Object 279 early

An early variant of a blueprint project for a high crossing capacity heavy tank with a new configuration scheme. Developed during 1947 and 1948 by L. S. Troyanov, this vehicle was to feature a low four-track engine, mounted on longitudinal beams that also served as fuel tanks, considerably reducing the chance of fire. These solutions provided high crossing capacity and survivability meaning that the tank could continue moving even with damaged tracks. The placement of the hull above the suspension allowed for a large fighting compartment and, as a result, increased ammunition capacity and an improved autoloader mechanism for a high rate of fire. A functional prototype was manufactured in 1948.