Red Army Auxiliary Armoured Vehicles, 1930-1945

In the 1930s, the Soviet Union produced a range of auxiliary armoured vehicles for the Red Army, including armoured flails, ambulances, bridge-layers, flame-throwers, and amphibious cars. These designs were innovative and ahead of their time, but internal policy and industry shortcomings led to the cancellation or postponement of many projects. This photographic history by Alexey Tarasov provides a fascinating insight into a little-known aspect of Soviet armoured vehicle history.

Format: Hardback
Publication date: 04 June 2021
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

During the 1930s, the Soviet Union witnessed the production of a remarkable array of auxiliary armoured vehicles, which have often been overlooked in their historical significance. Alexey Tarasov's photographic history stands as an invaluable guide to these remarkable designs, showcasing the diversity and innovation of the Soviet arms industry. Among these innovative creations were armoured flails, ambulances, bridge-layers, flame-throwers, and amphibious cars, which bear striking similarities to designs developed by Western engineers during the Second World War.

It is worth noting that Soviet designers were, in many ways, ahead of their time. However, their short-sighted internal policies and the limitations of Soviet industry led to the cancellation or postponement of numerous promising projects. As a result, when faced with Operation Barbarossa in 1941, the Red Army lacked the auxiliary armour that would have been instrumental in halting the German advance.

Alexey Tarasov's in-depth research and the rare photographs he has assembled provide a fascinating insight into a lesser-known aspect of the history of Soviet armoured vehicles. Through his meticulous work, Tarasov has brought to light the untold stories of these remarkable machines, shedding light on the contributions of Soviet engineers and their innovative spirit during a challenging period in world history.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 189 x 244 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526785985