Right after WWII, a modernization program for the M26 Pershing tank was initiated.
Ten T40 experimental tanks were built in 1948 with the more powerful air-cooled
V12 engine and cross drive transmission while utilizing the M26 hull. The 90mm gun
was retained but modified to M3A1 standard with the addition of a bore-evacuator
and a single baffle brake. The new power package required different armor grills on
the engine deck and engine exhaust pipes now extended sideways to mufflers
mounted to each fender. The suspension system was modified to include a small
track tension idler between the rear roadwheel and sprocket on each side. The
modernized Pershing was designated as the M46 Patton on 30 July 1948.
The outbreak of the Korean War resulted in the M46 Pattons being rushed to Pusan
in August 1950, and fought alongside with the Shermans and Pershings. The high
power to weight ratio of the Patton and the great agility provided by the cross drive
transmission was extremely welcomed in the mountainous terrain of Korea. Field
modification included mounting a searchlight to the turret.
