Comparing: Cromwell vs. Cromwell B vs. T-54 first prototype

The Cromwell was developed in 1941–1942 by BRC&W. A total of 1,070 vehicles were mass-produced from late 1943 through 1945. They were extensively used by the British Army in the Northwest Europe Campaign of 1944–1945.

The vehicle made famous by the British 7th Armoured Division, who had been dubbed the Desert Rats for their exploits in North Africa. However, the 7th Armoured were not issued with Cromwells until 1944, when they returned to the U.K. to prepare for D-Day. In their Cromwells they fought across France and into Germany, and eventually took part in the Victory Parade on September 7, 1945, in Berlin.

Developed at Factory No. 183 in 1944. It was based on the T-44, with many components modified to enhance the armor and armament of the new vehicle. According to one source, the first prototype was built at the end of 1944. However, some other sources mention another date—January 1945. The tank underwent trials in March and April 1945, but never entered mass production.