Difference between revisions of "T-26-4"

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{{Specs-Card|code=ussr_t_26_4}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = Soviet light tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = Soviet light tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other uses
+
| usage = other versions
 
| link = T-26 (Family)
 
| link = T-26 (Family)
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=ussr_t_26_4
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 +
}}
 +
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
<!--''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert the screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, they will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''-->
+
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_T-26-4.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet light tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.51 "Cold Steel"]]. It is a variant of the [[T-26]] with a 76 mm howitzer.
−
{{break}}
 
−
The '''{{specs|name}}''' is a rank {{specs|rank}} Soviet light tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.51 "Cold Steel"]]. It is a variant of the [[T-26]] with a 76 mm howitzer.
 
  
−
The T-26-4 is a rather unusual tank, combining average speed, thin armour and a large gun. It uses the same hull as [[T-26]] and an enlarged turret not dissimilar to the [[T-28]]'s main turret, able to mount the 76 mm KT-28 howitzer.
+
The T-26-4 is a rather unusual tank, combining average speed, thin armour and a large gun. It uses the same hull as [[T-26]] and an enlarged turret not dissimilar to the [[T-28]]'s main turret, able to mount the [[KT-28 (76 mm)|76 mm KT-28]] howitzer.
  
−
This tank and its gun can be roughly compared to its German peer, the [[Pz.IV C]], and its 7.5 cm KwK 37 L/24. However, it is vastly inferior to it in ALL terms.
+
This tank and its gun can be roughly compared to its German peer, the [[Pz.IV C]] and its [[KwK37 (75 mm)|7.5 cm KwK37]].
−
 
 
−
The penetration is almost two times lower, and shell travel speed is by about 1/4 lower as well. Reloading also takes a bit more time. Armour wise, they are the same, but [[Pz.IV C|Pz. IV C]] has 30 mm of armour at the front. The German tank is also a lot faster, with the HP/ton ratio almost two times better. To complete the list, it also has a mere -5° of gun depression, compared to -10° of the Panzer. Lastly,  [[Pz.IV C]] can also equip HEAT shells, to deal with better-armoured targets.
 
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
<!--''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat?''
+
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
  
−
''If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''-->
+
15 mm thick plates cover most of the visible parts of the tank but this is thin, even for the BR. With just 3 crew members and slow speed, the chances of surviving for extended periods in front-line combat are low. However, a skilled tanker can use the small profile of the tank to hide in ambush positions and utilize its 76 mm APHEBC rounds to destroy light and medium targets.
−
 
 
−
15mm armor covers most of the visible parts of the tank, and that's paper even in BR 1.0, and with just 3 comrades and the low speed of the tank, chances of surviving for more than 10 minutes are low. However, a skilled tanker can use the small profile of the tank and its 76mm APHEBC cannon and try to destroy light and medium targets.
 
  
 
'''Armour type:'''
 
'''Armour type:'''
Line 33: Line 32:
 
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || 15 mm (18°) ''Driver's plate'' <br> 15 mm (1°) ''Front plate <br> 7 mm (64-80°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 15 mm (6-52°) ''Lower glacis|| 15 mm (0-1°)|| 15 mm (1-31°) ''Top'' <br> 15 mm (11°) ''Bottom'' || 10 mm ''Hull'' <br> 6 mm ''Rear''  
+
| Hull || 15 mm (18°) ''Driver's plate'' <br> 15 mm (1°) ''Front plate <br> 7 mm (64-80°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 15 mm (6-52°) ''Lower glacis|| 15 mm (0-1°)|| 15 mm (1-31°) ''Top'' <br> 15 mm (11°) ''Bottom'' || 10 mm ''Hull'' <br> 6 mm ''Rear''
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || 15 mm (0-3°) ''Turret front'' <br> 15 mm (6-7°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 15 mm (0-1°) || 15 mm (1°) || 10 mm  
+
| Turret || 15 mm (0-3°) ''Turret front'' <br> 15 mm (6-7°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 15 mm (0-1°) || 15 mm (1°) || 10 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 44: Line 43:
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 141|rbMinHp= 80|<!--AoAweight=(optional) -->}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=141|rbMinHp=80}}
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
 
 +
As usual, Parts and FPE are the most important modules to research first. After that, mobility upgrades will be very useful, since the tank has below-average mobility when stock. Even more important than mobility, perhaps, are the Horizontal Drive and Elevation Mechanism modifications. These will improve the vehicle's poor turret traverse speeds. Finally, the BR-350A APHEBC shell has more penetration and contains more explosive filler than the stock Shrapnel shell. If you are having difficulties with penetrating or destroying enemy targets using the Shrapnel shell, this modification will prove invaluable.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
{{main|KT-28 (76 mm)}}
 
{{main|KT-28 (76 mm)}}
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==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:KT-28 (76 mm)/Ammunition|BR-350A (MD-5 fuze), OF-350M}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
| BR-350A (MD-5 fuze) || APHEBC || 37 || 37 || 33 || 30 || 27 || 24
 
−
|-
 
−
| OF-350M || HE || 11 || 11 || 11 || 11 || 11 || 11
 
−
|-
 
−
| Sh-353 || Shrapnel || 27 || 25 || 21 || 19 || 16 || 12
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| BR-350A (MD-5 fuze) || APHEBC || 370 || 6.3 || 1.2 || 14 || 155 || 48° || 63°|| 71°
 
−
|-
 
−
| OF-350M || HE || 387 || 6.2 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 710 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Sh-353 || Shrapnel || 381 || 6.2 || 0.5 || 8 || 85 || 62° || 69° || 73°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.1.0.94''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 120: Line 91:
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
|| '''50''' || 38&nbsp;''(+12)'' || 25&nbsp;''(+25)'' || 13&nbsp;''(+37)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+49)'' || Yes
+
| '''50''' || 45&nbsp;''(+5)'' || 39&nbsp;''(+11)'' || 29&nbsp;''(+21)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+49)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
Note:
+
'''Note''':
−
* Turret empty: 25&nbsp;''(+25)'' shells.
+
 
 +
* Turret empty: 39&nbsp;''(+11)'' shells.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 
{{main|DT (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|DT (7.62 mm)}}
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| Coaxial || 1,890 (63) || 600 || N/A || N/A
 
| Coaxial || 1,890 (63) || 600 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Rear || 1,890 (63) || 600 || N/A || N/A
+
| Rear || 1,890 (63) || 600 || ±15° || ±15°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
The small calibre of the DT machine guns makes them largely ineffective against all armoured vehicles but the ones with an open compartment. They still can be used to ping targets as a rangefinding help or to mow down minor obstacles blocking your line of sight. The clip capacity is quite poor as they relies on magazines of 63 bullets instead of belts like similar machine guns from other nations.
+
 
 +
The small calibre of the 7.62 mm DT machine gun makes it largely ineffective against armoured vehicles except for ones with an open compartment. Despite this, the machine gun can still be used to ping targets as a rangefinding tool or to mow down minor obstacles that are blocking your line of sight. The clip capacity of the DT is poor compared to belt-fed machine guns like the [[M1919A4 (7.62 mm)|M1919A4]] as it relies on pan magazines with 63 bullets each and will have to reload in-between.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''-->
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<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
All three of this tank's shells have a very low muzzle velocity, which means that engaging at long range, or even at medium range, is practically impossible. Instead, the T-26-4 does the most damage up close, where aiming is easier. Fortunately, most engagements at this tier are close-up.
+
All three of this tank's shells have a very low muzzle velocity, which means that engaging targets at long range, or even at medium range, is difficult. Users of the T-26-4 may find that the vehicle does the most damage up close, where aiming is easier. Fortunately, most engagements at this tier are close-quarters.
  
−
The lack of armour is really something to be kept in mind, even some machine guns (8 mm, 12.7 mm) will be able to go through your thickest pieces of armour (15 mm). Due to this, you want to be trying your best to avoid enemy vehicles getting the first shot, driving undercover is advisable to avoid being spotted, and if you spot an enemy vehicle it would be best to engage and destroy them as soon as possible to avoid them becoming a threat. Due to the lack of effective armour, aircraft can also be a risk, again, staying in cover will make it more difficult for enemy vehicles to spot and engage your T-26.
+
The lack of armour is really something to be kept in mind, as machine guns like the [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|M2HB]] will be able to go through your thickest pieces of armour (15 mm). Avoid enemy vehicles and situations in which they can get the first shot. Driving under cover is advisable to avoid being spotted. If you spot an enemy vehicle, engage and destroy them as soon as possible to avoid them becoming a threat.
  
−
However, this vehicle sometimes has trouble actually getting in to those close engagements.  It has quite poor mobility compared to its peers (for example, the [[BT-5]]), and therefore can miss out on the first stages of a battle. The slow speed also means that long flanking manoeuvres may be difficult to pull off. Therefore, this tank finds success as an ambusher or as a direct supporter of friendly vehicles.  Team play is vital to being successful in this vehicle.
+
Staying under trees and close to buildings is also recommended if there are enemy aircraft above, as enemy aircraft like the [[He 112 A-0]], the [[D.501]], and the [[F3F-2]] are capable of punching through the T-26-4's thin armour with their heavier armaments. Not to mention many aircraft carry bombs. Large bombs that land close to the T-26-4 have a high chance of significantly damaging or destroying the vehicle. If you are out in the open and hear a loud siren, it may mean that an incoming German [[Ju 87 B-2]] Stuka is most likely diving on you with a bomb.
  
−
This vehicle has quite a high-calibre gun for this rank, but the stock shrapnel shell has poor penetration (despite its high post-penetration damage).  It if often unable to penetrate enemy tanks frontally, and against some vehicles, such as the [[Pz.III E]], it can't even penetrate the side armour. This makes flanking even more important for this vehicle--otherwise, the player will often find themselves unable to deal damage to the enemy. Once the APHEBC BR-350A shell is researched, the gun will be able to penetrate most tanks at this battle rating through their frontal armour, and finding side-shots will become less important.
+
In terms of mobility, this vehicle sometimes struggles to get into the close engagements that it can be effective in. It has quite poor mobility compared to its peers (the [[BT-5]], for example), and therefore can miss out on the first stages of a battle. The slow speed also means that long flanking manoeuvres may be difficult to pull off. Therefore, this tank finds success as an ambusher or as a direct supporter of friendly vehicles. It is suggested that team play is vital to being successful in this vehicle.
  
−
If possible, try to concentrate your fire on lightly armoured vehicles--It's dangerous to go alone, so be sure to stay near teammates. Otherwise, you risk an encounter with a tank that you won't be able to penetrate.  
+
The T-26-4 has quite a high-calibre gun for this rank, but the stock shrapnel shell has poor penetration (despite its high post-penetration damage). It is often unable to penetrate enemy tanks frontally, and against some vehicles, such as the [[Pz.III E]], it can't penetrate even the side armour. This makes flanking even more important for this vehicle--otherwise, the player will often find themselves unable to deal damage to the enemy. Once the BR-350A shell is researched, the gun will be able to penetrate most tanks at this battle rating through their frontal armour, and finding side-shots will become less important.
  
−
===Modules===
+
If possible, concentrate your fire on lightly armoured vehicles. It's dangerous to go alone, so be sure to stay near teammates. Otherwise, you may risk an encounter with a tank that you won't be able to penetrate.
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
!Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" |Mobility
 
−
!Protection
 
−
! colspan="2" |Firepower
 
−
|-
 
−
|I
 
−
|Tracks
 
−
|
 
−
|Parts
 
−
|Horizontal Drive
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|II
 
−
|Suspension
 
−
|Brake System
 
−
|FPE
 
−
|Adjustment of Fire
 
−
|BR-350A (MD-5 fuze)
 
−
|-
 
−
|III
 
−
|Filters
 
−
|
 
−
|Crew Replenishment
 
−
|Elevation Mechanism
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|IV
 
−
|Transmission
 
−
|Engine
 
−
|
 
−
|Artillery Support
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
As usual, Parts and FPE are the most important modules to research.  After that, mobility upgrades will be very useful, since the tank has below-average mobility when stock.  Even more important, perhaps, are the Horizontal Drive and Elevation Mechanism modifications.  These will improve the vehicle's poor turret traverse speeds. Finally, the BR-350A shell has more penetration and contains more explosive filler than the stock shrapnel shell.  If you are having difficulties with penetrating or destroying enemy targets using the shrapnel shell, this modification will prove invaluable.
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''-->
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 +
 
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Gun can easily kill any tank it meets with a single shot  
+
* The APHEBC shell can easily destroy most enemies with a single shot
−
* Manoeuvrability is quite good, although somewhat limited by its low top speed (30 kph)
+
* Manoeuvrability is quite good
 
* Decent reload speed
 
* Decent reload speed
 +
* Somewhat bouncy turret cheeks
 +
* High shell drop can allow firing at targets over hills
 +
* Small size allows it to hide in small places
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Very low survivability; the armour is thin, not angled and is only 15 mm max. Can get frontally penetrated by anything like the [[Pz.II (Disambiguation)|Pz.II]], [[Pz.III (Disambiguation)|Pz.III]] and even heavy MG.
+
* Thin armour
−
* The three crew members are packed tightly together significantly reduces survivability
+
* The three crew members are tightly packed together, which significantly reduces survivability
−
* Poor mobility overall; has low top speed limited manoeuvrability around the battlefield, the weak engine doesn't allow it to climb hills
+
* Poor mobility overall; has low top speed due to its weak engine
−
* The narrow tracks slow it in desert maps like Sinai or snowy maps like Frozen Pass
+
* Very slow reverse speed of only -3 km/h
−
* The slow reverse speed of only -3 km/h is very fatal as it cannot back away from danger in time
+
* Average turret rotation and hull traverse
−
* Average turret rotation combined with the sluggish hull traverse prevents it from responding to flanks quickly
 
 
* Average -5° gun depression limits its potential in hilly terrains
 
* Average -5° gun depression limits its potential in hilly terrains
−
* Some ammo is stored inside turret which tends to explode when hit
+
* High shell drop can be tricky to learn
 +
* Some ammo racks are located inside the turret which may explode when hit
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
  
−
The '''T-26-4''' light tank is a variant of the [[T-26]] light tank in Soviet services. Instead of mounting a 45 mm cannon as its main armament, the T-26-4 mounts the 76.2 mm KT tank gun and is intended to fill the role of an artillery tank. The turret looks similar to the [[T-28]] medium tank, if not the same.
+
The '''T-26-4''' light tank is a variant of the [[T-26]] light tank in Soviet services. Instead of mounting a [[20-K (45 mm)|45 mm 20-K]] cannon as its main armament, the T-26-4 mounts the [[KT-28 (76 mm)|76 mm KT-28]] tank gun. This modification is intended to allow the T-26 to fill the role of an infantry support artillery vehicle. The turret is similar to the [[T-28]] medium tank's turret, if not the same.
  
−
The T-26-4 design was tested in October 1933 after five were built. It was in this test that the 76.2 mm KT cannon was chosen to arm it instead of the more powerful and innovative 76.2 mm PS-3 cannon. A production of 50 of these tanks was scheduled in 1935, but an incident on September 19, 1934, with a shell case destruction caused the military to cancel the T-26-4. The T-26-4 turret was then used on the [[BT-7|BT-7A]] light tank intended for the same role.
+
The T-26-4 design was tested in October 1933 with five prototypes constructed. It was in these trials that the 76.2 mm KT cannon was chosen instead of the more powerful and innovative 76.2 mm PS-3 cannon because the PS-3's recoil caused damage to the prototype chassis it was fitted to. A production run of 50 of the 76.2 mm KT - armed tanks was scheduled in 1935, but an incident on September 19, 1934, with an accidental shell detonation, caused the Soviet military to cancel the order. The T-26-based artillery idea was brought up again in 1939 with a proposal for a new turret armed with the [[L-10 (76 mm)|76 mm L-10]], but this was rejected by engineers as they determined that the ageing T-26 chassis would not be able to handle the extra modifications.
  
−
=== In-game description ===
+
The T-26-4's turret was later re-developed and used on the [[BT-7|BT-7A]] light tank in 1939-1940, intended for the same role.
−
"In 1940, the T-26 light tank was modernised for the last time. The vehicle's underturret box was equipped with homogenous armour with sloping plates and its thickness was increased to 15 mm. The frontal section of the turret was welded. A distinctive feature of the tank was the special defensive cover over its radiator grille. An extra DT machine gun was mounted on the turret's roof and was used as an anti-aircraft gun.
 
  
−
All these changes led to the T-26's mass exceeding 10 tonnes. In spite of its strengthened construction, its undercarriage was pushed to the limit. Often, particularly when turning, the tank started losing its tracks. Test results showed that the tank's armour did not meet modern requirements, and there was no weight allowance for increasing its armament. Other flaws in the tank's design included its low speed, poor weight distribution and low reliability.
+
{{break}}
 +
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
An experimental version of a fire support light tank. Even before the T-26 began serial production the authorities of the Red Army raised the question of enhancing the tank's weaponry and building a fire-support tank. The process of designing a turret for the 76 mm cannon began in February, 1932. An experimental model of the T-26-4 was built in November, 1932. After it underwent successful testing in 1933 the factory received an order to build a base batch of five vehicles. The new vehicles entered military testing in 1934. After testing was complete an experimental batch of 50 vehicles was planned. However, during a drill near Leningrad an incident occurred, after which the decision was made to cancel the production of the experimental batch. All further work on this vehicle was cancelled.
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
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However, the tank was easy to control, simple to service and did not require much effort in the field. Although the tank had an engine with horizontally placed cylinders, the tank's profile remained low, which made it harder to hit. Many technical solutions applied to the T-26 were used later on other tanks. When used correctly and in the hands of an experienced crew, the light tank could cause serious damage to the enemy forces. The T-26 made a significant contribution to routing the enemy at Moscow, and took part in practically all combat operations right up to 1944.
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== Media ==
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A significant number of these tanks, after being captured and modified in various ways, served in the German and Finnish armies. Some of them were used by Finland until the beginning of the 50s."
 
  
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== Media ==
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;Skins
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''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ussr_t_26_4 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
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== Read also ==
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== See also ==
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* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
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* [https://warthunder.com/en/devblog/current/797/ [Devblog<nowiki>]</nowiki> Pz-35t & T-26-4]
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;Vehicles equipped with the same chassis
  
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== Sources ==
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* [[T-26 (Family)]]
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* [[SU-5-1]]
  
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{{TankManufacturer OKMO}}
 
{{USSR light tanks}}
 
{{USSR light tanks}}

Latest revision as of 21:43, 21 October 2023

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This page is about the Soviet light tank T-26-4. For other versions, see T-26 (Family).
T-26-4
ussr_t_26_4.png
GarageImage T-26-4.jpg
ArtImage T-26-4.png
T-26-4
USSR flag.png USSR
I Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
1.0 1.0 1.0
Class:
Research:2 900 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:700 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The T-26-4 is a rank I Soviet light tank with a battle rating of 1.0 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.51 "Cold Steel". It is a variant of the T-26 with a 76 mm howitzer.

The T-26-4 is a rather unusual tank, combining average speed, thin armour and a large gun. It uses the same hull as T-26 and an enlarged turret not dissimilar to the T-28's main turret, able to mount the 76 mm KT-28 howitzer.

This tank and its gun can be roughly compared to its German peer, the Pz.IV C and its 7.5 cm KwK37.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull15 / 15 / 15
Turret15 / 15 / 15
Crew3 people
Visibility75 %

15 mm thick plates cover most of the visible parts of the tank but this is thin, even for the BR. With just 3 crew members and slow speed, the chances of surviving for extended periods in front-line combat are low. However, a skilled tanker can use the small profile of the tank to hide in ambush positions and utilize its 76 mm APHEBC rounds to destroy light and medium targets.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
Armour Front Sides Rear Roof
Hull 15 mm (18°) Driver's plate
15 mm (1°) Front plate
7 mm (64-80°) Front glacis
15 mm (6-52°) Lower glacis		 15 mm (0-1°) 15 mm (1-31°) Top
15 mm (11°) Bottom 		10 mm Hull
6 mm Rear
Turret 15 mm (0-3°) Turret front
15 mm (6-7°) Gun mantlet 		15 mm (0-1°) 15 mm (1°) 10 mm

Notes:

  • Suspension wheel is 10 mm thick while tracks are 15 mm thick.
  • Belly armour is 6 mm thick

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB34 / 4 km/h
RB and SB31 / 4 km/h
Number of gears5 forward
1 back
Weight11.0 t
Engine power
AB174 hp
RB and SB91 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB15.8 hp/t
RB and SB8.3 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 34 4 11 141 174 12.82 15.82
Realistic 31 4 80 91 7.27 8.27

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB106 → 136 Sl icon.png
RB95 → 122 Sl icon.png
SB111 → 142 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications2 970 Rp icon.png
890 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost190 Ge icon.png
Crew training200 Sl icon.png
Experts1 000 Sl icon.png
Aces20 Ge icon.png
Research Aces96 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
10 / 10 / 20 % Sl icon.png
100 / 100 / 100 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
60 Sl icon.png
50 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
165 Rp icon.png
Cost:
50 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
165 Rp icon.png
Cost:
50 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
250 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
320 Rp icon.png
Cost:
95 Sl icon.png
80 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
320 Rp icon.png
Cost:
95 Sl icon.png
80 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
60 Sl icon.png
50 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
165 Rp icon.png
Cost:
50 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ussr.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
250 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
60 Sl icon.png
50 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
165 Rp icon.png
Cost:
50 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
250 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
320 Rp icon.png
Cost:
95 Sl icon.png
80 Ge icon.png

As usual, Parts and FPE are the most important modules to research first. After that, mobility upgrades will be very useful, since the tank has below-average mobility when stock. Even more important than mobility, perhaps, are the Horizontal Drive and Elevation Mechanism modifications. These will improve the vehicle's poor turret traverse speeds. Finally, the BR-350A APHEBC shell has more penetration and contains more explosive filler than the stock Shrapnel shell. If you are having difficulties with penetrating or destroying enemy targets using the Shrapnel shell, this modification will prove invaluable.

Armaments

Main armament

76 mm KT-28 cannon
Ammunition50 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
5.2 → 4.0 s
Vertical guidance-5° / 21°
Main article: KT-28 (76 mm)
76 mm KT-28 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 50 -5°/+21° ±180° N/A 15.2 21.1 25.6 28.3 30.1 5.20 4.60 4.24 4.00
Realistic 9.5 11.2 13.6 15.0 16.0

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
BR-350A (MD-5 fuze) APHEBC 37 37 34 30 27 25
OF-350M HE 11 11 11 11 11 11
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
BR-350A (MD-5 fuze) APHEBC 370 6.3 1.2 14 155 48° 63° 71°
OF-350M HE 387 6.2 0.05 0.1 710 79° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the T-26-4
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
50 45 (+5) 39 (+11) 29 (+21) 1 (+49) No

Note:

  • Turret empty: 39 (+11) shells.

Machine guns

7.62 mm DT machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition1 890 rounds
Belt capacity63 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
7.62 mm DT machine gun
Ammunition1 890 rounds
Belt capacity63 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main article: DT (7.62 mm)
7.62 mm DT
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 1,890 (63) 600 N/A N/A
Rear 1,890 (63) 600 ±15° ±15°

The small calibre of the 7.62 mm DT machine gun makes it largely ineffective against armoured vehicles except for ones with an open compartment. Despite this, the machine gun can still be used to ping targets as a rangefinding tool or to mow down minor obstacles that are blocking your line of sight. The clip capacity of the DT is poor compared to belt-fed machine guns like the M1919A4 as it relies on pan magazines with 63 bullets each and will have to reload in-between.

Usage in battles

All three of this tank's shells have a very low muzzle velocity, which means that engaging targets at long range, or even at medium range, is difficult. Users of the T-26-4 may find that the vehicle does the most damage up close, where aiming is easier. Fortunately, most engagements at this tier are close-quarters.

The lack of armour is really something to be kept in mind, as machine guns like the M2HB will be able to go through your thickest pieces of armour (15 mm). Avoid enemy vehicles and situations in which they can get the first shot. Driving under cover is advisable to avoid being spotted. If you spot an enemy vehicle, engage and destroy them as soon as possible to avoid them becoming a threat.

Staying under trees and close to buildings is also recommended if there are enemy aircraft above, as enemy aircraft like the He 112 A-0, the D.501, and the F3F-2 are capable of punching through the T-26-4's thin armour with their heavier armaments. Not to mention many aircraft carry bombs. Large bombs that land close to the T-26-4 have a high chance of significantly damaging or destroying the vehicle. If you are out in the open and hear a loud siren, it may mean that an incoming German Ju 87 B-2 Stuka is most likely diving on you with a bomb.

In terms of mobility, this vehicle sometimes struggles to get into the close engagements that it can be effective in. It has quite poor mobility compared to its peers (the BT-5, for example), and therefore can miss out on the first stages of a battle. The slow speed also means that long flanking manoeuvres may be difficult to pull off. Therefore, this tank finds success as an ambusher or as a direct supporter of friendly vehicles. It is suggested that team play is vital to being successful in this vehicle.

The T-26-4 has quite a high-calibre gun for this rank, but the stock shrapnel shell has poor penetration (despite its high post-penetration damage). It is often unable to penetrate enemy tanks frontally, and against some vehicles, such as the Pz.III E, it can't penetrate even the side armour. This makes flanking even more important for this vehicle--otherwise, the player will often find themselves unable to deal damage to the enemy. Once the BR-350A shell is researched, the gun will be able to penetrate most tanks at this battle rating through their frontal armour, and finding side-shots will become less important.

If possible, concentrate your fire on lightly armoured vehicles. It's dangerous to go alone, so be sure to stay near teammates. Otherwise, you may risk an encounter with a tank that you won't be able to penetrate.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • The APHEBC shell can easily destroy most enemies with a single shot
  • Manoeuvrability is quite good
  • Decent reload speed
  • Somewhat bouncy turret cheeks
  • High shell drop can allow firing at targets over hills
  • Small size allows it to hide in small places

Cons:

  • Thin armour
  • The three crew members are tightly packed together, which significantly reduces survivability
  • Poor mobility overall; has low top speed due to its weak engine
  • Very slow reverse speed of only -3 km/h
  • Average turret rotation and hull traverse
  • Average -5° gun depression limits its potential in hilly terrains
  • High shell drop can be tricky to learn
  • Some ammo racks are located inside the turret which may explode when hit

History

The T-26-4 light tank is a variant of the T-26 light tank in Soviet services. Instead of mounting a 45 mm 20-K cannon as its main armament, the T-26-4 mounts the 76 mm KT-28 tank gun. This modification is intended to allow the T-26 to fill the role of an infantry support artillery vehicle. The turret is similar to the T-28 medium tank's turret, if not the same.

The T-26-4 design was tested in October 1933 with five prototypes constructed. It was in these trials that the 76.2 mm KT cannon was chosen instead of the more powerful and innovative 76.2 mm PS-3 cannon because the PS-3's recoil caused damage to the prototype chassis it was fitted to. A production run of 50 of the 76.2 mm KT - armed tanks was scheduled in 1935, but an incident on September 19, 1934, with an accidental shell detonation, caused the Soviet military to cancel the order. The T-26-based artillery idea was brought up again in 1939 with a proposal for a new turret armed with the 76 mm L-10, but this was rejected by engineers as they determined that the ageing T-26 chassis would not be able to handle the extra modifications.

The T-26-4's turret was later re-developed and used on the BT-7A light tank in 1939-1940, intended for the same role.


Archive of the in-game description

An experimental version of a fire support light tank. Even before the T-26 began serial production the authorities of the Red Army raised the question of enhancing the tank's weaponry and building a fire-support tank. The process of designing a turret for the 76 mm cannon began in February, 1932. An experimental model of the T-26-4 was built in November, 1932. After it underwent successful testing in 1933 the factory received an order to build a base batch of five vehicles. The new vehicles entered military testing in 1934. After testing was complete an experimental batch of 50 vehicles was planned. However, during a drill near Leningrad an incident occurred, after which the decision was made to cancel the production of the experimental batch. All further work on this vehicle was cancelled.


Media

Skins

See also

Vehicles equipped with the same chassis

External links


Experimental Design and Mechanical Engineering Department
Light Tanks 
T-26  T-26 · T-26 (1st Gv.T.Br.) · T-26E · T-26-4
T-50  T-50 · T-126
Heavy Tanks  T-35
Tank Destroyers  SU-5-1 · SU-100Y
Export 
T-26  ␗T-26 · T-26 No.531
See Also  Omsk Transport Engineering Plant

USSR light tanks
T-26  T-26 · T-26 (1st Gv.T.Br.) · T-26-4 · T-26E
BT  BT-5 · RBT-5 · BT-7 · BT-7 TD · BT-7M · BT-7A (F-32)
T-50  T-126 · T-50
T-70  T-70 · T-80
PT-76  PT-76B · PT-76-57 · Object 906
BMP  BMP-1 · BMP-2 · BMP-2M · BMP-3
BMD  BMD-4
2S25  2S25 · 2S25M
Wheeled  BA-11 · BTR-80A
Other  T-60 · Object 685 · 2S38
China  ▂Type 62

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