United States, 1940–1942 — Type: Light Tank
Chassis: M2
Main Armament: 37mm Gun M5
Armor: 6–25 mm
Technical Manuals: TM 9-726

Origins and Development

The M2A4 represented a significant advancement in American tank design during the late 1930s. As tensions rose in Europe and Asia, the U.S. Army sought an effective, versatile light tank capable of reconnaissance, infantry support, and limited anti-tank roles. The development initiated in 1939, aimed at standardizing a tank with improved firepower and armor compared to its predecessors. The M2A4 incorporated a fully rotating turret armed with a 37mm M5 gun, marking a transition towards modern armored warfare (United States War Department, p. 6).

Production and Variants

Manufactured primarily by American Car & Foundry Company, the M2A4 was produced in limited numbers between May 1940 and March 1941, totaling 375 units. Production ceased as the improved M3 Stuart began entering service. Minor field modifications included additional armor plating and improved ventilation systems based on combat feedback (United States War Department, p. 14).

Operational Use

The M2A4 first saw service with U.S. Marines during early engagements in the Pacific, notably at Guadalcanal. Though quickly overshadowed by the more advanced M3 Stuart, M2A4 tanks participated effectively in reconnaissance and infantry support roles. They demonstrated agility and reliability, despite limitations in armor and firepower when confronted by contemporary Axis armor (United States War Department, p. 17).

Technical Evaluation

The M2A4 was highly mobile, reaching road speeds up to 58 km/h, making it ideal for reconnaissance tasks. The vehicle’s armament provided adequate anti-infantry capabilities but was less effective against heavily armored enemy vehicles. Crew layout was standard for the era, housing four personnel with sufficient ergonomics for short missions. However, armor protection was minimal, rendering the tank vulnerable to contemporary anti-tank weaponry (United States War Department, p. 20).

Technical Summary

Specification	Details
Crew	4 (Commander/Gunner, Loader, Driver, Assistant Driver)
Weight	11.6 tons
Armor	6–25 mm
Main Armament	37mm Gun M5
Secondary Armament	4× .30 cal. Browning machine guns
Engine	Continental W-670 radial, 250 hp
Speed (road)	58 km/h
Range (road)	322 km
Suspension	Vertical volute spring suspension (VVSS)
Radio	SCR-245
Fording/Trench	0.9 m/1.8 m

Sources

United States War Department. Handbook for M2A4, M3 and M3A1 Light Tanks. Washington, D.C.: War Department, 1942.