T-34 Tank: History * Design * Specifications * Combat Performance

When it first appeared on the battlefield in July 1941, the Soviet T-34 was the best tank in the world – superior even to the latest German tanks. It became the most important tank of the war, a vehicle that was instrumental in the defeat of Nazi Germany on the Eastern Front, and thus helped to bring about the ultimate Allied victory. This is an in-depth examination of this innovative yet simple armoured fighting vehicle that represented a revolutionary leap forward in tank design. As the book makes clear, the T-34/85 had firepower, armour protection and mobility far superior to other tanks then in service. Examining every aspect of the tank’s development and service history, including detailed sections on design, armament, powerplant, crew positions and armour, the book contains detailed listings of all the variants produced, their markings, camouflage schemes, and full specifications. Ideal for modellers and tank enthusiasts, The T-34 is an essential guide to this masterpiece of Soviet wartime engineering.