It was the last medium Italian tank built during World War Two and based on the earlier types M13/40 and M14/41 medium tanks.
It was also the base of the Semovente Self-propelled artillery gun. It used the cannone 47/32 Model 38.
Carro Armato M15/42
The Carro Armato M15/42 was an Italian medium tank used during World War II, produced by Fiat-Ansaldo and entering service in 1942. It was designed as an improvement over earlier Italian tanks, such as the M13/40, with enhanced mobility and firepower to better counter Allied forces.
The M15/42 was powered by a Fiat SPA 15TB 8-cylinder gasoline engine, producing 190 horsepower, which allowed it to reach a maximum speed of 42 km/h (26 mph) and a range of 150 km (93 miles) on roads. It had a weight of 15 tons, making it a relatively light tank compared to its contemporaries, which contributed to its mobility.
The primary armament of the M15/42 was the 75 mm gun, mounted in a fully rotating turret, which was capable of engaging enemy tanks and fortifications effectively. It was also equipped with a 8 mm Breda M1938 machine gun for anti-infantry roles. The armor thickness of the M15/42 ranged from 30 mm to 50 mm, providing reasonable protection, although it was vulnerable to heavier Allied anti-tank guns.
The Carro Armato M15/42 saw combat primarily in the North African campaign and the Italian Campaign. Despite its limitations, it was one of the last operational Italian tanks of the war and served with distinction in the late stages of World War II.
