Comparing: IS-3A vs. Löwe

In 1956–1957, the Military Armored Forces Academy developed a speculative design for a new loading system on the IS-3 and T-10 heavy tanks. The IS-3 variant featured a double-row ammo rack with an automatic loading system. The crew was reduced to three members: commander, gunner, and driver. The turret was redesigned in order to accommodate the loading mechanism. The vehicle existed only in blueprints.

Development of this 70-ton super-heavy tank started on November 1, 1941. In February 1942, the Krupp company suggested the VK 70.01 avant project, later designated the Löwe ("Lion"). Several designs varying in configuration, armament, and armor, were drafted. However, the project was canceled after the Führer made the decision to develop even heavier tanks. No prototypes were ever built.