Tank, Cruiser, Mk VIII, Cromwell (A27M), and the related Centaur (A27L) tank,
were one of the most successful series of cruiser tanks fielded by Britain in
the Second World War.
The Cromwell tank, named after the English Civil War leader Oliver Cromwell, was
the first tank put into service by the British to combine a dual-purpose gun,
high speed from the powerful and reliable Meteor engine, and reasonable armour,
all in one balanced package.
Its design formed the basis of the Comet tank. The Cromwell and Centaur differed
in the engine used. While the Centaur had the Liberty engine of the predecessor
cruiser tank, the Crusader (and the interim A24 Cavalier), the Cromwell had the
significantly more powerful Meteor.
Apart from the engine and associated transmission differences, the two tanks
were effectively the same and many Centaurs built were given the Meteor to make
them Cromwells.
The Cromwell first saw action in the Battle of Normandy in June 1944. The tank
equipped the armoured reconnaissance regiments, of the Royal Armoured Corps,
within the 7th, 11th, and Guards Armoured Divisions.
While the armoured regiments of the latter two divisions were equipped with M4
Shermans, the armoured regiments of the 7th Armoured Division were fully
equipped with Cromwell tanks.
The Centaurs were not generally used for combat except for those fitted with a
95mm Howitzer which were used in support of the Royal Marines during the
invasion of Normandy. COBI-2454
Pieces: 400
Figures: 2
Age: 6+
Cobi – Interlocking blocks – build your own adventure.
COBI is a European manufacturer of high quality construction blocks, compatible
with leading block brands.
Small Army is unique military construction blocks series! The collection is
remarkable for its sets following US Army, Russian Army, Royal Navy and US Navy
vehicles.
Military figures are included in every set, additionally you can increase your
army buying extra military figures.
Cobi Blocks – Are the largest manufacturer of construction blocks in Central
and Eastern Europe with sales offices in several countries.
Cobi blocks are entirely made in Poland based on European resources.
Each production stage follows strict quality standards, which are certified by
the European laboratories
Educational Benefits – COBI construction blocks are not just attractively designed and safe, but also carry educational benefits – developing children's imagination, creative thinking, perceptiveness and manual skills!