M.41 | |
---|---|
Type | Tank Destroyer |
Place of origin | ![]() |
Service history | |
Used by | Italy |
Wars | WWII |
Production history | |
Manufacturer | Semovente |
Produced | 1941 |
No. built | 48 |
Specifications | |
Mass | 17.00 tonnes |
Length | 5.205 m |
Width | 2.20 m |
Height | 2.15 m |
Crew | 2; (on gun) |
Armor | none |
Main armament | One 90mm cannon |
Engine | SPA 15-TM-41 eight cylinder gasoline engine. 145 hp |
Operational range | 200km |
Maximum speed | 35.5 km/h on-road. |
The M.41 was the only heavy tank destroyer produced by Italy during WWII. It was developed by mounting a 90mm anti-aircraft gun on the chassis of the M.14/41 tank.
History
The M.41 was a heavy tank destroyer designed to operate at long range. By mounting a 90mm anti-aircraft gun on the Semovente M.14/41 tank chassis they hoped to create a tank destroyer that could operate far enough from enemy vehicles that armor was unnecessary. Only 48 of these vehicles were produced, all in 1941. This low production was due to Italy's limited industrial capability, as well as high demand for the 90mm gun for regular anti-aircraft duties.
In combat
In its initial appearance in the North African Campaign the M.41 showed good account for itself, being particularly well suited for use in open spaces. The 90mm cannon proving very effective against all allied armor encountered. Following the surrender of Italy the few surviving M.41s were seized by the German Army, but were of little value in the mountainous terrain of Northern Italy where they were operated. As a result, most finished their careers employed as long-range artillery.
Operators
- File:Flag of the Greman Army.svg German Army
See also
Comparable vehicles
References
Bibliography
- Trewhitt, Philip (1999). Armored Fighting Vehicles. New York, NY: Amber Books. p. 143. ISBN 0-7607-1260-3.