Tank transporter

A tank transporter is a combination of a heavy tractor unit and mating semi-trailer, typically a Lowboy (trailer), used for transporting tanks. Some also function as tank recovery vehicles, the tractors of which may be armored for protection in combat conditions.

Used on the road, tank transporters limit the wear on tracks and drive trains of tracked vehicles. They also conserve fuel, are less damaging of road surfaces, and are overall more efficient moving tanks at high speeds than tanks operating at them even if they are capable.

Chassis designs

Three chassis designs have been used, generally in this order over time as loads became heavier, although there are exceptions.

Rigid chassis

The lighter tanks of the inter-war period were carried on simple rigid flatbed lorries.

Trailers

As the weight of tanks became too much for lorry chassis, separate trailers were developed. These carried the entire weight of the tank on their own wheels, putting no weight onto the tractor unit. They are pulled by a ballast tractor connected to a drawbar.