A comprehensive and detailed illustrated examination of the development and combat performance of US battle tanks from World War I to the end of World War II. This work forms the first of two volumes examining the development of US Army and USMC battle tanks. Focusing on the two 20th-century world wars, this first volume explores the concepts and practice of tank development, from the Renault FT, through the M4 Sherman to the M26 Pershing. It describes the experiences of the crews that saw combat, tank performance in battle, and how each American AFV compared with the enemy armor it faced, as well as the key lessons learned from combat that led to new concepts and technological breakthroughs. Beginning with World War I, expert author Steven J. Zaloga explores the initial concepts that pushed the limits of mechanical technology to produce a functional vehicle, before examining the diverse developments of the interwar period. The extensive combat experiences and lessons of World War II form the core of this expert work, exploring crucial developments in armour, armament, mobility, and antitank capabilities. Packed with dozens of intricate color profiles and isometric views, vivid battlescene artworks, technical illustrations, and superbly clear period photographs, this work provides a wide-ranging and essential reference work on the tanks and machines at the cutting edge of armored warfare.
