M18 Hellcat - Revision history

Hhfjbaker: Cleaned up using AutoEd

2024-10-13T01:50:55Z

Cleaned up using AutoEd

Show changes

Dawnseeker2000: minor formatting, typo(s) fixed: well-received → well received

2024-10-07T04:48:06Z

minor formatting, typo(s) fixed: well-received → well received

Show changes

100.15.73.71: Only one change; everything else is the same. - Changed "Service" date to be "1943-1944 (US)" since I couldn't find any country that still uses Hellcats, plus the vehicle is vastly outdated, so seeing "1943-present" felt strange to me.

2024-09-30T22:34:40Z

Only one change; everything else is the same. - Changed "Service" date to be "1943-1944 (US)" since I couldn't find any country that still uses Hellcats, plus the vehicle is vastly outdated, so seeing "1943-present" felt strange to me.

← Previous revision		Revision as of 22:34, 30 September 2024
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	\| is_vehicle = yes		\| is_vehicle = yes
	\| wars = {{unbulleted list\|[[World War II]]\|[[Korean War]]\|[[Yugoslav Wars]]}}		\| wars = {{unbulleted list\|[[World War II]]\|[[Korean War]]\|[[Yugoslav Wars]]}}
	\| service = ~~1943–present~~<ref>jwh1975. (2020, February 9). M18 Hellcats in Yugoslavia after WWII / the "Krajina Express". wwiiafterwwii. Retrieved January 5, 2023, from https://wwiiafterwwii.wordpress.com/2020/02/09/m18-hellcats-in-yugoslavia-after-wwii-the-krajina-express/</ref>		\| service = 1943–1944 (US)<ref>jwh1975. (2020, February 9). M18 Hellcats in Yugoslavia after WWII / the "Krajina Express". wwiiafterwwii. Retrieved January 5, 2023, from https://wwiiafterwwii.wordpress.com/2020/02/09/m18-hellcats-in-yugoslavia-after-wwii-the-krajina-express/</ref>
	<!-- Production history -->\| designer = United States		<!-- Production history -->\| designer = United States
	\| design_date = 1943		\| design_date = 1943

Qwerfjkl: Added 1 {{Bare URL PDF}} tag(s) using a script. For other recently-tagged pages with bare URLs, see :Category:Articles with bare URLs for citations from August 2024 and :Category:Articles with PDF format bare URLs for citations

2024-08-19T10:23:02Z

Added 1 {{Bare URL PDF}} tag(s) using a script. For other recently-tagged pages with bare URLs, see Category:Articles with bare URLs for citations from August 2024 and Category:Articles with PDF format bare URLs for citations

Dicklyon: case fix

2024-08-10T00:17:39Z

case fix

← Previous revision		Revision as of 00:17, 10 August 2024
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	==Development==		==Development==
	When the Tank Destroyer Force was organized in 1941, their commander, Lieutenant Colonel (later General) [[Andrew Davis Bruce]] envisioned the units being equipped with something faster than a tank, with a better gun but less armor to allow for speed; a cruiser rather than a battleship.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p5</ref> He objected to the 3~~ ~~inch [[M10 ~~Tank Destroyer\|M10 Gun~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~]] because it was too heavy and slow for his needs,<ref>Zaloga 2002 p13</ref> and later on to the 90 mm [[M36 ~~tank destroyer\|M36 Gun~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~]] because it was essentially an M10 with a bigger gun.<ref>Zaloga 2002 p19</ref> The [[United States Ordnance Department]] made several failed attempts to provide such a vehicle using the weapons (the 37 mm, 57 mm, 3~~ ~~inch, 75 mm and finally the lightweight 76 mm of 1942–1943) and technology available, including mounting the 3-inch gun on the fast [[M3 Stuart\|M3 ~~Light~~ ~~Tank~~]] chassis.<ref>Hunnicutt, 1992 p298</ref> The M18 was the end product of a long line of research vehicles aimed at providing the desired machine.		When the Tank Destroyer Force was organized in 1941, their commander, Lieutenant Colonel (later General) [[Andrew Davis Bruce]] envisioned the units being equipped with something faster than a tank, with a better gun but less armor to allow for speed; a cruiser rather than a battleship.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p5</ref> He objected to the 3-inch [[M10 gun motor carriage]] because it was too heavy and slow for his needs,<ref>Zaloga 2002 p13</ref> and later on to the 90 mm [[M36 gun motor carriage]] because it was essentially an M10 with a bigger gun.<ref>Zaloga 2002 p19</ref> The [[United States Ordnance Department]] made several failed attempts to provide such a vehicle using the weapons (the 37 mm, 57 mm, 3-inch, 75 mm and finally the lightweight 76 mm of 1942–1943) and technology available, including mounting the 3-inch gun on the fast [[M3 Stuart\|M3 light tank]] chassis.<ref>Hunnicutt, 1992 p298</ref> The M18 was the end product of a long line of research vehicles aimed at providing the desired machine.

	In December 1941, the Ordnance Department issued a requirement for the design of a fast tank destroyer using a [[Christie suspension]], a [[Wright R-975\|Wright-Continental R-975]] [[radial engine\|radial]] aircraft engine, and a [[37 mm Gun M3\|37 mm gun]] on the chassis of the [[M22 Locust\|Light Airborne Tank T9]] as the '''37 mm Gun Motor Carriage T42'''.<ref name="Hunnicutt page 304">Hunnicutt 1992 p304</ref> In April 1942, the Army requested that the 37 mm gun be replaced with a [[Ordnance QF 6-pounder\|57 mm]] and a coil spring suspension be substituted for the Christie suspension as the '''57 mm Gun Motor Carriage T49''', and authorized the construction of two pilot models.<ref name="Hunnicutt page 304" /> The Tank Destroyer Force, meanwhile, concluded that the same [[75 mm gun (US)\|75 mm gun M3]] as used on the [[M4 Sherman]] medium tank would be better for a tank destroyer. The second pilot T49 was built with the 75 mm gun in an open-topped turret as the '''75 mm Gun Motor Carriage T67''' and was delivered in November 1942. After testing, it was revealed that a more powerful engine was necessary, and the 76 mm gun M1A1 being developed for the M4 Sherman had also impressed the Tank Destroyer Force. The T67 project was closed in January 1943, and the Ordnance Department directed that six pilot models of the '''76 mm Gun Motor Carriage T70''' be built with torsion bar suspensions, more powerful engines, new turrets and minor changes to the hull front.<ref>Hunnicutt 1992 pp305, 307</ref> What became the M18 originated in [[Harley Earl]]'s design studio, part of the [[Buick]] Motor Division of [[General Motors]]. Previously, basic designs for other kinds of vehicles had mostly originated from within the Ordnance Department. Buick's engineers used a [[torsion bar suspension]] that provided a steady ride.		In December 1941, the Ordnance Department issued a requirement for the design of a fast tank destroyer using a [[Christie suspension]], a [[Wright R-975\|Wright-Continental R-975]] [[radial engine\|radial]] aircraft engine, and a [[37 mm Gun M3\|37 mm gun]] on the chassis of the [[M22 Locust\|Light Airborne Tank T9]] as the '''37 mm Gun Motor Carriage T42'''.<ref name="Hunnicutt page 304">Hunnicutt 1992 p304</ref> In April 1942, the Army requested that the 37 mm gun be replaced with a [[Ordnance QF 6-pounder\|57 mm]] and a coil spring suspension be substituted for the Christie suspension as the '''57 mm Gun Motor Carriage T49''', and authorized the construction of two pilot models.<ref name="Hunnicutt page 304" /> The Tank Destroyer Force, meanwhile, concluded that the same [[75 mm gun (US)\|75 mm gun M3]] as used on the [[M4 Sherman]] medium tank would be better for a tank destroyer. The second pilot T49 was built with the 75 mm gun in an open-topped turret as the '''75 mm Gun Motor Carriage T67''' and was delivered in November 1942. After testing, it was revealed that a more powerful engine was necessary, and the 76 mm gun M1A1 being developed for the M4 Sherman had also impressed the Tank Destroyer Force. The T67 project was closed in January 1943, and the Ordnance Department directed that six pilot models of the '''76 mm Gun Motor Carriage T70''' be built with torsion bar suspensions, more powerful engines, new turrets and minor changes to the hull front.<ref>Hunnicutt 1992 pp305, 307</ref> What became the M18 originated in [[Harley Earl]]'s design studio, part of the [[Buick]] Motor Division of [[General Motors]]. Previously, basic designs for other kinds of vehicles had mostly originated from within the Ordnance Department. Buick's engineers used a [[torsion bar suspension]] that provided a steady ride.

Dicklyon: ah, now I see the "link breakage"; I missed that in your insulting edit summary before, Andy

2024-07-31T20:46:39Z

ah, now I see the "link breakage"; I missed that in your insulting edit summary before, Andy

← Previous revision		Revision as of 20:46, 31 July 2024
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	The M18 Hellcat was the culmination of the development of various prototypes of fast tank destroyers dating back to 1941. Entering production in summer 1943, the M18 first saw combat service in spring 1944. The M18 served primarily in [[Western Front (World War II)\|Western Europe]], but was also present in smaller numbers in [[Italian campaign (World War II)\|Italy]] and the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific]]. Production continued until October 1944, with 2,507 built.		The M18 Hellcat was the culmination of the development of various prototypes of fast tank destroyers dating back to 1941. Entering production in summer 1943, the M18 first saw combat service in spring 1944. The M18 served primarily in [[Western Front (World War II)\|Western Europe]], but was also present in smaller numbers in [[Italian campaign (World War II)\|Italy]] and the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific]]. Production continued until October 1944, with 2,507 built.

	The Hellcat was the most effective U.S. tank destroyer of World War II. It had a higher kill-to-loss ratio than any other tank or tank destroyer fielded by U.S. forces in World War II.<ref name="Tank Overhaul"/><ref name="Fox-25"/> Kills claimed were 526 in total: 498 in Europe, 17 in Italy, and 11 in the Pacific. The kills-to-losses ratio for Europe was 2.3 to 1, and the overall kill to loss ratio was 2.4 to 1.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 36">Zaloga, 2004 p36</ref> M18s were "...not primarily used for tank fighting, but were committed more often to improvised roles, usually direct fire support for infantry."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37">Zaloga, 2004 p37</ref> Although the M18 was retired from U.S. service immediately after the end of World War II, a variant, the [[M39 ~~motor~~ ~~carriage~~]], served in the Korean War, and M18s continued in service with some countries until 1995.		The Hellcat was the most effective U.S. tank destroyer of World War II. It had a higher kill-to-loss ratio than any other tank or tank destroyer fielded by U.S. forces in World War II.<ref name="Tank Overhaul"/><ref name="Fox-25"/> Kills claimed were 526 in total: 498 in Europe, 17 in Italy, and 11 in the Pacific. The kills-to-losses ratio for Europe was 2.3 to 1, and the overall kill to loss ratio was 2.4 to 1.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 36">Zaloga, 2004 p36</ref> M18s were "...not primarily used for tank fighting, but were committed more often to improvised roles, usually direct fire support for infantry."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37">Zaloga, 2004 p37</ref> Although the M18 was retired from U.S. service immediately after the end of World War II, a variant, the [[M39 armored utility vehicle]], served in the Korean War, and M18s continued in service with some countries until 1995.

	The M18 Hellcat was an example of the balancing act among firepower, armor, and mobility in armored fighting vehicle design. Despite its excellent mobility and reasonably powerful main gun, the M18 Hellcat also had drawbacks, including thin armor and a poor high explosive shell for its main gun. Historian [[Steven Zaloga\|Steven J. Zaloga]] characterized the overall design of the M18 as "poorly balanced" and stated that "the Hellcat's combat record is attributable to the training and dedication of its crews, not to its ill-conceived design."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37" />		The M18 Hellcat was an example of the balancing act among firepower, armor, and mobility in armored fighting vehicle design. Despite its excellent mobility and reasonably powerful main gun, the M18 Hellcat also had drawbacks, including thin armor and a poor high explosive shell for its main gun. Historian [[Steven Zaloga\|Steven J. Zaloga]] characterized the overall design of the M18 as "poorly balanced" and stated that "the Hellcat's combat record is attributable to the training and dedication of its crews, not to its ill-conceived design."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37" />

Dicklyon: Reverted 1 edit by Andy Dingley (talk): Andy, if some part of this edit is not OK, say so and change it. The insult as edit summary is not useful in a revert.

2024-07-31T19:44:12Z

Reverted 1 edit by Andy Dingley (talk): Andy, if some part of this edit is not OK, say so and change it. The insult as edit summary is not useful in a revert.

Andy Dingley: Link breaking - WP:CIR Undid revision 1237841871 by Dicklyon (talk)

2024-07-31T19:24:22Z

Link breaking - WP:CIR Undid revision 1237841871 by Dicklyon (talk)

Dicklyon: case fix

2024-07-31T19:13:50Z

case fix

Andy Dingley: restore M39. It's not an 'entirely different vehicle', it's a kagaroo conversion - like the ones we describe on many other WWII tank articles. Undid revision 1233098548 by GraemeLeggett (talk)

2024-07-07T09:24:36Z

restore M39. It's not an 'entirely different vehicle', it's a kagaroo conversion - like the ones we describe on many other WWII tank articles. Undid revision 1233098548 by GraemeLeggett (talk)

← Previous revision		Revision as of 09:24, 7 July 2024
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	M18s served in [[tank destroyer battalion]]s and other units supporting US Army infantry divisions in the latter stages of the Pacific war, notably in the Philippines and Okinawa. Tank destroyer battalions equipped with the M18 that served in the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific Theater of Operations]] included the 637th, 670th, and 671st, although only the 637th saw combat, most notably participating in the [[Battle of Manila (1945)\|Battle of Manila]] where it earned a [[Presidential Unit Citation (United States)\|Distinguished Unit Citation]]. During the [[Battle of Okinawa]], General Andrew Bruce, who was by then the commander of the [[77th Infantry Division (United States)\|77th Infantry Division]], located eight M18s to re-equip the Antitank Company of the [[306th Infantry Regiment (United States)\|306th Infantry Regiment]].<ref>Zaloga 2004 p34-35</ref> M18s were not issued to [[United States Marine Corps\|U.S. Marine Corps]] units.		M18s served in [[tank destroyer battalion]]s and other units supporting US Army infantry divisions in the latter stages of the Pacific war, notably in the Philippines and Okinawa. Tank destroyer battalions equipped with the M18 that served in the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific Theater of Operations]] included the 637th, 670th, and 671st, although only the 637th saw combat, most notably participating in the [[Battle of Manila (1945)\|Battle of Manila]] where it earned a [[Presidential Unit Citation (United States)\|Distinguished Unit Citation]]. During the [[Battle of Okinawa]], General Andrew Bruce, who was by then the commander of the [[77th Infantry Division (United States)\|77th Infantry Division]], located eight M18s to re-equip the Antitank Company of the [[306th Infantry Regiment (United States)\|306th Infantry Regiment]].<ref>Zaloga 2004 p34-35</ref> M18s were not issued to [[United States Marine Corps\|U.S. Marine Corps]] units.

			=== Korean War ===
			{{Main\|M39 Armored Utility Vehicle}}
			[[Image:Korea M39.JPEG\|thumb\|An M39 carrier used in the Korean War]]

			The M39 Armored Utility Vehicle, which was converted from the M18, was used as a prime mover, infantry carrier, and ammunition carrier.

	==Export and legacy==		==Export and legacy==

← Previous revision		Revision as of 10:23, 19 August 2024
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	*{{convert\|26\|mph\|abbr=on}} off road}}		*{{convert\|26\|mph\|abbr=on}} off road}}
	\| vehicle_range = {{convert\|100\|mi\|km\|abbr=on}} on road		\| vehicle_range = {{convert\|100\|mi\|km\|abbr=on}} on road
	\| primary_armament = [[76 mm gun M1\|76 mm gun M1A1, M1A1C, or M1A2]]<br/> 45 rounds<ref name="TM-9-755-10"/>		\| primary_armament = [[76 mm gun M1\|76 mm gun M1A1, M1A1C, or M1A2]]<br /> 45 rounds<ref name="TM-9-755-10"/>
	\| secondary_armament = .50 cal (12.7 mm) [[M2 Browning\|Browning M2HB machine gun]]<br /> 800 rounds<ref name="TM-9-755-10"/>		\| secondary_armament = .50 cal (12.7 mm) [[M2 Browning\|Browning M2HB machine gun]]<br /> 800 rounds<ref name="TM-9-755-10"/>
	\| armour = {{convert\|4.8\|-\|25.4\|mm\|in\|abbr=on}}		\| armour = {{convert\|4.8\|-\|25.4\|mm\|in\|abbr=on}}
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	\| December 1943 \|\| 194 \|\| 619–812 \|\| 40108728–40108921		\| December 1943 \|\| 194 \|\| 619–812 \|\| 40108728–40108921
	\|-		\|-
	\| January 1944<br>(end contract T-6641) \|\| 188 \|\| 813–1000 \|\| 40108922–40109109		\| January 1944<br />(end contract T-6641) \|\| 188 \|\| 813–1000 \|\| 40108922–40109109
	\|-		\|-
	\| January 1944<br>(begin contract T-9167) \|\| 62 \|\| 1007–1068 \|\| 40144883–40144944		\| January 1944<br />(begin contract T-9167) \|\| 62 \|\| 1007–1068 \|\| 40144883–40144944
	\|-		\|-
	\| February 1944 \|\| 218 \|\| 1069–1286 \|\| 40144945–40145162		\| February 1944 \|\| 218 \|\| 1069–1286 \|\| 40144945–40145162
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	Iran received 55 M18s in the 1950s.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 42" />		Iran received 55 M18s in the 1950s.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 42" />

	[[Philippine Army]] received 50 units from American Stocks. Upon the outbreak of the [[Korean War]] ,United Nations’ request came in, the Philippines deployed 16 M4A1 Sherman tanks and one M18 Hellcat tank destroyer. This small armored force augmented the other Allied armor during the early days of the Korean conflict. The small Filipino armored force was brought in by then-2LT Francisco S. Tamondong, along with two noncommissioned officers, in July 1950.<ref>https://www.moore.army.mil/Armor/eARMOR/content/issues/2021/Fall/4Condeno21.pdf</ref>		[[Philippine Army]] received 50 units from American Stocks. Upon the outbreak of the [[Korean War]] ,United Nations’ request came in, the Philippines deployed 16 M4A1 Sherman tanks and one M18 Hellcat tank destroyer. This small armored force augmented the other Allied armor during the early days of the Korean conflict. The small Filipino armored force was brought in by then-2LT Francisco S. Tamondong, along with two noncommissioned officers, in July 1950.<ref>https://www.moore.army.mil/Armor/eARMOR/content/issues/2021/Fall/4Condeno21.pdf {{Bare URL PDF\|date=August 2024}}</ref>

	The [[Venezuelan]] military operated M18s beginning in 1954, when they purchased 40. They were refurbished in 1983–1984, and at least one was heavily modernized by a Yugoslavian firm in the 1990s, but it is unclear if more conversions took place.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 42" />		The [[Venezuelan]] military operated M18s beginning in 1954, when they purchased 40. They were refurbished in 1983–1984, and at least one was heavily modernized by a Yugoslavian firm in the 1990s, but it is unclear if more conversions took place.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 42" />

← Previous revision		Revision as of 19:44, 31 July 2024
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	The M18 Hellcat was the culmination of the development of various prototypes of fast tank destroyers dating back to 1941. Entering production in summer 1943, the M18 first saw combat service in spring 1944. The M18 served primarily in [[Western Front (World War II)\|Western Europe]], but was also present in smaller numbers in [[Italian campaign (World War II)\|Italy]] and the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific]]. Production continued until October 1944, with 2,507 built.		The M18 Hellcat was the culmination of the development of various prototypes of fast tank destroyers dating back to 1941. Entering production in summer 1943, the M18 first saw combat service in spring 1944. The M18 served primarily in [[Western Front (World War II)\|Western Europe]], but was also present in smaller numbers in [[Italian campaign (World War II)\|Italy]] and the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific]]. Production continued until October 1944, with 2,507 built.

	The Hellcat was the most effective U.S. tank destroyer of World War II. It had a higher kill-to-loss ratio than any other tank or tank destroyer fielded by U.S. forces in World War II.<ref name="Tank Overhaul"/><ref name="Fox-25"/> Kills claimed were 526 in total: 498 in Europe, 17 in Italy, and 11 in the Pacific. The kills-to-losses ratio for Europe was 2.3 to 1, and the overall kill to loss ratio was 2.4 to 1.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 36">Zaloga, 2004 p36</ref> M18s were "...not primarily used for tank fighting, but were committed more often to improvised roles, usually direct fire support for infantry."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37">Zaloga, 2004 p37</ref> Although the M18 was retired from U.S. service immediately after the end of World War II, a variant, the [[M39 ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility Vehicle~~]], served in the Korean War, and M18s continued in service with some countries until 1995.		The Hellcat was the most effective U.S. tank destroyer of World War II. It had a higher kill-to-loss ratio than any other tank or tank destroyer fielded by U.S. forces in World War II.<ref name="Tank Overhaul"/><ref name="Fox-25"/> Kills claimed were 526 in total: 498 in Europe, 17 in Italy, and 11 in the Pacific. The kills-to-losses ratio for Europe was 2.3 to 1, and the overall kill to loss ratio was 2.4 to 1.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 36">Zaloga, 2004 p36</ref> M18s were "...not primarily used for tank fighting, but were committed more often to improvised roles, usually direct fire support for infantry."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37">Zaloga, 2004 p37</ref> Although the M18 was retired from U.S. service immediately after the end of World War II, a variant, the [[M39 motor carriage]], served in the Korean War, and M18s continued in service with some countries until 1995.

	The M18 Hellcat was an example of the balancing act among firepower, armor, and mobility in armored fighting vehicle design. Despite its excellent mobility and reasonably powerful main gun, the M18 Hellcat also had drawbacks, including thin armor and a poor high explosive shell for its main gun. Historian [[Steven Zaloga\|Steven J. Zaloga]] characterized the overall design of the M18 as "poorly balanced" and stated that "the Hellcat's combat record is attributable to the training and dedication of its crews, not to its ill-conceived design."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37" />		The M18 Hellcat was an example of the balancing act among firepower, armor, and mobility in armored fighting vehicle design. Despite its excellent mobility and reasonably powerful main gun, the M18 Hellcat also had drawbacks, including thin armor and a poor high explosive shell for its main gun. Historian [[Steven Zaloga\|Steven J. Zaloga]] characterized the overall design of the M18 as "poorly balanced" and stated that "the Hellcat's combat record is attributable to the training and dedication of its crews, not to its ill-conceived design."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37" />
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	The M18 experienced various changes throughout its production, both to refine the design from a mechanical standpoint and incorporate features that would enhance its combat effectiveness.		The M18 experienced various changes throughout its production, both to refine the design from a mechanical standpoint and incorporate features that would enhance its combat effectiveness.

	M18s with serial numbers 1–1000 and 1007–1096 (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40144972) experienced problems with their transmission gear ratios. The same action that standardized the M18 directed that vehicles below serial number 685 be returned to the Buick factory for modification, and vehicles with serial numbers 685 through 1096 be modified before overseas shipment.<ref>Hunnicutt 1992 p308</ref> The rest of the M18s built featured an improved transmission. 640 of the vehicles returned to Buick were eventually converted to [[M39 ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~]]s, and ten into T41E1 command and reconnaissance vehicles (see {{section link\|M18 Hellcat\|Variants}}).		M18s with serial numbers 1–1000 and 1007–1096 (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40144972) experienced problems with their transmission gear ratios. The same action that standardized the M18 directed that vehicles below serial number 685 be returned to the Buick factory for modification, and vehicles with serial numbers 685 through 1096 be modified before overseas shipment.<ref>Hunnicutt 1992 p308</ref> The rest of the M18s built featured an improved transmission. 640 of the vehicles returned to Buick were eventually converted to [[M39 armored utility vehicle]]s, and ten into T41E1 command and reconnaissance vehicles (see {{section link\|M18 Hellcat\|Variants}}).

	Hellcats with serial numbers 1350 and below (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40145226) had the naturally-aspirated R975-C1 engine, which produced 350 horsepower. The rectangular ventilation grate for the transmission and differential oil coolers located behind the driver's hatch initially had an angled cylinder-like shape, protruding above the line of the upper hull. Beginning in March 1944, M18s with serial numbers 1351 and above (registration numbers 40145227–40146389) had the internally-modified [[supercharger\|supercharged]] R975-C4 engine, which produced 400 horsepower; at roughly the same time as the change in engine type, the shape of the ventilation grate was changed to be flush with the upper hull.<ref>Doyle 2012 p36</ref>		Hellcats with serial numbers 1350 and below (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40145226) had the naturally-aspirated R975-C1 engine, which produced 350 horsepower. The rectangular ventilation grate for the transmission and differential oil coolers located behind the driver's hatch initially had an angled cylinder-like shape, protruding above the line of the upper hull. Beginning in March 1944, M18s with serial numbers 1351 and above (registration numbers 40145227–40146389) had the internally-modified [[supercharger\|supercharged]] R975-C4 engine, which produced 400 horsepower; at roughly the same time as the change in engine type, the shape of the ventilation grate was changed to be flush with the upper hull.<ref>Doyle 2012 p36</ref>
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	=== Korean War ===		=== Korean War ===
	{{Main\|M39 Armored Utility Vehicle}}
	[[Image:Korea M39.JPEG\|thumb\|An M39 carrier used in the Korean War]]		[[Image:Korea M39.JPEG\|thumb\|An M39 carrier used in the Korean War]]

	The M39 ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~, which was converted from the M18, was used as a prime mover, infantry carrier, and ammunition carrier.		The [[M39 armored utility vehicle]], which was converted from the M18, was used as a prime mover, infantry carrier, and ammunition carrier in Korea.

	==Export and legacy==		==Export and legacy==
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	==Variants==		==Variants==
	[[File:Medical-corpsmen-korea.jpg\|thumb\|Armored ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~ M39 in Korea, 1952]]		[[File:Medical-corpsmen-korea.jpg\|thumb\|Armored utility vehicle M39 in Korea, 1952]]

	The only M18 variant produced in significant numbers was the ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~ M39, a turretless variation used as a [[Artillery tractor\|gun tractor]] or command and reconnaissance vehicle. In March 1944, the Ordnance Department authorized the construction of two prototypes; the T41 was a prime mover for the 3-inch Gun M5, while the T41E1 was a command and reconnaissance vehicle that could also be easily converted into a prime mover. The T41E1 configuration was found superior and development of the T41 version was cancelled, although subsequently, the prime mover version of the T41E1 was referred to as the T41, and the command and reconnaissance vehicle as its original designation of T41E1.		The only M18 variant produced in significant numbers was the armored utility vehicle M39, a turretless variation used as a [[Artillery tractor\|gun tractor]] or command and reconnaissance vehicle. In March 1944, the Ordnance Department authorized the construction of two prototypes; the T41 was a prime mover for the 3-inch Gun M5, while the T41E1 was a command and reconnaissance vehicle that could also be easily converted into a prime mover. The T41E1 configuration was found superior and development of the T41 version was cancelled, although subsequently, the prime mover version of the T41E1 was referred to as the T41, and the command and reconnaissance vehicle as its original designation of T41E1.

	640 of the early production M18s that had been returned to the Buick factory for modification were converted into the T41 prime mover configuration between October 1944 and March 1945 by removing the turret and fitting seats for up to eight men in the open fighting space. This version was armed with a single M2 machine gun on a flexible mount. In November 1944, it was standardized as the M39. At the request of the European Theater in early 1945, ten more of the Hellcats were modified into the T41E1 configuration for testing, although they were never standardized.<ref>Hunnicutt, 1992 pp385-388</ref> M39s saw combat during the last days of World War II in Europe and during the Korean War, primarily as armored personnel and munitions carriers and were finally declared obsolete on February 14, 1957.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p43</ref> About 100 M39s were transferred to the West German [[Bundeswehr]] in 1956, where they were used to train the reestablished ''[[Panzergrenadier]]'' armored infantry units.<ref name="Blume"/>		640 of the early production M18s that had been returned to the Buick factory for modification were converted into the T41 prime mover configuration between October 1944 and March 1945 by removing the turret and fitting seats for up to eight men in the open fighting space. This version was armed with a single M2 machine gun on a flexible mount. In November 1944, it was standardized as the M39. At the request of the European Theater in early 1945, ten more of the Hellcats were modified into the T41E1 configuration for testing, although they were never standardized.<ref>Hunnicutt, 1992 pp385-388</ref> M39s saw combat during the last days of World War II in Europe and during the Korean War, primarily as armored personnel and munitions carriers and were finally declared obsolete on February 14, 1957.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p43</ref> About 100 M39s were transferred to the West German [[Bundeswehr]] in 1956, where they were used to train the reestablished ''[[Panzergrenadier]]'' armored infantry units.<ref name="Blume"/>
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	A number of other variants were proposed, including a mobile command post, howitzer carrier, and flamethrower carrier.<ref name="militaryfactory"/> Known variants include:		A number of other variants were proposed, including a mobile command post, howitzer carrier, and flamethrower carrier.<ref name="militaryfactory"/> Known variants include:

	*'''T41 ~~Prime~~ ~~Mover~~''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, converted into a prime mover for the 3-inch ~~Gun~~ M5; project cancelled.		*'''T41 prime mover''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, converted into a prime mover for the 3-inch gun M5; project cancelled.
	*'''T41E1 ~~Command~~ and ~~Reconnaissance~~ ~~Vehicle~~''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, meant as a replacement for the [[M8 Greyhound#Variants\|M20 ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Car~~]] in tank destroyer battalions. This design could be used as both a prime mover or command vehicle, and in the prime mover configuration it was redesignated T41 and standardized as the '''~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~ M39''', with 640 converted (see above).		*'''T41E1 command and reconnaissance vehicle''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, meant as a replacement for the [[M8 Greyhound#Variants\|M20 armored utility car]] in tank destroyer battalions. This design could be used as both a prime mover or command vehicle, and in the prime mover configuration it was redesignated T41 and standardized as the '''armored utility vehicle M39''', with 640 converted (see above).
	*'''105~~ ~~mm ~~Howitzer~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~ T88''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a 105 mm T12 [[howitzer]]. A pilot was built in 1944 but project cancelled after the end of the war.		*'''105 mm howitzer motor carriage T88''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a 105 mm T12 [[howitzer]]. A pilot was built in 1944 but project cancelled after the end of the war.
	*'''90~~ ~~mm ~~Gun~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~ M18''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a turret from an M36 tank destroyer mounting a 90 mm gun; cancelled after the end of the war.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p68</ref>		*'''90 mm gun motor carriage M18''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a turret from an M36 tank destroyer mounting a 90 mm gun; cancelled after the end of the war.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p68</ref>
	*'''76~~ ~~mm ~~Gun~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~ T86''': M18 with the T7 flotation device, using its tracks for water propulsion. The T86E1 variant used propellers for propulsion.		*'''76 mm gun motor carriage T86''': M18 with the T7 flotation device, using its tracks for water propulsion. The T86E1 variant used propellers for propulsion.
	*'''105~~ ~~mm ~~Howitzer~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~ T87''': The T86E1 showed that track propulsion was better and this was used for the T87, which had the same 105 mm T12 howitzer of the T88.		*'''105 mm howitzer motor carriage T87''': The T86E1 showed that track propulsion was better and this was used for the T87, which had the same 105 mm T12 howitzer of the T88.

	==See also==		==See also==

← Previous revision		Revision as of 19:24, 31 July 2024
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	The M18 Hellcat was the culmination of the development of various prototypes of fast tank destroyers dating back to 1941. Entering production in summer 1943, the M18 first saw combat service in spring 1944. The M18 served primarily in [[Western Front (World War II)\|Western Europe]], but was also present in smaller numbers in [[Italian campaign (World War II)\|Italy]] and the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific]]. Production continued until October 1944, with 2,507 built.		The M18 Hellcat was the culmination of the development of various prototypes of fast tank destroyers dating back to 1941. Entering production in summer 1943, the M18 first saw combat service in spring 1944. The M18 served primarily in [[Western Front (World War II)\|Western Europe]], but was also present in smaller numbers in [[Italian campaign (World War II)\|Italy]] and the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific]]. Production continued until October 1944, with 2,507 built.

	The Hellcat was the most effective U.S. tank destroyer of World War II. It had a higher kill-to-loss ratio than any other tank or tank destroyer fielded by U.S. forces in World War II.<ref name="Tank Overhaul"/><ref name="Fox-25"/> Kills claimed were 526 in total: 498 in Europe, 17 in Italy, and 11 in the Pacific. The kills-to-losses ratio for Europe was 2.3 to 1, and the overall kill to loss ratio was 2.4 to 1.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 36">Zaloga, 2004 p36</ref> M18s were "...not primarily used for tank fighting, but were committed more often to improvised roles, usually direct fire support for infantry."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37">Zaloga, 2004 p37</ref> Although the M18 was retired from U.S. service immediately after the end of World War II, a variant, the [[M39 ~~motor~~ ~~carriage~~]], served in the Korean War, and M18s continued in service with some countries until 1995.		The Hellcat was the most effective U.S. tank destroyer of World War II. It had a higher kill-to-loss ratio than any other tank or tank destroyer fielded by U.S. forces in World War II.<ref name="Tank Overhaul"/><ref name="Fox-25"/> Kills claimed were 526 in total: 498 in Europe, 17 in Italy, and 11 in the Pacific. The kills-to-losses ratio for Europe was 2.3 to 1, and the overall kill to loss ratio was 2.4 to 1.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 36">Zaloga, 2004 p36</ref> M18s were "...not primarily used for tank fighting, but were committed more often to improvised roles, usually direct fire support for infantry."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37">Zaloga, 2004 p37</ref> Although the M18 was retired from U.S. service immediately after the end of World War II, a variant, the [[M39 Armored Utility Vehicle]], served in the Korean War, and M18s continued in service with some countries until 1995.

	The M18 Hellcat was an example of the balancing act among firepower, armor, and mobility in armored fighting vehicle design. Despite its excellent mobility and reasonably powerful main gun, the M18 Hellcat also had drawbacks, including thin armor and a poor high explosive shell for its main gun. Historian [[Steven Zaloga\|Steven J. Zaloga]] characterized the overall design of the M18 as "poorly balanced" and stated that "the Hellcat's combat record is attributable to the training and dedication of its crews, not to its ill-conceived design."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37" />		The M18 Hellcat was an example of the balancing act among firepower, armor, and mobility in armored fighting vehicle design. Despite its excellent mobility and reasonably powerful main gun, the M18 Hellcat also had drawbacks, including thin armor and a poor high explosive shell for its main gun. Historian [[Steven Zaloga\|Steven J. Zaloga]] characterized the overall design of the M18 as "poorly balanced" and stated that "the Hellcat's combat record is attributable to the training and dedication of its crews, not to its ill-conceived design."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37" />
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	The M18 experienced various changes throughout its production, both to refine the design from a mechanical standpoint and incorporate features that would enhance its combat effectiveness.		The M18 experienced various changes throughout its production, both to refine the design from a mechanical standpoint and incorporate features that would enhance its combat effectiveness.

	M18s with serial numbers 1–1000 and 1007–1096 (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40144972) experienced problems with their transmission gear ratios. The same action that standardized the M18 directed that vehicles below serial number 685 be returned to the Buick factory for modification, and vehicles with serial numbers 685 through 1096 be modified before overseas shipment.<ref>Hunnicutt 1992 p308</ref> The rest of the M18s built featured an improved transmission. 640 of the vehicles returned to Buick were eventually converted to [[M39 ~~armored~~ ~~utility~~ ~~vehicle~~]]s, and ten into T41E1 command and reconnaissance vehicles (see {{section link\|M18 Hellcat\|Variants}}).		M18s with serial numbers 1–1000 and 1007–1096 (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40144972) experienced problems with their transmission gear ratios. The same action that standardized the M18 directed that vehicles below serial number 685 be returned to the Buick factory for modification, and vehicles with serial numbers 685 through 1096 be modified before overseas shipment.<ref>Hunnicutt 1992 p308</ref> The rest of the M18s built featured an improved transmission. 640 of the vehicles returned to Buick were eventually converted to [[M39 Armored Utility Vehicle]]s, and ten into T41E1 command and reconnaissance vehicles (see {{section link\|M18 Hellcat\|Variants}}).

	Hellcats with serial numbers 1350 and below (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40145226) had the naturally-aspirated R975-C1 engine, which produced 350 horsepower. The rectangular ventilation grate for the transmission and differential oil coolers located behind the driver's hatch initially had an angled cylinder-like shape, protruding above the line of the upper hull. Beginning in March 1944, M18s with serial numbers 1351 and above (registration numbers 40145227–40146389) had the internally-modified [[supercharger\|supercharged]] R975-C4 engine, which produced 400 horsepower; at roughly the same time as the change in engine type, the shape of the ventilation grate was changed to be flush with the upper hull.<ref>Doyle 2012 p36</ref>		Hellcats with serial numbers 1350 and below (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40145226) had the naturally-aspirated R975-C1 engine, which produced 350 horsepower. The rectangular ventilation grate for the transmission and differential oil coolers located behind the driver's hatch initially had an angled cylinder-like shape, protruding above the line of the upper hull. Beginning in March 1944, M18s with serial numbers 1351 and above (registration numbers 40145227–40146389) had the internally-modified [[supercharger\|supercharged]] R975-C4 engine, which produced 400 horsepower; at roughly the same time as the change in engine type, the shape of the ventilation grate was changed to be flush with the upper hull.<ref>Doyle 2012 p36</ref>
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	=== Korean War ===		=== Korean War ===
			{{Main\|M39 Armored Utility Vehicle}}
	[[Image:Korea M39.JPEG\|thumb\|An M39 carrier used in the Korean War]]		[[Image:Korea M39.JPEG\|thumb\|An M39 carrier used in the Korean War]]

	The [[M39 ~~armored~~ ~~utility~~ ~~vehicle]]~~, which was converted from the M18, was used as a prime mover, infantry carrier, and ammunition carrier ~~in Korea~~.		The M39 Armored Utility Vehicle, which was converted from the M18, was used as a prime mover, infantry carrier, and ammunition carrier.

	==Export and legacy==		==Export and legacy==
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	==Variants==		==Variants==
	[[File:Medical-corpsmen-korea.jpg\|thumb\|Armored ~~utility~~ ~~vehicle~~ M39 in Korea, 1952]]		[[File:Medical-corpsmen-korea.jpg\|thumb\|Armored Utility Vehicle M39 in Korea, 1952]]

	The only M18 variant produced in significant numbers was the ~~armored~~ ~~utility~~ ~~vehicle~~ M39, a turretless variation used as a [[Artillery tractor\|gun tractor]] or command and reconnaissance vehicle. In March 1944, the Ordnance Department authorized the construction of two prototypes; the T41 was a prime mover for the 3-inch Gun M5, while the T41E1 was a command and reconnaissance vehicle that could also be easily converted into a prime mover. The T41E1 configuration was found superior and development of the T41 version was cancelled, although subsequently, the prime mover version of the T41E1 was referred to as the T41, and the command and reconnaissance vehicle as its original designation of T41E1.		The only M18 variant produced in significant numbers was the Armored Utility Vehicle M39, a turretless variation used as a [[Artillery tractor\|gun tractor]] or command and reconnaissance vehicle. In March 1944, the Ordnance Department authorized the construction of two prototypes; the T41 was a prime mover for the 3-inch Gun M5, while the T41E1 was a command and reconnaissance vehicle that could also be easily converted into a prime mover. The T41E1 configuration was found superior and development of the T41 version was cancelled, although subsequently, the prime mover version of the T41E1 was referred to as the T41, and the command and reconnaissance vehicle as its original designation of T41E1.

	640 of the early production M18s that had been returned to the Buick factory for modification were converted into the T41 prime mover configuration between October 1944 and March 1945 by removing the turret and fitting seats for up to eight men in the open fighting space. This version was armed with a single M2 machine gun on a flexible mount. In November 1944, it was standardized as the M39. At the request of the European Theater in early 1945, ten more of the Hellcats were modified into the T41E1 configuration for testing, although they were never standardized.<ref>Hunnicutt, 1992 pp385-388</ref> M39s saw combat during the last days of World War II in Europe and during the Korean War, primarily as armored personnel and munitions carriers and were finally declared obsolete on February 14, 1957.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p43</ref> About 100 M39s were transferred to the West German [[Bundeswehr]] in 1956, where they were used to train the reestablished ''[[Panzergrenadier]]'' armored infantry units.<ref name="Blume"/>		640 of the early production M18s that had been returned to the Buick factory for modification were converted into the T41 prime mover configuration between October 1944 and March 1945 by removing the turret and fitting seats for up to eight men in the open fighting space. This version was armed with a single M2 machine gun on a flexible mount. In November 1944, it was standardized as the M39. At the request of the European Theater in early 1945, ten more of the Hellcats were modified into the T41E1 configuration for testing, although they were never standardized.<ref>Hunnicutt, 1992 pp385-388</ref> M39s saw combat during the last days of World War II in Europe and during the Korean War, primarily as armored personnel and munitions carriers and were finally declared obsolete on February 14, 1957.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p43</ref> About 100 M39s were transferred to the West German [[Bundeswehr]] in 1956, where they were used to train the reestablished ''[[Panzergrenadier]]'' armored infantry units.<ref name="Blume"/>
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	A number of other variants were proposed, including a mobile command post, howitzer carrier, and flamethrower carrier.<ref name="militaryfactory"/> Known variants include:		A number of other variants were proposed, including a mobile command post, howitzer carrier, and flamethrower carrier.<ref name="militaryfactory"/> Known variants include:

	*'''T41 ~~prime~~ ~~mover~~''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, converted into a prime mover for the 3-inch ~~gun~~ M5; project cancelled.		*'''T41 Prime Mover''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, converted into a prime mover for the 3-inch Gun M5; project cancelled.
	*'''T41E1 ~~command~~ and ~~reconnaissance~~ ~~vehicle~~''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, meant as a replacement for the [[M8 Greyhound#Variants\|M20 ~~armored~~ ~~utility~~ ~~car~~]] in tank destroyer battalions. This design could be used as both a prime mover or command vehicle, and in the prime mover configuration it was redesignated T41 and standardized as the '''~~armored~~ ~~utility~~ ~~vehicle~~ M39''', with 640 converted (see above).		*'''T41E1 Command and Reconnaissance Vehicle''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, meant as a replacement for the [[M8 Greyhound#Variants\|M20 Armored Utility Car]] in tank destroyer battalions. This design could be used as both a prime mover or command vehicle, and in the prime mover configuration it was redesignated T41 and standardized as the '''Armored Utility Vehicle M39''', with 640 converted (see above).
	*'''105 mm ~~howitzer~~ ~~motor~~ ~~carriage~~ T88''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a 105 mm T12 [[howitzer]]. A pilot was built in 1944 but project cancelled after the end of the war.		*'''105 mm Howitzer Motor Carriage T88''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a 105 mm T12 [[howitzer]]. A pilot was built in 1944 but project cancelled after the end of the war.
	*'''90 mm ~~gun~~ ~~motor~~ ~~carriage~~ M18''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a turret from an M36 tank destroyer mounting a 90 mm gun; cancelled after the end of the war.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p68</ref>		*'''90 mm Gun Motor Carriage M18''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a turret from an M36 tank destroyer mounting a 90 mm gun; cancelled after the end of the war.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p68</ref>
	*'''76 mm ~~gun~~ ~~motor~~ ~~carriage~~ T86''': M18 with the T7 flotation device, using its tracks for water propulsion. The T86E1 variant used propellers for propulsion.		*'''76 mm Gun Motor Carriage T86''': M18 with the T7 flotation device, using its tracks for water propulsion. The T86E1 variant used propellers for propulsion.
	*'''105 mm ~~howitzer~~ ~~motor~~ ~~carriage~~ T87''': The T86E1 showed that track propulsion was better and this was used for the T87, which had the same 105 mm T12 howitzer of the T88.		*'''105 mm Howitzer Motor Carriage T87''': The T86E1 showed that track propulsion was better and this was used for the T87, which had the same 105 mm T12 howitzer of the T88.

	==See also==		==See also==

← Previous revision		Revision as of 19:13, 31 July 2024
Line 44:		Line 44:
	The M18 Hellcat was the culmination of the development of various prototypes of fast tank destroyers dating back to 1941. Entering production in summer 1943, the M18 first saw combat service in spring 1944. The M18 served primarily in [[Western Front (World War II)\|Western Europe]], but was also present in smaller numbers in [[Italian campaign (World War II)\|Italy]] and the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific]]. Production continued until October 1944, with 2,507 built.		The M18 Hellcat was the culmination of the development of various prototypes of fast tank destroyers dating back to 1941. Entering production in summer 1943, the M18 first saw combat service in spring 1944. The M18 served primarily in [[Western Front (World War II)\|Western Europe]], but was also present in smaller numbers in [[Italian campaign (World War II)\|Italy]] and the [[Asiatic-Pacific Theater\|Pacific]]. Production continued until October 1944, with 2,507 built.

	The Hellcat was the most effective U.S. tank destroyer of World War II. It had a higher kill-to-loss ratio than any other tank or tank destroyer fielded by U.S. forces in World War II.<ref name="Tank Overhaul"/><ref name="Fox-25"/> Kills claimed were 526 in total: 498 in Europe, 17 in Italy, and 11 in the Pacific. The kills-to-losses ratio for Europe was 2.3 to 1, and the overall kill to loss ratio was 2.4 to 1.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 36">Zaloga, 2004 p36</ref> M18s were "...not primarily used for tank fighting, but were committed more often to improvised roles, usually direct fire support for infantry."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37">Zaloga, 2004 p37</ref> Although the M18 was retired from U.S. service immediately after the end of World War II, a variant, the [[M39 ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility Vehicle~~]], served in the Korean War, and M18s continued in service with some countries until 1995.		The Hellcat was the most effective U.S. tank destroyer of World War II. It had a higher kill-to-loss ratio than any other tank or tank destroyer fielded by U.S. forces in World War II.<ref name="Tank Overhaul"/><ref name="Fox-25"/> Kills claimed were 526 in total: 498 in Europe, 17 in Italy, and 11 in the Pacific. The kills-to-losses ratio for Europe was 2.3 to 1, and the overall kill to loss ratio was 2.4 to 1.<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 36">Zaloga, 2004 p36</ref> M18s were "...not primarily used for tank fighting, but were committed more often to improvised roles, usually direct fire support for infantry."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37">Zaloga, 2004 p37</ref> Although the M18 was retired from U.S. service immediately after the end of World War II, a variant, the [[M39 motor carriage]], served in the Korean War, and M18s continued in service with some countries until 1995.

	The M18 Hellcat was an example of the balancing act among firepower, armor, and mobility in armored fighting vehicle design. Despite its excellent mobility and reasonably powerful main gun, the M18 Hellcat also had drawbacks, including thin armor and a poor high explosive shell for its main gun. Historian [[Steven Zaloga\|Steven J. Zaloga]] characterized the overall design of the M18 as "poorly balanced" and stated that "the Hellcat's combat record is attributable to the training and dedication of its crews, not to its ill-conceived design."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37" />		The M18 Hellcat was an example of the balancing act among firepower, armor, and mobility in armored fighting vehicle design. Despite its excellent mobility and reasonably powerful main gun, the M18 Hellcat also had drawbacks, including thin armor and a poor high explosive shell for its main gun. Historian [[Steven Zaloga\|Steven J. Zaloga]] characterized the overall design of the M18 as "poorly balanced" and stated that "the Hellcat's combat record is attributable to the training and dedication of its crews, not to its ill-conceived design."<ref name="Zaloga M18 page 37" />
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	The M18 experienced various changes throughout its production, both to refine the design from a mechanical standpoint and incorporate features that would enhance its combat effectiveness.		The M18 experienced various changes throughout its production, both to refine the design from a mechanical standpoint and incorporate features that would enhance its combat effectiveness.

	M18s with serial numbers 1–1000 and 1007–1096 (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40144972) experienced problems with their transmission gear ratios. The same action that standardized the M18 directed that vehicles below serial number 685 be returned to the Buick factory for modification, and vehicles with serial numbers 685 through 1096 be modified before overseas shipment.<ref>Hunnicutt 1992 p308</ref> The rest of the M18s built featured an improved transmission. 640 of the vehicles returned to Buick were eventually converted to [[M39 ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~]]s, and ten into T41E1 command and reconnaissance vehicles (see {{section link\|M18 Hellcat\|Variants}}).		M18s with serial numbers 1–1000 and 1007–1096 (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40144972) experienced problems with their transmission gear ratios. The same action that standardized the M18 directed that vehicles below serial number 685 be returned to the Buick factory for modification, and vehicles with serial numbers 685 through 1096 be modified before overseas shipment.<ref>Hunnicutt 1992 p308</ref> The rest of the M18s built featured an improved transmission. 640 of the vehicles returned to Buick were eventually converted to [[M39 armored utility vehicle]]s, and ten into T41E1 command and reconnaissance vehicles (see {{section link\|M18 Hellcat\|Variants}}).

	Hellcats with serial numbers 1350 and below (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40145226) had the naturally-aspirated R975-C1 engine, which produced 350 horsepower. The rectangular ventilation grate for the transmission and differential oil coolers located behind the driver's hatch initially had an angled cylinder-like shape, protruding above the line of the upper hull. Beginning in March 1944, M18s with serial numbers 1351 and above (registration numbers 40145227–40146389) had the internally-modified [[supercharger\|supercharged]] R975-C4 engine, which produced 400 horsepower; at roughly the same time as the change in engine type, the shape of the ventilation grate was changed to be flush with the upper hull.<ref>Doyle 2012 p36</ref>		Hellcats with serial numbers 1350 and below (registration numbers 40108110–40109109 and 40144883–40145226) had the naturally-aspirated R975-C1 engine, which produced 350 horsepower. The rectangular ventilation grate for the transmission and differential oil coolers located behind the driver's hatch initially had an angled cylinder-like shape, protruding above the line of the upper hull. Beginning in March 1944, M18s with serial numbers 1351 and above (registration numbers 40145227–40146389) had the internally-modified [[supercharger\|supercharged]] R975-C4 engine, which produced 400 horsepower; at roughly the same time as the change in engine type, the shape of the ventilation grate was changed to be flush with the upper hull.<ref>Doyle 2012 p36</ref>
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	=== Korean War ===		=== Korean War ===
	{{Main\|M39 Armored Utility Vehicle}}
	[[Image:Korea M39.JPEG\|thumb\|An M39 carrier used in the Korean War]]		[[Image:Korea M39.JPEG\|thumb\|An M39 carrier used in the Korean War]]

	The M39 ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~, which was converted from the M18, was used as a prime mover, infantry carrier, and ammunition carrier.		The [[M39 armored utility vehicle]], which was converted from the M18, was used as a prime mover, infantry carrier, and ammunition carrier in Korea.

	==Export and legacy==		==Export and legacy==
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	==Variants==		==Variants==
	[[File:Medical-corpsmen-korea.jpg\|thumb\|Armored ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~ M39 in Korea, 1952]]		[[File:Medical-corpsmen-korea.jpg\|thumb\|Armored utility vehicle M39 in Korea, 1952]]

	The only M18 variant produced in significant numbers was the ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~ M39, a turretless variation used as a [[Artillery tractor\|gun tractor]] or command and reconnaissance vehicle. In March 1944, the Ordnance Department authorized the construction of two prototypes; the T41 was a prime mover for the 3-inch Gun M5, while the T41E1 was a command and reconnaissance vehicle that could also be easily converted into a prime mover. The T41E1 configuration was found superior and development of the T41 version was cancelled, although subsequently, the prime mover version of the T41E1 was referred to as the T41, and the command and reconnaissance vehicle as its original designation of T41E1.		The only M18 variant produced in significant numbers was the armored utility vehicle M39, a turretless variation used as a [[Artillery tractor\|gun tractor]] or command and reconnaissance vehicle. In March 1944, the Ordnance Department authorized the construction of two prototypes; the T41 was a prime mover for the 3-inch Gun M5, while the T41E1 was a command and reconnaissance vehicle that could also be easily converted into a prime mover. The T41E1 configuration was found superior and development of the T41 version was cancelled, although subsequently, the prime mover version of the T41E1 was referred to as the T41, and the command and reconnaissance vehicle as its original designation of T41E1.

	640 of the early production M18s that had been returned to the Buick factory for modification were converted into the T41 prime mover configuration between October 1944 and March 1945 by removing the turret and fitting seats for up to eight men in the open fighting space. This version was armed with a single M2 machine gun on a flexible mount. In November 1944, it was standardized as the M39. At the request of the European Theater in early 1945, ten more of the Hellcats were modified into the T41E1 configuration for testing, although they were never standardized.<ref>Hunnicutt, 1992 pp385-388</ref> M39s saw combat during the last days of World War II in Europe and during the Korean War, primarily as armored personnel and munitions carriers and were finally declared obsolete on February 14, 1957.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p43</ref> About 100 M39s were transferred to the West German [[Bundeswehr]] in 1956, where they were used to train the reestablished ''[[Panzergrenadier]]'' armored infantry units.<ref name="Blume"/>		640 of the early production M18s that had been returned to the Buick factory for modification were converted into the T41 prime mover configuration between October 1944 and March 1945 by removing the turret and fitting seats for up to eight men in the open fighting space. This version was armed with a single M2 machine gun on a flexible mount. In November 1944, it was standardized as the M39. At the request of the European Theater in early 1945, ten more of the Hellcats were modified into the T41E1 configuration for testing, although they were never standardized.<ref>Hunnicutt, 1992 pp385-388</ref> M39s saw combat during the last days of World War II in Europe and during the Korean War, primarily as armored personnel and munitions carriers and were finally declared obsolete on February 14, 1957.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p43</ref> About 100 M39s were transferred to the West German [[Bundeswehr]] in 1956, where they were used to train the reestablished ''[[Panzergrenadier]]'' armored infantry units.<ref name="Blume"/>
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	A number of other variants were proposed, including a mobile command post, howitzer carrier, and flamethrower carrier.<ref name="militaryfactory"/> Known variants include:		A number of other variants were proposed, including a mobile command post, howitzer carrier, and flamethrower carrier.<ref name="militaryfactory"/> Known variants include:

	*'''T41 ~~Prime~~ ~~Mover~~''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, converted into a prime mover for the 3-inch ~~Gun~~ M5; project cancelled.		*'''T41 prime mover''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, converted into a prime mover for the 3-inch gun M5; project cancelled.
	*'''T41E1 ~~Command~~ and ~~Reconnaissance~~ ~~Vehicle~~''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, meant as a replacement for the [[M8 Greyhound#Variants\|M20 ~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Car~~]] in tank destroyer battalions. This design could be used as both a prime mover or command vehicle, and in the prime mover configuration it was redesignated T41 and standardized as the '''~~Armored~~ ~~Utility~~ ~~Vehicle~~ M39''', with 640 converted (see above).		*'''T41E1 command and reconnaissance vehicle''': One Hellcat with its turret removed and internal changes made, meant as a replacement for the [[M8 Greyhound#Variants\|M20 armored utility car]] in tank destroyer battalions. This design could be used as both a prime mover or command vehicle, and in the prime mover configuration it was redesignated T41 and standardized as the '''armored utility vehicle M39''', with 640 converted (see above).
	*'''105~~ ~~mm ~~Howitzer~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~ T88''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a 105 mm T12 [[howitzer]]. A pilot was built in 1944 but project cancelled after the end of the war.		*'''105 mm howitzer motor carriage T88''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a 105 mm T12 [[howitzer]]. A pilot was built in 1944 but project cancelled after the end of the war.
	*'''90~~ ~~mm ~~Gun~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~ M18''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a turret from an M36 tank destroyer mounting a 90 mm gun; cancelled after the end of the war.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p68</ref>		*'''90 mm gun motor carriage M18''': M18 with the 76 mm gun replaced with a turret from an M36 tank destroyer mounting a 90 mm gun; cancelled after the end of the war.<ref>Zaloga, 2004 p68</ref>
	*'''76~~ ~~mm ~~Gun~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~ T86''': M18 with the T7 flotation device, using its tracks for water propulsion. The T86E1 variant used propellers for propulsion.		*'''76 mm gun motor carriage T86''': M18 with the T7 flotation device, using its tracks for water propulsion. The T86E1 variant used propellers for propulsion.
	*'''105~~ ~~mm ~~Howitzer~~ ~~Motor~~ ~~Carriage~~ T87''': The T86E1 showed that track propulsion was better and this was used for the T87, which had the same 105 mm T12 howitzer of the T88.		*'''105 mm howitzer motor carriage T87''': The T86E1 showed that track propulsion was better and this was used for the T87, which had the same 105 mm T12 howitzer of the T88.

	==See also==		==See also==