{rolloThe M48A5 MBT is the final version of the M48, which had been ordered in 1948 by the US government to Chrysler to replace the M47, still not in production and yet obsolete. Since the M48A3, the serie includes more efficient diesel engine, what multiplies its autonomy range. From 1952 to 1959, 11.700 units were built. The first prototype was built and tested in less than a year, and, as results of this too fast development, these first tank were declared: "not good even for training".
Following versions were the M48A2, which improved the autonomy to double it, the M48A2C, with improved telemeter, and the M48A3, replacing the petrol engine for a new diesel engine. The lattest version is this M48A5, with 105 mm rifled tank gun. Standard equipment includes an NBC system, night vision equipment, and provision for deep fording. The M48's have been modified by a number of western countries for local needs, like Germany, Greece, Turkey, and Spain.
