14 Nearly Forgotten Military Vehicles
Military history is filled with legendary tanks, jeeps, and aircraft, but some incredible machines have faded into the background over time.
I once stumbled across an old military transport truck at a scrapyard, rusted but still looking tough enough to roll into battle. The owner said it had been part of a long-forgotten Cold War project.
From bizarre prototypes to rugged war machines that quietly shaped history, these nearly forgotten military vehicles once played a major role before slipping into obscurity.
1. Fiat 2000
I remember learning about the Fiat 2000 during a history class. This Italian behemoth, built in the early 20th century, was a marvel of its time. I imagined it rumbling over rugged terrains with its thick armor.
Despite its impressive design, it never saw combat. It was like a grand old testament to Italy’s engineering prowess.
This vehicle remains a fascinating piece of military history. So, whenever I look at old photos, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia for what could have been.
2. British A39 Tortoise
The A39 Tortoise was a British heavy assault tank designed during World War II but too late to see combat. Armed with a formidable 94mm gun, it was built to breach heavily fortified enemy positions.
However, its size also proved a logistical challenge, limiting its mobility and deployment. Only a few prototypes were completed, as the war ended before they could be used in battle.
It remains an intriguing ‘what if’ in military history, representing the extremes of tank design during its era.
3. T-35 Heavy Tank
Legacy is a double-edged sword, and the T-35 Heavy Tank is a perfect example. This Soviet behemoth, with its multiple turrets, was a sight to behold. However, its legacy is not all glamorous.
Its massive size made it difficult to maneuver, leading to operational challenges on the battlefield.
Despite its intimidation factor, it was plagued by mechanical failures. Yet, its symbolic presence bolstered troop morale. Remembering the T-35 is like recalling a giant that couldn’t quite live up to its potential but left a lasting impression nonetheless.
4. Bob Semple Tank
In the annals of military improvisation, few vehicles are as iconic as New Zealand’s Bob Semple Tank. Constructed hastily during World War II, it was an embodiment of creativity under pressure.
Built on a tractor chassis, it appeared more as a rolling fortress of corrugated iron than a conventional tank. Its quaint design drew both admiration and skepticism.
While it never engaged in combat, the Bob Semple Tank remains a symbol of resourcefulness. Despite its somewhat comical appearance, it stands as a testament to the spirit of innovation in dire times.
5. M50 Ontos
The M50 Ontos always reminds me of a peculiar incident. I once saw a friend struggle to parallel park, and it was oddly similar to maneuvering this vehicle.
Armed with six recoilless rifles, it was a formidable sight. Yet, its small size made it a challenge in tight spots.
Despite its quirks, it was incredibly effective in the Vietnam War. It’s like the little vehicle that could, proving that size isn’t everything. Whenever I think of it, I can’t help but smile at its audacious design and remarkable service.
6. M42 Duster
The M42 Duster was like the Swiss Army knife of anti-aircraft vehicles. Designed in the 1950s, it boasted twin 40mm guns, ready to tackle aerial threats.
Yet, in a world shifting towards missile technology, it became somewhat of an anachronism. Still, it excelled in ground support roles, proving its versatility.
Its open-top design resembled a chariot, ready for battle, but vulnerable to the elements. The Duster, while overshadowed by modern tech, showcases the transition era of military strategies. It’s a symbol of adaptability in changing warfare dynamics.
7. M551 Sheridan
The legacy of the M551 Sheridan is a mixed bag, much like a controversial celebrity. Designed for airborne operations, it was remarkably lightweight.
Yet, its thin armor and troublesome gun system drew criticism. It left a mark, both good and bad, on military history.
While it excelled in mobility, its vulnerabilities were stark. The Sheridan is remembered as an attempt to innovate that fell short in some areas.
It serves as a lesson in the risks of pushing technological boundaries without fully addressing practical challenges.
8. FV101 Scorpion
Not all tanks boast the intimidating size of their counterparts. The FV101 Scorpion, a British creation, was designed for quick, strategic maneuvers rather than sheer force.
Its role in reconnaissance was akin to a chess piece, agile and purposeful. It saw decades of service, proving its effectiveness in diverse environments.
Despite its compact size, it packed a punch, serving in conflicts across the globe. The Scorpion’s legacy is that of a nimble warrior, adapting to the ever-changing demands of modern military engagements, making it a standout in its class.
9. M114 Armored Fighting Vehicle
I recall my first encounter with the M114 Armored Fighting Vehicle in a dusty old military museum. It was small, almost inconspicuous, yet intriguing.
Its lightweight build made it ideal for reconnaissance missions. However, its lack of firepower limited its battlefield presence.
Despite this, it was a favorite among crews for its agility. The M114, with its understated charm, represents a unique chapter in military history. Seeing it up close was like discovering a hidden gem, a reminder of the ever-evolving strategies in warfare.
10. BTR-50
The BTR-50, with its amphibious design, was like a duck taking to water. Developed by the Soviet Union, it bridged the gap between land and water.
Its spacious interior allowed it to transport troops across challenging terrains. However, its age showed in its limited armor and protection.
Despite its vulnerabilities, it was a staple in armies worldwide during the Cold War. The BTR-50 is a testament to strategic versatility, blending land and sea operations seamlessly. It reminds us of a time when military technology was pushing boundaries in every direction.
11. PT-76 Amphibious Tank
Reflecting on the PT-76, its dual capability was its standout feature. As an amphibious tank, it excelled in both land and water operations.
Yet, its thin armor often left it vulnerable on the battlefield. Its legacy is marked by its versatility rather than its combat prowess.
Despite its shortcomings, it was widely used and respected. The PT-76 exemplifies the Soviet approach to multifunctional military assets. It stands as a reminder of how adaptability can sometimes outweigh sheer power in military design.
12. Type 89 I-Go
Among the early tank designs, the Type 89 I-Go from Japan marked a pivotal point in armored warfare.
Developed during the interwar period, it showcased Japan’s foray into mechanized military strategies. Its design was a step forward, though it lacked in speed and armor.
Despite these limitations, it served well in early conflicts, paving the way for future advancements. The Type 89 I-Go represents a significant, albeit humble, chapter in the evolution of tank warfare, reminding us of the early steps toward modern armored vehicles.
13. M3 Lee/Grant
The first time I saw an M3 Lee was in an old war movie, and I was captivated by its unique design.
Its dual turret system was both a strength and a weakness, offering versatility but complicating operation. It played a crucial role in North Africa during World War II.
While not the most advanced, it was reliable and sturdy. Its legacy is one of creativity and adaptation. The M3 Lee/Grant is a testament to American ingenuity during a pivotal time. It’s like seeing a classic car, full of quirks but endearing nonetheless.
14. Sturmtiger
The Sturmtiger was a behemoth of a vehicle, akin to a battering ram of the modern era. Designed by Germany during World War II, it was armed with a massive rocket launcher.
Built for urban assault, its role was to obliterate fortified positions. However, its cumbersome size made it a challenge to maneuver in the ruins of war-torn cities.
Despite these drawbacks, it was a formidable psychological weapon. The Sturmtiger’s imposing presence remains a testament to the extremes of military engineering. It symbolizes a period of relentless innovation in wartime technology.