The impact of tanks on military tactics became clear after their introduction in World War I, and their use increased in later conflicts. During World War II, the United States recognized the need to boost its military strength for a decisive victory, which led to the development of the T28 Super Heavy Tank.
However, the project was abruptly terminated, leading to only two prototypes being built. One of these prototypes was disabled after being damaged in testing, and the other’s location remained lost for many years.
The United States wanted to match the German Army’s powerful tanks
After their triumph in World War II, the United States and its Allies acquired crucial insights into conflict dynamics and future strategic possibilities. Even amidst the ongoing war, the US military was diligently working to address its existing weaknesses. One major challenge was the Wehrmacht‘s tank superiority, exemplified by the formidable Siegfried Line, which severely restricted Allied attempts to penetrate German defenses.
In 1943, the US embarked on creating a new tank, which would later be known as the T28 Super Heavy Tank. This cutting-edge vehicle was crafted for durability, designed to have the power necessary to breach enemy lines while offering substantial protection for its crew.
The United States begins work on developing prototypes
In March 1944, preparations began to manufacture five T28 Super Heavy Tanks, each outfitted with a 105 mm T5E1 anti-tank gun as its primary weapon and a .50-cal Browning heavy machine gun for secondary defense. This tank boasted heavily enhanced armor, featuring metal as thick as 12 inches in specific zones, offering impressive protection against anti-tank weaponry.
However, production encountered setbacks. The T28’s considerable weight of 95 short tons restricted its maximum speed to approximately 8 miles per hour and posed serious difficulties in maneuvering over different terrain obstacles.
The T28 Super Heavy Tank wasn’t really needed at all
As previously mentioned, the initial purpose of the T28 Super Heavy Tanks was to be used against the Siegfried Line. However, starting in mid-1944, the Allies launched a comprehensive offensive against this defensive line, and by early 1945, it had been breached.
Subsequently, plans were made to employ the T28s in operations on the Japanese mainland. Nonetheless, Japan surrendered before they could be put into service, following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. As a result, the US government decided to discontinue further development of these tanks. Only two prototypes were ever completed; one sustained considerable damage during testing at Yuma Proving Ground and was ultimately sold for scrap.
The remaining T28 Super Heavy Tank was lost for decades
As World War II ended and the nature of warfare evolved, the T28 Super Heavy Tank was rendered mostly obsolete. Rigorous testing showed shortcomings that would have created substantial difficulties in combat. As a result, the US military adjusted its focus, prioritizing tanks with lighter and more adaptable designs.
In the ensuing years, during the Korean and Vietnam wars, the absence of the T28 tank was notable on the battlefield. Its World War II-era design lost relevance, no longer fitting with the military’s changing strategic goals.
The T28 Super Heavy Tank was eventually found in the weeds
The military’s concentration on developing new tanks led to the misplacement of the remaining T28 Super Heavy Tank prototype. Remarkably, it wasn’t until 1974, a staggering 27 years after its disappearance, that it was stumbled upon in a field at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Neglected and exposed to the elements for decades, weeds had begun to encroach upon its structure.
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Following its rediscovery, the prototype received significantly better care and reverence. It was relocated to the General George Patton Museum at Fort Knox, Kentucky, where it resided for several years before finding a permanent home at Patton Park in Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), Georgia.
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