M-26 Pershing Heavy Tank
The M-26 Pershing Heavy Tank has heavier armor, a more powerful gun, and improved torsion bar suspension compared to the Sherman. A total of 2,222 M26 Pershing tanks were produced, beginning in November 1944, only 20 of which saw combat in Europe during World War II (photo below).
There is a persistent myth that Gen. Patton did not want this tank and delayed its development. That myth is not supported by any evidence and does not conform to the development history of the T26 which became the M-26. The Pershing was re-classified as a Medium tank after World War II in May 1946, when its engine and other components were upgraded. The new combination was redesignated the M-46 Patton Medium Tank.
The main armament of the M26 Pershing was its 90 mm gun. Secondary .30 cal. machine guns were mounted co-axially in the turret and in the bow. A .50 cal. machine gun was mounted on top of the turret.
Specifications of the M26 Pershing Heavy Tank
| Crew | 5 |
| Weight | 92,500 lbs |
| Height | 9 ft. 1 in. |
| Width | 11 ft. 6 in. |
| Length | 28 ft. 1 in. |
| Engine | Ford, GAF, V-8, 1,100 cu. in. |
| Horsepower | 500 hp |
| Fuel | Gasoline |
| Capacity | 183 gallons |
| Transmission | 3-speed Torquematic |
| Road Speed | 25 mph |
| Range | 100 miles |
9th AD M-26 Pershing Heavy Tank photographed near Vettweiss, Germany in March 1945.
M-26 Pershing Heavy Tank inspection at Ft. Lewis, WA in the late 1940s. Photo: 2nd Infantry Division Museum.
M-26 Pershing Heavy Tank. Photo: Courtesy of Mark Holloway.
M-26 Pershing Heavy Tank, 1st Cavalry Division, Ft. Hood, TX, 31 March 2006. Photo: Courtesy of Bob Pettit.
M-26 Pershing Heavy Tank, 1st Cavalry Division, Ft. Hood, TX, 31 March 2006. Photo: Courtesy of Bob Pettit.
M-26 Pershing Heavy Tank, Texas Military Forces Museum, Camp Mabry, TX, 30 January 2006. Photo: Courtesy of Bob Pettit.
