The T-35 was a Soviet multi-turreted heavy tank developed in the 1930s. Known for its impressive size and firepower, it was the only five-turreted tank in the world to enter production. Despite its formidable appearance, the T-35 had several design flaws that limited its effectiveness in combat. Did you know that it was often called a "land battleship" due to its massive size and multiple turrets? In this article, we will explore 30 fascinating facts about the T-35, from its development and design to its operational history and legacy. Whether you're a history buff or a military enthusiast, these facts will give you a deeper understanding of this unique tank.
The T-35: A Soviet Giant
The T-35 was a Soviet multi-turreted tank that saw limited action during World War II. Known for its size and firepower, it remains a fascinating piece of military history. Here are some intriguing facts about this behemoth.
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The T-35 was the only five-turreted tank to enter production. Its design included one main turret with a 76.2 mm gun and four smaller turrets with machine guns and 45 mm cannons.
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It was developed in the early 1930s. The Soviet Union aimed to create a breakthrough tank capable of overwhelming enemy defenses.
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The T-35 was inspired by British and German designs. Engineers drew inspiration from the British Vickers A1E1 Independent and the German Neubaufahrzeug.
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Only 61 units were produced. Production ran from 1933 to 1939, making it a rare vehicle.
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The T-35 was extremely heavy. Weighing around 45 tons, it was one of the heaviest tanks of its time.
Design and Features
The T-35's design was both innovative and problematic. Its multiple turrets and heavy armor made it a formidable opponent, but also posed significant challenges.
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It had a crew of 11 men. Operating the T-35 required a large crew to manage its multiple weapons and systems.
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The tank had a top speed of 30 km/h (19 mph). Despite its size, it could move relatively quickly for its era.
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Armor thickness varied from 11 to 30 mm. This provided decent protection against small arms fire and shrapnel.
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The T-35 featured a complex suspension system. Its suspension was designed to handle the tank's immense weight but was prone to mechanical failures.
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It had a range of 150 km (93 miles). The tank's operational range was limited by its fuel capacity and engine efficiency.
Operational History
The T-35 saw limited combat use, primarily during the early stages of World War II. Its performance in battle revealed several shortcomings.
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The T-35 first saw combat during the Soviet invasion of Poland in 1939. It participated in the brief conflict but saw limited action.
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It was used during the Winter War against Finland. The T-35's performance in the harsh winter conditions was less than stellar.
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Most T-35s were lost during the initial stages of Operation Barbarossa. The German invasion of the Soviet Union in 1941 saw many T-35s abandoned due to mechanical failures or destroyed by enemy forces.
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The tank's size made it an easy target. Its large profile and slow speed made it vulnerable to enemy fire.
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Few T-35s survived the war. Most were destroyed or captured, with only a handful remaining today.
Legacy and Impact
Despite its shortcomings, the T-35 left a lasting impact on tank design and military history. Its unique features and role in early World War II battles make it a subject of interest for historians and enthusiasts.
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The T-35 influenced future Soviet tank designs. Lessons learned from its development and use were applied to later models like the T-34 and KV series.
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It remains a symbol of Soviet engineering ambition. The T-35's design showcased the Soviet Union's desire to create powerful and innovative military vehicles.
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A few T-35s are preserved in museums. These rare tanks can be seen at the Kubinka Tank Museum in Russia and the Patriot Park near Moscow.
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The T-35 has appeared in various media. It has been featured in documentaries, books, and video games, highlighting its historical significance.
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Model kits of the T-35 are popular among hobbyists. Scale models of the tank are sought after by collectors and model builders.
Technical Specifications
Understanding the T-35's technical details provides insight into its capabilities and limitations. Here are some key specifications of this massive tank.
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The T-35 was powered by a Mikulin M-17M V12 engine. This engine produced 500 horsepower, enabling the tank to move its heavy frame.
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It had a length of 9.72 meters (31.9 feet). The T-35's long chassis contributed to its imposing presence on the battlefield.
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The tank's width was 3.20 meters (10.5 feet). Its wide body provided stability but also made it difficult to transport.
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It stood 3.43 meters (11.3 feet) tall. The T-35's height added to its vulnerability but allowed for better visibility for the crew.
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The main armament was a 76.2 mm KT-28 gun. This cannon was effective against fortifications and light vehicles.
Challenges and Drawbacks
While the T-35 was impressive on paper, it faced numerous challenges in practice. These issues limited its effectiveness and contributed to its short service life.
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Mechanical reliability was a major issue. The T-35's complex systems were prone to breakdowns, especially under combat conditions.
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Its large size made transportation difficult. Moving the T-35 by rail or road required special arrangements, complicating logistics.
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The tank's armor was insufficient against modern anti-tank weapons. As technology advanced, the T-35's protection became outdated.
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Crew coordination was challenging. Managing five turrets and a large crew required excellent communication and teamwork, which was difficult to achieve in battle.
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The T-35 was expensive to produce. Its high cost limited the number of units that could be built, reducing its impact on the war effort.
The T-35's Legacy
The T-35 tank, despite its limited production and operational use, remains a fascinating piece of military history. Its sheer size and multi-turret design make it a unique example of interwar tank development. Though it faced numerous mechanical issues and was quickly outclassed by more modern tanks, the T-35's ambition and innovation can't be ignored. It serves as a reminder of the rapid technological advancements in warfare during the early 20th century. Today, the few surviving T-35s are cherished museum pieces, offering a glimpse into a bygone era of tank design. For history buffs and military enthusiasts, the T-35 stands as a testament to the ingenuity and challenges of its time. Its story, filled with both triumphs and setbacks, continues to captivate those interested in the evolution of armored warfare.
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