The Char D1 was developed by Renault during the 1920s and 1930s. It was initially a modernization project for the World War 1-era Renault FT-17, which was becoming obsolete.
Designed under the code name Renault NC, the Char D1 project eventually evolved into an independent tank design. Even though it was originally equipped with only two machine guns, it was still the most modern French tank when production began, and a reasonably modern tank by contemporary standards. Nevertheless, its weight made it unsuitable in the role of an infantry tank, weighing twice as much as the Renault FT-17. To create a better alternative, the Renault R35 and Hotchkiss H35 designs were made. The Char D1 was furthermore supplemented by the much-improved Char D2.
A total of 150 Char D1s were manufactured between 1932 and 1935. As more modern tanks became available, they were largely phased out, though they did fight briefly during Germany's thrust through France in June 1940.
Char D1 | |
---|---|
Crew | |
Crew | 3 |
Physical Characteristics | |
Weight | 14 t |
Length | 5.76 m |
Width | 2.16 m |
Height | 2.4 m |
Armour | |
Armour (max) | 40 mm |
Performance | |
Speed (max) | 19 km/h |
Armament | |
Primary weapon | 47 mm SA34 (1) |
Secondary weapon | 7,5 mm Reibel (2) |