Stuart M5 light tank (x4)

Set of four Stuart M5 light tanks. The turret, main hull, tracks, suspension system, almost everything including equipment, were derived from the M3A3, so the production lines needed only a few changes. The new engine and transmission arrangement saw the rear part reshaped and steel RHA was used, along with welding, throughout construction. A 0.3 cal (7.62 mm) was placed in the right side of the glacis and was operated by the assistant driver, who sat on the right. Both his and the driver’s seats could be elevated in order to be able to ride with their heads out of the hatch. The assistant driver and driver were given dual steering brake controls, and floor mounted accelerator pedals. The M3A1 turret was adopted for the M5, the “short” model characterized by the roof machine gun placed at the rear. The gunner needed to stand behind, exposed to enemy fire. This was corrected with the M5A1. The turret had a Westinghouse gyrostabilizer and oil-gear power traverse. Thanks to the new powerplant and lower drive shaft, turret traverse systems could be mounted under the turret floor, freeing space in the process. The turret was equipped with a M23 gun mount and roof mounted M4 periscopic sight for the gunner, under an armored cover. There was originally to be a telescope left to the gun, and the port was welded shut. Despite criticism about its lack of firepower, the 37 mm (1.46 in) was kept. It’s high-velocity performances made it able to pierce the armor of similar light tanks. As a scout tank, it was mostly confronted with infantry, and the three Browning machine-guns were also an argument.