What Tank Was Fury Based On?
The 2014 film Fury, directed by David Ayer, tells the story of a US Army tank crew during the final days of World War II. The movie features a M4A2E8 Sherman tank, nicknamed "Fury", as the main protagonist. In this article, we’ll explore the real-life tank that inspired the movie’s titular character.
The Real M4A2E8 Sherman Tank
The M4A2E8 Sherman tank was a variant of the M4 Sherman medium tank, produced by the United States during World War II. It was one of the most widely used and produced tanks of the war, with over 50,000 units manufactured. The M4A2E8 Sherman was powered by a Ford GAA V-8 engine, which produced 450 horsepower. It had a top speed of 25 miles per hour and was equipped with a 75mm M3 gun.
The Fury Tank
The Fury tank in the movie is an M4A2E8 Sherman tank, modified to represent a fictionalized version of the real-life tank. The movie’s tank has a distinctive camouflaged paint job and a few other modifications, such as a raised rear deck and a different exhaust system. While the movie’s tank is not an exact replica of the real M4A2E8 Sherman, it was inspired by the design and specifications of the real tank.
Real-Life Tank Crews
The M4A2E8 Sherman tank was used by US Army tank crews during World War II, particularly in Europe. The tank was known for its reliability, durability, and mobility, making it a valuable asset on the battlefield. However, the Sherman tank also had its limitations, including its relatively thin armor and lack of firepower compared to some other tanks.
In Action
Here are some interesting facts about the M4A2E8 Sherman tank and its performance in combat:
- Armor: The M4A2E8 Sherman had a maximum armor thickness of 3 inches (76 mm) on its front hull, which provided decent protection against small arms and anti-tank guns. However, it was vulnerable to larger calibre guns and tank-launched missiles.
- Firepower: The 75mm M3 gun was the primary armament of the M4A2E8 Sherman, which could penetrate up to 4 inches (102 mm) of armor at a distance of 1,000 yards (914 meters).
- Mobility: The M4A2E8 Sherman was powered by a Ford GAA V-8 engine, which produced 450 horsepower. It had a top speed of 25 miles per hour (40 km/h) and could climb gradients of up to 60%.
- Production: Over 50,000 M4A2E8 Sherman tanks were produced during World War II, making it one of the most widely produced tanks of the war.
Conclusion
The M4A2E8 Sherman tank was a reliable and versatile medium tank used by the US Army during World War II. While it had its limitations, the Sherman tank played a significant role in the war effort, and its design influenced the development of future tanks. The movie Fury is a testament to the bravery and sacrifice of the soldiers who served in World War II, and the real-life M4A2E8 Sherman tank remains an important part of military history.
Table: M4A2E8 Sherman Tank Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | Ford GAA V-8 |
| Power | 450 horsepower |
| Top Speed | 25 miles per hour (40 km/h) |
| Armor | 3 inches (76 mm) on front hull |
| Gun | 75mm M3 |
| Production | Over 50,000 units |
Bibliography
- "The M4 Sherman Tank" by Steven J. Zaloga (Osprey Publishing, 2015)
- "World War II: The M4 Sherman Tank" by James F. Dunnigan (ABC-CLIO, 2004)
- "Fury: The Movie" by David Ayer (Paramount Pictures, 2014)
Note: The article is written in a formal tone and includes a brief summary of the M4A2E8 Sherman tank’s specifications and performance in combat. It also highlights the significance of the tank in military history and its role in the movie Fury. The bibliography includes sources that provide further information on the M4A2E8 Sherman tank and World War II.