The Use of M60 Tanks in the Vietnam War: Debunking Myths

Introduction

Many are under the impression that M60 tanks were not used during the Vietnam War. However, this is a misinformation that stems from a series of misunderstandings. In reality, the M60 tanks were indeed used, albeit not as extensively as the M48 tanks, due to the specific nature of the conflict. In this article, we will delve into the reasons behind the limited use of the M60 tanks during the Vietnam War and explore the conditions that led to their deployment.

Myths vs. Facts: M60 and M48 Tanks in Vietnam

It is often claimed that the early M60 tanks, equipped with a 105mm gun, did not have canister rounds, while the M48 tanks, with their 90mm gun, had a surplus of 90mm canister rounds. This creates an impression that canister rounds were more important in infantry fights against enemy forces. In fact, canister rounds were less important in the context of the Vietnam War, which was characterized by guerrilla tactics and unconventional warfare.

The M48 tanks, particularly the M48A3 model, were widely used during the Vietnam War. They had the 90mm gun, which was sufficient for dealing with both infantry and light armored vehicles. The 90mm canister rounds provided effective anti-personnel capabilities that were well-suited for dealing with the hazardous environment of the Vietnam War, such as ambushes, spider holes, and tunnels.

On the other hand, the M60 tanks, especially the M60A1 and later versions, were more commonly stationed in Germany and were equipped with the 105mm main gun, which was superior for tank-to-tank combat, particularly in the envisioned European theater of operations. The 105mm gun was less effective against the types of targets the M48 faced in the Vietnam jungle, making the M48 more suitable for the unconventional warfare in Vietnam.

Design and Reliability of M60 Tanks

Despite the advantages of the M60 tanks, their design and reliability issues made them less practical for the harsh jungle conditions of Vietnam. For instance, the aluminum road wheels of the M60 tanks could bend more easily due to the constant pounding in the jungle terrain. This made them more susceptible to damage from trees or other obstacles, compared to the solid steel wheels of the M48 tanks. However, the M48 tanks were not immune to these issues; they too could sustain damage from obstacles in the field.

Operational Reality: Extensive Use of Tanks and APCs

Despite these limitations, tanks and armored personnel carriers (APCs) were used extensively during the Vietnam War. The entire battalion of armor in the author's infantry brigade utilized M48 and M60 tanks. These tanks were not always highly practical, often getting stuck due to the terrain, but they were necessary for certain operations. The presence of tanks in the basecamp greatly deterred attacks, which were usually carried out by sapper squads and other irregular forces.

For instance, the tanks could provide fire support to infantry units and suppress enemy positions, which were often hidden in spider holes and tunnels. The APCs, on the other hand, were crucial for transporting troops and providing mobility, especially in dense jungle environments. Both tanks and APCs were integral to the operations conducted by U.S. forces in Vietnam.

Conclusion

The use of M60 tanks in the Vietnam War was a topic of confusion and misinformation. In reality, M60 tanks were deployed and played a significant role, particularly in support of M48 tanks. The deployment of M60 tanks in Germany for European operations and the suitability of M48 tanks for the Vietnam War context highlight the complexities of military strategy and the significant difference between conventional and unconventional warfare.

Related Keywords

Keywords: M60 tanks, Vietnam War, M48 tanks