Comparing: Somua S35 vs. Pz.Kpfw. IV Ausf. A

Good firepower, armor protection, and mobility made the S35 one of the best tanks of its time. However, the small turret forced the commander to handle multiple tasks at once: searching for enemy targets, aiming and reloading the gun, and coordinating the actions of the crew. This workload reduced his situational awareness and decreased the vehicle’s effectiveness on the battlefield. By the time France capitulated on June 22, 1940, a total of 427 vehicles had been manufactured.

Development of the vehicle started in 1935. It was nicknamed Pz Kpfw IV in April 1936. Mass production began in the fall of 1937, and the first vehicles saw service starting in 1938. A total of 35 vehicles were manufactured and were in service until 1941.