• kalpol@lemmy.ca
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    7 days ago

    The tank museum in Bovington is a crazy experience. The Mark I - IV tanks where you sit right next to the blazing hot engine and spinning driveshaft. Even modern Chieftains, like huge claustrophobia. And the size of the things.

    • Digestive_Biscuit@feddit.uk
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      6 days ago

      The seats look so uncomfortable too. Even if padding was added, driving over some type of terrain must cause some damage to the crew.

      • PugJesus@piefed.socialOPM
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        6 days ago

        lmao, I’m reminded of an interview with a Soviet tanker who served in WW2. The tanker in question had crewed both Soviet T-34s and Lend-Lease American Sherman tanks. Of their combat efficacy, he considered them roughly equivalent, with their own strengths and weaknesses.

        But he loved the Sherman so much more because it was comparatively ergonomic and comfortable. He made special note of the pseudo-leather for the tank’s seating - something the T-34 did not have. Unfortunately for him, the infantry accompanying his unit got into the tank and stripped that seat padding to patch their boots, but it was nice while he had it. XD