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T-34M (A-43)

1941 WORLD WAR 2 X-TANK

History

World War II (1939-1945) The Soviet T-34 medium tank became a classic tank of the time due to its wartime performance and availability in large numbers. That's what it's worth, it was used well during the Cold War (1947-1991) and influenced many tank designs that emerged at the time. Still, the original version had inherent flaws, so even though the T-34 was in full service, the T-34M initiative was drafted.

However, the German invasion of the Soviet Union (via Operation Barbarossa) in June 1941 ended all hopes for an improved T-34 offshoot, as production of the base T-34 proved a greater need - only five of the The complete T-34M hull is at the end of the project.

The T-34M was developed as early as 1941 by Soviet engineers at the Lokomotiv-Werke 183 plant in Kharkov, when Europe was already at war, and the modernized version became known internally under the project name "A-43". Key changes to the M model include a torsion bar/arm suspension system (replacing the original Christie) for improved off-road capability/performance, larger internal fuel storage for improved combat range, larger ammunition storage, improved armor protection, and all-around versatility New, more spacious three-person hexagonal turret housing with commander's cupola. Landing gear has been redesigned to include a sixth roadwheel on each hull side and a total of four track return rollers for better Manage the track links.

In addition, a 600 hp W-2-K 12-cylinder diesel engine guarantees greater efficiency and (as desired) reliability.

The road speed is estimated at 60 km/h and the combat weight of the vehicle reaches 32 tons. Dimensions include a length of 5.9 meters, a width of 2.75 meters and a height of 2.3 meters.

The tank increased the operator from four to five, with the driver and radio operator/bow gunner in the forward hull, and the driver, gunner and loader in a three-man turret above the center of the boat. The main armament was Tank-killing 76.2mm F-34s on the front of the turret are supported by the usual array of supporting 7.62mm DT machine guns against infantry.

The effective 57mm anti-tank gun ZiS-4 is also considered the main weapon.

The T-34M was ordered for serial production as early as May 1941 to provide combat-ready units by the end of the year and to immediately replace the original T-34 models in service. However, the German invasion ended these plans and no further M-type T-34 project camshaft proved too large to hinder its own production.