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Over the past century, few military innovations have had as enduring and formidable a presence as the tank. As one of the most powerful and versatile war machines introduced in the last 100 years, the tank has become a cornerstone of U.S. military strategy. From the muddy fronts of World War II to the sweeping sands of the Middle East, American tanks have thundered through some of history’s most pivotal battlefields, often tipping the balance of power.
Yet despite their battlefield dominance and mechanical might, not every tank the United States has developed has been a shining success. For every iconic design that became a symbol of strength, there have been others that failed to meet expectations, due to flawed engineering, shifting military priorities, or the unforgiving realities of combat. In the world of armored warfare, even giants have growing pains.
M22 Locust
- Year introduced: 1943
- Type: Airborne light infantry tank
- Crew size: 3
Model 1917 Holt Gas-Electric
- Year introduced: 1918
- Type: Prototype military vehicle
- Crew size: 6
Skeleton Tank
- Year introduced: 1918
- Type: Prototype combat vehicle
- Crew size: 2
War Tank America (Steam Tank)
- Year introduced: 1918
- Type: Experimental combat vehicle
- Crew size: 8
M1919 Christie Medium Tank
- Year introduced: 1919
- Type: Prototype combat vehicle
- Crew size: 2
M1921 (U.S. Ordnance M1921 Medium Tank
- Year introduced: 1921
- Type: Prototype medium tank
- Crew size: 2
T1 Light Tank (Series)
- Year introduced: 1927
- Type: Prototype combat vehicle series
- Crew size: 2
Tucker Tiger Tank (Tucker Armored Car)
- Year introduced: 1938
- Type: 4x2 wheeled armored car
- Crew size: 3
M6 (Heavy tank M6)
- Year introduced: 1940
- Type: Heavy tank project
- Crew size: 6
T29 (Heavy Tank T29)
- Year introduced: 1944
- Type: Heavy tank prototype vehicle
- Crew size: 6
T14 (Assault Tank T14)
- Year introduced: 1944
- Type: Heavy tank/assault tank project
- Crew size: 5
Medium Tank T20
- Year introduced: 1944
- Type: Prototype medium tank
- Crew size: 5
T30 (Heavy Tank T30)
- Year introduced: 1945
- Type: Heavy tank prototype
- Crew size: 6
T28 Super Heavy Tank (Gun Motor Carriage T95)
- Year introduced: 1945
- Type: Self-propelled gun / heavy tank prototype
- Crew size: 4
MBT-70 (KPz-70)
- Year introduced: 1965
- Type: Main battle tank
- Crew size: 3
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