Author: Yisela

The first tanks (or armored vehicles) had been created in the autumn of 1914, with the first experimental machine completed in December 1915. The “Mechanical Warfare Supply Department” of the Ministry of Munitions was in charge of supplying the machines. 

The first tanks, Mark 1, were built in two types: “Male” (carrying two Hotchkiss 6-pounder guns and 4 machine guns) and “Female” (carrying 5 machineguns). Turning was a especially complex maneuver, requiring these “caterpillars” to halt – and making them an easy target.

Men driving these first WW1 tanks (usually a Subaltern, 3 Drivers and 4 Gunners) would often become sick due to the heat, noise, and engine exhaust. The tanks would make violent movements and were also mechanically unreliable. However, they still managed to surprise and alarm the German army – which quickly began to develop their own. 

A significant improvement came with the Mark VIs, which had more armor, an external tank and carries fascines, or bundles of wood that could be dropped to bridge trenches and ditches. A lighter tank called Whippet came into service in early 1918. Although it lightly armored, it was an effective variant that had much better control mechanisms and required less crew. 

There are several notable stories of tanks sent in action ahead of the infantry. The tanks had one big advantage: They could draw enemy fire. Although some had to be ditched or broke down, the surprise of the tanks helped the attacks. 

Although several attempts were challenging due to mud and deep trenches and shell holes, on 20 November 1917, 378 Mark VI tanks smashed through the Hindenburg Line and created a temporary rupture that would have allowed a unique advantage (which, although wasn’t used, proved the strategic value of tanks).