Army Recognition

fovcollector · Joined: 22 Jan 2008 Posts: 4 Location: Canada

I'm trying to confirm what type of British built tanks the Hellenic Army were using in 1955, 56 and 57. Some models say Centaur VII others Centaur (A27L) so would that make it a Centaur I(Cruiser Mk.VIII) (A27L). Some say they used 6-pounder guns so what is correct. Some say Cromwells. The British system of naming tanks can be a bit confusing. So, did they have Cromwells, Centaurs or what and which variants? Thanks in advance.

Costas · Posted: Mon Jul 20, 2009 5:14 pm Post subject:

The Hellenic Army used the A27L Centaur, supported by M32B1 Sherman ARVs.
The confusion is probably due to the fact that many tanks were "fitted for but not with" the Meteor engine of the Cromwell, with fittings like the Cromwell-ish air intake cover on the rear deck. The variants are a bit confusing, as the tanks belonged to different wartime production batches and delivered in 1947, so you'll see both Type A and Type B hulls, short and long 6-pdrs, plus some modifications done by the Hellenic Army, like the fitting of a M2HB HMG on the TC's cupola.
_________________
"What is best in life?"

"To crush your enemies, to see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women."

fovcollector · Joined: 22 Jan 2008 Posts: 4 Location: Canada

Costas · Posted: Tue Jul 21, 2009 10:38 am Post subject:

You are welcome.
I'll also check my library at home and get back to you with specific Mark designations if possible.
_________________
"What is best in life?"

"To crush your enemies, to see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women."

Costas · Posted: Wed Jul 22, 2009 1:17 pm Post subject:

Checking my references, I found that virtually all Greek Centaurs were MkI with the Type B hull being predominant.
_________________
"What is best in life?"

"To crush your enemies, to see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentations of their women."