Tanks and Fighting Vehicles

The T-80 Main Battle Tank continued the evolution of T-64 and T-72, adding a gas turbine engine. Because of the engine, this particular tank had the capability to reach 40 miles per hour. Explore the T-80 Main Battle Tank at HowStuffWorks.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

Panzerkampfwagens I and II were secretly developed by the Nazis in defiance of the Versailles Treaty. These tanks were intended as training tanks. They were armed with only a pair of machine guns. Learn more about Panzerkampfwagens I and II.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

Panzerkampfwagens III and IV evolved from earlier models, adding specific features for targeted attacks. It was the first tank built by the Nazis that was designed for actual combat. Explore Panzerkampfwagens III and IV.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

The M-3 Stuart and M-5 Light Tank were nicknamed 'Honey' for their smooth and agile handling. These tanks were equipped with extra fuel tanks, which allowed for greater range. Explore the M-3 Stuart (Honey) and M-5 Light Tank.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

The M-4 Sherman Medium Tank boasted thick armor and was powerful enough to match nearly any tank of its era. At the time of construction, the M-4 had the thickest armor ever used on an American tank. Learn about the M-4 Sherman Medium Tank.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

The M-26 General Pershing Heavy Tank was developed during World War II to compete with powerful German tanks. These tanks were designed to eliminate some of the shortcomings of the M-4 tanks. Explore the M-26 General Pershing Tank.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

The M-41 Walker Bulldog Light Tank was a quick and agile tank designed for reconnaissance missions. Although lightweight, this tank was built to defend itself against other medium tanks. Explore the 1950 M-41 Walker Bulldog Light Tank.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

M-47 General George S. Patton Medium Tank was a hybrid of two tanks created after the start of the Korean War. This tank was important in that it was the last time that a tank featured a hull machine gunner. Explore the M-47 Patton Medium Tank.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

The M-48 General George S. Patton Medium Tank was developed in anticipation of the Cold War and used in the Korean War. All M-48s were equipped with main guns that can fire a wide variety of ammunition types. Explore the M-48 Patton tank.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

The M-24 Chaffee Light Tank retained the speed and agility of the M-3 Stuart while adding needed firepower. A total of 4,415 tanks were produced before the war ended in 1945. Climb into the hatch of the M-24 Chaffee.

By the Editors of Publications International, Ltd.

At the Carnegie Mellon debut, a Crusher prototype rolled over and crushed piles of cars that would have most monster trucks backing up with their tails between their legs. Crusher is no typical truck. It can drive right over a 4-foot vertical wall while carrying 8,000 pounds of cargo – and no people.

By Julia Layton

The U.S. Army's Stryker is a lesson in flexibility: There are as many Stryker configurations as there are tasks to complete in today's military. Plus, it's easier to deploy than the mighty M1. Learn all about the Army's ambitious Stryker project: anywhere in the world within 96 hours.

By Dave Coustan

The U.S. military uses the Bradley Fighting Vehicle to scout enemy positions and transport troops into hostile territory. With land and sea capabilities, as well as speed and heavy-duty weapons, it's well-outfitted for the job. Learn all about the Bradley and check out some great action photos.

By Kevin Bonsor

The M1 can withstand an attack from any tank out there -- including another M1. Learn all about the toughest armored land vehicle in the world.

By Tom Harris