IS7

The IS-7 is a Soviet heavy tank developed during the late 1960s and early 1970s as a successor to the IS-3. It was designed to combine very strong frontal protection with substantial firepower and mobility for a vehicle of its size. Only a small number were completed, and the IS-7 did not enter mass production or widespread service.

Design and features: The vehicle features a very heavy hull and turret with a low silhouette for its class. Armor was heavily sloped on the glacis and sides, and the turret was large and cast to accommodate a long-barreled main gun. The IS-7 was crewed by four: commander, gunner, loader, and driver. It used conventional suspension and powerplant components typical of Soviet heavy tanks of the era.

Armament and fire control: The main gun was a long 130 mm design, capable of firing a range of armor-paling and high-explosive rounds. The gun was supported by a standard fire-control system of the period, with instrumentation typical for Soviet tanks of the time.

Operational history: The IS-7 underwent extensive testing in the 1970s and was shown in trials and demonstrations. It did not enter production due to cost considerations and shifting strategic priorities, and the few completed vehicles remained at testing facilities or as demonstrators. After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the program was effectively ended.

Legacy: The IS-7 is remembered as one of the most heavily armored and heavily armed Soviet tanks of its era, representing late Cold War approaches to heavy tank design. While it inspired discussions about future heavy armor, the era moved toward main battle tanks, limiting its broader influence.