History, technical details and pictures

History of the M8 Greyhound

In 1941, the light M8 "Greyhound" light tank was originally designed as a heavy tank, but quickly, during the design of the armored vehicle, the American engineers have decided to create a reconnaissance and support infantry vehicle armed with a 37 mm gun.

The same year it was getting in service in the U.S. Army. The first engagement of the M8 Greyhound light tank in a combat situation took place in Italy in 1943, then it was used throughout the rest of the Second World War.

Light and fast, the M8 Greyhound, however, experienced many difficulties during maneuvers taking place off roads since its mobility was only based on the use of 6-wheel drive, what has pushed the U.S. HQ to engage more tracked armored vehicle.

The Americans did not wish to reuse the M8 Greyhound light tank in their army, they decided to deliver the copies still available in many countries throughout the world. The armored vehicle was in staffing in many armies until the 1960s and some countries still use it today.

M8 Greyhound sheet

Country creator/user: USA
Name: M8 Greyhound

Rate of fire: 5,01 m
Width: 2,54 m
Height: 2,26 m
Weigth: 7680 kg
Maximum speed: 100 km/h
Range: 438 km

Main gun: one M6 37 mm gun
Secondary armament: one 12,7 mm Browning and one 7,62 mm Browning

Engine: Hercules JXD, 6 cyl., 110 hp

Crew: 4

Front shield: 19 mm
Back shield: 3 mm