T55s

The T-55 is a family of Soviet main battle tanks derived from the T-54 and first entering service in the late 1950s. Built to be cheaper to manufacture while improving crew survivability and operations in varied climates, the T-55 emphasized rugged simplicity, NBC protection, and ease of maintenance. The variant was widely produced and exported, leading to widespread use in the Soviet Union’s allies and in embargoed markets around the world.

Design and features of the T-55 emphasize a 100 mm main gun, originally the D-10T, with a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun and a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun for anti-air duties. The turret is crewed by two or three: a commander, a gunner, and a loader, with the driver in the hull. The tank employs a V-55 diesel engine and has armor improvements over the T-54 family, as well as nuclear, biological, and chemical protection. Many variants offer improved fire control, night fighting capability, and enhanced armor. The T-55 also retains amphibious capability with flotation aids and minimal preparation.

Variants and service: The T-55 family includes numerous upgrades and localizations, such as the T-55A, T-55AM, and T-55M, each adding fire-control, armor, or propulsion improvements. Several Eastern Bloc countries produced license-built versions, including Czech OT-55 and VT-55 designations. The T-55 served extensively during the Cold War and in post-Soviet conflicts, and after upgrading many examples remained in service into the 21st century in various regions. Modernized or preserved units are still found in some national inventories and allied forces.