Design Overview & Tactical Role
In 1940, the SOMUA S35 was considered by foreign military observers and German Panzer commanders alike to be the finest medium tank in the world. Engineered for French Cavalry divisions, it featured an innovative three-piece cast steel hull bolted together, well-sloped 47 mm armor that repelled German 3.7 cm tank rounds, a high-velocity 47 mm SA 35 gun that easily punched through Panzer III and IV armor, and a robust 190 hp V8 engine capable of 40.7 km/h.
Combat History & Battle Records
During the Battle of Hannut in Belgium (May 12-14, 1940)—the first large-scale tank-against-tank clash in history involving over 1,000 tanks—the SOMUA S35s of General Prioux's Cavalry Corps scored decisive tactical victories over German Panzer III and IV formations before withdrawing in good order.
Related Armored Vehicles (WWI & Interwar)
