World War II saw the introduction of numerous tanks on both sides of the conflict. While some tanks proved to be highly effective and played a significant role in the outcome of the war, others were considered failures.
In this article, we will rank the worst tanks of World War II based on their performance, design flaws, and overall impact on the war.
1. German Panzer VIII Maus
The Panzer VIII Maus was a super-heavy tank developed by the Germans during the war. It was the heaviest tank ever built, weighing in at a staggering 188 tons. However, the tank was too heavy to be transported by rail, and it suffered from numerous mechanical problems. It was also a large and easy target for enemy anti-tank weapons. Only two prototypes were built, and the tank never saw combat.
2. British A12 Matilda II
The British A12 Matilda II was a heavily armored tank that was designed to provide support for infantry. However, its armor was so thick that it made the tank slow and cumbersome. The tank was also underpowered and had a weak armament. It was outmatched by the German Panzer IV and was eventually replaced by the Churchill tank.
3. Japanese Type 95 Ha-Go
The Japanese Type 95 Ha-Go was a light tank that was used extensively by the Japanese in the Pacific theater. However, it was no match for the Allied tanks it faced. Its armor was thin and ineffective, and its gun was underpowered. It was eventually replaced by the Type 97 Chi-Ha, which was a more capable tank.
4. Italian Carro Armato P 40
The Italian Carro Armato P 40 was a medium tank that was used by the Italians in North Africa. However, the tank suffered from numerous design flaws, including a weak engine and an unreliable suspension system. It was also underarmed and had thin armor. The tank was easily destroyed by the Allied tanks it faced.
5. Soviet T-28
The Soviet T-28 was a medium tank that was used by the Soviets during the early part of the war. It was heavily armored and had a powerful gun, but it suffered from numerous mechanical problems. The tank was also slow and difficult to maneuver. It was eventually replaced by the T-34, which was a more effective tank.
While these tanks were considered failures during World War II, they still played a significant role in the development of tank technology. The Panzer VIII Maus, for example, was a precursor to modern super-heavy tanks. The A12 Matilda II, despite its flaws, was heavily armored and provided support for infantry. The Type 95 Ha-Go was a light tank that was easy to transport and provided mobility for the Japanese in the Pacific. The Carro Armato P 40 was a medium tank that was a step up from the Italian tanks that preceded it. The T-28, despite its problems, was heavily armored and had a powerful gun.
In conclusion, while these tanks were considered failures during World War II, they played a significant role in the development of tank technology. They served as stepping stones for more advanced tanks that would be developed in the future. Despite their flaws, these tanks played an important role in the war effort and helped shape the outcome of the conflict.
