Israeli M51 Super Sherman: Cold War Firepower on a WWII Frame

Israeli M51 Super Sherman tank on display with 105mm gun and HVSS suspension

Israeli M51 Super Sherman – Cold War Warrior with WWII Roots

The Israeli M51 Super Sherman is a prime example of battlefield ingenuity — a tank born from necessity, shaped by history, and proven in combat. Originally based on the American M4 Sherman, the M51 was Israel’s answer to the growing threat of Soviet armor in the Middle East during the 1960s and 70s. With a powerful 105mm gun, upgraded suspension, and reinforced armor, the M51 transformed a WWII workhorse into a Cold War contender.

This article explores the M51’s origins, technical specifications, combat history, and its lasting impact on armored warfare. Whether you're a military historian, scale modeler, or affiliate content creator, the M51 offers a compelling story of adaptation and survival.

1. Origins: From M4 Sherman to M51

After World War II, Israel acquired hundreds of surplus M4 Sherman tanks from various sources, including the United States and France. These tanks formed the backbone of the Israeli armored corps during the 1948 War of Independence. However, by the 1950s, the Sherman was becoming obsolete compared to newer Soviet designs like the T-54 and T-55, which were being supplied to neighboring Arab states.

To counter this threat, Israeli engineers began upgrading their Shermans. The first iteration was the M50, equipped with a French 75mm CN-75-50 gun. While effective, it lacked the firepower to penetrate modern armor. The next evolution was the M51, which featured a 105mm CN-105-F1 gun, also of French origin, mounted on a heavily modified turret with a counterweight to balance the long barrel.

The M51 retained the Sherman’s basic hull but incorporated a Horizontal Volute Spring Suspension (HVSS) system for improved mobility and wider T80 tracks for better traction in desert terrain. These upgrades allowed the M51 to remain relevant on the battlefield well into the 1970s.

2. Design & Technical Specifications

The M51 was a medium tank with significant firepower and mobility enhancements. Key specifications include:

  • Main Armament: 105mm CN-105-F1 gun
  • Secondary Armament: M2 Browning .50 cal, M1919 7.62mm machine guns
  • Engine: Cummins VT-8-460 diesel, 460 hp
  • Suspension: HVSS with wide T80 tracks
  • Crew: 5 (commander, driver, gunner, loader, assistant driver)
  • Top Speed: Approx. 40 km/h
  • Operational Range: Around 300 km

The turret was redesigned to accommodate the larger gun, and the hull was reinforced to handle the added weight. The M51’s firepower allowed it to engage and destroy enemy armor at long range, while its mobility made it suitable for desert warfare.

3. Combat Deployment: Six-Day War & Yom Kippur War

The M51 saw extensive combat during the Six-Day War in 1967 and the Yom Kippur War in 1973. In the Six-Day War, Israeli armored units used M51s to great effect against Egyptian and Syrian forces. The tank’s long-range firepower and desert mobility proved decisive in battles such as the Sinai campaign.

During the Yom Kippur War, the M51 faced more modern Soviet tanks like the T-62, which outclassed it in armor and firepower. Despite this, Israeli crews used superior tactics, coordination, and terrain knowledge to mitigate the M51’s limitations. The tank’s reliability and ease of maintenance were crucial in prolonged engagements.

The M51’s performance in these wars cemented its reputation as a capable and adaptable platform, even when facing technologically superior opponents.

4. Tactical Strengths & Limitations

Strengths

  • Powerful 105mm gun with long-range capability
  • Desert mobility thanks to HVSS and wide tracks
  • Familiar platform for trained crews
  • Reliable and easy to maintain

Limitations

  • Outdated armor protection compared to modern tanks
  • High profile made it easier to target
  • Lacked advanced fire control systems

Despite these drawbacks, the M51 remained a valuable asset thanks to Israel’s tactical doctrine and battlefield innovation.

5. International Use: Chile’s M51 Legacy

Chile acquired several M51 tanks in the 1980s and used them until 2006, making them some of the longest-serving Sherman-based tanks in history. Chilean forces appreciated the M51’s reliability and firepower, especially in mountainous terrain where mobility was key.

The Chilean M51s were slightly modified for local conditions but retained most of the Israeli upgrades. Their longevity is a testament to the Sherman platform’s adaptability and the success of the M51 modernization.

6. Preservation & Museum Displays

Today, the M51 can be seen in several military museums, including Yad La-Shiryon in Israel. These preserved tanks serve as educational tools and historical artifacts, showcasing Israel’s early armored warfare capabilities.

Modelers and historians alike appreciate the M51’s unique blend of old and new — a WWII chassis with Cold War firepower. Its presence in museums ensures that future generations understand the challenges and innovations of Israel’s formative military years.

7. Why the M51 Still Matters Today

The M51 is more than a tank — it’s a symbol of strategic adaptation. In a world where military technology evolves rapidly, the M51 proves that upgrading existing platforms can be just as effective as developing new ones. It highlights the importance of:

  • Resourcefulness in defense planning
  • Modular design for long-term viability
  • Tactical innovation over brute force

For military analysts, the M51 offers lessons in cost-effective modernization. For enthusiasts, it’s a reminder of how history shapes technology — and vice versa.

8. Final Thoughts

The Israeli M51 Super Sherman stands as a testament to battlefield ingenuity. From its WWII roots to its Cold War relevance, the M51 exemplifies how necessity drives innovation. Its combat record, international service, and enduring legacy make it one of the most fascinating tanks of the 20th century.

Whether you're writing affiliate content, building a model, or exploring military history, the M51 offers depth, drama, and design worth studying. It’s not just a tank — it’s a story of survival, adaptation, and strategic brilliance.

Sources & Further Reading

 

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