Introduction to WW2 Tanks
The Second World War saw the introduction of tanks as a crucial part of modern warfare. These machines were designed to withstand enemy fire while providing covering fire for infantry troops. As the war progressed, tank design evolved to incorporate thicker armor, more powerful engines, and larger guns. In this post, we will explore the 5 biggest WW2 tanks that played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the war.
1. German Panzer VIII Maus
The German Panzer VIII Maus was the largest tank ever built during WW2. Weighing over 188 metric tons, this behemoth of a tank was equipped with a 12.8 cm KwK 44 L/55 gun and had a top speed of 22 km/h. The Maus had a crew of six and was powered by a 1,080 horsepower engine. Although only two prototypes were built, the Maus remains an iconic symbol of German engineering during WW2.
2. Soviet IS-2 Heavy Tank
The Soviet IS-2 heavy tank was a significant improvement over its predecessor, the IS-1. Weighing 46 metric tons, the IS-2 was equipped with a 122mm D-25T gun and had a top speed of 37 km/h. The IS-2 had a crew of four and was powered by a 520 horsepower engine. With over 4,500 units produced, the IS-2 played a crucial role in the Soviet Union’s victory over Germany.
3. American M26 Pershing
The American M26 Pershing was a heavy tank designed to counter the German Tiger II. Weighing 41 metric tons, the M26 was equipped with a 90mm M3 gun and had a top speed of 48 km/h. The M26 had a crew of five and was powered by a 500 horsepower engine. Although introduced late in the war, the M26 saw action in Europe and went on to serve in the Korean War.
4. German Tiger II
The German Tiger II was a heavy tank designed to dominate the battlefield. Weighing 69 metric tons, the Tiger II was equipped with an 8.8 cm KwK 43 L/71 gun and had a top speed of 38 km/h. The Tiger II had a crew of five and was powered by a 700 horsepower engine. With over 490 units produced, the Tiger II was a formidable opponent on the battlefield.
5. British Churchill VII
The British Churchill VII was a heavy infantry tank designed to support ground troops. Weighing 40 metric tons, the Churchill VII was equipped with a 75mm OQF Mk V gun and had a top speed of 27 km/h. The Churchill VII had a crew of five and was powered by a 350 horsepower engine. With over 7,000 units produced, the Churchill VII played a significant role in the Allied victory.
🚨 Note: The production numbers and specifications of WW2 tanks can vary depending on the source, so these figures are approximate.
Comparison of the 5 Biggest WW2 Tanks
The following table compares the key specifications of the 5 biggest WW2 tanks:
| Tank | Weight (metric tons) | Gun | Top Speed (km/h) | Crew | Engine Power (horsepower) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Panzer VIII Maus | 188 | 12.8 cm KwK 44 L/55 | 22 | 6 | 1,080 |
| IS-2 Heavy Tank | 46 | 122mm D-25T | 37 | 4 | 520 |
| M26 Pershing | 41 | 90mm M3 | 48 | 5 | 500 |
| Tiger II | 69 | 8.8 cm KwK 43 L/71 | 38 | 5 | 700 |
| Churchill VII | 40 | 75mm OQF Mk V | 27 | 5 | 350 |
In summary, the 5 biggest WW2 tanks played a significant role in shaping the outcome of the war. Each tank had its unique strengths and weaknesses, but they all shared a common goal of providing superior firepower and protection on the battlefield. The development of these tanks marked a significant milestone in the evolution of armored warfare, and their legacy continues to influence modern tank design.
What was the largest tank built during WW2?
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The German Panzer VIII Maus was the largest tank built during WW2, weighing over 188 metric tons.
Which tank had the most powerful gun?
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The German Panzer VIII Maus had the most powerful gun, with a 12.8 cm KwK 44 L/55 gun.
Which country produced the most tanks during WW2?
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The Soviet Union produced the most tanks during WW2, with over 100,000 units produced.
