The T-34-100 was an experimental, late-WWIl Soviet medium tank, a significant upgrade to the legendary T-34, featuring a powerful 100mm gun and a larger turret (from the T-44) to counter stronger German tanks, but it never reached mass production as the advanced T-44 was prioritized, though its design concepts influenced post-war tanks and a similar Czechoslovakian project also failed to materialize.
Developed from July 1944 as the ultimate T-34 variant because existing T-34s couldn't effectively penetrate new German heavy tanks like the Panther and Tiger. Upgraded with the formidable 100mm LB-1 gun, giving it much-needed firepower comparable to self-propelled guns like the SU-100. Fitted with a new, larger T-44V turret, accommodating a three-man crew (commander, gunner, loader) for better efficiency, unlike earlier T-34s. Prototypes were completed by early 1945, but the tank was superseded by the more advanced T-44, which was already entering final development. never entered mass production, remaining a prototype demonstrating the T- 34's potential for modernization. The concept of up-gunning the T-34 hull with a more powerful gun influenced later Soviet tank designs, like the T-54 series, and led to similar post-war projects, such as the Czechoslovakian Konštrukta T-34/100, which also never went into production. 100mm gun vs. 76.2mm or 85mm guns. Three-man turret vs. two-man. Larger, improved turret vs. earlier hexagonal or cast turrets.
The ISU-122 was a Soviet heavy self-propelled gun built on the IS heavy tank chassis, primarily used as a powerful tank destroyer during World War II, featuring the 122mm A-19 gun for high-velocity anti-tank fire, distinguishing it from the ISU-152's howitzer role. Developed due to a shortage of howitzer tubes, it offered good armor and high explosive potential, with later variants like the ISU-122S featuring a semi-automatic breech for a faster reload. Mass production ran until late 1945, with surviving vehicles often converted for other duties.
Developed from the ISU-152 chassis (Object 242), the ISU-122 (Object 242) was intended as a long-range tank destroyer, using the 122mm A-19S gun. Initially, the ISU chassis was fitted with the 152mm howitzer (ISU-152); however, a surplus of A-19 guns and a need for tank destroyers led to fitting the A-19 onto available ISU hulls in early 1944. The main gun was the 122mm A-19S, later upgraded in the ISU-122S with a semi-automatic breech (D-25S), significantly increasing the rate of fire from 1.5 to 3 rounds per minute.
It excelled at direct-fire antitank combat and could also fire high-explosive shells with good effect, sometimes used for indirect fire when artillery was scarce. The ISU-122S, with its improved D-25S gun and distinctive ball-shaped mantlet with a double-baffle muzzle brake, was a significant improvement. Mass production of both the ISU-122 and ISU-122S ended in late 1945, with over 1,700 ISU-122s built. Many were converted into armored recovery vehicles (ARVs) or supply vehicles after the war. In essence, the ISU-122 filled a critical anti-tank niche, leveraging the powerful IS chassis with a heavy, direct-fire gun for engaging enemy armor, especially heavier German tanks.
The T-34-85 D-5T was an early, crucial variant of the legendary Soviet T-34 medium tank, introducing a powerful 85mm D-5T gun and a new three-man turret to overcome heavier German tanks like the Tiger and Panther, significantly boosting its combat effectiveness by allowing the commander and gunner to work separately, though it quickly transitioned to the more refined ZiS-S-53 gun for mass production, making the D-5T a rare but historically vital step in the T-34's evolution.
Developed in late 1943 after the Battle of Kursk, the T-34-85 was a direct response to the need for a more powerful gun to counter advanced German tanks. This variant was equipped with the 85mm D-5T gun, an adaptation of the Soviet 52-K anti-aircraft gun, making it superior to the T-34-76's 76mm gun. The D-5T's new, larger turret housed a commander, gunner, and loader, improving crew efficiency over the earlier two-man setup. The D-5T was a transitional model; most production shifted quickly to the improved ZiS-S-53 85mm gun on the standard T-34-85, making the D-5T version relatively rare. It allowed the Soviets to maintain numerical superiority while fielding tanks capable of fighting German heavy tanks, influencing the Eastern Front's outcome. Retained the proven sloped armor and chassis of the T-34-76. The main armor remained similar to the T-34-76, but the new turret offered better protection. Maintained the T-34's excellent off-road mobility and ease of production.
The IS-1 (losif Stalin 1) was a Soviet heavy breakthrough tank from WWII, developed from the KV series to counter German Tigers and Panthers, featuring thick sloped armor and an 85mm D-5T gun, but was quickly replaced by the more powerful IS-2 due to its gun's inadequacy, with only about 107-200 produced before production ended in early 1944. It served briefly with Guards Heavy Tank Regiments in early 1944, primarily in Ukraine and Slovakia, before being superseded by its formidable 122mm-armed successor, the IS-2.
A response to formidable German tanks like the Tiger and Panther, evolving from the KV-13 program and serving as an interim step before the IS-2. Initially known as the IS-85 during trials, it became the IS-1 upon entering limited production in late 1943. Featured an 85mm D-5T main gun, which proved insufficient against heavy German tanks at range, and three DT machine guns. Known for its well-sloped, thick cast armor, offering good protection, though its lower front plate was a weakness.
Produced in small numbers (around 107-200) from late 1943 to early 1944 at the Chelyabinsk Kirov Plant, as the IS-2 with its powerful 122mm gun offered superior performance. Saw limited service with Guards Heavy Tank Regiments in early 1944 in Ukraine and later in Slovakia. An important transitional heavy tank, paving the way for the iconic IS-2, a significant breakthrough vehicle in the final stages of World War II.
The Soviet M4A2 Sherman, nicknamed "Emcha," was a vital Lend-Lease tank, favored for its reliability, diesel engine (less fire risk), good optics, and spacious interior, though heavier than the T-34 and prone to tipping. Over 4,100 were sent to the USSR, some with 75mm guns and later versions with more potent 76mm cannons, seeing heavy use in late-war offensives like Berlin and Manchuria, with crews appreciating its ease of maintenance and firepower.
The M4A2 was the primary Sherman variant sent to the Soviets, with 4,102 delivered, comprising about 18.6% of all Lend-Lease Shermans. Its diesel engine made it less prone to ammunition fires, a significant advantage over some gasoline-powered tanks, and saved high-quality gasoline. Soviet troops affectionately called the M4A2 "Emcha" (pronounced Em-cha), a phonetic adaptation of "M4". Early M4A2s had 75mm guns, while later models (late 1944/1945) arrived with the more effective 76mm gun, boosting their combat effectiveness. M4A2s were crucial in the Vistula-Oder Offensive, the Vienna Offensive, the Battle of Berlin (April-May 1945), and the invasion of Manchuria (Operation August Storm).
Crews valued its reliability, powered turret traverse, superior optics, ample ammunition storage, and spacious layout compared to the T-34. Soviet soldiers famously stripped leather from seats for boots and used the tanks as mobile command posts or for infantry transport due to their spaciousness. The M4A2 (76) became a main battle tank for elite Soviet mechanized corps by 1945, proving its worth in critical late-war campaigns. Despite initial propaganda, its real-world performance earned it respect, solidifying its place as a reliable and effective medium tank in the Soviet arsenal.
The PT-76B is a Soviet amphibious light tank, an upgraded version of the original PT-76, famous for its water-jet propulsion and use in reconnaissance and river crossings, seeing extensive service from the 1950s to present day in many nations, including major engagements in Vietnam and the Yom Kippur War, despite its thin armor and large size making it vulnerable. Introduced around 1957-1959, the 'B' model featured a stabilized 76mm gun, improved engine, and better hull, addressing some flaws of the earlier model and becoming a widely exported and long-serving vehicle for the Red Army's naval infantry and reconnaissance units.
Developed post-WWII for the Soviet Army's need for amphibious tanks, essential for rapid river crossings during potential European invasions. Its defining feature was water jet propulsion, allowing it to swim, propelled by two rear-mounted jets, with a deployable trim vane for stability. The PT-76 entered service in the early 1950s, with the PT-76B variant (Model 1957) featuring significant upgrades like a stabilized D-56TM gun and better engine. Around 12,000 PT-76s were built, with over 4,000 being the 'B' model; it served the Soviet Army until 2006 and was exported globally.
Saw extensive action in Vietnam, Laos (against US forces and allies), the Six-Day War, and the Yom Kippur War (used by Egyptians to cross the Suez Canal). Excellent mobility in water, simple, reliable, and effective for reconnaissance and fire support, capable of carrying troops. Thin armor, large silhouette, and an un-stabilized main gun (in early models) made it vulnerable to heavier tanks and antitank weapons. Its chassis led to other vehicles (BTR- 50 APC, ZSU-23-4 SPAAG), and its design influenced China's Type 63 tank.
The ISU-152 was a formidable Soviet WWII self-propelled 330 gun, nicknamed the "Beast Killer" (Zveroboy), built on the IS tank chassis to replace the SU-152; it excelled at destroying German heavy tanks like the Tiger and Panther and demolishing fortifications with its massive 152mm howitzer, serving effectively as mobile artillery and infantry support in urban combat and major offensives like Battle ot Berlın, despite slow reload and traverse, and even saw post-war use and roles in the Chernobyl cleanup.
Needed because the KV-1S chassis used for the SU-152 went out of production. Built on the new IS (losif Stalin) heavy tank chassis. ISU (losif Stalin Ustanovka) for "IS Self-Propelled Installation," with 152 referring to its gun caliber. "Beast Killer" (Zveroboy) for its powerful gun, inherited from the SU-152.
152mm howitzer, capable of firing high-explosive rounds to destroy fortifications or concrete-piercing rounds against tanks. Heavy assault gun for infantry support and breaking fortifications, not just tank destruction. Could destroy any enemy tank at 2km and breach fortifications at 3km; HE rounds could one-shot tanks.
Used extensively in major operations like Operation Bagration and the Battle of Berlin. Fought from hull-down positions, often in the second line, with infantry protecting flanks. Slow reload, limited traverse (12°), and few rounds (21) carried internally, requiring strong loaders. Over 4,600 built between 1943 and 1945, making it a prolific SPG. Saw service in various conflicts and was even used by Chernobyl "liquidators" for bulldozing contaminated buildings.
The T-34-57 was a rare, experimental Soviet tank hunter variant of the T-34, armed with a powerful 57mm ZiS-4 or ZiS-4M anti-tank gun, designed to defeat early German heavy tanks, but production was limited due to ammo shortages and the eventual adoption of the more versatile 85mm gun for the T-34-85; only a handful were built in 1941 and 1943, seeing limited action, notably around Moscow in 1941.
To create a dedicated "tank-hunter" with high-velocity rounds to counter German heavy tanks like the Panzer!!! and IV. Used the 57mm ZiS-4 (and later ZiS-4M) gun, which had excellent armor penetration but lacked effective high-explosive (HE) rounds for infantry support. About 10 were made, seeing action in the Defense of Moscow with the 21st Tank Brigade, but production stopped due to ammunition issues and production focus. Reintroduced with the improved ZiS-4M gun and better APCR ammunition, but also saw very limited runs (around 4-10 produced), with issues like barrel swelling and ineffective HE rounds, ending further development in favor of the T-34-85. Unofficially known as the "exterminator" (ubiytsa). Though few were made, the T-34-57 proved the need for heavier armament, paving the way for the much more successful T-34- 85.
Deathallo
Deathallo
History of the T-34-100!
The T-34-100 was an experimental, late-WWIl Soviet medium tank, a significant upgrade to the legendary T-34, featuring a
powerful 100mm gun and a larger turret (from the T-44) to counter stronger German tanks, but it never reached mass production as the advanced T-44 was prioritized, though its design concepts influenced post-war tanks and a similar Czechoslovakian project also failed to materialize.
Developed from July 1944 as the ultimate T-34 variant because existing T-34s couldn't effectively penetrate new German heavy tanks like the Panther and Tiger. Upgraded with the formidable 100mm LB-1 gun, giving it much-needed firepower comparable to self-propelled guns like the SU-100. Fitted with a new, larger T-44V turret, accommodating a three-man crew (commander, gunner, loader) for better efficiency, unlike earlier T-34s. Prototypes were completed by early 1945, but the tank was superseded by the more advanced T-44, which was already entering final development. never entered mass production, remaining a prototype demonstrating the T-
34's potential for modernization. The concept of up-gunning the T-34 hull with a more powerful gun influenced later Soviet tank designs, like the T-54 series, and led to similar post-war projects, such as the Czechoslovakian Konštrukta T-34/100, which also never went into production. 100mm gun vs. 76.2mm or 85mm
guns. Three-man turret vs. two-man. Larger, improved turret vs. earlier hexagonal or cast turrets.
12 hours ago | [YT] | 2
View 0 replies
Deathallo
I‘m now working on the Leopard 1A5.
13 hours ago | [YT] | 9
View 0 replies
Deathallo
The new marksman rifle in CoDM, SO-14.
16 hours ago | [YT] | 6
View 0 replies
Deathallo
History of the ISU-122!
The ISU-122 was a Soviet heavy self-propelled gun built on the IS heavy tank chassis, primarily used as a powerful tank destroyer during World War II, featuring the 122mm A-19 gun for high-velocity anti-tank fire, distinguishing it from the ISU-152's howitzer role. Developed due to a shortage of howitzer tubes, it offered good armor and high explosive potential, with later variants like the ISU-122S featuring a semi-automatic breech for a faster reload. Mass production ran until late 1945, with surviving vehicles often converted for other duties.
Developed from the ISU-152 chassis (Object 242), the ISU-122 (Object 242) was intended as a long-range tank destroyer, using the 122mm A-19S gun. Initially, the ISU chassis was fitted with the 152mm howitzer (ISU-152);
however, a surplus of A-19 guns and a need for tank destroyers led to fitting the A-19 onto available ISU hulls in early 1944. The main gun was the 122mm A-19S, later upgraded in the ISU-122S with a semi-automatic breech (D-25S), significantly increasing the rate of fire from 1.5 to 3 rounds per minute.
It excelled at direct-fire antitank combat and could also fire high-explosive shells with good effect, sometimes used for indirect fire when artillery was scarce. The ISU-122S, with its improved D-25S gun and distinctive ball-shaped mantlet with a double-baffle muzzle brake, was a significant improvement. Mass production of both the ISU-122 and ISU-122S ended in late 1945, with over
1,700 ISU-122s built. Many were converted into armored recovery vehicles (ARVs) or supply vehicles after the war. In essence, the ISU-122 filled a critical anti-tank niche, leveraging the powerful IS chassis with a heavy, direct-fire gun for engaging enemy armor, especially heavier German tanks.
18 hours ago | [YT] | 6
View 1 reply
Deathallo
History of the T-34-85 D-5T!
The T-34-85 D-5T was an early, crucial variant of the legendary Soviet T-34 medium tank, introducing a powerful 85mm D-5T gun and
a new three-man turret to overcome heavier German tanks like the Tiger and Panther, significantly boosting its combat effectiveness by allowing the commander and gunner to work separately, though it quickly transitioned to the more refined ZiS-S-53 gun for mass production, making the D-5T a rare but historically vital step in the T-34's evolution.
Developed in late 1943 after the Battle of Kursk, the T-34-85 was a direct response to the need for a more powerful gun to counter advanced German tanks. This variant was equipped with the 85mm D-5T gun, an adaptation of the Soviet 52-K anti-aircraft gun, making it superior to the T-34-76's 76mm gun. The D-5T's new, larger turret housed a commander, gunner, and loader, improving crew efficiency over the earlier two-man setup. The D-5T was a transitional model; most production shifted quickly to the improved ZiS-S-53 85mm gun on the standard T-34-85, making the D-5T version relatively rare. It allowed the Soviets to maintain numerical superiority while fielding tanks capable of fighting German heavy tanks, influencing the Eastern Front's outcome. Retained the proven sloped armor and chassis of the T-34-76. The main armor remained similar to the T-34-76, but the new turret offered better protection. Maintained the T-34's excellent off-road mobility and ease of production.
19 hours ago | [YT] | 5
View 0 replies
Deathallo
History of the IS-1!
The IS-1 (losif Stalin 1) was a Soviet heavy breakthrough tank from WWII, developed from the KV series to counter German Tigers and Panthers, featuring thick sloped armor and an 85mm D-5T gun, but was quickly replaced by the more powerful IS-2 due to its gun's inadequacy, with only about 107-200 produced before production ended in early 1944. It served briefly with Guards Heavy Tank Regiments in early 1944, primarily in Ukraine and Slovakia, before being superseded by its formidable 122mm-armed successor, the IS-2.
A response to formidable German tanks like the Tiger and Panther, evolving from the KV-13 program and serving as an interim step before the IS-2. Initially known as the IS-85 during trials, it became the IS-1 upon entering limited production in late 1943. Featured an 85mm D-5T main gun, which proved insufficient against heavy German tanks at range, and three DT machine guns. Known for its well-sloped, thick cast armor, offering good protection, though its lower front plate was a weakness.
Produced in small numbers (around 107-200) from late 1943 to early 1944 at the Chelyabinsk Kirov Plant, as the IS-2 with its powerful 122mm gun offered superior performance. Saw limited service with Guards Heavy Tank Regiments in early 1944 in Ukraine and later in Slovakia. An important transitional heavy tank, paving the way for the iconic IS-2, a significant breakthrough vehicle in the final stages of World War II.
19 hours ago | [YT] | 7
View 1 reply
Deathallo
History of the Soviet M4A2!
The Soviet M4A2 Sherman, nicknamed "Emcha," was a vital Lend-Lease tank, favored for its reliability, diesel engine (less fire risk), good optics, and spacious interior, though heavier than the T-34 and prone to tipping. Over 4,100 were sent to the USSR, some with 75mm guns and later versions with more potent 76mm cannons, seeing heavy use in late-war offensives like Berlin and Manchuria, with crews appreciating its ease of maintenance and firepower.
The M4A2 was the primary Sherman variant sent to the Soviets, with 4,102 delivered, comprising about 18.6% of all Lend-Lease Shermans. Its diesel engine made it less prone to ammunition fires, a significant advantage over some gasoline-powered tanks, and saved high-quality gasoline. Soviet troops affectionately called the M4A2 "Emcha" (pronounced Em-cha), a phonetic adaptation of "M4". Early M4A2s had 75mm guns, while later models (late 1944/1945) arrived with the more effective 76mm gun, boosting their combat effectiveness. M4A2s were crucial in the Vistula-Oder Offensive, the Vienna Offensive, the Battle of Berlin (April-May 1945), and the invasion of Manchuria (Operation August Storm).
Crews valued its reliability, powered turret traverse, superior optics, ample ammunition storage, and spacious layout compared to the T-34. Soviet soldiers famously stripped leather from seats for boots and used the tanks as mobile command posts or for infantry transport due to their spaciousness. The M4A2 (76) became a main battle tank for elite Soviet mechanized corps by 1945, proving its worth in critical late-war campaigns. Despite initial propaganda, its real-world performance earned it respect, solidifying its place as a reliable and effective medium tank in the Soviet arsenal.
20 hours ago | [YT] | 7
View 0 replies
Deathallo
History of the PT-76B!
The PT-76B is a Soviet amphibious light tank, an upgraded version of the original PT-76, famous for its water-jet propulsion and use in reconnaissance and river crossings, seeing extensive service from the 1950s to present day in many nations, including major engagements in Vietnam and the Yom Kippur War, despite its thin armor and large size making it vulnerable.
Introduced around 1957-1959, the 'B' model featured a stabilized 76mm gun, improved engine, and better hull, addressing some flaws of the earlier model and becoming a widely exported and long-serving vehicle for the Red Army's naval infantry and reconnaissance units.
Developed post-WWII for the Soviet Army's need for amphibious tanks, essential for rapid river crossings during potential European invasions. Its defining feature was water jet propulsion, allowing it to swim, propelled by two rear-mounted jets, with a deployable trim vane for stability. The PT-76 entered service in the early 1950s, with the PT-76B variant (Model 1957) featuring significant upgrades like a stabilized D-56TM gun and better engine. Around 12,000 PT-76s were built, with over 4,000 being the 'B' model; it served the Soviet Army until 2006 and was exported globally.
Saw extensive action in Vietnam, Laos (against US forces and allies), the Six-Day War, and the Yom Kippur War (used by Egyptians to cross the Suez Canal). Excellent mobility in water, simple, reliable, and effective for reconnaissance and fire support, capable of carrying troops. Thin armor, large silhouette, and an un-stabilized main gun (in early models) made it vulnerable to heavier tanks and antitank weapons. Its chassis led to other vehicles (BTR-
50 APC, ZSU-23-4 SPAAG), and its design influenced China's Type 63 tank.
21 hours ago | [YT] | 3
View 0 replies
Deathallo
History of the ISU-152!
The ISU-152 was a formidable
Soviet WWII self-propelled
330
gun, nicknamed the "Beast Killer" (Zveroboy), built on the IS tank chassis to replace the SU-152; it excelled at destroying German heavy tanks like the Tiger and Panther and demolishing fortifications with its massive 152mm
howitzer, serving effectively as mobile artillery and infantry support in urban combat and major offensives like Battle ot Berlın, despite slow
reload and traverse, and even saw post-war use and roles in the Chernobyl cleanup.
Needed because the
KV-1S chassis used for the SU-152 went out of production. Built on the new IS (losif Stalin)
heavy tank chassis. ISU (losif Stalin Ustanovka) for "IS Self-Propelled Installation," with 152 referring to its gun caliber. "Beast Killer" (Zveroboy) for its powerful gun, inherited from the SU-152.
152mm howitzer, capable of firing high-explosive rounds to destroy fortifications or concrete-piercing rounds against tanks. Heavy assault gun for infantry support and breaking fortifications, not just tank destruction. Could destroy any enemy tank at 2km and breach fortifications at 3km; HE rounds could one-shot tanks.
Used extensively in major operations like Operation Bagration and the Battle of Berlin. Fought from hull-down positions, often in the second line, with infantry protecting flanks. Slow reload, limited traverse (12°), and few rounds (21) carried internally, requiring strong loaders. Over 4,600 built between 1943 and 1945, making it a prolific SPG. Saw service in various conflicts and was even used by Chernobyl "liquidators" for bulldozing contaminated buildings.
22 hours ago | [YT] | 9
View 0 replies
Deathallo
History of the T-34-57!
The T-34-57 was a rare, experimental Soviet tank hunter variant of the T-34, armed with a powerful 57mm ZiS-4 or ZiS-4M anti-tank
gun, designed to defeat early German heavy tanks, but production was limited due to ammo shortages and the eventual adoption of the more versatile 85mm gun for the T-34-85; only a handful were built in 1941 and 1943, seeing limited action, notably around Moscow in
1941.
To create a dedicated "tank-hunter" with high-velocity rounds to counter German heavy tanks like the Panzer!!! and IV. Used the 57mm ZiS-4 (and later ZiS-4M) gun, which had excellent armor penetration but lacked effective high-explosive (HE) rounds for infantry support. About 10 were made, seeing action in the Defense of Moscow with the 21st Tank Brigade, but production stopped due to ammunition issues and production focus. Reintroduced with the improved ZiS-4M gun and better APCR ammunition, but also saw very limited runs (around 4-10 produced), with issues like barrel swelling and ineffective HE rounds, ending further development in favor of the T-34-85. Unofficially known as the
"exterminator" (ubiytsa). Though few were made, the T-34-57 proved the need for heavier armament, paving the way for the much more successful T-34-
85.
23 hours ago | [YT] | 7
View 2 replies
Load more