Discover the 5 most notable Italian tanks of WW2, including the L3/33, L6/40, and P40. Learn about their development, combat performance, and impact on the war. Explore the Italian armored forces strengths and weaknesses, and how their tanks compared to Allied and Axis counterparts during World War II.
Italy's involvement in World War II is often overshadowed by the Axis powers' more prominent members, Germany and Japan. However, the Italian military played a significant role in the war, particularly in North Africa and the Mediterranean. One aspect of Italy's military that is often overlooked is its tank development and production. Despite being outmatched by their German and Allied counterparts, Italian tanks displayed innovative designs and played crucial roles in various battles. Here, we'll explore five notable Italian tanks of World War II.
Italian Tank Development During WW2
Italy's tank development began in the 1920s, with the establishment of the Italian Army's tank corps. Initially, Italian tanks were based on French and British designs, but as the war progressed, Italian engineers developed more innovative and unique tanks. Despite facing significant challenges, including a lack of resources and expertise, Italian tank production continued throughout the war.
1. Fiat L6/40
The Fiat L6/40 was a light tank used by the Italian Army during the early years of World War II. Weighing around 6.5 tons, the L6/40 was designed for reconnaissance and infantry support. Although it was outgunned and outarmored by its contemporaries, the L6/40 played a significant role in various battles, including the North African Campaign.
Specifications:
- Weight: 6.5 tons
- Crew: 2
- Armament: 20mm Breda 35 gun, 1 x 8mm Breda 38 machine gun
- Armor: 30mm
- Top speed: 42 km/h
2. M13/40
The M13/40 was a medium tank used by the Italian Army during the mid-war period. Weighing around 14 tons, the M13/40 was designed to provide fire support and anti-tank capabilities. Although it was still outmatched by its contemporaries, the M13/40 played a significant role in various battles, including the Battle of El Alamein.
Specifications:
- Weight: 14 tons
- Crew: 4
- Armament: 47mm 47/32 gun, 1 x 8mm Breda 38 machine gun
- Armor: 30mm
- Top speed: 32 km/h
3. M14/41
The M14/41 was a medium tank used by the Italian Army during the mid-war period. Weighing around 14 tons, the M14/41 was designed to provide fire support and anti-tank capabilities. Although it was still outmatched by its contemporaries, the M14/41 played a significant role in various battles, including the Battle of El Alamein.
Specifications:
- Weight: 14 tons
- Crew: 4
- Armament: 47mm 47/32 gun, 1 x 8mm Breda 38 machine gun
- Armor: 30mm
- Top speed: 32 km/h
4. P40
The P40 was a medium tank used by the Italian Army during the late war period. Weighing around 26 tons, the P40 was designed to provide fire support and anti-tank capabilities. Although it was still outmatched by its contemporaries, the P40 played a significant role in various battles, including the Italian Campaign.
Specifications:
- Weight: 26 tons
- Crew: 5
- Armament: 75mm Ansaldo 75/34 gun, 1 x 8mm Breda 38 machine gun
- Armor: 50mm
- Top speed: 40 km/h
5. Semovente 75/18
The Semovente 75/18 was a self-propelled gun used by the Italian Army during the late war period. Weighing around 15 tons, the Semovente 75/18 was designed to provide fire support and anti-tank capabilities. Although it was still outmatched by its contemporaries, the Semovente 75/18 played a significant role in various battles, including the Italian Campaign.
Specifications:
- Weight: 15 tons
- Crew: 3
- Armament: 75mm Obice da 75/18 gun, 1 x 8mm Breda 38 machine gun
- Armor: 30mm
- Top speed: 38 km/h
Italian WW2 Tanks Image Gallery
Final Thoughts
Italy's involvement in World War II is often overlooked, but its tank development and production played a significant role in the war. Although Italian tanks were outmatched by their contemporaries, they displayed innovative designs and played crucial roles in various battles. The five notable Italian tanks discussed in this article showcase the country's efforts to develop effective armored vehicles despite significant challenges.