Difference between revisions of "Tank Destroyers"

Tank Destroyers (also know as anti-tank self-propelled guns) are tanks designed specifically to destroy enemy tanks. They usually lack a turret, but load a powerful weapon able to penetrate most targets they encounter.

Almost every tank destroyer (notable exceptions are some US tank destroyers) lacks a turret and must turn the entire tank to engage targets outside of the traverse range of it's gun. This design, however, usually gives a tank destroyer more effective use of concealment, due to a lower profile, and the capability to load a more powerful cannon than an equivalent tank. The heaviest tank destroyer can weigh up to about 77 tons. The fastest tank destroyer can reach speeds of up to 55 km/hour. Armor on a tank destroyer can reach thicknesses of up to 250 mm, and only artillery can load more powerful weapons.

Tank destroyers are excellent ambush vehicles. Their better concealment and powerful weapons allows them to destroy tanks by gaining the initial strikes with devastating firepower. However, the lack of a turret and the general lack of defensive ability except on the front armor means that a tank aware of a tank destroyer's location can quickly gain an upper hand by flanking them and leaving them helpless to defend themselves.

If lacking a location for an effective ambush, a tank destroyer can provide excellent fire support by hanging behind the front lines and taking shots of opportunity at exposed enemy tanks. Alternately, tank destroyers provide effective area denial in enclosed areas, such as city streets, especially in the case of larger tank destroyers with strong frontal armor.