BT-5 Soviet Light Tank

Subject Info

The BT-5 (Bystrochodnij Tankov or “Fast Tank” type 5) was an improvement on previous models. These were themselves close-copies, with specific modifications, of the US Christie M1928 “race tank”. The BT-5 shared with its predecessors the suspension, the hull (though slightly reinforced) and equipment. The turret was new, roomier and fitted for the first time with the standard 45 mm (1.77 in) gun, also used on the T-26. But this transition was not clear-cut. The BT-5 was preceded by the BT-4. Three prototypes of the latter were built in 1932 with a partially riveted, partially welded hull, twin turrets and modified suspension. To be noted there are still some doubts about their existence.