The successor to the M2 series of light tanks, the M3 is a a heavily modified M2 with a slightly different suspension and gun layout.
Design, Development, and History[]
With the war in Europe raging, it was becoming apparent that the M2 was obsolete. A change to the M2's suspension, namely the position of the idler wheel, a change in armor, armament, number of sponson machine guns, and driver controls resulted in the M3.
M3's and M5's saw service as scout vehicles and recon until 1941 where it was replaced by the M24 Chaffee.
Pros and Cons[]
Pros[]
- Fast
- Good armor, better than most tanks at its tier and resistant to HMG fire
- Good gun with good reload
- Good turret traverse and gun depression
Cons[]
- Cramped interior, a single hit can easily result in a oneshot