This August, the legendary Soviet T-54B tank celebrates seventy years since it rolled off the factory gates.
The T-54B tank entered service with the Soviet Army in August 1956 and was considered the most advanced version of its class at the time. It differed from previous versions by featuring a two-axis Cyclone gun stabilization system and a rotating fighting compartment floor.
The gunner was equipped with a TPN-1 scope, allowing him to fire in the dark. The tank commander was also equipped with a night vision device.
Until the spring of 1959, this tank was produced at three factories: Nizhny Tagil, Omsk, and Kharkiv. A total of 1,628 tanks were manufactured. The tank was exported to other countries and saw action in numerous military conflicts, including battles in Vietnam, the Middle East, Ethiopia, Angola, Afghanistan, the Iran-Iraq War, and throughout the former Soviet Union. It is currently used in special operations.
The T-54B has proven to be a simple and reliable tank that is easy to use and maintain. It remains in service with the armies of many countries and is currently undergoing modernization in Vietnam.
Armament : One 100mm D-10T cannon, two 7.62mm SG-43 machine guns, and one 12.7mm DShK anti-aircraft gun.
Armor : Hull front - 100 mm, Turret - up to 192 mm.
Engine : V-54 diesel engine with 520 horsepower.
Maximum speed on roads: 50 km/h.
Range : 360-400 km.
Combat weight: 36.5 tons.
Crew : 4 people.
