Britain Lost Armour 1945-1970: Unraveling the Secrets of Post-War British Tanks

: A Glimpse into Britain's Unsung Armored History

In the annals of military history, Britain's armored prowess has long been celebrated. From the iconic Churchill tanks of World War II to the modern Challenger 2, British tanks have played a pivotal role in shaping the course of warfare. However, behind the veil of celebrated triumphs lies a lesser-known chapter: the story of Britain's lost armor, tanks that never made it to the battlefield.

The Dark Age of Tanks: Britain's Lost Armour, 1945–1970

by David Lister

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	33601 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	190 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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In his meticulously researched book, "Britain Lost Armour 1945-1970: The Untold Story of Post-War British Tank Development," renowned military historian David Fletcher unveils the fascinating tales and technical specifications of these forgotten machines. With captivating prose and meticulous detail, Fletcher transports readers to a time of rapid technological advancement and fierce competition within the British tank industry.

A Journey through Innovation and Ingenuity

The period following World War II witnessed an explosion of tank development across the globe. Britain, eager to maintain its edge in armored warfare, embarked on a series of ambitious projects that pushed the boundaries of tank design.

Among the most notable of these lost tanks was the Centurion. First conceived during the war, the Centurion Mk 1 entered service in 1946. With its powerful 20-pounder gun, thick armor, and reliable performance, the Centurion became a cornerstone of the British Army. However, as other nations developed new tanks, the Centurion faced increasing competition.

In response, the British developed a series of improved variants, including the Centurion Mk 3 and Mk 5. These tanks featured enhanced firepower, improved armor protection, and better mobility. Yet, despite their capabilities, these variants never saw widespread deployment.

The Rise and Fall of the Conqueror

Another significant project of this era was the Conqueror heavy tank. Intended as a replacement for the Centurion, the Conqueror was a formidable beast, boasting a massive 120mm gun and thick armor. However, its excessive weight, mechanical problems, and high cost ultimately doomed the project.

Despite its shortcomings, the Conqueror remains a testament to the ambition and ingenuity of British engineers. Its lessons served as valuable insights for future tank development in Britain.

The Chieftain's Unfulfilled Promise

As the Cold War intensified, the need for a modern main battle tank became increasingly apparent. Britain responded with the Chieftain, a revolutionary vehicle that combined firepower, mobility, and protection in a balanced package.

The Chieftain featured a potent 120mm rifled gun, a powerful engine, and a sophisticated suspension system. It was intended to be the backbone of the British Army in the face of the Soviet threat.

Despite its impressive capabilities, the Chieftain never achieved its full potential. Production delays, cost overruns, and political decisions ultimately limited its deployment. Nevertheless, the Chieftain's design concepts laid the foundation for future British tanks.

The Vickers MBT: A Lesson in Unfulfilled Potential

The Vickers MBT stands as a poignant reminder of the vagaries of military procurement. Designed in the 1960s, the Vickers MBT was a sleek and highly capable tank that surpassed the Chieftain in many aspects.

Featuring a powerful 105mm gun, excellent mobility, and advanced composite armor, the Vickers MBT was a worthy competitor to tanks from other nations. However, political and financial factors ultimately led to its cancellation.

The story of the Vickers MBT serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges of balancing innovation, cost, and political realities in defense procurement.

: Excavating the Past to Inform the Future

The tale of Britain's lost armor is a fascinating and complex one, filled with triumphs, setbacks, and missed opportunities. By delving into the forgotten history of these tanks, we gain invaluable insights into the challenges and decisions that shape the development of armored vehicles.

David Fletcher's "Britain Lost Armour 1945-1970" is a must-read for military historians, tank enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the evolution of armored warfare. Through meticulous research and compelling storytelling, Fletcher brings to life the stories and specifications of these lost tanks, reminding us that even in the realm of military technology, there are untold tales waiting to be discovered.

As we look to the future of armored warfare, the lessons learned from Britain's lost armor serve as valuable reminders of the importance of innovation, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of technological excellence.

The Dark Age of Tanks: Britain's Lost Armour, 1945–1970

by David Lister

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	33601 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	190 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE