Tortoise

Specifications Tortoise blueprint

The Tortoise, officially known as the Tank, Heavy Assault, Tortoise (A39), was a British heavy assault tank developed during World War II. It was designed to provide heavy firepower and strong armor protection to support infantry and break through fortified enemy positions. Here is a comprehensive description of the Tortoise: The Tortoise was armed with a powerful 32-pounder (94 mm) QF main gun, which was capable of firing high-explosive shells and armor-piercing rounds. This gun provided significant firepower, allowing the Tortoise to engage and destroy enemy tanks, bunkers, and fortified positions from a distance. In addition to its main gun, the tank was equipped with two 0.303 inch (7.7 mm) Besa machine guns, one coaxially mounted with the main gun and another in the hull for anti-infantry defense. Armor protection on the Tortoise was exceptionally heavy for its time, with frontal armor thickness reaching up to 228 mm. The armor was heavily sloped to increase its effective thickness against incoming projectiles, providing superior protection against both tank and anti-tank gun fire. The sides and rear armor were also thick, ranging from 152 mm to 101 mm, ensuring comprehensive protection for the crew and vital components. The tank was powered by a horizontally opposed, air-cooled 600 horsepower engine, which was specifically designed for the Tortoise. This engine gave the tank a maximum speed of around 12 mph (19 km/h), which was relatively slow but sufficient for its role as an assault tank. The Tortoise had an operational range of approximately 90 miles (145 km), allowing it to support infantry advances and conduct operations in close coordination with ground forces. The Tortoise featured a unique suspension system with seven road wheels on each side, which contributed to its stability and ability to traverse rough terrain. The tanks tracks were wide to distribute its considerable weight and minimize ground pressure, further enhancing its mobility over soft or uneven ground. The crew of the Tortoise consisted of five members: a commander, gunner, loader, radio operator, and driver. The tanks interior was spacious compared to other tanks of its class, allowing the crew to operate and maintain the vehicle effectively during extended combat operations. Despite its formidable firepower and armor protection, the Tortoise project faced delays and challenges throughout its development. Only a few prototypes were completed, and by the time they were ready for trials in 1945, the war in Europe was nearing its end. The Tortoise never saw combat, and plans for mass production were canceled in favor of focusing resources on more mobile and versatile tank designs for future conflicts. In summary, the Tortoise (A39) was a heavily armored British heavy assault tank designed to provide substantial firepower and protection for infantry support and assault operations. Its 32-pounder main gun and thick armor made it a formidable adversary on the battlefield, although its slow speed and limited mobility ultimately limited its operational effectiveness. The Tortoise remains a significant example of the evolving armored warfare tactics and technologies during World War II, emphasizing the balance between firepower, protection, and mobility in tank design. On our website you can download a drawing of Tortoise in pdf svg png jpg ai eps formats Use it for 3d modelling different illustrations typography engineering and design projects All our drawings are made in high quality therefore they can be very helpful in your work study or research.