. A small plate was attached to the roller to assist in crossing trenches. Each
rear wheel was driven by a Doble two-cylinder 75 horsepower steam engine and a
Doble kerosene-fired boiler.

The vehicle's armament comprised 2 six-pounder cannons, mounted in sponsons, and

two machine guns. Its riveted armour plating was between six and fifteen millimetres
thick.

~ 699 ~
Official designation:
Alternative designation: Steam Wheeled Tank
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: built one prototype, the project closed in 1918 because of the
hopelessness of the structure.

Another creation of American designers still look for alternative ways to create the type
of assault combat vehicles, began a three-wheeled steam (!) Tank. He is now better
known as Steam Wheeled Tank, but also used other names, such as Holt Steam Tank.
The idea of creating a wheel armored vehicle, capable to overcome a wide trench and
maintain contact with field artillery shells, was first announced back in 1914 and six
months later, the British were far from the realization of the project. However, then
prevailed armored tracked chassis.

Next came the Americans from the firm Holt, developed in late 1916, the project
wheeled tank. Work was carried out with the direct participation of the Army Corps of
Engineers and with the assistance of Stanley Steamer. Tank got a massive body in the
bow which decided to place two 2-cylinder steam engine system Double power by 75
hp Each of the motors have individual drive on one wheel with a diameter of 2.4 meters,
is entirely made of steel, and plumbing. Since both wheels were unmanageable to rotate
the tank was provided for the third wheel "drum" type, is attached to the swing arm in
the rear of the hull. Selecting the steam power plant is partly explained by the fact that
Double motors have proven themselves on the type Doble Steam Cars machines,
produced by General Electirc during the war.

Reservation for its time was quite powerful. Frontal and side shell plates had a thickness
of 0.63 inches (16 mm), the top of ball and - about 0.23 inch (5.8 mm). Total weight
was 17 tons.

The tank's armament consisted of 2.95 "(75 mm) mountain howitzer, mounted in the
front hull superstructure and two 7.62 mm machine guns Browning ball mount on the
sides. Serviced machines a crew of 6 people: the driver, commander, gunner, two and
two gunners.

Construction of the first prototype was delayed and was only completed in winter 1918.
The tank was sent to landfill in Aberdeen, where the military started to tank tests that ...
ended almost before it began. American cars suffered the same fate as the wheeled tank
Lebedenco - barely Moved from place Steam Wheeled Tank traveled about 50 feet (15
meters) and is firmly stuck in the ground. It was obvious that the steam engine power is

~ 700 ~
clearly not enough to get out of the tank "trap". Those present at the same time
representatives of the army were very upset by this fact and refused to further work on
the Steam Wheeled Tank. On this sad episode of his trial and the history of the
development of a fully completed.

SPECIFICATIONS WHEEL HEAVY TANK

Steam Wheeled Tank sample 1918

Combat weight ~ 17000 kg

CREW, pers. 6
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 6780
Width 3070
Height mm 3000
Clearance, mm ?
one 75-mm mountain howitzer and two Browning
WEAPONS
machine gun 7.62 mm
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead - 16 mm
board housing - 16 mm
RESERVATIONS
food body - 5,8 mm
roof and bottom - 5.8 mm
ENGINE Two Double, steam, 75 hp pkazhdy
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
2 front wheels with a stiffer suspension, rear wheel-
CHASSIS
driven drum
SPEED ~ 8 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
not installed
COMMUNICATION

Pioneer Skeleton tank (1918)

~ 701 ~
This strange tank was another one-off in tank history, and experimented with the idea of
having a relatively light tank with a sort of all of nothing armor. In effect, the hull
profile was reminiscent of the classic British lozenge shape and 7 m (23 ft) long to cross
wide trenches (like those of the Hindenburg line). Only a central box for the engine and
crew, topped by a MG turret, was armored by 0.5 in plates (13 mm). The whole
structure was strengthened with iron pipes joined by standard plumbing connections.
Being hollow, this structure was much lighter, at 8.2 tons, compared to the 12-20 tons
for contemporary lozenge tanks, helping the 2 X Beaver 4 cylinder (50 hp) engines to
move it forward at infantry pace (5 mph/8 km/h). It was never produced and is still
preserved, restored, at the Aberdeen museum near the famous Maryland Proving
Grounds.

One of the fascinating aspects of early armour, is that as the technology was quite new,
without any given standard, the range of experiments and often seemingly bizarre
contraption was very wide indeed. One of the most unorthdox designs that came out of
the Great War, was the American so called "Skeleton Tank" or "Spider Tank". This
design may look, and also was strange, although not in reality quite as bizarre as, say,
the Russian "Tsar" tricycle tank or the German K-Wagen. While these strange tanks - or
really their inventors - were victim to the notion of bigger always being better, the
Skeleton Tank also had to do with the question of size, although in quite a different
way.

The Skeleton Tank came out of a real dilemma, observed with small tanks like the
French FT-17 or the Ford 3-tonner, namely: a small tank had many advantages, not least
that it was easier and cheaper to manufacture, and it of course required much less
enginepower than a big tank like, say, the British Mk IV or French St Chamond. But

~ 702 ~
there was one real drawback that came with small size: it heavily reduced the trench
crossing capacity of the tank in question. The Skeleton Tank was built in the United
States in 1918 was an experiment to achieve the maximum trench-crossing performance
consistent with a weight of around 8 tons. Thus you would have a tank with all the
logistical advantages of a small tank, but the trench-crossing capacity of a big one.

The idea was to reduce many parts of the hull to bare essentials. Built by the Pioneer
Tractor Company, of Winona, Minnesota, under the direction of Edwin M Wheelock,
the Skeleton Tank had many structural members simply done of ordinary threaded iron

~ 703 ~
pipe, joined by standard plumbing connections! This may seem strange, but it had the
advantage - beside cheapness - in that could be easily disassembled when moved, say
over the Atlantic, and then easily reassembled again. It also meant that much of the tank
could be repaired and maintained with standard tools and equipment.

The hull was a rectangular box armoured to a 12mm standard, was supported on these
round piping members between the tracks and carried the driver at the front. The other
crew member, the gunner, was behind him and operated the single machinegun
mounted in a cylindrical turret. The engines (two Beaver fourcylinder with forced
water cooling, total 100h.p., giving it a quite satisfactory ratio of 11 horsepower units
per ton, which was more than the double enjoyed by the British Mk V, which only
sported 5 hp per ton) in the hull, drove sprockets at the rear of the track through a drive
shaft to a differential carried in a separate small box between the rear horns of the

~ 704 ~
tracks. The Skeleton Tank could do a speed of some 8km/h crosscountry. For its
weight of only 9.145 tons it was still 7.65 meters long and presumably satisfied the
trench-crossing performance required of it. (It was also 2.56m wide and 2.89m high.)
The tank was tested in mid-1918 at the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland, and was
obviously a success, as the company was awarded a contract for no less than 1.000
tanks. But as the First World War soon ended, nothing came out of this. Its unique
trench capacity suddenly ceased to be such an important consideration and there was
also no further development of this strange yet interesting vehicle.

Type Experimental Tank

Place of origin USA

Manufacturer Pioneer Tractor Company

Produced 1918

Number built 1

~ 705 ~
 Weight 18,000 lb (8,200 kg)

Length 25 ft (7.6 m)

Width 8 ft 5 in (2.57 m)

Height 9 ft 6 in (2.90 m)

Crew 2

Armor .5 inch

Main 1 X .30 caliber machine gun

armament

2 X Beaver 4 cylinder
Engine
50 hp

Suspension Rigid frame tracks

Speed 5 mph

The Skeleton Tank was an experimental prototype tank built in 1918 by the Pioneer
Tractor Company, Winona, Minnesota. Designed with several innovative features, some
of which were controversial at the time, the Skeleton Tank project did not proceed
beyond the single prototype tank.

Design

The objective of this prototype was to develop a lightweight vehicle capable of crossing
wide trenches in a manner similar to the then-conventional heavy British tanks. Unlike
the British tanks with their fully enclosed chassis, the Skeleton Tank achieved the
requisite lozenge shape by supporting its tracks with a skeleton-like framework formed
from ordinary iron pipes joined by standard plumbing connections. Suspended between
these track frames was an armored fighting compartment carrying a machine gun turret.
The engines were also housed in this armor-protected box.

This arrangement dramatically reduced the weight of the vehicle as compared to the
larger British and French tanks while preserving the trench-crossing capabilities of
those machines, and there was a belief that most enemy bullets and cannon rounds
would pass harmlessly through the structure. However, it eliminated the possibility of
mounting weapons in sponsons as in the British tanks and thus limited the armament
that could be carried.

Motive power consisted of two Beaver 50 hp four-cylinder engines with a final drive
joining to a gearbox suspended between the rear horns of the tracks. This allowed a
maximum speed of 5 mph.

~ 706 ~
Specifications

The Skeleton Tank weighed 9 tons and carried a boxy fighting compartment protected
by a half inch of armor, which was in line with the armor thicknesses on other Allied
tanks.

The crew of two consisted of the driver and the commander/gunner who manned the .30
caliber machine gun in the turret.

It was 25 feet long, which compared favorably in trench-crossing potential to the then-
standard heavy British Mk IV and Mk V tanks with lengths of 265 but weights of 28
to 29 tons, and the French Schneider CA1 and Char d'Assault St. Chamond with lengths
of 19'9" and 28'11" and weights of 13.5 and 23 tons respectively.

It was 85 wide, narrower than the 10 to 125 of the British tanks, and slightly higher
at 96 vice 88 for the Mk IV/V due to its turret.

It was never ordered into production.

Official designation: "Skeleton Tank"

Alternative notation:
Start design: 1918
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

The experience of the British engineers who have created successful for its time
"rhomboid" tanks, during the First World War, was left to the Americans. However,
with all the visual advantages as high firepower and ability to overcome significant
obstacles, they had some serious drawbacks. The specific shape of the chassis,
completely covering the body, led to a large area of injury, increase in weight of the
tank and the low-speed movement. Of course, the later models, "rhombus" dynamic
quality still managed to increase, but the overall picture has changed little. To save an
infantry tank from the first two deficiencies Pioneer Tractor Company from the
American firm engineers Winona (Winona) decided to go unconventional, but perfectly
logical way. Chief designer of the tank became Wheelock Edwin (Edwin M Wheelock).

~ 707 ~
The design of the chassis of the tank was a two-tracked frame bonded pipes, which was
mounted in the support 9 and 5 of the tension wheel of small diameter, 5 wheels
supporting the upper branch of the caterpillars, front drive and rear wheel steering. That
technical solution able to solve three problems at once: to a large extent to save weight,
reduce the area of damage and to ensure the protection of chassis components.

Tank Corps and was attached to the steel tubes between the frames and to simplify the
structure was a box-like shape. Assembling the body was carried out on the bolts, rivets,
and parts, which are mounted 12-mm armor plates. The fighting compartment and the
separation of control placed front - there were seats for the driver, the tank commander
and gunner. On the roof of the fighting compartment installed a cylindrical tower with a
7.62-mm machine gun. At the rear of the chassis are two 4-cylinder petrol engine 50 hp
Beaver each. Since the place of transmission components, together with the engine
turned out to be very difficult to separate them carried in an armored box mounted
behind the body in front of the driving wheels. power is transmitted through the
propeller shaft protected armored pipe. Because of its original design, this war machine
was called "Skeleton Tank", although sometimes used alternative name "Spider
Tank" Given the demands placed upon it can be concluded that the tank was on the
classification of infantry.

~ 708 ~
As a result of the use of non-standard technological solutions able to obtain the order of
battle tanks weight 9145 kg, so that the specific power is 11 hp per ton. For comparison,
the British heavy tank Mk.V had a power density only 5 hp per ton of pulp. Thus, the
American "skinned tank" had the best dynamic properties with comparable
characteristics of the terrain and overcome obstacles.

After the test, the tank-depth carried out on the landfill Aberlinskom the summer of
1918, it was decided to immediately order a 1000 mass-produced cars. However, barely
begun, the work on the deployment of mass production "Skeleton Tank" should be
curtailed. In November 1918, the war ended and the military orders greatly reduced. For
a series-built version of the French chose the license light tank Renault FT-17 tank and
heavy Mk.VIII, who appeared apogee of the British "rhombus". As for "Skeleton Tank",
in contrast to other US military vehicles experienced a period of 1914-1918. he was
very lucky.

Left no inheritance prototype tank for some time without cause rust, but then decided to
make of it a museum piece. This fact in no small measure contributed to the fact that
"Skeleton Tank" was the property of the US Army, which is in no hurry to send an
experimental sample to be scrapped. As a result, the tank went to the Museum Aberdeen
Proving Ground, where it was restored and brought into a state that is close to the time
of trial runs.

~ 709 ~
It should be noted that for all positive virtues of American "skinned tank" was a little
better than the same Mk.V. For example, the presence of the tower with a circular
rotation looks an absolute advantage, but because of the design features a single tank
gun had a lot of "dead zones" and could effectively only to fire in the direction of
straight-forward and straight back. Chassis and can hardly be called rational. Of course,
the Americans managed to reduce the weight, but for it had to pay it a very dense
arrangement of the body and the imposition of transmission of its chapels. In combat
conditions, it could play a rather negative role. In addition, stiffer suspension track
roller leads to strong vibration during movement. Another moment, it is worthy of
criticism, was visibility. The driver was in front of only one observation slit in the front
hull and the tank commander alone machine-gun sight could count. And most
importantly - the crew sat down and out of the tank through a hatch in the tower only.
So, as the Americans would not have praised his tank its military value was dubious.

SPECIFICATIONS Infantry Tank

"Skeleton Tank" sample in 1918

Combat weight 9145 kg

CREW, pers. 2-3

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 7650

Width 2580

Height mm 2890

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun Colt-Browning M1919 in Tower

~ 710 ~
allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES telescopic sight

housing - 12 mm
RESERVATIONS protection of transmission -
Tower -

ENGINE Two Beaver, Petrol, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 100 hp total

mechanical type with planetary gearbox (4 speeds forward and 1

TRANSMISSION
reverse)

(On one side) 9 of rollers, tension rollers 5, 5 supporting wheels, front

CHASSIS steering wheel, rear wheel drive, caterpillar krupnozvenchataya typed
steel shoe

SPEED ~ 8 km \ h on the highway

Cruising on the
~ 100 km
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 711 ~
US M1917 Light Tank

Type Light tank

Place of origin United States

Weight 7.25 tons

Length 16'5"

Width 5'10 1/2 "

Height 7'7"

Crew 2

Armor 0.25" to 0.6"

37mm M1916 gun or Marlin

Main M1917 machine gun, later
armament replaced by the M1919
Browning machine gun[1]

Secondary none
armament

Engine Buda HU modified 4-

cylinder, with forced water

~ 712 ~
 cooling
42 HP

sliding gear, 4 speed forward,

Transmission
1 reverse

coil and leaf springs, with

Suspension
bogies and rollers.

30 gallons (30 miles on the

Fuel capacity
road)

Operational 48 km (30 miles) on road.

range

Speed 8 km/h (5.5 mph) - 20 km/h

The M1917 was the USA's first mass-produced tank, entering production shortly before
the end of World War I.[2] It was a license-built near-copy of the French Renault FT,[2]
and was intended to arm the American Expeditionary Forces in France, but US
manufacturers failed to produce any in time to take part in the War. Of the 4,440
ordered, about 950 were eventually completed. They remained in service throughout the
1920s but did not take part in any combat, and were phased out during the 1930s.

History

The USA entered the First World War on the side of the Entente Powers in April, 1917,
without any tanks of her own. The following month, in the light of a report into British
and French tank theories and operations, the American Expeditionary Forces'
commander-in-chief, Gen. John Pershing, decided that both light and heavy tanks were
essential for the conduct of the war and should be acquired as soon as possible.[3] A
joint Anglo-American programme was set up to develop a new type of heavy tank
similar to those then in use by the British. It was, though, expected that sizeable
quantities would not be available until April of the following year. Because of the
wartime demands on French industry, the Inter-Allied Tank Commission decided that
the quickest way to supply the American forces with sufficient armour was to
manufacture the Renault FT light tank in the USA.

A requirement of 1,200 was decided, later increased to 4,400, and some sample Renault
tanks, plans, and various parts were sent to the US for study. The design was to be
carried out by the Ordnance Department, under the job title "Six-ton Special Tractor,"
and orders for the vehicles placed with private manufacturers. However, the project was
beset by problems: the French specifications were metric and incompatible with
American (imperial) machinery; coordination between military departments, suppliers,
and manufacturers was poor; bureaucratic inertia, lack of cooperation from military
departments, and possible vested interests delayed progress.

~ 713 ~
The Army in France was expecting the first 300 M1917s by April, 1918. In the event,
production did not begin until the autumn, and the first completed vehicles emerged
only in October. Two tanks arrived in France on November 20, nine days after the end
of hostilities, and a further eight in December. In the summer of 1918, with no sign of
the M1917s and US troops desperately needed at the Front, France supplied 144
Renault FTs, which were used to equip the US Light Tank Brigade.

After the war, the Van Dorn Iron Works, the Maxwell Motor Co., and the C.L. Best Co.
built 950 M1917s. 374 had cannons, 526 had machine guns, and 50 were signal
(wireless) tanks. These were delivered to the Tank Corps, to complement about 200
Renault FTs brought back from France.

Visible differences from the Renault FT

The M1917 can be distinguished from the Renault FT by means of several external
features.

The exhaust is on the left hand side instead of on the right

The FT mantlet for the machine-gun or 37mm cannon is replaced with a new
design.
Solid steel idler wheels replaced the steel-rimmed, wooden or seven-spoked
steel ones on the FT
Additional vision slits are added to aid the driver .
All M1917s have a polygonal turret; none used the circular turret type fitted to
approximately 50% of Renault FTs.
The frontal armour below the turret was also slightly modified.

Operational use

M1917 tank at the Canadian War Museum

The M1917 did not take part in any combat.

In June 1920 the Tank Corps was abolished as a separate branch, and control of tanks
handed to the infantry. The number of tank units was progressively reduced, and the
vehicles mothballed or scrapped.

Five accompanied the U.S. Marine Expeditionary Force to Tientsin in April 1927 under
General Smedley Butler, but there is no record of shots being fired. They returned to the
USA in late 1928.[4]

~ 714 ~
In July 1932 six M1917s were deployed in Washington D.C. during the dispersal of the
Bonus Army. George S. Patton Jr. states in his diaries that these vehicles were carried in
trucks as a deterrent, but contemporary film shows them moving on their tracks along
Pennsylvania Avenue.[5] It is not believed that any shots were fired.

In 1940 the Canadian Army bought 250 surplus examples at scrap value (about $240
each) and the Royal Canadian Armoured Corps gained valuable experience and training
on them before embarking to Europe and using more modern equipment. The Canadian
Army took delivery of 236 surplus M1917s. Fifteen of them apparently went to Camp
Borden for training use, while others went to train individual units such as the Fort
Garry Horse and possibly another three.

Variant

M1917 A1: In 1929 an M1917 was fitted with a Franklin six-cylinder, 67 hp, air-cooled
engine. This involved lengthening the engine compartment by approx. 1 foot. In 1930-
31 seven M1917s were fitted with the 100 hp version of the Franklin. This raised the top
speed to 9 mph.

USA (1918) Light Tank 950 built

Introduction

When the United States of America joined the Allies on the battlefields of France and
Belgium in WW1, in April 1917, the US Army Expeditionary Force did not possess any
tanks. Their officers inspected the British and French tanks and decided the French
Renault FT tank would meet their needs until more British style heavy tanks could be
manufactured.

They were loaned some Renault FT tanks and a few British Mk.V tanks for the final
attacks of WW1. The French factories were fully committed in producing tanks to meet
the needs of the French Army. There was no spare capacity in France to build additional
tanks for the US Army.

~ 715 ~
M1917 light tank of the 11th Tank Company in Hawaii, circa 1938. (photo: US
National Armor and Cavalry Museum)

The Americans quickly conducted negotiations with the French government and
obtained the license to start production of the Renault FT tank in America. For security
reasons, the early tanks were just called 6 ton special tractor. Later, they were given
the official designation Model 1917 6-ton light tank. This was more commonly
abbreviated to just M1917. The US Government placed an order for 4,440 tanks to be
built, but only 950 were produced before the order was cancelled.

Only 64 M1917 tanks had been completed by the end of the war. Ten American built
M1917 tanks were delivered to France before World War One finished on 11th
November 1918. None of them saw active service on the front line.

The letters FT do not stand for first tank or the French terms faible tonnage (low
tonnage), faible taille (small size), franchisseur de tranches (trench crosser), or
force terrestre (land force). It was not named the FT 17 or FT-17 during World War I.
That happened after the war finished. All new Renault projects were given a two-letter
product code for internal use, and the next one available was FT. The previous
production code was FS.

~ 716 ~
This photograph was taken around 1920. It shows a mixture of camouflaged M1917
tanks (only used in 1919) and M1917 tanks in dark olive drab livery. They are now
awaiting issue to the various tank companies of both the regular army and National
Guard (photo: Vendith).

Design and Production

This tank should not be judged with modern eyes. Tank on tank combat was not a
consideration in the design of this vehicle. The Germans only produced 20 A7V heavy
tanks during WW1.

These tanks were the solution to the problem of how do you cross no-mans land
under rifle plus machine gun fire and breach the enemys front line of trenches. Most of
the Renault FT tanks used in the war were only armed with machine guns. A few were
mounted with cannons to deal with fortified bunkers and machine gun positions. They
worked with machine gun armed tanks who protected them from infantry attack.

Many books and websites state that the design of the Renault FT armored fighting
vehicle was the first to use a turret that traversed 360 degrees. That statement is not true.
Before the war and during the early part of the war, turrets were used on armored cars.
The Renault FT was the first tank with a turret that traversed 360 degrees to see action
on the battlefield.

The tank was operated by a two man crew. The driver sat in the front of the tank in the
middle and the commander operated the turret and gun. The turret was unpowered, and
had no mechanism to move it, besides handles. The commander had too much to do. He
had to look out for enemy targets and dangers, load the gun, traverse the turret, fire the
machine gun and give directions to the driver. He also had to read the map and co-
ordinate with other tanks and infantry units. The tanks were not fitted with radios, so the
commander had to use flags, hand signals and shout commands at other units.

~ 717 ~
The tank had a number of good design features that were advanced for the time. The
front armor plate that protected the driver was slopped. The armor was thin, but
slopping increased the thickness of metal any enemy bullet had to pass through before it
penetrated the interior of the tank. The angle of the armor also helped deflect incoming
enemy bullets. The tank tracks were comparatively wide for the time and this helped
enable the tank to cross muddy ground.

The American version

The American engineers made some alterations to the original French Renault FT tank
design. Some of these features were cosmetic and others were done to assist in the
problem of supplying none standard ammunition and equipment to front line troops.

M1917 light tank of the 40th Tank Company, California National Guard, deployed on
the streets of San Francisco during the 1934 strike. (photo: US National Armor and
Cavalry Museum)

The most noticeable was the removal of the French Hotchkiss 7.9 mm (0.32 in) machine
gun. It was replaced by an American made caliber .30 (7.62 mm) 1917 Marlin machine
gun that accepted the standard US .30 ammunition.

The US designers changed the engine. The French Renault FT tank was powered by a
Renault 4-cylinder, 4.5 liter, thermo-siphon water-cooled, gasoline petrol engine. The
Americans replaced it with a Buda HU modified 4-cylinder, with forced water cooling.
This gasoline petrol engine produced 42 hp. While the tank wasnt fast by modern
standards, the Buda engine did produce a lot of torque, which was more important than
speed, since that would allow it to cross obstacles and rough terrain more reliably.

~ 718 ~
This initial engine replacement did not enhance the maximum speed of the tank. It still
propelled the vehicle at only 5 mph (8 km/h) on the road and it only just managed to
keep up with advancing friendly troops across country.

It only had an operational range of 30 miles (50 km) before it needed to be refueled. In
modern warfare, this would be a problem, but for Allied tanks involved in WW1
offensives, the enemy front line was only 100 to 200 m away and any breakthrough
would normally only cover a maximum of 6 miles (10 km).

The Renault FT and the US Army M1917 tank can be told apart by
the following features. The exhaust on the M1917 was positioned on the left hand side
of the tank instead of on the right. The machine-gun and 37 mm cannon gun
mantlet was replaced with a new design. Solid steel idler wheels replaced the French
steel-rimmed, wooden or seven-spoked steel ones on the Renault FT tank.

The American designers added additional vision slits in the armored body work to aid
the driver. All US Army M1917 light tanks had polygonal turrets and not the cast metal
circular turrets fitted to nearly 50% of French Renault FT tanks.

For those that like to look closer at the differences between different tank types, the
frontal armor below the turret on the US M1917 was slightly modified from the original
French design. The track tensioning mechanisms, which move the idler wheels forward
or backwards, are different. The US Army M1917 tank has an assembly in which a bolt
is used to set the tension, and 2 pairs of interlocking toothed plates lock together to hold
the axle in place, removing strain from the relatively weak bolt.

A self-starter was fitted to the engine and a bulkhead was added to the chassis to
separate the crew from the engine compartment. It was still very noisy inside the tank
and the commander communicated where he wanted the driver to steer by using his feet
on the back of the driver: touch the left shoulder to go left: right shoulder to go right:
touch the middle of the drivers back meant go straight ahead.

Manufacturer

The US licensed built M1917 light tank was built at three different factories in America:
Van Dorn Iron Works, Maxwell Motor Company and the C.L. Best Company

~ 719 ~
About 50 M1917 signal tank command variants were built. (photo: US National Armor
and Cavalry Museum)

The M1917 A1 tank variant

After WW1, the American engineers wanted to fit a more powerful engine into the
M1917 chassis, but it was very restrictive. In 1919, they increased the length of the
chassis by around 1 foot (30 cm) and mounted an American built Franklin engine that
produced 100 hp, which was an improvement on the original US Buda 42 hp engine. It
only increased the maximum road speed to 9 mph (14.5 km/h) instead of 5 mph (8
km/h). It was given the designation M1917 A1.

The octagonal turret was used and a caliber .30 M1919 Browning tank machine gun
replaced the .30 M1917 Marlin machine gun. All steel road wheels were fitted to this
new tank variant.

Some of the US Army tanks were upgraded to gun tanks by the fitting of M1916 37 mm
cannons. Each shell was a little bit smaller than the British 6pdr high explosive shell.
They could also carry armor piercing shells for punching holes through concrete
bunkers. Behind the armor piercing head of the shell was a base detonating fuse system
and some black powder which would ignite the primer and charge. It would explode
after the shell had hit its target and gone through the concrete or armor.

~ 720 ~
It carried 238 shells. Two 100-round ammo racks were fitted in the hull, one each side
of where the commander stood, plus a 25 round and 13 round ready rack in the turret.
This gun tank did not have a machine gun, so it had to rely on other M1917 machine
gun tanks for protection from infantry.

The tanks fitted with the caliber .30 M1919 Browning tank machine guns could carry
4,200 .30 caliber rounds. It is believed 374 upgraded 37 mm US Army M1917 gun
tanks were built after 1919 and 526 M1917 were fitted with the new the caliber .30
M1919 Browning tank machine guns. They all had the extended chassis and new
Franklin engines.

Records show that 50 M1917 signals tanks were built. They had an enlarged non-
rotating turret that could carry a radio and space for maps. The French version was
called a Renault TSF (telegraphie sans fil = wireless radio)

~ 721 ~
The .30 Cal M1919 Browning Tank Machine Gun.

Operational Service

Although 10 American built M1917 tanks were delivered to France in the fall (autumn)
of 1918, they never saw action before the end of WW1, on 11th November 1918. It was
the tank that would have been used by the US Army in France if WW1 had progressed
into 1919 and beyond.

The US Army was already using some loaned French Army Renault FT tanks as well as
a few British Mk.V tanks in France during WW1. An American Army light tank
platoon consisted of five vehicles that were a combination of machine gun only and 37
mm cannon gun tanks. There was a tank crew height restriction of 54 (1.62 m) or
~ 722 ~
below and a weight limit of 125 lbs (57 kg). If a tanker was taller or larger than this,
then he could not fit inside the M1917 tank comfortably and would have had more
problems getting out of the tank in a hurry.

The M1917 tank, like the French Renault tank, had a problem with barbed wire
wrapping around the tracks and drive mechanism, causing the tank to stop. This left the
tank crew vulnerable to concentrated artillery fire. Unlike the British heavy tanks, that
would lead the infantry in an attack, the M1917 was used to support the infantry from
behind. It needed a barbed wire free lane to be cleared during the night or early in the
morning of the attack. The infantry would call upon the tanks to suppress machine gun
nests and strong points they could not deal with.

Tanks were used to encourage the American people to buy Liberty Bonds to help with
the war effort. M1917 tanks in brightly painted green, yellow and tan livery would put
on power demonstrations. Some would demolish a house whilst others would drive
through city streets. Victory V invest posters would be pasted onto the side of tanks.
Special trains were hired to transport the tanks and other pieces of military equipment
across the country as part of the money raising project.

For financial reasons, the US Tank Corps was demobilized in June 1920. The tanks
were issued to different infantry regiments. The number of working tanks available
started to diminish due to accidents, fires and mechanical failures. Some tanks were
cannibalized to provide spare parts for other tanks. A few tanks were scrapped, whilst
others were mothballed, kept in storage.

In 1922, the 38th Tank Company, Kentucky National Guard, used some of their Model
1917 tanks to destroy illegal alcohol producing stills during prohibition. These were
used in the propaganda war to show the tough stance the US Government was taking
against boot-leggers. The press were invited to take photos of tanks driving over the
seized equipment that had been used for making gin and whiskey.

~ 723 ~
The US sent M1917 tanks to China as part of an expeditionary force in April 1927.
(photo: US National Armor and Cavalry Museum)

In April 1927, US Marine Corps M1917 tanks were sent to Shanghai, China, under
General Smedley D. Butler, to protect the International Settlement and consulates from
the Soviet backed Kuomintang Chinese Nationalist Army and local sympathetic
Chinese mobs, which had strong anti-foreigner feelings. The 3rd Brigade of Marines
had a total of 238 officers, 18 warrant officers and 4,170 enlisted men. They worked
with the British Army Expeditionary force to protect the settlement.

Nationalist forces continued to extend their control northward. American property and
people were attacked. General Butler with his entire brigade (less the Fourth Regiment),
moved up to Tientsin early in June. The American legation guard at Peking (Beijing)
then had a total of 17 officers and 499 Marines. Major conflict was avoided. The
situation stabilised and the disorder threat from anti-foreigner demonstrations subsided.
All units of the 3rd Brigade of Marines in Tientsin were withdrawn in January, 1929.
This included the M1917 tanks. There are no reports of the cannon or machine guns of
the US Marine Corps M1917 light tanks being used in anger in China.

In July 1932, six M1917s were deployed in Washington D.C., during the dispersal of
the Bonus Army. George S. Patton Jr. states in his diaries that these vehicles were
carried in trucks as a deterrent. Photographs of the event show he did not tell the
complete story. No shots were fired. During the San Francisco General Strike of 1934,
the Governor utilized M1917 tanks of the 40th Tank Company, California National
Guard, on the streets of the city. Some of the tanks used during the strikes had their

~ 724 ~
muffler (exhaust silencer box) removed. This would have made the tanks sound very
loud. It is not known if this was done as a tactic to increase fear in the civilian
demonstrators or not.

A few of the M1917 tanks were used as war memorials around the US. A lot were
scrapped and cut up. In 1940, the Canadian Army were offered 250 surplus US M1917
light tanks at scrap value (about $240 each). As a neutral country in the early stages of
WW2, US law stated that it was illegal to sell arms to any combatant countries. The
Royal Canadian Armoured Corps gained valuable experience and training on them
before embarking to Europe and using the more modern equipment. The Canadian
Army took delivery of 236 surplus M1917s. Fifteen of them apparently went to Camp
Borden for training use, while others went to train individual units such as the Fort
Garry Horse and possibly another three.

During the San Francisco General Strike of 1934 the Governor utilized M1917 tanks of
the 40th Tank Company, California National Guard. Notice the exhaust muffler has
been removed.(photo: US National Armor and Cavalry Museum)

Specifications
Dimensions (L x W 4.88 (4.02 without tail) x 1.71 x 2.14 m
x H) (160/132 x 57 x 70)

Total weight, battle

6.7 tons
ready

Crew 2 (commander/gunner, driver)

~ 725 ~
Propulsion Buda HU modified 4-cylinder, 4-cycle, vertical L-band gasoline
engine, 42 hp@1,460rpm.

Speed ~5 mph (8.85 km/h)

Range 30 miles (48 km)

Fuel tank 24 US gallons

Armament Female .30 Cal M1917 Marlin machine gun or

tank .30 Cal M1919 Browning machine gun (238 rounds)

Armament Male
37 mm M1916 cannon
tank

Armor 6 22 mm

Total production 950

US built M1917 Light Tank armed with a caliber .30 Marlin machine gun

M1917 light tank armed with a .30 M1919 Browning tank machine gun

~ 726 ~
M1917 Light Tank armed with a 37mm M1916 cannon

M1917 Signals Tank

M1917 Light Tank used during the Liberty Bond fund raising event

M1917 Light Tank of the 40th Tank Company, California National Guard.

~ 727 ~
M1917 tanks were used to encourage people to buy Liberty Bonds during and after
WW1 to support the allied cause. Subscribing to the bonds became a symbol of patriotic
duty in the United States. This M1917 was one of a number of tanks traveling in the
12th Federal Reserve District raising money for the 5th Liberty Loan. Photo taken in
Eugene, Oregon 1919. (photo: US National Armor and Cavalry Museum)

This is a M1917 tank from the 38th Tank Company, Kentucky National Guard.
February 21, 1922. It is being used to destroy illegal alcohol producing stills during
prohibition.(photo: US National Armor and Cavalry Museum)

~ 728 ~
US Marine Corps camp in China. Notice the rear skid is disconnected at the rear of the
tank. This is so the tank crew could gain access to the crank engine start.(photo: US
National Armor and Cavalry Museum)

M1917 tank of the 3rd Tank Company, Special Troops, 3rd Division. (photo: US
National Armor and Cavalry Museum)

~ 729 ~
Loading US Marine Corps M1917 tanks on ships for transportation to Shanghai, China
1927. (photo: US National Armor and Cavalry Museum)

US Marine Corps M1917 tanks in Tients, China in April 1927.

~ 730 ~
During the San Francisco General Strike of 1934, the Governor utilized M1917 tanks of
the 40th Tank Company, California National Guard. They simply performed security
and acted as a threat to any strikers. The trench skids have been disconnected to enable
access to the crank start at the back of the tank. (photo: US National Armor and Cavalry
Museum)

MacArthur deployed M1917 tanks in a policing role at the Bond March in Washington
DC. (photo: US National Armor and Cavalry Museum)

~ 731 ~
Surviving early production M1917 with Marlin machine gun mount at the Pennsylvania
Military Museum, Boalsburg, PA, USA. (photo: Jim McClure)

Preserved US Army WW1 M1917 6-ton light tank at the Virginia War Museum, in
America, with caliber .30 M1919 Browning Tank Gun fitted. (photo: Allen Bond)

~ 732 ~
Drivers position in a US Army WW1 M1917 6-ton light tank.

This US Army M1917 tank was fitted with a M1916 37mm cannon and could carry 238
rounds. It is on display at the National Armor and Cavalry Mus, Fort Benning, GA,
USA (photo: Roger Davis)

~ 733 ~
This is the 25 round ready rack in the turret of the M1917. In total the tank carried
carried 238 shells. (photo: Clark Ward)

The 6.5-ton M1917 light tank

The licence-built Renault FT took quite long to see the light of day. Indeed, delays
started right with Renaults delivery of blueprints, which were all in the metric system
and had to be adapted. Development took months of bureaucratic inertia and industrial
delays and coordination problems. In the end, only three tanks reached the front line
nine days after the capitulation, and only 950 were delivered on the initial order of
4,400, which should have been shipped before the spring 1919 offensive. Therefore, all
M1917s were kept on home soil, were they constituted the first US armored units,
giving valuable experience. They were used in the 1927 Shanghai intervention by the
USMC before being stored in the late 1920s and the training units disbanded.

~ 734 ~
One of the nations that decided to adopt the famous FT-17-tank was the United States.
But unlike other countries, they didnt make a carbon copy of the French design.
Specimen vehicles were obtained, and with manufacturers drawings these were shipped
to the United States.

~ 735 ~
Owing to the differences in the French(metric) and American engineering standards, it
became necessary to carry out a virtual redesign, which also incorporated a number of
improvements and changes. The steel-rimmed wooden idler wheels of the French
design were replaced with an all steel type, a bulkhead was constructed between the
engine and crews compartment, the Renault engine was replaced with a 4-cylinder
Buda with the addition of a self starter; and a new gun mount was installed that would
permit the mounting of either a .30 cal machine gun or 37mm gun. Other visible
changes were an exhaust muffler on the left side and a somewhat different front on the
drivers compartment.

~ 736 ~
~ 737 ~
Under the code name of Six Ton Special Tractor initial orders were placed for 1,200
vehicles, this was later increased to 4,400. The principal contractors for building the
vehicles were the Van Dorn Iron Works, Maxwell Motor Co, and C. L. Best Tractor Co,
all working under the supervision of the US Ordnance Department. By 11 November
1918, a total of 64 vehicles had been completed, ten of which actually arrived in France
before the war ended. A total of 950 of the Six Ton Tank were built before production
ceased, and were the standard US light tanks until 1931. (Under the Lend Lease Act in
1940 329 of these vehicles were sent to Canada where they were employed as training
machines.) Weight: 7.25tons; crew 2; 1 37mm gun or 1 MG; armour 0.25-0.6in; engine
Buda 4-cylinder 42hp water-cooled; 5.5mph; 16ft 5in L x 5ft 10.5in W x 7ft 7in H.

~ 738 ~
~ 739 ~
Later in the 20s, they were modified further, mainly by introducing a sort of shield over
the mantlet, strengthening the protection of the turret even more. And some years later,
in an attempt to modernize the design further, the old Buda engine, that had never been
completely satisfactory, was replaced with an air-cooled Franklin engine. During 1929,
arrangements were made to install this engine in a Six-Ton Tank: this was achieved by
removing the Buda engine complete with clutch, radiator with fan and other minor
parts, enlarging the engine compartment, and installing a modified Franklin air cooled
engine complete with clutch and with fan on a crank shaft. New idler track rims were
fitted to reduce the noise which would arise from the increased speed of the machine.
With an increased speed of 10mph and the noice reduced by 50% the trials of the
machine proved successful. The War Department decided to modify 6 additional
vehicles for service with the Mechanised Force newly formed in 1930. A more powerful
Franklin engine was used with suitable modifications to the cooling baffles. After
delivery of these six modified tanks, the first modified version was reworked
accordingly. Modifications of the 6ton 1917 model were later discontinued due to a
decision by the Chief of Infantry.

~ 740 ~
~ 741 ~
~ 742 ~
Official designation: Six-ton Tank M1917
Alternative designation: Ford Two-man
Start of planning: 1917
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: in 1918-1919. built two prototypes and 950 series of tanks

Having entered the First World War in April 1917, the US Army was absolutely not at
the level of combat readiness, as it is expected the Allies. Of course, for manpower,

~ 743 ~
artillery and total mechanization of the question, there was little, but the main problem
was that the US had no combat ready tanks. Pathetic attempts in the form of reserved
bronetraktorov Holt with front wheel steering (!) Can hardly be described as a great
success, and the new design of tracked combat vehicles has yet been developed. To
catch up AEF (American Expeditionary Force) were required urgently to equip the
tanks. And then a new problem - the tanks was not enough.

In order to overcome this difficult situation, the joint Anglo-American program

envisages the creation of two types of tanks was developed at the end of 1917: light and
heavy. It was expected that the mass deliveries will begin no earlier than April 1918.
Meanwhile, efforts have focused on the project, and later became known as Mk.VIII
"Liberty", and the issue resolved with a light tank is quite traditional. Admission to the
mass production of a September 1917 light tanks Renault FT-17 suddenly brought
France to a leading position in tank. It turned out that this is literally all you need to
tank, which caused a steady increase in orders. To cope with them alone, French
industry could not help her and decided to allocate production capacity in the United
States.

The initial requirement was 1,200 tanks, but soon the US government insisted on
increasing the volume of the tanks to 4400, which was awarded the "secret" designation
"special 6-ton tractor" ( "Six-ton Special Tractor"). To work progressed faster in the end
of 1917, overseas sent four production FT-17, as well as part drawings and the
individual tank units. But then there was a new, albeit quite predictable problem - the
French used the metric system, and the Americans stubbornly unwilling to give up the
inch. In addition, the "demonstration" tanks belonged to the first hand-built series,
possessing some individual differences. Added to this is the inconsistency in the actions
of the military departments, corruption and frankly selfish interests of various
companies, which are supposed to give orders for the production FT-17 licensed
version.

Thus, progress is constantly inhibited, although AEF expected to get 300 tanks to the
previously scheduled date. In fact, the serial production of the American version of the
FT-17 only managed to build in the fall of 1918, when the war came to its logical
conclusion. In October, the US Army took 31 tanks, which at that time began to be
referred to as Six-ton Tank M1917, and there were 64 production machines in the 11 th
November. In France, managed to send all 10 of them, the first two M1917 arrived on
November 20th, when for nine days on the Western Front operated a truce, while the
remaining 8 were taken in December 1918. To continue the formation begun Light Tank
Brigade French themselves were forced to pass the 144 FT-17 private buildings. Total
US military had 514 light tanks, assembled in France, but not all of them went to the
United States. The real mass production M1917 unfolded only after the war. Unlike
Britain and France, whose governments have cut as much as possible all the military
orders, the United States had not been ruined by the war and the failure of the serial
assembly of tanks threatened the profit decrease. Construction M1917 was produced at
the enterprises of three companies: Van Dorn Iron Works, Maxwell Motor Co. and
CLBest Co. Until the end of December 1918, when the order is still reduced by 4.5
times, of 209 tanks were collected, including the two prototypes of the non-armored.
During 1919, out-existing backlog of parts manufactured rest of the party, bringing the
total number to 950 units M1917. Tanks are available in three basic models, similar to
the French model: 526 machine guns, 374 cannon and 50 due tanks (TSF).

~ 744 ~
The design of the American light tank M1917 does not have significant differences
from the FT-17 and was allocated only to the individual components, production of
which has been launched in the United States. Fully preserved classic layout of the body
and booking scheme. In front of the housing along the longitudinal axis of the driver's
seat and were controls. The fighting compartment was located in the middle part, and
the engine-transmission compartment is located at the stern.

An important difference was the new single octagonal tower, gathered at the corners of
rivets and bolts. In a frontal tower broneliste suggested the presence of two weapons
options in ball mount. The first option consisted of a 37-mm gun Hotchkiss and
telescopic sight, and the second - a 7.62-mm machine gun Colt-Marlin on the cradle.
The bottom was attached to the cradle box of bullets and a bag for collecting shells.
Maximum lifting angle is 56 to 38 and tools for the machine gun.

Engine-transmission compartment is aft of the partition. This sets the 4-cylinder petrol
engine Buda HU power of 42 hp, equipped with a liquid cooling system. The tank was
completed transmission of the mechanical type and mechanical brakes. Fuel tank is
located in the tank and near the engine was 113 liters.

During the tests it was found that the tank has a top speed on solid ground up to 8.9 km \
h, but a number of sources are the figures of 10.4 and 12 km \ h (increased engine revs).
Maximum turning radius does not exceed 6.1 meters, ground pressure was 48 kg \
sm.kv.. Even if these data have been somewhat overstated, it is the dynamic
characteristics of M1917 were higher than its prototype.

Chassis was almost completely similar to the FT-17 and, with reference to one side,
consisted of the following components:

- 9 road wheels (two blocks of 5 and 4 rollers with spring suspension);

- 6 supporting rollers;

~ 745 ~
- The front steering wheel and track tensioning mechanism;

- Rear wheel drive engagement with the teeth 15 crowns;

- Krupnozvenchataya caterpillar recruited from 32 cast steel Shoe width 340 mm and
250 mm pitch (the length of the bearing surface tracks - 2000 mm).

In the interwar period M1917 tanks waited no easy fate. Adopted in 1920, the US
Congress' decision to liquidate the armored forces as a separate branch of service, and
give only the infantry tanks drove American tank building in a serious crisis. Even more
negatively perceived military fact disbanding Tank Corps and the creation on its base of
individual tank companies. Four of them gave the infantry divisions, several dozen
tanks became a part of the heavy tank group (nine Mk.VIII heavy and 15 light M1917 in
mixed company of each), and another part transferred M1917 tank school.

Not being able to order the construction of new tanks, or even just to buy them abroad,
the US Army was forced to modernize in existence on its own tank fleet. The first stage
was held in the early 1920s. When the new machine-gun tanks equipped with a
perforated shield bronekozhuhom and with upturned edges, protects the system from
jamming bullets or debris. Also featuring M1917 conducted a series of experiments,
including the installation of signaling equipment on one of the tanks TSF option.

More seriously reacted to the issue of modernization in 1929, when one of the M1917
installed 67-hp Franklin engine with air-cooling system. This revision resulted in the
need to increase the size of the engine compartment, and the total length of the tank has
increased by almost 30 cm. It has also introduced a new steering wheel design,
povolivshee reduce noise when driving the tank. The experience was a success and
during the 1930-1931 biennium. another six were retrofitted M1917 100-strong version
of the same engine. Upgraded machines received the designation M1917A1, and came
to the Aberdeen Proving Ground test. Thanks to the maximum speed of completions
increased to 14.5 km \ h and a cruising range of up to 80 km, but other major
improvements to achieve and failed Artillery Technical Service (responsible for the

~ 746 ~
development of tanks then) "hacked" the project. In this attempt to improve the M1917
was finally discontinued.

Nevertheless, a series of experiments was carried out with the participation of the
M1917. One of the tanks TSF option in the experimental procedure was equipped with
alarm installation. In addition, there is information that in 1930 Captain George Rari
(George H.Rarey) proposed to equip the new M1917 chassis suspension type Christie
and increased armament consisted of a 37-mm cannon and a machine gun in the turret.
The project seemed promising, but was rejected.

Finally outdated M1917 recognized in the same 1929, but plans for the design and
construction of a new light tank had to be postponed in view of acute economic crisis.
In the first half of the 1930s. old tanks are gradually sent to the temporary storage of
items or even disposed of, although some parts of the M1917 managed to pass National
Guard. By this time from France delivered 213 more FT-17, which formally allowed the
United States to enter into a three of the most powerful armored powers. In fact, the
period of stagnation of armored forces was at its peak. American light tanks was not
able to participate in any wars, but in 1927, five were transferred M1917 US Marine
Expeditionary Force and sent to Tianjin. Such a powerful reinforcement was required in
view of periodic worsening of the civil war in China, during which attacks were made
on the property of the foreign concessions. However, already in 1928, all the tanks
returned to their homeland and were returned to ground forces.

In July 1932 at the M1917 crews had the opportunity to excel in the crackdown so-
called "Bonus Army" - a march of many thousands of war veterans angered by the
government's policy in relation to payment of their bonuses promised by the Congress
in 1924. Fearing that they would be members of the Communist Party among the
protesters, whose actions could wear a revolutionary character, President Herbert
Hoover ordered to surround the area in front of the Congress in Washington and to
disperse the demonstration. Commanded acceleration General MacArthur, who in
addition to cavalry pulled six M1917. Official sources indicate that the tanks arrived on
the conveyor and in street battles did not participate. However, in the newsreel shots
clearly it shows that the column M1917 moving under its own power on Pennsylvania
Avenue. However, it is not clear whether to use a firearm in the course of this punitive
action.

~ 747 ~
Probably, most of the remaining M1917 would end his career as a target at the sites, if
not deplorable situation with armored vehicles in Canada. For some reason, it was
believed that modern technology dominions do not need, so when the tanks and heard, it
is already outdated and extremely small quantities. Suffice it to say that before 1937,
when Canada came three polubronirovannyh conveyor Light Dragon Mk.III, Canadian
Army dispensed only armored vehicles. More two light tanks were delivered in 1938,
and in 1939 was taken from the metropolis small batch Light Tank Mk.VI. So, to the
beginning of the Second World War, Canadians are just 14 relatively efficient
"Vickers", the bulk of which was used only for training.

While politicians have been negotiating about establishing production overseas British
tanks in Canada, developed an extensive program of training of tank crews. But if the
problems with the cadets there was virtually no, it clearly lacked tanks. In this situation,
Canadians turned to the US and they quickly found how to help.

As mentioned earlier, since the mid-1930s. landfills rusted hundreds M1917 light tanks
and several dozen heavy Mk.VIII. All this "scrap metal" was partially decommissioned
- with tanks lifted arms, a piece of equipment and, in some cases, they are absent from
the engine and transmission components. Nevertheless, they came in sight of Colonel
Frank Uorsingtona (Frank Worthington), in charge of the establishment of the supply
from the United States. In June 1940, he proposed a staff of National Defence (National
Defence Headquarters) purchased from the Americans hundreds of old tanks on the
residual value. The greatest interest is lightweight M1917, which could still be brought
back to life. On hearing this the opposition raised a big fuss in the parliament, but it was
too late. The contract for the supply of 250 tanks, and costs $ 240 per share, was signed
on September 21 and on October 8th the first M1917 came to the training center at
Camp Baudin (Camp Borden).

A total of 236 light tanks of all three versions were obtained. For information on how
transmission technology, Americans were treated to their ally, can be judged by the
inscriptions on the sides of tanks like "Good luck Canada. Take` em away "(" Good
luck, Canada. Take them for ever "). Nevertheless, refurbished M1917 used in the

~ 748 ~
Armoured Corps Training Centre until the beginning of 1943, just after having gone
completely scrapped.

There are currently two Canadian preserved M1917 - one of them is in the Canadian
Forces Base Borden, and the second was transferred to Canadian War Museum.

Combat weight 6400 kg

CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
4216 (on the body)
Length mm
5004 (with the "tail")
Width 1782
Height mm 2311
Clearance, mm 411
one 37-mm gun M1916
WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun Colt-Marlin or Colt-Browning
M1919
238 rounds
allowance of ammunition
4200 cartridges
aiming DEVICES telescopic sight M1918
housing forehead (vert.) - 15 mm
housing forehead (hot.) - 8 mm
board housing - 15 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 15 mm
roof - 8 mm
Tower - 15 mm
the bottom - 6 mm
Buda HU, inline, 4-cylinder, carburetor, liquid cooling,
ENGINE
capacity of 42 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
(On one side) 9 semi-detached pairs of rollers in four carts,
CHASSIS six support rollers, front steering and rear drive wheel,
caterpillar krupnozvenchataya
SPEED 8.9 km \ h
Cruising on the highway 48 km
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. 35
Wall height, m 0.90
The depth of the ford, m 0.60
The width of the den, m 2.10 (with the "tail")
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 749 ~
The Ford 3-ton tank

Since Renault, a car builder, designed and mass-produced the famous FT, back in the
US Ford was obviously pressed to submit its own design. This was to be the 3-ton tank.
Even smaller than the M1917, this model was design-focused with mass-production in
mind. It was very simple, lighter and more stable, sharing the same thin, long-running
track-laying arrangement, but with a wider hull, large enough for a driver and seated
commander/gunner side by side. The latter used a hull bow .30 cal (7.62 mm) Browning
machine-gun. Just behind were located the powerpack, fuel and ammo. The commander
relied on a rotating mushroom type cupola for vision, but the lack of a true armed 360
traverse turret was an obvious problem. There was no compartment separation, so the
cramped interior rapidly grew smelly, hot and extremely noisy during operations. It was
propelled by a twin Ford-T engine, giving 90 hp total, mated to a Ford planetary
gearbox. Estimated top speed was 8 mph (around 12 km/h). Although the Army initially
ordered 15,000 of them, only 15 were delivered and two reached France before the
mass-produced, more satisfying M1917, were made available. Eventually, the program
was cancelled with the armistice, just as Ford was gearing up for the projected delivery
of 100 tanks per day.

~ 750 ~
By the summer of 1918, the United States had embarked on a tank production
programme based on the heavy Tank, Mark VIII, which was of British design, and a
light tank which was an adaptation of the French Renault FT-17. In addition to these
there was a requirement for an ultra-light vehicle to act as a machinegun or ammunition
carrier for the infantry. As no suitable design for the infantry carrier existed, the U.S.
Ordnance Department commenced work on this project in mid-1918. It was intended
that the vehicle should be mass-produced by the Ford Motor Company (an output of
100 a day was planned) and so standard Ford automobile components were, as far as
possible, introduced into the design.

A prototype was completed and tested in France in October with satisfactory results,
because American G.H.Q. cabled from France to order 15,000 tanks! But one should
note, that Pershing said that the vehicle was to be used as a light artillery tractor, as it
did not have "sufficient value as a Tank to justify its production for that purpose except
as an emergency substitute". So various uses were proposed besides the original role of
machinegun carrier, including cargo carrier with 1500 lbs. capacity, self-propelled
infantry howitzer and tractor, in emergency, for the 75-mm. field gun. The Armistice
followed shortly afterwards, however, the big order was cancelled and only fifteen
vehicles were completed.

The Ford 3-ton tank, as these little vehicles generally came to be known (it weighed just
under 3 tons, 3.1 short tons), was 13 ft 8 in. long, 5 ft 6 in, wide and 5 ft 3 in. high. It
owed some of its design layout to the Renault tank but it had no turret and the
transmission system was entirely different from that of the French vehicle. Two Ford
Model T engines were employed, each complete with its own electric starter, Ford
planetary transmission (two speeds forward, one speed reverse), cardan shaft and worm
driven half-axle. By varying the gear ratios for each engine, supplemented by the foot
brakes when necessary, slow, fast or skid turns in either direction could be achieved.
This system, a variant of which was used on the British "Whippet", permitted easy
manoeuvring, although controlling the two engines was not a simple task. The

~ 751 ~
combined horse power of the two four cylinder water-cooled engines was 45 h.p and the
maximum speed of the Ford 3-ton tank was 8 mph.

The interior was cramped: the engines at the back, the driver sitting in the centre with
the gunner in front of him. The armament as shown in the drawings consisted of one 0.3
inch machinegun, which had only limited movement: 21 degrees traverse and 38
degrees in the vertical plane. A simple ball mounting was at first provided for the gun
but this was later changed to an armoured tube mounting resembling a gun of heavier
calibre. A larger three man tank with a turret was also built by the Ford Motor Co. This
appeared in 1918 but this was unsatisfactory in several ways and went no further than
the prototype.

The Ford 3-ton tank was not a perfect tank, not by a long stretch, and would with all
probability had suffered tactical problems if ever used in combat. Still, it demonstrates
something that was the most important factor when the US put their weight in, during
WW2: production and numbers. Instead of searching for a perfect tank, they went for a
tank that could be produced cheaply and in huge numbers. The FT-17 was designed to
overwhelm the German defenders, the Ford 3-tonner would surely have done just that.

~ 752 ~
~ 753 ~
 Type Tankette

Place of origin United States

Weight 3 Tons

Length 14 ft

Width 6 ft

Height 6 ft

Crew 2 (Driver and gunner)

Main .30 caliber Browning

armament machine-gun

Secondary none
armament

Two Ford Model T engines

Engine
45 hp

Power/weight 10.4 hp/t

~ 754 ~
 Operational 55 km
range

Speed 12.8km/h (8 mph)

The Ford 3-Ton M1918 was one of the first light tank designs by the U.S. It was a
small two-man, one-gun tank. It was armed with a M1919 Browning machine gun and
could reach a maximum speed of 8 mph. The 3-Ton had a 17-gallon tank that gave it a
maximum range of 34 miles.

History

Design on the 3-ton tank started in mid-1918, before which American tank forces had
been largely equipped with British or French examples. The 3-Ton was a two-man tank
designed so that American forces could use another tank besides the Renault FT in
battle, and was in fact designed around the FT but as a cheaper alternative. Its two
Model T ford engines were controlled from the driver- seated at the front- with a gunner
beside him who had control of a .30/06 machine gun (either a M-1917 Marlin or M-
1919) on a limited-traverse mount with approximately 550 rounds of ammunition. The
initial production run of the 3-ton was of fifteen vehicles, one of these was sent to
France for testing. A contract for 15,000 of these vehicles was awarded; however, the
U.S tank corps felt it did not meet the requirements they wanted. The contract for the
15,000 tanks was ended by the Armistice, leaving only the fifteen original vehicles
produced. [1]

~ 755 ~
Official designation: Ford 3-ton Tank
Alternative designation: Ford 3-Ton M1918
Start of planning: 1917
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: built one prototype and 15 series of tanks.

Based on the experience of French colleagues to create a light tank, the Ford company
American engineers in 1917 began to develop their own design. In general terms, the

~ 756 ~
new car is strongly reminiscent of the French Renault FT-17 and was carried out under
the scheme, which later became a classic. In front of the building houses a crew of two,
for them is a motor-transmission compartment. Two engines are placed in parallel, each
of which had its own gearbox and is driven by a caterpillar on one side. Chassis
consisted of 6 road wheels on board, connected to the two trolleys and suspended on
semi-elliptic leaf springs to the longitudinal beam. Above them were attached two
support rollers. The drive wheel is located on the back and had teeth engage the tracks.
The steering wheel was much larger in diameter and protrude from the body like the
FT-17. The only significant difference was the absence of an American tank tower: a
machine gun and 37mm cannon mounted in front hull, and an overview of the parties
carried out a small mushroom-shaped pinnacles. Subsequently, these machines were
called tankettes.

When developing the tank a lot of attention was paid to the widespread use of
automotive components and assemblies as well as the Ford planned to produce cars of
this type by the hundreds, but with minimal cost. Nevertheless, the prototype tank, the
designation "Ford 3-ton" (Ford 3-ton Tank), was built only in the middle of 1918 and
in combat operations take part, of course, did not have time. By November 11, built a
total of 15 light tanks, of which only 10 were sent to the troops. They served a very
short time and in the mid-1920s. they completely replaced by "American Reno."
Earlier the army ordered the construction of a heavy tank weighing 7.5 tons with a crew
of 3 persons and weapons from the 7.62-mm machine guns and 37-mm cannon mounted
in a rotating turret. Instead of two automobile engines on it was placed a 6-tsilinrovy
motor Hudson, 60 hp The designation US Mark I, he was tested in the summer and
autumn of 1918, and although it was not built as standard experience of its construction
in handy in the future.

~ 757 ~
~ 758 ~
 SPECIFICATIONS Light Tank
Ford 3-ton Tank sample 1918

Combat weight 3400 kg

CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
3277
Length mm
4064 with the "tail"
Width 1650
Height mm 1600
Clearance, mm ?
one 7.62-mm machine gun Colt-Browning M1919 in the
WEAPONS
housing
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES telescopic sight
housing forehead - 12.7 mm
board housing - 10 mm
RESERVATIONS feed - 6.35 mm
roof - 6.35 mm
bottom - 6.35 mm
two carburetor Ford Midel T, liquid cooling, capacity of 45 hp
ENGINE
each
mechanical type: two-speed gearshift (two forward speeds and
TRANSMISSION
one backward)
six road wheels interlocked in two trucks and two support rollers
CHASSIS on each side, rear drive wheel, the steering wheel in front,
krupnozvenchataya track with steel chain tracks
SPEED 12.5 km \ h
Cruising on the highway 55 km
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. 25
Wall height, m 0.50
The depth of the ford, m 0.55
The width of the den, m 1.50
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Light Tank US Mark I Light tank

~ 759 ~
Official designation: Light Tank US Mark I
Alternative notation:
Start design: 1918
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

In the summer of 1918, the US Army has adopted just two light tanks - the American
modification of the famous Renault FT-17 (it was produced under the designation Light
Tank M1917) and Ford 3 Tonn (actually - an analogue of the French "Renault").
Because the "Ford" had several significant shortcomings they decided to fix on a
modified tank, designated as Light Tank US Mark I.

Unlike Ford 3 Tonn this machine was a tower with a circular rotation, which establishes
a 37-mm cannon and 7.62 mm machine gun. Chassis Mk.I was similar to "Ford" and
was (as applied to one side) of the road wheels interlocked 6 threes in two trucks, 2
support the rear drive and front idler rollers. Behind installed typical of the time "tail"
that allowed this small car to overcome the rather narrow ditches and trenches.

It was planned to be built 1,000 copies Mark I, but as a light tank M1917 was more
suited for combat, but the war ended in November 1918, the company booked a total of
15 Ford 3-ton tank. With regard to the US Mark I, it was never put into production,
remained in one piece.

TACTICAL AND TECHNICAL DATA Light Tank

Light Tank US Mark I in 1918, the sample

Combat weight 7500 kg

CREW, pers. 2
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 4150
Width 1650
Height mm 1800
Clearance, mm ?

~ 760 ~
 one 37-mm cannon and a 7.62mm machine gun Colt-
WEAPONS
Browning M1919
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES telescopic sight
housing forehead - 12.5 mm
board housing - 9 mm
food body - 6.35 mm
RESERVATIONS Tower -
feed -
roof -
bottom -
ENGINE The Hudson, carburetor, liquid-cooled, 60 hp each
mechanical type: two-speed gearshift (two forward speeds
TRANSMISSION
and one backward)
(On one side) six road wheels interlocked in the two trucks,
CHASSIS two support rollers, front steering and rear drive wheel;
Caterpillar krupnozvenchataya typed steel shoe
SPEED 12.5 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway 65 km
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m 0.80
The depth of the ford, m 0.60
The width of the den, m 1.60
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Christie M1919 \ M1921 Wheeled-tracked tank

Official designation: Christie M1919 \ M1921

Alternative notation:
Start design: 1918

~ 761 ~
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1919
Stage of completion: built one prototype of each model.

Barely had time to end the First World War, then as a little-known American designer J.
Walter Christie has begun to develop a fundamentally new tank, which issued the order
for US Tank Corps.

The main feature of this war machine, as you might guess, was the replacement of
wheel-crawler. Chassis M1919 has been equipped with two wheel sets (wheel gable,
with rubber tires), the front of which was blocked suspension and is controlled by the
steering wheel, while the rear has been leading. When you turn you can disable the
corresponding drive wheel, which rotates in vain, made fewer turnovers. Disable each
of the wheels carried by the main clutch, which had one on each side. Gearboxes were
also two placed on either side of the engine. In the middle part housed trolley with two
wheels are spring-loaded springs and one support roller. Within each dual wheels had
an inner trough with special projections for engaging the crests caterpillars.
Accordingly, the truck had an internal centering ridge.

Changing course is as follows. Caterpillars were spread on the ground, the tank drove at
them, after which the chain branches covered wheels and connected. At the same time
she fell rises to the time the wheel stroke dvuhkatkovaya truck. The whole operation
took about 15 minutes. Powertrain Christie has developed itself - in this case, it was the
6-cylinder petrol engine capacity of 120 hp, mounted across the body.

armament scheme was bunk: the first "tier" took the main tower of cylindrical shape
with 57-mm gun, which was mounted on the roof of a small tower with a 7.62-mm
machine gun Browning. Book your tank at that time it was quite powerful and ranged
from 12.7 to 25.4 mm.

~ 762 ~
In tests conducted at the Aberdeen proving ground in November 1919, Christie tank
showed mediocre results. Military M1919 subjected to very harsh criticism, pointing to
a mass of design flaws that prevented the normal operation of a tank in the army.
Among them he highlighted the "blind" reservation is the case, preventing all access to
the engine and transmission, making it impossible to repair in the field. The fighting
compartment was too cramped even for two people, recognized poor ventilation.
Chassis had no fewer drawbacks. Celebrated as the unsprung wheelset, and uneven
distribution of weight on the supporting surface the tracks and high ground pressure.
Maximum speed M1919 wheeled when driving on paved roads was 21 (according to
other sources - 24) km \ h on the tracks speed does not exceed 11 km \ h.

However, Christie's managed to convince the War Office that his tank has good
prospects and funding for a new project to start next year. Taking the M1919 Christie
~ 763 ~
modified chassis, providing the front wheel pair spring shock absorbers, increasing the
diameter of the small rollers and reworking their truck. fixed cutting was installed
instead of the towers with conical armored covers, through which the commander could
to observe the surroundings. The gun is now installed in the front of the compartment,
the number increased to two guns, setting them on each side of the front of the housing.
Accordingly, the tank crew was already out of 4 people: two marksmen, commander
and driver.

For improvements was selected M1919 is the same, after which the tank, renamed the
M1921, it was presented to the customer. As it turned out, the modified machine is not
very different from the first sample, taken over from him some of the most significant
shortcomings. Among them was marked by a lack of capacity of the power plant,
limited fire sector, low permeability cross country and much more. Speed quality were
also low: 22.5 km \ h on wheels and 11.2 km \ h on tracks. Fuel capacity of 67 gallons
(253 liters), enough only 161 km when driving on wheels.

Given that holding tank modernization of the military department has already spent
85,000 $ (great for 1921 amount), as well as a surplus of light 6-ton tanks, are built on
the basis of the French Renault FT-17, and its own 3-ton the Ford, on further
cooperation Christie decided to give up.

SPECIFICATIONS wheeled-tracked tank

Christie M1919 and M1921

Christie M1919 Christie M1921

1919 1921
Combat weight 13500 kg ~ 14000 kg
CREW, pers. 2 4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 5540

~ 764 ~
Width 2510
Height mm 2740 2160
Clearance, mm ?
one 6-pound (57-mm) gun in the
6-pound (57-mm) gun and two
main tower and one 7.62 mm
WEAPONS 7.62 mm Browning machine
Browning machine gun in the
gun in the hull
turret
allowance of
?
ammunition
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead - 25.4 mm housing forehead - 19 mm
board body - 12.7 mm board housing - 6.3 mm
food body -? food body -?
RESERVATIONS
Tower - Tower -
roof - roof -
bottom - bottom -
Of Christie, carburetor, 6- Of Christie, carburetor, 6-
ENGINE tsilinrovy, 120 hp, fuel tank 59 tsilinrovy, 120 hp, fuel tank 67
gallons (223 liters) gallons (253 liters)
TRANSMISSION mechanical type 4 forward and 4 back
2 main wheel sets (back on wheels 2 main wheel sets (back on
move leading), two dvuhkatkovyh wheels move leading), two
CHASSIS
support truck, two support rollers, dvuhkatkovyh support truck, a
caterpillar krupnozvenchataya caterpillar krupnozvenchataya
11 km \ h on tracks 11 km \ h on tracks
SPEED
21 km \ h on wheels 22.5 km \ h on wheels
Cruising on the 97 km on tracks
?
highway 161 km on wheels
overcome obstacles
The angle of
40
ascent, hail.
Wall height, m 0.70 0.70
The depth of the
? ?
ford, m
The width of the
2.00 2.29
den, m

~ 765 ~
Tank Mark VIII International Liberty

Great Britain/USA(1918) Heavy tank 125 built.

A joint British-US design to be built in France

With industrial resources stretched to the limits in France (after the loss of the eastern
Lorraine region in 1914, which accounted for a large part of the heavy industry) and
Great Britain, (due to massive debt, labor shortages, steel diverted for shipbuilding) the
news that the USA entered the war was received with great hope.

Soon after April 1917, the British planned to send a delegation to the USA to convince
them to co-produce the next British tank model. But soon afterwards it was thought
more judicious that the initiative should be led locally and endorsed by Congress. Via
the American military attach in London, some contacts were made with the US Navy
for the Marine corps, based around the next project available, the Mark VI. However,
the latter was tailored for the capacities of the British industry and relatively small.

~ 766 ~
Mark VIII 'Liberty' Tank at Fort George G. Meade, MD, USA

Therefore, Lieutenant-Colonel Albert Gerald Stern proposed the Tank Mark VIII,
fictitious at the time, a much bigger design. Meanwhile, the American Department of
War intervened and asked that the model be developed for the US Army and sent Major
H. W. Alden to the Mechanical Warfare Department design team at Dollis Hill. He
arrived in October to find that much of the plans had already been made by Lieutenant
G. J. Rackham, a veteran from Flanders.

The Tank Mark VIII Liberty design

The Mark VIII had similar features to the British-built rhomboid tanks, with full-length
high track run and large track links, sponsons, and raised superstructure at the front. The
latter housed three Lewis machine guns in ball mountings, while the driver had a small
raised cabin or cupola with four vision slits.

The sponsons housed two 6-pounder (57 mm) guns, while two hull machine-guns in
ball-mounts were placed just behind on the hull doors. Other great improvement was the
engine compartmentalization through a bulkhead, preventing noise and fumes from
invading the fighting compartment. The hull form was studied after reports and much
rounder. The sponsons were made retractable to reduce the width for transport, which
was in itself fairly limited compared to the total length of the hull. This would later
cause serious agility issues.

The ammunition (208 shells and 13,848 machine-gun rounds) was stored inside a large
locker on the fighting compartment platform where the crew stood. The US Liberty V12
(replaced by the Ricardo equivalent on the British design) was fed by three armored fuel
tanks at the rear holding 200 L (240 US gallons), ensuring a 60-80 km (37-49.7 mi) ride
on rough terrain.

The sheer length was intended for assaulting the new German anti-tank trenches and
ditches of the Hindenburg line, and possibly to carry twenty infantrymen (thus

~ 767 ~
performing as an APC), added to a crew of twelve. The hollow British prototype was
ready in June 1918 and later shipped to the USA for completion in September, by hand-
built components. During trials the links failed frequently and had to be strengthened,
lengthened and reshaped, in hard cast steel before production. Protection was better than
average, with frontal and side thickness of 16 mm (0.63 in).

Production

The gradual set-up of the production was a long an protracted affair. By September
1917 the US Army HQ in France planned its own tanks corps with French and US-built
Renault FTs to equip 20 tank battalions, while five heavy tank battalions were to be
given the new Mark VIII. James A. Drain from Gen. Pershings staff initially ordered
600 Mark VI tanks (then in development).

Later on, Stern was removed from the project by Churchill (the Mark VI was eventually
cancelled in December) and instead was sent to study tank production in France,
consulting both the French Minister of Munitions, Louis Loucheur, and Gen. Pershing.

However since French production capacities were severely limited, they devised a ten
point agreement stating the component production would be separated between Great
Britain and USA, and final assembly performed in France, in a brand new factory which
had been built from scratch.

The new project was named the Mark VIII International. The projected figures of
1,500 heavy tanks had to be then shared among the Allies, including France, whose own
project Char FCM 2C had barely advanced at all.

Later on 11 November the name was changed again to Liberty in relation to its US-
built 300 hp (220 kW) Liberty engine.

Initial production figures stated that 1,200 vehicles could be produced monthly after
extensions of the facilities. This proved way too optimistic. The British-built factory at
Neuvy-Pailloux, 200 miles south of Paris, was not even completed by June 1918.

Another company was hired and did finish the factory in November, but the war was
over then and the whole project was suspended. Meanwhile, the Liberty engine had its
piston recast and was only available in October. US component production was also not
ready before October. Armament from the UK was fixed and tested later in November.

Active service

Due to the end of the war, the needs for the Mark VIII dwindled rapidly. Nonetheless,
due to the effort and money already spent, the Congress authorized the production of
100 tanks for US needs, built on US soil and partly British components. These were
delivered between 1919 and 1920 by the Rock Island Arsenal at 35,000$ apiece and
served with the 67th Infantry (Tank) Regiment, based in Aberdeen, Maryland.

These were the only heavy tanks in US service until the arrival of the M6 in 1942. The
side machine-guns were later eliminated to have a peacetime crew reduced to ten, and
all machine-guns were replaced by M1917 Browning models. They suffered from poor

~ 768 ~
engine ventilation and reliability issues, phased out in 1932 and in 1934 were placed in
reserve.

The first British-built Mark VIII was delivered the day of the armistice, with a mild
steel hull and Rolls-Royce engine, but ultimately seven more were completed (out of a
1,500 unit order to the North British Locomotive Company and William Beardmore &
co) with the definitive V12 Ricardo engine.

With extra sets of parts, twenty-four more were built after the war, with five sent to the
Bovington training center and the others ultimately sold for scrap. The lengthened Mark
VIII* (star) projected late in 1918 was supposed to be even longer, with the rear and
front section of the fighting compartment stretched by a total of three meters.

This would have allowed it to cross anti-tank ditches up to five meters long. Production
was cancelled soon after the armistice.

Surviving vehicles are on display at Fort Meade, Maryland, and at the Bovington Tank
Museum in England. A further example is being restored at the National Armor and
Cavalry Museum, Fort Benning, Georgia.

In Steven Spielbergs movie Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade, a tank vaguely
resembling a Mark VIII is seen, but with an added turret on top.

Myth

It is often said that in 1940, the surplus Mark VIII Liberty tanks in USA Army storage
were sold at scrap value to Canada for training. This is wrong. They were offered for
sale but that offer was declined. The Canadian Army purchased 236 American M1917
tanks for training tank crews instead. These were licensed built WW1 Renault FT tanks.

Mark VIII specifications

Length 34ft 2in (10.42m).
Width 8ft 5in (2.57m).
Dimensions
Width with Sponsons 12ft 10in (3.92m)
Height 10ft 3in (3.13m)

Total weight 38 tonnes

Crew 10 US 12 British

Propulsion V12 Liberty or Ricardo crosshead valve, water-

cooled straight six petrol engine 150hp @ 1250rpm

Road Speed 5.25 mph (8.45 km/h)

Range 50 miles (80 km)

Trench Crossing ability 15ft 9in (4.8m)

~ 769 ~
Armament 4x 0.303 inch (7.62mm) Vickers water-cooled
machine guns
7x 0.303 inch (7.62mm) Hotchkiss air-cooled
machine gun or
7x M1917 Browning machine guns

Armor Max 16 mm

Length 1ft 1in (32.5cm)

Track links
Width 2ft 3in (67.5cm)

Length 3ft 5in (1.05cm)

Hatch
Width 2ft 4in (71cm)

Total production 125

Mark VIII 'Liberty' Tank being restored at the National Armor and Cavalry Museum,
Fort Benning, GA, USA.

~ 770 ~
~ 771 ~
Tank Mk.VIII Liberty

American Mark VIII Liberty, US Infantrys 67th Armored Regiment, Aberdeen,

Maryland.

Prospective view of a British Mark VIII, as it could have looked if deployed during the
great summer offensive of 1919.

The Mark VIII Liberty

~ 772 ~
The 43.5-ton Mark VIII (called Liberty because of the US engines) was a joint
British/US project and the first US heavy tank ever produced. It was never operational
before the end of the war and the project of a joint production in France never
succeeded. Only 100 were authorized by Congress and built by the Rock Island Arsenal
between 1919 and 1920.

After the United States entered the war against Germany in April 1917, arrangements
were put in hand so that the great manufacturing resources of the U.S.A. could be linked
with British experience in tank design and operation to produce tanks in quantity for the
use of both countries. The "Allied" or "Liberty" tank or, more prosaically, Mark VIII
Tank, was the result, although the intervention of the Armistice put an end to the plans
for mass production.

~ 773 ~
A broad specification for the heavy tank likely to be needed for the battles on the
Western Front in 1918-1919 was produced in France and given to an Anglo-American
tank committee under the joint chairmanship of Lieut-Col. Albert Stern (U.K.) and
Major J. A. Drain (U.S.A.) and comprising Sir Eustace dEyncourt and Captain A.
Green (a Tank Corps officer) as British members and Major H. W. Alden, U.S.A. Under
the guidance of this committee, Lieutenant G. J. Rackham, then at the beginning of a
distinguished career in A.F.V. and more general automotive engineering, produced the
detailed drawings for the Mark VIII.

The new tank was recognizably an extension in design of earlier British tanks in layout
and general appearance but it included many improvements suggested by earlier
experience. The most fundamental of these was the complete separation of the engine
compartment from the crew compartment by a bulkhead. This reduced the fire risk for

~ 774 ~
the crew and furthermore the ventilating system kept the crew compartment at a slightly
higher atmospheric pressure and so prevented fumes or heat from the engine entering.

The armour protection was increased, compared with earlier British tanks, to a 16mm.
maximum, although the armament, two 6 Pdr guns and seven machineguns, was
comparable. The trend of increasing length to meet ever wider trenches and tank
obstacles was continued in the Mark VIII, which was 34 ft 2 in. long and could cross a
gap of about 15 ft. Although the Mark VIII at 37 tons was several tons heavier than
previous tanks, performance was improved by the use of a 300hp power unit and
decrease in track ground pressure through the adoption of 26.5" wide tracks. The engine
intended for use in Mark VIIIs was the American "Liberty" aero engine, with the
alternative of a new 300hp Ricardo engine, although an epicyclic transmission and
steering system was employed in either case.

~ 775 ~
As mentioned, the Armistice put an end to the large scale production plans for the Mark
VIII, the first of which had been completed only just before fighting ceased. This was a
hull shipped from England in July 1918 to the United States where a "Liberty" engine
and the transmission were added. The first tank to be completed in Britain (where only
seven in all were built by the North British Locomotive Co. Ltd., Glasgow) - was at first
fitted with a Rolls-Royce aero engine. All the later tanks (and subsequently the first one
also) were powered by the 300hp Ricardo twelve-cylinder engine, which was made up
of two six-cylinder units.

In the United States it was decided to complete 100 tanks and these were built during
1919 by the U.S. Ordnance Department. One of the American tanks is shown in the
drawings. This differed externally from the British tanks in the armoured jackets for the
Browning machineguns used instead of the Hotchkiss guns used by the Tank Corps, and
in other details, notably in the raised commanders/drivers superstructure.

~ 776 ~
~ 777 ~
~ 778 ~
Holt Gas-Electric Tank

USA (1917) Experimental vehicle 1 prototype built

~ 779 ~
Catching up

When the United States entered the First World War, they were already familiar with
the tank concept following the initial British successes. However, they lacked any such
vehicle and could not equip their newly formed units, despite the obvious industrial
capacity for tank production. American companies did not take long before they joined
the fray, and the first American tank prototype to be built was developed by Holt and
General Electric. The main peculiarity of the vehicle was the fact that it used a gasoline
engine connected to an electric generator, which then powered to electric motors
connected to the drive wheels, not unsimilar to the Saint-Chamond or Porsches Tiger.
This arrangement also gave the name of the vehicle, the Holt gas-electric tank. The
engine-generator tandem was prone to overheating, so a rather complex water cooling
system was installed, with the radiator directly above the generator. A rear armored
door could be opened to facilitate cooling, but this was impractical in battle. The whole
arrangement was mounted at the rear of the vehicle.

Design

While the chassis was based on the Holt 75 tractor, the original track system had proven
unsuitable when used on the Saint-Chamond or Schneider CA. So a new suspension
was devised, with 10 roadwheels and a return guide rail. The drive wheel was at the
rear, while the idler was at the front.

The front and middle portions of the tank were occupied by the armament and crew
compartment. The main weapon of the vehicle was a 75 mm (2.95 in) Vickers mountain
gun mounted in the nose of the vehicle. Two detachable Browning machine-guns were
also fitted to the sides of the vehicle, in sponsoons. The crew would have probably
consisted of 6 or 7 men. These included a driver, a commander, two gun servants and
two machine-gunners, with the possibility of a mechanic also being present. Another
uncommon feature was that there was a single way to enter the vehicle, through a door
at the rear, followed by a small corridor which lead to the crew compartment.

~ 780 ~
The vehicle had 6-10 mm (0.24-0.39 in) of armor, but the vehicle was very boxy in
shape. Except for the front, which formed a beak, the sides and rear were perfectly flat.

Failing the tests

Construction of the prototype started in 1917 and was completed the following year.
However, during trials, the vehicle proved disappointing. The whole power pack and the
required cooling added a lot of weight to the vehicle, which reached 25 tons, and this
proved far too much for the feeble 90 hp Holt engine. Top speed on flat ground reached
10 km/h (6 mph), but even modest slopes proved too much of a hurdle for the Holt gas-
electric tank. This deficiency made the tank unusable in the field and it was rejected.
Any work on the project ceased thereafter.

The Holt Gas-Electric tank.

No American built tanks ever saw service in the Great War, but big efforts were made
in the USA to develop these new types of vehicles - quite apart from the British and
French designs the Americans themselves were using on the Western Front. The first
tank built in the USA was the so called Holt Gas-Electric, an effort by the Holt Tractor
Co. of Peoria, Illinois.

~ 781 ~
Like the French St Chamond, it had a combined petrol-electric propulsion. Hence the
name: gas (i.e. petrol) electric. A Holt 90 h.p. 4-cylinder motor produced power for a
G.E.C. generator, which in its turn provided current to drive two electric motors, one
motor for each track. (The electrical units were built and supplied by the General
Electric Co.) Special attention was paid to ventilation and engine cooling, using a forced
water cooling system with a radiator placed immediately above the generator. Air was
drawn in through a louvre above the engine and foul air was emitted through big louvres
in the left hull rear.

The rear drive sprockets were driven from these electric motors by a worm gear to a
roller pinion which meshed with the sprocket. Steering was achieved mainly by varying
the current to the respective electric motors. When sharp turns were needed this could
be effected by braking the drive shaft on the side of the turn. Track and suspension was
of the standard Holt type with two sprung bogies, each with six rollers, on each side,
covered with light steel plates.

~ 782 ~
The engine, generator, and drive units were all at the rear of the vehicle leaving the
roomy box-like fighting compartment free for the armament. (The exit and entry door
was also placed at the rear.) The main armament was a 75mm Vickers mountain
howitzer, which was placed low down in the V-shaped nose. The secondary armament
consisted of two Browning 0.30in machine guns in sponsons on each side. The tank was
to be serviced by a crew of six men.

~ 783 ~
Only one prototype was built of the Holt Gas-Electric Tank, and work on the vehicle
was abandoned after tests. One of the problems with the tank was its weight: because of
the rather complex propulsion and transmission systems this had been pushed up to
some 25 tons, which in its turn lowered the speed to some 9 km/h. The use of unaltered
Holt suspension probably limited the trench crossing ability compared to rhomboid style
tracks.

Holt 90 hp
(67.1 kW)
Motor
petrol
engine
Maximum
9.6 kph
speed
Weight 25,402 kg
5.03m L x
Dimensions 2.37m H x
2.76m W
1 x 75mm
Main Vickers
Armament Mountain
Gun
Secondary 2 x 0.30in
Armament MGs
Max.
15mm
Armour
Min.
6mm
Armour

~ 784 ~
Official designation: Holt Gas-Electric Tank
Alternative notation:
Start of planning: 1917
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

Perhaps one of the most advanced in technical terms, the American development in the
field of combat tracked vehicles can be considered gas-electric tank Holt. Apparently,
the model for its creation were the French tanks, possessing the worst permeability than
the British "diamonds", but had a much better protection of the chassis. In addition, the
prototype they had almost one - Holt tractor chassis.

American tank project has been accepted for implementation in early 1917. It was not
bronetraktor, like prototypes Holt G9 or CLB 75, and a full tank with a rationally-
designed hulls and new chassis. Has been developed jointly by Holt and US General
Electric Company firms. First of all, given the bitter experience bronetraktorov built
from standard tractor base decided to give up. Instead, the chassis has been greatly
modified and now, with reference to one side, it includes the following elements:

- 10 of rollers, protected by two perfirirovannymi plates;

- Guide rail for the upper branch of the caterpillars;

- Front steering wheel;

- Rear wheel drive;

- Krupnozvenchataya steel caterpillar tracks.

The tank was installed gasoline 4-cylinder engine capacity of 90 hp Holt The real
highlight of the project was the electrical system developed by General Electric, which
consisted of two electric generators and generator drive for each track. The scheme of
this system was simple: the gasoline engine torque is transmitted to the dynamo, which
generates a current and capital two electric motors, the transmitted power to the drive

~ 785 ~
wheels running gear. It is only natural that when the electrical system and the engine
overheated and it has been provided a very complex liquid cooling system. A similar
scheme was used the French for his tank Saunt-Chamond and made with good results in
terms of manageability. However, the success of this Americans could not achieve.

Housing tank was assembled from sheets of rolled armor steel with a thickness of 6 to
15 mm. Rational corners of installation did not think so, because in the first place was to
ensure reliable operation of the motor and the placement of weapons in accordance with
the then tendencies of development of infantry tanks. Thus, the power plant was placed
in the rear of the hull and was firmly "wired" bronelistami. For better cooling,
developers should consider folding rear armor plates, but in combat this technique used
was unacceptable. Next to it was located the door for boarding and landing of the crew
in the tank, which led to the corridor to the crew compartment.

The fighting compartment occupied the middle and the nose of the body. The main
weapon is a 75 mm gun the Vickers, set at the junction of the lower front armor plates
connecting the wedge-shaped. As a result, the driver's seat is on the right side of the
gun. Two additional guns Browning caliber 7.62 mm were placed in sponsons on the
sides of the body. From this tank crew was to consist of 6-7 people: the driver, the
mechanic, the commander, two gunner (gunner and loader) and two machine-gunner.

The only prototype Holt Gas-Electric Tank was built in the first half of 1918. The
short test cycle ended with disappointing results. With the full weight of more than 25
metric tons, power 90-hp engine was not enough, which led to a strong deterioration in
the mobility of the tank. Many problems are caused by the power plant, where a
significant role played by a fault in the electrical system. As a result of further work on
the Holt Gas-Electric Tank abandoned in favor of the already entered service tanks FT-
17 and Mk.V. In addition, soon expected emergence of "international" Mk.VIII tank and
the need for unfinished combat vehicle disappeared by itself.

Holt gas-electric tank specifications

Dimensions 5 x 2.76 x 2.37 m (16ft4 x 9ft1 x 7ft9)

Weight 25 tons (55,000 lbs)

Crew 6-7

Propulsion Holt, gasoline, liquid-cooled, 90 hp

Speed (road) 10 km/h (6 mph)

75 mm (2.95 in) Vickers mountain gun

Armament
2xM1917 Browning machine-guns

Armor 6-10 mm (0.24-0.39 in)

~ 786 ~
Production 1 prototype

SPECIFICATIONS Infantry Tank

Holt Gas-Electric Tank sample 1916

Combat weight 25402 kg

CREW, pers. 6-7
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 5030
Width 2760
Height mm 2370
Clearance, mm ?
one 75-mm cannon and two 7.62 Vickers-mlm Browning
WEAPONS
machine gun in the hull
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead - 15 mm
board housing - 15 mm
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof - 6mm
the bottom - 6 mm
ENGINE Holt, gasoline, liquid-cooled, 90 hp
TRANSMISSION electric type

~ 787 ~
 (On one side) 10 of rollers with a stiffer suspension, a front
CHASSIS wheel steering, rear wheel veduzee, krupnozvenchataya track
with steel chain tracks
SPEED 9.6 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Designs 150 ton Field Monitor and the 200 ton Trench Destroyer
Author: Tim Rigsby, Edited: Charlie Clelland

The 150 ton Field Monitor

The 150 ton Field Monitor was a product of Americas growing industrial might, as
well as the republics anticipation in becoming involved in the First World War.

~ 788 ~
Holt 150 ton Field Monitor Heavy wheeled tank Easy wheel-tracked tank

Official designation:> Holt 150 ton Field Monitor

Alternative notation:
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1916
Stage of completion: the project is not implemented.

The famous "trench warfare", set on the western front at the beginning of 1915, has led
to the fact that each side is trying to develop the means of destruction, which would
literally be able to crush the enemy. This position leads to unnecessary thirst gigantism,
which invariably affected the projects of the time, whether it's guns or ships. But,
perhaps, his absolutism it has reached in the development of combat vehicles
"battlefield".

In 1916, the catch up in the field of tank rather briskly took the Americans. Their first
experiments with Holt caterpillar tractors were not very successful because, as
alternatives to consider other, no less original designs. One of them was a 150-ton
wheeled tank known as the "Field Monitor" (150 ton Field Monitor). This machine
was designed not for the Western Front, and for actions in Mexico, where the vast open
space allows to realize the full potential of the selected chassis.

The basis was chosen wheeled tank type Holt, equipped with a steam engine. In spite of
the unsuitability of the design for combat use in Europe, American engineers have
continued to hope that their efforts were not in vain. Especially because the periodic
raids of the American army in Mexico required a completely different machine.

As you might guess, the layout "field monitor" was also unconventional. Almost all the
armor plates joined at right angles. The exception was only the top of the frontal sheet,
which established two marine 6-inch (152.4 mm) guns. Installation of each of the guns
had been separate. In the center, between the two, there is a place of the driver and the
vehicle commander.

~ 789 ~
The choice of this artillery system was not accidental - this type of guns were installed
as a secondary armament on most US ships and used by the Coast Guard at the time,
because the lack of both instruments, and in there was no ammunition for them. In
addition, once it was reached a preliminary agreement on the supply of five 6-inch guns,
sent the Coast Guard. Further inventory showed that the same agency may transfer more
96 6-inch and 28-inch 5 guns, while the Navy and another private contractor could
"fork" for another 46 guns and 30, respectively. So that reserves in the artillery
equipment were rather big. However, when set to "field monitor" needed to make some
improvements. In particular, it was necessary to reduce the length of the barrel 50 to 30
caliber guns and reduce weight.

Unusually strong was the support arms, which consisted of ten machine guns Colt-
Browning M1895 7.62 mm. During their design would be replaced by more modern
models such as the M1917 Browning same caliber. Placing guns were as follows:

- Two at the top of the tower;

- Two in the turret;

- Three in sponsons between the wheels on each side.

Machine gun towers had a cylindrical shape and equipped with observation towers on
the roof. To observe the surroundings at their sides were made with small hatches
observation slits. The crew wheeled tank gets almost a record - 20 people. Presumably
its composition was as follows: six gunners, ten gunners, commander, driver and two
technicians. Embarkation and disembarkation of the tank was carried through hatches in
the sides of the body beneath the sponsons.

Chassis consisted of two pairs of wheels with a diameter of more than 20 feet - that is,
6.10 meters! To manage such a huge machine provided a separate transmission for each
wheel, which has been linked to a central checkpoint. In turn, the central mission was
connected with two steam engines of type Doble, placed in the middle of the hull. In
fact, it has been received all-wheel drive chassis with a 4x4.

Despite some promising projects, General Pershing rejected the use of wheeled steam
tank. According to him, these machines were good only to support the infantry and their
cavalry slowness be pinned down. Regarding the latter claim, he said the following:
"Horses he demanded would win this war". Meanwhile, it should be noted that in a
constructive manner the American version of the wheel of the tank had been worked out
much better than a similar vehicle Lebedenco.

At the same time, the "field monitor" had a host of other flaws and defects. In addition
to the enormous mass of low vitality and steam engines quite irrational it was taken
weapons. The two main tools could only fire straight ahead in a narrow sector. Of the
two machine-gun towers could lead circular firing only the top, but both had a huge
sector of "dead zones". The same can be said about the machine guns mounted in the
sponsons. In addition, it is not clear what for purely machine-gun towers needed to
make a diameter of almost 2 meters overhead. The advantages of this tank can be
attributed only a powerful book, ranged from 24 to 75 mm (sometimes referred to the
same parameters in inches, it looks absolutely fantastic). As a result - the project 150-

~ 790 ~
ton "field monitor" was rejected by the implementation of all the work on it was folded
in 1917.

DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS WHEEL HEAVY TANK

Hold 150 ton Field Monitor sample 1916

Combat weight 150000 kg

CREW, pers. 20

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 20000

Width ~ 4000

Height mm ~ 7000

Clearance, mm ?

two 152.4-mm naval guns and 10 machine guns Browning caliber

WEAPONS
7.62 mm

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead - 70 mm
board housing - 24 mm
RESERVATIONS food body - 24 mm
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE Two Double, steam

TRANSMISSION mechanical type, individual for each wheel and a center

4 road wheels with a diameter of 6.10 meters with rigid

CHASSIS
suspension

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

~ 791 ~
Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

A paper project only, it was projected to be built in 1916. It was first envisaged that the
Field Monitor would be used in Mexico, ranging across its great plains and deserts in
search of the vigilante forces raiding into America. "Black" Jack Pershing put a stop to
this idea; he did not hold motorized vehicles in high regard, except for their role as
support vehicles. "Horses he demanded would win this war." Unfortunately the age of
the horse was to end in the not too distant future the age of machinery had come!

The 150 ton Field Monitor design has its origins with the designers of the Holt Steam
Wheeled Tank, this being their initial design. Optimism in the States for the Big Wheel
theory was still quite high, even though America had all sorts of tracked machines to
experiment on. The designers chose to use two huge pairs of wheels, forward and aft,
powered by two large steam engines, presumably designed by Holt, with the help of
engineers from Doble, most likely their chief engineer, Abner Doble, who had designed
the engine for the Holt Steam Wheeled Tank.

The Field Monitor was essentially a huge version of the Holt Steam Wheeled Tank,
with four 20 foot tall wheels. Unlike the Holt Steam Wheeled Tank, the Field Monitor
did not have a steering wheel in the rear, instead it had two of the four 20 foot wheels.
Each wheel had an individual gear box, connected to a central transmission. The
transmission was connected to the two steam engines, located in the center of the Field
Monitor.

It was to carry two American six inch naval guns, arranged side by side in the front, in
the same arrangement as the Holt Steam Wheeled Tanks 2.95" (75 mm) mountain gun.
(The six inch was a secondary armament for most American ships at this time.)

In the five and six-inch guns that could sourced from the Coast Artillery and the reserve
store of the Navy there was shell power that might quickly be made available for the
western front. When the United States entered the war the Ordnance Department at once
set out to master the problem of placing these heavy fixed emplacement pieces on
mobile field mounts. An inventory showed that ninety-five six-inch and twenty-eight 5-
inch guns could be secured from the Coast Artillery and forty-six 6-inch guns from the
Navy, while an additional 30 guns of the six-inch size were offered by a private dealer
in this country. {These guns were shipped to the Holt manufacturing plant; to be used in
various forms, such as Mobile tracked artillery, as well as Tank production. Such as the
150 ton Field Monitor and the 1500 ton Land dreadnought}

Minor alterations were necessary in many of the guns to make them adaptable to field
mounts, and the Navy guns, ranging from 30 to 50 calibers in length, had to be cut
down to a uniform length of 30 calibers. The long six-inch seacoast guns were not

~ 792 ~
shortened because it was planned to return them to the Coast Defenses from which they
were taken. Speed in the manufacture of the Carriages for these Guns demanded that
they be of the simplest design consistent with the great strength necessary to bear the
weight of this fixed emplacement material. The carriage designed for the five and six-
inch naval guns having been placed under test and found to meet all requirements by
September of 1917 and orders were placed for ninety-two 6-inch Carriages and twenty-
eight five-inch Carriages.

Owing to the great weight of the long six-inch seacoast guns, however it was found at
that it would be necessary to carry them separately on big transport wagons. Such a
wagon was designed and an order placed for 55 wagons in February of 1918.When the
Armistice was signed practically all of these mounts had been completed. Seventy-two
entirely assembled six-inch units and twenty-six; five-inch units had been shipped for
overseas duty.

Secondary armament was to be 10 Colt Model 1895 Machine Guns, (Potato Diggers)
currently being used in Mexico. (The Colt-Browning M1895 was one of the first
"successful" gas operated machine guns designed by John Moses Browning. It was
offered to Colt by Browning in November 1890. Originally chambered for .30-40 Krag,
rebarreled and rechambered versions in 30-06 Springfield were designated
M1895/1914. It became the first automatic machine gun adopted by the United States
and saw limited use in the Spanish-American War and the First World War.)

The M1917 Browning Machine guns would later replace the Colts, after the United
States adopted the M1917 as there main machine gun in late 1917. (The M1917 saw
limited service in the latter days of the First World War. Because of production delays,
only about 1,200 Model 1917s saw combat in the conflict, and then only in the last two
and a half months of the war. They equipped about a third of the divisions sent to
France; the others were equipped equally with machine guns bought from the French or
the British Vickers machine guns built by Colt in the US. Where the Model 1917 did
see action, its rate of fire and reliability were highly effective.)

The Field Monitor would carry two machine guns in each turret, located at the front,
above the main guns, above the drivers and commanders position, as well as one at the
rear between the large Wheels.

~ 793 ~
According to the design notes by Holt, the machine gun turrets would have had limited
transverse due to being placed between the large steel wheels. The arcs of fire were only
20% front, 10% at the rear. With only roughly 2 to 4% per side, only if the Monitor was
still, 0% if moving. [Note: should these figures be angles, or are they describing the
percentage of area covered at each side?]

Unfortunately, this design never left the drawing board and, like many other war
designs, has faded from memory. Due to its weight and bulkiness, and unorthodox
running system, it is most likely the 150 ton Field Monitor would have been a dismal
failure. Of course, that is just ones opinion.

Armament:
Two Naval 6inch Guns.
Ten Colt-Browning Model 1895 Machine Guns, later Browning M1917 Machine Guns.
Armor: 24" to 70".
Weight: estimated at 150 tons.
Crew: 20

The 200 ton Trench Destroyer

"Trench Destroyer" Super-heavy tank

Official designation: "Trench Destroyer"

Alternative notation:
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype:
Stage of completion: the project is not implemented in view of the high technical
complexity.

Sincere love of Americans for tractors Holt during the 1st World War found reflection in
numerous attempts to build a full-tracked fighting vehicle. The first versions were not very
successful because of the desire to adapt the tractor chassis for purely military purposes.
However, it was concluded in the process of data receipt from the European fronts that from
the front of the steering wheel must be abandoned, and rely solely on the tracked chassis.

The apogee "holtostroenie" could well reach at the turn of 1916-1917 gg., Where the
table was a US military put the project 200-ton "trench destroyer" ( "Trench
Destroyer"). The basis of everything is the same, familiar idea of "land battleships" was
laid, only this time, the Americans set to work thoroughly and truly intended to create a
super-heavy tank, bristling with a variety of guns and machine guns.

Special delights during the design was not observed. For the "destroyer" boxy body has
been selected, which were placed around the perimeter of the 75 mm gun mounts
(presumably - type column book-rests) in the front and the bow, and two in sponsons on
each side. Hull construction was completely riveted and going from homogeneous
armor plates. On the roof of the superstructure was placed with four machine guns of
7.62 mm. More for two machine guns was installed on the sides of the "front" of guns,
and each side of the hull there were six machine guns. Thus, the total number of
automatic small arms reached 14-16 units. Accordingly, the tank crew could

~ 794 ~
conceivably consist of 30 people, it would be an absolute record. Embarkation and
disembarkation tank was carried out through a door at the back of the boards.

Chassis type "Holt" assumed the existence of every board two trucks with five road
wheels each, so-called "hard" suspension. The drive wheels located behind the guide -
the front. Caterpillar metal, krupnozvenchataya.

Evaluation of the project "trench Destroyer" did not take a lot of time - it was already
clear that the idea of "moving forts" and "land battleships" have outlived their
usefulness. In addition to the great mass of the super-heavy tank would have a low
driving characteristics. But more important was the excessively dense layout and a large
number of crew. Even within the German A7V was spacious. In such a situation it is not
surprising that from the project abandoned at an early stage of its creation.

DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS super-heavy tank

200 ton Trench Destroyer sample 1916

Combat weight 200,000 kg

CREW, pers. ~ 30

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 10000

Width ~ 3000

Height mm ~ 4000

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS six 75-mm guns and 14-16 machine guns 7.62 mm

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES telescopic sights

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE petrol

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

10 road wheels interlocked in the two carriages with a stiffer

CHASSIS suspension, rear drive and front idlers, krupnozvenchataya metal
caterpillar

~ 795 ~
SPEED ?

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

The 200 ton Trench Destroyer was yet another American tank design of the First World
War, dedicated to the task of rolling across the Western Front in pursuit of the Hun,
though ultimately tossed aside for a more reasonable solution. As stated above,
Americas industrial might was attaining new heights during this time, and the design
grew out of many put forth by all manner of inventors, trying their best to aid the war
effort, and of course make a little money (when opportunity knocks).

This design, although enormous, a Behemoth in proportions to the tanks currently on

the battlefields in Europe, was quite sophisticated inside, while the outside resembled a
huge disfigured A7V, brisling with six times the firepower of the German machine.

The chassis was enormous, and was originally slated to be used as the basis of a large
excavating machine. The design for the track system was designed by the brilliant Pliny
Holt and Elmer Wickersham (the latter of land torpedo fame). Their design for the
excavating machine grew out of the need for heavy earth-moving machinery during the

~ 796 ~
colossal undertaking of the Great Dig, the Panama Canal. Although opened in 1914, by
late 1917 there was already a need for the canal to be widened. But this would have to
take a back seat as long as the War raged in Europe, for fear of sabotage. The design
had its origins in late 1915 at which time, of course, there was no thought of the
machine being used in a military role.

The track system was huge, twice the size of the A7V to which it bore a marked
resemblance. From the photo you can discern the embryonic excavating equipment,
which had already started to be placed on the chassis. Most of this equipment, of course,
was removed to make room for the enormous amount of firepower the Trench Destroyer
was to be fitted with.

No definitive information exists on the type and size of the engine or transmission used.
The only information states it was to run on petrol. No dimensions have been unearthed
except for the two different descriptions of the Commanders area on top of the Trench
Destroyer, both being provided from two different Patton resources.

As a twist to this story, a Canadian by the name of Stephen Kupchack, who happened to
be one of the hull designers for the Trench Destroyer, designed an Armored Vehicle
based on the 200 toner Trench Destroyer. {After the idea was laid to rest, building the
enormous Trench Destroyer.} Mr. Kupchack submitted his design to the English War
Office in late 1918, and it was dully dismissed, after the War Office asked Mr.
Kupchack to produce a full size machine for demonstration purposes. They offered no
financial service to accomplish this.

~ 797 ~
Without the backing of Holt, Mr. Kupchacks design had a very feeble track design,
which would possibly have been too weak, even if he could have built a full size model.
His armament was also scaled down. The drawing does not represent any specific piece
of armament; Mr. Kupchack took the liberty of drawing a resemblance to no specific
piece, known at the time. He had no connections, to be able to fit his Armored Vehicle
with any form of weaponry. This was a huge hindrance, but he was hopeful, if the War
Office liked his design, and backed him financially, he could rely on them to supply the
armaments.

This of course did not materialize, the fate of many other designs for Landships at this
time which simply fell through the cracks.

The following are quotes from different Patton Resources, describing his involvement
with the 200 ton Trench Destroyer. The following is a quote by General Patton, from
the book Treat Em Rough, Describing the 200 ton Trench Destroyer. This of course is
in the 1940s, as he writes down information for his War Memoirs.

"While in France in 1918, I was directed to report on the military value of a machine
going by the euphonious name of the "moving fort and trench destroyer". An elaborate
set of blueprints accompanied the description of the horrid instrument. Those prints
depicted a caterpillar propelled box of generous proportions covered with two inch
armor and bearing in its bosom six "75s", 20 machine guns, and a flame thrower while
in the middle was a rectangular box 6x3x2 feet in size with the pathetic epitaph "engine
not yet devised". I do not know if atom bursting was known at that date, but if it was, I
feel certain that an engine actuated by that sort of power must have been intended as no
other form of power occupying so small a space could have propelled the 200 tons of
estimated weight of the "fort"."

The following is how Patton describes the 200 ton Trench Destroyer in his personal
WW1 papers. Dated 1918 Patton Papers P A 198.

1. "I have been given a task to report on the military value of a set of plans
containing an enormous machine; by the name of "Moving Fort or Trench
Destroyer"". "I believe the dubious name of Moving Fort should be given to the
1500 ton monstrosity that we also discussed today."
2. "The prints depict a caterpillar propelled box of generous proportions covered
with two inch armor and bearing in its bosom six French 75s, and openings for

~ 798 ~
 at least 20 machine guns. On the top is located a box 6 x 5 x 4 feet, {6x3x2 Was
quoted from Treat Em Rough} housing machine guns, and the commanders
location. The Trench Destroyer looks in my opinion similar to the German so
called A7V but twice as large."
3. "Entrance in to the beast is from the rear via twin armored doors on either side
of the 75. The inside is crammed full of equipment, men and weapons. I have
been informed one track assembly has been converted by a tractor firm in the
states to build a mock up, for evaluations. It is to be shipped to France in July
(1918) "{This of course never materialized}
4. "The estimated weight is between 180 and 200 tons, I am dully aware; this
monstrosity will have a rough time of it passing through villages to get to the
front. G.Rockenbach has informed me, that the US needs to step up on its tank
designs, and this may be a possible ending to the US requiring the aid of its
allies to provide tanks."

The known projected weight for the Holt excavating machine was to be around 60 tons.
Extremely large for the time, taking into account the weight of the weaponry, the large
amounts of armor, and its capacity for 30 men, this would possibly have been an
extremely formidable Armored Vehicle. Little else is known about these beasts of the
Great War, except even their formidable size is diminutive compared to other designs of
the same time period, like the 1500 ton Massive Leviathan, designed to crush armies
and cities into oblivion, and the Shuman Land Battleship, amply called the
"Superdreadnought" with 200 foot wheels. The story only begins.

Armament
Six 75 mm cannons, They were actually the famous French Canon de 75, modle 1897s.
Twenty M1917 Browning Machine Guns.
One Flame Projector, Tractor Type, Mark I
Crew: 30
Weight: 180 to 200 tons

Studebaker Supply Tank Heavy Infantry Tank

~ 799 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Studebaker Supply Tank
Start of planning: 1917
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1918
Stage of completion: built one prototype, the project closed in 1919.

In 1918, the already extensive "collection" American tanks replenished with another
exciting fighting machine, remaining only as a prototype. At this time, for the creation
of the tank took firm Studebaker, known for its trucks.

Information about this tank has survived a little. In particular, some Western sources
claim that the development of Studebaker Supply Tank (ie tank close support of
infantry) were used developments on tracked carriers Newton Cargo Carrier. Well, both
cars really similar in appearance, but a more detailed analysis shows that of the
"Newton" can be borrowed only some of the components, if any, such work was carried
out.

The immediate inspiration for the firm Studebaker tank served as a British "diamonds",
but the American car turned out longer and smaller in height than that it Mk.V *.
housing layout was standard for this type of tank: separating management front, fighting
compartment in the center and the engine-transmission compartment at the rear.
According to reports on the tank was mounted 4-cylinder aircraft engine.

Armament Studebaker Supply Tank, judging from surviving photographs, consisted of

two machine guns mounted in separate towers. It is noteworthy that the tower equipped
with mushroom-shaped caps were installed along the longitudinal axis of the body and
not transversely, as done in many mrugih tanks of the period. It is not excluded that the
guns could also be installed in the side compartments made under the support rollers.
Thus, the tank crew could consist of 4-5 people, four machine-gunner and driver.

~ 800 ~
The results of the sea trials of the tank Studebaker Supply Tank, held in the United
States remain unclear. However, the preserved information about sending a prototype in
France for front-line trials. Moreover, the customer allegedly performed the British side,
which seems unlikely. It happened at the end of 1918, but after the arrival to the place
of combat operations from further work on Studebaker Supply Tank refused, but instead
were asked to produce a conveyor on the same chassis. What actually learn now very
problematic. One thing is clear - Studebaker Supply Tank and remained as a prototype
and after the war was to the metal.

Despite the unsuccessful completion of the project, there is good reason to believe that
the American tank became prooobrazom for the Chinese tank layout, photography
which "walk" for several years on the Internet. The first image is very poor quality of
the individual details of the design was to consider tude, so most fans of armored
vehicles agreed that it could be quite a full tank, even if collected from non-armored.
The confusion introduced two longitudinally mounted machine gun turret, which can be
mounted machine guns such as Fiat-Revelli.

~ 801 ~
However, in 2013, finally there were two high-quality photos, which led to more
accurate conclusions. Indeed, the Chinese "tank", built in the late 1920s. Sufficiently
strongly resembles Studebaker Supply Tank and Medium Tank M1921. However, if
you look more closely, it becomes evident that the rear driving wheels do not have any
connection with the power plant. It is possible that the layout was built of iron and could
be used, for example, misinformation or intimidate the enemy. In addition, it is possible
that this "Chinese" could easily be used as a towed target.

SPECIFICATIONS Heavy Infantry Tank

Studebaker Supply Tank sample 1918

Combat weight ~ 20000 kg

CREW, pers. 4-5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two to four 7.62-mm machine gun

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
food body -?
RESERVATIONS
sponsons -?
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE avitsionny, gasoline, 4-cylinder

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

(On one side)? track rollers, 2 support rollers, perezhnee steering

CHASSIS wheel, rear wheel drive, with steel caterpillar krupnozvenchataya
Tracians

~ 802 ~
SPEED ?

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

~ 3.50
m

MEANS OF
not installed
COMMUNICATION

Medium Tank M1921 \ M1922 Medium tank

~ 803 ~
Official designation: Medium Tank M1921 \ M1922
Alternative notation: Medium Tank Model 1921 A
Start design: 1920
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1921
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

Even during the First World War, the US Army to take an active interest in all the new
developments in the field of military industry, and trying not to fall behind in this
respect from allies. The main "trump card" of the British and French in 1916-1918 gg.
steel tanks - is using caterpillar armored vehicles managed several times to break the
German defenses, but a number of reasons to take advantage of these successes could
not be fully utilized. Nevertheless, it is the most attention was paid to the tanks in this
period.

The first attempts to create an American armored vehicles ended in complete failure on
the basis of Holt and Best Tractor. Except in parades, these machines use was difficult.
Regarding the successful release of the tanks were in 1918 - Skeleton Tank, Steam Tank
Tracked and Holt Gas-Electric Tank. All three tanks have a number of original technical
solutions, which in practical terms the spread and have not received. Having obtained
the necessary experience, Americans "ripe" for a more impressive car.

~ 804 ~
Adopted in 1919, the US Army armored equipment program, prepared by Major
R.E.Karlsonom, provides for two types of tanks: light weight of about 5 tons, and the
average weight of 20-30 tons. Place a light tank certainly took Renault FT-17 and its
American "6 tonne" option. But the place turned out to be the average vacant. The
absence of the program of heavy tanks was due not so much to the presence of
"international" Mk.VIII, how much difference of opinion on the use of tanks -
"heavyweights" simply had no place in the US Army system.

It is quite clear that the tone in the development of medium and heavy tanks such as the
British asked. The latest innovation at the time was the Medium Tank D, who was one
of the most important elements of "Plan 1919" and included several radical innovations
and design features. Americans closely follow all the fashion trends, draw your own
conclusions, which were embodied in the creation of a medium tank, which had the
official designation Medium Tank Model 1921 (often seen abbreviated name of
M1921 or "unfolded" Medium Tank Model A 1921).

Despite the many positive qualities of the British tank Medium D has a number of
drawbacks, the most significant of which was the installation of a purely machine-gun
armament in fixed wheelhouse. Of course, this solution considerably simplifies the
structure, but deprived possible to focus light in one direction or completely excluded
firing in one of the sectors in the case of outputting one of the guns fails. In addition, all
British tanks suffered from increased vulnerability of the chassis and the lack of
ventilation of the crew compartment. American designers have tried to avoid the
repetition of mistakes and it should be noted that they got much better.

Let's start with the chassis. Since the duties of a medium tank was part of the fortified
defense breakthrough bands of saturated various kinds of barriers and obstacles to the
future M1921 put forward very specific requirements for the terrain on the ground. To
allow the tank to overcome the trenches and ditches in width to 2.5 meters were
required to go to increase the total length of up to 6.5 meters. In addition, tracked
branch is almost completely covered the body with the exception of a low add-engine-
~ 805 ~
transmission compartment and turret box. The main load took on eight road wheels of
small diameter. Unlike the British tank on the M1921 their logic interlock decided in
two sets of four roller each. In turn, the trolleys equipped with suspension springs in the
vertical spring, the fixed elements which are attached to the outside of the side of the
housing. Spitsovannye Guide wheels and track tensioning mechanism is at the front.
Best track tension also contributed to the introduction of an additional roller mounted
between the front bogie and the steering wheel. Drive wheel gearing teeth were also
spitsivannymi and located at the rear. Krupnozvenchataya caterpillar consisted of 68 (?)
Steel tracks. To support its upper branches were the top four wheels attached to the
bracket to the side of the hull. Almost all the elements of the chassis and the suspension
(with the exception of small segments at the installation site and the leading guide
wheels) closed 9.5 mm thick armored shields. Foreseeing that in the process of
movement on rough terrain will become clogged dirt inside for its relief provided two
rectangular cutout located closer to the middle of the armored shields.

Housing tank M1921 was mainly intended design and riveted to the metal frame of the
armor plates of differentiated thickness. Fixing armor plates produced with the help of
bolts and rivets. The layout of the body was carried out by the so-called classical
scheme and technologically it is divided into three parts:

Control Department: housed in the bow of the hull which had a wedge shape. According
to the experience of fighting in Europe, the top and bottom bronelisty were installed
under great angles, so they inch thick (25.4 mm) with ease to withstand any kind of fire
from small arms and small-caliber cannons. In the upper compartment flap control
broneliste hatch has been made, two segments that swing out, and the third to swing up
was a frontal cover a small cabin on the driver's head from the observation slit. Two
additional peepholes were protected by bulletproof on the sides of the cabin. The
fighting compartment: occupies the middle part of the body, on the roof of a squat turret
ring box was made. Tower cylindrical shape, according to the trends of the time,
received a bevelled upper side bronelisty, and was designed for three people. In front,

~ 806 ~
on both sides of 57-mm guns, were places for the gunner and loader. Behind them, on a
small hill, the place was located a tank commander. British-style cannon, mounted on
the machine front and defended the massive hemispherical mask. Thickness booking a
vertical surface of the tower is 25.4 mm. Due to the fact that the diameter of the tower
was turret greater than the width of the box, along the sides have to perform a small
additional sections, thereby expanding the space under the shoulder straps. At the rear
of the tower also performed dvuhtvorchaty hatch for the landing and landing in the tank
fighting compartment. Perfectly remembering the importance of the review of the
Americans installed on the roof of the tower high cylindrical turret hatch with two-step
top five viewing slots and one 7.62-mm machine gun Colt-Browning in the ball mount.

Engine-transmission compartment is located in the aft part of the hull and because of
the nature of the power plant took almost 50% of the total body length. For the M1921
tank was selected petrol engine Murray-Tregurtha 220 hp The transmission was manual,
with the planetary transmission provides four speed Vered and 1 back. Exhaust pipes
with silencers to be displayed on the two sides, but in the process of testing them
removed.

The first prototype of a medium tank M1921 built workshops Arsenal in Rock Island,
and was completed in 1921, when the army reduction process has already passed the
final stage, and the attitude to the use of the tanks has changed dramatically. During the
test, the tank showed quite good data. On the road paved M1921 showed the speed to 16
km \ h, on the terrain - 6-10 km \ h. The tank can easily overcome ditches in width to
2.5 meters, a vertical wall to 0.75 meters and a slope of 30-35 . Among the most
obvious shortcomings noted in the fighting compartment overcrowding and insufficient
cooling of the power plant.

However, the army has already lost a lot of interest M1921. New program for the
development of armored forces, which is now formed infantry, the presence of tanks
weighing more than 15 tonnes does not envisage. Weight restrictions were imposed on

~ 807 ~
the basis of the carrying capacity of the majority of US bridges, and in general, the US
tanks after the First World War was seen as too expensive.

However, in 1922 an attempt was made to upgrade the tanks and arms to prove to the
Department that conduct offensive actions without the machines of this class in the
conditions of modern warfare will be very difficult.

New Tank Model 1922 (or M1922) has received a completely different chassis, largely
corresponding to British Medium D. As you might guess, the American engineers have
studied the possibility of providing the best terrain. As a result, the chassis has received
the so-called "rope" caterpillar (sometimes called "skeletal" it), which is at a much
lower weight had a higher degree of traction. Another feature was the placement of the
leading and guiding wheels. The originality of the design was that the guide wheels
(smaller than the diameter of the M1921) were set well below the guide, which,
moreover, were taken far back out of the case. As a result, the overall length of the tank
exceeded 7.5 meters. Number of road wheels increased to 13 (direct reference could be
~ 808 ~
considered only 6) supporting the wheels - to 6. Cutout in the middle of the board
armored shields, designed to clear the mud from the top branches of a caterpillar,
become bigger, and he broneschit is now almost completely closed chassis. Among
other improvements can be noted the driver's hatch folds smaller dimensions and
modified superstructure above the MTO.

In general, the American engineers performed if not all, very much to satisfy the
demands of the army. Leaving no hope in the years 1923-1924. Further work on the
modernization of the medium tank, which led to the creation of the project M1924
(made only in the form of a wooden model) and a single prototype M1926. However,
the army has not been able to change their views on the medium tanks, stopping them in
the development of the US for 10 years.

In our time, sometimes you can find the assertion that the designers of the Soviet T-12 \
T-24 as a model for American medium tanks construction Christi and Rock Island
Arsenal had the same designation of M1921. Emphasis is placed on tiered weapons and
the similarity in the specific application of both types of tanks. In fact this is not true. If
you recall, the idea of "diversity" guns and machine guns for different tiers used in those
years almost all the leading tankostroitelnymi powers, including France and Germany.
Purposes, in this case two molded parts: careless tank maximum firing capacity without
substantially increasing the weight and to allow the crew to fire simultaneously in
several sectors of its concentration, if necessary, on the same object.

In this respect, the apotheosis of the design ideas of steel five-turret tanks A1E1 and T-
35, the latter, when used skillfully, could show even more effective if the enemy light
anti-tank weapons. As for the M1921 and M1922, their fate was unenviable. Having
received no recognition at home both prototypes while still used for various kinds of
tests, until the end of the 1920s. they are not disassembled metal.

TACTICAL-TECHNICAL DATA Medium Tank

Medium Tank M1921 sample 1921

Combat weight 18597 kg

CREW, pers. 4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm 6550

~ 809 ~
Width 2440
Height mm 2960
Clearance, mm ?
one 57-mm cannon and a 7.62mm machine gun Colt-
WEAPONS
Browning M1919
allowance of
?
ammunition
aiming DEVICES telescopic sight
housing forehead - 25.4 mm
board housing - 9.5 mm
Tower - 25.4 mm
RESERVATIONS
feed - 9.5 mm
roof -
bottom -
Murray-Tregurtha, carburetor, 8-cylinder 220 hp, fuel tank
ENGINE
360 liters
mechanical type with planetary gearbox (4 speeds forward and
TRANSMISSION
1 reverse)
(On one side) 8 orpornyh rinks semi-detached two-trolley with
spring depreciation, 4 supports video, driving the front and
CHASSIS
rear steering wheel; Caterpillar krupnozvenchataya typed steel
shoe
SPEED 16 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway ~ 80km
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. 38
Wall height, m 0.75
The depth of the ford, m 0.60
The width of the den, m 2.50
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 810 ~
75 Holt Tank Infantry Tank \ bronetraktor Easy wheel-tracked tank

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Holt Tank 75
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1916
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

Apparently, the first in the whole galaxy of American tanks on the chassis Holt tractor,
was the project in 1916. Company-developer of this machine, which by and large can be
considered bronetraktorom, remained unknown. What is clear is that the very Holt to its
design was not involved, obviously realizing the futility of this idea.

Holt Model 75. Chassis, with reference to one side, included a 5 track rollers with a
stiffer suspension, 3 support rollers, front steering and rear drive wheel - in one of the
most popular while tractor was selected as the base chassis. Caterpillar was
krupnozvenchatoy with steel tracks. In the absence of steering clutch control carried out
on the course with the help of the front wheel, push forward on a metal frame. The
tractor was equipped with a gasoline engine of 75 hp Holt, which gave the name of the
model.

To make the tractor so-called "tank" American designers have chosen the same path,
which a year ago decided to go to the French. On tractor chassis in small completions,
set the body of the original form. Its central part was made almost cylindrical, while the
front and rear sections have received the form of a truncated cone in the longitudinal
plane. In this case the aft part was the imposition far back and literally hung over the
land. Of course, such a technical reception could not affect positively on prohodimot
over rough terrain.

With the armament decided not to waste time on trifles. According to the calculations of
developers from the tank on the basis of 75 Holt I had to carry a gun in the bow of the
hull, four "exchange" machine guns (two at the front and rear) and another machine gun
was mounted in a cylindrical tower on the roof of the enclosure.

~ 811 ~
It is not known whether this project is the military, but then failed to advance the work
layout was discussed. However, the design of the tractor Holt 75 and its analogs was the
basis for three more bronetraktorov built and tested during 1917.

SPECIFICATIONS Infantry Tank

75 Holt Tank sample 1916

Combat weight ~ 10000 kg

CREW, pers. 6-7

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

one cannon and four 7.62-mm machine gun in the case, one machine
WEAPONS
gun in the tower (?)

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES ?

RESERVATIONS the prototype was made of non-armored

~ 812 ~
ENGINE Holt, gasoline, liquid-cooled, 75 hp

TRANSMISSION electric type

(On one side) 5 Track Roller with stiff suspension, 3 support rollers,
CHASSIS front steering wheel, rear wheel veduzee, krupnozvenchataya
caterpillar front steered wheel

SPEED 3-5 km \ h

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Holt G9 \ Caterpillar Tank Heavy Tank \ bronetraktor

Official designation:
Alternative notation: Holt G9 \ Caterpillar Tank
Start design: 1916
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

~ 813 ~
Sincere love Americans wheeled crawler tractors construction Holt during the First
World War led to the appearance of the original, and at the same time is absolutely
meaningless from a rational point of view of military vehicles. One of them was
bronetraktor, often referred to as the heavy tank and is known as the G9 and Holt
Caterpillar Tank.

In 1917, on the chassis of the tractor Holt hull of scripting, the form and function more
like a mobile bunker. Apparently, the main goal of American engineers saw the creation
is "land cruiser". Hence, there were numerous loopholes hatches (with five sides and
one in the rear of the housing) and non-standard layout of weapons. Precise data on the
number of guns and machine guns, which had to bear the Caterpillar Tank, did not
survive. It is known that two options were implemented:

- Two-towered ( G9-1 , tower mounted along the longitudinal axis of the body),
armament included two towers, and a rear gun and several machine guns;

- Odnobashenny (G9-2, the only tower of cylindrical shape mounted above the driver's
compartment), armament includes one tower and one aft gun and several machine guns.

Chassis no changes. Tracked Undercarriage, with reference to one side, it consisted of

five road wheels with a stiffer suspension, three supporting rollers, the front guide and a
rear drive wheel. Caterpillar krupnozvenchataya with steel tracks. The front wheel is
mounted on the elongated frame, intended to control the tractor. The tank was installed
G9 150-horsepower gasoline engine with liquid cooling system. According to others,
the tank received a 6-cylinder engine benschinovy Maybach.

~ 814 ~
Caterpillar made only by the prototype was presented to the US Army in 1917. Testing
tanks, carried out at the site near Los Angeles, has led to disappointing results.
Weighing about 10 metric tons of Holt G9 showed low cross-country, in what was a
considerable "merit" of the selected type undercarriage. Maximum speed when driving
on a flat surface was 5 km \ h, but even then it was not all smooth in every sense of the
word. During one march, the driver lost control and fell into a ditch (!) The car was
partially destroyed, which was quite natural consequence of design failures.
Investigation of the incident did not last long, because the futility of military tanks on
the tractor Holt-type chassis was evident. However, during the war, have released a
graphic campaign depicting tank Holt G9, vigorously implements on the front edge of
the German positions, as well as the way the layout of the tank that was used in training
camp Great Lakes.

~ 815 ~
SPECIFICATIONS heavy tanks
Holt G9 \ Caterpillar Tank 1917 sample of

Combat weight ~ 10000 kg

CREW, pers. 6~

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two or three 37-mm guns and several machine guns 7.62 mm caliber (?)

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES ?

RESERVATIONS the prototype was made of non-armored

ENGINE Holt, petrol, cubic capacity 1440 cc., 75 hp at about 550 \ min

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

(On one side) 5 Track Roller with stiff suspension, 2 support rollers, front
CHASSIS steering wheel, rear wheel veduzee, krupnozvenchataya caterpillar front
steering wheel, krupnozvenchataya track with steel chain tracks

SPEED ~ 5 km \ h

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ?

~ 816 ~
ford, m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Mark VII (Caterpillar) Self-propelled artillery unit

Official designation: Mark VII

Alternative notation: Caterpillar Mount Mk.VII
Start design: 1918
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1919
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

While the US military reflects on the ways of development of armored forces

engineering thought did not stand still. Even before the completion of the United States

~ 817 ~
World War I created several models of self-propelled artillery units designed primarily
to support the infantry. However, about the tanks is also not forgotten.

As you might guess, the specialized chassis for self-propelled guns had not engaged in,
and used what was at hand. Especially attractive look adaptation of tractor chassis for
military spending than Americans engaged more actively than during the years 1918-
1922. One of these self-propelled guns was the Mark VII (also common name
Caterpillar Mount Mk.VII).

The base sample has a fairly standard suspension consisting of the following
components: six road wheels, four support rollers, front steering wheel, rear wheel
steering, krupnozvenchataya metal caterpillar developed without lugs. The suspension
of support and support rollers was tough.

The layout of self-propelled and not original because of the "tractor" of the past. Front
housed powerplant (engine, cooling system and lubrication), in the middle of the
column book-rests on the installation mounted 75-mm cannon M1916. gunners places
are located on the sides of the gun directly over the fuel tanks. Ammunition may be
transported in a box above the engine compartment. As such, there was no reservation,
but got a prototype power plant protection in the form of sheets of non-armored.

Tests of self-propelled guns Caterpillar Mount Mk.VII (only two prototypes were built)
began in 1919 and continued with varying success. It turned out that the "hard" part of
the chassis is not well suited for military purposes, and the recoil is not too small.
Nevertheless, some prospects still were in March 1920, ACS was subjected to a severe
test to overcome water obstacles, with a preliminary sealing of the most important units.
The depth of the river at the junction is about 4.5 feet (1.40 m), it was transcendent for
any tank of the time, but Caterpillar Mount Mk.VII withstood this test, though not
without problems.

~ 818 ~
In fact, the fate of the self-propelled guns was solved in the same 1920, after the
adoption of the Act on national defense, in which a machine of this type simply no
place. About Caterpillar Mount Mk.VII forgotten for a long time and remember only the
spring of 1931. Coming repair and modernization of one of the ACS again came to the
test. Like last time, the purpose of the tests was to determine the combat and operational
qualities of self-propelled relatively towed guns (in this case it was a 75-mm gun
M1897). After a series of tests conducted at Fort Eustis became clear that Caterpillar
Mount Mk.VII has a low mobility, low power reserve and is technically very unreliable.
The story of ACS to Caterpillar tractor chassis was completed and a prototype was
dismantled the metal.

Combat weight ~ 5000 kg

CREW, pers. 4
DIMENSIONS

~ 819 ~
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
one 75-mm gun M1916 column book-rests on the
WEAPONS
installation
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES telescopic sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE Cadillac V8, gasoline, 70 hp
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
(On one side) 6 track rollers, support rollers 4, the front
CHASSIS guide and a rear drive wheel, caterpillar krupnozvenchataya
typed steel shoe
SPEED 16 km \ h on the highway
Cruising on the highway 58 km
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m to 1.40 when sealing
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Mark VIII (Caterpillar) Self-propelled artillery unit

Official designation: Mk.VIII

Alternative notation: Caterpillar Mount Mk.VIII
Start design: 1919
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1920
Stage of completion: two prototypes built.

~ 820 ~
Shortly after the appearance of the prototype self-propelled artillery Caterpillar Mount
Mk.VII engineers the same company developed a modernized version, in fact, little
different from the original sample.

The first prototype of the new self-propelled guns, informally called Caterpillar
Mount Mk.VIII (or Caterpillar Tractor with 3-inch gun), was only slightly
improved chassis, which in general are purely tractor and consist of the following
components: six road wheels, four support rollers, front steering wheel, rear wheel
steering, krupnozvenchataya metal caterpillar developed without lugs. The suspension
of support and support rollers has also been tough. The tractor was mounted petrol
engine Cadillac V8 70 hp On the open rear platform was installed 75-mm rapid-firing
gun of the French type, adapted to the requirements of the US Army. Full crew
consisted of 4 persons, including the driver.

Shortly thereafter came the second prototype, which re-tested chassis of another type.
Now the 75-mm gun was mounted on a shortened chassis, which invariably affected the
stability when shooting. To reduce the effects of recoil two stops mounted on the rear of
the machine were provided. Reservation as previously absent. Both prototypes were not
able to pass the test and most likely in 1922, they were sent to warehouses for further
dismantling weapons.

SPECIFICATIONS self-propelled artillery

Mark VIII (Caterpillar) of the sample in 1920

Combat weight 4500 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 3048 (along with stops)

~ 821 ~
Width 1470

Height mm 2200

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 75-mm gun M1916 column book-rests on the installation

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES telescopic sight

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE petrol

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

(On one side) 6 track rollers, support rollers 4, the front guide and a
CHASSIS
rear drive wheel, caterpillar krupnozvenchataya typed steel shoe

SPEED ?

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Holt 55 (3-inch gun) Self-propelled artillery unit.

~ 822 ~
Official designation:
Alternative notation: Holt 55 (3-inch gun)
Start of planning: 1917
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1917
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

In 1917 came the first test SAU, established on the basis of tractor Holt 55 and equipped
with a 3-inch gun, which had a radius of 5.5 km. Equipped with a 110-horsepower self-
propelled gun could move at a speed of 8 km \ h on the highway. The total weight was
10240 kg.

The basic version of the tractor was not the most common at the time, so it is not clear
why it was chosen chassis. Unlike the rest of ACS based on a tractor, it was equipped
with a frame, which is mounted on an open platform, which was set to 76.2 mm gun.
The chassis consisted of the following elements: 10 road wheels interlocked in the two
carts (each equipped with two vertical spring springs), four rigidly fixed support rollers,
front steering and rear wheel drive. Caterpillar krupnozvenchataya, with steel tracks. To
increase stability when shooting self-propelled guns equipped with four stops, located at
the corners of the platform. On the arms of ACS did not accept because of low mobility.

SPECIFICATIONS self-propelled artillery

Holt 55 1917, the sample
Combat weight 10240 kg
CREW, pers. 4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ?
Width ?
Height mm ?
Clearance, mm ?
one 76.2 mm gun M1916 column book-rests on the
WEAPONS
installation
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES telescopic sight
RESERVATIONS ?
ENGINE Gasoline, liquid-cooled, 110 hp

~ 823 ~
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
((On one side) 10 of rollers, support rollers 4, the front guide
CHASSIS and a rear drive wheel, caterpillar krupnozvenchataya steel
shoe
SPEED 8 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
The angle of ascent, hail. ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Mark X Model 1922E 4,7 "Gun Self-propelled artillery unit.

Official designation: Mark X Model 1922E 4,7 "Gun

Alternative notation:
Start design: 1920
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1921
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

At the beginning of the 1920s. chassis tractors Holt actively used for the installation of
various types of artillery systems. One of these machines are essentially improvising
American engineers, was the self-propelled unit under the unofficial name Mark X
Model 1922E 4,7 "Gun. The initiator of its creation was the Arsenal in Rock Island.

Installing the 4.7 "tools (metric size 119.4 mm) on the tractor chassis to the
undercarriage of the tractor Holt did not require significant improvements. In addition to
the platform and the mast to the stern hull was installed two stops, gasivshih recoil. The
machine is equipped with a petrol engine capacity of 110 hp and manual transmission
with 3-speed gearbox.

~ 824 ~
Directly artillery system, which has the official designation 4.7 inch Gun M1906, is
interesting because during the First World War it was modified by the use of 120-mm
rounds of the French sample. However, to bring this process to the end and it was not
possible - the Americans, as they say, have decided to stay "at her." The only major
drawbacks 4.7 inch Gun was archaic carriage towed by a small angle and vertical
guidance, is only 15 (on the horizon - in the range 4 ). They fired bullets weighing 45
pounds (20.41 kg), the initial rate was 518 m \ s, a range - of the order of 8252 meters.
Nevertheless, for its time it was quite effektivneoe gun, it is not surprising that even in
1922 it prodolzhalalo remain in service with the US Army.

As tested self-propelled gun Mark X Model 1922E 4,7 "hard to say in mind the
complete absence of confirmed data. It is possible that once again" Suffice it to say the
stumbling block "was the undercarriage., That on roads paved with self-propelled gun
could move a maximum speed of 8.6 miles per hour (14 km \ h.) - that is slightly larger
than the towed guns in addition, operational endurance Holt type chassis, adapted for
the installation of large-caliber guns, it was lower than expected in the end Mark X
decided to disarm. in 1924.

SPECIFICATIONS self-propelled artillery

Mark X Model 1922E 4,7 "sample in 1920

Combat weight ~ 10000 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS a 119.4-mm gun

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES telescopic sight

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Holt, gasoline, liquid-cooled, 110 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

~ 825 ~
 (On one side) 6 track rollers, support rollers 4, the front guide and a
CHASSIS
rear drive wheel, caterpillar krupnozvenchataya typed steel shoe

SPEED ?

Cruising on the
?
highway

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den,

?
m

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Mark VI (Holt) Self-propelled artillery unit

Official designation: Mark VI

Alternative notation:
Start design: 1920
Date of construction of the first prototype: 1920
Stage of completion: one prototype was built.

~ 826 ~
Mark VI - self-propelled artillery unit on the basis of a commercial tractor Holt armed with 75
mm gun M1920 disguised folding armored shields. Was intended for her 15-pound (6.8-kg)
bomb had initial velocity of 2175 feet per second (663 m \ c), the maximum firing range - 8
miles (12.87 km). A total of Holt`s Stockton plant two prototypes have been collected. The gun
was located in the rear of the chassis of the machine without body armor. Chassis not
upgraded. For each board, it consisted of five road wheels with a stiffer suspension, two
supporting rollers, the front of the steering wheel and the rear drive wheel teeth engagement.
Caterpillar krupnozvenchataya with steel tracks.

Soon there was a modification of the self-propelled gun with a 105-mm howitzer,
introduced in 1921. When at 2 times the initial velocity of 33-pound (14-kg) bomb
could fly to the target 7 miles (11.27 km). However, even a year before the arms
department noticeably lost interest in what else the ACS and the further development of
construction allows not followed.

SPECIFICATIONS self-propelled artillery

Mark VI (Holt) sample in 1920

Combat weight 6000 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 3685

Width 1960

Height mm 2270

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 75-mm gun M1920 column book-rests on the installation

allowance of
?
ammunition

aiming DEVICES telescopic sight

RESERVATIONS ?

ENGINE Holt V8, petrol, work obmmom 565 cc., 75 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

~ 827 ~
 (On one side) 5 of rollers, 2 support rollers, front steering and rear
CHASSIS
drive wheel, caterpillar krupnozvenchataya typed steel shoe

SPEED 22.5 km \ h on the highway

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent,

?
hail.

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford,

?
m

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

US Self-Propelled Guns - an Overview

A selection of U.S. Self-propelled Guns

~ 828 ~
The self-propelled guns created in the United States at the end of WW1 and the early
20s have been poorly documented and understood. The objective of this article1 is to
provide the context of the creation of these vehicles and provide a brief overview of the
progress made in their development and the termination of the development of SPGs in
1923.

The U.S. Army at the outbreak of WW1 was a very small and limited force. Whereas
the U.S. Navy had heeded the writings of Admiral Mahan about global force projection
through the creation of a powerful blue water navy, the U.S. Army was sufficient to
maintain superiority over other armed forces within the American continents. To
effectively participate in WW1 the U.S. Army had to undergo a huge expansion in size
and major upgrades in equipment.

The artillery arm of the U.S. Army in 1914 was composed of two branches: the field
artillery tasked with support of the infantry and cavalry and the coast artillery tasked
with manning of heavy, and often obsolete guns, in fixed emplacements to protect the
U.S. coastline.

The heaviest guns deployed by the field artillery were the 4.7 inch (120mm) M1906
gun, 48 of which were on strength in 1917 and the 6 inch M1908 howitzer, 100 of these
had been built. Both of these guns were quite short ranged compared to European
designs. The bulk of the U.S. artillery park was composed of 3inch (75mm) horse towed
light field guns.

The U.S. Army was in a unique position in the early years of WW1 where the
equipment and doctrines of both sides of the conflict could be observed. It was rapidly
apparent that the U.S. Army was deficient in mobile heavy artillery and railway
mounted artillery. The time scales available to rectify this deficiency meant that new
artillery pieces could not be designed, built and tested by local industry. Fortunately,
Britain and France were quite willing to allow U.S. industry to build their heavy gun
designs under licence since their local industries were very stretched because of the
huge losses of manpower and materiel on the Western Front.

~ 829 ~
The artillery pieces the U.S. Army selected for mobile heavy artillery were:

8inch Vickers Mk VIII howitzer

155mm GPF (Filloux) gun, which became the 155mm M1918 gun
155mm Schneider M1917 howitzer
240mm Schneider howitzer, a variant of the French 280mm TR Schneider
howitzer.

The light field gun was replaced by the French 75mm Mle 1897 built in the U.S. as the
75mm M1897. Additionally British 60 Pounder (5inch) guns were taken on strength as
a supplement to the 4.7inch guns.

The mechanisation of the artillery arm had been under investigation since 1915.
Numerous trials were conducted with trucks and tracked vehicles to assess their utility
as artillery towing vehicles2. The conclusion of these trials were that four-wheel trucks
were superior to conventional trucks and that tracked vehicles were superior to both
trucks and horses for artillery towing over bad ground. To mobilise the newly adopted
heavy field guns the U.S. Army adopted, in part, the French doctrine of using heavy
trucks to move artillery pieces by road for "strategic mobility". That is, moving the
artillery by road between various parts of the front line away from the combat zone. For
"tactical mobility", that is, within the combat zone, Holt tracked artillery tractors were
purchased in 2, 5, 10, 15 and 20-ton capacities. The introduction of mechanised
towing did not meet universal acceptance since the traditional towing of guns with
horses was entrenched. The next logical step that the French and British3 took of
mounting a gun on a tracked carrier capable of firing from the vehicle without the setup
delays of towed guns was also accepted as a reasonable solution to the mobility problem

~ 830 ~
by the Ordnance Department, the U.S. Army Department charged with the specification,
development and testing of new weapon systems.

The Ordnance Dept appear to have started their investigations of vehicle mounted guns
with the 3 inch anti-aircaft gun M1917. There was experience that anti-aircraft guns had
to have much higher mobility than field artillery. Both the British and French had
mounted adapted field guns on trucks to provide this mobility. The 3 inch AA gun was
somewhat heavier than light field artillery pieces and also bulkier so truck mounting
may not have been feasible. Although a wheeled trailer mount was developed, similar to
the German 88mm AA guns, the limitations of a wheeled towed vehicle appear to have
prompted the Ordnance Dept to consider self-propelled options. It is thought that the
Ordnance Dept requested design concepts from interested manufacturers. The Holt
Tractor Company approached the Ordnance Dept4 with a proposal for a tracked anti-
aircraft (AA) vehicle armed with a 3 inch AA gun. This was tested by the Ordnance
Dept in 1917 and although it had many deficiencies the concept was judged worthy of
further exploration. The original Holt vehicle was refitted with an 8 inch howitzer and
tests showed that it was possible to fire the heavier gun from the tracked vehicle. J.
Walter Christie's design for the 3inch AA gun was for a narrow 4-wheeled vehicle with
large outriggers which could be deployed to stabilise the gun for firing.

In 1918 Pliny E. Holt, the chief designer of the Holt AA vehicle joined the design staff
of the Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois5. Design and construction under Holt's supervision
commenced to build tracked vehicles carrying the 8 inch howitzer, 155mm GPF and
240mm Schneider howitzer known as Marks I to III respectively. These vehicles were
based on components of the Holt artillery tractors and proved to be very heavy and also
slow. It should be noted that the American concept was of a gun carried by a minimal
tracked vehicle rather than a self-contained weapon system carrying gun crew,
ammunition as well as the gun which was the British and French approach to SPGs.

~ 831 ~
The Rock Island Arsenal produced an SPG based on the French St Chamond SPG6, the
Mark IV, with a petrol-electric powered tractor with a tethered electrically powered gun
vehicle.

The Ordnance Dept testing showed that although the Marks I to III SPGs had some
promise future designs would have to be much lighter and smaller. The War Munitions
Board saw the logic of SPGs to improve the battlefield mobility of the artillery and to
reduce the costs associated with horse transport. Production contracts for 50 Mark I, 50
Mark II and 250 Mark III and Mark IV/IVA self-propelled guns were let in 1918 with
delivery expected in early 1919. The Armistice in Nov 1918 lead to the reduction of the
production contracts to a few experimental vehicles.

The Ordnance Dept in 1918 constructed a pair of light SPGs based on the Holt 2 and
5-ton artillery tractors carrying the 75mm M1916 gun. Although these SPGs were
improvised they demonstrated the viability of SPGs carrying light field guns.

At the end of WW1 the U.S. Army convened two boards to examine the experience
gained and make recommendations for the future development of the artillery arm. One
of the boards, presided over by Maj. Gen. Andrew Hero7 was convened in France taking
submissions from serving troops. The report concluded that age of horse transport had
ended and mechanised transport for artillery pieces was the only way forward. The
board recommended:

"53. The consensus of opinion is that every piece of artillery that can be successfully
adapted to motor traction would be motorised. The Board believes that very great
expenditures for the purpose of developing tractor-drawn or tractor-carried
artillery would be fully justified (p.24)"

~ 832 ~
The other board was presided over by Maj. Gen. William Westervelt considered
artillery calibers, types of ammunition and transport best suited for the U.S. Army. This
report8 noted:

" for we have the broad field presented by the possibilities of the gun mounted
directly upon a self-propelled vehicle. Already, the self-propelled caterpillar gun
mount is well along in the experimental stage and has passed to fact from fancy, and
while the weights are excessive, the gun traverse limited, sight relaying necessary,
the results arrived at indicate final success in the near future. This success will be
realised in a gun using, possibly, a pedestal mount, possessing perfect stability, all
round fire, 90 degrees elevation, mounted upon a caterpillar track tractor. (p.49)"

and recommended:

"These two mounts, the 75 and 155mm guns, should be immediately developed to
the utmost, paying particular attention to mobility and lightness consistent with
strength and stability. (p.52)"

The effect of these reports on the traditionalists in the artillery arm wedded to horse
transport can be easily imagined.

The development of SPGs by the Ordnance Dept continued after the end of the war with
an emphasis on much lighter, smaller vehicles. Holt designed a 75mm armed SPG, the
Mark VII, using components of the 2-ton artillery tractor and although modestly
successful was considered to be overweight. Holt then produced a 75mm gun/105mm
howitzer armed vehicle, the Mark VI, designed from the ground up rather than adapting
components from its commercial vehicles. Christie also submitted a similarly armed
SPG which could run on wheels or tracks as well as a wheel/track vehicle mounting the
4.7 inch anti-aircraft gun.

~ 833 ~
The Christie 155mm armed SPG was recommended by the Ordnance Dept for
production after extensive testing of the original vehicle and two further modified
vehicles.

Holt produced a pair of lighter and smaller SPGs carrying the 8 inch howitzer (Mark
IX) and either the 155mm howitzer or 4.7inch M1920 gun (Mark X)9.

At the start of 1923 the Field Artillery Board conducted a "trial" comparing the Holt
Mark VI and Christie 75mm SPGs. Both of these vehicles were badly worn by this time
but this did not deter the board from concluding that the SPGs were very unreliable and
unable to meet the requirements of the artillery. The recommendations of this board
were10:

"1st. That further experimentation on 75mm gun and 105m howitzer self-propelled
mounts be absolutely discontinued so far as any use for divisional artillery is
concerned.
2nd. That when, and not until, experiments with heavier calibre self-propelled
mounts may indicate the possibility of a very material weight reduction, further
work be undertaken on a self-propelled mount for 105mm howitzer and 75mm gun
with a view to developing, if possible, a special vehicle that may have some value as
a mount for a special gun, as an anti-aircraft or anti-tank one.
3rd. That the conditional recommendations for work on a special gun mounting be
considered as based largely upon an unwillingness on the part of the Board to take
a definite stand against experiment, within reason with smaller calibres; since it is
the belief of the Board that development along this line, if such development be
possible, may be more difficult if absolutely confined to the larger calibres"

The language of the report is in similar form, that is, difficult to understand, but at least
the headline is clear "No SPGs for the US Army on our watch". This combined with
financial restrictions on the U.S. Army meant the end of SPG development, aside from a
few purely experimental vehicles, until WW2.

Holt SPGs
This article is a vehicle by vehicle discussion of the self-propelled guns produced by the
Holt Tractor Company or by the Rock Island Arsenal under the supervision of Pliny E.
Holt from 1917 to 1922.

The Holt tractor company was the largest manufacturer of tracked vehicles at the
outbreak of WW1. Both Britain and France bought Holt tractors to tow artillery pieces
in the early years of the war. These proved to be very successful since they permitted
the movement of heavy guns in conditions which would have been impossible for the
traditional horse transport. The U.S. Army bought Holt artillery tractors in 2, 5, 10, 15
and 20-ton towing capacities. The 15 and 20-ton tractors were Holt commercial vehicles
minimally modified for military service. However, the smaller tractors were specially
designed for the U.S. Army by Holt. At the entry of the U.S. into WW1 some 24,791
tractors of all types were ordered. By the time of the Armistice in Nov 1918 2,500 had
been delivered and more than half of these were shipped to France. The obvious
requirement for tracked support vehicles was not ignored and the design of tracked
munitions carriers and petrol tankers was well advanced in Nov 1918.

~ 834 ~
 Accepted 11 Accepted 31
Type Ordered
Nov 1918 Jan 1919
212-
5,586 10 25
ton
5-ton 11,150 1543 3480
10-
6623 1421 2014
ton
15-
267 267 267
ton
20-
1165 126 154
ton

The artillery tractors offered Holt vehicles on which to base self-propelled gun mounts.
The concept of a self-propelled gun as a minimal tractor vehicle with a gun mount was a
defining characteristic of U.S. self-propelled guns until WW2 and differed from British
and French designs which were based (mostly) on tank chassis. It is clear from
contemporary accounts which referred to these vehicles as "motorised gun carriages",
"self-propelled caterpillar mounts" that the SPGs were thought of as artillery pieces with
superior mobility rather than weapon systems with their own unique characteristics.

~ 835 ~
~ 836 ~
Holt 55-1

~ 837 ~
The Ordnance Dept had been investigating mechanisation of the field artillery since
1915. As part of these investigations options for mobility of the (then) new 3inch
M1917 anti-aircraft gun were sought from interested manufacturers. The Holt Company
approached the U.S. Army Ordnance Department with a proposal for a self-propelled
tracked anti-aircraft vehicle mounting the new 3inch M1917 anti-aircraft gun. The
Ordnance Dept authorised Holt to construct a prototype, this was delivered in 1917. The
Holt 55-1 was found on testing to have many faults but the concept of a gun mounted on
a self-propelled carriage was worth pursuing. The Holt 55-1 was refitted with an 8inch
Vickers howitzer on a temporary mount constructed of oak planks. It was found on
firing tests that the caterpillar vehicle was able to withstand the howitzer's recoil forces.
At some stage during the testing the vehicle was evaluated as an unarmed tracked
transporter similar in concept to the Renault FB.

~ 838 ~
~ 839 ~
Mark I

Pliny E. Holt, the chief designer of the Holt 55-1, was persuaded to work for the Rock
Island Arsenal, Illinois, on SPG projects. He supervised the design and construction of
the next series of SPGs which used components of the 10-ton Holt artillery tractor.
Unlike the French St Chamond SPG design these vehicles were tailored for each type of
gun rather than designing a single vehicle which could be fitted with a variety of guns.
The Mark I SPG was designed to mount the Vickers Mark VIII 8inch howitzer which
fired a 90kg projectile to a max. range of 11,000 yards. A small crane was fitted to the
left side of the vehicle deck to assist with loading the howitzer. Three of these vehicles
were built at the Rock Island Arsenal and tested in 1918. The chassis was box structure
with an opening in the centre for the gun recoil. The gun was mounted on the front part
of the chassis with the transverse mounted engine and transmission at the rear of the
chassis. The engine was the same as the Holt 10-ton tractor, producing 80hp at 850 rpm.
The transmission was a combination of selector and planetary gearboxes giving 4
forward and 2 reverse gears with a top speed of 4 mph.

~ 840 ~
~ 841 ~
~ 842 ~
~ 843 ~
Mark II

The Mark II was designed to carry the 155mm GPF gun which was built under licence
as the 155mm M1918. The GPF gun fired a 43kg projectile with a max. range of
15,700m. The gun was mounted on a short pedestal mount bolted to the chassis. The
chassis was slightly shorter and lower than the Mark I. The engine and transmission was
positioned in the front of the chassis and the rear of the chassis was opened out to allow
for the gun recoil. A total of 10 Mark II SPGs were constructed, the first two with a
145hp Duesenberg engine and the remainder with a 130hp Sterling engine. A
transmission similar to the Mark I was fitted. Unlike the Mark I the driver's position was
in the centre on the right side of the gun rather than at the rear.

~ 844 ~
~ 845 ~
~ 846 ~
~ 847 ~
~ 848 ~
Mark III

The Mark III was designed to carry the 240mm Schneider howitzer. This was a smaller
calibre, longer barreled version of the French 280mm Schneider TR M1914 howitzer.
To fit this heavy howitzer on a tracked chassis a special mounting for the howitzer was
developed which slid up a pair of inclined rails to absorb most of the recoil. In addition
a pair of hydraulic recoil cylinders were added as a secondary recoil absorber. There
were two Mark III vehicles built with a cast steel frame with a 210hp 8-cylinder
Cottrell-Holmes engine and a single M1 version with a rivetted steel frame and a 225hp
6-cylinder Duesenberg engine. The Mark III was very heavy at about 48 tons and

~ 849 ~
exceeded the weight limits set by the U.S. Engineers for highway bridges. The max.
speed was very low at 4.2 mph.

~ 850 ~
~ 851 ~
Ordnance Dept 75mm Experimental Gun Mounts

The Ordnance Dept designed SPGs based on the Holt 2 and 5-ton artillery tractors as
gun carriers at the same time as the Rock Island Arsenal was building SPGs based on
the 10-ton tractor. Very little information has been published on these vehicles but some
observations may be made from surviving images of these vehicles. The gun used was
the 3inch M1916 gun - an advanced US-designed light field gun intended to become the
standard field gun of the U.S. Army. However, the French 75mm Mle 1897 built in the
U.S. as the M1897 was chosen as the standard field gun and the M1916 was discarded.
The 2 ton tractor was fitted with an M1916 gun by extending the side plates of the
tractor chassis to support trunnions in which the gun axle fitted. The excess axle length
was cut off. There were a pair of outriggers fitted at the rear to stabilise the vehicle

~ 852 ~
during firing since the short length and high, rearwards position of the gun would have
tended to topple the vehicle. The other vehicle was based on the 5-ton tractor and
mounted the gun on frames bolted to the chassis. The gun was mounted fairly centrally
so outriggers were not required. There was sufficient space on the 5-ton tractor to fit a
deck behind the gun.

75mm SPG based on 2-ton tractor

~ 853 ~
75mm SPG based on 5-ton tractor

~ 854 ~
Mark IV and Mark IVA

In 1918 the Rock Island Arsenal built a tractor (Mark IVA) and gun vehicle (Mark IV)
based on St Chamond plans for the Mortier 280mm TR de Schneider sur afft-chenilles
St Chamond. This SPG mounted the 240mm Schneider howitzer rather than the 280mm
of the St Chamond SPG. There were some differences between the American and
French vehicles: the engine was a more powerful 150 hp 6-cylinder Van Blerck petrol
engine driving a General Electric 70 kW 400V generator. Both the tractor and gun
vehicle were driven by a pair of 70 hp 400V electric motors. The charging trolley and
rails on the St Chamond gun vehicle were replaced by a crane which could reach the
ammunition stored on the tractor and deliver shells to the loading tray of the howitzer.
The small crane on the tractor of the St Chamond vehicle was deleted. The tractor could
carry 42 161kg projectiles and the howitzer's max. range was 15,000 m. The Mark IV
permitted the carriage of the 240mm howitzer without the excessive weight of the Mark
III although the max. speed was quite modest, about 8 mph.

~ 855 ~
~ 856 ~
~ 857 ~
Wartime Production

The logic of SPGs offering superior battlefield mobility for artillery was accepted by
War Munitions Board in 1918. Production contracts were signed for the Marks I
through IV SPGs with delivery expected in early 1919. The production contracts of the
SPGs were;

50 Mark I (8 inch howitzer) - Harrisburg Manufacturing & Boiler Co.,

Harrisburg, PA
50 Mark II (155mm GPF) - Morgan Engineering, Alliance, OH
250 Mark III and Mark IV (240mm howitzer) - The Standard Steel Car Co.,
Hammond, IN.

There is some confusion about the numbers of 240mm howitzer SPGs. Benedict
Crowell, Director of Munitions 1917-20, notes in his report on munitions production in
WW1 that a total of 270 SPGs were ordered which means that actual production
contract was for 170 240mm howitzer SPGs. After the Armistice in Nov 1918 the
contracts were cut back to a few vehicles for experimentation. It is unlikely any of the
production 240mm howitzer SPGs were delivered since there had been delays in U.S
production of the 240mm howitzer - the first example had exploded on test. The only
production SPGs delivered appear to be 8 Mark IIs.

Mark VII

The Mark VII appears to have been based on the experience with the experimental
75mm SPGs. The 2-ton tractor was selected as the base for a new 75mm SPG in 1919,
the 5-ton based vehicle presumably was dropped due to excessive weight. The Mark VII
reused the 3-speed transmission and track system of the 2-ton tractor and was
powered by a 70hp V8 Cadillac engine. The engine was waterproofed to allow for deep

~ 858 ~
wading to a depth of 0.85m. The large outriggers were replaced by much smaller
folding jacks. The gun, as in the earlier vehicles, was the 75mm M1916. Two vehicles
were produced at Holt's Stockton factory and tested at the Aberdeen Proving Ground
(APG) in 1919-20.

~ 859 ~
~ 860 ~
~ 861 ~
Mark VI

Two Mark VI vehicles were built at Holt's Stockton factory in 1920-21. These were
designed to carry either a 75mm M1920 gun or (interchangeably) a 105mm M1920
howitzer. The use of tractor components was abandoned and these vehicles were
designed from the ground up. They were powered by a Holt 75hp V8 engine with 3-
speed transmission. The waterproofing investigation started on the Mark VII was
improved on the Mark VI so it could run submerged provided the inlet and exhaust
extension pipes remained clear. The tracks used rubber pads on the track shoes and
rubber rims on the roadwheels, return rollers, idlers and drive sprockets to reduce
vibration, reduce damage to roads and extend track life. It was noted that the Mark VI
did not have the loud track noise of other tracked vehicles which would have been an
obvious tactical advantage had they been deployed. There was a removable armoured
enclosure available for the Mark VI which was designed to protect the driver and
gunner(s) without interferring with the gun elevation and traverse. Holt claimed the
Mark VI was capable an emergency max. speed of 30mph but the normal max. speed
was 14mph - during a drive from Stockton to San Francisco (120 miles) a top speed of
27mph was recorded. There was a surviving Mark VI at Aberdeen, MD - it is believed
the vehicle is in storage at Fort Lee, VA.

~ 862 ~
~ 863 ~
~ 864 ~
~ 865 ~
~ 866 ~
Mark IX

The Mark IX was built in 1921 by Holt at Stockton, CA and tested in 1922 at APG. It
was designed to mount either the 155mm GPF gun or 8inch howitzer. It appears to have
been a second generation of heavy SPG and used many of the design ideas from the
Mark VI applied to a larger vehicle. The vehicle was waterproofed and it could ford to a

~ 867 ~
depth of 2.13m. The Mark IX used rubber track blocks and rubber rims on the wheels to
reduce track wear and vibration. The Mark IX was powered by a 6 cylinder 250 hp
engine which gave a max. speed of 12 - 16 mph.

~ 868 ~
~ 869 ~
Mark X

The Mark X was built at Rock Island Arsenal in 1922. In design it appears to be
intermediate between the Holt Mark VI and Mark IX. The gun mounted was a 4.7inch
M1920 gun but this could be interchanged with a 155mm howitzer - probably the
Schneider Mle 1917. The vehicle weighed about 10,900 kg, it was powered by a 4-
cylinder 150hp Sterling engine and had 3-speed transmision which gave a max. speed of
16 mph. Although tests with this vehicle were successful, lack of funds and a hostility
by sections of the Field Artillery Branch to SPGs meant that the Mark X was not
produced. The Mark X is one of two surviving SPGs from this period, the survivor is at
the Field Artillery Museum, Fort Sill, OK.

~ 870 ~
~ 871 ~
~ 872 ~
Christie SPGs

~ 873 ~
Walter Christie was a prolific, idiosyncratic inventor who often produced designs which
were very advanced but his abrasive personality meant that he had many problems in
his dealings with the Ordnance Dept. His most successful designs prior to the SPGs had
been the front-wheel drive engine and transmission modules used by many fire
departments before WW1. Christie's manufacturing company was known as the "Front
Drive Motor Company" based at Weehawken, NJ. Christie was an early adopter of the
wheel/track concept where a vehicle could be changed from running on wheels to tracks
dependent on ground conditions. The available information on the Christie SPG designs
is fairly limited and ignored by most authors in favour of the tank and suspension
designs.

It is surprising that Christie had any of his designs accepted by the Ordnance Dept never
mind actually constructed. The Holt Manufacturing Company and the Rock Island
Arsenal had a very close relationship during the period of SPG construction, 1917-23,
even to the extent of Pliny S. Holt supervising SPG designs and construction at Rock
Island during WW1.

Christie Motor Carriage for 8inch Howitzer

This vehicle was delivered to the Ordnance Dept for testing in 1918. The odd looking
single large return wheel was part of an arrangement to adjust track tension in
combination with the two roadwheels. The vehicle was designed to run on wheels or
tracks with the central roadwheels jacked up so it ran on only the front and rear pairs of
wheels. Only the centre roadwheels were sprung which must have made steering the
vehicle on wheels very difficult. It was powered by a Christie built 6-cylinder 120 hp
engine, the transmission type is unknown but a max. speed of 16 mph was attained.
Testing showed that the vehicle had many faults and it was rejected. However, some of
the design ideas were interesting and Christie was encouraged to continue development.

~ 874 ~
~ 875 ~
~ 876 ~
~ 877 ~
Christie Motor Carriage for 3inch Anti-aircraft Gun

It's not certain when this vehicle was built, best guess is 1918-19. The original identity
of the vehicle was a mystery until a patent assigned to Walter Christie was found. The
drawings in the patent are a match for the available images of the vehicle. The vehicle
was four-wheel drive was powered by a 4-cylinder 60 hp engine with a 3 forward 1
reverse speed transmission giving a max. speed of 15 mph. No comments have been
found on the suitability of the vehicle for its role as a mobile AA gun.

~ 878 ~
~ 879 ~
~ 880 ~
Christie Motor Carriage for 155mm GPF Gun

In 1919 Christie delivered a new SPG design for testing at APG (Aberdeen Proving
Ground). The SPG was designed, as the 8inch gun carrier was, to run on wheels or
tracks. The conversion from tracks to wheels took about 15 minutes and the tracks were
strapped onto the mudguards when not in use. The rear driving wheels were rigid but
the steering wheels were independently sprung. The centre two roadwheels were sprung
and jacked off the ground when running on wheels. All of the wheels had a pair of 36" x
3" solid rubber tires - the drive wheels used the typical Christie sprocketless drive - the
track guide plates entered slots in the drive wheel. The engine was the same as 8inch
vehicle - the 120 hp Christie engine with a transmission which had 4 forward and 4
reverse speeds. The 155mm SPG could travel almost as fast in reverse (12mph) as
forward (15mph) on wheels. The max. forward speed on tracks was about 9 mph,
considerably faster than the early Holt SPGs. Testing showed that 155mm SPG was
very promising and Christie built two further versions of the SPG delivered in 1920 and
1921. These vehicles looked very similar to the original except that mudguards were
replaced with a shallow box structure with rollers at the ends presumably to make it
easier to secure the tracks when the SPG was running on wheels. Final testing of the
Christie 155mm SPG in 1921-22 was very successful and the Ordnance Department
recommended placing the vehicle in production. However, due to the hostility of Field
Artillery branch to SPGs and declining defence budgets this never happened.

There are many comments in the modern literature about the unreliability and poor
performance of the Christie vehicles - this is clearly not so. In 1919 a report in the Field
Artillery Journal notes that:
"In the run from Hoboken, NJ to Washington, DC, a distance of 276 miles, the running
time was 51 hours 16 minutes and average speed of 534 mph."
"On a 100-mile maximum speed test, an average speed of 13.23 mph was maintained. A

~ 881 ~
speed of 21 mph over a measured mile was attained"
"The mount has negotiated slopes exceeding 100% (i.e. 45), and very difficult terrain."

~ 882 ~
~ 883 ~
~ 884 ~
~ 885 ~
~ 886 ~
~ 887 ~
~ 888 ~
~ 889 ~
~ 890 ~
Christie Motor Carriage for 75mm M1920 Gun

There is very little information on this SPG, two vehicles were tested at APG in 1920. It
appears to be roughly equivalent to the Holt Mark VII. It was powered by a 90hp
Christie engine and a 4 speed transmission which gave a top speed of 20mph on wheels.
The vehicle weighed about 7,200 kg and was 3.65m long and 2.28m wide. The gun was
the U.S. built version of the French 75mm Mle 1897.

~ 891 ~
Christie Motor Carriage for 75mm M1920 Gun / 105mm M1920 Howitzer

Very few details about this vehicle are known. It was tested at APG in 1921. The
suspension appears to be very similar to the Christie M1919 medium tank. The SPG
was, as most Christie vehicles were, designed to run on wheels or tracks, the two small
roadwheels could be jacked up out of ground contact. The weight of the vehicle was
8,170 kg.

~ 892 ~
Unknown - possible carriage for 4.7inch AA gun

No details found

~ 893 ~
Unknown - 75mm SPG about 1924

Known only from a single image, no details about this vehicle have been found.

McClean Gun Carrige Self-propelled artillery unit

~ 894 ~
A few years before the outbreak of war in Europe, the American engineer Samuel
McClean (Samuel McClean) suggested that the US Army a prototype self-propelled
guns on a wheeled chassis. Chassis is derived from the 3-ton truck Packard, which was
established 3-pound automatic gun also created McClean (McClean Automatic 3-lb
Gun).

The prototype was built in 1909 and the following year the Commission presented the
US Army and the Defense Department. In general, self-propelled gun left a very
controversial appearance, but because of the fact that 3-pound gun was not then put into
service, from the serial production of the car refused.

SPECIFICATIONS self-propelled artillery

McClean Gun Carrige obr.1909 city

Combat weight ?

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS One 76.2-mm automatic gun McCLean

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

RESERVATIONS -

~ 895 ~
ENGINE Packard's, carburetor, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, power of 24 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2, single wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Christie Amphibious Car M1921 \ M1922 \ M1923

amphibious armored vehicle

~ 896 ~
After a not very successful experiments with tank chassis M1919 m 75-mm self-
propelled gun based on it Christi decided to create a more functional amphibious
machine type on a completely new chassis. In 1921, a prototype wheel-tracked armored
vehicles floating Christie M1921 was introduced. Chassis has a three-axis, and
consisted of two steered front wheels and four drive wheels rear axles, which could
dress crawler chain. Drive the penultimate pair of wheels carried on the back by a
couple of Gall chains.

The body was not inclined booking, and the buoyancy is ensured by two board boxes,
performing the role of "floats". To save weight lost M1921 tower, so armament was
mounted in the housing. In front of the compartment was established 6-pound (57-mm)
gun. Protection consisted of armor plates with a thickness of 6.35 mm to 19 mm. On the
M1921 armored vehicle was placed 5-cylinder petrol engine Christie 120 hp, which was
placed in the stern.

On the M1921 tests showed good driving performance. When the total weight of 14,000
kg car developed a speed of 22.5 km \ h when driving on hard ground and 11 km \ h
crawler. Distance travel at 160 km and 96 km of wheels on tracks, and the M1921 could
overcome the 7.5-pound trench and slope of 40 .

His amphibian Christy was going to suggest the US Marine Corps, but the military
refused to accept the M1921 in mind many flaws. Two other models - M1922 and
M1923 (with wheel formula 8x8), minor modifications differing body and chassis also
were not in demand. The last modification was equipped with a spiral cushioning that
provides great smoothness, and the maximum speed rose to 48 km \ h. For
demonstration purposes, the prototype M1922, which ruled himself Christi, December
6, 1922 crossed the waters of Hudson Bay at a speed of 5 knots, but the war still have
not shown interest in these amphibians. A small consolation for the Christy was the
purchase of the Japanese delegation documentation M1923, but in this case stopped.

~ 897 ~
SPECIFICATIONS amphibious armored vehicles
Christie Amphibious Car M1921

Combat weight 2200 kg

CREW, pers. 2

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 37-mm cannon (?)

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

RESERVATIONS the prototype was made of non-armored

ENGINE Of Christie, 6-cylinder, carburetor, rated at 250 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2: all-wheel drive twin, rear drive

SPEED ~ 175 km \ h on the highway

Cruising on the highway ?

~ 898 ~
overcome obstacles

The angle of ascent, hail. ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

~ 899 ~
~ 900 ~
King Armored Car

Type Armored car

Place of origin United States of America

In service 1916-1934[1][2]

Used by United States Marine Corps

Wars Banana Wars

Armored Motor Car

Manufacturer
Company (AMC)

Main M1895 ColtBrowning;

~ 901 ~
 armament Lewis Machine Gun on later
models

Engine V8 petrol

The King Armored Car was manufactured by the Armored Motor Car Company
(AMC). It was the first American armored vehicle, and was ordered by the United
States Marine Corps in 1915 for testing before being used by the 1st Armored Car
Squadron, which consisted of eight cars. The 1st Armored Car Squadron was the USA's
first formal armored unit.

King Armored Cars in Haiti

Description

The car had one Lewis Machine Gun (M1895 ColtBrowning on earlier models)
mounted in an armored turret to protect the gunner from small arms fire. It was
designed to be quite easy to transport. It could be taken ashore whole or it could be
broken down into smaller pieces to put into motor launches, taken ashore, and
reassembled on the beach. However, it could not be considered an unqualified success,
as it was not very reliable. This problem was compounded by a lack of qualified
mechanics, and replacement parts were few and far between.[1][3]

Service

The 1st Armored Car Squadron did not see any action during World War I. During
World War I, General Pershing refused USMC Commandant George Barnett's offer of a

~ 902 ~
Marine division. Had General Pershing accepted General Barnett's offer, it is highly
probable that the 1st Armored Car Squadron would have been sent along with it. The
1st Armored Car Squadron was disbanded in 1921. Five of the vehicles were used in
Haiti and Santo Domingo until 1927, and all of the cars were finally disposed of in
1934[1]

Units

USMC 1st Armored Car Squadron[1]

The only example of King Armored Car was built in 1916 and was intended for the
Corps US Marine Corps (USMC)). At the beginning of the 20th century, Americans
conducted a very aggressive expansion in Latin America and the Pacific, in what svzya
for "targeting the democratic order" Marines needed a more serious support.

Actually work in this area began in 1912, but for various reasons the construction of
armored vehicles was delayed for three years. As the base model luxury sedan at the
time King was selected, equipped with 8-cylinder petrol engine. The machine was
equipped with a 0.25 inch thick book, and was armed with a 7.62 mm machine gun
mounted in the turret. Chassis armored car was 4x2, and the rear wheels were double.
The crew consisted of three people.

USMC has placed an order for two prototypes, one of which was manufactured by
Bethlehem Steel, and the second - Armored Motor Car Company. In August 1916 AMD
captains Andrew (Andrew Drum) and Earl Ellis (Earl H. "Pete" Ellis) was sent to
Philadelphia for a test of the second sample, which was considered a higher priority.
The tests have been very hard, and included not only sea trials, but also on transport
ships. Along the way, it turned out that the armored car has good reliability, and the
engine could easily start and run in 40-degree heat, it was important for its use in
tropical conditions.

Although the basic performance characteristics of the prototype King Armored Car
satisfy the requirements of the military in October 1916, representatives from the
USMC have signed a contract for the construction of only two cars, which were also

~ 903 ~
sent to Philadelphia for further testing. It was necessary to take into account all
comments and implement improvements suggested by the captain of the drama. Perhaps
the construction of Large series King Armored Car did not take place due to their high
cost, which amounted to $ 10,000 per car.

Apparently, the USMC and could not get any better, because in January 1918
komandoyuschy Corps George Barnett has set the task to collect eight more machines.
Soon all ordered King armored cars were shipped to the disposal of 1st Armored Car
Squadron and reported directly to the headquarters of the 1st Regiment. At that time, the
squadron consisted of 36 personnel.

While they were testing were plans to send the armored car in Europe, but the war has
already finish. However, in late 1918, two armored vehicles were loaded on the ship
USS "Hancock" and sent to the oil fields in g.Tampiko (Tampico), which was located
on the east coast of Mexico.

Much to the dismay of command USMC, in "real combat" King Armored Car proved to
be not at its best. 7 In fact, the machine is in operation, but in a combat-ready sostonie
Poston podderzhirovalos no more than five. There were difficulties, not only in the
service - in November 1919, it was concluded that the design of armored vehicles does
not meet the requirements of the USMC. Due to the increased weight of the machine it
was unmanageably already at more than 8 miles per hour and had a bad off-road cross-
country. High load on the transmission led to frequent breakdowns, and the case was so
narrow that the steering wheel is rubbed on the side armor! Among other shortcomings
notes tubeless tires and a floor housing, which is 3 \ 4 consisted of wooden planks. In
addition to the spare parts are not supplied since 1917. The result was to send for the
overhaul of the six machines, and the other two had to be disassembled and subjected to
"cannibalism". Negative reviews, poluchennnyk during the operation led to the fact that
the 4 th May 1921 the squadron was disbanded. It is significant that throughout the life
serial King Armored Car period as it is in "test".

~ 904 ~
Nevertheless, the five remaining machines still further and decided to use directed at the
disposal of the 2nd Regiment. Such a "reshuffle" will need for a very simple reason -
the Americans were sent to Haiti a large military contingent, and as it were attached to
gain become unnecessary King Armored Car. Before sending the car went a little
modernization. Retaining the old design engineers have tried to improve the security of
machines by mounting the front and rear armor plates under large angles of inclination,
and also made a series of small changes in the design of armored vehicles. Changes
were tower and weapons - is now on the King Armored Car was established a Lewis
machine gun instead of Benet-Mercier, and the tower was a new design with a beveled
upper armor plates.

It was assumed that the "King" will be used to patrol the roads and outposts, but in
practice it turned out that the roads of Haiti as such is practically no. And not earning
military glory finally lost confidence in armored vehicles were sent home in January
1927.

But this story of King Armored Car is not over. In April 1927, the commander of US
Marine Expeditionary Forces in China made an urgent request for the supply of armored
vehicles and tanks to improve protection of US subjects to. We considered several
options, including the "King", but reading the report on their use in Haiti "settlers" have
decided to limit ourselves to only a 6-ton light tanks FT-17 on the base. It would seem
that after such a King Armored Car will be sent immediately to be scrapped, but that did
not happen. Using armored vehicles continued until 1933, until the question was not
"raised rib". Only after the next meeting of the commission, it was decided to write off
the remaining armored vehicles, which was done in 1934.

The last time a King Armored Car recalled in 1938 and then, in urgent need. Marine
Corps stationed in the Philippines for a long time trying to "get hold of" at least some
armored vehicles, but most of the inquiries were fruitless. Once again, the command
asked to provide three armored vehicles that were neobhoimosti to patrol the area.
Excellent understanding of the situation "Filipinos" have been ready to accept

~ 905 ~
everything, even so unloved "King". However, in a reply dated 21 th March 1938 it was
clearly stated that the USMC in general does not have any armored vehicles ...

Thus, almost all types of armored vehicles have been scrapped after 16 years of
continuous operation. So far, only one survived King Armored Car, which is exhibited
in the exposition of National Museum of Marine Corps.

SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

King Armored Car sample of 1916

Combat weight ~ 4000 kg

CREW, pers. 3

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ~ 4000

Width ~ 2000

Height mm ~ 2200

Wheelbase mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun Benet-Mercie

allowance of ammunition ?

~ 906 ~
aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead - 6.35 mm

board housing - 6.35 mm
food body - 6.35 mm
RESERVATIONS
Tower - 6.35 mm
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE Carburetor, 8-cylinder, liquid-cooled

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2; single wheels, pneumatic tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ~ 30 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ~ 200 km

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

~ 907 ~
"Death Special"

Just a few months before the start of the 1st World War II on the Colorado wave of
miners' strikes caused by inhuman working conditions. Previously, all cost the only
unarmed confrontations, but in April 1914 the trade unions organized a mining camp
and staged a general strike directed against the actions of the coal companies. Actions
on both sides led to the events, referred to as the "Ludlow Massacre" ( "Ludlow
massacre"), as a result of the shooting and fire killed 29 people, including 11 children.

~ 908 ~
The greatest cruelty thus showed not only the guards, but also units of the Colorado
National Guard and the police, who used automatic weapons against the miners.

The fact how serious was the situation in Colorado can be judged from the fact that in
mid-1914 private detectives (and in fact - mercenaries), hired by the coal companies,
had to book one of the commercial light vehicles. Presumably this was used by Cadillac
or White, on which was installed a box-shaped hull of. Regarding the details of the
booking is not kept. It is possible that use conventional boiler steel. In addition to the
front of the driver's headlights installed movable spotlight. Inside, in addition to the
driver, it was possible to carry 5-6 people. The armament consisted of a 7.62-mm
machine gun Colt-Browning M1895, mounted on the pin on the starboard side. Work on
the recast of the machine carried out at the factory in the CFI of Puebla.

Of course, high-grade armored vehicle this pattern of American art is difficult to call.
Rather, we can speak about polubronirovannoy machine, Belgian and French
counterparts which were successfully used in the September-December 1914 on the
Western Front. Official name in this Armored Car, of course, was not. However, among
the participants in the conflict, this machine is called "Death Special" or "Death
Car". In some modern sources can also come across the name of Ludlow Death Car,
that is not true. What was the fate of this "especially deadly" polubronirovannoy
machine after December 1914, when the strike was suppressed, history is silent.

SPECIFICATIONS VEHICLE POLUBRONIROVANNOGO

"Death Special" was obr.1914

Combat weight ~ 2500kg

CREW, pers. 4-5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun Colt-Browning M1895

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
RESERVATIONS board housing -
food body -?

~ 909 ~
 ENGINE petrol

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2; single wheels, pneumatic tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Bethlehem Steel Armored Car

In the wake of a general militarization, at the peak of the so-called "trench warfare" on
the Western Front, the initiative in the creation of armored vehicles have gradually
started to intercept the Americans. After releasing several unsuccessful models come to
realize that for the full combat wheeled vehicle is necessary to use all-wheel drive
chassis. Of course, to reduce the time the choice was made in favor of commercial
vehicles trucks 4x4, and one of the most common models was Jeffrey Quad. As many of
you know, in 1917 on its base was built, and even produced a relatively large series of

~ 910 ~
the same name armored car, but much less is known development steelmaker
Bethlehem Steel.

Armored vehicles project based on Jeffrey Quad-wheel-drive truck was first

demonstrated in 1916. Engineers from Bethlehem Steel, previously did not have any
experience in the design of these machines is not without reason to hope for the success
of the enterprise.

armored car design was simple enough. Housing assembled from sheets of rolled armor,
which is attached to the metal frame on the bolts and rivets. The arrangement was a
"classic", but the driver's seat is on the left of the longitudinal axis of the body and is
equipped with a separate wheelhouse with three manholes, which is an advantage in
terms of visibility. In the middle part of the case sets a high octagonal cabin in each face
of which there was a large hatch, lockable clamshell lid. Theoretically these hatches can
be used both for the installation of 37 mm caliber guns and weapons carried in laying.
closed cargo area was carried out in the rear of the chassis. All wheels protected
armored boxes with side hinged panels.

According to the company's multi-faceted cutting fixed it could be replaced by any

other, including a tower with a circular rotation. In addition, according to the preserved
drawings provided for an option with a second (rear) control station. This power unit in
both cases located behind radiators and cooling systems - armored front of the shutters.

~ 911 ~
In spite of a good advertising campaign and positive feedback armored Bethlehem Steel
is not interested in the army. Works only limited construction model, and the project
was closed.

DESIGN SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Bethlehem Steel Armored Car was obr.1916

Combat weight ~ 5000 kg

CREW, pers. 5-6
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 6000
Width ~ 2000
Height mm ~ 3000
Clearance, mm ~ 400
two 37-mm cannon, or two or three machine gun Colt-
WEAPONS
Browning (presumably)
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -
ENGINE Buda enjoys a, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 29 hp power
such as Jeffery, manual transmission (6 gears forward
TRANSMISSION
and back 6)
4x4; single wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf
CHASSIS
springs
SPEED ~ 30 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ~ 200 km

~ 912 ~
overcome obstacles
Slope% ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

Davidson-Cadillacs Armoured Cars

Major (later Colonel) R.P. Davidson, Commandant of the Northwestern Military and
Naval Academy at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, was the leading pioneer of armoured
fighting vehicles in the United States.

~ 913 ~
In 1899, Davidson obtained a standard 6 h.p. Duryea tricar and altered it to take a Colt
7mm. machine gun complete with its tripod which was affixed to the front platform of
the vehicle with its legs straddiling the single front wheel. The gun had a light shield
and could be traversed by hand through 180 degrees and also had limited vertical
movement. The range of the gun was 2,000 yards and it could fire 480 rounds per
minute, by belt feed. A crew of four men, in pairs back to back, could be carried on the
standard passenger seats which were placed over the engine cover. The Duryea tricar
had a three-cylinder engine and weighed 900 lbs without, and 1000 lbs with the gun. A
rope was carried on the vehicle so that the engine could be used as a winch to haul the
vehicle out of mud so long as there was a handy tree or fence, etc., to take the rope.
When fully loaded, the vehicle could carry tents for the men and 5000 rounds of
ammunition. Davidson envisioned using the Tricar as the main vehicle of a flying
artillery patrol with an escort of armed cyclists. In 1900, Davidson produced an almost
exactly similar vehicle, this time based on a Duryea quadracycle, which was basically
the same design as the Tricar, except that it had two front wheels instead of one.

In the Summer of 1900, Davidson took this car from Fort Sheridan, Illinois, to
Washington, with a crew of academy cadets. There to deliver a message from his local
commander to the U.S. Army Chief of Staff, General Nelson A. Miles. This very
convincing display of the military value of fast (for its day) motor transport impressed
General Miles and as a result he later in 1903 suggested to the Secretary of State for
War that five existing Cavalry regiments should be equipped with Davidsons cars as an
automobile corps for patrol, reconnaissance, road marking and military survey.
However, nothing came of the far sighted idea. It was many years before any nation
organized this type of force.

Though the Military authorities did not appreciate the full potential of Davidsons or
General Miles ideas, Davidson himself carried on his pioneering work in the use of
mechanical transport at the Northwestern Military Academy. Davidson formed a new
machine gun patrol in 1902. This time using the Colt machine gun mounted on two
steam cars built by the cadets under his command. The steam car formed a more sturdy
carriage than the quadracycle. The first vehicle was demonstrated at a motor show held

~ 914 ~
in St. Louis. But still the U.S. War Department showed no interest in this kind of
equipment. Davidson continued to refine his original ideas. In 1909, he purchased a new
Cadillac and fitted it with a Colt machine gun on a tripod mount to make yet another
machine gun car. ( along with the McLean automatic 37mm gun mounted on a truck,
and the Packard and Freyer-Miller trucks mounting Driggs Schroeder one pounder
guns, a concept devised by Captain (later General) J.H. Sherburne of the Massachusetts
Militia , all of these vehicles were used during the 1909 Army manoeuvers)

Like some Military men of other nations, Davidson had realized early on that operations
on land were now facing the threat of observation, if not attack, from the air. The
observation balloon and airship had been perfected, and Davidson was one of the first to
appreciate that a gun mounted on a fast car was a quick way of catching up with and
eliminating any intruders in the sky.

In 1910, Davidson bought two more Cadillacs and converted them into balloon
destroyers. Both carried two Colt machine guns, one with a shield was on the scuttle
and the other was at the rear. To demonstrate the mobility of these Balloon destroyers,
Davidson entered both of them in the famous Glidden Tour of 1910 (a severely long
distance run from Cleveland to Chicago via Mississippi and Texas) only 9 out of the 38
cars finished, among them were the two Balloon destroyers which had been crewed by
Davidsons cadets. Also in 1910 Ehrhardt submitted their semi-armoured car BAK as
well as a design by Major Hugh Gallagher of the Army, he designed and built a
personnel carrier on a White 2 ton commercial truck. It had side mounted seats facing
outward to carry a section of two squads totalling 16 men plus the section leader.
Neither was taken up do to the lack of funds.

~ 915 ~
Two further Cadillac chassis were fitted with Colt guns in 1911 and 1912: these were
equipped with both wireless and a powerful coaxial searchlight which also was fitted
with a heliograph shutter and radio equipment. A telescopic mast as well as small
balloons were provided for antennae.The generator for the radio set was coupled with
the development of the Delco electrical starting and lighting system for automobiles.
Following exhibition of one of these cars in New York, an order for four similar
vehicles was placed by the Guatemalan Government and was carried out by the Cadillac
Motor Car Company. The two cars were accompanied to Guatemala by an assistant to
Colonel Davidson who remained for several months as an instructor. He was required to
remove essential parts each night and carry them to a labyrinth strong room under the
watchful eye of a huge Indian General, Each morning Davidsons assistant would pick
the part up, and reinstall it. None of these early cars was armoured except for armourd
shields on the machine-guns. Davidson meanwhile built a reconnaissance car which
included a dictaphone and maps on rollers, a hospital car with stretchers and X-ray
equipment, a field kitchen with an electric cooker powered by an engine operated
generator. It was natural though that Davidson should eventually turn his attention to a
fully armoured car and one was included in the five military automobiles he designed in
1915.

This car like most of his earlier experimental vehicles was a Cadillac, a make which was
already establishing its reputation for high quality and which became widely used in the
United States Army in the First World War.

~ 916 ~
The 1915 Davidson-Cadillac Armoured Car - which had the distinction of being the first
fully armoured motor vehicle to be built in the U.S.A. - was similar in layout to some of
the early Royal Navy Air Service armoured cars built in October 1914. Armoured all
round with controllable radiator doors, the rear part had an open top, where the Colt
machine-gun with an armoured shield was mounted just behind armoured head cover
for the driver. The Cadillac was a much better designed vehicle than the R.N.A.S. cars,
however, (there was, of course, less urgency involved) with a lower centre of gravity
and although only, like them, a conventional passenger car chassis with drive to the rear
wheels, had a better cross-country performance.

~ 917 ~
The armoured car, with Colonel Davidsons other vehicles, was driven long distances
by cadets of the Academy in a 1915 exercise and later in the year was tried out in U.S.
Army manoeuvres. It failed to arouse much interest in the potentialities of armoured
cars and official encouragement of this weapon during the First World War period was
only sporadic. The Armoured Cars were used by the academy until 1927, and one is
preserved in the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.

One of the first American armored vehicles was built in 1915 by thirty Cadets
Northwestern Military Academy (Highland Park, IL) under the leadership of Colonel
Davidson Royale more to demonstrate the military might of America. This machine was
created on the chassis of a conventional Cadillac commercial vehicle 4x2, by setting it
hulls, the frontal part of which had a rational angle. The crew, now called Davidson-
Cadillac 1915 Armored Car consisted of three people. In front of the driver is placed
over the head of which, for a better view, the dome was made. In the middle part of the
body, placed a machine gun Browning M1895 covered by a 5-mm armored shields that
served two people. The hull sides have cutouts for the firing of personal weapons (pistol
or rifle).

In June 1915 armored Davidson-Cadillac and seven more cars went to independent
travel from Illinois to San Francisco, where the Panama Pacific International Exhibition
(Panama Pacific International Exposition) was held at this time. Despite the rains
eroded the road all eight cars in 34 days safely to their destination, but on the return
journey they were sent by train. In general, armored Davidson-Cadillac showed good
driving performance, even in mass production, he did not hit.

~ 918 ~
Combat weight ~ 3000 kg
CREW, pers. 3-4
DIMENSIONS
Length mm ~ 4000
Width about 1700
Height mm ~ 2000
Clearance, mm ?
WEAPONS one 9-mm machine gun Colt-Browning M1895
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -
ENGINE petrol
TRANSMISSION mechanical type
4x2; single wheels, pneumatic tires, suspension leaf
CHASSIS
springs
SPEED 40 km \ h
Cruising on the highway ?
overcome obstacles
Slope% ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m ?
The width of the den, m ?

~ 919 ~
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 920 ~
~ 921 ~
~ 922 ~
~ 923 ~
Davidson-Cadillac armored car

Type Armored car

Place of origin United States

Northwestern Military and

Manufacturer
Naval Academy

Produced 1915

Crew driver + 3

Main M1895 ColtBrowning

armament

Engine petrol

Suspension 4x2 wheel

Speed 70 mph (on-road)

~ 924 ~
Davidson armored car en route to San Francisco, 1915

Armored Car Caravan en route to San Francisco, 1915

~ 925 ~
Davidson semi-armored anti-aircraft Cadillac, 1909. This was the first American
military anti-aircraft vehicle[1]

The Davidson-Cadillac armored car of 1915 was developed on a Cadillac chassis by

Royal Page Davidson and the cadets of the Northwestern Military and Naval Academy
in Highland Park, Illinois. This military vehicle is the first true fully armored vehicle
made in the United States[2] because it was built specifically just for that purpose and
was not a conversion of an automobile or truck.[3]

Description

The Davidson car was armor clad around the entire vehicle. It had radiator doors that
would open for access and the rear part had an open top, where a machine-gun was
mounted just behind the driver.[4]

History

Royal P. Davidson in 1915 commanded a special fleet of eight military vehicles on a

convoy from Chicago to San Francisco to evaluate their performance.[5] The vehicles he
designed for military use were built by Cadillac.[6] The column included a
reconnaissance scout vehicle with instruments for observation, two wireless radio
communications vehicles, field cooking vehicle complete with fireless cookers, a
hospital vehicle with operating tables and an X-ray machine, a balloon destroyer, a
quartermaster's car and the first fully armored military vehicle.[4] War Department
personnel representing the government went with the convoy to give reports on the
performance of the vehicles.[7] Some of the vehicles had rapid fire machine-guns and
searchlights. Five were eight-cylinder vehicles.[8] The Davidson-Cadillac fully armored

~ 926 ~
military vehicle was capable of 70 mph when the roads allowed.[9] It was America's first
military fully armored vehicle.[10]

The reconnaissance scout vehicle was equipped with military rifles, map tables,
instruments for making maps on the spot, a dictating machine, instruments for
observation for seeing behind walls, altitude indicators, and range and elevation finders.
The radio wireless communication vehicles came with telescope masts mounted on the
running board. They came with generators to generate the normal current of 110 volts.
One of these radio vehicles came with a rapid fire Colt automatic machine gun. It also
had a powerful electric searchlight with a helograph shutter. The vehicles with the field
kitchen and hospital were mounted on an eight-cylinder chassis of a 145 inch
wheelbase. Cooking was done using an electric cooker that did not produce any visible
fire. The armored vehicle came with bullet-proof steel. It had loopholes for firing out
with rifles. It also had a rapid fire Colt automatic machine gun. It came with winch
equipment so it could be pulled out of mud. The balloon destroyer vehicle came with a
machine gun making it the first American anti-aircraft vehicle.[11]

Davidson had these military vehicles built to convince the government that a
mechanized army was the way to go. Davidson and some of his school cadets drove the
fully armored vehicle along with seven other support vehicles for 34 days from the
Northwestern Military and Naval Academy in the Chicago area to the Panama Pacific
Exposition being held in San Francisco in 1915. The first military convoy across the
country received much publicity from many newspapers nationwide. The military
vehicles were shipped back by train to the Academy in Highland Park when the
exposition was over instead of being driven back, since Davidson achieved his goal of
demonstrating to the United States Army and the government that a mechanized army
was the technology of the future. Davidson's Automobile Corps[12] convoy of the 8
specially designed military vehicles were driven by the cadets of the Northwestern
Military Academy as an escort for the Liberty Bell to the Panama Pacific Exposition on
the Lincoln Highway in 1915. This was the last time the Liberty Bell traveled from its
home for any exposition.[13]

Jeffery No.1 & Jeffery-Russel

USA/Canada (1915) Armored car- 1+40 built

About Jeffery

~ 927 ~
The Thomas B. Jeffery Company was funded in 1902, in Kenosha, Wisconsin. It
replaced the Gormully & Jeffery bicycle manufacturing company and was active until
1916, when the company was bought by Charles W. Nash, and renamed Nash Motors.
A large array of models was built from 1907, including the famous Rambler model A.
The Jeffery No.1 became, in effect, the first armored car built by the U.S. Government
for the Regular Army. However, several were already in service with the National
Guard.

The Number 1

Since the company was known, at that stage, for its all-wheel drive vehicles, it was the
earliest provider of chassis to the US Military for tests. The single Jeffery No.1,
produced for evaluation in 1916, weighed 5.3 tons (empty), had 44 steering, a 28 ft
(8.5 m) turning radius. The metallic wheels were covered with rubber bands. It was
towering and quite intimidating at 2.5 m (8ft2) in height, armed with four .30 cal (7.62
mm) Benet-Mercie machine rifles, with another two in reserve. They could fire from the
two fully revolving turrets, from the roof of the main fighting compartment and
from behind, on a compartment seated above the rear axle, each with a -10 to +80
degrees elevation.

Access was granted by side doors. The front engine compartment was ventilated from
below, as the radiator had no front louvers, but could be reached through a front and
two side hatches. The engine was a Jeffery Gasoline -U Buda with 4 cylinders in line,
liquid-cooled giving 25 hp at 25 rpm (21.4 kW). It was coupled with a manual 6 speed
forward/6 reverse transfer case. There was also a 6V electric system for lighting and
equipment. The Jeffery could ford an estimated 16 in (40 cm) deep river.
The vehicle joined other models (Mack, Locomobile and White) in General John
Pershings 1916 punitive expedition against Pancho Villa in Mexico, which was
preceded by a training session in Columbus, New Mexico. The expedition stayed on the
border of Mexico and there is no record of fighting. After 1917, the Jeffery N1 spent
the rest of its active life in Maryland, prior to retirement. A single replica exists at the
Pancho Villa State Park.

The Jeffery-Russel

~ 928 ~
At roughly the same time, the Jeffery-Russel armored car was developed in Canada
based on the same Jeffery quad chassis. The vehicles were lower, lighter, had a single
turret armed with a Vickers .303 (7.7 mm) liquid cooled machine gun. The rear
turret was replaced by a fixed observation post and barbettes with pistol ports were
fitted on the sides front and rear. Other modifications included wire-cutters on the nose,
toolboxes at the rear and sides, no side doors and many hull details.

40 such vehicles were built by the Russel Motor Car company in 1915, serving with the
Eaton Motor Machine Gun Battery. However, later during the same year they were
shipped to Great Britain, where they would languish in a depot until 1917. The vehicles
were split, and 20 or 22 were stationed in Ireland. However, it seems they were not
involved in the fighting during the Irish War of Independence, and it seems they were
scrapped when the English withdrew in 1922. The rest were sent to the British India
Command, used for the Field Force deployed against the Mohmand rising of Haji
Mullah, Indias North West Frontier. The Indian Jefferies mostly patrolled unpaved
tracks, which rapidly highlighted the vehicles limited off-road capabilities due to the
narrow solid tires. Speed was maintained below 12 mph (19 km/h). However, the ship
carrying the spare parts, the SS Shirala, was torpedoed and sunk in July 1918.
Maintenance was difficult, but the vehicles remained in service until 1928.

Jeffery No.1 specifications

Dimensions (L-W-H) 216 x 76 x 96 in(5.48 x 1.93 x 2.45 m)

Total weight, battle ready 5.3 tons empty, 5.7 fully loaded

Crew 4 (driver, co-driver/commander, gunners)

Propulsion 4-cyl. Jeffery liquid cooled gasoline engine, 29 hp

Top speed (est.) 20 mph (32 km/h)

Operational range (est.) 150 mi (240 km)

1x Benet-Mercie machine-gun
Armament
2x M1895 Colt-Browning machine-guns

Suspension 44 leaf springs

Armor 0.15-0.20 in (3.8 to 5.1 mm)

Total production 1

~ 929 ~
Jeffery number one, Mexico, 1936. It was designed and built at the Rock Island Arsenal
with armor plates provided by the Bethlehem Steel Corporation, ranging from 0.15 to
0.2 inches (4-5 mm) and armed with one Benet-Mercie and 2 Colt Potato Digger
machine guns.

Jeffery-Russel armored car, based on the Quad chassis, in a camouflaged livery. This
Canadian version differed from the previous through several details, the absence of rear
turret being the most distinctive one.

~ 930 ~
Jeffery AC number 1 in Mexico.

Jeffery number one in Mexico.

~ 931 ~
Canadian Jeffery-Russel.

The Jeffery-Quad was a four-wheel drive truck with four-wheel brakes and steering on
all wheels. Large numbers of this versatile vehicle were built in the United States during
the First World War. They were first used by the Allies as load carriers and gun tractors
and, later, also by the U.S. Army.

~ 932 ~
In 1914 a factory superintendent of the Thomas B. Jeffery Co. by the name of Jerry De
Cou, designed and built an armoured car on the Jeffery-Quad chassis. Following this
two other different types of armoured cars were also made, again with armour provided
by the Bethlehem Steel Corporation. One of the three types had an octagonal central
superstructure (with large opening flaps for weapons) and enclosed wheels; another had
a comparatively low flat-topped hull with a circular revolving turret and the third type,
known as Armored Car No. 1 to the U.S. Ordnance Corps M1915, had a tall hull
surmounted by a turret in the centre, with a second turret stepped down lower at the
rear. The second car mentioned above was used by the U.S. Army on the Mexican
border in 1916 during the rising by Pancho Villa and possibly also the third type.

These cars were built as experimental vehicles only, but yet a fourth type, something of
a cross between the second and the third models, was manufactured in some numbers
for the British Army.

This armoured car had a single rotating turret in the centre, but this was supplemented
by four small semicircular sponsons (each with two loopholes) on the hull sides. The
vehicle was provided with a duplicate steering wheel and driving controls at the rear and
there were raised armoured driver's cabs both in front of and behind the turret. Over the
cover for the engine (which was in the normal position at the front) were two curved
bars to engage and cut wire obstacles. The suspension consisted of semi-elliptic leaf
springs at front and rear and the wheels had solid rubber tyres. The cars weighed about
62 tons and the 40-h.p. Buda four-cylinder engine gave them a maximum speed of
about 32 km/h, both forward and reverse.

Jeffery armoured cars of this pattern were imported into Canada by the Canada Cycle &
Motor Co. Ltd. of Toronto (makers of Russell trucks). They may also actually have
been assembled here, because identical armoured cars to the Jeffery-Quad appeared
before the end of 1915 under the name of "Russell armoured cars".

~ 933 ~
From whatever source, whether the United States or Canada, they came, the British
Army acquired a quantity of Jeffery-Quad armoured cars. The exact number cannot be
ascertained, but in late 1917 forty had been sent to the British Army in India and there
were twenty-two in Ireland in 1919. The cars in India (reduced to about nineteen at the
end of the war) were used to equip one of the newly formed Armoured Car Companies
of the Royal Tank Corps in October 1921 and some of these were kept going - more or
less -until about Autumn 1924. Spares were in short supply, however and some cars had
to be "cannibalized" to provide parts for the others. The bad roads of the North-West
Frontier of India (as it then was called - now it is Pakistan) showed that the Jeffery-
Quads were not strongly enough built. The remaining cars were taken out of service in
1925 and sold by auction.

The original models of the Jeffery armoured cars carried four or more Bent-Mercier
machineguns (see the photo below - from Pancho Villa State Park) but the cars in
Ireland and India normally had only one 0.303-in. Vickers machinegun, mounted in the
turret.

~ 934 ~
 Crew 4
4 Benet-
Armament Mercier
MGs
Estimated
dimensions 18ft L x 6ft
(of a 4in W x 8ft
LATER H
model)
20 mph top
Estimated speed. 12
speed mph
cruising

Below you can see photos of a very nice replica Jeffrey, taken by Steven Fildes at the
Pancho Villa State Park, New Mexico. The starting point was a Jeffery Quad truck
chassis and drive. On the replica, a real Jeffery running gear was used; the rest is new
work in steel. The replica was built by volunteers and staff at Pancho Villa State Park.
(Note for modellers: The rivets are spaced at 4 inches on center. Note also that the
photos were made with a measuring tape, in hopes of giving a scale. Where its legible,
its in feet and inches.)

Type Armored car

Place of origin United States

British India Command

Used by
United States Army

Wars Pancho Villa Expedition

Manufacturer Thomas B. Jeffery Company

~ 935 ~
 Produced 1915

Length 18 ft (5.48 m)

Width 6.4 ft (1.95 m)

Height 8 ft (2.44 m)

Crew 4

Main 4 x Benet-Mercier or 1 x .303

armament Vickers machine guns

Engine 4-cylinder petrol

Suspension 4x4 wheel

20 miles per hour (32 km/h)

Speed
maximum

The Jeffery Armored Car No.1 was developed by the Thomas B. Jeffery Company in
Kenosha, Wisconsin in 1915.

The armored car No.1 was used in by General John Pershings 1916 Pancho Villa
Expedition in Columbus, New Mexico for training. Pancho Villa was far into Mexico at
that time and there are no records on its use in fighting.[1]

~ 936 ~
A number of armoured cars were also built on the Jeffery truck chassis in 1916 for use
in British India. Forty were added to the "Field Force" that was operating to contain the
Mohmand rising of Haji Mullah on the North West Frontier. The "Mohmand blockade"
involved British armoured cars patrolling unpaved tracks between blockhouses.
Maintenance of the cars was difficult as the ship carrying spares had been torpedoed.
They were armed with a single Vickers machine gun. Although the four-wheel drive
with independent transmission and wide range of gears should have been an advantage,
the narrow solid tyres negated that and running at more than 12 mph caused problems
with engine bearings.[2]

Another model of armoured car built on the Jeffery Quad chassis was built in Russia by
Ukrainian officer Volodymyr Poplavko who was the Odessa city commandant (1917-
18), and was known as Jeffery-Poplavko.

Few people know that not only in Russia were developed on the basis of all-wheel drive
chassis truck Jeffery Quad armored cars. In 1915, the company's engineers, on their
own initiative, have developed their own version of the booking. Housing armored car
turned out quite high, making it a good target on the battlefield, but the crew received an
additional living space. Armament consists of four machine guns Benet-Mercier was
placed on the sides of the case and in two towers. Additionally, in the packing, there
were two more machine guns. Armored car came with a carbureted engine Buda enjoys
a, 4-cylinder with a capacity of 29 hp Weighing 6300 kg Jeffery could reach speeds of
32 km \ h. Internal and external equipment powered by the generator with a amperage 6
volts. The prototype is often referred to as Jeffery Armored Car No.1

~ 937 ~
The American army is not interested in the company's development Jeffery as military
commissions do not like too much the machine weight and low driving performance.
However, the armored car passed a full cycle of military trials, which had a positive
impact on his future. So, in 1916, specifically for the "Mexican Expedition" under the
command of General Pershing, a second sample was built. Its main difference was the
simple design of the case, which was surmounted by a cylindrical superstructure.

More successful was a modification that is based on a first prototype. Armored car
received two cylindrical towers circular rotation in the longitudinal scheme. In this case,
the front tower turret placed on the box, and the rear was below that limit the fire sector.

Serial armored cars, which has been launched in 1917, the issue received a number of
changes. Turret box was dismantled, and the main tower has become larger in volume.
The second tower, weight machine was dismantled - in its place appeared armored cabin
with observation slits and the top hatch. Also ocherezhnoy time was modified housing.

After nrovedennoy modernization firm expected a large order from the US Army, but
the First World War was over and the need for a large number of armored vehicles are
not cheap was gone. The US Army bought a few samples, refusing to further purchases,
and using them before the start of the 1920s. However, not everything was so bad - to
some extent the situation saved the Allies.

Completion of the war for the redivision of the world did not mean that fighting stopped
almost instantly. At the site of a major conflict, a large number of smaller ones - began
the active phase of the struggle for the independence of the colonies from the British
and French possessions. To suppress the rebellion in India by British colonialists took
considerable efforts, including with the involvement of aircraft and armored vehicles. It
is here that were in demand high quality running Jeffery Armored Car.

In 1918, several armored cars were produced for the British request and sent to India.
The colonial army they are sometimes referred to as Jeffery-Russell. Machinery was
sent to the troubled northwestern border, where for a long time did not stop clashes with
local tribes. A significant role in the fighting played 7th bronemotorizovannaya battery
(7th Armoured Motorized Battery), on which the equipment was three armored vehicles

~ 938 ~
at Mercedes chassis. In May 1919, by occupying in g.Dera Ismail Khan (Dera Ismail
Khan) of its crews took part in the fighting in Waziristan. A little later, there is the 6th
battery, equipped with armored vehicles Minerva was sent. A year later, all the old
equipment has been replaced by the American Jeffery-Russell, Wolseley and Cadillac
(last longer refers to a type of improvised armored vehicles). As a result of the
reorganization of the 7th Brigade was subordinated to the 10th armored car company of
(10th Armoured Car Company, 10th ACC) and formally entered into the Royal Tank
Corps. Battle on the composition of the company mid-year 1921 was as follows:

5th AMB - three Jeffery-Russell

7th AMB - four Jeffery-Russell

13th AMB - three Wolseley 12/16

15th AMB - three Cadillac (?)

16th AMB - three Wolseley 24/30

Heavy fighting with the "Mujahideen" vlot lasted until the mid-1930s. using not only
armored vehicles, but also light tanks and aircraft, including several divisions of
bombers. In the end, none of the parties did not reach the goals, however, can be
considered moral winners of the leaders of Waziristan, who managed to defend its
independence. Armored car Jeffery-Russell have gone much earlier from the scene.
Apparently, by the end of the 1920s. they completely removed from service and
replaced on Wolseley Armored Car M1923 own production.

Combat weight 5720 kg

CREW, pers. 4
DIMENSIONS

~ 939 ~
Length mm 5486
Width 1930
Height mm 2438
Clearance, mm 406
WEAPONS four 7.62-mm machine gun Benet-Mercier
allowance of ammunition ?
aiming DEVICES ?
housing forehead - 5.1 mm
board housing - 5.1 mm
food body - 5,1 mm
RESERVATIONS
Tower - 5.1 mm
roof - 3.8 mm
the bottom - 3.8 mm
Buda enjoys a, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, power 29 hp .;
ENGINE
fuel capacity of 75 liters
Jeffery, mechanical type manual transmission (6 gears
TRANSMISSION
forward and back 6)
CHASSIS 4x4, single wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs
SPEED 32 km \ h
Cruising on the highway 241 km
overcome obstacles
Slope% ?
Wall height, m ?
The depth of the ford, m 0.406
The width of the den, m ?
MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 940 ~
~ 941 ~
White Armored Car 4x2 Model 1916 Light armored vehicle

In 1916, at the Rock Island Arsenal, apparently under the influence of hostilities in
Europe, prototype armored car was built, which is often referred to as No2. Armored
Motor Car or the White Armored Car 4x2. The building of this machine is firm White
Motor Car Company, which used commercial truck chassis with a 4x2. Armored Corps
had assembled from steel sheets 3-5 mm thick and equipped with 40-horsepower
gasoline engine. Wheels cars were tubeless. Armament consisted of one machine gun
7.62 mm caliber, mounted in a rotating turret. Crew - two people.

~ 942 ~
The only example of the armored car White was transferred to the US Army.
Information about the trial and no further application. For service eWhite Armored Car
was not taken in 1916 of the sample.

SPECIFICATIONS light armored cars

White Armored Car 4x2 Model 1916

3632 kg (empty)
Combat weight
4086 kg (full load)

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 4370

Width 1630

Height mm 2030

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun Browning

allowance of ammunition ?

~ 943 ~
aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE The White, carburetor, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 40 hp

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x2, front-wheel, single, dual rear wheels, pneumatic tires,

CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 944 ~
~ 945 ~
White 42 Model 1917

USA (1917) Experimental vehicle 1 prototype built

Not needed

The White 42 Armored Car model 1917 was built on a commercial chassis, from
which it also kept the 45 hp White engine. This powerpack had 4 cylinders and a
carburetor and was mounted at the front of the vehicle. The vehicle received an armored

~ 946 ~
body, made from around 30 panels, made by the Van Dorn Iron Works from Cleveland,
Ohio. Protection was between 3.8 and 6.5 mm (0.15-0.25 in), barely sufficient against
small-arms fire and shrapnel. There were no side doors and access was granted through
a single one at the rear. A small, one man revolving turret was mounted on top of the
crew compartent, and it was armed with a rifle-caliber machine-gun.

The weight of the vehicle reached 3300 kg (7430 lbs) and it had double tires on its rear
axle, in order to support the weight of the rear fighting compartment. The driver and co-
driver, sitting side by side, could see through armored shutters and small side windows
with armored flaps. Armored doors also protected the radiator and granted access to the
White liquid cooled engine. The wheels were spoked and had mudguards. The crew was
of three, including the machine-gunner.

The single prototype, which was assigned the number 11508, was tested at Fort Sill,
Oklahoma, in 1917-18. However, there was no obvious need for an armored car at the
time, and the White model 1917 was never cleared for mass production.

White 42 armored car model 1917.

Type Armored Vehicle

Place of origin United States

French Army, United States

Used by Army and United States
Marines

Wars World War I

Manufacturer White Motor Company

Produced 1918

~ 947 ~
 Weight 3.37 tons

Crew 3

Armor 3.86.35 mm

Main M1895 ColtBrowning

armament machine guns

4-cylinder petrol
Engine
45 hp

Suspension 4x2 wheel leaf spring

Speed max 65 mph

~ 948 ~
~ 949 ~
White 42 model 1917 specifications
Weight 3.3 tons (7430 lbs)

Crew 3 (driver, machine-gunner, commander)

Propulsion White, carburetor, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 45 hp power

Speed (road) 64 km/h (40 mph)

Armament 7.62 mm (0.3 in) machine-gun

Armor 3.8-6.5 mm (0.15-0.25 in)

Production 1 prototype

~ 950 ~
Armored White Armored Car, created in 1917 on the commercial vehicle chassis 4x2, was the
latest attempt to offer a full-fledged US Army combat unit. This machine is equipped with 4-
cylinder carbureted engine power of 45 hp White, allows to reach speeds of 40 miles per hour
(64.4 km \ h). Weight unloaded armored car was 7430 pounds (3373 kg). Linked body
assembled from armored rolled sheet thickness 3,8-5 mm. His immediate assembly in
establishments Van Dorn Iron Works in Cleveland. Wheels are tubeless and are made of hard
rubber.

The only example of a sample of the armored car White 1917, under the number 11508
was tested in Fort Steele (Oklahoma), before the beginning of 1918 for a number of
reasons, he did not accept the command of the land forces and the mass production of
White Armored Car did not take place.

SPECIFICATIONS light armored cars

AWhite Armored Car 4x2 Model 1917

Combat weight 3373 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

~ 951 ~
Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun Browning

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE The White, carburetor, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 46 hp power

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x2, front-wheel, single, dual rear wheels, pneumatic tires,

CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs / td>

SPEED 64 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

~ 952 ~
~ 953 ~
White AEF 4x2 Armored Car Armored Corps Expeditionary

The only example of this "semi-finished" armored car was made in France in 1918,
when the American Expeditionary Force fought in full swing in Europe. The basis has
been taken White truck chassis 4x2 and carbureted engine. On it installed wooden "hull
of" dummies and two diagonally opposite towers. Inside could be placed crew of 4
people. Of course, there was no arms on the machine.

Apparently, the armored car, which is now called the White AEF 4x2 Armored Car,
could serve as a prototype for a real fighting machine. However, for the further
development of the project no one took.

Combat weight 4994 kg

CREW, pers. 4

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun Browning

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE The White, carburetor, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 45 hp power

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2, single wheels, pneumatic tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED 40 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ?

~ 954 ~
 overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Remington-UMC Armored Car

Armored car company Remington-UMC was constructed in 1916 and was used by the
National Guard of Connecticut. The car belonged to the same type as the Mack
Armored Car, partially repeating its design.

The case was going on a wooden frame of the armor plating of the order of 6.35 mm.
The lower side bronelisty were vertical and the top installed obliquely forming the
shape of a truncated pyramid. In the front hull had closable hatch in the firing position
armored shield. The boards are cut yuyli loopholes for observation and firing of
personal weapons. Apparently standard weapons Remington-UMC Armored Car is not
received. From the above it can be concluded that the main purpose of this machine was
transporting soldiers, which favored the large volume of the crew compartment. More
information about this armored car missing.

SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Remington-UMC Armored Car was obr.1916

Combat weight ~ 3500 kg

CREW, pers. 2+?

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

one 7.62-mm machine

WEAPONS
gun

~ 955 ~
 allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE Carburetor

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Standard Eight Armored Car Armored car

~ 956 ~
During the 1st World War, the US Army purchased from private firms a few samples of
armored vehicles, among which was the pattern on the chassis of the car Standard Eight,
built in the workshops of Standard Steel Car Company. The commercial version of this
model proved to be quite successful and was produced before the beginning of the
1920s. Armored option, on the contrary, did not find sufficient support in the military.

Armored vehicles equipped with serial chassis with 4x2 and a gasoline engine. All
wheels were spitsovannymi and equipped with pneumatic tires. The steer wheels of the
front axle were single, the driving wheels of the rear axle - double. The body of the
machine, assembled on the bolts of the rivets of the steel sheets, turned almost
symmetrical with the tilted front and aft bronelistami. Low add-frontal hatch and
observation slits for the driver and the commander has been shifted to the rear.
Presumably, the car was equipped with a turret with a machine gun.

A photograph taken fotorgrafami agency Harris & Ewing in 1917, was captured at the
time of the demonstration armored Standard chassis with its driver captain Renwick
(Renwick). Unfortunately, other information about the missing armored car.

SPECIFICATIONS armored vehicles

Standard Eight Armored Car sample of 1917

Combat weight ~ 3000 kg

CREW, pers. 2

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE Carburetor

~ 957 ~
TRANSMISSION mechanical type

4x2, front-wheel, single, dual rear wheels, pneumatic tires,

CHASSIS
suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF
-
COMMUNICATION

REO Model F Armored Car

A little-known page of history for us - the construction of armored vehicles known

engineer and founder of the company Olds Motor Works (Oldsmobile) Eli Olds (Eli
Olds). The most interesting thing is that it took place during the First World War, when
the company itself does not belong to Olds. It so happened that in 1908 he was forced to
sell the brand Oldsmobile their investors - the corporation General Motors. Design,
however, the spirit was still strong, and some time Olds went on to design cars under
the same name. It's not like GM representatives who have threatened legal action and

~ 958 ~
then Olds new company, calling it Ransom Eli Olds (REO), the company that was in
g.Lensing Michigan (Lansing, Michigan).

As the years passed, Europe has long been raging war, and there are few who believed
in 1916 that America would remain aloof from the redivision of the world. The US
Army at that time was considered a well-equipped technically, but she had virtually no
armored vehicles. Firms Davidson, Mack and some other military offered their
prototypes armored vehicles, but none of them are not commercially built. His
contribution has made and Eli Olds, suggesting in 1916, its own version of the armored
car.

For the construction of a combat vehicle has used the chassis of the Model F, which was
installed armored body riveted construction. Apparently, the main objective was
maximum efficiency Olds (otherwise the US Army would simply abandoned the
"expensive toy"), so that the reservation is made without any tricks. Armor protected
engine compartment, driver cabin and ground transport. All three parts were divided by
partitions so that the crew of two people place was very small. Moreover, Olds declined
to install a rotating turret - instead of her cabin was equipped with removable upper
armor plates, so that if necessary the machine commander (aka gunner) could fire a
machine gun leaning on the shoulders, and then, only forward. Armored retained the
standard 35-horsepower gasoline engine with frontal radiator and suspension on the leaf
springs. According to the trends of the time Model F is also equipped with two rails for
overcoming the barbed wire, one end of which was attached to the hood, and the other -
on the roof of the enclosure.

A very short period of testing REO Model f Armored Car brought quite the expected
results. Tightness in the cockpit did not allow the crew to work in decent conditions, not
to mention security. In this respect, needed at least to increase the volume of the crew
compartment, and to do so it could be due to the vehicle compartment. The second
problem was the powerplant cooling. Frontal radiator firing position is completely

~ 959 ~
closed and armored shutter inflow of cooling air is practically stopped. However, in
case the march with cooling situation was also not the best way.

Taking into account these shortcomings Olds largely redesigned body. cooling problem
was solved in the following way - instead of a solid front panel was installed wedge
design with three sections of fixed louvers. The inner volume of the driver's
compartment and fighting compartment was increased and, in addition, frontal and
horizontal feed bronelisty ustanvlivalis is now under great angles. Instead of two
"protivoprovolochnyh" one set of rails with the same fastening method.

~ 960 ~
In general, the updated version (sometimes called REO Armored Car 2) turned out
better than the first, but the overall favorable impression of armored vehicles Olds
declined due to lack of a rotating turret. The army refused to accept service REO
Armored Car, but the National Guard of Michigan was less fastidious. In the same 1916
armored car he entered the system, but its service has been very peaceful. The only
"military action" in which he could participate, began to parade on the occasion of
national holidays. After the war, REO Armored Car was cancel reservation, and the Eli
Olds is no longer involved in the design of armored vehicles, focusing on civilian cars.

SPECIFICATIONS light armored cars

REO Model F Armored Car was obr.1916

Combat weight ~ 3000 kg

CREW, pers. 3

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS three or four 7.62 mm machine gun Browning

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE petrol

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2, single wheels, pneumatic tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

~ 961 ~
 overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Olympian Armored Car

Armored car

In short, not too colorful history of the company Olympian Motors Company, was
engaged from 1917 to 1920. assembly of cars in Michigan, there was one very
interesting point. Shortly before the bankruptcy MHI engineers had proposed the US
Army light armored vehicle. Recorded there remained very little, but given the scarcity
lineup Olympian machines can restore some of the details.

The most popular model was the Olympian Four Cylinder Touring Car release in 1918.
This machine is manufactured in variants of passenger cabriolet and roadster was
equipped with a gasoline 4-cylinder engine and the suspension was on the leaf springs.
The price of these machines ranged between 965-1085 dollars, which have been
relatively few. It is very likely that on the basis of the roadster and the first and last
Olympian armored car was built.

~ 962 ~
The desire to save money and provide a frank army complete fighting machine led to
the following results. Chassis remained unchanged, but the pneumatic tires were
replaced with tubeless of hard rubber, and the wheels got spitsovannye protective steel
wheels.

hull was designed very original. Combined with the combat compartment Control
compartment is protected by two large sides sloping bronelistami, which also covers
most of the rear wheels and suspension. Above them was attached U-shaped add-in-
board bronelistami form an elongated triangle. In a frontal rectangular broneliste top
center housed the only light, and the left side of the driver's hatch was the lookout. At
the rear, four-sided cutting of established fixed with four loopholes for machine guns
caliber Colt 7.62mm. Hood also was inclined to book, and its frontal part, where there
were shutters for engine cooling, was wedge-shaped. It is not clear designation of the
lower horizontal plate armor before the hood. Probably, thus trying to improve the
protection of the front axle suspension.

To say something about the thickness of the reservation difficult. In the interwar years
was the standard armor plates from 0.25 to 0.375 inches (6.35 - 9.53 mm), so it can be
assumed that the armored car from MHI received the same protection.

Released for testing armored The Olympian, as well as their details, not remained
apparently. Presumably, the running test vehicle passed in the same year, 1918, and
with full arms (guns 3-4). The official name of the armored car is not received, but it is
still assigned number 6935. Army of the American army, which was not particularly
demanding for this type of combat vehicles, The Olympian did not like. Firepower was
certainly impressive, but the ride quality (in particular for cross-terrain) and visibility
were useless. Approximately in 1919, this armored car was sent for scrapping, as
manufacturer by the time ceased to exist.

Sources:
The Olympian Automobile & The Olympian Motors Co.

SPECIFICATIONS light armored cars

Dunlap Armored Car was obr.1918

Combat weight ~ 3000 kg

CREW, pers. 3

~ 963 ~
 DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS three or four 7.62 mm machine gun Browning

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE petrol

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2, single wheels, pneumatic tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

Machine Gun Carrier

~ 964 ~
Active US Army motorization conducted at the turn of 19-20 centuries, sooner or later, would
lead to the creation of edee on the basis of their commercial atomobiley "militarized" options.
These machines are very useful not only the Army, but also the National Guard and border
guarding the troubled Mexican border. In this case, the main objective of these projects
yavlyalaos ensure maximum mobility and speed of the machine-gun crew with machine guns
and ammunition, while the security of the machine-gunners themselves was obviously
ignored. The task was to machine-gun trucks pursuit of the enemy, intelligence and fire
support cavalry units.

As any army command is no requirement developers (and usually they were the
officers) had an opportunity to give full play to the initiative. The essence of the
improvements is often reduced to the installation of one, at least two types of machine
guns Colt-Browning M1895, Maxim, Lewis, or other type of caliber 7.62 mm to 9 mm.
It is interesting to note that before the war machine gun mount is often fastened next to
the driver, and only a few years later she "pereklchevala" in the back of the car, where
there was more free prostratsva. Later, these "pulemetovozy" poluyaali name Machine
Gun Carrier, but at that time they had no official designation.

"First swallows" can be considered a machine gun machine Davidson-Duryea, which is

available in two versions - for 4 and 3 wheelbase. Machine gun Colt-Browning M1895
(Ktorov sometimes was referred to as Potato Digger - Potato) was mounted on a tripod
that attaches to the front axle. A crew of 3-4 people. At least one such machine was
built in 1899.

The next version of the machine-gun machine was released on Frankiln vehicle chassis
in 1905 and placed at the disposal Natsinalnoy Ohio Guard. Service of this car
continued until 1910 inclusive.

~ 965 ~
In total, we can speak about a dozen machine-gun trucks. The basis for some of these
cars were the Ford T Cadillac as well as machines of other companies. Some of them
has been applied on the border of Mexico and the United States. The rest were used by
the US Army and National Guard units within the country.

SPECIFICATIONS MACHINE Machine gun

Machine Gun Carrier sample 1910

Combat weight ~ 1000 kg

CREW, pers. 3-5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm ?

Width ?

Height mm ?

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS one 7.62-mm machine gun

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -

~ 966 ~
ENGINE Carburetor

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

CHASSIS 4x2

SPEED ?

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

~ 967 ~
Mack Armored Car

~ 968 ~
Armored chassis commercial trucks Mack was created for the needs of the National Guard of
New York during the First World War. Presumably, their construction was not only connected
with the current mechanization of the US armed forces, but also with the events on the
Western Front, where armored vehicles began to play an important role.

Again, for armored trucks Mack served as the 2-tonn Model AC, Locomobile and
White, which were installed wooden frames. They, with the help of bolts and rivets,
fastened armor plates ordered from Carnegie Steel. booking thickness was 5.1 mm. The
first samples were not standard weapons, and in fact were armored personnel carriers.
Shooting from personal weapons (usually these were rifles) can be carried out both
through the loopholes in the case, and across the board, as the roof was missing at all.
Only one of the cars equipped with two 7.62-mm machine guns mounted in the fighting
compartment and having protection in the form of armored shields.

In the same 1916 Mack armored vehicles were handed over to the US National Guard
and are made available to First Armored Motor Battery stationed in New York. The
most significant events in the life of these machines have become military parades and
military maneuvers. Due Mack Armored Car osobennosteyy its design had limited
application and about 1919 were sent for scrapping.

~ 969 ~
SPECIFICATIONS light armored cars
Mack Armored Car sample of 1916

Combat weight 4110 kg

CREW, pers. 2+5

DIMENSIONS

Length mm 5994

Width 1930

Height mm 2540

Clearance, mm ?

WEAPONS two 7.62-mm machine gun Benet-Mercer

allowance of ammunition ?

aiming DEVICES ?

housing forehead -
board housing -
RESERVATIONS food body -?
roof -
bottom -

ENGINE carburetor, 4-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 45 hp power

TRANSMISSION mechanical type

~ 970 ~
CHASSIS 4x2, single wheels, tubeless tires, suspension leaf springs

SPEED 48 km \ h

Cruising on the highway ?

overcome obstacles

Slope% ?

Wall height, m ?

The depth of the ford, m ?

The width of the den, m ?

MEANS OF COMMUNICATION -

~ 971 ~
~ 972 ~
~ 973 ~