Mark V
Although similar in appearance to earlier models, the Mark V was a much better tank, more powerful and easier to drive. It was equipped with the new Ricardo six-cylinder engine and Wilson's epicyclic steering system which meant that one man could handle all the controls, compared with four in the Mark IV. Other new features were a rear cab for the commander, complete with signalling apparatus and a rear machine-gun position.
The vehicle seen above also carries an unditching beam, which was first introduced in the Mark IV. This would be used if the tank got stuck in mud - chained to the tracks it was drawn under the tank and gave it something solid to grip. The male tank, which is still in working order(!) is shown in the markings of 8th (H) Battalion (No. H41), Tank Corps in the Battle of Amiens on 8 August 1918. Commanded by a Lt Whittenbury this tank took part in the battle and its young commander was awarded the Military Cross.
Mark Vs were also used by the US 301st Tank Battalion, which fought alongside the British at Amiens. It was equipped with two 57mm guns in the sponsons and four .303-calibre machine-guns, and was manned by a crew of eight. It weighed 29 tons and the 150 hp engine produced a top speed of 4.6 mph.
Mark V
Although similar in appearance to earlier models, the Mark V was a much better tank, more powerful and easier to drive. It was equipped with the new Ricardo six-cylinder engine and Wilson's epicyclic steering system which meant that one man could handle all the controls, compared with four in the Mark IV. Other new features were a rear cab for the commander, complete with signalling apparatus and a rear machine-gun position.
The vehicle seen above also carries an unditching beam, which was first introduced in the Mark IV. This would be used if the tank got stuck in mud - chained to the tracks it was drawn under the tank and gave it something solid to grip. The male tank, which is still in working order(!) is shown in the markings of 8th (H) Battalion (No. H41), Tank Corps in the Battle of Amiens on 8 August 1918. Commanded by a Lt Whittenbury this tank took part in the battle and its young commander was awarded the Military Cross.
Mark Vs were also used by the US 301st Tank Battalion, which fought alongside the British at Amiens. It was equipped with two 57mm guns in the sponsons and four .303-calibre machine-guns, and was manned by a crew of eight. It weighed 29 tons and the 150 hp engine produced a top speed of 4.6 mph.