T43 Concept

Postwar studies raised objections to the development of heavy tanks in the 70-ton class of the T34. Further investigations by Detroit Arsenal indicated the basic T34 design could be modified by shortening the hull, using high-obliquity armor, and installing a lighter weight version of the 120 mm Gun T53E1. It was estimated these changes would reduce the vehicle's weight to about 58 tons. In December 1948, the characteristics of this vehicle were outlined and it was designated as the T43.

The first version of T43, as pictured above, retained the 80-inch diameter turret ring of the T34, but reduced the crew from five to four. The 810 hp Continental AV-1790 engine was specified for use combined with a brand new transmission, capable of pushing the new tank to 27 mph. The new gun was specified as the 120 mm Gun T122, which weighed only 85% of the antiaircraft gun installed in the T34, yet raised the chamber pressure by 21%. This new tank was to have a present 5 inches of frontal armor, plus a 4-inch gun shield.

In World Of Tanks, the T43 HTC would make for a decently mobile and powerful Tier VIII heavy tank. It would probably be most comparable to the French AMX M4 49, but simply with a larger gun. It would play kind of in between that tank and the old (Tier VIII) premium T34 heavy tank.



Guns: 120 mm Gun T122

Engines: Continental AV-1790-5B (810 hp)

Turrets (Turret Armor (mm)): T43 HTC (127/??/??)*

Suspensions/Alternate Hulls, Total Weight (metric tons): T43 HTC (52.62)

Hull Armor (mm): 127/??/??

Top Speed: 43 km/h

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

*does not count the gun shield



See Also: M103, T34

Sources:

Hunnicutt, R. P. Firepower, 2017.

Estes, K. W. M103 Heavy Tank 1950-74, 2013.