T-34-85 vs. T-34-85 D5T

Attribute	T-34-85	T-34-85 D5T
Origin	Soviet Union	Soviet Union
Weight	32 tons	32 tons
Crew	5	5
Main Armament	85 mm gun	85 mm gun
Engine	V-2-34 diesel engine	V-2-34 diesel engine
Speed	55 km/h	55 km/h

Introduction

The T-34-85 and T-34-85 D5T are both variants of the iconic Soviet medium tank, the T-34. These tanks played a crucial role in World War II and are still revered for their performance on the battlefield. In this article, we will compare the attributes of the T-34-85 and T-34-85 D5T to see how they differ and which one may be more suitable for certain situations.

Armor

One of the key differences between the T-34-85 and T-34-85 D5T is their armor. The T-34-85 features sloped armor that provides decent protection against enemy fire. However, the T-34-85 D5T has improved armor thickness, especially on the turret, making it more resilient to enemy attacks. This extra armor can make a significant difference in survivability on the battlefield, especially when facing more powerful opponents.

Armament

Both the T-34-85 and T-34-85 D5T are armed with a 85mm main gun, which was a significant upgrade from the 76mm gun on earlier T-34 models. This gun is capable of taking out enemy tanks with ease and has good accuracy at medium ranges. However, the T-34-85 D5T has a slightly faster rate of fire compared to the standard T-34-85, giving it an edge in combat situations where quick follow-up shots are necessary.

Mobility

When it comes to mobility, both the T-34-85 and T-34-85 D5T are known for their agility on the battlefield. These tanks have a good power-to-weight ratio, allowing them to maneuver quickly and effectively in various terrains. However, the T-34-85 D5T has a more powerful engine, giving it slightly better acceleration and top speed compared to the standard T-34-85. This can be advantageous in situations where speed is crucial, such as flanking maneuvers or repositioning on the battlefield.

Visibility

Visibility is an important factor in tank warfare, as it allows the crew to spot and engage enemy targets effectively. The T-34-85 has decent visibility thanks to its well-designed turret and periscopes. However, the T-34-85 D5T has improved visibility due to the addition of a commander's cupola, which provides a better field of view for the crew. This enhanced visibility can be crucial in spotting enemy tanks and coordinating attacks with other friendly units.

Crew Comfort

The comfort of the crew is another important aspect to consider when comparing the T-34-85 and T-34-85 D5T. Both tanks have a similar crew layout, with the commander, gunner, loader, and driver each having their designated positions. However, the T-34-85 D5T has slightly more spacious crew compartments and improved ergonomics, making it a more comfortable environment for the crew to operate in. This can be beneficial during long missions or extended periods of combat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the T-34-85 and T-34-85 D5T are both formidable tanks with their own unique attributes. The T-34-85 D5T offers improved armor, firepower, mobility, visibility, and crew comfort compared to the standard T-34-85. While both tanks have their strengths and weaknesses, the T-34-85 D5T may be more suitable for situations where survivability and maneuverability are key factors. Ultimately, the choice between the two tanks will depend on the specific requirements of the mission and the preferences of the tank crew.