Design Overview & Tactical Role
The M103 was the last and heaviest operational heavy tank fielded by the United States military. Specifically conceived to counter the Soviet IS-3 and T-10 heavy tanks during the depths of the Cold War, its colossal cast turret housed the 120 mm M58 gun—one of the most powerful kinetic tank guns ever constructed, firing two-part ammunition loaded by two dedicated loaders in a five-man crew.
Combat History & Battle Records
Built during the Cold War by Chrysler, M103 battalions were deployed to Europe by the US Army and stationed with US Marine Corps expeditionary units in Guantanamo Bay and the Mediterranean until phased out by modern M60A1s.
Related Armored Vehicles (Cold War)
Modern
2020
Modern
2006
Cold War
1948
Cold War
1961