Sherman M4A3 (76) W

Crew: 5

Combat Mass: 33 t

Armament: 76 mm M1A1 gun; 1 x 7.62 mm M1919A4 Browning machine gun (coaxial);
1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun (commander's cupola)

Engine: Ford GAA V8 petrol engine; 500 hp @ 2,600 rpm (15.2 hp/t)

Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission

Suspension: Vertical volute spring suspension (VVSS)

Fording: Without preparation: 0.9 meters

Speed:38 km/h on road; Cross Country: 24 km/h

Operating Range: Road 200 km - Cross Country 130 km

Development history

The Sherman M4A3 (76) W is an upgraded variant of the M4 Sherman tank, developed during World War II to address the need for increased firepower against more heavily armored German tanks. The "76" designation refers to the 76 mm gun mounted on the tank, which offered better performance against enemy armor compared to the earlier 75 mm guns.

The M4A3 (76) W was introduced in late 1944 and featured the powerful 76 mm M1A1 gun, which significantly improved its anti-tank capabilities. This version also retained the M1919A4 Browning machine gun mounted coaxially with the main gun and added a 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun on the commander's cupola for additional firepower.

The tank was powered by a Ford GAA V8 petrol engine producing 500 horsepower, providing a top road speed of 38 km/h and a cross-country speed of 24 km/h. The vertical volute spring suspension (VVSS) system contributed to the tank's mobility and ability to navigate rough terrain.

The Sherman M4A3 (76) W had an operational range of approximately 200 km on roads and 130 km cross-country. Its fording capability allowed it to cross water obstacles up to 0.9 meters deep without preparation, making it versatile in various combat environments.

The development of the M4A3 (76) W was part of the broader Sherman tank program, which aimed to continuously improve the tank's performance throughout the war. The M4A3 (76) W was produced in significant numbers and saw extensive service in the European Theater of Operations, where it was valued for its increased firepower and armor protection.

The Sherman M4A3 (76) W played a crucial role in the final stages of World War II, providing effective support to Allied forces in both offensive and defensive operations. Its design and improvements reflected the evolving requirements of armored warfare during the conflict.