The Mk 1 was an instrumental British-designed tank capable of advancing across enemy trenches. Note anti-grenade mesh. By Staff Writer
The Mk I was a ground breaking medium-class tank system of the First World War that combined well-thought out design and effective battlefield use in conjunction with ground and air forces. The Mk I system would become an instrumental tool in advancing ground elements across the treacherous trench systems scattered across Europe and ultimately turn the tide of the ground war in favor of Allied forces.
The Mk I was fielded in 1916 and the design was what one might consider typical of World War One tracked systems. The tracks themselves ran across the top of either side of the hull and were completely exposed all the way around. The crew compartment (housing some eight personnel) was fitted between the two track systems, leaving the design without any visible turret system most common in tank designs of today. Additionally, an identifiable two-wheeled tractor-type system was fitted to the stern in early models to allow the crew a way to steer the machine. Later models would use the more common practice of applying the brakes to either track side in order to turn the tank one direction or the other, negating the need for the steering wheels at rear.
Armament for the Mk I consisted of twin 6-pounder cannons mounted on either side of the design. A single Hotchkiss .30 caliber machine gun was also offered for self-defense. Additionally, a wire mesh assembly was fitted to the top of the tank in an effort to deflect oncoming enemy grenades.
After a short trial period, the Mk I system was fielded to good effect. When fielded in quantity, the Mk I was an effective tool for ground forces as the design could easily navigate over the trenches dotting the battlefields. In conjunction with air strikes, the Mk I would soon lead the way in the proper usage of tank-type systems - gaining ground and dislodging enemy forces with the help from aircraft while ultimately leading the way for the infantry to hold and secure captured territories.
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Armored Vehicle Quick Profile
Image Courtesy of Dan Alex.
1916
Designation:Tank Mk I (Centipede / Big Willie / Mother) Classification Type:Medium / Heavy Tank Contractor:Not Available Country of Origin: United Kingdom Number Built: Not Available
Operators: the United Kingdom
Variants
Tank Mk I (Male) - Heavy Tank Variant; 2 x 6-pdr guns; 3 x machine guns.
Tank Mk I (Female) - Anti-Infantry Support Variant; 4 x Vickers and 2 x Lewis machine guns in enlarged sponsons.
Mk I Tank Tender - Sponsons replaced with steel enclosures.
Mk I Wireless Tank - Sans sponsons; fitted with aerial mast.
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