Kettenkette

Kettenkette, a term that originated in Austria-Hungary during World War I, refers to a system used to repair damaged or worn-out tanks on the battlefield quickly and effectively. The term, which translates to "chain chain" in English, describes the method of linking damaged or worn-out chain tracks, also known as tank tracks, together to extend their lifespan.

The Kettenkette system involved carrying spare chain tracks on a tank or in a nearby waggon. When a tank's track became damaged, a quick repair could be made by linking the damaged section to a spare part using an adjustable coupler. This allowed the tank to continue operating for a period of time until a more substantial repair could be made. The system saved significant time and effort in maintaining tank mobility, which was critical during the intense and fluid combat of World War I.

The Kettenkette system was first developed by Empress Augusta Victoria, the wife of Emperor Franz Joseph of Austria, who also had a background in science and technology. The empress devised the system in response to the issues faced by the Austro-Hungarian army in maintaining their tanks during operations. Although the system was initially used by the Austro-Hungarian army, it was later adopted by other militaries, including those of Germany and the United States, during World War I and the interwar period.