The Soviet Union's Secret Tank Arsenal
The Soviet Union was renowned for its innovative and often unconventional approach to tank design. While many of their tanks became legendary, such as the T-34 and IS-2, there were others that never gained widespread recognition. In this article, we will delve into the 7 craziest Soviet Union tanks that you may have never known existed.
1. Object 279
The Object 279 was a Soviet tank designed in the late 1950s, specifically to counter the threat of nuclear warfare. This behemoth of a tank boasted a massive 180mm cannon, which was capable of firing atomic rounds. Its armor was composed of a unique ellipsoidal shape, designed to deflect nuclear blasts. Although it never entered production, the Object 279 remains one of the most fascinating and futuristic tank designs in history.
Key Features:
- 180mm cannon capable of firing atomic rounds
- Ellipsoidal armor design to deflect nuclear blasts
- Top speed of approximately 55 km/h (34 mph)
🤖 Note: The Object 279's atomic cannon was never fully developed, and the project was eventually canceled due to the immense technical challenges.
2. T-100
The T-100 was a Soviet tank designed in the late 1930s, specifically for the Finnish Winter War. This multi-turreted tank was designed to provide suppressive fire on the battlefield, with a total of five machine guns and two 45mm cannons. Although it never saw combat, the T-100 remains an interesting footnote in the history of Soviet tank design.
Key Features:
- Five machine guns and two 45mm cannons
- Multi-turreted design for suppressive fire
- Top speed of approximately 35 km/h (22 mph)
3. IS-7
The IS-7 was a Soviet heavy tank designed in the early 1940s, boasting a massive 130mm cannon and over 300mm of armor. Although it never entered production, the IS-7 remains one of the most heavily armored tanks in history. Its enormous size and weight made it impractical for production, but it serves as an interesting example of Soviet tank design philosophy.
Key Features:
- 130mm cannon capable of penetrating 200mm of armor
- Over 300mm of armor plating
- Top speed of approximately 40 km/h (25 mph)
4. T-29
The T-29 was a Soviet tank designed in the late 1930s, featuring a unique Christie suspension system and a 76.2mm cannon. Although it never entered production, the T-29 served as a testing bed for future Soviet tank designs. Its innovative suspension system allowed for high speeds and improved maneuverability.
Key Features:
- Christie suspension system for improved maneuverability
- 76.2mm cannon capable of penetrating 60mm of armor
- Top speed of approximately 50 km/h (31 mph)
5. KV-6
The KV-6 was a Soviet heavy tank designed in the early 1940s, featuring a massive 152mm cannon and over 100mm of armor. Although it never entered production, the KV-6 remains an interesting example of Soviet tank design philosophy. Its enormous size and weight made it impractical for production, but it serves as a testament to the Soviet Union’s willingness to experiment with innovative designs.
Key Features:
- 152mm cannon capable of penetrating 150mm of armor
- Over 100mm of armor plating
- Top speed of approximately 30 km/h (19 mph)
6. SMK
The SMK was a Soviet tank designed in the late 1930s, featuring a unique multi-turreted design and a 76.2mm cannon. Although it never entered production, the SMK served as a testing bed for future Soviet tank designs. Its innovative design allowed for improved firepower and maneuverability.
Key Features:
- Multi-turreted design for improved firepower
- 76.2mm cannon capable of penetrating 60mm of armor
- Top speed of approximately 45 km/h (28 mph)
7. IT-1
The IT-1 was a Soviet tank destroyer designed in the late 1950s, featuring a massive 115mm cannon and a unique rocket-propelled anti-tank missile system. Although it never entered production, the IT-1 remains an interesting example of Soviet tank design philosophy. Its innovative design allowed for improved firepower and maneuverability.
Key Features:
- 115mm cannon capable of penetrating 150mm of armor
- Rocket-propelled anti-tank missile system
- Top speed of approximately 50 km/h (31 mph)
In conclusion, these 7 Soviet Union tanks are a testament to the innovative and often unconventional approach to tank design. Although they may not have entered production, they serve as an interesting footnote in the history of Soviet tank design philosophy. Their unique designs and features provide a fascinating glimpse into the minds of Soviet engineers and designers.
What was the main purpose of the Object 279’s atomic cannon?
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The main purpose of the Object 279’s atomic cannon was to counter the threat of nuclear warfare. The cannon was designed to fire atomic rounds, which would allow the tank to penetrate enemy fortifications and neutralize the threat of nuclear attacks.
Why did the IS-7 never enter production?
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The IS-7 never entered production due to its enormous size and weight. The tank’s massive armor plating and 130mm cannon made it impractical for production, and the Soviet Union ultimately decided to focus on more practical and efficient tank designs.
What was the unique feature of the T-29’s suspension system?
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The T-29’s suspension system featured a unique Christie suspension system, which allowed for improved maneuverability and high speeds. This system allowed the tank to move quickly and easily, making it an interesting example of Soviet tank design philosophy.
Related Terms:
- Crazy German tanks
- How tank works
