Polish 10TP vs. Russian BT-7

Attribute	Polish 10TP	Russian BT-7
Country of Origin	Poland	Russia
Manufacturer	Cegielski Works	KhPZ
Weight	10.5 tons	14.5 tons
Crew	3	3
Main Armament	37 mm gun	45 mm gun
Speed	37 km/h	72 km/h

Introduction

When it comes to armored vehicles, the Polish 10TP and the Russian BT-7 are two iconic tanks that played significant roles during World War II. Both tanks were designed and produced in the 1930s, showcasing different attributes and capabilities that set them apart from each other. In this article, we will compare the features of the Polish 10TP and the Russian BT-7 to understand their strengths and weaknesses.

Design and Development

The Polish 10TP was a prototype light tank developed in the late 1930s by Poland. It was designed to replace the aging Renault FT tanks in the Polish Army. The 10TP featured a Christie suspension system, which provided excellent mobility and speed on the battlefield. On the other hand, the Russian BT-7 was a fast cavalry tank developed by the Soviet Union in the 1930s. It was known for its speed and maneuverability, thanks to its sloped armor design and powerful engine.

Armor and Protection

When it comes to armor and protection, the Polish 10TP had a maximum armor thickness of 20mm, which was considered adequate for a light tank of its time. However, the sloped armor design of the Russian BT-7 provided better protection against enemy fire, with a maximum armor thickness of 22mm. The BT-7's sloped armor also helped in deflecting incoming rounds, making it a more survivable tank on the battlefield.

Firepower

In terms of firepower, the Polish 10TP was armed with a 37mm gun, which was effective against enemy infantry and light vehicles. The tank also had a coaxial machine gun for engaging enemy troops at close range. On the other hand, the Russian BT-7 was equipped with a 45mm gun, which had better armor-piercing capabilities compared to the 10TP's gun. The BT-7 also had a machine gun for anti-infantry purposes.

Mobility

Both the Polish 10TP and the Russian BT-7 were known for their excellent mobility on the battlefield. The 10TP's Christie suspension system allowed for high speeds and good cross-country performance. The tank could reach speeds of up to 40 km/h, making it a fast and agile vehicle. Similarly, the BT-7's powerful engine and lightweight design enabled it to achieve speeds of up to 72 km/h, making it one of the fastest tanks of its time.

Combat Performance

During World War II, both the Polish 10TP and the Russian BT-7 saw action on the battlefield. The 10TP was used by the Polish Army during the invasion of Poland in 1939, where it faced off against German tanks with mixed results. The tank's mobility and firepower were praised, but its thin armor made it vulnerable to enemy fire. On the other hand, the BT-7 was used by the Soviet Union during the early stages of the war, where its speed and maneuverability were key assets in combat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Polish 10TP and the Russian BT-7 were two iconic tanks of the 1930s that showcased different attributes and capabilities. While the 10TP excelled in mobility and firepower, the BT-7 stood out for its sloped armor design and speed. Both tanks played significant roles during World War II, demonstrating their effectiveness on the battlefield. Ultimately, the choice between the Polish 10TP and the Russian BT-7 would depend on the specific requirements of the mission and the tactical situation at hand.