The PT-76 [PT = Plavayushtshiy Tank - Amphibious Tank] is one of several light amphibious tanks developed and used by the Soviet Army. The vehicle entered service in 1954 and is amphibious without additional preparation. Although the PT-76 is lightly armored and undergunned for a modern tank, its inherent amphibious capability outweighs these limitations. It has had widespread use in the Warsaw Pact and many other countries. ThePT-76 carries a 76mm main gun with a maximum effective range of approximately 1500 meters. Operated by a three man crew, the PT-76 is often used to transport troops.
The PT-76 is a lightly armored amphibious tank with a flat, boat-like hull. The suspension has six road wheels and no return rollers. A dish-type turret is mounted over the second, third, and fourth road wheels, with a double hatch for commander and loader. The driver's hatch is located beneath the main gun, at the top of the sloping glacis plate.
The PT-76 was formerly the standard reconnaissance tank of the Soviet and Warsaw Pact armies. Although it has been replaced in first-line units by BMP-1 and BMP M1976 vehicles, it may still be found in the reconnaissance companies and battalions of some motorized rifle and tank regiments and divisions, as well as in naval infantry units. Aside from its reconnaissance role, it is also used for crossing water obstacles in the first wave of an attack and for artillery support during the establishment of a beachhead. Its V-6 240 hp water-cooled engine gives it a road speed of 44 km/hr with a cruising range of 260 km, and a twin waterjet propulsion system moves it through water at 10 km/hr with a range of 100 km. The 76-mm main gun, considered light for a modern tank, fires HVAP and HEAT rounds capable of penetrating APCs and other light armored vehicles. The PT-76 is a reliable, highly mobile reconnaissance vehicle and has ideal design for amphibious capability, but it has many limitations as a fighting vehicle.
