The BA-20 was a Soviet armored car used during World War II. It was designed for reconnaissance and communication tasks. Did you know that this vehicle was based on the GAZ-M1 car chassis? With its light armor and machine gun, the BA-20 played a crucial role in early Soviet military operations. Interestingly, it was also used by Finland and Germany after being captured. Want to learn more about this fascinating piece of military history? Here are 25 facts about the BA-20 that will give you a deeper understanding of its design, usage, and impact during the war.
The BA-20: A Soviet Armored Car
The BA-20 was a Soviet armored car used during World War II. It played a significant role in reconnaissance and communication tasks. Here are some fascinating facts about this historical vehicle.
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The BA-20 was introduced in 1936. It was designed to replace the older FAI armored car.
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It was based on the GAZ-M1 car chassis. This made it easier to produce and maintain.
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The BA-20 had a crew of two. A driver and a commander operated the vehicle.
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It was lightly armored. The armor thickness ranged from 6 to 9 mm, providing protection against small arms fire and shrapnel.
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The BA-20 was armed with a 7.62 mm DT machine gun. This was its primary weapon for defense and offense.
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It had a top speed of 85 km/h. This made it relatively fast for an armored vehicle of its time.
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The BA-20 had a range of 450 km. This allowed it to cover significant distances without refueling.
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It was used by the Soviet Union and its allies. Countries like Mongolia and Finland also utilized the BA-20.
Design and Features
The BA-20 had several unique design features that made it stand out. Let's explore some of these aspects.
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The vehicle had a fully enclosed turret. This provided better protection for the crew.
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It featured a rear-mounted spare wheel. This was useful for quick tire changes in the field.
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The BA-20 had a radio-equipped variant. Known as the BA-20M, it was used for communication purposes.
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It had a four-wheel drive system. This improved its off-road capabilities.
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The BA-20 could ford shallow rivers. Its design allowed it to cross water obstacles up to 0.5 meters deep.
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It had a simple suspension system. This made it easier to repair and maintain in the field.
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The vehicle's engine produced 50 horsepower. This was sufficient for its size and weight.
Operational History
The BA-20 saw extensive use during its service life. Here are some key points about its operational history.
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It was used in the Spanish Civil War. The Soviet Union supplied BA-20s to the Republican forces.
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The BA-20 participated in the Winter War. It was used by Soviet forces against Finland.
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It saw action in World War II. The BA-20 was used in various roles, including reconnaissance and communication.
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The vehicle was also used in the Soviet-Japanese border conflicts. It played a role in the battles of Khalkhin Gol.
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The BA-20 was eventually replaced by more advanced vehicles. The BA-64 and other armored cars took over its role.
Legacy and Impact
The BA-20 left a lasting impact on military vehicle design. Here are some facts about its legacy.
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It influenced the design of later Soviet armored cars. The BA-64, for example, drew inspiration from the BA-20.
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The BA-20 is a popular subject for model builders. Its historical significance makes it a favorite among hobbyists.
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Several BA-20s are preserved in museums. These vehicles can be found in military museums around the world.
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The BA-20 is featured in various video games. Games like "World of Tanks" include this iconic vehicle.
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It remains a symbol of Soviet engineering. The BA-20 represents the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Soviet designers during a critical period in history.
Final Thoughts on BA-20
The BA-20 armored car, a relic from the Soviet Union, played a crucial role during World War II. Its design, though simple, was effective for reconnaissance and communication tasks. With a maximum speed of 50 km/h and armor thickness up to 9 mm, it provided decent protection and mobility for its time. The BA-20's 7.62 mm DT machine gun offered adequate firepower for its missions. Despite its limitations, like poor off-road capability, it served the Red Army well in various conflicts. The BA-20's legacy lives on as a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of its designers. Understanding these facts helps appreciate the historical significance of this armored vehicle. Whether you're a history buff or just curious, the BA-20 remains a fascinating piece of military history worth exploring.
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