T71 Light Tank

T71, T71E1 Experimental Airborne Light Tank
Type Light tank
Place of origin United States
Service history
In service Unaccepted prototype
Production history
Designer Aircraft Armaments; Cadillac; Detroit Arsenal
Designed 1953
Unit cost Classified
No. built 0
Specifications
Weight 17.91 t (17.63 long tons)
Crew 3 (commander, driver, gunner/loader)
Armor 25–19 mm (0.98–0.75 in)
Main
armament
 76 mm gun M1A2 or 76 mm gun T185 (close relative of the M32 gun on the M41 tank)
Secondary
armament
 1 x GPMG
Engine Continental AOI-628-1/2
340/400 hp
Power/weight 18.98 or 22.33 hp/tonne
Suspension thought to be hydropneumatic
Fuel capacity 150 US gal (570 L)
Speed 64.4 km/h (40.0 mph)

The T71 Experimental Airborne Light Tank was part of a 1952 plan by the US to replace the M41 Walker Bulldog in service. It was multi-turreted and equipped a primary oscillating turret. It was similar to the AMX-13 and the T92 Light Tank. By 1953, there were 3 designs that were suggested as a replacement. Those 3 designs were drawn by Detroit Arsenal, Cadillac, and Aircraft Armaments.

History

In 1952, the Army Ordnance Committee gave general required characteristics for a replacement of the M41 Walker Bulldog. Originally, there was a 20 ton maximum weight and a requirement for a 90 mm gun. This requirement was later changed to an 18-ton weight limit and a 76 millimeter gun which would have allowed a quicker replacement of the barrel.[note 1]

See also

References

    1. ↑ check the talk page for possible citing websources.


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