Comparing: T-54 first prototype vs. FCM 50 t vs. Type 59

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.

Development was started in December 1945. The vehicle was conceived as an alternative for the AMX 50t and combined archaic features typical of the pre-war French tank-construction industry as well as German innovations. The vehicle was to be equipped with an additional container trailer, equipment for underwater driving, and a demountable mine clearer.

Chinese medium tank. Initially, the vehicle was a copy of the Soviet medium T-54A tank. The Type 59 entered service in 1959. The first tanks manufactured had no gun stabilizer or night-vision device. Later the vehicle underwent several modernizations. Between 6,000 and 9,500 vehicles of all variants were manufactured from 1958 through 1987.