BT-2

The BT-2, BT-5 and BT-7 Soviet fast tanks, were produced between 1931 and 1940.

Production History In 1931 two experimental Christie tanks[?] were purchased from the US. The first prototypes BT-1s appeared in August 1931. These were almost copies of the Christie design. Only a few BT-1s were built. In September 1931 the production of the BT-2 started. The BT-2s wereequipped with 37 mm gun and/or machine guns. The BT-3 and later models were equipped with a 45 mm gun.

Variants

• BT-1 - Prototype
• BT-2 - Production model 1931.
• BT-3 - With a 45 mm gun.
• BT-4 - Infantry support variant with machine guns.
• BT-5 - Main production model 1932.
• BT-7 - Main production model 1936.
• BT-42 - Finnish assault gun, captured BT-7s were equipped with British 114mm howitzers.

Combat History Some BT-5s saw action on the Republican side in the Spanish Civil War. Also fought against Japan in 1939 and Finland during the Winter War (mainly BT-2 and BT-5).