Previous: E-17: Mobility Advantages
E-18. Tanks consume large quantities of fuel. They are noisy and must be started periodically in cold weather, or when using thermal night sights and radios to ensure the batteries stay charged. The noise, obscurants, and dust generated by tanks make it difficult for the Infantry in their vicinity to capitalize on stealth to achieve surprise. Tanks cannot cross bodies of water deeper than four feet without deep water fording kits or bridging equipment. Due to the length of the tank main gun, the turret will not rotate if a solid object such as a wall, post, or tree is blocking it. Tracked vehicles also can “throw track.” This occurs when the track loses tension on the sprockets, support arms, or both, and the track becomes disconnected from the tank. Repairing the track can be a lengthy process.
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Go Back To: U.S. Army FM 3-21.8: The Infantry Rifle Platoon and Squad