SA Armour Museum
T 34/85 MEDIUM TANK (USSR)
T34/85 startup and drive
Crew: 4
Combat Mass: 32 t
Armament: 85 mm ZiS-S-53 gun; 1 x 7.62 mm DT machine gun (coaxial); 1 x 7.62 mm DT machine gun (in the hull)
Engine: Model: V-2-34 12-cylinder diesel engine; 500 hp @ 2,000 rpm (15.6 hp/t)
Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission
Suspension: Torsion bar suspension with double road wheels
Fording: Without preparation 1.0 meters
Speed: Road 55 km/h - Cross Country 30 km/h
Operating Range: Road: 300 km; Cross Country: 200 km
Development history
The T-34/85 was developed as an enhanced version of the Soviet T-34 medium tank to address the increasing threat from heavily armored German tanks during World War II. The original T-34, introduced in 1940, was highly effective with its sloped armor and 76.2 mm gun, but by 1943, its armament was becoming inadequate against newer German tanks such as the Panther and Tiger. Recognizing the need for an upgrade, Soviet engineers began developing the T-34/85 in late 1943.
The key improvement in the T-34/85 was its armament. It was fitted with the 85 mm ZiS-S-53 gun, which offered significantly greater firepower and armor penetration compared to the earlier 76.2 mm gun. This upgrade was essential for effectively engaging German tanks and fortifications. The tank also featured a larger and more spacious turret to accommodate the new gun and improve crew comfort and protection.
Production of the T-34/85 began in early 1944, with Soviet factories quickly scaling up to meet the increased demand. By mid-1944, the T-34/85 was deployed on the Eastern Front and played a crucial role in Soviet offensives. Its enhanced firepower and armor proved effective in combat, significantly improving the Soviet tank forces' capabilities.
Following World War II, the T-34/85 continued to serve in various conflicts and remained in use by many countries for decades. Its design not only contributed to the success of Soviet armored units during the war but also influenced future Soviet tank development, cementing its legacy as a significant and iconic tank of the era.