The influence of tanks on military strategy became evident with their debut in World War I, and their role grew a lot in later conflicts. By the time World War II arrived, the United States recognized the necessity of enhancing its military power to secure a decisive victory, leading to the development of the T28 Super Heavy Tank.
Despite this effort, the project was abruptly discontinued, resulting in the production of only two prototypes. One was damaged during testing and became inoperable, while the other was missing for many years.
The United States wanted to match the German Army’s powerful tanks
Following their victory in World War II, the United States and its Allies gained key insights into the nature of conflict and potential strategic advantages for the future. Even during the war, the US military was focused on addressing its existing shortcomings. A primary obstacle was the Wehrmacht‘s tank superiority, underscored by the formidable Siegfried Line, which largely hindered Allied efforts to penetrate German defenses.
In 1943, the US started on the development of a new tank, later called the T28 Super Heavy Tank. This groundbreaking vehicle was engineered for resilience, equipped to break through enemy lines while providing considerable protection for its crew.
The United States begins work on developing prototypes
In March 1944, work commenced on producing five T28 Super Heavy Tanks. Each was equipped with a 105 mm T5E1 anti-tank gun as its main armament and a .50-cal Browning heavy machine gun for additional defense. The tank featured majorly improved armor, with metal thickness reaching up to 12 inches in certain areas, providing exceptional protection against anti-tank weapons.
Nevertheless, production faced challenges. The T28’s substantial weight of 95 short tons limited its top speed to around 8 miles per hour and created major obstacles in navigating various terrains.
The T28 Super Heavy Tank wasn’t really needed at all
The T28 Super Heavy Tanks were originally designed to combat the Siegfried Line, as noted earlier. However, by mid-1944, the Allies had launched a significant offensive against the line, successfully breaking through by early 1945.
Plans later shifted to use the T28s in operations on the Japanese mainland, but Japan’s surrender following the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki meant the tanks were never used. Consequently, the US government halted further development. Only two prototypes were ever completed; one sustained extensive damage during testing at Yuma Proving Ground and was eventually 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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