Light Tank M5A1 "Stuart"

Stuart Little the 2nd

Historical Overview:

The core reason behind the development of the M5 was probably the rapidly growing demand for radial engines, which were in short supply in 1941, thus, other sources were approached in order to keep the Stuart in production. In June, the installation of twin Cadillac engines, a Hydramatic, and auxiliary transmission was approved, increasing the weight by 1.1 tons, but preserving its performance. It was also easier to start and maintain, was quieter and made the tank more roomy.

The new tank was designated M4, and was combined with the M3A1E1 - a prototype testing a welded hull, to create the M3E2, then the M3E3. Among other modifications, the frontal plate was moved forward to free up space inside, and two rotating hatches with periscopes were fitted on the flat section behind the glacis for the driver and the bow gunner. To avoid confusion with the M4 Sherman, it was renamed to “M5”.

Source(s):

https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/us/m5_stuart.php