The Preferable Tank: Centurion Mk3 Over M47 Patton

Among the many tanks I have served with or known about, the Centurion Mk3 stands out as the more preferable choice, especially over the M47 Patton. I am sharing my insights and reasons based on my experiences and the historical performance of both tanks.

My Background

I have served aboard the Chieftain MkII, but my regiment had previously used Centurions. I also had the opportunity to crew a Centurion Armoured Recovery Vehicle (ARV). While the Chieftain ARV came into service later, the Centurion ARV was commonly used due to its effectiveness.

The Quietness of the Centurion

One of the often-overlooked praises for the Centurion is its quiet operation. This is not just a bragging right but a tactical advantage. The cause of its quietness is largely due to the Rolls-Royce Meteor engine, a variant of the Merlin engine found in Spitfire fighter planes, but without the supercharger. A skilled driver could make the Centurion "purr" through the battlefield, with the only noise being the tracks rattling. In softer terrains like sand, it could be quieter than a small truck.

This quietness was evident during maneuvers, where the Centurion crews often delighted in sneaking up behind "enemy" tanks. The first sign of trouble was often a nudge from the muzzle of a 105mm gun, ushering in the surprise attack.

M47 Patton: A Stop-Gap Solution

When comparing tanks, it is crucial to consider not just the model but also the specific scenario or environment. There is no tank that excels in every aspect. In the case of the M47 Patton, it was designed as a stop-gap solution until the M48 came into service. Given the M47's design intent, it was inherently more basic and less sophisticated than the Centurion.

The M47 had significant limitations from the start, not primarily due to its armament or armor, but from its engine and chassis. Despite being designed for a transitional phase, the M47 struggled to keep up with the rapid advancements in tank technology. Once better models like the M48 became available, the M47 was quickly handed down to less well-funded armies and eventually replaced by more advanced tanks.

The Centurion's Superiority

The Centurion's superiority over the M47 is evident in several aspects. It is not only better armed and armored but also has a superior chassis. Many well-equipped and funded armies continued to use the Centurion long after initial models were developed. Countries like Singapore, Sweden, and Switzerland, even those with limited resources, kept the Centurion until they replaced it with the Leopard 2. Similar examples include Israel, which still has some derivatives of the Centurion in service, and South Africa, which has developed a highly modernized version of the tank, testifying to its versatility and upgradability.

Based on these factors, in 95% of situations, the Centurion would be the preferred tank to command over the M47. Its robust design and adaptability make it a reliable choice for a wide range of missions, from frontline combat to support operations. The residual reputation of the M47, while respect is due, pales in comparison to the true potential and tactical superiority of the Centurion Mk3.