USA, 1943–1945
Type: Light Tank
Chassis: M5 with revised turret and stowage
Main Armament: 37 mm M6 gun
Armor: 25–63 mm
The M5A1 was the final and most refined version of the Stuart series, incorporating a new turret with rear bustle, enlarged hatches, and hull-mounted radio.
It retained the Cadillac twin-engine drivetrain and excellent mechanical reliability, but added features like welded-over pistol ports, machine gun shield, improved suspension parts, and expanded stowage. Used by U.S., British, and French forces in Europe, the Pacific, and Indochina, it remained useful in reconnaissance and infantry support roles despite being outgunned by late-war standards.
*Source: Jim Mesko. *Walk Around: M5 Stuart Tank. Carrollton, TX: Squadron/Signal Publications, 2011.