M3 Light

Field use of the M2A4 and additional testing revealed the need for further improvements. In June 1940, it was ordered the tank have thicker armor. This improved vehicle was designated the M3 light tank. Later use of this new tank would also reveal the need for a stronger turret. The new 37 mm Gun M6 was also installed. These vehicles were standardized as M3A1. Finally, in 1942, it was requested the M3A1 be modified to have a hull similar to that being developed for the M5 light tank. The armor protection on these hulls was improved again and the new tank was standardized as M3A3. Most of the production tanks were diverted as foreign aid under the Lend-Lease program. In British service, the tanks were named after J. E. B. Stuart, a famous Civil War Confederate cavalry general. The Soviet Union was also delivered more than a thousand vehicles.

Compared to the current M3 Stuart, there isn’t much to consider changing here. I’ve dropped the same 20 mm autocannon from the M2 Light as a stock option here, as I’m convinced this gun was never used on this tank. Another thing I’ve done is to rename the tank as “M3 Light” because the name “Stuart” is a British designation, not an American one. In the US, the tank never received this designation. Then again, the tank saw limited action with US troops, so may make more sense to give it its more common name. Then again, the “Stuart” is already in the game as a British light tank. I think renaming the tank to M3 Light, while not necessary, is more authentic to the tank. The same is true for the M5 Stuart.

The vehicle’s top speed, however, has been altered and is now dependent on the hull/suspension being used. The second suspension must be necessary to mount the second turret, but either gun will work in either turret.

Guns: 37 mm Gun M5; 37 mm Gun M6

Engines: Guiberson T-1020-4 (245 hp); Continental W-670-9A (262 hp); Continental R-950 (290 hp)

Turrets (Turret Armor (mm)): M3 Early (38/25/25); M3 Late (38/32/32)

Suspensions/Alternate Hulls, Total Weight (metric tons): M3A1 (12.7); M3A3 (14.5)

Hull Armor (mm): 44/25/25 (M3A1); 44/25/25 (M3A3)

Top Speed: 58 km/h (M3A1); 50 km/h (M3A3)

Crew: 4 (Driver; Gunner; Loader; Commander/Radio)

Parent: M2 Light
Children: M5 Light

Sources:

Hunnicutt, R. P. Stuart. 1992.