Comparing: T20 vs. M26 Pershing vs. T29

The first in a series of 1942–1943 U.S. medium tank designs intended as replacements for the M4 Sherman. The first prototype was produced in May 1943, and trials went on until 1944. The vehicle was not approved for mass production, but subsequent prototypes, the T22 and T23, were created on the basis of this development. They, in turn, served as precursors of the T25 and T26. Eventually, the M26 Pershing emerged on their basis and was adopted for service.

American medium tank, named in honor of General John Pershing, who led the American Expeditionary Force during World War I. In 1944–1946 in the U.S. Army, the M26 was temporarily classified as heavy tank. Starting in February 1945 these vehicles took part in World War II; in 1950–1951 the vehicle saw combat in the Korean War.

Development of this experimental heavy tank started in 1944. The prototype was built in 1947. The vehicle featured the 105 mm T5E1 gun. After the war, the mass production of heavy tanks was deemed unreasonable, and only a few prototypes of this vehicle were built.