These machines were employed during the Second World War, leaving a mark on armored warfare through varied design choices and tactical roles.
Ford
The M10 Wolverine tank destroyer, named Wolverine in English and commonly referred to in its contexts as a rotating turret self-propelled gun, offered notable maneuverability for its era. Its chassis supported respectable dynamics on the battlefield, making it a versatile platform for several campaigns.
- Year of issue: 1942-1944
- Total print run: 6706 copies
However, the design bore some drawbacks. The hull sat relatively high, which limited concealment in varied terrains. Another limitation was the turret rotation, which required about two minutes for a full turn, slowing quick target acquisition in exposed situations.
As improvements emerged with the M18 model, factories shifted away from the M10 Wolverine. In service, Wolverines saw action in key theaters such as Normandy and the Ardennes, among other hostile environments.
Skoda Works
For seven years Czech industry contributed to the German war effort by supplying artillery, personnel carriers, and tanks. It was within Czech lands that the Jagdpanzer 38 Hetzer earned its place in armored vehicle history, renowned for its compact profile and aggressive design philosophy.
- Years of issue: 1944-1945
- Total print run: about 3000 copies
In translation, Hetzer means hunter. The vehicle stood about two meters tall and roughly five meters long. Its weight hovered around 15 tons, a balance of armor and mobility suitable for ambush-style engagements.
Armored vehicle production continued after the war, and the so-called Huntsman saw extended use in the Swiss army where its proven performance endured for years beyond the conflict.
Renault
The lineage from the French Renault FT17 inspired an early Soviet design path, with a carrier that bore the nickname Freedom Fighter Comrade Lenin in some contexts. This lineage illustrates how interwar innovations influenced later Soviet armored development.
- Year of issue: 1936-1940
- Total print run: over 1600 copies
The French approach prioritized reliability and shielded movement over sheer speed. The tank’s mobility tracked closely with infantry pace, while its armor offered solid protection against early artillery advances. The balance of modest speed and strong frontal protection contributed to its enduring reputation in defense planning of that era.
The production of armored vehicles in France occurred between the two world wars, and French engineers earned recognition for their progress. It is noteworthy that a combat vehicle once appeared on the Renault emblem as a symbol of industrial capability and national defense. The period reflects a shift toward integrated military manufacturing and a broader understanding of mechanized warfare.