M4 Sherman Tank

M4 "Sherman" (English. M4 Sherman) - Major US medium tank during World War II. Widely used in the US Army in all areas of hostilities, as well as large quantities delivered to allies (especially the UK and the USSR) on lend-lease program.

M4 Sherman Tank – video

After the Second World War, "Sherman" consisted in the armies of many countries in the world, and also participated in a variety of post-war conflicts. The US Army M4 was in service until the end of the Korean War. The name "Sherman" (in honor of the American General Civil War William Sherman) M4 tank was in the British Army, after which the name was assigned to the tank in the US and other armies. The Soviet tank was nicknamed "emcha" (by M4).

M4 was the main tank of the American platform during the Second World War, and a large number of special modifications were created on its base, HEALTHY, engineering technology.

Total February 1942 to July 1945 It had been issued 49 234 tanka (excluding Canadian production tanks). This is the third (After the T-34 and T-54) the most massive tank in the world, as well as the most massive American-made tank.

By the beginning of the Second World War, the United States came, not having the production and in service with no single model medium or heavy tank, Besides 18 pieces M2. Enemy tanks was supposed to destroy the antitank artillery and self-propelled anti-tank guns. Urgently developed on the basis of M2 and put into production medium tank M3 «Lee" did not meet the military at the stage of development, and requirements for the new tank, intended to replace it, They were released 31 August 1940 of the year, before the end of work on the M3. anticipated, The new tank will have to use the waste and development of industry M3 components, but its basic instrument will be located in the tower. Nevertheless, work was suspended, up to complete processing and formulation into production of the previous model, and only began 1 February 1941 of the year. Prototype, dubbed T6, appeared 2 September 1941 of the year.

T6 retains many features of its predecessor M3, he inherited the lower part of the body, Coil structure, engine, and 75 mm tank gun M2. Unlike the M3, T6 was cast body and the classic arrangement with placing the primary weapon in the rotating turret cast, that freed him from most peculiar design M3 shortcomings.

The tank was quickly standardized, He was designated M4, and in February 1942 year its serial production was launched. The first treated M4A1 tanks embodiment with a cast housing, and were made Lima Locomotive Works under the contract with the British Army. Despite, that the tank is intended to equip a weapon M3, due to the unavailability of the new gun first tanks received 75-mm gun M2, borrowed from its predecessor.

M4 was easier, smarter and cheaper to produce, чем M3. The cost of the various options M4 fluctuated around $45 000—$50 000 (in prices 1945 of the year), and it was about 10 % below the cost of M3. The most expensive was M4A3E2 (Sherman Jumbo), it cost $56 812.

75-mm gun "Sherman" approach to support infantry and tanks during the permitted use in North Africa on an equal footing to resist the PzKpfw III and PzKpfw IV. Penetration M3 guns were lower, What the KwK 40 L/48. Shortly before the completion of the fighting in North Africa, the tank begins to resist the PzKpfw VI Tiger I, which completely exceeded M4 and could be destroyed only by the joint attack of several "Shermans" up close and behind.

Initially, artillery and technical service began to develop as a substitute for "Sherman" medium tank T20, but the US Army has decided to minimize the separation of production and the start of the modernization of the Sherman tanks using other nodes. So there were modifications M4A1, M4A2, and M4A3 more tower T23, equipped with a 76 mm cannon M1 with improved anti properties.

After "D-Day", "Tigers" were rare, Nevertheless, half of all German tanks on the Western Front were "Panther", which is clearly superior to earlier models, "Sherman". "Sherman" to the 76-mm gun were sent to Normandy in July 1944 of the year. Anti properties 76mm M1 gun were approximately equal gun Soviet tank T-34/85. M4A1 was the first "Sherman" with new tool, applied in a real fight, in a battle after it tested the M4A3. By the end of the war, half of American "Sherman" was equipped with a 76 mm gun.

One of the most important improvements "Sherman" was the suspension processing. Combat application revealed a short time spring suspension Service, taken from the M3 tank, and can not withstand more weight, "Sherman". Despite the high rate of road and over rough terrain, flotation tank sometimes leaves much to be desired. In North America desert rubber tracks worked well, in the hilly landscape Italy "Sherman" excelled in patency of German tanks. On the same surface of the soft, such as snow or mud, narrow tracks showed worse patency, than German tanks. To work around this problem, the US Army issued a special connecting truck trims (platypus), increasing the width of the truck. These platypus included in the original equipment models M4A3E2 Jumbo, to compensate for the increased weight of the machine.

HVSS new suspension was designed to address these shortcomings, (Horizontal Volute Spring Suspension). In this buffer the suspension spring has been moved from a vertical position to a horizontal. HVSS and a new track on the increased weight of the car 1300 kg (c Tracians T66) or 2100 kg (with heavier T80).

The new model was designated E8 (why M4 c HVSS tanks were nicknamed «Easy Eight»). The tank was installed 76 mm gun (initial speed antitank projectile was 780 м/c, projectile punched 101 mm armor at a distance of 900m).

M4A3E8 production started in March 1944 year and lasted until April 1945 of the year. The new tank entered service 3 (Eng.)Russian. and 7 Army (Eng.)Russian. in Europe, where he earned the nickname «Super Sherman». Despite, that the tank still could not compete with the "Panther" and "Tiger", its reliability and powerful weaponry provided him with a long life.

After the deployment of full scale production line M4 and derivative armored models of tanks, корпорация International Harvester Corp. He won the state contract to produce three thousand medium tanks M7, but, contract was soon withdrawn by the customer side, and only seven of serial samples were produced.

The production process in the assembly hall of the Detroit Tank Arsenal in the midst

Production

Experienced T6 prototype was manufactured military forces Aberdeen Proving Ground. The mass production of tanks "Sherman" ten major US contractors from the private sector were involved (in engineering and manufacturing of railway rolling stock), each of which was responsible for the release of a particular modification of the tank or armored vehicles on its chassis (with an indication of the structural units and make modifications).

Of which Lima factories, Paccar and Pressed Steel until December 1943 g. it was produced 6281 tanks M4. At Chrysler and Fisher plants produced 3071 M4A3 tanks. By the end of the Second World War has been released 49422 M4 tanks and armored vehicles of all modifications to its chassis (traditionally taken to round the figure to fifty thousand). Lokomotivostroitelnoy industry enterprises produced 35919 tanks (or 41 % of the total number of tanks produced). Generally, Locomotive enterprises were more prepared for the transition to tank building, than automotive, who had to catch up with them in terms of production and quality of products directly in the production process, moreover, the first successful combined production of tanks with the release of industrial rail vehicles, manufactured under the same shops and the same equipment, that armor. In addition to US contractors, release, repair and refurbishment of tanks, separate units, engineering companies engaged in other states - participants of the anti-Hitler coalition. Own production has been established in Canada:

– Montreal Locomotive Works — всего 1144 tanks M4, of them 188 Tank Grizzly I.

Not all enterprises have a full production cycle, so in addition to the production of shells of tanks and build, Production tank turrets engaged in a limited number of enterprises, supplying them with all the rest of the assembly. Besides, Not all of the companies listed above have the possibility of engine, therefore, to the production of motor and drive train are connected even aircraft manufacturers.

Release tank guns has been launched in the US Army arsenal Uotervlitskom, Uotervlit, New York, as well as on the following private companies:

– Empire Ordnance Corporation, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania;
– Cowdrey Machine Works, Fitchburg, Massachusetts;
– General Motors Oldsmobile Division.

Scheme internal arrangement M4A4 tank

Design

Tank M4 has a classical arrangement of an English, with the placement of the engine compartment behind, and transmission - the front tank. Between them is the combat compartment, circular rotation of the tower is installed in almost the center of the tank. Such an arrangement is generally typical for the American and German medium and heavy tanks of WWII era. Despite the rejection of the sponsons placing the main tank gun, the height of the tank body, albeit less than in the M3, still remains significant. The main reason for this - the vertical position of a star-shaped aircraft engine, of the applied in this tank, as well as front-mounted transmission, determining the presence of a high-ducts for driveline from the engine to the box.

Tank tower sectional

Armor hull and turret

Most housing M4 tank modifications is welded from sheets of rolled armor steel. NLD, which is also the cover of the transmission chamber, cast, team of three parts Bolted (subsequently replaced by a single piece). In the manufacturing process, there are many variants of the hull, slightly different shape, and very significantly - manufacturing technology. It was originally supposed, that the tank will have a die-cast housing, but because of difficulties with the mass production of castings of this size, molded case received only M4A1, is performed simultaneously with welded M4.

The lower part of the body was the same, as well as the tank M3, except, that was used for the manufacture of welding, not klёpka, including tanks and a cast housing. In the first embodiments, the tank upper front body section was slope 56 degrees and a thickness 51 mm. VFD was weakened in her welded lugs with hatches viewing devices. In the later versions hatches have been moved to the roof of the housing, VFD has become a whole, but because of the transfer hatches it was necessary to make more vertical, 47 degrees.

The sides of the housing consists of a vertically mounted thick armor plates 38 mm, It has the same reservation Hatchback. The prototype in the side of the tank hatch had a big enough crew, but mass-produced cars abandoned it.

At the bottom of the hull for a place radio operator-gunner hatch is located, designed for the relative safety of the crew leaving the tank on the battlefield under enemy fire. In some cases, the hatch was used to evacuate the wounded from the battlefield infantry or other members of the tank crew, since the internal space "Sherman" is sufficiently large, to temporarily place it in a few more people.

Tanks early series inherited from its predecessor M3 lower frontal part, consisting of three sections, fastened with bolts.

turret cast, a cylindrical shape with a small aft recess, set on the pursuit diameter 1750 mm ball bearing, thickness of armor forehead tower 76 mm, side and stern towers 51 mm. Lobe tower is chamfered at an angle of 60 °, gun mask has reservations 89 mm. The roof of the tower has a thickness 25 mm, housing from the roof 25 mm anterior to 13 mm at the rear of the tank. The roof of the tower there is a commander's hatch, also being input to the gunner and loader. The towers of the late production (since August 1944 of the year) a separate hatch for the loader. the commander's hatch cover clamshell, hatch on the turret mounted anti-aircraft machine gun. Slewing gear tower electrohydraulic or electric, with the possibility of manual rotation in the event of failure mechanisms, while total turnover 15 sec. On the left side of the tower there is a loophole for pistol shooting, closed bronezaslonkoy. In February 1943 year from the pistol loopholes refused, but on the requirements of the military entered her back to the beginning 1944 of the year.

Ammunition guns placed in horizontal combat pack, arranged on the sides in the housing shelves nadgusenichnyh (one boeukladki left sponson, two in the right), horizontal boeukladke on Polikey basket tower, as well as in the vertical boeukladke in the rear part of the basket. Outside on the side having the placements boeukladki welded onto additional armor plate thickness 25 mm (with the exception of the earliest series of tanks). Combat use of "Shermans" revealed, that when hit armor piercing projectiles in side tank body is inclined to fire the propellant charge of ammunition. Since the mid 1944 , the tank received a new design boeukladok, which were moved to the floor of the crew compartment, in the gaps between the sockets of shells filled with water, mixed with antifreeze or corrosion inhibitor. These tanks received designation code "(W)», and looks different from earlier versions lack of additional airborne armor plates. "Wet" boeukladki had a significantly reduced tendency to ignite when lesion tank shells beads, as well as in case of fire.

Most tanks have issued internal knocked out of foam rubber, designed to protect the crew from secondary fragments in the defeat of the tank shells.

M4A1 with a cast housing

weaponry

75-mm M3

When the M4 went into mass production, Its main armament was the American tank gun 75 mm M3 L/37,5[35], inherited from the late M3 tank options. In the first series of tanks cannon mounted in the installation M34. In October 1942 the plant was modernized, obtaining enhanced gun mask, conceals not only the instrument of, but also paired him with a machine gun, as well as direct telescopic gunner's sight (before aiming conducted through the telescopic sight, built-in periscope). The new installation has received the designation M34A1. Angles vertical lay guns -10 ... + 25 °.

M3 has the caliber 75 mm, barrel length 37,5 calibres (40 gauges - total length of weapons), V-semi-shutter, unitary loading. step rifling 25,59 calibres.

M3 generally corresponded Soviet F-34, and had a slightly smaller length of the barrel, a similar caliber and armor. The gun was effective against German light and medium tanks (but the last modifications PzKpfw IV), and generally quite consistent with the requirements of time.

The gun is equipped with a gyro stabilizer "Westinghouse", working in a vertical plane. The unusual gun in the tank installation is, that it is mounted on the unfolded 90 degrees to the left relative to the longitudinal axis of the tool. This greatly facilitates the work of the loader, since in such a mounting bolt controls move horizontally, instead of vertically.
ammunition is 90 shots.

M4A1 with a gun M3

76-mm M1

During the war, with the advent of the German armored units of medium tanks PzKpfw IV with long-barreled 75-mm cannon, PzKpfw VI «Tiger» medium tanks PzKpfw V «Panther» and heavy tanks have a problem of insufficient armor penetration of American 75-mm guns M3. To solve this problem have been carried out installation work on the M4 tank turret prototype T23 with 76-mm long-barreled gun in a mask M1-M62 installation. Serial production of M4 tanks with T23 tower lasted from January 1944 to April 1945 of the year. All the "Sherman" tanks with 76 mm cannons have received designation code "(76)». The new tower was commander's cupola. Reservation T23 circular tower, 64 mm.

M1 rifle nareznaya, caliber 76,2 mm, barrel length 55 calibres, semi-automatic rolling shutter, unitary loading. There are several options for guns. M1A1 is different from M1 ectopic forward pins for better balancing, M1A1C has on the muzzle end of the barrel threaded to attach the muzzle brake M2 (If the muzzle brake is not set, Thread closed special protective sleeve), M1A2 has a shorter step rifling, 32 caliber instead 40.

M4A1(76)W from 76 mm gun M1A2

17-pound gun

The British Army also exist options, perevooruzhonnye English anti-17-pounders MkIV, received the name Sherman IIC (based on the M4A1) и Sherman VC (based on the M4A4), better known under the common name Sherman Firefly. 17-pound gun was mounted in a conventional tower, mask-installation has been specially designed for this weapon. Stabilizer gun was dismantled because of the heavy weight of the gun barrel.

Пушка Ordnance QF 17 pounder Mk.IV nareznaya, caliber 76,2 mm, barrel length 55 calibres, rifling step 30 calibres, horizontal sliding shutter, semi-automatic, loading unitary. The gun was equipped with a muzzle brake with integrated counterweight.

Ammunition gun is 77 shots, and placed as follows:: 5 shots placed on the floor of the tower basket, yet 14 shots - in the driver's assistant, and the remaining 58 shots - in three combat pack on the floor of the crew compartment.

An interesting fact, that the British, not satisfied with power tools M3, We began work on equipping the M4 17-pounders long before, how this issue seriously worried about the American command. Since the British are very good results were obtained, they offered the Americans produce 17-pounders on the license and install it on the American "Sherman", the more that did not require a new tower for its installation. Due to the reluctance of foreign tanks mounted on arms, Americans, after several experiments, decided to abandon this decision, and began to establish their own less powerful weapon M1.

Shells SVDS first appeared in the British Army in August 1944 of the year. By the end of the year the industry produced 37 000 such shells, until the end of the war - more 140 000. The shells of the first series have significant manufacturing defects, they can be used only for short distances.

Sherman VC (Sherman Firefly) with the British 17-pounders.

105-Howitzer M4

A certain number of different types M4 obtained as the main arms US 105mm howitzer M4, which was modified for use in a tank howitzer M2A1. These tanks are designed for direct fire support of infantry.

Howitzer mounted in a mask-installation M52, ammunition was 66 shots, and placed in the right sponson (21 shot), as well as on the floor of the crew compartment (45 shots). More two shots stored directly in the tower. The tower has a basket, since the latter is difficult to access boeukladke. Because of the difficulties with balancing tools missing Stabilizer, Besides, Tower has no hydraulic drive (He was returned to some of the tanks in the summer 1945 of the year).

Howitzer M4 nareznaya, caliber 105 mm, barrel length 24,5 caliber, rifling step 20 calibres. sliding shutter, unitary loading.

M4 howitzer can also fire all types of artillery shells, intended for the Army M101 Howitzer. All types of shots, except M67, are changeable charge.

auxiliary armament

With gun paired tank machine gun M1919A4 caliber rifle. The coaxial machine gun fire led gunner, using electric trigger, configured as a solenoid, fortified on the gun body, and acting on its trigger guard. The same gun mounted in a movable ball mask on the front frontal parts, fire from his assistant led the driver. On the roof of the tower, in the turret, coincident with the commander's hatch, mounted with heavy machine guns M2H, Use as zenith.

ammunition is 4750 ammunition for coaxial machine gun and course, 300 ammunition for heavy machine gun. Cartridge tape machine guns were placed in the course nadgusenichnoy shelf to the right of the driver's seat assistant, coaxial machine gun tapes on a shelf in the tower niche.

Since June 1943 , the tanks are equipped with 51-mm mortars smoke M3, mounted in the roof of the tower from the left side at an angle of 35 °, in this way, that its breech is inside the tank. Mortars is a licensed version of the English "2 inch bomb thrower Mk.I», a regulator, can fire at a fixed distance 35, 75 and 150 m, ʙoezapas 12 smoke-ball. Fire from her usually conducted loader. We also used the usual mines from 50-mm mortar.

To improve the defense capacity of the crew, tanks of all modifications were completed for the M2 machine gun M1919, Thompson Submachine Gun.

The turret gunner tank M4 «Sherman» Corporal Carlton Chapman

Placing crew, instrumentation and sights

The crew consists of five people, for all modifications, кроме Sherman Firefly. The tank housing on both sides of the transmission is a driver (left) and gunner-radio operator (driver's assistant), both have the hatches at the top front part (the early versions) or on the roof of the body in front of the tower (in later versions). In the fighting compartment and the tower housed a tank commander, gunner and loader. the commander of the place is in the back right side of the tower, before him is a gunner, and the entire left half of the tower given Charges. The seat of the driver, assistant driver and the commander of the tank are adjustable, and can be moved in the vertical direction over a fairly wide range of, about 30 cm[not the source][39]. Each crew member, except for the gunner, It is rotatable 360 degree periscope observation M6[39], periscopes can also be moved up and down. Tanks earlier models had peepholes for the driver and his assistant, subsequently refused them.

Sights consist of telescopic sight M55 with threefold increase, rigidly fixed to the mask tools, and M4A1 gunner periscope, having an integral telescopic sight M38A2, which could be used, as a backup. Built in the periscope sight synchronized with the instrument. On the roof of the tower two metal welded pointer, employees for, to the tank commander can deploy the tower in the direction of the target, conducting surveillance periscope. ESP does not machine gun sights. Tanks, armed 105mm howitzer, prepared telescopic sight M77C instead M38A2. For the 76 mm gun was used instead of the M47A2 and M38A2 instead M51 M55. Later iron sights have been improved. Tank got a universal gunner periscope M10 (or a modification of an adjustable sighting grid M16) with two built-in telescopic sights, with a single and a six-fold increase in. Periscope can be used with any type of weapon. Also establishes a direct telescopic sights M70 (improved quality), M71 (fivefold increase), M76 (with an expanded field of view), M83 (AC 4-8 × increase). Tank has weapon angles pointers vertical and horizontal aiming, which allowed for a very efficient artillery fire from concealed positions.

The tank is equipped with a mounted in a recess of the tower VHF radio range of one of three types - SCR 508 with two receivers, SCR 528 with one receiver or SCR 538 without transmitter. Antenna radio station is displayed on the left rear side of the tower roof. Command tanks were equipped situated right in front of the sponsons HF radio SCR 506, with antenna, derived in the top right of the VFD. The tank is equipped with internal intercom BC 605, binding of all crew members, and is part of the radio station. It could also be fitted with an optional set of communication accompanying infantry RC 298, equipped with an external telephone BC 1362, located on the right rear of the chassis. Also, the tank could be equipped with a mobile radio AN / VRC 3, which served to communicate with the infantry SCR 300 (Walkie Talkie). On the tower T23 has a commander's cupola with six fixed periscope observation. The same turret tanks were equipped with a later version of a 105-mm howitzers. For operations in low visibility conditions the tank is equipped with a gyrocompass. In Europe, gyro compasses were not used, but they were in demand in North Africa during sandstorms, and also occasionally used on the Eastern Front, in winter conditions.

Engine

Among other medium tanks of WWII "Sherman" is released, perhaps, the widest range of engines installed on it. In total, the tank was set five different options for the propulsion system, which gave six major modifications:

– M4 and M4A1 - star aircraft engine Continental R975 C1, 350 l. from. at 3500 rev / min.
– M4A2 - Spark GM six-cylinder diesel engines 6046, 375 l. from. at 2100 rev / min.
– M4A3 - specially designed petrol V8Ford GAA, 500 l. from.
– M4A4 - 30-cylinder powerplant Chrysler A57 multibank, consisting of five automotive gasoline engines L6.
– M4A6 - diesel Caterpillar RD1820.

Initially, the layout of the tank and the engine compartment sizes are designed for star-R975, to afford sufficient space to install other types of engines. Nevertheless, 30-cylinder powerplant A57 had dimensions, do not allow to install it in a standard engine compartment, and in the version M4A4 tank received a long body, which was also used in the M4A6.

In the Soviet Union under the program Lend-Lease supplied M4A2, since one of the requirements to the tank was a USSR presence diesel powerplant. The US Army diesel tanks are not used for reasons of logistics, but it was in the Marines (which had access to diesel fuel) and training units. Also, diesel tanks were approximately half put UK, where applied, and gasoline and diesel machinery.

The tank is equipped with a single-cylinder gasoline auxiliary power unit, serving for recharging the batteries without starting the main motor, and also for warming the engine at low temperatures.

Transmission

Transmission tank disposed in front of the case, torque from the engine is transmitted to her propeller shaft, passing in a box on the floor of the crew compartment. Transmission 5-speed, there is a reverse gear, 2-3-4-5 synchronized transmission. The transmission has a double differential type «Cletrac» and two separate brake, by means of which the control. The bodies of the driver control - two lever brakes (servo), clutch pedal, gear lever, Foot and hand accelerator, manual parking brake. Subsequently, the manual parking brake is replaced by a foot.

Molded transmission casing is both lower frontal part of the tank body, lid pack compartment molded from armor steel, and attached to the body of the tank bolts. Massive transmission parts to some extent protect the crew from the defeat of armor-piercing projectiles and secondary fragments, but on the other side, this design increases the likelihood of damage to the transmission itself when released into the body with shells, even if, if there was no armor penetration.

In the production process of transmission structure is not subjected to substantial alterations.

Chassis

tank suspension is generally consistent with that, that was used on the tank M3. suspension blocked, It has three bearing carriages on each side. Carts have two rubberized roller bearing, one of support rollers on the rear side, and two vertical buffer springs. Tanks earliest series, by the year 1942 of the year, We had a suspension with bogies on M2, the same, as early versions of M3. This embodiment of the suspension can be easily distinguished by supporting rollers, located on the tops of trucks.

fine-caterpillar, Parallel with rubber hinge, width 420 mm, 79 Trakov of M4, M4A1, M4A2, M4A3, 83 tract of M4A4 and M4A6. caterpillar tracks have a steel substrate. The first versions of trucks equipped with sufficiently thick rubber tread, which was still more thickened to improve the caterpillar life. Since the beginning of the promotion of Japan in the Pacific access to natural rubber became limited, and they have been designed with tracks riveted, welded or bolted steel protector. Subsequently, the raw material situation has improved, steel and steel protector cover rubber layer.

We had the following options trucks:

– T41 - track with a smooth rubber tread. Could be equipped with a spur.
– T48 - track with rubber tread with grouser chevron.
– T49 - track with three welded steel parallel lugs.
– T51 - track with a smooth rubber tread, tread thickness is increased as compared to T41. Could be equipped with a spur.
– T54E1, T54E2 - track with welded steel tread the chevron.
– T56 - track with a simple steel tread bolt.
– T56E1 - truck with steel protector in the form of a chevron bolt.
– T62 - track with steel protector in the form of chevrons on the rivets.
– T47, T47E1 - truck with three welded steel cleats, coated rubber.
– T74 - track with welded steel tread the chevron, coated rubber.

Canadians have developed their own type of caterpillar C.D.P. with cast metal Tracians open metal hinge consistent. These tracks are very similar to those, which were used on the majority of German tanks of the time.

This suspension is designated VVSS (Vertical Volute Spring Suspension, "Vertical"), in the name of the tank, this abbreviation is usually omitted.

In late March 1945 , the suspension has been upgraded, Rollers steel double, spring horizontal, shape and kinematics of the rocker has also been changed, introduced hydraulic shock absorbers. Suspension got wider, 58 cm, caterpillar T66, T80 and T84. Tanks with a suspension (dubbed Horisontal Volute Spring Suspension, "Horizontal") had abbreviated designation HVSS. "Horizontal" suspension differs from the "vertical" lower specific ground pressure, and gives the modernized tank slightly greater permeability. Besides, This suspension is more reliable and requires less maintenance.

Caterpillar HVSS suspension had three main variants:

– T66 - alloy steel tracks, sequential metal hinge opening.
– T80 - rubber mount, trucks with steel protector in the form of a chevron, rubberized.
– T84 - rubber mount, trucks with rubber tread in the form of a chevron. They were used after the war.

M4A1(76)W HVSS

modifications

The main production version

A feature of the production was the M4, that virtually all of its variants were not the result of upgrades, and we had a purely technological differences and produced almost simultaneously. That is, unlike from the M4A1 M4A2 does not mean, M4A2 indicates that the more recent and more advanced embodiment, it only means, that these models were made at different factories and have different engines (as well as other minor differences). Modernizatsiyam, such as changing boeukladki, equipping a new turret and gun, Suspension type change, all types were exposed to as a whole in the same time, receiving military designation W, (76) and HVSS. Factory designations differ, and include the letter E and a numeric index. for example, M4A3(76)W HVSS had factory designation M4A3E8.

Serial options "Sherman" were as follows:

M4 - a tank with a welded body and radial engine carburetor Continental R-975. Mass-produce from July 1942 to January 1944 , the company Pressed Steel Car Co, Baldwin Locomotive Works, American Locomotive Co, Pullman Standard Car Co, Detroit Tank Arsenal. Total production 8389 machines, 6748 of them were armed with a gun M3, 1641 M4(105) received 105 mm gaubitsu. M4 production Detroit Tank Arsenal distinguished cast frontal part and got the name of the M4 Composite Hull.

M4A1 - the first who had gone into the production model, a tank with a molded motor and Continental R-975, almost entirely consistent with the original prototype T6. It was issued in February 1942 to December 1943 The firm Lima Locomotive Works, Pressed Steel Car Co, Pacific Car and Foundry Co. Total production 9677 machines, 6281 of them were armed with a gun M3, 3396 M4A1(76)W got a new gun M1. Tanks for the first series had a 75-mm cannon and two M2 machine gun fixed exchange rate.

M4A2 - tank with welded hull and propulsion of the two diesel engines General Motors 6046. Issued April 1942 till May 1945 The firm Pullman Standard Car Co, Fisher Tank Arsenal, American Locomotive Co, Baldwin Locomotive Works, Federal Machine & Welder Co. Total production 11 283 tanka, 8053 of them were armed with a gun M3, 3230 M4A2(76)W got a new gun M1.

M4A3 - had a welded body and carburetor engine Ford GAA. Produced by enterprises Fisher Tank Arsenal, Detroit Tank Arsenal in June 1942 to March 1945 in the number of years 11 424 pieces. 5015 had a gun M3, 3039 M4A3(105) 105-mm gaubitsu, 3370 M4A3(76)W new gun M1. In June and July 1944 of the year 254 M4A3 pieces with a gun M3 were converted into M4A3E2.

M4A4 - machine welded elongated body and powertrain Chrysler A57 Multibank five car engines. It was released in the amount of 7499 pieces now Detroit Tank Arsenal. All were armed with a weapon M3, and had a few mutated form of the tower, with a radio station in the rear recess and a port for firing a gun on the left side of the tower.

M4A5 - designation, reserved for the Canadian Ram Tank, but he never assigned. Tank interesting, that in fact, It is not a version of M4, and greatly upgraded version of M3. Ram Tank had English 6-pound cannon, cast body with side door like a prototype T6, cast the tower of the original form, Chassis corresponded M3, except Track Shoe. Montreal Locomotive Works произвёл 1948 machines. In the battle Ram did not participate because of too weak gun, but it served as the basis for numerous armored vehicles, Kangaroo TBTR e.g..

M4A6 - welded body, similar to M4A4, Cast front part. Engine - multi-fuel diesel Caterpillar D200A. released 75 Tank Plant Detroit Tank Arsenal. The tower was the same, like the M4A4.

Grizzly Bear - Tank M4A1, serially produced in Canada. Basically similar to the American tanks, it differed from the structure of the drive wheel and the caterpillars. Total produced 188 pieces by Montreal Locomotive Works.

Infantry under the guise of "Sherman" tank, equipped with a cutter to overcome hedges - Bocage

prototypes

Tank AA, 20mm Quad, Skink - English prototype anti-aircraft tank chassis M4A1 Canadian production. The tank was equipped with four 20-mm anti-aircraft guns Polsten, It represents a simplified version of a 20-mm anti-aircraft guns Oerlikon. despite, that Skink was brought up to series production in January 1944 of the year, It was made just a few pieces, because the total supremacy of the Allies in the air eliminates the need for air defense systems.

M4A2E4 - prototype version M4A2 with an independent torsion suspension, similar tank T20E3. Built two tanks in the summer 1943 of the year.

Centipede - prototype version M4A1 with leaf spring suspension on semi-tracked conveyor T16.

T52 - American prototype anti-aircraft tank chassis M4A3 with a 40 mm gun M1 and two .50 pulyemyotami M2B.

Special tanks on the basis of "Sherman"

Terms war, and especially the desire to provide the Allies heavy armor its scale landing operations, led to a large number of specialized "Sherman" tanks. But even ordinary drill machines often bore the brunt of the additional devices, eg, blade to pass through the "hedges" Normandy. Specialized versions of tanks created as Americans, and the British, the latter were particularly active.

The most famous specialized options:

Sherman Firefly - tanks M4A1 and M4A4 British Army, perevooruzhonnye "17-pounder" (76,2 mm) anti-tank gun. Alteration was changing gear and mask-setting, removal station in an outer packaging, mounted on the rear of the tower, failure of the driver's assistant (his position will be part of the ammunition) and a machine gun course. Besides, due to the great length of the barrel was varied relatively thin fixing gun system marching, Tower Sherman Firefly stowed unfolded on 180 degrees, and the gun barrel was mounted on an arm, installed on the roof of the engine compartment. Total has undergone alteration 699 tanks, that came into English, Polish, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand part.

M4A3E2 Sherman Jumbo c 75 mm gun M3

M4A3E2 Sherman Jumbo - heavily armored ground attack version of the M4A3(75)W. From conventional M4A3 Jumbo different weld on VFD sponsons and additional armor plates thickness 38 mm, reinforced gear compartment lid, new tower with enhanced reservation, developed on the base of the tower T23. Musk-installation M62 intensified Weld additional armor, and received the name T110. Despite, usually on the M62 gun was put M1, Jumbo received 75 mm M3, because it had a large shell with explosive effect, Jumbo and was not intended for a tank battle. Subsequently, several M4A3E2 were rearmed in the field, We got a gun M1A1, and used as a tank destroyer. Reservation Sherman Jumbo was as follows: LLP - 100 mm, transmission compartment cover - 114-140 mm, sponsons - 76 mm, Mask guns - 178 mm, forehead, side and rear of the tower - 150 mm. Due to increased weight increased to booking 38 tonnes, whereby the highest transmission gear ratio has been changed.

Sherman DD with the lowered screen

Sherman DD - a specialized version of the tank, equipped with the system Duplex Drive (DD) to overcome water obstacles swimming. The tank was equipped with an inflatable rubberized canvas jacket and the propellers driven by the main motor. Sherman DD was developed in England in the early 1944 year for numerous amphibious operations, which was to lead the armies of the Allies, primarily for the Normandy landings.

Sherman Crab - the most common English specialized tank-trawler, equipped Boikov trawl for laying passages in minefields. Other options mine "Sherman» - AMRCR, CIRD, and others, mainly roller-type.

M4A3 T34 Sherman Calliope leads fire in France

Sherman Calliope - tank M4A1 or M4A3, equipped with a turret mounted on multiple launch rocket systems T34 Calliope, from 60 tubular guides 114-mm rockets M8. Horizontal guidance launcher carried out by turning the tower, and the vertical - lift and lowering tank gun, the trunk of which was connected with the guide launcher special thrust. Despite the presence of missile, Tank is fully retained weapons and conventional book "Sherman", making him the only MRL, able to act directly on the battlefield. Crew Sherman Calliope could carry fire missiles, It is inside the tank, removal to the rear is only required to recharge. The downside was that, that the thrust was attached directly to the trunk of a gun, it did not fire out of it until, while the launcher is not discharged. The launchers and T43E1 T34E2 this drawback was eliminated.

T40 Whizbang - a variant of the tank with a rocket launcher for 182-mm rockets M17. Overall launcher was structurally similar to T34, but I had 20 guides, protection of armor. These tanks were used mainly in the assault operations, including in Italy and in the Pacific theater.

M4 Dozer

M4 Dozer - variant "Sherman" to set in front of the dozer blade M1 or M2. Tank used engineering units, including mine clearance, along with specific embodiments countermine.

Sherman Crocodile, Sherman Adder, Sherman Badger, POA-CWS-H1 - British and American versions ognemotnye "Sherman".

SAU at the base of "Sherman"

Since the "Sherman" tank was the main platform in the US Army, quite a lot of it was built on the basis of self-propelled guns for various purposes, including heavy tank destroyers. American concept of ACS was somewhat different from the Soviet or German, and instead of setting the tool in the closed armored cockpit Americans placed in its open top or the rotating turret (on Tank Destroyer), open armored cockpit (M7 Priest) or on an open platform, in the latter case, shots were fired staff, located outside.

Available in the following versions of ACS:

– 3in Gun Motor Carriage M10 - tank destroyer, also known, like Wolverine. Equipped with 76-mm gun M7.
– 90-mm Gun Motor Carriage M36 - tank destroyer, known as Jackson. Equipped with 90 mm gun M3.
– 105 mm Howitzer Motor Carriage M7 - propelled 105mm howitzer Priest.
– 155 mm GMC M40, 203 mm HMC M43, 250 mm MMC T94, Cargo Carrier T30 - heavy cannon, howitzer and ammunition transporter based on M4A3 HVSS.

The British had their own SAU:

– Tracked self-propelled 25 pounder Sexton I, II - the approximate analogue M7 Priest to the Canadian Ram Tank chassis.
– Achilles IIC — M10, perevooruzhonnaya British 17-pounders Mk.V.

"Sherman" chassis also served as the basis for the creation of ACS in some other countries, such as Israel and Pakistan.

M10 Tank Destroyer

BREM

The US Army had a fairly wide range of Armored Recovery Vehicle, created mainly on the basis of M4A3:

– M32, M4A3 chassis, installed instead of the armored turret superstructure. BREM was equipped with a 6-meter tridtsatitonnym A-shaped trailer trucks, and had a 81-mm mortar for the protection of repair and recovery works.

– M74, a more advanced version of the ARV-based tanks with HVSS suspension. M74 has a more powerful crane, winches, and installed in front of the dozer blade.

– M34, artillery tractor M32 basis disassembled crane.

The British had their own version of the ARV, Sherman III ARV, Sherman BARV. Canadians also produced TBTR Sherman Kangaroo.

postwar options

Several hundred M4A1 and M4A3 tanks with 75 mm cannons were rearmed with 76mm cannon M1A1 without replacing towers. Alteration was carried out at the enterprises «Bowen-McLaughlin-York Co.» (BMY) in York, Pennsylvania, and Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois. Tanks received index E4(76). These machines are supplied in particular to Yugoslavia, Denmark, Pakistan and Portugal.

Israeli "Sherman"

Israeli armored M50 in the museum in Kubinka

Of all the many post-war "Shermans" modifications, Perhaps the most interesting are the M50 and M51, consisting in the IDF arsenal. The history of these tanks is:

Israel began to buy "Sherman" even during the War of Independence, in September 1948 of the year, they were mostly bought in Italy M1(105) at about 50 pcs. Later purchases "Shermans" were conducted with 1951 by 1966 year, in France, Great Britain, The Philippines and other countries, all were purchased about 560 pieces of various modifications. Basically we purchased decommissioned tanks, remaining after the Second World War, recovery and acquisition carried out in Israel.

The IDF "Shermans" refers to the type of installed tools, all tanks with a gun M3 are called Sherman M3, tanks with a 105mm howitzer called Sherman M4, tanks with 76 mm gun - Sherman M1. Tanks, had suspension HVSS (it was purchased in 1956 in France M4A1(76)W HVSS) were named Super Sherman M1 or simply Super Sherman.

AT 1956 , Israel began "Sherman" re on the French 75-mm cannon CN-75-50, designed for AMX-13 tank, in Israel it is called M50. Ironically, This gun was the French version of the German 7,5 cm KwK 42, installed on the "Panther". The prototype was made «Atelier de Bourges» France, own work on re-made in Israel. The gun was mounted in old sample tower, Cut the back of the tower, and this place is welded a new, with a large niche. The IDF tanks was designated Sherman M50, and Western sources, they are known as "Supersherman" (despite, that in Israel they have never worn such a name). just before 1964 rearmed, it was about 300 tanks.

"Sherman" M50 the M4A3 base(75)W HVSS

AT 1962 , Israel expressed interest in re-equipment of their "Shermans" even more powerful guns, to withstand Egyptian T-55. And here again helped the French, have offered shortened to 44 105mm caliber weapon CN-105-F1, designed for AMX-30 (in addition to the shortened barrel, gun muzzle brake also received). In Israel, this tool was called the M51, and installed on the Israeli "Sherman» M4A1(76)W in a modified tower T23. In order to compensate for the weight of the gun, tanks received a new recoil system SAMM CH23-1, new US diesel Cummins VT8-460, advanced sighting equipment. Suspension of the tanks was replaced by HVSS. Total has been upgraded about 180 tanks, received designation Sherman M51, and become better known in Western sources as "Israeli Sherman", or simply «I-Sherman». Israeli "Sherman" took part in all Arab-Israeli wars, during which both faced with the tanks of World War II, and with a much more recent Soviet and American tanks.

"Sherman" M51 the M4A1 base(76)W HVSS

In the late 1970s, about half of the remaining in Israel 100 M51 were sold in Chile, which were in service until the end of the twentieth century. the other half, along with some M50, It was transferred to southern Lebanon.

In addition to the original "Shermans", and also mentioned modifications, Israel also has a large number of ACS, ARV and armored personnel carriers on the basis of its own production "Sherman". Some of them are in service still.

Israeli 160-mm mortar Makmat chassis "Sherman"

Egyptian "Sherman"

Egypt also had to "Sherman" armed, Moreover, they have also been rearmed with French guns CN-75-50. Unlike Israeli Sherman M50 was that, that was put M4A4 FL-10 tower of the AMX-13 tank, together with the instrument and charging system. Since the Egyptians used diesel, the petrol engines were replaced by diesel M4A2.

All work on the design and construction of the Egyptian "Shermans" performed in France.

Most Egyptian "Sherman" was lost during the Suez crisis 1956 of the year, and during the Six-Day War 1967 of the year, including in clashes with Israeli Sherman M50.

Egyptian diesel M4A4 with FL-10 tower

Reviews

"Sherman was much better," Matilda "in terms of maintainability. Did, that one of the designers of the Sherman was a Russian engineer Tymoshenko? It is a distant relative of Marshal C.. TO. Tymoshenko.

The high center of gravity has been a serious drawback Sherman. The tank frequently tipped over on its side, as the matryoshka. I'm Battalion, and, cornering, my a driver hits a car on a pedestrian border. so much so, that the tank rolled over. Of course, we cripple, but survived.

Another shortcoming of the Sherman - the design of the driver hatch. At the Shermans first batches of the hatch, located in the roof of the shell, simply folded up and sideways. The driver opened his part, sticking your head, to see better was. So there have been cases, when at the turn of the tower, gun touched the door and he, falling, the driver swerved neck. One or two such cases have been. Then it is removed and the door lifted and a shift towards, as modern tanks.

Another big plus of the Sherman was to recharge batteries. On our thirty-four for charging the battery needed to drive the engine at full power, all 500 horses. At Sherman charging gasoline behind tractor stood in the fighting compartment, little, as a motorcycle. She led him - and he'll charge the battery. For us it was a great thing! »

D. F. vine

Lend-Lease

In the UK

Britain became the first country, M4 received on lend-lease program, and the first, Applying these tanks in action. Total British received 17 181 tank, almost all models, including diesel cars. Supplied in "Sherman" England before joining the army to reopen and subjected to a slight modification, designed to ensure their compliance with the standards adopted by the British Army. Alterations were as follows:

– The tank was installed a set of English Radio Set #19, consisting of two separate radios and intercom. Radio stations were placed in bronekorobke, welded to the rear of the tower, Access to the crew in the rear wall of the tower cut holes.
– It was mounted on the tower of the British 2-inch mortars smoke, then it began to be established on all the "Sherman" at the factory.
– The tank is equipped with two additional fire-extinguishing systems.
– The tower and the rear cover plate mounted boxes for spare parts.
– Some of the tanks got rear-view mirror, mounted on the right front of the chassis.

Besides, tanks repainted in the standard, taken to theater colors, obtained British labels and decals, and passed small modernization according to the intended application site. for example, tanks intended for operations in North Africa, received additional wings over the tracks, for reducing the dust cloud at the lifted movement. All these alterations were made in specialized workshops after the tanks arrived in England.

In the British Army its own system of notation was adopted, other than the US:

– Sherman I — M4;
– Sherman II — M4A1;
– Sherman III — M4A2;
– Sherman IV — M4АЗ;
– Sherman V — M4A4.

Besides, if the tank was armed with a weapon, other than the standard 75-mm gun M3, is to own an English model designation was added Lit.:

A - for the US 76-mm gun M1;
B - for the American 105-mm howitzers M4;
C - for the British 17-pounders.

Tanks with HVSS suspension obtained additional letter 'Y.

A complete list of accepted designations such British:

– Sherman I — M4, delivered 2096 units;
– Sherman IB — M4(105), delivered 593 units;
– Sherman IC — M4, with the British 17-pounder gun (Sherman Firefly), 699 units;
– Sherman II — M4A1, delivered 942 units;
– Sherman IIA — M4A1(76)W, delivered 1330 units;
– Sherman IIC — M4A1, with the British 17-pounder gun (Sherman Firefly);
– Sherman III — M4A2, placed 5041 unit;
– Sherman IIIA — M4A2(76)W, delivered 5 units;
– Sherman IV — M4АЗ, delivered 7 units;
– Sherman V — M4A4, delivered 7167 units;
– Sherman VC — M4A4, with the British 17-pounder gun (Sherman Firefly).

Many tanks delivered to the UK served as the basis for a variety of combat vehicles English production.

American tank M4A3E8 HVSS «Sherman» 21st Tank Battalion, 10th Armored Division on the street Rossveldena (Rosswalden) in Germany. Now it is part of the city Ebersbach an der Fils.

IN USSR

The Soviet Union became the second "Shermans" the volume of the recipient. According to the law the Lend-Lease Soviet Union received:

– M4A2 - 1990 units.
– M4A2(76)W — 2073 units.
– M4A4 — 2 units. trial delivery. The order declined due to gasoline engines.
– M4A2(76)W HVSS — 183 units. Delivered in May and June 1945 of the year, in the fighting in Europe did not participate.

In the USSR, "Sherman" is often called "Emcha" (instead of M4). In its basic combat characteristics "Sherman" with a 75 mm cannon roughly corresponded Soviet T-34-76, 76 mm - T-34-85.

No modification of tanks arriving in the USSR are not subjected to, even repainted (Soviet markings applied to them at the factory, since stencils US and Soviet stars in the whole match, it was only necessary to change the color), many tanks did not have any national markings. Depreservation tanks made directly to troops, thus they are manually applied tactical numbers and markings parts. A certain amount of it was rearmed with guns F-34 force field workshops, because, At the initial stage of operation of the Red Army in a deficit of US 75-mm shells. After, as the provision was established, alteration stopped. The exact number of tanks perevooruzhonnyh, dubbed M4M, unknown, apparently it slightly.

First time in the conditions of the autumn and the spring thaw and winter tracks artisanal way in the armed forces is welded spurs. Later, "Sherman" supplied with removable spurs complete and no longer need such a modification. Some tanks were converted to ARV by the dismantling of guns or towers, usually it was tanks, damaged in the fighting. Other alterations in the USSR was not made. Despite some flaws, as it is not too high-quality armor on the first batches of machines, (the lack of which will soon eliminate), M4 have earned a good reputation Soviet tank. Anyway received classic layout with the main rotating tool during at 360 degrees tower, they are very favorably with his predecessor M3 medium tank. Another advantage was the availability of high-power radio stations.

The Americans were in the Soviet Union special representatives, who observed the operation of American tanks directly to the troops. In addition to the functions of technical advisers, These representatives were also responsible for collecting feedback and complaints, sending them to manufacturers. Known defects rather quickly eliminated in the following series. Except the tanks, Americans also supplying repair kits; in general, the problems with the repair and restoration was not. Nevertheless, quite a large number of "Shermans" damaged in the fighting was dismantled for spare parts, and parts went to the restoration of their more fortunate brethren. The set of "Sherman" equipment includes a coffee maker. What makes a great impression on the Soviet mechanics, tanks were preparing for operation.

In addition to the UK and the USSR, "Sherman" supplied under the Lend-Lease Canada, Australia, new Zealand, free France, Poland, Brazil. Canada, Besides, It had its own production of M4.

combat application

North Africa

The first "Sherman" arrived in North Africa August 1942 of the year, it was the M4A1 with a gun M2, used to train tank crews and service personnel. the first batch of new tanks arrived in September, and 23 October, they went into battle at El Alamein. Just at the beginning of the battle the British 8th Army had 252 M4A1 as part of the 9th Armored Brigade and the 1st and 10th Panzer Divisions. Despite, that adopted African body by that time had received several tens PzKpfw III and PzKpfw IV with long-barreled guns, "Sherman" proved to be very good, demonstrating good reliability, maneuverability, adequate weapons and armor. According to the British, New American tanks have played a fairly significant role in their victory in this battle.

Americans first used the "Sherman" in Tunisia 6 December 1942 of the year. Inexperience American crews and failures of command led to large losses in the counterattack against a well-prepared PTI. In the future, improved tactics Americans, and basic losses "Shermans" refers not to counter German tanks, and by anti-personnel mines (prompting the development of Sherman Crab), actions of artillery and aviation PTI. The army tank received good reviews, and very soon, "Sherman" has become the main medium tank American units, replacing the medium tank M3.

Overall, M4 tank proved to be very suitable for action in the desert, that was confirmed by its post-war history. A very large and flat expanses of Africa can be very useful was his dependability, good speed, usability crew, excellent visibility and communication. The tank was not enough distance travel, but the Allies solved this problem by working great supply services, Besides, tankers are often carried with an additional fuel in cans.

14 February 1943 , Tunisia was the first collisions "Shermans" (1-Panzer Regiment and the 1st Armored Division) with a new heavy German tank PzKpfw VI Tiger (501-second heavy tank battalion), which revealed the inability of M4 to fight on equal terms with the German heavy armored vehicles.

Padded Soviet M4 «Sherman»

Eastern front

In the USSR, "Sherman" began to arrive in November 1942 of the year (the first tank was 5th Guards Tank Brigade), but in significant quantities the tank appeared in the Soviet army until the end of 1943 of the year (Battle of Kursk involved several dozen "Sherman" - 38 M4A2 as part of the 48th Army troops and 29 "Sherman" as part of the 5th Panzer Corps). Since the spring 1944 of the year, "Sherman" was attended by almost all the battles on all fronts of the Great Patriotic War. Tankers American tanks took good, especially noted the convenience of the crew in comparison with the Soviet tanks, as well as very high quality instrumentation and communications equipment. There to serve a "foreign car" was considered good luck. On the positive assessment of the tank also influenced the, what, one side, he was much more perfect than its predecessor M3, and on the other - in the Red Army had already mastered the intricacies of operating American equipment.

in winter 1943 year revealed some shortcomings M4A2, specific to the Russian winter conditions. Tanks, put the USSR, We had a smooth tread rubber shoe tracks, It is causing quite serious problems when driving on icy winter roads. Insufficient adhesion caterpillars with the ground compounded high center of gravity, and the tank rolled over quite often. Overall tank almost matched Soviet T34 (giving him security of the boards) and applied in the same manner, without any special differences. Often it uses a lot less noise "Shermans", in comparison with the Soviet tanks, and practiced a fire infantry to armor while in motion, that provides a soft suspension. T-34-85 had already had more superiority in caliber guns, and security of the frontal projection of the tower.

The Soviet tanks, received under Lend-Lease, We tried to combine in separate parts (at the level of tank battalions or brigades), for ease of crew training and logistics. A large number of "Shermans" were reported in the USSR has created and whole body (eg, 1-Guards Mechanized Corps, 9-Guards Tank Corps), armed only this type of tank. Often in the same parts used American medium tanks and light tanks T-60 and T-80 Soviet-made. obtained summer 1945 year M4A2(76)W HVSS were sent to the Far East, and took part in the war against Japan.

M4A1 in Sicily. 1943 year

"Sherman" in Western Europe

The first application of M4 in Europe relates to the landing in Sicily 10 July 1943 of the year, which acted 2nd Armored Division and the 753rd Tank Battalion separate. By the beginning of "Overlord" was aware of the Allied Command, that appeared in the middle 1942 year "Sherman" in 1944 year is already outdated, since a collision with a heavy German technology in Italy showed the reservation failure, and most importantly - "Sherman" weapons. The Americans and the British have reacted to this situation in different ways.

The British promptly began work on installing on had their "Sherman" of its new anti-17-pounder guns, which has shown excellent results in the fight against German tanks, including heavy "Tiger" and "Panther". The work went quite well, but re-scales were limited to minor production of weapons, and ammunition. Americans, who were asked to produce a 17-pounder gun at its plants, this proposal refused, preferring production of its own models. As a result,, to the beginning of active hostilities in France, the English is only a few hundred Sherman Firefly, distributing them in their tank units, approximately one per tank platoon.

the Americans, even though they had by this time quite substantial experience of using tanks (though smaller, than the British), the opinion, that the tanks in the first place should be used to support infantry, but to deal with enemy tanks need to use special highly mobile tank destroyers. This tactic could be effective as a counter tank breakthroughs "blitzkrieg", but for the type of fighting, that characterized the second half of World War II, It is not appropriate, as the Germans have ceased to apply the strategy of concentrated tank attacks.

Besides, after victories in North Africa has been characterized by some Americans arrogance. Commander in Chief of the US land forces, General McNair, in particular, He stated:

tank M4, especially M4A3, Today was declared the best battle tank. there are signs, that the enemy believes as. obviously, M4 that ideal combination of mobility, Reliability, velocity, body armor and firepower. In addition to this strange, representing the British view of the problem, request to any one theater not received evidence of the need for 90-mm tank gun. In my, no fear of German tanks T.VI ("Tiger") Our troops do not feel ... no basis for the production of T26 tanks does not and can not, but the tank, tank destroyer concept, which, I'm sure, It is unjustified and not necessary. And the British and American combat experience demonstrated, that the anti-tank guns in sufficient quantity and at the correct positions selected completely surpass tanks. Any attempt to create a heavily armored and armed tanks, able to surpass the anti-tank gun will inevitably lead to failure. There is no indication, that the 76-mm anti-tank gun was inadequate against German T.VI.

- General Leslie McNair.

Operation "Overlord". M4A1 and M4A3, equipped with snorkels, LCT on deck

As a result of this approach, the Americans at the time of the Normandy landings came, having only medium tanks M4, including with enhanced weapons, despite the existence of very successful to replace the M4 new type of program. heavy tank production program M26 «Pershing" has also not been implemented.

Apart from the usual tanks, such a colossal landing operation also require a huge amount of equipment engineering and sapper, which gave rise to a large number of specialized options M4, the most famous of which was the Sherman DD. The creation of such a technique are largely dominated by English, Hobart Group, using for this purpose not only the US, but British tanks. In addition to the amphibious tanks, It was also "Sherman", received a snorkel to overcome shallow water.

During the "toys Hobart's" most landings were to clear the road of mines and other obstacles Atlantic Wall, and left on shore Sherman DD needed to support their fire erupts embankments infantry. In general, it just happened, except, Americans mostly ignored the specialized assault equipment, relying mainly on his infantry and support fleet guns. The situation is aggravated by the fact, that portion of the landing "Omaha" amphibious tanks were floated significantly farther from shore, than expected according to plan, and as a result they sank before, as we could go ashore. On other sections amphibious, assault and sapper tanks worked perfectly, and disembarkation has passed without any loss.

American M4, abandoned by the crew on the "Utah Beach" landing site during the "Overlord" operation. The tank is equipped with two snorkels for operations in shallow waters.

After the capture of the bridgehead allies had close encounter with the German panzer divisions, that were thrown on defense "Fortress Europe", and then it turned out, Allies underestimated the degree of saturation of the German troops with heavy armor types, especially tanks "Panther". In direct clashes with German heavy tanks "Sherman" had very little chance. English to a certain extent could count on your Sherman Firefly, whose great cannon made a great impression on the Germans (so big, that the crews of German tanks tried first hit namely Firefly, and then deal with the rest). Americans, who counted on his new instrument, quickly found, that still is not enough for certain lesions on the forehead of his power armor-piercing shells, "Panther".

M4A1(76)W breaks through the "hedge". Can be seen mounted on a tank device for passage through the bush.

The situation is aggravated by the fact, that the natural conditions of Normandy, especially its "hedges", not given "Sherman" to realize his advantage in speed and maneuverability. Besides, These conditions made it impossible to make armored breakthroughs strategic scale, for which the "Sherman" with its speed and reliability has been beautifully adapted. Instead, the Allies had to gnaw slowly among the "hedges", carrying very heavy losses from acting against them German tanks and "faustpatronnikov" (last enjoy the benefits of the area, to approach to a distance of actual fire).

As a result, Allied tankers mostly have to rely on its overwhelming numerical superiority, works great repair service, as well as the actions of its air and artillery, that handled the German defenses before the advent of tanks. Allied aircraft very effectively inhibited communication and logistical services of the German tank forces, which is very limiting their operations.

According to the book Belton Cooper's "Deathtrap" («Death traps»), in charge of the evacuation and tank repair, Only 3rd Panzer Division for ten months lost in battle 1348 medium "Sherman" tanks (more 580 % on staffing levels in 232 tanka), of which 648 It was completely destroyed. Besides, non-combat losses amounted to approximately 600 tanks.

In Normandy, many "Sherman" subjected to field modifications, such as they were assembled and factory-made tools to overcome the "hedges", increases armor, Weld by additional armor plates, as well as simply by attaching spare tracks, sandbags, protivokumulyativnyh makeshift screens. Underestimating the cumulative antitank infantry led to, that American industry such screens are not released until the end of the war.

After the release of the Allied armies in the operating room in France, excellent strategic mobility "Shermans" revealed in full. On the other hand, It revealed, that the M4 is not very suitable for fighting in urban areas, mainly due to weak booking, and small-caliber tank guns. Specialized Sherman Jumbo was not enough, tanks and artillery support from the 105mm howitzers in the city were too vulnerable.

Very actively and successfully used rocket variants "Shermans", as well as flame tank (especially during the storming of permanent fortifications on the German border). But the actions of tank destroyers M10 have not been very effective, because the, except for the lack of power of their guns, It manifested as insufficient reservations, Besides, crews in open towers proved to be very vulnerable to mortar and artillery fire. M36 showed better, but he had an open tower. Generally, tank destroyers have failed in their task, and the brunt of the fighting tank rested on the shoulders of ordinary "Shermans".

Sherman DD during the crossing of the Rhine

Sherman DD pretty actively used to force rivers, as Reina.

By the end 1944 the year was a part of American and British troops 7591 "Sherman", excluding reserves. All in the Western European theater of war were at least 15 American armored divisions, not to mention 37 separate tank battalions. The main problem of American tank troops in this theater became not shortcomings of the M4, which proved to be a very effective weapon, and that, that arms were not heavier types of armor, capable on equal terms to enter into combat with German tanks. "Sherman" was conceived as an infantry support tank, and as showed their best, but in the actions against the "Panthers", "Tigers" and "King Tiger" of the Germans, he was not too effective.

Marines take cover behind the tank on Saipan. tank M4A2, with snorkel set for action in shallow water (apparently, this tank was at the forefront during the landing on the island).

"Sherman" against Japan

The first "Sherman" appeared in the Pacific during the operation on Tarawa, 20 November 1943 of the year, in compounds of the US Marine Corps. Since the US Navy had no problems with diesel fuel, against the Japanese acted mainly diesel version M4A2. After Tarawa "Sherman" was the main type of an American tank in the Pacific theater, completely replacing the M3 «Lee», who were mostly on garrison duty. Besides, "Sherman" and replaced "Stuarts", since the use of light tanks in the assault operations recognized inexpedient (their advantage in mobility meant nothing in the small area islands). The situation in the Pacific theater of operations is fundamentally different from that in Europe and North Africa. Japanese tanks were very small, outdated, and for the most part related to the type of light, directly confront the American M4, they could not. designed in 1944 It was specifically to counter the "Sherman" a new type of "Chi-Well" in the fighting did not participate, as it was intended for the defense of the Japanese islands directly.

Since almost all the operations of American marines and the army in this theater had the character of a breakthrough long-term Japanese Defense, "Sherman" is mainly played the role of infantry support tank, that is exactly the role, for which they were created. Japanese tanks could not provide a sufficient counter because of the weakness of their arms, unable to penetrate the armor "Shermans". Americans have the same problems with the defeat of the Japanese tanks, usually, did not have. This led to, the Japanese mainly used their tanks improvised Pillbox, acting from a specially prepared trenches. Active attempts to use Japanese tanks and prevented a very weak Japanese tactical training of tank commanders, I had no experience fighting tank. With the most active Japanese American tank units encountered in the Philippines, where the act of the 2nd Panzer Division Group Shobu, under General Tomoyuki Yamashita. Total Japanese were there for about 220 tanks, most of which were lost during the onset of the Americans in the direction of San Jose.

In the Pacific theater, "Sherman" has established itself as an excellent infantry support tank, plus also it has been its relatively small size and weight, making it easy to transfer tanks from island to island. The tank turned adapted for operations in hot humid climates, and I did not have any problems with the reliability and maneuverability. Major losses of American tanks were from the bombings on anti-personnel mines. Lacking an effective anti-tank artillery and infantry anti-tank weapons, Japanese people often used the tactic of suicide attacks, sending tanks against American Marines with his satchel, magnetic and Shestov mines, antitank grenades, and so on. d. Widely used rocket tanks, tanks artillery support, as well as flame tank.

The specific nature of warfare led to the, that tanks were used as part of separate tank battalions, provide support infantry divisions. Panzer divisions were formed in the Pacific theater, in the absence of the need for concentration of armored vehicles, and also because of the impossibility of strategic maneuvering armored units.

Ognemёtnый «Sherman» of Ivodzime

The post-war conflicts

The postwar history of the tank was no less eventful.

In the US, "Sherman" Army M4A3 and modifications M4A3E8(105) It was in service until the mid-1950s, and National Guard units - until the end of 1950. A large number of tanks remained in Europe, which was in service of American and British occupation troops. A large number were also transferred to the armies of the liberated countries in the order of military assistance.

"Sherman" had a chance to take part in almost all the world's conflicts 50, 60-x, and even 70s. The geography of their services include virtually the entire globe.

The Korean war

The onset of the North Korean army has put the American command in a very difficult situation - the only tank in South Korea has been a certain amount of light American M24 Chaffee. Solution could be the urgent transfer of tanks from Japan, but there are only versions with 75-mm guns M3, because the need for the 76-mm cannon during the war in the Pacific has not emerged. As these tanks are seriously inferior in firepower T 34-85, which had in the Korean People's Army, it was decided to re-equip their 76-mm guns M1. Rearmament was made at the Tokyo arsenal, guns were installed in the usual tower M4A3, all were converted 76 tanks. First perevooruzhonnye "Sherman" arrived in Korea 31 July 1950 the year 8072 as part of the second battalion of medium tanks, and 2 August went into battle in Chung-ni. Subsequently, the tanks began to arrive from the United States, and all involved in the Korean War 547 tanks "Sherman" different modifications, mainly M4A1E4(76). Armed British forces consisted Sherman Firefly.

M4A3E8 conducts fire from 76-mm artillery shells at enemy bunkers at "Napalm Ridge", 11 May 1952 of the year

The main opponent of "Sherman" in the war began the T-34-85, the armament of North Koreans and the Chinese. After the arrival of American medium and heavy tanks T-34 dominance on the battlefield came to an end, and tank battles usually ended in favor of the American tankers. Having approximately equal to T34 booking, "Sherman" surpassed it in accuracy and rate of fire guns, mainly due to better optics, and the presence of a stabilizer. Implements both tanks were powerful enough to, to pierce the armor of each other almost at all distances of real combat. But the main reason for the failure of Korean and Chinese tank in a higher level of their American opponents.

FROM 21 July 1950 by 21 January 1951 as part of the 8th Army and 10th Army Corps took part in the hostilities 516 M4A3, of which was lost on incomplete data 220 tanks (120 irretrievably). Irretrievable losses was the highest among all the mass use of tanks. A large number of broken and abandoned during the retreat of the tanks was captured by the North Koreans and the Chinese. On 1 April 1951 Korea was 442 M4A3 tank. FROM 21 January 8 April 1951 year was lost 178 tanks of this type. FROM 8 April 6 October 1951 year was lost 362 thin «Sherman».

At the beginning of the war the Americans are widely used heavier tanks M26 «Pershing", but it soon became clear, that in spite of the powerful weapon and a good book this tank can not operate effectively in the Korean mountains, because it has the same engine, and that the "Sherman", with significantly greater weight. As a result, "Sherman" took the main burden of the war, despite, that were worse armed and more lightly armored.

Generally, combat service "Shermans" in Korea has developed quite successfully, except, that once again revealed the lack of capacity of 76-mm high-explosive shells. More successful in this sense acted artillery "Sherman". Passive phase of the war differed large scale tank battles, and the main role, played by American tanks - infantry support, patrol, and the enemy fire from concealed artillery positions. Also, the tanks were used as a kind of portable fire points, helping infantry reflect the Chinese "human wave".

Captured American "Sherman" and "Pershing", captured by the North Korean army during the Korean War

Arab-Israeli War

In the War of Independence participated only two M4A2 tank, Israelis inherited a legacy from the British. At the time of the Suez Crisis 1956 years in the IDF, there were 122 "Sherman" (56 Sherman M1 и Sherman M3, 25—28 Sherman M50 и 28 Super Sherman M1), and they formed the basis of the Israeli armored forces, loss of Israeli Shermans unknown, they probably accounted for half of 30 lost tanks. Egypt had several dozen M4A2, including French Tower, of which 56 It was lost in battle.

AT 1967 , Israel had 522 "Sherman" different types, which is about half the tank park his. By this time he was the only country in the Middle East, which had the tanks in service. Nevertheless, during the Six Day War, they were used mainly in the secondary directions, the main striking force were British heavy "Centurion", had more heavy weapons and the best book. On the Sinai front, there was a case, when the company "Super Sherman", coming to the aid of division, attacked by the Egyptians, It destroyed five more modern Egyptian T-55.

Before Yom Kippur War 1973 , the "Sherman" gradually removed from service, and after the war, or were converted into self-propelled guns and other vehicles, or sold in other countries.

Pakistani "Sherman", destroyed during the Indo-Pakistan war 1971 of the year

The Indo-Pakistani War

India won the first tanks even during the Second World War, and they took part in the fighting in Burma. They were both American, and the British version of "Shermans". In the future, the tanks are actively bought and India, and Pakistan.

The Indo-Pakistani War 1965 , the "Sherman" took part on both sides of the conflict. At the beginning of the war, India had 332 "Sherman" of various types, and Pakistan - 305. They were mostly M4A1 and M4A3, many tanks, had a 75 mm cannon, They were rearmed with 76 mm gun M1. In India, attempts to re-French cannon by analogy with the Israeli Sherman M50. Indian "Sherman" took part in the defeat of the Pakistani "Patton" M47 / 48 during the Battle of Asal Uttar.

Despite, that "Shermans" accounted for just under half of the tank park on both sides, they are used mainly in the secondary directions, as well as for flank attacks. The first line of tanks were less mobile, but more heavily armed and better armored "Patton" (the Pakistani side) and "Centuriony" (Indian).

The war in Yugoslavia

According to the statement of M. Bariatinskii, tanks "Sherman" was used during the civil war in Yugoslavia 1991 – 1995 gg.

The group of American tanks Sherman M4A1, shot down in an open field in Italy

Evaluation of the machine

Design and development potential

Layout "Sherman" was typical of the American and German tanks of WWII era, to locate the motor at the rear of the tank, and transmission - in front. One of the most characteristic distinguishing features of M4 was its height, greater, than any other comparable tank, except M3. The reasons for this are three. At first, front-mounted transmission, which increases the height of the tank because of the need to have the propeller shaft in the fighting compartment. Secondly, Tank was designed for radial engine, located vertically. Thirdly, high-mounted engine crankshaft has been associated with transmission of inclined propeller shaft, passes well above the floor of the crew compartment. German designers solved this problem by using a composite drive shafts, or trying to locate the engine so, to its crankshaft is located at the same height, the input shaft of transmission. The Americans did not go to those measures, primarily for reasons of construction simplicity.

Due to the vertical sides and the overall high altitude, M4 featuring a large volume of space booked, still it is one of the leaders on this indicator (but behind M3). Despite, it is not the best way affected the security of the tank (are particularly vulnerable were vertical board, having besides decent area), Tank crews was loved for the convenience of the internal accommodation. Vertical board and large nadgusenichnye shelf led to the epaulets large diameter tower. Generally, tank layout was not conducive to raising its fighting qualities (particularly of security and secrecy), but a positive impact on crew comfort, allowed to carry in the space of vital components, and, Besides, It gave the tank a decent potential for further modernization.

chassis design was typical of the pre-war tanks, by the time the "Sherman" is somewhat outdated. Nevertheless, no particular complaints about the chassis was not, and caterpillars with rubber mount were at that time very progressive solution. Initially suspension design was designed for lighter M2 and M3, but with the start of mass production of trucks have been strengthened. Subsequently, the tank received HVSS suspension with horizontal springs and supporting rollers on the body. Tank visibility was quite acceptable, quality review of optics - a good. Tanks later releases differed for the better, because they had commander's cupola. Nevertheless, German tanks "Sherman" in this respect, a little inferior, but much superior to the Soviet. The design of the tank, by American standards, ocheny Technology, and is suitable for mass production of automobile factories. Components used were suitable for mass production. The only technically challenging part was the stabilizer guns, but the Americans had a highly developed instrument (operates mainly to the needs of aviation).

"Sherman" had a great potential of modernization, mainly due to the large volume of the crew compartment, which allows you to place the ammunition rather large guns, and also because of the large diameter turret, that allows you to change to a more spacious tower. Besides, deployment of elements of the chassis allows almost completely change its structure, not affecting the rest of the tank (undercarriage replaced including on already issued tanks). The tank had a significant margin by weight, a spacious engine compartment allows you to have a wide range of engines. In general, "Sherman" design was quite successful and modern. On the other hand, no innovation to the world of tank solutions in the design of the tank was not, and to some extent it was a quick and easy answer to the American industry Army requirements. tank layout, its chassis design, transmission type, etc.. d. We did not become a standard, and "Sherman" was not destined to become the founder of the post-war series, Unlike T-34, further elaborated in the models T-44 and T-54.

Lined with German tank Pz.Kpfw. VI Ausf. E «Tiger" from the 508 battalion of heavy tanks (Heavy Tank Division 508) New Zealand and US tank proizvod.chtvo M4 «Sherman" from the 20th Armored Regiment (20th Armoured Regiment) of Dorog between Dzhodzholi (Giogoli) and the city Galutstso (Galuzzo) south of Florence.

weaponry

At the time of the appearance of "Shermans" on the battlefield of his 75-mm gun M3 could successfully deal with all types of German and Italian tanks. For armor penetration it is inferior to the German 7,5 cm KwK 40 L/43, ustanavlivaemomu the PzKpfw IV Ausf. F2. Nevertheless, almost simultaneously with the "Sherman" began his military career PzKpfw VI Tiger I, whose frontal armor did not break the instrument of "Sherman", a rifle 8,8 cm KwK 36 M3 significantly superior on all counts. Since the US military industry at that time did not let the tanks with more powerful weapons, we can say, that the weapons "Sherman" is almost out of date at the time the. Cannon M3 was substantially similar Soviet F-34, ustanavlivaemomu to T-34, differing only at an initial velocity armor piercing projectiles. American high-explosive 75-mm projectile M48, Applied also in the British tank gun of this caliber, I weighed in 6,62 kg and contained 670 g explosive and inferior Soviet high-explosive shells in efficiency. Besides, Unlike the F-34, in M3 ammunition there was serially produced cumulative or sabots.

76-mm gun M1 exceeded by armor penetration 7,5 cm KwK 40 L/48, and with almost sravnyalosy 8,8 cm KwK 36 L / 56 Tigra 1, but significantly inferior 7,5 cm KwK 42 "Panther", and 8,8 cm KwK 43 "King Tiger". With regard to the fight against re-M1 was unarmored objectives rather a step backwards, due to less harmful effect of fragmentation projectile, and ammunition at Nomenclature. The gun was comparable M1 types of armor piercing projectiles with the same Soviet 85mm D-5 and ZIS-S-53, but the supply of ammunition with a tungsten core M93 was established earlier, subcaliber than BR-365P.

A very big plus, "Sherman" weapons was, that his gun was equipped with a gyroscopic stabilizer, working in a vertical plane. Since the telescopic sight was paired with a gun, periscope and synchronized with it, sight gunner also remained stable. The performance of the stabilizer is not allowed to conduct aimed fire from gun running, but he worked as a highly effective vibration damper - the goal always remained in sight of the gunner, and the gap between the tank and stopping the discovery of fire was very short. Besides, the tank could lead to a course aimed fire from the coaxial machine gun. On the other hand, efficient use of stabilizer required some training crew, so many crews prefer to disable it.

The presence of the stabilizer, High quality manufacturing gun barrels and projectiles, as well as good quality optics made tank fire "Sherman" is very accurate, partially offset insufficient capacity cannon. Compared with T-34, hydraulic tower was much more accurate and smooth, in comparison with German tanks - it provides faster (16 sec.) a complete revolution of the tower (the T-34-85 - 12 sec., y T 34 - 14 sec.; 26 sec. у PzKpfw IV, 69 sec. the "Tiger"). The downside of such a drive it was large as compared with an electric fire hazard. Another important feature of this tank weapons were equipping it with heavy machine gun Browning M2 in the turret of the commander's hatch, heavy machine gun did not have any other tank of the time, except for a heavy IS-2. The downside was the lack of machine gun sights course. anticipated, the shooting of it will be carried out blindly, tracer ammunition, under the direction of the tank commander. In practice, it worked not always.

Generally, can say, that armament "Sherman" corresponded arming T34, and just as the latter, gave way to armed German medium and heavy tanks, from March 1942 of the year. Cannon "Sherman" allowed to fight with all types of light and medium German tanks, but it was not powerful enough to deal with heavy types. Rearmament could not fundamentally change the situation, although it allowed to exceed this indicator German medium tank PzKpfw IV.

The sides were trimmed boards to protect against magnetic mines

The security

Reservations "Sherman" roughly corresponds to the level of other medium tanks of WWII. Reservation tower was more potent as compared with T-34, and about the same, like T-34-85 and PzKpfw IV. Smaller inclination angle offset frontal body armor thicker, but the high resolution and the vertical board reduced security. The downside was too high occupancy boeukladki, Subsequently, this disadvantage is eliminated. In order to maximize maintainability tank, constructors equipped its front easily removed even in the field transmission and outwardly spaced suspension assemblies. But this has led to a relatively low survivability of these units. Front-mounted transmission and its security gaps guaranteed to immobilize the tank at a penetration of the lower part of the frontal armor, as well as the crew could burn with a hot oil, and by firing into the bottom of the board, even small-arms broke down suspension. Therefore, for high maintainability crews "Sherman" had to pay more frequent repairs due to combat damage. With the latter drawback fought, hanging boards with external armor plates, which, however, were thin and made their way any kind of artillery weapons. In addition to the probability of hot oil splashing from the checkpoint at the penetration front armor, also noteworthy fire hazard electrohydraulic drive rotation of the tower and use on most petrol engine modifications. However, still placing the tanks in the engine compartment, armor fences between the motor and the fighting compartment, availability of automatic and manual fire suppression system tank made relatively safe despite the potentially high flammability. In comparison with the heavy German and Soviet tanks "Sherman" was insufficient to book. An exception was M4A3E2, but these tanks were produced in small quantities and, in bulk, We had a relatively weak armament.

"Sherman" armor does not cemented, and it was therefore more viscous, than the German and Soviet tanks. This reduces the likelihood of a rebound or cracking shells, but such armor gave much less secondary fragments, that the crew is highly evaluated.

Early models "Sherman" suffered from a tendency to ignite when hit with a projectile a high initial velocity. "Sherman" received such a sinister nickname as "Tommizharka" (English. Tommycooker) (the Germans, who called British soldiers "Tommy") and "Ronson" (from the British, by brand lighters, which was advertised with the slogan "will light up on the first try, everytime!»). Polish tank crews called them "burning graves", Soviet tankers and tank called "mass grave for five". This vulnerability is increased losses of crews and greatly reduces the maintainability of destroyed tanks. The investigation showed the US Army, that the main reason for this was the storage of ammunition in the sponsons without proper protection. prevailing opinion, that the cause of fire was a petrol engine, It remains unconfirmed; Most tanks of the era had petrol engines. Initially, the problem was solved by welding additional armor plates inch thickness on a vertical sponsons field baskets ammunition arrangement; in subsequent models ammunition was moved to the bottom of the housing, with additional water jacket, surrounded the ammunition storage. This modification significantly reduced the likelihood of "zazharki".

M4A2(76)w HVSS in armored museum in Kubinka

Mobility

strategic mobility

M4 meets all requirements, requirements for medium tank for strategic mobility. Low weight and small width makes it easy to carry it all modes of transport, including rail. Loading and unloading is also not a problem. Reliability and service life of power units, powertrain and chassis to allow their transfer "Shermans" long distance under its own power, rubberized caterpillar not smashed road, Tank withstand most of the bridges. Speed ​​of movement was acceptable, soft suspension is kept relatively comfortable crew. In this regard, the "Sherman" was superior to all the Soviet tanks, as well as the majority of German.

A drawback was the high fuel consumption (more, than other medium tanks of WWII), and as a consequence - a small power reserve, in most earlier versions of petrol - no more 190 km, and later even less - 160 km.

tactical mobility

With regard to tactical mobility "Sherman" was also ranked highly enough. good power available, at best secondary WWII tanks, It depended on the type and model of the engine. Formally, Tank inferior in this respect Soviet T34, but in practice the difference in engine power was compensated by a successful transmission "Sherman" and the best selection of gear ratios in the gearbox. The speed and the highway, and it was good on rough terrain, management of the tank - slight, thanks to amplifiers. The tank was not prone to pitching, as T-34. Tank limited maneuverability several large ratio of length to width, and using the transmission type «Cletrac», net of which was the inability to turn on the spot. This caused certain difficulties in maneuvering on the battlefield, and especially manifested when maneuvering in cramped conditions, for example when loading or unloading.

Patency on soft ground with M4 VVSS suspension was worse, than the Soviet and German tanks, due to the greater specific pressure on the ground. HVSS suspension brought "Sherman" one of the leaders on this indicator. Geometric flotation tank was limited to the high center of gravity, when running a caterpillar on a high hurdle tank could capsize, especially if the impact occurred at a high speed. Plus there was a high ground clearance. Coupling properties caterpillars dependent on the type of shoe, It was generally satisfactory, but the tank is inferior to the German and Soviet models when driving on ice and other slippery surfaces. The problem was solved in part due removable spurs, however it is mainly manifested in operations in Russia, and very little in the other theater.

Rubber joints and rubber-made tank truck quiet on the move, that quiet operation supplemented engines. This makes it possible, At first, relatively secretive rearrangement tank directly on the front line, and secondly, to make it possible to covert maneuvers, which is especially evident on the Eastern Front (Soviet tanks were very noisy, and quiet "Sherman" were often an unpleasant surprise for the Germans).

M4A4 armored museum in Kubinka

Reliability

Reliability virtually all units of "Sherman" was very high; however, This applies to almost all American tanks of the time. The reason for this was the high engineering and production culture, and the use of it is waste units, the source of which was the automobile and tractor industry. tank design was relatively simple, which also have a positive effect on its reliability.

Engines of all options were a great resource, rarely require maintenance, and almost never requires adjustment, what distinguishes American tanks from both the Soviet, and from the German sample. Transmission also create problems. Caterpillar, thanks to the rubber mount, I had the resources, surpassing all other resource types caterpillars. to the fuel quality requirements are at an average level, differences depending on the type and model of the engine. Usually, tanks work well on the available fuel.

Generally, "Sherman" was one of the most reliable and unpretentious WWII tanks, and the best medium tank of the war on this indicator. Its disadvantage is smaller, against Soviet tanks, repairability, especially in the field. Besides, Tank demanded a qualified service and maintenance personnel.

The crew of "Sherman" tank American M4A3E2 (Sherman M4A3E2 Jumbo), company C, 37-Tank Battalion, 4-Armored Division (4th Armored Division), 26 December 1944 the first year entered the town of Bastogne, initiating deprotected US troops, surrounded the city. The machine had its own name «Cobra King».

analogs

"Sherman" falls into the category of medium tanks, the most numerous and varied of all, presented during WWII and after it. Virtually every country, which had at the time of tank industry, produced tank, comparable with the M4:

T-34 - the closest analogue of the characteristics of "Sherman", which appeared a few years earlier. Slightly higher than last on mobility and on-board armor, roughly equivalent to him in the power of weapons (in comparison with "Sherman" with a 75 mm cannon), as the "Sherman" is an outdated chassis, but less reliability and significantly worse working conditions of the crew.

T-34-85 - an upgraded version of the T-34, appeared six months earlier, "Sherman" with 76-mm cannon. Also several superior "Sherman" for mobility and armor board. Penetration is similar to a 76mm cannon M1A2 (giving, but, in armor-piercing version of the Sherman Firefly), power of high explosive projectile considerably higher. As T-34, characterized by worse conditions of work of the driver, but the rest of the backlog of "Sherman" has been reduced.

PzKpfw IV - basic German analogue, and older. I had comparable characteristics, excelling in the mobility of American tanks (except M4A3), power tools (with modifications PzKpfw IV Ausf F2 versus "Sherman" with a 75 mm cannon). The tank was not equipped with a stabilizer, but he had the best sighting devices.

PzKpfw V - «Panther" has become a major, and the most serious adversary "Shermans" on the Western Front. Despite, that "Panther" refers to a heavier weight category, according to the German classification it is considered a medium tank, which corresponds to the degree of saturation of these tanks of the German troops by the end of the war. "Panther" is completely superior "Sherman" in all major combat performance, second only to the grade. Panther appeared a year later than normal Sherman, but before the M4(76), while surpassing them both. Comparable only with the small-scale M4A3E2.

Cruiser Mk VIII Cromwell - English cruising tank approximately the same weight category, and later appeared "Sherman". Inferior to the power of weapons and reservations, but has better power available. Had spring suspension close in structure to the suspension of T-34.

Cruiser, Comet, A34 - the most perfect English cruiser tanks of World War II, He appeared later "Sherman". Exceeds "Sherman" in all major combat performance. Despite the somewhat higher weight, It has a significantly higher power available and better mobility. Cannon corresponds approximately Sherman Firefly.

can say, that among its peers, "Sherman" stood out above all the simplicity of the design and processability, combined with high quality manufacturing. This enabled him to become, along with T-34, the main tank of the Second World War.

Interesting Facts

The Comb (crest)

M4A4 in the Israeli Museum. Visible early sample gun mask, no periscope sight, upgraded for action in the wilderness wings. Left around the factory markings on the lid pack compartment visible ridge.

Tanks "Sherman" is connected one rather curious story. Post-war historians and enthusiasts for a long time was left wondering, what a strange thing occurs in many of the photos "Shermans" earlier samples, and even gets in some surviving tanks. The subject is a weld pack compartment lid on a foreign exchange machine gun small metal bar with several slots or hooks, And its design is very diverse. Among enthusiasts mysterious item called "Comb" (the Comb). In the "Owner's Manual", this item is not described, in the memories of veterans not mentioned and generally looks quite mysterious.

There just are not done assumptions. "Comb" was considered to mount the antenna, a device for cutting wire, someone thought, that it is necessary to clean the dirt from the tank shoes, and some even called him a bottle opener. Even considered version, that is a device for rapid emergency discharge of the tank with a trailer for transporting.

When the puzzle was solved, it turned, that is a device for locking the brakes of the tank in the position for transport by sea or by rail. On the brake levers throws tether loop, It was passed in the bracket for the seat of the driver, which has been a mystery for a long time, too, the appointment, and outputting through a machine gun port (in tanks, coming from the factory, exchange machine gun was dismantled, and I was in a preserved condition inside the tank). Comb served for, so that the cable could tighten and secure, thereby fixing the levers in the rear position. The tank is then in the locked state, Moreover, transport staff can quickly reset cable, rasstoporyaya tank, and move the tank to a new location. Without such adaptations do it would be difficult, because the tank hatches were closed, and, usually, They were sealed.

Gifts tankers

In the book, Hero of the Soviet Union officer tankman D. F. Vine "Tankman a foreign car," described a rather interesting case. Arriving in the USSR under the Lend-Lease "Sherman" to reopen immediately the troops, in which they come in the same form, which left the factory gates. Representatives of American companies told the Soviet tank crews, that factory workers are usually left in the tank for tank small gifts, but despite the fact, that the tanks came conserved, nothing interesting could be detected in them.

Canned tanks arrived with two stoppers in fat cannon gun barrel: one from the shutter, the other - in the mouth of. When re-activation plug extorted Bannik. When knocking out the next cork from the barrel fell and broke a bottle of whiskey. curious, diameter standard whiskey bottle is just 3 inch, which coincides with the gauge installed on the "Shermans» M2 guns, M3 и M1. After that, the trunks became reopen very carefully.

Other interesting facts

Lower evacuation "Shermans" hatches were a constant target of theft of US Marines - they staged one roof improvised individual foxholes. This led to, hatches that further strengthen steel chains.

Tank M4A3 "Sherman" (M4A3 Sherman) of the 9th US Army, stuck in the mud during the German offensive in the Ardennes. German operation was code name «Wacht am Rhein» (Watch on the Rhine).

The performance characteristics of the M4 Sherman

Crew, pers.: 5
The layout: separation of management and transmission front, rear engine
Manufacturer: Lima Locomotive Works[1], American Locomotive Company, Baldwin Locomotive Works и Pressed Steel Car Company
years of production: 1942—1945
The number of issued, PC.: 49 234

Weight M4 Sherman

– 30,3 tonnes

Dimensions M4 Sherman

– body Length, mm: 5893
– housing width, mm: 2616
– Height, mm: 2743
– Clearance, mm: 432

Armor M4 Sherman

– Type broni: homogenous steel
– housing forehead (top), mm / city.: 51 / 56°
– housing forehead (through), mm / city.: 51 / 0—56°[2]
– body board, mm / city.: 38 / 0°
– housing feed, mm / city.: 38 / 0…10°
– Bottom, mm: 13—25
– corps roof, mm: 19—25 / 83—90°
– tower forehead, mm / city.: 76 / 30°
– gun mantlet, mm / city.: 89 / 0°
– board towers, mm / city.: 51 / 5°
– tower feed, mm / city.: 51 / 0°
– tower roof, mm: 25

Armament M4 Sherman

– Caliber guns and stamp: 75-mm M3 (in M4), 76-mm M1 (in M4 (76)), 105-mm M4 (in M4 (105))
– gun type: nareznaya
– barrel length, calibres: 36,5
– gun ammunition: 97
– Angles BH, city.: −10…+25
– sights: telescopic M55, M38, periscope M4
– Shotgun: 1 × 12,7-mm M2HB, 2 × 7,62-mm M1919A4

Motor M4 Sherman

– engine's type: groove 9-cylinder air-cooling Carburetor
– Engine power, l. from.: 400 (395 European l. from.)

The rate of M4 Sherman

– Road speed, kmh: 48
– Speed ​​over rough terrain, kmh: 40

– Cruising on the highway, km: 190
– power density, l. p. / m: 13,0
– suspension type: semi-detached pairs, vertical springs
– Unit ground pressure, kg / cm²: 0,96
– to overcome the wall, m: 0,6
– trench, m: 2,25
– fording, m: 1,0

Photo M4 Sherman

Tank M4 «Sherman" from the 66th Armored Regiment of the US Army (66th Armor Regiment), stricken area in the German city of Korshenbroh (Korschenbroich). Photo seen, that the strengthening of the frontal armor in the form of bags of cement tank saved by breaking.

A source