Light Tank Mk VIII/Harry Hopkins

Specifications Light Tank Mk VIII/Harry Hopkins blueprint

The Harry Hopkins tank, officially designated as the Light Tank Mk VIII, was a British light tank developed during World War II. Named after the American diplomat and advisor to President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the tank was intended to be an improved version of the earlier Tetrarch light tank, addressing some of its predecessors limitations while maintaining its light and airborne capabilities. The Harry Hopkins tank featured a compact and lightweight design, making it suitable for airborne operations where it could be transported by glider or cargo aircraft. It had a fully enclosed and turreted structure, providing better protection and firepower compared to earlier British light tanks. The tank was armed with a 2-pounder (40 mm) QF main gun, which was relatively effective against early war armored vehicles, and a coaxial 7.92 mm Besa machine gun for engaging infantry and soft targets. Armor protection on the Harry Hopkins tank was improved compared to the Tetrarch, with thicknesses ranging from 10 mm to 38 mm. While not heavily armored, this was sufficient for its intended roles of reconnaissance, infantry support, and airborne operations, where weight and mobility were critical factors. The tank was powered by a Meadows 12-cylinder petrol engine, producing 148 horsepower. This engine allowed the Harry Hopkins tank to achieve a top speed of approximately 48 km/h (30 mph) on roads, with a range of around 200 kilometers (125 miles). Its mobility was one of its key advantages, enabling it to perform quick maneuvers and support rapid advances. The Harry Hopkins tank had a crew of three: a commander, a gunner, and a driver. The compact design of the tank necessitated a small crew, but this was typical for light tanks of the period. Despite the limited space, the tanks layout was designed to maximize efficiency and operational effectiveness. One of the unique aspects of the Harry Hopkins tank was its suitability for airborne operations. It was designed to be transported by the General Aircraft Hamilcar glider, which allowed it to be deployed behind enemy lines during airborne assaults. This capability was particularly valuable for special operations and in situations where rapid deployment of armored support was needed. However, despite its improvements and capabilities, the Harry Hopkins tank saw limited production and use. Only about 100 units were built, and it was soon overshadowed by more capable and heavily armored tanks as the war progressed. Its role was primarily limited to training and experimental units rather than front-line combat. In summary, the Harry Hopkins tank was a light and mobile armored vehicle designed for airborne operations during World War II. It offered improved armor and firepower over its predecessor, the Tetrarch, and was notable for its ability to be deployed by glider. Despite its limited production and operational use, it represents an interesting chapter in the development of British light tanks and airborne armored warfare. On our website you can download a drawing of Light Tank Mk VIII/Harry Hopkins 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.