M3 Stuart (PBR)

The M3 Stuart is a light tank designed by American engineers in 1940 and mass produced during World War II. Delivered to Britain and other Commonwealth countries under the Lend-Lease program, it saw extensive service during WWII in North Africa (Operation Crusader), Italy, Normandy and France.

The Stuart's primary shortcomings were its weak armor, high losses in combat and short range. As such, it was often utilized as a screening vehicle during various campaigns, often replacing the Sherman tank.

Though popular with many crews, the M3 suffered from poor performance and quality during its initial battles in the Eastern Theater of Operations (ETO). Its narrow tracks weren't ideal for operations in snowfall, and its radial aircraft engine required expensive and difficult-to-locate high-octane fuel - something not all tanks could offer.

Another major limitation was the drive shaft cover of the turret's drive shaft cover bisecting the fighting compartment, making it difficult to engage enemies from inside it. To remedy this, engineers installed a turret basket that allowed crew members to walk around with the 37 mm M5 gun.

The M3 was eventually replaced by the M24 Chaffee tank, which proved more suitable for combat use. However, some countries such as Argentina, Uruguay and Nicaragua still used it until the 1980s; additionally it featured in several films and television series like The Green Hornet, Season 5 of Twilight Zone and "Haunted Tank" from G.I. Combat.

GameReady 3d-model for any projects. PBR-textures included.