Comparing: KV-3 vs. IS-2

Developed on the basis of the KV heavy tank, the vehicle initially had very few differences from the mass-produced model. It underwent field trials in January–February 1941. Eventually, several crucial changes were made to the design, greatly boosting the combat characteristics of the vehicle. By July 22, 1941, chassis and engine development was completed. According to some sources, in the fall of 1941, the vehicle was equipped with a serial KV turret and sent to the front.

Soviet IS-2 tanks were exported to China in the early 1950s and were used during the Korean War from 1950 through 1953. According to U.S. reconnaissance data, at least four Chinese tank companies deployed in Korea had the IS-2 tank, with five tanks in each company. The IS-2 remained in Chinese service until the late 1950s. Production was discontinued due to a shortage of spare parts and the launch of the Type 59 project. A few IS-2 tanks were exported to Vietnam, where they fought in the final stage of the Indochina War of 1946–1954.